A new year calls for meaningful adventures, and 2026 is the perfect time to explore Jackson County in Western North Carolina.
Known for its waterfalls, scenic hikes, and peaceful mountain trails, the area invites visitors to slow down and reconnect with nature.
From mindful forest therapy experiences — including the country’s first fully accessible forest therapy trail in Sylva — to iconic hikes leading to Whitewater Falls, the highest waterfall east of the Rockies, Jackson County offers unforgettable, bucket-list moments rooted in wellness and wonder.