North Carolina is home to many charming small towns known for their welcoming community, beautiful landscapes, and unique culture. However, one town has recently been voted the “Best Small Town” in the entire state for 2025 — Black Mountain.
Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Black Mountain perfectly blends natural beauty, vibrant arts, and southern hospitality, making it a must-visit for anyone drawn to authentic small-town charm.
Where is Black Mountain Located?
Black Mountain is located in western North Carolina, just about 20 minutes east of Asheville. Positioned in the scenic Blue Ridge Mountains of Buncombe County, it offers easy access to urban amenities while maintaining a slower, peaceful pace steeped in mountain culture and tradition.
What Makes Black Mountain Special?
Black Mountain’s picturesque mountain views are only the beginning. This town is celebrated for its flourishing arts scene, bustling music venues, and vibrant galleries featuring local crafts.
The Black Mountain College Museum + Arts Center pays homage to the town’s historic roots as a home to the legendary Black Mountain College, an innovative art school that influenced American art and culture in the mid-20th century.
Outdoor enthusiasts find plenty to love here too. Hiking trails like the 9.5-mile Graybeard Trail, located near the town, offer stunning views and nature immersion. Lake Tomahawk is another local favorite for casual strolls and picnics. Black Mountain strikes a perfect balance between outdoor adventure and small-town relaxation.
A Warm Community and Cultural Hub
Black Mountain boasts a friendly, tightly-knit community with events and festivals throughout the year that showcase local talent and traditions. The town’s downtown area features charming boutiques, cozy cafés, and farm-to-table restaurants offering southern hospitality with a modern flair.
Annual events such as the Arts and Craft Fair and the Winter Lights celebration bring visitors and locals together for festive enjoyment. Live music is a cornerstone of local life, evident in popular venues and Wednesday night jam sessions in the town’s welcoming pubs.
Why Black Mountain Was Voted The Best Small Town
Black Mountain’s rich blend of natural beauty, vibrant culture, and welcoming spirit makes it stand out among North Carolina’s many small towns. It offers a high quality of life with a remarkably artsy and outdoorsy vibe that appeals to all ages.
Whether it’s enjoying a gallery opening, hiking mountain trails, or relaxing by the lake, this town provides a well-rounded, satisfying experience. Its proximity to Asheville also ensures convenient access to a larger city without sacrificing the benefits of small-town living.
Summary
Location: Western North Carolina, Buncombe County, 20 minutes east of Asheville
Population: Approximately 8,500 residents
Highlights: Stunning Blue Ridge mountain views, Black Mountain College Museum, thriving arts and music scene, Graybeard Trail, Lake Tomahawk
Atmosphere: Artistic, friendly, outdoorsy, culturally rich
Events: Arts and Craft Fair, Winter Lights celebration, live music sessions
Black Mountain embodies the perfect small-town charm North Carolina is known for, combining natural wonders with a lively cultural life and warm hospitality. For anyone seeking a town to visit or call home, it’s clear why Black Mountain has earned its esteemed title as the best small town in the state.
This enchanting mountain town with its scenic vistas, creative spirit, and intimate community makes it easy to fall in love with Black Mountain, North Carolina.
Sources
(https://www.worldatlas.com/cities/10-nicest-small-towns-in-north-carolina.html)
(https://imfixintoblog.com/most-beautiful-towns-in-north-carolina/)
(https://www.truehomes.com/best-small-towns-to-live-in-carolinas)
(https://www.yahoo.com/news/articles/western-nc-town-named-one-201757064.html)
(https://www.thetravel.com/saluda-north-carolina-underrated-small-town-2025/)
