The Highest, Deepest and Oldest in the High Country, North Carolina's High Country is a land of adventure. Visitors experience some of the highest peaks in the East, along with the deepest gorge this side of the Mississippi River. Speaking of rivers, the High Country is home to world's second-oldest river - the New River.

Hikers and view-seekers love to visit the animal habitat and Mile-High Swinging Bridge atop Grandfather Mountain (5,694 ft.). Nearby, the Town of Beech Mountain (elevation 5,506 ft.) is the highest municipality in the Eastern United States and offers hiking trails, biking trails, skiing and more.

Located just south of Linville is the famous Linville Gorge. The gorge is formed by Jonas Ridge to the east and Linville Mountain to the west and is bisected by the Linville River. The Linville River begins on Grandfather Mountain and extends 12 miles through the gorge. Just North of Linville Gorge are the headwaters to a river with a distinct claim to fame. The New River is actually the second-oldest river in the world behind the Nile. Like the Nile, the New River flows north, meandering upward through picturesque Watauga and Ashe counties and into Virginia. In 1998, President Clinton designated the New River as an American Heritage River during a ceremony on its banks in the High Country.

Choose from one of the options below to start exploring the High Country:

• Fishing
• Golf Courses
• Hiking and Biking
• Horseback Riding
• Rock Climbing
• Ski Equipment
• Skiing
• Rafting, Canoeing and Adventure Guides
• Scenic Drives
• Recreational Entertainment