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15 Fun North Carolina Road Trips For Your Bucket List

March 2, 2021 //  by  Southern Trippers

If you’re looking for a fun North Carolina road trip, then you’ve come to the right place. Southern Trippers has researched, mapped out and detailed every single best North Carolina road trip you could possibly take!

Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly North Carolina road trip through the big cities, or an adults-only romp in the vineyards, there’s something for you!

Artists and history buffs will love trips that feature the North Carolina Pottery Center and even stops at some of the state’s most historic sites. You can even see some of the most beautiful waterfalls!

At the very least you can enjoy a North Carolina road trip to see the leaves change. There could be nothing more romantic ! So pack up the car and hit the road for these very best North Carolina road trips.

Cape Hatteras National Seashore

• Roanoke Island
• Cedar Island
• Points Harbor

As you drive the Cape Hatteras National Seashore on the coast, you’ll be be able to see some of the most beautiful beaches, museums, and even lighthouses!

Start in Points Harbor and head towards Ocracore. Make sure your camera has space for the stunning vistas of US-158. Then hit up Jockeys Ridge State Park!

Then head west to Roanoke Island to learn the area’s spooky history. You can even tour a reproduction of the Elizabeth II, a merchant ship. You can set the sails, swab the deck, and raise the anchor with actors in costumes.

NASCAR Road Trip

• Charlotte Motor Speedway
• Moorseville

No doubt if you love NASCAR, then your next North Carolina road trip needs to start at the Charlotte Motor Speedway. Even though races are in May, the track will still be open to visitors.

Then in Kannapolis, visit the hometown of Dale Earnhardt. Take the Dale Trail through his childhood neighborhood to see his racings humble beginnings.

Lastly, head to Moorseville, where you can see the racing garages of Penske and DEI. Many other racing teams’ garages are open with huge showrooms with their winning cars.

North Carolina Waterfalls Road Trip

• Linville Falls
• Crabtree Falls
• Looking Glass Falls
• Moore Cove Falls

This North Carolina road trip will take you north to south across the state to see some of its most breathtaking waterfalls! Definitely bring your camera, and don’t be afraid to get a little bit wet!

First, begin at Linville Falls near the Blue Ridge Parkway. There is a relatively easy four-mile hike, but then you’re afforded views from five different lookout points. Crabtree falls isn’t too far away either, and is equally beautiful.

Then head down to Looking Glass Falls, where you can actually take a nice swim in the hot summer months. Next hit up, Moore Cove Falls. This waterfall looks like something out of a video game where you can walk behind the falls.

Cove Creek Falls will be your most family-friendly waterfall for kids and adults! Finally, take in the awe of Whitewater Falls. 811-feet high, this is the highest waterfall east of the Rocky Mountains!

Haunted Road Trip

• Great Dismal Swamp
• Maco Lights
• Devil’s Tramping Ground
• Grove Park Inn

You’ll experience some history on your other North Carolina road trips, but it’s time to get get spooky! This North Carolina road trip is best taking in the fall months to get ready for Halloween!

First, visit the Great Dismal Swamp. Dreary and dead-looking, this site inspired novelist Harriet Beecher Stowe. An overnight stay at an Airbnb will make your time here extra spooky. You might hear sounds or see a ghost!

Next, stop at the Maco Lights, where a man named Joe Baldwin was decapitated by a train. Then, head to Cry Baby Lane where a fire destroyed an orphanage outside of Raleigh.

Visit the Devil’s Tramping Ground, a circle where nothing will grow. Finally, stay at the Grove Park Inn where the infamous Pink Lady fell to her death from a fifth-floor balcony.

Blue Ridge Parkway Road Trip

• Cumberland Knob
• Rough Ridge Trail
• Little Switzerland

Of the road trips in North Carolina, the Blue Ridge Parkway may be the most infamous. Running 469 miles through the state, you’ll see the Great Smokey Mountains, waterfalls, and more!

Along America’s longest National Parks Unit road, stop at Cumberland Knob with scenic views and a beautiful recreation area. Linville Falls is just down the road as well!

Make sure to visit the Moses H Cone Memorial Park, a beautiful park with cross-country skiing, horseback riding, and more! There’s even a gorgeous mansion to tour.

Next up, make sure to hit up the jewel of the Blue Ridge Parkway, Little Switzerland. It perfectly channels the area with quaint shops, charming eateries, and an infectious atmosphere. Then down the road, get your cameras ready for Crabtree Falls.

Little Switzerland is truly one of the best Mountain Towns In North Carolina!

Forest Heritage Scenic Byway Road Trip

• Pink Beds Hike
• Cradle of Forestry

This next North Carolina road trip not only affords you views of some great waterfalls, but it’s an excuse to visit Brevard!

Start in the Sycamore Flats Picnic Area where you’ll head past Looking Glass Falls. Then you’ll pass some other waterfalls like Moore Cove and Sliding Rock.

As you near Asheville, make sure you stop at the Cradle of Forestry. Rhododendrons cover the Pink Beds that make up the area, making a truly beautiful photo opportunity.

Little Parkway Road Trip

• Mile-High Swinging Bridge
• Green Mountain Creek Falls
• Moses H. Cone Memorial Park

This North Carolina road trip takes place on US 221 between Blowing Rock and Linville. You’re on the Little Parkway! While short, this curvy stretch of the highway connects some beauties on the side of Grandfather Mountain.

Pass the entrance to Grandfather Mountain State park and then you’ll find the Mile-High Swinging Bridge. While horrifying to some, you can walk across this terrifyingly high bridge with a spectacular view of the mountain.

Next, hit up the roadside Green Mountain Creek Falls. It’s a small stop and its not out of your way, so it’s definitely worthy of the stop.

Lastly, continue on and you’ll pass the charming town of Westglow to get to the Moses H. Cone Memorial Park. Here enjoy horseback riding, and a lovely tour of the mansion that calls this park home.

Mount Mitchell Road Trip

• South Toe River Valley
• Blue Ridge Parkway

This North Carolina road trip will take you to the top of Mount Mitchell. While you climb thousands of feet in your car, your ears will definitely pop, so bring some gum for the ride!

You’ll pass the South Toe River Valley, where you can enjoy fishing. You might even see a few neon orange-red eft salamanders, yourself!

Make sure to stop off in Madison and Yancey for some delicious breakfasts and to pick up some homemade jellies and jams. You’ll ascend further on the Blue Bridge Parkway and its views before turning onto NC 128 for the final, breathtaking ascent.

Pisgah Loop Road Trip

• Pisgah Loop Scenic Byway
• Wisemans View

History buffs, rejoice, this North Carolina road trip will take you along the Pisgah Loop Scenic Byway. Here you’ll be following the same path used by Kirk’s Raiders in the Civil War

As you get to Pisgah National Forest, you’ll be able to see Hawksbill and the gorgeous Table Rock Mountain. You’ll cross the Linville River, then continue onto the Kistler Memorial Highway.

As the road turns to unpaved areas, don’t worry. Keep going and you’ll explore Linville Falls and Wisemans View. Make sure to check out the High Country hikes here, too.

Vineyards Road Trip

• Brushy Mountain Winery
• Shelton Vineyards
• Pilot Mountain

This North Carolina road trip is not for the kids, so find a sitter. If you like a little scenic road trips with your wine, then you’ll want to take the Yadkin’s Valley Scenic Byway with time on farmlands, foothills, and mountain terrain.

As you begin in Elkin , you’ll cross the Yadkin River and hit a slew of North Carolina wineries! Up comes the Brushy Mountain Winery, RagApple Lassie Vineyard and Winery, and Shelton Vineyards

Make sure you check each wineries’ special offers, tours, and tastings. Some have restaurants on the premises, and others will allow you to bring a picnic lunch while enjoying a glass on the grounds.

Inbetween every vineyard, you’ll be able to see lush, rolling mountainside. Look out for the Amish-owned general stores for some true oddities. You’ll also be able to grab a sighting of Pilot Mountain along the journey!

Pottery Road Road Trip

• North Carolina Pottery Center
• Whynot community

This North Carolina road trip is perfect for art lovers, especially potters. The Pottery road trip will give you a hands on look at the area’s first potters and their creations.

Start at the North Carolina Pottery Center. The docents will give you information about which specific potters and studios to visit on your drive. You’ll also see an incredible collection here, and have the ability to take classes.

Then continue on 705 where you’ll pass the well-known potters of Seagrove and Randolph County. You’ll also pass the Whynot community. People there couldn’t decide on a name for their post office, so they agreed on “Why not!”

Finally, you’ll ass through Westmoore and Robbins. Ask the locals about the town’s interesting history before driving through the tree-lined Cedar Road and Eagle Springs.

Uwharrie Scenic Road Trip

• Southern Grace Distilleries
• Reed Gold Mine
• Lick Creek Baptist Church
• North Carolina Zoo

When you need a break from the hustle and bustle of Charlotte or Greensboror, hop off around Concord County. You’ll be lead to Asheboro and the Uwharrie Scenic Road.

Along the way, you’ll see the beautiful Uwharrie Mountains and Mount Pleasant. Make sure to stop off at Southern Grace Distilleries for a tour and a tasting.

Then you can check out the Reed Gold Mine in Midland, where you can walk through the old mine! Then you can go to Lick Creek Baptist Church, one of Davidson County’s oldest landmarks.

Meteor Lakes Road Trip

• Cape Fear River
• Turnbull Creek Valley
• Singletary Lake

On this North Carolina road trip, you’ll take the Meteor Lakes Byway where it meets Elizabethtown at US 421. Here you’ll see some of the most beautiful bodies of water North Carolina has to offer.

The road first crosses the iconic Cape Fear River (try not to hum those four notes from The Simpsons) into Bladen Lakes State Forest. This is where your waterway journey begins.

These three great Carolina bays, or meteor lakes, are believed to have been formed from meteor showers many years ago. Here you’ll find Jones Lake, Singletary Lake, White Lake, and just outside the park, Lake Waccamaw.

NC 242 between Elizabethtown the highway’s intersection with US 421 is also known as the Meteor Lakes Byway. The road crosses the Cape Fear River and passes through Bladen Lakes State Forest.

That’s where you’ll find three  Carolina bays  or meteor lakes. They are believed to have formed following meteor showers many many years ago. The bays give this  Eastern North Carolina  byway its name and include Jones Lake, Singletary Lake, and White Lake inside the park and  Lake Waccamaw  just outside it.

For additional fun, you can just continue west on NC 242 from Elizabethtown to go on the North Carolina’s Green Swamp Byway for some more watery goodness.

Fall Foliage Road Trip

• Chimney Rock
• Linville Gorge
• DuPont State Forest

Let’s face it, there’s nothing better than watching the leaves change colors in the fall, and this North Carolina road trip will let you see the best of the best. Start at Grandfather Mountain and head south.

As you head towards Asheville, then veer east for Chimney Rock. A 535-million-year old granite monolith, its totally climbable. From here, you’ll get a 75-mile panoramic view of the leaves of Hickory Nut Gorge and Lake Lure.

Then you’ll head south to DuPont State Forest. Here you’ll find waterfalls, hiking trails, camping spots. This is truly the best place for a weekend of fall foliage.

Finally head to Max Patch for something completely different. Near the Tennessee border, this is a grassy bald. From the top of this completely open field, lay down a picnic blanket and take in 360-views of the mountains and the leaves.

Piedmont Triad Road Trip

• Andy Griffith’s childhood home
• Bennett Place
• Duke Homestead

The Piedmont Triad road trip will take you through three of North Carolina’s largest cities. But on this North Carolina road trip, you’ll get to truly appreciate the small, rural surrounding towns and their charm.

Start in Mount Airy to see Andy Griffith’s childhood home. Here, history still has a strong foothold on the community. Make sure to grab the famous pork chop sandwich at Snappy Lunch.

Then head on US 52 to Old Salem. Founded by the Moravians in 1766, this colonial village represent living history. Stop by the Winkler Bakery for Moravian sugar cookies to take with you on the road.

Then you’ll head to Durham for two major sites. First visit Bennett Place, where the largest number of troops surrendered in the American Civil War. Then head to the Duke Homestead, where Duke University’s namesake grew up and created the largest tobacco company.

We hope that you’ve enjoyed any and possibly all of our North Carolina Road Trips! Each one is special to us, and we hope they bring joy to you and your families

More joy. More adventure. More life.

North Carolina , Road Trips , Travel

The Ultimate North Carolina Road Trip Itinerary for Families: Top 10 NC Towns to Visit

Planning to Road Trip NC?

Sweet!! You’re going to love NC! We sure do. Follow our ultimate North Carolina road trip itinerary to see the best of what NC has to offer.

There are seriously so many family friendly things to do in North Carolina. North Carolina is a state known for its pristine beaches, lighthouses, NASCAR, waterfalls, the Blue Ridge Parkway, and more.

How long does it take to road trip across North Carolina?

To be totally honest, North Carolina is a pretty difficult state to road trip all in one fell swoop. While you can drive north to south in approximately three hours, driving across the state west to east will take you upwards of at least eight hours.

Where should I go on a road trip to North Carolina?

If you’re looking to explore North Carolina a little bit at a time, here are 7 awesome NC road trips to get a real taste of the Tar Heel state:

• Blue Ridge Parkway Road Trip – With views for days, hiking, waterfalls, state parks, and cute mountain towns, you can easily spend an entire week exploring the Blue Ridge Parkway in NC.
• NASCAR Highights – Do you feel the need for speed? See all things NASCAR on an NC road trip through Charlotte, Kannapolis, and Moorseville.
• Outer Banks Road Trip – Explore the Cape Hatteras National Seashore, the Wright Brothers Memorial, lighthouses, beautiful beaches, and more.
• North Carolina Filming Locations – Did you know North Carolina is a hotspot for filming? Check out famous movie locations from The Hunger Games, Dirty Dancing, I Know What You Did Last Summer, Talledega Nights, and Nights in Rodanthe. Wilmington alone has been home to many tv series including Dawson’s Creek, East Bound and Down, Sleepy Hollow, and One Tree Hill.
• Fall Foliage Road Trip – North Carolina is beautiful all year long, but in the fall the western half of the state really puts on a show. Road trip through Blowing Rock, Boone, and Asheville during October to see peak fall foliage. We highly recommend visiting some of NC’s epic waterfalls during this road trip as well.
• NC BBQ Trai l – There’s no shame in my game. We’re all about searching out the best places to eat when we travel. And North Carolina knows how to do BBQ! Our favorites are Prime in Knightdale, B’s Barbecue in Greenville, and
• Coastal North Carolina – Hit up some of the lesser known beaches along the incredible NC coastline. We suggest Wrightsville Beach , Sunset Beach, Kure Beach, and Topsail Beach.

NC Road Trip

If you’re trying to hit all the highlights in one big NC road trip, I’ve put together this ultimate North Carolina road trip itinerar y for your family. But, because I’m also a realist, I’ve split up this itinerary into two seven day itineraries for those of you who can’t swing a two week trip.

If you can do it all at once, rock on. If you only have one week of vacation, choose the eastern 7 day North Carolina itinerary one year for a summer vacation and choose the western 7 day itinerary the following year for a fall vacation.

Are we there yet? Check out our epic list of 250 road trip questions to keep the whole car entertained along the way!

The Ultimate North Carolina Road Trip Itinerary

So…without further ado, here is my ultimate North Carolina road trip itinerary including my top 10 picks of cool cities to visit in NC:

• Day 1: Raleigh
• Day 2: Rocky Mount
• Day 3: Outer Banks: Kill Devil Hills
• Day 4: Outer Banks: Nags Head
• Day 5: Outer Banks: Ocracoke
• Day 6: Wilmington
• Day 7: Wilmington
• Day 1: Charlotte
• Day 2: Charlotte
• Day 3: Asheville
• Day 4: Asheville, Cherokee
• Day 5: Asheville
• Day 6: Boone
• Day 7: Boone, Depart for Home

If you’ve always wanted to visit the Outer Banks, soak up some sun along our amazing National seashore, see epic North Carolina waterfalls, or have been planning a road trip to the Biltmore Estate or scenic Blue Ridge Parkway, then we have got you covered. We’re hitting all the best things to do in North Carolina in one ultimate NC road trip.

Ready? Let’s get this road trip party started!

Road tripping is the perfect family vacation!! Need help planning? Don’t forget these road trip essentials or simply grab our free printable worksheets below!

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Best Cities to Visit in North Carolina on a NC Road Trip

We’ll be highlighting some popular cities in NC but also some of the best small towns along the way!

We’re kicking off this road trip in Raleigh or Charlotte . Why? Well, because if you’re flying into the area, you’re likely to start your road trip from one of our major international airports: RDU in Raleigh or CLT in Charlotte.

Raleigh, NC

Welcome to the state capitol, Raleigh, North Carolina! Head downtown to check out the shopping and art scene , Fayetteville Street, museums, and Marbles Kids Museum .

Want to get outside? Check out Pullen Park, Umstead Park, or the NC Farmers Market. If you have time, be sure to catch a Hurricanes hockey game or one of our epic college sports match ups! There are so many fun things to do in Raleigh , you could easily spend a few days here.

Raleigh is an up and coming foodie destination! Wondering what to eat and drink in Raleigh? We recommend:

• The Pit Authentic Barbecue or Cowfish
• Brewery Bhavana , Vidrio or Poole’s Diner for an adult dinner.
• Fresh Local Ice Cream or Bittersweet for drinks and dessert.

(If you’re road tripping with kids here are a few more ideas of things to do in Raleigh with kids and family friendly restaurants .)

Rocky Mount, NC

Rocky Mount, NC is the perfect stop for any road trip through North Carolina! Situated conveniently at the intersection of Interstate 95 and Highway 64 there are a ton of fun things to do in Rocky Mount!

Since you only have one day, you cannot miss visiting the Rocky Mount Mills, a restored cotton mill now housing five craft breweries, three restaurants, and the cutest coffee shop you ever did see! There’s also a ton of room for kids to run and play to get out some of that energy.

Love the outdoors? Spend some time exploring the trails at Battle Park. For a completely unique experience, make sure to spend the night stay at River & Twine , the world’s largest tiny house hotel!

Want more details? Read more in my family friendly guide of things to do in Rocky Mount, NC , extensive guide to the Rocky Mount Mills , and find out our top choices of where to eat in Rocky Mount .

NC’s Outer Banks: Kill Devil Hills, Nags, Head, & Ocracoke

Pack up the car, it’s time to head 2.5 hours to the OBX! With over 200 miles of coastline, you’ll never cover the entire Outer Banks in just a few days, but you can certainly see some of the highlights. The Outer Banks is a must on any NC road trip.

We recommend staying in the centrally located Kill Devil Hills or Nags Head so that you can make the most of your visit. In just two days your family can visit the Wright Brother’s National Memorial, Jockey’s Ridge State Park (the tallest active dune system on the east coast of the USA), Bodie Island Lighthouse, and spend some time on the beach. If you’re up for a little more driving, head north an hour to Corolla to see the wild horses, an absolutely unforgettable experience!

Need more ideas of what to do in the Outer Banks? Read my family friendly guide to the Outer Banks and Corolla .

OBX : What does OBX mean? OBX is simply a local abbreviation for the Outer Banks. From hang gliding, to history, to getting your foodie fix there are endless options in the Outer Banks!

Last on our Outer Banks tour, you’re going to head south to Ocracoke. Make sure to set your alarm as you’ll have to catch the ferry to get to this picturesque North Carolina destination. Ocracoke definitely belongs on any NC bucket list . Slow down and savor this tiny island’s pristine beaches, cute shops, and friendly locals. But if slowing down really isn’t your thing, don’t worry. You can also choose to spend your day surfing, paddle boarding, kitesurfing, fishing, or kayaking. The village wide speed limit is 20 mph and you’ll see most people walking, biking, or using a golf cart to get around!

KNOW BEFORE YOU GO : Make your ferry reservation in advance during the busy summer months so you don’t miss out on precious time on the island!

Looking for somewhere to stay? Check out these awesome family friendly AirBnB’s in the Outer Banks and our family favorite place to stay: The Saturday House .

Wilmington, NC

Get up bright and early because today will consist a lot of travel time! The ferry to Cedar Island from Ocracoke takes around two hours. Enjoy your time on the ferry soaking in the beautiful views because you’ll have another three hours in the car driving the rest of the way to Wilmington. Not to worry though, you’ll have plenty of options for small cute NC towns to stop for food, to stretch your legs and find some fun things to do!

Once you’ve arrived in Cedar Island, we recommend driving one more hour to Beaufort, NC for some lunch. Spend some time wandering this absolutely adorable small NC town! It will steal your heart, I promise. Already been to Beaufort? Try stopping in one of these other unique small towns in NC on your way to Wilmington: Morehead City, Surf City, or Topsail Beach.

Since you’ll be arriving in Wilmington later in the day, we’d go straight downtown to explore the Riverwalk area, maybe take a carriage tour, and grab dinner.

Fill your second day in Wilmington with a visit to the Battleship North Carolina, historical Fort Fisher, Carolina Beach State Park, more water sports, or just lounging on the beautiful beaches.

Need more ideas of fun things to do? Read our family friendly guide to Wilmington, NC , Wrightsville Beach , and Carolina Beach, NC !

Trying to decide where to eat in Wilmington? Our quick picks of where to eat in Wilmington:

• K38 Baja Grill (Best Mexican on the face of the planet.)
• Dockside (Waterfront dining)
• Indochine (Thai/ Vietnamese)
• Circa 1922 (Tapas and sushi)

For a full list, check out our guide to the best restaurants in Wilmington .

Need somewhere to stay? We recommend the Courtyard Carolina Beach Oceanfront and the Courtyard Wilmington Downtown .

Charlotte, NC

On the road again…drive 3.5 hours to Charlotte, NC! Here are some fun things to do in Charlotte depending on the time of year you are visiting:

• US National Whitewater Center – check out the whitewater rafting, ropes course, or the many mountain biking trails.
• Visit the NASCAR Hall of Fame or catch an actual race!
• Love a theme park? Spend the day at Carowinds .
• Get your art on at The Mint Museum.
• Find some family fun and learn something too at Discovery Place.
• Soak up the beauty of Daniel Stowe Botanical Gardens.
• Catch a pro football game at the Bank of America stadium, a show at the Blumenthal Performing Arts Center, or even a concert at the Spectrum Center.

Need somewhere to stay? We really love the AC Hotel by Marriott if we’re looking to stay downtown and the Courtyard Charlotte Concord if we’re staying near the racetrack.

Pro-Tip: If you’re into fall foliage…then these next three stops are where it’s at! But make your plans in advance, this area gets super busy in October for peek leaf peeping!

Asheville, NC

Hop into the car for your two hour drive this morning to Asheville, NC! Asheville is one of the coolest cities in NC with a ton of unique things to do! Don’t miss a visit to The Biltmore Estate , Chimney Rock State Park , Sliding Rock, and diving head first into the amazing food and beer scene! If you’ve been planning a road trip to the Biltmore Estate or wanting to see some North Carolina waterfalls, here is your chance!

There are a ton of unique places this area of the state like fun mountain cabins and these cool North Carolina treehouses . If you’re looking to stay in downtown Asheville, we highly recommend the Renaissance Asheville Hotel .

Need more details? Check out our guides to visiting Asheville and The Biltmore Estate.

Cherokee, NC

Although we recommend staying in the Asheville area as your home base for this North Carolina road trip (to minimize switching accommodations every night) a day trip to Cherokee, NC is a must! Cherokee is your gateway to Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Here you can spend your time hiking, biking, or swimming and learn about the Cherokee Indians! And if gambling is your thing, then make sure to check out one of the best casinos in the Southeast: Harrah’s Cherokee Casino Resort.

This morning’s scenic drive is about an hour and a half to get to Grandfather Mountain . Spend the morning here before driving on a half an hour to Boone, North Carolina! Check out the views on the Blue Ridge Parkway , enjoy some serious family fun at Tweetsie Railroad , go gem mining, and check out the adorable town of Blowing Rock! Fit in a trip to Linville Gorge and Linville Falls your final morning before heading back home.

Insider Tip: Visit to the Mast General Store and the Daniel Boone Inn for a unique North Carolina experience!

What is the best time of year to travel to North Carolina?

North Carolina is beautiful year round, however there are pros and cons to each area and travel season.

• SUMMER in NC : We love to recommend travel to NC in the spring and fall but if you’re really looking to enjoy our amazing beaches, you may want to travel during the summer. But beware! Most of the state gets very hot and humid throughout the summer. Our beaches are insanely popular during the summer so make sure to plan in advance so you don’t miss out!
• FALL in NC : If you’re looking for incredible fall foliage and more mild beach weather, then consider traveling in autumn. But beware! We are smack dab in the middle of hurricane alley. There is always a chance of a hurricane in late summer, early fall. The mountains are also very popular this time of year so book early to guarantee you get a reservation.
• WINTER in NC : Winter is generally very mild in NC but you may have a chance of snow in the western half of the state. Pack a warm coat and you should be just fine.
• SPRING in NC : Finally spring is lovely time to travel the entire state as long as you can handle the pollen! The temperatures are warming up, the flowers are blooming, but you the ocean may be a little too cold still for swimming.

