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.
hanging rock
7 Scenic Drives to Take in the Piedmont
Spend a day driving on a beautiful North Carolina byway through rolling farmland and foothills, past vineyards and rock formations, and into a remote forest — and find out the best places to stop for food, fun, and stunning views along the way.
Natural Wonder in North Carolina’s State Parks
From a 6,684-foot peak in the west to a shape-shifting sand dune in the east, our state parks hold the best of what North Carolina has to offer. Together, they tell the story of the place we call home.
A Timeline of North Carolina’s State Parks
Find out how the purchase of a single plot of land on Mount Mitchell in 1915 turned into a thriving state park system that provides North Carolinians with the opportunity to explore the outdoors in all its natural beauty.
Quiz: The Most Wonderful Time
At these holiday events across North Carolina, our hearts will be glowing and we’ll be of good cheer. After all, it is — well, you know.