Discover the Top Blue Ridge Mountains Activities

There’s never a shortage of things to do when it comes to the Blue Ridge Mountains, from hiking to excursions on the lake. If you’re looking for outdoor activities or Blue Ridge Mountains activities that promote exploration, this east coast oddity is sure to make for an unforgettable adventure.

Continue reading to see what adventures await you in the Blue ridge Mountains.

1. Hike your Heart Out

Hiking is the pinnacle of the Blue Ridge Mountains. There’s so much of the mountainous terrain to uncover. Here’s a few ideas on how you can start your next hiking adventure.

Mt. LeConte

A hike up Mt. LeConte in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, although challenging, is rewarding with incredible views and a variety of scenery. Standing 6593 feet, Mt. LeConte is the third-highest peak in the Smokies and the tallest mountain in the eastern United States. It rises 5301 feet from its base near Gatlinburg to its highest point. Having said that, you should look for places that offer panoramic views without the hassle of climbing to the top. Myrtle Point and Cliff Top are the premier spots on Mt. LeConte.

You’ll find Myrtle Point by taking the main path for about a mile. A vantage point like this offers nearly 360-degree views, and it’s the best place to watch sunrises on Mt. LeConte. Cliff Top is situated near the LeConte Lodge, one of the mountain’s most unique features. It offers unparalleled views of Mt. LeConte sunsets that are sure to give you an unforgettable experience.

Clingman’s Dome

Clingman’s Dome, the highest point in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park at 6,643 feet, never fails to deliver. The drive alone is an adventure, as it takes seven miles to reach the parking area, which boasts stunning views. This destination features a concrete observation tower just a half mile up from the parking area that offers outstanding 360-degree panoramas. Though the weather can be unpredictable, Clingman’s Dome offers fascinating sights and trails to experience.

Mt. Mitchell

Located just off the Blue Ridge Parkway, north of Asheville, NC, Mt. Mitchell boasts incredible views, a dense evergreen forest, and hiking and recreation areas. You will enjoy sweeping views of the surrounding mountains from the summit and observation deck. During peak season, May through October, you can check out the Natural History Museum, the gift shop, and the camping facilities. Whether you want to stay active or learn more about the area, these Blue Ridge Mountain activities at Mt. Mitchell will give you an experience like no other!

2. Explore the Land Inside and Out

The many mountains and vistas provide a wealth of exploration opportunities. After a long day of hiking, check out some of these top Blue Ridge Mountain activities.

Gem Mining

When exploring the Blue Ridge Mountains, visiting gem mines can be a fun activity for both kids and adults. You can pan the waters and discover some cool finds, while also learning a bit about geology. The list of various mines to visit is extensive but some of the top gem mines to visit in the Blue Ridge Mountains are:

• Rockhound Ridge Mine
• Chimney Rock Gemstone Mine
• Foggy Mountain Gem Mine
• Pisgah Forest Gem Mine
• Maggie Valley Rock Shop and Gem Mine

As you delve into these gem mines, your passion for learning and exploration will be ignited!

Apple Picking

Not only can you get fresh mountain apples in the fall, you can also explore orchards during the summer and fall seasons! The Blue Ridge Mountains are home to many apple orchards — most of which offer other activities like hayrides, games, apple product samples, and more! While visiting some of the top orchards, you’ll also be spending  time with your loved ones in the great outdoors making for lasting memories. Blue Ridge Mountain orchards such as Mercier Orchards, The Orchard at Altapass, and Grandad’s Apples are some of the most popular and offer a variety of seasonal fruit. Prepare to embark on a delicious adventure with your family and friends.

Tweetsie Railroad

As the first theme park in the Carolinas, Tweetsie Railroad features  exciting steam engines, amusement rides, live shows, food, and family activities. For over 60 years, Tweetsie has provided families with the most exciting Wild West adventures year-round! Not only is it on the National Register of Historic Places it has also been honored with the Winners Circle Award. 

Along with the variety of train adventures, you’ll be able to mine gold and gems, play countless arcade games, and shop to your heart’s content! This popular local attraction will keep you motivated to discover even more Blue Ridge Mountain activities.

Linville Caverns

Underground caverns allow you to discover the wonders that lie beneath the surface. Linville Caverns is one of the most fascinating ones in the Blue Ridge Mountains. It was opened to the public in 1937, after which many improvements were made, including the lighting system and pathways. On the tour, courteous and experienced guides provide you with the lore and majesty of the caverns. In addition to its rich history, the property boasts a bottomless pool and was once a Civil War hideout. 

Taking a peek inside the Blue Ridge Mountains is the most enjoyable way to discover its splendor. This adventure will give you a whole new perspective on the Carolina mountains and all that they have to offer.

3. Rediscover Your Love for Sports

With so many outdoor adventures available in the Blue Ridge Mountains, you have a chance to rediscover the joy of sports. The Carolina mountains feature a variety of golf and racquet sport courts for everyone to enjoy, as well as private membership exclusive venues. Here are a few of the most noteworthy.

Golf

Blue Ridge Mountains golf courses offer magnificent views of blue-tinted peaks, emerald waters of Lake Keowee and the opportunity to play year-round. Professionals and novices alike will enjoy the rolling greens and gentle slopes. When it comes to gated communities with a variety of sports clubs in the Blue Ridge Mountains, The Cliffs is hard to beat. From mountainside estates to lakefront homes, there’s a place for everyone in our seven communities.

With courses designed by legends such as Tom Fazio, Jack Nicklaus, and more, The Cliffs serves as one of the most luxurious golf experiences! Moreover, we offer exclusive club memberships that give you access to golf and fitness activities across all seven The Cliffs communities. 

To learn more about our club membership opportunities at The Cliffs, click here.

Racquet Sports

There’s nothing like gracing the tennis or pickleball courts with the amazing backdrop of the rolling peaks and the shimmering mountain lakes. The Blue Ridge Mountains offer a plethora of public courts as well as private communities with several luxury amenities. 

All levels of players are welcome at The Cliffs, and our private tennis and pickleball courts are buzzing every day of the week with singles and mixed doubles matches. The Cliffs offers the courts and resources you need to improve your skills regardless of how new you are to racquet sports or how often you play them.

Experience Curiosity and Adventure at The Cliffs

Taking part in these Blue Ridge Mountains activities is just a taste of what The Cliffs has to offer. You’ll be enchanted by The Cliffs’ mountain atmosphere and countless amenities, from award-winning golf courses to clubhouses. There are seven private luxury communities in The Cliffs, which offer a wide range of outdoor activities in Western North Carolina and Upstate South Carolina.

To learn more about our exclusive listings and homesites, don’t hesitate to contact our Real Estate Sales Team. Let us guide you through the process and assist you in finding the luxury mountain home of your dreams at The Cliffs!