Choose gem mining or a mountain coaster with waterfall stops
2 hours
Up to 38 people
Private tour, Open-air truck ride
Explore the Nantahala National Forest area on a private open-air adventure from Highlands. Pick gem mining with short waterfall walks or a mountain coaster outing with scenic stops.
Cancel or change at least 5 days before your tour. No refunds within 5 days of the tour date and time. Receive a full refund if the operator cancels the tour for any reason.
Product ID: 92EGTJ
Wear hiking shoes, long pants and a shirt, and pack a light rain jacket.
Wear hiking shoes and comfortable clothes, and pack a light rain jacket.
Bring your dog along—customer dogs are allowed. You can also ask for the tour’s dog, Aussie, to join your adventure.
Highland Excursion, 499 Pine Street, Highlands, NC 28741
Justin and Kelly own this tour company, and they clearly know how to show visitors the best of Highlands and Cashiers. Along with guides Amy, Aimee, and Jamie, they deliver consistently exceptional private tours that combine stunning waterfalls, scenic viewpoints like Sunset Rock, and off-road adventures with surprisingly rich historical commentary. Guests rave about how knowledgeable every guide is, sharing stories about the area's history, geography, plants, and wildlife while making the experience feel personalized rather than scripted. What makes these tours special is the customization. Guides genuinely tailor each excursion based on what interests you most, whether that's waterfall chasing, backcountry exploration, or learning about local culture. They accommodate different mobility levels, welcome dogs, and even make thoughtful touches like pastry shop stops or providing "Pupscicles." The vehicles are well-equipped and comfortable, and tours typically run around two hours. Multiple reviewers suggest booking this as your first activity when arriving, so you can get oriented to the area and gather recommendations for the rest of your stay. It's clearly become a favorite for everyone from honeymooners to multi-generational families.
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