- The Appalachian Mountains run through the western part of the state. The highest point in North Carolina is Mount Mitchell, which is located in the Black Mountains and has an elevation of 6,684 feet.
Piedmont
- The Piedmont is a region of gently rolling hills that lies between the Appalachian Mountains and the Atlantic Coastal Plain. It is the most populous region of the state.
Coastal Plain
- The Coastal Plain is a flat, low-lying region that borders the Atlantic Ocean. It is home to many of the state's beaches, wetlands, and estuaries.
Rivers and Lakes
- North Carolina has many rivers and lakes. The most notable rivers include the Cape Fear River, the Neuse River, the Pamlico River, and the Roanoke River. The largest lakes include Lake Gaston, Lake Norman, and Lake Waccamaw.
Beaches
- North Carolina has over 300 miles of coastline. The state's beaches are popular tourist destinations, and they are known for their soft sand, clear water, and mild climate.
Inlets and Sounds
- North Carolina has many inlets and sounds. Inlets are narrow channels of water that connect the ocean to bays or estuaries. Sounds are bodies of water that are surrounded by land except for one or more narrow openings. The most notable inlets and sounds in North Carolina include the Albemarle Sound, the Pamlico Sound, and the Currituck Sound.