The days are long and the temperatures are rising, which can only mean one thing: it's swimming hole time! There are so many swimming holes, waterfalls, and lakes in North Carolina that you could spend an entire summer exploring them all. To keep things to a more manageable timetable (a long weekend, perhaps!), we've designed a route that will take you to some of the best aquatic adventures in the state. This road trip in North Carolina is best done over two days, allowing you to take your time and avoid feeling rushed. Plus, you might find some side quests along the way!
This Road Trip Leads to All of the Best Swimming Holes, Waterfalls, and Lakes in North Carolina
1. Sliding Rock
Nature⬩North Carolina
Perhaps North Carolina’s best swimming hole, Sliding Rock, is one of a kind. The water here is about 55 degrees (on average), which can be a bit chilly! Luckily, you’ll have the adrenaline from sliding down the natural water slide. This swimming hole in North Carolina can get pretty crowded on the weekends, so visit during the week to escape the crowds.
As an added bonus, Moore Cove Falls and Looking Glass Falls are both nearby, so you can easily check out all three in a long afternoon.
2. Catawba Falls
Nature⬩North Carolina
Sitting pretty in the Pisgah National Forest, Catawba Falls is one of those mesmerizing waterfalls you’re sure to fall in love with. Catawba Falls is about 1.5 hours from Sliding Rock (62 miles), so you won’t be in the car for too long. The two-mile out-and-back trail leads you through the forest and to the base of the waterfall. If you want to get a view from the top, be prepared for about 580 steps. Feel free to take a dip in the pool at the base of the waterfall!
3. Linville Falls
Nature⬩Linville Falls, NC
If we don’t add Linville Falls to the list, I think we’d get our North Carolina card revoked. This beautiful waterfall on the Blue Ridge Parkway is one of the most popular attractions in North Carolina (so expect crowds!). The two-mile out-and-back trail is still recovering from Hurricane Helene damage (as is much of the area), but you’ll still be able to catch a glorious view of this impressive waterfall.
Where to Stay
Cabin in Nebo, North Carolina
Stays⬩Nebo, NC
After a long day of hiking and swimming, head to this secluded cabin in Nebo to rest and recharge. The cabin can accommodate up to four guests and is in an idyllic setting—it overlooks Paddy’s Creek! Yep, we’re keeping the aquatic theme rolling with this waterfront cabin in North Carolina.
4. Lake James State Park
National & State Parks⬩North Carolina
Starting day two off strong with a quick ride in the car over to Lake James State Park (less than 20 minutes away). There are over 20 miles of hiking trails to explore, but the main attraction at Lake James State Park is, well, the lake! The sandy beach is the perfect place to set up camp and enjoy the views while soaking in some sun. Swimming is permitted in designated swimming areas, which are open daily from May to September. Make sure to check the official website before you head over, so you can ensure the swimming area and hiking trails are open.
5. McGalliard Falls Park
Nature⬩Valdese, NC
Our next stop brings us 24 miles east, to McGalliard Falls Park, where you can see a 45-foot waterfall and the historic Meytre Grist Mill. There's a lovely nature trail here, complete with a suspension bridge that’s a great spot to stretch your legs and take in the scenery. You can’t swim in this waterfall (although people do), but there are picnic areas and restrooms if you’d like to enjoy some of those epic road trip snacks you’ve undoubtedly picked up along the way.
6. Lake Norman State Park
National & State Parks⬩Troutman, NC
Our final stop on this North Carolina road trip takes us to Lake Norman State Park, one of my favorite state parks in North Carolina. While it’s known to have some of the best mountain biking trails in the state, the real star of the show is the beach! Sink your toes in the sand and enjoy one of the rare non-coastal beaches in North Carolina. It’s the perfect way to end the trip!
Share this article with someone you want to take this road trip in North Carolina with. And if you’ve got your sights set on a coastal beach trip, check out some of our favorite beaches in North Carolina.
Photo credits (from top to bottom): Michelle Allen/AllTrails, Nome/Lakin, Tej Rana/AllTrails, Rock Bluff Acres/Airbnb, Agatha Donkar Lund/AllTrails, Dean Wentworth/AllTrails, Linda Williams/AllTrails
