Guest Author - Jessica Hoffmann
The southeast continues to experience significant growth as visitors and transplants to the area seek excellent value, low cost of living, and moderate, year-round temperatures. Yet, many cities throughout the region are gaining recognition for excellent towns to access outdoor fun.
Check out these outdoor amenities which are a stone’s throw from thriving cities where you can clean up from your weekend warrior excursions, return to your day job and resume metropolitan life on Monday.
Near Greenville, South Carolina…
Mountain Biking, Hiking & Fishing awaits at Isaqueena Lake in Clemson, South Carolina, less than 40 miles from downtown Greenville. The trail system interlaced among 17,500 acres, is part of Clemson University's Experimental Forest, which is a well-preserved and incredible sanctuary for those traveling by horse, bike, boat and foot.
Caesar’s Head State Park offers waterfalls and miles of hiking trails less than an hour from Greenville. The hike to Raven Cliff Falls offers incredible views of the cove below from a suspension bridge. Check out the Hawk Watch Program for fascinating glimpses of area birds of prey.
Near Atlanta, Georgia…
Two hours from Atlanta, Talullah Gorge runs 2 miles and 1000 feet deep in the mountainous northeast corner of Georgia. Venturous souls who want to hike to or climb from the gorge floor must obtain permits prior to descending the steep trail, yet the trails along the rim of the gorge offer incredible scenery as well.
Just 15 miles from Atlanta, Stone Mountain is a popular destination for adventure-seeking families. The Summit Sky Ride gives visitors an up close look at the Confederate Memorial, carved into the 825 foot mountain. Stone Mountain offers laser shows and 4D movies throughout the year, but also hosts particularly spectacular 4th of July.
Near Charlotte, North Carolina…
Roughly 20 minutes from uptown Charlotte, the US National Whitewater Center has quickly become a hub for regional and national sporting events. The AllSport Pass allows visitors to raft, kayak, climb, hike, bike and zip along the airy zipline at an Olympic training center.
Lake Norman was created along the Catawba River by Duke Energy in the 50’s for hydroelectric power. Now, the 50 square mile lake offers boaters, swimmers, fishermen, bikers and hikers a verdant playground just 45 minutes from Charlotte. Try the Lake Shore Trail for a 5 mile tour of Lake Norman State Park.
Near Birmingham, Alabama…
Roughly two hours from Birmingham, lies Little River Canyon National Preserve. Kayakers, hikers and climbers flock to the spectacular gorge throughout the year. The recently opened, LEED Certified Jacksonville State University Canyon Center serves as a visitor and interpretive center and starting point for visitors.
