This Epic One-Day Road Trip Across North Carolina Is Full Of Adventures From Sunrise To Sunset

There are so many incredible sights to see in North Carolina, that you'd need a lifetime to explore them all. If you're a fan of catching the sunrise and sunset, then this is a day trip in North Carolina you'll want to take. We love a good road trip, and this one might just be one of the best yet. This epic North Carolina road trip starts and ends with the sun, so set your alarms, gas up the car, and get ready for an adventure!

From start to finish, you're looking at about a five hour drive.

Of course, you'll want to stop and see the sights, so if you time it correctly, you'll end up at the final destination just in time to watch the sunset. Feel free to use this interactive map to add your own stops and make it your own.

1. Cape Hatteras National Seashore

If you’re going to catch an epic sunrise, this spot along the Outer Banks is the place to do it.

After all, it is the easternmost point in North Carolina, and that definitely lends itself to offering some of the best sunrises in North Carolina.. Pull up some sand and enjoy the view! Afterward, be sure to check out the most iconic lighthouse in North Carolina.

2. Roanoke Island

Since you'll be driving through Roanoke Island anyway, might as well stop and see the sights!

There's a lot to love about Roanoke Island, and history lovers will especially enjoy getting to check out Fort Raleigh National Historic Site, the first English settlement of present-day United States.

3. Pettigrew State Park

Pettigrew State Park clocks in at just under 6,000 acres...

...and that’s before you take in the beautiful 16,000-acre lake surrounding the park. Take in the sights and sounds of Lake Phelps and learn about the fascinating history of the area, including the Pettigrew Family Cemetery.

4. Wilson Rose Garden

OK, now its time to stop and smell the roses (literally)!

Time to stop and smell the roses (literally). The Wilson Rose Garden boasts over 1,200 rose bushes with 180 varieties to admire. Admission to the garden is free and there are plenty of picnic tables peppered around, perfect for a picnic lunch before you carry on.

5. Jordan Lake State Recreation Area

We started the day on the beach and we will end the day on the beach...

... this time at Jordan Lake State Recreation Area. There are seven different swim beaches around the massive, 14,000-acre reservoir, so you can find a secluded spot to sit back and enjoy the sunset as you fall in love with North Carolina all over again. If you don’t want your adventure to end, you can always pitch a tent and spend the night camping under the stars!

So what did you think about this awesome day trip in North Carolina? Have you ever been to any of these places? If so, which were your favorites? We'd love to read about your experiences in the comments section below!

If you live life by your stomach, how about this delightfully delicious Donut Trail itinerary?

If you’re still in the mood for more North Carolina adventures, take a look at this video: