Whether you climb switchbacks or wander art-filled urban trails, hiking in North Carolina always comes with a view.
Wetlands, lakes and the places where seafoam meets sand provide favorite hangout spots for birds — and the humans who love watching them. Grab your binoculars and take a boat tour or a kayak canal tour; landlubber options are also available.
Leave screens behind and embrace wonder! Ride an antique steam train, stay overnight in a tree house, or take it one step at a time across America’s highest suspension footbridge. If you’d rather keep your feet on the ground, try your hand at mining or picking heirloom apples.
The fishing’s fine in North Carolina, and the only thing missing from a great day on the water is you. Along the coast, you can surf cast or fish from wooden piers, fish the inshore waters of sounds and marshes, or go offshore for a day to remember. Head inland to find fish biting in our rivers and lakes. And when you make it to the mountains, be sure to bring your fly rod because those streams are loaded with trout.
We’ve gathered together the best of North Carolina’s local outdoor essentials and experiences for those who feel most alive under open skies.
For the ones who are always first to say “yes” to skydiving, rappelling or anything that just says “full speed ahead”.
Casual or heart-pumping, on water or on land, for beginners or experts — the Boone area in Western NC is a go-to trip for outdoor adventures, unparalleled scenery and making mountain memories.
This summer, take a cool trip to the Village of Sugar Mountain for a mile-high escape featuring panoramic Blue Ridge Mountain views and unforgettable memories. Experience “mountain time,” where a summer respite means cooler temperatures (the average summer high is 75 degrees Fahrenheit) and outdoor exploration.
The founder of The Appalachian Adventure Company has an unparalleled love for exploring this area of North Carolina in nearly every outdoor capacity.
The Marketing Manager at Visit NC is already feeling nostalgic about 2023. Relive her favorite moments and plan your own trips that will also turn into year-end highlights.