High Country Press
Visitor Guide Winter 2016 F R E E
The Official Guide for
THINGS TO DO Where To Go ... This Winter
High Country Ski & Snow Resorts Profiles of Appalachian Ski Mtn, Beech Mountain Resort Hawksnest and Sugar Mountain
Hiking - SHOPPING - Eating
Attractions - Adventures North Carolina’s
High Country
Mountains
Boone • Blowing vRock i s i• t oBanner r ’ s gElk uide
W I N TER 2 0 1 6
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Stay and Play
Skiing, Hiking, Tubing, Ice Skating & More
COMe BACk TO SUGAR ThIS WINTeR and Experience the NEW Summit Express High Speed Lift!
Take Advantage of Our Winter Value Packages
The Village Of SUGAR MOUNTAIN www.SEESUGAR.com • 828-898-9292 B
v i s i t o r ’ s g u i d e W I N TER 2 0 1 6
AREA’S NEWEST & BEST
SKI & BOARD
RENTALS EVERYTHING TO GET YOU ON THE SLOPES!
828/ 898-9786
SHAPE SKIS DEMOS PERFORMANCE JUNIOR SNOWBLADES CLOTHING BOARDS
Reserve Your Gear Online: www.SkiCountrySports.com
ACROSS FROM THE ENTRANCE TO SUGAR MOUNTAIN IN BANNER ELK v i s i t o r ’ s g u i d e W I N TER 2 0 1 6
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Contents Things to Know
6
Helpful Information
Outfitters
12
Winter Time in the Mountains Equals Cold Outdoor Adventures
Snow Sports
14
Fun Things To Do In The Snow
Fun Things to Do
16
Vacation Stops Not To Be Missed
The Importance of a Ski Lesson
18
Instruction Helps You Learn Much Faster Than On Your Own
High Country Ski & Snow Resorts
22
Profiles of Appalachian Ski Mtn, Ski Beech, Hawksnest and Sugar Mountain
Restaurants
32
A Broad Range Of Dining Opportunities
Snow Tubing & Ice Skating
46
Besides Traditional Skiing & Snowboarding, Give These Snow Sports a Try
Shopping
48
A Compilation Of Neat Shops, Businesses And Boutiques
Parkway Hikes & Sights
56
Favorites Stops And Hikes Along The Blue Ridge Parkway
line
Big Events This Winter
60
For More Information
Visit Our Website
For what’s going on right now in the High Country. Check out our website to see what’s happening while you’re here in the mountains.
HCPress.com News & Information Now
Staff Box High Country Press
Visitor Guide
Publisher/Editor Ken Ketchie
art director Debbie Carter
ASSOCIATE EDITORs Jessica Isaacs & Jesse Wood photography
Pictures in this issue are from our photo files and include photos from Todd Bush, James Fay & Randy Johnson as well as submitted pictures. 2
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On the Cover Photo Taken At Sugar Mountain
Photo by Todd Bush Todd & his wife Lorie operate a commercial photography studio in Banner Elk, NC. His photographs have been published on book covers, posters, cards, calendars and in numerous magazines such as - National Geographic Adventure, Time, Ski Magazine, Family Fun, Southwest Art, Southern Living, Blue Ridge Country, Our State and others.
www.BushPhoto.com High Country Press Publications P.O. Box 152, Boone, NC 28607 (828) 264-2262
Stay A Few Days With A Rental . . . Or A Lifetime with Your Own Condominium or Townhome
Echota is a community of elegantly crafted, mountain-style condominiums, townhomes and custom homes. Families from all over the Southeast are already enjoying the maintenance-free luxury of Echota with ridgeline views of Grandfather Mountain or the Watauga River Valley. Properties starting from the $200s for breathtaking views and outstanding value – plus innovative features. Come have a look today.
Foscoe Rentals offers Log Cabins, Condos, Townhomes, Vacation Homes for a Mountain Vacation for Any Season.
Visit our Sales and Rental Offices located at Hwy. 105 South near Foscoe ... between Boone and Banner Elk. Call 800-333-7601 to arrange a visit or 800-723-7341 for rentals. Or visit our website at: www.EchotaNC.com for more information. v i s i t o r ’ s g u i d e W I N TER 2 0 1 6
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WI N T E R I S E R E H R E T BET
Great restaurants, cozy lodging, romantic getaways and family fun. BannerElk.com • 844-824-6777
Compete for ďŹ rst tracks with our new ski and snowboard team.
www.lmc.edu
Your Future Elevated | Banner Elk, NC | 828.898.5241
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! Let our winter guide help you search the High Country. 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 winter trees – 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 56 for favorite Parkway Overlooks and page 54 for directions to three state-designated 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 32). 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 and 100.7 FM.
HIGH CTRY HOST PIC
High Countr y Host Visitor Center This is one of the best visitors’ centers you’ll find anywhere. The people who work here know more about this area than possibly anywhere else, and they will be more than happy to direct you to your destination, help you discover cool things to do and share activity suggestions and calendar events. The office is located on Highway 321 in Boone, directly across from Burger King. Call them at 828-264-1299. 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 6
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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 56.
