10 Stunning Hikes In North Carolina

We have friends who live near the Outer Banks in North Carolina, tucked away in the far northeastern corner of the state. We discussed finding a place to vacation together that was halfway between their home in North Carolina and our home in Saint Louis. We settled on Murphy, North Carolina. Yes, there’s a spot halfway between their house and our house that is still in the state of North Carolina. Saint Louis to Murphy is 528 miles, and Camden, North Carolina, to Murphy is 524 miles.

That’s probably the best way to describe North Carolina to someone who has never been. The state extends far to the east and the west. You get beaches and mountains, all in one state. It’s a little bit South Carolina, a little bit West Virginia, and a little bit Tennessee. One end of the state lines up with Philadelphia and the other end lines up with Lansing, Michigan.

With a state that diverse, there must be some great hikes, right? Oh, there definitely are. Here are my favorites.

Views along the Green River Cove Trail in North Carolina. — Google Maps

1. Green River Cove Trail, Green River Gameland

Saluda

This is my pick for the best hike in North Carolina. Check out TravelAwaits’ picks for the best hikes in all 50 states here. If you’ve ever entered the Green River Valley from the west, you know what I’m about to say. It’s one of the craziest roads I’ve been on in the United States. You drive for 300 feet, go around a 180-degree hairpin turn, and then drive back the other direction for 300 feet before the next switchback. You do this 18 times as you descend to the valley floor.

The views on the drive are amazing, but the views along the river are even better. The river is very popular for whitewater kayaking as well as casual kayaking and canoe float trips. And a great way to see all of that is to take the Green River Cove Trail.

This is not a flat trail — you climb approximately 1,000 feet — but the views are just incredible. You’re following the river as you go, so if you want to cool off, find a shallow pool and jump in! (Just don’t jump in near any of the rapids.) It’s an out-and-back trail that takes you approximately 3 miles from the bridge to the end of the trail, so take that number times two and then hike whatever distance you want. Cutting it in half (1.5 miles out and 1.5 miles back) is still a great hike.

The Rough Fork Trail in Great Smoky Mountains National Park. — Google Maps

2. Rough Fork Trail, Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Maggie Valley

My wife and I took our three boys on this hike when they were younger. The oldest was getting into fly-fishing at the time, and he brought his rod and reel along, since we’d be passing several trout streams. Our middle son was playing with the rod and reel and accidentally hooked my wife’s finger with the fishing hook. It was a tiny hook and fairly easy to remove, but we refer to this trail as the one where our oldest caught two trout and our middle son caught his mom’s finger.

The Rough Fork Trail is 6 miles long, so it would be 12 miles to take it out and back from Heintooga Ridge Road to Cataloochee Road. We were camping on Balsam Mountain, so we drove a few miles down to the Heintooga Road trailhead and walked in that way. The hike was mostly downhill from there for a while, so we knew what we’d be facing as we headed back. We hiked down to the streams, the boys did some fishing, and then we hiked our way back up and out. It was steep, but worth it.

Pro Tip: A one-way road down the backside of Balsam Mountain takes you to the town of Cherokee. It’s a 28-mile road and it’s unpaved, so you’re probably going to average 15 miles per hour. But it’s such a great way to experience the park. You feel like you’re on a hike — stopping to look at waterfalls, coming around corners to overlooks — but with zero exertion. Just know that it’s not going to be fast. A sign at the beginning warns you of this and tells you that there’s nowhere to turn around — once you commit, it’s 28 miles to Cherokee. But if you have a free afternoon (and it’s not the winter when the road is closed), it’s a fun experience.

Aerial view of Fort Macon State Park in North Carolina. — Joseph Moran / Shutterstock

3. Elliot Coues Trail, Fort Macon State Park

Atlantic Beach

On another trip, my wife and I were staying in Morehead City and drove across to Atlantic Beach. On the eastern tip of Atlantic Beach is Fort Macon State Park. We were looking forward to a hike on the ocean.

Fort Macon has a lot of history. The fort was built to protect Beaufort Inlet from naval attacks. You’ll want to take a lot of time here to explore the old fort and the surrounding state park.

The Elliot Coues Trail is a really nice way to see the area. It will take you both to the ocean side and to the sound side, so you’ll get to see all kinds of different views. There are little spurs that will take you down to the beach, or you can just stay on the main trail (mostly under tree canopy). This is a very flat trail, so the only real difficulty will be the sandy portions.

Panther Top Lookout in Nantahala National Forest. — Google Maps

4. Panther Top Trail, Nantahala National Forest

Murphy

Many hikes in North Carolina involve hiking up to see something, and then hiking back down. That’s what you’ll get when you hike the Panther Top Trail in Nantahala National Forest. Hike up to see some incredible views, and then hike back down to your car.

At the top of this trail is a lookout tower. The observation deck on the tower is usually closed, but you can still get a great view from the stairs. And even if the tower isn’t open, you can still get a great view. Climbing the stairs simply improves the view.

This trail follows an old road, so it’s very easy hiking (you’re not climbing over rocks or anything). It’s not flat — you’re climbing 600 feet to the top — but it’s short.

5. Rock Head Trail

Montreat

The city name here is a combination of “mountain” and “retreat.” It’s perhaps best known as the home of Billy Graham. His original home in town can be rented overnight, and his long-time home sits nestled in the hills high above the town. The Montreat Conference Center is known for hosting church retreats and other large events. And the trails in the area are all amazing.

When I drove through Montreat with some friends, we decided to go for a hike. There are 21 trails to choose from, so we created a loop trail out of the Rock Head and Graybeard Trails. It was 0.7 miles straight up the Rock Head Trail, about a mile along the Old Trestle Road Trail, and then 1.5 miles back down the Graybeard Trail to the campground where we started. It was a workout on our way up, but the area, filled with rhododendrons, was just gorgeous. It was like something out of a movie.

Views from the top of Hanging Rock in North Carolina. — Google Maps

6. Hanging Rock Trail, Hanging Rock State Park

Danbury

Hanging Rock State Park is one of the best-known parks in northern North Carolina. Located only 10 miles from the Virginia border, this state park gets its name from the famous Hanging Rock.

