The Ultimate North Carolina Mountain Adventure

North Carolina is a treasure trove of geographical wonders, boasting long stretches of pristine beaches, rolling hills and what we’re here to discuss today: sprawling mountain ranges. The state’s most prominent feature is its majestic mountains, which span across three regions: Asheville and the Foothills, High Country, and the Smoky Mountains and Cherokee. Let’s dive into the unique experiences that await visitors to the mountains of North Carolina.

Asheville and the Foothills 

Asheville and the Foothills are located in the southern part of North Carolina’s Blue Ridge Mountains, offering visitors a perfect combination of natural beauty, unique culture and delectable cuisine. 

First, let’s talk about Asheville — a vibrant, bohemian city nestled in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Asheville is a food lover’s paradise, offering some of the best southern food you’ll ever taste. The city boasts a thriving farm-to-table dining scene, where chefs use locally-sourced ingredients to create delicious, sustainable and ethical dishes, many of which are vegan. And, we can’t forget about the beer. Asheville is home to over 30 breweries, offering something for every beer enthusiast. We recommend visiting Green Man Brewery for sure! 

But, Asheville is more than just food and drink. It is home to the beautiful Biltmore Estate, a historic mansion built by George Vanderbilt in the late 19th century. The estate covers a whopping 8,000 acres and includes a 250-room castle, extensive gardens, a winery and a farm village. Tourists can enjoy wine tastings, horseback riding, fishing and hiking, making it an ideal destination for history buffs and adventurers alike.

The Foothills surrounding Asheville are dotted with charming small towns, such as Hendersonville, Saluda and Chimney Rock, where visitors can experience southern hospitality and enjoy the simple pleasures of life. These towns are perfect for those who want to experience the Blue Ridge Mountains in a quieter way.

High Country

The High Country region is located in the northern part of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Named after its high elevation, the area is known for its scenic beauty and outdoor recreation opportunities. Some of the popular towns and attractions in High Country include Grandfather Mountain, Beech Mountain and Linville Falls. 

Known for its rugged terrain, Grandfather Mountain is one of the highest peaks in the region, standing at an elevation of 5,946 feet. Its steep cliffs, deep valleys and rocky outcroppings attract outdoor enthusiasts participating in a range of activities including hiking, camping and rock climbing. There are several trails leading to the summit, including the daunting Grandfather Train, which involves a steep climb and sections of ladders and cables to assist hikers. The mountain is a popular destination for nature watching, as it is home to rare and endangered species like the peregrine falcon and the Carolina northern flying squirrel. 

Beech Mountain Resort serves as the primary destination for winter sports enthusiasts in the region, catering to skiing, snowboarding, ice skating and tubing. With 17 slopes ranging from beginner to advanced levels, the resort accommodates individuals of all skill levels — and even provides a ski school for those who want to learn. Visitors can also explore the area’s several cross-country skiing and snowshoeing trails. In the summer, Beech Mountain is a popular spot for mountain biking, boasting a diverse range of over 10 miles of biking trails with varying degrees of difficulty. Whether visiting in winter or summer, Beech Mountain offers a plethora of activities to enjoy year-round.

Linville Falls is a renowned tourist destination in the High Country. Visitors can explore five trails that reach the falls and, once there, enjoy views of the magnificent 45-foot-high waterfall from various viewing platforms. The falls are situated in the Linville Gorge Wilderness Area, which offers an ideal spot for camping with 50 tent sites and 20 RV sites all along the Linville River. Linville Falls and the surrounding area provide a perfect retreat to unwind and appreciate the awe-inspiring beauty of the mountains.

Smoky Mountains and Cherokee

This region is in North Carolina’s westernmost corner. Home to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, visitors can enjoy the beauty of the mountains while enjoying a variety of activities including rafting, cycling and fly fishing. 

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park, located in the Appalachian Mountains of North Carolina and Tennessee, is one of the largest protected areas in the eastern United States that is known for its stunning natural beauty with dense forests, rushing rivers and breathtaking mountain views. Park visitors can enjoy a range of outdoor activities including hiking, camping, fishing and wildlife watching. There are more than 800 miles of trails in the park, ranging from easy nature walks to strenuous backcountry hikes. The park is also home to a number of historic sites including The Cades Cove, which is known for its well-preserved historic buildings and churches. 

The town of Cherokee is named after the Cherokee Native American Tribe, who have a rich cultural history in the area. Visitors can explore the Museum of the Cherokee Indian, which offers exhibits and artifacts detailing their past. The Oconaluftee Indian Village is a living history museum that provides an immersive experience of Cherokee daily life in the 18th century. In addition to its cultural attractions, Cherokee offers a range of outdoor activities like fishing, hiking, and swimming. The nearby Great Smoky Mountains National Park provides a stunning natural backdrop for these activities. 

Rafting, cycling and fly fishing are among the most beloved outdoor activities in the Great Smoky Mountains. Whitewater rafting is a thrilling experience, and the Nantahala River is a popular spot for rafting in this region. This river has a unique combination of calm stretches and exhilarating rapids, making it an ideal destination for both novice and experienced rafters. For those who love fishing, the Great Smoky Mountains are a paradise. The region's rivers and streams are home to a diverse range of fish species, including trout, bass and panfish, making it an excellent spot for fly fishing. Whether you're an experienced angler or a beginner, you'll find ample opportunities to cast your line and reel in a catch amidst the serene and breathtaking scenery of the Great Smoky Mountains. 

These are stunning regions of North Carolina, offering both natural beauty and amazing culture. If you visit these breathtaking mountains, make sure to take a picture and tag us @theedgemag!