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Highlands History

The Highlands is a town in Macon County, North Carolina, located in the southern Appalachian Mountains. The area has a rich and diverse history dating back to pre-colonial times.

Before the arrival of European settlers, the region was inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Cherokee, Creek, and Catawba. These tribes used the land for hunting, fishing, and agriculture, and their presence is still evident today in the many Native American artifacts that have been found in the area.

In the late 1700s, European settlers began to move into the area, attracted by the fertile land and abundant natural resources. The town of Highlands was founded in 1875 by two developers, Samuel Truman Kelsey and Clinton Carter Hutchinson, who saw the potential for the area as a summer resort destination.

During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Highlands became a popular destination for wealthy families from cities such as Atlanta, Savannah, and Charlotte. Many of these families built grand summer homes in the area, some of which still stand today.

The town of Highlands played an important role during World War II as well. The US government established a secret training base in the area, known as Camp Highlands, where soldiers were trained in mountain warfare techniques. After the war, the camp was closed and the land was returned to the local community.

Today, the Highlands is known for its natural beauty and outdoor recreational opportunities, including hiking, fishing, and whitewater rafting. The town has a thriving arts community, with galleries, shops, and studios showcasing the work of local artists. In recent years, the Highlands has also become a popular destination for retirees and second-homeowners, drawn by the area's scenic beauty, mild climate, and relaxed lifestyle. Despite its growth and development, the town has retained its small-town charm and sense of community, making it a beloved destination for visitors and residents alike.

Highlands Top Tourist Attractions

The Highlands in North Carolina is a beautiful destination with a variety of tourist attractions that draw visitors from all over. Here are some of the top tourist attractions in the area:

• Bridal Veil Falls: This 120-foot waterfall is located just outside of town and can be viewed from a scenic overlook or by driving behind the falls on a narrow road.
• Dry Falls: Another impressive waterfall, Dry Falls allows visitors to walk behind the falls and experience the mist and spray up close.
• Highlands Biological Station: This research facility and nature center offers guided hikes and educational programs, as well as a botanical garden and museum.
• Sunset Rock: A popular spot for watching the sunset, Sunset Rock offers stunning views of the town and surrounding mountains.
• The Bascom: This nonprofit center for the visual arts features galleries, classrooms, and studios showcasing the work of local and regional artists.
• Whiteside Mountain: This towering mountain features a popular hiking trail that leads to stunning views from the top.
• The Highlands Playhouse: This historic theater presents live theater productions, concerts, and other cultural events.
• The Highlands-Cashiers Chamber Music Festival: This annual summer music festival brings together world-class musicians for a series of concerts and events.
• Highlands Farmers Market: Held on Saturdays during the summer and fall, this popular farmers market offers locally grown produce, crafts, and other goods.
• Old Edwards Inn and Spa: This luxurious resort and spa offers fine dining, upscale accommodations, and a range of spa treatments and services.

Highlands Climate

The climate of Highlands, North Carolina is generally considered to be a subtropical highland climate (also known as a temperate highland climate), characterized by mild summers, cool winters, and high humidity year-round.

Summers in Highlands are mild and pleasant, with average high temperatures in the mid-70s to low 80s Fahrenheit (around 24-28 degrees Celsius) and average low temperatures in the mid-50s to low 60s Fahrenheit (around 12-16 degrees Celsius). Afternoon thunderstorms are common during the summer months.

Winters in Highlands can be chilly, with average high temperatures in the 40s to low 50s Fahrenheit (around 4-11 degrees Celsius) and average low temperatures in the 20s to low 30s Fahrenheit (around -6 to 0 degrees Celsius). Snowfall is not uncommon, but typically does not accumulate to significant depths.

Fall and spring are generally mild and pleasant in Highlands, with temperatures ranging from the 50s to 70s Fahrenheit (around 10-25 degrees Celsius) during the day and cooler temperatures at night.

Due to its high elevation and location in the southern Appalachian Mountains, Highlands experiences cooler temperatures and higher precipitation than many other parts of North Carolina. Visitors should be prepared for variable weather conditions and should bring appropriate clothing and gear for outdoor activities.

Highlands Geography

The town itself is situated in Macon County and has an elevation of approximately 4,118 feet (1,255 meters) above sea level.

The geography of the Highlands is characterized by rolling hills, steep mountains, and deep valleys. The area is known for its rugged beauty, with numerous waterfalls, rivers, and streams. The town is surrounded by the Nantahala National Forest, which covers more than half a million acres and offers a wide range of outdoor recreational opportunities, including hiking, fishing, camping, and wildlife viewing.

One of the most prominent features of the Highlands is the Eastern Continental Divide, which runs through the area. This is a geological boundary that separates the flow of water between the Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico. The Highlands is home to several major rivers, including the Cullasaja River and the Chattooga River.

The climate of the Highlands is influenced by its high elevation and mountainous terrain, with cooler temperatures and higher precipitation than many other parts of North Carolina. The area is also prone to occasional flooding and landslides due to its steep topography. Overall, the geography of the Highlands is a unique and beautiful combination of rugged mountains, deep valleys, and pristine forests, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.