Share your epic road trip on social media with these inspiring road trip captions and quotes !

Bonus 10 Day NC Road Trip Itinerary

IF you’ve been around a while, you’ll know our family loves a ten day vacation. For some reason that amount of time works for us. So…I put together a fun 10 day NC road trip itinerary . You won’t see as much of the coast but you can still see many of the highlights.

• Day 1: Rocky Mount
• Day 2: NC’s Outer Banks
• Day 3: NC’s Outer Banks
• Day 4: New Bern, Wilmington
• Day 5: Wilmington
• Day 6: Charlotte
• Day 7: Asheville
• Day 8: Asheville
• Day 9: Boone
• Day 10: Raleigh

Fun Things to Do in North Carolina

So… have we provided enough ideas for you to figure out what to do in North Carolina?? We’re proud to call NC home and love exploring our state. We’re always discovering new and fun things to do! Are you ready to start planning your ultimate North Carolina road trip itinerary? We love trip planning and are happy to help create an itinerary that fits your travel needs and wants. Feel free to reach out by leaving a comment below or DM me on Instagram with questions.

What’s the first thing you’re going to do during your NC road trip?

Pin this Ultimate North Carolina Road Trip Itinerary!

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27 comments.

Goodness you have sooo many fun sounding ideas. I have to admit, I am not a big fan of cities, so I might adjust it to spend more time on the island and then loooads of time hiking in the mountains and searching for waterfalls!

Still, however you split your time, NC looks like great fun, especially in the summer!

There are so many great places in NC to enjoy the outdoors and the cutest small towns too!!

Asheville has been on my wish list for years. Pinned your post and I hope to plan a trip to NC in the future!

Asheville is amazing!! Definitely worth a visit!!

This road trip looks awesome! I would love to ride the white water and see Biltmore Estate and see all of the other sites you mentioned. I’m bookmarking this for later this year!

I just moved to North Carolina in February and am very much looking forward to exploring. My hubby and I love road trips – so your post is perfect!

Welcome to NC!! Feel free to reach out if you have any questions!!

I have never thought of North Carolina as a travel destination. But this itinerary is such a fun way to experience the best this state has to offer. Very impressive. Thank you!

I think NC is overlooked a lot as a travel destination!! So much to discover!!

The whitewater center looks especially fun! I’ll definitely keep this guide handy when I visit NC. Thanks for this! 🙂

North Carolina looks so beautiful! In addition to New Hampshire, North Carolina is also a state I still haven’t explored on the east coast. My two top travel destinations in NC are Charlotte and Asheville. I’m definitely keeping this post handy. 🙂

This sounds like an amazing road trip! I’ve been to Raleigh but haven’t had the chance to see the rest of the state. I’d love to visit Charlotte, Asheville and the Outer Banks. Great tips and route info!

I haven’t been to NC in a couple years, but I’ve been to Raleigh, Wilmington, Charlotte, and Asheville! <3 Loved the beaches in Wilmington and loved pretty much everything about Asheville–I'd love to go back again someday! *-*

Thanks for this wonderful guide! North Carolina is somewhere I’d love to visit so I’m going to keep your post handy for a future visit!

Hannah | https://getlost.blog/

North Carolina is one of the best states in the Eastern part of the US. So diverse. Great ideas here for sure!!

Your road trip itineraries are THE BEST! I get done reading and want to go…like now! Thanks for sharing these details and for making this trek feel totally do-able!

NC Is my happy place! My family is in Cary, so we spent alot of time there. Last summer we went to Kure Beach, it was so great! I love the OBX too. Have not explored more to the west.

So many beautiful places to explore in NC. Asheville and Outer Banks are on my list. Saving this!

I’ve never been to NC but this post just made me put it in my bucket list. Thanks for sharing!

So many places to visit. I haven’t been to this area so looking forward to trying some of your suggestions.

This is wonderful! I just added a ton of notes to my Roadtripper Itinerary for our SE Road trip. The restaurants in Wilmington look amazing! I’m already drooling! 🙂 – Linzey @thefamilyfuntour

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The Perfect North Carolina Road Trip Itinerary

August 23, 2020 //  by  Follow Me Away //   Leave a Comment

There’s no better way to see the wealth of natural beauty that North Carolina has to offer than by taking a North Carolina road trip.

With so many picturesque sites, impressive pieces of architecture, and historically rich cities, it can be overwhelming to try to put together a North Carolina itinerary. But this 15-stop guide will help with your planning and will ultimately take you on an unforgettable adventure around the state.

Whether you’re marveling at the grandeur of the Biltmore Estate, eating delectable BBQ and donuts in Durham, or are soaking in the jaw-dropping views from the Mile High Swinging Bridge, your North Carolina road trip is sure to be thrilling.

So pack your bags and bring a big appetite for food and adventure among the mountains, forests, and cities of North Carolina.

Getting To North Carolina

North Carolina offers a number of different airport options both regional and international, however, Raleigh-Durham International Airport and Charlotte-Douglas International Airport will be your best bet as they offer the largest variety of flight options.

Raleigh-Durham International Airport is particularly convenient as it provides easy access to The Triangle, a region that includes Raleigh, Durham, and Chapel Hill as well as their respective universities. For purposes of the North Carolina itinerary we’ve mapped out for you, you’ll be flying into Raleigh-Durham and out of Charlotte or vice versa.

You can of course alter this itinerary however you see fit. In fact, if you’re coming from one of the destinations that have non-stop flights to Asheville Regional Airport you might consider adjusting your trip to fly in and out of Asheville.

Don’t forget to check out some of the Coolest Airbnbs In North Carolina before you go!

Getting Around North Carolina

You will definitely need to rent a car for your North Carolina road trip. Though you’ll be spending time in and passing through major cities, you’ll also be driving through the mountains and national forests.

You have plenty of options when renting a car from either the Raleigh-Durham or Charlotte airport including Alamo, Avis, Budget, Hertz, etc., and can book a car online ahead of time and hop on the car rental shuttle to pick up your car when you arrive.

If you’d prefer to take the bus during the initial leg of your journey while you’re still in The Triangle region, you do have the option of using the GoTriangle bus service. Though this is an option, we highly suggest using a rental car even within the bigger cities so as to maximize your time and ability to alter plans in each place.

Stop 1: Enjoy Duke University’s Gothic Architecture In Durham

Since you’ll be flying into the Raleigh-Durham airport, Durham is a natural starting point for your North Carolina road trip. Durham offers a little bit of everything including architectural masterpieces, locations rich with history, beautiful natural landscapes, and delicious food to fuel your adventures.

Durham is home to Duke University and its stunning Gothic architecture. Besides the architectural beauty of the campus you’ll also find beauty at the Sarah P. Duke Gardens, a perfect place to take an afternoon stroll. It is one of the best photography spots in Durham!

Bennett Place in Durham holds particular historical significance as the site where the largest surrender of a Confederate troop occurred during the Civil War. The reconstructed farmhouse is now a museum where you learn more about the waning weeks of the war. You can learn some Facts About North Carolina with all the historical places you will see!

Natural beauty is found just a short drive from downtown at Eno River State Park . 30 miles of hiking trails take you beside the shallow river, and if you can find an area deep enough for kayaking, you can enjoy a day out on the water.

When you get hungry from your adventures, grab a delicious BBQ dinner at the Q shack and finish it off with irresistible donuts from Monuts or Rise Biscuits & Donuts . And to complete your exciting day, grab tickets to the National Tour of a Broadway show at the Durham Performing Arts Center (DPAC) .

Where to stay in Durham:

Affordable: Charming modern house close to Duke/RTP/Downtown. Check rates: Airbnb.com

Mid-range: Modern Tiny House in the Trees. Check rates: Airbnb.com

Stop 2: Hike The Trails At Hanging Rock State Park For Excellent Views and Lacy Waterfalls

Hanging Rock State Park encompasses over 7,000 acres of outdoor paradise in the Sauratown Mountains. From hiking and swimming to waterfalls and caves you’ll have more than enough to keep you busy during your time at the park.

We suggest starting at the visitor’s center, which is the rough access point for a number of hikes/sites including the park’s namesake, Hanging Rock . A 2.6-mile moderately difficult round trip hike will take you up to Hanging Rock where you’ll be met with spectacular views.

Though the waterfalls in Hanging Rock State Park aren’t particularly magnificent, they are beautiful despite being small and are much-appreciated rewards for the minimal hiking efforts required to get to them. A .4-mile round trip hike beginning just outside the visitor’s center will take you to Upper Cascade Falls .

To continue seeking out the falls within the park, hike .8 miles round trip to Window Falls and Hidden Falls or hike .4 miles round trip to Tory’s Falls with the added bonus of Tory’s Den , a small cave.

Summer lake days are irresistibly fun for everyone in the family whether you’re swimming, taking a canoe or rowboat rental out on the water, or picnicking on the lake’s edge. To complete the ultimate outdoor experience, bring along your tent and set up camp in the park or stay at one of the family cabins.

Where to stay near Hanging Rock State Park: 

Luxury: Cabin with incredible views 15 min to Hanging Rock. Check rates: Airbnb.com

Stop 3: Soak In The Views From The Blowing Rock In The Blue Ridge Mountains

Small but mighty, the town of Blowing Rock in North Carolina’s High Country, offers immense natural beauty as one might expect from a town along one of the most scenic drives in North Carolina, the Blue Ridge Parkway.

A North Carolina road trip stop at Blowing Rock would not be complete without a visit to the actual Blowing Rock itself. Take a short walk to the edge of the cliff 4,000 feet above sea level that hangs over John’s River Gorge.

Spectacular views of the mountains and forests beyond await you from The Blowing Rock, as well as an unusual upwards wind that sends light objects right back in the direction they came from. This upwards wind is thought to be the result of a legend in which a Cherokee brave who leaped from the rock was blown back up to his lover by the Great Spirit.

Back in town you can continue your exploration of Blowing Rock’s natural beauty with a hike into the New Years Creek Gorge on the Glen Burney Trail . A 2.7-mile hike will take you to three waterfalls including The Cascades, Glen Burney Falls, and Glen Marie Falls making for a very worthwhile expedition.

Just outside of Blowing Rock is Moses H. Cone Memorial Park and the Flat Top Manor , the summer home, and estate of Moses and Bertha Cone all open for your exploration. Take a tour of the manor , hike the carriage trails within the estate, or fish in the lakes if you have a fishing license, and enjoy the blissful beauty of the area.

Where to stay near Blowing Rock:

Mid-range: Gorgeous Gorge. Check rates: Airbnb.com

Stop 4: Walk The Mile High Swinging Bridge At Grandfather Mountain

For breathtaking views of North Carolina’s High Country, you’ll continue your North Carolina road trip with a stop at Grandfather Mountain and the Mile High Swinging Bridge . A drive to the top of the mountain gives you easy access to this remarkable suspension bridge (the highest suspension footbridge in the United States), and its 360-degree panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

Though walking the suspension bridge is certainly a highlight of Grandfather Mountain, you’ll also want to visit the wildlife habitats that allow you close encounters with elusive animals in a habitat more natural to them than in a zoo. You can also visit the nature museum to learn more about the natural history of the mountain or go hiking through the striking landscape instead of just gazing at its beauty from afar.

There is an entrance fee to Grandfather Mountain, however, if you’re an avid, fit hiker you can choose to access the mountain from backcountry trails within Grandfather Mountain State Park . These trails are notoriously difficult however, often requiring the help of cables and ladders, and the often vicious wind and weather conditions of the area add to the challenge.

If you decide you’re up for strenuous, adventurous hiking, you might try tackling the Grandfather Trail starting at the Swinging Bridge Parking lot and continuing on 2.4 miles to Calloway Peak. It can be an out and back hike or you can return on the Underwood Trail to create a loop.

If you happen to be starting your North Carolina road trip in July, be sure to check if you’ll be in town for the annual Grandfather Mountain Highland Games in McRae Meadows. Whether you’re watching the Caber Toss or are dancing along to a fiddle and drums, this impressive event in celebration of Scottish heritage and tradition is full of entertainment you won’t want to miss.

Where to stay near Grandfather Mountain:

Luxury: Misty Mountain Manor. Check rates: Airbnb.com

Stop 5: Hike To Viewpoints Where You Can Admire The Three-Tiered Linville Falls

You’ll see quite a few waterfalls during the course of your North Carolina road trip, but Linville Falls is at the top of the list. You’ll find these beautiful falls at around Mile Marker 316.4 along the Blue Ridge Parkway. It’s proximity to one of the most famous scenic drives in North Carolina certainly adds to its appeal.

You can view the three-tiered falls from a couple of trails of differing difficulty levels.

A moderate 1.6-mile round trip hike on the Erwins View Trail will take you to four different lookout points great for photographing the falls from different angles. Roughly .7 miles into the hike will be your first chance to see both the upper and lower falls in all their glory.

For a more challenging, steeper hike, take the Linville Gorge Trail that has you descending down into Linville Gorge for an up-close and personal look at the base of the waterfall. The striking gorge has been nicknamed the “Grand Canyon of the Southern Appalachians.”

Though you’re not allowed to swim in the pool at the base of the falls, it’s a serene spot to relax, take a moment to soak it all in, and maybe even have a picnic. If you plan to end your day at the falls you can even pitch a tent and camp along the Linville River, a beautiful place to spend the night and bask in nature’s beauty.

Where to stay near Linville Falls:

Mid-range: RetroModern in the Woods Steps from Linville Gorge. Check rates: Airbnb.com

Stop 6: Hike Through Rhododendrons and Gnarled Trees At Craggy Gardens

Though driving the Blue Ridge Parkway is often associated with soaking in the vibrant red and gold of the fall leaves, summer wildflowers at the Craggy Gardens are equally spectacular. This Natural Heritage Area is home to an abundance of rhododendrons in the summer that spread across the Great Craggy Mountains.

The visitor’s center, picnic area, and hiking trails are all located between Mileposts 364.1 and 367.6 along the Blue Ridge Parkway. Whether you’re seeking the rhododendrons at the height of their season in June, enjoying the many other blooming wildflowers of the area, or are looking for the most impressive views, you’ll be happy to know the Craggy Gardens Trail and the Craggy Pinnacle Trail offer all of the above.

The Craggy Gardens Trail will take you .3 miles through lush forest, rhododendrons in June, and berries in late summer, to a trail shelter at Craggy Flats at which point you’ll head to the left down a spur trail to an overlook. Back on the main trail, another .5 miles will lead you to the picnic area where you can settle in for lunch or relax in a nearby gazebo.

Even more impressive is the 1.4-mile round trip hike on the Craggy Pinnacle Trail through rhododendrons, an abundance of other blooming wildflowers, and gnarled sweet birch trees like something out of a fairytale story. At the pinnacle, you’ll have 360-degree views of the Blue Ridge Mountains, perfect for watching sunrise or sunset.

Where to stay near Craggy Gardens:

Affordable: Yome Away from Home. Check rates: Airbnb.com

Stop 7: Tour The Biltmore Estate and Working Artist Studios In Asheville

A trip to the Blue Ridge Mountains is not complete without a visit to the art-centric, beauty of a town, Asheville. Beer, great food, museums, a mansion, and landscapes that will have your jaw on the floor await you.

The Biltmore Estate , owned by the Vanderbilts, is at the top of our list of things to do in Asheville. America’s largest privately-owned home and the 8,000-acre estate can now be enjoyed by visitors looking to get a glimpse of the majestic grandeur of the mansion with its 250 rooms, Renoir paintings, impressive library, 16th-century tapestries, and more.

Beyond the house, itself is a magnificent, blooming garden and many miles of hiking and biking trails. Wine connoisseurs will also enjoy a tour of the Biltmore’s winery and vineyards followed by wine tasting.

When you’re done exploring the grounds of the Biltmore, head to the River Arts District in town for a unique experience visiting the working studios of artists creating everything from jewelry and pottery to furniture and clothing. Check out a map of the River Arts District to guide you from studio to studio as you watch artists at work, buy their creations, participate in classes, and intersperse it all with stops at the excellent eateries and breweries along the way.

For another wonderfully unique Asheville experience, head outdoors for the No Taste Like Home foraging tour where a knowledgeable guide will lead you through the forest giving tips for how to safely pick the correct kinds of mushrooms and other edible plants. Following the tour, you’ll head to a restaurant where a chef will take your findings of the day and prepare a delicious meal for you to eat!

If you don’t mind splurging a bit on accommodations, book a room at the historic Omni Grove Park Inn , listed on the National Register of Historic Places. You’ll be greeted with breathtaking views and a first-class spa and golf course perfect for a luxurious vacation of relaxation and good times.

Where to stay in Asheville:  

You will want to check out our blog post on the Best Airbnbs In Asheville for our specific suggestions! But if you want a few quick suggestions, here are some top picks!!

Mid-range: Gashes Fluss Haus. Check rates: Airbnb.com

Mid-range: Eclectic and Stylish Simplicity in a Rustic Setting. Check rates: Airbnb.com

Stop 8: Hike Waterrock Knob For Great Views And An Eerie Plane Crash Site

As you continue following your North Carolina itinerary you’ll find yourself enjoying the highest elevation visitor center along the Blue Ridge Parkway at Waterrock Knob. The views from the visitor center alone are reason enough to stop here, as well as the perfect setting it provides for watching spectacular sunrises and sunsets.

If you’re in a hiking mood however or are determined to reach the highest point along the Blue Ridge Parkway, we highly suggest taking the 1.2-mile round trip Waterrock Knob Trail to the summit. Though the hike isn’t particularly long, the steep nature of the trail makes it challenging.

Though the views from the top of Waterrock Knob are worthy of your time, a continuation of the hike holds additional intrigue in the form of the hidden wreckage of a small plane crash. A spur trail will take you across to Browning Knob where you’ll find the crash for a total of roughly 2.5 miles round trip.

The plane crashed in 1983 carrying only the pilot and one passenger, neither of whom survived. The site is eerie and the hike isn’t easy, but it’s worth the extra mileage to survey the wreckage.

Where to stay near Waterrock Knob:

Mid-range: Keaton Cottage. Check rates: Airbnb.com

Stop 9: Explore Waterfalls, Historic Sites, and Breathtaking Landscapes At Great Smoky Mountains National Park

For purposes of this North Carolina road trip, we’ll be focusing on the south side of Great Smoky Mountains National Park as the rest of the park actually lies in Tennessee. This is one of the most visited National Parks in the United States and with free entry and astounding natural scenery it’s no secret why.

Chasing waterfalls never gets old and the North Carolina side of Great Smoky Mountains National Park has waterfalls galore. A hike in the Deep Creek area will allow you to see three waterfalls at once.

Multiple trails loop around to hit each of the waterfalls creating a minimum 2.4-mile round trip route that can be extended if you wish. Along the way you’ll see Juney Whank Falls, Tom Branch Falls, and Indian Creek Falls.

The waterfall tour doesn’t have to end here, however. You can tackle a 4.2-mile hike to beautiful Mouse Creek Falls via the Big Creek Trail , or you can venture just outside the park for a .4-mile hike to Mingo Falls , one of the tallest waterfalls in the Southern Appalachians.

You’ll want to spend some time in Cataloochee Valley as well as touring the valley’s historic school, churches, barn, and homes surrounded by imposing mountains. If you’re trying to catch a glimpse of elk during your trip, the Cataloochee Valley is also the best place to spot the elk herd that was reintroduced into the park in 2001.

One of the most scenic drives in North Carolina is located right within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park allowing you to see the spectacular beauty of the area (particularly in fall when the leaves change color), from the comfort of your car. Lakeview Drive (also known as “The Road To Nowhere”) leads you 6 miles down scenic roads with views of Fontana Lake and the Appalachian Mountains before dead-ending due to the fact that the road was never completed.

Where to stay near Great Smoky Mountains National Park:

Mid-range: Cottontail Creek *hot tub*fireplace*AC*Gated*WIFI. Check rates: Airbnb.com

Stop 10: Swim Or Rent A Boat For A Fun Day On The Water At Fontana Lake

A 29-mile long lake surrounded by the Great Smoky Mountains? It’s as picturesque as it sounds.

There are a number of marinas you can rent boats from to travel down the lake and experience parts of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park in a remarkably unique way. You can rent anything from a Pontoon boat to a kayak depending on the kind of experience you’re looking for when exploring the lake.

Swimming is another popular way to experience the lake with plenty of public access points along the lake. Bring a picnic along and enjoy lunch at one of the picnic areas when you’re done swimming.

Though most people choose to spend their day on the water, it’s also possible to hike sections of the trails near the lake. The famous Appalachian Trail passes by the lake as well as the 35-mile Lakeshore Trail that ends at The Road to Nowhere.

The lake exists thanks to the construction of the Fontana Dam during World War II to generate electric power.  While visiting the lake, go ahead and park at the Visitor’s Center and take a stroll across the dam for some magnificent views.

Where to stay near Fontana Lake:

Mid-range: Cozy Creekside Cabin. Check rates: Airbnb.com

Stop 11: View The Cascading Whitewater Falls From Two Different Overlooks

Whitewater Falls holds the title of the highest waterfall east of the Rockies, so naturally, this stunner is on our North Carolina itinerary. You’ll be visiting the 411 ft. Upper Whitewater Falls .

There are two viewpoints providing excellent views of the Upper Falls, and the first viewpoint can be easily reached through a wheelchair-accessible walkway. Descending 154 steps will lead you to a lower lookout point with equally impressive views.

If you’re in the mood for a hike, a half-mile spur trail will take you to the Whitewater River and connect you with the Foothills Trail , a 76-mile trail that crosses over into South Carolina. Lower Whitewater Falls is located across the border in South Carolina so continuing a short distance along the Foothills Trail will allow you to reach the Lower Whitewater Falls.

When exploring Whitewater Falls be sure to stay on the trail at all times because venturing off the trail onto the wet, rugged terrain can prove fatal. There are plenty of great views to be enjoyed safely, so enjoy soaking in the beauty of the cascading falls.

Where to stay near Whitewater Falls:

Mid-range: Sapphire Daze. Check rates: Airbnb.com

Stop 12: Enjoy The Views Of The Blue Ridge Parkway From The Top Of Looking Glass Rock

Driving along the Blue Ridge Parkway you’ll spot the iconic Looking Glass Rock seemingly exploding through the forest canopy. Though it’s imposing and worth a look from afar, you can get up close and personal by hiking to the top of the sheer white-granite rock face and soaking in the world below and beyond.

6.2 miles of moderately difficult hiking and many switchbacks will take you up past the summit and the campsite to Looking Glass Rock and back down again. Spectacular views of the Pisgah Ridge and the Blue Ridge Parkway await you.

Be sure to exercise a healthy dose of caution when enjoying the views from Looking Glass Rock, particularly if you’re with children who might wander around. The rock is slick and steep and particularly dicey in the winter when a thin layer of ice coats the rock creating a mirror-like effect (how the rock earned its Looking Glass name).

As you continue on to Sliding Rock, make sure you make a quick stop for a view of Looking Glass Falls , which is just a short walk from the side of the road. Enjoy the beauty of this popular Pisgah National Forest waterfall or take a dip in the pool at its base on a hot day.

Where to stay near Looking Glass Rock:

Mid-range: Brevard Bike House. Check rates: Airbnb.com

Stop 13: Cool Off At Sliding Rock By Sliding Down The Rock Face Into A Plunge Pool

The enjoyment of North Carolina’s natural beauty continues at Sliding Rock, a 60-foot water slide designed entirely by nature. You’ll slide down the sloping rock face in the Pisgah National Forest into a cold 8-foot plunge pool (so be sure everyone in your group can swim).

There are few things more refreshing on a hot summer day than riding this natural slide on repeat. Be aware that this is an incredibly popular attraction so you’ll likely be waiting your turn in a long line, however, the experience is worth the wait.

A $3.00 entrance fee gets you into this thrilling family-friendly attraction, though you are welcome to visit for free in the off hours if you’re ok with the bathrooms being closed and not having a lifeguard on duty. You’ll want to wear old jean shorts and old tennis shoes you don’t mind getting chewed up as sliding down rock is bound to do some damage.

There are a number of observation decks for people to hang out and watch the sliders, however, once you see how much fun everyone’s having you likely won’t be sitting on the sidelines for long.

