Exploring North Carolina’s Natural Beauty-
North Carolina’s mountains attract a wide range of outdoors enthusiasts. In spring, the Blue Ridge Parkway is a riot of buttercups and azaleas; in summer, peaks at Great Smoky Mountains National Park glisten with ethereal pink mountain laurels.Discover the extreme diversity of flora and fauna in the Southern Appalachians. Plus, see the results of a major inventory of biodiversity in the region with scientists who conduct the work.
1. The Outer Banks
A string of barrier islands separating the Atlantic Ocean from mainland North Carolina, the Outer Banks have long attracted vacationers and beachgoers. But this region of sand dunes, salt marshes and tranquil woodlands is also home to a variety of marine life and birds. Several national seashores and wildlife refuges are scattered across the 200-mile-long coast. In addition, Jockey’s Ridge State Park on Bodie Island has the highest sand dunes on the East Coast, and Cape Hatteras and Cape Lookout are popular spots for birding.Aside from the beaches, there are plenty of other activities to explore on the Outer Banks. Visitors can try surfing, windsurfing, fishing or boating. Or they can visit Roanoke Island, the site of England’s first attempt at colonization in the New World, or the Wright Brothers National Memorial in Kitty Hawk, commemorating the first powered flight by the Wright brothers.Located off the Atlantic coast of North Carolina, the Outer Banks are a series of beaches, islands, shoals and spits that extend south from Back Bay, Virginia, to Cape Lookout, North Carolina. Often abbreviated OBX on regional tourism marketing, the area is a magnet for water sports and is known as a family vacation destination. With a wide range of accommodations, Outer Banks is an ideal vacation spot for anyone looking for a relaxing getaway.
2. The Mountains
North Carolina’s mountain region beckons adventurers and nature lovers of all ages. Whether you want to hike in a remote wilderness, take in the scenery from scenic byways or cool your feet in the rushing mountain streams, there is something to see at every turn of the road.The state’s most recognizable mountain range is the Great Smoky Mountains, also known as the “Smokies.” This impressive set of summits along the Tennessee/North Carolina border protects 187,000 acres of The Smokies are home to the famous Appalachian Trail and are a popular destination for hiking, camping and outdoor recreation.Other notable mountain ranges include the Black Mountains and the Blue Ridge. The Black Mountains include Mount Mitchell, which is home to a subarctic environment that supports rare plants like the Gray’s lily and mountain golden heather. The Blue Ridge includes peaks with names like Balsam Cone and Mount Craig, as well as the steep inclines of the Blue Ridge Parkway.The high peaks of the mountains create barriers that restrict some species’ movements and lead to unique ecological communities. The region’s deep valleys and rocky ridges have also led to the evolution of a number of endemic animals, such as the arboreal Hickory Nut Gorge salamander. The mountainous environment also offers a cooler climate, which is aided by the protection of the Appalachian chain and the moderating influence of the warm Gulf Stream.
3. The Beaches
North Carolina’s 300 miles of stunning coastal beaches, remote marshes and recreational rivers are the perfect places to soak up the sun and sand. Wild horses trace the shoreline, centuries-old fishing villages hum with quiet charm, and ferry rides take you to islands where time moves at its own pace. Explore responsibly to ensure these breathtaking natural areas stay pristine for generations to come.If you’re looking for a relaxing beach experience without the crowds, I recommend visiting during the shoulder seasons of spring or fall. The weather is still warm and sunny, but not yet stiflingly hot. And, because most of the restaurants and attractions are open seasonally, you’ll have much more space on the beach or in town to enjoy everything that each destination has to offer.The beaches of Carolina Beach and Kure Beach are a great option for those who want to balance adventure with laid-back beach time. There are no high-rise hotels here, and plenty of vacation rentals to choose from. Plus, the quaint beachside towns are walking-friendly and have a great nightlife scene, including live music at the Sea Witch bar.And while the waters are warm and inviting, it’s important to remember that the Atlantic can be rough and riptide-prone at certain times of year. So, be sure to check the tide schedule and pay attention to water conditions — especially when swimming. Also, make sure you have sunscreen and a hat.
4. Waterfalls
North Carolina is blessed with jaw-dropping mountains, beachfront oases and tranquil national forests brimming with natural beauty. However, the state’s irresistible waterfalls are some of its most breathtaking sights. There’s just something about watching water cascade over a cliff and flow into clear, cool pools below that makes these outdoor escapes simply magical. The state’s mountain towns are home to hundreds of waterfalls, and there is no shortage of Instagram-worthy spots. You can easily access many of these destinations via a short walk or even a casual hike.The ethereal Looking Glass Falls is an iconic travel destination that sits in Brevard and offers plenty of space to enjoy the view (and maybe take a refreshing dip). Linville Falls is another favorite, ranking as one of the most popular waterfalls in NC and offering an incredible experience thanks to its wide tiers. It’s best to visit in the summer when swimming is allowed, or fall when the waterfall is framed by vibrant foliage.When exploring the waterfalls of North Carolina, make sure you have a pair of good walking shoes with decent grip and pack water, bug spray and snacks. It’s also a good idea to check out trail conditions and safety rules before you head out. It’s important to leave no trace and respect the natural environment as you venture into these stunning landscapes.