A Nature Lovers Definitive Guide To North Carolina’s Natural Beauty – Parks, Beaches, Hikes And More!

North Carolina’s brimming with hidden gems, which means we’ll never run out of new and amazing places to discover. One of those little known hidden gems, Goose Creek State Park provides a picture-perfect backdrop for a day – or more – outdoors. The best way to explore the park is along one of its six hiking trails. Whether you like super-short or longer trails, you’ll find a trail that fits the bill. Trails span between less than half of a mile to two miles. Each trail shows off the unique beauty in the park – salt marshes, forests, and swamps. If you’re a history buff, follow the Live Oak Trail, which clocks in at less than half of a mile and leads to a beautiful cemetery, dotted with wooden headstones, that’s from the 1800s. If one day simply isn’t enough to explore some of the 1,672 acres of Goose Creek State Park, pitch a tent at one of the camping sites. Which hiking trail will you explore when you visit Goose Creek State Park?

North Carolina is home to 59 lakes, each offering its own unique beauty. For some of the most gorgeous views in North Carolina, plan a visit to White Lake, a crystal clear lake. A popular alternative to traditional beaches, White Lake, in fact, features its own sandy beach that’s dotted with trees and is within easy distance of several resorts and motels. One of the highlights of the beach is, undoubtedly, the crystal clear water that allows you to see to the sandy, white lake bottom. How will you spend your time at White Lake?

Embrace tranquility and some of the most beautiful scenes in North Carolina when you visit Masonboro Island, an unspoiled island that you can only reach by boat. Chances are a single day strolling along the trails on the island, swimming in the crystal clear water, and soaking up the sun simply won’t be enough. Fortunately, camping is allowed on the island, although you’ll have to rough it. The island doesn’t have any bathroom or other facilities, and you’ll have to bring your own water. That, however, is a small price to pay for being able to wake up in the morning to breathtaking sunsets and to fall asleep at night to sensational sunsets. You can even bring your leashed pup along on your adventure. Is a day enough for your visit to Masonboro Island?

We’ve all heard the saying we reap the rewards of hard work. That certainly holds true for those hikers who decide to set off on the 2.5-mile trail that leads to Crabtree Falls in Micaville. Bring a ton of water and your camera along on this challenging trek that features stairs, a climb into and out of a gorge, and breathtaking scenery every step of the way. The highlight of the trail is, especially if you love waterfalls, the 70-foot Crabtree Falls. Feel the mist of the waterfall from its base, and cross a picturesque wooden footbridge that crosses over Big Crabtree Creek. The waterfall itself provides a beautiful backdrop for photos, but expect some crowds on lovely weather weekends. Are you up for the challenge the Crabtree Falls Trail promises?

Drink in gorgeous views of the New River from New River State Park in Laurel Springs. One of the oldest rivers in the world, the New River meanders 320 miles from West Virginia through Virginia into North Carolina. If you love history, you’ll probably be fascinated by the fact that some claim this old river predates the Amazon and the Nile Rivers. Regardless of its rich history, the beautiful river beckons outdoor lovers who enjoy boating and kayaking. After you’ve spent time on the river, explore some of the rest of the park. Set off on a hike; have a picnic, or go fishing. You can even pitch a tent, or park your RV for an enchanting evening of camping under the stars. What natural beauty will you discover when you visit the New River?

Perhaps the most famous mountain in North Carolina, Pilot Mountain is also its most scenic. When you see the mountain from a distance, you might swear that you’re looking at a volcano. As you get closer, however, you’ll notice the lush green trees. Once you get to the top, you’ll be treated to absolutely jaw-dropping views of the landscape, including a valley, below. Because of its popularity over the years, the mountain became part of Pilot Mountain State Park back in the 1960s. While your visit to the mountain’s peak and its views will likely be the highlight of your visit, don’t forget to check out the rest of the park, too. You’ll find a full menu of fun activities – from hiking and rock climbing to horseback riding and kayaking. Will you make your way to the top of Pilot Mountain?

Most of us think of gardens as winding walkways that are dotted with colorful flowers, trees, and maybe even a few sculptures here and there. However, one garden in North Carolina stands out for its sheer uniqueness and breathtaking beauty. Nestled on a front lawn in Prospect Hill, Shangra-La Rock Garden is one of those hidden gems you really have to see to believe and to truly appreciate. Created by the late Henry Warren, the rock garden features an entire town of 30 buildings, with such highlights as homes, a hotel, and a movie theater. It even has a water tower. What little details will you discover in the beautiful rocks at Shangra-La Rock Garden?