Understand

The mountains of western North Carolina are a thrilling wonderland. They hold the crown for being the oldest on Earth, with Mount Mitchell proudly sitting as the highest peak. The region is also home to the deepest gorge, Linville Gorge, and a collection of breathtaking waterfalls, including Whitewater Falls and Glassmine Falls. It boasts the honor of hosting the oldest river in North America, the majestic New River. But that's not all! It also houses the two most visited National Parks in the entire country: the Blue Ridge Parkway and the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Prepare to be amazed by the awe-inspiring diversity of plant and animal life, exceeding the entirety of Europe!

Get in

Planning a trip to the scenic region near Asheville? The closest airport to most of the area is the Asheville Regional Airport (AVL), conveniently located just fifteen miles southeast of Asheville. If you're heading to Boone, the Tri-Cities Regional Airport (TRI) is the nearest regional airport, nestled between Johnson City and Bristol, Tennessee. For international travelers, options include the Greenville-Spartanburg International Airport (GSP) in picturesque Greenville, South Carolina, the Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT) in vibrant Charlotte, North Carolina, and the McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS) in lively Knoxville, Tennessee. Although slightly further in terms of distance, the Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) offers a comparable drive-time to the other options. If you prefer traveling by train, the closest Amtrak station to the region can be found in Greenville, South Carolina. You can also explore the region by car, with two major Interstate highways crossing the area: Interstate 40, which stretches east-west, and Interstate 26, which traverses north-south. Don't miss the opportunity to take a scenic drive along the breathtaking Blue Ridge Parkway that winds through the region. For those looking to travel by bus, Greyhound has convenient stops in Asheville and Waynesville. The options for getting to and around this enchanting region are plentiful, ensuring that your journey is as smooth and enjoyable as possible.

Map & Climate

Popular Foods

**1. Hamburger**The hamburger, often simply called a burger, is a sandwich consisting of a cooked patty of ground beef, usually served in a bun with toppings and condiments such as lettuce, tomato, onion, cheese, and pickles. It is a quintessential American fast food item that can be found at restaurants, fast food joints, and even street vendors throughout the country. While traditional hamburgers typically include beef, there are also vegetarian options available made from plant-based ingredients.

**2. Pizza**Pizza is a popular Italian-American dish consisting of a yeasted flatbread base, typically topped with tomato sauce, cheese, and various other ingredients such as meats, vegetables, and herbs. In the United States, pizza is often sold as both a take-out and sit-down dining option, with numerous regional variations in styles and toppings. Pepperoni is a particularly popular topping in the U.S., but vegetarian and vegan pizzas are also widely available.

**3. Fried Chicken**Fried chicken is a southern-style dish comprised of marinated chicken pieces that are coated in a seasoned flour mixture and deep-fried until golden brown and crispy. Originating from the American South, fried chicken has become a staple in the country's culinary landscape, with various regional variations in preparation styles and seasonings. It can be enjoyed as a standalone meal or as part of a larger feast, and although traditionally prepared with chicken, vegetarian alternatives do exist.

Historical Appearance

Traditional Male Clothing

Traditional Female Clothing