In the far reaches of western North Carolina, where the roads begin to doubt themselves and the GPS grows bashful, there’s a stretch of land so thick with trees it feels more cathedral than forest. This is one of the last places in the eastern United States where old-growth hardwoods still stand, some over 400 years old and 10 feet around, their bark as furrowed as the hands that tend gardens in nearby towns like Stecoah and Snowbird. But the trees aren’t the only thing time forgot here.
In the hollows and ridgelines that surround the forest, small towns thrive by moving at their own tempo. Tapoco, Cheoah, Tuskeegee—names that sound like they were never meant to be rushed. There’s no curated charm here, just quiet persistence. Trails lead to waterfalls with no signage, and a gas station might double as a café, hardware store, and storytelling center if you time it right. Cell service fades in and out, like a suggestion. Life here isn’t “off-grid” so much as off-script.
This part of Graham County feels like the punctuation at the end of a sentence the rest of the state forgot to finish. And that’s exactly its strength. These 10 towns aren’t hiding—they’re just not performing. Their draw isn’t nostalgia or escape, but rootedness. Like the trees nearby, they’ve stayed in place and let the world circle around them.
10. Cheoah
Cheoah is a tranquil community with an approximate population of just a few hundred residents, embodying the essence of seclusion in the heart of the mountains. It offers a peaceful environment where outdoor enthusiasts can engage in activities like hiking, fishing, and whitewater rafting, especially along the Cheoah River which is renowned for its challenging rapids. The main industries in Cheoah revolve around forestry, tourism, and small-scale agriculture, reflecting the town’s close relationship with its natural surroundings.
What makes Cheoah particularly secluded is its remote location amidst dense forests and its limited infrastructure, providing an untouched haven for those looking to disconnect. The lack of commercialization and the presence of unspoiled natural landscapes contribute to its charm as a getaway destination. Visitors often appreciate the simplicity and the opportunity to immerse themselves entirely in nature.
Where is Cheoah?
Located in Graham County, Cheoah sits between the majestic mountains and the flowing waters of the Cheoah River in western North Carolina. Its seclusion is heightened by the surrounding Joyce Kilmer Memorial Forest, which envelops the area with old-growth trees and diverse wildlife.
Access to Cheoah is primarily via winding mountain roads, adding to the sense of remoteness and adventure in getting there. The nearest major road is U.S. Route 129, also known as the Tail of the Dragon, famous for its 318 curves over 11 miles. This journey offers breathtaking views and a thrilling drive, making the trip to Cheoah as memorable as the destination itself.
9. Yellow Creek
Yellow Creek is a secluded area with a small population that enjoys the serenity of dense forests and meandering streams. The town offers outdoor activities such as hiking along the Yellow Creek Falls Trail, where visitors can admire cascading waterfalls and lush vegetation. The community is primarily engaged in small-scale farming and forestry, living harmoniously with the environment.
Yellow Creek’s seclusion stems from its tucked-away location amid the rolling hills of the Appalachian Mountains, where cell service is spotty, and the sounds of nature prevail over any urban noise. Hidden gems like the lesser-known trails and natural swimming holes make it a paradise for solitude seekers and nature lovers alike.
Where is Yellow Creek?
Situated in Graham County, Yellow Creek is nestled southwest of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, deep within the Joyce Kilmer Forest region. Its remote setting is amplified by limited access roads and minimal signage, often making it a delightful discovery for those venturing off the beaten path. To reach Yellow Creek, travelers typically navigate via NC Highway 28 and then onto smaller county roads that wind through the countryside. The journey through narrow, tree-lined roads enhances the feeling of entering a secluded haven far removed from the bustle of city life.
8. Topton
Topton is a serene mountain community with a modest population that offers breathtaking vistas of the Appalachian Mountains. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy activities like hiking the Bartram Trail or fishing in nearby streams and lakes. The area doesn’t have a significant industrial presence, preserving its natural beauty and peaceful atmosphere.
Topton’s seclusion is due to its elevated location and the surrounding undisturbed wilderness, providing residents and visitors with an unhurried pace of life. The absence of large commercial developments allows for stargazing in clear night skies and uninterrupted enjoyment of nature’s sounds and sights.
Where is Topton?
Located at the convergence of Macon, Cherokee, and Graham Counties, Topton sits at a high elevation amidst the Nantahala National Forest. Its secluded nature is enhanced by the winding roads and mountainous terrain that envelop the area. Travelers can reach Topton via U.S. Route 74, also known as the Nantahala Gorge Road, which offers scenic views of the river and surrounding cliffs. The journey itself is part of the experience, as visitors traverse through tunnels of trees and along riversides before arriving at this peaceful mountain retreat.
7. Almond
Almond is a quiet, unincorporated community near the Nantahala River, with a small population that enjoys the area’s tranquil charm. It’s an ideal spot for nature lovers who can engage in kayaking, whitewater rafting, and fishing in the crystal-clear waters of Fontana Lake and the river.
The primary industries include outdoor recreation services and small-scale farming, supporting the community’s simple way of life. Almond’s seclusion comes from its location off main highways, nestled among rolling hills and forests that provide a buffer from the faster pace of neighboring towns. The community’s hidden gems include local artisan shops and family-owned eateries that offer a taste of local culture.
Where is Almond?
Almond is situated in Swain County, western North Carolina, and is accessible via NC Highway 28 and U.S. Route 74. Its remote setting is amplified by the surrounding Nantahala National Forest, which offers miles of untouched wilderness. The town’s location near Fontana Lake yet away from major urban centers contributes to its peaceful ambiance. Getting to Almond involves picturesque drives along mountain roads that wind through forests and past serene waterways, enhancing the feeling of entering a secluded and special place.