Where to stay near Sliding Rock:

Mid-range: West Lane Cottage in Downtown Brevard. Check rates: Airbnb.com

Stop 14: Soak Up The Views From Chimney Rock Before Swimming In Lake Lure

North Carolina trips just aren’t complete without a visit to the iconic Chimney Rock with its sweeping panoramic views. North Carolina has no shortage of impressive viewpoints, and Chimney Rock is among the best.

The 315-foot monolith is reachable through a combination of an elevator ride and an additional 44 steps to the top. For those looking to sweat a little extra for the jaw-dropping views of Hickory Nut Gorge and Lake Lure, we suggest taking the Outcroppings Trail that consists of roughly 500 steps and multiple other viewpoints along the way.

Chimney Rock is the feature attraction of Chimney Rock State Park , however, the rest of the park offers plenty of adventures as well. You might go hiking to the base of Hickory Nut Falls or all the way up to Exclamation Point , the park’s highest peak.

As you continue along your North Carolina road trip towards Charlotte, we highly suggest making a pit stop at Lake Lure , less than 10 minutes down the road from Chimney Rock State Park. Though the views of the lake from Chimney Rock are spectacular, why not experience the lake too, relaxing on the beach or swimming and kayaking in its waters.

Fans of the movie Dirty Dancing will particularly appreciate a visit to Lake Lure as the area provided several filming locations for the movie. Today you can attend the Dirty Dancing Festival each September and take part in watermelon races, dance lessons, the lake lift competition and so much more.

Where to stay near Chimney Rock:

Affordable/Mid-range: Sophie’s Cabin. Check rates: Airbnb.com

Stop 15: Satisfy Your Adrenaline Pumping Needs And Food Cravings In Charlotte

The final stop of your North Carolina road trip will lead you away from the lakes and mountains, back to city life in Charlotte. With major sports, amusement parks, museums, theaters, gardens, southern food, and breweries, Charlotte has something for everyone.

Freedom Park is the park to visit during your time in Charlotte. With a 7-acre lake, sports facilities, trails, a playground, and plenty of green grass, it’s the perfect spot to relax, set up camp for a few hours, and enjoy a picnic.

For adrenaline-pumping outdoor fun head to the U.S. National Whitewater Center , an Olympic training center where you’ll find endless activities waiting for you on and around the world’s largest man-made whitewater river. Activities include rafting, kayaking, zip-lining, rock climbing, adventure courses, and more.

There’s no better place to continue your outdoor adventures than the Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden with its interesting exhibits, events and festivals throughout the year, fountains, beautiful visitor’s pavilion with a stained-glass dome, impressive orchid display, and festive Christmas lights in the winter. Take your time wandering the garden’s pathways and enjoy the beauty of the blooming flowers.

When you’re ready to take a pause in your activities for a food break, a trip to the 7 th Street Public Market will have you eating well and eating local. This is the perfect way to support local businesses, eat delicious, fresh, reasonably priced food, and have a wide variety of options from sushi to crepes all in one place.

Before flying home, you might also consider catching the National Tour of a Broadway show at the Blumenthal Performing Arts Center , hopping on a rollercoaster at Carowinds Amusement Park , or delving into the history of NASCAR at the NASCAR Hall of Fame .

Where to stay in Charlotte:

Affordable: Queen City Flat. Check rates: Airbnb.com

Affordable/Mid-range: Duplex on Quiet Street in Heart of Art District. Check rates: Airbnb.com

We’re thrilled you’ve decided to embark on a North Carolina road trip. The views are astounding with majestic mountains, vibrant fall colors as far as the eye can see, and an abundance of cascading waterfalls.

North Carolina trips are magical, and it’s a special day when you get to experience it for yourself first hand. So pack your bags, get ready to enjoy this outdoor paradise, and if you have any questions as you prepare, feel free to let us know in the comments below!

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North Carolina’s 5 best road trips from the mountains to the coast

Jul 10, 2022 • 5 min read

While it’s possible to explore by bus or train, there’s nothing quite like navigating North Carolina's curving roads from behind the wheel of a car © Mint Images / Getty Images

If you’re looking for the road less traveled, you’ll find it in North Carolina . The scenery across the state ranges from rugged mountain vistas where Daniel Boone once traveled to the sandy coast where wild horses roam. 

While it’s possible to explore by bus or train, there’s nothing quite like navigating the state's curving roads from behind the wheel of a car. At 500 miles across, there's lots to explore, so give yourself plenty of time to see the changes in topography. From paths that follow the mighty rivers to the ferries connecting barrier islands, here are our favorite North Carolina road trips.

Blue Ridge Parkway: best road trip for slow travel

Cherokee to Cumberland Knob; 175 miles, multi-day trek 

Easily one of the best road trips in western North Carolina, if not the country, the Blue Ridge Parkway winds 469 miles up through  Virginia . It dates back to 1933 when US Senator Harry Byrd suggested connecting Virginia’s Skyline Drive to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park .

Construction began in 1935 and incorporated several New Deal programs. The final piece, the iconic Linn Cove Viaduct, was completed in 1987.

The viaduct is one of the most photographed spots on the parkway, but there’s so much more to see. On the southern end, learn about the history of the Cherokee Nation at the Museum of the Cherokee Indian . 

Mt Mitchell, the highest peak in the state, is right off the parkway, along with Linville Falls, one of the most famous waterfalls in the region. Moses Cone Memorial Park is a stunning home, now operating as an arts center.

The speed limit is 45mph or less for most of the multi-day journey, so take your time and plan on stopping often in the small towns nearby, whether for hikes or staying the night. Keep in mind that weather conditions may lead to closures, and some attractions and visitors' centers are only open from May to October. 

Best free things to do in North Carolina  

Cherohala Skyway (US 143): best road trip for mountain vistas 

Beech Gap to Robbinsville; approx. 30 miles, about two to three hours 

Opened in 1996, the 43-mile Cherohala Skyway travels between Tennessee and North Carolina through Nantahala National Forest. Encompassing 531,148 acres, Nantahala is the largest of the state’s four national forests, with more than 600 miles of trails . 

This route, which reaches 2000ft to 4000ft above sea level, is a nice alternative if you don’t want to commit to the longer Blue Ridge Parkway. Give yourself the entire day to detour.

The drive follows the curves of the Benton MacKaye Trail , named for the conservationist, and there are shorter hikes you can take from the trail. Stop at the overlooks for incredible views of Lake Santeetlah.

If you want to add to the drive, continue on US 129 and NC 28 to make the loop around Fontana Dam or head north into Tennessee for the circuitous Tail of the Dragon.

9 best places to visit in North Carolina  

Nantahala Byway (US 74): best road trip for outdoor adventurers 

Whittier to Marble; 43 miles, about two hours 

Another Western North Carolina gem is the Nantahala Byway, which weaves through the floor of the Nantahala Gorge. While US 74 continues west into Tennessee, the best section is the stretch of interconnected creeks that flow into the namesake river. 

While you could make the drive in less than two hours, this section of the North Carolina Smokies begs for further exploration. Book an excursion with one of the many river-rafting outfitters navigating the world-class rapids; if that's not enough adventure, many also offer canopy and zipline tours. 

Visit the southern shores of Fontana Lake or hike the trail to Findley Falls, one of many nearby waterfalls. The Nantahala Gorge area has glamping options too, including yurts and converted school buses. 

Outer Banks Scenic Byway: best road trip for beachgoers

Nags Head to Otway; approx. 140 miles, five hours

Despite the name, the Outer Banks Scenic Byway comprises many smaller interconnected roadways, including US 64/264, US 158 and NC 12. The chain of narrow barrier islands continues to the north, but the official byway only covers a portion.

The journey will take at least five hours from top to bottom, including two ferries between the islands. But along the way, travelers are met with stretches of quiet beaches, historic lighthouses and seasonal campgrounds. 

For pirate lore and buried treasure, head to the Graveyard of the Atlantic Museum on Hatteras Island , filled with artifacts pulled from shipwrecks, including Blackbeard’s Queen Anne’s Revenge. Admission is free, though donations are accepted. 

Also located on Hatteras is the Frisco Native American Museum , which highlights Native culture from all over the country through art, artifacts and handmade jewelry. There are also nature trails leading to acres of maritime forest.    

North Carolina’s best beaches

Yadkin Valley (US 68): best road trip for wine lovers 

Happy Valley to Pilot Mountain; 78 miles, two hours 

The Yadkin Valley is set between the mountains of Western North Carolina and the cities of the Piedmont. This combination of agricultural legacy and freshwater has created rich soil ideal for growing grapes. The region is now part of an American Viticultural Area spanning seven counties. 

There are nearly 50 wineries in total on this stretch of US 68, which can be driven (safely!) in two hours. Or you can take your time, following the Yadkin River and staying at cozy inns along the way. Jolo Winery and Stardust Cellars are just two of the many to choose from. 

Even if wine isn’t your thing, this region has plenty to offer. Wilkesboro is home to the annual bluegrass festival Merlefest, and two moonshine distilleries, Copper Barrel Distillery and Call Family Distillers. Head about 25 miles west to Lenoir to enjoy more than 60 outdoor sculptures set on 1400 acres at the Western North Carolina Sculpture Park. 

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North Carolina Road Trip Itinerary – A Complete Guide

Posted on Last updated: August 5, 2024

Categories USA , VANLIFE

Are you planning an exciting North Carolina road trip? If so, you’re in the right place! This ultimate North Carolina road trip guide and itinerary will take you on an unforgettable adventure along the East Coast. So get ready for the ultimate N.C. road trip to 8 unique cities along with their best sites and activities.  

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1. Charlotte: A Great Starting Point

2. brevard: land of the waterfalls, 3. bryson city: nantahala national forest, 4. asheville: craft beer and outdoor adventures, 5. blowing rock: picturesque scenery, 6. raleigh: cultural hotspot, 7. cape hatteras: tranquil beaches, 8. wilmington: history and beaches, other places to include on a n.c. road trip, how long for the best north carolina road trip, the blue ridge parkway, when to go road tripping nc, where to stay, enjoy your north carolina road trip, north carolina road trip itinerary.

• Book accommodation on the East Coast with  Booking.com
• Stay connected with a  local e-sim
• Explore the East Coast on a  best-selling tour .
• Don’t forget  travel insurance!

Charlotte, North Carolina’s most populous city, is the ideal starting point for your road trip.  If you’re flying in, you can land at the Charlotte Douglas International Airport. But, don’t stop there because Charlotte is also an awesome city to explore before you head off to see North Carolina’s natural beauty. 

While Charlotte is a business and financial hub, it lives up to its tagline:  “Charlotte’s got a lot.”  You can find  a lot to see and do in Charlotte  – award-winning cuisine and beer, diverse neighbourhoods and activities, a deep history, and excellent shopping.  

This  3-day Charlotte itinerary  is perfect for seeing the very best that the city has to offer. 

Things to Do in Charlotte:

• NoDa:  the arts and entertainment district where you can find local fare, music venues, breweries, trendy galleries, and more.
• Freedom Park:  a large lakeside park with trails, sports courts, and events.
• NASCAR Hall of Fame:  one of Charlotte’s most iconic sites.
• Wing Haven Garden & Bird Sanctuary:  lush gardens and bird sanctuary.

Charlotte to Brevard: about 2.5 hours; 130 miles

The waterfalls in North Carolina are unmatched, and Brevard is where you can find many of them. Brevard is referred to as ‘Land of the Waterfalls’ and boasts  over 250 waterfalls . Some are popular destinations, while others are hidden gems and offer a secluded getaway.  

What else makes Brevard such a special place? It’s a mountain biker’s paradise that’s home to the unique white squirrel. Not to mention it has some of the best hikes in North Carolina. 

Things to Do in Brevard:

• Looking Glass Falls:  60-foot waterfall off of U.S. 276, popular amongst travellers.
• Rainbow Falls:  moderate hike to a gorgeous waterfall on Horsepasture River.
• Bracken Preserve:  peaceful city park with biking and hiking trails. 
• Oskar Blues Brewery:  popular brewpub with free tours and good beer. 

Tip : If you have extra time, take a detour on The Blue Ridge Parkway for lookout points and jaw-dropping scenery.  

Related Read

18 Best Things To Do In Little Switzerland, NC

Brevard to Bryson City: about 1.75 hours; 90 miles

On your way to Bryson City, a nature enthusiast’s paradise, you’ll pass by Asheville (which you’ll come back to).  Bryson City is a small town but has no shortage of outdoor activities.

Known for a popular stop off the Appalachian Trail and a gateway to Great Smoky Mountains National Park, it’s the perfect place to spend a couple of days.  If you’re into camping, you’ll love Bryson City.

If you prefer not to camp, there are plenty of other  accommodation options . 

What to Do in Bryson City:

• Great Smoky Mountains National Park:  stunning national park with lush forests, vast wildflowers, hiking trails, waterfalls, and rivers.
• Juney Whank Falls:  moderate 0.8-mile trail to a 90-foot waterfall.
• Swinging Bridge Quiet Walkway Trailhead:  bridge with breathtaking views; perfect sunset spot.
• The Nantahala River Gorge:  enjoy whitewater rafting, kayaking, ziplining, fishing, and many more outdoor activities. 

Bryson City to Asheville via The Blue Ridge Parkway: about 2 hours; 90 miles 

I recommended taking a whole day for your journey to Asheville to allow for time to stop along the Blue Ridge Parkway.  This infamous drive alongside beautiful mountains offers many stopping points, such as  Grandfather Mountain  (with a swinging bridge and museum) and other scenic overlooks.

Once you arrive in Asheville, you’ll find an exciting mix of city and nature. Asheville is an energetic mountain town with so much to see and do. There is  tons to see and do in Asheville  for every kind of road tripper.

From fantastic food and beer and gorgeous architecture to outdoor adventures and a vibrant art scene, Asheville is a must-see for any North Carolina road trip. 

What to Do in Asheville: 

• Downtown Asheville:  a hip area that boasts galleries, food stores, boutiques, and breweries.
• Biltmore Estate:  a charming, gorgeous historical landmark, where George Washington Vanderbilt II lived in the 1800s.
• Craggy Gardens:  magical mountain scenery (especially at sunset) with hiking trails.
• Pisgah National Forest:  an outdoor slice of heaven with mountains, waterfalls, and trails.
• The French Broad River:  tubing, kayaking, and whitewater rafting with mountain views.

A Perfect Weekend in Asheville NC – 3 Day Itinerary

Asheville to Blowing Rock via The Blue Ridge Parkway: 2.75 hours; 94 miles

The jaw-dropping mountain panorama continues in the cosy mountain town of Blowing Rock.  Blowing Rock is one of the best little  mountain towns in North Carolina ! Here’s the perfect opportunity to slow down, spend time in nature, and explore outstanding sites and views.

Blowing Rock is often overlooked for Boone, a nearby, similar city. If you’re looking for a larger-in-size destination, you may want to check out Boone instead.  Or, if you have the time, explore both! They’re only 15 minutes from one another. 

What to Do in Blowing Rock: 

• Grandfather Mountain State Park:  huge mountain park that boasts picturesque scenery, various-levelled trails, rocky cliffs, and camping.
• Moses H. Cone Memorial Park:  a country estate on gorgeous grounds with a stunning mansion, lake, and trails.
• The Blowing Rock:  a million+-year-old rock that juts out 3,000 feet above the Johns River Gorge.
• Downtown Blowing Rock:  quaint area with unique boutiques, shops, and galleries. 

Blowing Rock to Raleigh: about 3 hours; 200 miles

Raleigh is a small city with huge charisma. While Raleigh has grown over the years, it still offers a small-town southern charm. It’s also one of the most cultural cities in the area, which is why I love it so much!

What to Do in Raleigh:

• Downtown Raleigh:  booming area with parks, historic neighbourhoods, diners, shops, and more. 
• Brewery Bhavana:  a trendy brewery that serves craft beer and dim sum.
• State Farmers Market:  large market featuring tons of local entrepreneurs (open 7 days a week).
• William B. Umstead State Park:  a perfect spot for campers, hikers, bikers, and anyone who enjoys time outdoors. 
• Goodnights Comedy Club:  fabulous venue for stand-up comedy.

Raleigh to Cape Hatteras: about 4 hours; 240 miles

  If getting away from the hustle and running away to the beach sounds up your alley, don’t skip Cape Hatteras. This long, narrow barrier islands stretch offers peace and quiet alongside the ocean. 

Honestly, I’m happy to spend my entire time at Cape Hatteras on the beach and relaxing, but there’s also even more to enjoy. And, if you’re camping, you’ll be happy to hear there are several campgrounds around Cape Hatteras.

What to Do in Cape Hatteras: 

• Beach activities:  fishing, swimming, and kayaking.
• Cape Hatteras Lighthouse:  1800s lighthouse (and the tallest in the U.S.!) you can climb for panoramic views of the ocean and scenic vistas.
• Buxton Woods Nature Trail:  3/4-mile trails through Buxton Woods (begins near the lighthouse).

Cape Hatteras to Wilmington: about 5 hours; 275 miles

Let the beaches continue, and take a trip to Wilmington to add some history and culture to the mix.  This lively riverfront city is a superb final stop on your North Carolina road trip itinerary and offers something for everyone.

What to Do in Wilmington: 

• Arlie Gardens:  gorgeous botanical gardens with colourful flowers and tons of old oak trees.
• Wilmington Riverwalk:  scenic boardwalk filled with iconic landmarks, artwork, shops, and restaurants.
• Historic District:  a downtown area with eclectic beer pubs, local restaurants, and intricate architecture. 
• African-American Heritage Tour:  sites that honour and share stories of African-American history (check out this self-guided tour).
• Wrightsville Beach:   a beautiful, large beach in a laid-back beach town next to Wilmington. 

You’ve made it to the final stop of your North Carolina itinerary! Want to make your trip longer or switch up some stops? Here are some other worthy places to visit in NC:

• Waynesville:  quaint, quiet mountain town (near Asheville).
• Fayetteville:  rich history and culture (between Wilmington and Charlotte).
• Greensboro:  parks and sporting events (near Raleigh).
• Kitty Hawk:  small, popular beach town (above Cape Hatteras).
• Little Switzerland : An East Coast hidden gem with  loads of things to see and do . 

13 Best Hidden Gem Vacation Spots on the East Coast

Tips for Your North Carolina Road Trip

I recommend  1-3 weeks  for your N.C. road trip. To complete the exact itinerary below, I suggest having at least 2 weeks. Of course, time will vary depending on how much you have and how you like to travel. 

I prefer slow travel to fully enjoy the experience and avoid tiring out. Whereas, I know many travellers prefer hopping from place to place to see as much as possible. 

This North Carolina itineraryfeatures stops that are all within two to five hours from the next. This makes it easier to skip a couple of places if you’re short on time or just make a quick stop. 

If you have more than a few weeks for your road trip, you may want to settle in and hang out in one place for a while. You can also add in some other stops since North Carolina is home to many remarkable cities.

You’ll find that this North Carolina road trip itinerary takes you along the Blue Ridge Parkway en route to a few stops, and I highly recommend you take time to stop and explore. This adventure is like no other!  While you can take the highway to save time, I don’t recommend that as you’ll be missing out on something special.

For this part of your trip, it’s best to start your travel day in the morning so that you can take the entire day to enjoy the journey. This scenic winding road stretches almost 500 miles through Virginia and North Carolina. It takes you past long-range vistas, rocky mountains, and charming towns.  

Most of the parkway in N.C. runs along the Blue Ridge Mountains, with plenty of stops to make along the way. Keep your eyes peeled for one-of-a-kind viewpoints that provide  epic photography opportunities.

North Carolina is a beautiful place to visit all year round. While I recommend taking your North Carolina road trip any time of year except for Winter, some may also want to avoid summer.

Winters in N.C. can get very cold, and there’s a good chance you’ll catch some snow. The snow is beautiful but not the best for driving. This is why I didn’t mention the skiing opportunities the Western North Carolina destinations have to offer. 

On the other hand, North Carolina summers can get hot – which as a Southern girl, I’m totally okay with. It allows you to check out the beaches and rivers and enjoy the water activities. 

For the most pleasant weather, I suggest taking your trip in the fall or spring. If you can swing it during autumn, you’re in for a treat!  North Carolina’s fall foliage is stunning. For the most amazing foliage colours, plan your trip for mid-October, and don’t skip the Blue Ridge Parkway!

In North Carolina, you can find several options for stopping and resting for the night or even a few days. There are accommodations for all kinds of travellers, including campgrounds, hotels, vacation rentals, and parking for  vanlifers . 

During my road trips, I enjoy finding unique campsites. With so many parks in North Carolina, you can find many paid sites at campgrounds and via  Vanlife apps  like Hipcamp.  If you prefer free self-contained vehicle camping, you can use the  Free Campsites website  or the iOverlander app.  

If you’re interested in hotels or vacation rentals, you can certainly find these options during your North Carolina road trip. I love to use  booking.com  for the best deals! 

There you have it – the ultimate North Carolina road trip itinerary. It’s been fun sharing all of my favourite N.C. spots with you, and I hope you’re excited about the journey!  Which destination are you most excited about checking out? Let us know! You can reach out to us in the comment section below.  Stay adventurous and happy travels.

Planning a trip around the US?

Check out our USA series  for more travel tips and advice. 

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Saturday 29th of July 2023

Absolutely amazing article love to read such Great Content which provides quality Knowledge as well as interesting facts.

Our Taste For Life

Wednesday 2nd of August 2023

Hello Hamed, thank you for the compliment! We hope you have a great trip to North Carolina, all the best!

Monday 21st of November 2022

Great post! Thanks for the info, can't wait to visit

Hello Kristenn, thank you for taking the time to comment! We hope you have a great trip to North Carolina!

3-WEEKS IN USA ITINERARY (with map) - Coasts, Road Trip

Saturday 23rd of July 2022

[…] Some amazing dishes that you can try out while staying here are chocolate chess pie, steamed oysters, shrimp hushpuppies, Malayan chicken tikka, and more. If you want to explore this state more, here’s a fun guide to the best North Carolina road trip itineraries. […]

13 Most Scenic Road Trips to Take in North Carolina

North Carolina, renowned for its varied landscapes that stretch from the Atlantic Ocean's sun-kissed beaches to the majestic peaks of the Appalachian Mountains, offers a collection of the most picturesque road trips in the United States. Whether you are drawn to the tranquility of coastal drives, the bustling excitement of vibrant city life, the peacefulness of mountain vistas, or the charming allure of historic small towns, North Carolina’s diverse routes cater to every traveler's taste. Here, we present thirteen of the most scenic road trips you can embark on in this beautiful state.

Blue Ridge Parkway

Often referred to as "America's Favorite Drive," the Blue Ridge Parkway offers stunning views of the Appalachian Highlands. Extending over 469 miles, primarily in North Carolina, this iconic route meanders through vibrant landscapes featuring dense forests, cascading waterfalls, and rolling meadows.

Along the way, travelers encounter a variety of wildlife, panoramic overlooks, and rich cultural history. Key highlights include the Linn Cove Viaduct, an engineering marvel seamlessly integrated into its natural surroundings, and Mount Mitchell, the highest peak east of the Mississippi. Historical sites like the Moses H. Cone Memorial Park add depth to the journey.

Outer Banks Scenic Byway

Outer Banks Scenic Byway stretches over 138 miles, offering breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean , Pamlico Sound, and the quaint villages dotting the coastline. This journey takes travelers through the heart of the Cape Hatteras National Seashore, renowned for its iconic lighthouses and a history steeped in maritime lore.

Along the way, visitors can immerse themselves in the area's unique culture, exploring local seafood eateries, engaging with friendly coastal communities, and witnessing the harmonious blend of nature and human history. The byway not only offers a chance to see the wild horses of Corolla but also leads to the Wright Brothers National Memorial, celebrating the birthplace of aviation.

Cherohala Skyway

Connecting Tellico Plains, Tennessee, with Robbinsville, North Carolina, the Cherohala Skyway is a lesser-known gem that offers a tranquil and scenic drive. Spanning 43 miles, this route takes you through the Nantahala National Forest and the Cherokee National Forest , presenting panoramic views of untouched wilderness. Along the way, travelers can enjoy the diverse flora and fauna, winding roads that ascend to breathtaking elevations, and numerous overlooks offering stunning vistas.

The skyway’s high-altitude vistas and lush landscapes make it a perfect destination for photographers and nature enthusiasts alike. Ideal for a leisurely drive, the Cherohala Skyway also offers access to various hiking trails and picnic spots, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the serene beauty of the Appalachian Mountains.

Waterfall Byway

Autumn view of Looking Glass Falls, North Carolina.

North Carolina’s Waterfall Byway, stretching for 98 miles, winds through the state's western landscape, an area boasting over 200 waterfalls. This scenic journey begins in Brevard, aptly nicknamed "The Land of Waterfalls," and traverses through lush forests and rugged terrain. Along this picturesque route, travelers encounter key attractions like the majestic Looking Glass Falls, the towering Whitewater Falls—one of the highest waterfalls in the Eastern United States, and the breathtaking vistas of Gorges State Park.

