Topton is a rural mountain community that's home to Lake Nantahala
Topton’s mountainous terrain places the rural community around 3,000 feet above sea level, keeping temperatures cool and views hard to beat. It has some of Macon County’s biggest attractions, namely Lake Nantahala and Nantahala National Forest, and the natural setting is the area's main draw. “It’s an overwhelming beauty,” says local Realtor Randy Dockery of Re/Max Mountain Properties. He’s sold homes across the area for 36 years and owns a house on the lake. “My friend visited from Gatlinburg, and three days after he left, he was back and ready to buy a house. He said he’s never had this much peace in his life.” The lots are sizable, densely wooded and private, and according to Dockey, most people have mountain or lake views.
Large woodsy lots with log cabins and mountain views
Deep in the Nantahala National Forest, properties here are typically moderately isolated and surrounded by trees. They offer views of the surrounding mountains and Lake Nantahala at high elevations. Several homes sit on at least an acre of land, but many come with 60-plus acres of forest. Lots closer to Lake Nantahala are usually smaller, measuring around a half-acre. “Lakefront lots are just like oceanfront lots,” Dockery says. “They cut them as small as they want to get the most properties possible.” And homes on the lake are arguably the community’s most desired. Houses overlooking the water list anywhere from $700,000 to $2.3 million. Homes away from the lake can sell for $200,000 to $800,000, largely depending on lot size. Many of the community’s active listings are land, ranging from $12,000 for just over a half-acre to $550,000 for 80 acres. Houses are generally custom, but there’s a good mix of log and contemporary cabins and several country cottages.
A day on Lake Nantahala and fishing on the river
Many residents access Lake Nantahala from their backyards, but this body of water is also enjoyed by folks from the greater region. “There are two public boat access ramps where people who don’t own land on the lake can come in and launch their boat,” Dockery says. “People like to swim and fish, and there are a few islands where they camp.” The Rocky Branch Access Area is open to the public, with a boat ramp and a sizable parking lot. Streaming out of the lake is the Nantahala River, where locals enjoy white-water rafting, kayaking and tubing. “There’s probably a hundred boats and rafts that go down the river with church groups and families,” Dockery says. Several waterfalls and fishing spots can be found along the river, including Wishon’s Fishing Hole, where anglers reel in rainbow trout. The community is also popular for hiking; the Bartram and Chunky Gal trails are near the lake.
All-you-can-eat fish at Lakes End Cafe and Grill
Topton has limited commercial infrastructure, so its single restaurant on Lake Nantahala is a hit when it’s open for the season. Lakes End Café and Grill typically opens around April and closes by the end of the year, offering burgers, pizzas and sandwiches in the interim. Friday nights at Lakes End are all-you-can-eat fish. “My grandkids love getting on the pontoon and going to the all-you-can-eat catfish,” Dockery says. “We’ll swing by the location where the bald eagles nest after. It’s a real pleasant time.” More restaurants are available 14 miles west in downtown Andrews, where DG Market and Ingles Market sell produce and other groceries. About 24 miles east, Franklin has its own eateries, as well as an Aldi supermarket and big-box stores like Walmart.
K-12 Nantahala School offers small class sizes
Macon County Schools scores an overall B-plus on Niche and serves over 4,000 students. Educating Topton students, Nantahala School is one of two K-12 schools in Macon County, and it earns a C-plus from Niche. With under 100 students, the school has small class sizes, with a student-teacher ratio of 7-to-1. It offers the Pinwheel After-School Program for elementary students.
Navigating Macon County
Topton is a car-dependent community defined by its winding mountain roads and remote location. U.S. Route 74 is the nearest highway, but locals can take back roads to reach nearby communities. State Road 1310 runs east toward Franklin, and Junaluska Road leads to Andrews. Erlanger Western Carolina Hospital is one of the nearest medical facilities, about 30 miles away. The closest big cities are Asheville and Knoxville, Tennessee, which are each around 95 miles away.
Written By
Brennen Martin
