Hike to nearby waterfalls, kayak local rivers, or explore the Nantahala National Forest, the perfect backdrop for outdoor lovers.

Wayah Bald Tower: A visit to Wayah Bald and Tower is well worth the journey. See the Wilson Lick Ranger Station, built in 1913, Wilson Lick is the first ranger station in the Nantahala National Forest. Continue another 3 miles to Wayah Bald which provides a beautiful view of Franklin. Take a short paved trail to the historic Wayah Bald FIre Tower. The tower offers a great view of the Appalachian Mountains in Georgia, Tennessee and both North and South Carolinas. Picnic nearby or hike two long-distance trails, the Appalachain and Bartram Trails that cross the bald at the tower.

Cullasaja Falls: Can be seen from the roadside on US Highway 64 (called Mountain Waters Scenic Highway & Waterfall Byway), 8.8 miles west of Highlands, along a very narrow, curvy stretch of highway through the Cullasaja River Gorge in Nantahala National Forest. What a beautiful cliffside drive.

Ready to get soaked? Nantahala River is your whitewater playground. Whether you're a first-timer or a rafting junkie, the cool rapids and lush gorge views make it unforgettable.

Grab your tube and float the day away on one of Franklin’s nearby rivers. This is lazy river life at its best—just sunscreen up and go with the flow.