ROAD TRIP: CASHIERS, NORTH CAROLINA

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DISTANCE: 120 MILES, 2 AND A HALF HOUR DRIVE

Situated at 3,484 feet above sea level, the mountain town of Cashiers on the Cashiers/Highlands Plateau is packed with unblemished natural resources including the Blue Ridge Mountains, Great Smoky Mountains, crystal-clear lakes, tumbling rivers and a trail of cascading waterfalls. Cashiers combines a pristine mountain environment and outdoor recreation with a rustic elegance that appeals to generations of families and well-heeled outdoor-lovers. Hiking, rock climbing, fly fishing, waterfall excursions, golf, water sports and shopping draw families and friends looking for a weekend getaway and outdoor enthusiasts.

Escape everyday life, lace up hiking boots and trek the two-mile loop at Whiteside Mountain, considered by geologists to be the oldest mountain in the world, estimated at 390 to 460 million years old. Known as the “Jewel of the Appalachians,” hikers should keep an eye out for the endangered peregrine falcons and diverse flora and fauna. Cool off at beautiful Silver Run Falls, one of Cashiers’ many waterfalls that offer wading pools for swimming.

Explore fishing in higher elevated streams, and book a trip with one of the local fly fishing guides. They offer a variety of tours, services and supply rentals from their experienced and welcoming staff. In addition to the Fly Fishing Trail, there are also numerous lakes and rivers that offer incredible fishing, and contribute to the area being known as a premier fishing destination.

Amidst the wealth of natural wonders, man-made treasures are emerging as Cashiers enjoys a new wave of culinary and cultural attractions and seasonal events that elevate the experience even further. Cashiers offers shoppers plenty of options ranging from the area’s local “cottage shopping” experience along 107 North and South, to the boutiques located near the Village Green and Cashiers Crossroads, which are easily accessible by foot. Cashiers is known as being home to a number of high-end antique stores and home furnishings boutiques of many renowned interior designers.

When it comes to dining, the locals take advantage of the flavors of the Spring, Summer and Fall seasons, as many restaurants incorporate local and seasonal ingredients in their menus. In Cashiers, restaurants feature pretty porches, apple orchards and everything from country to high-end dining.

A wide selection of resorts, inns and vacation rental homes offer rooms with a view in the Cashiers area. High Hampton Inn & County Club is a venerable Inn and a throwback to an simpler time. 1,400 acres, a lake, cottages and bountiful dining bring back families generation after generation.