Things to Know

TAKE A DRIVE - HAVE A LOOK AROUND — On scenic roads, like the historic Blue Ridge Parkway, the views go on forever in the winter. See what’s hidden behind the summer leaves – you’ll see incredible rock formations, frozen waterfalls, wildlife, mountain homes and farms. When driving, be conscious of other drivers. If you notice a line of cars behind you, just pull over and let them pass. See page 50 for favorite Parkway Overlooks and page 48 for directions to three statedesignated Scenic By-Ways. EAT AT SOMEPLACE NEW — You’re on vacation, after all. More than 200 local restaurants are just waiting for you to be their next guest. Try something new and check out one of the restaurants mentioned in this guide (page 30). The High Country is quite proud of its quality of restaurants; you’re guaranteed to find great food, one-of-a-kind atmosphere and friendly faces. WINTER FORECAST UPDATES — Winter weather can change fast. www. BooneWeather.com is where locals keep up-to-date. For Parkway conditions, call 828-298-0348. Tune in and listen to local radio on channel 1450 AM.

Things To Know

Our visitor guide includes information you can use to make the most of your vacation time in the High Country. Don’t miss out on all the places, the businesses and restaurants the area has to offer!

Chambers of Commerce

n BOONE: 264-2225 • 870 W. King Street, Suite A

Open Mon.-Fri. 8:30-4:30 • www.boonechamber.com

n BLOWING ROCK: 295-7851 • 132 Park Avenue

Open Mon.-Fri. 9-5 • www.blowingrockncchamber.com

n BANNER ELK: 898-8395 • 100 West Main St.

Open Mon.-Sat. 9-4 • www.bannerelk.org

n BEECH MOUNTAIN: 387-9283 • 403-A Beech Mtn Pkwy.

Open Mon.-Sat. 9-5 • www.beechmtnchamber.com

n AVERY-BANNER ELK: 898-5605 • 4501 Tynecastle Hwy.

Suite 2 • Open Mon.-Sun. Various Hours www.averycounty.com

TAKE A HIKE — It’s what we do up here in the mountains. It’s a combination of the solitude and the adventure of twisting trails along an array of mountain landscapes. It’s never knowing what’s around the next bend. And winter hiking, with the leaves off the trees, reveals endless views and hidden treasures along the trails you don’t see in the summer. We’ve compiled some of our favorite hikes and trails for your benefit, starting on page 50.

High Country Press - Online www.HCPress.com

Up-to-date information about the High Country is now available at your fingertips at a brand new website that is constantly updated twenty four seven. A great place to visit to see what’s happening now in these mountains.

A Weekend? A Season? A Lifetime?

Whether you want to rent or buy... we’ve got YOUR mountain getaway. Great Locations. Great Selection. Great Pricing. LET’s fiNd YOURs TOdaY.

What To ExpectWhat To Expect AtAt Ski Ski Areas This SeasonAreas This Season Know Before You Go!Know Before You Go!

The health and safety of our guests, employees and communities, is what we value most. North Carolina Ski Areas Association wants everyone to have a day on the slopes worth repeating, and this season we ask that you “Know Before You Go.” Here, you’ll find tips and ideas of what you might encounter at North Carolina ski areas this season. The health and safety of our guests, employees and communities, is what we value most. North Carolina Ski Areas Association wants everyone to have a day on the slopes worth repeating, and this season we ask that you “Know The health and safety of our guests, employees and communities, is what we value most. North Carolina Ski Areas Association wants everyone to have a day on the slopes worth repeating, Before You Go.” Here, you’ll find tips and ideas of what you might encounter at North Carolina ski areas this season. and this season we ask that you “Know Before You Go.” Here you’ll find tips and ideas of what you might encounter at North Carolina ski areas this season.

VACCINATIONS

OUTDOOR

This season, outdoor operations will look much like they did prior to the pandemic. • Chairlifts will most likely be loaded to capacity • Unrelated parties will be able to ride the lift together • Some enclosed carriers like gondolas and trams may have capacity restrictions • Masks will most likely be optional outside • You can expect standard organization of lift lines • Please wear a mask if you are high-risk or if you feel uncomfortable

INDOOR

This season, indoor operations will vary depending on the ski area. • Ski areas will follow all state and local public health regulations; in some cases, ski areas may have stricter protocols in place • Protocols are subject to change throughout the season • Please follow all signage and requirements

MASKS

Ski areas may ask guests to wear masks indoors and masks may be required for children who are too young to be vaccinated. If you wear a mask, make sure it is two layers of fabric and fits over your nose and mouth.

