What if your hottest July day topped out in the 70s while waterfalls thundered nearby and evenings called for a light sweater? If you are dreaming of a cooler, slower summer, Highlands on the Highlands–Cashiers Plateau delivers a rare mix of climate, culture, and calm. In this guide you will learn what summer here really feels like, where to hike and linger, how to plan around events, and a few smart tips if you are eyeing a second home. Let’s dive in.
Highlands at a glance
Perched at roughly 4,100 to 4,118 feet on the southern edge of the Blue Ridge, Highlands is among the highest incorporated towns east of the Mississippi. The elevation shapes everything from the air you breathe to the pace of your days. The year-round population sits around a thousand residents, and summer brings a lively pulse of returning homeowners and visitors that still feels neighborly. Getting here is simple: Asheville Regional Airport is about a 1.5-hour drive, and Atlanta or Greenville–Spartanburg are within a half day. The signature drive into town follows US 64, also known as the Waterfall Byway, which hints at what awaits you. For basics like elevation, routes, and parking, see the local visitor FAQ from the Highlands Chamber of Commerce.
Summer climate: cooler, greener, wetter
Summer in Highlands feels different the moment you step out of the car. July daytime highs typically land in the mid to upper 70s with nights in the upper 50s to low 60s, a sharp contrast to many Southern cities. You get warm midday sun without the harsh heat, then a cool down that invites patio dinners and porch reading. For a quick comparison to statewide norms, review North Carolina’s July temperature ranges from Current Results.
Rain gives the plateau its lush look. Highlands ranks among the wettest spots in the eastern United States, with many sources placing annual rainfall in the 80 to 100 inch range. In summer, that often means clear mornings, a warm midday, then a brief and sometimes dramatic afternoon shower that recharges creeks and waterfalls. The result is a temperate rainforest feel with rhododendron tunnels and misty overlooks, as described in the Highlands, North Carolina climate summary. Pack light layers and think practical:
- A breathable rain shell for pop-up showers.
- Comfortable, grippy shoes for wet paths and overlooks.
- A warm layer for cool mornings and after-sunset strolls.
If you like to plan by averages, the Highlands July overview on Weather and Climate is a handy reference.
Waterfalls on the Byway
A Highlands summer almost requires a waterfall day. US 64 threads through the Cullasaja Gorge, creating an easy loop of roadside views and short walks that can fill a half day without breaking a sweat. For an overview of the corridor and pull-offs, preview the route on Blue Ridge Mountain Life’s guide to Highway 64.
Here are classic stops to stack into a simple outing:
- Bridal Veil Falls. A photogenic roadside sheet of water that flows over a rock ledge. Access rules can change, so follow current signage and stay in designated areas.
- Dry Falls. A broad, walk-behind cascade on a paved path with viewing platforms. It is popular and family friendly. Arrive early on weekends, and review tips in this Dry Falls overview.
- Cullasaja Falls and Quarry Falls. Big, scenic drops with limited pull-outs. Quarry Falls is a beloved sliding and swimming hole. Use caution, check water levels, and never climb wet rock.
- Glen Falls. A multi-tiered waterfall reached by a forest trail. Plan a bit more time and bring water for the return climb.
Practical notes: start early for easier parking, keep an eye on weather, and follow posted guidance. After rain, streams run stronger and spray can make rocks slick. When in doubt, admire from the overlook.
Short hikes and views
You do not need to be a hardcore hiker to see grand views here. Two local favorites deliver a big payoff with modest effort.
- Ravenel Park and Sunset Rock. A short, gradual walk to a classic granite dome overlooking the town. It is ideal for sunrise or golden hour. The Highlands-Cashiers Land Trust stewards this and nearby preserves, and their explore page lists easy options.
- Whiteside Mountain. A roughly 2-mile loop that traces a high ridgeline with dramatic cliff-edge overlooks. The vistas are huge, the footing is straightforward, and mornings or late afternoons are best. Parking can fill fast on weekends, so arrive early.
