North Carolina’s hidden gems – discover unforgettable beaches, mountains and wildlife

With its pine-forested mountains, undulating rivers and 300 miles of coastline, North Carolina is a land where you instantly feel calmer. Walk through one of its 10 national parks and you’ll notice your heartbeat begin to slow. The state is home to over 100,000 acres of protected wilderness, making it a playground for nature lovers and outdoor sports enthusiasts alike.

From many-hued mountains to wildlife-rich rivers and untouched beaches, this diverse state boasts myriad appeals. Here are just some of the natural beauty spots you shouldn’t miss in the Tar Heel state – including a few lesser-known gems.

Laze on the pristine beaches of the Brunswick Islands

Tucked in the southern corner of North Carolina, this low-lying archipelago boasts 45 miles of white sand beaches, peppered with beachfront cabins, oyster shacks and driftwood boardwalks. Catch the ferry to Bald Head Island and climb Old Baldy, the oldest standing lighthouse in North Carolina. Alternatively, Holden Island boasts quieter, wilder beaches. Cycle along them to Lockwood Folly Inlet at the island’s eastern tip. Keep an eye out between May and October when loggerhead turtles lay their eggs in the dunes.

Go wildlife watching on Alligator River

Black bears, bald eagles, red wolves, otters and, yes, alligators are just a handful of the species you can spot along the Alligator River, just west of the Outer Banks. In fact, this rare pocosin wetland is home to the highest concentration of black bears on the eastern coast. Kayaking is the best way to spot wildlife on this waterway without disturbing them. Glide down the gentle river in silence and listen out for over 250 bird species, including the red-bellied woodpecker.

Hike through the Great Smoky Mountains National Park

With its forest-carpeted mountains, knockout views and abundance of wildlife, it’s easy to see why the Great Smoky Mountains is the most visited national park in the United States. There are over 800 miles of walking trails, including 71 miles of the famous Appalachian Trail. Escape the crowds by hiking the Noland Divide Trail from Deep Creek; the fiery autumn foliage is particularly beautiful in early October. For a truly immersive experience, stay at The Swag, a luxurious boutique hotel on the outskirts of the park; they host guided walks, as well as outdoor photography and sketch-journalling workshops.

Abseil…