Summer isn’t over yet! If you’re looking for one last Smoky Mountains summer getaway, Franklin, North Carolina is the perfect place to squeeze in a little more adventure before fall arrives.
Surrounded by the Nantahala National Forest and the mountains of Western North Carolina, Franklin puts waterfalls, hiking trails, mountain swimming holes, gem mines and outdoor adventures within easy reach — while historic downtown Franklin gives you a home base for local shopping, dining, live music and more.
Ready for one last summer adventure? Here are 7 things to do in Franklin, NC before summer ends.
1. Cool Off at a Waterfall or Mountain Swimming Hole
Late summer is the perfect time to cool down in the mountains — and Franklin is surrounded by waterfalls, rivers and swimming holes.
Take a scenic drive along U.S. 64 between Franklin and Highlands, part of the Mountain Waters Scenic Byway, to discover some of the area’s best-known waterfalls. Stops along the route include Cullasaja Falls, Bust Your Butt Falls, Dry Falls and Bridal Veil Falls.
Bust Your Butt Falls is a longtime favorite for visitors looking to splash around in cool mountain water, while Dry Falls offers one of Western North Carolina’s most memorable waterfall experiences: a short trail that actually takes you behind the falls.
Bucket List Tip: Make a day of it! Start with breakfast or coffee in downtown Franklin, explore the waterfalls along U.S. 64, then return to Franklin for dinner.
2. Catch a Sunrise or Sunset in the Mountains
There’s something special about watching the sun rise or set over the Blue Ridge Mountains, and you don’t need an all-day hike to find an incredible view near Franklin.
Head toward Wayah Bald for panoramic mountain scenery, or lace up your hiking boots for trails like Wesser Bald or Pickens Nose.
Franklin is also crossed by two of the region’s best-known long-distance trails — the Appalachian Trail and Bartram Trail — making the area a great destination for everyone from casual hikers to experienced backpackers.
Pack some water, bring your camera and give yourself time to enjoy the view.
3. Go Gem Mining in the Gem Capital of the World
You can’t make a Franklin bucket list without this one!
Known as the Gem Capital of the World, Franklin has been a destination for rockhounds and treasure hunters for generations. Local gem mines give visitors the chance to search for rubies, sapphires, garnets and other gemstones — and yes, you get to keep what you find.
Gem mining is also one of the most popular family-friendly things to do in Franklin, NC, making it an easy addition to a late-summer family vacation.
From traditional native-dirt mining to family-friendly flumes, you’ll find several gem mining experiences around Franklin.
4. Spend a Day in Downtown Franklin
Save some time to slow things down and explore historic downtown Franklin, NC.
Stroll Main Street, browse locally owned shops and boutiques, hunt for antiques, discover local art and mountain-made goods, and grab lunch or dinner at one of Franklin’s local restaurants.
Downtown is also home to museums and attractions that tell the story of the area’s Appalachian heritage, gem-mining history and culture.
And because downtown Franklin is walkable, it’s easy to park the car and spend a few hours exploring at your own pace.
5. Catch Live Music, a Festival or the Farmers Market
Summer weekends in Franklin come with plenty of reasons to head downtown.
On Saturday mornings, explore downtown markets filled with local produce, handmade goods, baked treats, artisan products and more. Throughout late summer, you’ll also find live music, community events and special activities happening around town.
It’s one of the easiest ways to experience Franklin like a local — and discover a few places you’ll want to come back to on your next trip.
Planning a visit? Check the Experience Franklin events calendar before you arrive to see what’s happening during your stay.
6. Try Something New Outdoors
Still have something on your summer bucket list? Franklin makes a great basecamp for outdoor adventure in the Smoky Mountains.
Spend a day:
- A private guided kayaking tour of the Little Tennessee River
- Kayaking or paddling on Nantahala Lake
- Fishing a mountain stream
- Hiking in the Nantahala National Forest
- Biking or walking the Little Tennessee River Greenway
- Exploring a new waterfall
- Taking a scenic drive through the mountains
You don’t have to go far from downtown Franklin to turn an ordinary summer afternoon into an adventure.
7. Give Summer One Last Slow Mountain Day
Not every bucket-list experience needs an itinerary.
Grab coffee downtown. Take the scenic route. Find a shady spot beside the river. Browse a shop you’ve never visited. Sit outside for lunch. Wander the Greenway. Stay for live music. Watch the mountains change color as the sun goes down.
Sometimes the best reason to visit Franklin is simply having somewhere beautiful to slow down.
Plan an End-of-Summer Getaway to Franklin, NC
There’s still time for one more summer road trip to the mountains.
Located in the heart of Western North Carolina, Franklin offers an easy combination of waterfalls, hiking, gem mining, scenic drives, outdoor recreation, local shopping, dining and small-town mountain charm.
Come for a weekend or stay a little longer. Chase a waterfall. Find a ruby. Explore downtown. Hike to a mountain view.
Then start planning your return trip — because fall in Franklin is right around the corner.
Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting Franklin, NC in Late Summer
What are the best things to do in Franklin, NC in late summer?
Popular late-summer activities include visiting waterfalls, swimming in mountain swimming holes, hiking, gem mining, exploring downtown Franklin, attending local events and markets, paddling or fishing, and enjoying scenic drives through the Nantahala National Forest.
What are the best waterfalls near Franklin, NC?
Popular waterfalls near Franklin include Dry Falls, Bridal Veil Falls, Cullasaja Falls, Bust Your Butt Falls and Rufus Morgan Falls. Several can be explored along or near U.S. 64 between Franklin and Highlands.
Is Franklin, NC good for a family summer vacation?
Yes. Gem mining, waterfalls, easy hiking trails, the Little Tennessee River Greenway, downtown attractions and outdoor recreation make Franklin a popular family-friendly destination in Western North Carolina.
Is Franklin, NC close to the Great Smoky Mountains?
Franklin is located in the mountains of Western North Carolina, surrounded by the Nantahala National Forest and within easy driving distance of many popular Smoky Mountains attractions. Its location makes Franklin a convenient basecamp for exploring the region while enjoying a quieter mountain-town atmosphere.
What should I pack for a late-summer trip to Franklin?
Bring comfortable walking or hiking shoes, lightweight layers, rain gear, sunscreen, insect repellent and a reusable water bottle. Mountain temperatures can vary considerably between sunny afternoons, shaded forests and higher elevations.
Make the Most of the Last Days of Summer
Summer may be winding down, but adventure season in Franklin is far from over.
Explore more things to do, places to eat, places to stay and upcoming events in Franklin, North Carolina, and start planning your mountain getaway.
