Welcome to the Blue Ridge National Heritage Area

Welcome to the Blue Ridge National Heritage Area. . A place unlike any other on Earth, where ancient landscapes enchant the eye and age-old traditions warm the heart., You are now in one of America's most cherished and celebrated natural landscapes, the mountains and foothills of Western North Carolina. The natural heritage of these ancient mountains, some of the oldest in the world, combined with the cultural heritage of the people who have lived here over centuries, have created a place so special in our country it has been honored with the designation of "National Heritage Area.", Here, you'll find... , . The highest mountain east of the Mississippi, Mount Mitchell , . The deepest gorge in the Eastern United States, Linville Gorge , . The oldest river in North America, the New River , . The most visited National Park lands in the country, Great Smoky Mountains National Park and the Blue Ridge Parkway , . Cherokee heritage, more than 10,000 years old , . America's largest home, Biltmore Estate , . Music born and bred in these mountains, bluegrass, old-time, gospel and more that has influenced many styles of American music , . Handcraft traditions-unmatched anywhere in the country , . Fresh, delicious food from local farms, in restaurants, stores, and farmers markets, Blueridge National Heritage Area , The North Carolina mountains and foothills were designated the Blue Ridge National Heritage Area in recognition of their natural beauty and living traditions of music, craft, agriculture, and Cherokee culture. This location is part of a regional trail of distinctive heritage sites. Ask for information at area visitor centers., (captions) , The music born and bred in these ancient mountains has widely influenced the development of other genres of American music. The region was honored as a National Heritage Area for its rich cultural heritage--the 10,000 year old history of the Cherokee, craft traditions, foodways and farms, and music as well as its natural scenic beauty., Top from L to R. photos taken by or courtesy of Cherokee Historical Association: Robin Dreyer, Penland School of Crafts, Appalachian Sustainable Agriculture Project, Jerry Nelson Photography, courtesy of the Folk Heritage Committee Lower photo by Donna Absher, From high mountaintops to secluded coves, the natural beauty of the Blue Ridge National Heritage Area meets the eye at every turn. Photo by Bill Lea . Photo by Hugh Morton