North Carolina Wildlife
Deep in the Great Smoky and Blue Ridge Mountains, Haywood is the natural habitat to many species of wildlife, from larger-than-life elk to tiny chickadees flitting between the trees.
WESTERN NC’S best wildlife viewing
Wildlife like to hang in our backyard
In Haywood’s corner of Western North Carolina, the best neighbors have wings, antlers, paws, and even gills. From the elk that roam in Cataloochee Valley to the birds fluttering by the shores of Lake Junaluska, you’ll glimpse a host of regional species that call the Smokies home.
No zoo necessary
From the cool mountain streams to the towering tree tops, wildlife is abundant in Haywood’s mountain towns of Waynesville, Maggie Valley, Lake Junaluska, Canton, and Clyde.
Affectionately called “snot otters,” hellbenders are North America’s largest salamanders and bioindicators for good water quality. Help protect their homes by leaving river rocks undisturbed!
North Carolina’s native trout species, these tiny-but-mighty fish thrive in the Pigeon River Watershed’s pristine streams and are known for making impressive jumps to shirk off hooks.
No need to put out hummingbird feeders around here! Haywood’s abundant flora attracts several colorful varieties of these nectar-feeding marvels of nature.
Eagles, hawks, and other impressive raptor species soar overtop the trees surrounding Lake Junaluska and along the tallest peaks in Pisgah National Forest.
Adventure at your door
Looking for a cozy winter getaway? Andon Reid Inn Bed & Breakfast in Waynesville offers a fantastic package! Enjoy a two-night stay with a hot chocolate station, ice-themed treats, and a cocktail hour. Plus, get tickets to the exciting Ice Extravaganza in Maggie Valley! Book your Ice Fest Weekend Package today!
Join us for the weekend at The Yellow House on Plott Creek Road! For $59, add the Ice Fest Weekend Package to your room rate and enjoy an Ice Fest Welcome Basket, Friday Night Chili Supper, Saturday Evening Dessert Bar, and tickets to the Maggie Valley Extravaganza! Call 828-452-0991 to book your unforgettable getaway!
Stay and play at Waynesville Inn & Golf Club, part of Hilton’s Tapestry Collection. Choose from historic inn rooms, Brookside or Golfview rooms, spacious cottages, or a three-bedroom penthouse, all just steps from the golf course.
Get 10% off (up to $50) on your Ice Fest Weekend rental with Blue Mountain Realty Group when you stay January 26 – February 2, 2026. No minimum stay required—just book directly and use code ICY26 to claim your discount! Call (828) 565-0229 or click below to book your frosty getaway!
Tee off surrounded by mountain views at the scenic Lake Junaluska Golf Course. Make it a golf getaway with a stay at The Terrace Hotel, historic Lambuth Inn, the campground, or one of the surrounding vacation rentals, all just minutes from the course.
Take the chill off and cuddle up at Moose Crossing Log Cabins with a special discount for the Ice Festival Weekend! Take $75 off your three-night stay when you book from January 20 to February 8. Plus, wintery treats will be waiting in your cabin. Book your cozy winter getaway by clicking below!
