Outdoor NC

Home
Outdoor NC

Outdoor NC We inspire stewardship of North Carolina's beloved outdoor spaces. It’s no wonder 43 million people visit our state every year.

As a subsidiary of Visit NC we work with a wide variety of organizations and individuals toward a common goal of preserving our state's wonderful outdoor spaces. North Carolina is beautiful, from the 6,000-foot peaks on the western border to the 100-foot sand dunes on the East Coast. To help communities mitigate the impact of all that attention, Visit NC is championing destination stewardship prog

ramming as part of the Outdoor NC initiative. This programming balances the quality of experiences for visitors with the well-being of residents while conserving our natural and cultural assets. We work with partners across the state to provide resources to raise awareness, activate projects and celebrate successful stewardship efforts which preserve our beloved outdoor spaces for generations to come.

27/02/2025

Dogs are amazing companions and you might consider bringing them with you when you head to the beach. But it’s important to know that different beach areas on the Carolina coast have different laws when it comes to pets. For example, some beaches may allow dogs on the sand only during certain times of day. Others may have seasonal guidelines (which often begin in March or April) when it comes to leash usage. Still other beaches may not allow dogs at all throughout the year.

Why do these guidelines exist? Beaches are habitats for all kinds of creatures. Many areas, including nature preserves, are ecologically fragile. Pet waste on the sand and in the water can disrupt these ecosystems and pose a public health risk. Unpredictable dog behavior can put other pets and humans in the middle of a dangerous situation. And, unleashed dogs also can harm sensitive wildlife.

So, before you head to the beach with your pet, follow Outdoor NC Leave No Trace Principles: Plan ahead and prepare by checking local laws.

📸 Photo Credit: VisitNC.com / Sam Dean.

27/02/2025

The Bald Eagle is synonymous with American pride. Just 50 years ago, though, this amazing bird had disappeared from North Carolina. Hunting, habitat destruction and pesticide use were all contributing factors according to the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission.

In the early 1980’s, the bald eagle was reintroduced to North Carolina through a hacking program, which involved raising eagles in captivity and reintroducing them into the wild at Lake Mattamuskeet in Hyde County. Thanks to the stewardship efforts of state and federal land managers in the time since, through monitoring and landowner guidance, the population has thrived across the state. That's especially true at places like Jordan Lake just west of visitRaleigh.

📸 Photo Credit: Best Life Birding.

20/02/2025

The glare from the sun is tough on the eyes. In a snowy landscape, the mixture of those bright rays and the highly reflective powder can lead to a condition called Snow Blindness (Photokeratitis). It’s essentially a form of sunburn, but instead of your skin it’s your cornea of your eye that is affected.

Snow reflects most of the UV rays that fall on it. That effect can be especially pronounced at higher altitudes – frequented by skiers and snowboarders – where UV rays are stronger.

While snow blindness doesn’t cause actual blindness, it can have short-term and long-term effects on your vision and ability to see colors.

The best way to protect yourself if you’re going skiing or snowboarding is to get eyewear that blocks out 100 percent of UV rays. Wrap-around sunglasses or snow goggles are a good choice as they typically prevent both direct and indirect exposure to UV rays.

📸 Photo Credit: VisitNC.com / Steve Yocom.

14/02/2025

We know you love Mother Nature and your significant other. Showing your partner that your heart is in the right place when it comes to them, and, the environment, is sure to land well on Valentine’s Day. Here are some things you can do this holiday, and throughout the year, to follow Outdoor NC principles and spread the love.

❤️ Set up the tent for your partner on a durable surface

❤️ Pack out the trash without being asked

❤️ Keep them warm with a small fire in an established fire ring

❤️ Take special photos they’ll cherish and leave everything else you find.

📸 Photo Credit: VisitNC.com / C2 Photography.

12/02/2025

The bird is the word in North Carolina. Did you know 473 bird species have been documented in the state? Bird enthusiasts flock here from all over to observe this incredible biodiversity.

Here are a few ways you can join in the birding fun while also protecting our feathered friends:

🐦 Use binoculars, or a camera with a Zoom lens, so you can give the birds their space.

🐦 Birds can startle easily causing them to expend precious energy. Tread lightly and keep loud noises to a minimum.

🐦 Pack out your food scraps. Human snacks can damage birds’ health. In some cases, it can also make them aggressive, putting you, other adventurers and the birds at risk.

🐦 Share your observations. This coming weekend, February 14-17, is the 28th annual North Carolina bird count with Science Across North Carolina. By sharing what you see, you can help scientists track important changes over time. Learn how to participate: https://scienceacrossnc.org/events/birds/

📸 Photo Credit: VisitNC.com / Liz Condo.

07/02/2025

When you head out for your winter adventure, it’s important to check the weather. Keep in mind the temperature you see on your weather app may not tell the full story. There’s a different metric you’ll also want to keep an eye on: the wind chill.