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A Trip Through The High Country Newland
Linville
Boone Grandfather Mountain Seven Devils Sugar Mountain Blowing Rock Banner Elk Sugar Grove Beech Mountain
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
A
very 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
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WATAUGA county
atauga 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 8
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.
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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.
DISCOVER OUR POSITIVE ALTITUDE!
Play tennis, hike, shop, tube, zipline or just relax while enjoying some of the best views around! From nature lovers to adrenaline junkies, there is so much to do and see in the area, and staying in Seven Devils makes everything easily accessible from our great central location. You will find an array of lodging choices... whether you stay for a weekend, a season or a lifetime!
Town of Seven Devils For Zip Line: 828/963-6561
For Information on the Town of Seven Devils: 828/963-5343 • www.SevenDevils.net Ad Sponsored by the Seven Devils Tourism Development Authority v i s i t o r ’ s g u i d e W I N TER 2 0 1 6
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All Seasons Mountain Towns
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BOONE
he 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 Southeast. The Town of Boone was incorporated in 1872 and its current population is 17,186. At 3,333 feet, Boone has the highest elevation of any town of its size east of the Mississippi River.
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banner elk
he 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 and incorporated in 1911. Today, it has a population of about 1,000 full-time residents. Banner Elk sits at 3,739 feet above sea level.
S
seven devils
even Devils is centrally located between Boone, Blowing Rock, Sugar Mountain, Banner Elk and Beech Mountain. It is a perfect stopping and lodging place during your visit to the High Country and boasts an elevation of up to 4,800 feet. It is certainly a beautiful town and its gorgeous mountain views are 10
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second-to-none. Many peaks can be seen from Seven Devils, including Grandfather Mountain, Hanging Rock Mountain, Sugar Mountain, Beech Mountain, Mount Rogers, Howard’s Knob, Rich Mountain, White Top Mountain, and others. Separating Grandfather Mountain and the Town of Seven Devils is N.C. Highway 105 located on the valley floor between the two. This highway provides easy access to the town, which is known for its wide array of outdoor activities. The central location of Seven Devils puts it very close to a number of attractions and recreational opportunities. Located right in town is the Hawksnest Zipline and the Hawksnest Snow Tubing Resort. Visit Seven Devils today! You will be glad you did. It will likely be a great experience you will not soon forget.
sugar mountain
T
he Village of Sugar Mountain was incorporated as a township in 1988, and has grown easily into the perfect resort destination in the High Country. The fourseasons 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. The par-64 layout maximizes every view, every mountain brook and every stand of rhododendron and forest on the 60-acre site. The tennis at Sugar is just as spectacular. Six courts, meticulously maintained of fast-dry, Har-tru clay, are wildly popular from May through October. And, like the golf, the tennis facilities are open to everyone, either on a pay-as-you-go basis, or economical season pass options. Perhaps Sugar Mountain’s greatest allure, however, is its location. Central to the Blue Ridge Parkway and the heralded resort towns of the High Country, Sugar Mountain is arguably the perfect spot for every High Country adventure. Hundreds of condominiums, town homes, chalets and cabins are available to visitors at very affordable prices. Hiking, whitewater rafting, cycling and more are available, too. Dining out in the region is absolutely world class. Discover a rare place of tranquility, beauty and great times.
BOONE’S LARGEST SKI & BOARD SHOP
1380 HIGHWAY 105 SOUTH, BOONE • (828) 264-RENT 10-6 Monday-Saturday • 1-6 Sundays
www.1stTracks.com
From Skiing, Snowboarding, Ice Skating and Tubing, Sugar Mountain Has Everything To Offer!
•Over 150 PrOPerties tO ChOOse FrOm •Winter value PaCkages 30-40% savings!
Call Our Friendly Staff or Visit Our Website to Book Your Reservation Today From Our Family To Yours, It’s Just Sweeter Up Here! 828-898-9746 | 800-438-4555 | www.staysugarmountain.com 3390 Tynecastle Hwy., Banner Elk, NC 28604 v i s i t o r ’ s g u i d e W I N TER 2 0 1 6
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Mountain
DESTINATION
Winter Time in the Mountains . . . Cold Outdoor Adventures
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on’t let the winter weather keep you indoors. Cold and snow in the mountains create new outdoor scenes and adventures—not to mention a great workout! Photos by Randy Johnson And as long as you’re properly outfitted, your body will stay warm and dry while you concentrate on other things, whether it’s snowshoeing, ice climbing, hiking, sledding, snow tubing, skiing, snowboarding or your own custom adventure. Check out these stores to ensure you’ve got all the gear you need for your winter vacation.
