Balsam, North Carolina

Once the Highest Railroad Depot in the East, Now a Home Base for Hikers

Tourists began arriving by train in the 1880's to stay at the Balsam Mountain Inn, to see the breathtaking vistas, and to enjoy the cool climate (elevation 3,551 feet). Tourists come to this mountain community by automobile now, and delight in the scenic views from the Mountains-to-Sea Trail or the Blue Ridge Parkway, against which Balsam is nestled.