Those are the Blue Ridge mountains you see off in the distance. While they are in the Appalachian Mountains. They are the largest chain. They are just called the Blue Ridge mountains just to separate them from the other smaller sections included in the Blue Ridge chain. like the Smokey Mountains. Pisgah, and Shenandoah.
I know I am biased. But the truth is. the Blue Ridge Mts are the coolest in the summer, and coldest in the winter. The highest peak East of the Mississippi is located in the Blue Ridge MT. And if you want to camp. There is a Campground every where you look up there. But you got to be ready to climb the hill. No interstates lead you there from Hickory. Best way to go is 321, or 16. You live less than an hour from the BRP and some of the prettiest views in the world. A day trip to go ride the Parkway is such a relaxing getaway. Close enough just to go camp for the weekend, and be there, and setup by dark on Friday after work. Go explore.
