Warm weather is here! Get inspired to make the most of the sun with these fun tips for relaxing and adventurous outdoor activities this summer
Summer is the perfect time to step outside and reconnect with nature. Whether you crave adrenaline-filled adventures, laid-back afternoons with friends, or peaceful moments to unwind, the great outdoors has it all. With a little planning and the right mindset, you can enjoy a summer filled with unforgettable experiences. Here’s your guide to the top ways to enjoy the great outdoors.
1. Have a Picnic
What’s more delightful than a summer afternoon filled with good food, a cozy blanket, and scenic views? North Carolina offers countless picturesque locations for your summer picnic, but one standout destination is the stunning Umstead State Park in Raleigh. With its serene lakes, shaded trails, and ample picnic areas, it’s an ideal spot to relax and enjoy a meal surrounded by nature.
Pack a blanket, your favorite summer snacks, and a good book for the perfect afternoon escape. Don’t forget to explore some of the park’s scenic trails after your picnic for an added dose of adventure! Pro tip: Bring lightweight and reusable utensils to keep your picnic eco-friendly.
2. Explore Local Hiking Trails
For breathtaking mountain views, consider trekking along the Appalachian Trail as it winds through the western part of the state. Waterfall seekers can head to Dupont State Recreational Forest, where trails lead to the awe-inspiring Triple Falls and High Falls. For a coastal adventure, explore Jockey’s Ridge State Park, where you’ll find unique sand dunes. Whether you prefer mountains, waterfalls, or the coast, North Carolina offers an unforgettable hiking experience.
3. Cool Off With Water Activities
When the heat kicks in, nothing beats the refreshing pull of the water. Whether you’re paddleboarding, kayaking, or just enjoying a casual swim, water activities are the perfect ways to make the most of the season. North Carolina offers a wide variety of aquatic escapes for every interest and skill level.
Glide across the calm waters of Lake Lure or Jordan Lake on a paddleboard, and soak in the scenic mountain or forest views. Kayak through the peaceful coves of Lake Norman, or explore the winding channels of the French Broad River, where gentle currents and shady banks provide a cool and quiet ride. For a coastal experience, try paddleboarding in the salt marshes around Wrightsville Beach, where you might spot herons, crabs, and other wildlife up close.
4. Camp Under the Stars
Camping is one of the most immersive ways to connect with nature. Whether you’re pitching a tent in the stunning Pisgah National Forest or setting up in your own backyard, an overnight stay under the stars can be magical. Don’t forget your essentials, like a sturdy thermos for coffee and cozy camping gear to stay comfortable throughout the night.
5. Bike Your Way Through the Summer
Cycling enthusiasts, rejoice! Summer is the perfect time to get your wheels turning and soak in the sunshine. North Carolina offers a variety of bike trails catered to all skill levels. Cruise the American Tobacco Trail in the Triangle area for a scenic, tree-lined ride on a former railway corridor. Head to Mount Mitchell Trail for a more intense challenge with rewarding mountain views, or explore the coastal beauty of Brunswick Nature Park on two wheels. Mountain Creek Park by Lake Norman is also a great place to hit the mountain bike!
Whether you’re commuting to local parks, hitting gravel paths, or testing your endurance on hilly backcountry roads, biking is a fun and energizing way to explore the state. Not sure where to start? Join a local cycling group, research trail maps, or attend a community biking event. You’ll get great exercise, reduce your carbon footprint, and uncover hidden gems across North Carolina, all while enjoying the ride.
6. Try Gardening or Urban Farming
For a more grounded outdoor experience, consider starting a small garden or joining a local urban farming initiative. Tending plants is both therapeutic and rewarding, producing fresh herbs or vegetables for your meals while helping you unwind. In Charlotte, check out the Smith Farm at Historic Rural Hill, or get involved with Urban Roots, a community-focused program that promotes sustainable agriculture and hands-on learning. Gardening also gives you the chance to transform your backyard into a relaxing, green retreat, perfect for slowing down and reconnecting with nature.
7. Take Up Photography
Capture the beauty of summer through the lens of a camera. Whether you’re focusing on landscapes, birds, flowers, or candid moments of outdoor activities, photography encourages you to slow down and appreciate the finer details of nature. Activities such as drone photography can even help you explore the outdoors from a higher vantage point. Don’t forget to share your best pictures with fellow adventurers online!
8. Take a Scenic Drive
While getting active outdoors is fantastic, sometimes the best way to enjoy nature is from the comfort of your car. A scenic drive lets you soak in North Carolina’s stunning landscapes without breaking a sweat—and the state offers no shortage of unforgettable routes.
Cruise along the iconic Blue Ridge Parkway, known as “America’s Favorite Drive,” where you’ll wind through the Appalachian Highlands with panoramic views, cascading waterfalls, and vibrant summer wildflowers. For coastal charm, take a drive down Highway 12 on the Outer Banks, where ocean views, quaint lighthouses, and dunes stretch for miles. If you’re in the Piedmont region, the Uwharrie Scenic Road offers a peaceful ride through rolling farmland, hardwood forests, and small towns rich in history.
9. Reach for the Sky
The outdoors offers endless possibilities, and summer is the perfect time to try something new. Whether you’re observing native birds with a pair of binoculars or taking your first steps toward earning a private pilot license, skyward activities give you a fresh perspective—literally and figuratively.
Expand your sense of wonder by stargazing at designated dark sky parks such as Pilot Mountain State Park or Blue Ridge Parkway overlooks, where minimal light pollution reveals a breathtaking view of the night sky. Try paragliding for a rush of adrenaline and a bird’s-eye view of the landscape, or go for a hot air balloon ride to float peacefully above the countryside at sunrise.
Wrapping It Up
Don’t just stay indoors this summer when the great outdoors is calling your name. Whether you’re planning solo trips, family outings, or group adventures, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Remember to stay hydrated, use sunscreen, and follow best practices for eco-friendly adventures.
If you’re in the Carolinas and looking for hidden gems or detailed adventure guides, check out more on our website. Our blog and product reviews are tailored to both beginners and seasoned explorers in the area. Now, gather your gear and enjoy the great outdoors this summer!
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