The byway, rich in natural beauty, also offers ample opportunities for outdoor activities. Enthusiasts can enjoy hiking along well-marked trails, fishing in pristine streams, and picnicking in serene spots surrounded by the tranquil beauty of the Appalachian Mountains. 

Sauratown Mountains Scenic Byway

Waterfall at Hanging Rock State Park, North Carolina.

The Sauratown Mountains Scenic Byway, stretching over 72 miles, offers a journey through a unique geological area in North Carolina, often referred to as "the mountains away from the mountains." This scenic route traverses through a landscape rich in natural beauty, cultural history, and agricultural heritage, winding past Pilot Mountain and Hanging Rock State Park. Along the way, visitors can explore the historical town of Danbury, discover local art at the Piedmont Craftsmen's Gallery, and indulge in the region's wineries.

These iconic landmarks provide opportunities for hiking, bird watching , rock climbing, and enjoying panoramic views. The byway also features beautiful streams, old-growth forests, and a diverse range of flora and fauna. Whether seeking adventure or relaxation, the Sauratown Mountains Scenic Byway is a captivating destination for travelers wanting to experience the essence of North Carolina's picturesque countryside.

Uwharrie Scenic Road

The Uwharrie Scenic Road, spanning approximately 50 miles, meanders through the Uwharrie National Forest, one of the oldest mountain ranges in North America , dating back over 500 million years. This captivating road trip offers stunning views of ancient peaks and dense, lush forests. It's a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering myriad activities like hiking along well-marked trails, fishing in clear streams, and boating in the expansive Badin Lake area.

Along the route, travelers can find picnic spots and camping sites, making it ideal for a family adventure or a solitary retreat. The Uwharrie Mountains, with their rich biodiversity and tranquil settings, provide a serene escape into nature's beauty. 

Forest Heritage National Scenic Byway

Travel through the heart of North Carolina’s timberland on the Forest Heritage National Scenic Byway, a 79-mile route that offers a journey through rich forests and the history of American forestry. This scenic drive takes you past stunning waterfalls, such as Looking Glass and Sliding Rock, and the famous Cold Mountain immortalized in literature and film. The route also leads to the Cradle of Forestry, the birthplace of forest conservation in America, where visitors can learn about the pioneering work of George Vanderbilt and forester Carl Schenck.

Along the way, explore the Pisgah National Forest, known for its lush landscapes and diverse wildlife. This byway is especially breathtaking in the fall when the leaves of oak, maple, and hickory trees turn vibrant shades of red, orange, and yellow, creating a mesmerizing display of autumn beauty.

Newfound Gap Road

Newfound Gap Road, stretching 31 miles through the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, is renowned for its spectacular mountain views. This includes the breathtaking scenery at the Newfound Gap overlook, which stands as the lowest drivable pass in the park. Along this route, history intertwines with natural beauty, offering glimpses into the park's past.

Visitors can access numerous hiking trails, including a segment of the famed Appalachian Trail, which traverses the Eastern United States. The road ascends to over 5,000 feet, showcasing diverse ecosystems from cove hardwoods to spruce-fir forests. It's also a prime spot for witnessing the park's diverse wildlife and experiencing the changing seasons, each offering a unique perspective of the Smokies. 

Cape Fear Coastal Byway

The Cape Fear Coastal Byway, stretching approximately 10.5 urban miles, showcases the historic southeastern coast of North Carolina. Winding through a region steeped in history, this byway offers a journey that is a harmonious blend of natural beauty and rich history. It features the meandering Cape Fear River, which is integral to the area's ecosystem and history and leads to the charming city of Wilmington , known for its well-preserved historic district and lively arts scene.

Along the way, picturesque beaches provide breathtaking views and opportunities for relaxation and recreation. Visitors can delve into the area's rich maritime heritage at the North Carolina Maritime Museum at Southport, where exhibits highlight the local nautical history. Alternatively, they can take a leisurely stroll along the scenic Riverwalk in Wilmington, which offers stunning riverfront views and a chance to explore unique shops and local dining.

Mount Mitchell Scenic Drive

This 52-mile drive offers a breathtaking ascent to Mount Mitchell, the highest peak east of the Mississippi at 6,684 feet. The journey provides awe-inspiring views of the Appalachian landscape, with lush forests, vibrant wildflowers, and diverse wildlife, culminating in the stunning panorama from the summit.

Along the way, explorers can stop at Mount Mitchell State Park, offering a range of hiking trails, including a trek to the summit, picnic areas, and educational exhibits at the park's museum. The highlight is the Mount Mitchell Observation Deck, providing an unrivaled view of the Appalachian Mountains. This route is not only a journey through stunning scenery but also a voyage through diverse ecosystems and rich American history.

Yadkin Valley Scenic Byway

Spanning 78 miles, the Yadkin Valley Scenic Byway is a delightful journey through North Carolina's burgeoning wine region, renowned for its unique microclimate and fertile soils ideal for vineyards. This route takes travelers through the heart of the Yadkin Valley, home to numerous vineyards and wineries that have garnered national acclaim for their fine wines.

Along this picturesque route, stops include the historic town of Elkin, where visitors can explore its rich history and local artisans, and the charming village of Rockford, offering a glimpse into the area's rich heritage and culture. Visitors can also enjoy the stunning natural landscapes, with opportunities for picnicking and photography, making the Yadkin Valley Scenic Byway a perfect blend of scenic beauty, culinary delight, and cultural exploration, all within the serene backdrop of North Carolina's rolling hills.

Tail of the Dragon at Deals Gap

For a more adventurous drive, the Tail of the Dragon at Deals Gap, with its 318 curves within a short but significant 11 miles, is a must-visit for thrill-seekers. This route, nestled in the Great Smoky Mountains on the North Carolina-Tennessee border, is prevalent among motorcyclists and sports car enthusiasts. The road offers an exhilarating driving experience surrounded by stunning forested scenery, with each curve presenting a new challenge.

The route's fame is also bolstered by its proximity to other notable roads like the Cherohala Skyway, making it a centerpiece in a region rich with scenic drives. The Tail of the Dragon is not just a road; it's a destination, offering a unique combination of natural beauty and driving excitement that's hard to find elsewhere.

Green Swamp Byway

The Green Swamp Byway, covering 52 miles, offers an intimate look into one of North Carolina's ecological treasures. This route winds through the Green Swamp Preserve, a unique coastal area known for its rare and diverse plant life, including several species of carnivorous plants like the Venus flytrap. The byway provides an exceptional opportunity for nature enthusiasts to explore a distinctive landscape made up of savannas, pocosins, and longleaf pine forests. Along the way, visitors may spot various wildlife, including rare butterflies and birds, and witness the preserve's role in preserving the state's natural history. The area is also a vital habitat for the endangered red-cockaded woodpecker and provides essential fire-dependent ecosystems.

Discover North Carolina's Scenic Splendor

North Carolina's diverse landscapes offer a rich tapestry of scenic road trips, each with its unique charm and allure. From the windswept beaches of the Outer Banks, where the Atlantic Ocean meets the shore, to the soaring peaks of the Appalachian Mountains with their breathtaking vistas, these routes provide an unparalleled opportunity to explore the state's natural beauty, cultural heritage, and historical significance. Have you embarked on any of these scenic North Carolina road trips, and if so, which was your favorite and why? Let us know in the comments!

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10 Scenic North Carolina Road Trips That Should Be On Your Bucket List

• The Tar Heel State offers endless options for scenic drives, from the stunning mountains to the amazing beaches and diverse landscapes.
• The Sandhills Scenic Drive showcases North Carolina's diverse ecosystems, with longleaf pine forests, glistening lakes, and charming historic downtowns.
• The Blue Ridge Parkway, known as "America's Favorite Drive," stretches 469 miles through the lush Appalachian Mountains, offering breathtaking vistas and access to mountain trails.

The Tar Heel State is a road-tripper's paradise with its stunning azure ridge-lined mountains, miles of North Carolina's amazing beaches , and diverse landscapes. From the ancient Appalachian peaks peppered with North Carolina's charming mountain towns in the west to the islands of the Outer Banks in the east, this Southern state has endless options when it comes to scenic drives.

The variety of environments and ecosystems to explore could keep visitors cruising the back roads for weeks. No matter what part of the state travelers drive through, they will surely be awestruck by the beauty around each bend.

For those looking to experience the Tar Heel State's scenery, the following scenic North Carolina drives should be on the bucket list. Ranging from mountain valleys to sandy coastlines, these scenic road trip routes in North Carolina showcase the diversity and splendor that has made the entire state a hotspot for road-tripping and sightseeing in the South.

Related: View From The Road: 10 Of The Most Beautiful Highways In America

The Sandhills Scenic Drive

Wandering through the sandhills region, this 46-mile drive showcases the state's diverse ecosystems.

Wandering through the Sandhills region in the heart of North Carolina, this drive showcases the state’s diverse ecosystems. Travelers cruise through longleaf pine forests, around glistening lakes, and by quaint small towns with charming historic downtowns.

Highlights include the towering trees at Weymouth Woods-Sandhills Nature Preserve and the rolling hills dotted with pine trees, farms, and ponds surrounding the university town of Chapel Hill.

• Distance : 46 miles
• Drive Time: 1 hour
• Scenic Spots: Weymouth Woods-Sandhills Nature Preserve , Chapel Hill

Sauratown Mountains Scenic Byway

This 72-mile loop treats road trippers to breathtaking vistas of the sauratown mountains.

Located in the northwest Piedmont region, this loop treats road trippers to breathtaking vistas of the Sauratown Mountains. As they encircle the range, travelers take in the sloping forested ridges surrounding the mountains and rolling rural countryside blanketed in lush green meadows.

Must-see stops include Hanging Rock State Park, where hikers climb to the summit for views that stretch for miles, and the Eno River Gold Mining District, where visitors learn about North Carolina’s gold mining history while exploring a fascinating 19th-century mining village.

• Distance: 72 miles
• Drive Time: 2 hr 10 min
• Scenic Spots: Hanging Rock State Park , Eno River Gold Mining District

The Alligator River Route

Cutting through the quiet coastal plain, this 71-mile drive offers a look at the state's pristine wetlands.

Cutting through the quiet coastal plain of North Carolina’s northern Outer Banks, this drive offers a look at pristine wetlands and undisturbed nature. Cruising along the Marsh Causeway past some of the Outer Banks towns that are perfect for a weekend getaway , road trippers can spot wildlife like alligators, otters, bobcats, deer, and over 200 species of birds.

The route also passes through rural coastal towns and leads to nature preserves like the Alligator River and Pea Island National Wildlife Refuges, home to some of the East Coast’s most diverse ecosystems.

• Distance : 71 miles
• Drive Time: 1.5 hours
• Scenic Spots : Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge , Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge

The Colonial Heritage Byway

History buffs will love this 92-mile scenic route connecting new bern, bath, and edenton, three of north carolina's most important colonial settlements.

History buffs can relish this scenic drive connecting New Bern, Bath, and Edenton, which are three of North Carolina’s most important colonial settlements, so it can rival any of the best road trips in North Carolina State .

In New Bern, visitors can explore historic architecture, stroll pretty streets lined with stunning Georgian and Federal-style buildings, and visit interesting sites like Tryon Palace, the historic home of Royal Governor William Tryon. Neighboring Bath delights travelers with its quaint riverfront setting and pirate lore. Edenton’s downtown is filled with charming original 17th and 18th-century homes and stores that make visitors feel like they're stepping back in time.

• Distance : 92 miles
• Drive Time : 2.5 hours
• Scenic Spots: New Bern , Bath , Edenton

Related: Dark Secrets About Jamestown, America's First Colonial Settlement

The Yadkin Valley Scenic Byway

Meandering through north carolina's wine region, this 79-mile drive offers beautiful vistas of vineyards and orchards.

Meandering through the gently rolling countryside of North Carolina's wine region, this picturesque drive offers beautiful vistas of vineyards, orchards, and cozy small towns. Road trippers cruise past fields of grapevines and stop at numerous wineries and tasting rooms to sample fruity Chambourcins, full-bodied Cabernet Francs, and lively Muscadine wines.

The artsy town of Mount Airy delights visitors with its charming main street, unique shops, and scenic mountain views.

• Distance : 79 miles
• Drive Time: 2 hours
• Scenic Spots: Mount Airy , Yadkin Valley vineyards

The Waterfall Byway

With some of the most stunning cascades in the south, this 98-mile mountain route is perfect for waterfall chasers.

Home to some of the most beautiful cascades in the South, this mountain route is one of the scenic drives and hidden gems in North Carolina that should be on any waterfall lover's list.

As it winds through the dense forests and along the slopes of western North Carolina, travelers can soak in the mesmerizing views of falls like Upper and Lower Cullasaja Falls, Dry Falls, Bridal Veil Falls, and Looking Glass Falls. Road trippers can pull over frequently to hike to the falls' bases and feel the refreshing spray as cascading waters thunder over rocky cliffs to the pools below.

• Distance: 98 miles
• Drive Time: 3.5 hours
• Scenic Spots: Cullasaja Falls , Dry Falls , Bridal Veil Falls , Looking Glass Falls

The New River Valley Byway

Paralleling the ancient new river, this 35-mile peaceful drive offers mesmerizing vistas of the clean, clear river.

Paralleling the ancient New River in northwest North Carolina, this tranquil scenic drive offers beautiful vistas of the New River as it winds through the valleys and gorges of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Outdoor enthusiasts will find plentiful opportunities for kayaking, canoeing, fishing, and tubing on the gentle river currents.

Quaint river towns like Todd, Glendale Springs, and West Jefferson delight visitors with their historic buildings, thriving arts scenes, and cozy small-town feel.

• Distance: 35 miles
• Drive Time : 1.25 hours
• Scenic Spots : New River , Todd , Glendale Springs , West Jefferson

Related: For Vibrant North Carolina Nightlife, Check Out Wrightsville Beach

The Nantahala Byway

This 43-mile drive cruises along the steep gorge surrounding the rushing nantahala river in the mountains of western north carolina.

This drive takes travelers along the stunning but steep gorge surrounding the rushing Nantahala River in the mountains of western North Carolina. Travelers can experience the river up close as they journey along its winding course, with opportunities to view the famous Nantahala Gorge and take in the river's spectacular whitewater rapids.

Visitors can also stop to hike through the dense forests, visit waterfalls, including Whitewater Falls and Dry Falls, and partake in popular mountain activities like ziplining, rafting, and rock climbing in the Nantahala National Forest.

• Distance : 43 miles
• Drive Time : 1.5 hour
• Scenic Spots : Nantahala River, Nantahala Gorge , Whitewater Falls , Dry Falls

The Forest Heritage Scenic Byway

This 65-mile scenic route through pisgah national forest pays homage to the important role of forests in north carolina.

This scenic route through Pisgah National Forest pays homage to the role of forests in the state's history, qualifying it as one of the unforgettable road trips to take in North Carolina . As they cruise through heavily wooded hills and valleys, road trippers pass remnants of historic logging railroads, towns built around the timber industry, and educational sites explaining forest ecology.

Stops include the education center at the Cradle of Forestry in America, the small village of Edneyville with its charming logging-era buildings, the Pink Beds' rare pink azalea displays, and the 1,859-foot summit of Looking Glass Rock, which offers panoramic mountain vistas.

• Distance: 65 miles
• Drive Time : 2 hours
• Scenic Spots : Cradle of Forestry , Edneyville , Pink Beds , Looking Glass Rock

The Blue Ridge Parkway

Blue ridge parkway stretches 469 miles through the lush appalachian mountains.

Often called "America's Favorite Drive," the Blue Ridge Parkway stretches 469 miles through the lush Appalachian Mountains as it connects Great Smoky Mountains National Park and Shenandoah National Park . It's filled with countless scenic overlooks, refreshing waterfalls, swimming holes, and access to mountain trails where visitors soak in never-ending vistas blanketed in vibrant natural colors, especially in the fall.

\\highlights include the 6,684-foot summit of Grandfather Mountain and the stunning cascade of Linville Falls. Plus, Craggy Gardens is a scenic spot along the route that travelers don’t want to miss. Whether experienced from a car window or a bike seat, the Blue Ridge Parkway encapsulates the quintessential beauty and adventure of the North Carolina mountains.

• Distance: 469 miles
• Drive Time : ~12-15 hours
• Scenic Spots : Grandfather Mountain , Linville Falls

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11 Great Places To Visit on a North Carolina Road Trip That You Won’t Want To Miss!

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Planning a North Carolina road trip? Whether you are looking at a road trip in North Carolina alone or as part of a larger Southern USA road trip, North Carolina has plenty to recommend it. On any road trip North Carolina offers both city pleasures and outdoor adventures. One of the best North Carolina road trips we have taken is to the Outer Banks for its miles of sand beaches, wild horses and the Kitty Hawk National Park . Road trips in North Carolina are great for every type of traveller such as beer and wine enthusiasts, family travellers, and outdoor adventure lovers.

11 North Carolina Road Trip Stops

Here are our 11 choices for road trips in North Carolina. We think any r oad trip to North Carolina should include the Outer Banks, whether in the North near Corolla or the South referred to as the Crystal Coast. For a college campus road trip North Carolina offers Chapel Hill, Durham, Charlotte and Wilmington. On the Tennessee western side for road trips North Carolina has the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains and the Nantahala National Forest. Along with these ‘big’ destinations, make sure to visit the small towns in North Carolina that give it so much of its charm.

Nestled into the middle of the Blue Ridge Mountains is the charming town of Asheville. This small mountain town is full of charm offering something for everyone, from the great outdoors to the foodie and craft beer scene, and even the arts and impressive architecture. Whether you’re spending a weekend in Asheville or have a full week, you’re sure to enjoy it!

Spend your days exploring the city and the surrounding mountains. If you’re into art, head down to the River Arts District to check out the hundreds of art galleries and murals, including live demonstrations of glass blowing. If architecture is more your thing, you won’t want to miss touring the largest home in America at the Biltmore Estate, which features over 250 rooms.

Head into the mountains to see a completely different side of Asheville.

• Drive the famous Blue Ridge Parkway stopping at dozens of stunning viewpoints.
• Hike some of the famous trails in the area, like Craggy Gardens , Chimney Rock , or Mount Mitchell .
• Visit stunning waterfalls, like Crabtree Falls , Catawba Falls , or Triple Falls .
• Stop at Sliding Rock for a 60-foot natural water slide with a swimming hole at the bottom.

Come nighttime, spend your evenings tasting delicious southern food and sipping your way through the 48 breweries in the greater Asheville area. No matter what your favorite style of beer, there’s sure to be one that suits you. Not sure where to start? Try the ever-popular Burial Beer Co. , which offers great beer with a well-themed taproom, or the Funkatorium by Wicked Weed which specializes in sour and funky beers.

– by Julia Williams at The Cure For Curiousity

If you are in the Smoky Mountains on your North Carolina road trip make sure to stop by Asheville (Image credit: Julia Williams)

Blue Ridge Parkway

One of the most beautiful roads in the U.S. is the Blue Ridge Parkway. Stretching between Shenandoah National Park and Great Smoky Mountain National Park , this winding road goes through various mountain peaks and ridges affording you the most beautiful views in the Blue Ridge Mountains. Start the drive by visiting Shenandoah National Park and make sure to get some hiking in while there. As you continue on your road trip itinerary , North Carolina affords you some fantastic stopping points.

Spend a night in Boone and visit the vibrant downtown and dine at one of the delicious restaurants in the area. Visit Blowing Rock right nearby for some incredible views of the surroundings. This is a privately owned landmark and there is a fee to get in along with a museum on site.  Then continue along the parkway and make sure to drive up Mt. Mitchell to experience views from the tallest peak in the East of the U.S.

Your next stop will be in Asheville where you can enjoy a trendy scene and countless amazing restaurants. Check out the University or stroll through the downtown. Try some delicious Ethiopian food.

Finally, make your way to your final destination, Great Smoky Mountain National Park . This is the most popular national park in the United States by number of visitors so be sure to avoid peak summer travel if you would like some alone time during your hiking. The views at the park are incredible and possibilities of spotting wild life including the black bear are endless.

– by Lina Ray from Bucket List Places

The scenic Blue Ridge Parkway is a popular North Carolina road trip (Image credit: Polina Ray)

Chapel Hill

No Southern USA road trip is complete without a visit to one of the gems of the region, Chapel Hill.

Said to be one of the most beautiful college towns in the United States, Chapel Hill is home to the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill , the oldest public school in the country– founded in 1789.

One of the best things to do while you’re in town is to explore the campus, checking out the Old Well , the Belltower, the two quads, and the various Neo-Classical buildings scattered around the large and walkable university. Spend some time relaxing on the quads, enjoying Chapel Hill’s beautiful, mild weather and gazing at the beautiful, historic trees.

There is also a fantastic planetarium with hourly shows, called the Morehead Planetarium , and an art museum, called the Ackland Art Museum , that are absolutely worth a visit.

Franklin Street , the main hub of Chapel Hill, has excellent eateries, boutiques, and bars to check out, as does nearby Carrboro . If you’re ready for a bite to eat, discover incredible Southern comfort food at Crook’s Corner or Mama Dip’s ; world-famous BLTs at Merritt’s ; mouthwatering Mediterranean fare at Med Deli; and great bar fare at Linda’s Bar and Grill.

If you’d like a nightcap, check out the views of town from the roofdeck at Top of the Hill , which is a local brewery and distillery, or enjoy a more student pub vibe at Goodfellows’ .

by Tegan George at Why Not Walk

Stop by The Old Well at UNC Chapel Hill on your road trip in North Carolina

On your road trip to North Carolina, stop by historic and vibrant Charlotte.  It is nicknamed the Queen City after Queen Charlotte, after whom the city was named at the time of its founding in 1768.

Some of the cool things to do in Charlotte are the Nascar Hall of Fame , the Mint Museum (North Carolina’s first art museum) and the Bechtler Museum of Modern Art devoted to midcentury modern collection.

Outdoor lovers will appreciate facilities such as the  US National Whitewater Adventure center , Freedom Park , and  Reedy Creek Nature Center  catering to both adrenaline-charged water lovers  as well as those who want regular hiking trails. There are 52 miles of greenway trails weaving through the Queen City.

Charlotte has the headquarters for Bank of America as well as the UNC Charlotte campus. As befitting a major financial and university city, Charlotte has a great choice of restaurants for casual and fine dining. In addition, there is a big craft brewery scene in the city as well as wine bars thanks to the wineries and vineyards nearby.

On Southern road trips, North Caroline has many great stops including Charlotte, known for its many greenways including Freedom Park pictured here.

Crystal Coast

Sometimes marketed as the Southern Outer Banks, North Carolina’s stunning Crystal Coast offers a slightly off the beaten path option for a road trip in the south–but one that is packed with beauty, interesting things to do, and excellent food.

Running for 85 miles along the coast of North Carolina, some of the best things to do in and around the Crystal Coast include visiting the historic Cape Lookout Lighthouse and National Seashore (don’t miss the chance the climb to the top!), exploring Fort Macon , shopping in downtown Beaufort, spotting the wild horses that live on Shackleford Banks and other nearby islands, and of course, enjoying plenty of time on the beach.

There are a few fun museums in the area as well, including the North Carolina Maritime Museum in Beaufort, which covers, among other things, the history of Blackbeard–the area’s most notorious pirate.

There are plenty of places to base yourself on the Crystal Coast, and a plethora of ocean-front house rentals available, but staying in Beaufort or Atlantic Beach will give you easy access to some of the best sights, including beaches, Fort Macon, dolphin tours, and more.

Other places to consider staying include Pine Knoll Shores , Emerald Isle , or the mainland coastal city of Morehead City –but with 85-miles of coastline, no matter where you stay, you’ll be within reach of several places on the Crystal Coast.

With affordable prices, gorgeous sandy beaches, and plenty of small towns and southern food to enjoy, the Crystal Coast is a fantastic place to enjoy the best of the coastal south on your road trip in North Carolina.

– by Kate Storm of Our Escape Clause

A lighthouse on Cape Lookout on the Southern Outer Banks in North Carolina (Image credit: Kate Storm)

Durham is a more quiet stop and destination within a quick drive from Raleigh, one of the bigger cities in North Carolina. Known for Duke University , it has a compact downtown with sights to keep you busy. Most of them center around Duke University’s campus, such as the Duke Lemur Center , Duke’s University Chapel , and the Sarah P Duke Gardens . Note that if you do stop within the Duke campus, expect to pay for parking, which is per hour.

Aside from Duke University, one can also visit the Tobacco District in Durham. The city was a major producer of tobacco, as evidenced by the smokestacks that are now tourist attractions. The old Lucky Strike factory has been converted into shops, restaurants, and a trendy spot to walk around and enjoy local places.

