Best Places to Visit in The North Carolina Mountains

When you think of America’s Southeast, the word “adventure” may not be one of the first words to come to mind. But out of the nearly 50 states I’ve ventured to, North Carolina has to be among the most adventurous. After living in the state for the past two years, I've put together some of my favorite spots in the North Carolina mountains,

Top Places to See in The North Carolina Mountains

1. Table Rock Mountain

Table Rock is hidden in the North Carolina mountains, but always worth the long trek up a dirt road to the ridgeline. In fact, in order to get access to the main trailhead, you must veer off paved roads and follow a steep and narrow dirt passage for nearly forty minutes.

But with grand adventures come great awards. From the trailhead, a small hike uncovers incredible views in every direction. The summit towers above surrounding valleys, displaying layers of the North Carolina mountains as far as the eye can see.

There are backcountry campsites, used mainly by backpackers and rock climbers looking to conquer nearby crags. You’ll probably see a few families eating lunch at the picnic area, and a few overnight campers headed out on the trail.

2. Sliding Rock

On a hot day in the Southern Appalachian section of the North Carolina Mountains,, nothing is as refreshing as a dip in a cool mountain river. What makes a river even better? A natural waterslide.

But surprisingly, the best time to visit North Carolina's sliding rock is not in the dog days of summer. It’s a well-known secret, which means a lot of people will be escaping the southern humidity. If you really want to make the most of Sliding Rock, head there in the late spring or early fall, where the days are warm but the crowds minimal.

3. Asheville

I'm considered to be an outdoor and adventure blogger, which means I don’t often recommend cities in a post like this. But yes, Asheville is as amazing as everyone says.

I describe Asheville’s as “Artistic Europe meets West Virginia Mountain Town”. It’s odd and not quite what you expect, but quirky and full of life. Nearly every local car is covered in bumper sticks encouraging an outdoor lifestyle and supporting local beer.

There are weird double-decker bus cafes and underground breweries. The cities most prominent art district is hidden within a mixture of abandoned warehouses, right next to a junkyard skatepark where spectators still gather around a fire made in a rusty barrel.

It’s the heart of the North Carolina mountains, along with one of my favorite cities in the country.

4. Pisgah National Forest

Within Pisgah National Forest is miles of the Blue Ridge Parkway, Mount Mitchell State Park, dozens of unique waterfalls, and hundreds of miles of hiking trails in the North Carolina mountains.

The massive area gives endless amounts of options for places to explore, camp, and play.

You’ll need more than just a weekend. You can get lost in the mountains for a week, and come out wanting more. Whether you’re looking to hike in the mountains, swim in some waterfalls, climb a crag, or camp with no service, here you can do it all.

And in the fall when the colors are at their peak, you can’t miss the town of Little Switzerland. In the heart of Pisgah National Forest off the Blue Ridge Parkway sits the small town of chalets and mom-and-pop motels.

If there’s anything these mountains are known for it’s a stunning display each autumn, and Pisgah National Forest holds the grand finale.

Best Towns to Visit in The North Carolina Mountains

There are many reasons to visit the North Carolina mountains, including endless options for hiking & exploring, as well as dozens of quaint mountain towns with great breweries, restaurants, cafes, and more. Beyond Asheville, here are my top towns to visit:

1. Franklin
2. Little Switzerland
3. Dillsboro
4. Boone
5. Cherokee (eat at Rancho Viejo - favorite Mexican restaurant in the states!)
6. Highlands

If you are getting ready to plan your trip to the North Carolina mountains, make sure to check the North Carolina travel website for more information.

Shalee Wanders is an adventure blog that focuses on encouraging young adults to explore the world and challenge themselves outside comfort zones. Born and raised in Michigan, she shares her tips of the Midwest, the United States, and beyond. You can follow her travels on Instagram at @shaleewanders.