Update: Thanks all, we decided on Banner Elk/Linville Gorge area for a few days, then Brevard for a few days.

Hi all, I’m planning a trip to the NC mountains and would love recommendations for 1-2 locations to base ourselves out of for day hikes. We would be doing early morning / late afternoon summer hikes at about 6 hours max for each one. I’m thinking about Banner Elk for one location so we can do Roan Mountan/Linville Gorge hikes, but what’s a good second location? Considering Cherokee for GSMNP or Asheville area for Pisgah.

We’d love a combo of cute small town vibes with a few food options and scenic medium-challenging hikes.