One of the best North Carolina day trips recently led to serendipitous discoveries. Without a mapped-out plan, I had hoped for some inspiration. Often when we make lists, we stick to them. The journey turned out even better than I could have dreamed. I know you will find something along this route to inspire your imagination in North Carolina.

While North Carolina roadways are full of gorgeous scenery, this end of town was given an extra helping of loveliness.

The rolling roads wound around and I took every opportunity to explore the local treasures from the state line.

1. Crosscreek Outpost: Vilas

Coming around the bend on NC 194, I spotted these interesting, wooden pieces of art along the side of the road. The artist Rudy Garceau has been carving for 30 years exhibited by handmade birdfeeders, art, wooden slabs, benches, and tables.

2. Watauga River Paddle Trail Water Access: Valle Crucis (Sugar Grove)

Another half mile led me to the Valley Crucis River Access where I lucked out.

A family of three was just embarking on a tool down the Watauga River.

In addition to the stops along the way, the vibrant greenery alone was worth the drive.

I was reminded of North Carolina's proud Appalachian roots.

3. Original Mast General Store: Valle Crucis

This small community is North Carolina’s first rural historic district. And the Original Mast General Store is still its center. The most memorable experience here was the smell of wood when I entered the building. It made me want to work here.

The store was built by Henry Taylor who opened it in 1883 as The Taylor General Store. The Mast Store Annex is right up the road.

The Post Office is a working post office where you can get a cup of coffee for five cents (what?!) Discover more on the Mast General Store website.

4. Rivercross Made in USA: Valle Crucis

Most of the inventory in this charming store is locally made, and if not, it's made in the U.S.A.

I didn't know where to look first as the shelves and tables were packed with colorful pottery, jewelry, and candles.

See more photos on the Rivercross Made in USA Facebook page.

5. Over Yonder: Valle Crucis

From here, look Over Yonder to the right - and yes - the drive up the hill is worthwhile. This historic home was built in 1861 and was the homestead of the Taylor Family - the same Taylor who built the original Mast General Store.

Seating is available inside and out of this eclectic restaurant.

And the quiche-of-the-day comes freshly baked in a buttery crust and full of ingredients from the garden.

6. Valle Crucis United Methodist Church

This treasured building is another enduring sign of the origination and hard work of the community. Built in 1870 to last, the gable-front church replaced a log schoolhouse where the congregation once met.

7. Sally Nooney Gallery: Banner Elk

Climbing up and up NC 194, the cars come so close around some of the blind curves you would never expect to find something so beautiful tucked away up here.

Among all of her inventory - which is a lot - my favorite piece was in the formed, fused glass section - a colorful bird on a branch stands effervescently among the sun's rays and other abstract bits of nature.

I bought a piece for a friend for Father's Day. If you want something unique to brighten up your living space - visit this gallery. Sally's love for her craft shows. Learn more about her on the Sally Nooney website.

8. Boone

While the free-roaming roads led me to many wild and rural destinations, here is a place you're never alone. All wrapped up in patriotic bunting, I found down-home Appalachian culture.

And the buskers - who are worth tipping - come in all sizes offering free music to the shoppers.

Stop in at one of the unique restaurants, boutiques, and thrift stores.

9. Blue Deer Cookies: Blowing Rock

It's hard to believe that fresh cookies are baked in this vintage, newly restored, camper sitting along the highway - which is why I stopped. And look - the picnic tables are surrounded by elegant light strings. Read all about it on the Blue Deer Cookies website.

The menu offers a choice of homemade cookies and Homeland Creamery ice cream from Julian, NC.

I thought about getting one flavor of cookie for the top and a different one for the bottom, but I went with the double fudge for both. It was NOT a mistake. Look how much ice cream they jammed inside for only $5!

It's easy to continue on and add bits of the magnificent Blue Ridge Parkway, Blowing Rock, state parks, and overlooks — all within miles of one of the best North Carolina day trips. And many overnight accommodations exist throughout this peaceful country. Happy travels!