As the weather gets warmer, our need to explore increases. Lucky for you, North Carolina has a plethora of nature to explore right at our fingertips! Here are some of the best places for teens to visit this summer without putting a dent in their wallets!
1) Sliding Rock
Located in Brevard, North Carolina, Sliding Rock is just as fun as it sounds! People from around the state gather to play in this natural waterslide. Participants slide down the waterfall and fall into the plunge pool below! The best part? Admission is only $4.00 per person!
2) Chimney Rock State Park
Chimney Rock State Park features a variety of trails, from easy to difficult, that all lead up to a beautiful granite rock that overlooks the Blue Ridge Mountains! A bus will take you from the parking lot to the start of the trails. Once at the top, there's lots of food options! There are tables outside to enjoy your food and the views! Admission for youth (5-15) is $7.00 per person and for adults (15+) it is $17.00.
3) Trash Can Falls
Also known as Laurel Creek Falls, Trash Can Falls is a 15 foot waterfalls that ends in a large swimming hole that visitors in Boone often enjoy! It is completely free, but the catch is that it is very hidden away. However, a quick google search will give you detailed directions on how to get there!
4) Catawba Falls
A three mile hike will lead you to a waterfall cascading over tiered and plant-covered cliffs! The hike isn't just a grueling uphill walk: it has fun stops along the way, like small caves and water to play in! The best part is the peach ice cream markets on the drive to and back! Admission is completely free!
5) Lazy 5 Ranch
Lazy 5 Ranch is a drive-thru zoo! You buy $3.00 feed buckets and adorable animals will swarm to your car, but it gets pretty messy! Their mission at Lazy 5 Ranch is to help save several endangered species! Admission is $15.00, so the total cost is under $20.00, and that price includes admission to the petting zoo!
6) Linville Gorge
Linville Gorge is a scenic sight created by the Linville River! Not only are there great views, there is a bunch of fun trails to explore within the gorge! Cell service is not always reliable, so make sure to follow trails that are well-used and short. Although, the free admission makes up for the spotty cell service!
7) Green River Cove Tubing
Tubing down the Green River is the perfect way to relax and take in the natue around you! Pay $10 for 3 miles (about 2 hours) or $15 for 6 miles (about 4 hours) and float down the river with family and friends! A bus will pick you up at the end of the river and take you back to where you started!
8) Crowder's Mountain State Park
Crowder's Mountain offers hikes, towering cliffs, and beautiful views! The hikes range from easy to difficult. Once you get to the top, you can soak in the views with a picnic! You will meet many cute dogs along the way! Admission is free!
9) Anne Springs Close Greenway
Anne Springs Close Greenway is a nature preserve in South Carolina, but it is only a hop, skip, and a jump away from Waxhaw, North Carolina! It features native plants and animals, a 40-mile network of trails, lakes, and they host several events for the public! You can pay additional fees to rent kayaks and paddle-boards, go mountain biking , go horseback riding, and more! Admission is free for members and $12.00 for non-members!
