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91 North Lakeshore Drive, Lake Junaluska, NC 28745
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© 2026 Haywood County Tourism Development Authority

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THINGS TO DO IN HAYWOOD COUNTY NC

Untamed mountain charm

Quench your soul with breathtaking outdoor experiences and the Appalachian hospitality of Haywood County. Step into the hidden gem of the Western North Carolina Mountains.

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Savor the seasons in the Blue Ridge Mountains

Snow falling or flowers blooming, you can always fill your time
with rest or adventure in Haywood.

Select a season to personalize your site experience

Lake Junaluska Outfitters
Lake Junaluska Outfitters
Rent a canoe, paddleboard or kayak
Shelton House History, Heritage & Crafts
Shelton House History, Heritage & Crafts
Tour through Haywood’s history
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Cold Mountain Tubing
Float down the Pigeon River
The Ten Acre Garden
The Ten Acre Garden
You-pick berries and flowers
Bubbling Spring Branch Cascades
Bubbling Spring Branch Cascades
CantonModerate
Canton
Vertical gallery

TOP HAYWOOD ATTRACTIONS

Activities worth the hype

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Views of Great Smoky Mountains National Park in Haywood
Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Maggie Valley
Maggie Valley
carolinajackphotography
Soco Falls in Haywood
Soco Falls during winter in Haywood
Soco Falls
Maggie Valley
Maggie Valley
Cataloochee Ski Area in Haywood
Cataloochee Ski Area
Maggie Valley
Maggie Valley
Wheels Through Time Motorcycle museum in Haywood
Wheels Through Time Motorcycle Museum
Maggie Valley
Maggie Valley

Recharge with outdoor activities in Haywood

Haywood County is a playground for outdoor lovers, with activities that range from peaceful to pulse-raising—from horseback rides through quiet forests to elk viewing in Cataloochee Valley.

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Hiking

Haywood County sits at the doorstep of the Great Smoky Mountains, with trails ranging from easy strolls to challenging backcountry routes.

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Scenic drives

Traverse along the Blue Ridge Parkway or explore the Tail of the Dragon.

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Wildlife viewing

Spot elk, birds, and mountain wildlife across scenic natural habitats.

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Water activities

Swim, paddle, and cool off in mountain rivers and lakes.

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Fishing

Try your hand at fly fishing and become a bona-fide angler when you pull in native trout, bluegill, perch, and bass from Haywood’s lakes, streams, and rivers.

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Golfing

Play scenic mountain courses surrounded by the fresh air and unbeatable views.

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Skiing & snowboarding

Hit the slopes at Cataloochee Ski Area or enjoy cross-country at the expansive Chestnut Mountain Park.

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Houses beside Lake Junaluska
Vintage motorcycles at Dale’s Wheels Through Time MuseumDale’s Wheels Through Time Museum

Arts, music & culture in Haywood County

From local galleries in Frog Level, Waynesville, to live music and heritage crafts that honor Cherokee traditions, Haywood County's arts and culture scene is creative and welcoming.

See Arts & Culture
Various souvenir items at The Funky Fern EmporiumFunky Fern Emporium

Shopping for one-of-a-kind finds

From charming main streets to hidden local gems, shopping in Haywood County centers around shopping in Waynesville and shopping near Maggie Valley, with boutiques, galleries, and relaxed browsing that rewards taking your time.

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A group of alpacas in Winchester Creek FarmWinchester Creek Farm

Farm & food experiences are uniquely-Haywood

Haywood County serves up hands-on farm experiences, farm-to-table flavors, and seasonal food stops that connect you straight to the land. From agritourism visits to markets and tastings, it's food with a sense of place.

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Family-friendly activities to delight

Room to roam, space to laugh, and plans that don’t feel like homework. In this corner of the Western NC mountains, family fun comes easy.

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TUBE WORLD
Race down a snowy hill
Maggie Valley
Maggie Valley
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WINCHESTER CREEK FARM
Take NC's most adorable farm tour
Waynesville
Waynesville
Vance Street Park
Vance Park
Skateboard your heart out
Waynesville
Waynesville

Get in on mountain secrets

Mountains might be quiet, but our newsletters aren’t. Sign up to get all the latest news about what’s happening in Haywood.

Everything to do in Haywood County

VISIT HAYWOOD BLOG

Get inspired with local tips

See All Blog Posts
Ultimate Guide to the Ice Block Party in Downtown Waynesville
Arts & CultureUltimate Guide to the Ice Block Party in Downtown Waynesville
Start the New Year Right with Outdoor Adventures & Wellness in the NC Mountains
OutdoorsStart the New Year Right with Outdoor Adventures & Wellness in the NC Mountains
Haywood County Holiday Gift Guide: 10 Unique Stocking Stuffers Found Only in Western NC
Arts & CultureHaywood County Holiday Gift Guide: 10 Unique Stocking Stuffers Found Only in Western NC

Let the journey take you

Mountain towns
Mountain Towns
National Parks
National Parks
Events
Events