Geography and Climate

North Carolina is known for its diverse geography, encompassing a wide range of natural landscapes. The state’s eastern coastline stretches along the Atlantic Ocean, providing visitors with miles of pristine beaches. The western part of the state is dominated by the majestic Appalachian Mountains, offering opportunities for hiking, skiing, and enjoying the great outdoors. In between, you’ll find rolling hills, fertile farmland, and dense forests, making North Carolina a paradise for nature enthusiasts.

The state experiences a varied climate, with the coastal region enjoying a more temperate climate, while the mountainous areas see cooler temperatures and snowfall during the winter months. This diversity in climate makes North Carolina a year-round destination, catering to both sun-seekers and snow-lovers alike.

Historical Significance

North Carolina has played a pivotal role in American history. It was one of the original thirteen colonies and was the site of important events during the American Revolution and the Civil War. Visitors can explore historic sites like the Guilford Courthouse National Military Park, where a decisive battle took place during the Revolutionary War, or visit the USS North Carolina, a World War II battleship that is now a museum.

The state is also known for its contributions to aviation history. Kitty Hawk, a small town on the Outer Banks, was where the Wright Brothers made their first powered flight in 1903. The Wright Brothers National Memorial commemorates this achievement and is a must-visit for aviation enthusiasts.

Cultural Diversity

North Carolina’s cultural landscape is as diverse as its geography. The state is home to a rich tapestry of cultures and traditions, influenced by Native American, African American, European, and Hispanic heritage. This diversity is evident in the state’s music, cuisine, and festivals.

One of the most famous cultural events in North Carolina is the Biltmore Estate in Asheville. This grand mansion, built by George Vanderbilt in the late 19th century, showcases the opulence of the Gilded Age and is surrounded by stunning gardens and a winery.

Music lovers will find their groove in North Carolina, with the state’s deep roots in bluegrass, jazz, and gospel music. The birthplace of jazz legend John Coltrane in High Point is now a museum dedicated to his life and work, offering a glimpse into the world of jazz.

Cuisine

North Carolina is renowned for its diverse and mouthwatering cuisine. Barbecue is a beloved staple, and there are two distinct styles: Eastern and Western. Eastern North Carolina barbecue features slow-cooked, vinegar-based pulled pork, while Western North Carolina barbecue uses a tomato-based sauce and tends to favor pork ribs.

In addition to barbecue, the state offers a wealth of culinary delights, from fresh seafood along the coast to hearty Southern comfort food in the Piedmont region. Be sure to try classic dishes like shrimp and grits, hushpuppies, collard greens, and sweet potato pie.

Outdoor Adventures

With its varied terrain, North Carolina is an outdoor enthusiast’s dream. The Blue Ridge Parkway, often referred to as “America’s Favorite Drive,” winds through the Appalachian Mountains, offering breathtaking views and numerous hiking and camping opportunities.

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park, shared with Tennessee, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a haven for hikers and nature lovers. Visitors can explore diverse ecosystems, spot wildlife, and take in the beauty of waterfalls and mountain vistas.

For those seeking adventure on the water, the Outer Banks provide excellent opportunities for fishing, surfing, and kiteboarding, while the Cape Hatteras National Seashore offers pristine beaches and historic lighthouses.

Outdoor enthusiasts will find no shortage of activities to indulge in throughout North Carolina’s picturesque landscapes. The state’s national and state parks offer an abundance of opportunities for hiking, camping, and wildlife observation. Pisgah National Forest, for instance, boasts over 500,000 acres of lush woodlands, waterfalls, and trails, making it a haven for backpackers and nature enthusiasts. The Linville Gorge Wilderness Area, often referred to as the “Grand Canyon of the East,” offers challenging hikes and stunning vistas.

Conclusion

North Carolina’s allure lies in its ability to offer a little bit of everything. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, cuisine, or the great outdoors, this diverse state has it all. From the stunning coastline of the Outer Banks to the majestic peaks of the Appalachian Mountains, North Carolina invites travelers to explore its natural beauty and rich heritage. So, pack your bags and embark on a journey to discover the enchanting world of North Carolina, where every corner reveals a new adventure waiting to be experienced.

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Exploring North Carolina’s Historic Sites

Our journey begins with a visit to the iconic Biltmore Estate. Nestled amidst the Blue Ridge Mountains, this architectural gem stands as a testament to the Gilded Age’s opulence and grandeur. The Biltmore Estate was the brainchild of George Vanderbilt, who sought to create a lavish retreat that combined the beauty of nature with the magnificence of European-inspired architecture. Today, visitors can wander through the estate’s meticulously preserved rooms, marvel at its ornate furnishings, and stroll through its exquisite gardens that change with the seasons.