This is another climb-up, climb-down trail. It’s 600 feet of vertical climb over about 1.25 miles to get up to the hanging rocks, or rock cliffs that jut out into the landscape. People love to climb out and sit on the end of the big Hanging Rock, but I didn’t want to go anywhere near that. I was there for the view, not for the thrills.

All in all, this is a very simple trail (with a bit of a workout) that gets you to some incredible views. It’s well worth the climb, which is quite gradual and nice for the most part.

The Pine Island Audubon Center in North Carolina. — Google Maps

7. Pine Island Audubon Center Nature Trail

Corolla

We have friends who rent out their condo in Corolla during the summer months; they use the home the other nine months of the year. The area’s Pine Island Audubon Center Nature Trail is the perfect spot to hike. This trail is an old unpaved road that once connected the towns of Corolla and Duck. And it’s a great way to escape from the hustle and bustle of the Outer Banks, especially during the summer.

You can start the trail at the Pine Island Audubon Center and walk to the south from there. It’s 2.25 miles to the end, so if you walk all the way to the end and back, you’ll get in a 4.5-mile hike. And if you’ve been reading about these trails and thinking that they all sound difficult, be assured that this one is simple. You’ll be hiking along the Outer Banks looking at the Currituck Sound — I doubt there’s even 10 feet of elevation change along the entire trail.

View from Looking Glass Rock at sunset. — Google Maps

8. Looking Glass Rock Trail, Pisgah National Forest

Brevard

The Looking Glass Rock Trail in Pisgah National Forest takes you on a long climb up nearly 2,000 vertical feet. If you’re looking for exercise, this is the trail for you. You’ll be walking uphill for approximately 3 miles.

But the climb is worth it. The views from the cliffs at the top are simply spectacular. As you make the climb, you’ll probably be wondering why there are so many people on the trail. Why would they put themselves through 3 miles of climbing? Well, when you reach the top, you’ll understand.

The Sycamore Trail in William B. Umstead State Park. — Google Maps

9. Sycamore Trail, William B. Umstead State Park

Raleigh

On one trip to North Carolina, my wife and I sat in a long traffic jam in the Raleigh-Durham area not long after leaving the airport. A week later, when heading to the airport for our flight back, we gave ourselves 3 hours of extra time just in case we ran into the same traffic. We didn’t — it was perfectly clear through the construction zone — so we got to the Raleigh-Durham airport with 3 hours to kill. What to do? Well, we found a trail to hike near the airport.

William B. Umstead State Park is right next to the airport — the western edge of the park is up against the airport’s land. So it didn’t take long to get there, and then we found a very enjoyable hike to pass the time. We chose the Sycamore Trail, a 7-mile loop. We hiked past a few lakes, followed a few streams, returned to our car after about 2.5 hours of hiking, and then headed to the airport. The next time we fly into Raleigh-Durham, we’ll be sure to add another hike there to the end of our trip.

Flat Rock View in Grandfather Mountain State Park. — artincamera / Shutterstock

10. Cragway Trail To Flat Rock View, Grandfather Mountain State Park

Blowing Rock

I saved perhaps the best for last. According to a friend who lived in North Carolina for a long time, the Cragway Trail to Flat Rock View is probably the most famous hike in the state.

This trail is in Grandfather Mountain State Park in the northwestern corner of North Carolina near Johnson City, Tennessee. Many trails in the area take you to Flat Rock, but perhaps the best-known route is to follow the Nuwati Trail up to the Cragway Trail all the way to Flat Rock View. There’s a trailhead right off the Blue Ridge Parkway, so if you’re ever taking a trip along the parkway, this is a great place to stop for a hike.

Please note that this isn’t easy hiking. Cragway Trail is every bit as craggy as it sounds. This is rocky terrain, not a smooth, graded trail. But if you’re up for a hike like that, this is one of the best. Grab a trail map, because from the top, there are several different loops back down, all with incredible views of the unique North Carolina wilderness.

This article is presented by KEEN Footwear. I basically spend the entire summer in my KEEN Newports. Because of the toe cage, and because I can get them wet, I pretty much wear them everywhere I go. On a hike, I zip the strap tight and they’re just as good as my hiking boots. Shop KEEN’s Newports and other hiking shoes here.

The Perfect Road Trip Through Quebec’s Saguenay-Saint Lawrence Region

There’s much more to Quebec, Canada’s largest province, than weekend escapes to Montreal and Quebec City. The Saguenay-Saint Lawrence region is filled with nature, adventure, great food, and unique accommodations, all at a very affordable price point. Though it’s beautiful all year long, I have to admit that I’m particularly fond of it in late spring. That’s when I first visited on a press trip, and I loved that everything was in bloom, that it was warm enough to explore outdoors without needing heavy layers, and that there were few other visitors.

For most people, the starting point for exploring this area is the community of Tadoussac, just a few hours north of Quebec City. If you have some time to spare, you might want to detour a bit while en route to the first stop. Jacques-Cartier National Park, about 30 miles north of Quebec City, isn’t that far away. (While it’s called a “national” park, it’s actually a Quebec provincial park.) The park is known for hiking, rafting, bird-watching, cycling, and stand-up paddleboarding, and it’s a great destination for nature lovers.

Tadoussac

Tadoussac is a Maritime village through and through. The ocean and the river are at the heart of the community, and nowhere is this more evident than at the Marine Mammal Interpretation Centre. It’s the most-visited museum in Quebec’s Cote-Nord (North Coast) region for good reason. The team at the museum is constantly engaged in activities to protect and preserve the beluga whale, which calls the Saguenay-Saint Lawrence Marine Park home. The museum’s staff know some 350 belugas by name! Using unique markings on each beluga, they’re able to monitor their movements and gain important information about the health of the community.

Their beluga-based research isn’t the only thing that makes the Marine Mammal Interpretation Centre remarkable. Their collection of marine skeletons includes a narwhal tusk and a 42-foot-long sperm whale skeleton.

Just a short walk from the museum is La Galouine Inn and Restaurant. It’s the perfect place to enjoy a view of the water and the community all while tasting freshly caught seafood. During my last visit, local berries, herbs, lobster, salmon, and scallops were all on the menu.

Saguenay-Saint Lawrence Marine Park

It’s one thing to learn about the whales in the museum, but it’s another thing altogether to see them in the wild. The Saguenay-Saint Lawrence Marine Park is the perfect destination for some Quebec whale watching. This space ensures that marine life like beluga whales can be enjoyed in the wild, but also that they and their habitat are protected.

