For those that seek adventure and pursue the outdoor lifestyle, these Carolina sporting destinations offer the perfect adventure.
Bryson City, NC
Whitewater Rafting
People have been rafting the Nantahala River in western North Carolina since the 1970s when the Nantahala Outdoor Center opened. There are class II and class III rapids on the river, making the ride exciting. Rafters are challenged by rapids with epic names like Pattons Run, Quarry, and the Whirlpool. The Nantahala is a great river for novice and experienced rafters alike. The river adventure isnt the only thing to take in while spending a weekend getaway in Bryson City. The Fryemont Inn and Restaurant has been an institution in the area since the 1920s and serves up some of the best hospitality and fresh rainbow trout you can get your hands on. For those that need to relax after a long day on the water, Lakeview at Fontana offers a world-class spa. Or for those anxious for even more adrenaline the Wayehutta ATV Trail System is a must. For more information, visit greatsmokies.com.
Canadys, SC
Canoeing and Kayaking
Just three hours from Charlotte, Canadys sits along the historic and slow flowing Edisto River, northwest of Charleston. The gem of the river for the adventurer is at Carolina Heritage Outdoors where you can rent canoes and treehouses. During the 23 mile float through tupelo and cypress swamps, canoers and kayakers get the opportunity to spend the night in rustic treehouses and get a chance to take in the scenery and wildlife. For more information, visit canoesc.com.
Chimney Rock, NC
Rock Climbing
Chimney Rock is a 535 million year old monolith that rises up from the Hickory Nut Gorge near Lake Lure, NC. Chimney Rock State Park is a 1,000 acres of amazing wilderness featuring great mountain biking trails, waterfalls, hiking trails, and incredible rock climbing. Fox Mountain Guides has partnered with the state park for some amazing top rope climbing trips. These top rope climbs will test your strength and balance and will give you some amazing views of the gorge below. While visiting Chimney Rock be sure to stay at the Lake Lure Inn and Spa where you can enjoy some of the best relaxation, food, and fun in the area including the Lake Lure boat tours. For more information, visit chimneyrockpark.com.
Seven Devils, NC
Zipline
When most think of Seven Devils they think of the amazing winter adventures that take place atop Hawksnest Mountain. However, Hawksnest is now an amazing summer destination for the adventurer. The ziplines at Hawksnest feature two different types of tours with ten cables and a swinging bridge. While in the High Country stay just minutes away from Seven Devils in Valle Crucis at the Mast Farm Inn where you will be treated like royalty. For more information, visit hawksnestzipline.com.
Wilmington, NC
Paddle Boarding
A mixture of surfing and canoeing, paddle boarding is a great sport for the adventurer that tests your balance and agility. It is also a great way to experience the inland waterways around Wilmington or the oceans just off the beautiful Wrightsville beach. While in Wilmington, paddle boarding isnt the only thing you can do. Take a quick ride to Hook, Line, and Paddle (hooklineandpaddle.com) and take in a wide variety of outdoor water activities from kayaking to fishing. While in Wilmington explore the NC Battleship, check out the Ghosts of Wilmington Tour, or shop at the Shops of Old Wilmington or the Cotton Exchange. When visiting Wilmington make reservations at the Graystone Inn. If youre all adventured out then take a ride over to the Harbour Club Day Spa and get some needed rest and relaxation.
