Grab your road bike and head out to Cades Cove Loop Road in the national park. This paved pathway extends for 11 miles around the cove and serves up great views. Bonus: It's closed to auto traffic on Wednesday and Saturday mornings in summer.

Looking for waterfalls? Look no further than the Blue Valley Waterfalls Path in North Carolina's Nantahala NF. The trail comes in at 6.6 miles (one way). You'll appreciate the cooling falls on this strenuous ride.

North of Asheville in Pisgah National Forest, the rugged, remote Staire Creek route climbs and drops past waterfalls, streams, and a cave. To the southwest, the Black Mountain (a.k.a. Clawhammer) route attracts hardcore enthusiasts with a four-mile, 1,900-foot technical downhill.

Take on a section of the Blue Ridge Parkway as you ride through the national park. The Heintooga Ridge in the park's eastern section is a 46.5-mile loop that takes you along narrow-gauge railroad tracks, through deep wilderness, and past great views.

The Ocoee Whitewater Center isn't just for paddlers. You'll also find a 10-mile biking trail system, perfect for mountain biking. Follow the restored Old Copper Road Historic Trail, which meanders along the Ocoee River.

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Take off today and explore the U.S. Top Trips of the Southeast — Hiking and biking with a touch of Southern charm. North Carolina Rambles — Wander the state, from mountains to ocean.

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