NORTH CAROLINA
Join 2,500+ Club Magnolia readers. The best of Charlotte, the Triangle, the Coast, and the Mountains every week, plus your free NC guide, sent instantly.
No spam, ever.
North Carolina is full of amazing places. But some of the best spots are the ones most people do not know about. Here are 10 hidden gems in NC worth putting on your list.
A hike with big views and very few crowds. Located in the western mountains of NC, this trail gives you wide open views of the ridgelines without the traffic of better known spots. Great for hikers who want to get away from the crowds.
This little town in Iredell County looks like it came straight out of a Western movie. No cars are allowed inside. Only horses and horse drawn carriages can travel the main street. Founded in 1954, the town has dirt roads, wooden storefronts, and a real Old West feel. There are rodeos, holiday parades on horseback, miles of riding trails, a small lake, and a general store. It is one of the most unique places in all of NC.
Located in the Piedmont region near Danbury. This state park has dramatic rocky peaks, waterfalls, a swimming beach, and great hiking. It is much less crowded than parks closer to Asheville but just as beautiful.
A giant rock chimney that sticks up 315 feet above the surrounding landscape. You can take an elevator or hike to the top. The views of Hickory Nut Gorge and Lake Lure below are stunning. You may recognize the area from the movie "The Last of the Mohicans."
Only reachable by ferry from Southport NC. No cars allowed on the island. You get around by golf cart or bike. The island has beautiful beaches, a historic lighthouse called "Old Baldy" which is the oldest lighthouse in NC, and sea turtle nesting grounds. A very special and peaceful place.
In the northeastern part of NC near Hollister. Most people skip this area but it has nice easy hiking trails, a creek, and a peaceful natural setting. Great for a low key outdoor day.
Near Southern Pines. This preserve protects a longleaf pine forest, one of the most endangered ecosystems in the Southeast. You can hike through the tall pines and spot red cockaded woodpeckers.
Bath is the oldest town in North Carolina, founded in 1705. Walking through it feels like stepping back in time. The old homes and church are still standing and open to tours.
Deep in the mountains near Sapphire NC. This park gets more rain than almost anywhere east of the Mississippi River. The waterfalls and lush green forest here feel like a rainforest. The hike to Grotto Falls is worth every step.
Accessible by a free ferry from Swan Quarter or Cedar Island. This small island on the Outer Banks is far less crowded than Nags Head or the northern OBX towns. It has wild ponies, beautiful beaches, a historic lighthouse, and a tiny charming village. One of the most peaceful places in the state.
North Carolina is full of places like these. Get off the main roads and you will find something amazing around every corner. Follow @magnoliamegan for more hidden gems and local guides!
Join 2,500+ Club Magnolia readers. The best of Charlotte, the Triangle, the Coast, and the Mountains every week, plus your free NC guide, sent instantly.