Continuing our historical exploration, we venture to Tryon Palace, a place that echoes the state’s colonial past. As the first permanent state capital, Tryon Palace served as the official residence of Royal Governor William Tryon in the late 18th century. Now meticulously restored, this impressive structure invites visitors to step back in time and relive a pivotal era in North Carolina’s history. The palace is complemented by meticulously manicured gardens and interactive exhibits, offering a comprehensive understanding of colonial life.

Immersing in North Carolina’s Natural Parks

Transitioning from history to nature, we find ourselves in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, a breathtaking expanse straddling North Carolina and Tennessee. As the most visited national park in the country, the Great Smoky Mountains offer an abundance of natural wonders. Whether hiking along the Appalachian Trail, witnessing mesmerizing waterfalls, or glimpsing wildlife in their natural habitat, every moment spent in this park is an unforgettable experience.

Our next stop takes us to the Outer Banks National Seashore, a coastal preserve stretching along North Carolina’s coastline. Known for its untouched beaches, stunning sand dunes, and historic lighthouses, the Outer Banks beckons to beach lovers and history enthusiasts alike. The site also bears witness to significant historical events, including the first attempted English settlement in America. As we soak in the sun and surf, we also appreciate the timeless allure of these coastal havens.

The Intersection of History and Nature

One of the most intriguing aspects of North Carolina’s landscape is the seamless integration of historical sites within its natural parks. These coexisting wonders create a unique opportunity to explore the past while reveling in the beauty of the present. For instance, within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, one can find the remains of historic homesteads, providing a glimpse into the lives of early settlers who called these mountains home. This fusion of history and nature serves as a reminder of the interconnectedness of the human experience with the environment.

Planning Your Visit

To make the most of your North Carolina adventure, careful planning is key. Depending on your interests and the time of year, you can tailor your trip to include a perfect blend of history and nature. Spring and fall offer mild temperatures and stunning foliage, making it an ideal time to explore both historic sites and national parks. If you prefer guided tours and additional insights, many locations offer ranger-led programs, providing an enhanced understanding of the area’s significance.

As you plan your itinerary, remember that North Carolina’s historic sites and parks are spread throughout the state. Consider the distances between destinations and allow ample time to savor each experience fully. For those seeking assistance in organizing their travel arrangements, “grabmyessay reviews” can be an invaluable resource, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable journey.

North Carolina’s allure lies in its ability to harmoniously blend history and nature, inviting travelers to explore and embrace both aspects of its identity. From the regal Biltmore Estate to the untamed beauty of the Great Smoky Mountains, the state offers a diverse array of experiences that cater to every wanderer’s desires. Whether you are captivated by the tales of the past or inspired by the wonders of the natural world, North Carolina promises an adventure like no other. So, lace up your hiking boots, don your historical curiosity, and embark on a journey of a lifetime, as you uncover the treasures of this enchanting state.

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We must also mention its capital – Raleigh – where you can find good cultural tours. Its coastline offers both beautiful landscapes and a bit of history to discover.

Our trip to North Carolina was a bit long. We stayed there for about 35 days, but it was not exclusively for tourism. We went to participate in a training that would extend for all weeks, and we only had the weekends to enjoy the region.

All in all, it was a very interesting trip and we were able to visit several other places, including the surroundings.

We stayed in Raleigh – its Capital – and were able to explore some things at night there.

You may ask yourself: “But if it’s not such a tourist destination, why would I go there?”. There are several reasons to go to North Carolina. Let’s think for example, that you might be crossing the American East Coast by car. Yes, some people do this, and here’s a hint, it’s one of the most interesting coastal crossings you can imagine. With fantastic views and beautiful landscapes.

North Carolina is a coastal state, so this crossing will probably pass through there. And this state’s coastline has many interesting things to see and enjoy, with tourist spots and beautiful landscapes.

if you go further into the state and away from the coast, you’ll find some excellent national parks with mountains and regions for mountain tourism. Some of them offer more exciting tours, with climbing and river descents. Others offer tours for those who really want to relax in contact with nature. Want an example? Try Asheville, a mountain destination with great scenery and lots of activity. It’s in the “centre” of North Carolina.

