Between attractions like Cataloochee Ski Area, Soco Falls, and the Wheels Through Time Museum, Maggie Valley, North Carolina, is packed full of things to do. Beyond the many destinations within city limits, you’ll find that Maggie Valley also serves as an excellent base for day trips.
Maggie Valley’s prime location in Western North Carolina makes it the perfect jumping-off point for all sorts of adventures. We’ve put together a list of the seven best day trips from Maggie Valley, all of which are within about an hour’s drive or less.
Book your stay at Carolina Vacations and keep reading to plan the perfect itinerary!
1. Biltmore Estate
- Asheville, NC
- Sprawling, historic estate and gardens
- 40 minutes
One of Western North Carolina’s biggest attractions is just a 40-minute road trip away from Maggie Valley. The Biltmore Estate comprises 8,000-acre grounds, at the heart of which is a 250-room mansion constructed by the Vanderbilt family in the late 1800s. Known as America’s largest home, the Biltmore House gives tours all year round—check the calendar to find out about exciting seasonal events like Christmas at Biltmore.
After touring the house, you can admire the scenic gardens, stroll down some of the 22 miles of hiking trails on the grounds, or snag an ice cream cone from the Biltmore Dairy Bar. And, of course, the Biltmore Estate is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to things to do in Asheville. While you’re in town, you can also window-shop in the buzzy River Arts District or explore native plants at the North Carolina Arboretum.
2. Nantahala Outdoor Center
- Bryson City, NC
- Outfitter with a wide variety of outdoor adventures, including ziplining, whitewater rafting, and mountain biking
- 50 minutes
During the warmer months, the Nantahala Outdoor Center comes alive. Maybe you want to soar down a zipline during your visit, go for a heart-pounding whitewater-rafting trip, or take an ATV out for a spin. No matter what outdoor activity is calling your name, the NOC (affectionately called the “knock” by locals) has an itinerary for you.
After your excursion of choice, return to the NOC to eat at River’s End Restaurant and browse the wide gear selection at the Outfitter’s Store. Live music performances and other events take place at the NOC throughout the year, so if you’re lucky, your trip dates could line up with happenings like the Guest Appreciation Festival, artisan markets, or canoe and kayak races.
3. Great Smoky Mountains National Park
- North Carolina and Tennessee
- America’s most-visited national park; destination for hiking trails, viewpoints, and more
- 25 minutes
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park covers some 522,400 acres and is a must-see for all visitors to Western North Carolina. Dense, old-growth forests sprawl across rolling Appalachian mountain peaks, home to native wildlife like black bears and elk. Depending on the time of year, visitors can see blooming wildflowers, waterfalls, world-famous fall foliage, and much more.
Hikes and viewpoints abound, including the hugely popular Clingmans Dome observation tower. The park’s nearest access point is in Cataloochee Valley, just a 30-minute drive away from Maggie Valley, though you may need to put in more time on the road to reach destinations like Cades Cove or Laurel Falls.
Keep in mind – you’ll also have to reserve a low-cost parking permit if you want to do more than sightsee from your car.
4. Great Smoky Mountains Railroad
- Bryson City, NC
- Scenic railroad with a variety of experiences and themed rides
- 40 minutes
Your journey on the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad starts in Bryson City, a small town known for its breweries and trout fishing. From there, though, the rest of the ride is up to you. Will you set out on a moonshine tasting tour? Go sightseeing through fall foliage? Or hop aboard the Polar Express at Christmastime? Even a “regular” train ride won’t disappoint, as GSMR routes pass quaint small towns like Waynesville and stunning, old-growth forests.
Book your tickets well in advance and read up on the different rides available. The GSMR offers options at various price points, ideal for everyone from families with kids to adults planning an all-day date.
5. Museum of the Cherokee People
- Cherokee, NC
- Explore the heritage of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians
- 30 minutes
A day trip to the mountain town of Cherokee has several stopping points, but you should start at the Museum of the Cherokee People. Here, you’ll find exhibits chronicling the rich history, arts, and culture of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians, some of the region’s first inhabitants.
Though many of the Cherokee were forcibly removed from Western North Carolina in the 1830s, the Eastern Band still exists today, and this museum serves as a living testament to their traditions and heritage.
Keep an eye out for street signs in the flowing Cherokee alphabet as you make your way around town. Other highlights include the Oconaluftee Indian Village, a recreation of a historical Cherokee community, and the Mountainside Theater, an outdoor amphitheater where guests can watch the story of the Cherokee play out live on stage every summer.
6. Chimney Rock State Park
- Lake Lure, NC
- Viewpoints and short hiking trails at an iconic Western North Carolina landmark
- 1 hour 20 minutes
Chimney Rock State Park is beloved by tourists and locals alike for its easily accessible viewpoints, allowing for sightseeing across Hickory Nut Gorge and Lake Lure. The park features around 3.5 miles of relaxed hiking trails, an amphitheater, and the Old Rock Cafe and Sky Lounge Deli, where you can grab drinks and a bite to eat.
Chimney Rock State Park has several different experiences for guests. You can climb (or take an elevator) all the way up to the top of the park’s 315-foot-tall namesake Chimney Rock or go for a short walk and read more about the area via interpretive signs. No matter what you plan to do, you will surely enjoy your trip.
(At the time of writing, Chimney Rock State Park is closed due to damage from Hurricane Helene. Check the park’s website to find out whether you can visit.)
7. Lake Junaluska
- Lake Junaluska, NC
- Christian retreat center and outdoor recreation area
- 15 minutes
A short drive away from Maggie Valley, Lake Junaluska is perhaps one of the most convenient day trips you can take from town. And day trip it is—expect to spend more than a few hours walking the trails around the lake, paddle boarding or canoeing the waters, and swimming in the lakeside pool. You can even book a tee time at the Lake Junaluska Golf Course for some action on the green.
A former Christian retreat center, Lake Junaluska has plenty to keep visitors of all ages entertained. But if you’re interested in going a little further afield for your lake day, the massive Fontana Lake is just an hour and five minutes away from Maggie Valley, presenting even more opportunities to boat, fish, and swim.
Make Time for a Day Trip from Maggie Valley
Though Maggie Valley is a superb destination in its own right, the numerous day trips in the area supply even more fun. All located within an hour’s drive of Maggie Valley, these day trips will allow you to experience a wide variety of what Western North Carolina offers.
Keep in mind that this list is just the start. Since we didn’t have room to include everything you can do around here, you should research your options to ensure you don’t miss out on anything. That includes your stay—book your trip to Maggie Valley with Carolina Vacations. From cottages to woodsy retreats, your tranquil escape awaits!
