Introduction

If you’re looking for a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, the mountains of North Carolina are the perfect destination. With breathtaking views, crisp mountain air, and endless outdoor activities, the NC mountains offer something for everyone. In this article, we’ll explore the best NC mountains near you to visit in 2023.

1. Asheville

Asheville is located in western North Carolina and is known for its vibrant arts scene, historic architecture, and stunning mountain views. The city is surrounded by the Blue Ridge Mountains and offers a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, mountain biking, and skiing. Be sure to visit the Biltmore Estate, a 250-room French Renaissance chateau that is the largest privately-owned home in the United States.

2. Great Smoky Mountains

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is located on the border of North Carolina and Tennessee and is one of the most visited national parks in the United States. The park offers over 800 miles of hiking trails, fishing, camping, and wildlife viewing. Be sure to visit Clingmans Dome, the highest point in the park, for stunning panoramic views of the mountains.

3. Boone

Boone is a small mountain town located in western North Carolina and is home to Appalachian State University. The town offers a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing, and skiing. Be sure to visit the Blowing Rock, a natural rock formation with stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

4. Linville Gorge

Linville Gorge is located in western North Carolina and is often referred to as the “Grand Canyon of the East.” The gorge offers hiking, rock climbing, and stunning views of the Linville River. Be sure to visit the Linville Falls, a three-tiered waterfall that is one of the most photographed waterfalls in North Carolina.

5. Chimney Rock State Park

Chimney Rock State Park is located in western North Carolina and is home to the iconic Chimney Rock, a 315-foot monolith that offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains. The park offers hiking, rock climbing, and fishing, as well as guided tours of the park’s many natural wonders.

6. Mount Mitchell

Mount Mitchell is the highest peak east of the Mississippi River and is located in western North Carolina. The mountain offers hiking, camping, and stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Be sure to visit the Mount Mitchell State Park, which offers guided tours and educational programs about the mountain’s unique ecosystem.

7. Black Mountain

Black Mountain is a small mountain town located in western North Carolina and is known for its charming downtown area, historic architecture, and stunning mountain views. The town offers a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing, and camping. Be sure to visit the Pisgah National Forest, which offers over 500,000 acres of hiking trails, waterfalls, and wildlife viewing.

8. Grandfather Mountain

Grandfather Mountain is located in western North Carolina and is known for its stunning views and unique ecosystem. The mountain offers hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing, as well as guided tours of the park’s many natural wonders. Be sure to visit the Mile High Swinging Bridge, a suspension bridge that offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

9. Blue Ridge Parkway

The Blue Ridge Parkway is a scenic drive that runs through the mountains of North Carolina and Virginia. The parkway offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains, as well as hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing. Be sure to visit the Linn Cove Viaduct, a 1,243-foot bridge that offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

10. Smoky Mountains Railroad

The Smoky Mountains Railroad is a historic train ride that runs through the mountains of western North Carolina. The train offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains, as well as guided tours of the park’s many natural wonders. Be sure to visit the Nantahala Gorge, a scenic gorge that offers hiking, fishing, and camping.

Conclusion

No matter what NC mountains near you you decide to visit in 2023, you’re sure to find stunning views, crisp mountain air, and endless outdoor activities. From hiking and camping to skiing and fishing, the mountains of North Carolina offer something for everyone. So pack your bags, hit the road, and start exploring the beauty of the NC mountains today!