The Ultimate Road Trip: Top Places to See When Driving From Big Stone Gap, Virginia to Lillington, North Carolina
Are you planning a weekend road trip to North Carolina? You're probably looking forward to driving through the charming small towns, seeing the beautiful countryside, and stopping at interesting attractions along the way. Luckily, the drive from Big Stone Gap, Virginia to Lillington, North Carolina is full of fun and unique experiences. Whether you're traveling solo or with family and friends, there are plenty of top places to visit in North Carolina that will make your trip memorable.
So get ready to hit the open road and enjoy exploring some of the best places that Virginia and North Carolina have to offer! In this blog post, we'll take you through the top places to see when driving from Big Stone Gap, Virginia to Lillington, North Carolina.
Top Places to Visit
1. Ridgeview Trail
Kick off your road trip adventure by visiting the Ridgeview Trail in Big Stone Gap, Virginia. This 4.2-mile trail offers scenic views of the town below. The trail's name comes from its location on a ridgeline, so be prepared for some inclines, but trust us, it's worth it for the panoramic vistas. The Ridgeview Trail is easy to moderate in difficulty, which makes it perfect for hikers of all levels.
2. Bristol Caverns
As you continue your journey south, make sure you stop at Bristol Caverns, located in Bristol, Virginia. This attraction is a natural wonder that offers guided tours through underground caves and streams. You'll see stalactites and stalagmites, underground pools, and an underground river. It's an adventure unlike any other and is perfect for nature lovers and explorers. Just remember to bring comfortable shoes as the terrain can be slippery!
3. Pisgah National Forest
Next, take a detour to Pisgah National Forest in Brevard, North Carolina. The forest features more than 500,000 acres of hardwood forests, rivers, streams, waterfalls, and hiking trails. The forest offers something for everyone, including scenic drives, fishing, picnic areas, and camping. You can explore a variety of trails, such as the Looking Glass Waterfalls trail, which is an easy hike to a beautiful waterfall. Capture some breathtaking photos, relax by the stream, or have a picnic with your loved ones.
4. Chimney Rock State Park
Chimney Rock State Park is another must-see attraction with breathtaking views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. The park has several hiking trails at all skill levels, so you can choose your adventure based on how much time you have available. There is also an elevator that takes you to the top of the Chimney Rock formation so you can take in the magnificent views. The park has a gift shop, a restaurant, and outdoor tables, making it an ideal spot to have a snack or a meal with a fantastic view.
5. Historic Oakwood
When you reach the final stretch of your trip, take some time to explore Historic Oakwood in Raleigh, North Carolina. The neighborhood boasts beautiful Victorian houses and tree-lined streets. You can go on a walking tour, led by costumed guides, to learn about the history of the neighborhood and the houses that line its streets. The area is worth capturing with your camera, but make sure you have permission if you plan to photograph people's homes.
Conclusion
A road trip to North Carolina is a unique way to enjoy the beauty of the countryside, discover new places, and learn about their history. From the Ridgeview Trail in Big Stone Gap, Virginia, to the charming Historic Oakwood in Raleigh, North Carolina, you can experience unique attractions that will leave you mesmerized.
So, pack your bags, fill up your gas tank, and hit the road for a vacation of a lifetime. The beauty of road trip lies in the fact that you can stop wherever and whenever you want. Who knows, maybe you will find a hidden gem that isn't on this list. Nevertheless, we hope this guide helps you plan an unforgettable trip through Virginia and North Carolina. Safe travels!