Multiple Tadoussac outfitters offer whale tours that traverse the Marine Park and the waters of the Saint Lawrence River. I opted for a classic whale-watching boat cruise with Croisieres AML. Their boats offer a mix of open-air deck space, outdoor seating, and indoor tables and chairs, plus a small kiosk that sells drinks, snacks, alcoholic beverages, and souvenirs. (For those in search of a bit more adrenaline, the same company also offers whale-watching tours on Zodiac boats.) In addition to belugas, you’ll see a dozen other species of marine animals on most tours, including minke whales and seals.

For the most comfortable whale-watching experience, bring along sunscreen, a hat, binoculars, an extra sweater, and — if you’re like me — some ginger ale. (But never fear — my travel companions swear they didn’t get a bit of motion sickness. All but the wimpiest stomachs — such as mine — should be safe.)

Saguenay Fjord National Park

While seeing the waters of the Saguenay region by whale-watching boat is an unparalleled way to enjoy the area’s natural beauty, there’s definitely more than one way to explore the local waterways.

Kayaking on the waters adjacent to Saguenay Fjord National Park is the perfect way to gain a new perspective on this part of the world. Outfitters like OrganisAction arrange sea kayaking excursions that last anywhere from a few hours to a few days. If you’re a beginner kayaker, you’ll find it easy to navigate the waters, and there’s still plenty to see even if you’re not that far from shore.

Onshore itself, an entirely different kind of adventure awaits. This part of Quebec is home to the Via Ferrata route. The Via Ferrata is an exhilarating place for cliff walking and rock climbing. It’s anything but a gentle day walk! But if it’s adrenaline you crave, this is the place to be.

Saint Fulgence And Cap Jaseux

If it’s an adventure in the great outdoors you’re after, the accommodations at Parc Aventures Cap Jaseux near Saint Fulgence certainly fit the bill.

It’s hard to know exactly how to describe the individual accommodations at Parc Aventures. One is a spacious white dome with incredible views of the river. Another is a quirky, shiny sphere suspended in the sky from a tree. Some are deliberately hidden, while others are made to stand out and glitter like UFOs. If you can imagine what a tiny house would look like if it were shaped like a ball and suspended in the air, you’ll have an idea of what it’s like to sleep at Parc Aventures.

Each of these funky sleep spaces comes with corkscrews, wine glasses, coffee makers, and even espresso cups. But there’s one thing that’s missing — bathrooms! Composting toilets are located back on the ground.

Saguenay

Saguenay is the ideal home base for exploring this area. Of course, you can camp or stay at inns along the way at each community, but if you prefer to have one spot to return to day after day, the town offers plenty of amenities and services for visitors. Those who prefer a business-style hotel will appreciate the pet-friendly Delta Hotel.

Saguenay isn’t just a good base with terrific accommodation options. It has a lot of attractions as well. In particular, the Fjord Museum is a standout. The rotating exhibits cover everything from genealogy and local traditions to environmental issues. The grandkids will love the touch-friendly tank of marine animals like sea cucumbers, sea urchins, and starfish! Plus, their massive on-site aquarium has 650 species in it and is mesmerizing to watch

Beach facing the Saint-Jean lake view from the Pointe Taillon National Park — Awana JF / Shutterstock.com

Alma

Alma is one of several gateway communities to Quebec’s Blueberry Bike Route. Made up of more than 20 different short-to-medium bike rides through the blueberry-rich countryside, the route circles Lac Saint Jean and connects not only to Alma, but also to Saint Felicien, Roberval, Sainte Monique, and Pointe-Taillon National Park. There are plenty of beginner-friendly bike trails for those who just want a short ride, and Alma has lots of cute cafes if your style is more to rest and relax while others are off getting exercise.

Saint Felicien

The small community of Saint Felicien is home to one giant attraction. The Zoo Sauvage of Saint Felicien is a “wild” zoo where the people are in cages (or actually, in tour buses or trains) and the animals roam free. Nearly 1,000 animals live in the zoo’s natural, wide-open spaces. On any given visit, you’ll see black bears, musk oxen, wolves, deer, caribou, moose, and more incredible species endemic to the area. There’s also a walkable area where less fearsome animals live. The zoo has a beautiful interpretive center, and the on-site cafe does a good job of serving up local cuisine.

Do I Need To Know French?

The short answer is no. Most people in Quebec, especially those who work in the tourist industry, speak some English. But the long answer is that you’ll want to speak French in Quebec! In rural Quebec in particular, the locals will be delighted by your efforts and will happily fill in the gaps around any mistakes you might make. Even knowing a few basic words will go a long way toward making your trip more memorable. Plus, all the road signs are in French!

Here are some resources to start:

The Best Things To Do In Toledo, Spain: Where To Stay, Eat, And Play

Known as the City of the Three Cultures, Toledo has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site because of its extensive and well-preserved heritage. Located on a mountain surrounded on three sides by the River Tagus, Toledo has a very long history that included Roman, Arab, and Christian reigns, with Jews playing a great part in Toledo’s history, too.

This diversity is reflected in the many impressive monuments you must visit. But there are more reasons to make the short trip (one hour by car and less than 30 minutes by high-speed train from Madrid). In Toledo, you can enjoy delicious Castilla-La Mancha food and visit the museum of one of Spain’s most famous painters, El Greco.

If you have the time, stay overnight so you can go on a nocturnal tour and see everything illuminated like a movie set.

Things To Do In Toledo, Spain

The list of things to do in Toledo is a long one. It ranges from visiting the most important monuments to strolling along Calle Ancha, observing as artisans make famous Toledo steel objects to sampling the best food in the Agustin market, zip-lining across the River Tagus to a nocturnal tour revealing hidden treasures.

Puerta Bisagra in Toledo, Spain. — Anton_Ivanov / Shutterstock

Enter Through Puerta Bisagra

Whether you arrive by train or car, you will be at the bottom of the mountain. Well indicated by signs, there’s a path to an escalator that takes you up close to Puerta Bisagra, the main entrance to the historical city. Originally built under Arab rule, the huge gate was reconstructed in the 16th century. Some of the original features can still be seen in the inner arch. The entrance is formed by an arch of triumph flanked by two semi-circular towers with the city’s coat of arms on top. There are several more entrances, including Puerta del Sol and Puerta del Alcantara, which you will come across whilst exploring the city on foot.

