Outside NC is a motion devoted to selling stewardship throughout North Carolina—encouraging everybody to expertise, embrace, and protect the state’s unbelievable out of doors areas. By fostering accountable recreation and a deeper connection to nature, Outside NC gives a pathway for protected, sustainable, and unforgettable adventures.
1. BURKE COUNTY
Burke County, North Carolina—generally known as “Nature’s Playground”—blends out of doors journey with small-town appeal. Simply off I-40 between Asheville and Charlotte, Morganton, the county seat, is a vibrant gateway neighborhood with a thriving arts and meals scene, making it the proper hub for exploration. With quick access to the Linville Gorge, Lake James and South Mountains State Parks, limitless adventures await. DiscoverBurkeCounty.com
2. MCDOWELL COUNTY
With dramatic mountain terrain, nationally acknowledged out of doors experiences, and a rising slate of must-go occasions, 2026 is shaping as much as be a defining yr for McDowell County, N.C. From elite path working and mountain biking competitions to new milestones in its cultural and historic areas, the yr forward displays a vacation spot having a real second – one constructed on years of funding, neighborhood delight, and creativity. –DestinationMcDowell.com
3. HAYWOOD COUNTY
Perched amongst Western North Carolina’s most scenic peaks, out of doors journey and down-home appeal meet in Haywood County’s mountain cities of Waynesville, Maggie Valley, Canton, Clyde, and Lake Junaluska. Hike 6,000-foot summits, discover magical old-growth forests, cruise the Blue Ridge Parkway, and float down the pristine Pigeon River. Plus, store historic downtowns and dine your manner by NC’s “Secret Foodie Capital. VisitHaywood.com
4. HIGHLANDS, NC
Nestled amongst nationwide forest lands and a brief drive from Nice Smoky Mountains Nationwide Park, Highlands, North Carolina is a cool local weather mountain city surrounded by waterfalls, lush forests, and scenic trails. From fly fishing and mountain climbing to dramatic gorges and quiet lake paddles, out of doors journey begins minutes from Major Road. Recent mountain air pairs naturally with native eating, artwork, and small-town appeal, making a welcoming basecamp that blends out of doors recreation with tradition and luxury. HighlandsChamber.org
5. WILKES COUNTY
Wilkes County, North Carolina is your Blue Ridge basecamp for giant views and easygoing cities. Hike the granite domes and waterfalls of Stone Mountain State Park, then paddle or pedal alongside the Yadkin River. Cap the day with native wine within the Yadkin Valley and a stroll by Wilkesboro and North Wilkesboro’s retailers and eating. Study extra and begin your journey at WilkesCountyTourism.com.
6. ELKIN, NC
Elkin – NC’s Path City. From simple trails, to technical mountain bike trails, to state sanctioned paddle trails and nationwide park trails; waterfall loops and mural-viewing forest bathing trails; wine trails, music trails and festivals like NC Path Days devoted to the path – -. Elkin has a path for everyone. Come Discover Your Path in Elkin – ExploreElkin.com
7. ALAMANCE COUNTY
Uncover Alamance County’s nice open air—from the 80‑foot Monadnock Tower and scenic trails atop Cane Creek Mountain to the expansive Haw River Path, providing 20 miles for mountain climbing and 40 miles of paddle adventures. Stunning parks and greenways in Burlington, Saxapahaw, Mebane, Elon and Graham, invite you to discover, unwind, and revel in nature at its finest. VisitAlamance.com
8. BEECH MOUNTAIN, NC
Beech Mountain, japanese America’s highest city, affords cool temperatures and a variety of out of doors actions. Climbing and biking trails wind by forested terrain, whereas space lakes present alternatives for kayaking and fishing. Guests may also get pleasure from scenic chairlift rides that ship spectacular panoramic views of the encircling Blue Ridge Mountains. For extra data, go to BeechMtn.com.
9. FOX MOUNTAIN GUIDES
Fox Mountain Guides & Climbing Faculty affords unforgettable mountain climbing adventures within the coronary heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains. With over 20 years of expertise, our family-run crew welcomes novices and seasoned climbers alike. No expertise wanted—only a sense of journey. Uncover the fun of climbing with knowledgeable guides by your facet. FoxMountainGuides.com
10. ROCKINGHAM COUNTY
Set alongside the North Carolina–Virginia line, Rockingham County is an outside playground formed by water and path. 4 rivers and three lakes provide paddling, fishing, and laid-back exploration, with peaceable coves, scenic shorelines, and open water excellent for dawn outings or sundown views. Miles of trails wind by Mayo River State Park, Haw River State Park, and scenic riverside greenways—excellent for mountain climbing, biking, wildlife watching, and absorbing the outside in each season. VisitRoCoNC.com
11. BREVARD, NC
In North Carolina’s Land of Waterfalls, chasing cascades is a year-round sport. There are 250 waterfalls in Transylvania County, scenic mountain climbing, and a few of the finest mountain biking within the nation. Our genuine mountain city is a gateway to out of doors journey. When the day winds down, you’ll discover a native beer and a seat at a bluegrass jam ready for you. ExploreBrevard.com.