VACCINATIONS

Ski areas will follow state and/or federal guidelines for employee vaccinations or testing.

OUTDOOR Some ski areas may require proof of vaccination for certain parts of their operation. Be sure to check your ski area's website or call ahead so This season, outdoor operations will look you are prepared. much like they did prior to the pandemic. • Chairlifts will most likely be loaded to capacity PRO TIPS • Unrelated parties will be able to ride the lift together • KNOW BEFORE YOU GO. Staying informed and being flexible are key this season! • Some enclosed carriers like gondolas and trams may have capacity restrictions • Keep a mask in your pocket - you'll prepared if you need one. Throw a kid's pocket, too! always be mask in your • Masks will most likely be optional outside • Carry proof of vaccination in case a business, • You can expect standard organization of event or venue requires it. lift lines • Please wear a mask if you are high-risk or if you feel uncomfortable

visit www.goskinc.com for more information

INDOOR

This season, indoor operations will vary depending on the ski area. • Ski areas will follow all state and local public health regulations; in some cases, ski areas may have stricter protocols in place • Protocols are subject to change throughout the season • Please follow all signage and requirements

MASKS

Ski areas may ask guests to wear masks indoors and masks may be required for children who are too young to be vaccinated. If you wear a mask, make sure it is two layers of fabric and fits over your nose and mouth.

What To Expect At Ski Areas This Season Know Before You Go!

VACCINATIONS

Ski areas will follow state and/or federal guidelines for employee vaccinations or testing. Some ski areas may require proof of vaccination for certain parts of their operation. Be sure to check your ski area's website or call ahead so you are prepared.

PRO TIPS

•KNOW BEFORE YOU GO. Staying informed and being flexible are key this season! • Keep a mask in your pocket - you'll always be prepared if you need one. Throw a mask in your

OUTDOOR • kid's pocket, too! Carry proof of vaccination in case a business, This season, outdoor operations will look event or venue requires it. much like they did prior to the pandemic. • Chairlifts will most likely be loaded to capacity • Unrelated parties will be able to ride the lift together • Some enclosed carriers like gondolas and trams may have capacity restrictions • Masks will most likely be optional outside • You can expect standard organization of lift lines visit www.goskinc.com for more information • Please wear a mask if you are high-risk or if you feel uncomfortable

INDOOR

This season, indoor operations will vary depending on the ski area. • Ski areas will follow all state and local public health regulations; in some cases, ski areas may have stricter protocols in place • Protocols are subject to change throughout the season • Please follow all signage and requirements

MASKS

Ski areas may ask guests to wear masks indoors and masks may be required for children who are too young to be vaccinated. If you wear a mask, make sure it is two layers of fabric and fits over your nose and mouth.

Ski areas will follow state and/or federal guidelines for employee vaccinations or testing. Some ski areas may require proof of vaccination for certain parts of their operation. Be sure to The health and safety of our guests, employees and communities, is what we value most. North Carolina Ski Areas Association wants everyone to have a day on the slopes worth repeating, and this season we ask that you “Know check your ski area's website or call ahead so Before You Go.” Here, you’ll find tips and ideas of what you might encounter at North Carolina ski areas this season.you are prepared. • OUTDOOR This season, outdoor operations will look much

PRO TIPS like they did prior to the pandemic. • Chairlifts will most likely be loaded to capacity • KNOW BEFORE YOU GO. Staying informed and • Unrelated parties will be able to ride the lift being flexibletogether are key this season! • Keep • a mask in your pocket - you'll always Some enclosed carriers like gondolas and trams may have capacity restrictions be prepared if you need one. Throw a mask in • Masks will most likely be optional outside your kid's pocket, too! • You can expect standard organization of lift • Carry proof of vaccination inlines case a business, VACCINATIONS Ski areas will follow state and/or federal event • or venue requires it. Please wear a mask if you are high-risk or if you feel uncomfortable guidelines for employee vaccinations or testing. Some ski areas may require proof of vaccination for certain parts of their operation. Be sure to check your ski area's website or call ahead so you are prepared.

