Explore Highlands, NC with Private Kids Adventure Tours: Nature Exploration and Outdoor Fun
Difficulty
easy
Duration
2–3 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for families with children of various ages; minimal physical strain but able to walk on natural terrain
Overview
Discover how Private: Kids Adventure Tours in Highlands, NC creates memorable outdoor experiences for families with children, blending nature exploration, education, and fun in the Southern Blue Ridge Mountains.
Private: Kids Adventure Tours
Mostly driving • 2 hours • All ages
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About This Adventure
Come Adventure with us!
Choose the Gem Mine or Coaster
Gem Mine Adventure
Duration
2 hours
Rates
**Price $392.00 & includes 1-4 guest + $98.00 pp, + $10.00 per small bucket paid at the Gem Mine. Ages 2 and Under: Free!
Max guests 38
Ability level
Mostly driving with some easy walking
Description
While all of our tours are kid friendly, this 2 hour private adventure tour is geared especially toward kids with an activity they love, gem mining! We start in Highlands NC with an open air tour to via Gold Mine Rd and California Mountain to Jackson Hole Gem Mine.
On the way learn about the Nantahala National Forest. There are easy short walks (with some steep sections) to see several waterfalls and spectacular views along the way.
Our open-air adventure vehicles will whisk you along the scenic Cullasaja Gorge National Park back to Highlands NC.
About the adventure
- Educational
- Some 4x4 dirt roads
- Ideal for Photography
- Customer Dogs Allowed
- Relaxed hiking
- Private Customer Favorite
- Fun for Kids
What to wear
Hiking shoes, long pants and shirt, and pack a light rain jacket
Pet Friendly
Customer Dogs Allowed, or you can ask for our dog Aussie to join your adventure.
Notes
Max cap. of our Adventure vehicles is 20 guests. If your groups is larger than 12 we will use 2 or more trucks.
Coaster Adventure:
Come Adventure with us!
Duration
2 hours
Rates
**Price $392.00 & includes 1-4 guest $98.00 pp. includes a scenic adventure truck tour with waterfalls.
Highland Excursion special..."Buy one coaster ride and get one free!
Note: The price of the roller coaster is not included. The "Highlands Outpost" charges $7.00 to $18.00 per person to ride the Scaly Screamer!
The roller coaster has over 3800 feet of gravity-powered thrills through the magnificent Appalachian Mountains! The mountain coaster is the longest in North Carolina, boasting 360 degree turns and gorgeous views that you enjoy at your own speed. You control the speed of your own coaster, so speed down or cruise along the track. This is family fun at its finest! Perfect for the young and the young at heart.
Max guests 34
Ability level
Children must be at least 3-6 yrs old and 38"tall to ride with an adult and 7-12 years old must be 54″ to ride alone
Description
While all of our tours are kid friendly, this 2 hour private Roller Coaster Tour is geared especially toward kids with an activity they love, riding a roller coaster. We start in Highlands NC with an open air Adventure tour then head to the coaster. We then take dirt road adventure to see Dry Falls and Bridle Vail Falls.
On the way learn about the Nantahala National Forest and see spectacular views.
Our open-air adventure vehicles will whisk you along the scenic highway overlooking Blue Valley. Just sit back, relax, and enjoy the ride. ;)
About the adventure
- Educational
- Ideal for Photography
- Customer Dogs Allowed
- Relaxed riding
- Fun for Kids
- Includes a fun roller coaster ride!
- Gift Shopping
What to wear
Hiking shoes, comfortable cloths, and pack a light rain jacket
Pet Friendly
Customer Dogs Allowed, or you can ask for our dog Aussie to join your adventure.
Notes
Max cap. of our Adventure vehicles is 34 guests. If your groups is larger than 12 we will use 2 or more trucks.
Adventure Tips
Bring sturdy shoes for creek exploration
Waterproof or quick-drying shoes are essential for kids who want to splash and explore the mountain streams safely.
Dress in layers to handle mountain weather
Highlands’ elevation means rapid temperature changes; packing layers keeps kids comfortable during your tour.
Use bug spray to keep critters at bay
The forest environment can be buggy; applying insect repellent helps ensure an enjoyable outing.
Stay hydrated throughout the adventure
Bring water bottles to keep kids hydrated during active exploration in the woods.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Eastern box turtle
- Black bear (rare sightings)
History
The Highlands region has been a summer retreat since the late 19th century, with early settlers drawn to its cool mountain climate and rich forests.
Conservation
Local outfitters emphasize Leave No Trace principles, helping preserve the fragile mountain ecosystems around Highlands for future generations.
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Adventure Hotspots in Highlands
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Waterproof hiking shoes
Protects feet while crossing streams and walking on wet ground.
spring specific
Lightweight rain jacket
Sudden showers are common; a rain jacket keeps kids dry.
spring specific
Sun hat
Provides shade and protects from sun exposure during the tour.
summer specific
Binoculars
Great for spotting birds and wildlife from a distance.