Raleigh

Starting with the capital, Raleigh is a really interesting place. Despite its few tourist attractions, it stands out for its gastronomy and its diversity of bars and restaurants. However, what attracts in Raleigh is the diversity of places focused on the culture and history of the United States and also of North Carolina.

It is there, for example, that the North Carolina Museum of History is located, which tells the history of the state, how it was formed, what was its importance during the Civil War on the Confederate side and how it became one of the largest tobacco producing states in the United States. Check out our post about the museum at North Carolina Museum of History.

However, the museum that draws the most attention and is a must-see is the Museum of Natural Sciences. Fully interactive and with one of the most interesting shows focused on technology, exploration and development, it is a tour for the whole day. We went through the museum and told you everything in detail in the post-Museum of Natural Sciences in North Carolina.

Also, for beer lovers, we have the Raleigh Beer Garden. They have the largest number of draft beer in a restaurant worldwide. In other words, it’s beer that never ends and there, ready to be drunk very cold. Don’t think it’s just hype. They entered the Guinness Book for that reason. Good restaurants and a good cultural circuit are not lacking either.

Although not very touristy, parties in Downtown Raleigh are common throughout the weekend, so you’ll have plenty to do if you spend your Saturday and Sunday nights there.

See all the tips and many other attractions in Raleigh in the post we made: Raleigh – Exploring the Capital of North Carolina.

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Charlotte

With weekends to spare, we had time to visit other cities and not be restricted to the capital. We drove to Charlotte, the most populous city in North Carolina. It is just over 170 miles from the capital and we reached it with approximately 2h30min.

If you are in Raleigh, it is a great option to do a round trip to Charlotte as we did. If you can spend a weekend there, it is the best option, as the city has a lot to explore. But in one day it is possible to do a lot too.

What initially took us to Charlotte was the NASCAR Hall of Fame. NASCAR’s headquarters is there and it is also where we find the museum of this category of car racing much appreciated in the United States.
This is a tour that will take you good hours of your day. It is very interactive and has many activities on site. Arrive close to the time the museum is opening and you can enjoy a lot and still leave early for other attractions. Curious about the place? See our full post about it at the NASCAR Hall of Fame in Charlotte.

If you follow the tip of arriving early, you can still explore the city a bit and get to know other places, as we did by going to the Charlotte Hornets stadium and passing a bit through the city centre.

In addition, we went to see the Aviation Museum, which is located at Charlotte International Airport. The full report on the museum is in the following post: Carolinas Aviation Museum in Charlotte.

Wilmington

We mentioned at the beginning of this post about the coastal region of North Carolina. And a visit to it could not be missing, of course. Many of the itineraries that pass through the American east coast have a mandatory stop in North Carolina because of one of the region’s most famous sights: the famous Bodie Island Lighthouse in Nags Head.

But besides the famous lighthouse in Nags Heads, the North Carolina coast offers several nice surprises in small coastal towns. One of them is Wilmington.

It’s a small harbour town, built around the Cape Fear River, where its inhabitants live in villas. It has all the makings of a very quiet place, and it really is. But don’t be fooled, the city is very well organised, sits on the banks of the river and has a promenade with restaurants, snack bars and many ice cream parlours, in a very interesting shopping centre.

But the best is yet to come. The USS North Carolina is anchored in this quiet town. A warship that participated in many battles (including in World War II) and today has become a museum ship. A fantastic visit with a bit of history and a lot of cool things to see.

If you want to know everything we found in Wilmington on another day trip from Raleigh, you can follow the post Wilmington on the North Carolina Coast.

Conclusion

With a few days available in North Carolina, we were able to do many interesting things. If you have a longer period there, you can do some longer trips and visit other cities, just like we did in Charlotte and Wilmington. They are two places very close to the capital and in a few hours by road you can reach your destination.

If you’re traveling across North Carolina, stop by Asheville. It’s a mountain town with many state parks, lots of nature and mountains with beautiful landscapes.

North Carolina is one of those states that surprise us and has a lot of interesting things to offer, and although it is not a tourist trip, it is worth it for the beauty, activities and interesting tours you find there.

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The city lives up to its slogan, “Charlotte Has Plenty,” thanks partly to its combination of urban amenities and its emphasis on weaving lots of outdoor beauty between its skyscrapers. With distinctive and diverse neighbourhoods, great shopping and award-winning food and beer, Charlotte can satisfy various leisure goals. In today’s column, I’ll list a few reasons why you should visit Charlotte.

