The National Weather Service has issued a Winter Storm Warning for our area starting January 2 at 10:00pm through January 3 mid-day. Conditions could be hazardous so plan ahead and stay safe. Learn more here.

Spend Your Spring Break in the NC Smokies

Share

Are there any two lovelier words than Spring Break? Whether you are looking to kick back and relax after a long winter or seek out adventure at every corner, we have you covered. We’ve put together this family-friendly guide to help alleviate the stress of planning a vacation so you can make the most of your time during Spring break in the North Carolina mountains.

Stay With Us

We want to make visiting the NC Smokies a delightful process from planning to adventuring. Finding the perfect place in Haywood County is an easy feat! We have so many hotels, cabins, and other surprising places to stay. Here are some of our recommendations:

Vacation House Rentals

You’re going to need plenty of room if you’re bringing the whole family along. There are dozens of Vacation Homes scattered throughout these hills, so check out listings on AirBnb and VRBO, or explore directly from the convenience of our site.

Maggie Valley Hotels

If you’d rather not spend time trip cooking or cleaning up on your trip—we have great hotel options for you as well! Check out why you should stay in a Maggie Valley hotel for your trip to the Smokies. 

Let’s Take a Hike

A scenic hike in the Smokies is a fantastic way to start your day. America’s favorite hiking trails surround us, so you’re sure to find something just for you.  We recommend these trails:

Black Balsam Knob

For another easy climb that’s not lacking scenery or adventure, check out Black Balsam Knob. Head for the treeless bald that awaits at 6,000+ feet up, and you’ll be greeted with spectacular panoramic views of the Smoky Mountains. Want something a little more challenging?  Try the 5-mile loop that connects to the dog-friendly Art Loeb Trail.

Soco Falls

Two is better than one! Visit these gorgeous double waterfalls located just a short walk from the road. Very Instagramable.

Our Local Schools Get High Marks

No need to stress, we’re not talking about that kind of school! We’re just bragging about some of our finest freshwater trout. You can pick up a three-day fishing license (Inland, Short Term) from ncwildlife.org. It doesn’t matter if you’re an experienced fisherman or just getting your feet wet; you’ll enjoy the relaxing atmosphere at both of these spots:

Ferguson’s Trout Pond

Rainbow trout flourish at Ferguson’s, and this pond is an excellent spot for camping, too.

Mountain Heritage Trout Waters

Thanks to the NC Wildlife Resource Commission’s heritage program, fishing spots can be found scattered throughout the county. Find them all in Waynesville and Maggie Valley!

Explore Mother Nature

The wilderness comes to life again in the Springtime, and you can take it all in here in the NC Smokies! While you’re visiting, don’t miss out on some of Mother Nature’s most beautiful spectacles.

Bird Watching

Peregrine Falcons, Alder Flycatchers, and Northern Saw-Whet Owls – these are just some of the rare and stunning species you can see while high-elevation birding. Bring along your binoculars!

Elk Calving

Have you ever laid eyes on a baby elk? It’s an absolute wonder! In late Spring, elk cows hide their calves in the high grass in the valleys around these parts. Be safe though, and keep your distance—cows can be aggressive in protecting their young. Get a full guide on elk-watching safety here.

Wildflowers

Springtime is positively blooming with wildflowers of all varieties: Daffodil, Dogwood, Painted Trillium, Phacelia, Pink Lady Slipper, Yellow Lady Slipper, Pinkshell Azalea, Redbud, and Tulips are showing off their true colors.

Take Your Pick

The fertile soil in Haywood County has helped position us as a local leader in growing fresh, delicious produce, which is why you’ll find so many wonderful farm-to-table restaurants in the NC Smokies. You can even pick your own produce and flowers at the following gardens:

Ten Acre Garden

Pick fresh strawberries, raspberries, blueberries, and much more. Berry good! Come mid-April you can try your hand at the Sunflower Maze here, too.

Genesis Garden

If you are looking to take some flowers home with you, visit this commercial flower farm, home to over 45 different varieties of flowers. Chances are, they have your favorite!

 

History and Harmony

While we’re still masking up and keeping socially distant, our local businesses always have something terrific going on.

Bearwaters Brewery

Soak up the sunshine Bearwaters, located right on the Pigeon River. They’ve got plenty of craft beers, fresh food, live music—and outdoor seating.

Wheels Through Time

Motorcycle lovers, you won’t want to miss this high-octane blast from the past. Wheels Through Time exhibits America’s most beloved classic motorcycles in their Maggie Valley-based museum. Their season kicks off on April 1st (no foolin’) with a huge celebration and the museum is open most days throughout the week until October.

A Spring break trip to Haywood County is easy to plan, full of fun, and affordable for every budget. Call or stop by our Visitor Center for sample itineraries and recommended things to do in the Smokies! We can’t wait to welcome you.

 

Related Posts

Haywood County is the paw-fect place for your furry friend! With its southern hospitality, this county welcomes both humans and their four-legged pals. You’ll
Looking for indoor activities to keep you entertained when the weather isn’t ideal outside? Look no further than the NC Smokies, because we’ve got
Discover Your Traveler Type Personalized Itineraries for Your Trip to the NC Smokies  Are you an adventure seeker, a laid-back traveler, a luxury lover,