Things to do Outside

If you are looking to experience an adventure in the Great Outdoors, the High Country has it all – from world-class rock climbing and whitewater kayaking to stellar biking opportunities and an endless array of trails, waterfalls and campsites. With so much available to the outdoor enthusiast, the options can be overwhelming. But not to worry. Our visitors guide can get you started by introducing you to the mountain outdoors and the guides and businesses that can help you enjoy summertime in the mountains.

Biking: Whether you enjoy cycling along Lance Armstrong’s stomping grounds or mountain biking down the ski slopes in the summer, the High Country has become a premiere biking destination because of the plethora of options that now exist. Hiking & Camping: With four state parks, the Blue Ridge Parkway and the Pisgah National Forest just a short drive from downtown Boone, the trails to trek along, campsites to pitch a tent in and mountain views to wake up to are endless. Swimming Holes & Waterfalls: The High Country is

known for its enchanting waterfalls and playful swimming holes. River Sports: From experiencing the thrill of turbulent whitewater in a kayak to the relaxation of coasting down a slow-moving river in a tube or canoe, the High Country has endless river sport opportunities – not to mention trout-stocked waters for anglers. Ziplining: Ziplining is a ridiculously fun activity, and no adventure compares to gliding through a forest canopy or flying above rolling hillsides of the Blue Ridge that dip and dive as far as the eye can see. Gem Mining: Rubies, emeralds, topaz and quartz are all stones that can be found by visiting any gem mine in the High Country. In an area that is overflowing with minerals and that started the Gold Rush, mines are a favorite for both tourists and locals. Fishing: Anglers seek out the High Country as a destination for their favorite pastime. The area’s rivers are home to rainbow, brown and brook trout, and outfitters are ready to take you to the fish.

You’re Invited Awesome Places To See Afternoon Outdoor Music

SEE PAGES 102 – 108 FOR LIST OF DAILY EVENTS

Jones House Concerts on the Lawn

Valle Crucis Music in the Valle Banner Elk Concerts in the Park

Sugar Mountain Music Series

Bayou Concert in the Courtyard

In the heart of downtown Boone overlooking bustling King Street, sits the Jones House. Many people gather to listen to free concerts of popular regional acts and local favorites. At the time of print, the 2021 Summer Concerts dates were not yet announced. Folks are encouraged to check back on the joneshouse.org website for updates on the performance series. The Tate-Evans Park, nestled in beautiful Banner Elk, has an outdoor amphitheater where every Thursday afternoon a free concert takes place. Everyone brings a lawn chair and a cooler to listen to popular local music groups. From the blues to bluegrass, there’s always a little grooving and a raffle giveaway.

Whether you’re new to the Valle Crucis area or you’ve been enjoying it for years, there’s no time like summertime to head out and enjoy the beautiful Valle Crucis Community Park. The park’s summer concert series, Music in the Valle, provides the audience with free enjoyable music from various bands in a relaxing manner as folks can bring lawn chairs and blankets to set up all around the area. Join the fun on Wednesday evenings with Sugar Mountain’s Golf and Tennis Club House Deck’s very popular summertime event. Enjoy food, drinks and tunes on the big deck overlooking the golf course and panoramic mountain views. The concert series has free admission and also offers available indoor seating. The live music runs from 6 to 9 p.m. so bring your dancing shoes and prepare for evenings like no other.

Enjoy Music on the Lawn at the Best Cellar in Blowing Rock. The lawns of the Ragged Inn and Gardens are an acre of beautiful flowers and greenery. On Friday evenings, the lawns fill up with folks for a truly great social event with wonderful music, a great outside bar and plenty of room to wander around. Some folks bring a chair and others just mingle, but everyone has a great time and returns week after week. The Bayou Smokehouse and General Store in scenic downtown Banner Elk greets guests with authentic Louisiana and Texas cuisine. And with that Cajun spirit, the Bayou helps host the Concerts in the Courtyard Series on Tuesdays. Surrounded by shops and restaurants, the courtyard bustles with music and people with everyone having a good time. The Bayou is great place to start a night on the town.