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 this western region offers so much more to explore, from a land of waterfalls and one of the oldest rivers on the continent to farm-fresh foods and some of the country’s best craft beer.

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

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

Smoky Mountains & Cherokee

Explore the beauty of Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the “Land of the Waterfalls,” Cherokee and the nation’s first fly fishing trail.

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Known For

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

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.

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Known For

Tryon International Equestrian Center
Hiking, Camping & Zip Lining
Chimney Rock & Lake Lure
Blue Ridge Parkway
Craft Beer
Biltmore