North Carolina Blue Ridge Mountains Things to Do

Sapphire Signal Ridge Marina
North Carolina Panthertown Valley
Sapphire Nature Center
North Carolina Headwaters Outfitters
North Carolina Outdoor Center
Sapphire Valley Resort Racquet Club

Explore more of the Blue Ridge Mountains and its wealth of things to do when you stay with us at our Sapphire, North Carolina resort. Experience spectacular whitewater rafting at Nantahala Outdoor Center. Ski in the breathtaking Blue Ridge Mountains at Sapphire Valley Ski Area. Tour Zachary-Tolbert House, an historic home built in the 1830s. These attractions and many others are in store for you when you visit western North Carolina.

Blue Ridge Parkway Motorcycle Groups -

Motorcyclists and club members may be interested to know that we offer special group rates at our property to riders visiting our area. With some of the best twisty roads (and scenery) to ride in these parts, why not make a real vacation out of it and save on lodging at a motorcycle-friendly hotel?

We also teamed up with Wayne Busch of America Rides Maps fame to create a ride map on BlueRidgeMotorcycling.com called "The Wild Dam Waterfall Loop" - 2 ½ hours of twists and turns and several beautiful waterfalls.

You can see the ride here:

Give us a call today or contact [email protected] to find out more about our group specials! You'll be glad you stayed with us - we guarantee it!

Hiking & Waterfalls -

The area is surrounded by National Forests. Only a few minutes away are Pisgah National Forest and Nantahala National Forest. Both have miles of trails that are waiting to be discovered. With picturesque views and rushing waterfalls, a visit to the National Forests is a must on any trip. Visit the highest falls east of the Mississippi River, Whitewater Falls or hike to the top of Whiteside Mountain to enjoy the view of the Cashiers area. www.fs.usga.gov

Signal Ridge Marina -

Located five miles north of Cashiers on Lake Glenville, Signal Ridge is a full-service marina. Everything from fishing tackle, bait, wake boards, tubes, water skies, knee boards, and all types of boating accessories are available. Pontoons and tritons can be rented from March through October. www.signalridgemarina.com

Tom Sawyer's Christmas Tree Farm & Elf Village -

Located in the mountains of western North Carolina, Tom Sawyer's Christmas Tree Farm & Elf Village boasts eighty acres of farms featuring fabulous Fraser Firs. Open beginning the Saturday before Thanksgiving, Tom Sawyer's is also home to picnic tables, ponds, and classic barns. The farm is also a one stop shop when it comes to making your dream wedding a reality. Check out their website at www.sawyerfamilyfarmstead.com

Panthertown Valley -

Those who like to hike will find Panthertown Valley a big draw. Covering nearly 7,000 acres, the valley boasts a network of picturesque trails. Some lead to tops of cliffs offering spectacular views of nearby mountains while others end up at gorgeous waterfalls and sandy beaches. www.hikewnc.info/trailheads/nantahala/nantahala/panthertown.html

Arrowmont Stables -

Treat yourself to a memorable horseback riding experience courtesy of Arrowmont Stables, which features an exceptional trail ride program, in-depth lessons, and first-class horses. Discover a wide range of trails plus phenomenal luncheon and supper rides and a trotting and cantering program. http://arrowmont.com/

Highlands Nature Center -

There is much to see and do at the Highlands Nature Center for both adults and kids. Discover mounts of native birds and mammals, live exhibits featuring reptiles, amphibians, snails, and fish, and such interactive exhibits the Touchy-Feely Box and the Touch and Learn Table. www.wcu.edu/hbs/Naturecenter.htm

Zachary-Tolbert House -

Built in the 1830s by the Zachary family, some of the first European settlers in Cashiers Valley, the Zachary-Tolbert House is on the National Register of Historic Places. With no electricity, plumbing or central heat, the house, now a museum, pays homage to the spirit of the pioneers. www.cashiershistoricalsociety.org

Headwaters Outfitters -

Great canoeing, kayaking, and tubing trips are at the heart of Headwaters Outfitters. All of these incredible self-guided adventures take place on the French Broad River. In addition, you can take advantage of guided fly fishing trips on the French Broad and Davidson Rivers. www.headwatersoutfitters.com

Sapphire Valley Ski Area -

Situated on nearly 6,000 acres in the Blue Ridge Mountains, the family-friendly Sapphire Valley Ski Area is comprised of two runs, one intermediate-level skiers and one for beginners. Runs are up to 1600 feet in length with a 200-foot vertical drop and are ideal for downhill skiing and snowboarding. www.skisapphire.com

Nantahala Outdoor Center -

Outdoor enthusiasts will be very enthusiastic about Nantahala Outdoor Center. Enjoy whitewater rafting on your choice of seven different rivers. Participate in a variety of guided activities such as fishing, biking, climbing, and hiking. Engage in top-notch paddling instruction in either whitewater or flat-water. www.noc.com .

Gorges State Park -

Nature lovers will be quite smitten with Gorges State Park. Sights to behold include wondrous waterfalls, river gorges, and sheer rock walls. With annual rainfall surpassing 80 inches each year, Gorges State Park is a veritable rainforest that will enchant all those who enter. www.ncparks.gov/Visit/parks/gorg/main.php

Sapphire Valley Resort Racquet Club -

The Sapphire Valley Resort Racquet Club is open daily from May 1 through October 31. During your stay at the Hampton Inn and Suites - Cashiers/Sapphire Valley, you're invited to play at the racquet club and be a part of the tennis events.

You'll enjoy preferred court times and rates, as well as weekly round robins, drop-in groups, special events and more. Private lessons and clinics are also available. The center features 8 Har-Tru clay courts, a fully stocked pro shop, racquet rentals, and a ball machine. For court reservations or information call 828-743-1181.