NORTH CAROLINA - 5 Suitcases

10 All-American Road Trips Every Family Should Take

Elle MacRae — Sat, 01 Nov 2025 11:08:00 +0000

There’s something magical about piling the kids into the car, cranking up the playlist, and hitting the open road with snacks, a loose plan, and a whole lot of family bonding ahead. Whether you’re craving beachy days, mountain hikes, or quirky attractions that leave everyone giggling, here are 10 epic, family-approved road trips across the U.S. that belong on every bucket list.

1. Pacific Coast Highway (California)

Route: San Francisco → San Diego

Winding cliffs, dramatic ocean views, and charming seaside towns make California’s iconic Highway 1 a dream route for families. It’s packed with incredible stops—and fish tacos galore!

Kid-Approved Stops:

Monterey Bay Aquarium (Monterey)
Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk
LEGOLAND California (Carlsbad)
Sea lions at La Jolla Cove (San Diego)

Pro Tip: Stretch your legs often—the viewpoints are unreal!

2. The Grand Circle Tour (Southwest National Parks)

Route: Loop through Utah & Arizona

If your family loves adventure, this one’s for you. The Grand Circle Tour connects five stunning national parks and endless opportunities for hiking, wildlife watching, and outdoor fun.

Family Favorites:

Zion National Park’s easy family trails
Bryce Canyon’s otherworldly hoodoos
Grand Canyon’s South Rim viewpoints
Jeep tours and horseback rides in Moab

Bonus: Kids can earn Junior Ranger badges at every park—a surefire way to keep them engaged!

3. Florida Family Fun Loop

Route: Orlando → Tampa → Everglades → Florida Keys

Sunshine, theme parks, alligators, and key lime pie—this road trip covers it all.

Don’t Miss:

Walt Disney World & Universal Studios (Orlando)
Airboat rides in the Everglades
Coral Castle (Homestead)
Key Lime Pie at the Southernmost Point (Key West)

Best For: Families who want an action-packed trip with a tropical twist.

4. Rocky Mountain Explorer

Route: Denver → Yellowstone → Glacier National Park

Trade beaches for mountain peaks and geysers on this rugged adventure through the Rockies.

Top Kid Experiences:

Dinosaur Ridge (near Denver)
Watching Old Faithful erupt (Yellowstone)
Soaking in hot springs (Wyoming & Montana)
Riding Glacier’s historic Red Buses

Fun Fact: Yellowstone was America’s first national park!

5. Great Lakes Road Trip

Route: Chicago → Michigan → Wisconsin → Minnesota

Perfect for summer, this loop is packed with charming lake towns, historic sites, and delicious food.

Kid Must-Dos:

Museum of Science and Industry (Chicago)
Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore (Michigan)
Ferry to Mackinac Island (no cars allowed!)
Cheese curd tastings in Wisconsin

Tip: Plan a few beach days—those freshwater lakes are gorgeous!

6. Route 66 (Classic Americana)

Route: Chicago → Santa Monica

Take a trip back in time on the Mother Road. Route 66 is packed with neon diners, vintage motels, and oddball roadside attractions.

Iconic Family Stops:

Route 66 Museum (Clinton, OK)
Cadillac Ranch (Amarillo, TX)
Meteor Crater (Winslow, AZ)
Santa Monica Pier (CA)

Parent Perk: Endless photo ops—and even more family memories.

7. Music & Culture Tour (Southern Style)

Route: Nashville → Memphis → New Orleans

Hit the road for a journey full of music, culture, and the best food you’ll ever eat.

Family-Friendly Favorites:

Country Music Hall of Fame (Nashville)
Graceland (Memphis)
Jazz riverboat rides (New Orleans)
Powdered sugar overload at Café du Monde

Perfect For: Music-loving families who want a dash of history and a whole lot of flavor.

8. Blue Ridge Parkway Adventure

Route: Shenandoah National Park → Great Smoky Mountains

This peaceful route through Virginia and North Carolina is perfect for fall colors, waterfall hikes, and cozy mountain cabins.

Perfect For:

Touring Luray Caverns
Hikes to waterfalls and scenic overlooks
Visiting Dollywood (Pigeon Forge, TN)
Chasing fireflies at dusk

Fun Fact: The Blue Ridge Parkway is nicknamed “America’s Favorite Drive.”

9. Southwest Desert Loop

Route: Phoenix → Tucson → White Sands → Carlsbad Caverns

Desert magic meets kid-friendly adventure in this colorful corner of the U.S.

