Plan Your Trip

Brad Regan Park is tucked away in the hills above the town.  Has easily accessible amenities – Pool, Tennis/Pickleball, basketball, and hiking/biking trails.  It is often overlooked because of its location and lack of signage.

All ages and skill levels have recreation opportunities in our area. The county has several ADA accessible recreation areas. Riverside Park in downtown S.P. has a paved walkway as does the Creek Walk in Bakersville. For those more adventurous we have hiking trails, including the famous Appalachian Trial and various locations along the Parkway. Those wishing to visit with less effort can enjoy driving our many scenic roadways or relax and enjoy the small-town charm of Bakersville and Spruce Pine.

We are situated in the heard of the mountains, centrally located between Boone and Asheville, you can access all the mountains have to offer without the hustle and high prices of the busy tourist areas. We are between, the 3 biggest mountains in the east.  Mt Mitchell, Roan and Grandfather, all are quickly accessible and offer completely different experiences. Our county is also bordered on one side by the AT and the other by the BRP, what’s in between is where you will find the real charm of the mountains.

Look for the discover Mitchell Website to plan your stay. Book your accommodations on one of the popular websites. Pack comfortable clothes for weather that can change quickly and prepare to enjoy the clean air.

Stay on marked trails. Always carry a small trash bag and pick up any paper or plastic that was left by others.

Switzerland Inn!  Beautiful view from every room, good restaurant and close to other amenities in the area

Must see the Parkway between Little Switzerland and Bear Den as well as Roan Mountain; however, we always send everyone out to see Wisemans View in the Linville Gorge as they are a neighboring destination 

Fall of course is the most popular, due to the magnificent colors and cool weather. Spring; however, brings the beauty of the blooming rhododendrons and other flowering trees found along our ridges and valleys. The weather is great for hiking, and the hiking trails offer great views before the leaves are provide full cover.

Plan to stay for a day or a weekend. Fill your day with a hike or drive and stay for dinner at one of our quaint locally owned restaurants. Venture out to other nearby attractions and come back to stay in one of our affordable accommodations.

We have the modern conveniences of large retail shopping and fast food while still maintaining many small locally owned shops and restaurants the offer everything you expect and want from a visit to rural Appalachia. We have modern Golf and Tennis facilities as well as a beautiful YMCA and yet you are only minutes away from serenity.

Must have good shoes, (Merrell or Keene ) available at local retailers. Those fishing in the river would want a good fly rod or spinning gear. Orvis , Simms, Daiwa, Shimano are the most popular. Also need a good pair of sunglasses. Costa, Maui Jim, Oakley

Start your day with breakfast at a downtown SP coffee shop such as DT’s or Fox and Fig or the bakery in Bakersville. Finish the day with a drink on the patio at the Little Switzerland inn or the Grassy Creek Golf course.

Emerald Village Gem Mine. Very rustic old working mine with lots to see and do for the family. Love the mine tours and in the fall, they do blacklight nighttime tours. Altapass Orchard  for its visitor center and folk history, great place to take a leisurely stroll.

 Insider Tip- Fishing is best in downtown spruce pine along the downtown stretch of the Toe River during the fall delayed harvest season. Catch live music at the Mad Platter, Spruce Pint or City Drive in.