When it comes to getting out-of-doors and pushing your body to its limits while enjoying the beauty of the natural landscape, the United States has hundreds of parks and trails to choose from. Hiking is one of the many ways you can keep your body in shape, and North Carolina has a vast state park system with dozens of trails to hike and plenty of beautiful scenery to enjoy.
Parks and Trails
There are 34 different state parks in North Carolina to choose from when it comes to picking the perfect spot to hike a trail. The terrain varies from sand dunes and swamps to river trails and mountain hikes through forests, so no matter your level of fitness it is possible to find the perfect hiking opportunity. With several hundred different rails to choose from, it would take years to explore them all, which means you can hike to your heart's content without every worrying about growing tired of the scenery.
Accomodations and Amenities
Most of the parks offer campgrounds and picnic areas for you to enjoy if you decide to stay overnight, over a weekend trek, or if you simply want to explore the beauty of the parks during your hiking adventures for the day. Facilities may include anything from cabins to campsites, fishing docks, visitor centers and exhibition buildings, picnic tables and more. Each park has different facilities, so depending how inclined you are to "rough it" for you hiking trip, there are a variety of choices, including four recreational areas to choose from.
Entry Fees and Costs
The fees, as of 2010, for using the facilities at the North Carolina state parks may vary somewhat between each individual park, but as a general rule primitive backpacking and camping sites cost $13 per person, per day. Picnic shelters are $73 per five to eight tables, and $98 per day for nine to 12 tables, both per day. Drive-to or walk-in camping facilities, which include access to water, restrooms and shower facilities, are $20 per day, per person, or $15 dollars for seniors 62 years of age or above. Boating facilities are available depending upon the size of the boat and the term of access. There are also community buildings and cabins which vary in price depending up on the size of the group and the duration of stay.
Rules and Regulations
While there are certain rules which can change depending on which specific park you are at for your hiking trip, there are several state park general rules which apply regardless. Possession and consumption of alcohol while on state property is strictly prohibited, and quiet hours are from 10 p.m. until 7 a.m. and are strictly enforced. Firearms and fireworks are prohibited, and pets must be kept on a six-foot leash at all times. Owners are responsible for cleaning up after their animals, so bring plastic bags. Littering is illegal.
Additional Considerations
Certain special activities held on the hiking trails or in the state parks require permits issued by the state park system. The application fee, as of 2010, is $35 and covers anything from cycling events, marathons, club meetings and beyond. In addition, certain natural conditions may change the overall stability of the trails throughout the parks, so it is important to check in advance the trails you want to hike are open for use before actually heading out.
Member Comments