North Carolina’s mountains, waterfalls and parks are playgrounds for hikers and campers. Be safe while enjoying these adventures.

Want to walk from the African grasslands to the North American Arctic Coast in a single afternoon? Here’s your insider guide.

Sailing, fishing and water sports are popular along the NC coast, but golfers have also discovered it as a desirable destination from NC's Brunswick Islands — known as “North Carolina’s Golf Coast” — all the way up to the Outer Banks. Water flows through courses abutting the beach or bounded by marshes and maritime forests, and an ocean breeze is a constant and often unforgiving playing companion.

North Carolina’s central region is perhaps most known for its golf courses in the Pinehurst area — including the fabled Pinehurst No. 2 and brand-new Pinehurst No. 10 — but there's still great golf to be played elsewhere in this area of NC.

Head out for 18 in the North Carolina mountains, where fairways are lush and greens are slick as river rocks.

Mountain views, gourmet meals and outdoor adventures abound in Banner Elk, where colorful springs and falls separate snowy winters and mild summers in the High Country.

With spring’s arrival comes pleasant weather, the return of beautiful colors and every opportunity to head outside. Experience springtime in North Carolina and you’ll be reminded why the season is so invigorating.

It can be a challenge to plan a family vacation or weekend getaway that appeals to kids of all ages and parents too. Luckily, North Carolina has plenty of options for fun for the whole group. Plan your next excursion with this list of family favorites.

North Carolina short tracks, from quarter-mile paved bullrings to half-mile dirt ovals with sweeping turns, host a variety of race cars and events from spring to fall. There’s one close to wherever you are, making it easy to fill a Friday or Saturday evening with racing excitement. You might even see one of NASCAR’s future stars.

The Brunswick Islands are known for their tranquil surroundings, where beach solitude, festivals, food, history and ocean views will keep you coming back.