This comprehensive guide will cover some of the best North Carolina National Parks, through the breathtaking beauty of the Great Smoky Mountains and Cape Hatteras; Ancient forests with wildlife, hidden waterfalls, and panoramic views – North Carolina National Parks offer it all – hiking, wildlife watching or simply being close to nature! With our carefully selected list of attractions, viewpoints, and trails throughout its borders – get ready for an incredible journey into its diverse natural world!
North Carolina National Parks – Their History and Significance
North Carolina boasts an abundance of national parks. Each has a distinct history and significance for visitors and helps maintain biodiversity by safeguarding fragile ecosystems. Great Smoky Mountains National Park was designated North Carolina’s first park; since then, many more have been added, providing sanctuary to endangered plants and animals.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park: The first of many North Carolina National Parks
Great Smoky Mountains National Park is one of North Carolina’s premier national parks, covering over half a million acres and offering diverse terrains such as ancient forests, lush pastures, and towering mountains. Clingmans Dome State Park visitors will discover over 1,500 species of animals and plants, making this park one of America’s most biodiverse parks. There’s something here for every taste – stroll along one of their numerous hiking paths for quick walks to multi-day treks – or climb to Clingmans Dome for breathtaking panoramic views from Clingmans Dome’s summit for incredible scenic vistas from across this expansive region! Cades Cove is an idyllic spot filled with centuries of historic significance, while Laurel Falls can easily be reached via an accessible hike. Both iconic destinations should not be missed!
Here are some more details about the Great Smoky Mountains National Park:
1. Massive Size
Spanning 522,419 acres, Great Smoky Mountains National Park is the largest national park in the Eastern United States. It would take over two weeks to walk the entire 885-square-mile expanse! The park straddles the border between North Carolina and Tennessee.
2. Diverse Ecosystems
Great Smoky Mountains contain an incredible diversity of plants and animals across multiple ecosystems, including lush deciduous forests, old-growth woodlands, open meadows, and trickling mountain streams. Explore everything from lowland forests to high-elevation spruce fir!
3. Abundant Wildlife
Great Smoky Mountains provides excellent opportunities to spot black bears, elk, deer, turkeys, otters, fireflies, and over 1,600 other species. Be sure to visit Cades Cove Valley to see wildlife in open fields bordered by mountains.
4. Hiking Trails Galore
With over 800 miles of hiking trails, ranging from short nature walks to multi-day treks, the hiking opportunities are endless. Trek to tumbling waterfalls or scenic overlooks of endless ridgelines. Popular courses include Alum Cave, Chimney Tops, and Charlies Bunion.
5. Scenic Drives
For breathtaking mountain views, cruise Newfound Gap Road, Clingmans Dome Road, or the 11-mile Cades Cove Loop. Make stops at scenic lookout points or walk brief loop trails. Watch for wildlife crossing the roads!
6. Educational Museums
Learn about the region’s history, culture, and nature at Sugarlands Visitor Center, Cades Cove Visitor Center, and Oconaluftee Visitor Center. See artifacts from past settlers and information on wildlife ecology.
7. Fishing Streams
Cast a line into the park’s pristine trout streams and lakes, like Abrams Creek and Fontana Lake. Get your fishing permit and follow park regulations. Early morning and evening tend to be best.
8. Campgrounds
Spend the night surrounded by nature at campgrounds like Smokemont, Elkmont, and Cades Cove. Frontcountry campgrounds cater to RVs, while backcountry options are primitive. Make reservations well in advance.
9. Historic Structures
See preserved Appalachian homesteads, churches, and buildings from past residents and farmers dating back to the 19th century dispersed throughout the park.
10. Geologic Formations
Unique geologic formations like the Alum Cave Bluffs tower above the forest were created over 200 million years ago! Drive the Foothills Parkway for incredible views.
Cape Hatteras National Seashore: North Carolina National Parks by the Sea!
Cape Hatteras National Seashore should not be missed when seeking coastal adventure. Stretching 70 miles along North Carolina’s Outer Banks, it features beaches, historic lighthouses, towering dunes, and its trademark white-sand beaches with their white sand – plus shipwrecks! Bird watchers and beachcombers should visit Cape Hatteras to view over 360 species of birds or climb Bodie Island Lighthouse for breathtaking panoramic views! Don’t miss this incredible coastal experience that represents North Carolina at its finest — don’t let history buffs or beachgoers miss it!
