Who knows what you can find hiding in the wilderness of North Carolina? Our rich history dates back to some of the earliest European settlements and Indigenous landmarks, some of which can be experienced firsthand thanks to the fascinating ruins still in place today. These trails to ancient ruins in North Carolina offer fascinating glimpses into days gone by. Whether you’re a history buff or nature enthusiast, you’ll find that adventure awaits at the following destinations.

1. Judaculla Rock
Judaculla Rock
Judaculla Rock is the first location on our list of trails to ancient ruins in North Carolina. Located in Sylva and hiding in the mountains of Jackson County, Judaculla Rock is beyond mysterious with petroglyphs dating back some 3,000 years. Throughout the years since first discovered, archaeologists and researchers have tried to decipher what exactly the rock means and what its original purpose was. For the full story on this spooky yet interesting find, and how to get there, read our piece here.
2. Fort Raleigh
Flickr / Jasperdo
Fort Raleigh is believed to be the site where the original Lost Colony called home. Archaeological discoveries indicate a settlement dating back between 1585-1590. While no one has solved the true mystery of The Lost Colony, today, this section of Roanoke Island has been set aside and reconstructed as an example of where they would have lived.
3. Morrow Mountain State Park
Flickr / Brian Hathcock
While Morrow Mountain is perfect for an adventurous day trip and comes included with plenty of hiking trails, archaeological discoveries here are abundant and interesting. Many of the unearthed quarry sites here were used for thousands of years by Native Americans as sources for raw materials and chipped-stone tools. The rhyolite (the stone) is found on the mountain's summit. See firsthand examples at the Visitor Center.

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4. Town Creek Indian Mound
Flickr / Gerry Dincher
While Town Creek Indian Mound is easily discoverable with no major hiking or trails required, it's still a fascinating part of North Carolina history. Town Creek Indian Mound has been extensively excavated and restored by archaeologists and today what you get is a great reconstruction of Pee Dee Culture dating back to 1000-1600 AD. Town Creek is open year round and includes a platform mound, circular mortuary house, sacred square ground, and a reconstructed ceremonial center.
5. Bethabara Historic Park
Flickr / mbtphoto
Much like above, Bethabara is an easy drive-up with grounds and enchanting gardens to explore the rich Moravian history in the area. While many look to Old Salem or Bethania for that history, Bethabara was one of the first Moravian settlements in North Carolina. Archaeological discoveries like the foundations of buildings and homes dated back to the late 18th century. Reconstructed buildings let you re-experience history for yourself.
6. Brunswick Town
Flickr / Travis
For a ghost town that is more beautiful than it is eerie, Brunswick Town is an interesting place to spend a day. This abandoned Colonial-era village contains a wealth of history as well as ruins. Read our full article on the history, how to get there and what to see once you're there here.
7. Endor Iron Furnace
Flickr / Adam Winsor
This one will require a bit of a walk through the woods, and if you're going during summer be especially careful for snakes and spiders (eek!). Located in Cumnock this one isn't so much ancient as it is interesting. Built in 1861, the furnace was in operation until 1864 due to large iron deposits on the Deep River. It was also used by the Confederate Army during the Civil War.

Have you visited any of these trails to ancient ruins in North Carolina before? What did you think about your experience? We’d love to hear from you in the comments below!

For more ways to explore and discover our state, check out these ten North Carolina landmarks that are hiding in plain sight.

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trails to ancient ruins in North Carolina

Beth C. | November 16, 2020

What is the oldest building in North Carolina?

As you might have guessed from reading about the trails to ancient ruins in North Carolina, the Tar Heel State is positively filled with historic landmarks. Lane House is among the oldest buildings in North Carolina, and it's the oldest known house. Located in Edenton, North Carolina, this building dates back to 1718. The house is currently privately owned. When the owners were having renovations work done, hand-hewn beams were discovered, and thus is was figured out just how historic this story-and-a-half home is.

What is the oldest town in North Carolina?

North Carolina's communities long predated the arrival of European settlers. Tribes of Indigenous peoples were displaced from the state, and only a few of them still remain today. The oldest incorporated town in North Carolina is the town of Bath. Incorporated in 1705, it's believed that the town was settled by colonists near the Pamlico River in the 1690s. If you visit the town of Historic Bath today, you'll be able to admire some of the restored historic buildings around town. Interestingly, Bath was the first port of entry in North Carolina.

What are the best hiking trails in North Carolina?

North Carolina has countless hiking trails, ranging in difficulty and terrain. Whether you're looking to hike along the coast or deep within the Blue Ridge Mountains, you have endless options to choose from. Some of the best hiking trails in North Carolina include Looking Glass Rock Trail, Catawba Falls Trail, Rainbow Falls Trail, Crabtree Falls Trail, Triple Falls Trail, Craggy Pinnacle Trail, Black Balsam Knob, Graveyard Fields Trail, and Mount Mitchell Trail. Looking to explore some more of North Carolina's best trails? Check out our list of some of the best short-and-sweet treks in North Carolina.

 

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Featured Addresses
Judaculla Rock, Caney Fork, NC 28723, USA
Fort Raleigh National Historic Site, 1401 National Park Dr, Manteo, NC 27954, USA
Morrow Mountain State Park, 49104 Morrow Mountain Rd, Albemarle, NC 28001, USA
Town Creek Indian Mound State Historic Site, 509 Town Creek Mound Rd, Mt Gilead, NC 27306, USA
Historic Bethabara Visitor Center, 2171 Bethabara Rd, Winston-Salem, NC 27106, USA
Brunswick Town/Fort Anderson State Historic Site, 8884 St Phillips Rd SE, Winnabow, NC 28479, USA
670 Deep River Rd, Sanford, NC 27330, USA