Best Things to do on a Road Trip from Concord, North Carolina to Ashland, Kentucky
Overview
The journey from Concord, North Carolina to Ashland, Kentucky is a scenic road trip that spans over 350 miles and offers plenty of opportunities for sightseeing and adventure. The halfway point of the trip is Princeton, WV, a charming town nestled in the Appalachian Mountains. The highlights of the journey include a variety of attractions, from historic landmarks to beautiful natural wonders.
Top Five Things to do
Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Visiting the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a must for anyone traveling through the region. The park boasts stunning mountain vistas, lush forests, and diverse wildlife, making it a paradise for nature lovers. Visitors can explore the park's numerous hiking trails, take in the breathtaking views from Clingmans Dome, and learn about the area's rich cultural history at the Mountain Farm Museum.
Interesting Fact: The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is the most visited national park in the United States, attracting over 12 million visitors annually.
Birthplace of Country Music Museum
Music enthusiasts should make a stop at the Birthplace of Country Music Museum in Bristol, Tennessee. The museum celebrates the legacy of the 1927 Bristol Sessions, which are considered the "Big Bang" of modern country music. Visitors can immerse themselves in the history of country, bluegrass, and folk music through interactive exhibits, artifacts, and live performances.
Interesting Fact: The 1927 Bristol Sessions are often credited with launching the careers of iconic musicians such as The Carter Family and Jimmie Rodgers.
Natural Tunnel State Park
Located in Duffield, Virginia, Natural Tunnel State Park is home to an awe-inspiring geological wonder. The park's main attraction is a massive naturally formed limestone tunnel that stretches 850 feet long and is tall enough to accommodate a 10-story building. Visitors can take a scenic chairlift ride to the tunnel floor, go hiking in the surrounding wilderness, or enjoy a leisurely picnic in the park's picturesque setting.
Interesting Fact: The Natural Tunnel is often referred to as the "Eighth Wonder of the World" due to its remarkable size and scale.
Breaks Interstate Park
Known as the "Grand Canyon of the South," Breaks Interstate Park straddles the border of Virginia and Kentucky and offers breathtaking views of the Russell Fork River Gorge. Visitors can explore the park's rugged landscape through a network of hiking trails, go birdwatching, or embark on a thrilling whitewater rafting adventure. The park also features a visitor center with informative exhibits about the area's natural and cultural history.
Interesting Fact: Breaks Interstate Park is one of only two interstate parks in the United States, established by an agreement between the states of Virginia and Kentucky in 1954.
Ashland, Henry Clay Estate
As the final destination of the road trip, Ashland, Kentucky is home to the historic Henry Clay Estate. The estate features the stately mansion of Kentucky statesman Henry Clay, known as the "Great Compromiser" for his role in shaping American politics. Visitors can take guided tours of the mansion and its grounds, gaining insight into Clay's life, career, and influence on the nation's history.
Interesting Fact: Henry Clay's estate is a National Historic Landmark and is open to the public as a museum and educational center.
Conclusion
The road trip from Concord, North Carolina to Ashland, Kentucky offers a diverse range of attractions and experiences that are sure to delight travelers. From the natural beauty of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park to the cultural heritage of the Birthplace of Country Music Museum, this journey invites exploration and discovery. With plenty of stops along the way, the trip takes approximately 6-7 hours, making it an ideal weekend getaway for adventure seekers and history buffs alike.