Explore North Carolina’s Blue Ridge Mountain Area

With breathtaking mountains, valleys, forests, rivers and streams, it's not surprising that the Blue Ridge Mountains attract nature lovers from around the globe. For North Carolinians, the mountain range offers much more than natural beauty. 

Officially recognized by Congress, North Carolina's Blue Ridge Mountain National Heritage Area offers a rich legacy in the music, art and traditions of Native Americans and European settlers. Explore the many attractions and charms of this mountain region, set against a stunning backdrop of natural beauty.

The Blue Ridge Heritage Trail

The Blue Ridge Heritage Trail spotlights natural and cultural heritage sights within the Blue Ridge National Heritage Area's 27 counties, using signs and interactive kiosks that tell stories about each one.

Here, road trippers can learn about the region's agricultural, Cherokee, craft and traditional music heritages. The Blue Ridge Parkway extends for 252 miles through the trail –from Cherokee, North Carolina to the Virginia border – and names 70 heritage sites to tick off your bucket list.

Stops along the parkway include the Folk Art Center at Milepost 382, and Doughton Park, where travelers can see local craft demonstrations.

The Blue Ridge Music Trails

The Blue Ridge Music Trails focus on the region's traditional music, from bluegrass to rhythm, blues and country. Each trail includes the chance to embark on a day trip to historic cities, such as Black Mountain near Asheville, West Jefferson and Mount Airy, home to the annual Mount Airy Bluegrass and Old Time Fiddlers convention. Itineraries also include African-American music trails that feature styles such as jazz, gospel and blues.

There’s something for all tastes in music – keep an eye on the calendar for upcoming events, exhibitions and concerts that can be found taking place throughout the year. 

Cherokee Heritage and Culture

Tucked between the Blue Ridge Mountains and the Smoky Mountains, Cherokee, NC is home to the Cherokee Welcome Center and the Museum of the Cherokee Indian, which showcases artifacts, interactive videos and displays that chronicle the 11,000-year history and culture of the Cherokee nation. A 20-foot-tall hand-carved statue of Sequoyah, who invented the Cherokee alphabet, stands at the museum's entrance.

Visit the Oconaluftee Indian Village in Cherokee – a recreation of an 18th-century Cherokee settlement — and see demonstrations of traditional Cherokee dances, canoe hulling and blowguns. Buy authentic Cherokee pieces such as masks, pottery and beadwork at Qualla Arts and Crafts Mutual, Inc.

If you’ve got more time to spare, explore further Cherokee heritage and culture within seven Cherokee Heritage Trails in the region.

Small Town Charms and History

North Carolina's Blue Ridge Mountains are dotted with small towns that effuse history and charm. Stop by Brevard, known for its waterfalls, festivals, and music scene. The Brevard Music Center draws nationally acclaimed performers, such as Steve Martin, for performances and jam sessions of everything from classical music to serious banjo-playing.

Six miles from Asheville, Weaverville has a history of grand hotels, including the Dula Springs Hotel, where visitors like short story author O. Henry stayed during the 19th century to take advantage of the area's benefits to their health and well-being. Today, you can choose between many B&Bs and country inns after a day on the road, including the Inn on Main in Weaverville and Asheville's Sweet Biscuit Inn.

If you’re a fan of agriculture, stop in Forest City to see the antique tractors and other relics of farm life at the Rutherford County Farm Museum. Then shop for fresh local produce such as squash, corn, peaches and blueberries at the Farmer's Fresh Tailgate Market. In 1927, the U.S. Department of Agriculture named Forest City as one of the 10 best-planned and attractive towns in the nation.

Get Active

Whether you’re visiting the Blue Ridge Mountain National Heritage Area for the miles of walking trails or to get your adrenaline pumping with mountain biking or swimming – look no further.

Between May and October, check out Sliding Rock, a 60-foot smooth boulder upon which a natural waterfall runs. Visitors are encouraged to take a dip and exhilarating slide down into the refreshing waters. Sliding isn’t just for the summer. Hit the slopes in the winter at one of the Heritage Area’s many ski and snowboarding slopes, typically open from late November until March, for some beautiful winter panoramas.

Get ready to explore the rich culture and history of Blue Ridge Mountain National Heritage Area firsthand. Reserve your North Carolina car rental with Hertz today for a scenic drive through the mountains.

Plus, check out the Hertz blog for more travel inspiration and itineraries.