PRO TIPS

•KNOW BEFORE YOU GO. Staying informed and being flexible are key this season! • Keep a mask in your pocket - you'll always be prepared if you need one. Throw a mask in your kid's pocket, too! • Carry proof of vaccination in case a business, event or venue requires it.

• INDOOR This season, indoor operations will vary depending on the ski area. • Ski areas will follow all state and local public health regulations; in some cases, ski areas may have stricter protocols in place • Protocols are subject to change throughout the season • Please follow all signage and requirements MASKS Ski areas may ask guests to wear masks indoors and masks may be required for children who are too young to be vaccinated. If you wear a mask, make sure it is two layers of fabric and fits over your nose and mouth. VACCINATIONS Ski areas will follow state and/or federal guidelies for employee vaccinations or testing. Some ski areas may require proof of vaccination for certain parts of their operation. Be sure to check your ski area’s website or call ahead so • PRO TIPS you are prepared.

• KNOW BEFORE YOU GO. Staying informed and being flexible are key this season. www.goskinc.com for more information • Keep a mask in your pocket – you’ll always be prepared if you need one. Throw a mask in your kid’s pocket, too. • Carry proof of vaccination in case a business, event or venue requires it.

A Trip Through The High Country

Newland

Linville Sugar Mountain Seven Devils Beech Mountain Banner Elk Grandfather Mountain Boone Sugar Grove Blowing Rock

The High Country’s name came from a marketing effort in the early 1980s aimed at pulling the area together and creating an identity for locals and visitors alike. The counties of Watauga and Avery form the heart of the High Country -- having the main towns of Boone, Blowing Rock and Banner Elk. The High Country stretches from Mitchell county in the west over to Ashe, Alleghany and Wilkes counties in the east.

AVERY COUNTY

Avery County was the last of North Carolina’s 100 counties to be formed in 1911. It was named for Waightstill Avery, a colonel in the American Revolution. The county has a total area of 247 square miles and is extremely rural and mountainous, with all of the county’s terrain located within the Appalachian Mountains range. The county contains local attractions such as Grandfather Mountain, Grandfather Mountain State Park, Linville Gorge Wilderness, Linville Falls, Pisgah National Forest and the Blue Ridge Parkway, all of which attract large numbers of visitors. In October, the annual “Woolly Worm” festival at the old school in downtown Banner Elk draws visitors from around the world. The Grandfather Mountain Highland Games is held each year the first full weekend after July 4 and is one of the largest Scottish gatherings outside of Scotland. Ski Resorts are immensely popular tourist destinations in the cold winter months when snowfall and manmade snow create ideal skiing conditions. Second homes, condominiums, rental properties, hotel-motel lodging, bed and breakfasts, campgrounds and real estate in general are critically important sources of jobs, income and tax revenue. The brilliant fall colors and foliage of the surrounding mountains, winter sports, mountain bicycling, hiking, horseback riding, warm weather camping, hiking, wildlife viewing, hunting and searching for geological finds all make for a yearround tourism-generated and regular real estate market.

WATAUGA COUNTY

Watauga County was formed in 1849 and named for its Watauga River. It is said that the name originates from a Native American word, various translations of which include “beautiful water,” “whispering waters,” “village of many springs” and “river of islands,” to name a few. With a total of 313 square miles, Watauga County is extremely mountainous. All of its terrain is located within the Appalachian Mountains and its highest point is Grandfather Mountain’s Calloway Peak. It’s county seat and largest community, the Town of Boone, sits at 3,333 feet above sea level — the highest elevation of any city in the Eastern United States with a population more than 10,000. Boone is home to Appalachian State University, which is one of 16 schools in the University of North Carolina system. It is nationally recognized for offering high quality education at a great value to its students, as well as for its commitment to sustainability. Its comprehensive degree offerings served more than 18,000 students last year.

BOONE

The Town of Boone serves as the seat of Watauga County and is home to Appalachian State University. The town acquired its name from the famous pioneer and explorer Daniel Boone, who on several occasions camped within the present city limits as he traveled through the area on his way to Kentucky in the late 1700s. Through the years, Boone has become the hub of commerce in the North Carolina High Country area, offering virtually everything a resident or

visitor can desire. Boone has long been a favorite vacation destination, beginning in the 1880s when Southerners came here to escape the summer heat. Today, Boone is recognized by travel journalists as an “ultimate outdoor adventure destination” in the Boone Fourth of July Parade Southeast. The Town of Boone was incorporated

Downtown Boone in 1872 and its current population is 19,668. At 3,333 feet, Boone has the highest elevation of any town of its size east of the Mississippi River.