Family Highlights:

Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum (Tucson)
Sledding down sand dunes (White Sands National Park)
Alien spotting in Roswell, New Mexico
Watching bats emerge at Carlsbad Caverns

Don’t Forget: Bring lots of water—and a sense of humor!

10. Pacific Northwest Wonders

Route: Seattle → Olympic National Park → Portland → Crater Lake

Moody forests, snow-capped peaks, and hip cities await you in the PNW.

Can’t-Miss Kid Stops:

Watching fish fly at Pike Place Market (Seattle)
Hiking treehouse trails in Olympic National Park
OMSI science museum (Portland)
Gasping at the brilliant blue water of Crater Lake

Tip: Pack layers—it’s rainy, but worth it.

Final Thoughts: Why Road Trips Are Family Gold

Sure, road trips with kids can get a little chaotic (cue the “Are we there yet?” soundtrack). But between the car karaoke sessions, silly roadside attractions, spontaneous detours, and late-night hotel swims, you’re creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Whether you’re exploring rocky coastlines, neon-lit highways, towering mountains, or magical forests, these 10 all-American routes are sure to deliver one unforgettable family adventure after another.

Ready to plan your next road trip?

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The Ultimate Guide to 10 National Parks in the Southeastern U.S.

Elle MacRae — Sat, 14 Jun 2025 12:29:00 +0000

The Southeastern United States is home to 10 National Parks, each offering unique landscapes, historical significance, and recreational opportunities. Here’s a comprehensive list of these sites, along with summaries highlighting things to do, hiking information, and visiting details:

10 National Parks in the Southern United States

1. Great Smoky Mountains National Park (Tennessee and North Carolina)

Overview: Straddling the border between Tennessee and North Carolina, this park is renowned for its mist-covered mountains, rich biodiversity, and well-preserved historic structures.
Things to Do: Wildlife viewing, scenic drives, camping, and exploring historic buildings.
Hiking: Offers over 850 miles of trails, including a 70-mile stretch of the Appalachian Trail. Trails range from easy walks to challenging backcountry routes.
Visiting Information: Open year-round with no entrance fee. Visitor centers provide maps, exhibits, and restrooms.

2. Everglades National Park (Florida)

Overview: The largest subtropical wilderness in the U.S., protecting a unique landscape that provides habitat for rare and endangered species like the manatee and Florida panther.
Things to Do: Guided tours, bird watching, boating, and fishing.
Hiking: Several short trails and longer backcountry routes.
Visiting Information: Entrance fee required. Visitor centers offer educational exhibits and information on guided tours.
Blog Post About the Everglades: Everglades National Park: Voted One of the Best National Parks in the USA

3. Congaree National Park (South Carolina)

Overview: Preserves the largest tract of old-growth bottomland hardwood forest in the U.S., offering a sanctuary for diverse plant and animal species.
Things to Do: Canoeing, bird watching, and ranger-led programs.
Hiking: Over 25 miles of trails, including an elevated boardwalk loop.
Visiting Information: No entrance fee. The visitor center provides maps and information on current conditions.
Blog Posts About Congaree National Park: 5 Epic Things to do at Congaree National Park

4. Mammoth Cave National Park (Kentucky)

Overview: Home to the world’s longest known cave system, with more than 400 miles explored.
Things to Do: Guided cave tours, camping, and horseback riding.
Hiking: Over 80 miles of trails above ground, ranging from short walks to longer hikes.
Visiting Information: Entrance to the park is free, but cave tours require a fee and reservations. The visitor center offers exhibits and tour information.
Blog Posts About Mammoth Cave: 10 Mind-Boggling Facts About Mammoth Cave & Visting Mammoth Cave with Kids

5. Shenandoah National Park (Virginia)

Overview: Located along the Blue Ridge Mountains, it is known for its scenic vistas, waterfalls, and diverse wildlife.
Things to Do: Scenic drives along Skyline Drive, wildlife viewing, and camping.
Hiking: Over 500 miles of trails, including 101 miles of the Appalachian Trail.
Visiting Information: Entrance fee required. Visitor centers provide maps, exhibits, and restrooms.

6. Biscayne National Park (Florida)

Overview: Protects a unique marine ecosystem, including coral reefs, mangrove forests, and the northernmost Florida Keys.
Things to Do: Snorkeling, scuba diving, boating, and fishing.
Hiking: Limited hiking opportunities; most activities are water-based.
Visiting Information: No entrance fee. Dante Fascell Visitor Center offers exhibits and information on guided tours.
Blog Post About Biscayne National Park: Top 10 Things to do at Biscayne National Park

7. Dry Tortugas National Park (Florida)

Overview: Located about 70 miles west of Key West, this park is known for its crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and historic Fort Jefferson.
Things to Do: Snorkeling, bird watching, and exploring Fort Jefferson.
Hiking: Limited to short walks around the fort and beaches.
Visiting Information: Accessible only by boat or seaplane. Entrance fee required. The visitor center within Fort Jefferson provides historical exhibits.

