The World's 'Gem Capital' Is A Town Hidden In North Carolina's Blue Ridge Mountains, Glistening With Beauty

Along the Appalachian Trail, which stretches over 2,000 miles from Maine to Georgia, there's a spot in North Carolina that's worthy of a stop. Franklin is a small town of just a few thousand people that's surrounded by the Blue Ridge and Great Smoky mountains. With a mining history of over 150 years, Franklin is known as the "Gem Capital of the World" due to the gemstones found in the area. Today, the town is full of museums about the area's history, unique shops and antique stores, and mines where you can try your hand at finding precious stones.

In 2010, the city was designated as the first official Appalachian Trail Community. For years, it's been a stop where experienced and casual hikers explore one of the country's most legendary routes. One of the best ways to take in the mountain scenery is a trek up to Wayah Bald, an old fire tower that looks across four states and offers breathtaking views. From trails that celebrate the accomplishments of local women to scenic drives that lead to impressive waterfalls, the outdoor activities in Franklin do not disappoint.

You can easily get to Franklin from Asheville or Atlanta. There's a regional airport in Asheville, which is about 68 miles away by car. Alternatively, you can fly into Atlanta's Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport and drive via the scenic route through the Blue Ridge Mountains for about 140 miles.

Since the late 1800s, mining has played an important role in Franklin's history. Today, you can learn about the city's past and try your luck at finding precious gemstones, like rubies and sapphires. There are 10 mining options in town, but one highly rated, family-friendly mine is Mason's Ruby and Sapphire Mine. It can get muddy, so bring a raincoat and rubber boots if rain is in the forecast. You can also check out the Franklin Gem and Mineral Museum. Set in a former jailhouse, it features a large collection of gemstones, minerals, and fossils, including a mineral display that glows under fluorescent light. The city is also home to the Macon County Historical Museum and the Scottish Tartans Museum, dedicated to the area's Scottish heritage.

If you're museumed-out, Franklin offers a mix of eccentric antique stores and general stores. Hunt for bargains and collectibles at the Whistle Stop Depot. Housed in a former elementary school, you'll find a curated mix of odds and ends among hundreds of booths, along with a retro police car, vintage farm equipment, and a full-sized replica tank. 

To stock up on supplies for outdoor activities, check out Outdoor 76. Besides hiking and camping gear, the store also offers thru-hiker amenities like self-service laundry. There are even two lounges with bars offering craft beers on tap along with entertainment like dartboards and shuffleboards. If you want to explore beyond Franklin's borders, head northeast to visit a city nestled in North Carolina's Great Smoky Mountains full of eclectic shops.

Beyond having a section of the Appalachian Trail, the longest hiking-only trail in the United States, there are plenty of other trails or sections of trails within the Franklin city limits that may be more suitable for day hikers. The Bartram Trail, a different long-distance hike that leads into Georgia, is named after the 18th-century naturalist and explorer William Bartram. The 4-mile out-and-back section near Franklin cuts through wildflower meadows and leads to an area called William's Pulpit, which offers sweeping mountain views.

History buffs will enjoy the Women's History Trail, a unique trek through town that honors the contributions of local women throughout the area's history. Start your walk at the Women's History Park, located on Main Street. Along the way, sculptures and plaques will tell you about the accomplishments of Macon County women, including the first woman mayor of the town and the first editor of the town newspaper, the Franklin Press.

To see some beautiful waterfalls and scenic views that don't involve heavy hiking, follow the Mountain Waters Scenic Byway. From Franklin, drive southeast about half an hour to reach Dry Falls. This 75-foot waterfall got its name because you can walk behind a section of the falls without getting wet. Located 1 mile west of Dry Falls is another impressive waterfall, Bridal Veil Falls. Back in the day, you could drive underneath it, but today you can either admire the 60-foot waterfall from the road or walk behind it. For another scenic drive, head northeast to Stone Mountain State Park, which boasts its own scenic waterfalls and outdoor fun.