Cities and Towns in Swain County, North Carolina
Founded in 1871, Swain County is one of 100 counties in the state of North Carolina. Historically, Swain County was formed from Jackson County and Macon County. The city of Bryson City is the county seat. With FIPS code of 173, Swain County has a population of 14,136 and area of 541 square miles (1,401 km²).
List of all cities in Swain County, NC alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Alarka, NC | 28713 | 828 |
| Almond, NC | 28702 | 828 |
| Bryson City, NC | 28713 | 828 |
| Cherokee, NC | 28719 | 828 |
| Ela, NC | 28713 | 828 |
| Needmore, NC | 28713 | 828 |
| Ocono Lufty, NC | 28719 | 828 |
Major Cities and Towns in Swain County, North Carolina
Bryson City
Overview
- Area: Approximately 2.2 square miles (5.7 km²)
- Population: 1,558 (2020 census)
- ZIP Code: 28713
- Latitude and Longitude: 35.4301° N, 83.4471° W
Location and History
Bryson City, the county seat of Swain County, is nestled in the Great Smoky Mountains of western North Carolina. Established in 1889, the town was named after Thaddeus Dillard Bryson, a prominent local figure. Its strategic location along the Tuckasegee River and proximity to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park have made it a hub for tourism and outdoor recreation. Historically, Bryson City served as a center for logging and rail transport, with the arrival of the Southern Railway in the late 19th century spurring economic growth. Over time, the town has evolved into a charming destination, offering visitors a blend of natural beauty and rich cultural heritage.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Bryson City is served by the Swain County School District, with institutions like Swain County High School and Swain County Middle School providing education to local students. The town is home to several notable landmarks, including the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad, which offers scenic excursions through the mountains. The Swain County Heritage Museum, located in the historic courthouse, showcases the area’s history and culture. Additionally, the nearby Deep Creek area provides access to hiking trails, waterfalls, and tubing opportunities, making it a popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts.
Cherokee
Overview
- Area: Approximately 12.0 square miles (31.1 km²)
- Population: 2,138 (2020 census)
- ZIP Code: 28719
- Latitude and Longitude: 35.4743° N, 83.3143° W
Location and History
Cherokee is an unincorporated community located within the Qualla Boundary, the land trust of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians, in Swain County. The area has been inhabited by the Cherokee people for thousands of years and serves as the cultural and administrative center for the Eastern Band. In the 19th century, despite the forced removal of many Cherokee during the Trail of Tears, a group remained in the region, leading to the establishment of the Qualla Boundary. Today, Cherokee is a vibrant community that preserves and celebrates its rich indigenous heritage, offering visitors insights into Cherokee history, culture, and traditions.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Cherokee is served by the Cherokee Central Schools system, which includes Cherokee High School, providing education with a focus on Cherokee language and culture. The community is home to several significant landmarks, such as the Museum of the Cherokee Indian, which offers comprehensive exhibits on Cherokee history. The Oconaluftee Indian Village is a living history museum that recreates a 18th-century Cherokee village. Additionally, Harrah’s Cherokee Casino Resort has become a major economic driver, attracting visitors and providing employment opportunities for the community.
Almond
Overview
- Area: Approximately 1.5 square miles (3.9 km²)
- Population: 409 (2020 census)
- ZIP Code: 28702
- Latitude and Longitude: 35.3648° N, 83.5968° W
Location and History
Almond is a small, unincorporated community located in the southwestern part of Swain County, near the Nantahala River. The community developed in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, primarily as a result of the logging industry and the construction of the Southern Railway. The establishment of the Nantahala National Forest in 1920 further influenced the area’s development, promoting conservation and recreation. Today, Almond serves as a gateway for outdoor activities, particularly whitewater rafting and fishing, due to its proximity to the Nantahala River and Lake Fontana.
Major Schools and Landmarks
As an unincorporated area, Almond does not have its own schools; residents typically attend schools in nearby communities within the Swain County School District. The community is near several notable landmarks, including the Nantahala Outdoor Center, which offers a variety of outdoor recreational activities such as rafting, kayaking, and zip-lining. The nearby Tsali Recreation Area provides extensive mountain biking and hiking trails, attracting outdoor enthusiasts from across the region. Additionally, the scenic Great Smoky Mountains Expressway offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
Whittier
Overview
- Area: Approximately 3.0 square miles (7.8 km²)
- Population: 5,600 (2020 census)
- ZIP Code: 28789
- Latitude and Longitude: 35.4326° N, 83.3482° W
Location and History
Whittier is an unincorporated community straddling the border of Swain and Jackson counties, situated along the Tuckasegee River. Founded in the late 19th century by Dr. Clark Whittier, the community developed as a result of the railroad expansion and the timber industry. The town once thrived with sawmills, a hotel, and various businesses catering to the logging industry. Over time, as the timber resources were depleted, Whittier transitioned into a quiet residential community. Its location near the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and the Blue Ridge Parkway makes it an attractive spot for those seeking a peaceful environment with easy access to outdoor recreation.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Residents of Whittier attend schools in the Swain County School District, with nearby institutions such as Swain County High School serving the community. The area is home to several landmarks, including the Whittier United Methodist Church, which has been a center of community life since the early 20th century. The Tuckasegee River provides opportunities for fishing, kayaking, and tubing, contributing to the area’s appeal for outdoor activities. Additionally, the proximity to the Cherokee Indian Reservation offers cultural experiences, including traditional crafts, performances, and the annual Cherokee Indian Fair.
Wesser
Overview
- Area: Approximately 2.0 square miles (5.2 km²)
- Population: 150 (2020 census)
- ZIP Code: 28713
- Latitude and Longitude: 35.3315° N, 83.5957° W
Location and History
Wesser is a small, unincorporated community located in the southwestern part of Swain County, near the Nantahala River Gorge. The area developed primarily as a result of the outdoor recreation industry, with its proximity to the Nantahala River making it a popular destination for whitewater rafting and kayaking. The community’s name is derived from the Wesser family, early settlers in the region. Over time, Wesser has become synonymous with adventure sports, attracting enthusiasts from across the country to experience the rapids of the Nantahala River and the scenic beauty of the surrounding mountains.
Major Schools and Landmarks
As an unincorporated area, Wesser does not have its own schools; residents typically attend schools in nearby communities within the Swain County School District. The community is home to the Nantahala Outdoor Center (NOC), one of the nation’s premier outdoor recreation companies.