8. Hot Springs National Park (Arkansas)

Overview: Known for its natural hot springs, historic bathhouses, and scenic mountain views.
Things to Do: Bathing in thermal waters, touring historic bathhouses, and scenic drives.
Hiking: Over 26 miles of trails through forested hills.
Visiting Information: No entrance fee. Fordyce Bathhouse serves as the visitor center with exhibits and park information.

9. New River Gorge National Park and Preserve (West Virginia)

Overview: The newest national park, designated in 2020, is known for its rugged canyon, rich history, and diverse ecosystems.
Things to Do: Whitewater rafting, rock climbing, and scenic drives.
Hiking: Over 100 miles of trails, ranging from easy walks to challenging hikes.
Visiting Information: No entrance fee. Canyon Rim Visitor Center offers exhibits and information on recreational activities.

10. Gulf Islands National Seashore (Florida and Mississippi)

Overview: Protects the barrier islands of the Gulf of Mexico, offering white sandy beaches, historic forts, and diverse wildlife.
Things to Do: Swimming, fishing, and exploring historic sites.
Hiking: Several short trails on various islands.
Visiting Information: Some areas require an entrance fee.

Become a Junior Ranger

The Junior Ranger program is a fantastic way for kids to learn about a National Park site. Children can complete a series of tasks to earn a Junior Ranger badge. These tasks can range from drawing a badge, word searches, BINGO, fill in the blanks, and locating facts about the site. The number of tasks required to collect the badge varies based on the location, so be sure to ask the Park Ranger for specific details.

Don’t be jealous, grownups can earn badges too! The Junior Ranger program is open to everyone!

Free Family Road Trip Starter Kit

Ready to hit the road with magic in the speakers?

Don’t forget to grab our FREE Family Road Trip Starter Kit — packed with printable checklists, kid-approved games, and snack ideas for your next adventure!

Includes:

Packing checklist
I Spy game
Travel Bingo boards
Snack list
Activity ideas

Click here to download yours now!

Save a Pin & Start Planning Your Adventure

For future reference, save our post: “10 National Parks in the Southeastern United States”. To get inspo for your next trip, check out the Ultimate National Park Bucket List. Plan your trip around Free National Park Days and learn about The National Park’s Awesome Junior Ranger Program.

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10 Best Day Trips from Jellystone in Golden Valley, NC

Elle MacRae — Sat, 20 Aug 2022 17:35:00 +0000

We were ecstatic when they opened up a Jellystone in Golden Valley, NC. We have family in the area, so instead of staying at an AirBNB, we’ve been booking cabins at Jellystone. It costs about the same as an AirBNB, but you get a ton of amenities.

Since we are so familiar with the area, we have several day trips from Jellystone in Golden Valley, NC that we can commend for you and your family! Whether you’d like to spend the day at a farm, on an adventurous rope course, touring an iconic house, or driving on one of the most scenic highways in the country- we’ve got you covered in our list of the best day trips from Jellystone in Golden Valley, NC!

About Jellystone in Golden Valley, NC

Yogi Bear’s Jellystone in Golden Valley, North Carolina is a multi-million dollar RV Resort that offers tent camping, RV sites, and several different styles of cabins.

During our visits, we rent cabins. We have stayed in both the Blue Ridge Bungalow and the Carolina Belle Cabins. Check out our tours of each of these cabins in the videos below!

They have lots of great amenities like a swimming pool, a water park, a lake with recreational rentals, and zip lining. They also offer gem mining, laser tag, putt putt golf, tons of play areas of kids, and planned activities throughout the day. In 2022, they opened up a super-awesome inflatable obstacle course on the lake. Check out our video of us trying to tackle this monster!

The Jellystone also has restaurants that serve up a variety of food ranging from breakfast foods to pizza, hamburgers, sandwiches, chicken tenders, and ice cream.

About Golden Valley, NC

Golden Valley, NC has been home to a slew of different people…some think that even Abraham Lincoln was once called this region home. The area was one home to Indigenous hunters. Evidence of their existence can be found in the form of pottery, arrowheads, and spear points.

During Colonial times, European settlers arrived in the area. They sectioned the land into districts and named this area the Morgan District. The district was further divided into fourteen different companies- each with it’s own “captain” (similar to a mayor), who was in charge of taxes, the local militia and maintaining order.

