Posted in North Carolina
February 04, 2017
8 Places In North Carolina Way Out In The Boonies But So Worth The Drive
From long country roads to well-worth-it hikes and coveted views, there’s so much hiding in North Carolina that’s just waiting to be explored or better yet, found. From grabbing a delicious meal on a farm to spending a week on uncharted coastline, you’ll want to add these 8 places to your North Carolina must-do for 2017.


From fried chicken and biscuits, to farm views, this unique restaurant on a farm might be a bit of a drive but the experience is worth it. Throughout the year, the farm also hosts special events and decorates according to the season. Pop in the gift shop to pick up some local goodies or take a hay ride around the property. The best part of course, is the food. For more information about Mike's Farm and how to get there,
click here.


Driving along the OBX Scenic Byway feels very 'ends of the earth' but you are right where the last sliver of land meets water. Spanning 138-miles plus 25-ferry miles, the byway cruises you along the remote islands of the Outer Banks with the Atlantic on one side and the Pamlico on the other. It's a once in a lifetime experience, and we've already planned the trip for you.

The Road to Nowhere is filled with heartbreaking history and eerie yet beautiful views. From an underwater ghost town and the story behind it to the strange tunnel that dead ends - while strange and very far out there, you're treated to coveted views of Fontana Lake and the Smoky Mountains.


As one of the least developed places on the OBX, and only accessible by four-wheel drive, getting to Carova is no easy task, but it's worth it. From wild horses, stellar sunrises, private beaches, and turquoise water, you might want to spend a week or two here.

Located at 3,500 ft. elevation and surrounded by mountains, Lake Glenville is a little-known paradise. You'll find this amazing reservoir eight miles from Cashiers. The 1,500-acre lake is home to some of the cleanest, most pristine water found in North Carolina. To make it even more unique, the lake is also home to three separate waterfalls accessed by boat. It's easy to see why Lake Glenville made it on our 2017 bucket list.


Ok, so maybe Big Oak isn't totally out in the Boonies, but we did suggest that
driving across the state for one of their shrimp burgers is totally encouraged and acceptable. While there's plenty of competition on the coast for best shrimp burger, you can't beat the masterful simplicity of Big Oak. You'll find it down a long stretch of highway in Salter Path.

This stunning double waterfall is located between Maggie Valley and Cherokee and can be accessed off HWY 19. You'll see a sign and a small parking area, and with a short walk you can view it from an observation deck or journey down for an up close look. There are also various, small cascades in the area but this twin waterfall is a truly unique sight just waiting to be discovered in the Smokies.

Located at the Nantahala Outdoor Center deep in the smokies, River's End lets you dine riverside while watching all the action of the NOC. From kayakers and whitewater rafters to even those just enjoying the views, you'll sure to get a meal and somewhat of a show. Stop by after a long, adventure-filled day hiking and enjoying nature.
Have you visited any of these places before? I’d like to visit them all, right now! Any you’d add to the list?