Expert Advice

Cooling Off In The North Carolina Mountains: Our Summer Family Vacation

One Member shares an exciting getaway that didn’t break the bank

Genevieve B.
Family posing in front of High Falls waterfall with trees in the background.

Great beaches and mountain destinations are at least two hours away from us. With temperatures rising during summer, we decided to head to the mountains, cool off and stay at a place we’ve been eyeing for some time — Club Lodges at Trillium, nestled in the Western North Carolina region.

We were able to book it through our Hilton Grand Vacations membership. July is peak season; I like to think that my membership helped secure our dates. Everything fell perfectly into place, and we couldn’t have been happier!

Our 2-Bedroom Villa Provided Lots Of Space

Traveling with our two girls, one a teenager, meant that we needed more space. The 2-Bedroom Villa was fully equipped and felt like home. With a spacious primary bedroom on the lower level, an open kitchen, roomy dining and living areas and a separate bedroom for the girls on the main level, everyone had room to unwind and relax.

What makes it even better is the resort’s flexibility. You can request special items ahead of time like a non-slip mat, pack-n-play and even a crockpot. It was wonderful to see the list of items available upon request. It felt like glamping with all the comforts of home.

Majestic Dry Falls waterfall surrounded by rocks and lush greenery.

Enjoying The Resort’s Many Amenities

Club Lodges at Trillium offers more than just beautiful units — it’s packed with amenities. There’s indoor and outdoor tennis and pickleball courts for racquet enthusiasts, as well as a catch-and-release pond, garden golf, croquet, a fitness center and a sauna. My personal favorites were the outdoor pool and hot tub positioned to reveal a stunning mountain view. It’s the perfect place to cool down, soak in the moment and let your worries melt away.

The staff were incredible. Warm, welcoming and attentive, they made sure our stay was as smooth and enjoyable as possible. They added to the overall experience and made a trip to remember.

Sliding Rock waterfall rushing over rocks and surrounded by trees.

Water, Wonder And The Quiet Places In Between

We knew exactly what we wanted to see first: the waterfalls. We wanted to feel their cool mist, listen to the rush of water crashing down and soak in nature at its finest. There's something incredibly grounding about standing near a waterfall — it’s refreshing, peaceful and energizing all at once.

Whitewater Falls, the highest waterfall east of the Rocky Mountains, cascading over rock into the gorge below

Chasing Waterfalls Doesn’t Have To Break The Bank

Many of the falls we visited offered free parking while others charged only a small fee. This kind of adventure proves that you don’t need to spend a lot to create meaningful memories. The waterfalls were a budget-friendly highlight of our trip that I highly recommend to anyone looking to explore the natural beauty of Western North Carolina.

It was a week filled with nature’s beauty, shared with my favorite people. I cherished every moment, each experience etched into memory. This trip wouldn’t have been possible without the Hilton Grand Vacations membership that I signed up for over a decade ago. I’m grateful that it has become a part of how we create these meaningful memories together.

Read “Your Guide To Traveling On A Budget — And How Hilton Grand Vacations Can Help Save Money” for more ways to save when planning a your next getaway.

Portrait of Genevieve B.

Genevieve B.

Genevieve, a dedicated blogger, cherishes traveling with her husband and two children. What she appreciates most about vacation membership is returning to comfortable accommodations with great amenities after a day of adventure. For her, it truly feels like coming home.

Key Takeaways

  • Hilton Grand Vacations Membership Offers Convenience: Booking through a vacation membership can make securing dates during peak season easy and stress-free, adding value to the planning process.
  • Amenity-Rich Resort Experience: Club Lodges at Trillium boasts an impressive array of amenities, offering relaxation and activities for all ages.
  • Outstanding Hospitality: An attentive and welcoming staff can elevate a vacation experience, ensuring a smooth and memorable stay.
  • Budget-Friendly Fun: Many attractions in the Western North Carolina area meaningful family adventures that don’t have to be expensive.
  • A Blend of Comfort, Nature, and Value: The trip combined the comforts of home, the serenity of mountain landscapes and budget-friendly options, making it a highly recommended summer escape for families.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. What amenities does Club Lodges at Trillium offer?
A. The resort features indoor and outdoor tennis and pickleball courts, a catch-and-release pond, garden golf, croquet, a fitness center, a sauna, an outdoor pool and a hot tub with mountain views. These amenities cater to a wide range of ages and interests.

Q. What are some must-see natural attractions near Club Lodges at Trillium?
A. The region is home to stunning waterfalls like High Falls, Whitewater Falls, Sliding Rock, Dry Falls and Bridal Veil Falls. Each offers unique scenery and opportunities for adventure and relaxation.

Q. Is visiting waterfalls in Western North Carolina expensive?
A. Most waterfall sites in Western North Carolina offer free or low-cost parking, making them an affordable way to enjoy the area’s natural beauty and create lasting memories.