Where to go to get outfitted for the mountain outdoors Edge of the world
BANNER ELK. Rent the very best snowboards the High Country has to offer at Edge of the World, including some right off their shelves! You’ll also find all the accessories and clothing you’ll need for a great day on the slopes. We’re the area’s oldest snowboard shop – since 1986. n 828-898-9550. www.edgeoworld.com. See ad on page 31
FARMERS SKI SHOP
BOONE. The Farmers Ski Shop has been serving the High Country since 1969. They offer complete lines of skis, winter clothing and all accessories. Their 6,000 square foot building in Downtown Boone has anything you’ll need to endure the winter weather and to participate in winter sports. n 828-264-4565. See ad on page 15
French Swiss Rentals Skis & Snowboards
828-963-6410 www.skifrench-swiss.com 12
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$3 OFF WITH THIS AD
COMPLETE PACKAGE FIRST FULL DAY
fred’s general store
BEECH MOUNTAIN. No trip to Beech Mountain is complete without a visit to Fred’s. It’s your one-stop shopping spot with everything needed to make your visit complete, including groceries, clothing, accessories and footwear. Stop by the expanded deli for breakfast, lunch or dinner. Fred’s has everything to make your winter visit perfect. n 828-382-4838. www.fredsgeneral.com. See ad on page 19
RECESS SKATE AND SNOW
BOONE. Recess is a locally owned, rider driven skateboard and snowboard shop. We have a very knowledgeable staff dedicated to the highest level of customer service to people of all ages and levels of involvement. We will spend the time to get you into the right gear for your needs. Conveniently located at 1158 Hwy 105 on the way to all local resorts. Make sure to stop in and check out the area’s best selection of skateboards, snowboards, outerwear, footwear, apparel and more. Recess offers a great selection of products from the best skate and snow brands around. Snowboard tunes are also available. n 828-355-9013. www.recessrideshop.com. See ad on page 21
SKI COUNTRY SPORTS
BANNER ELK. Ski Country Sports has served skiers & snowboarders for over 30 years. The dedicated staff is made up of sports enthusiasts, who love what they do. They have the knowledge & expertise to take care of all
of your needs. We are the largest Nordica, Volkl, Tecnica, K2, Northwave, Ride, Salomon and Nitro dealer in the South. We sell more equipment in our stores than any other dealer around. Our customers have learned that we have the largest selection, best prices and, most importantly, the best staff.. n 828-898-9786. www.skicountrysports.com. See ad on page 1
SNOW TOYS BANNER ELK. Giving the “VIP Treatment” to every one of our guests ... Snow Toys takes the time to show your family “the ins and outs” of skiing and boarding in the High Country! “NOT JUST A SKI SHOP” is our motto ... so come and experience the difference of the personal touch! We rent not only skis & boards – but warm clothing, goggles, helmets ... and FUN!! We also sell hats, gloves, socks – AND NEW IN STOCK Snoozies slippers and SoulMate brand items! And, we have the largest selection of sleds and tubes in the High Country!!! COME SEE OUR NEW LOCATION - across the street from the Best Western in Banner Elk - in the High Country Shopping Center - Conveniently located between Beech and Sugar Mountains! Let our great staff set you up for a winning experience! RESERVE YOUR GEAR ONLINE! n 828-898-4199. www.snowtoysnc.com. See ad on this page.
Open 7 Days: 8am to 10:30pm 40 High Country Square (Hwy 184) Banner elk
828 - 898 - 4199
Reserve your gear online: www.SnowToysNC.com CloTHiNg reNTalS
we Sell SledS! v i s i t o r ’ s g u i d e W I N TER 2 0 1 6
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Snow
sports
...Things to do in the snow
Ski Beech ice rink
poplar Grove rd
Off hwy 211 - Blowing Rock
hawksnest
Tubing
Hawksnest is king of the mountain when it comes to tubing, with the largest park on the East Coast. Sugar Mountain also offers four tubing lanes. And Beech Mountain has eight lanes. Chutes are machined formed and regularly groomed for a fantastic ride. Once at the bottom, a conveyor lift takes you back to the top for another ride down. Tubing sessions last one hour and 45 minutes. All you need to do is dress warm. Check with the resorts for session times and ticket prices.
Sledding The snow sport created just for kids—sledding—makes for an easy, fun family treat. There’s always snow on the free sledding hill next to the Beech Mountain Chamber of Commerce. Snowmaking machines and natural snow keep this hill open all winter long. Plastic sleds only. For more info call 1-800-468-5506 or 828-387-9283. Or, simply look around for a snow-covered hill. There’s an extremely popular place on the Blue Ridge Parkway near Blowing Rock. Go 1.7 miles south from Blowing Rock on Highway 221. You’ll find it near the Parkway entrance next to the bridge.
Snow Artists Snowmen, snow angels, snow forts and snowball fights. Hopefully your winter visit will include some snow so you can get outside and enjoy a winter wonderland of snow. In the past, area organizations have hosted contests for the most creative snowmen. Be a snow artist!
Ice Skating All three ski areas offer outdoor ice skating rinks. The rinks are refrigerated and regularly maintained for ice resurfacing. The rinks are fully lighted for night skating. You’ll find plenty of skate rentals available. Ice skating is an excellent activity for everyone in your group or family. Call ahead for group rates.
