From warm October days to cool November nights, it’s important to enjoy every moment of autumn. With everything from foliage kayaking on the river to whitetail deer hunting the Inner Banks region, North Carolina enjoys fall to its fullest. Here are the best outdoor activities in the state.
It’s not for beginners, but those with some moderate hiking experience can make the hike to Calloway Peak. From the top you’ll enjoy a brilliant view of North Carolina’s Blue Ridge Mountains. Park your vehicle in the Boone Fork Parking Area. Its entrance is on the Blue Ridge Parkway. Start your hike on the Tanawha Trail to the Boone Scout Trail. From there you’ll see the trail to the summit. The second half of the trail is a bit challenging but is made doable with the existing ladders and cables. Day permits are required.
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The cliffs and rock formations inside Crowder’s Mountain State Park make it an excellent place for rock climbing. The views from the top are sublime. Climbing is allowed throughout most of the fall, weather permitting, and climbers must get a permit from the park office prior to the climb. These climbs are recommended for intermediate to experienced climbers only.
The Cape Fear River flows for approximately 200 miles through the North Carolina piedmont and eventually empties into the Atlantic Ocean. It’s the most industrialized of all the state’s rivers but has parts that are tranquil and perfect for kayaking.
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Camping at Hanging Rock State Park is open all year, with sites for RVs, tents and several cabins available, too. Hanging Rock Trail takes avid rock climbers to a spot deemed safe for experienced climbers, and aptly called the Hanging Rock. In addition, there are miles of hiking trails—some leading to beautiful waterfalls, a lake for swimming, boating and fishing and majestic views of the Sauratown Mountains.
Fontana Lake is home to the famous Fontana Dam. The dam was featured in the film “A Walk in the Woods.” Fontana Dam is also the name of the town where the dam is located as is a good part of the lake. Fishing is a popular pastime on this lake, with some of the best smallmouth bass fishing in the state taking place here. Check out Fontana Guides in Bryson City for some great guided fishing trip options.
There are several trails at South Mountains State Park, offering miles of hiking for hikers of all levels. See waterfalls, cross over rivers and marvel at the wildlife that scampers all around. High Shoals Falls is the most popular of all the trails, leading hikers to an 80-foot falls and lots of smaller ones, too.
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The Ahoskie, North Carolina region is an excellent place for whitetail deer hunting. Deer hunting season varies depending upon what you shoot. Between archery, muzzle loading firearms and rifles, the ability to hunt lasts all throughout the fall.
Beach camping is a unique experience. For the utmost in beach camping, visit Bear Island at Hammock Beach State Park. Tent sites are available right on the beach, with water and other facilities available toward the center of the island. Hiking around the island and throughout the park is easy, but interesting, too. The coastal wildlife is plentiful. You never know what you’ll see. Fires aren’t allowed, so plan accordingly. Campsites are rented all year, but water isn’t available after late November.
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