In our last American Nomad adventure, we traveled the Carolina and Tennessee backroads atop magnificent Roan Mountain. Today, we’re heading over Roan and into the heart of North Carolina’s breathtaking Mitchell County. Here, you’ll discover a rare blend of wilderness adventure, art, and Appalachian charm.
Mitchell County is a place where you can get lost to be found, from hiking the Appalachian Trail and fishing freshwater trout streams (home to the famous Eastern Hellbender Salamander!) to exploring the close-knit communities of Bakersville, Spruce Pine, and Little Switzerland that call this county home.
In this post we’ll break down fun things to do in Mitchell County from beautiful backcountry drives, exploring the local arts scene, small town vibes and relaxing places to stay.
Small Towns and Beautiful Views:
Bakersville – Gateway to Roan Mountain
Only a square mile, what it lacks in size, Bakersville makes up for it in heart. This charming arts community is a gem in the Blue Ridge, with a grand historic courthouse and a vibrant downtown filled with eclectic shops, art galleries, and restaurants. Its close proximity to Roan Mountain makes it the perfect spot to explore the scenic wilderness. From here, you can drive up to Carver’s Gap and the Roan Mountain Rhododendron Gardens, the largest natural rhododendron gardens in the world. Each June (on the third weekend), both Bakersville and Roan Mountain celebrate these fiery flowers with the annual Rhododendron Festival.
Beautiful Cane Creek runs through downtown Bakersville, where you can walk the 0.6-mile paved Creek Walk greenway. The walk features handicap-accessible fishing piers, a gazebo, and a playground.
Another fun thing to do in Bakersville is visit the Dellinger Grist Mill. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, this is one of the oldest mills in the region and is still operational, grinding corn the same way it did in the 1800s.
Where to Eat: Mountain Holler, Bonnie & Clyde’s, Hopson’s Store, Mammie’s Breakfast Barn
Where to Shop: Bakersville is the perfect place to discover local treasures from handcrafted arts and crafts to antiques, clothing and more. Here are a few of Bakersville must shop spots.
Phin Petersons, Roan Mountain Mercantile, Thomas Grocery, Bowditch Antiques and Collectibles, In Tandem Gallery, MICA, Harless Woodworking, Terry Gess Pottery, Speckled Dog Pottery, Guerard Studios, Griffith’s General Store
Why in Bakersville don’t miss a visit to the Mitchell County History Museum
Spruce Pine: The Mineral City of America
Known as the Mineral Capital of America, Spruce Pine lies on one of the richest mineral deposits in the world! Over 57 different types of gems have been found here, many of which are critical for modern technology. In Spruce Pine, you can visit the North Carolina Minerals Museum, which tells the geologic story of North Carolina’s diverse minerals and pays tribute to generations of miners in this region.
Downtown Spruce Pine is a vibrant gathering place for the close-knit community of Mitchell County. With a “latte” to love, downtown is home to cool coffee shops, restaurants, local gift shops, and more. Downtown Spruce Pine also hosts several fun festivals and live concert events throughout the year including the Hellbender Festival (Labor Day weekend).
Destination Coffee: Fox & Fig (amazing coffee shop); DT’s Blue Ridge Java, Bueno Blends
Where to Eat: 670 on Oak, Mad Hatter Pizza, Spruce Mint. For complete guide click here.
Shop the High Country: Spruce Pine’s downtown is lined with amazing local shops where you can find the perfect gift and treat yourself to unique finds perfect for any budget. One of my favorite shops is Toe River Arts and Blue Mountain Retail…for complete guide click here.
Where to Stay:
- Richmond Inn Bed and Breakfast: Built in 1929, this quaint mountain inn is the perfect place to stay in Spruce Pine. Steps away from downtown you can peruse local shops and enjoy great eats, all while having ready access to the Blue Ridge Parkway and area scenery. I can’t wait to stay here on a future adventure. Website
- Blue Ridge Boutique Hotel: 32 cozy rooms in the heart of the Blue Ridge. This hotel allows you to relax in comfort about a day shopping downtown or hitting the high country trails. Website.