Urban forestry

Charlotte is a leader in urban forestry goals, with the city on track to increase its tree canopy by 50% by 2050. This commitment to the environment extends to the city’s green space initiatives, several of which make for a fun bike ride or walk between breweries and bars.

NASCAR

Even people who have never seen a NASCAR race can appreciate the category’s roots and see how deeply connected they are to Charlotte. The NASCAR Hall of Fame is simply a must-see and so is the historic Charlotte Motor Speedway. Most NASCAR racing teams have also made the city their home, especially around Lake Norman, so the sport’s impact has seeped into the community in many ways.

The NASCAR Hall of Fame showcases the top and most honoured cars from each era of the category. It’s a trip back in time to the good old days in the American heartland, where NASCAR races were the most important event of the year in these parts. Today’s machines and a real race pit are also there to test your skills in changing tyres and fueling the race cars. There is also a large shop selling NASCAR merchandise and a themed café.

NoDa art scene

North Davidson, or NoDa, is the more artistic section of the city, so take time to wander among the galleries, boutiques and performance venues to see the colourful side of the city. It’s worth a stop at Amelie’s French Bakery to sample some of the treats that made it into the Hunger Games franchise, which filmed scenes in and around Charlotte.

Brewery districts

Also, when exploring NoDa, you’ll find several craft breweries, as the neighbourhood has the second highest concentration of breweries in the city. The other is South End, a part that invites you to stroll around on a pleasant walk, both are considered the two coolest neighbourhoods in the city.

Specialised museums

The choice of niche museums in Charlotte includes, in addition to the NASCAR Hall of Fame we’ve already talked about, the Carolina Aviation Museum, which celebrates North Carolina’s point of pride as the site of the first American flight. Kids will love Discovery Place, a collection of three museums in one (Science, Nature and Kids), but adults won’t want to miss the Science on the Rocks attractions.

Distinctive neighbourhoods

As the 16th largest city in the US, nearly one million people call Charlotte home. Despite being the largest city in North Carolina, Charlotte is not the state capital. And though it spans more than 300 square miles, Charlotte’s distinct neighbourhoods grew up around the city centre, first as tram districts that evolved into walkable hubs with thriving independent businesses.

Vegetarian options

In a city as large as Charlotte, virtually every type of cuisine can be found, and vegetarian offerings range from authentic Asian dishes to juice powerhouse Clean Juice, which started in Charlotte and has now grown to more than 90 locations.

Lake Norman

Charlotte’s water playground has nearly a dozen pet-friendly marinas and restaurants. Rent boats or jet skis, or cruise along over 80km of surface aboard a stand up paddle board, kayak or canoe.

Talent in the kitchen

The 7th Street Public Market has been called an innovative gastronomic hub, providing a launching pad for companies like It’s Poppin, a gourmet corn company. Plan to spend a few hours browsing, sipping and dining at more than 40 vendors in the heart of Uptown in this café atmosphere that only this corner of Charlotte can offer.

Urban rafting

Besides plenty of green space throughout the city and nearby Lake Norman, Charlotte has several other ways to enjoy nature. For the adventurous, head to the U.S. National Whitewater Centre to experience its Class II, III and IV rapids, or stay on land to take in the views or bike the park’s five-plus acres of trails. You can also see the park from a zip line.

Family fun

Two guaranteed fun and adventure options are just outside the city: Carowinds and Carolina Raptor Centre. Carowinds has 13 roller coasters, several water ride options, and a separate water park, Carolina Harbor. Or head to the Carolina Raptor Center, a non-profit organisation that focuses on rehabilitating injured raptors and conserving other birds of prey, including hawks and owls.

Shopping in abundance

Charlotte has plenty of shopping centres and even a suspended mall connected by a walkway, making it a great year-round shopping destination. Head to the Waxhaw Historic District. Several options ranging from local farmers markets to two upscale shopping centres – Southpark Mall and Ballantyne Village – make this city a shopping paradise for people of all budgets and interests.

Charlotte International Airport is still an important hub in the United States. If you are connecting, be sure to visit the NASCAR shop and try the famous chocolate dipped apple from the Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory.

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Cape Hatteras is located at a point where two very different currents (Gulf Stream and Labrador) collide. Because of that shoals and fogs are constantly shifting and storms are the rightful masters here.

