With the Appalachian Mountains, the Great Smokey Mountains and the Blue Ridge Mountains all converging into one area , western North Carolina ranks as one of the most picturesque and charming US travel areas in the eastern United States. With all three mountain’s combined, western North Carolina can provide an exciting and adventurous mountain vacation.

Mountain vacationers have a lot to choose from. They can camp in the surrounding area’s by the mountains, room in a cabin that is close to what early settlers lived in or go modern and stay in a mountain resort. Here are three exciting places to visit in the region, The Appalachian Trail, Western North Carolina Nature Center and the Nantahala National Forest .

The Appalachian Trail is a famous activity for hikers and if you hike it in its entirety, stretches from northern Georgia to central Maine (2000 miles). In the North Carolina section, you will find, arguably, the most gorgeous parts of this trail. One such section is called Clingmans Dome, at 6,643 feet , visitors can see miles away and it provides breathtaking views in all directions.

Another great place for the whole family to visit is the Western North Carolina Nature Center. Here they care for injured animals that could never survive on there own. The center also has a nocturnal hall, beautiful gardens, a petting zoo and a predator habitat. Children can take part in a camp series which includes the Native American Camp, Reptiles and Amphibians, Arts and Crafts, Pioneer Living, and Beetles and Butterflies.

The Nantahala National Forest is a very scenic area. River rafting is the popular attraction here due to the Tusquitee River that runs through it. You can find a difficulty level for most any level expertise you are. From the calm leisurely float to difficult, high speed rapids. There is fun here for the whole family.

Another great place for the whole family to visit is the Western North Carolina Nature Center. A sanctuary for injured or orphaned animals that could never survive on there own back in the wild. The center also has a nocturnal hall, a predator habitat, beautiful gardens and a petting zoo. During the summer months children can take part in a summer camp series which includes the Native American Camp, Reptiles and Amphibians, Arts and Crafts, Pioneer Living, and Beetles and Butterflies.

A mountain vacation is a great idea for a summer vacation, or as a retreat for two and North Carolina should rank high on your list when trying to decide on a US travel destination. The wonderful scenery, especially in the fall when the leaves are changing and all the great attractions will make fond memories for the whole family.