Get Lost and Find Yourself in the Great Smoky Mountains - Atlas Obscura Lists
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Get Lost and Find Yourself in the Great Smoky Mountains

There are endless pathways to roam in western North Carolina, from the highest peak in the eastern U.S. to hidden forest trails.

15 Places

The mountains of western North Carolina are more than a place where history unfolded. The rock of the Appalachian Mountains itself is ancient, far older than other North American ranges, making for a landscape rich with possibilities for all who seek to explore. 

Not far from the town of Burnsville, Mount Mitchell rises to a peak of 6,684 feet, the highest point east of the Mississippi. At its peak you’ll find a splendid viewing platform as well as the tomb of Elisha Mitchell, the geologist who first measured the mountain’s height and lost his life in the process.

Residents displaced by the building of Fontana Dam were long told they’d get compensation in the form of a new road connecting Bryson City to Deals Gap. Unfortunately, construction of the road created environmental concerns, leading to its abandonment. All that remains is a seven-mile spur of road, ending abruptly at a quarter-mile tunnel in the middle of nowhere.

In western Asheville, residents joined together to build the Burton Street Community Peace Gardens, with areas to grow flowers and vegetables, a performance stage, a fire pit, a pizza oven, a greenhouse, a pavilion, and a variety of art and sculptures by local artists. It’s a testament to the communal spirit that has helped mountain folk survive and thrive.

Whether you hope to connect with nature or discover local food and culture, western North Carolina has what you’re looking for.

 

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Whittier, North Carolina

Barkers Creek Swinging Bridge

One of the last remaining pedestrian suspension bridges in North Carolina.
Added by SlawDawg
Asheville, North Carolina

Peace Gardens & Market

A nourishing complex of found object art, paintings, and sculptures that celebrate key figures in Black history.
amymanikowski Added by amymanikowski

For Real, Visit North Carolina.