The Blue Ridge Mountains In North Carolina Were Named One Of The 50 Most Beautiful Places In The World

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.

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.

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...

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.

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.

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.

Montana's Glacier National Park fell into the number five position on the list.

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.