The Outdoor NC Trail Town Guide celebrates towns across the state who are dedicated to preserving the natural beauty and cultural heritage of their destination while fostering a strong sense of place. The destinations featured in this guide are championing destination stewardship, accessible outdoors and responsible recreation to sustain our towns and trails for future generations.
The trails and towns in this guide stretch from the beautiful Blue Ridge mountains, along the riverbanks and rolling hills of the Piedmont, to the 320 miles of coastline, encompassing cities, suburbs and rural towns. The trails include a variety of activities – walking, hiking, biking, cycling, paddling, horseback riding and driving – and welcome visitors of all abilities. Click the guide below to open an online flipbook with interactive links to more information on the trail towns and all they have to offer.
Attention Travelers:
Many areas in the mountain region of our state have been deeply affected by Hurricane Helene.
As stewards and lovers of North Carolina’s outdoor spaces, we feel a deep connection to these areas and our hearts go out to the people and communities who are working through recovery after the storm. Note: the mountain region is highlighted in green on page 6 of the guide.
If you are considering a visit to Western North Carolina, reach out to the community and businesses you want to visit to ensure they are open and welcoming visitors, and consult DriveNC.gov to identify open roads and a safe route to your destination.
It’s more important than ever to follow the Outdoor NC Leave No Trace Principle of ‘Plan Ahead and Prepare.’ Before you head out, check road and trail conditions. If an area is not accessible, not safe, or otherwise unable to welcome visitors at this time, reschedule your trip for a later date.
For travel and outdoor recreational advisories check out:
- Visit North CarolinaTravel Advisories and Interactive Map
- Drive NC Road Conditions
- NC State Parks
- NC Wildlife Resources Commission
- NC Forest Service
If you’re able and willing to donate to relief efforts for those affected in Western North Carolina, please consider contributing to the North Carolina Disaster Relief Fund.
What’s Inside?
The 2024 edition includes 15 destinations and 105 trails to explore.
Experiences you’ll find on the trails include:
Greenways
Hiking
Mountain Biking
Road Biking
Paddling
Snorkeling
Waterfalls
Horseback Riding
Driving Tours
Cultural Heritage Tours
You’re invited to join the outdoor nc movement
Join the movement to preserve and protect North Carolina’s beloved outdoor spaces!
Together we can preserve them for generations to come. Click to learn more.
