The Blue Ridge National Heritage Area encompasses the mountains of North Carolina and includes the Blue Ridge Parkway and Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The heritage area is known for its thriving traditions of craft, music, agriculture, and Cherokee culture. The region's distinctive landscape contains eastern America's tallest mountain and deepest gorge.
The Blue Ridge National Heritage Area is located in the heart of the southeastern United States, within a few hours’ drive of Atlanta, Nashville, Charleston, Charlotte, and Raleigh.
Climate
The mountains of Western North Carolina enjoy a mild climate throughout the four seasons. Winters bring occasional snow in the lower elevations, while high country snows support numerous ski resorts. Spring is wet and mild, lush with wildflowers, dogwoods, azaleas and rhododendrons that bloom at intervals between late March and June. Summer heat rarely reaches the 90s and extends usually from late June through August. The crisp, cool days of autumn bring brilliant blue skies that frame blazing fall colors as the trees turn. No matter what season, layering of clothing is recommended, as is keeping a sweater at hand, even in the summer (at higher elevations).