Zocodover Square in Toledo, Spain. — eli medeiros / Shutterstock

Familiarize Yourself With Zocodover Square

Zocodover Square is the main hub of Toledo, and you will cross it often as you head to the various sites you wish to visit. But first, enjoy the square and its history. The name derives from the Arabic, and during Muslim rule, it was the site of a cattle market. During the Middle Ages, fruits and vegetables were sold here, but the square was also the site of bullfights, fiestas, and, more morbid, public executions and auto-da-fe, the judgment ceremonies conducted during the Inquisition.

It’s ringed by arcades with many small shops and cafes and is the meeting place for guided tours (most prominently Free Tour’s groups, led by guides with yellow umbrellas), which is good to know if you prefer to explore that way. Remember well where the square is, and you won’t get lost in Toledo.

The Alcazar fortress in Toledo, Spain. — Gubin Yury / Shutterstock

Enjoy The View From The Alcazar

The massive castle and fortress on top of the mountain is, in fact, the first sight that greets you when arriving in Toledo. A Roman palace constructed in the third century, it was restored as a royal residence by King Charles I in 1535. The Alcazar fortress also played an important role in more recent history during the Spanish Civil War. Today it houses the regional library and an army museum. Most eye-catching, however, are the unimpeded views over the city, the river, and the bridges.

The Alcazar is an easy walk up from Zocodover.

Artisan creations for sale in Toledo. — lindasky76 / Shutterstock

Watch The Artisans In Calle Ancha

Sword making was a major Toledo industry, known in the area since 500 B.C. The particularly hard steel came to the attention of the Romans when used by Hannibal during the Punic Wars and became the weapon of choice for the legionnaires. This continued until firearms replaced the use of swords, but the craft has survived. Today, although decorative knives and swords are still made, the main products in black and gold are plates, vases, and jewelry. The artisans sit in the windows of their family-owned shops and galleries and you can watch to see how these beautiful objects are forged.

La Tirolina, a zip line in Toledo, Spain. — Tayfun Yaman / Shutterstock

Zip Across The River On La Tirolina

For the more adventurous among you, this is a fun, and quite safe, activity. La Tirolina is Europe’s longest urban zip line. Starting at the medieval San Martin’s Bridge, you “fly” over the River Tagus, enjoying amazing views of river and city. It’s 30 minutes of fun with all the necessary equipment and insurance provided.

The Primate Cathedral of Saint Mary in Toledo, Spain. — Valery Bareta / Shutterstock

Wow Moments At Toledo’s Cathedral

The Primate Cathedral of Saint Mary, easily reached from Zocodover, will leave you in awe. The massive 13th-century cathedral was built in the High Gothic style, influenced by the French architecture of the times and adapted to Spanish taste. You are in danger of getting a stiff neck glancing up at the many portals of the exterior and even more distinct chapels inside, not to mention the fabulous ceiling fresco by Luca Giordano. Elements of the Mudejar style, an Arab architectural influence found mostly in the south of Spain, are also present.

La Juderia, the Jewish quarter of Toledo, Spain. — bmszealand / Shutterstock

Learn About Jewish Heritage In La Juderia

La Juderia is the ancient Jewish quarter of Toledo. For centuries, Jews, Christians, and Muslims coexisted in Toledo and thus contributed to a very diverse culture. Until Jews were expulsed from Spain in the 15th-century, they were a prosperous and highly respected community.

Toledo’s Jewish quarter, which you enter via Calle San Juan de Dios, shows you how and where they lived and is also home to the Synagogue of Santa Maria La Blanca and the only surviving Islamic bath, Banos del Angel. The synagogue, which became a church in the 15th century, was built in 1180 on Christian territory by Muslim architects for the Jewish community. It’s a prime example of why Toledo is called the City of Three Cultures.

Puente de Alcantara, the Roman bridge in Toledo. — EQRoy / Shutterstock

Cross Over The Roman Bridge

Not all that many marks of Roman times remain in Toledo, so you might want to walk across the Roman bridge, also known as Puente de Alcantara, which goes over the River Tagus. If you wish, you can combine this with a walk over San Martin’s Bridge, which you will already be familiar with if you “flew” the Tirolina. You have gotten an overview from the air, now you can enjoy a totally different perspective of the bridges from ground level.

The El Greco Museum in Toledo, Spain. — Damira / Shutterstock

Visit El Greco (His Home And Museum)

El Greco, born Domenikos Theotokopoulos, was a painter and sculptor born in Crete/Greece in 1541. After years in Italy, he moved to Spain in 1577 and became one of the most important Renaissance artists in the country. He died in Toledo in 1614.

The El Greco Museum is located in the Jewish quarter, so it’s a good idea to walk on from there to visit the museum. Opened in 1911, it consists of a 16th-century building, supposedly El Greco’s original home in Toledo, and a 20th-century extension. The two are connected by a courtyard and surrounded by beautiful gardens. Many works of the artist are displayed in the museum, although his most important ones are in the Prado Museum in Madrid.

Toledo, Spain old town city skyline. — Sean Pavone / Shutterstock.com

Best Restaurants In Toledo, Spain

In 2016, Toledo was dubbed the culinary capital of Spain. That gives you an idea of what delicious food to expect. The cuisine of Castilla-La Mancha, the region in which Toledo is situated, is meat and vegetable-based. Specialties of Toledo are stewed partridge, lamb and pork stews, trout (fresh from the River Tagus), and marzipan!

One of Toledo’s best sit-down restaurants is Adolfo. Located near the cathedral in a beautiful 12th-century Jewish house, you’ll find all the Toledo specialties, including partridge and suckling pig.

Great fun is the unassuming Patata y Ole. As the name indicates, the potato is predominant on the menu.

And now for the sweet tooth: marzipan. The most iconic piece is a marzipan cake decorated with an eel, reminiscent of the times when eels lived in abundance in the river. Santo Tome right on Zocodover Square is the place to sample (and buy) the sweet temptations.

A street full of shops in Toledo, Spain. — David Fadul / Shutterstock

Best Places To Shop In Toledo

Shopping is a pleasure in Toledo, and what you should concentrate on are metal smithed objects and food. There’s marzipan, as mentioned above, but also Manchego cheeses, wine, herbs and spices, olive oil with garlic, ham, and even truffles.