After a whole day of exploring Durham, why not spend the night at the Hyatt Place close to the Raleigh-Durham airport? The hotel is located just off the interstate. While you’re in the vicinity, you should also include a trip to Raleigh as part of a multi-day visit. There’s plenty to do in the research triangle area as stops for a road trip.

– by Ruby Escalona from A Journey We Call Love

The botanical gardens in Raleigh, the Sarah P. Duke Gardens, extends to 55 acres of gardens and trails (Image credit: Ruby Escalona)

Nantahala National Forest

Many outdoor lovers visiting Western North Carolina spend time in Pisgah National Forest or Great Smoky Mountains National Park . But right next door, Nantahala National Forest gets a fraction of the tourist traffic.

Nantahala is remote and rugged. The Forest Service roads here will intimidate even the most confident backcountry drivers. The mountains are steep and the trails are often barely maintained. But all the trouble is worth it in exchange for some of the best views in the Southeast.

You’ll find the most accessible views on the Appalachian Trail near Nantahala Outdoor Center. Waterfall lovers should head to Gorges State Park or Panthertown Valley . Rainbow Falls is one of the top waterfall hikes in the Carolinas, and it’s easy and family-friendly.

If you’re feeling more adventurous, try the Yellow Mountain Fire Tower Hike or the trek up to Blackrock Mountain . The former is often considered the most difficult day hike in North Carolina, while the latter is the steepest trail I’ve ever encountered — if you can even call it a trail.

You can visit Nantahala on a day trip from Asheville . Camping is the best option for overnight visitors. Panthertown has incredible backcountry campsites (just be sure to bring a bear canister). Another top backcountry option is one of the Appalachian Trail shelters on Cheoah or Wesser Bald. If you prefer a little more comfort, try the Greystone Inn or one of the many AirBnB’s at Lake Toxaway .

– by Carrie Mann of Trains, Planes and TukTuks

A view of Nantahala National Forest, from the Yellow Mountain Fire Tower, is a great stop for a road trip in North Carolina (Image credit: Carrie Mann)

Outer Banks

One of the best places to visit on a Southern Road Trip is also one of the best beach destinations – the Outer Banks, North Carolina. With stunning sunrises, miles of beaches, historical locations, and adrenaline-pumping activities, there is something for every traveler!

If you enjoy nature can visit the wild horses of the Outer Banks or go bird spotting along Kitty Hawk Bay . Fans of history can visit the Wright Brothers National Memorial or Historic Corolla Park . Many of the attractions on the island are available year-round. If you want to get your heart racing, try jet-skiing, paragliding, or even hang-gliding with Kitty Hawk Kites !

Of course, just relaxing on the miles of beach is the perfect way to take a break from the car. Sunrise on the east coast will take your breath away.

Indulge your sweet tooth with a fresh, homemade donut from Duck Donuts . There are a few locations across the islands. For a great place to stay, check out First Colony Inn in Nags Head. The home-like atmosphere is within walking distance of the beach.

The Outer Banks is a must-visit destination on any Southern road trip!

– by Pamela Drager of The Directionally Challenged Traveler

Sunrise on the Outer Banks, a popular stop on any road trip in North Carolina (Image credit: Pamela Drager)

The capital of North Carolina, Raleigh, is the perfect city to visit on a southern road trip. It’s easy to visit and explore the city, because most of the best things to do in Raleigh are located right downtown.

Don’t miss the North Carolina Museum of History . It’s a huge museum that you can spend hours walking through the exhibits. In addition to the permanent exhibit on the history of the state, there are also several smaller exhibits on more specific topics like sports in the state.

The Mordecai Historic Park is a great place to visit to learn about the contrast between how the wealthy lived in the house and the slaves who worked on the plantation grounds. You can easily walk to the house from downtown on N Blount St . This historic street is full of beautiful homes. Many have signs out front telling the history of the house or the former residents.

Raleigh has a lot of tasty food options. You can get southern favorites like chicken and waffles at Beasley’s or BBQ at the Pit Authentic BBQ . For some international favorites check out the Transfer Co Food Hall.

There are several places to stay downtown, but for the same quality and much lower price stay out of downtown. The Comfort Suites – Knightdale is only 10 minutes from downtown by car or about 25 minutes by public bus. It offers nice, clean and quiet rooms at reasonable prices.

by Elizabeth at The Fearless Foreigner

Stop by downtown Raleigh on your North Carolina road trip (Image credit: Elizabeth at TheFearless Foreigner)

Wilmington is the perfect place for a Southern road trip especially for beach lovers. There is so much history to explore in the city, a beautiful riverwalk, and many small surrounding beaches.

If you’re a beach bum then don’t miss Wrightsville Beach where many of the UNC Wilmington students hang out. If you’re looking for a quieter beach that’s a bit more secluded then you could head south to Carolina or Kure Beach .

You can continue down to Fort Fisher where you can purchase a permit to drive out on the beach in search of the best fishing or sunbathing spots. This is only recommended if you have a four-wheel drive.

There are plenty of outdoor adventures like kayaking the Cape Fear River , parasailing, or surfing. Try your hand at something new and you just might be surprised.

If you’re looking for things to do in town then don’t miss the Airlie Gardens or the Wilmington Railroad Museum . You can also find many of the filming spots for One Tree Hill if you are a fan of the television series.

Make sure that you visit the USS North Carolina and tour this battleship for a unique history lesson. It’s so interesting to see how the men aboard the ship lived back in the war.

At sunset make sure you’re at one of the many delicious restaurants along the riverwalk. You can enjoy a meal while you watch the sun sink low in the sky.

– by Anna Space of Paddling Space

Wrightsville Beach is popular with UNC Wrightsville students (Image credit: Anna Cook)

Yadkin Valley

If you love wine and the outdoors then a trip to the Yadkin Valley in North Carolina should be on your bucket list. There are three different state parks in the area and over three dozen wineries to visit.

You can follow one of the designated wine trails like the Swan Creek Trail or S urry County Wine Trail or make up your own. A few of the best wineries in the area are Shelton Vineyards , Childress Vineyards , and Raffaldini Vineyards & Winery .

When you visit, stay in the quaint towns of Elkin or Mt. Airy and enjoy a little small town living. There are local shops and restaurants that will surprise you. Plus Mt. Airy is the town that the fictional “Mayberry” is based on in The Andy Griffith Show.

If you choose Elkin then you’ll be near some wonderful smaller wineries like Elkin Creek Vineyard , Grassy Creek Vineyard & Winery , and Carolina Heritage Vineyard & Winery .

Make sure you stop by Southern on Main and Angry Troll for a bite to eat while you’re in town.

If you want to head out on a hike then go to Pilot Mountain , Hanging Rock , or Stone Mountain which are all three state parks. Each one has trails with varying levels of difficulty.

During the summer there are a few different rivers and lakes where you can kayak or canoe. The most popular is the Yadkin River where you can take a trip with Yadkin River Adventures . If you would rather paddle on a lake then check out Lake Hampton or the lake at Hanging Rock.

You won’t find a place with prettier views or friendlier people. A trip to the Yadkin Valley really lets you slow down and take a step back from your busy life.

– by Anna Cook at Stuck On The Go

Stop by one of the many state parks in North Carolina like Pilot Mountain State Park on your road trip in North Carolina (Image credit: Anna Cook)

Suggested North Carolina Road Trips Stops

A map of suggested stops on a North Carolina road trip .

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Interested in North Carolina travel? Check out our 10 great ideas for a North Carolina road trip. Our North Carolina road trip travel guide shows you popular destinations, e.g., Outer Banks travel but also lesser known North Carolina travel destinations such as the Nantahala National Forest. North Carolina travel road trips take you from the majestic North Carolina mountains to the wide sandy North Carolina beaches and everywhere in between! Find your perfect North Carolina places to visit!

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Explore mountains, coast, and islands on this epic outdoor north carolina road trip.

North Carolina is a state that has it all. Picturesque mountains and pristine beaches, drawing visitors during hot summers and (surprisingly) chilly winters. There’s plenty of variety to be found in North Carolina regardless of when you decide to plan your visit. Much can be seen on the road. Here’s how to plan the ultimate North Carolina road trip for outdoor adventure.

Start at Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Photo: Keneva Photography /Shutterstock

The entrance to North Carolina begins in dramatic fashion at the most visited national park in the United States. Hike to the 6,644-foot top of Clingmans Dome, the highest natural point in the Smokies, and catch a sweeping view of the azure summits in North Carolina and across into Tennessee. The lofty peak straddles the border between the two states. Explore the eight hundred miles of green, dense mountain trails inside the park, or grab a tube, available from several nearby rental shops including Smoky Mountain River Adventures , for an idyllic ride enclosed among high elevation old-growth trees within the two thousand miles of streams and lakes.

If you have time for a second day in the park, drive into the remote Cataloochee Valley. Alongside the surrounding rugged landscape, keep your eyes peeled for wild elk grazing by the remnants of rustic log cabins from the late 19th century. Afterward, take a waterfall hike. The Deep Creek trail near Bryson City offers quick trips to the misty Tom Branch, Indian Creek, and Juney Whank Falls, or head just outside of the park towards Cherokee to find the majestic Mingo Falls, one of the tallest cascades in the southern Appalachians.

Cruise part of the Blue Ridge Parkway towards Mount Mitchell

Photo: anthony heflin /Shutterstock

Connecting the entire mountain region of North Carolina from the Smokies to Virginia, the secluded and vibrant maple, chestnut, and oak-filled drive along the Blue Ridge Parkway departs from the park’s south entrance off of U.S. 421. This scenic drive is home to arguably the best views of fall foliage in the country. Since the elevation never rises above the treeline, sensational scenes of the reds, yellows, and orange hues of autumn can be found stretching for miles through the crisp air across the rolling summits. Make sure to grab a full tank of gas before entering, as stations are scarce along the parkway.

Turn off the Blue Ridge Parkway at NC 128, about an hour north of Asheville, to head into Mount Mitchell State Park. Drive to the lot near the top for a short walk to the summit, or climb the old-fashioned way up the lush but challenging 2.2 mile Old Mitchell Trail. Either way, you’lll be rewarded with 360-degree views of picturesque Blue Ridge Mountain scenery from the highest point east of the Mississippi River, extending for 85 miles on a clear dat. The summit is a stunning place to watch the sunset. The reds and pinks of dusk descend over the mountain horizon among the sweet scent of the numerous spruce and balsam firs, commonly grown in the region as Christmas trees, as your ear catches the songs of the ninety-one species of birds that call the state park home.

Where to stay

We hope you love the spaces and stays we recommend! Just so you know, Matador may collect a small commission from the links on this page if you decide to book a stay. Listed prices are accurate as of the time of publication.

Numerous campgrounds surround the peak. Camp inside the park at the Mt. Mitchell Campground or at the nearby Carolina Hemlocks Recreation Area. If you prefer an Airbnb, we recommend this charming mountain cabin outside of Asheville. Another option is this cabin for groups up to six .

See our full recommendations on the best Airbnbs in Asheville, North Carolina .

Head up to Linville Gorge

Continue 20 miles northeast of Mount Mitchell to the town of Linville Falls, where neighboring trails to the eponymous roaring cascades can be found alongside several entry points to the towering Linville Gorge. Rising 1400 feet above the Linville River and twelve miles in length, a thronged thicket of birch, hickory, and hemlock flank the lush yet strenuous descent through Pisgah National Forest to the base of the gorge. Enjoy the coursing sounds of the river as you explore the high crags, a popular choice for all levels of rock climbing enthusiasts. For even more variety, try the mysterious Linville Caverns nearby. Hovering around a clammy fifty degrees in the interior, dress warmly if you choose to traverse the weathered stalactites of this bat-filled cave.

Visit Pilot Mountain and Hanging Rock

Photo: Greg Dollyhite /Shutterstock

Eighty-five miles northeast of Linville Gorge, the white quartzite walls defining the rounded knob of Pilot Mountain poke out above the rolling hills and woods of central North Carolina’s Piedmont (meaning “foot of the mountain” in French) region. One of the more recognizable attractions in the state, the iconic summit has been used as a navigational landmark for centuries. A short twenty miles away resides the coarse, chalky cliff edge of Hanging Rock State Park jutting out over an expansive view of the densely arboreal Sauratown Mountains. Hike the verdant, winding bike trails and dig your toes into the sands of the park’s forested lake for a rejuvenating swim amongst the scent of the pines.

For an Airbnb overnight, this beautiful retreat at the base of Pilot Mountain makes for a cozy stay. Another option is the iconic Pilot’s Peak Cabin , where you and up to six others in your crew can enjoy a warm and comfortable rest to the sound of the woods.

Cruise along the Eno River and down to Raven Rock State Park

Photo: Chansak Joe /Shutterstock

Head seventy miles southeast just outside of Durham to find Eno River State Park . Consisting of numerous popular, shady swimming holes for residents of “The Triangle”, comprising Raleigh, Durham, and Chapel Hill, this richly timbered park offers locals a cool respite from the humid, sweltering heat of North Carolina summers. Dip into the inviting waters of Bobbitt’s and Sennett’s Holes, two of the river’s natural pools, or simply listen to the flow of the Eno and immerse yourself in the thick, canopied woods lining the many trails.

About twenty-five miles southwest of Raleigh and on the edge of North Carolina’s “fall line,” where waterfalls start to appear along creeks and streams, lies Raven Rock State Park . Try renting a kayak in nearby Lillington and take a daring journey over the roaring Lanier Falls and the fast-paced Fish Traps rapids. At the south end of the park, on top of the enormous, imposing grey walls of Raven Rock at the banks of the Cape Fear, enjoy a pastoral view of the clustered, viridian oaks and hickories lining the shores, or pack a lunch for a refreshing riverside picnic in the shade.

Raleigh and its surrounding area is rich in Airbnbs. Apex is both convenient and rich in dining options without having to drive all the way into the city. This townhome puts you right in the heart of the action. If you decide to stay in Raleigh, you’ll be approaching from the southwest.

Head to Green Swamp and Carolina Beach

Roughly 80 miles around the port city of Wilmington is famously the only region in the entire world where the Venus flytrap can be found growing in the wild. Twenty-two miles east of town dwells the muggy 17,000 acres of the Green Swamp Preserve. Teeming with exotic plant life, hikers in the thick bog can find more insect-eating vegetation alongside the toothy emerald flytraps such as the lime-colored, lanky pitcher plant and the large, sticky pink leaves of the butterwort. Hop a ferry at Southport to Fort Fisher and head up the coast to Carolina Beach State Park , with miles of easy hikes among the bucolic longleaf pines and carnivorous flora, plentiful space for camping, or check out nearby Wilmington Jet Ski Rentals to explore the Cape Fear River in style.

Afterward, take US-17 north through North Carolina’s Inner Banks to find the lush, dewy Merchant’s Millpond and Dismal Swamp State Parks in the northeastern corner of the state. Bring a canoe or grab one from one of the rental stations conveniently located in both parks, and catch closeups of the lofty, bright jade bald cypress trees and swaying sage Spanish mosses poking out of the rich wetlands. Immerse yourself in the abundant greenery on one of the numerous boardwalk and mountain biking trails available, and watch for the brown otters, sleek bobcats, and the over two hundred species of colorful birds that inhabit the marshes.

See Jockey’s Ridge and cruise the Outer Banks

Roughly forty-five miles southeast of The Great Dismal Swamp lies the entrance to North Carolina’s famed Outer Banks, a series of picturesque barrier islands separating the mainland from the Atlantic Ocean. Hop on celebrated route NC-12 south past Kill Devil Hills to see the roaming yellow sands of Jockey’s Ridge State Park, the largest active dune system in the eastern United States. Resembling more a desert landscape than anything you’d expect to find on the east coast, it is not unusual to see a flurry of reds, blues, and blacks of kites lining the skies over the dog-friendly park. The windswept surrounding region, offering steady sea breezes and opportunities to perform and take lessons on the sports of kite flying and parasailing, is no stranger to aviation: a few short miles up NC-12 in Kitty Hawk is where the Wright Brothers flew the legendary first flight in 1903.

The Outer Banks is loaded with incredible places to stay. We break down the most luxurious Airbnbs in the Outer Banks .

Your North Carolina road trip then takes you further south on NC-12 through the infamous “Graveyard Of The Atlantic.” Book a charter with Dive Hatteras and explore the sunken, haunting ruins of some of the nearly three thousand ghostly shipwrecks resting off the North Carolina coast. The southern end of Hatteras Island is home to the iconic black-and-white spirals of the tallest lighthouse in North America, Cape Hatteras Light, and plenty of options for camping near the ghost crab-filled shore in full sight of the towering beacon. Make sure to gaze at the night skies, as the faint, cloudy outline of the Milky Way is visible during low light conditions.

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Where to Go on an Epic North Carolina Road Trip

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I had a few last-minute opportunities for North Carolina road trips before we moved away from the East Coast. Visiting three times in a span of five months made me realize what we’d been missing over the last 5 years (living in Virginia) as North Carolina neighbors. It’s not that we didn’t visit the state, but I wish we had spent more time there. There’s just so much to see and do!

Have you been wondering where to go on a North Carolina road trip? The “girls” trip that I took gave me a great taste of a wide variety of North Carolina’s gorgeous destinations. Have you ever thought about traveling in the Tar Heel State? You’ll be amazed at the diversity of landscapes and cultures. From the beaches of the Outer Banks to the Blue Ridge Mountains, you’ll find beauty in every corner.

Two of the four ladies in our group flew into Norfolk International Airport (near Virginia Beach) in the southeastern corner of Virginia. That’s the closest airport to the Outer Banks Barrier Islands in North Carolina, so that was our starting point. The drive from Norfolk to the Outer Banks is at least 2 hours and could be more on a holiday weekend or in the summer peak season.

Table of Contents for this Post

Ultimate 8-Day North Carolina Road Trip Itinerary

The map below starts in the Outer Banks and continues around the state, ending in Charlotte, North Carolina. Each day is a different color and each suggested stop is numbered within each day. If you click on the number, a window will pop up with more details about that destination. You can zoom in and out on the map to see the route. Have fun exploring the itinerary!

• Fly into Norfolk International Airport (ORF), Virginia
• Outer Banks, NC – 1 1/2 days
• Raleigh, NC – 1/2 day
• Hickory, NC – 1/2 day
• Asheville, NC – 2 days
• Lake Lure area, NC – 1 day
• Charlotte – 2 days
• Charlotte Airport – Fly out of Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT)

Click on Each Map Number for Destination Links and Details

Of course, no matter how long you spend in one place, it’s never enough time, but I felt like we got a good sampling of the different regions on our North Carolina road trip. This is just a quick peek into what you can do in 8 days. Plan for longer if you can.

Coastal Islands of the Outer Banks

One of the highlights of our North Carolina road trip was our first stop in the northeast corner of the state in the Outer Banks. We booked a 4-wheel drive tour to see the Corolla wild Mustangs on the beaches of the Outer Banks. We chose a 2-hour Corolla Wild Horse Tour in the morning with our guide, Nathan from Back Country Safari Tours and we loved it! This harem of horses (pictured above) welcomed a new foal just a few weeks before. Isn’t she adorable?

The weather was perfect to climb to the top of the Currituck Beach Lighthouse too. When we got to the lighthouse there was a group of firefighters in full gear coming down from their climb to the top. It’s something they do each week for training. Wow!

The Outer Banks in North Carolina is a place you could spend much more time. These coastal towns like Corolla, Kill Devil Hills, Kitty Hawk, and other nearby areas are filled with unique places to go and things to do. I’ve had good success with VRBO when booking summer vacation rental homes in the Outer Banks. Check out my post on “ 10 Best Places to See Outer Banks Wildlife ” for more about this magical North Carolina beachfront community. You’ll be amazed at what you can see there.

Raleigh, North Carolina

Raleigh was just an overnight stopover on this North Carolina road trip but if you decide to spend more time there check out the Historic Downtown Walking Tours , and the Carousel at Pullen Park. If you love craft beer you can book a Craft Beer Tasting Tour or find a designated driver to follow the Raleigh Beer Trail .

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Gold Hill, North Carolina

In the central part of the state, you’ll find the quaint village of Gold Hill , a 19th-century gold mining town with historic log cabins, antique shops, a U-pick flower farm, a winery, and live bluegrass music on Friday nights. Call ahead to reserve a guided walking tour or pick up a self-guided map at the Montgomery Store to learn about the North Carolina Gold Rush of the 1840s.

Hickory, North Carolina

Our gorgeous North Carolina road trip weather allowed us to stop for a casual alfresco lunch at Hatch Sandwich Bar in downtown Hickory . The town has a welcoming pedestrian walkway with shops, restaurants, and a farmers market twice a week. One of the two remaining covered bridges in North Carolina is also nearby. Visit Bunker Hill Covered Bridge in Claremont if you have a chance.

North Carolina is known as the furniture capital of the world and Hickory is near the epicenter. If you’re in the market for new furniture or home accessories plan to stop at the 4-story Hickory Furniture Mart. You’ll find everything imaginable to furnish the inside or outside of your home and they’ll ship it to your house too!

Things to do in Asheville

Our North Carolina road trip took us nearly 500 miles (805 km) from the Outer Banks to the Blue Ridge Mountain town of Asheville. There’s a world of difference between the two ends of the state. The terrain rises from sea level in the Outer Banks to over 2000 feet (610 meters) above sea level in Asheville. The highest peak in the state is nearby Mount Mitchell at 6684 ft (2037 m) in the Blue Ridge Mountains.

Be sure to include the Biltmore Estate near Asheville in your North Carolina road trip itinerary for at least one glorious day. This Gilded Age mansion was completed by the wealthy Vanderbilt family in 1895. It’s preserved as a National Historic Landmark and is famous as “America’s Largest Home” at about 175,000 square feet [16,250 sq meters]. Crazy, right? If you have an interest in seeing other Gilded Age mansions you can read about the Newport Rhode Island mansions here .

Best Time to Visit the Biltmore Estate

I’ve had the chance to visit the Estate in November (image above), but this time it was in May when the gardens were in bloom. Biltmore Estate in North Carolina is a perfect stop in every season.

• In addition to the Biltmore mansion, Spring highlights the gardens that bloom from March through August. Look for the Bloom Report to learn what’s dazzling in the gardens each month.
• Summer weather is nearly perfect at the mansion. Check out a rooftop tour in the summer. Picnics with outside food (but no alcohol) are allowed on the grounds at the sloped lawn in front of the statue of Diana , at Bass Pond and surrounding trails, and the Lagoon and surrounding trails.
• In the Fall months, the temperatures are cooler, so wear layers. The expansive gardens are still blooming with annuals and autumn-colored chrysanthemums. To top things off, brilliant Fall foliage brings a riot of color from October through early November. You can check the Fall Color Report to see which leaves are changing when you plan to be there.
• Winter brings the jaw-dropping sparkle of the Biltmore Estate decorated for the Christmas holiday from the first week of November to the first week of January. Candlelight Christmas Evenings are offered so you can enjoy the magical lights inside and out with luminaries lining the walkways, millions of lights around the estate, and crackling fires in dozens of fireplaces.

Did you know that you can stay overnight on the Biltmore Estate property? The highly-rated luxury “ Inn on Biltmore Estate ” is the perfect place to pamper yourself after your time wandering the opulent mansion, and spectacular gardens.

One of the treats on this North Carolina road trip was dinner at Salsa’s restaurant in Asheville. We read so many glowing reviews of this tiny Mexican/Caribbean restaurant in sources like “Southern Living” and the “New York Times” that we were willing to wait in line to get into the tiny dining room before they opened for dinner. They also have a small patio area for when the weather is nice. As expected, the food did not disappoint. Every meal had generous portions and unique and complex Latin flavors. We were happy with our choice. Salsa’s is open for lunch and dinner but closed a few hours in between. They’re also closed on Tuesdays, so plan accordingly.

Blue Ridge Parkway National Park

While in Asheville we went on a scenic drive through a section of the Blue Ridge Parkway , a National Park that straddles the states of North Carolina and Virginia. Be sure to stop at the Folk Art Center on the Parkway where you can shop for one-of-a-kind souvenirs and gifts. They’re crafted by over 400 artists and craftspeople of Southern Appalachia who are members of the Southern Highland Craft Guild.

Our gang also made a stop at Mount Mitchell State Park to take in the mountain-top views. We were shocked to see a heavy layer of frost on the treetops in May. We also stopped at the local farmers’ market to stock up on fresh fruit, snacks, and other supplies while we hung out in Asheville.

