Almost everyone has seen the Grand Canyon, whether in photos or in person, but we might have something far better in North Carolina. For locals, there is a more beautiful place that we’d much rather spend our time at. Known as “The Grand Canyon of North Carolina”, the most beautiful gorge in America often shines even brighter than its comparison. Linville Gorge in North Carolina is the most beautiful of its kind if you ask around these parts.

Welcome to Linville Gorge, a beautiful spot that belongs among the best and most beloved natural wonders in America. It might even be number one, depending on who you ask.
Jordan Frantz/AllTrails
One of only two wilderness gorges in the South, this area covers over 11,000 acres around the Linville River, making for a wide expanse of stunning natural beauty in any season. Anywhere you look is a new picture-perfect scene.
Leigha Henson/AllTrails
With a diverse area and variety of trails that include mountains and waterfalls, there's never a boring view of Linville Wilderness.
Kirk Larrabee/AllTrails
At sunset on the Hawksbill Mountain Trail, you'll find that the overlook is a sight you can't find anywhere else. On the rocks above it all, you're given a full view of everything below.
Pepe Chavez/All Trails
In the fall especially, you'll find that reds and oranges only make you realize just how much you appreciate the extra colors.
Jenna I/AllTrails
Out on the Hawksbill Mountain Trail, you're given a great view for a 2.4-mile hike over approximately a 700-foot elevation gain. It's well worth the moderate hike to get to a view like this on Hawksbill Mountain!
Jacob Shah/AllTrails

Though not everyone has the same opinions about natural beauty, we think Linville Gorge in North Carolina is a great contender for the most beautiful canyon in America. Have you ever experienced this natural wonder in person? If so, feel free to share your thoughts with us in the comments below — we would love to hear from you. Experience an amazing view of Linville Gorge when you watch the drone footage below. You may just be inspired to plan your trip there ASAP!

Looking for related content? Check out our list of the most incredible natural wonders in North Carolina. Consider it your outdoor bucket list!

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Linville Gorge in North Carolina

Beth C. | April 04, 2023

What natural wonders in North Carolina belong on my bucket list?

North Carolina is one of those states that has it all -- mountains, rivers, lakes, and the sea. But, if you're putting together a list of bucket-list-worthy attractions in North Carolina, there are certain destinations that are an absolute must. Some of the best natural wonders in North Carolina include:

  • Jockey's Ridge -- the tallest active sand dune on the East Coast
  • Linville Gorge and Linville Falls -- easily one of the most breathtaking vistas along the North Carolina portion of the Blue Ridge Parkway
  • Whitewater Falls -- the tallest waterfall east of the Rockies, measuring an impressive 811 feet
  • The Outer Banks -- a gorgeous 200-mile stretch of barrier islands
  • Pilot Mountain -- a remnant of the ancient Sauratown Mountains
  • Stone Mountain -- a 600-foot dome of exposed granite
  • Looking Glass Rock -- a massive formation of Whiteside granite that is believed to have been formed over 390 million years ago
  • Linville Caverns -- a unique underground limestone cavern located in Pisgah National Forest
  • New River -- ironically, the New River might be among the oldest rivers in the world
  • Mt. Mitchell -- the tallest mountain in North Carolina and the entire East Coast
  • Chimney Rock -- a 315-foot-tall monolith with incredible views
  • French Broad River -- another strikingly ancient river
  • Lake Mattamuskeet -- the largest natural lake in North Carolina
  • Hanging Rock -- a beautiful rock outcropping with stunning views
  • Sliding Rock -- a beloved natural waterslide

 

For more information, check out our complete list of the best natural wonders to see in North Carolina.

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Linville Gorge Wilderness, Marion, NC 28752, USA