Following the Battle of Kings Mountain, which was the first major patriot victory during the Revolutionary War in 1780, all was relatively calm. That is…until the discovery of gold. In 1828 gold was discovered in a stream in Brindletown. Within weeks, every creek within a hundred miles was filled with prospectors. It was then that this area became known as Golden Valley.

There is a school of historians and biographers that claim that Abraham Lincoln, the 16th president of the United States, was not born in Kentucky. Instead, they believe he was born on Puzzle Creek, near the town of Bostic, in Golden Valley.

Lincoln’s mother, Nancy Hanks, was placed in the care of Abraham Enslow and his family. The Enslows lived in Rutherford County before moving near Cherokee, NC. While in Bostic, she was a member of the Concord Baptist Church. During this time, she allegedly gave birth to a baby that she named Abraham. It is believed that she then left the area and married Tom Lincoln in Kentucky. The minister who performed the ceremony wrote of the young boy’s presence in his account of the nuptials. The Bostic Lincoln Center is dedicated to this school of thought and is well worth the visit if you are a history fan.

The Best Day Trips from Jellystone in Golden Valley

Bostic Lincoln Center

As stated above, there is a school of historians that claim that Abraham Lincoln, the 16th President of the United States, was actually born near the town of Bostic, NC- rather than in Kentucky. The Bostic Lincoln Center provides evidence these historians have collected to support this theory. While at the center, be sure to ask for directions to the ruins of the cabin these historians believe Lincoln was born.

Distance from the Park: 11 miles

Cherry Mountain Farm

Spend the day at Cherry Mountain Farm hanging out with the most adorable Angora goats! Learn all about the history of this super cute breed of goats. You can even purchase some yarn made from their shaggy coats.

Distance from the Park: 12 miles

South Mountains State Park

South Mountains State Park is a great location to spend the day outdoors with your family. There are 40 miles of trails perfect for hiking or mountain biking. The park also boasts a 60 foot waterfall, High Shoals Falls. Even better, the park is just 20 miles away from Jellystone! This great state park is one of the best day trips from Jellystone in Golden Valley.

Distance from the Park: 20 miles

Beanstalk Zipline

Beanstalk Ziplines offers 5 interconnected zips ending in a 520 foot epic zip! The park offers $10 off any regularly priced Zip Tour with the mention of Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park or the use of the promo code: YOGIGOLDEN at check out.

Distance from the Park: 24 miles

Lake Lure

Lake Lure is one of our favorite spots in the region! Consider booking a boat tour if you’re visiting during the warmer months. You can also spend the day swimming at the lake, popping in and out of cute shops.

Distance from the Park: 33 miles

Chimney Rock

Chimney Rock State Park is one of the most popular parks to visit in North Carolina. Each year more than a quarter of a million visitors come to climb 499 steps (or take the super convenient elevator) to the top of the outcropping for absolutely breathtaking views. From its top, you’ll discover 75-mile panoramic views of Hickory Nut Gorge and Lake Lure. Trust us, it’s definitely worth the drive out to Chimney Rock State Park. This is hands down one of the best day trips from Jellystone in Golden Valley!

Distance from the Park: 36 miles

Linville Caverns

The Linville Caverns are the only caverns open to the public in the entire state of North Carolina! Explore inside the Blue Ridge Mountains and learn all about the geology of the stalactites, stalagmites, and other formations on your guided tour. You’ll also learn the history of these caverns and how they were once used as hideouts by Civil War deserters.

Distance from the Park 42 miles

Green River Adventures

Want to try something a little bit more action packed than paddling around Jellystone’s lake? Green River Adventures offers whitewater adventures, kayaking, guided hikes, waterfall treks, ziplining, and rappelling and canyoneering trips for the whole family!

Distance from the Park: 46 miles

Biltmore Estate

Do yourself a favor and plan on spending a day at the Biltmore Estate in nearby Asheville. The Biltmore Estate is a Châteauesque-style mansion built by George Washington Vanderbilt II between 1889 and 1895. It is the largest privately owned house in the United States. The 178,926 square foot home is stilled owned by his descendants.

Tour the grand dining room, library, atrium, a handful of bedrooms, the servant’s quarters, the indoor pool, billiards room, and much more! This cultural experience makes for one of the best day trips from Jellystone in Golden Valley! Be sure to save time to explore the Biltmore Village.

Distance from the Park: 54 miles

Blue Ridge Parkway

One of my favorite things to do in the mountains is to drive the Blue Ridge Parkway. The parkway is 252 miles of scenic winding roads. Be sure to stop at the scenic pull offs for incredible views of the landscape. Along the parkway you’ll find plenty of spots to hike, bike, swim, or explore the local cultural sites.

