The Carolinas, Geographic region in southeastern United States.
The Carolinas comprise North Carolina and South Carolina, two states spanning from the Appalachian Mountains to the Atlantic Ocean. The region includes three distinct landscape zones: mountains in the west, piedmont in the middle, and coastal plains toward the east.
King Charles II granted the Carolina territory to eight English nobles in 1663 as a reward for supporting his restoration to the throne. This act set the foundation for English colonial settlement and development that would shape the region for centuries.
Coastal, mountain, and piedmont traditions shape how communities here live and celebrate together. You see this blend reflected in local festivals, food styles, and the way neighborhoods develop differently depending on the landscape around them.
Major highways connect the region from north to south, making travel between Virginia and Georgia straightforward and efficient. Plan your visit based on which area interests you most, as the mountains in the west require more travel time than the coastal or central areas.
Mount Mitchell in North Carolina rises to over 2000 meters, making it the tallest mountain east of the Mississippi River. This peak draws hikers seeking the highest point accessible in this part of the country.
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