Today we’re in Western North Carolina visiting a small town with a big reputation, both as a premier outdoor destination and as the “Gem Capital of the World.” Locals say it’s a bit like living in a Hallmark movie. Welcome to Franklin, folks.’

Located about an hour west of Asheville, Franklin was designated the first Appalachian Trail Community in 2010. Section and thru-hikers visit to rest and resupply. And every summer, visitors flock here for the 80’s Flashback Weekend, a totally rad fundraiser for the Greenville Shriners Hospital for Children.

We’re starting our visit with the best cup of joe you’ll find in Macon County at the Crabtree General Store & Coffee.

You can also enjoy hand-dipped ice cream served in a freshly made waffle cone…buy a souvenir…or just “take your shoes off and set a spell.”

Around the corner is our first stop, the Scottish Tartans Museum and Heritage Center, THE authority on Scottish Highland Dress traditions in the US. This is the place to find your tartan affiliation…even if you aren’t Scottish… or view a display of Scottish weaponry and learn about Scottish immigrants’ relationship with the Cherokee.

Next is a stop with apparel and gear of an entirely different kind, a specialty outdoor retailer that is also a fantastic community resource–Outdoor 76.

The store offers a variety of technical and lifestyle goods for outdoor enthusiasts, with a special focus on the feet. You can also attend a storytelling night or get expert advice on nearby sections of the AT. And check this out… a connected taproom offers an assortment of not-often-found craft beers, making it a favorite town hang-out spot.

Now, remember Franklin’s claim to be the world’s gem capital? Well, I’m fully prepared to have my mind blown at our last stop.

Since 1958, Ruby City has shared one of the largest gem, mineral, Native American, and pre-Columbian collections in the world. Part museum, part store, Ruby City is a free museum that showcases natural treasures, along with precious stones and jewelry for purchase. So whether you are a “rockhound” or a gem admirer, you won’t leave Ruby City without a good dose of appreciation for small-town, mountain treasures…

like the beautiful town of Franklin itself.