Distance from the Park: 56 miles

Free Family Road Trip Starter Kit

Ready to hit the road with magic in the speakers?

Don’t forget to grab our FREE Family Road Trip Starter Kit — packed with printable checklists, kid-approved games, and snack ideas for your next adventure!

Includes:

Packing checklist
I Spy game
Travel Bingo boards
Snack list
Activity ideas

Click here to download yours now!

Save a Pin & Start Planning Your Adventure

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Updated: 4/29/25

12 Awesome Things for Kids to do at Yogi’s Jellystone Park in Golden Valley, NC

Elle MacRae — Sat, 10 Jul 2021 16:56:05 +0000

Let me start by saying how impressed we were with all of the awesome things for kids to do at Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park in Golden Valley, NC. We were blown away by the amount of activities and amenities that the park offered. Our kids stayed busy from sun up to sundown. They loved the character meet and greets, the ice cream socials, the arts and craft activities, and the parties. The jump party on the pillow pad was a huge success.

I don’t think I’ve ever seen our kids have so much fun. This truly was an amazing place for a family vacation!

12 Awesome Things for Kids to do at Yogi's Jellystone Park in Golden Valley, NC

Interactive Waterpark- Your kids will love the waterpark! It is perfect for kids of all ages! There is a small section with a couple of slides for toddlers, but the bulk of the park is built for the big kids. There are more than a dozen water blasters, 2 water cannons, a large tower that dumps 750 gallons of water out, water slides, and loads of interactive elements.

Ranger Smith Pool- There is a large swimming pool for those who don’t want to deal with all of the craziness of the waterpark.

Take a Hike- The park as an extensive trail system the weaves throughout the park. We suggest hitting up the trails before heading to the water park.

Water Rentals- Be sure to take advantage of the water craft rentals! The park offers kayak, canoe, stand up paddle board, and pedal boat rentals for $5 an hour.

Mini Golf- Take a break from the water activities and hit up the putt-putt course. The course has 18 holes that are just as challenging as they are fun.

Lazer Tag- Want to know what’s cooler than hide and seek? Playing hide and seek with laser guns! The laser tag sessions last 30 minutes. A fee is required to play.

Jumping Pillow & Pad- Brace yourself…. there are two massive inflatable that are perfect for a family jump-party!

Water Zipline- Sure, jumping off the dock into a lake is great, but imagine zip lining into the lake. Now you can! The zip line starts at a tower on the edge of the lake and drops you in the center of the lake! AWESOME!

Gem Mining- You can’t visit western North Carolina without doing a bit of gem mining. Lucky for you, you can now mine for gems without even leaving the park! Several bags and buckets, ranging in various prices and quality, are available for purchase at the Ranger Station (shop) or at registration.

Awesome Playgrounds- Our kids loved the playground at the park. Our oldest kid was a huge fan of the Ninja Warrior-style obstacle course.

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Arts & Crafts- Our seven year old loved the arts and craft activities! Each morning after breakfast we’d sit down together to do an activity. The kids favorite activity was designing boats out of cardboard boxes and then racing them at the lake. It was such a blast!

Hit the Lake- Not far from the pool and water park, you’ll find the centerpiece of Yogi’s Jellystone Park, the lake. The lake is a great option for swimmers who want to get away from the crowds. Visitors can also fish or rent kayaks, canoes, paddle boards, or pedal boats for $5 an hour.

What Should I Take With Me?

When you’re hiking, please remember to leave no trace! This means to pack out everything that you pack in and if you see trash, pick it up.

Backpack– to store all of your belongings
Dry Bag– to keep your electronics and wallet safe, in case of rain (or kayaking)
Trail GPS– the Garmin Oregon handled GPS works offline. You can view maps, waypoints, tracks, and trails even if you don’t have a signal.
First-Aid Kit– this ultralight, watertight medical kit is a must if you’re hitting the trails!
Sunscreen- yes, you can get sunburned in the forest.
Insect Repellant
Water Bottle– Always pack more water than you think you’ll need!
Snacks

Hammock– I honestly pack a hammock on most hiking trips. Psh, I even bring them along with me when we go on cruises. There are plenty of spots in the forest to put up a hammock and chill out for a bit.

If you’re traveling with your pup, like we often do, be sure to bring along their leash, poop bags, a water dish (this one is collapsible), extra water, food, and snacks.

