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Travel and Outdoors

How to spend a wild weekend in Jackson County, NC

May 12, 2025 • 
Germaine Foo
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A GIF of people enjoying outdoor activites in Jackson County, NC

Fun fact: Jackson County is home to some of the oldest mountains in the world.

Photos by Steven Reinhold + Baxter Miller

If adventure is on your summer agenda, add Jackson County, NC to the top of your list.

Hike ancient mountains, cast a line on the Western North Carolina Fly Fishing Trail, or raft down “The Tuck” (a 50-mile river). Then, top it off with local eats and brews + free outdoor concerts, all set in the stunning Blue Ridge Mountains.

Pro tip: Visit midweek for fewer crowds, better deals, and shorter wait times at James Beard-nominated restaurants.

Plan your summer adventure

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