Area Attractions

Clingmans Dome - less than 30 minutes from Alarka Highlands

At 6,643 feet, Clingmans Dome is Great Smokey Mountains National Park’s highest point. On clear days, visitors are treated to views expanding over 100 miles and into seven states, while the cool, wet conditions on Clingmans Dome's summit make it a coniferous rainforest.

Nantahala River - 15 minutes from Alarka Highlands

Known as "Nanty" to the locals, and spanning over 40 Miles, (64Km) the Nantahala River is one of the most popular whitewater rivers in the US. It attracts over a quarter of million boaters every year, and is a favorite with whitewater rafters and kayakers due to its class II to V rapids. There are several waterfalls along the river, including Whitewater Falls – the highest falls east of the Rockie Mountains at 411 feet.

Fontana Lake - less than 20 minutes from Alarka Highlands

This 29-mile long, 11,700-acre lake has more than 240 miles of shoreline, and its deep, cold waters provide the ideal habitat for a variety of fish. In fact, record size Muskie and Walleye have been pulled from its depths. And many believe it’s one of the best smallmouth bass fishing lakes in the country, including the Fisherman’s Bass Tournament Circuit, which held its annual Hall of Fame Classic at Fontana Lake in Fall 2001.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park is world renowned for its diversity of plant and animal life, the beauty of its ancient mountains, and the quality of its remnants of Southern Appalachian mountain culture. Boasting the title of America’s most visited national park, is a hiker's paradise with over 800 miles of maintained trails ranging from short leg-stretchers to strenuous treks that may require backcountry camping.

Biltmore Estates - less than an hour from Alarka Highlands

George Vanderbilt’s 250-room mansion is virtually the same as it was at the turn of the 20th century. Sculptures, paintings, furnishing, and household items have all been carefully preserved. More than 1 million visitors per year tour the gardens and the winery, and enjoy a sumptuous three-course meal or a sandwich in one of several restaurants.

Skiing - Several resorts less than an hour away

With some of the highest mountains east of the Rockies and several ski resorts just minutes from Alarka Highlands, there's something here for everyone. Beginner skiers, advanced skiers, snow boarders, snow tubers, and ice skaters can all enjoy a mountain experience. Day or night, North Carolina ski areas have everything you need for a great winter experience including rental equipment and instruction.

Cherokee North Carolina/Harrah’s Casino 20 minutes from Alarka Highlands

Cherokee, North Carolina offers several cultural attractions including the famed Oconaluftee Indian village, Memorial to the Cherokee Indian Museum and "Unto these Hills" outdoor drama and mountainside theater.

It is also the site of Harrah’s Casino open 24 hrs a day 7 days a week Harrah’s offers the latest in new games and slots and classics like digital blackjack. Enjoy the games or catch a show from one of several entertainers who perform at the casino every year.

Wheels Through Time Automobile and Motorcycle Museum 40 minutes from Alarka Highlands

With over half a million visitors annually, Wheels Through Time Museum and The All American Transportation Museum boast what some experts have called "America’s finest collection of motorcycles from 1903 to present".