Places to Visit in the North Carolina Mountains

Invigorate all your senses, including your sense of wonder

North Carolina’s Blue Ridge and Smoky Mountains are well known for attractions like the Blue Ridge Parkway and Appalachian Trail. But our western region offers so much more to explore, from farm-fresh foods and some of the country’s best craft beer to the Land of Waterfalls and one of the oldest rivers on the continent.

Learn how you can make it your nature to preserve the beauty of these natural wonders for years – and generations – to come.

Smoky Mountains & Cherokee

Explore the beauty of Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Cherokee, the nation’s first fly fishing trail and “The Gem Capital of the World”.

Explore Region

Known For

Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Tail of the Dragon
Harrah’s Cherokee Casino Resort
Fontana Dam
Rafting, Cycling & Fly Fishing
Gem Mining

High Country

Enjoy mile-high views at Grandfather Mountain, visit landmark country stores, and hike, ski and snowboard the highest peaks in the East.

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Known For

Grandfather Mountain
Tweetsie Railroad
Linn Cove Viaduct
Skiing, Snowboarding & Winter Sports
Hiking, Biking & Camping
Linville Falls
Wine Country

Asheville & the Foothills

Discover Chimney Rock, Lake Lure and other outdoor sights as well as the quirky charm of this region’s arts, dining and craft breweries.

Explore Region

Known For

Biltmore
Hiking, Camping & Zip Lining
Blue Ridge Parkway
Chimney Rock & Lake Lure
Craft Beer
Sliding Rock & Waterfalls