Franklin: Ghost Tours, Gem Mines and Scenic Smoky Mountains

In the heart of the Nantahala National Forest is the North Carolina mountain town of Franklin. It’s a colorful destination, especially in autumn, when the birches, oaks and other deciduous trees on surrounding hills turn vibrant hues. But those aren’t the only things you’ll uncover in the “Gem Capital of the World.”

Franklin’s gem mining heritage started almost 150 years ago, when corundum, second only to diamond in hardness, was dug up for industrial use. You can still find its precious colored variations – rubies and sapphires – at more than 10 local mines. Purchase a bucket of soil and take it to the metal box known as a sluice, where you’ll use water and a screen to separate gems from soil. It’s a fun process (though filled with dirt, so dress appropriately), and you keep the gems you find. But don’t worry if you come up empty-handed! You can see plenty at Franklin Gem & Mineral Museum, with exhibits showcasing cool finds such as a 2.25-pound ruby and rocks that glow when you flip a light switch. Admission is free.

The crown jewel of Franklin’s calendar is PumpkinFest. It has celebrated fall and family for nearly 30 years, and you’re invited to join the fun downtown. Purchase pumpkins, find your favorite fair food, and browse regional arts and crafts along Main Street. The pumpkin pie-eating competition will test your appetite, and the world-famous Pumpkin Roll will rank your squash-handling skills when you kneel behind the starting blocks at the top of Phillips Street and give your pumpkin a push. Kids will love the face painting and roving street performers.

Historic downtown Franklin hosts events year-round, including Winter Wonderland and an Independence Day Parade and Celebration. Pickin’ on the Square fills summer Saturday evenings with music, from gospel to rock 'n’ roll. There’s plenty of shopping too. Gear up at Outdoor 76 or browse the works of more than 50 artisans and craftspeople at North Carolina Mountain Made, where you also can purchase a Macon County Quilt Trail driving guide that'll point out homes and barns where giant quilt blocks hang outside.

You can’t be more downtown than Town Hall, and Franklin’s former Town Hall is now home to Lazy Hiker Brewing Company. Its outdoor motif, including a wall-sized Appalachian Trail map, creates a relaxed atmosphere. Hiking boots aren’t required to sip the flagship Slack Pack IPA or savor the coffee notes in Wesser Evil Porter. You’ll find Currahee Brewing Company across town, and you can enjoy a Kawi Coffee Milk Stout or Garand IPA while you take in its river views. 

Explore Franklin’s spooky side on a Franklin Walking Tour. These tours take place on select days and can include a stroll through the historic district or a visit to Masonic Hall. Or head down to the Macon County Historical Museum, which has displays about its former life as the town’s commerce hub.

Franklin’s lodging choices range from country inns to hotels and motels owned by national chains. The restaurants are diverse too. Don’t let Caffe Rel’s location – inside a gas station – dissuade you. Dishes are varied, gourmet and priced right.

The Mountain Waters Scenic Byway travels southeast from Franklin, following the Cullasaja River and its waterfalls. Use caution when stopping to view 250-foot-tall Cullasaja Falls because of limited parking on the narrow road. For a safer spot to gaze at colorful leaves or walk with your favorite person, head a bit down the road to easily accessible 80-foot-tall Dry Falls. A paved trail winds behind it, offering a unique view from a surprisingly dry vantage point. You won’t have to step outside your car at Bridal Veil Falls – it flows over the road.

Travel the Byway in the opposite direction to Wayah Bald and make the short walk to the top of Wayah Bald Lookout Tower, which stands over the intersection of the Appalachian and Bartram hiking trails. The view, which stretches to the Great Smoky Mountains and Georgia, is ablaze with oranges and yellows in fall. Then in early summer, blooming azaleas, rhododendron and wildflowers add pinks, whites and reds to plenty of greens. You’ll pass Wilson Lick Ranger Station historic site on your drive in. Stop and learn about Grady Siler, the region’s first forest ranger, and the home he shared with his wife about a century ago.

This article was produced in partnership with the Town of Franklin Tourism Development Authority.