Rocky mountain overlook at sunset, with evergreen trees and layered ridges beneath a pink-orange sky.

NC High Country Area Overview: A Guide to Mountain Towns

July 18, 2023

The North Carolina High Country refers to the mountainous region in the northwestern part of the state. It is known for its stunning natural beauty, outdoor recreational opportunities, and charming towns and villages. Here is an overview of some of the prominent towns and villages in the NC High Country:

Boone

Located in Watauga County, Boone is the largest town in the High Country. It is home to Appalachian State University and offers a vibrant arts and culture scene. Boone serves as a hub for outdoor enthusiasts, with nearby attractions like Grandfather Mountain and the Blue Ridge Parkway.

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Mountain town main street with brick storefronts and a hillside of autumn foliage.

Blowing Rock

Situated in Watauga County, Blowing Rock is a picturesque mountain village known for its scenic beauty and quaint downtown area. It features the famous Blowing Rock cliff, which offers panoramic views, as well as numerous shops, restaurants, and art galleries.

Blowing Rock Town Hall sign beside a landscaped town sidewalk with flower baskets and benches.

Banner Elk

Found in Avery County, Banner Elk is a charming mountain town that attracts visitors with its year-round outdoor activities. It is a popular destination for skiing, hiking, and fishing, and it hosts the annual Woolly Worm Festival and the Grandfather Mountain Highland Games.

Elk sculpture beside a landscaped town walkway, with shops and wooded hills in the background.

West Jefferson

Located in Ashe County, West Jefferson is a small town known for its thriving arts community. Its downtown area is adorned with murals and is home to numerous art galleries, studios, and craft shops. West Jefferson also hosts a popular weekly farmers market.

Mountain town main street with brick storefronts and parked cars.

Beech Mountain

Situated in Avery County, Beech Mountain is the highest town in the eastern United States, with an elevation of over 5,500 feet. It is a popular destination for skiing, snowboarding, and other winter sports. During the summer months, visitors can enjoy hiking, mountain biking, and scenic chairlift rides.

Snow-covered mountain community with homes scattered across a wooded hillside.

Valle Crucis

Located in Watauga County, Valle Crucis is a small village known for its pastoral beauty and historic charm. It is home to the historic Mast General Store, which has been in operation since 1883. The area around Valle Crucis offers opportunities for outdoor activities and features beautiful landscapes.

Historic white general store with green-trimmed windows, vintage gas pumps, and an Esso sign.

Jefferson

Found in Ashe County, Jefferson is a small town that serves as the county seat. It has a historic downtown area with shops and restaurants. Jefferson is also known for its Christmas in July festival and its proximity to the New River, which offers recreational activities like kayaking and fishing.

Mountain town street with brick storefronts, a mural, and autumn-colored hills.

Todd

Situated in Ashe County, Todd is a small mountain community located along the New River. It has a rich history as a former railroad town and attracts visitors with its scenic beauty and opportunities for fishing, tubing, and kayaking on the river.

People tubing down a rocky river beneath forested mountain slopes.

These are just a few of the towns and villages in the NC High Country. Each offers its own unique charm, natural beauty, and recreational opportunities, making the region a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, nature lovers, and those seeking a peaceful mountain retreat!

We hope you will consider the beautiful NC Mountains as your next home destination!