Summer Information For Blue Ridge Mountains In North Carolina






Mar 20, 10

Blue Ridge Mountains
North Carolina

A Breathtaking Region

The Blue Ridge Mountains in North Carolina create a breathtaking region full of recreational opportunities. Many towns are located within this region, including Beech Mountain, said to be eastern America's highest town at 5,506 feet above sea level.

One of the big attractions in the region is the Biltmore Estate, built by George Vanderbilt in 1895. The 250-room mansion is the largest private home in the United States. The estate includes 10 acres of gardens, a winery, shops and restaurants. The 8,000-acre estate is less than two hours from Beech Mountain.

Spectacular Waterfalls

The region has a wonderful supply of waterfalls as well. Laurel Creek Falls, just past Cover Creek/Sugar Grove, plunges a spectacular 85 feet as does Elk River Falls, north of Elk Park. Linville Falls makes a beautiful drop 90 feet through Linville Gorge. Other waterfalls include The Cascades, Glen Burney Falls and Crabtree Falls.

Hikers, mountain bikers, golfers and fishing enthusiasts will all find plenty to enjoy here. Countless miles of trails for hiking and biking wind their way through this beautiful mountain region.

In fact, the area is so popular with bikers that the Tour DuPont has chosen Beech Mountain as the finishing point for this premier cycling event for four consecutive years.

Hikers will find trails suited to all ability levels, whether you're looking for a strenuous climb or a gentle stroll.

The highest peak in the Blue Ridge is Grandfather Mountain. Visitors can enjoying hiking, picnicking, a nature museum and wildlife viewing. The adventurous can take a walk across the Mile High Swinging Bridge.

Blue Ridge Parkway

At the base of Grandfather Mountain runs the Blue Ridge Parkway. This 469-mile scenic drive connects Shenandoah National Park and Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

Winding its way along the Blue Ridge and other ranges, the route reaches elevations up to 6,053 feet. Fantastic views of various rock formations and other scenic areas can be seen all around.

Some points of interest include Craggy Gardens, Cumberland Knob, Linville Falls and Mount Pisgah. Numerous hiking trails are accessible from the parkway. Trails vary in length and difficulty and include the Appalachian Trail.

Experience the thrill of white water rafting in the high country. The Watauga and French Broad rivers and Wilson Creek provide a variety of rafting challenges ranging from gentle floats to drops over five- to 10-foot ledges.

Fishing enthusiasts can try their luck in any number of lakes and streams. Area waters are stocked to help ensure a prosperous fishing experience. Trout is a popular catch.

Golfers will find a number of courses to choose from. Boone Golf Club offers an 18-hole championship course. Other courses include Grassy Creek Club, Hanging Rock, Mountain Glen Club and Sugar Mountain Club.

History and Art

For a look into the unique culture of the Blue Ridge Mountain people, visit the Appalachian Heritage Museum between Boone and Blowing Rock.

This museum takes you back to the time of the American Indians and up through the 1900s. Exhibits include artifacts, antiques and lifestyle displays. Other interesting museums in the area include the Appalachian Cultural Museum and the Avery County Historical Museum.

The Blue Ridge Mountains offer summertime visitors a variety of entertaining events, including the Fine Arts Festival, Art in the Park with bluegrass music and crafts, and the High Country Triathlon.