Explore the National Parks While in North Carolina

Recalled by Walter Stegner as "America's best idea," the National Park System contains some of the nation's greatest national parks. The best national parks in the nation can be found in North Carolina, a state noted for its serene beaches and untamed mountain ranges. Make sure to visit these ten national parks while reserving DTW flights to Raleigh if you're planning a journey through the Tar Heel State.

1. The Appalachian Trail

The Appalachian Trail, a 2,184-mile hiking route that traverses North Carolina's Appalachian Mountains, is a globally recognized hiking destination. It stretches from Clay County to Avery County along the Tennessee border. All ability levels can enjoy the trail's picturesque trekking through farmland, hills, and rugged mountain scenery.

2. The Blue Ridge Parkway

The Blue Ridge Parkway is an amazing 469-mile drive through some of the most stunning rural landscapes in America, stretching from Rockfish Gap, near Waynesboro, Virginia, to U.S. 441 north of Cherokee, North Carolina. Hiking paths, a wealth of native species, campgrounds, picnic places, and other fascinating locations can be found along this leisurely and unforgettable drive, making it a must-visit location.

3. Cape Hatteras National Seashore

For those who enjoy the outdoors, fishing, and surfing, Cape Hatteras National Seashore, which stretches along the Outer Banks from Bodie Island to Ocracoke Island, provides a varied and stunning setting. In addition to providing great conditions for fishing and surfing, the 70-mile coastline offers an opportunity to learn about the area's nautical and colonial history. In addition to seeing a variety of species, including sea turtles, dolphins, and birds, visitors may explore historic lighthouses.

4. The National Park of the Great Smoky Mountains

Hiking, sightseeing, horseback riding, fly fishing, and water tubing are available to visitors.

5. Guilford Courthouse National Military Park

The American Revolutionary War's crucial Battle of Guilford Courthouse is remembered in the Guilford Courthouse National Military Park, which is situated northwest of Greensboro's downtown. This incident, which occurred on March 15, 1781, caused the British to renounce their hold on the Carolinas and paved the way for American triumph. These days, the park provides tours, displays, monuments, and educational programs.

6. The National Seashore at Cape Lookout

Reached after a three-mile boat voyage, the park presents a stunning, unspoiled scenery. Along with wildlife observation, camping under the stars, fishing, climbing the Cape Lookout Lighthouse, learning about the history of the area, and beach relaxation are all available to visitors.

7. Fort Raleigh National Historic Site

Within a few short years, the Roanoke Colony, England's first settlement in the New World, vanished in 1585. Visit the Roanoke Island Fort Raleigh National Historic Site to learn more about the mystery surrounding these early pioneers. There are beautiful pathways, several monuments and exhibits, and a reproduction of the old earthwork from 1585 at this location. Elizabethan Gardens and the enigmatic disappearance of the colony's residents are also open for exploration by guests.

8. The National Historic Trail of Overmountain Victory

A motley crew of troops from Virginia, Tennessee, and the Carolinas known as the Overmountain troops participated in the crucial Battle of Kings Mountain in 1780. Their mission proved successful, and the Overmountain Victory National Historic Trail honors it with hiking paths that follow the soldiers' path across the Piedmont plateau and the Appalachians, a Commemorative Auto Route close to Elkin, and historic sites in western North Carolina.

9. National Heritage Area of Blue Ridge

The Blue Ridge Mountains, spanning 25 counties in western North Carolina, hold a rich cultural legacy that is aimed at preservation. The Asheville-based Blue Ridge National Heritage Area aims to preserve this rich heritage.

10. Moores Creek National Battlefield

Approximately 500 Scottish Highlanders spearheaded the pivotal Battle of Moores Creek Bridge, one of the pivotal engagements of the Revolutionary War. The fight, which happened on February 27, 1776, strengthened the revolution's recruiting efforts and gained support. About 500 Highlanders saw the last documented incident of such a charge. The park's living history programs allow visitors to experience the fight and discover more about the individuals who were involved in it. So why wait? Start planning your trip to Raleigh now book cheap flights from Detroit to Raleigh and create memories that will last a lifetime.