Keep trail time safe and simple. The Chamber’s hiking safety tips cover the essentials: stay on marked trails, carry water, and be prepared for quick weather shifts.
Downtown culture and dining
When the sun eases, head to Main Street. The compact village core is tailor-made for a stroll, with galleries, independent boutiques, and coffee spots clustered in a few walkable blocks. Settle into a patio for something casual at Blue Bike Café, plan a classic date night at Ristorante Paoletti, or opt for a garden table tied to the Old Edwards Inn culinary scene. Summer is the busiest season, so reservations are smart.
Arts add texture to your stay. The Bascom: A Center for the Visual Arts anchors the creative scene with a six-acre campus, rotating exhibitions, and active summer studios. Check current shows and workshops on The Bascom’s website. Weekly rhythms round things out, from the Highlands Farmers Market to live music nights that bring neighbors together under the trees. For seasonal highlights and dates, keep an eye on the Chamber’s festivals and events roundup.
Summer events to watch
While exact dates shift year to year, a few themes return each summer. Look for The Bascom’s gala and studio shows, the Mountaintop Art and Craft Show at Kelsey-Hutchinson Founders Park, weekly market days, and outdoor concert series that make evenings feel social and walkable. Schedules evolve, so confirm listings before you go using the Chamber’s event resources.
Practical tips for longer stays
If you are planning a longer visit or exploring a second home, a few simple habits make summer smoother.
Booking and timing
- Reserve lodging and popular restaurants ahead, especially for festival weekends.
- Consider weekday trips for lighter crowds and easier parking.
Property and ownership cues
- Drainage and landscaping. Mountain rain is real. Make sure driveways, roofs, and slopes move water away from structures.
- Humidity management. Plan for ventilation, routine checks, or dehumidification so interiors stay fresh during wet spells.
- Road access. Expect curvy, sometimes narrow routes. Test drive timing from your target home to town and trailheads.
- Proximity by car. Many beloved spots are short drives away. Build that into your daily rhythm.
- Local rules. Review HOA and town guidelines for rentals, parking, and exterior work with your agent.
Getting here
- Fly into Asheville Regional for the quickest jump-off, with Atlanta and Greenville–Spartanburg as strong alternatives.
- Drive in via US 64 for the scenic waterfall approach, and give yourself extra time on summer weekends.
A perfect summer day
- Morning. Walk up to Sunset Rock for soft light over town, then grab coffee and a pastry on a Main Street patio.
- Midday. Head out on the waterfall loop. Start at Bridal Veil Falls, continue to Dry Falls, and leave time for a short Glen Falls hike or a Cullasaja overlook stop. Return to town for a relaxed lunch.
- Afternoon. Cruise galleries, visit The Bascom’s studio campus, and linger at the farmers market if it is open. Claim a shady porch chair with a book.
- Evening. Book a garden or patio table for dinner, catch a play or live music, then take a slow, after-dinner stroll through the village.
If summer for you means crisp mornings, lush trails, and evenings that unwind, Highlands will feel like home the moment you arrive. When you are ready to explore properties that match this rhythm, the team at Vignette Realty is here to guide you with local insight, virtual tours, and a calm, step-by-step process.
FAQs
What is summer weather like in Highlands, NC?
- Expect July highs in the mid to upper 70s with cool nights, plus frequent afternoon showers that keep the landscape lush.
How far is Highlands from the nearest major airport?
- Asheville Regional is roughly a 1.5-hour drive, while Atlanta and Greenville–Spartanburg are about 2 to 3 hours away.
Which waterfalls near Highlands are easy to visit in summer?
- Dry Falls offers a paved path and platforms, Bridal Veil Falls is roadside, and Cullasaja Gorge has scenic pull-outs with caution needed at water’s edge.
What should I pack for a Highlands summer trip?
- Bring layers for cool mornings, a light rain shell for pop-up showers, grippy shoes for wet paths, and water for short hikes.
What should second-home buyers consider about Highlands in summer?
- Prioritize drainage, humidity control, realistic drive times, and local rules, and partner with a local agent for property-specific guidance.