- Springmaid Mountain Retreat: Springmaid Mountain is your retreat from the ordinary…Nestled in the Blue Ridge minutes from Spruce Pine, they offer a variety of accommodations for families and groups. From suites and multi-bedroom cabins to campsites and bunk houses, Springmaid Mountain offers a number of opportunities to escape and enjoy the mountains! Website
- Smithmore Castle: For Lords and Ladies who want to live the royal experience, Smithmore is the High Country’s refined escape. Smithmore Castle is a private residence of the highest standing, with a full complement of staff dedicated to ensuring the utmost comfort and care. Each guest is invited to partake in a lavish three-course dinner and a gourmet breakfast for each night and morning of their stay, exquisitely prepared by our esteemed in-house chef. A unique luxury experience in North Carolina’s Blue Ridge. Website
- Bear Den Mountain Resort: Escape to Spacious Skies Bear Den, your gateway to the Blue Ridge Mountains, located within the stunning Pisgah National Forest. Choose from fully equipped RV sites, rustic tent spots, or cozy cabins for your perfect stay. Hike scenic trails to hidden waterfalls, explore playgrounds, the rec hall, or relax by the swimming lake. Conveniently located near Milepost 324.8 on the Blue Ridge Parkway, Bear Den offers easy access to breathtaking views at the Bear Den Overlook and endless mountain adventures. With full hook-up sites, water/electric options, and cabin rentals, we cater to every camper. Enjoy modern comforts like a camp store, bathhouses, and laundry facilities, ensuring a perfect blend of nature and convenience. Book now and experience your unforgettable Blue Ridge Mountain adventure!
- Pine Valley Motel: Laidback and cozy Blue Ridge inn with Mitchell County hospitality. Website
- Spruce Pine Campground: Commune with mountain scenery and sleep under the stars at this popular Spruce Pine Campground.
Fun Things to Do:
Visit the North Carolina Museum of Minerals to learn about the region’s unique geology. For outdoor fun, you can enjoy two of the area’s great parks:
- Riverside Park: Located just across the North Toe River near downtown, this park boasts a children’s playground, picnic shelters, a baseball field, and direct access to popular fishing and swimming spots on the river.
- Brad Ragan Park: Also within the town limits, this park offers something for everyone. It features tennis courts, a public swimming pool, basketball and volleyball courts, a baseball field, and a horseshoe pitch, as well as a playground and picnic shelters—all surrounded by mature trees and beautiful rhododendrons.
Little Switzerland: A Rendezvous in the Clouds
Located just off the Blue Ridge Parkway, Little Switzerland is where you can find solace in stunning Blue Ridge panoramas while exploring the alpine charm of this mountain gem. The area’s landscape is similar to the foothills of Switzerland, which inspired its name. The historic Switzerland Inn pays homage to the chalets of Europe with its cozy, rustic mountain charm.
The village of Little Switzerland, though only a block long, is one of the most charming spots in North Carolina. Here, you can enjoy several local restaurants, a bookstore, and a gift shop. Nearby, you can even try your luck as a mountain miner at the Emerald Village Gem Mine—a fun family favorite.
Motorcyclists and drivers will delight in the winding backroads of the Diamondback, a thirty-eight mile, diamond-shaped loop that begins in Little Switzerland, NC. The route takes you on NC 226A, US 221, Toms Creek Road, NC 80 and the Blue Ridge Parkway for a thrilling and scenic ride.
Where to Stay:
One of my favorite all-time places to stay in the North Carolina Mountains is the Switzerland Inn. From the charming rustic lodge and Swiss Chalet-style cabins to on-site shops and dining like the Fowl Play Pub, the inn offers a relaxing retreat where you can cast your anxieties aside and find peace in the beauty of glorious mountain views.