Places to Stay near Asheville, NC

Asheville lodging can sometimes be a bit pricey. If you’re trying to stick with a budget on your North Carolina road trip consider staying about 20 minutes from Asheville in the nearby small town of Black Mountain . We did and we loved catching up on life in our comfortable vacation rental home . Another great place to stay near Asheville is about 30 minutes away in Hendersonville, NC . This little gem has a nice walkable Main Street and hosts fun events throughout the year.

Lake Lure and Chimney Rock, NC

Consider making a stop on the way from Asheville to Charlotte at Chimney Rock State Park to take in the stunning views from its namesake 315-foot-high rock formation. Every season highlights up to 75 miles of beauty in every direction. And if you’re not up to hiking to the top you can take an elevator most of the way.

Nearby Lake Lure was established in 1927 as a vacation spot and is still hosting summer fun. You’ll want to take a dip in the lake, do some kayaking , stand-up paddleboarding or book a guided tour to see all the sites where the classic movie “Dirty Dancing” was filmed. Even if you haven’t seen the movie you may remember the iconic scene where Patrick Swayze lifts Jennifer Gray over his head while they’re standing in the lake. It was filmed right here.

The Largest City in the State, Charlotte, NC

The only time I spent in Charlotte, the Queen City, before this trip was on layovers in the airport, so needless to say I didn’t really know what to expect. Let me start by saying that if you love music, art, or great food and beverage you’ll want to add Charlotte to your must-see list.

We had so much fun exploring the whimsical literature-themed Uptown pocket park called “ The Green “. The Charlotte Liberty Walk , a self-guided walking tour, shed light on the city’s involvement in America’s Revolutionary War. We also explored the Bechtler Museum of Modern Art. Literally everywhere we turned we saw street art murals, sculptures, and art museums.

One day we grabbed lunch at Optimist Hall and followed a self-guided Art Walk to see a dozen or so street art murals. You may want to visit the Nascar Hall of Fame or the U.S. National Whitewater Center if you’re looking for an adrenalin rush.

More fun Things to Do in Charlotte

Great places to stay in charlotte nc.

There are gorgeous hotels all around town, but our adorable craftsman bungalow was the perfect place for the four of us to have privacy with separate bedrooms and a way to save money on food with the full kitchen. We loved relaxing in the rocking chairs on the front porch at the end of each day. You can find beautiful vacation rentals with lakeside views or more like this one close to Uptown Charlotte at VRBO .

Search for hotels and other lodging options on your travel dates at Booking.com below.

On the last day of our trip, the other three women flew out of Charlotte Douglas International Airport and I hit the road for the five-and-a-half-hour drive home.

Booking your trip? Here are some of the resources I use myself:

-Book great deals on flights with Cheap-o-Air -Discover cool lodging with Booking.com -Reserve your vacation home rental with VRBO -Book your car rental with RentalCars.com -Buy your travel insurance with InsureMyTrip -Book unique travel tours with Get Your Guide and  Viator -Find delicious culinary experiences with EatWith -Find even more of my favorite travel resources here .

When you use these links I earn a small commission, at no extra cost to you. This helps me pay the bills and allows me to continue to create and share free tips and advice to help you travel better. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Come Back for More on my North Carolina Road Trip

The crazy thing is that as soon as I got home from the girls’ trip, I headed back to the Outer Banks for a long weekend with my husband. We celebrated Terry’s birthday and I had a chance to dig even deeper into this beautiful place that’s been hiding in plain sight just down the road from us.

The Best Places to See Wildlife in the Outer Banks, NC here .

There’s so much more to share about North Carolina…but I’ll just say that we saw an alligator on our kayak tour and I got to do a nature photography tour to see more wild horses in Corolla! See? So much more to come, so sign up for my weekly newsletter to be the first to know when the next posts are published.

Have you been to North Carolina? I’d love to hear your ideas on must-see stops in the comments. Thanks!

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10 Best Road Trips You Can Take Through The Scenic State Of North Carolina

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• North Carolina offers some of the most beautiful road trips in the US with stunning scenery from misty peaks to sunny barrier islands.
• The most scenic drives in North Carolina showcase diverse landscapes, from curvy mountain roads to coastal routes with beaches and seafood shacks.
• Road trippers can experience breathtaking mountains, water features, and outdoor recreational opportunities on some of the best drives in North Carolina.

With stunning scenery from the misty Appalachian peaks to sunny barrier islands, North Carolina offers some of the best road trips in the US; it delights road trippers with diverse landscapes and experiences. Travelers can marvel at the panoramas at some of the beautiful stops along the Blue Ridge Parkway , get their adrenaline pumping on the whitewater Nantahala Byway, or relax among OBX lighthouses and wild horses. From Asheville's arts scene to the Revolutionary War history of the coast, North Carolina impresses at every turn.

This state was made for scenic drives; curvy mountain roads deliver nonstop vistas while coastal routes serve up beaches, maritime culture, and seafood shacks. Visitors can immerse in the rugged beauty of parks like the Great Smoky Mountains or chill out on Outer Banks beaches. For those craving to explore this state's most serene environments and charming towns, here are some of the best road trips in North Carolina for scenery and fun stops en route.

10 Least-Crowded, But Still Scenic Places To Visit In North Carolina

North Carolina is home to countless tourist attractions, but these are the least-crowded scenic spots to enjoy in the state.

10 Pisgah Loop Scenic Byway: Explore Some Of The Most Scenic Spots In The Blue Ridge Mountains

Travel the spine of the appalachians through pisgah national forest.

One of the best scenic drives and hidden gems in North Carolina , the Pisgah Loop Scenic Byway traces a 51-mile loop through the lush Pisgah National Forest in the state's Blue Ridge Mountains. Some of the most spectacular overlooks on the Blue Ridge Parkway are found on this route, including Graveyard Fields with its striking valley views and abundant wildflowers.

Travelers also have access to excellent hiking trails, swimming holes, and waterfalls - especially the roadside cascade of Looking Glass Falls. The drive provides a scenic introduction to Pisgah’s breathtaking mountains, water features, and recreational opportunities for nature lovers.

• Distance: 47 miles
• Major Stops: Looking Glass Falls , Graveyard Fields , Shining Rock Wilderness Area

9 Newfound Gap Road Scenic Byway: Snake Along The North Carolina-Tennessee Border In The Smokies

Soak up the stunning vistas of great smoky mountains national park.

Crossing the border of North Carolina and Tennessee, Newfound Gap Road offers one of the most spectacular drives in the bucket list-worthy Great Smoky Mountains National Park . As it winds for 33 miles along the Tennessee-North Carolina state line, travelers get an eyeful of rugged mountain peaks and lush forest scenery. One highlight is Newfound Gap itself - the scenic mountain pass with amazing panoramas.

The route also passes historic settlements, logging railways, and numerous trailheads for adventurous hikers. Don’t miss popular stops like Mingus Mill and Clingmans Dome along this unforgettable stretch of road. Passionate hikers will want to hike to the summit of Clingmans Dome .

• Distance: 33 miles
• Major Stops: Clingmans Dome , Mingus Mill , Newfound Gap

8 Nantahala Scenic Byway: Enjoy Breathtaking Forested Gorges And Bright Blue Rivers En Route

A jaw-dropping drive along the nantahala river gorge.

The Nantahala Scenic Byway follows the roaring whitewater of the Nantahala River Gorge in the southwestern corner of North Carolina. This 43-mile route along Highway 19 is among the most scenic roads in North Carolina, as it provides jaw-dropping vistas of the steep forested gorge while the icy blue river churns over boulders and cascades.

Adventurous travelers can get even closer on a river rafting trip - the Nantahala is one of the country’s most popular whitewater rafting and kayaking destinations. With several recreation areas, trails, and fishing access along the route, the scenic byway is an outdoorsman’s paradise.

• Distance: 43 miles
• Major Stops: Nantahala Outdoor Center , Wesser Bald Lookout

These 10 North Carolina Mountain Cabins Are Worth Their Remote Scenic Views

From rustic to luxurious, these beautiful, remote mountain cabins in North Carolina leave tourists with a deeper appreciation for the natural world.

7 Mount Mitchell Scenic Drive: Relish Serene Mountain Vistas From Asheville To The Black Mountains

A winding route to the highest peak east of the mississippi.

This scenic byway ascends from the lively mountain town of Asheville into the Black Mountain range, reaching the summit of towering Mount Mitchell - at 6,684 feet, it's the highest peak in the eastern US. As it winds uphill through Pisgah National Forest, the drive provides gorgeous vistas of the surrounding Blue Ridge Mountains blanketed in fir and spruce.

Travelers willing to stretch their legs can enjoy short hiking trails along the route, like the 1-mile trail to Craggy Gardens Visitor Center with panoramic views. The winding drive, combined with trails and stellar high-elevation scenery, makes Mount Mitchell a can't-miss North Carolina road trip.

• Distance: 52 miles
• Major Stops: Craggy Gardens Visitor Center , Mount Mitchell State Park

6 Blue Ridge Parkway: One Of The Best Fall Foliage Road Trips In The US

Follow america's favorite scenic drive through north carolina's high country.

No list of North Carolina scenic drives is complete without the stunning Blue Ridge Parkway. This legendary roadway is one of the most scenic road trips in the US for fall foliage and traverses 469 miles across the southern Appalachians from Shenandoah National Park to Great Smoky Mountains National Park, including over 100 breathtaking miles through western North Carolina.

Must-see stops include Linville Falls, Glassmine Falls, Craggy Gardens (considered one of the most beautiful stops along the route) , and Mount Mitchell. Tracing ridgelines and mountain gaps, the Parkway offers nonstop vistas of rolling peaks dressed in green forests and dotted with historic towns like Little Switzerland. For the quintessential high-country drive, the Blue Ridge Parkway can't be beat.

• Distance: 469 miles total
• Major Stops: Linville Falls , Mount Mitchell, Craggy Gardens

5 Cherohala Skyway: Explore 50 Miles Of Valley Views And Mountain Vistas In The Scenic Appalachian Mountains

A scenic route over the appalachians between north carolina and tennessee.

One of the most unforgettable road trips to take in North Carolina , Cherohala Skyway ascends 5,400 feet as it winds almost 50 miles over the Appalachian Mountains, linking Robbinsville, North Carolina, with Tellico Plains, Tennessee. This National Scenic Byway is dotted with scenic overlooks revealing gorgeous panoramic mountain vistas and sweeping valley views.

Popular stops include overlooks at Santeetlah Dam, the historic railroad town of Tapoco, and the Appalachian Trail crossing. Thick forests, colorful wildflowers, and placid lakes seen from the Skyway exemplify the rugged beauty of the southern high peaks region shared by North Carolina and Tennessee.

• Distance: Around 43 miles
• Major Stops: Santeetlah Lake , Tapoco , Appalachian Trail crossing

4 Outer Banks Scenic Byway: See Historic Lighthouses, Shipwrecks, Coastal Villages, And North Carolina's Best Beaches En Route

Drive the entire length of north carolina's spectacular outer banks.

Hugging North Carolina's OBX coastline for 138 miles from Whalebone Junction to Ocracoke Island, the Outer Banks Scenic Byway offers a fabulous driving tour of these barrier islands, past some of the best Outer Banks beach towns perfect for a weekend getaway . The route snakes past Cape Hatteras National Seashore, wild beaches, historic lighthouses, shipwreck sites, and kitschy coastal villages.

Travelers can enjoy swimming, fishing, kayaking, and spotting coastal birds and the islands' famous wild horses. Highlights include climbing the iconic Cape Hatteras Lighthouse and driving right out onto the sand at ramps near Rodanthe. For beach lovers, this scenic drive is paradise.

• Distance: 137.8 miles
• Major Stops: Cape Hatteras Lighthouse , Cape Lookout National Seashore , Ocracoke Island

3 Cape Hatteras National Seashore: See Even More Of The Outer Banks' Best Stops

Driving through the heart of the north carolina outer banks.

Providing 70 miles of protected beaches, dunes, marshes, and maritime forests on the Outer Banks, Cape Hatteras National Seashore is an exquisite area to explore by car. In addition to swimming and beach walking, popular stops include the 1870 Bodie Island Lighthouse, Cape Hatteras Lighthouse, offering the best OBX views, the historic Chicamacomico Life-Saving Station, and wild horses around Corolla.

The highlight is driving right onto the beach at ramps between Rodanthe and Avon - a unique Outer Banks experience. Nature lovers will also enjoy Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge on the inland side.

• Distance: 70 miles
• Major Stops: Lighthouses, beaches, wild horses, Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge

The Best Outer Banks Beaches, Ranked By Popularity

These are the most impressive beaches in the Outer Banks, ranked by popularity.

2 Colonial Heritage Byway

Traverse 92 miles of revolutionary history in coastal carolina.

The Colonial Heritage Byway is another one of the most beautiful road trips in North Carolina; it connects several key sites important to colonial history along the state's coast. From the Outer Banks to Wilmington, this scenic road trip incorporates Revolutionary War forts, plantations, and the site of the Wright brothers' first flight.

Highlights include strolling Wilmington's historic riverfront, exploring Somerset Place Plantation, climbing the Kill Devil Hills monument, and walking the earthworks at Fort Raleigh National Historic Site . History buffs will appreciate this opportunity to vividly trace North Carolina's role in US independence and aviation milestones.

• Distance: 92 miles
• Major Stops: Wright Brothers National Memorial , Somerset Place Plantation , Battleship NC

1 Pamlico Scenic Byway: Drive 127 Miles Of The Inner Banks' Charming Fishing Villages And Appreciate The Rregion's Maritime History

Witness coastal vistas along north carolina's inner banks.

Stretching from Whalebone Junction to the town of Washington, the Pamlico Scenic Byway/Hwy 264 transports travelers through coastal North Carolina’s Inner Banks region dotted with tiny fishing villages. In addition to pretty views of Pamlico Sound, highlights include seeing wild mustang horses, visiting the NC Estuarium, and exploring the historic Beaufort waterfront.

Driving over the Town Creek bridge, one of the highest coastal bridges in the country, provides gorgeous scenery as well. The route combines wildlife viewing, maritime culture, and idyllic coastal views, perfectly encapsulating the spirit of coastal Carolina.

• Distance: 127 miles
• Major Stops: NC Estuarium , Goose Creek Island

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An essential road trip along the Outer Banks Scenic Byway

Explore lighthouses, sandy beaches, and even shipwrecks...

• North Carolina
• Featured Trip Guides
• Scenic Drives

Created by Roadtrippers - March 17th 2016

A long this incredible road trip down North Carolina's coastal Outer Banks Scenic Byway, you'll explore everything from wildlife to beaches to shipwrecks to lighthouses to the very location where the Wright brothers changed history with their first flight. Get ready for loads of seaside charm as you road trip along the Outer Banks!

Wright Brothers National Memorial

The byway doesn’t “officially” start in Kitty Hawk, but it's a great starting point before heading south. Stop by the Wright Brothers National Memorial, the spot where the very first controlled, powered flight took place on December 17, 1903. The site itself is beautiful with historical markers, a monument, and a replica camp, and the visitors center features a full-size replica of the Wright brother’s 1903 Powered Flyer.

1 Black Pelican Seafood Co

If you're hungry, the Black Pelican Seafood Co is an ocean-front restaurant that dates back to 1874, when it used to be a lifesaving station. Today, it's a super laid-back steak and seafood joint that also serves up pizzas.

2 Rundown Cafe

Or another Kitty Hawk classic is the Rundown Cafe, which is more for families. It's got a cute and kitschy tropical island theme going on. The food is also Caribbean and Pacific Rim-inspired.

The Sanderling Resort & Spa

Click to discover a great deal!

When you're ready to call it a night, The Sanderling Resort and Spa is for more upscale Outer Banks visitors. It's just a few miles to the town of Duck, and some rooms feature gorgeous ocean views. Since it's a resort you'll be paying a resort fee, but that covers wifi, beach chairs and beach umbrellas as well as parking and use of their fitness center. There are also two restaurants onsite and bars.

4 Outer Banks Brewing Station

But, before turning in for the night, hit up the Outer Banks Brewing Station in Kill Devil Hills, NC. This is America's first wind-powered brewery. They often feature live music and have a great selection of craft beer and traditional pub food.

5 First Colony Inn

Another great choice for lodging in the area is the First Colony Inn. It's been around since the end of the 19th century, and it still exudes a romantic North Carolina charm after all these years. The inn has been updated over the years and now it's on the National Register of Historic Places.

6 Jennette's Pier

The Outer Banks Scenic Byway has tons of lighthouses that have been helping ships navigate the tricky nautical area around OBX. Start at Jennette's Pier in Nags Head and enjoy a leisurely cruise down the coastal road.

Bodie Island Lighthouse

Nags Head, NC

Nags Head has had a lighthouse on it since 1847, but the first was abandoned due to a bad foundation and the second was blown up by Confederate troops as they retreated in 1861. The Bodie Island Lighthouse you see today was finished in 1872 and is now open for you to explore for the very first time ever in its 140+ year history.

8 Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge

The Outer Banks has also achieved worldwide renown for its breathtaking scenery. Those miles and miles of sandy beaches and marshland are just spectacular. Whether you’re interested in dipping your toes in the ocean or spotting some wildlife at some of the refuges like Cedar Island National Wildlife Refuge or Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge, you’ll walk away from your trip down the Outer Banks Scenic Byway feeling one with nature.

Inn at Rodanthe

Rodanthe, NC

Next you'll come to the Inn at Rodanthe. When the house, which was nicknamed "Serendipity," was first built, there were more than 400 feet between it and the ocean. Those 400 feet kept the Serendipity safe from the crashing waves, rocks, erosion, and anything else that could possibly threaten to topple it into the ocean. Unable to rent it out, the owners tried for years to sell the house. But it wasn’t until it appeared in the movie "Nights in Rodanthe," that someone paid attention to the water-logged mansion. In 2010, a married couple (who just happened to be fans of the film) bought the house and gave it a second life. How? They decided to pick the whole thing up and move it to a safer location just 30 minutes down the beach. This was obviously no small feat, considering it’s a 45-foot-tall, 83,000 pound house. Today the house has been relocated, restored, redecorated, and renamed the “Inn at Rodanthe,” after the popular romance novel. The best part? It’s still a vacation rental, with an amazing view of the Atlantic.

10 Atlantic Coast Cafe

Over in the town of Waves, the Atlantic Coast Cafe is a great spot to sit back and enjoy breakfast, or a seafood lunch or dinner in a super relaxed atmosphere.

11 Cape Hatteras Motel

A solid budget motel is the Cape Hatteras Motel. This beachfront motel is less than two miles from Cape Hatteras Lighthouse. Wifi is free and you can request a room with an ocean view. There's also a pool onsite and a hot tub, as well as picnic areas and BBQ pits.

Cape Hatteras Lighthouse

Want your exercise for the day? Climb the 257 steps to the top of the world’s tallest brick lighthouse, Cape Hatteras Lighthouse. Go early if you want to avoid the crowds (especially in summer). You can only bring water into the lighthouse, which is recommended if you get easily parched. There's a nice gift shop onsite, as well, and even though they don't sell water for the easily-dehydrated, they do have tons of little souvenirs.

13 Graveyard of Atlantic Museumloca

There’s a reason for all the lighthouses on the Outer Banks… These waters were and still are some tricky business for mariners. Today, the Graveyard of the Atlantic Museum tells of the area's maritime history, and the more adventurous can free-dive the coast for shipwrecks like the Pocahontas Shipwreck.

14 Hatteras-Ocracoke Ferry: Ocracoke Terminal

When you want to venture off the mainland, hop on the Hatteras-Ocracoke Ferry. Ocracoke Island is one of America's most beautiful beaches, and the island is only accessible by ferry.

Howard's Pub and Raw Bar

Ocracoke, NC

When you're ready for some delicious grub, you can't do better than Howard's Pub and Raw Bar. This hopping local joint features loads of license plates and pennants on the walls. It's a seasonal operation, so check to make sure it's open.

Oracoke Island

There's a ridiculously charming village on Ocracoke island, and 16 miles of gorgeous beach. Whether you just want to sit back and listen to the waves crash, or watch the seagulls, this is relaxation at its finest. There's an historic 19th century lighthouse on the island and an historic British Cemetery. Definitely visit the Teacher's Hole, which is a short walk through the forest, because it was once the home of Blackbeard!

17 Ocracoke Lighthouse

Although the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse is a massive, imposing structure, the Ocracoke Lighthouse is just a short, funky-looking little thing. Though not as visually impressive, the history of this lighthouse makes it well worth a quick stop. As North Carolina’s oldest and America’s second oldest lighthouse in operation, it’s not open for climbers and it doesn’t really have a gift shop or visitors center, but reading up on it and then visiting will give you an appreciation for the early mariners who relied on it for guidance.

Outer Banks National Scenic Byway

Most shops and restaurants along the Outer Banks open after Easter, just as temperatures start to rise to the mid-60s and early 70s. Then in summer the crowds flock to the Outer Banks. This is when vacation homes and hotels are at their busiest and thus rates are higher.

18 Cedar Island National Wildlife Refuge

Go for a walk around Cedar Island National Wildlife Refuge, which was established back in 1964. Its 11,000 acres of protected marshland and woodland make for a fantastic place to birdwatch and hike.

Most shops and restaurants along the Outer Banks open after Easter, just as temperatures start to rise to the mid-60s and early 70s. Then in summer the crowds flock to the Outer Banks. This is when vacation homes and hotels are at their busiest and thus rates are higher. Thousands of people visit during the summer months and the weather averages in the low 80s. However, locals say the best time to visit is when fall comes around. Most travelers with families are back in school and back to work, but the weather stays mild until the end of December. Winter is pretty quiet in the Outer Banks, but lots of restaurants and shops are closed during this season. However, on the plus side you'll pretty much have the beaches to yourself.

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North Carolina Road Trip Itinerary: What to Eat, Drink, and Do in the Tar Heel State

Planning a road trip here’s everything you might need to plot a cross-country journey, a family vacation, or a solo trek..

The diversity of North Carolina makes it a top destination for tourism and the extra beautiful mountain region makes the the top of the list for places to visit within the state. The best way to see what North Carolina’s mountains offer is by experiencing them through scenic drives and stops in the cities that offer quaint places to stay, incredible restaurants, and lots of activities to fill your time. Below is a guide to help inspire your next North Carolina road trip. It all starts by landing in Asheville, the state’s most progressive and welcoming community, where you can pick up your car rental and head to town.

Day 1: Asheville

Day 2: waynesville, day 3: waynesville, day 4: highlands, day 5: asheville.

Arrive in Asheville and check into the  Windsor Asheville , an all-suite boutique property with kitchens, living rooms, and a private bedroom located in the heart of downtown .

Food and Drink

• Biscuit Head : If you’re a fan of biscuits, this might just be your nirvana. Options range from savory to sweet.
• The Corner Kitchen :  Located in one of the historic Biltmore Village homes, Corner Kitchen is a favorite among locals and visitors. The corned beef hash and creamy grits are a signature breakfast item.
• Buxton Hall : James Beard Award-winning chefs Meherwan Irani and Elliott Moss opened up their new place, which honors the mountain tradition of pit-cooked, whole-hog, slow-cooked barbecue . It’s everything you will have hoped for.
• Rhubarb : The James Beard Foundation named chef John Fleer one of the “Rising Stars of the 21st Century” and his passion for Appalachian food traditions is reflected in his menus and revival of the Sunday night supper, a family-style meal experience.
• Sovereign Remedies : Charlie Hodge, who creates beverage programs for restaurants across the country, has partnered with Asheville “Mushroom Man” Alan Muskat to create cocktails with foraged ingredients.
• Top of the Monk : Top of the Monk has been named one of the best pre-Prohibition era craft cocktail bars in the country. Once you order your drink, make sure to get a key to receive a special bar bite in an old post office box!
• Asheville Bee Charmer :  The two locations of Asheville Bee Charmer showcase local and regional bee-themed skincare products, housewares and gifts, sweet treats, and, of course, honey.
• Battery Park Book Exchange : An eclectic vintage bookstore that serves Champagne — you can’t really go wrong here.
• Ben’s Penny Mart : Grab an incredible deli sandwich or hot dog from local vendor Foothills Meats at the Ben’s Penny Mart bodega. While in the area, hit up some of the breweries, including Burial Brewing, Catawba Brewing, Green Man, Hi-Wire, Twin Leaf, and the Funkatorium (Wicked Weed’s sour beer headquarters). Try a bottle of Ben’s house-made sake back at the Penny Mart.
• Biltmore : It’s hard to pass up a trip to the Biltmore estate, the largest private home in America. There’s more than just the house tour: the property offers a winery tour and tasting, as well as two hotels.
• Herbiary : This downtown shop offers organic and pesticide-free herbs and teas, phthalate-free skincare, and great gift ideas.

