Burnsville NC is a small town located in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina and is known for its rural charm, its proximity to Mount Mitchell, the highest peak east of the Mississippi River, and its vibrant arts and culture scene. Our Burnsville NC Travel Guide will help you plan a memorable visit to this unique and quaint mountain town.
Located in a beautiful valley, Burnsville NC is a charming small mountain town with a population of around 1,667. Surrounded by the majestic peaks of the Blue Ridge Mountains, it has a unique rural-artistic vibe. Strolling along its historic Main Street, you'll discover independent shops, delightful restaurants, a local brewery, vibrant street murals, and quaint art galleries.
The historic downtown proudly boasts a beautiful public Town Square, which serves as the heart of the community. This beloved gathering space, adorned with majestic trees and lush greenery, was generously donated by John "Yellow Jacket" Bailey in 1834. A testament to the town's heritage, the statue of Otway Burns was erected here in 1909, adding to the town's allure and character.
In this Burnsville NC travel guide, we'll share with you all the best things to do in Burnsville, NC. From hiking and camping to visiting art galleries, restaurants, there is something for everyone in this charming mountain town.
Burnsville NC Travel Videos
Here is our video from our long weekend visit to the town of Burnsville NC in the summer of 2023.
Burnsville NC Travel Guides and Travel Blogs
Here are all of our guides and travel blogs about our visits to Burnsville NC:
Where to Stay in Burnsville NC
Terrell House Bed and Breakfast is a charming bed and breakfast located in the heart of Burnsville NC. The house was built in 1900 and has been lovingly restored to its former glory. The rooms are spacious and comfortable, and each one has its own unique character. The breakfasts are delicious and made with fresh, local ingredients.
The Terrell House is located within walking distance of downtown Burnsville, which is home to a variety of shops, restaurants, and art galleries. The town is also a great base for exploring the surrounding mountains and forests.
If you are planning a trip to Burnsville, NC, we highly recommend staying at Terrell House Bed and Breakfast. You won't be disappointed! We really enjoyed our stay here during our weekend getaway!
Burnsville Map
Burnsville Directions
Getting to Burnsville, NC from Asheville NC is easy! Let us help you.
- Coming from Asheville? It's a scenic drive you're going to love! Jump onto I-26 W and keep an eye out for exit 9. You're heading towards US-19 N, in the direction of Burnsville/Spruce Pine. Stick to this route for around 35 miles and voilà, you've arrived in the heart of Burnsville NC!
- Flying into Asheville Regional Airport? From the airport, set your course west on NC-280 W. Soon, you'll merge onto I-26 W. Keep going until you reach exit 9 for US-19 N, signposted for Burnsville/Spruce Pine. Stay on this road and before you know it, you'll be basking in the charm of Burnsville!
- Looking for landmarks? On your drive, you'll pass the iconic Blue Ridge Parkway, admire the serene Cane River, and catch sight of the majestic Mount Mitchell. Once you reach Burnsville, don't miss the historic Nu Wray Inn - it's a gem right in the town square!
- Thinking about taking a bus? At the moment, there aren't any direct bus services to Burnsville.
- Prefer Uber or Lyft? You're in luck! Both these ride-sharing services operate in the Asheville area and can whisk you away to Burnsville. Just a heads up though - availability can sometimes be limited, so planning in advance is a smart move!
Burnsville Weather
Burnsville NC Travel Guide
Burnsville, NC is located in the Blue Ridge Mountains, which means it has a four-season climate. The summers are warm and humid, with average high temperatures in the mid-80s Fahrenheit. The winters are cold and snowy, with average low temperatures in the mid-20s Fahrenheit.
Spring (March-May)
Spring in Burnsville is a beautiful time of year. The days start to get longer and warmer, and the flowers begin to bloom. The average temperature in March is 50 degrees Fahrenheit, and it gradually climbs to 70 degrees Fahrenheit by May. The humidity is also lower in the spring, so it feels less muggy.
Summer (June-August)
Summer is the warmest season in Burnsville. The average temperature in June is 75 degrees Fahrenheit, and it reaches its peak in July with an average high of 79 degrees Fahrenheit. The humidity is high in the summer, so it can feel muggy at times. However, there are plenty of opportunities to cool off in the mountains, such as swimming in the lakes or hiking in the forests.
Fall (September-November)
Fall is a colorful and pleasant time of year in Burnsville. The leaves change color and the temperatures start to cool down. The average temperature in September is 70 degrees Fahrenheit, and it gradually drops to 50 degrees Fahrenheit by November. The humidity is also lower in the fall, so it feels more comfortable.