In gusty conditions, wind carries heat away from your body through a process called convection, which makes the air feel colder than it really is. Depending on wind speed, that process can mean temperatures feel as much as 50 degrees cooler than they are. In other words, on a windy day, frostbite and hypothermia could be more of a risk than you might think based on the thermometer reading.

To make sure you’re prepared, one of the best things you can do is dress in layers to stay warm and dry. Wool socks, an insulating hat and gloves are especially important. When taking breaks, sit with your back to the wind. And, if the wind speed is more than 32 MPH, enough to make some trees sway, it’ll likely feel colder and be more challenging to walk -- consider returning on another day.

📸 Photo Credit: VisitNC.com / Liz Condo.

06/02/2025

It’s all about perspective.

📸 Photo Credit: Ashley B Photography.

31/01/2025

Adventuring on ice, such as at frozen waterfalls, can be a slippery slope if you’re not prepared. Following a few simple tips can help prevent you from becoming injured and putting others, including first responders, at risk. Here are some ways to ensure winter isn’t your season of slips, trips and falls.

❄️ Know Before You Go: Check the weather and recreation area websites before you head out to ensure it is safe to travel and trails are open.

❄️ Dig In: If you’re going to be adventuring on ice, consider wearing shoes with traction devices, such as spikes or crampons, to help with your footing.

❄️ Test the Ice: Bring along a hiking pole and tap the ice to gauge the stability. If you hear a hollow sound, that could suggest the ice could break.

❄️ What Comes Up Must Come Down: Some people make it up an icy hill but forget they must come back down, which is often more challenging. If you don’t have the right gear with you and it’s too icy, consider turning around.

📸 Photo Credit: VisitNC.com / Steve Yocom.

30/01/2025

Find your light.

📸 Photo Credit: on Instagram.

29/01/2025

When exploring the outdoors in the winter, it’s even more important to follow Outdoor NC Leave No Trace principles to plan ahead and prepare so you aren’t caught off guard by the colder temperatures.

Many people now rely on their cell phones as a lifeline for navigation or emergency communications. But did you know that in the cold, batteries in phones and other tech drain much more rapidly (often twice as fast) or even shut down altogether? That’s because the cooler temperatures slow a chemical reaction that occurs in lithium-ion batteries that power these devices. Here’s how to ensure a drained battery won’t leave you out in the cold:

📱 Charge your phone fully before heading out on your adventure
📱 While you explore, keep your phone/other tech close to your body, in a lower layer pocket, where it’ll benefit from your body heat
📱 Carry a backup charger that you can use should your battery start draining faster than you anticipate
📱 Always carry a paper map and compass that you can reference if your technology fails.

📸 Photo Credit: OutdoorNC.com.

24/01/2025

Did you know: Winter is considered the most sensitive season for wildlife. The colder temperatures mean food is scarce, making it crucial for animals to conserve energy at this time of the year. When they are disturbed by humans or pets, animals must expend that precious energy as they go into a flight response and try to escape.

That’s why it is especially important during winter to keep your dogs on a leash and close at hand, and to give wildlife space. Follow the “rule of thumb” -- if you hold up your thumb at arm's length and it doesn't cover the entire animal in your field of vision, you are likely too close.

Photo credit 📸: VisitNC.com / Steve Yocom.

22/01/2025

Hiking in the winter often means quieter trails and more expansive views. It also calls for a little extra planning to ensure you are comfortable and safe on your adventure.

You may hear people refer to the “10 essentials” to bring with you on a hike. We’ve curated the list for the winter to help you prepare:

🥪 Nutrition: Load up on trail snacks. Winter hiking can burn extra calories.
💧 Hydration: Make sure to have plenty of water. About 64 ounces (two standard Nalgene-style water bottles) is good.
🧣 Insulation: Dress in layers with a moisture wicking base, a medium layer and an outer shell.
🔦 Illumination: Bring a flashlight or headlamp, even if you plan for just a day hike.
🗺️ Navigation: Pack a paper map in the event your tech fails in the cold.
⛑️ First Aid Supplies: Have a kit handy should you need it.
🔥 Fire: Bringing waterproof matches can help start a fire in the rain and snow.
❤️‍🩹 Repair Kit: Utilize duct tape for all kinds of mid-adventure fixes, including shoe issues.
⛺ Shelter: Put together an emergency tarp, space blanket or a plastic trash bag to shield you from the elements should an emergency arise.
😎 Sun Protection: Wear your sunglasses and sunscreen. Snow can be particularly reflective on a sunny day.

Photo credit 📸: VisitNC.com / Sam Dean.

21/01/2025

Perched at nearly 4,000 feet in elevation in the North Carolina High Country, you’ll find a year-round mountain destination. Blowing Rock is a gateway to the Blue Ridge Parkway, national forests and state parks that offer opportunities for hiking on miles of protected trails, mountain/road cycling, fishing and more.

On this , we’re highlighting the trail town community of Blowing Rock, North Carolina for its wealth of outdoor adventure opportunities. In addition to the area’s relaxing wanders and satisfying climbs, you’ll have incredible in -town amenities at your fingertips. Blowing Rock’s downtown was just voted the best in the state by readers of NC Tripping.