Here are some of the best facts and features of Cape Hatteras National Seashore and the surrounding Outer Banks area:
1. Tallest Lighthouse – At 208 feet tall, Cape Hatteras Lighthouse is the tallest lighthouse in the United States. Climb all 268 steps for incredible views.
2. Diamond Shoals – These dangerously shallow offshore sandbars have led to over 600 recorded shipwrecks, earning the area the nickname “Graveyard of the Atlantic.”
3. Wright Brothers History – The Wright Brothers tested and pioneered early airplane flights on the large open beaches near Kitty Hawk.
4. 70 Miles of Beach – With over 70 miles of pristine Atlantic beach coastline, there’s endless space for swimming, fishing, surfing, and shell collecting.
5. Dynamic Dunes – Explore rolling dunes and coastal marshes teeming with unique plants and birdlife.
6. Herds of Wild Horses – One of the few places to spot wild Colonial Spanish mustangs is on beaches near Shackleford Banks.
7. Cape Point – Known for its excellent surf fishing, this dynamic cape is where the Labrador and Gulf Stream ocean currents merge.
8. Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge – Just north of the seashore, this protected coastal habitat is home to over 400 species of birds and animals.
9. Bodie Island Lighthouse – Built in 1872, this striped lighthouse still flashes its beacon today. The original keeper’s house stands next door.
10. Oregon Inlet – Visitors can walk over the giant dunes at Oregon Inlet to observe where the Pamlico Sound meets the Atlantic.
11. Salvo Day Use Area – Providing bay access on the sound side, Salvo is popular for kiteboarding, windsurfing, and kayaking.
12. Hatteras Village – This quaint coastal village is full of bed and breakfast inns, shops, charter fishing trips, and ferries to offshore islands.
13. Ocracoke Island – Reachable only by ferry, Ocracoke Village is renowned for its unspoiled beaches, iconic lighthouse, and local restaurants.
14. Frisco Campground – Over 200 tent and RV camping sites are in a beautiful setting near the beach.
15. Cape Point Campground – Only campground open year-round on the islands, located by good surf fishing.
16. Off-road Driving – Get a special permit to take 4×4 vehicles on designated routes along the beaches.
17. Windsurfing Capital – Canadian Hole by Avon is considered one of the East Coast’s best windsurfing and kiteboarding spots.
18. Seafood Restaurants – Local restaurants serve amazingly fresh and delicious local seafood, like crabcakes and fried shrimp.
19. Jockey’s Ridge State Park – See the tallest dunes on the Atlantic coast, rising over 100 feet tall in this unique park setting.
20. The Graveyard of the Atlantic Museum – Explore artifacts and exhibits detailing maritime history and shipwrecks of the Outer Banks.
Blue Ridge Parkway: North Carolina National Parks/The Drive of a Lifetime!
The Blue Ridge Parkway offers the most scenic driving routes with beautiful panoramas through the Appalachian Mountains. It provides gorgeous scenic drives that offer incredible sights. This parkway stretches 450 miles long, connecting North Carolina’s Great Smoky Mountains National Park and Virginia’s Shenandoah National Park through stunning vistas and experiences along its entire path.
Travelers taking this unforgettable journey won’t soon forget their experiences at both national parks! Wildlife can be seen across the Blue Ridge Parkway, from black bears and white-tailed deer to red-tailed hawks to Linville Falls (accessible via a short walk). At the same time, Grandfather Mountain offers spectacular panoramic views with its iconic mile-high swinging bridge – creating an adventure destination unlike any other! It is for travelers in search of excitement or looking to expand their experiences. The Blue Ridge Parkway makes an excellent getaway.
Here are 20 points of interest along the Blue Ridge Parkway:
1. Linn Cove Viaduct – This iconic bridge along Grandfather Mountain is a feat of modern engineering, with its design minimizing environmental impact.
2. Mabry Mill – See this picturesque historic grist mill that offers blacksmith demonstrations and serves famous sweet potato pancakes.
