- The list below includes 89 free or cheap things to do in or near Sapphire, North Carolina, including 92 different types of inexpensive activities like Hiking Trails, National & State Parks, Waterfalls and Horseback Riding.
- From Whitewater Falls to Gorges State Park, there are a variety of budget-friendly attractions in Sapphire and in nearby cities within 25 miles like Franklin, Highlands, Brevard and Sylva.
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0.0 Miles
One of the highest waterfalls east of the Rockies, Whitewater Falls plunge 411 feet into the Jocassee Gorge. A paved walkway leads to an upper overlook, while a lower view is located at the bottom of a 154-step staircase.
5.3 Miles
94%
172 votes
Highway 281 South, 976 Grassy Ridge Rd (Visitor's Center), Sapphire, NC 28774
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Visitors to Gorges State Park can partake in hiking, fishing and camping among waterfalls and river gorges. Considered a temperate rain forest, the park is also home to several rare and endangered plant and animal species.
0.7 Miles
Accessible through Gorges State Park, the Horsepasture River area is home to several waterfalls and hiking trails. Turtleback Falls is popular for rock sliding, although it is at the person's own risk.
4.1 Miles
Ride the historic Cherokee Footpath on horseback, following in Daniel Boone's footsteps at the Whitewater Equestrian Center, or stay behind and mine for gems in their family friendly barn. On the ride, trail guides discuss local folklore, history, and ecology.
5.5 Miles
Specializing in fresh produce, most of it local, the Cashiers Farmers Market is a quaint and picturesque shopping destination. There is also a barbecue restaurant located on the side of the building for more immediate dining needs.
5.5 Miles
Opened in 1991, John Collette Fine Art is a local art gallery that displays a number of works from both local and national artists. In addition to selling artwork, the gallery also offers hanging and framing services to its customers.
5.6 Miles
The Village Green features outdoor entertainment throughout the year. On top of that, visitors can enjoy beautiful gardens, picnics, and walking through paths that lead through wetlands, a forest glade, and grassy lawns.
6.1 Miles
From paintings to pottery, Blue Valley Gallery features a collection of rotating pieces from 25 artists at a time. The gallery also sells art supplies like canvas, brushes, and paint.
8.7 Miles
The breathtaking Cullasaja Falls are located next to Route 64 in Highlands, NC. The parking lot is quite small, and sits just off of the highway, in the midst of an extremely dangerous, high-accident portion of it. Avoid visiting Cullasaja Falls during rush hour.
9.4 Miles
82%
38 votes
US 64, Nantahala National Forest, Highlands, NC
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A $4 parking fee grants visitors admission to the Cliffside Lake Recreation Area. This popular destination is excellent for hiking, biking, grilling and fishing. Visitors who wish to fish must have a valid North Carolina fishing license.