BLOWING ROCK

The Town of Blowing Rock is only three square miles, yet is home to more than 100 shops, about two dozen restaurants and nearly 20 hotels and inns. Blowing Rock was named “Prettiest Small Town in North Carolina” in a poll of in-state travel professionals and writers, and in 2008 the town was named a “Favorite Southern Destination” by readers of Southern Living. Its Main

Street and adjacent Town Park has been a tourist destination for more than 100 years. Known as “the Crown of the Blue Ridge,” this quaint mountain village sits astride the Eastern Continental Divide at a cool elevation of 3,500 to 4,000 feet above sea Main Street Blowing Rock level and has a perma nent year-round popula tion of approximately 1,373. It was incorporated in 1889.

BANNER ELK

The Town of Banner Elk is a beautiful mountain town away from the busy crowds where one can still have access to the finer conveniences found in larger metropolitan areas. Located in Avery County, it is surrounded by some of the highest mountains east of the Rockies, including Grandfather Mountain and Beech Mountain. Banner Elk

is home to Lees-McRae College and features a lively arts and cultural scene, complete with an intimate pedestrian shopping district of upscale boutiques and outstanding restaurants. The town was first settled in 1825 Welcome Sign to Banner Elk and incorporated in 1911. Today, it has a population of 1,049 full-time residents. Banner Elk sits at 3,739 feet above sea level.

BEECH MOUNTAIN

At an elevation of 5,526 feet above sea level, Beech Mountain is the highest incorporated community east of the Mississippi River. This year the Town of Beech Mountain celebrated it 40th Anniversary. Originally conceived as a resort community, the Town is home to over 2200 second homes, many of which are available for rent, as well as 600 full-time residents. Over 50 businesses call the mountain home as well, including a ski resort and the muchbeloved Land of Oz theme park. A visit to the Town offers exciting outdoor recreation and mile-high relaxation. Beech Mountain thrives as a unique four-season resort community serving residents and tourists with quality recreational opportunities, attractions, services and the splendor of a true mountain experience. Visitors are drawn to Eastern America’s Highest Town for its climate, its natural and built beauty, and its renowned recreational amenities, invigorating the Town’s economy. While the Beech Mountain Resort is certainly the premier facility for enjoying winter sports, they are not the only game in town. Beech Mountain offers visitors other ways to get out and enjoy the snow this winter. Wooosh on down the Beech Mountain sledding hill. Designed for kids ages 12 and under, the hill is steep enough for older kids to have fun, with a gentler sloping area for younger kids to stay safe. It’s a FUNtastic way to introduce kids to winter sports. The Town of Beech Mountain has also added snowshoeing to its list of activities for visitors. Beech Mountain has an extensive trail system available for snowshoeing. The Visitor Center next to Town Hall is open six days per week. region.

SUGAR MOUNTAIN

The Village of Sugar Mountain was incorporated as a township in 1988, and has grown easily into the perfect resort destination in the North Carolina High Country. The four-seasons resort community debuted in 1968, anchored by the south’s flagship winter ski resort. Today, Sugar Mountain is known for its spring, summer and fall activities, too. The fabulous golf course opened for play in 1974 and was recently rated #2 short course in the USA.. The par-64 layout maximizes every view, every mountain brook and every stand of rhododendron and forest on the 60-acre site. But of course Sugar Mountain is home to North Carolina’s largest ski area offering 21 trails and nine lifts, including a hispeed detachable six-person chairlift that is the fastest in North Carolina. The peak elevation is 5,300 feet, and Sugar Mountain Resort has 115 acres of skiable terrain. The resort offers skiing, snowboarding, tubing, ice skating and snowshoeing, something fun for the entire family. And you won’t find cookie-cutter hotels on our mountain. All of our accommodations are vacation rental homes (all sizes), log cabins and condos with big views. And since the village is a popular ski town, you’ll find everything you need – including many equipment rental shops, sport stores, restaurants and many other things to do nearby. Perhaps Sugar Mountain’s greatest allure, however, is its location. Central to the Blue Ridge Parkway and the heralded resort towns of Blowing Rock, Boone, Banner Elk and Beech Mountain, Sugar Mountain is arguably the perfect spot for every High Country adventure.