NC trout fishing

Hi. I recently went trout fishing with my girlfriend's uncle in
Missouri (Meramac Springs), and had a great time (caught one!). I
live in central NC, and would like to go trout fishing again, but
don't know where to go, what I need, etc. I'd just be driving around
in the mountains without a clue.
Could any old pro out there please give me some advice and help me get
started? I've wanted to fish for a long time...I just don't know
where to start. My dad didn't fish, so I really didn't "grow up with
it" so to speak. I'm an absolute beginner.
Any help would be very much appreciated.