Franklin, North Carolina
FRANKLIN IS LITERALLY A GEM OF a town – the Gem Capital of the World, thanks to an abundance of gems and minerals in the area. Rock hunters flock to Franklin and the Cowee Valley by the thousands in hopes of finding a valuable gem- stone. And find them they do; the Cowee Valley and surrounding mines are rich in rubies, sapphires and garnets. Naturally, you’d expect to find a
Gem and Mineral Society in town, and you would not be disappointed. Te society runs a museum in an old jailhouse that features gems along with Indian artifacts. Te popular Macon County Gemboree has been around for more than 40 years. Franklin’s treasures extend
beyond gemstones. Located in the pristine mountains of western North Carolina, the town is sur-
rounded by 16 waterfalls, including Dry Falls, which, at 75-feet-high, is anything but dry and not to be missed. Some falls are easily ac- cessed, while others involve a hike; if you’re up to it, you won’t be
“Rock hunters flock to
Franklin and the Cowee Valley by the thousands in hopes of finding a valuable gemstone.”
disappointed. Te road is steep and winding in places, but the reward is the breathtaking panorama of the ancient mountains. Te area around Franklin offers many opportunities for hikers.
Some are short and not too taxing, but there are longer, more strenu- ous trails for serious hikers. And, of course, the grandest of all, the Ap- palachian Trail, passes within a few miles of Franklin. Cycling – both motorized and pedal-powered – is a popular pastime, and the roads are both challenging and rewarding for expe- rienced riders. Visitors preferring more sedate activities will find those in Frank- lin. A host of shopping possibilities are available, including quite a few gem shops. And after a long day of shopping or hiking, there are many restaurant options, from fast food to barbecue to fine dining. Te residents of Franklin trea-
sure their town, and it is easy to see why visitors consider making a permanent move to this gem in the North Carolina mountains.
At A Glance Population:
Average Temp: Average Age:
Nearest Hospital: Angel Medical Center
Nearest Major Airport: Asheville Regional Airport
Franklin Info: Franklin Chamber of Commerce
www.franklin-chamber.com (866) 372-5546
RetiringToNorthCarolina.com |
RetiringToBrunswickCounty.com |
BrunswickBuilders.com
3,490 57 42
www.RetiringToNorthCarolina.com
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