Teen Travel in North Carolina

ADVENTURE AHEAD

Surf the swells along the coast, hike the oldest mountain range in North America, paddle among training Olympic athletes, and explore the Outer Banks coastal maritime forests on our North Carolina adventure travel and marine exploration program. Ranging from the sea to the moutains, the Outer Banks program is perfect for those desiring to ignite a passion for exploring the great outdoors.

The Outer Banks combines the striking beauty of the barrier islands with the island's rich colonial history. Adventure seekers can retrace the steps of the Wright brothers, climb to the top of the scenic lighthouse on Cape Hatteras, play on the largest sand dunes on the East Coast, and embark on an overnight kayak through pristine salt marshes. Nature lovers will enjoy the 130+ miles of pristine coastline and a variety of unique and important ecosystems including: intertidal dunes, maritime forests, shrub thickets, and freshwater and brackish marshes. Moreover, the North Carolina mountains offer a refuge from the sunny coast: refreshing mountain streams, meandering hiking trails, and charming mountain communities. By journeying from the ocean to the mountains, those on The Road gain a deep understanding for why we seek time in the nature: an understanding that will no doubt last a lifetime.

Join us as we explore natural wonders, discover local folklore, and delight in the allure of these mysterious islands – once home to legendary pirates and vanishing colonial tribes. 

YOUR WORLD AWAITS

Learn more about the Road Less Traveled adventure travel and marine exploration program on North Carolina: Outer Banks

TELL ME MORE ABOUT THE ACCOMMODATIONS:

While in North Carolina, we stay in tents at picturesque campgrounds located near areas such as Cape Hatteras National Seashore and Pisgah National Forest. On the Outer Banks, we are located just a short walk from the dunes and the lullaby of crashing waves. In the Appalachian Mountains, we sleep among towering pines, the sound of mummering cicadas, and the glitter of Synchronous fireflies. 

TELL ME MORE ABOUT THE BLUE RIDGE MOUNTAINS:

No trip to North Carolina is complete without venturing into the highland woods, a place unlike any other and loved by many. Refreshing swimming holes and waterfalls. Endless hikes that move through the green forest. Rich culture and folklore dating back to the Native Americans. Our group explores these ancient hills as we adjust from flow of the coast to the vibrancy of the forest. The Appalachian Mountains have a unique place-based culture. One can even feel the energy of these hills: thriving, lush, inviting. Join us as we camp beneath the stars, search for wildlife, hike endless trails, and gaze in awe at the age-old petroglyphs of the Cherokee.

TELL ME MORE ABOUT THE OUTER BANKS OVERNIGHT KAYAK TRIP:

Taking a break from our service projects, we paddle down the Roanoke River, luxuriate in the pristine Blue Mountain waters and watch the great American Bass dance beneath our kayaks. Camping out on on riverside platforms, we listen to the sounds of 214+ migratory birds as they fly overhead and learn about the river's rich colonial history and lost colony. Making our way out into the Ablemarle Sound, we paddle through the salt-water playground and into a series of estuaries and and quiet streams that wind deep into the heart of North Carolina.

TELL ME MORE ABOUT THE US NATIONAL WHITEWATER CENTER:

On our journey from the Atlantic to Appalachia, we stop the U.S. National Whitewater Center, where Olympic athletes train for whitewater sports for the summer olympics. Here, we have the option to whitewater raft, rock climb, zip line, and complete multi-level ropes courses within one of the most advanced centers in the country. Be adventurous, have fun, and kindle your passion for the outdoors and the Whitewater Center.

Interested in hearing more? We have hundreds of alumni families who can tell you more about their RLT experience. Please contact our office at 773-342-5200 or admissions@theroadlesstraveled.com for more info.