Franklin

Franklin is located in Macon County (of which it is the county seat) within the Nantahala National Forest, between Almond and Highlands along Highway 28 on the banks of the Little Tennessee River near Cullasaja River Gorge, Otto, and the Scaly Mountain Ski Area. Franklin is best known for its gem mines, history & heritage, and for the natural beauty of the surrounding mountains. The population estimate for July 1, 1998 was 3,468, an increase of 595 since 1990.