Welcome to Highlands Pass
A sanctuary of upscale living, nestled in the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains
The Land
Here at Highlands Pass, our goal is to live in harmony with nature. To keep nature blooming for generations to come, we strive to preserve the natural habitat these great mountains have to offer. Enjoy the morning from your porch, watching the fog lift off the mountain tops, pack a lunch to enjoy at one of the many picnic tables while listening to the rushing sound of the creek coming down from the waterfall. On your way back, stop and play family games in the lower meadow or head up to the upper meadow to practice your bow and arrow skills. In the evenings, sit by your fire pit and listen to the owls while roasting s’mores with the kids or enjoy a soak in your hot tub with your friends.
When you feel like getting out, the hidden oasis of Highlands Pass is perfectly situated in the triangle of Clayton, Ga, Franklin, NC and Highlands, NC. Each town is a short 20 – 30 minute drive with great shopping and excellent restaurants. Head into town to stroll in and out of the many unique shops, go horseback riding in Dillard, hike the famous Tallulah Gorge, or head into Highlands for a spa treatment at Old Edwards Inn. With a wealth of things to enjoy nearby, Highlands Pass is truly a one-of-a-kind place.
The Community
When you begin your life in Highlands Pass, you will be establishing your own traditions and the legacy you’ll leave your children. You will meet new friends as you nestle in the acclaimed Highlands-Cashier plateau of Western North Carolina.
There is an incredible serenity here that you can feel deep inside. Awe-inspiring beauty and tranquility are everywhere. Just imagine enjoying breathtaking views from the comfort of your living room. Dream about a quiet, peaceful walk in the evening with friends and neighbors. You can be at one with the land here. Take a moment to see and experience some of the truly special places in Highlands Pass.
Highlands Pass is a community, and you and your family will enrich it with your own unique lifestyle.
The Outdoor Adventures
Surrounding Highlands Pass is a wonderland of natural, prehistoric, and preserved beauty. Wildlife abounds, old-growth forests still exist, and rare flora is everywhere.
Franklin, North Carolina, was called “Nikwasi” by the Cherokees, meaning “center of activity.” This holds true today as Franklin is the center of the area’s history and the mountain way of life. In the center of town is the Nikwasi Mound. This mound held the ever-burning sacred fire, and was the dwelling place of the immortal spirit-beings, the Nunnehi.
Marvel at the Standing Indian in the basin atop the Campground. Legend has it he was turned to a pillar of stone when he neglected his tribal duties. The Bear Cave, the Indian Cave, and other fascinating caves are located in our high mountains. They will pique your curiosity and provide wonderful opportunities to explore.
Highlands Pass is populated with prehistoric boulders placed by time in perfect positions along our trails, roads and streams. Many are covered with varieties of ancient mosses and are a unique feature of Highlands Pass. Be sure to see the amazing Boulder Cascade on the Bear Cave Trail.
Quick Facts
Community Size: 30 homesites on 500 acres (view community map | view real estate listings)
Utilities: Underground electricity for featured lots; Starlink preferred internet provider
Gated Community: Yes
Elevation: 2,400 ft to 4,000 ft
Homesite Types: 1-7 acre wooded lots, meadow views, creek frontage, and long-range mountain views (view listings)
Homeowners Association: $800 annual dues
Distance from Commercial Districts: Approximately 20 minutes to restaurants and shopping in Franklin, NC and Clayton, NC; approximately 30 minutes to Highlands, NC; and approximately 1 hour, 15 minutes to Asheville Regional Airport.
Amenities: Paved main road, two stocked fishing ponds, open meadow, nature preserves, and a network of hiking and multiple trails within the community.
Protective Covenants: Yes, provided to ensure integrity and value.
Financing Available: Yes, Highlands Pass is favored by local and regional banking institutions. Superior financing is available to those who desire it.