Travel Guide USA: North Carolina

North Carolina is the 12th state of the United States of America and is situated between Virginia and South Carolina on the Atlantic coast of the USA. In the so-called "Tar Heel State" you will find forests, mountain landscapes and fantastic beaches along the coastal regions. Flora and fauna are very diverse – wild animals such as alligators, bears and deer can be found in North Carolina. Outdoor enthusiasts will get their money's worth by visiting the many national parks and nature reserves.

Profile

Name
North Carolina

Location
In the far east of the USA, directly on the Atlantic coast

Size
approx. 139,400 km²

Capital
Raleigh

Best travel time
End of April to beginning of October

Highlights
Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Cape Hatteras as well as charming Asheville

Visiting North Carolina

Location, geography and climate

North Carolina is generally divided into three regions: The mountain region, Piedmont and the Atlantic coast. In the east, the Smoky Mountains are bordering the state of Tennessee. As well as the Blue Ridge Mountains, they are part of the Appalachian Mountains. Along the Atlantic coast numerous dunes and marsh landscapes are home to various bird species.
he three-part landscape of North Carolina was caused by tectonic plate drift and weather. The clash between two plates was the birth hour of the Appalachian Mountains. Over time they got eroded by rainfalls, snow and melting water. Scree and sediments were transported into eastern direction and were deposited along the coast. The Piedmont Plateau is located between the coast and the mountains.
North Carolina forms the transition between temperate and subtropical climate. This means that it gets very warm in summer and cold in winter, but it rarely freezes. In the mountain regions, however, it can also snow.

Flora and fauna

In the Great Smoky Mountains there are many black bears, over 240 bird species, foxes, bats and many other species. The largest mammal in the Smoky Mountains is the wapiti, with a height of up to 1.50 m and 230 to 400 kg. The wapiti had actually been extinct in North Carolina since the 17th century, but some animals were reintroduced in 2001 and the population has been growing ever since.

Highlights

Great Smoky Mountains National Park

To learn about the animals and plants of North Carolina, Great Smoky Mountains National Park is just the place for you. Here you will also find the largest jungle of the USA! In any case it is a special place, especially for mountain bike and winter sports fans.

Cape Hatteras

You can reach the Cape either by car or by ferry. The dune landscapes is an ideal place to go for a hike and watching birds. Moreover, water sports such as surfing, stand-up-paddling and kayaking are convenient ways to spend your free time.

Asheville

Besides the nature spots there are lots of cultural places in North Carolina like museums and parks which give you a deeper insight into the culture of Cherokee Indians. The city of Ashville which is located in the mountainous area is an insider tip for every arts and culture lover.