Museum exhibits tell of life in these mountains from Native American and early European settlement through the CCC and the development of the national park.
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Archives for Outdoor Recreation
Nantahala Outdoor Center
The Nantahala Outdoor Center is popular for whitewater rafting, canoeing and kayaking. The river campus includes two restaurants, outfitters shop, and is a destination for the Great Smoky Mountain Railroad.
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Pearson’s Falls
Over 200 species of native deciduous and evergreen trees, flowering plants, wildflowers, and fern thrive in this 268-acre sanctuary. A moderate trail leads to a 90-foot waterfall.
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NC Bartram Trail
The North Carolina Bartram Trail commemorates the 1775 visit of Philadelphia naturalist William Bartram and parallels Bartram’s actual route into Cherokee country.
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Nantahala Lake
Located in the Nantahala National Forest at an elevation 3,012 feet, the lake is the second highest lake east of the Mississippi.
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Little Tennessee Greenway
This Greenway meanders along the river through Franklin, where visitors can experience wetlands and upland woods, wildflowers, and wildlife, especially migratory birds.
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The Perry N. Rudnick Art & Nature Trail
Whimsical outdoor art created by well-known artists combines with nature along this quiet one-mile pathway with interpretive signage and an array of regional plant species.
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Mount Mitchell State Park
Natural Heritage.
Burnsville, Exhibits, Family Fun, Museums, Natural Wonders, and Outdoor Recreation.
Burnsville, Exhibits, Family Fun, Museums, Natural Wonders, and Outdoor Recreation.
Mount Mitchell, easily accessible off the Blue Ridge Parkway, is the highest mountain east of the Mississippi River and the centerpiece of North Carolina’s first state park.
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Hickory Nut Gorge
Rushing waters, rocky cliffs, a giant waterfall, lake views and pristine forests make Hickory Nut Gorge a popular destination for hikers, leaf-peepers, and photography buffs.
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Chimney Rock at Chimney Rock State Park
Enjoy 75-mile views from atop this ancient monolith that soars 1,200 ft above the valley floor. Park includes elevator access, hiking trails, waterfall, and children’s trail.
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