Blue Ridge Mountain Host Visitor Guide

The following is the introductory section to the Blue Ridge Mountain Host, an annual travel guide for the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina.

Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina

Whoever said “the best things in life are free” was probably sitting on a lofty precipice somewhere in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina.  This breathtakingly beautiful land of soaring peaks, lush green valleys, rushing streams and stately forests is worth a handsome admission price—but you don’t have to pay it. Just open your eyes, breathe deeply and take in the most spectacular show on earth—for free!

You get what you don’t pay for - the great outdoors! 

For bargain entertainment, you can’t beat a hike in the woods.  Just choose a trail and start walking…to high vistas, fields of wildflowers, secluded waterfalls and quiet pioneer cemeteries.  Along your way you’ll greet woodchucks, hawks, songbirds and maybe even a fox.  The Blue Ridge is a hiker’s paradise.  All you need is a pair of sneakers, a bottle of water, and a baggie full of trail mix.

Down-to-earth people

Blue Ridge people are a natural wonder, too.  You’ll find them friendly, fascinating and welcoming--from the native Cherokee, to the sons and daughters of Scots-Irish settlers, to the potter who moved here last week to catch the region’s creative energy.  So take a drive down a rural highway and stop in at a wood carver’s shop, or a working goat dairy.  You’ll get a warm greeting and a demonstration of their handiwork. Maybe even directions to a great trout fishing spot.

A proud past

The Blue Ridge is dotted with the remnants of a rich history.  We have historic homes to tour—from humble log cabins to the country’s largest and most opulent residence. There are historic inns and old general stores, as well as long-standing theaters, courthouses and train stations.  And we have museums that celebrate everything from minerals, to fine art to farm life.  Looking back has never looked so good!So peruse the pages of your FREE Blue Ridge Mountain Host Visitor Guide.  Then throw some casual clothes in a satchel and make the short trip to the beautiful Blue Ridge. The cost of a tank of gas—maybe $40.  The tingling in your spine as you gaze from that first scenic overlook—priceless!