Dillsboro, North Carolina

Inns, Lodges, Resorts

Featured photo by Jimmy Jacobs

July 2024

By Polly Dean

In an idyllic setting on the banks of the Tuckasegee River in Dillsboro, North Carolina, the Dillsboro Inn is truly an ideal location for fishermen. But the inn is suitable for any traveler desiring to soak in the beauty and serenity of the Smoky Mountains. My return visit was a bit later in the year when temperatures had heated up, making it less desirable for targeting trout. As a result, smallmouth bass now were the species of interest.

The Dillsboro Inn. Photo by Polly Dean.

Owners and innkeepers TJ Walker and his wife Terry are natives of South Florida, but fell in love with the beauty of the Blue Ridge and Smoky Mountains. With scenic peaks and rolling rivers, it truly is a place to escape the stresses of everyday life and the rat race of the cities.

Fishing trips to the Tuck have always held a special place in my heart and revisiting the Dillsboro Inn made it a trip that I anticipated even more. TJ and Terry are exceptional hosts when it comes to making their inn comfortable and welcoming. They are adept in sharing what is so special to them in this little slice of paradise.

The lodge’s variety of accommodations range from four efficiencies to five two-room suites that will suit almost any individual, family or group of anglers desiring comfort and convenience on the Tuckasegee River. The inn is a short walk to the quaint town of Dillsboro offering a myriad of shops, a brewery and restaurants to please any taste in cuisine, relaxation or adventure. The town of Sylva is only two miles away. The two towns offer a variety of shops, bookstores, bakeries, general stores and boutiques to entertain the shopper in your group.

The Tuckaseegee River is right at your doorstep. Photo by Polly Dean.

In addition to stepping out on your front steps and angling on Tuckasegee River, there are a number of additional waters in the region for wetting a line. Outdoor enthusiasts can take a mountain hike or visit a waterfall. Others may opt to kayak or brave whitewater rafting.

Rates vary from type of suite, the number of persons in your party and dates you wish to visit. Reservations are best made by calling (828) 586-3898  or by text to (828) 507-3113. Descriptions and images of the suites are on their website at www.dillsboroinn.com.

The inn’s accommodations are tastefully decorated and comfortable. Photo by Polly Dean.

Browse the reviews by quests and you will learn why this is a special place, whether you are in the area for the angling or just passing through. Their website will also offer a list of things to do and explore in the region for all ages, young and old.

But be sure to set aside an evening or two to just enjoy the sounds and sights of the Tuckasegee as it gently rolls by your deck. You will learn that the Dillsboro Inn is a worthy destination to include in your travels.