by Julie O'Brien

Created on: May 31, 2010   Last Updated: April 18, 2011

www.northcarolinawaterfalls.info/map.html

In North Carolina one can find some of the most breathtaking awe inspiring views that the eastern United States has to offer. For the nature lover, the beach comber or the thrill seekers alike, there is something in North Carolina for everyone! In the Western North Carolina mountain region there are numerous waterfalls, hiking trails, tranquil rivers and streams flowing ever so gently or ever so rapidly over boulders and rocks. North Carolina offers numerous activities for the out of doors nature lovers. Camping, rafting,tubing, kayaking and hiking are among the many popular activities that nature has to offer. North Carolina is home to The Great Smoky Mountains National Park where you will find 520,408 acres of nature including beautiful waterfalls, Gem mining, gold panning Scenic byways and parkways. Drive the Blue Ridge Parkways 469 miles of gorgeous mountain views or camp and fish at

Curtis Creek in the Pisgah National Forest in McDowell County just a short drive off  I-40 where rainbow trout is among the favorites of fishermen. North Carolina is also home to Nantahala, Pisgah, Croatan and Uwharrie National forests. Gem mining or rock hounding and gold panning are among the favorite activities whether you live in North Carolina or just visiting. There are many areas of the mountain regions that are rich in history and ore. Some of the most popular areas to go Gem mining or sleuthing are Franklin NC, Cherokee NC and Spruce Pine NC.  The more popular areas for gold panning are Marion NC and Transylvania County. In Canton NC you can dig for Sapphire at Presley Sapphire Mine. The mountains offer a great ride for the motorcycle rider and bi cyclists alike. The Dragons tail or tail of the dragon is a popular stretch of mountain roadway with 11 miles of winding turns and scenic beauty with 318 curves, that is located between NC and Tennessee on Highway 129 in Deals Gap, Graham county. Caution is advised for it can be a deadly stretch of roadway.

In North Carolina you can go from the inspiration and tranquility of the mountains and forests to the beaches of the east coast and find plenty to do in between. Charlotte NC offers The Carowinds amusement park  which is Cedar Parks recreation, with thrilling roller coasters and a water park as well as a campground.  In North Carolina you can always find a festival any season of the year.

For the planes, trains and automobile enthusiasts NC has plenty of museums and car shows, air shows and train rides. One can find the most that the South East has to offer in North Carolina.

Learn more about this author, Julie O'Brien.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.