3. Humpback Rocks – Enjoy panoramic views from this outcropping of rock along the parkway near milepost 6.
4. Otter Creek Campground – One of the few campgrounds along the parkway, located at milepost 63 near a scenic trout stream.
5. James River/Otter Creek – View this stunning river gorge along mile marker 63 at the overlooks.
6. Peaks of Otter – These mountain peaks towering over flatlands have a scenic lodge, visitor center, and sharp mountain vista.
7. Explore Park – This milepost 115 visitor center has innovative exhibits and a telescope observatory.
8. Roanoke Mountain Campground – Rustic campground at mile 120 near Explore Park with tent and RV sites.
9. Rocky Knob Recreation Area – Easy mountain trails and picnic facilities make this a family-friendly stop at mile 174.
10. Mabry Mill – One of the most photographed spots, this old gristmill, operating since 1910, epitomizes the rural mountain culture.
11. Groundhog Mountain Overlook – Panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys from this overlook at milepost 188.
12. Moses H. Cone Memorial Park – Tour the impressive Flat Top Manor here and stroll the beautiful gardens.
13. Julian Price Park Campground is a large campground at milepost 297 with tent and RV sites along a lake.
14. Linville Falls – Short hiking trails lead to the powerful falls plunging into Linville Gorge at milepost 316.
15. Mt. Mitchell State Park – Drive to the highest point east of the Mississippi at 6,684 ft elevation.
16. Craggy Gardens – Stop at milepost 364 for trails winding through flowering Catawba rhododendron.
17. Folk Art Center – Just off the parkway, this center celebrates Appalachian artists and craft traditions.
18. Mt. Pisgah – Ride the summit elevator up Mt. Pisgah for panoramic long-range views at milepost 408.
19. Graveyard Fields – Hike amidst lush green valley meadows and cascading waterfalls.
20. Devil’s Courthouse – This rocky outcropping offers 360-degree views at mile 423 near Mt. Pisgah.
South Carolina National Parks: From History 2 Nature NOW! Read our guide on South Carolina’s natural wonders!
In case you are wondering, “Why should I go?” Here are ten fun facts about the Blue Ridge Parkway:
1. Longest National Park Route – The Blue Ridge Parkway extends 469 miles through Virginia and North Carolina, making it America’s most extended linear national park unit.
2. It took 52 years to complete. Construction of the parkway began in 1935 under the New Deal and was not finished until 1987.
3. Highest Elevation – The highest point along the parkway is at Richland Balsam, at 6,053 feet.
4. Designed for Scenery – The parkway was designed to showcase the scenic beauty of the Appalachian Highlands region.
5. Listed as All-American Road – In 2009, the parkway was honored to be named an All-American Road for its natural beauty and cultural significance.
6. Features 26 Tunnels – Drivers pass through 26 tunnels blasted through mountainsides along the route, the most famous being the Linn Cove Viaduct.
7. Hybrid Lilacs – Most lilac bushes were hybridized at Mt. Pisgah’s historic lilac gardens, which started in 1953.
8. No Billboards or Commercial Vehicles – Strict rules prohibit billboards, commercial vehicles, or buses to preserve scenery.
9. It took over 35 years to finish. The final section of the parkway to be completed was the Linn Cove Viaduct, finished in 1987.
10. Part of the National Register – The entire length of the Blue Ridge Parkway was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2009.
Pisgah National Forest: North Carolina National Parks
Pisgah Forest in Western North Carolina offers outdoor enthusiasts an exciting haven. Spanning over 500,000 acres, Pisgah National Forest provides activities such as hiking, camping, and fishing on over 400 miles of trails through lush valleys to mountain peaks – and features Looking Glass Falls (accessible with short walks), Mount Mitchell — the highest peak east from Mississippi River — camping sites offering peaceful getaways as well as adventurous excursions – Pisgah is sure to have something perfect!
Here are some features and facts about Pisgah National Forest in North Carolina:
1. Massive Scale – Spanning over 500,000 acres, Pisgah National Forest is one of the largest National Forests on the East Coast.
