Where is North Carolina Located in the United States?
Where is North Carolina?
North Carolina is located in the southeastern region of the United States, bordered by the Atlantic Ocean to the east and four U.S. states. It covers diverse landscapes from coastal plains to mountainous regions. North Carolina (NC) has a population of 10.7 million, making it the 9th most populous U.S. state. It spans an area of 53,819 square miles. Its capital city is Raleigh, while its largest city is Charlotte. North Carolina was admitted to the Union as the 12th state in 1789. It lies in the Eastern Time Zone (ET), with a small area in the far west observing Central Time.
Bordering States
Virginia
Virginia lies directly to the north of North Carolina, sharing a boundary that stretches about 180 miles. Historically, both states were part of the original 13 colonies, and their borders have remained constant since colonial times. Virginia offers a varied topography from coastal plains to the Appalachian Mountains, similar to North Carolina.
Tennessee
To the west of North Carolina, Tennessee provides a rugged, mountainous border shaped by the Appalachian range. This natural barrier, which includes the Great Smoky Mountains, creates a distinct geographical separation between the two states, while also serving as a major attraction for outdoor enthusiasts.
Georgia
Located to the southwest, Georgia shares a relatively short border with North Carolina, around 70 miles in length. This border is largely defined by the mountainous terrain of the Blue Ridge region, making it an area rich in natural beauty and outdoor recreation opportunities.
South Carolina
South Carolina sits to the south of North Carolina, sharing a border of about 334 miles. The two states have similar histories and economies, particularly in agriculture and textiles, although South Carolina’s geography tends to be flatter than North Carolina’s more mountainous terrain to the west.
GPS Coordinates
North Carolina’s geographic coordinates extend from 33.8°N to 36.6°N in latitude and from 75.5°W to 84.3°W in longitude. These coordinates place it in a diverse climatic and geographical zone, from coastal regions in the east to rugged mountains in the west.
The easternmost point of the state is located on Roanoke Island (around 75.5°W), a historical site famous for the Lost Colony of the late 16th century. Moving westward, North Carolina extends towards 84.3°W, near the Great Smoky Mountains, a part of the Appalachian chain that forms the western boundary. The state’s northernmost point is near the Virginia border at approximately 36.6°N, while its southernmost point is at 33.8°N, near the South Carolina boundary.
These coordinates define the broad geographical variety that North Carolina encompasses. The coastal areas are situated at lower latitudes and experience warmer climates, while the western mountain regions, closer to the higher latitudes and western longitudes, exhibit cooler temperatures and more rugged terrain. Additionally, North Carolina’s location places it in the Eastern Time Zone, with daylight saving adjustments shifting time by one hour during the summer months. In this zone, the state maintains a balance between both Eastern and Central U.S. weather systems, providing a unique blend of coastal, piedmont, and mountain influences throughout its year-round climate.
Levels of Elevation
North Carolina’s elevation varies significantly, with its lowest point being at sea level along the Atlantic Ocean and its highest point at Mount Mitchell, which stands at 6,684 feet above sea level. This makes Mount Mitchell not only the tallest peak in North Carolina but also the highest point east of the Mississippi River. The state’s coastal plains, especially the Outer Banks and Tidewater region, feature mostly flat terrain with elevations close to or at sea level, while the land gradually rises as one moves inland towards the Piedmont region.
The Piedmont region, characterized by rolling hills, lies at elevations ranging from 300 to 1,000 feet. As you continue westward, the Blue Ridge Mountains mark the beginning of North Carolina’s mountainous region. This region includes many peaks above 5,000 feet, contributing to the state’s overall rugged terrain and making it a popular destination for hiking, skiing, and other outdoor activities.
Most Extreme Points of the State
North Carolina is geographically diverse, with its most extreme points marking significant locations across the state.
The easternmost point is located at Cape Hatteras, part of the Outer Banks. Cape Hatteras is known for its historical lighthouses and treacherous waters, earning the nickname “Graveyard of the Atlantic” due to the many shipwrecks in the area.
The westernmost point is near the small town of Murphy, in Cherokee County, close to the Tennessee and Georgia borders. This area is nestled within the Appalachian Mountains, known for its scenic beauty and proximity to national forests.
The northernmost point is located near the town of Virgilina, straddling the border with Virginia. This rural area is characterized by forests and rolling farmland, contributing to the state’s agricultural diversity.
The southernmost point lies near Southport, located along the Cape Fear River and the coast of the Atlantic Ocean. Southport is a historic port town, known for its maritime history and proximity to the barrier islands of North Carolina.
Major Mountains
North Carolina is home to some of the highest and most prominent mountains in the eastern United States, primarily within the Appalachian Mountain range. The state is particularly known for the Blue Ridge Mountains and Great Smoky Mountains, both of which are part of the larger Appalachian system.
Mount Mitchell, standing at 6,684 feet, is the highest peak in North Carolina and the eastern United States. Located in the Black Mountain subrange of the Appalachians, it is a popular destination for hikers and nature enthusiasts.
Clingmans Dome is another major peak in North Carolina, reaching 6,643 feet. It is located on the border between North Carolina and Tennessee in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The dome offers panoramic views and is a key destination for visitors to the park.
Grandfather Mountain, with an elevation of 5,946 feet, is located in the Blue Ridge Mountains and is famous for its rugged cliffs, wildlife, and the Mile-High Swinging Bridge. It is also a UNESCO biosphere reserve, reflecting its ecological significance.
Other notable peaks include Mount Craig, Balsam Cone, and Black Balsam Knob, all of which contribute to North Carolina’s reputation as a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and mountaineers.
Major Rivers and Lakes
North Carolina has numerous rivers and lakes that are vital to its geography, economy, and ecosystem.
The Cape Fear River is the longest river entirely within the state, flowing for 202 miles from the Piedmont region to the Atlantic Ocean. It serves as a major waterway for agriculture and industry, particularly around the port city of Wilmington.
The Neuse River, stretching 275 miles, is another important river in North Carolina. It flows from the Piedmont region through the Coastal Plain to Pamlico Sound. It is one of the widest rivers in the United States and plays a critical role in the state’s economy and environment.
The Catawba River originates in the Blue Ridge Mountains and flows for 220 miles through the Carolinas, providing water and hydroelectric power to several major cities, including Charlotte.
Lake Norman, the largest man-made lake in North Carolina, covers 50 square miles and is a popular recreational destination. It was created by the damming of the Catawba River and plays a crucial role in energy production and tourism.
Other notable water bodies include Jordan Lake, High Rock Lake, and Falls Lake, all of which provide water resources, recreational activities, and environmental habitats across North Carolina.
