With a population of approximately 9,000, Clay county is among the five least populated counties in the state and offers one of the lowest property tax rates in North Carolina. Elevations range from 1,200 feet up to 5,498 feet providing many lofty panoramas. National Forests cover 64,000 acres or around half of the County and include hiking and horseback riding trails and waterfalls for all to enjoy. If you want to get out a little farther, the Appalachian Trail lies just east of the Clay County line in neighboring Macon County. With the town square situated on a knoll overlooking the Hiwassee River and the Tusquittee Mountains framing the view, Hayesville has a population of 380 residents and a school system that consistently ranks in the top five percent in the state. With only two stop lights and managed growth, pulling through the town square takes you to a simpler time of rocking chairs, friendly neighbors and soft breezes.