Downtown Waynesville: An arts and crafts driven community sitting at the entrance to the Smoky Mountains and within driving distance of two other national forests, the town is known for award-winning restaurants and many locally owned shops and galleries.
Haywood County, about 30 minutes west of Asheville, is known for its outstanding scenery and access to outdoor adventures. The county seat, Waynesville, is the largest town in Western North Carolina, with many restaurants, galleries, and antique shops. Canton, east of Waynesville, is an up and coming area with a revitalizing downtown nestled along the Pigeon River that's attractive to outdoor lovers and those seeking a small mountain town vibe. Maggie Valley, Lake Junaluska, and Clyde also offer a mountain retreat lifestyle, farmland, and easy access to the Pisgah National Forest, Great Smoky Mountains, and the Nantahala National Forest.
Key Features
Downtown Canton: Situated a short drive west of Asheville on the banks of the Pigeon River, Canton's small town industrial community is a popular choice for affordable homes in a quiet setting.
Nest Picks
Cataloochee Ski Area
Located high in the Great Smoky Mountains, this resort has amazing views, features easy "green runs" all the way to difficult "black diamonds," and offers a terrain park for the thrill-seeker and a bunny slope where they host great private and group lessons for the kids.
Bear Water Brewing
This established brewery made a big splash in Downtown Canton as the first-ever brewery in town! After having a successful run in neighboring Waynesville, the brewing company completely renovated one of Canton's historic buildings and opened its doors on the banks of the Pigeon River.
Waynesville Rec Center
State of the art aquatics and recreation center complete with gym, trail, indoor lap pool, and water play park—there is something for everyone! This beautiful center has soccer and softball fields and fitness classes for all ages.