10 “Hidden Gems” in North Carolina We’ve Always Known About but Can’t Stop Visiting

I love the great outdoors, and it is always a good day when we pack up the car and take off into the mountains. It's even better when I can escape the crowds and find myself all alone on a trail or scenic spot. My favorite hidden gems in North Carolina all center around its natural beauty. The only problem is, I keep going back to these “hidden” spots, and now they aren’t so secret anymore. That doesn’t matter, though, because I love these spots and will keep going back to enjoy them throughout the many years to come. So if you are looking for a great new adventure, check out some of these quality places in the Tar Heel State.

1. Roan Mountain

Located right along the border of Tennessee and North Carolina, this mountain range is one of the best places I have hiked in my life. Following the Appalachian Trail, many people consider this the prettiest spot on this epic hike, and for good reason. You can hike up to Round Bald for a quick adventure with unparalleled views or continue to several other balds and beauty. There is no better feeling than standing on the ridgeline and witnessing mountain layers as far as you can see in both Tennessee and North Carolina.

2. Looking for elk in the Smokies - The Great Smoky Mountains National Park

It is a thrilling experience to see a gang of elk. I have often visited the southern part of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park in search of these beautiful beasts. We have had massive success and have seen them walk right out in front of our car before. We sat and watched as they slowly grazed in the field, eventually making their way only feet away from our car. We have walked the Oconaluftee River Trail, and one surprised me when it was lying on the other side of the fence. There is never a dull moment, and these magnificent creatures are always a delight to see.

3. The Outer Banks

The Outer Banks is far from a hidden gem, but I have discovered that there are plenty of incredible spots tucked away along this long stretch of land. I had a blast walking around the lighthouses, seeing all the nature preserves, and enjoying the beach. I especially loved the Cape Hatteras KOA, which had the ocean on both sides, only steps away from the campground, and I could bring along my doggie to play in the sand. The sunset was breathtaking, and I could easily see why so many people love going to the Outer Banks each year. 

4. Jockey’s Ridge State Park - Nag’s Head

I was absolutely blown away when I hiked the sand at Jockey’s Ridge State Park. It felt like we stepped into a whole different part of the world and I had never seen anything like it before. We trekked up and down the large dunes which felt like a desert wilderness. The sand was perfectly rippled from the wind and the place felt so remote. With very few people around the only thing we saw was a few short plants and miles of sand dunes. I was so enamored by this spot that it quickly became one of my favorite places in North Carolina. This state park was cemented in my memory as I watched the sun set over the glistening ocean. 

5. Beech Mountain

A quaint mountain town, Beech Mountain is a lovely little retreat in the winter. During our visit, the ground was covered in snow as skiers hit the slopes, and we took our girls to the sledding hill. The place was abuzz with wintery activities and was a great place to embrace the colder season. After, we drove around to take in the views. Wandering the windy neighborhood streets, we found a ton of deer doing the same. I would love to visit The Land of Oz at some point, too, which just gives me another reason to visit this lovely town.

6. Mingo Falls - Cherokee

Mingo Falls is a simple little hike with the reward of a larger hike. This massive waterfall is beyond perfect, with long cascades flowing over the slick black rocks. There is a bridge that offers the best view of the waterfall, and I love the stream just as much as I do the waterfall. The area is super peaceful and one of the greatest waterfalls in the state. It is located just outside of the Smokies, but would fit perfectly within these magical mountains and makes for an excellent side quest.

7. Kuwohi - The Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Kuwohi, formally known as Clingmans Dome, offers one of the best views in the Smokies. I will continue to make the hike up the steep paved path, which is deceivingly difficult, to this glorious tower. As the highest point in the Smokies, it offers an unequivocal and unobstructed 360-degree view of the mountains. This spot is so beautiful and makes you feel like you are on top of the world while standing on the tower. Make sure you bring a jacket, it can be very windy and cold up there!

8. Grandad's Apples - Hendersonville

I am still dreaming of the apple delicacies I had in the fall. Grandad’s Apples was a great little autumn adventure as we wandered the corn maze, shot apples out of a cannon, and picked a big bag of apples. As fun as all the fall festival activities were, it was what was in the barn that got me excited. The apple donuts melted in my mouth into a sweet medley of deliciousness. The apple pie was crisp on the outside and filled with warm cinnamon apples on the inside. Each bite was pure autumnal bliss, and I can’t wait to go back again for another fall pilgrimage. 

9. Moore Cove Falls - Pisgah National Forest

I could easily insert a plethora of waterfalls because I have loved them all in North Carolina. I still have plenty to chase, but Moore Cove Falls certainly stands out as an epic spot. The large, plunging fall splashes down in front of a large cave-like opening. The cove is a blast to explore, and the peaceful waterfall is great to just watch and escape the busyness of life. The hike to the waterfall is short and simple, which makes it easy to pair with many other adventures for the day. 

10. The Blue Ridge Parkway

The Blue Ridge Parkway certainly isn’t a hidden gem, but all of the amazing hiking within this scenic route can last you a lifetime. I have spent countless hours exploring these mountains, riding to lookouts, and picnicking along the way. I am continually amazed by each hike and how different these mountains can be from north to south. Even with endless popular stops along the parkway, you can still find some hidden gems peppered throughout, which is why I keep returning. I just can’t get enough of the beauty found along the Blue Ridge Parkway! 

These hidden gems in North Carolina may not be so hidden anymore, but they are my favorites nonetheless. The Tar Heel State is filled with natural beauty, and I feel like I have only just begun to scratch the surface of the wonderful things still yet to be uncovered. Since all of these spots center around the great outdoors, I would suggest getting AllTrails so you can quickly find trails and plan trips. It is an invaluable tool in my arsenal, and even if you aren’t a hiker, it can be helpful to find unique walking trails and great outdoor spaces.

Feeling inspired? Try planning your own trip using Only In Your State’s itinerary planner.