If you’re an outdoors enthusiast, North Carolina has plenty to offer. From the Appalachian Mountains in the west to the beaches of the Outer Banks in the east, the state has a diverse range of outdoor adventure destinations. Here are five of the best.
1. Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Located on the border of North Carolina and Tennessee, Great Smoky Mountains National Park is the most visited national park in the country. With over 800 miles of hiking trails, 2,900 miles of streams, and a diverse array of plant and animal life, the park is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Popular activities in the park include hiking, camping, fishing, wildlife watching, and scenic drives.
2. Pisgah National Forest
Located in western North Carolina, Pisgah National Forest is a popular destination for hiking, mountain biking, and fishing. The forest covers over 500,000 acres and includes numerous waterfalls, rock formations, and scenic views. One of the most popular destinations in Pisgah is the Blue Ridge Parkway, a scenic highway that runs through the forest and provides stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
3. Outer Banks
The Outer Banks are a chain of barrier islands off the coast of North Carolina. With over 100 miles of beaches, the area is a popular destination for swimming, surfing, fishing, and boating. Visitors to the Outer Banks can also explore historic landmarks like the Wright Brothers National Memorial and the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse.
4. Nantahala National Forest
Located in southwestern North Carolina, Nantahala National Forest is a popular destination for hiking, camping, fishing, and whitewater rafting. The forest covers over 500,000 acres and includes several scenic rivers, including the Nantahala River and the Chattooga River. Visitors to the forest can also explore the Blue Ridge Mountains and the Appalachian Trail.
5. Uwharrie National Forest
Located in central North Carolina, Uwharrie National Forest is a popular destination for hiking, camping, and hunting. The forest covers over 50,000 acres and includes the Uwharrie Mountains, a range of low-lying peaks that provide stunning views of the surrounding countryside. Visitors to the forest can also explore the Uwharrie Trail and the Dutchman’s Creek Trail.
Conclusion
If you love the outdoors, North Carolina has plenty to offer. From the mountains to the coast, the state is home to some of the best outdoor adventure destinations in the country. Whether you’re looking for hiking, biking, fishing, or just a relaxing weekend in nature, there’s something for everyone in North Carolina’s great outdoors.