Combine a shopping spree with a visit to the beautiful San Agustin market. Close to Zocodover, the market is actually an open-plan, five-story building with open stairways. You’ll find stalls and restaurants, a roof terrace, every kind of gourmet food, and a fabulous vertical garden that will make you think you are actually in a park rather than in the middle of the historic town.

Best Places To Stay In Toledo

We have mentioned that you might want to spend the night so you can enjoy a spectacular night tour and see all of Toledo’s historic sites illuminated. The tour takes you underground, too.

The city’s oldest (and one of its most luxurious) hotels is Carlos V near the Alcazar. It’s within walking distance of nearly all the major sites. The building itself is steeped in history, and many a celebrity has crossed its marble thresh hold.

For a more affordable option, check into La Posada de Zocodover. See? You can’t get away Zocodover Square. This nice, family-run hostel stands between the square and the cathedral.

Pro Tips

We strongly advise that if you drive up to Toledo, you leave your car at the bottom at the parking lot near the railway station or the central bus station, which is only a mile away. Driving in Toledo is a hazard because of the many one-way streets, which are narrow and have many blind angles. As a taxi driver told me: “You have to be born in Toledo to be able to drive here,” and if you look closely, you’ll see hardly a car without a few dents and plenty of scratches. Don comfy shoes, ride up the escalator, and enjoy on foot.

Picturesque Tennessee Road Trip: Nashville To Chattanooga

There are plenty of reasons to take a road trip from Nashville to Chattanooga — delicious food, historical sites, Southern hospitality, live music, and gorgeous scenery among them — but the outdoor adventures are among some of the best in the U.S. Fill your belly and feed your soul with food and music in Nashville, then set off for multiple stops with hiking, kayaking, waterfalls, and other outdoor adventures in some of the most beautiful — and always free to enter — state parks.

Nashville

Nashville is known for its music scene, but there’s so much more than honky-tonk in this fun city, including arts, a dynamic food scene, opportunities for hiking, and plenty of shopping. If you’ve never visited Nashville before, aim to experience Nashville’s hidden gems to get a true feel for what makes Nashville a great destination.

To sample the music scene, catch a show at Ryman Auditorium and tour the Country Music Hall of Fame, then walk up and down Broadway to listen to live music. There are three venues in one location, so stop at 1 Cannery Row to enjoy music at the Cannery Ballroom, Mercy Lounge, and The High Watt.

After you’ve taken in the music scene, visit the Tennessee State Museum; it’s connected to the Nashville Farmers’ Market and is a good stop if you’re around downtown for lunch. The market is open daily year-round and has a great gift shop called Batch where you can pick up local products.

Husk is a highly-recommended stop in Nashville — great for a lunch or dinner made with regional ingredients. Visit Hattie B’s Hot Chicken for Nashville hot chicken and pimento mac ’n’ cheese. There’s also Edley’s Bar-B-Que, voted the best barbecue in Nashville, Puckett’s Grocery, or Acme Feed and Seed for lunch (or live music and drinks at night).

Spend time outdoors hiking at Percy Warner Park, or kayak from Shelby Park into downtown with River Queen Voyages. You can also walk across the John Seigenthaler Pedestrian Bridge in downtown Nashville at sunset for great city views.

For shopping, visit Marathon Village located inside a former auto factory built in 1881. While you’re there, stop by Corsair Artisan Distillery, a coffee shop, and Marathon Music Works among other shops. Additional favorite shopping destinations include Olive and Sinclair Chocolate Co. in East Nashville (they do tours on the hour on Saturdays only, during which you get to sample the chocolate), the Goo Goo Cluster shop downtown (where you can make your own candy bar), and The Bookshop in East Nashville.

For an authentic Nashville experience, spend a few nights at Noelle. This experiential hotel partners with local makers, curators, artists, and purveyors, and your experience will include everything from a Nashville ceramist’s wares to farm-fresh seasonal fare.

Murfreesboro

Stop in Murfreesboro to visit Cannonsburgh Village and walk on the trail nearby. Cannonsburgh Village represents approximately 100 years of early Tennessee life from the 1830s to the 1930s. Tour the village and see a gristmill, a schoolhouse, a telephone operator’s house, the University House, the Leeman House, a museum, a caboose, the Wedding Chapel, a doctor’s office, a general store, and a blacksmith’s shop. A self-guided tour is free.

Before heading to McMinnville, stop by Hattie Jane’s Creamery, a small-batch creamery and scoop shop, and take an ice cream cone for the road.

McMinnville

Approximately halfway between Nashville and Chattanooga lies McMinnville. Stop for lunch at Collins River BBQ in the heart of McMinnville. This local favorite is known for its hickory-smoked ribs and beef brisket. Try it with the white barbecue sauce. It’s a secret recipe that’s reminiscent of a creamy horseradish sauce — and delicious.

Located in Warren County, known as the Nursery (plants) Capital of the World, you’ll find hundreds of nurseries to shop in and around McMinnville.

While you may not think of rural Tennessee as a place to find a spiritual retreat, the Isha Institute of Inner-Sciences is located there. This mountain retreat offers yoga and meditation classes and hosts the largest meditation and yoga hall in the Western Hemisphere. Set on 1,400 acres, there are also hiking trails that invite you to discover waterfalls and reconnect with nature.

Cumberland Caverns

Nearby Cumberland Caverns consist of almost 30 known miles of caving opportunities (plus many more of unexplored, virgin cave) and is Tennessee’s largest show cave. Tour the underground passageways to discover underground rock formations, waterfalls, and gleaming pools. Walking tours are offered on the hour daily between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m.

Rock Island State Park

You’ll find beautiful waterfalls and some of the most scenic and significant overlooks along the Eastern Highland Rim at Rock Island State Park. The 883-acre park has plenty of hiking trails to explore. Take the Collins River Nature Trail for a three-mile loop that winds along the riverbank and offers up-close views of wildlife.

Popular sights include Great Falls, Twin Falls, the Blue Hole, the Cold Hole, and the Warm Hole.

There’s a 19th-century cotton textile mill that was powered by Great Falls, a 30-foot horseshoe cascading waterfall that’s located below the mill.

