Nestled in the Southeastern US, home to the beloved jazz singer Nina Simone and the prestigious Duke University, lies the state of North Carolina. Even though this state is famously known for the first Krispy Kreme, barbecue ribs, and distilleries, its mountainous ranges are not far behind. North Carolina will take you on a journey through the glorious Mount Mitchell, blue ridge parkway, and the majestic valleys of the Appalachian Mountains.
So, whether you are looking for a holiday destination or want an adventurous hiking trip, you should visit North Carolina’s mountains. With comfortable lodgings, delicious eateries, and unforgettable sights to grace your album, here are some reasons why The Tar Heel State needs to be on your list:
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The Perfect Cabin Getaway
North Carolina houses some of the most glorious cabin rentals. The hustle-bustle of daily life can get overwhelming, and sometimes you need an opportunity to switch off from city life and immerse yourself in nature. While exploring the mountains, you can revel in a cabin’s peace, tranquility, and privacy before beginning your ascent to a summit. In addition, most cabins offer you a spectacular view of nature. During the day, you can see the grass glistening under the sun, but the luminous moon paints a whole another picture at night. You also get to witness the impressive silhouettes of North Carolina’s mountains while you relax and unwind at the cabin.
Depending on where you decide to de-stress, you may glimpse Mount Mitchell, Grandfather Mountain, or the Eagle nest mountain. You can even book a space near Lake Norman. So, pack your bags, and find well-furnished lodgings in the North Carolina mountains. Google NC cabin rentals, prepare yourself for the adventure yet to come. These cabins come at reasonable costs and offer you some of those modern amenities that you can’t do without. Yet appeal to the environmentalist in you.
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The Delicious City of Asheville
Located in North Carolina’s Southern Blue Ridge Mountains stands the proud city of Asheville. It is known for its beer, access to the Biltmore Estate, and peek into the blue ridge mountains. As a beer enthusiast, Asheville has the most breweries of any state in the US. You will indulge in the best craft beer made from the most complex malt fermented to perfection. Craft beers also take you through a tale of philanthropy, tell you about the community, and make you feel welcome as a traveler. Therefore, don’t forget to check out the Asheville Brewing company.
While you are still there, make sure you follow the Urban Trial, go on a casual two-hour stroll, and indulge in local handmade crafts. The grove arcade is another top-notch location to visit. The venue is a collection of shops, independent book stores, and local cuisine wrapped under one roof. You can also hike up some of the most beautiful tracks, such as the Biltmore Estate Trail, a 2 miles journey suitable for most novice hikers. This trail will let you visit the gorgeous 250 room mansion, the Biltmore house. But, if you are up for a challenge, try the more strenuous Cold Mountain Trails, which are about 53 miles long and take about seven to ten hours to complete.
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Stop by the Musical Town of Black Mountain
According to a popular TripAdvisor poll, Black Mountain is the prettiest small town in America. Known for its mountain views, Southern hospitality, and convenient distance from Blue Ridge Parkway, Black Mountain is filled with charm and animated by the art scene that has thrived since the mid-twentieth century. Chairs painted by local artists are scattered across town to sit and enjoy the views. You will get to hike some of the most exciting trails, including the Graybeard Trail, which is popular among experienced hiking professionals. This trail leads straight up to the sixth-highest peak in the Blue Ridge Mountains, offering you a bird’s eye view of the landscape below. Your other option includes the Lookout trial, which will give you sweeping views of the Seven Sisters Mountain range.
After successfully burning calories with all that trekking, you should head towards Lake Tomahawk and right into downtown to fuel up. Popular eateries include the blue ride biscuit company, Louise’s kitchen, and the Black Mountain Ale House. Treat yourself to a piping hot pizza or a steak grilled for satisfaction but don’t miss out on the flavors of a southern BBQ. A perfect culmination to your stop is catching a live concert at the White Horse Black Mountain, which has all types of music, including the sounds of the Appalachian.
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Drive Through The Blue Ridge Parkway
The Blue Ridge Parkway is America’s favorite scenic drive. This 252-mile road will take you through the North Carolina mountains from Asheville to Boone. At Milepost 328.3, you can quickly stop at the Orchard at Alta pass and pick fresh apples. You can watch the cascading fall leaves and the rich spectrum of colors line the driveway from September to November. If you visit during the Spring, butterflies will flutter all around you, pollinating North Carolina’s wildflowers, such as the beautiful dwarf crested iris.
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Float On Lake Lure
About 45 minutes away from Asheville and five minutes from the Chimney Rock State Park rests Lake Lure. This Lake is also famous for starring in the 1987 classic film Dirty Dancing. So, you have a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to re-create Patrick Swayze’s moves. While you are in Lake Lure, check out the Cedar Stables and ride the beautiful wild horses of North Carolina. The various breeds include the Wild Spanish Mustangs or the majestic horses of Beaufort. So, gallop across the flowering bridge and enjoy the fresh air weaving through your hair.
You can go down for a kayak or paddle road ride on Lake Lure. A spiritual retreat at Lake Junaluska, an hour and seven minutes away from Lake Lure, offers a meditative experience and a chance to cleanse your soul.
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A Glimpse of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is the most popular tourist destination in North Carolina, with more annual visitors than the Grand Canyon. Straddling the border of North Carolina and Tennessee, North Carolina offers you a quiet and a more peaceful passageway into this park compared to the crowded pigeon forge entrance. You can climb the Cling man’s Dome, drive through the Cades Cove Loop Road, and hike to Charlies Bunion. You can enjoy a spectacular show of leaves during fall as they change color and float to the ground.
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A Chance to Mount the Glorious Mount Mitchell
Standing over 6,000 feet in elevation is the proud peak east of the Mississippi. This mountain is located in Mount Mitchell State Park in the Black Mountain range of the Blue Ridge Mountains in Western North Carolina. There are eight hiking trails worth your attention. One of which is the Camp Alice Trail.
This arduous trail intersects the Old Mitchell Trail 0.25 miles from the summit and descends into an area called Camp Alice. However, bear in mind that you might come across wild animals like the feral black bear and may experience an unexpected storm or a minor erosion while you explore these trails. You can also go bird watching in Mount Mitchell with over 90 species of birds for your viewing pleasure, and you may even get close-up with flying falcons. There is also a great museum that opens from May to October and lets you learn about geology and the history of Mount Mitchell.
Final Thoughts
The quaint state of North Carolina is an ideal spot to unwind and relax in the mountains and for those who want some adventure. There is much to see, from the looming mountains to the quiet lakes. You can retreat comfortably in the various rental cabins the mountains offer. Sip Asheville’s finest craft beer and enjoy the music of the Appalachians in the Black Mountain.
Take your car out for a drive through the Blue Ridge Parkway and head towards Lake lure. You may also want to visit the Great Smoky Mountains, National Park. Take the opportunity to climb the glorious mount, Mitchell. While these are a handful of activities for you to explore, you will be deeply immersed in unique experiences once you are in North Carolina.