Moses Cone Trail
Cross-Country Skiing
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The “off-road” skiing experience is a great way to explore the High Country back country on your own time. If closed, the Blue Ridge Parkway is the perfect place to cross-country ski, especially around Moses Cone Manor, which has 25 miles of carriage trails. Beech Mountain and Roan Mountain, Tenn., are two other popular crosscountry skiing spots because of the mountains’ isolated, unpaved roads. Ski Country Sports (828-898-9786) sells cross-country skis. v i s i t o r ’ s g u i d e W I N TER 2 0 1 6
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Check Out These...
Fun Things to Do
The Blowing Rock Blowing Rock. The Blowing Rock is
North Carolina’s oldest travel attraction, established in 1933. It’s an immense cliff 4,000 feet above sea level and overhanging Johns River Gorge, 3,000 feet below. Legend tells of a Chickasaw maiden and her lover, a Cherokee brave, who lept from the cliff and was returned by a gust of wind. The Blowing Rock is open everyday through December and weekends Jan. - Mar. n 828-295-7111. www.theblowingrock.com. See ad on page 17
GRANDFATHER TROUT FARM BANNER ELK. Grandfather Trout Farm has two ponds stocked with trout, and you just pay for what you catch. We’re open all winter. Ideal for large
groups and families with children. Bait, tackle, buckets, nets and other gear provided at no extra charge. After you’re done, the staff will clean and pack your catch for you. n 828963-5098. www.grandfathertroutfarm.com. See ad on page 17
MYSTERY HILL BLOWING ROCK. The house that defies physics, Mystery Hill, is a gravitational anomaly. Here you’ll stand at a 45-degree angle, see balls roll uphill and witness other inexplicable phenomenon. In the Hall of Mystery, you’ll find puzzles, hands-on experiments and optical illusions. Open every day from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. n 828-264-2792. www.mysteryhill-nc.com. See ad on this page
MYSTERY HILL A Great Place to Visit Mystery Hill
Your “Roadside Attraction” for Family Fun!
featuring: The Paranormal Vortex Field • Bubble Rama Appalachian Heritage Museum • Doc’s Gem Mine Professor Finnegan’s Old Time Photos • Gift Shop
Bring in this ad and save $1.00 off admission THis COupOn gOOd fOR eaCH peRsOn in yOuR gROup
Stop in for a quick visit or stay for a while.
PlenTy TO DO! Open yeaR ROund 7 days a week-Rain, snOw OR sHine!
June-august: 9:00am - 8:00 pm september-May: 9:00am-5:00pm
Located between Boone & Blowing Rock at 129 Mystery Hill Lane • 828.263.0507 16
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Have yourself a “Cherry” Little Christmas! All Winter long
❅ wine Tastings ❅ Special events ❅ festivals
na’s Caroli l North est trave ld o raction att 1933! since
CALL TO SCheDuLe YOur 2016 SpeCiAL eveNTS Weddings • Reunions Anniversaries Birthdays
Open Daily: April - December Thur - Mon: January - March The Blowing Rock is an immense cliff 4,000 feet above sea level, overhanging Johns River Gorge 3,000 feet below. The phenomenon is so called because the rocky walls of the gorge form a flume through which the northwest wind sweeps with such force that it returns light objects cast over the void. Hwy 321 S. across from Green Park Inn 432 Rock Rd. Blowing Rock NC 828-295-7111 • www.theblowingrock.com
9557 Linville Falls Hwy. • 828.765.1400 Open Thursday - Sunday 12:00 - 5:00 pm linvillefallSwinery.cOm US 221 north of the Blue Ridge Parkway at Milepost 317 v i s i t o r ’ s g u i d e W I N TER 2 0 1 6
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3 Secrets To Skiing
IT Just Takes An Hour • It’s Actually Fun • And . . . It makes a big difference
O
nce probably isn’t enough for the average person learning to ski or snowboard; it can take up to three times to be comfortable and in control on more difficult terrain. Here’s what Jim Cottrell, president of the French-Swiss Ski College, has to say. “A very high percentage of the people who try winter sports drop out,” he said. “We believe that is because they expect to ski or snowboard and come down intermediate terrain in one day. That’s just not a realistic goal for the average person.” Cottrell has developed training programs for a wide variety of people, including physical education programs for over 100 colleges and universities, and is a Level III Certified Instructor with the Professional Ski Instructors of America. He believes that a progression of lessons is vital: the first lesson lets beginners get comfortable on skis or a board; the transition to intermediate terrain can be made during the second lesson; and by the third, skiing or boarding more difficult terrain is comfortable. “If you learn these skills in this progression, you will learn good fundamental skills quickly,” he said. “When you go back, you’re practicing the right thing and consequently you get better and better.” “It’s that combination of having a
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progression that makes it easy to learn coupled with the fact that you use proper fundamentals,” Cottrell said. “That’s the true value of taking instruction.” Each of the three ski resorts in the area offer group and private lessons for those wishing to learn how to ski or ride. Appalachian Ski Mountain offers a Learn to Ski and Snowboard Package that includes a lesson, equipment and a ski ticket for beginners ages 6 and older. The group lessons are offered at 10 a.m. & 11:15 a.m. for beginners; 2 p.m., beginners & intermediates; 3:15 p.m. private lessons only; 6:15 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. beginners, intermediates & private lessons. Beech Mountain Resort offers free beginner lessons Monday through Thursday with the purchase of rental equipment for participants ages 8 and older. Group and private lessons are offered daily at 9:30, 10:30 and 11:30 a.m., at 1:30, 2:30 and 3:30 p.m. and also at 6:00 p.m. on Fridays, Saturdays and Holidays. At Sugar Mountain Resort, group and private lessons are available on the hour from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. The Sugar Bear Ski School is designed for children ages 5-10 and The Polar Bear Snowboard School is designed for children ages 7-14. Full and halfday programs are available for both programs between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m.
