Explore Secret Season in Jackson County, NC

Explore Secret Season in Jackson County, NC
 Travelers to the Western North Carolina mountain towns of Jackson County will uncover a wide array of hidden benefits to traveling during Jackson County’s secret season. The towns of Cashiers, Cherokee, Dillsboro and Sylva come alive during the winter months, offering visitors a wide array of hidden benefits to traveling during this less-crowded time of year. Within driving distance of many of the Southeast’s biggest cities, Jackson County is bustling with activities for every kind of traveler, including winter hiking to frozen waterfalls, scenic drives through the rolling mountainsides, quality shopping, a thriving culinary scene and much more. Unplug, unwind, sit back and relax, the vacation you won’t soon forget starts now.

Secret Season Experiences

Selected as one of USA Today’s #1 Destination to experience fall foliage, Jackson County is no stranger to scenic views and gorgeous landscapes. This beauty continues into the winter months and visitors during the “secret season” are awarded the unique opportunity to experience dazzling views around the county with little obstruction. Feel like you are one of the only people on Earth as you take in the sights and sounds of the Western North Carolina mountains and take advantage of front row “seats” at the prime scenic viewing spots. 

Sapphire Valley is one of the most convenient locations to many of the Southeast’s largest cities that provides an opportunity to hit the slopes. Starting in mid-December, the resort’s state-of-the-art snow machines start churning out snow to create a blanket of fresh powder for all to enjoy. The affordable rates, on-site instructors, moderate slopes, lighter crowds and convenient location make Sapphire Valley an ideal destination for families or beginners to enjoy some snowy adventures. Before your visit, check the webcam to make sure the slopes are white. Those who prefer a tube will enjoy the 700-foot, multi-lane tubing run with steep walls on both sides to allow for more control at Frozen Falls Tube Park. Lift tickets are available for $60 for adults and $34 for children 12 and under. Those interested in partaking in the adventure that awaits at the Frozen Falls Tube Park can do so for $28 for a ½ hour session.

Traveling during the holidays? Put a new spin on your holiday traditions and choose your own Christmas tree at one of several choose and cut tree farms in the area. With the idea of selecting your own live tree popularized in recent years, individuals are looking for new ways to “spruce” up the holidays. Jackson County visitors and residents alike will love wandering the lots to find the perfect pine to take back home for the holidays. Enjoy this unique holiday adventure without the crowds and snag the best tree on the lot.

Travelers seeking a February getaway will find an unusual phenomenon found only in Jackson County – the Shadow of the Bear. This naturally occurring phenomenon makes an appearance for just 30 minutes on sunny days at 5:30 p.m. mid-February through early March. It starts with a small dark shadow at the bottom of the valley and grows until it finally evolves into the bear. Make sure to bring your camera to capture this spectacular view as the sun sets behind Whiteside Mountain. 

Looking to pick up a new hobby or skill? With Jackson County being the home to the country’s first and only fly fishing trail, as well as the North Carolina Trout Capital®, this is the perfect location to learn the relaxing and rewarding sport of fly fishing. Winter is actually a prime time for fly fishing in the N.C. mountains since the cooler temperatures allow fish to feed all day long and the state starts its supplemental stockings in the fall, the fish are plentiful and biting, allowing for more tight lines and bent rods during this time. There are plenty of outfitters in the area that will take you out for a day on the crystal clear stream waters to help you reel in the big one.

Save Money, Save Time

Everyone loves to save money on travel – Jackson County is no exception. Secret season in Jackson County boasts the best prices found in the area all season long. Enjoy the best accommodations in the North Carolina mountains at unbeatable prices. Winter visitors will also have a chance to try the best eats in the area with significantly shorter wait times. Wasted time is a thing of the past. Secret season allows visitors the exclusive opportunity to spend less time waiting to be seated at your favorite restaurants. Select the most scenic seat or even your favorite spot in the dining room for the perfect secret season dining experience. 

Craft Your Dream Getaway

While some destinations are ideal for weekend travel, Jackson County boasts a full slate of attractions and activities available throughout the week as well. Escape overcrowded winter destinations and become immersed in a winter wonderland full of possibilities. Stay in the middle of the most for an array of adventures just a short drive away. Plan your trip during the season most people aren’t aware of to enjoy all the very best that Jackson County has to offer without the stress of a busy travel atmosphere.

Each of the Western North Carolina mountain towns in Jackson County are unique in their own way. Skip around from town to town to truly experience all three or choose one to spend your entire trip. No matter how you choose to spend your adventure, cabins, hotels, B&B’s and resorts are evenly spread throughout the county, making it easy to find the perfect accommodation for the visit. For more information visit, DiscoverJacksonNC.com.