Franklin, NC Tourist Attractions
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The town of Franklin is a great place to base yourself when exploring the area. North Carolina's largest forest, the Nantahala National Forest, surrounds the town and as a result there are a plethora of outdoor activities available. These range from hiking, biking, fishing, and exploring wonderful waterfalls. Franklin has all the amenities that a traveler would expect including comfortable accommodation and good dining options.
Ruby Mines of the Cowee Valley
Macon County is known for the ruby mines of the Cowee Valley. Mining history in this area deates back to the last half of the 19th Century. Today visitors can try their luck at gem mining near Franklin. Sift through dirt looking for gems using and leave with whatever you find. Most facilities charge a day fee and provide guests with the necessary equipment required, along with instructions on how to search and what to look for.
Cherokee Rubies and Sapphires Mine
Feeling lucky? If so, be sure to visit the Cherokee Rubies and Sapphires Mine when in Franklin and get your training on how to become a rock hound. It was at this mine that the 686 carat Cherokee Princess and the 1070 carat Cherokee Chief rubies were found. Garnets are the other precious stones found at the Cherokee Rubies and Sapphires Mine.
Old Cardinal Gem Mine
The Old Cardinal Gem Mine is one of the old mines in Franklin where today visitors can go to try their own luck at panning for gems. Some of the gems visitors can hope to find include rubies, sapphires, rhodolite, and moonstone. The Old Cardinal Gem Mine provides visitors with all the equipment they need to complete the task. There are also on site picnic tables and a nice outdoor area.
Rose Creek Mine
The Rose Creek Mine in Franklin is one of the sites where visitors can mine for their own gems. Visitors are invited to sift through the soil and take home whatever the find. Instruction is provided as is education on the history of mining here in general. The Rose Creek Mine is a great outing to learn about mining while participating. This is always a favorite outing with families.
Scottish Tartans Museum
It may seem strange to be visiting Franklin and see the Scottish Tartans Museum. The reason for its existence is a dedicated group of historians devoted to Scottish Tartans. Inside this unique attraction visitors will find out everything they could possibly want to know about the history and culture of Scotland. The Scottish Tartans Museum will also conduct research into your family tartan if you so desire.
Wayah Bald
Wayah Bald, in Nantahala National Forest, at an elevation of 5,385 feet, is a beautiful natural area with good views of the surrounding area. There is an old stone observation tower at the top, built in 1937 as a fire tower.Wayah Bald is a great place for a hike, particularly in the spring when the rhododendron and azaleas are in bloom.Wayah Bald is located near the town of Franklin.
Standing Indian Mountain
Standing Indian Mountain is located in the Nantahala National Forest and is the highest mountain in the immediate area. Standing Indian Mountain is a popular spot with hikers and fishermen with lots of trails and streams.
