With more public recreational lands than anywhere else on the East Coast, Western North Carolina has plenty to explore. The natural surroundings encourage many individuals to seek employment in the area, producing more outdoor employment than any other outdoor destination, including  Portland and Boulder. The region offers extraordinary hikes, climbing, fishing and more.
 
Made Here:
As one of the oldest manufactures in Henderson County, Diamond Brand Outdoors has been manufacturing outdoor goods for over 130 years. Their location in the mountains continues to serve the company well and have provided opportunities to contract manufacture for some of the most well respected brands in the industry. In addition to manufacturing, Diamond Brand encourages the locals to get outside through their retail store.  Diamond Brand’s retail store is one of the local retailers for Henderson County kayak manufacturer, Legacy Paddlesports.
 
Some of the biggest names in the industry are made known from Historic Hendersonville. Outdoor Sports Marketing  represents markets and promotes sales for numerous outdoor brands from their Henderson County office.
 
Backpacking in the Shining Rock Wilderness and Middle Prong Wilderness is a really fun experience because of its high elevation, unique balds, and expansive 360 degree views. Grab a map because the wilderness areas don't have marked trails...You are a modern day explorer!
-Nolan of Outdoor Sports Marketing
 
The culture and community of the Western North Carolina continue to attract numerous businesses that value the outdoors. Sierra Nevada Brewing Company announced Mills River, NC as their east coast location in January 2012. Their decision to locate here was driven by the companies love for the river, mountains and views offered in Western North Carolina. You can catch Sierra Nevada partnering with local outdoor industry at events and working to promote greenways and paddle trails.
 
Play Here:
 
Mast General Store, with three retail locations in Western North Carolina, is also ready to help you plan your next outdoor adventure.  From their store front, they offer directions to local trailheads and can equip you with all you need to explore the mountains. The store works closely with many area manufacturers to promote locally made products for the outdoors.
 
Join Green River Adventures at the Green River Gorge (Opening May 2013) to take in some of the most breathtaking views this side of the Mississippi. The new zip-line canopy tour will offer over 6,500 feet of zip lines, tree based platforms, sky bridges and free fall rappels.
 
We are so lucky to have the Green River Gorge as a natural resource, and there's no better way to experience it than soaring through the tree-tops.
-Sara of THE GORGE Zipline Canopy Tour
 
Several organizations throughout the region work to conserve, preserve and advocate for the natural assets that make the outdoor cluster flourish.  Outdoor events continue to grow each year, including some of the toughest running races on the east coast.
 
Come Explore WNC, you won’t be disappointed.