HELICOPTER VIEWS High Country Ski Resorts.
Big New Location!
Across from Best Western on Tynecastle Highway
Masks Goggles Gloves Hats Socks We Sell Sleds
“Not Just a Ski Shop”
Open 7 Days: 8am to 10:30pm
40 High Country Square (Hwy 184) Banner elk
828 - 898 - 4199 Reserve your gear online www.snowtoysnc.com
CLOTHING RENTALS
GROUP RATES
Fred’s
General
Mercantile Co.
of business 32 years
Beech Mountain’s Favorite Where locals and visitors meet
“If we don’t have it ... You don’t need it” Clothing and Mountain Gear Groceries Hardware Deli Snowsports Apparel and Accessories Ski and Snowboard Rentals 828-387-4838
Open from 7:30 am to 10pm every day 501 Beech Mountain Parkway • Beech Mountain, NC www.fredsgeneral.com
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Free Style
Terrain Parks
JAMES FAY Photography
JAMES FAY Photography
A
ll three ski resorts have been aggressively building and improving their Terrain Parks. Shredders, the name given to skiers and snowboarders who “shred” these parks, are enjoying hundreds of features built and maintained by dedicated crews committed to making sure every trip to the parks will be a memorable one. Make sure to check the resorts’ web pages for daily terrain updates and competitions.
JAMES FAY Photography
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Boone Allstars Photography
1158 HWY 105 | Boone NC 828 355 9013 | RecessRideShop.com RecessRideShop @RecessNC
SNOWBOARD RENTALS TUNES | REPAIRS
STOCKING THE BEST SELECTION OF SNOWBOARDS | SKATEBOARDS | FOOTWEAR | APPAREL AND ACCESSORIES IN THE HIGH COUNTRY
Open Year Round | 7 Days a week
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Beech Mountain Resort
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he highest ski resort on the East Coast, Beech Mountain Resort is ready for another epic winter season. The headlining change from this past summer is the new state-of-the-art tubing park, which offers a 700-foot run and a “magic carpet ride” back to the top. Factor in the return of tubing to the village, improvements to the high-speed quad lift, 14 new snow guns and a slew of off-theslopes facelifts and this winter season looks to be the best yet.
The Breakdown Number of Slopes: 16 with Lights • Easiest: 3 • More Difficult: 7 • Most Difficult: 4 • Terrain Park(s): 2 Number of Lifts: 7 Peak Elevation: 5,506 ft. Base Elevation: 4,675 ft. Vertical Drop: 830 ft. Snowmaking Capability: 100%
Night Skiing
Lodge
9 buildings spread throughout a village setting with places to shop and eat, rentals, lockers & more.
Restaurant
Cafeteria-style dining open 8:30 am - 10 pm, another restaurant with full service bar and menu and our Skybar 5506’.
(828) 387-2011 beechmountainresort.com
Ski/Snowboard Lessons
Private and group lessons for kids and adults of all skill levels.
Ice Skating
hours of operation
Winter season runs November through March
WEEKDAY HOURS
7,000 sq.-foot refrigerated outdoor rink. Skate rentals available. 3-4 sessions beginning at noon.
Day Session: 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Half-Day Session: 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. or 1:00 to 5:00 p.m. Twilight Session: 1:00 to 9:00 p.m. Night Session: 5:00 to 9:00 p.m.
Lift Capacity
Beech has 7 lifts capable of moving 10,258 people per hour.
Terrain Park
2 designated terrain parks with constructed and natural features.
Tubing
700 foot tubing run with 8 lanes. Magic carpet ride gets you back to the top. 1 hr. 45 min.
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WEEKEND/HOLIDAY HOURS Day Session & Half-Day Session: same as above Twilight Session: 1:00 to 10:00 p.m. Night Session: 5:00 to 10:00 p.m.
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sKIING ● sNoWBoArdING ● ICe sKATING ● TUBING
New!