The Caney Fork River Gorge has more waterfalls, deep pools, scenic overlooks, and a limestone path. A great area for hiking, kayaking, swimming, or fishing, the park’s whitewater draws professional freestyle kayakers from around the world.

Note that there isn’t trail access to Twin Falls. You’ll drive to an overlook and take stairs down to the trail. The steps are fairly steep, but once you’ve made it down, it’s a short walk to see the falls.

Immerse yourself in the area by renting one of the park’s cabins. Rock Island State Park has 10 three-bedroom, two-bathroom cabins that are open year-round. If you prefer to camp, there are 60 campsites for RVs and tents.

Spencer

Fall Creek Falls State Park, near Spencer, is another great state park for hiking, waterfalls, and cascades. The park is one of the largest and most visited state parks in Tennessee with 26,000 acres along the rugged Cumberland Plateau.

In addition to Fall Creek Falls — one of the highest waterfalls in the eastern U.S. at 256 feet — you can visit Piney Falls, Cane Creek Falls, and Cane Creek Cascades while in the park.

Chattanooga

Chattanooga is rich with history and located close to a myriad of outdoor adventures. Deemed one of the “dirtiest cities in America” by the federal government in 1969, Chatanooga took action to move toward environmentally conscious choices and since then has debuted practices and projects including the world’s first LEED Platinum Certified aviation terminal.

In Chattanooga, visit the Tennessee Aquarium, where the rich biodiversity of the Southeast is celebrated through numerous exhibits.

The Bluff View Art District is a funky arts area located in a historic neighborhood. Explore the art galleries, grab something to eat, walk the art-filled park, and shop unique boutiques.

Immerse yourself in history at The Battles for Chattanooga Museum, the newly opened National Medal of Honor Heritage Center, and the Chickamauga National Military Park. Be sure to visit Signal Point, located at the Chickamauga National Military Park, at sunset — the view is spectacular.

Just six miles from downtown Chattanooga on Lookout Mountain, you’ll find Rock City Gardens. There’s a 4,100-foot walking trail to view rock formations, cross a hanging bridge, and take in the views from scenic overlooks on your way to see the Lover’s Leap waterfall.

Visit Ruby Falls to discover this underground waterfall located more than 1,120 feet below the surface of Lookout Mountain. You’ll take an elevator down then descend an additional 260 feet on foot to explore the cavern trail, see stunning rock formations, and view the deepest cave waterfall open to the public in the U.S.

Enjoy an American Wagyu beef burger at Urban Stack. The restaurant serves unique takes on the American hamburger, including the Fried Green Tomato (with fried green tomato, sharp yellow cheddar, lettuce, white vinegar mayo, remoulade, and Benton’s bacon). Sides include Southern-inspired favorites such as gouda creamed corn and Almost Pickled Beets.

For a unique few nights in Chattanooga, check in at the Chattanooga Choo Choo. In addition to traditional hotel rooms, you can sleep in the Pullman Train Car room. The original train station opened in 1909, and the hotel was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1974. For more inspiration, check out the best things to see and do in Chattanooga, from walking the Walnut Street Bridge to cruising on the Southern Belle.

Pro Tip: Enjoy this route in autumn for a fall foliage road trip.

10 Picturesque Hikes In Mississippi

The Magnolia State is where B.B. King, Elvis Presley, Jim Henson, and Oprah Winfrey were born. Root beer was invented here, and the first heart transplant was performed at the University of Mississippi Medical Center in 1964.

Mississippi is located in the Appalachian foothills, nestled between Louisiana and Alabama. The state’s western border is defined by the Mississippi River that flows more than 2,300 miles south from Minnesota to the Gulf of Mexico. Its natural beauty includes savannas and prairies, coastal bogs, and six barrier islands.

From the northern border with Tennessee to where the land meets the Gulf in the south, these are the most scenic hikes in Mississippi.

1. Tishomingo State Park

Tishomingo

Located in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, about 45 miles northeast of Elvis’s birthplace in Tupelo, Tishomingo State Park is named for the chief of the Chickasaw Nation.

One of the most popular hikes in Tishomingo State Park is the CCC Camp Trail. This 0.5-mile loop begins at the pioneer cabin, encircles a pond, and includes a lovely waterfall. The path is relatively flat, making this a good hike for trekkers of all skill levels.

For a longer, more challenging hike, explore the 1.8-mile Bear Creek Outcropping Trail. This loop starts and ends just northeast of the Tishomingo State Park Lodge at the swinging bridge, where it follows the creek before turning north to a waterfall.

The Natchez Trace National Scenic Trail in Mississippi. — Fredlyfish4 / Shutterstock

2. Natchez Trace National Scenic Trail

Natchez To Mingo

Winding more than 450 miles through Mississippi, Alabama, and Tennessee, the Natchez Trace National Scenic Trail connects Natchez, Mississippi, with Nashville, Tennessee. The forested footpath was used by Native Americans to hunt for bison and deer and by frontiersmen and settlers to connect developing cities and expand westward. In 1809, Meriwether Lewis (one-half of the team that explored the Louisiana Purchase territory) perished on the Natchez Trace while on his way to Washington, D.C. Today, sections of the historic road are listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and much of the trail is open to hikers, bikers, and horseback riders.

Several popular hikes dot the Mississippi portion of Natchez Trace. Stretching more than 20 miles from Tavern Hill to Ridgeland, the Natchez Trace Trail is a paved hiking and biking trail. It’s not uncommon to spot deer, snakes, and other creatures along the path.

The Tupelo Trail offers hikers a variety of scenic paths. Beginning just across the street from the Natchez Trace Parkway Visitor Center, the Parkway Visitor Center Trailhead at milepost 266 is a 6-mile out-and-back trail along the outskirts of Tupelo. And at milepost 261.8, hikers can explore the Chickasaw Village Site. This 0.5-mile interpretive trail identifies native plants, describes how they were used by the Chickasaw people, and details the Chickasaw way of life before settlers arrived.

3. Tanglefoot Trail

New Albany To Houston

The 45-mile-long Tanglefoot Trail connects the Mississippi towns of New Albany and Houston west of the Tombigbee National Forest via an abandoned railroad line-turned-mixed-use trail. This well-maintained, paved route is relatively flat and good for hikers of all skill levels. As it links seven communities across three counties, the Tanglefoot Trail runs through old-growth forests, cotton fields, cow pastures, and freshwater wetlands.

