Trails and Lakes: A Two-Day Outdoor Adventure in Morganton

Day 1:

Morning:

  • Start your day early and head to South Mountains State Park, which is about a 30-minute drive from Morganton.
  • Once there, take the Hemlock Nature Trail, a 0.8-mile loop that winds through a dense forest and crosses over sparkling streams.
  • After your walk, have a picnic breakfast at one of the park's picnic areas.

Afternoon:

  • Head to Catawba Falls, which is about a 20-minute drive from South Mountains State Park.
  • Take the 2.3-mile round trip hike to Catawba Falls, one of the most popular waterfalls in North Carolina. The trail is moderately difficult and leads you through lush forests and along the Catawba River.
  • If you have time, you can also explore the Upper Catawba Falls, which is an additional 1.5 miles up the trail.

Evening:

  • As the sun starts to set, head back to Morganton and have dinner.
  • After dinner, take a short walk on the Catawba River Greenway, a paved trail that follows the river. You'll get to enjoy the peaceful sound of the river and the scenic views of the town.

Day 2:

Morning:

  • Start your day with a visit to Lake James State Park, which is about a 20-minute drive from Morganton.
  • Rent a kayak or canoe and paddle around the picturesque 6,812-acre Lake James. You can also take a swim or enjoy a picnic on the lake's beach.

Afternoon:

  • Head to Linville Gorge Wilderness Area, which is about a 40-minute drive from Lake James State Park.
  • Take the 2.2-mile Linville Falls Trail to the stunning Linville Falls. The trail is moderately difficult and leads you through forests and along the river.
  • If you have time, you can also explore other trails in the wilderness area, such as the Shortoff Mountain Trail or the Table Rock Trail.

Evening:

  • Head back to Morganton and have dinner. 
  • After dinner, take a short drive to the nearby Brown Mountain Overlook and enjoy a peaceful evening walk on the Brown Mountain Trail, which offers views of the surrounding mountains and forests. You might also be able to spot some of the area's famous Brown Mountain Lights.

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