Head over to the Outdoor NC website to Join the Movement to protect the state’s outdoor spaces and you’ll be entered to win the ultimate outdoor getaway in Blowing Rock: https://outdoornc.com/join-the-movement/

Explore our free, digital Trail Town guide to learn more about great trails in the Blowing Rock area and Trail Town communities across the state: https://outdoornc.com/trail-town-guide/

📸 Photo Credit: VisitNC.com.

16/01/2025

Stay in the know in 2025! Sign up for our e-newsletter, Evergreen, for useful tips on how to explore North Carolina’s outdoors. We’ll share unique trail town destinations, conversations with expert guides about try-worthy activities and stories of stewardship from across the state.

Join the Movement, sign up for our e-newsletter AND enter to win the ultimate outdoor adventure in Blowing Rock: https://outdoornc.com/join-the-movement/

Photo credit 📸: VisitNC.com / Sam Dean.

14/01/2025

Located just below the Eastern Continental Divide and the Blue Ridge Parkway, McDowell County offers you the opportunity to explore nearly 70,000 acres of Pisgah National Forest. While the area did experience effects from Hurricane Helene, tremendous support from organizations such as the Old Fort Trails Project continue to propel this growing trail community forward as it recovers.

On this , we are featuring the trail towns of Old Fort, Marion, Little Switzerland and Lake James. At the intersection of three state trails, a national historic trail and countless backcountry routes and greenways, McDowell County makes a great homebase for all kinds of recreation opportunities.

For the latest updates on trail conditions, follow Destination McDowell.

Explore our free, digital Trail Town guide to learn more about great trails in the Old Fort area and Trail Town communities across the state: OutdoorNC.com/trail-town-guide

Stay tuned to see which Trail Town we feature next !

📸 Photo Credit: VisitNC.com / Stephan Pruitt.

09/01/2025

In the freeze/thaw cycle of winter, many icy trails become wet and muddy as melting occurs. Muddy trails are more vulnerable to lasting damage. For mountain bikers, riding on muddy trails can cause deep ruts or tracks which form channels that trap water instead of shedding it. That means the trails you love could be in poor shape come the warmer months.

Plan ahead. Check the weather and visit websites for local mountain biking clubs, which often have an advisory system in place. Realize trail conditions can change quickly throughout the day. A trail could be frozen in the morning, muddy in the afternoon, and then drier in the evening.

If the trail is muddy, consider riding a different day after the trail has had time to firm up. Or, choose a gravel route that offers a more durable surface. If you do encounter muddy or wet patches on your ride, it’s best to ride through the area rather than around it, which can cause trail widening, erosion and damage to trailside plants.

Photo credit 📸: VisitNC.com / Keenan Hairston.

07/01/2025

Make Asheville your homebase for outdoor adventure in 2025 and be a part of the comeback! As recovery from Hurricane Helene continues, Asheville remains the heartbeat of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

On this , we are featuring the trail towns of Asheville, Black Mountain and Woodfin in Buncombe County. The Asheville area’s natural beauty includes summit trails that will burst with wildflowers in the spring to city walks that’ll help you explore the community’s energy and history.

While some trails and areas in and around Asheville need additional time and support, areas such as downtown Asheville were largely unaffected by the storm and are ready to welcome you back. Check Visit Asheville for up-to-date travel information.

Explore our free, digital Trail Town guide to learn more about great trails in the Asheville area and Trail Town communities across the state: https://outdoornc.com/trail-town-guide/

Stay tuned to see which Trail Town we feature next !

📸 Photo Credit: .daughterty.photo on IG.

03/01/2025

Reflecting while making plans for a great year of outdoor adventure ahead.

📸 Photo credit: Flash Mama Photography.

Visit The Outer Banks

Address

Telephone

+18008474862

Website

http://OutdoorNC.com/

Alerts

Be the first to know and let us send you an email when Outdoor NC posts news and promotions. Your email address will not be used for any other purpose, and you can unsubscribe at any time.

Contact The Business

Send a message to Outdoor NC:

Videos

Feel the relaxation wash over you. An Outdoor NC #MomentofZen from the Outer Banks to end the week. 🎥 Video Credit: Amanda Baker / VisitNC.com. Visit The Outer Banks Visit North Carolina #OutdoorNC #OuterBanks #NorthCarolina

“I would love to live like a river flows, carried by the surprise of its own unfolding.” – John O’Donohue. A moment of zen from the banks of the New River.

OutdoorNC Moment of Zen: Blue Ridge Parkway Mountain Vista

Long-range Blue Ridge views and the sounds of leaves rustling in a cool breeze. Here’s some Monday morning mountain zen to start your week off right!

Shortcuts

Address
Telephone
Alerts
Contact The Business
Videos
Claim ownership or report listing
Want your business to be the top-listed Travel Agency?

Country:

City: