The 30-second elevator ride to the base of Chimney Rock gives the short version of the story. Former fourth-generation park owner Todd Morse calls it his elevator speech: At the turn of the 20th century, Midwesterner Dr. Lucius Morse landed in the North Carolina mountains — as so many people did during that time — to recuperate from tuberculosis. He paid a local family 25 cents to ride a mule to the top of Chimney Rock, where he was awed by the expansive view of the mountains and valley below. In 1902, he purchased the property with the goal of making it a tourist attraction. Now, each year, hundreds of thousands of visitors ride the 26-story elevator inside the mountain or climb nearly 500 steps on the Outcroppings Trail to see the sweeping views that so captivated Lucius Morse. — Katie King
See more beautiful photos and read about the rich history of Chimney Rock in our August photo essay.
For decades, a remote piece of Currituck County has been a respite for wildlife. Now under the protection of conservationists, this land, the waters surrounding it, and the skies above will remain a constant in our coastal circle of life.
On North Carolina’s coast, boardwalks wind alongside our sounds, rivers, and beaches, reminding us that the journey is often just as delightful as the destination.
From Wanchese to Duck, these landmark businesses and the families who run them connect consumers with the daily catch.
As the sun sets at Grandfather Mountain, fireflies put on a magnificent show — for those willing to stop and pay attention.