6. Tapoco
Tapoco is a quaint area along the Cheoah River, known for its historic lodge and the towering trees that envelop the region. With a tiny population, it’s a haven for those seeking seclusion among rugged terrain and lush forests. Activities in Tapoco include fly fishing, hiking the Appalachian Trail, and exploring nearby waterfalls.
The main industries are hospitality and outdoor recreation, centered around the historic Tapoco Lodge which provides accommodations and dining. The seclusion of Tapoco is due to its off-the-beaten-path location and the surrounding natural barriers of mountains and forests, making it a peaceful retreat.
Where is Tapoco?
Located in Graham County, near the Tennessee border, Tapoco sits along U.S. Route 129, the famous Tail of the Dragon. The area’s seclusion is enhanced by the dense forests and the Little Tennessee River basin that isolates it from larger towns. Accessing Tapoco involves navigating winding mountain roads, offering stunning views but requiring careful driving. This remoteness contributes to the area’s quiet charm and the feeling of being enveloped by nature at its finest.
5. Fontana Village
Fontana Village is a remote mountain retreat with stunning views of the Great Smoky Mountains, offering a peaceful environment surrounded by nature. With a small resident population, it primarily serves as a resort community with various accommodations for visitors. Activities include hiking, mountain biking, and boating on Fontana Lake.
The main industry is tourism, with the village providing amenities and recreational opportunities for guests. Fontana Village’s seclusion is attributed to its location within expansive national forests and its proximity to Fontana Dam, one of the tallest dams in the eastern U.S., which adds to the area’s scenic allure.
Where is Fontana Village?
Situated in Graham County, Fontana Village is nestled near the southern edge of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Its remote location is accessible via NC Highway 28 and Fontana Road, which traverse through dense forests and mountainous terrain. The village is flanked by the vast Fontana Lake on one side and the rugged mountains on the other, enhancing its secluded ambiance. Visitors often feel a sense of escape as they journey through the natural landscapes to reach this tranquil destination.
4. Stecoah
Stecoah is a small community rich in Appalachian culture, offering secluded living amid picturesque landscapes. With a close-knit population, it is a hub for traditional crafts, music, and local festivals held at the Stecoah Valley Cultural Arts Center. Outdoor activities include hiking parts of the Appalachian Trail and exploring local artisan galleries.
The main industries are agriculture, arts, and small businesses that reflect the community’s heritage. Stecoah’s seclusion results from its valley location surrounded by mountains, limiting through traffic and preserving its peaceful environment.
Where is Stecoah?
Located in Graham County, Stecoah lies off NC Highway 143, known as the Cherohala Skyway, which is a scenic byway offering panoramic views. The area’s remoteness is emphasized by winding roads that lead visitors through mountains and forests to reach the valley. Its location away from major highways makes it a quiet retreat. The journey to Stecoah provides an immersive experience through natural beauty, reinforcing the town’s secluded and serene character.
3. Tuskeegee
Tuskeegee is a quiet rural area surrounded by lush forests and rolling hills, perfect for a serene getaway. The population is sparse, with residents enjoying a lifestyle deeply connected to the land. Activities in Tuskeegee include hiking, horseback riding, and exploring the Tuskeegee Baptist Church, a historic landmark.
The main industries are agriculture and forestry, with an emphasis on sustainable practices. Tuskeegee’s seclusion is due to its off-road location and the protective embrace of surrounding woodlands, offering an escape from modern hustle.
Where is Tuskeegee?
Situated in Graham County near the borders of Swain County, Tuskeegee is accessed via local roads branching off NC Highway 28. Its secluded position is reinforced by the lack of major thoroughfares and the encompassing natural terrain. Getting to Tuskeegee involves traveling through scenic routes that reveal the untouched beauty of the region. The remoteness offers visitors and residents a tranquil environment where the pace of life slows, and nature is the primary backdrop.
2. Snowbird
Snowbird is a hidden gem nestled deep within the mountains, offering seclusion and natural beauty. Home to a small population, including members of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians, it is rich in cultural heritage and traditions. Activities include trout fishing in Snowbird Creek, hiking to Sassafras Falls, and participating in local cultural events.
The main industries are small-scale agriculture, crafts, and cultural tourism. Snowbird’s seclusion lies in its location amid dense forests and mountain ridges, with limited access roads preserving its untouched atmosphere.
Where is Snowbird?
Located in the southwestern part of Graham County, Snowbird is accessible via narrow mountain roads off NC Highway 143. The area’s seclusion is heightened by its proximity to the Snowbird Mountains and the lack of commercial development. Traveling to Snowbird requires navigating through winding roads that offer dramatic views of the surrounding peaks and valleys. This isolation provides a sense of peace and connection with nature that is hard to find elsewhere.
1. Lake Santeetlah
Lake Santeetlah is a tranquil lakeside community enveloped by the pristine Joyce Kilmer Forest. With a population of less than 100 permanent residents, it offers a serene environment where nature takes center stage. Activities include boating, fishing, kayaking on the clear waters of Lake Santeetlah, and hiking through old-growth forests.
The main industry is tourism, with a focus on eco-friendly practices that preserve the area’s natural beauty. What makes Lake Santeetlah secluded is its location within national forest lands and the minimal development along its 76-mile shoreline, ensuring that the natural landscape remains unspoiled.
Where is Lake Santeetlah?
Situated in Graham County, Lake Santeetlah is accessed via U.S. Route 129 and NC Highway 143, near the town of Robbinsville. The seclusion of the area is enhanced by the surrounding Nantahala National Forest and the protected Joyce Kilmer Memorial Forest. Getting there involves scenic drives through mountainous terrain and alongside tranquil waterways. The journey culminates in the discovery of a peaceful lakeside haven that feels worlds away from the stresses of everyday life.