Pro Tip: Rest stops along the way offer restroom facilities, picnic areas, and fresh drinking water.

4. Vicksburg National Military Park

Vicksburg

The Vicksburg National Military Park preserves a Civil War battlefield that was a turning point in the war. Steeped in history, the 1,730-acre park includes some of the best walking and hiking trails in Mississippi.

A 16-mile tour road loops through the park, winding past monuments, a memorial arch, cannons, and other remnants of America’s bloodiest conflict. It’s easy to hike as much (or as little) of the tour road as you’d like, selecting the sights that interest you most.

While the road is open to pedestrians from sunrise to sunset, vehicles are only permitted between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m., which gives hikers plenty of traffic-free time in the park.

Pro Tip: If you’re visiting Vicksburg in early March, participate in the Vicksburg Run Thru History, held the first Saturday of the month, rain or shine. The 10-kilometer run, 5-kilometer walk, and 1-mile fun run wind past battlefield relics and through beautiful woodlands and have become some of the Magnolia State’s most popular races.

5. Bonita Lakes Park

Meridian

Anchored by the Bonita Reservoir in the north and the Long Creek Reservoir in the south, Bonita Lakes Park is a city-owned green space in eastern Mississippi, less than 30 minutes from the Alabama border.

One of its most popular hikes is the Bonita Lakes Trail, which encircles the park’s northernmost lake. Its ample hills make this 7.6-mile loop a moderately challenging hike.

6. Dunn’s Falls Park

Enterprise

Named for the Irish immigrant who created the park’s signature 65-foot waterfall in the mid 1850s, Dunn’s Falls Park is just east of the Chunky River in Enterprise. A steep staircase leads to a plateau at the bottom of the waterfall that provides a unique perspective of Dunn’s Falls. As you wander the wooded trail that follows the cool, clear lake, watch for wild turkeys, white-tailed deer, squirrels, and a variety of birds.

Pro Tip: Don’t miss the park’s rustic homestead or 160-year-old grist mill powered by the waterfall when you visit Dunn’s Falls Park.

7. Longleaf Trace

Hattiesburg To Prentiss

Like the Tanglefoot Trail recommended above, Longleaf Trace is the product of a rails-to-trails project that repurposed a section of the abandoned Mississippi Central Railroad line into a 44-mile multiuse trail. The ADA-accessible path is the longest rail trail in the state of Mississippi and links several quaint Mississippi towns.

As you wander beneath white oak, southern magnolia, sassafras, and longleaf pine trees, watch for informative signs about the plants and animals in the area. The shaded path is lined with native perennials and peppered with unique stops. Near the Jackson Road Station is an off-leash dog park (in case you’re visiting Mississippi with your four-legged best friend). And west of the Clyde Depot is a large beaver dam.

Pro Tip: If you want to hang up your hiking boots for a few hours and hit the trail on two wheels instead, here’s where you can rent bikes along Longleaf Trace, including bicycles built for two. Just remember to follow the rules of the road when exploring by bike.

8. De Soto National Forest

Brooklyn

Roughly halfway between Hattiesburg and Biloxi, this forest of southern pines is named after 16th-century Spanish explorer Hernando de Soto. With more than 60 miles of hiking trails, De Soto National Forest is sure to have the perfect path for you!

One of the most popular treks here is the 7-mile Tuxachanie Trail that begins just north of Bethel Road, about 2.5 miles north of Saucier. With an elevation gain of less than 260 feet, this well-maintained trail with ample shade is rated an easy hike.

Pro Tip: There are more than 50 species of mosquitoes in Mississippi, and they are all attracted to the calm waters of freshwater lakes. Be sure to spritz on plenty of bug repellent before you hit any of these trails in the Magnolia State!

9. Mississippi Sandhill Crane National Wildlife Refuge

Gautier

This is my pick for the best hike in Mississippi. Check out TravelAwaits’ picks for the best hikes in all 50 states here. Mississippi sandhill cranes are tall, wading birds with a scarlet, mask-like stripe and a long, lean profile. Due to the conversion of much of their wet pine savanna habitat to pine plantations after World War II, these magnificent birds are critically endangered. To protect the Mississippi sandhill crane from extinction, the Mississippi Sandhill Crane National Wildlife Refuge was established in 1975.

There are less than 100 Mississippi sandhill cranes left in the wild, and, while there is no guarantee that you’ll see one when you visit the refuge, one of your best chances is to hike a nature trail. The 0.75-mile C. L. Dees Nature Trail begins near the visitor center and loops past pitcher plants and sundews as it traverses the wet pine savanna. Or follow the 1-mile-long Fontainebleau Nature Trail through pine forests.

Gulf Islands National Seashore in Mississippi. — Google Maps

10. Gulf Islands National Seashore

Gulf Coast

Spreading across the Gulf Coast of Mississippi and Florida, the Gulf Islands National Seashore preserves the natural beauty and historic sites along the Gulf of Mexico, including several barrier islands. Soak up the sun and breathe in the salty air by hiking the Davis Bayou area or one of Mississippi’s six barrier islands, all of which can only be accessed by boat.

Pro Tip: Ship Island is the only Mississippi barrier island with ferry service. The other barrier islands can only be reached by private boat.

This article is presented by KEEN Footwear. For my hikes, I wore the KEEN SOLR Sandal in Light Gray/Ocean Wave. The acronym stands for Sea Ocean Lake River, and the SOLR was the perfect shoe to splash around in when visiting waterfalls and trekking along creeks and rivers. Shop KEEN’s SOLR and other hiking shoes here.

8 Stunning Hikes In Arkansas

Born and raised in Arkansas near the Missouri border, I understand the state isn’t high on most people’s list of places to visit and that it doesn’t attract many bucket list-type travelers. Still, Arkansas is an absolutely beautiful state, full of many wilderness adventures, the beautiful terrain of lakes, the famous hot springs, caves, swimming holes, beaches, and the Ozark Mountains. If you are an outdoor junkie or are in need of an outdoor escape off the beaten path, Arkansas has a lot to offer and is affordable!