TUBING FACILITY
Newly Remodeled BeeCh Tree BAr & GrILLe 5506’ HiGHEsT sKYBar iN NC
shoppING dINING NIGhTLIGhT Free LessoNs
MoN-THurs (NoN-HoLiDaY, aGEs 8 aND oLDEr aPPLY)
#BEECHMTN
www.BEECHMouNTaiNrEsorT.CoM v i s i t o r ’ s g u i d e W I N TER 2 0 1 6
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Sugar Mountain
T
his past summer, Sugar Mountain Resort owners Gunther and Kim Jochl installed the new $5 million, six-person, high-speed chairlift dubbed the Summit Express. Take this investment and last year’s construction of Gunther’s Way, the new challenging slope that is 2,900 feet long with a 700-foot vertical drop, into account and Sugar Mountain Resort will entice skiers and snowboarders for years to come.
The Breakdown
New Slope
Number of Slopes: 21 15AtLighted Night • Easiest: 7 • Difficult: 10 • More Difficult: 1 • Most Difficult: 2 • Expert: 1 • Terrain Park(s): 1 Number of Lifts: 7 Peak Elevation: 5,300 ft. Base Elevation: 4,100 ft. Vertical Drop: 1,200 ft. Snowmaking Capability: 100%
A
New Ski Lift
Lodge
35,000 sq.-foot base lodge on 3 levels with a ski shop & rentals, lockers, restaurants and offices.
Restaurant
Cafeteria-style dining open 8 am -10 pm AND a lounge area with full-service bar, fireplace and TV.
Ski/Snowboard Lessons
Private and group lessons for kids and adults of all skill levels.
Ice Skating
(828) 898-4521 • skisugar.com
10,000 sq.-ft. refrigerated outdoor rink. Skate rentals available. 6 sessions beginning at 10 am.
Tubing
700 foot tubing run with 7 lanes. Magic carpet ride gets you back to the top. 1 hr. 45 min. sessions. Starts at 10 am. Lighted at night.
hours of operation Winter season runs November through March
Lift Capacity
Sugar has 7 lifts capable of moving 10,520 people per hour.
Terrain Park
Designated terrain park with constructed and natural features. Serviced by hand tow lift.
Rentals
3,500 sets of skis and 500 snowboards along with boots and helmet rentals.
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Day Session: 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Half-Day Session: 12:30 to 4:30 p.m. Twilight Session: 12:30 to 10:00 p.m. (closed from 4:30 to 6:00 p.m.)
Night Session: 6:00 to 10:00 p.m. Tubing: 10:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. Ice Skating: 10:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. Child Care: 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
Come Ride Summit Express www.skisugar.com / 800-Sugar-MT v i s i t o r ’ s g u i d e W I N TER 2 0 1 6
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Appalachian Ski Mtn.
A
ppalachian Ski Mtn. is known for constantly improving its infrastructure and snowmaking ability each summer season. One of Appalachian Ski Mtn.’s bragging points is that it rarely has to make snow while skiers and snowboarders are enjoying the slopes. New this year is the refurbished ice skating rink and the resort’s welcome center along U.S. 321. Currently under construction, this visitor center will prove to be a beautiful gateway into one of the High Country’s top attractions.
The Breakdown
Number of Slopes: 12 • Easiest: 3 • More Difficult: 3 • Most Difficult: 3 • Terrain Park(s): 3
All Lighted At Night
Number of Lifts: 6 Peak Elevation: 4,000 ft. Base Elevation: 3,635 ft. Vertical Drop: 365 ft. Snowmaking Capability: 100%
Lodge
46,000 sq.-foot base lodge on 2 levels with ski shop & rentals, restaurant, fireplace and offices.
Restaurant
Cafeteria-style dining open from 8 am to 10 pm, serving daily specials and healthy food choices.
Ski/Snowboard Lessons
Private and group lessons for kids and adults of all skill levels.
Ice Skating
hours of operation
French-Swiss Ski College
Winter season runs November20th through April 3rd
Home of the ski school that has taught over one million people to ski since it’s inception 46 years ago.
Lift Capacity
Appalachian Ski Mtn. has 6 lifts capable of moving 9,284 people per hour.
Terrain Park
3 dedicated parks with over 60 rails, boxes, jibs and jumps. Premier ski and snowboard park in the Southeast.
Rentals
2,125 sets of skis and 650 snowboards along with boots and helmet and clothing rentals.
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(828) 295-7828 • appskimtn.com
6,000 sq.-foot refrigerated outdoor rink. Skate rentals available. 3 sessions beginning at 12 pm.
Open continuously from 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. daily and until midnight on Friday & Saturday nights the entire season. Night sessions have been expanded, now starting at 5:00 p.m. and continuing to 10:00 p.m. The Super Session is the longest session in the area, from 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.
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YOUR RESORTFAMILY FOR FAMILY 50FIRST YEARS FUNFUN
THE PLACE TO LEARN TO SKI AND SNOWBOARD
12 Trails, 6 Lifts, 3 Terrain Parks, Quality Rentals
Night Skiing!
7 Nights A Week Now Beginning at 5pm
North Carolina’s Only
App Terrain Park
FLEX TICKET
Your Session Starts When You Do!
8
OVER
Up to Consecutive Hours!
