Blue Ridge National Heritage Area

The Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina harbor a rich heritage and culture. First, there was the Cherokee tribe of Native Americans. Then, European settlers came to the area. These mountains and foothills continue to have living traditions of craft, music, and agriculture.

Take a scenic drive through the 25 counties in this heritage corridor. Explore quaint towns and rustic shops. Check out the towns of Rockford, Saluda, Tryon, and Dillsboro.

Hiking and nature walks are everywhere. More than 80 miles of the Appalachian Trail goes through the Blue Ridge Mountains of western North Carolina. Elk Knob State Park features a 1.9-mile trail that reaches the summit. The panoramic views are spectacular and well worth the walk. Chimney Rock Park also has fantastic views. Areas of Chimney Rock may look familiar to fans of the movie "The Last of the Mohicans." Panthertown Valley is referred to as the Yosemite of the East, and with good reason. The waterfalls, deep woods, and rock formations offer a wide range of natural beauty.

Cultural tours put you in touch with the living traditions of the Blue Ridge. Haywood Quilt Trails showcase the beautiful art of quilting. Take a Toe River Studio Tour to see where local artists perfect their crafts. Music trails take you from one local music hall to the next. On any given weekend, you can find several opportunities to listen to live bluegrass.

There are tons of campsites in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina. Find one that offers a short walk to beautiful views of the surrounding countryside. Summer is a great time for touring. Consider autumn for a getaway, because fall foliage in the Blue Ridge forms a natural canvas like none other.