Fall is the best season for hiking, as summers are humid and hot, and overheating can be a concern. I experienced most of the best hikes with the best views during days gone by — when it wouldn’t take me a week to recover! Some noteworthy hikes are left out based on my current skill level, but if you are an expert hiker, don’t miss Eagle Rock Loop, which is for experienced hikers only.

I grew up hiking all over the state, and my list of favorites includes some hidden gems and can’t-miss adventures in the aptly named Natural State.

View from the overlook at the summit of Yellow Rock Trail. — Google Maps

1. Yellow Rock Trail, Devil’s Den State Park

West Fork

Inside Devil’s Den State Park, the three-mile, moderately difficult hike to Yellow Rock will take you 300 feet in elevation to one of the best views in the park. There are lots of interesting rock formations along the way, and the trail, in general, is a bit rocky, so I recommend bringing a hiking pole or a walking stick. The path is well marked, and the view from the top is amazing. This is a great trail for almost all ages and is dog friendly. Don’t miss this trail or Devil’s Den State Park, which makes for the perfect day trip from nearby Fayetteville.

Views from the top of Pinnacle Mountain in Arkansas. — Google Maps

2. Pinnacle Mountain West Summit Trail, Pinnacle Mountain State Park

Little Rock

This 1.5-mile, rocky trail starts out moderate, but the last half mile is a bit tougher to get to the top. Once you do, you are rewarded with some amazing vistas at the top of Pinnacle Mountain. You will see a spectacular view of Lake Maumelle, the Arkansas River Valley, the Ouachita Mountains, and West Little Rock. The trail itself can be busy and heavily trafficked because of it’s close proximity to the state capital.

Views from the White Rim Rock Trail in Ozark National Forest. — Google Maps

3. White Rock Rim Trail, Ozark National Forest

Winslow

Finding this gem of a trail will have you heading deep into the country and make you feel like you are truly in the middle of nowhere. This 1.5-mile trail is defined by its lush greenery and well-worn pathways. The easy loop circles the mountain and offers 365-degree views of the Ozark National Forest. This hike saves the best for last, as the end of the trail has some of the best views, and there is a shelter with benches so you can fully take it all in. I’ve never been lucky enough to catch a sunset, but if you have the opportunity, plan accordingly.

Views from Mount Nebo during autumn in Arkansas. — mwesselsphotography / Shutterstock

4. Mount Nebo Rim Trail, Mount Nebo State Park

Dardanelle

This three-mile, moderately difficult trail has it all: scenic views for most of the hike, waterfalls, and a loop path. There are some parts near the beginning where the trail is strenuous, but instead of getting harder, it gets easier and is consistently moderate for the majority of the hike. Mount Nebo has a few cliff drops along the way that might make your stomach turn if heights bother you, so be prepared. There are many paths you can take if you find yourself camping in the area, and this one’s not to be missed. Additionally, Mount Nebo State Park is a good stopping point between Little Rock and Fayetteville or can make for a good day trip from either city.

Whitaker Point in Ozark National Forest. — Brandon Alms / Shutterstock

5. Whitaker Point Trail, Ozark National Forest

Pettigrew

Arguably the most well-known hiking trail in Arkansas, Whitaker Point has been featured in movies and on magazine covers, is the site of many proposals, and attracts hikers from all over the country. All that said, it’s a popular hike, and you won’t be alone during your trek. If you don’t mind the company, you will find a breathtaking hike to a rock outcropping, Hawksbill Crag, which resembles a hawk’s bill from the side. The out-and-back hike is 2.9 miles long and isn’t all that difficult. When you reach the rock formation at the end, which overlooks Whitaker Creek, you will be overwhelmed by the vastness of the Ozark National Forest.

6. Peak Trail, Hot Springs National Park

Hot Springs

I discovered this lovely hike during a vacation to Hot Springs years ago, and I’ve loved taking my wife and grandkids on this trail many times over the years. It’s an easy, 1.5-mile hike that’s great for beginners and all skill levels. The trek to the top of the mountain and the Mountain Tower (which is a fancy art deco-looking gazebo) features forest scapes, good views, wildflowers, and a well-maintained trail.

Eden Falls at the end of Lost Valley Trail in Arkansas. — TommyBrison / Shutterstock

7. Lost Valley Trail, Buffalo National River

Ponca

This is my pick for the best hike in Arkansas. Check out TravelAwaits’ picks for the best hikes in all 50 states here. Any trail that features a waterfall, a swimming spot, and a cave is high on my list of favorites. In the Buffalo National River area, you will find the popular Lost Valley Trail, which is both well maintained and easy to moderate in difficulty. The first half mile features a natural bridge with a little waterfall that’s easy to traverse, then you’ll make your way toward Cob Cave. Make sure to spend some time exploring before moving on. The trees provide enough shade in the summer, so this is a trail that’s enjoyable in any season. The best parts of the trail are toward the end as the trail leads you to Eden Falls. Make sure to pack accordingly so you can hop in for a swim at the end.

Rock formations along the Indian Rockhouse Trail in Arkansas. — Google Maps

8. Indian Rockhouse Trail, Buffalo National River

Yellville

The Indian Rockhouse Trail is a moderately difficult 3.5-mile loop that involves a decline on the way out and is mostly uphill on the way back. I haven’t hiked this trail since I was in my 40s, but I can imagine that it will make the knees bark now that I’m a bit older. Still, this is a beautiful trail that traverses a hillside and offers so much to see and explore. There is a waterfall at the beginning and waterholes, an abandoned zinc mine, caves, a natural bathtub, and rock formations throughout. The trail is marked along the way and well maintained. Follow along a beautiful stream to the spectacular Indian Rockhouse Cave, which is large with cool springs flowing in the back part of the cave. You can see why this would have have been used as lodging when Native Americans lived in open camps and bluff-shelter caves in the Buffalo River Valley. Don’t miss this trail if you find yourself near the Buffalo River area; it’s a true hiking gem.

This article is presented by KEEN Footwear. My favorite summer shoe is the KEEN Uneek, and I’m on my second pair! They are easy to put on, I don’t need socks, very comfortable, and my go-to weekend shoe for hiking around the lake I live on. These are the first shoes I’ve owned that can take me from the dock and out on the boat to on-shore excursions. At first, my wife was skeptical about the look, but they look great on your feet, and she’s since gotten a pair. Shop KEEN’s Uneeks and other hiking shoes here.