Whatever you need, start your search here. The Appalachian mountain chain runs through the western part of the state. The Great Smoky Mountains make this area one of the country's top scenic attractions. Two-thirds of the mountains are covered with hardwood forests, and in autumn, they create a brilliant, colorful display. Skiing is a popular winter sport, with some areas getting 30 inches of snow a year.
Summers are cool and refreshing with low humidity.
Here are the state's largest cities, biggest financial institutions, great universities, industrial centers, textile and furniture factories, distribution facilities, highways, tobacco farms, shopping meccas, top golf courses, historic sites and entertainment offerings. The area also enjoys sunshine for about 210 days a year. The defining characteristic of the area is the Outer Banks, a chain of fragile barrier islands with 130 miles of unspoiled coastline surrounded by 900 square miles of water perfect for sailing. If you are looking for any one of these places or other tourist attractions, the Vacation and Resort Directory can help you locate a travel agent, resort, or vacation package to suit your needs. From Charlotte, Rockingham, Fayetteville, Durham, Asheville, Wilson, Kinston, Raleigh, Winston-Salem, Greensboro, Wilmington or anywhere else in North Carolina we can help you with your lodging and traveling needs.