2. Part of Appalachian Mountains – The forest stretches across mountainous terrain, including parts of the Blue Ridge Mountains and Great Balsam Mountains.
3. Diverse Ecosystems – Elevations range from 1,200 to 6,000 feet, creating zones of oak-hickory forest, laurel-lined creeks, and spruce-fir forests.
4. Established in 1916 – Pisgah was one of the first National Forests under the Weeks Act 1911.
5. Trout Fishing Streams – The forest has over 2,000 miles of trout streams, such as the Davidson River and Yellowstone Prong.
6. Waterfalls – See stunning waterfalls like Looking Glass Falls, Sliding Rock, and Whitewater Falls.
7. Hiking Trails – Over 1,000 miles of hiking trails wind through the forest, including parts of the Appalachian Trail.
8. Old-Growth Forests – Some forests contain rare stands of old-growth trees, some over 500 years old.
9. Scenic Drives – Miles of scenic drives include the Blue Ridge Parkway, Newfound Gap Road, and Heintooga Ridge Road.
10. Camping – Dispersed and campground tent camping is available across the forest. Some sites are near trout streams.
Uwharrie National Forest: Central North Carolina National Parks
Uwharrie National Forest lies at the heart of North Carolina and is an excellent example of nature at its finest. Spanning over 50,000 acres, this forest is known for its rugged terrain, scenic trails, and a diverse range of animals that call this home.
Uwharrie National Forest can be explored by visitors via an intricate network of trails for horseback riding and hiking, from strolls to challenging treks. It is perfect for weekend camping trips and other adventurous pursuits! Uwharrie National Forest offers numerous tourist attractions, including kayaking, fishing, and panoramic mountain views. Additionally, several campgrounds can provide adventure for visitors visiting this natural gem!
Here are some facts and features about Uwharrie National Forest in North Carolina:
1. Oldest National Forest – Established in 1961, Uwharrie was one of the earliest national forests designated in the Eastern United States.
2. 50,000 Acres – The forest spans nearly 50,000 acres across the central Piedmont region of North Carolina.
3. Located on the Uwharrie Mountains – Ancient and eroded, the Uwharrie Mountains are the oldest mountain range in North America.
4. Horseback Riding – Nearly 200 miles of hiking and horse trails wind through the forest across rugged terrain.
5. Lake and River Recreation – The forest surrounds several lakes, including Badin Lake, Tuckertown Lake, and Lake Tillery.
6. Mountain Biking Trails – The forest has dedicated single-track mountain biking trails like the 20+ mile Ore Bank Trails.
7. Climbing and Bouldering – Large boulders and rock outcroppings scattered throughout the forest are ideal for climbing and bouldering.
8. Camping – Dispersed backcountry camping is allowed in the general forest with some designated sites at Trailheads.
9. Fishing – Anglers can fish for catfish, crappie, bream, and bass in the forest’s various lakes.
10. Four Major Sections – The forest is divided into Uwharrie, Yadkin, Austin Mountain, and Black Ankle sections.
Linville Gorge Wilderness
Linville Gorge Wilderness in North Carolina provides an authentic backcountry experience. Also dubbed the ‘Grand Canyon of the East,” this expansive wilderness features towering cliffs with deep gorges and tranquil rivers for fishing or tubing adventures.
Visitors to the Gorge can indulge in various outdoor activities, including hiking, rock climbing, and whitewater paddling. Its lush wilderness also has many trails that provide spectacular scenery and excellent opportunities for wildlife watching. Linville Falls can be reached easily through an easy hike, while Table Rock (an icon tower with breathtaking vistas) also offers magnificent scenic views in Linville Gorge Wilderness. Both offer picturesque vantages of their surrounding environment – making Linville Gorge Wilderness an excellent location for adventurers looking for new outdoor experiences!
Strategies and tips for visiting North Carolina National Parks
Visitors of North Carolina’s national parks should follow these tips to have a safe and fulfilling visit: Plan, check weather reports, dress appropriately, and create an itinerary to guarantee everything runs smoothly on their trip.
North Carolina weather can be unpredictable, particularly in its mountains. Layers should be worn, along with water and snacks, to stay comfortable while exploring, in case it rains heavily or you spend extended amounts of time outdoors.
