North Carolina Mountains
Explore the Asheville, Smoky, and High Country areas to invigorate all your senses, including your sense of wonder, in the North Carolina Mountains.Â
Sub-Regions in the North Carolina Mountains
Asheville Area, High Country, and Smoky Mountains Area
About
Nestled in North Carolina’s southern Blue Ridge Mountains, Asheville and its neighboring towns exude quirky charm and character. The region’s landscapes have starred in TV and film, and the area is a favorite among culinary travelers and outdoor enthusiasts alike for its adventure, waterfalls, and craft beer.
Best Known For
Biltmore, Hiking, Camping & Zip Lining, Blue Ridge Parkway, Chimney Rock & Lake Lure, Craft Beer, Sliding Rock & Waterfalls
Asheville Area
Cities & Towns
About
Sitting atop the highest elevations in North Carolina’s northern Blue Ridge Mountains, this region is a winter sports haven. But High Country towns like Boone and Blowing Rock delight in every season, with rhododendron hikes in spring, mile-high adventure in summer and brilliant foliage in fall.
Best Known For
Grandfather Mountain, Tweetsie Railroad, Linn Cove Viaduct, Skiing, Snowboarding & Winter Sports Hiking, Biking & Camping, Linville Falls, Wine Country
High Country Area
Cities & Towns
About
Tucked in North Carolina’s westernmost corner, you’ll find the storied Great Smoky Mountains. Discover their richness and beauty in the ancestral home of the Cherokee, or let Bryson City or Waynesville serve as home base as you explore trout streams and lush, protected forests.
Best Known For
Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tail of the Dragon, Harrah’s Cherokee Casino Resort, Fontana Dam, Rafting, Cycling & Fly Fishing, Gem Mining
Great Smoky Mountains Area
Cities & Towns
Travel & Leisure In The NC Mountains
Best attractions, hotels, and romantic getaways
Our Top 3 Picks
- Great Smoky Mountains National Park
- Biltmore Estate
- Highlands
Our Top 3 Picks
- The Omni Grove Park Inn
- The Inn On Biltmore Estate
- Old Edwards Inn and Spa
Our Top 3 Picks
- Chetola Resort
- The Inn On Biltmore Estate
- The Village Inns of Blowing Rock
Outdoor Activities In The NC Mountains
Top hiking, skiing & snowboarding, and adrenaline activities
Our Top 3 Picks
- Great Smoky Mountains National Park
- Linville Gorge and Falls
- Mount Mitchell State Park
Our Top 3 Picks
- Sugar Mountain Resort
- Beech Mountain Resort
- Appalachian Ski Mountain
Our Top 3 Picks
- Nantahala Outdoor Center Whitewater Rafting
- Ziplining at Hawksnest
- Rock Climbing at Looking Glass Rock
Restaurants & Dining In The NC Mountains
Best dinner, lunch, brunch, and breakfast spots
Our Top 3 Picks
- Early Girl Eatery
- Sunny Point Café
- The Corner Kitchen (at Biltmore)
Drinks & Bars In The North Carolina Mountains
Best beer, wine, and cocktail bars
Our Top 3 Picks
- Grandfather Vineyard & Winery
- The Battery Park Book Exchange and Champagne Bar
- Linville Falls Winery
Our Top 3 Picks
- Sovereign Remedies
- The Cardinal
- The Bistro at the Everett Hotel
Culture & Entertainment In The NC Mountains
Top museums, venues, festivals, and events
Our Top 3 Picks
- Asheville Art Museum
- Museum of the Cherokee Indian
- Blowing Rock Art and History Museum
Our Top 3 Picks
- Biltmore Blooms
- Asheville Music Festival
- Highland Games at Grandfather Mountain
Posts Related to North Carolina Mountains
Editorial Process:
Experts make our reviews before being written and come from real-world experience and research. Read our editorial process here.
Some links in this article may be affiliate links, which can compensate us at no cost to you if you purchase from our partners. We’ve personally researched, used, and stand behind these products. You can read our affiliate disclosure in our privacy policy.