Winter (December-February)
Winter is the coldest season in Burnsville. The average temperature in December is 35 degrees Fahrenheit, and it reaches its peak in January with an average low of 27 degrees Fahrenheit. There is also a chance of snow in the winter, with an average of 47 inches of snowfall per year. However, the winters are not as long or as cold as in other parts of the country.
No matter what time of year you visit Burnsville, NC, be sure to pack accordingly. In the summer, you'll need comfortable clothing that is appropriate for hot and humid weather. In the winter, you'll need warm clothing and a jacket. And no matter what time of year you visit, be sure to bring an umbrella or raincoat in case of rain.
Common Questions About Burnsville NC
How far is Burnsville NC from Asheville NC?
Burnsville Nc is about 40 minutes north east of Asheville NC. The distance between Burnsville, NC and Asheville, NC is 36 miles by car. The fastest route is via I-26 to US-19 N to US-23 N and then to US-70 W. The drive time is approximately 42 minutes.
Is Burnsville NC a good place to live?
Burnsville, NC is a small town located in the Blue Ridge Mountains. It is known for its beautiful scenery, outdoor activities, and friendly people. Here are some of the pros and cons of living in Burnsville:
Pros:
- Beautiful scenery: Burnsville is located in the Blue Ridge Mountains, which means it has stunning scenery. There are plenty of opportunities to hike, camp, fish, and enjoy the outdoors.
- Friendly people: The people in Burnsville are known for being friendly and welcoming. It is a great place to make new friends and get involved in the community.
- Small-town atmosphere: Burnsville is a small town with a small-town atmosphere. If you are looking for a quiet and peaceful place to live, Burnsville is a good option.
- Affordable cost of living: The cost of living in Burnsville is relatively affordable. This makes it a great place to live if you are on a budget.
Cons:
- Limited job opportunities: The job market in Burnsville is limited. If you need to find a job, you may need to commute to Asheville or another nearby city.
- Lack of diversity: Burnsville is a relatively small town and the population is not very diverse. This may be a con for some people.
- Limited public transportation: There is limited public transportation in Burnsville. If you do not have a car, you may have difficulty getting around.
Overall, Burnsville is a great place to live if you are looking for a small town with a beautiful setting and friendly people.
Here are some additional things to consider when deciding whether or not Burnsville is a good place for you:
- Your lifestyle: If you are an outdoor enthusiast, Burnsville is a great place to live. There are endless opportunities to hike, camp, fish, and enjoy the outdoors. However, if you are looking for a more urban lifestyle, Burnsville may not be the best fit for you.
- Your budget: The cost of living in Burnsville is relatively affordable. However, if you are on a tight budget, you may want to consider living in a smaller town or in a more rural area.
- Your family: If you have children, you will want to consider the schools in the area. The schools in Burnsville are generally good, but there are some private schools in the area if you prefer.
Is Burnsville NC in the Smoky mountains?
No, Burnsville, NC is not in the Smoky Mountains. The Great Smoky Mountains are located on the border of North Carolina and Tennessee. Burnsville is located in the Blue Ridge Mountains, which includes the Great Smoky Mountains.
The highest peak in the Blue Ridge Mountains is Mount Mitchell, which is located near Burnsville. Mount Mitchell is the highest peak east of the Mississippi River.
Despite not being in the Great Smoky Mountains, Burnsville NC is a great place to visit if you are interested in outdoor adventure. There are many hiking trails, waterfalls, and scenic overlooks in the area.
Burnsville is also a popular destination for stargazing, as the skies are dark and clear.
What mountains are near Burnsville NC?
There are many mountains near Burnsville NC, but the most notable ones are:
- Mount Mitchell (6,684 feet): The highest peak east of the Mississippi River. It is located in Mount Mitchell State Park.
- Mount Craig (6,647 feet): The second highest peak in the Black Mountains, just 37 feet lower than Mount Mitchell. It is also located in Mount Mitchell State Park.
- Celo Knob (6,327 feet): The third highest peak in the Black Mountains. It is located in the Pisgah National Forest.
- Black Balsam Knob (6,214 feet): A popular hiking destination with stunning views of the surrounding mountains. It is located in the Pisgah National Forest.
- White Rock Mountain (6,054 feet): A lesser-known mountain with beautiful scenery and challenging hiking trails. It is located in the Pisgah National Forest.
These are just a few of the many mountains near Burnsville, NC. There are plenty of opportunities for hiking, camping, fishing, and other outdoor activities in the area.