Western North Carolina is known for summers cooled by our higher elevations and winters tempered by our latitude in the South. Spring blooms in pinks and golds, and fall is famous for maple reds and poplar yellows. In short, there’s a very good reason why we’re called the Land of Four Seasons.
Our rich four seasons attract both residents and businesses to our region, especially Haywood County. Local businesses take advantage of our temperate climate, framing themselves around opportunities present during each rich climatic period. Here are four of the most fun seasonal businesses in and around the charming county seat of Waynesville, NC.
Editor’s Note: The weeks since Hurricane Helene ravaged Western North Carolina have been difficult for all of us, especially for small local businesses. Right now, we must do all that we can to help support local small businesses that serve as the backbone of our communities. We are all in this together. Let’s do what we can to help one another along the way.
Fall: Barber Orchards Fruit Stand
Nothing better complements the smells and colors of fall than the taste of fresh apple cider. Nearby Henderson County is well known for its abundance of apple orchards, but Haywood County has its fair share, too. Family owned and operated for more than five generations, Barber Orchards Fruit Stand is open annually from August 1 through Christmas Eve. Drop by and you’ll find a bevy of fresh fruits and veggies, baked goods, and apple cider (of course!). Purchase your favorite apple varieties, from Red Delicious and Granny Smith to Evercrisp and Arkansas Black. It’s easy to make a full afternoon of your visit; check their Facebook page to see which food trucks will be on site this week.
2855 Old Balsam Road, Waynesville | (828) 456-3598 | barberorchardsfruitstand.com
Winter: Boyd Mountain Christmas Tree Farm
Did you know that North Carolina produces more than 20% of the real Christmas trees sold in the U.S. every year? There are several Christmas tree farms in Haywood County, and Boyd Mountain is one of our favorites. This “choose and cut” farm has great mountain views and is an easy drive from anywhere in WNC. Don’t have four-wheel drive? No problem! Boyd Mountain has easy paved access, lots of parking, restrooms, and handicap facilities. They also offer wreaths and gift items in their hospitality tent. This year, the farm opens on November 21. Check their website to see what dates Santa will be visiting.
445 Boyd Farm Road, Waynesville | (828) 926-8888 | boydmountainchristmastreefarm.com
Spring: Grass Root Garden
Haywood County is a land of rolling hills, mountain peaks, and quiet creeks. The land here has attracted homesteaders and small farmers for generations. Established in 1980, Grass Root Gardens, an independent garden center, helps you complement the natural beauty of the mountains with unique and unusual perennials, evergreens, shrubs, vegetables, and more. When you visit, take your time walking through the gardens and greenhouses. Take in the tapestry of light, colors, and textures surrounding you. Grass Root Garden offers much that’s not available at the “big box” stores—including education, experience, and community events.
1368 Dellwood Road, Waynesville | (828) 926-0925 | grgcompany.com
Summer: Dillsboro River Company
Rivers are an essential component of our region’s lifestyle. Whether you enjoy fishing, paddle sports, or just quietly walking through greenspaces alongside the banks, there’s a river out there waiting for you. Just a short drive from Waynesville, Dillsboro River Company offers guided rafting trips and river tubing along the Class I & II rapids of the Tuckasegee River. The Tuckasegee is the ideal river for first-time rafters and tubers, families with young children, and those who want more of a relaxing river trip. The Dillsboro River Company store is a beautiful barn-style cabin overlooking the Tuck that carries everything you need to have a great trip down the river, including complimentary sunscreen, water and soda, river shoes, and snacks. Make your reservations for next summer now!
18 Macktown Road, Sylva | (828) 507-2428 | northcarolinarafting.com
Make Waynesville, NC your four-season home!
There are more than just seasonal businesses in Waynesville, NC. The town’s proximity to Asheville offers residents the best amenities of a larger city while still holding on to its small-town atmosphere. Where to Retire magazine named Waynesville one of its “100 Best Places to Retire,” calling it the best mountain town with also the best main street. From outdoor adventures to cozy spots downtown, Waynesville welcomes people from many different backgrounds to visit and stay for life.
Does that sound like the perfect lifestyle for you? Find a four-season home in Waynesville now!
