What to pack for a summer trip to Highlands, NC
Many associate the Appalachian Mountains with cooler, autumn temperatures and rust-colored leaves. But with its stunning scenery, various outdoor activities, outstanding restaurants, and beautiful cabin rentals, the charming town of Highlands, North Carolina, beckons thousands of visitors to explore the summer lifestyle from 4,118 feet in the air.
Planning a late-summer getaway? Here’s what to pack before heading to your Highlands cabin.
1. Lightweight layers
Like any mountainous town, Highlands can vary in temperature from day to night. The average high temperature is somewhat mild for the southern state of North Carolina, fluttering around 81°F. The average low temperature, however, dips to around 60°F in the height of summer. Grab a light jacket or long-sleeved shirt from your Highlands cabin for the cooler morning and evening hikes – but don’t forget your hat and sunscreen for later in the day.
2. A sundress or collared shirt
For most activities in Highlands, casual attire will suffice. And if you plan to spend your vacation exploring the area’s many outdoor activities or lounging at your Highlands rental, workout apparel is more than appropriate. However, many local restaurants harbor more of a fine dining atmosphere for dinner, signaling the need for a more polished evening look. Throw a casual dress or collared shirt and slacks into your suitcase – just in case.
3. Your furry friend
No need to call a pet sitter for this vacation: with its plethora of outdoor activities, Highlands is perfect for explorations with your pup. Walkable Main Street is decorated with many restaurants, several offering pet-friendly, outdoor patios (just be sure to confirm first). All Elevate Rentals’ vacation rentals in Highlands are pet-friendly, allowing you the opportunity to enjoy quality time with your furry friend – in some of the area’s most beautiful cabin rentals.
4. A raincoat or umbrella
Many don’t know that Highlands is located in one of the two temperate rainforests in North America. A temperate rainforest has milder temperatures than its tropical counterpart, but still experiences the characteristic rain. The Highlands area, for instance, averages 80 inches of rain a year. And while the summer is drier than winter, it’s a good idea to pack a raincoat or umbrella for those unexpected showers.
5. Permission to slow down
In Highlands, life happens a little slower – and if you’ll allow it, with a little more magic. Make plans to break your plans; forgo the fancy dinner for a casual picnic on Whiteside Mountain. Take the scenic route to your Highlands cabin. Meander along Main Street, stopping for a coffee at Calders Coffee Café, a cold pint at The Ugly Dog Public House, or some afternoon reading at The Bookworm. Linger longer at Mirror Lake before heading back to your Highlands cabin rental. Slow down and take it in. You’re on mountain time, now.
ABOUT ELEVATE RENTALS
Elevate Rentals is a property management company in Highlands, North Carolina, offering luxury cabin rentals in the Highlands area. Our eight unique Highlands cabins provide an enchanting experience for every kind of traveler, whether you’re searching for an adventure, relaxing escape – or something in between.