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Morganton, North Carolina: Brown Mountain Lights

Mysterious balls of yellow or blue fire haunt nighttime Brown Mountain. A handy overlook helps you spot 'em.

Address:
Jonas Ridge Hwy., Morganton, NC
Directions:
Brown Mountain. Best seen from an overlook located on Jonas Ridge Hwy/Hwy 181 about 12 miles north of Morganton. Brown Mountain is about three miles east of the overlook.
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Visitor Tips and News About Brown Mountain Lights

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View Brown Mountain sign.

Brown Mountain Lights

Signage at the Brown Mountain Overlook.

[Jody High, 11/11/2019]
Brown Mountain Lights

For centuries, there have been reports of lights on Brown Mountain. The lights are not man made, are not "swamp gas," and appear to be balls of yellow or blue white fire.

Although initially a North Carolina legend, sightings have been verified numerous times and have been the subject of academic study.

If you visit the overlook, you may see the lights -- if not, some of the ones there with you to observe the lights will have numerous stories to tell.

[B.K. Simerson, 03/13/2001]

Nearby Offbeat Places

Linville CavernsLinville Caverns, Marion, NC - 6 mi.
House of MugsHouse of Mugs, Collettsville, NC - 7 mi.
Mile-High Swinging BridgeMile-High Swinging Bridge, Linville, NC - 11 mi.
In the region:
Blowing Rock: Floating Indian, Blowing Rock, NC - 16 mi.

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