Depart for Waynesville, a 40-minute drive from Asheville. Upon arriving, check into The Swag , perched 5,000 feet above the cares of the world. This bed-and-breakfast offers breathtaking views from the mountaintops complemented by luxurious accommodations, award-winning service and cuisine, and a private entrance to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. It’s important to note that The Swag is located in “dry country” but that doesn’t mean you can’t bring a few libations that you picked up in Asheville with you!

• Joey’s Pancake House :  Even people who never order pancakes anywhere else swear by the ones served here, so they are worth a visit.
• Bourbon Barrel :  Look forward to a wonderful selection of all-natural steaks from local farms as well as microbrews and ales from local brewers.
• Sweet Onion : The regional cuisine here includes everything from southern fried chicken to pastas to fresh mountain trout.
• Haywood Smokehouse : Expect true mountain barbecue, smoked fresh every day — just don’t get there late because once it’s gone, it’s gone!
• The Chef’s Table :  Fresh, seasonal, local foods and produce paired with wines from around the world.
• Cataloochee Ranch :  This nearby guest ranch has trails for horseback riding or mountain hiking.
• Boojum Brewing : One of Haywood County’s best craft microbreweries, it has its tasting room/restaurant next door to the Waynesville Visitor Center.
• Wheels Through Time : Even if you don’t love motorcycles, this museum is pretty incredible. Home to the world’s premier collection of rare American vintage motorcycles, the museum more than 300 rarities and classics from Harley-Davidson, Indian, Excelsior, Crocker, Henderson, Flying Merkel, and more.
• The Swag : Breakfast specialties include cider-simmered oatmeal, omelets made to order, breakfast breads, bacon, country sausage, and fresh juice. The dinner bell rings at 7:00 p.m.; enjoy a four-course meal in the candlelit dining room and get to know the other lucky guests staying there.

Today is all about driving and exploring the scenic mountain roads. Start off with a hefty breakfast and load up on snacks or stop along the drive as you wish to grab a bite. This is what you came for, so spend less time worrying about food and more time taking in the views.

• Blue Ridge Parkway Loop: Enjoy the morning exploring “America’s Favorite Drive.” Haywood County’s 46 miles of the 469-mile parkway is the highest elevated section, so get your camera ready for some epic photographs. Hop onto the Blue Ridge Parkway via U.S. 19, just outside of Maggie Valley, which will start you at Mile Marker 455. As you head north toward Asheville (note that marker numbers decrease), make a point to stop at Waterrock Knob (MM 451.2) for 365-degree views and Richland Balsam (MM 431.4), the highest peak on the parkway at 6,411 feet. You can hop off the parkway at three places: Mile Marker 443.1 Balsam Gap US 74-23 Crossover; Mile Marker 423.3 Beech Gap. NC 215 Crossover; Mile Marker 412.2 Wagon Road Gap US 276 Crossover. If you choose to explore all 46 miles, which will take you several hours with stops, here are few other points of interest: MM 417 Looking Glass Rock; MM 418.8 Graveyard Fields Overlook; and MM 422.4 Devil’s Courthouse Parking Area.
• Cataloochee Valley: One of the most remote areas of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park , the valley provides a look back in time to one of the area’s original pioneer settlements. The winding trails also lead to hikes as well as to views of the elk, which are most commonly seen at dusk, and have flourished, with more than 100 now living in and around the valley.

Depart for Highlands (about 90 minutes away) and check into the  Old Edwards Inn & Spa , a European-style retreat. The main inn takes over four city blocks and includes the spa, their signature restaurant, shops, cottages, and even a heated outdoor mineral pool.

• Bistro on Main : You’ll find salads, sandwiches, and entrees at the Main Street Inn’s restaurant.
• Madison’s : The Old Edwards’s signature restaurant, spearheaded by chef Johannes Klapdohr, is considered the classiest place in town and with good reason. Let the staff guide you through the extensive menu.
• Wild Thyme Gourmet : Expect American cuisine with an Asian influence.
• Wine Garden : This spot promises al fresco dining with a menu of salads, sandwiches, and entrees, as well as an assortment of local craft beer.
• Highlands Botanical Garden and Nature Center : Part of the Highlands Biological Station research facility, the center features some of the area’s natural wonders.
• Hike to Sunset Rock: Leave the car at the nature center and walk over to what leads to a natural amphitheater along the cliffside.
• Satulah Mountain Brewing Co. : Beyond the local brew, Satulah boasts the largest local draft beer selection in town.
• The Ugly Dog Pub : This classic tavern will make you feel right at home.
• Waterfall drive : See Bridal Veil Falls on US 64/28, which cascades 120 feet over the highway. Dry Falls, also on US 64/28 W, is a 75-foot waterfall that visitors can walk behind. Glen Falls, on NC 106 S, is a series of three large falls, dropping about 60 feet each.

Wake up today and start the 90-minute drive back to Asheville. On the way, make sure to stop at neighboring Cashiers or Brevard, two other small mountain towns that are charming and worth exploring before heading home.

Article originally published on April 5, 2019.

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On August 14, Portland International Airport (PDX) debuted its new main terminal, featuring a Pacific Northwest-inspired design and local shops and eateries. The space envelops travelers in natural light and views reminiscent of the PNW forest. The $2.15 billion project began construction in 2021, and the initial opening covers 600,000 square feet. Completion is set for 2026. The new main terminal at PDX: Like traveling through a Pacific Northwest forest

Air travel can be hectic and stressful; the new terminal’s designers set out to change that. With open spaces and natural light, the new design lets travelers unwind as they walk through. Additionally, a pre-security area offers stadium seating, and eateries focus on local fare.

Beginning June 2, 2025, Edelweiss Air will offer nonstop service from Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) to Zurich Airport (ZRH). The flights give West Coast travelers a direct route to Switzerland’s natural and historic bounty, like the Swiss Alps and Old Town Zurich. The routes take off twice per week, aboard an Airbus 340-300, with space for 214 passengers. Edelweiss Air 2025: Seattle to Zurich in a flash

Edelweiss is a leading leisure airline based in Switzerland. The carrier flies to gorgeous places across the globe, with 90 destinations throughout 30 countries. It’s a sister company of SWISS Airlines, with both owned by Lufthansa Group. The new Seattle-Zurich route reflects the company’s continued growth, with 2.7 million passengers served in 2024, up from 2.2 million in 2022.

American Express just announced the 2025 opening of its Centurion Lounge at Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC). The 16,000 square-foot space is part of Phase 4 of The New SLC Airport Redevelopment program and will reside in Concourse B. Inspired by the mountain surroundings, and offering an array of amenities, the lounge promises travelers a place to unwind and recharge before (or after) their flight. The American Express Centurion Lounge at SLC: Inspired by Utah’s surroundings Rendering of the American Express Centurion Lounge, Salt Lake City, Utah American Express

American Express is the first credit card company to open a bespoke lounge at SLC. Eligible card members can relax, eat, or work in a space inspired by Utah’s picturesque landscapes and be ready for their next connection. Among other signature Centurion Lounge amenities, guests can enjoy an outdoor terrace with views of the Wasatch Mountains, a coffee bar with locally sourced beans, delicious food, a wellness room, comfortable seating, and a full bar.

Are you ready for a Road Trip? Explore these eleven incredible cross-country road trip routes across the U.S.!

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North Carolina

Home / Atlantic Coast / North Carolina

Wild Atlantic beaches, a handful of tiny fishing villages, and some of the country’s most significant historic sites make coastal North Carolina a great place to visit.

A highlight for many vacationers are the Outer Banks, miles of barrier islands where busy resort towns like Nags Head contrast with the stretches of pristine beaches protected on the Cape Hatteras National Seashore . Besides golden sands, the Outer Banks area includes two evocative historic sites: the dunes at Kitty Hawk, where the Wright Brothers first took to the air, and Roanoke Island , site of the first ill-fated English effort to colonize the New World.

Farther south, beyond the quirky small city of Wilmington, a movie-making mecca, the 300-mi (485-km) coastal route turns inland around Cape Fear , heading toward the South Carolina border.

Warmed by the Gulf Stream currents, the Outer Banks beaches are some of the best in the world, but the waters do not warm up appreciably until south of Oregon Inlet, and swimming in the northern stretches remains quite invigorating until July.

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Road Trip on the Scenic North Carolina Waterfall Byway

By Jason Barnette | Travel writer and photographer with 15+ years of road tripping experience

• Last Updated on May 12, 2024
• Published on January 31, 2020
• Blue Ridge Parkway

This post may contain affiliate links. Read my Affiliate Disclosure here .

It’s difficult to pick a single favorite waterfall along the North Carolina Waterfall Byway. The thunderous Looking Glass Falls? Maybe Dry Falls with a trail behind the falls that keeps you anything but dry? Could it be the 411’ tall Upper Whitewater falls? Instead of trying to pick a favorite I decided to design a road trip on the scenic North Carolina Waterfall Byway to help you see them all.

The North Carolina Waterfall Byway is a 98-mile scenic byway along U.S. Highway 64 between Murphy and Rosman. The route stretches across the five western most counties in the state including Transylvania County, locally called the “Land of Waterfalls” because, well, you can figure out why when you get there.

When sitting down to plan the itinerary for a road trip on the North Carolina Waterfall Byway I realized the official byway ends too soon in Rosman, leaving out many of the waterfalls of Transylvania County. The route of this 140-mile road trip begins in Murphy, passes through Brevard, and ends with a little loop through DuPont State Recreational Forest and into Pisgah National Forest, ending at the Sliding Rock Recreation Area.

The itinerary includes information on 25 waterfalls you’ll pass along the way, but there are many more to see if you are truly interested. The local visitor centers always have handy maps and directions to local waterfalls, especially once you reach Brevard.

Road Trip Map

How to use this map: Click the icon in the top-left corner to open the Map Legend, then click on any of the legend items to display more information. If you have a Google account, click the star beside the map’s name to save this map to your account, then access the map from your smartphone during your trip.

As the seat of Cherokee County , the small town of Murphy is the western most incorporated town in North Carolina. The town is located in a gorgeous narrow valley at the intersection of U.S. Highways 64 & 74 about ninety minutes from Interstate 40 in Waynesville.

READ MORE: The 27 Best Road Trip Quotes to Inspire Your Next Adventure

The Hiawassee River flows west from downtown Murphy, eventually creating Hiawassee Lake behind a Tennessee Valley Authority dam. Beyond that is the 1100-acre Appalachia Lake, another creation of the TVA. Both lakes offer pristine opportunities for kayaking and canoeing with very little shoreline development.

Begin your exploration of town at the Cherokee County Historical Museum to learn about local Native American and early frontier settler’s history. Take a walk along Unicoi Turnpike, the main street through town, past many locally owned restaurants and retail shops.

If you feel a bit hungry head over to ShoeBooties Café for an interesting take on Cajun and seafood or give Downtown Pizza a try with their all you can eat buffet. The Daily Grind & Wine is a great place to grab some coffee to go on your road trip.

Visit Cherokee County, NC 20 Tennessee Street, Murphy, NC | 828-557-0602 | https://visitcherokeecountync.com/

Did You Know? Just 30 miles west of Murphy along U.S. Highway 64/74 in Tennessee is the Ocoee Whitewater Center . The recreational center was built for the 1996 Summer Olympics, hosted in nearby Atlanta, for the slalom event. Today it is part of the Ocoee Scenic Byway , a 30-mile route stretching into Cleveland, Tennessee.

Bell Mountain in Hiawassee, GA

The road to the summit of Bell Mountain was one of the most terrifying drives of my life, but it came with one of the most rewarding views. When the town of Hiawassee was granted the land after the death of the owner they immediately set to building a paved road to the top and a wooden observation deck. From the bald summit visitors can look down onto Chatuge Lake and the small town below.

It’s only a 25-mile detour to visit Bell Mountain Park. In Hayesville turn right onto SC Highway 69/GA Highway 515 and follow it to US Highway 76. Take the four-lane highway through town to Shake Rag Road to the summit of the mountain. On the return turn right onto GA Highway 75/SC Highway 175 to return to US Highway 64.

READ MORE: The Stunning Views at Bell Mountain Park in Hiawassee, Georgia

Shooting Creek Scenic Overlook

It doesn’t take long on U.S. Highway 64 to get into the countryside of North Carolina. Shortly after passing through the small unincorporated community of Shooting Creek the road begins a long and curvy climb up the mountains.

After a few of those curves you’ll see the Shooting Creek Scenic Overlook on the left. This little knob has a gorgeous view of the valley you just drove through and mountain peaks in the distance.

Rufus Morgan Falls

Rufus Morgan Falls is a hit-and-miss charming cascading waterfall. The trailhead is located on a Forest Service Road that is frequently closed so you might either need to skip this waterfall or add an additional four miles roundtrip to the hike.

Turn left onto Wayah Road and continue along the two-lane road about six miles to Forest Service Road 388. If the gate is open, continue along this bumpy gravel road about two miles to an unpaved parking area. The 1-mile loop trail has an almost 300’ total climb but is still an easy to hike.

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At this point you’re so close to Wayah Bald it would be a shame to miss one of the most breathtaking overlooks in Western North Carolina. At 5,342’ Wayah Bald is one of the highest peaks in the region with views as far as the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and Rabun Bald in Georgia.

There is a large parking area and a restroom with privy toilets near the summit of the mountain. Take the short, paved trail to the 53’ tall old stone fire tower at the summit. Climb the steps to the top for gorgeous views in all directions.

On the way back down be sure to stop at the Wilson Lick Ranger Station . Built in 1913 it was the first residence for a forest service ranger in the Nantahala National Forest. Visitors are welcome to explore the grounds of the ranger station.

Inside Tip Forest Service Road 69 leading to the summit of Wayah Bald is closed seasonally from January through March. Although it’s possible to hike the Appalachian Trial to the summit during those months, there is no safe place to leave your car at the bottom of the mountain.

Franklin, NC

Also known as the “Gem Capital of the World”, Franklin’s gem mining history stretches back to the late 1800s when miners began searching for rubies and sapphires. For an authentic modern experience with gem mining head out to the Cowee Gift Shop and Mason Mountain Mine where you can sift for your very own treasures and keep what you find!

When you return to town stop at the Gem & Mineral Museum of Franklin to learn about the gem mining heritage and get a peek at various local minerals. The Macon County Historical Museum delves into the history of the Cherokee who lived in this area long before the first settlers appeared. The most interesting museum in town is the Scottish Tartans Museum , a unique museum displaying the history of Scottish settlers.

READ MORE: 50 Road Trip Quotes to Inspire Your Next Adventure + Downloadable Social Media Images

When it comes time for dinner take a stroll along Main Street and enjoy the stunning view of the mountains in the distance. Just around the corner Frogtown Market is a great place for a seafood meal while Rockin Rollie Pollie’s has a traditional American menu. After dinner head down the street to Lazy Hiker Brewing Company to try their craft beers named after great local hikes.

Looking for a perfect evening? Check out a performance at the Smoky Mountains Center for the Performing Arts or take the family next door to The Factory , a gargantuan indoor entertainment park with arcade games, go kart racing, and casual dining.

Discover Franklin 98 Hyatt Road, Franklin, NC | 828-524-2516 | www.discoverfranklinnc.com/

Where to Stay in Franklin

One thing sorely missed in Franklin is a bevy of great hotels. There are a couple of good ones, but Franklin is mostly a town to pass through. I would actually recommend spending the night in Highlands on this road trip, but if this is as far as you made it here are a couple options. The Microtel Inn & Suites is always my favorite as a solo traveler. The rooms are small, but cozy. They also have rooms with two queen beds if you’re traveling with the family. The Microtel Inn is located beside the Smoky Mountain Center for the Performing Arts and The Factory. Another option is the Comfort Inn located on the other side of town. This comfortable hotel has rooms with a king bed or two queen beds so it’s perfect for any kind of traveler.

Cullasaja Gorge

Leave Franklin behind as the road trip continues on the two-lane U.S. Highway 64 as it winds toward the mountains. Shortly after passing Walnut Creek Road you’ll enter the 7.5-mile long Cullasaja Gorge , a scenic route with a narrow road along the river.

There are five waterfalls and a national forest recreation area along the Cullasaja Gorge, making it an immensely popular drive during the summer months.

Cullasaja Falls

The 250’ tumbling Cullasaja Falls is easy to miss and hard to return to. There is only a narrow view from a pull-off along U.S. Highway 64 heading toward Highlands. The view is spectacular, but it’s difficult to actually enjoy it.

The pull off only has enough room for two personal vehicles; RVs and people with travel trailers should not attempt to pull over here. The only way to access the pull-off is heading toward Highlands. If you’re heading the opposite direction continue a couple miles to a church where you can turn around and head back.

Inside Tip There is no trail, official or otherwise, leading to the bottom of this waterfall. But that doesn’t stop people from trying to reach the river far below. Emergency personnel conduct a few rescues here each year for people who get stuck or injured trying. Please don’t be one of those people.

Bust Your Butt Falls

I almost missed this my first time driving the North Carolina Waterfall Byway. There are no signs marking the location of Bust Your Butt Falls , but there is plenty of parking on both sides of the road to give you a clue. Hop out of the car and you’ll find a popular swimming hole at the base of a cascading waterfall.

Getting out to the Cullasaja River here can be quite tricky with no paths or stairs. Stake out a large boulder along the river for yourself and enjoy a break. If you’re brave enough, and have a firm tailbone, you can slide down the slippery rocks and splash into the water hole below.

Cliffside Lake Recreation Area

The Cliffside Lake Recreation Area is a day-use park in the Nantahala National Forest. The heart of the park is the small lake used for fishing and swimming. A bathhouse nearby makes changing easy. The day I visited was dark and gloomy with periodic rainstorms moving through the area. I took advantage of the unused covered picnic shelter to enjoy a break during a storm.

Ranger Falls

Ranger Falls is a 35’ waterfall on Skitty Creek. That’s not a typo. It’s actually called Skitty Creek.

The Ranger Falls Loop Trail is a 2.4-mile moderately difficult hike from the parking lot in the Cliffside Lake Recreation Area. When entering the recreation area drive past the parking lot at the lake and continue about 1.2 miles to the second parking lot to access the trailhead.

The theory behind the name for Dry Falls is that visitors can walk behind the waterfall along the trail and not get wet. In reality a fine mist created by the churning water will get you damp, giving you chills in the colder months and cooling you off during the summer.

The small paved parking area has room for about a dozen vehicles, but no RVs or trailers. There is a restroom building with privy toilets; I always recommend using the restroom before visiting a waterfall because as soon as you hear that churning water I bet you’ll have to pee.

The hike down to the waterfall is one of those classic easy down, not so easy coming back up scenarios. The concrete path descends several steps to a view about midway down the waterfall. There are plenty of benches within site of the waterfall so you don’t have to go all the way down.

The trail continues behind the waterfall for a rather unique experience. On the other side of the waterfall it continues a couple hundred feet to a scenic overlook.

Bridal Veil Falls

Bridal Veil Falls is the easiest waterfall to view on this road trip. It’s literally directly beside U.S. Highway 64 and can be viewed from the comfort of the car. The waterfall, when there is enough runoff water, pours over a ledge and into a drain beneath the highway.

Vehicles used to be able to drive behind the waterfall along the paved road, but that road has been blocked off for a few years now. There is plenty of room to pull over, though, so you can still enjoy the sight.

Sequoyah Falls

Although not quite a waterfall, at least not a natural one, Lake Sequoyah Falls is the runoff over the concrete dam that creates Lake Sequoyah at the edge of Highlands. There is a small gravel parking lot near the dam with a nice view of the waterfall.

Glen Falls is a rather gorgeous triple waterfall just a few miles from Highlands. The 2.4-mile out and back Glen Falls Trail includes a nearly 800’ elevation change so it can be quite challenging. There is an observation deck at the upper waterfall at 0.5-miles from the parking lot and another observation deck at the middle falls at 0.75-miles.

It’s a 3.2-mile drive from the middle of Highlands to the parking area. The drive starts on Dillard Road near the west end of Main Street. A little less than two miles down the road you’ll see Glen Falls Road on the left. From there it is another one-mile drive to the parking area.

Highlands, NC

Sitting on a plateau at 4,117’ above sea level the town of Highlands stays pretty cool even during the warmest of summer days. The small town has fewer than a thousand full-time residents but that number swells during the weekends and holidays. But even on the busiest of days Highlands is a relaxing, charming town to visit on any road trip.

READ MORE: Exploring, Shopping, and Dining in Downtown Highlands, NC

The Highland Hiker makes a wonderful alternate visitor center for the town. Owned by locals Chris and Hilary, the outdoor shop sells everything you need for hiking, fly fishing, and lounging in the mountains. The 1.4-mile trailhead to Sunset Rock is located just up the road from the shop, leading to a breathtaking view for, well, sunset over Highlands.

Take a stroll along Main Street and explore the local retail shops. With flower baskets hanging from every light pole and comfortable benches it’s easy to take a load off and enjoy a break from driving.

Getting hungry? Mountain Fresh Grocery is a former grocery store turned into a shopping mall style of restaurant with a few serving stations cooking up made to order meals. Madison’s Restaurant is a great choice in Highlands with their outdoor Wine Garden and savory menu. My favorite place in town is The Ugly Dog Pub , a short walk from Main Street. Photos of furry friends adorn the walls for you to admire while finishing off a burger, tater tots, and craft beer.

Highlands Chamber of Commerce 108 Main Street, Highlands, NC | 828-526-5841 | www.highlandschamber.org

Where to Stay in Highlands

The upside of visiting Highlands is a bevy of wonderful local hotels and bed and breakfasts to spend a few nights. The downside is a lack of anything on a friendly budget or even mid-range. Spending a night in Highlands will cost you, but it’s worth the splurge for the amenities you get along with the room.

The Old Edwards Inn & Spa is the most luxurious place to stay in Highlands. Book a comfortable room at the historic inn, lodge, cottages, or residences – homes that are perfect for traveling families. Enjoy on-site dining and treat yourself to a visit to the spa.

200 Main is a sister property to the Old Edwards Inn. The former hotel has been completely renovated, expanded with additional rooms in separate buildings, and features a more budget-friendly option than staying at the Old Edwards Inn. 200 Main features comfortable rooms with walk-in showers and balconies, fire pits on the ground level, and an outdoor swimming pool.

Inside Tip When booking a room online at 200 Main, I recommend the “King Room with Balcony and Fireplace”. At the very least you’ll enjoy the amazing shower, but hopefully you’ll also have a good time with the fireplace, balcony, and spacious room. Book as early as possible; these rooms tend to sell out on the weekends months in advance.

The first thing the folks at The Park on Main want you to know about their boutique hotel is that dogs are very much welcome. The comfortable rooms feature quaint balconies overlooking downtown Highlands and is perfectly located for walking to everything in town.

Highlands Inn is located inside a gorgeous building resembling a stagecoach inn from the 1800s. Inside, the modern rooms are comfortable, spacious, and offer balconies overlooking downtown Highlands.

Whiteside Mountain

After leaving Highlands behind you’ll have a final chance to enjoy a stunning view from the Highlands Plateau. Just before a big bend in the road turn right onto Whiteside Mountain Road and drive about one mile to a parking area for the Whiteside Mountain Trail .

The 1.9-mile loop trail is moderately strenuous as you ascend 500’ to reach the top of Whiteside Mountain. The exposed granite surface offers stunning views to the southeast across the mountain landscape.

Cashiers, NC

Cashiers is a wonderful mountain town to roll through on road trips through western North Carolina. The town is surrounded by gorgeous places to stay like High Hampton Resort and Sapphire Valley Resort . A second location for Highland Hiker and The Ugly Dog Pub gives you a second chance in case you missed it back in Highlands.  

Gorges State Park

Turn right onto NC Highway 281 at the Sapphire Country Store Gas Station and continue about one mile to the entrance to Gorges State Park . The 7,500-acre park is the western most state park in North Carolina, located in a beautiful area surrounded by mountains, waterfalls, and hiking trails.

The visitor center is a testament to gorgeous architecture in the mountains. Pick up a trail map, browse the gift shop, and take a walk through the museum with exhibits on life in the mountains and local geology.

With about a half dozen trails in the park it is the most popular activity. Most of the trails are accessed from the Frozen Creek parking area, including the Canebrake Trail and Foothills Trail. But the park’s three waterfalls are accessed from the main entrance.

976 Grassy Ridge Road, Sapphire, NC | 828-966-9099 | www.ncparks.gov/gorges-state-park/home

Bearwallow Falls

Bearwallow Falls is a tall cascading waterfall at the end of a 0.5-mile out and back trail. The trail is pretty strenuous with a steep climb coming back from the observation deck above the waterfall. Park at the White Pines Picnic Area to access this trail.

Rainbow Falls & Turtleback Falls

This 3-mile out and back trail leads to Rainbow Falls and Turtleback Falls , the most popular waterfalls at Gorges State Park. The hike is definitely part of the adventure along a barely maintained trail involving a couple of creek crossings.

