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A woman stands at the edge of a cliff overlooking a valley at the top of Crowders Mountain.

Things to Do

Natural Attractions

North Carolina has long been known for its natural beauty — a reputation celebrated in superlatives from mountains to coast. Here you can hike the highest peak in the East, explore the most-visited national park, wander the continent’s oldest mountains and rivers, climb “America’s Lighthouse” and see the first national seashore.

Stunning is just the start

North Carolina’s landscapes unfold with thundering waterfalls, towering dunes, ancient forests and misty peaks, creating a tapestry of natural wonders waiting to be explored.

Find stunning natural beauty on the Crystal Coast

This itinerary blends maritime history, outdoor adventure, coastal wildlife and charming waterfront communities.
Visit Great Smoky Mountains National Park

It's the most-visited national park for good reasons. Among them: 850 miles of hiking trails, brilliant fall color, impressive waterfalls and top-notch campsites.
Discover Untamed Beauty at National Seashores

Four lighthouses, a herd of wild horses, and hundreds of miles of beaches and shoreline await on the national seashores of the Outer Banks and Crystal Coast.
Hike The Appalachian Trail

This national treasure winds 88 miles through North Carolina's mountains. Explore it for a day or as part of a thru-hike with these insider tips.
National Forests to Explore

The Nantahala, Pisgah, Uwharrie and Croatan national forests are full of wild places to hike, hunt, camp, raft and fish.