Location: Franklin
Top Things to do in Franklin
Countries
Top 6 Nature & Parks in Franklin, North Carolina (NC)
Franklin is a town in Franklin Township, Macon County, North Carolina, United States, within the Nantahala National Forest. The population was 3,845 as of the 2010 census. It is the county seat of Macon County. Franklin is an official Appalachian Trail-friendly destination. The Franklin area is rich in gems and minerals and is known locally as the "Gem Capital of The World."
Restaurants in Franklin
1. Pickens Nose
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 31 reviews
Reviewed By jdl50cc
The views from the end of this short hike are breathtaking. However, this hike, as short as it is, would more properly be classified as "Moderate," not "Easy." There is a relatively steep climb over uneven terrain with tricky footing, which disqualifies the "Easy" classification. Nonetheless, it is worth every step. Tip: Enter Nantahala National Forest from I-64 in the North, not from Otto in the South. The former is a little longer but the road is easily navigable and beautiful. The road from Otto is windy and bumpy, and has one or two spots where high clearance is recommended. We had a 4WD truck so it presented no problem for us, but we took the northern route out and it was much more pleasant.
2. Bartram Trail
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 11 reviews
Reviewed By podrozniczka60 - New Jersey, United States
The entire Bartram trail is actually the recreation of 115 miles (185 km) trail created by the 18th-century naturalist William Bartram’s journey from North Georgia mountains into North Carolina. The section near Franklin is beautiful and pleasant to walk, easy enough for nearly everybody to walk. There are 79 miles of Bartram trail in North Carolina. Nowadays Bartam Trail tentacles extend to Alabama and Florida so in a sense it could compete for hikers' attention with the Appalachian Trail.
3. Bella View Farm Animal Sanctuary
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 3 reviews
No Longer Open To The Public A non profit 501(c)(3) organization. We rescue, rehabilitate and provide a forever home for special needs baby farm animals (especially baby goats) Animals that are severely handicapped, needing 24/7 care, that would otherwise not have a chance. These are the souls that are welcomed with kindness and compassion to our farm to live out the rest of their days. We not only give them a happy life, but a quality of life that is filled with love. It's amazing to watch these beautiful souls heal and live life when the right care and environment is provided for them. We are not open to the public. Please follow and support us on Instagram or Facebook.
4. Rufus Morgan Falls
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 65 reviews
Reviewed By Lunarnole
Fun hike! It is a 1.6 mile loop trail total with 1 mile to the gorgeous waterfalls. Definitely not for children. This trail is more difficult than "moderate." We balanced ourselves on boulders through about 3-4 creeks/streams. There was a manmade footbridge for the deepest crossing. We also rock climbed some to get a good look at the impressive falls. Expect to travel on a one-way gravel road to get to the trailhead. Our small kia made it just fine. Enjoy!
5. Little Tennessee River Greenway
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 13 reviews
Reviewed By kaloja - Mount Juliet, United States
This is a very nice greenway along the Little Tennessee River. It is paved and has several parking areas. There are a few playgrounds along the route. There are plenty of benches to rest and just look at the river. There are also several bridges and one is a very nice covered bridge. There are some shady sections and some are sunny.
6. Mooney Falls
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 17 reviews
Reviewed By salinalocke - Wilmington, United States
Beautiful hike with our toddler (had to piggy back ride him for parts of the hike) and in laws! Stunning waterfalls! Many other hikes and waterfalls on the way to Mooney Falls. My only complaint is, do NOT expect your phone GPS to take you the most direct route or even to the correct place. Internet address was totally wrong and took us to the center of a neighborhood in town! We had to stop and ask for directions. Would bring a paper map next time!
