BEAT THE HEAT

25 COOL WAYS TO CHILL OUT IN WNC THIS SUMMER

When the summer sun starts to sizzle, Western North Carolina offers countless ways to cool down—mountain-style. Dive into refreshing water adventures, explore the depths of mysterious caves and caverns, hike your way to high-elevation breezes, and cap it all off with a sweet scoop (or two) from the region’s best ice cream shops on our Ice Cream Trail. Whether you’re craving thrill, chill, or a little of both, this list of 25 unforgettable escapes is your guide to staying cool all season long.

WATER ADVENTURES

Whitewater Rafting on the Nantahala River | Visit Website

Experience the thrill of whitewater rafting on the iconic Nantahala River, one of Western North Carolina’s most exhilarating outdoor adventures. Perfect for first-timers and seasoned paddlers alike, this scenic river features splashy Class II and III rapids winding through a stunning mountain gorge. For an unforgettable ride, partner with the renowned Nantahala Outdoor Center (NOC)—a premier outfitter offering expert-guided trips, gear rentals, and riverside amenities that make your adventure safe, seamless, and wildly fun. Dive into the adventure where world-class whitewater meets breathtaking Appalachian beauty.

Tubing on Deep Creek | Visit Website

Float your cares away with a tubing adventure on Deep Creek near Bryson City, a favorite summer escape in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. With both gentle sections for relaxing and mild rapids for a touch of thrill, it’s perfect for families and fun-seekers alike. Along the way, you’ll pass scenic waterfalls like Tom Branch and Indian Creek Falls. Local outfitters, such as Deep Creek Lodge and Tube Outpost, Deep Creek Tube Center & Campground, and JJ’s Tube Rentals, offer affordable tube rentals just steps from the water—making it easy to cool off and enjoy the ride.

North Shore of Fontana Lake | Visit Website

The North Shore of Fontana Lake, tucked within Great Smoky Mountains National Park, is a remote and rugged destination accessible only by boat or the Lakeshore Trail.

Visitors come for backcountry campsites, pristine trout streams like Hazel Creek and Eagle Creek, and the quiet beauty of a wilderness largely untouched. Whether hiking the Lakeshore Trail or arriving by water shuttle, the North Shore invites deep exploration of both history and nature. Click here for information on guided tours, scenic boat cruises, shuttle information to the North Shore and more! * Related articles: The Road to Nowhere, Decoration Day at Cable Cemetery and What Lies Beneath Fontana Lake.