Where Exactly is the “High Country” of North Carolina?

GraystoneLodge / July 16, 2025 /Things to Do

The term “High Country” gets thrown around a lot when people talk about Western North Carolina. But what does it actually mean? Is it just a fancy way of saying “mountains”? Not quite. The High Country refers to a specific region in the northwestern part of the state—known for its dramatic elevation, four-season beauty, and towns that pull in visitors year after year.

So let’s break it down. Where is the High Country, what towns does it include, and what makes this slice of the Blue Ridge Mountains so special?

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What Counties Make Up North Carolina’s High Country?

The High Country isn’t a formal political boundary, but it’s widely understood to include parts of seven counties in the northwestern corner of the state:

  • Watauga County (home to Boone and Appalachian State University)
  • Avery County (Banner Elk, Sugar Mountain, Beech Mountain)
  • Ashe County (West Jefferson, Lansing)
  • Alleghany County (Sparta)
  • Wilkes County (Wilkesboro, parts of the Blue Ridge foothills)
  • Caldwell County (Lenoir, parts of Blowing Rock)
  • Mitchell County (Bakersville, Roan Mountain area)

Most folks are really talking about the upper three—Watauga, Avery, and Ashe—when they refer to the heart of the High Country.

So Where Is It on the Map?

The High Country sits along the spine of the Blue Ridge Mountains near the Tennessee border. It’s about two hours northwest of Charlotte and roughly 90 minutes northeast of Asheville. Boone, the largest town in the region, is often considered the “hub” of the High Country.

You’ll know you’re in the High Country when the air gets crisp, the views stretch for miles, and every other car has a kayak, ski rack, or bike on top.

Elevation Matters

One of the defining traits of the High Country is—you guessed it—elevation. Much of the area sits above 3,000 feet, with peaks like Grandfather Mountain topping 5,900 feet and Beech Mountain reaching nearly 5,500 feet, making it the highest town in the eastern U.S.

This means:

  • Cool summers, often 10–15 degrees cooler than cities in the Piedmont
  • Crisp, colorful falls with long-lasting foliage
  • Snowy winters that attract skiers, snowboarders, and snow tubers
  • Fresh, breezy springs with blooming rhododendron and dogwood

Popular Towns and Why People Love Them

Here’s a quick snapshot of some well-known towns that make up the backbone of the High Country:

Boone, NC

The largest town in the region and home to Appalachian State University. Boone offers great hiking, rivers for tubing, a walkable downtown, and access to the Blue Ridge Parkway. It’s also where you’ll find Graystone Lodge, a upscale boutique hotel in Boone, NC—perfect for families, couples, or anyone needing a cozy home base.

Blowing Rock, NC

Quaint and luxurious, this small town is known for its shops, galleries, and views from The Blowing Rock attraction. The town sits right off the Parkway and draws visitors looking for charm and mountain air.

Banner Elk, NC

A small but scenic town between two ski resorts—Sugar Mountain and Beech Mountain. Banner Elk is also known for its restaurants and close proximity to Grandfather Mountain.

West Jefferson, NC

This hidden gem in Ashe County has become a popular stop thanks to its arts scene, small-town vibe, and Ashe County Cheese factory. Mount Jefferson State Natural Area towers above the town and offers panoramic hiking trails.

What Makes the High Country Different from Other NC Mountains?

There are plenty of beautiful places in North Carolina, but the High Country has its own flavor:

  • Higher elevations mean cooler weather and more snow.
  • Four true seasons draw year-round travelers.
  • Locally-owned restaurants and shops give each town character.
  • Outdoor adventure is a given, from hiking and skiing to fly fishing and tubing.

Quick Facts About the NC High Country

  • Elevation ranges from 3,000–5,900 feet
  • Includes the oldest river in North America: the New River
  • Grandfather Mountain is the highest peak wholly within NC
  • The Blue Ridge Parkway runs through the region
  • Appalachian State University is the largest employer in the area
  • Known for fall foliage, local Christmas tree farms, and ski resorts

When Is the Best Time to Visit?

That depends on what you’re looking for:

  • Summer: Beat the heat, enjoy tubing and festivals
  • Fall: Peak leaf season in October—memorable views from the Blue Ridge Parkway
  • Winter: Ski season runs from mid-November through mid-March
  • Spring: Waterfalls run strong, wildflowers bloom, and crowds are thinner

Final Thoughts

When people talk about visiting the High Country, they’re talking about a corner of North Carolina that feels a little cooler, a little slower, and a lot more scenic. Whether you’re planning a ski trip, a waterfall hike, or a cozy weekend in Boone, this region has something special in every season.

Thinking of visiting? Consider making Graystone Lodge your home base. As the best place to stay in Boone, NC, we’re right in the heart of it all—close to Grandfather Mountain, Appalachian State, and everything else that makes the High Country worth the drive.

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