We invite all travelers, nature lovers, and active families to enjoy a tour of the mountains of North Carolina.
There’s something about the gentle peaks and valleys of North Carolina’s mountains that draws those seeking outdoor adventure and beauty. From the lush greenery of summer to the brilliant color of fall foliage, the landscape here is a year-round spectacle of Mother Nature’s majesty. However, this place doesn’t just offer beauty from afar; you can get up close to nature around every curve of a winding road. Hike through remote wilderness, drive along scenic highways, cool your feet in rushing mountain waters, or take in the natural splendor of endless vistas. A visit to North Carolina’s mountain region is an open invitation to be a part of nature’s premier attractions.
Take a road trip and experience some of the best places to visit in the mountains of North Carolina.
Bryson City: Small town, big attractions
During your three-hour drive west from Charlotte Douglas International Airport, you’ll notice the transition from relatively flat terrain to roads that become increasingly winding as you head into western North Carolina. Bryson City, your first stop, was named one of Smithsonian Magazine’s 20 Best Mountain Towns to Visit in 2016. Head to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, just north of Bryson City, to climb Kuwohi, (formerly known as Clingmans Dome). The views from the top of the Appalachian Trail are sublime. If you’re a thrill seeker, head to the Nantahala Outdoor Center, recognized as one of the best places in the world to buy gear by National Geographic Adventure and as the best paddling school in the nation by the New York Times. Try whitewater rafting, ziplining, mountain biking and stand-up paddleboarding. Take a short tour of the renowned Road to Nowhere, a scenic byway that was never completed. If you dare, you can venture into the dark and mysterious tunnel. After a day full of excitement, enjoy a cold Noon Day IPA or Bryson City Brown at the Nantahala Brewing Company before winding down for the evening.
Discover the land of waterfalls in Transylvania County
The charming town of Brevard is nearly two hours from Bryson City on the Forest Heritage Scenic Byway, a beautiful drive through rural areas, small mountain outposts and a serene forest backdrop. As you approach Brevard, remember to put on your bathing suit and stop by Sliding Rock. On a hot day, you’ll find hundreds of swimmers slipping and sliding down a 60-foot water-eroded rock into the refreshing mountain water below. The spectacular waterfalls are the stars of the show in Transylvania County. Top photo opportunities include Looking Glass Falls, accessible directly from the road; Bridal Veil Falls in DuPont National Forest; Rainbow Falls in Gorges State Park; and Upper Whitewater Falls, the tallest waterfall east of the Rocky Mountains. End the day with a guided walking tour of downtown Brevard, available through the Transylvania Heritage Museum. Look for Brevard’s famous white squirrels and grab a beer at the Brevard Brewing Company, where the specialty lagers are superb.
Rutherford County: Water adventures and mountain views
After you relax from your excursion to the falls, stop for lunch in historic downtown Hendersonville on the way to Lake Lure, where the classic 1980 movie “Dirty Dancing” was filmed. During the warmer months, Lake Lure is a hub of activity. Families gather near Lake Lure Water Park, and those who prefer to soak up the sun do so on the shoreline. Lake Lure Adventure Company rents boats, kayaks, and stand-up paddleboards, and offers water-skiing tours of the lake. If you prefer to take it easy, join a guided boat tour to learn about the natural history of Hickory Nut Gorge and see filming locations from the famous movie “Dirty Dancing.” On clear days, look up at the sky and you’ll see a jutting rock with a flying American flag on it. That’s the spectacular Chimney Rock State Park, located just down the road from Lake Lure, where you can hike and take amazing photos of the lake and ravine, which is especially beautiful during the fall season when the leaves change color. If the dam is open, the water of the Broad River will offer perfect conditions for kayaking. After all this, browse the quirky shops in the town of Chimney Rock and toast to another day of adventure at the friendly Chimney Rock Brewing Co.
From the heights in Boone
Boone, home of Appalachian State University, is an interesting combination of college town and mountain outpost. Suppose you’re looking for a laid-back experience. In that case, you can shop at the original old-fashioned Mast General Store, ride a steam train at Tweetsie Railroad, pan for minerals and jewelry at the mine, or enjoy a drink at local breweries. Of course, you’ll spend more time outside than in, so take the winding two-lane road of the famous Blue Ridge Parkway (keep an eye out for seasonal closures) to Grandfather Mountain, the area’s largest attraction. Admission to the park includes a CD for the vehicle with information about the trails, wildlife habitats, nature museum, and stunning scenery along the way. Cross the Mile High Swinging Bridge, which sits over a rocky ravine some 5,000 feet in the air, making for a thrilling experience with can’t-miss views. Nearby, the town of Blowing Rock draws visitors with its zipline, ropes course, and winter skiing. The return trip to Charlotte Douglas International Airport takes about two hours, so enjoy the stunning scenery as you descend.
