Polk County Map, North Carolina

Written and Fact-checked by | Updated On: May 05, 2026 | 06:10 ET

Map of Polk County - Polk County is a county located in the U.S. state of North Carolina. Polk County Map showing cities, highways, important places and water bodies. Get Where is Polk County located in the map, major cities in Polk county, population, areas, and places of interest.

Map of Polk County, North Carolina

About Polk County, North Carolina

Polk County is a county located in the U.S. state of North Carolina. It's county seat is Columbus. As per 2020 census, the population of Polk County is 19656 people and population density is square miles. According to the United States Census Bureau, the county has a total area of 239 sq mi (619 km2). Polk County was established on 1855.

Polk County Facts

ContinentNorth America
CountryUnited States
StateNorth Carolina
County SeatColumbus
Largest City/TownTryon
Established1855
Total Area239 sq mi (619 sq km)
Land Area238 sq mi (616 sq km)
Water Area1 sq mi (3 sq km)
Population20,451 (Census 2020)
Population Density86 people per sq mi
Time ZoneEastern Time Zone (ET)
Major HighwaysI-26, US-74, NC-108
Major RiversGreen River, Pacolet River
Neighboring CountiesHenderson County, Rutherford County, Spartanburg County (SC), Greenville County (SC)
Famous ForBlue Ridge foothills, equestrian culture, scenic landscapes
Top AttractionsTryon International Equestrian Center, Green River Gorge, Pearson’s Falls, Lake Adger
Official WebsiteOfficial Website

About Polk County, North Carolina

Polk County is located in the southwestern part of North Carolina, in the state of the United States, and was established in 1855. The county seat is Columbus, while Tryon is the largest town. The county lies in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains near the South Carolina border and is known for its scenic beauty, outdoor recreation, and strong equestrian heritage.

Cities and Towns in Polk County, North Carolina

City/TownPopulation (Census 2020)Latitude & Longitude
Tryon1,63435.2084°N, 82.2387°W
Columbus (county seat)99935.2537°N, 82.1971°W
Saluda71335.2365°N, 82.3487°W
Lynn30035.2700°N, 82.2300°W

Golf Courses in Polk County, North Carolina

Golf CourseLocationLatitude & Longitude
Red Fox Country ClubTryon35.2000°N, 82.2500°W
Bright’s Creek Golf ClubMill Spring35.3000°N, 82.1500°W

Roads and Highways in Polk County, North Carolina

Polk County is connected by scenic mountain highways serving western North Carolina.

  • I-26 – major interstate linking the county to Asheville and South Carolina
  • US-74 – connects the county to Rutherfordton and Hendersonville
  • NC-108 – runs east–west through Columbus and Tryon

Neighboring Counties of Polk County

  • Henderson County (north)
  • Rutherford County (east)
  • Spartanburg County, South Carolina (south)
  • Greenville County, South Carolina (southwest)

Top Attractions in Polk County, North Carolina

The county offers outdoor recreation, scenic views, and equestrian activities.

  • Tryon International Equestrian Center – major equestrian venue and events
  • Green River Gorge – hiking, kayaking, and scenic views
  • Pearson’s Falls – waterfall and botanical preserve
  • Lake Adger – boating, fishing, and recreation
  • Downtown Tryon – arts, galleries, and historic charm
  • Saluda Historic District – quaint mountain town with shops and restaurants

Distance from Polk County to Nearby Cities

  • Tryon to Asheville – 45 mi (72 km)
  • Tryon to Spartanburg, SC – 35 mi (56 km)
  • Tryon to Greenville, SC – 40 mi (64 km)
  • Tryon to Charlotte – 90 mi (145 km)
  • Tryon to Columbia, SC – 100 mi (161 km)

FAQs about Polk County

Where is Polk County located?

Polk County is located in southwestern North Carolina near the South Carolina border in the Blue Ridge foothills.

What is the population of Polk County?

The population of Polk County is 20,451 according to the 2020 Census.

What is Polk County known for?

Polk County is known for its equestrian culture, scenic landscapes, and outdoor recreation.

What are the major highways in Polk County?

Major highways include I-26, US-74, and NC-108.

Are there golf courses in Polk County?

Yes, Polk County has golf courses including Red Fox Country Club and Bright’s Creek Golf Club.