Outdoor Attractions - Burke County Tourism

North Carolina Birding Trail

The N.C. Birding Trail has 4 specific viewing sites in Burke County: Lake James State Park, South Mountain State Park, Catawba River Greenway Trail, and the South Mountain Game Lands.

Morganton, NC

Cycling Outdoor Attractions Specialty Retailers

Overmountain Cycles

Overmountain Cycles is a local, independent bicycle shop based in downtown Morganton that is founded on the belief that every day is an opportunity to discover new tarmac, rip through single-track or link up gnarly gravel roads making an epic route

313 N Green St, Morganton, NC, 28655

History Museums / Heritage Sites Outdoor Attractions

Overmountain Victory National Historic Trail

The Overmountain Victory National Historic Trail commemorates the patriot unification, march and battles leading up to the Battle of Kings Mountain. Portions of the trail can be visited in any season. It includes sections of walk-able pathway, a Commemorative Motor Route, affiliated historic sites and museums, and wayside exhibits.

Morganton, NC

Perry's Berrys- Pick Your Own! Featured Image

Outdoor Attractions Wineries

Perry's Berrys- Pick Your Own Blueberry Farm and Winery

Perry's Berry's is located in the beautiful foothills of NC, just minutes from Lake James. Get your family outdoors and come experience the best blueberries the foothills have to offer. With over 2800 plants to pick from, be assured that you will have your pick of the best berries around.

1136 Browning View Road, Morganton, NC, 28655

Outdoor Attractions Parks & Forests

Pisgah National Forest

Comprised of over 500,000 acres, the Pisgah is primarily a hardwood forest with whitewater rivers, waterfalls and hundreds of miles of trails.Dispersed campsites along pristine streams are found here. Stop by the Burke Visitor Center in downtown Morganton for maps and more local information about the National Forest.

Morganton, NC

History Museums / Heritage Sites Outdoor Attractions

Quaker Meadows Cemetery

The cemetery is the earliest identified site associated with white settlement in western North Carolina. The cemetery is locked and gated, but access can be obtained from the Historic Burke Foundation located inside the historic Burke County courthouse in downtown Morganton.

Morganton, NC

Outdoor Attractions

Ridgeline Trolley & Tours

Available for Weddings, Special Events, Family Reunions, Business Outings, Birthday Parties, and other transportation needs.

110 E Meeting Street, Morganton, NC, 28655

Outdoor Attractions Parks & Forests Rock Climbing

Table Rock Mountain Picnic Area & Hiking Trails

Table Rock is a prominent mountain on the east rim of Linville Gorge and part of Pisgah National Forest (Grandfather Ranger District).It features a unique rock formation, and can be seen from over 30 miles away. The summit is accessible and makes for a quick hike from a nearby parking area, and is also very popular for rock climbing. No services at Table Rock. Take everything you need with you!

Morganton, NC

History Museums / Heritage Sites Outdoor Attractions Regional Attraction

The Arrival

In honor of Valdese celebrating 125 years since their founding in 1893, the Valdese Public Arts Commission and the Town of Valdese have come together to create a commemorative art piece that will be located across from Valdese Town Hall on Massel Avenue. The art installation depicts the arrival of the original Waldensian settlers who came to Valdese on May 29th, 1893 as they departed the “No. 11” train at the Valdese Depot. The installation was created by the artists of Oak Hill Iron & Wood of Morganton and was designed by local artist Greg Mastin.

102 Massel Ave Sw, Valdese, NC, 28690

Outdoor Attractions

Thermal Valley Hang Gliding

Located at the Foothills Regional Airport, Thermal Valley's 1500 foot flight lasts 8 to 12 minutes and each 500 foot increase will add up to five minutes depending on the weather conditions. A safe and fun experience for the entire family.

4098 Old Amherst Rd, Lenoir, NC, 28645

Canoeing & Kayaking Cycling Fishing Hiking Outdoor Attractions Parks & Forests

Valdese Lakeside Park

Valdese Lakeside Park: Lakeside Park is a natural park in Valdese, NC that consists of 300 acres of land bordering Lake Rhodhiss. While it is not fully developed, there is plenty to do and see while visiting. There are 4-5 miles of trails for hiking and mountain biking, you can fish from the bank, picnic at the tables, launch a kayak from the shore and enjoy the views. More is being added all the time so stop back regularly to see all of the progress!

1149 Lake Rhodhiss Drive Ne, Valdese, NC, 28690

Outdoor Attractions Parks & Forests Winter Sports

Winter Hikes

Winter may be a great time to stay inside and cuddle under some blankets in the warmth but what happens when that dreaded cabin fever starts to creep up on you? Hiking can be exactly what you need to get your blood pumping and your sense of adventure peaking. Come to Burke County, North Carolina and experience hiking the way it should be. Less sweat, no bugs or snakes, and few leaves to get in the way of the amazing views.

110 E Meeting Street, Morganton, NC, 28655