The Appalachian Mountains, commonly known as the Appalachians, are a mountain range located in the eastern and northeastern parts of North America. The name “Appalachian” applies not only to the mountains themselves but also to various regions and landscapes connected to the range.
Both the United States Geological Survey and the Geological Survey of Canada use this term to define specific physiographic areas within their countries. In the U.S., the area is called the Appalachian Highlands, while in Canada it is referred to as the Appalachian Uplands. It’s important to note that the Appalachian Mountains are different from the Appalachian Plateau, which is just one part of the broader Appalachian Highlands region.
Where Are the Appalachian Mountains Located?
1. In Canada (northern part of the range):
The Appalachian Mountains begin in eastern Canada, specifically in the following provinces:
Newfoundland and Labrador (Home to the Long Range Mountains). Quebec (Includes the Notre Dame and Chic-Choc Mountains). New Brunswick (Where the Appalachians curve into northern New England)
2. In the United States (where most of the range lies):
The mountains run southward from Canada through 13 U.S. states that form a long chain along the eastern U.S. Here’s how they are distributed:
Northeastern States:
- Maine, Home to part of the White Mountains.
- New Hampshire, Includes the Presidential Range.
- Vermont, Contains the Green Mountains.
- Massachusetts, Part of the Berkshire Hills.
- Connecticut, Has low mountain ridges and highlands.
- New York, Contains the Catskill Mountains.
- New Jersey, Where the Appalachians cross the Kittatinny Ridge.
Mid-Atlantic States:
- Pennsylvania, Home to the Allegheny Mountains.
- Maryland, Western part has Appalachian ridges.
- West Virginia, Entirely within the Appalachian region and includes part of the Alleghenies.
Southern States:
- Virginia, Features the Blue Ridge Mountains.
- North Carolina, Includes the Great Smoky Mountains.
- Tennessee, Shares the Smoky Mountains with NC.
- Georgia, Southern edge of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
- Alabama, Marks the southern end of the range.
Also Read: Where Are the San Juan Islands & How to Get There?
Important Subranges in the Appalachians:
The Appalachians are made up of smaller mountain ranges, such as:
- Blue Ridge Mountains, Stretch from southern Pennsylvania to Georgia.
- Great Smoky Mountains, Located in North Carolina and Tennessee.
- Allegheny Mountains, Found in Pennsylvania and West Virginia.
- Green Mountains, In Vermont.
- White Mountains, In New Hampshire.
- Catskill Mountains, In southeastern New York.
- Cumberland Plateau, Covers parts of Kentucky and Tennessee.
Size and Distance:
The Appalachian Mountains extend for about 1,500 miles (2,400 kilometers) from eastern Canada down to central Alabama in the United States. Their width varies throughout the range, spanning anywhere from 100 to 300 miles. The highest peak in the Appalachians is Mount Mitchell, located in North Carolina, which stands at 6,684 feet (2,037 meters) tall.
Geographic Role:
The Appalachian Mountains act as a natural barrier between the eastern Coastal Plains and the central United States. They play a big role in shaping the climate, river systems, and wildlife across the eastern part of North America. This region is also rich in natural resources, especially coal and vast forests, making it important both environmentally and economically.
| Feature | Detail |
| Continent | North America |
| Countries | Canada and the United States |
| Length | 1,500 miles |
| States (U.S.) | 13 states from Maine to Alabama |
| Highest Point | Mount Mitchell, NC |
| Famous Ranges | Blue Ridge, Smokies, Alleghenies |
Frequently Asked Questions:
What are the three rules of Appalachia?
Avoid staying in the woods between sunset and sunrise. Always stay on the marked paths, they’re there for your safety. If you hear voices nearby, they might actually be coming from far away, and if the voices seem distant, they could be closer than you think. Don’t whistle or sing while in the forest. And be careful not to stare too long into the trees.
What is Appalachia known for?
Appalachia is known for its rich cultural heritage, including traditional music (like bluegrass and folk),poetry and distinctive crafts. It’s also recognized for its scenic mountain landscapes, biodiversity, coal mining history, and unique Appalachian dialects.
Why do people live in the Appalachian Mountains?
About 16,000 years ago, Native American groups like the Cherokee, Haudenosaunee, Powhatan, and Shawnee started living in the Appalachian Mountains and took care of the land. Today, at least 22 million people live there, and many more use the mountains’ natural resources for their health, jobs, and fun activities.
What is code switching in Appalachia?
In Appalachia, code-switching refers to the practice of alternating between the region’s distinctive dialect and a more standardized form of English that depends on the social context. This linguistic adaptation often occurs to navigate social perceptions and expectations.
