Climb Mount Mitchell in Burnsville, North Carolina. Mount Mitchell is the highest mountain east of the Mississippi rising more than a mile high. The surrounding state park includes almost 2,000 acres of beautiful mountain forests. Hikers may choose to take short trails or hike to the summit. The park features campgrounds, picnicking areas, education center and a restaurant during season. http://www.ncparks.gov/Visit/parks/momi/main.php

Visit the arts and culture of Asheville. The largest town in western, North Carolina, Asheville is home to a vibrant arts scene. In addition to the historical attractions of the spectacular architecture of the Biltmore House and the home place of author Thomas Wolfe, Asheville boasts dozens of small arts galleries and a thriving theater scene. http://www.exploreasheville.com/index.aspx

Learn about the culture of the Cherokee Nation at Cherokee, North Carolina. The Oconaluftee Indian Village recreates Cherokee life in the 1750s. See traditional craftsmen at work. One of the oldest outdoor dramas in the nation, Unto the Hills, is presented annually by the Cherokee Historical Association.
The play recounts Cherokee history with emphasis placed on traditional Cherokee values. http://www.cherokee-nc.com

Ski Boone. Boone, North Carolina is home to several ski resorts, great outdoor activities and Appalachian State University. Go whitewater rafting, bird watching or trout fishing. Take in the arts and culture of downtown Boone. Learn more about planning a vacation to Boone, the heart of the North Carolina high country. http://visitboonenc.com/

Drive the scenic Blue Ridge Parkway. This scenic highway encompasses about 500 miles of Blue Ridge Mountains stretching from North Carolina to Virginia. Many of the area’s oldest settlements can be found on this driving tour. Begun in 1935, the road was not completed until 1987. Take a road cruise on a stretch of this national treasure and glimpse the beautiful North Carolina mountain countryside from your window. http://www.nps.gov/blri/

The region of western North Carolina offers several attractions for vacationers. Find out more at http://www.visitnc.com/