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Post Updated: 11/7/21

Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park: Golden Valley, North Carolina

Elle MacRae — Wed, 07 Jul 2021 00:08:12 +0000

Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park Golden Valley is a must-do if you’re visiting western-North Carolina. This camp-resort features cabins as well as RV and tent sites nestled in the scenic mountains between Charlotte and Asheville.

What is there to do at Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park?

We were incredibly impressed by how much there was to do at the park. From sunup to sundown (and beyond) we stayed busy!

Water Park with slides and a splash area
Swimming Pool & Hot Tubs
Lake
- Swimming
- Kayaking
- Canoeing
- Paddle Boarding
- Pedal Boating
- Fishing
- Inflatable Obstacle Course
Gem Mining
Putt Putt Golf
Laser Tag
Zip Line
Hiking Trails
Playground
Jump Pillow & Pad
Planned Activities

The park also has two restaurants, Scout’s Table and Creekside Café.

The Scout’s Table features a brunch menu and is open Wednesday through Sunday from 9AM until 3PM. It is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays. There is a coffee bar in the restaurant if you’d like to just grab a cup of coffee or a la carte breakfast. Scout’s Table also serves mimosas and cocktails.

The Creekside Cafe is located right by the pool and water park making it super convenient for lunch. It is open daily from 11AM until 8PM. They serve pizza, burgers, chicken tenders, sandwiches, hot dogs, ice cream, and more.

Right across from the Creekside Café is the Blue Ridge Tavern. Here, you can grab an adult beverage from 12PM until 8PM on Sundays through Tuesdays, and from 12PM until 10PM.

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The Attractions

Water Park– The water park features 2 large slides, 2 medium-sized slides, and a small toddler splash area. There are water cannons and a large water tour that periodically dumps out water at the center of the water park.

Swimming Pool & Hot Tubs– Adjacent to the water park, you’ll find the swimming pool and hot tub. The pool is shallow and has basketball hoops and a few built-in benches and seats for you to relax. Rental cabanas line the pool area. The cabanas feature patio furniture, a fan, a tv, and a refrigerator and would be great for those who want/need a bit of shade.

Lake- Not far from the pool and water park, you’ll find the centerpiece of Yogi’s Jellystone Park, the lake. The lake is a great option for swimmers who want to get away from the crowds. Visitors can also fish or rent kayaks, canoes, paddle boards, or pedal boats for $5 an hour.

Obstacle Course- New in 2022, the super awesome inflatable obstacle course is sure to become your favorite thing to do on the lake. Climb, crawl, and leap to make your way around the whole course!

Putt Putt Golf- Who doesn’t love a round of mini-golf? The park has an 18-hole course that is free to play.

Lazer Tag– Want to know what’s cooler than hide and seek? Playing hide and seek with laser guns! The laser tag sessions last 30 minutes. A fee is required to play.

Zip Line- Sure, jumping off the dock into a lake is great, but imagine zip lining into the lake. Now you can! The zip line starts at a tower on the edge of the lake and drops you in the center of the lake! AWESOME!

Hiking Trails- The park as an extensive trail system the weaves throughout the park. We suggest hitting up the trails before heading to the water park.

Playground- Our kids loved the playground at the park. Our oldest kid was a huge fan of the Ninja Warrior-style obstacle course.

Jumping Pillow & Pad- While the pool and splash park may be hoppin’ during the day, the inflatable jumping pillow and jumping pad are where it’s at during the evening hours. And yes, grown ups can jump, too.

Planned Activities- Throughout the day there are various activities throughout the park. These include character meet and greets, ice cream socials, wagon rides, crafts, relay races, parades, and much more!

Our Experience

We had no idea what to expect when we booked our trip to Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park. Sure, we had seen all of the amenities that they offer but, we didn’t realize quite how awesome this place was going to be. We were super impressed!

The kids loved the waterpark, the pool, and the lake. We rented kayaks, paddleboards, and a pedal boat. I will say that the paddleboards that they had on site were not nearly as stable as my paddleboard. I imagine it would be tricky to maneuver for a newbie!

We really enjoyed swimming at the lake. Smiley had a blast jumping off the dock. It was such a nice change of pace from the Florida beaches.

Each day we would look at the schedule of planned activities. We got to meet Yogi, Boo Boo, and Cindy Bear pretty much every day. We’d eat breakfast at Scout’s Table every morning and then head next door for arts and crafts. Our favorite art activity was creating boats out of cardboard boxes for a boat race on the lake. Other activities included a jump party, tractor rides, ice cream socials, and much more.

Weirdly, the kids favorite part was riding the golf cart we rented. We zoomed all over the hillside and park on that bad boy.

Where is Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park Located?

