Charlotte High Country Region Details
High Country
The High Country is a mountainous region in North Carolina including the counties of Alleghany, Ashe, Avery, Mitchell, Watauga, Wilkes and Yancey. The region is well-loved by outdoor enthusiasts all four seasons of the year.
Real Estate
Boone, Banner Elk and Blowing Rock are popular for retirement and vacation homes. The cost of living is slightly lower than the national average, with homes ranging from small condos to luxury mountain estates.
Lifestyle & Attractions
From Grandfather Mountain to Linville Falls, there’s something for everyone in High Country, NC. Widely known for winter sports, High Country serves residents and visitors year ‘round, with biking, hiking, camping and water sports.
One of the most notable High Country destinations is the Blue Ridge Parkway. Fondly referred to as “America’s Favorite Drive,” the parkway winds more than 400 miles, featuring breathtaking vistas from some of the highest elevations in the Southeast.
Grandfather Mountain, another popular High Country destination, is home to the famous Mile-High Walking Bridge, as well as numerous hiking trails, educational opportunities and wildlife.
With six full-service ski areas and more than 90 slopes, winter sports fanatics have lots to do in the High Country. The highest peaks provide a great ski climate from November through March.
Education
The school systems span more than seven counties and includes many public and private offerings. Watauga County Schools in particular rank very well, with the third-highest ranking SAT scores in North Carolina.
Appalachian State, nestled in the heart of Boone, is the best known High Country college. There are also Lees McRae liberal arts school in Banner Elk, offering 23 majors and Maryland Community College in Spruce Pine.