After a rapid descent from the parking area the trail follows the Horsepasture River to Rainbow Falls. About another quarter mile beyond is Turtleback Falls. The entire hike is strenuous involving almost 900’ in elevation change and muddy conditions.

Did You Know? This trail leaves Gorges State Park about halfway to Rainbow Falls and enters the Pisgah National Forest . Backcountry camping is allowed in the national forest and there are several defined primitive sites. Can you imagine camping all night beside a waterfall?

Upper Whitewater Falls

Ready for a detour to one of the most amazing waterfalls in North Carolina? At 811’ Whitewater Falls is the tallest waterfall east of the Rocky Mountains. Upper Whitewater Falls , located in North Carolina about 8 miles from the entrance to Gorges State Park, is 411’ tall while Lower Whitewater Falls , located on Lake Jocassee in South Carolina, is 400’.

A short, paved trail leads from the parking area to a scenic overlook with a view of Upper Whitewater Falls. A long series of stairs leads to a lower overlook with a better view of the thunderous waterfall.

Toxaway Falls

I don’t know how many times I drove across the top of Toxaway Falls before I realized there was a waterfall just below the bridge! It’s a gorgeous and rather exciting waterfall because of its location, but also difficult to view.

When the earthen dam was built creating Lake Toxaway the cascading waterfall just downstream was saved. When U.S. Highway 64 was built through the mountains a short, curving bridge was built over the top of the waterfall.

The only way to view this waterfall is from the bridge. There is no pedestrian path, although there is about a 3’ buffer between the white stripe on the road and the edge of the bridge. Exercise caution if you want to walk on the bridge to view the top of the waterfall.

Sassafras Mountain in South Carolina

Ready for another detour? This has nothing to do with waterfalls, but I couldn’t write a road trip itinerary through this area without throwing in a mention of Sassafras Mountain . 3,553’ above sea level, Sassafras Mountain is the highest point in South Carolina.

The 30-mile roundtrip detour takes about 45 minutes to drive out and back. At the top visitors will find a one-story observation deck with uninterrupted views in all directions. On clear days visitors can see all the mountains driven across on this road trip and even as far as Rabun Mountain in Georgia.

READ MORE: Visiting the Highest Point in South Carolina at Sassafras Mountain

Brevard, NC

Just 45 minutes from Asheville, Brevard is a bustling mountain town and fantastic weekend getaway. As the seat of Transylvania County the tourism folks call themselves the “Land of Waterfalls”, and for good reason. There are more waterfalls in this county than any other county in the United States.

Park anywhere on Broad and Main Streets for an easy walk to anything in town. Start at Highland Books for their wonderful selection of local books on history, tourism, and outdoor recreation. Across the street peak inside O.P. Taylor’s toy store. If you need any outdoor gear or clothing head over to DD Bullwinkel’s Outdoors .

The Ktchn may have a strangely vowel-free name but it does have fantastic burgers and brick oven pizza. The Falls Landing is a great place downtown to grab a savory seafood meal. Head around the corner to Rocky’s Grill & Soda Shop for a classic diner feel with burgers, fries, and shakes.

Explore Brevard 175 East Main Street, Brevard, NC | 828-884-8900 | https://explorebrevard.com /

Where to Stay in Brevard

ust ten minutes outside of downtown, at an area locally called The Hub, are two great hotels for spending a night or two in Brevard. Hampton Inn is located back from the road and surrounded by woods with a peaceful outdoor swimming pool. The Holiday Inn Express also has an outdoor swimming pool on the property wedged between US Highway 64 and Ecusta Road. Do you enjoy camping? The Davidson River Campground has 144 campsites ranging from $22-$56/night. It’s located along the river inside Pisgah National Forest fifteen minutes from downtown Brevard.

Connestee Falls

Connestee Falls is such a neat waterfall to visit for so many reasons. For starters it is handicap accessible and incredibly easy to visit. The waterfall is located just of U.S. Highway 276 near the entrance to the Connestee Falls gated community. The parking lot is beside a small realty building.

A wooden boardwalk leads a couple hundred feet through a thicket to an observation deck overtop of the waterfalls. Yes, waterfalls. There are actually two waterfalls here; Carson Creek spills over the rocky ledge directly beside the observation deck while another waterfall tumbles about two hundred feet ahead.

DuPont State Recreational Forest

The 10,000-acre DuPont State Recreational Forest is an interesting property of the state of North Carolina. It’s not quite a state park, but it’s also not quite not a state park. What the what?!

DuPont State Forest has one of the most fascinating origin stories with so many twists and turns it would make for an excellent day time soap opera. The first trail, leading to Triple Falls, opened to the public on December 17, 2000. Since then dozens of miles of hiking and mountain biking trails have been added to the four majestic waterfalls.

Begin your adventure at the DuPont State Recreational Forest Visitor Center on Staton Road. The visitor center has restrooms, maps to all the hiking trails and waterfalls, and a friendly staff always eager to help.

1300 Staton Road, Cedar Mountain, NC | 828-877-6527 | https://www.dupontforest.com

The rushing water of Little River slides 120’ down an exposed granite rock face, creating High Falls along the way. It’s not quite a water fall as the water never leaves the granite face, but it’s steep enough to pick up some speed and crash into the pool at the bottom.

High Falls Trail is a 2.05-mile loop trail beginning at the visitor center parking lot. The trail begins a gentle descent to a covered picnic shelter and overlook straight ahead of High Falls. A spur trail leads to the bottom of the waterfall.

On the way back from the waterfall be sure to take the short Covered Bridge Trail to the Covered Bridge on Buck Forest Road. This gorgeous covered bridge with a pedestrian path crosses the Little River just above High Falls.

Triple Falls

Triple Falls is a series of three cascading waterfalls on the Little River with a total 120’ drop. There is a covered picnic shelter and scenic overlook above the bottom of the cascades. A short spur trail leads to the rocky edges of the Little River at the cascades.

One way to hike to Triple Falls is to take the 2.05-mile High Falls Loop Trail from the visitor center. The overlook and spur trail to the bottom is about a tenth of mile beyond the loop.

The easiest way to hike to Triple Falls is to begin at the Hooker Falls Access parking lot. From here you will cross a pedestrian bridge over the Little River and hike 0.8-miles out and back on the Triple Falls Trail .

Hooker Falls

Of all the waterfalls in DuPont State Recreational Forest, Hooker Falls is the most accessible. The 0.8-mile Hooker Falls Trail is an out and back trail that follows the route of an old road. The trail is wide with very little elevation change until the very end, and even then it is a gentle descent.

Hooker Falls is my favorite place to hang out during summers in Brevard. The Little River spills over a 12’ drop at Hooker Falls into a wide, shallow pool at the bottom. It is a very popular swimming hole and active route for kayakers. My favorite thing to do, however, is bring a chair to sit on the rocky beach a couple hundred feet below the waterfall.

The Hooker Falls Trail begins at the parking lot at Hooker Falls Access . There are two parking lots so be sure to roll through them both before declaring there are no spaces. There is a rather nice restroom facility at this parking lot.

Chances are good you’ve actually seen Bridal Veil Falls before. The scene from The Last of the Mohicans where the fleeing friends and family of Nathaniel take temporary refuge on a ledge behind a roaring waterfall was filmed here. Bridal Veil Falls drops over a ledge and then tumbled down an exposed granite face into a pool below.

The 4.6-mile roundtrip hike to Bridal Veil Falls is the most rigorous to a waterfall in DuPont State Recreational Forest. The hike begins at the visitor center along Buck Forest Road across the Covered Bridge. Turn right onto Conservation Road and continue until you turn right onto Bridal Veil Falls Road. The walk is fairly easy along the old gravel roads.

Pisgah National Forest

The 500,000 acres of Pisgah National Forest cover some of the most stunning vistas and thrilling outdoor recreation in North Carolina. The highest point east of the Mississippi River, Mount Mitchell, is connected throughout the national forest via the Blue Ridge Parkway.

The 16-mile stretch of US Highway 276 between the Blue Ridge Parkway and the intersection with US Highway 64 is one of the most exciting stretches to explore in the state. Begin this journey at the Pisgah Ranger Station and Visitor Center for maps, brochures, and information about the local waterfalls and hiking trails.

Cedar Rock Creek Falls and Falls on Grogan Creek

The hike to these small waterfalls begins at the Pisgah Center for Wildlife Education . There is ample parking here for day hikers and public restrooms are available.

The hike to the waterfalls begins along Cedar Rock Creek. It is a leisure 0.9-mile hike to Cedar Rock Creek Falls , located on a short spur trail. Falls on Grogan Creek is located another 1.2 miles from the first waterfall. The total 4.2-mile out and back hike includes about a 400’ elevation change and takes maybe three hours to hike.

Cove Creek Falls

Cove Creek Falls isn’t exactly a splendid, thunderous waterfall to view, but it is a remote and peaceful hike to get there. The 2.4-mile out and back hike follows the course of a stream with very little elevation change.

There is a small parking area along Forest Service Road 475 about 3 miles from US Highway 276 and 1.7 miles beyond the Pisgah Center for Wildlife Education.

Slick Rock Falls

The cascading Slick Rock Falls is one of the easiest to reach but most difficult to view. Allow me to explain. Slick Rock Falls is located at the edge of Headwaters Road about 2.6 miles from US Highway 276 and 1.2 miles from the Pisgah Center for Wildlife Education.

You’ll hear the waterfall the moment you step out of your vehicle. A short and steep trail leads to a couple of different ways to view this waterfall. If you decide to walk out onto the rocks use caution.

Looking Glass Falls

Looking Glass Falls is one of the most popular waterfalls in the region. It also happens to be the only one with a handicap overlook. The thunderous 60’ free falling waterfall is one of the most gorgeous in the state.

There is a good amount of parallel parking along US Highway 276 heading toward the Blue Ridge Parkway. A sidewalk along the road leads to a scenic overlook above the falls. There is a handicap access to the sidewalk directly in front of the overlook, but unfortunately there is almost always a vehicle parked in front so you might not be able to access it.

From the scenic overlook a long series of concrete steps leads to a bottom overlook to the side of the waterfall. The pool at the bottom is only a few feet deep and makes a wonderful swimming hole in the summer. Visitors are allowed to walk across the rocks but please be careful.

Moore Cove Falls

Moore Cove Falls is one of the most unexpectedly beautiful waterfalls in Pisgah National Forest. It’s not very tall nor does it have much waterflow, even during the peak in late spring, but the free-falling waterfall is secluded and peaceful.

The 1.2-mile out and back Moore Cove Falls Trail hike is easy with only a 150’ ascent to the wooden scenic overlook at the base of the falls. It is possible to get behind the waterfall beneath the rocky ledge, but exercise caution with the slippery ground.

The trail begins with a footbridge across Looking Glass Creek from a parking area along US Highway 276. There is a good amount of parking on either side of the road.

Sliding Rock Recreation Area

This road trip of waterfalls and scenic overlooks ends at Sliding Rock Recreation Area . Sliding Rock is not exactly a waterfall, but it’s a cool place to end the trip. Literally.

The creek flows across a wide, exposed granite rock face at a fairly steep angle. The stone, smoothed over from thousands of years of running water, is like a natural slide. A handrail on the opposite side helps visitors climb to the top of the rock face and slide down into the pool at the bottom.

Surrounded by thick rhododendron bushes and beneath the shade of massive trees, Sliding Rock is a very cool place to hang out in the summer. There are bench seats with a view of the slide and plenty of places to plop your own chair to watch the action.

Have you driven this road trip? Visited any of these waterfalls? Let me know! Leave a comment below telling me about your adventure!

7 Responses

Thank you so much Jason, but before we do the NC waterfall byway, we first going to drive the Skyline drive VA, for 2 days next June, we are looking forward to do those trips, and we are absolutely use your tips, to see the most beautifull scenery on both trips By the way i’m from the Netherlands and hopefully the USA is open again next June due to covid for us to visit the USA

Many thanks Bert Aafjes

Bert, I certainly hope the pandemic is long gone by next June! Feel free to send me an email any time you may have questions about your trip. You will be exploring some really beautiful areas of the country!

We want to make this road trip next year in June, but we are coming from Chimney Rock, so we want to start our trip from Sliding Rock and end in Murphy, and we have 2,5 days for this trip My question is do you recommend it to start in Sliding Rock and is 2,5 days enough to see it all?

Bert Aafjes

Bert, starting at Sliding Rock would be awesome! Just remember to give yourself time to get back to “civilization” after driving to Murphy haha. It takes about two hours to get back to an interstate highway. I would say 2.5 days is plenty of time. A lot of these waterfalls don’t require any hiking.

I was there we found the waterfalls but accident. Was a great trip was great for us adults and the kids can’t wait to take the grandbabys

You should have made the comment that it is illegal for RV and Trailers to be on US64 between Cliffside Lake Recreation Area and Highlands, NC. Also there are several decent places to stay in Franklin, NC. The two best hotels are Microtel and Hampton Inn. As well as campgrounds, many cabin and B&B rentals. There are also lots of things to do on Franklin particularly hiking, fishing, canoeing/tubing on the Little Tennessee River, and don’t forget the gem mining which is what gives Franklin their claim to the title “Gem Capital of the World”. Former resident (1965-2009)

I had no idea it was illegal for RVs on US 64 in that area! Is that just between Cliffside lake and Highlands? That’s actually the straighter, wider part of the road haha. I would have though the stretch down to Franklin would have been worse for RVs.

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This Rural Road Trip Will Lead You To Some Of The Best Countryside Hidden Gems In North Carolina

Discover a road trip in North Carolina that highlights lesser-known but beloved spots, offering history, hiking, good food, and incredible views.

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Gas up the car and call your favorite road trip buddy, because this road trip in North Carolina highlights some of the lesser-known but equally-loved spots around the Tar Heel State. You'll experience history, hiking, good food, and incredible views along the way that will leave you loving North Carolina even more than you did before. Is that even possible? Let's find out by exploring some of the best hidden gems in North Carolina.

From point to point, you're looking at roughly a 4.5-hour drive. Of course, you'll want to give yourself plenty of time to stop off and enjoy these attractions. Feel free to use this interactive map to guide your way.

You can’t take a countryside North Carolina hidden gems road trip and not stop off at a country store. Dunrovin Country Store is the oldest country store in Moore Country, and it’s packed to the brim with treasures. In addition to baked goods including homemade fudge and old-fashioned candies, you’ll also find everything from artisan soaps to Christmas decor. Once you’ve picked up a few souvenirs, check out the animal sanctuary right behind the store, where you can meet all sorts of cuddly critters and feathered friends! Visit the Dunrovin Country Store website to learn more.

A good road trip needs good food, and Tommy’s Barbecue House is the perfect spot to fuel up as we make our way around the Tar Heel State. From applewood-smoked BBQ to Brunswick Stew, all your favorite southern staples are here waiting for you. Visit the Tommy’s Barbecue House and Catering Facebook page for more information.

Dunn’s Mountain Park is a beautiful 83-acre park located in Salisbury with scenic hiking trails and even a blacksmith shed where you can check out some historic artifacts and get a fun little history lesson while you’re there. The views along the trail are inspirational, and there are long-range binoculars at the summit so you can zoom in on the landscape below. Learn more about Dunn's Mountain Park, one of the most remarkable hidden gems in NC.

Take a look at this video of Dunn's Mountain Park by @yourrowan5320 :

If you thought sitting down with a good book and a cup of coffee was pure bliss, just wait until you experience the Nirvana that is a good book and Champagne. Battery Park Book Exchange not only has thousands of books, but also a wonderful selection of fine wine and champagne to sip on while you find your next book to read. The cafe also offers paninis, salads, and cheese/charcuterie boards, too! Find yourself a cozy corner and settle in for a unique experience. Learn more about Battery Park Book Exchange & Champagne Bar, one of the most exciting hidden gems in North Carolina.

Take a look at this video of the Battery Park Book Exchange & Champagne Bar by @grovearcade4757 :

You did it! You made it to one of the most beautiful hidden gem views in North Carolina! The Haw Creek Valley Overlook gives you an endless view of the Haw Creek Valley Community and several mountain peaks including Ball Mountain, Ducker Mountain, Scott Mountain, and Piney Mountain. Grab the book that you just purchased from the Battery Park Book Exchange and find a quiet spot to read for a bit before heading home. Learn more about Haw Creek Valley Overlook on the National Park Service website.

Take a look at this video of Haw Creek Valley Overlook by @anissley123 :

Ready for more of the best hidden gems in North Carolina? Check out these incredible road trips in North Carolina and plan your next adventure.

Whether it's this road trip or another road trip you decide to embark on in North Carolina, preparation is key. Make sure you check out our Ultimate Road Trip Packing List for everything you need and don't forget the snacks !

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10 Country Roads In North Carolina That Are Pure Bliss In The Fall

Explore ten scenic drives in North Carolina that showcase the state's autumn beauty.

If there are two things North Carolinians love, it's autumn and long drives through gorgeous country roads. When fall is in full force, you can make the most of the two by combining them! Blue Ridge Parkway is the most famous for fall drives, and for good reason. But there are plenty more. Let's look at 10 of the best fall drives in North Carolina.

1. Blue Ridge Parkway

Searching for a "fall drive near me?" The Blue Ridge Parkway is not only THE place to experience fall colors in North Carolina but possibly America. Spanning 469 miles, you're treated to mountain views, waterfalls within a short hike, heart-dropping overlooks, and continuous beauty all from the comfort of your car.

2. Whitewater Way

Named after Whitewater Falls, the highest waterfall east of the Rockies, Whitewater Way is on HWY 281 between Sapphire and South Carolina. Points of interest include Gorges State Park and Nantahala National Forest.

3. Hanging Rock Scenic Byway

The Hanging Rock Scenic Byway weaves you through gorgeous country roads with wide open spaces, the ancient Sauratown mountain chain, and historic towns like Danbury and Andy Griffith's Mayberry. With this one, the destination is just as gorgeous as the drive. Pay a visit to Hanging Rock, Pilot Mountain (or both) to make the most of fall in the Piedmont.

4. Pisgah Loop Scenic Byway

Journey through some of the most untouched and remote sections of the Pisgah National Forest. This byway both rivals and sometimes runs parallel to the Blue Ridge Parkway.

5. Waterfall Byway

On US 64, for 98 miles you're treated to waterfalls just off the road, quaint small towns, and mountain views. Waterfall Byway is a nice escape from the crowded Blue Ridge Parkway...with equally beautiful sights and stops included.

6. Meteor Lakes Scenic Byway

For a completely different way to experience fall, the byway starts in Elizabethtown on the eastern side of the state and takes you through some of the most fertile farmland in North Carolina.

7. Mount Mitchell Scenic Byway

Pay a visit to the highest point east of the Mississippi, then hop on this byway for some more incredible views. You'll travel through the highest mountain peaks and onto sweeping valleys. Artists will especially love this one as there are several galleries along the way.

8. Tail of the Dragon

If you love the scenic drive, but also consider yourself a bit of an adrenaline junkie, the Tail of the Dragon is home to 318 curves in only 11 miles...whoa!

9. Upper Yadkin Way

Winding through North Carolina's own Napa Valley, with several vineyards along the way, wine lovers will absolutely love this drive! You get rolling hills and valleys with the foothills in the distance (plus wine). You might have to bring a DD for this one.

10. Outer Banks Scenic Byway

With the Atlantic Ocean on one side and Pamlico Sound on the other, there's no dense forest with bright foliage and certainly no mountain views but this drive treats you to completely different beauty. It's gorgeous year-round and you can make the most of it in the fall when the crowds are at a minimum and temperatures are perfect. It's one of the most scenic byways in North Carolina.

Have you embarked on any of the best fall drives in North Carolina? Let us know! And make sure to check out our Ultimate Road Trip Packing List before you hit the road.

Sure, the mountains claim most of the beauty this time of year, but the Outer Banks Scenic Byway could quite possibly be the most beautiful drive, year-round, in America.

Take This Gorgeous Fall Foliage Road Trip To See North Carolina Like Never Before

Explore North Carolina's stunning fall foliage through a scenic road trip featuring must-see locations and breathtaking views.

If you haven't experienced fall in North Carolina, then can you say you've truly experienced fall? With gorgeous, bright foliage, a whole Parkway with incredible views, and even hiking trails to get a remote experience, autumn in North Carolina is simply heaven on Earth. While one can just hop on the Blue Ridge Parkway and be rewarded with some amazing sights, there are additional must-see places where the foliage is breathtaking. Take this road trip to see fall foliage in North Carolina for an unforgettable seasonal experience. Ready to get started? First, make sure you've checked the best times to see foliage in NC. Then don't forget to bring the snacks then gas up the car and we'll be on our way!

Following the map , you'll start at Grandfather Mountain, drive south through the mountains and towards Asheville, head a little east for Chimney Rock, a little more south for Dupont State Forest and Looking Glass Falls, and finally, out west for Max Patch. The total time is around 5 hours and 49 minutes, with the Blue Ridge Parkway being your key route from point A to point B. While this could be done in a day, we'd suggest breaking up the trip into a few days so you can make the most of every gorgeous stop and even create some of your own stops along the way. This is, after all, North Carolina in the fall and it is stunning, so are you ready to hit the road?

1. Grandfather Mountain

Our fall foliage road trip in North Carolina begins at none other than Grandfather Mountain. This is a great introduction to the fall colors in North Carolina. Even the drive to the top of Grandfather treats you with amazing fall views. When you reach the top, take a walk across the Mile High Swinging Bridge. From here, you'll be treated to gorgeous, 360-degree views of the Blue Ridge Mountains, abundant in fall colors. After your trip to Grandfather, Linn Cove Viaduct is only five minutes away. You must drive on this iconic section of the Blue Ridge for an epic fall experience! The Mile High Swinging Bridge is one of the coolest bridges in North Carolina! Make sure you check out this short video from Grandfather Mountain to get just a taste of what it is like:

2. Linville Falls

Fall is the perfect time to visit one of the most popular falls in North Carolina. A quick hike on Erwin's View Trail will take you to an especially memorable viewpoint. Bring your camera! Linville Falls is beautiful year-round, but autumn is a particularly good time to visit. Check out this Adventuring in the Moment video to see all of the different viewpoints and what the hike looks like.

3. Linville Gorge

If you are looking for fall foliage in North Carolina then this is the place to go. As the Grand Canyon of the East Coast, Linville Gorge is breathtaking any time of the year. There are so many fantastic hikes in the

Linville Gorge area.If you want to make a quick detour, check out the overlook known as Wiseman's View.

The safe but still heart-dropping rocky overlook allows you to experience Linville Gorge without any hiking.

4. Biltmore Estates

Nature is always beautiful on its own, but to add that perfect, elegant touch to your fall foliage road trip in North Carolina, what a better stop than the luxurious Biltmore Estate? Billed as America's largest home , this place is incredible. Check out this video from Biltmore that showcases interesting facts about the property.

5. Chimney Rock

This 535-million-year-old granite monolith is incredible year-round, but you can't beat the fall views. At the top of the 315-foot granite outcropping, you're treated to 75-mile, panoramic views of Hickory Nut Gorge and Lake Lure. Chimney Rock is one of the best attractions in North Carolina, for sure! Make sure to check out this video of the area by Youtuber Outside Chronicles.

6. DuPont State Forest

DuPont State Forest is an amazing 10,473-acre state park. Home to rushing waterfalls, hiking trails, and camping spots, it's the perfect place for a full weekend of fall foliage. The most popular trail is the 3-mile waterfall hike that takes you to Hooker, Triple, and High Falls. Some of the hikes in DuPont State Forest are absolutely phenomenal.

7. Looking Glass Falls

Looking Glass Falls is spectacularly beautiful, and this 60-ft. waterfall takes on a whole new beauty come autumn. Surrounded by dense forest, the colors light up around the fall. From the parking area, it's only a brisk walk to witness the beauty. You can't beat such an easy-access waterfall! Take a look at this incredible waterfall with this Adventuring in the Moment video.

8. Max Patch

As the final stop on our fall foliage road trip in North Carolina, Max Patch offers something completely different. Located near the Tennessee border, Max Patch is a grassy bald and one of the few places with such unique scenery in North Carolina. From the top of this wide-open field, you can take in 360-mountain views. To end the trip perfectly, pitch a tent and spend the weekend in a unique oasis. Max Patch is often called the crown jewel of the Appalachian Trail for its unmatched beauty.

There you have it, our complete road trip to see fall foliage in North Carolina. What did you think? Don't forget to bring along this map for your trip.

Have you visited any of these places in the fall, or now want to try the road trip for yourself? What are some of your favorite destinations for fall colors in North Carolina? If you're craving more, these destinations in North Carolina offer breathtaking fall views. You can also read as to when do leaves change in NC .

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