Western North Carolina has an abundance of natural beauty. The state park system has recognized this and continues to aggressively pursue acquiring land for all to enjoy. Within the past couple years, they have purchased large sections of land on Grandfather Mountain, and Rutherford County’s own Chimney Rock Park (pictured) from the Morse family, along with several hundred adjoining acres. Next door, in Henderson County, the North Carolina Park System purchased the DuPont Forest, with its large waterfalls and miles of hiking trails.

Already on its list of beautiful state parks was Linville Falls. A moderate hike will bring you to quite possibly the most photographed waterfall in all of western North Carolina. Lake James State Park is over 550 acres on a pristine, deep mountain lake. Lake James offers swimming, boating, camping, and hiking trails. Mount Mitchell is best known as the highest point east of the Mississippi, and the 1,946 acre park, sitting well over a mile high, includes a swinging bridge for pedestrians. South Mountains park has an 80 foot waterfall and over 40 miles of hiking trails. If you’ve ever traveled the Blue Ridge Parkway, then you already know it is an incredibly beautiful park itself, with tunnels, gentle curves winding through the mountains, and scenic overlooks every few miles.

The beauty of North Carolina is waiting for you. You just need to make the decision.