Address:

182 Jellystone Pkwy
Bostic, NC 28018

Day Trips from Jellystone

There are a ton of fantastic day trips from the park. Here are some of our favorites:

South Mountains State Park (20.6 miles)
Lake Lure (33.5 miles)
Chimney Rock (36.8 miles)
Linville Caverns (41.9 miles)
Biltmore Estate (54.6 miles)
DuPont State Forest (64.7 miles)

For more information about Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park, check out the parks official website.

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Post updated: 6/17/22

DuPont State Forest: An Epic North Carolina Hiking Spot

Elle MacRae — Wed, 17 Jun 2020 00:13:49 +0000

DuPont State Forest, frequently called DuPont Forest is a 10,000+ acre state forest located in Henderson and Transylvania counties in western North Carolina. Dupont State Recreational Forest is a perfect place to take a daytrip from Asheville or Hendersonville. The park’s picturesque trails and waterfalls are some of the best in the region.

The forest is a popular spot for hikers, kayakers, and swimmers (which is only permitted in designated areas).

The forest, and surrounding areas, are absolutely stunning. You may recognize portions of the park from movies such as The Hunger Games and Last of the Mohicans.

What are the highlights of DuPont State Forest?

DuPont State Forest has nearly 83 miles of multi-use trails and roads that can be used for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding. The trails range from easy to moderate and are well-beaten and easy to navigate. When we visit we tend to stick to Triple Falls Trail, Hooker Falls Trail, and Bridal Veil Falls Trail, but there are plenty of more options!

Triple Falls Trail- 2.9 miles (easy)

This is the most popular trail at the forest, and one of the ones we hike every time we visit DuPont. It’s absolutely stunning and easy to do with little ones. In fact, I first started hiking this trail as a child! The hike crosses the Little River and then follows it upstream to up-close views of Trip Falls.

Hooker Falls Trail– 0.7 miles (easy)

This is the shortest hike in the forest making it super kid-friendly. Hooker Falls is well worth the short hike! This spot is also a popular swimming hole during the summer months.

Bridal Veil Falls Trail– 4.6 miles (easy)

This is one of my favorite hikes at DuPont. The 4.6-mile hike will lead you to the forest’s most beautiful waterfalls, the sheer cascades of Bridal Veil Falls.

The forest is probably most known for its waterfalls (which are way better than Florida’s waterfalls!). The waterfalls include:

Bridal Veil Falls
High Falls
Hooker Falls
Triple Falls
Grassy Creek Falls
Wintergreen Falls

Where is the DuPont State Forest located?

If you plug the following address into your GPS it will lead you to the High Falls Access Area:

1300 Staton Road
Cedar Mountain, NC 28718

What is there to do nearby?

Another one of our favorite outdoor hangouts is the nearby Pisgah National Forest. We also love spending time at Lake Lure and Chimney Rock, which is located about 30 miles away. Of course, you can’t go wrong with paying a visit to Asheville or Hendersonville, either.

What Should I Take With Me?

When you’re hiking, please remember to leave no trace! This means to pack out everything that you pack in and if you see trash, pick it up.

If you’re traveling with your pup, like we often do, be sure to bring along their leash, poop bags, a water dish (this one is collapsible), extra water, food, and snacks.

Save a Pin & Start Planning Your Adventure!

Don’t forget to save one of our DuPont State Forest pins to help you start planning your trip! While you’re in the area, check out Chimney Rock. If you’re traveling with kids, consider booking a cabin or campsite at Yogi Bear’s Camp Jellystone: Golden Valley.

Be sure to give us a like on Facebook or follow us on Twitter for more travel tips and tricks. See you next time!

**This post contains affiliate links for your shopping convenience**Updated: 2/3/24

Breathtaking Chimney Rock State Park, North Carolina

Elle MacRae — Thu, 11 Jun 2020 15:36:14 +0000

What is Chimney Rock?

The rock is a 35 million-year-old, 315 feet high chunk of granite situated above the summit of the Village of Chimney Rock. It is the highlight of Chimney Rock State Park! Once you’re at the top, you have an amazing vista of Lake Lure and the Blue Ridge Mountains that will knock your socks off!

How do I get to the top?

You’ll begin your journey by weaving up the mountain until you reach a parking lot. From there, you’ll be shuttled up to the top of the mountain in a minibus. Once you reach the visitors center you have two options: climb 499 steps up to the lookout or ride the elevator.

The park is pet friendly however, dogs are not permitted to ride the elevator so if you bring your pooch, you’ll have to take the trails.

