To say that one of the prettiest waterfalls in North Carolina is a 'Top Secret Attraction' would be a bit of an overstatement - unless you're talking about during the dead of winter. Located near Highlands, Dry Falls is one of the most visited waterfalls along US Highway 64 in the spring, summer and fall seasons. But waterfall chasing isn't on the minds of most people when it's 10 degrees out with a windchill of 15 below.
However, even in all its glory during the warmer months, Dry Falls can't even compare to the frozen majesty into which it transforms when the temps fall below freezing and stay that way long enough.
Then, the water flowing over the ledge succumbs to the cold and becomes powerless to move on down the river, freezing in place in the most beautiful of formations.
Youtube user RomanticAsheville captured a bit of the freezing Dry Falls on video and it's breathtaking! Check it out below with both wide angle views and close ups of the ice formations in the walkway under the falls. It's incredible!
One of the updates for the 68th season at Tweetsie Railroad is this new summer adventure in North Carolina. The Bullwhip has a pendulum swing that spins 360 degrees! While many families already plan their vacations around this exciting amusement park, here is one more reason to head out to Blowing Rock, North Carolina.
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A park that's been around since 1957 conjures up a lot of memories for folks.
Back in 1957 when the Tweetsie Railroad opened with the first steam locomotive ride - Narrow gauge Locomotive No. 12 - it drove folks one mile to a picnic area and back. Now there are two trains with the addition of the Locomotive No. 190.
And the amusement rides offer thrills for those of all ages.
Be sure to return for some more fun when autumn changes the mountains into a colorful landscape.
If you ride The Bullwhip, please tell us about it in the comments below. Discover more about this new summer adventure in North Carolina on the Tweetsie Railroad website. If you're looking for a lovely place to spend the night, consider this nearby family campground in Boone. Or if you prefer to stay inside, reserve a room on Expedia.com.
When the temperatures are rising there’s no better way to cool down than a water park! Luckily, we’ve got lots of great water parks in North Carolina. In fact, there are so many incredible options that it’s easy to put together a summer to-do list the kiddos will love. So, don your suit and prepare to get your splash on at the following best water parks in North Carolina.
Emerald Pointe is one of the best water parks in North Carolina, Wet 'n' Wild Emerald Pointe. Get your adrenaline pumping by riding down a super tall water slide or just chill in the lazy river. There's a wave pool and smaller pools for young children. It's a guaranteed day of fun for the whole family.
When it comes to water parks in North Carolina, Carolina Harbor is a must-visit! Formerly Boomerang Bay, Carolina Harbor at Carowinds is billed as "the largest water park in the Carolinas." The massive water park features everything from giant water slides and wave pools to large play structures and a 3-acre kid’s area! Best of all, entry into Carolina Harbor is included with a Carowinds admission.
This water park at Great Wolf Lodge in Concord is just one of many fun options at this epic attraction. The best part of all is that it's indoors, so it can be enjoyed rain *or* shine as it's one of the only indoor water parks in North Carolina.
Take a break from the beach and visit Jungle Rapids Family Fun Park. Kids will love the water slides; not to mention the go-kart course, laser tag, and mini-golf.
When you're searching for a place to swim in North Carolina, you won't be disappointed with a visit to this beach-and-water-park combo. The fun-filled water park just adds awesomeness to the already gorgeous Lake Lure. The kids are sure to love it!
Quite the opposite of the adventure above, take a break from the lake and spend a lazy afternoon at White Lake Water Park. There are slides, a wading pool, snacks, and gift shops. Bonus: the 50-foot-tall, 200-foot-long double turbo twister slide will give you the best thrills all summer!
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So, did you know about these wonderful water parks in North Carolina? Have you visited any (or all) of the parks mentioned above? If so, which one is your favorite? Or, did we forget about your favorite water park in North Carolina? Tell us in the comments along with your favorite things to do in the summer.
These best water parks in North Carolina aren't the only options for beating the summer heat. We've also got lots of places to go swimming in North Carolina:
