Wild horses of Shackleford Banks
A visit to the Southern Outer Banks isn’t complete without seeking out the wild horses of Shackleford Banks, which have been roaming the area freely for centuries. This southernmost barrier island at Cape Lookout National Seashore is accessible only by public ferry (and private boats). Once on the island, you’ll explore on foot, and should have no trouble viewing the herds since Shackleford Banks is home to more than 100 wild ponies, some of which are descended from Spanish mustangs.
Cape Lookout National Seashore, 1698 Island Road, Harkers Island, N.C. 252-528-1212, nps.gov/calo, @CapeLookoutNPS.
Dillsboro: A small town with big family fun
It doesn’t matter what time of year you visit Dillsboro, there’s always plenty to do in this quaint historic burg that grew up around the Southern Railway. The self-guided Heritage Walk tour allows you to leisurely wander past a variety of pristine historical homes and landmarks, including the diminutive Dillsboro Dam and Power House.
From Dillsboro, hop on the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad, where you can sit back, relax in restored luxury cars and steam through 52 miles of countryside broken up by rushing rivers, historical landmarks and the deserted remnants of former film sets.
In the spring, don’t miss the annual Ducks on the Truck, when rubber ducks are tossed off the Scott Creek Bridge to begin their tumultuous journey down the Tuckasegee River to see which one makes it to the finish line first.
Town of Dillsboro, 42 Front St., Dillsboro, N.C. 828-586-1439, visitdillsboro.org , @DillsboroNC.
Cliffs of the Neuse State Park
Families will find this park ideal for camping, gentle hikes and, best of all, taking advantage of the 11-acre natural spring-fed swimming lake complete with a diving platform. Rent a paddle boat, or simply let the kids get their fill of swimming and bouncing about the large floating toys. The lake is divided into a shallow and deep end, and kids must pass a swimming test to be allowed in the deep end.
240 Park Entrance Road, Seven Springs, N.C. 919-778-6234, www.ncparks.gov/cliffs-of-the-neuse-state-park , @NCparks.
