9 Enchanting Spots In North Carolina You Never Knew Existed

The Tar Heel State is filled with abundant beauty, from well-known mountain peaks such as Mount Mitchell to obscure and downright quirky roadside attractions. The following is a list of positively breathtaking places that relatively few have visited. These enchanting places will renew your appreciation for all that makes North Carolina such an incredible place. Making your way through this list, you'll discover beautiful overlooks, trails, architectural wonders, and hidden parks in North Carolina. Ready to get started?

1. Craggy Gardens and Pinnacle

Craggy Gardens seems straight from a fairytale. The trail and the overlook are both equally majestic and beautiful. Learn more about why Craggy Gardens belongs at the very top of your North Carolina bucket list.

2. Lower Cascade Fall, Hanging Rock

Lower Cascade is a hidden gem of the Piedmont region. The curved rock-wall seems to tuck you away in your own, beautiful world. Hanging Rock is an exciting place to explore, but Lower Cascade can be your own little secret. Learn more about accessing this beautiful North Carolina waterfall.

3. Körner’s Folly, Kernersville

Built in 1880 by Jule Gilmer Körner, this architectural wonder will leave you in awe. Körner’s Folly is a true work of art that everyone should experience at least once.

4. UNC Charlotte Botanical Gardens

Isn't there something magical about exploring hidden parks in North Carolina? The beautiful gardens and greenhouse at UNC Charlotte will feel like your own private haven. And the best part of all is that admission is completely free!

5. Bunker Hill Covered Bridge, Claremont

Above Lyles Creek you'll find the beautiful Bunker Hill Covered Bridge. It is one of the last remaining covered bridges in North Carolina.

6. Church of the Frescoes, Glendale Springs

Local artist Ben Long used his artistic talent (and skills gained from an Italian internship) to paint these beautiful, amazing frescoes in his hometown. They're painted in the traditional Italian style on wet plaster. Ben Long now has work in the Smithsonian but these beautiful paintings give visitors a sense of peace and serenity. Learn more about what makes Church of the Frescoes such an incredible hidden gem in North Carolina.

7. Skinny Dip Falls, Canton

Skinny Dip Falls is nestled deep in the mountains, and reached by a large, skinny wooden bridge. It's the perfect place to take a secluded summer dip. This secret swimming spot in North Carolina is tailor-made for an unforgettable adventure.

8. Hammocks Beach State Park

Take a 15-minute ferry ride to your own private beach. This beautiful stretch of shoreline is prime for finding seashells, too. In fact, many would argue that Hammocks Beach State Park is one of the most beautiful hidden parks in North Carolina!

9. Pink Beds Loops, Pisgah National Forest

This unique, high-elevation but moderately flat trail loops for 5.1 miles through crystal clear brooks, breathtaking meadows, and woods overrun with the natural beauty of ferns. Curious to learn more about this magical area? Check out our two-day itinerary for exploring the land of waterfalls.

Have you visited any of these little-known destinations or hidden parks in North Carolina? If so, be sure to share your experiences with us in the comments below -- we'd love to hear from you!