Lake Toxaway, North Carolina

NC 288 was constructed in the 1920's, but did not last long with the construction of the Fontana Dam as the resulting lake covered the highway. The U.S. government entered an agreement in which they would provide a replacement road, but to this day it has not been completed and is know by locals ...

Tallulah Gorge is a must-see feature of Georgia. Campers can lay low and experience the gorge from its floor, engaging in river activities such as kayaking or swimming. Those seeking a thrill can hike the rim trails of the gorge, and even cross an 80' high suspension bridge. (Hikers who may be fe...

The trail is located in Tallulah Gorge State Park which is about 1 ½ hours northeast of Atlanta, off of Highway 441. There is a $5 per car entry fee into the park and they prefer the use of cash. From there, follow the signs to the Jane Hurt Yarn Interpretive Center, where there is parking and pl...

This is a really nice hike along Cove Creek that leads to a beautiful, 100 foot waterfall. While most of the trail is a relaxing stroll, the end of the hike provides a little adventure for those who feel up for it. Starting from the parking lot, follow the main trail into the woods. Early in the ...

In order to find this hidden gem, you'll have to drive quite a ways up the mountain first, otherwise it is a very steep incline. There will be limited parking at the gate that stops you from driving the whole way up. You will turn onto a road called "Glassy Mountain Rd" and that will be the road ...

If you're in Asheville, it'll be quite difficult to miss out on going to or at least hearing about Pack Square Park. The park is bustling with activity as it's a common, middle ground place for people to meet up, to take a lunch break, or to catch some rays of sun on a warm day. It's also a commo...

Close to downtown and in between several bed and breakfasts in Montford, NC, you'll find Montford Park. Though you may not expect it, the park boasts a couple of tennis courts, a basketball court, and some green space for picnicking, relaxing with friends, or getting lost in a good book.  People...

The Martin Luther King Jr Park includes a large multi-purpose field as well as a playground that's great for kids. It's the perfect place to go solo to clear your head and chill with a book or with family and friends for an outdoor game.  Right at the entrance to the Park stands a statue of Mart...

Once you have parked along the roadside near the trailhead, pass through the big gate on the right side of the road and take the trail off to the right. The trail winds up the mountain for a mile before it empties out onto the bald atop Bearwallow. Once on the bald, you can follow the gravel road...

Park along the road at Bearwallow Gap - this is also the parking area for Bearwallow Mountain. Starting at a little over 3600ft, the Trombatore Trail has been well marked by the Carolina Mountain Land Conservancy with red blazes. Parts of the trail border private land, so pay attention to the sig...

Charlies Bunion via Kephart Loop is a loop trail located near Cherokee, North Carolina. This is a longer version of the Charlies Bunion hike starting from the Newfound Gap parking lot. The added benefit of this longer loop is the opportunity to see more of the Great Smokey Mountains! You'll pass ...

Kephart Prong is a pretty easy hike in close proximity to the Visitor Center on the North Carolina Side of GSMNP. 2 miles up the trail, you'll arrive at Kephart Shelter, where you can rest and enjoy vies of the Kephart Prong. Once you've had your fill, head back down the way you came.  During th...

This is a strenuous (though not technical) hike that really showcases the forests, creeks, and (eventually) the highest point of Great Smoky Mountains National Park. As this is a point-to-point route, you will want to have two vehicles - one that you can leave at Clingman's Dome and one that you ...

Despite their beauty, not many hikers know about Minnehaha Falls. Even more shocking, these are some of the most accessible falls in all of North Georgia. Round trip, the hike to the falls will only take about a half a mile. Hikers can park along the side of the road at the trailhead. Follow the ...

Park at the Panther Creek Recreation Area. The fee to park here is $4. There is extra parking alongside the road if the parking lot is full. The trail begins opposite the parking area, noted by a wooden sign. The trail gains elevation here and there with several drop-offs secured by cable cord f...

Lake Conestee Nature Park Loop is a family-friendly loop trail located near Greenville, South Carolina. This trail makes for a great stroll and opportunity to do some birdwatching along the route. There are plenty of insects in the warmer months, so you may want to consider packing repellent.