North Carolina is a popular travel destination, with the Great Smokey Mountain and Blue Ridge National Parkways attracting plenty of visitors each year. It’s a great spot for multi-generation family vacations. Even so, riding around on scenic mountain roads or hiking wooded trails might not appeal to everyone. Or these activities might become tiresome after a while. So, with that in mind, here are some other spots in the nearby area that have stood the test of time.
Image Source: Doug Kerr via Flickr and CC 2.0
Sliding Rock. This natural water slide is located just north of Brevard. It’s in the Pisgah National Forrest, 7.6 miles from the junction of US Highways 64 and 276. The attraction provides plenty of good, clean fun for the entire family. Handrails are provided so that you can quickly climb to the top of the slide once you’ve gone down it. There is usually a lifeguard present. Restrooms and an observation deck are also available on site. Travelers should additionally be aware that the slide can be hard on swimwear. It’s always a good idea to bring a backup suit in case yours rips or tears. Another thing to remember is that the water flowing down the slide is very cold, which is perfect on hot summer days but might not be as appealing during the spring or autumn months. However, Sliding Rock is open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on a regular basis. Admission is $2 per person.
Image Source: dconvertini via Flickr and CC 2.0
Chimney Rock State Park. Known for its use as a filming location in Last of the Mohicans, Chimney Rock State Park has a number of scenic overlooks that make great photo spots and mountain streams that are excellent places to soak your tired feet. There are plenty of walking trails as well. Travelers should nonetheless be aware that the elevator that takes people to the peak of Chimney Rock is currently out of operation. As a result, they will have to walk up hundreds of stairs to get there. The current admission cost is $13 for adults and $6 for children. Visitors under 2 years old are allowed in for free. These prices will remain in operation until the elevator can be fixed. Once this occurs, regular pricing should resume at $15 for adults and $7 for kids. Chimney Rock is located east of Asheville, near Lake Lure.
Image Source: Bob Keefer via Flickr and CC 2.0.
Biltmore Estate. Despite the pricey entry fees, the Biltmore Estate is a great place to visit, particularly in the spring when all the flowers in the gardens are in full bloom. You can easily spend a whole day or two touring the grand historic home, visiting the winery, and walking through the grounds. It’s a good idea to pick up an audio visual guide while you’re going through the house so that you don’t miss out on the home’s highlights. The current cost is $65 for adults, with prices jumping another $10 on Saturdays. There are discounts for senior citizens and children under the age of 9 are allowed in for free. The estate is open from about 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. However, the grounds close at dusk and the winery remains open until 7 p.m. The Biltmore Estate is located just outside of Asheville.
As always, happy travels!
Sources: Visit NC; Chimney Rock State Park; Biltmore Estate; Trip Advisor