The Outcroppings Trail is a series of stairs cases that lead to several vantage points. Admittedly, it is A LOT of steps but if you’re young and active, it shouldn’t be a problem. It’s a hell of a cardio and leg workout and there are plenty of opportunities to catch your breath.

On our most recent trip, we took the elevator since we had the kiddos. The elevator takes you right through the center of the rock and allows for easy access to the Chimney. If you’re trying to fit other things in your day (Lake Lure, Biltmore Estate, etc.), this is the way to go!

The elevator drops you off at the gift shop/snack bar. A grand American flag signals your arrival to North Carolina’s most iconic rock formation. You’ll still have to tackle a few stairs to get to the top of the Chimney, but the views from the top (on a clear day) are absolutely worth it! Be sure to take a moment to soak in the view- after all, you worked pretty hard to get there!

Chimney Rock Park Trails

Chimney Rock has six unique hiking trails that meander around the park. The Four Seasons Trail leads from the first parking lot to the base of Chimney Rock. The trail is only .7 miles but climbs almost 400 feet through a dense forest. The trail meets up with the Hickory Nut Falls Trail.

The Outcroppings Trail has nearly 400 steps that lead all the way up to the chimney. Once you’re at the chimney level, the Exclamation Point Trail winds its way up to Exclamation Point, which has an elevation of 2,480 and absolutely insane views of the gorge.

From Exclamation Point,you’ll find yet another trail. The Skyline Trail is a little over a mile long, and is atop of the ridge of the chimney. The trail leads to Peregrine’s Point which is the chimney’s highest accessible viewpoint. The path is wide but it is uphill and rather strenuous. If you’re able to make the hike, you’ll be rewarded with a view of the headwaters of Hickory Nut Falls. Hickory Nut Falls is the tallest waterfall in a North Carolina state park and one of the tallest east of the Mississippi River. The falls were featured in the movie The Last of the Mohicans.

How Much Does it Cost to Visit?

The cost for a single day ticket is $17 per adult and $8 per youth (ages 5-15). Children under 5 are free.

The price includes parking, access to all of the trails and the elevator (when in operation).

The Village of Chimney Rock

In 1902, a physician named Lucius Morse traveled to the area in search of clean, mountain air to help combat his recent tuberculosis diagnosis. He fell in love with the mountains, chimneys, and cliffs of Hickory Nut Gorge. Morse returned home to share his discovery with his older twin brothers. Together, the three of them purchased the land with the lofty goal of damming the Rocky Broad River and making the area a tourist destination.

Today, their vision is known as the Village of Chimney Rock. The area of known for its hiking trails, water sports (kayaking, canoeing, water rafting), and its stunning views.

After your hike, be sure to pop into the village located at the entrance of the park. The village is small, with pretty much everything off of the main street. We stayed at a charming Air B&B during our visit. There are a ton of options available in the area! Some places we visited while we were in town include Broad River Coffee (yum!), and Riverwatch Bar & Grill.

Our Thoughts on Chimney Rock

Chimney Rock is an excellent place to visit if you have a couple of extra hours in the area. It’s well worth the trip from Asheville or Hendersonville, especially if you combine it with time at Lake Lure. We’ve visited in the winter, spring, and summer. The warmer months definitely offer views of the surrounding area.

Where is Chimney Rock Located?

Getting there is a breeze. It is located in the adorable, quaint Village of Chimney Rock, which is easily accessible by I-40. The drive from Asheville is roughly 40 minutes. It is located near Lake Lure, one of our favorite places to visit during the summertime.

Dirty Dancing Festival

If you’re looking to have the time of your life (see what I did there?), you should consider visiting Chimney Rock during the month of September. Chimney Rock is home to the annual Dirty Dancing Festival.

The two day festival is centered around the movie Dirty Dancing which was filmed on Lake Lure. The festival features entertainment and activities based on the movie. Dress up as your favorite character, dust, off your Keds, and break out your best dance moves!

Other North Carolina Scenic Attractions

DuPont State Forest– This will forever be one of my favorite parks. It offers incredible hiking trails and the park features several iconic waterfalls.

Blue Ridge Parkway- One of the classic American drives is the Blue Ridge Parkway. You could easily spend an entire day navigating the switchbacks and stopping at the scenic overlooks.

Grandfather Mountain– Grandfather Mountain is the most popular natural attraction in all of North Carolina. There are several different hiking trails, but the most popular is MacRae’s Peak. The challenging trail a handful of wooden ladders as well as a few rope pulleys to assist in the steep climb. Fun fact: My family, the MacRae’s, have strong ancestral ties to this mountain.

Save a Pin & Start Planning Your Adventure!

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Updated: 11/7/21