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Unique Features for All Abilities
ICE SKATING ARENA November 25 to March 20 12 noon - 2:00pm 2:30pm - 4:30pm 7:00pm - 9:00pm
ALL SEASON
LONG!!! 5:00pm
to Midnight Fri and Sat November 2o March 19 NOW ALSO HOLIDAYS: Dec. 26-31, Jan. 17 & Feb. 14
www.appskimtn.com
Scheduled
2015-16 Season: November 20 - April 2
North Carolina’s Only Burton Progression Park
BLOWING ROCK, NC
828-295-7828 www.appterrainpark.com v i s i t o r ’ s g u i d e W I N TER 2 0 1 6
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Hawksnest Snow Tubing and Zipline Park
W
ith more than 30 tubing lanes that span distances of 400 to 1,000 feet, Hawksnest is the largest snow tubing park on the East Coast. The carpet conveyor belts make for an easy ride back to the summit, and the lodge offers food and beverages for the whole family after a day of fun in the snow. But don’t forget about the zipline tours that are open in the winter, too. Hawksnest offers 20 ziplining cables that span four miles.
tubing sessions:
Tubing sessions are one hour and 45 minutes long and are offered at: Monday - Thursday 10am, 12pm, 2pm, & 4pm. Friday, Saturday and Holidays 10am, 12pm, 2pm, 4pm & 6pm. Sunday 10am, 12pm & 2pm
The Breakdown Tubing: • Tubing Areas: 4 • Lanes: 30 • Moving Carpet Lifts: 2 • Lane Lengths: 400 - 1,000 ft. • Snowmaking Capability: 100% zipline: • Cables: 20 • Swinging Bridges: 3 • Total Cable Length: 4 miles
Meal Options
(Carolina Style BBQ, pizza and coffee bar)
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(828) 963-6561 or (800) 822-4295
hawksnesttubing.com hawksnestzipline.com zipline sessions:
Customers can choose either the Hawk Tour or the Eagle Tour. The Hawk Tour is an 11-cable tour covering 1.5 miles of cable-riding and 2 swinging bridges, available for adults and children 5 and older. The Eagle Tour is a more extreme experience with greater speeds and heights. This 9-cable tour is 3 miles of cable riding with swinging bridge. Children must be at least 8 years old for the Eagle Tour. Tours leave hourly from 10am to 3pm. Reservations are required. 4-cable Snowbird Tour available daily during winter season.
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C E L E B R A T I N G 50 Y E A R S !
largest Snow tubing Park in the Southeast! Featuring 4 different areas to snow tube with over 30 lanes of fun! • Lanes 400-1000 ft long • 2 moving carpet lifts • 100% snowmaking • Lighting on all lanes • Restaurant & Coffee Shop
one of the longest ziplines in the us! • Over 4 miles of ziplines • 20 cable runs • Heights over 200 ft
• Open year ‘round • Reservations recommended
Located off Hwy 105, Between Boone & Banner Elk in Seven Devils, NC
800.822.HAWK or 828.963.6561 HawksnestZipline.com :: HawksnestTubing.com v i s i t o r ’ s g u i d e W I N TER 2 0 1 6
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Check Out These Competitions
Show Off Your Skills The area ski resorts have several events throughout the winter season that make it possible for skiers and snowboarders to ski or ride competitively. For more information about any of these competitions or additional events, click to the websites listed below. It’s also fun to be a spectator at these events!
APPLACHIAN SKI Mtn www.appskimtn.com
Shred for the Cup Series: Jan. 3, 24, Feb. 21
The 10th annual Shred for the Cup series will begin on Jan. 3 at the terrain park. This threeevent regional benchmark competition series will feature skiers and snowboarders in three disciplines (Rail Jam, Big Air, and Slopestyle) and participants of all skill levels (Beginner, Intermediate, Advanced) with designated women’s categories. Register on Jan. 3 between 9-11 a.m. for the events that start at noon. The GNU/Libtech Big Air event is set for Jan. 24 and the Slopestyle Finals are set for Feb. 21.
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ASEF Boarder/Skier X: Jan. 30
Get your stick(s) waxed up and your race face ready for a fun Boarder/Skiercross event! This Boarder/Skier X is open to both skiers and snowboarders of all ages and abilities and all funds raised will go to support our Appalachian Jr Race Team and Appalachian Snowboard Club! Registration at 8:30–10:30. Event starts at noon.
BEECH MOUNTAIN RESORT
www.beechmountainresort.com
Banked Slalom: Feb. 20
Beech Mountain’s Banked Slalom will take place on Feb. 20 and will be sponsored by RECESS Ride Shop. Contests will be held at
the resort for snowboarders.
both
skiers
and
wRECklESS Rail Jam: Feb. 27
RECESS Ride Shop will host its wRECklESS Rail Jam on Feb. 27 at Beech Mountain. This beginner to advanced contest will highlight creative and interesting park features and progressive formats that stray from the normal threedrop formula. This will be one of the biggest cash prize events of its kind in the southeast. Call RECESS at 828-355-9013 for more information.
