Yancey County

Yancey County is a county in the mountainous Appalachian region of western North Carolina, shaped by ridges and river valleys. The area contains several high peaks and densely forested slopes that define the landscape throughout.

The county was established in 1833 and named after Bartlett Yancey, a local politician. Scottish, English, and Irish settlers had moved into the Toe River Valley by the mid-1700s.

The area preserves its Appalachian traditions through local music, crafts, and community gatherings held in Burnsville and nearby towns. These cultural practices remain visible in small festivals and artisan workshops throughout the region.

Most services and visitor information are accessible through the administrative center in Burnsville, which serves as the main hub for county information. The region offers numerous trails and outdoor activities that are best explored during daylight hours.

Five of the ten highest peaks east of the Mississippi River sit within the Black Mountains that dominate the area. Mount Mitchell, the tallest mountain east of the Mississippi River, is also located here and stands as a major natural landmark.

Location: North Carolina

Inception: 1833

Capital city: Burnsville

Shares border with: Mitchell County, McDowell County, Buncombe County, Madison County, Unicoi County

Website: http://yanceycountync.gov

GPS coordinates: 35.90000,-82.31000

Latest update: December 7, 2025 10:05