RALEIGH, N.C. — Come to push your limits or to take in the unrivaled views. North Carolina is home to attractions that top lists of lighthouses, bridges and rivers based on measurable qualities. The height of summer is a perfect time to catch the action.
Steepest zipline in the Continental United States: Newly opened in Saluda, The Gorge Zip Line drops 1,100 vertical feet on a course that includes 11 ziplines, three rappels and a sky bridge. Hear the roar of the Green River as you soar across 125 acres of old growth forest overlooking 18,000 acres of protected wilderness on this memory-making canopy tour.
North America’s tallest brick lighthouse: Cast your eyes across the sea and sound from atop the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse in Buxton. The only way to the top of the 208-foot structure, a signature attraction of the Cape Hatteras National Seashore, is the spiral staircase.
East Coast’s tallest natural sand dune: Launch a hang-gliding adventure, soar on a replica of Orville Wright’s glider or fly a kite on Jockey‘s Ridge in Nags Head. The world’s largest hang-gliding school, Kitty Hawk Kites, is on site to help make your adventure happen.
Highest point in Eastern North America: Hardy hikers reach the 6,684-foot summit at Mount Mitchell via a steep, 5½-mile trail. But the view — which extends 85 miles on a clear day — is just as awesome if you opt for the 850-foot path from the parking lot to the observatory.
America’s highest suspension footbridge: The Mile High Swinging Bridge crosses an 80-foot chasm at Grandfather Mountain, a wondrous natural attraction. A plank in the middle of the 228-foot bridge, which is wheelchair friendly, notes the spot that sits 5,280 feet above sea level.
World’s largest manmade whitewater river: The centerpiece of the U.S. National Whitewater Center is no less exciting for being manmade. Thrill seekers opt for Rodeo Rafting, but the Charlotte attraction offers gentler whitewater tours as well as activities on land and flat water.
Nation’s busiest river (per river mile): Rafters, kayakers and trout fishermen find the endlessly scenic Nantahala River irresistible. In September, the Nanty will become the first river in the United States to host the ICF Canoe Freestyle World Championships.
Find more top-of-the-list experiences plus travel-planning information at VisitNC.com.