Visitors to Grandfather Mountain’s “Mile High Swinging Bridge” may be surprised to find themselves only several dozen feet off the ground (named for its elevation above sea level, not the ground). In the same way, visitors of North Carolina’s state parks will be pleasantly surprised to find themselves surrounded by beautiful views of nature.
National parks too often steal the attention of many nature lovers, and their little brothers, state parks, get overlooked. North Carolina is no exception, full of some of the most slept-upon parks in the country.
4-year Jordan Lake State Park employee and Cary High School attendee, Cecelia Craddock (‘27), is a very passionate nature lover. Working at a state park has developed a greater love for the outdoors in her life. “I remember going there as a toddler and going hiking and fishing,” she shared. She also said her experiences inspired her to enjoy other state parks. Craddock shared her favorite Jordan Lake activity, “I like to go to Parker’s Creek and walk a little bit, there’s a couple of campsites where you can get your own private beach.”
According to Craddock, visitors of Jordan Lake end up falling in love with the state park, she said, “There are so many people that come in and ask for different activities, so many people come in that are nature lovers, that I don’t think the status of ‘State Park’ sways visitor opinions.” Craddock recommends the state park she fell in love with to others as well, especially high schoolers who enjoy nature, “It’s a good idea to check out Jordan Lake because there’s a bunch of things to do there.” Craddock listed renting kayaks, fishing, hiking and playing volleyball on the beach as some of the best activities.
Other state parks offer plenty of the same experiences. Located right in Wake County, William B. Umstead State Park offers camping and 34.5 miles of beautiful hiking trails. North Carolina’s state parks also feature some famous locations. Grandfather Mountain State Park not only features a beautiful view, but also a real challenge for advanced hikers. Hikers on the mountain scramble along the cliffside and even have to climb ladders.
Grandfather Mountain is also featured in the movie Forrest Gump. On the drive up to the summit, visitors can see the “Forrest Gump Curve” where Forrest Gump ran up the mountain during his running montage scene in the famous movie. No trip to Grandfather Mountain could be complete without experiencing the park’s famous “Mile High Swinging Bridge” too, located at the summit one mile above sea level.
North Carolina state parks not only offer the same nature experience as national parks but are also closer in proximity and rich in tradition. North Carolina state parks are truly a must for any nature lover.
