Great Southern Outdoors: Destinations for Active Travelers
If your idea of a perfect getaway involves riding rapids, repelling waterfalls, or flying high above the treetops, the South is your ultimate playground. Pack your sense of adventure β your next great escape is calling! Image: Tennessee State Parks
There are two types of vacationers: those who seek quiet escapes for rest and relaxation, and those who crave adrenaline-fueled activities. If you fall into the latter category, youβre in luck! The South is full of fabulous destinations that offer everything from cliff jumping and waterfall rappelling to go-kart racing, ziplining, and more. Grab your gear, buckle up, and get ready to add these Southern outdoor adventure vacations to your summer itinerary.
Tennessee State Parks
When you vacation at a Tennessee state park, you donβt just stay near the adventure β you immerse yourself in it!
Start by tackling the rapids at Ocoee River State Park, where you can join one of the guided rafting trips offered by local outfitters. Choose from multiple river sections depending on your preferred level of adventure.Β Β
After a big day of water play, pitch a tent at one of Hiwassee Scenic River State Parkβs primitive campsites and let the sounds of nature lull you to sleep.
Paddle beneath the cascades at Rock Island State Park, where youβll find several waterfalls and whitewater kayaking adventures for various skill levels.Β
End the day with an overnight stay at one ofΒ Fiery Gizzard State Parkβs primitive or backcountry campsites, where you can discover even more waterfall views.
Finally, donβt forget to explore the beauty of Natchez Trace, Roan Mountain, and Montgomery Bell state parks.
Choosing your own adventure has never been so fun!
Mooresville, NC
Whether youβre a seasoned thrill-seeker or just want to shake up your weekend routine, Mooresville, NC, promises everything from pure adrenaline to scenic beauty. Take in the stunning views of the Lake Norman shoreline as you hike, run, or mountain bike along the 30 miles of multi-use trails found at Lake Norman State Park.
This massive lake is a playground for water lovers. Here, you can learn to wakeboard or wake surf with expert instruction, rent a jet ski, or quietly kayak and paddleboard through calm waters for a more chill vibe. When youβre ready to head inland, enjoy the exhilaration of cliff jumping or rope swinging at Carrigan Farms, a natural granite quarry.
Challenge yourself with rock climbing and bouldering at Cliff Hangers in Mooresville, a premier indoor destination featuring diverse climbing routes and belay walls. Finally, race the clock at Trackhouse Motorplex, a fast, 0.7-mile outdoor kart racing track with 11 turns where rental karts reach a thrilling 55 miles per hour.
Mooresville packs the excitement; all you have to bring is your sense of adventure.
Lake Guntersville, AL
With 69,000 acres of lake surrounded by three state parks and more than 70 miles of hiking and biking trails, Lake Guntersville is the perfect outdoor adventure! Nearly 30 scenic trails, ranging from easy to difficult, wind through woodland paths and reward hikers with stunning lakeside panoramas.
Six water trails invite you to grab a kayak or paddleboard and set sail. If youβre a wildlife enthusiast, head to Guntersville Civitan Park trail, where paddling down Sunset Drive takes you right by a bald eagleβs nest. Or explore the Hambrick Bat Cave, where you can paddle to the Gray Bat Sanctuary and see these cool creatures in their natural habitat.
Just a few minutes away from Lake Guntersville, outdoor musical adventures await at Sand Mountain Amphitheater. This is the place to be to enjoy live music and epic concerts, including Wynonna Judd and Melissa Etheridge on August 5. Take in the beautiful scenery and breathe in the fresh air, as you enjoy the sounds of your favorite (and soon-to-be favorite) artists. You can see the full lineup HERE.
After a full day of adventures, refuel at City Harbor, where culinary exploration awaits. With five different restaurants to choose from, you can enjoy breakfast, lunch, dinner, or cocktails as you soak in the spectacular lake views.
Whatever your appetite for adventure may be, you can satisfy it at Lake Guntersville.
Asheville, NC
If your perfect vacation involves crisp mountain air and a healthy dose of adrenaline, Asheville, NC, is your ultimate theme park. Beat the summer heat at Sliding Rock in Pisgah National Forest, a 60-foot natural mountain waterslide that drops you into a refreshing, chilly pool. While youβre there, donβt miss the breathtaking views of nearby Looking Glass Falls.
For a true bucket list thrill, cross canyoneering off your list with Green River Adventures. Under expert guidance, youβll master the basics before tackling an epic 200-foot rappel down the roaring waters of Bradley Falls. Prefer to stay on the water? Check out Wildwater Adventure Center for an exhilarating eight-mile rafting trip down the legendary Nantahala River through rapids that range from fierce to family-friendly.
Finally, get a breathtaking birdβs-eye view of some of the oldest mountains in the world as you zipline high above the forest canopy.
Combined with endless miles of scenic hiking and biking trails, Asheville seamlessly blends rugged outdoor adventure with effortless Southern charm.
This article is sponsored by Tennessee State Parks, Visit Mooresville, Explore Lake Guntersville, and Explore Asheville
Bonny Osterhage
Bonny Osterhage is a professional journalist with more than 25 years of experience in both print and digital media. An avid fitness fanatic, when she isn't exploring the next trending topic, Bonny can be found cycling, running, and leading classes at SolidCore. Find more of her work at Mind Body Green, The List, Business Insider, and more.