Staying hydrated while snacking healthy food will energize you and help avoid fatigue.
Leave No Trace is essential when protecting our environment, so always remain on designated trails and properly dispose of waste.
Avoid disturbing wildlife.
Inspect park regulations for closures during high seasons; some locations may require permits or limit access, so check their websites regularly for the most up-to-date details.
North Carolina National Parks offer many camping and hiking experiences.
North Carolina National Parks provide visitors with numerous camping and hiking experiences ranging from rustic backcountry camping trips to luxurious camping stays, making these great places worth a visit!
Camping areas provide convenient amenities, like picnic tables and restrooms, that make the experience ideal for families or anyone wanting a more structured camping trip. Backcountry camping can also be enjoyed in some parks for an authentic wilderness camping adventure! As part of an enjoyable camping trip, all necessary permits and regulations must be obtained before traveling. Each garden offers hiking trails catering to hikers of various levels, from simple nature walks to multi-day treks; before setting out on any tour, visit its website first and check current conditions/trail maps before embarking.
North Carolina National Parks provide habitat to various unique fauna and flora found nowhere else on Earth.
Here is a brief overview of some of the fauna and wildlife found in North Carolina’s National Parks:
– Great Smoky Mountains – Black bears, white-tailed deer, elk, turkeys, bobcats, coyotes, and over 200 species of birds, including wild turkeys, owls, and hummingbirds.
– Cape Hatteras National Seashore – Colonies of seabirds like pelicans, gulls, and terns, as well as coastal birds like oystercatchers, plovers, and sandpipers. There are also wild horses, foxes, turtles, and alligators.
– Blue Ridge Parkway – Black bears, deer, foxes, groundhogs, otters, and over 200 species of birds, including hawks, owls, vireos, thrushes, and warblers.
– Cape Lookout National Seashore – Wild horses, dolphins, sea turtles, lizards, shorebirds like oystercatchers, herons, egrets, terns, gulls, ibises.
– Guilford Courthouse National Military Park – Deer, foxes, raccoons, opossums, squirrels, rabbits, and over 100 species of migratory songbirds.
– Moores Creek National Battlefield – Deer, squirrels, raccoons, owls, pileated woodpeckers, warblers, sparrows, tanagers, chickadees.
The varied ecosystems in NC’s National Parks support an incredible diversity of mammals, birds, reptiles, and marine wildlife.
North Carolina National Parks have implemented extensive conservation initiatives.
North Carolina’s national parks require ongoing conservation efforts; their beauty is threatened by habitat loss, invasive species invasion, and climate change. To manage and conserve these parks’ ecosystems more effectively, state and local agencies work in concert with the National Park Service on strategies that minimize human impact while restoring habitats and monitoring wildlife populations; additionally, they also offer volunteer programs that focus on trail maintenance or habitat restoration efforts.
You can read more about these North Carolina National Parks conservation efforts here.
Let’s wrap up our coverage of North Carolina National Parks.
Visits to North Carolina national parks should depend upon numerous factors, including weather and crowd levels. Optimal times to go are in spring or fall when temperatures are milder, and there are fewer visitors at parks; meadows come alive with flowers while leaves take on different hues as spring gives way to autumn – both seasons offer visitors beautiful landscapes to admire!
Summer beachgoers and those seeking warmer temps tend to frequent these national parks. Visitors should expect high humidity levels and afternoon thunderstorms during this season, too; winter offers peaceful yet serene experiences, while some areas become inaccessible due to snow or ice conditions!
Explore North Carolina’s Natural Wonders
North Carolina’s national parks boast an abundance of breathtaking natural wonders for you to experience and discover, from the Great Smoky Mountains’ jagged summits to Cape Hatteras’ tranquil shores; each park showcases North Carolina’s varied ecosystems. North Carolina’s national parks provide unforgettable experiences to hikers, nature fans, and wildlife enthusiasts alike. No matter your interest – birding, camping, or just enjoying nature – North Carolina National Parks will give you an experience like none other. Our expert guidance can help you discover all the natural offerings in North Carolina’s national parks! Pack up and prepare to learn! You won’t regret exploring North Carolina’s national parks.