Have you heard the news? In a recent ranking of the world’s most beautiful places, U.S. News & World Report ranked the Blue Ridge Mountains in North Carolina among the 50 Most Beautiful Places in the World. We couldn’t agree more! Folks the world over visit North Carolina each year to experience the blue-hued mountains that flow through the Tar Heel State like a sea of turbulent peaks, bathed in blue and unrelenting beauty.

In a large portion of western North Carolina, the Blue Ridge Mountains provide endless destinations to admire the blue haze and layers of mountains.
Flickr/Steve Harwood
The overlook at Newfound Gap (seen here) on the North Carolina - Tennessee border is among the most photographed spots in the mountains.
Each year, millions of visitors make the ascent to the very top of Mount Mitchell for the 360-degree breathtaking views from the highest peak east of the Mississippi.
Photo: Katherine Taylor / EyeEm Collecction via Getty Images
The 469-mile Blue Ridge Parkway is one of the country's most visited national park units. Millions spend days exploring the parkway each year, all seeking the same thing...
Frank Nolen/Trover

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For those who stop to explore the many overlooks and trails on the parkway, the Blue Ridge Mountains in North Carolina are spooned up in large quantities providing fuel for the soul in heaping portions.
TripAdvisor/Retreiver32
In this photo, hikers make their way to the top of Rough Ridge Trail along the Parkway.
Even in the winter, the trees found in the Blue Ridge Mountains can seem to emit their signature blue haze with a continued release of isoprenes, an element released by certain trees and plants in what scientists believe is a natural effort to combat abiotic stresses from the environment.
Google Local/Jason Mears
Whatever the reason, we'll forever be in love with our Blue Ridge Mountains and are happy to share the beauty with the millions who visit and love them, too. Unsurprisingly, the Blue Ridge Mountains are in good company on this ranking released in January 2020.
Among the other North American places that found their way onto this list is Wyoming's Yellowstone National Park, which ranks number two in the world.
Google Local/MAURO CARROSSA
Montana's Glacier National Park fell into the number five position on the list.
Wikipedia / Tobias Klenze
And two places in Arizona were graced with accolades: Grand Canyon National Park (ranked number 22) and Havasu Falls (ranked number 29). In Florida, the Sanibel and Captiva Islands ranked number six.

Our stunning Blue Ridge Mountains rank number 31 out of 50. Where would you rank the Blue Ridge Mountains in North Carolina on the list of the most beautiful places you’ve visited in your lifetime? For more ways to enjoy your time on the Blue Ridge Parkway, check out 15 of the best hidden secrets on the Parkway, and take a peek at 19 scenic tunnels you’ll pass through in North Carolina’s segment of the Parkway.

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Blue Ridge Mountains in North Carolina

Beth C. | October 06, 2020

What are the most beautiful places in North Carolina?

If you're in search of magical scenery in North Carolina, you won't need to look far. It seems like everywhere you turn, the Tar Heel State reveals some kind of mystical beauty. Residents and visitors alike agree that some of the most beautiful places in North Carolina include Lake Lure, Bryson City, Mount Mitchell State Park, Cape Hatteras National Seashore, Cape Lookout National Seashore, Chimney Rock State Park, Fort Fisher State Recreation Area, Goose Creek State Park, Grandfather Mountain State Park, and, of course, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. How many of these stunning places in North Carolina have you experienced?

What are the best state parks in North Carolina?

North Carolina's pristine landscapes have been protected by the North Carolina state park system so that visitors can appreciate and learn from them for generations to come. If you're curious about visiting the best state parks in North Carolina, you'll find that there are plenty to choose from. These destinations include Mount Mitchell State Park, Jockey's Ridge State Park, Elk Knob State Park, Hanging Rock State Park, Chimney Rock State Park, Hammocks Beach State Park, William B. Umstead State Park, Pilot Mountain State Park, Stone Mountain State Park, and Lake Norman State Park. Curious to learn more about these places? Read our article highlighting the most beautiful state parks in North Carolina.

What are some of North Carolina's hidden gems?

Now that you've explored some of the most beloved destinations in North Carolina, you're probably ready to get into the state's hidden gems. These destinations are perfect if you want to appreciate the beauty of the Tar Heel State while trying to avoid the masses. Some of North Carolina's best hidden gems include the Winston-Salem Quarry Park, Fryingpan Tower, Lake Lure Flowering Bridge, Hubb's Farm, Carolina Beach State Park, Merchant's Millpond State Park, and Max Patch. For more details, be sure to read our article highlighting the best hidden gems in North Carolina.

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