All this led to the imminent wrecks of many ships. Not without reason this place was nicknamed very frighteningly – “the cemetery of the Atlantic”. Permanent accidents could only be prevented by building lighthouses to guide and direct ships correctly. This is how the Cape Hatteras lighthouse arose, which today is considered an important part of the national reserve of the same name in the United States.

The first lighthouse arose here as far back as 1797. Its height reached 34 meters. This allowed all captains to easily see it from 29 km away. However, it was destroyed in 1862. The new one was put in place only in 1871. And at that time it was considered the highest lighthouse on the planet. By the end of the 20th century, the Cape Hatteras lighthouse began to be threatened by coastal erosion, which every year took away most of the land. Therefore, it was decided to move the brick structure inland, which was safely done. Today the lighthouse is open to visitors. And a special center arose next to it, where anyone can learn the history of the island and the lighthouse itself.

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Formed by the smooth action of the Linville River, the gorge stretches for twelve miles and ranges in elevation from 2,000 to 4,000 feet, with the Jonas Range to the east and Mt. Linville to the west. Because of the different elevations and unique assortment of rock formations, you will find many interesting places to hike, take pictures, and enjoy the views.

The gorge, which lies entirely within the Pisgah National Forest, was designated as a protected natural area in 1964 and is managed by the Grandfather Ranger District of the U.S. Forest Service. Because of this, many hiking trails in the area are still very natural and not necessarily well-marked, so all hikers should always carry a detailed map of the area, and beginners are advised to stick to the shorter trails.

There are many trails to choose from of varying lengths and difficulty. In fact, there are 39 miles of hiking trails that lead in and out of the gorge and offer great views of the river. Experienced and seasoned hikers will also find many trails that move up the steep slope and challenge, while the longest trail in the wilderness, the Linville Gorge Trail, runs eleven and a half miles along the bottom of the gorge, tracing the west side of the river.

Some of the most popular hikes in Linville Gorge include Linville Falls, the most photographed waterfall in North Carolina, Hawksbill Mountain, Table Rock, and Wiseman View, where you will find one of the most spectacular views of the west side of the gorge.

In addition to the spectacular views of the cliffs and surrounding forest, a visit to the Gorge will also give you a chance to get up close and personal with some of the area’s rare plants and diverse wildlife. In addition to azaleas, orchids, sand myrtles and wild indigo, you’ll also find five very rare plant species, rhododendrons and virgin forests. The area is also home to squirrels, raccoons, deer, bears, turkeys, vultures, owls and hawks.

Hunting and fishing are allowed in the gorge area with a permit. Camping is also allowed with a free permit, which is issued by the county ranger’s office to limit the number of people in the area. However, visitors can get one permit per month and stay for up to three days and two nights each time, so be sure to get your requests in advance.

You should also be sure to stop by the Linville Falls Visitor Center, located off Blue Ridge Boulevard. The center is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., April through October, and offers visitors maps and lots of information about the gorge.

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Opened in 1949. It was used to teach astronomical navigation skills to the Gemini and Apollo astronauts. Until the late 1990s, the planetarium housed one of the world’s largest Copernican models of the solar system. The institution is named after UNC alumnus John Motley Morehead ‘3, who invested more than three million dollars in its development.

Morehead Planetarium is one of the oldest and largest planetariums in the United States. More than 7 million people visited it in 2009. It is a division of UNC, one-third funded by government sources, another one-third by ticket and gift sales, and the other third by donations and grants.

The planetarium opened on May 10, 1949, after seventeen months of construction. It was the sixth planetarium built in the United States and the first in the South. Designed by the same architects who created the plan for the Jefferson Memorial. The construction cost, more than $23 million at 2010s rates, made it the most expensive building ever built in North Carolina at the time. The official opening ceremony was held on May 10, 1949.

Morehead Observatory.

The Morehead Observatory, located on the top floor of the planetarium, houses a Perkin-Elmer system reflector used for the Physics and Astronomy Department, which has filters on it to block out city light.

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The museum has four facilities on three campuses: the Center for Nature Studies and the Center for Nature Studies on Jones Street in downtown Raleigh, the Prairie Ridge Ecostation satellite facility and the outdoor classroom in northwest Raleigh near William B. Amstead State Park and the former North Carolina Forestry Museum in Whiteville . NCMNS is a division of the state Department of Natural and Cultural Resources .

