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State Bucket List
North Carolina is the only state in the eastern US where you can hike a 6,000-foot mountain in the morning and drive to an undeveloped barrier island beach by afternoon. The Blue Ridge Parkway's 469 miles of ridge-top driving connect the Smokies to Shenandoah with no commercial traffic and no traffic lights. The Nantahala Gorge delivers Class II-V whitewater and Appalachian Trail hiking in one of the Southeast's most dramatic river corridors.
Cape Hatteras National Seashore protects the longest stretch of undeveloped barrier island beach on the East Coast. Lake Gaston's 34,000 acres straddle the NC-VA border and hold trophy striped bass that draw tournament anglers from across the region. Western NC's outdoor scene is anchored by the Nantahala Outdoor Center -- one of the best paddling and adventure outfitters in the country.
These five North Carolina adventures represent the state's range -- from the high country of the Blue Ridge to the Outer Banks.
The Nantahala Outdoor Center sits at the heart of one of the Southeast's most dramatic gorges. Hike the Appalachian Trail section through the gorge, then reward yourself with a whitewater run.
The Nantahala is fed by a deep reservoir and stays cold all summer - perfect for a self-guided float through the gorge. The Class II-III rapids are manageable for beginners and thrilling for everyone.
469 miles of ridge-top driving from Shenandoah to the Smokies, with no commercial traffic and no traffic lights. Peak color in mid-October turns the mountains into a slow-motion fireworks show.
Lake Gaston's 34,000 acres straddle the NC-VA border and hold trophy striped bass, walleye, and largemouth. The annual Striper Tournament draws anglers from across the East Coast.
Cape Hatteras is the longest stretch of undeveloped barrier island beach on the East Coast. Drive your 4WD onto the sand, set up camp at the water's edge, and fish for red drum in the surf at sunset.
In-depth articles for every adventure on this list that has an OTT guide.
North Carolina Travel Guides
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