The Blue Ridge Parkway is one of the most traveled routes in the US National Park system. The scenic thoroughfare is 470 miles (756 kilometers) long and passes through the mountains of Shenandoah to the Great Smoky Mountains in Western North Carolina. Some of the more popular stops in the area are Linville Gorge, Craggy Gardens and Graveyard Fields. Pass by undulating meadows and gaze in awe at the majesty of the surrounding mountains, or explore the many attractions dotting the stunning landscape of this region as you glide along the roadway's scenic expanse.
Founded in 1916, Pisgah National Forest is one of the oldest nature preserves in North Carolina. Nestled high up in the Appalachian Mountains that dominate the entire landscape of the state's western boundaries, the forest's overall topography is an extremely diverse one. Blessed with the boundless bounties of nature, this lush green progression of primeval woodlands and breathtaking geological marvels is most notably home to the West Prong Hickey Fork Creek Waterfall, which is known for its majestic cascading flow. Superabundant with interconnecting trails for mountain biking, hiking and climbing, the park's grounds are a paradise for outdoor sports and adventure enthusiasts.
Painted from nature's palette, the North Carolina Arboretum welcomes visitors into its abode of rare and colorful species of flora. The expansive gardens cover 434 acres (175.6 hectares) and include designated biking and hiking trails that let you explore at leisure. Arboretum's Bonsai Collection is also noteworthy, which includes nearly 100 different species. These gardens are a must-visit destination.
One of the crown jewels of Asheville, Biltmore Estate seamlessly chronicles the legendary lineage of the Vanderbilts. Nestled in the sprawling Blue Ridge Mountains, the house was built between 1889 and 1895 by architect Richard Morris Hunt as the summer estate of George Washington Vanderbilt II. At its heart is the Biltmore House, a four-story mansion inspired by the Châteauesque architectural style in France and England. With 250 rooms encompassing 8000 acres (3237 hectares), it is one of the biggest private homes in the country. Replete with furniture, artwork, and antiques that exude grandeur, the house shelters an array of opulent spaces like the enormous Banquet Hall and George Vanderbilt's master bedroom. Complete with carved paneling, gilded ornamentation, and intricate ceiling work, this grandiose house is the epitome of elegance. Fronting the house are the marvelous gardens which have been modeled on Victorian landscaping principles, complete with delightful foliage and blooming colorful flowers. Designated a National Historic Landmark, the house also harbors restaurants, shops, an inn, and a gorgeous winery and a rooftop that affords breathtaking views of its surrounding environs.
With a height of 60 feet (18.3 meters), this scenic waterfall cascades gracefully along the Forest Heritage Scenic Byway in Brevard. Looking Glass Falls derives its name from the Looking Glass Rock which appears like a mirror in the winter with water freezing on its sides and glistening under the sun. The waterfall is easily accessible, making it a popular attraction among locals and tourists alike. The site not only offers spectacular views but also has well-marked trails for those who would enjoy hiking here. Many visitors also indulge in swimming near the waterfall.
Dive into a fun experience of finding your treasure at Elijah Mountain Gem Mine in Hendersonville. Fun for all age groups; get your hands dirty while mining for precious gems. Pick up a bucket and start digging at both indoor and outdoor facilities. Commonly found gems are Rubys, Sapphires, Emeralds, Quartz crystals, Citrine, Amethyst, Garnets, moonstones, and more. There is also a petting zoo, where visitors can play and interact with animals like goats, chickens, and peacocks, to name a few. Check the website for more.
The Blue Ridge Parkway is one of the most traveled routes in the US National Park system. The scenic thoroughfare is 470 miles (756 kilometers) long and passes through the mountains of Shenandoah to the Great Smoky Mountains in Western North Carolina. Some of the more popular stops in the area are Linville Gorge, Craggy Gardens and Graveyard Fields. Pass by undulating meadows and gaze in awe at the majesty of the surrounding mountains, or explore the many attractions dotting the stunning landscape of this region as you glide along the roadway's scenic expanse.
Greenery abounds at this expansive state park which is an enticing tapestry of diverse habitats. Elemental forces have carved the gorges, which lend the park its name, and a temperate rainforest ecosystem defines the environs of Gorges State Park. Roaring waterfalls, rugged rock formations, scenic woodlands, and other natural elements paint a spellbinding picture that warrants a closer inspection. Traverse the hiking trails winding across the park's expanse, explore the wilderness on bicycles or horseback, go fishing, enjoy a picnic, or bask in the sight of the stunning waterfalls.
Encompassing 12-acre (4.85-hectare) green space, Bullington Gardens is a botanical garden open to the public. The garden is also a prominent horticulture research center that conducts workshops and programs for youth. Visitors can tour the beautiful gardens featuring colorful flowering plants and shrubs, walk amid shaded trees, relax on the gazebo, observe native woodland gardens and stop by the herb garden. The facility also houses a beautiful greenhouse and a nature trail. There is an amphitheater at the facility where various events are organized.
Nestled in the Pisgah National Forest, Moore Cove Falls feature an impressive height (50 feet). These waterfalls can be accessed through a short and easy trail which is also child-friendly. Moore Cove Falls are situated in a rather isolated spot, making it a great place for those who wish to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.
The Nantahala National Forest is home to a number of beautiful waterfall and Silver Run Falls is no exception. This stunning waterfall has a drop of about 25 feet (7.62 meters). Cascading gracefully down a leafy glade, Silver Run Falls collect in a serene little pool that makes for a blissful sight. The shallow waters of the pool along with a pristine beach section make this waterfall a poular swimming hole, especially for families with children. Be it summer or winter, this waterfall is a lovely attraction to be explored in the forest.
Dive into a fun experience of finding your treasure at Elijah Mountain Gem Mine in Hendersonville. Fun for all age groups; get your hands dirty while mining for precious gems. Pick up a bucket and start digging at both indoor and outdoor facilities. Commonly found gems are Rubys, Sapphires, Emeralds, Quartz crystals, Citrine, Amethyst, Garnets, moonstones, and more. There is also a petting zoo, where visitors can play and interact with animals like goats, chickens, and peacocks, to name a few. Check the website for more.