12 Stunning Places Everyone Should Go In North Carolina

North Carolina is an adventurer’s paradise, with plenty of mountains to climb and waves to surf. But there’s a lot to choose from in the Tar Heel state. These 12 places are more than just amazing experiences, but a North Carolina experience everyone should have at least once.

Formed 390 million years ago, Looking Glass Rock is composed of Whiteside Granite and is absolutely breathtaking.

Flickr / Valerie

Take the ferry to Shackleford Banks and walk along the beach with wild horses.

Flickr / Steve Markos

And while you’re in the area, make the most of your time in the amazing Outer Banks. This strip of barrier islands spans 200 miles along the NC coastline.

Flickr / Wendy

Referred to as the Grand Canyon of the East, Linville Gorge never ceases to take your breath away.

Danny Richard Buxton

Even if you’re scared of heights, walking across the Mile High Swinging Bridge at Grandfather Mountain is an unforgettable experience.

Flickr / Kim Seng

There’s no way to not be in complete awe when you’re standing beside Jockey’s Ridge, the tallest active sand dune on the East Coast.

Flickr / Zach Frailey

Craggy Gardens is nothing short of a fairytale, and with rhododendron blooms lining the trails and overlook, it’s perfect for an early summer hike.

Flickr / Selena N.B.H

The stairs up might be daunting, but the view is SO worth it at Chimney Rock!

Flickr / SusanK

You can’t call yourself a North Carolinian until you’ve stood at the highest point East of the Mississippi, Mount Mitchell.

Flickr / Kolin Toney

Right beside VA, The Great Dismal Swamp is eerie, beautiful, and incredible.

Flickr / U.S Fish and Wildlife Service

Falling at 811 ft. (with the bottom falling into SC) Whitewater Falls is the highest fall east of the Rockies. A waterfall to trump all others.

Flickr / Matt Barnett

DuPont State Forest is filled with powerful, breathtaking waterfalls and adventurous hiking trails. You can make a whole weekend out of this magical place.

Flickr / Matthew

North Carolina is a wonderful place; between the mountains and the coast there’s enough to fill up a whole summer or two. Which one are you visiting first?