There is no better place to celebrate spooky season than right here in Haywood County. Whether you’re looking to experience the frights and delights of haunted histories, sample some tasty treats, or celebrate with family-friendly festivities–It’s time to get you and your crew in on a ghoul time.
Get in on the Haywood Folklore
The Tale of the Boojum
This well-known Haywood folklore legend may give you the feeling that someone is watching you while you’re out exploring. Though no one has gotten close enough to clearly describe him, it’s said he is around eight feet tall and mixture of both man and beast. Many say he has a desire for pretty ladies and precious gemstones around Western North Carolina. Read more about the Boojum and decide if you think it’s a bunch of hocus pocus or not.
The Legend of Nance Dude
Described as “a hard, handsome woman with a leathery face, knuckly hands and beautiful hair,” Nance Dude is a local legend that will make the hair stand up on the back of your neck. Many of her neighbors in Haywood County believed she was a witch. After the supposedly causing the death of her granddaughter, she was almost executed and ended up with a 30-year prison sentence. Released on parole at the age of 80, she lived until she dropped dead chopping wood at the age of 104. The last years of her life she resided in Conley’s Creek near Bryson City. You can read about more about her story in “The Legend of Nance Dude” by Maurice Stanley.
Mysterious Ghost of Claude Greene
Once a Deputy in Balsam, NC, Claude Greene met his tragic death outside the Balsam Schoolhouse during a fundraising event. Gunshots were heard outside the Schoolhouse. While witnesses spotted two men fleeing into the darkness, the mystery remains of where the final moments of Deputy Greene took place. He is said to be among the spirits haunting the guests of the Grand Old Lady Hotel.
Hauntings of The Grand Old Lady Hotel
While this hotel has had many guests over the years, some have chosen to stay forever. Known as the Balsam Mountain Inn until January 2019, this historic building was originally built in 1908. It served as a private residence, a clinic during the smallpox outbreak, and of course, as a hotel. Haunted rooms in this hotel are marked with an iron “welcome” sign above the doors and guests can record their strange experiences with the spirits in journals.
Try our Trick or Treats
Jelly Bellies
What is Halloween without a big bag of candy to enjoy? Lucky for you Jelly Bellies in Maggie Valley has over 365 different types of candy for you to sink your teeth into. If you’re hunting for more delectable sweets, lift your spirits with specialty fudge, truffles, and chocolate dipped goodies. There is definitely no shortage of eerie-sistable candy here.
Dillsboro Chocolate Factory
When it comes to chocolate, this place is scary good. These chocolate masterminds handcraft over 100 unique chocolates that will make you melt. If it isn’t made of chocolate already, you will find everything dipped and drizzled in a sweet chocolatey goodness. Time to start goblin up all these treats.
Become Bewitched by our Halloween Activities
Hike Devil’s Courthouse
This breathtaking hike was given its name because of the appearance of a sinister looking rock formation. Legend also says the devil himself held court in the cave lying beneath the rock. In Cherokee lore, this cave is the private dancing chamber and dwelling place of the giant, Judaculla. This gorgeous view is sure to give you chills.
Shelton House: “A Haunting on the Hill”
Enjoy a Spooktacular tour through the haunted Shelton House. Built in 1875, this historic home will open its doors for adults and families to enjoy a wickedly good time. While there are no chainsaw massacres or bloody heads, there’s still plenty of spooky things to get your scare on!
Pinheads Graveyard
Voted #1 North Carolina Haunted House in 2018 & 2019, Pinheads Graveyard has tricks and treats for all ages. While they pride themselves on their realistic haunted house, they also cater to families. Croups with small children can expect a toned-down version of scares with just as much fun. Those who like to be spooked, can get ready to Hallo-scream at this haunted house.
What are you waiting for? Join us for some skin crawling excitement and see just why Haywood is the perfect place for family and friends to enjoy the spirit of the season. Don’t forget to tag us on social with #EmbraceUnusual or @VisitNCSmokies. Time to Eat, Drink and be scary!