My favorite time of day is sitting by the fire pit with a glass of wine or a mocktail, watching the sunset across the ridgeline and the valley below.
On Saturday evenings in July and August, you can join a community square dance at Geneva Hall. Little Switzerland also offers live music and other fun events throughout the year.
The Switzerland Resort has lots of great on site shopping from outdoor clothing to funky accessories and cute purses.
The Alpine Inn: This favorite spot, with its stunning views of the Blue Ridge, laid-back accommodations, and affordable prices, was severely impacted by a mudslide from Hurricane Helene. The mudslide tore down two of the inn’s main buildings, which housed the lobby, kitchen, and many of the rooms. Despite the devastation, the owners have made a miraculous recovery. The inn is once again open and ready to welcome travelers to this slice of heaven on earth, providing a perfect night’s rest after a day exploring the Blue Ridge Parkway. Website
The Big Lynn Lodge: A relaxing retreat surrounded by the beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains. For over 100 years the Big Lynn Lodge has grown into a 42 room inn. While retaining some of the original buildings, other rooms have been added over the years, creating the delightful complex you will find now. Come see why travelers have been making Big Lynn Lodge their travel destination for over 100 years! Website
Destination Coffee – Little Switzerland
Books and Beans is my favorite spot to get lost in…here you can enjoy a delicious mountain brewed coffee and browse endless shelves of books from local authors to popular fiction and classics.
The Arts are Alive in Mitchell County:
Mitchell County’s natural beauty and Blue Ridge spirit has long attracted artists and artisans to this region. Home to the internationally renowned Penland School of Craft and Toe River Arts galleries in both Spruce Pine and Bakersville, it is said to have one of the most concentrated populations of craftspeople in the United States. Toe River Arts also hosts studio tours several times a year, offering a perfect opportunity to meet local artists and learn about their craft.
Backcountry Drives:
The Blue Ridge Parkway cuts through Mitchell County, offering some of its most iconic views near Little Switzerland. Sadly, Hurricane Helene caused extensive damage to sections of the Parkway in this area, but this just means you can take the scenic backroads and state byways to traverse the areas where the parkway is closed. Be sure to check the official Blue Ridge Parkway website for the most updated maps and travel information.
Drive to the Orchard at Altapass: One of my favorite spots in the Little Switzerland/Spruce Pine area is the Orchard at Altapass. This 100 year-old non-profit apple orchard located just off the Blue Ridge Parkway at Milepost 328.3 featuring heirloom apples, family fun, bee habitat, U-Pick, hayrides, weekend fun, live music, heritage information and spectacular views.
Drive the Backroads to Linville Falls
The breathtaking Linville Falls is a must-see. While the Blue Ridge Parkway has experienced some closures, you can still reach the falls trail from nearby Spruce Pine or Little Switzerland, typically a thirty-minute drive. It is a beautiful place to spend a day hiking before returning for the evening. I highly recommend checking the National Park Service (NPS) website for the most updated information on trail and Parkway access before you go.
Mitchell County Travel Resources:
Discover Mitchell County – awesome travel resources to plan your perfect getaway to Mitchell County
Mitchell County Historical Society
Thanks for traveling with me on this virtual adventure to Magnificent Mitchell County – I highly encourage you to book a trip to this wonderful area. It’s a good place for any budget, where you can stay at a castle or enjoy a night camping under the stars. It is a place you’ll fall in love with.
Next up we’re going to Boone NC for a performance at Horn in the West and more mountain adventures…put on your hiking boots and don’t forget to subscribe for the latest posts.
Hi, I’m Adele Lassiter, the travel enthusiast behind American Nomad Traveler. This is where I share my love for history, cool museums, art, and travel tips. When I’m not writing, I’m a singer-songwriter with a passion for Americana music. You can find my new album here: adelelassiter.bandcamp.com
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