The North Carolina State Museum was created in 1879 by combining the state’s two existing collections of geological and agricultural specimens. The museum was originally located in the Briggs Building on Fayetteville Street. The collections, outreach programs and status of the museum grew over the next 60 years under the leadership of H.H. Brimley . As part of the Department of Agriculture, the State Museum moved in 1887 to a former hotel on Edenton Street across from the Capitol Building. An addition was added in 1899, but the entire building was replaced by a purpose-built building in 1924. The facility was later renamed the North Carolina State Museum of Natural History.

In the 1950s and again in the 1990s. Educational changes further expanded the museum’s holdings as universities transferred their collections to the state. In 1986 it became the North Carolina State Museum of Natural History.

A new building opened later, and NCMNS became the largest natural history museum in the southeast. Also in 2000, the museum expanded with a new location: the Whiteville Forestry Museum was added as a satellite campus; that site was later renovated and reopened in 2015 as the North Carolina Natural Science Museum in Whiteville. Another site was added in 2004 when the Prairie Ridge Ecostation was opened for wildlife and education. In 2012, the museum expanded its downtown campus with the addition of the Center for Nature Studies.

The North Carolina Museum of Natural Science in Whiteville, formerly known as the North Carolina Museum of Forestry, is an adjunct institution of the North Carolina Museum of Natural Science, located in Whiteville, North Carolina . Its mission is to celebrate the natural history and cultural heritage of North Carolina’s forests through exhibitions, educational programs, and the preservation of natural and man-made materials that demonstrate the ongoing connection between forests and people.

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A view of the main complex across the Long Canal behind the M-Wave.
The center was inspired by the Penrith Whitewater Stadium, built for the 2000 Olympics. The main feature of the Center is the largest and most complex artificial recirculation river in the world. The facility cost $38 million to build and $6.8 million a year to operate. The river channels were designed by three-time Olympian Scott Shipley.

In June 2016, prompted by the death of a teenage park ranger from Ohio, the USNWC voluntarily closed the park’s flow channels after finding Naegleria fowleri in park waters. 1-micron particulate filters, an ozone system, and chlorination systems were installed before the rough water reopened in 2017. Meanwhile, onshore and Catawba River activities remained open for business, and the rapids reopened for a brief period in late summer 2016 after thorough cleaning and dewatering.

USNWWC Whitewater features.

The Center’s recirculating river is filled with 12 million gallons of well water, which is purified every 24 hours using a filtration system and ultraviolet light. The Whitewater River has a total of 3,750 feet (1,140 m) of channel divided between two channels: an Olympic standard slalom competition channel and a longer wilderness channel that splits around the island above. . The rapids are Class II through IV and can be navigated by canoe, kayak or guided raft. The various channels are connected by an upper and lower basin, which are connected by a conveyor belt.

The facility is equipped with seven 620 hp submersible pumps made by Flygt. Each channel is watered by three pumps. Six pumps will water both canals simultaneously. The electricity cost for each pump is about $45 per hour. When only one canal is in use, a low-pressure airbag is triggered, Obermyer gates separate the top of the Wilderness or Competition Channel from the upper pond, preventing water from entering. Since both channels have the same drop, 6.4 meters (21 feet), the additional length of the Wilderness Channel makes it more gentle.

Most of the drainage devices are natural boulders cemented in place, but sometimes movable plastic bollards attached to the bottom are used.

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Nicknamed “America’s favorite drive,” the 469-mile Blue Ridge Parkway was designed by landscape architect Stanley Abbott, whose vision was to create a road that was much more than just a way to get from Great Smoky Mountains National Park in North Carolina to Shenandoah National Park in Virginia, with its scenic hiking trails. The drive itself has incredible views of the Blue Ridge Mountains and the surrounding landscape, and the road is popular with motorcyclists and bicyclists for its endless scenery. There are hundreds of miles of hiking trails that branch off from the many approaches, picnic areas and campgrounds that overlook the road. Tourists will find the thickest boulevard in October during foliage season, and summer visitors can enjoy the flowers of blazing azaleas and rhododendrons.

In addition to the natural beauty of the Blue Ridge Parkway, it is home to several visitor centers and museums, some of which are open seasonally. In the summer and fall, Mabry Mill (Milepost 176) has demonstrations that include corn grinding in the original mill, chopping boards in the sawmill and the art of blacksmithing. The Folk Arts Center (Milepost 382) is open year-round and includes a folk art gallery as well as demonstrations by local artisans, and the North Carolina Minerals Museum (Milepost 331) features detailed exhibits on the region’s mineral resources and mining industry. Between November and March, tourists should be sure to check for weather-related road closures.

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