Attractions and Places To See in Haywood County - Top 20

The Blue Ridge Parkway offers 46 miles of breathtaking views through Haywood County. Notable overlooks include Cowee Mountains Overlook (Milepost 430.7), Standing Rock Overlook (MP 441.4), Woolyback Overlook (MP 452.3), and Richland Balsam Overlook (MP 431), which is the highest point on the entire Parkway.

For sweeping vistas, visit Black Balsam Knob, a treeless bald offering amazing views of the Blue Ridge and Great Balsam Mountains. Another excellent spot is Tennent Mountain summit, a grassy bald accessible via the Art Loeb Trail. Mount Pisgah Summit & Observation Area also provides extensive views, including of Asheville.

Explore the historic downtowns of Waynesville and Canton, both listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The Museum of North Carolina Handicrafts, housed in the historic Shelton House, preserves regional heritage crafts. You can also visit the Museum of Haywood County History in the Shook-Smathers House, or experience Appalachian folk dancing at the Stompin' Grounds in Maggie Valley.

Yes, the Art Loeb Trail is a challenging yet rewarding backpacking trail located in Pisgah National Forest. You can also find difficult routes like the Big Creek and Mount Sterling Loop, which is part of the extensive hiking network in the region. For more options, check out the Hiking in Haywood County guide.

Families can enjoy the 3.8-mile walking trail loop around Lake Junaluska, which also offers paddleboarding and kayaking. Graveyard Fields Overlook provides access to family-friendly trails. Winchester Creek Farm in Waynesville is a great spot to see alpacas and other miniature animals, and Smoky Mountain Sk8way & Fun Zone offers roller skating and family entertainment.

Haywood County features several picturesque waterfalls and natural swimming holes. You can visit Mouse Creek Falls, or explore areas like Sunburst, Graveyard Fields, Skinny Dip, and Midnight Falls. For more waterfall adventures, refer to the Waterfall hikes in Haywood County guide.

Lake Junaluska offers opportunities for paddleboarding, kayaking, and canoeing. The Pigeon River is a popular spot for fishing, kayaking, and rafting. Lake Logan provides a more remote water experience. The county's rivers and springs originate within the county, contributing to some of the cleanest water in the United States.

Haywood County is beautiful year-round. Fall is especially popular for vibrant foliage, particularly along the Blue Ridge Parkway. Late spring is also lovely when mountain laurel and rhododendrons bloom. Summer offers ideal conditions for hiking and water activities, while winter provides opportunities for skiing at Cataloochee Ski Area.

Yes, Haywood County offers various mountain biking trails. You can find routes like Farlow Gap and Daniel Ridge Loop, or The Great Eight. For a comprehensive list of trails and their difficulties, consult the MTB Trails in Haywood County guide.

Downtown Waynesville offers unique shops, art galleries, and local eateries. The Mast General Store in Waynesville is an iconic Western North Carolina establishment. You can also visit Barber Orchards Fruitstand for local produce and sweets, or explore the growing craft beverage scene with local breweries like Boojum Brewing and Frog Level Brewery.

The Cataloochee Valley, an entry point to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park from Haywood County, is renowned for its abundant wildlife, especially elk sightings at dawn and dusk. It's a prime location for wildlife viewing and photography.

Located in Maggie Valley, the Plott Dog Trail is a loop trail that traces the history and heritage of the Plott hounds, which are the official state dog of North Carolina. It offers a unique cultural and historical experience for visitors.