Geography
North Carolina is divided into three geographically distinct regions: the Atlantic Coastal Plain along the ocean, the foothills in the Piedmont Plateau and the Appalachian Mountain Region.
Weather
Though famous for generally temperate weather, harsh conditions sometimes strike North Carolina. The Outer Banks tend to absorb most hurricane damage, while July and August see the most rainfall statewide.
Natural Resources
North Carolina is home to over 100 miles of beaches and over 350,000 acres of parks and areas for outdoor activity.
Great Smoky Mountains
Home to 800 miles of trails, including 68 miles of the Appalachian Trail, Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a popular destination for hikers. Bicyclists, however, are not permitted to ride on the trails.
Grandfather Mountain
A swinging bridge in the Grandfather Mountain area is a popular destination for sightseers and hikers. Thrill-seekers can peer over the side of this pedestrian bridge for a vertigo-inducing view of the valley below.
Article Written By Tom Ryan
Tom Ryan is a freelance writer, editor and English tutor. He graduated from the University of Pittsburgh with a degree in English writing, and has also worked as an arts and entertainment reporter with "The Pitt News" and a public relations and advertising copywriter with the Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh.
