Southeast · Outer Banks to the Blue Ridge · Statehood 1789
North Carolina
State
Field Guide
A mountain road that runs 469 miles, the tallest brick lighthouse in the United States, and a peak with a mile-high swinging bridge. North Carolina stretches from Atlantic sand to Appalachian summits. These are three classics and one deep gorge.
Updated October 2026 · Written by artist Nick Scacco
Classic Experiences
01.
Appalachian Highlands · Blue Ridge Parkway
Drive theBlue Ridge Parkwayin Autumn
The Blue Ridge Parkway is a 469-mile scenic road that runs from Shenandoah National Park in Virginia to Great Smoky Mountains National Park, with a long stretch through the mountains of western North Carolina. Construction began in 1935, and the road has no commercial traffic and a low speed limit. The highest point is Richland Balsam at 6,053 feet. Overlooks, short trails and waterfalls are spread along the route, and fall color peaks in October. Sections can close for weather or repairs, so check the National Park Service.
02.
Outer Banks · Cape Hatteras National Seashore
ClimbCape Hatteras Lighthouse
Cape Hatteras Lighthouse stands 198 feet tall, the tallest brick lighthouse in the United States, on the Outer Banks of North Carolina. It was completed in 1870 to warn ships away from the dangerous shoals offshore. In 1999 the lighthouse was moved about 2,900 feet inland to save it from erosion. Visitors can climb the 257 steps in season, and the surrounding national seashore has long beaches for walking and surf fishing.
03.
Blue Ridge · Grandfather Mountain
Cross theMile HighSwinging Bridge
Grandfather Mountain rises to 5,946 feet near Linville and is known for its Mile High Swinging Bridge, a 228-foot suspension bridge opened in 1952 at about a mile above sea level. Trails lead to rocky overlooks and ridge scrambles, and the mountain is an International Biosphere Reserve. The attraction is operated by a nonprofit and charges an entrance fee. Winds can be strong on the bridge and the weather changes fast, so dress in layers.
Little-Known Gem
Linville Gorge: theDeep Gorge of the Blue Ridge
Pisgah National Forest · Linville Gorge Wilderness · Linville Falls
Most visitors to the North Carolina mountains stay on the parkway and skip the gorge nearby. Linville Gorge Wilderness lies in Pisgah National Forest, where the Linville River drops through one of the deepest gorges in the eastern United States. Linville Falls, at the southern end, has short trails to overlooks of the upper and lower falls. The wilderness itself has steep, rugged backcountry trails and limited parking, so go with a map and plenty of time.
North Carolina Travel Questions
What are the best places to visit in North Carolina outside the cities?
Three classics are the Blue Ridge Parkway, Cape Hatteras Lighthouse on the Outer Banks, and Grandfather Mountain. A lesser-known stop is Linville Gorge. The parkway, Grandfather Mountain and Linville Gorge all sit in the same mountain region, while the Outer Banks are a separate coastal trip.
When is the best time to drive the Blue Ridge Parkway?
October brings peak fall color, and late spring has wildflowers and mild weather. Parts of the parkway close in winter or after storms, so check the National Park Service road status before you go.
Can you climb the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse?
Yes, in season. The 257-step climb is open spring through fall with a ticket, and the schedule can change, so check with the National Park Service.