Mountains Region, North Carolina
The Appalachian mountain chain runs through the western part of the state, forming the lush landscape of the region. Mount Mitchell is the highest peak in the state, and at 6,684 feet, it is also the tallest mountain in the eastern United States.
Two-thirds of North Carolina's mountains are covered with hardwood forests, and in autumn, the over 120 species of trees put on a brilliant display of color. There are hundreds of waterfalls, and cold mountain streams full of trout. Some areas of the region see over 30 inches of snow a year, so skiing, snowboarding and other winter sports are popular activities.
Explore Mountains Region
Symmes Chapel - Pretty Place
The outdoor chapel at the YMCA Camp Greenville, called "Pretty Place," offers a breathtaking view from the top of Standing Stone Mountain. More than 100 couples are married each year at this chapel, which is closed to the public during weddings and camp functions.
Cedar Mountain, NC WeddingsLost Cove Naturalist
Specializing in wilderness adventures, backpacking, primitive technology and naturalist education. We offer programs in primitive technology, how to make fire by friction, wilderness quickie and long term survival shelters, wild edible & medicinal plants, & backpacking "101:
Linville, NC HikingCleghorn Plantation Golf & Country Club
Cleghorn Plantation is just minutes from Tryon. It is one of the finest public or private golf courses in western North Carolina. This George Cobb design measures 6900 yards, par 71, with four sets of tees to match every player'
Rutherfordton, NC Golf CoursesLake Hiwassee Fishing
Lake Hiwassee is well known for its fishing for striped bass, bluegill, yellow perch and muskie. In fact, The National Freshwater Fishing Hall of Fame lists a record 54
, NC FishingFontana Lake Trails
Fontana Lake is roughly 30 miles long and is at an elevation of around 1700'. It is one of the deepest in the region. The Appalachian Trail
, NC HikingHolston Presbytery Camp & Retreat Center
Holston Presbytery Camp & Retreat Center offers year-round retreat facilities and a summer camp program. Located on 152 acres of mountains, we can host groups of up to 130 people. Our Buffet Style "All You Can Eat"
Banner Elk, NC RetreatsFontana Lake Fishing
The 29-mile long, 11,700-acre Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) lake has more than 240 miles of shoreline. And its deep, cold waters provide the ideal habitat for a variety of fish. In fact, record size muskie and walleye have been pulled from its depths. And many believe it'
, NC FishingFontana Lake Boating
If you're towing your own boat, TVA has several public access areas; two are close to Bryson City. The Old 288 ramp is west of town; turn off Everett Street next to the Family Dollar Store and continue several miles staying next to the Tuckasegee River. The Lemons Branch ramp is west of town;
, NC BoatingGragg House
Accommodations at one of Boone's finest B&B's. Quiet, secluded densely wooded haven in close proximity to all there is to see and do in this year-round playground, one mile from downtown Boone and Appalachian State University. Full breakfast included in $99
Boone, NC BusinessesBlowing Rock Conference Center
Retreat and Conference Center. Complete facilities for up to 250
Blowing Rock, NC BusinessesSpruce Pine Gem & Gold Mine
Mine for native gemstones with one of the oldest mining families in North Carolina. Documented by National Geographic Magizine. Mining this area since 1810. Featured on PBS and in Readers Digest. Open year-round with covered flumes. Heated indoor flume in winter with warm water. Gemcutting &
Spruce Pine, NC Pioneer History