People who love spending time in nature often enjoy traveling to the Carolinas. This part of the country is home to the Blue Ridge Mountains and offers epic opportunities to get out into the wild on the Atlantic Coast.
But how are they spending their time?
That’s the question we try to answer in this post. It looks at some of the activities these individuals enjoy, and what they do to pass the time in this part of the world.
Exploring Waterfalls
Exploring waterfalls is one of the top pastimes for nature-loving travelers who visit the Carolinas. This part of the world is quieter than the famous waterfalls in upstate New York but also offers more variety.
Most visitors head to the Sliding Rock waterfall because of its impressive geology. However, visitors are also fond of Rainbow and Glass Falls, which also offer a refreshing retreat in the summer months after a long hike.
Of course, temperatures can rise substantially in this part of the world so keeping cool is a priority when traveling in hot weather. Hats, sunscreen, and plenty of water are essential.
Wildlife Watching
The Carolinas are also popular for wildlife watching. People flock to the region to see creatures that aren’t found anywhere else.
Much of the wildlife worth seeing is in the various national parks across the region, like the Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge. These are popular among tourists looking for wild birds (though the crocodiles can be a risk). Migratory species are the most sought-after sightseeing opportunity, but various shorebirds and waterfowl also call the state home and can sometimes stay year-round.
There’s also the Angel Oak tree which is famous in the area for its beauty and size. It has dozens of twisting branches that wind their way up to the sky.
Kayaking
Some nature lovers also take the opportunity to go kayaking when in the Carolinas. The region is home to some spectacular boating country, especially along the rivers and in the extensive coastal regions. You don’t need your own kayak either – you can find dozens of companies offering them for hire.
The Cape Fear River is a good option for more leisurely travel, despite the name. But if you want something more lively, then the Catawba River is the best bet, getting quieter the further upstream you go.
Hiking
Then, of course, there are Carolina’s famous hiking routes. These snake their way through the various national parks and mountain ranges, providing something for almost everyone.
Many hikers begin their journeys at the Pisgah National Forest and make their way from there. Then you have those taking on the epic Appalachian Trail which offers a unique route that can take weeks to complete (traveling north or south).
Camping along the route is also possible. Some sites, like the Linville Gorge, offer a fantastic setting for star-gazing.
Fishing
Finally, many people go to the Carolinas for fishing (and to avoid many of the hot spots, like around Florida). Top destinations include Lake Murray and Lake Norman where boats and guided tours are available close to fishing and tack shops.
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