North Carolina is a state of diverse landscapes, offering everything from coastal beauty to breathtaking mountain vistas. These scenic drives take you through some of the most picturesque parts of the Tar Heel State, making them perfect for a relaxing day trip or a weekend getaway. Here are 10 scenic drives in North Carolina you shouldn’t miss.
1. Blue Ridge Parkway
Often called “America’s Favorite Drive,” the Blue Ridge Parkway stretches 469 miles through the Blue Ridge Mountains. In North Carolina, the parkway offers stunning overlooks, access to hiking trails, and iconic spots like Linville Falls and Mount Mitchell. Fall is an especially magical time to drive as the leaves transform into vibrant colors.
2. Outer Banks Scenic Byway
This coastal drive takes you along 138 miles of barrier islands, offering views of the Atlantic Ocean, historic lighthouses, and charming seaside towns. Highlights include the Cape Hatteras National Seashore, Ocracoke Island, and Wright Brothers National Memorial in Kitty Hawk.
3. Cherohala Skyway (Robbinsville to Tellico Plains, TN)
Spanning 43 miles, this breathtaking drive connects North Carolina to Tennessee, offering panoramic views of the Nantahala and Cherokee National Forests. With winding roads and elevations reaching over 5,000 feet, the Cherohala Skyway is a favorite among nature lovers and motorcycle enthusiasts.
4. Great Smoky Mountains National Park Loop
Starting in Cherokee, this loop takes you through some of the most beautiful parts of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Highlights include Clingmans Dome, the highest point in the park, and Newfound Gap, which offers incredible mountain views.
5. Forest Heritage Scenic Byway (Brevard to Waynesville)
This 76-mile loop winds through the Pisgah National Forest, passing waterfalls, historic sites, and dense forests. Don’t miss Looking Glass Falls, Sliding Rock, and the Cradle of Forestry, the birthplace of forestry education in America.
6. U.S. Route 64 Waterfall Byway (Highlands to Rosman)
Known for its abundance of waterfalls, this stretch of U.S. Route 64 takes you through the heart of the Nantahala National Forest. Highlights include Dry Falls, where you can walk behind the cascading water, and Bridal Veil Falls, which flows directly over the road.
7. The Diamondback (Little Switzerland to Marion)
For those seeking an adrenaline rush, the Diamondback is a 12-mile drive with over 190 steep curves through the Pisgah National Forest. The route starts in Little Switzerland, a charming mountain town, and offers thrilling twists and turns with stunning views.
8. Cape Fear Scenic Byway (Wilmington to Fort Fisher)
This coastal drive takes you along the Cape Fear River, passing through historic Wilmington and ending at the Fort Fisher State Recreation Area. The route offers picturesque views of the river, salt marshes, and the Atlantic Ocean, along with plenty of opportunities to explore.
9. Mount Mitchell Scenic Drive (Burnsville to Mount Mitchell)
This drive takes you to Mount Mitchell, the highest peak east of the Mississippi River. The route winds through the Black Mountains, offering spectacular views of the surrounding peaks and valleys. At the summit, visitors can enjoy hiking trails and an observation deck with panoramic vistas.
10. The Tail of the Dragon (Deals Gap)
Famous among thrill-seekers, the Tail of the Dragon is an 11-mile stretch of U.S. Route 129 with 318 curves. This winding road runs through the Great Smoky Mountains and offers heart-pounding excitement for drivers and motorcyclists, along with stunning views of the rugged landscape.
North Carolina’s scenic drives highlight the state’s diverse beauty, from the misty mountains of the Blue Ridge to the sandy shores of the Outer Banks. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or stunning vistas, these routes promise an unforgettable journey.
