Things to Do
Activities
Hiking
Enjoy the many miles of nearby hiking. The Appalachian Trail head is a 20 minute drive and is located at the Nantahala Outdoor Center (NOC). Deep Creek, with tubing and waterfalls to view, is a great introductory hike and is 30 minutes away. Another of our favorites is Wesser Bald Fire Tower (on the Appalachian Trail), which is a great hike with 360-degree views of the Smoky Mountains and Nantahala Forest.
Mountain Biking
The nationally renowned mountain biking trail park, Tsali (pronounced "SAH-Lee"), is a mere 15 minute drive from the cabin and offers over 40 miles of trails. Horseback riding and hiking trails are also available. The Lower Needmore road is only 10 minutes from the cabin and is a lovely, short, leisurely bike ride. You carry your bike across a suspension bridge over the Little Tennessee River to reach the road.
Fishing/Boating
Too many places to mention, but a few favorites are catching smallmouth bass in the nearby Little Tennessee River and trout on the Nantahala River. Nearby Fontana Lake also offers great lake fishing and pontoon boat rentals at the Almond Marina. There are numerous fishing guides in the area to take you out.
Rafting/Ziplining
River rafting is best with a guide. We like Endless River Adventures as they have the newest rafts and the best guides. They offer trips down the class 2-3 Nantahala River (nearby) as well as a more challenging trip down the class 3-4 Ocoee River. Zip-lining is offered at the Nantahala Outdoor Center (NOC).
Train
Great Smoky Mountain Railway offers daily scenic trips in the Smoky Mountains as well as to nearby towns. From November 6 to December 31, they offer a Polar Express ride—tons of fun.
Shopping
Be sure to visit downtown Bryson City for your shopping pleasure with quaint shops and a friendly St. Joseph Thrift Store…(Deb volunteers there 😉)
Restaurants & Groceries
Quick items can be found at the nearby Dollar General. Ingles in Bryson City is a full-service grocery store that includes a deli. Swain is a dry county, so liquor can only be purchased at the ABC store in Bryson City. Beer and wine are sold at Ingles. Gas stations also sell beer. Breakfast at the Everett Street Diner in Bryson City serves a traditional diner breakfast (make sure to check days of operation). The Bryson City Bakery & Coffee Shop serves excellent pastries and coffee. The River’s End at the NOC also serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and offers a nice view over the river (make sure to check hours of operation). Lunch at the High Test Deli offers great sandwiches and an excellent ice cream sandwich. CJs Bar and Grill, Anthony’s, Bryson City Brewery, and Native Brews, all located in Bryson City, are great alternatives. If you want to venture out to nearby Franklin, the Slanted Window is a nice outdoor experience.