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Appalachian

Travel

In Search of Fall Color in the Blue Ridge Mountains

An Appalachian State University professor explores the mountains to find the telltale shades of autumn. Then he shares on social media the best places to find the most color in nature.

by Anna Grace Thrailkill
Photo Essay

Written in Stone: North Carolina’s Rock Formations

According to Cherokee legend, when the Earth was created, the Great Buzzard flew low over the flat land, his beating wings sculpting mountains and valleys below. Today, science offers its own explanations for our state’s geological marvels.

by Rebecca Woltz
Our State Knows Best

Our State Knows Best: Leaf Peeping

We talked to three biologists about how and when to plan a trip to see peak fall color in North Carolina, their favorite hikes and overlooks, and why our mountains are one of the best places in the country to see stunning autumn leaves.

by Our State Staff
Sponsored

NC Icons: Mountain Primer

Find out what makes our ancient Appalachian Mountains so magnificent in this primer on our peaks.

by Our State Staff
Sponsored

The Joys of West Jefferson

In this artsy Ashe County town, discover dozens of colorful murals and local galleries, try famous “squeaky cheese,” float down the New River, and more.

by Our State Staff
Living in North Carolina

Queen of the Pawpaws

Native to all 100 counties in North Carolina, this odd fruit had been all but forgotten. A farmer in Watauga County intends to change that.

by Leigh Ann Henion
Our State Knows Best

Our State Knows Best: Hiking

Find out what three hiking experts have to say about hitting the trail, the gear they’d never leave behind, and North Carolina’s must-do mountain treks with stunning views.

by Hallie Milstein
Sponsored

A Year-Round Guide to Franklin and Nantahala

Celebrate the season in this mountain town — no matter what time of year you visit.

by Robin Sutton Anders
Our State Knows Best

Our State Knows Best: Skiing

Find out what three experts have to say about falling in love with the slopes, taking lessons, essential gear, and what makes North Carolina ski resorts so special.

by Michelle Kurilla
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