A Trip To This Incredible Outdoor Center In North Carolina Is The Perfect Way To End Your Summer

As summer comes to a close, many of us are trying to fill the few warm weekends we have left with plenty of adventure. While the beach will stay fairly warm through September, the mountains will soon begin to see 40 degree nights…and that means one thing: the water will be even colder. In these last few weeks of August, a trip to the mountains, or better yet, the Nantahala Outdoor Center, will make Summer 2016 super complete!

Facebook / Nantahala Outdoor Center

Located deep within the Smoky Mountains, in Bryson City, NOC is the perfect place for whitewater rafting, canoeing, ziplining, kayaking, mountain biking and hiking.

Facebook / Nantahala Outdoor Center

Facebook / Nantahala Outdoor Center

Located directly off the Appalachian Trail, plenty of hikers stop by for extra adventure. It's also home to half a million guests per year, making it one of the top outfitters in the nation. Even National Geographic called it "One of the Best Outfitters On Earth."

Facebook / Nantahala Outdoor Center

You can get adventurous and try white water rafting. With guided trips and waters ranging from beginner to advanced, you can test your skills or learn new ones.

Facebook / Nantahala Outdoor Center

Even if you're just passing through, it's a simply beautiful place to spend a day. There's also a jump off rock for cooling off after a long hike.

Facebook / Nantahala Outdoor Center

Hike your way to great views.

Yelp / Mary S.

Facebook / Nantahala Outdoor Center

Or paddle to them! Hey, you can even zipline THROUGH those mesmerizing views.

Yelp / Nantahala Outdoor Center

The NOC offers lodging and even riverside dining open year-round at River's End Restaurant.

Before the temps get too chilly, pay a visit to this amazing outdoor center that is right in our (statewide) backyard. There’s nothing like the experience you’ll have here!

If you’re looking for more last minute summer fun to add to your list, you can’t beat these crystal clear swimming holes!