The Highlands center point is approximately 1 mile northwest of Dry Falls and 9 miles southwest of Lake Glenville.
The best time to visit Highlands is in the summer when the weather is warm enough to enjoy the area's outdoor attractions. Given Highlands' elevation of 4,118 feet, summers are quite mild. In fact, average highs top out at 78 degrees Fahrenheit in July, with lows dipping just under 60 degrees Fahrenheit.
Keep in mind, however, that summer is peak tourist season in the Blue Ridge Mountains. Hotel rates increase with the influx of visitors, so you may want to reserve your room well in advance.
Fall is a breathtaking time of year in western North Carolina. From late September through November, brisk temperatures provide an ideal environment for hiking and viewing the changing leaves. Pack a few layers and book your hotel early, especially if you're visiting when the leaves are at their most colorful.
Spring warms up slowly in Highlands, giving you the perfect chance to save money on your hotel and beat the crowds. April and May experience average highs in the mid-to-upper 60s, and the mountains come alive with greenery and blooms. Just be sure to pack a raincoat and umbrella, as Highlands gets an average of 81 inches of rain per year.
Wintertime in Highlands is quiet and hotel rates hit rock bottom. If you're wanting to visit the area on a tight budget, you can't beat a wintertime getaway. Temperatures fluctuate between the mid-20s and upper 40s all winter, so dress accordingly and book refundable flights if necessary. As long as any inclement weather stays at bay, you can still enjoy a brisk stroll in the Nantahala National Forest.
Seniors, AAA members, military families, and government employees may qualify for special discounted rates at hotels throughout western North Carolina.
For instance, military service members can save at Hampton Inn of Franklin NC, which is located just 11 miles from Highlands. This highly rated property features an outdoor seasonal pool, a complimentary hot breakfast, free Wi-Fi, and a fitness center. Guest rooms feature 40-inch HDTVs, coffee makers, mini fridges, microwaves, ironing facilities, curved shower rods, plush towels, large work desks, and Neutrogena toiletries.
AAA members can save at Americas Best Value Inn Clayton. Located near Rabun Country Golf Club, this hotel features a 24-hour front desk, coffee in the lobby, ample parking, free Wi-Fi, a picnic area, barbecue grills, and a complimentary continental breakfast. Guest rooms include flat-screen TVs with cable, coffee makers, irons, ironing boards, mini fridges, microwaves, and phones with free local calls.
The area around Highlands has many midrange accommodations that are moderately priced to give you the right combination of affordability and luxury.
Consider booking a room at The Lodge at Cat Creek, which is located minutes from Scottish Tartans Museum. Enjoy ample parking, a seasonal outdoor pool, and free Wi-Fi. Inside your guest room, you'll find a flat-screen TV with satellite programming, a spacious work desk, a separate sitting area, a hair dryer, and complimentary toiletries.
The Chandler Inn is a great option for those wanting to experience a little luxury in the mountains without having to break their budget. The highly rated inn features a terrace, a garden, complimentary Wi-Fi, and a friendly front desk staffed during limited hours. The individually decorated guest rooms feature fireplaces, cable TV, separate sitting areas, homey decor, desks, and toiletries.
You can't go wrong with Comfort Inn Franklin. This popular hotel offers a variety of recognizable amenities from a trusted brand, including a 24-hour front desk, free parking, free newspapers, a business center, a complimentary continental breakfast, and a fireplace in the lobby. Guest rooms boast mini fridges, microwaves, safes, work desks, hair dryers, toiletries, and flat-screen TVs with satellite programming.
With so much to do around Highlands, you're probably wondering where to start.
The 45-foot Bridal Veil Falls is a must-see waterfall tucked away in Nantahala National Forest. Meander through the forest on pristine hiking trails or drive your car under the falls. Other geographical features you won't want to miss include Dry Falls, Sunset Rock, Cullasaja Falls, and Mirror Lake.
In nearby Franklin, check out the Scottish Tartans Museum, which traces the origins and modern-day uses of the kilt. The kids will also love the Gem & Mineral Museum.
No matter your reason for visiting Highlands, you'll discover a gorgeous countryside that feels like home — just be sure to book the right hotel that feels like your home away from home.
Below are reviews of the city of Highlands, NC from an actual visitor's perspective.
The people in Highlands were so authentic and non pretentious. We were treated like friends wherever we went.
Highlands is a great place to shop, hike and enjoy the fall weather.
Highlands has a quaint charm, and the areas I need to visit are quite walkable.
There were many nice restaurants in Highlands. The shopping was interesting and the environment was very nice.
Excellent restaurants- especially Lakeside and Paolettis.