A record-setting hiker and North Carolina native reflects on what makes our state such an iconic part of the most famous hiking trail in the world.
NC Icons: The Legend of Methuselah
Deep in the remote Three Sisters Swamp of the Black River stands an ancient old-growth forest. For decades, a famed bald cypress, dated to 372 AD and known as Methuselah, was its patriarch — until two even older trees were discovered.
NC Icons: Pottery
In a state naturally rich in red clay, potters like the legendary Sid Luck carry on a long-held North Carolina tradition.
NC Icons: Textiles
In the 19th and 20th centuries, hundreds of textile mills — which produced everything from socks to blue jeans — supported a booming industry that created entire communities, turned North Carolina into a manufacturing powerhouse, and helped to weave the very fabric of our state.
NC Icons: Tryon Palace
During Christmastime in New Bern, 18th-century holiday traditions come to life at North Carolina’s first State Capitol.
The Seasons in Highlands: The Holidays
Stroll past magical lights and decorations on Main Street, go ice-skating in the park, and have a cozy meal by the fire during Christmastime in Highlands.
NC Icons: A Pirate’s Life
Take to the high seas — er, Taylor’s Creek in Beaufort, that is — to learn more about North Carolina’s infamous pirates.
A Local’s Guide to Kernersville
Dine on farm-to-table fare at The Prescott, let your imagination run wild at Körner’s Folly, and stop to smell the flowers in the botanical gardens at the heart of the downtown historic district.
NC Icons: Mountain Primer
Find out what makes our ancient Appalachian Mountains so magnificent in this primer on our peaks.