SUGAR MOUNTAIN RESORT www.skisugar.com
NASTAR: Dec. 5 – March 26
NASTAR is a public racing program that provides recreational racers with the opportunity to compare their ability to the fastest member of the U.S. Ski Team. Races are held every Saturday and Sunday at noon on Oma’s Meadow.
EDGE of the WORLD Demo Days: Jan. 8-9
Demo the high performance snowboard rental fleet from Banner Elk’s favorite rental shop,
550
898-9
(828)
EDGE of the WORLD, from noon to 9 p.m. on Jan. 8 and from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on Jan. 9.
USSA/Southern Alpine Racing Association U14 and Under: Feb. 27-28
The region’s top ski racers compete for limited spots to participate in Eastern Championships. Slalom and giant slalom competition for licensed USSA racers. Participation is by invitation only, but it will be great fun for spectators, too.
Richard T. Trundy Memorial Sugar Cup Competition: March 6
This giant slalom competition is for participants with at least an intermediate or above ability level. 100 percent of the entry fees support the American Cancer Society in memory of Sugar Mountain’s former director of operations, Richard T. Trundy.
team rider: Luke Winkelmann
EDGE WORLD SNOWBOARD SHOP of the
The largest selection of Snowboards, High Performance Demos / Rentals, Winter Necessities, Tuning & Repairs 394 SHAWNEEHAW AVE S. in DOWNTOWN BANNER ELK
www.edgeoworldNC.com
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Great Places To Eat...
Local Restaurants
ALPEN RESTAURANT
dents and guests alike. n 828.387.2252. www. alpenrestaurant.com. See ad on page 36
BEECH MOUNTAIN. The Alpen Restaurant and Bar on Beech Mountain is part of the Beech Alpen Inn. We’re open for dinner 7 nights a week. The Mountain View Room offers fine dining in a warm atmosphere of an old fashion fireplace, rough sawn beams and one of the most interesting views in the mountains. The Dinner Menu is mouth watering and offering a wide variety for our most intriguing guests. And the Old Fireplace Room and Bar offers the ambiance off the Old World Inn with a lighter Bar Menu. An open stone fireplace in the center compliments the setting. Famous for our tasty appetizers, salads, quesadillas, juicy burgers and “Mile High Club” Sandwiches combined with the largest selection of imported and domestic draft beers, fine wines and mixed drink favorites made us the In-Place on Beech Mountain for resi-
BANNER ELK CAFÉ BANNER ELK. Serving breakfast, lunch and dinner daily. Great food, ranging from eggs benedict to big, juicy burgers. For the healthy and weight conscience we offer grilled mahi and chicken sandwiches, salad bar, and homemade daily specials. Dinner nightly offering: Ribs, Steaks, Fish and always fresh and creative specials! n 828-898-4040. See ad on page 45
BAYOU SMOKEHOUSE & GRILL BANNER ELK. This New Orleans-style restaurant and bar serves Louisiana favorites like gumbo and po’ boys, along with authentic Texas cuisine such as smoked beef brisket barbeque and chicken-fried steak. Children’s menu available. Free wireless and national BuzzTime Trivia,
lA
ua A Cas
tro
Bis n a c i r me
Our Specialty - House Ground Burgers GreAt For FAMilieS With KidS! Early Bird Discount 15% Off
502 West Main St., Banner Elk www.zuzda.com 828-898-4166
OPEN: Wed. to Sat. 4:00 to Close
Comprehensive Small Plate Menu 32
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Great Places To Eat... Local Restaurants cocktails, wine and over 75 beer (10 on tap) along with “Wine Amnesty” offered from the Bayou General Store. Saturdays and Sundays feature Brunch. Kitchen Open Late! n 828-898-8952. www.bayousmokehouse.com See ad on page 33
BLACK CAT BOONE. Since the year 2000, Black Cat Burrito has established itself as the premiere destination for the finest burritos, quesadillas, nachos, chilis, soups and salads in Boone, NC and the surrounding High Country. We also have a vast selection of beers, wines, and other drinks to choose from …including our soon-to-be infamous KEY-LIME MARGARITAS!! n 828-263-9511. www.blackcatburrito.com. See ad on page 40
BOONE BAGELRY BOONE. Boone’s oldest bagel shop locally owned and operated since 1988, serves 14 types of freshly baked bagels and a wide variety of menu items including vegetarian and gluten free. Boone Bagelry is a full-service restaurant that serves breakfast and lunch all day. We are conveniently located on King Street in downtown Boone with patio dining available. Delivery service available. Support local. Taste local. Enjoy local. n 828.262-5585. www. boonebagelry.com. See ad on page 43
CAFÉ PORTOFINO BOONE. A local favorite, Café Portofino
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is the place to meet, eat and enjoy a good time with friends. It’s located in a 100-year-old railroad repair station, used by none other than Tweetsie Railroad. Completely modernized, with a friendly open kitchen, cozy dining room, bar and outdoor seating, this is the place to chow down on 5-star meals, without the 5-star price. The menu is an eclectic mix of sandwiches, pastas and steaks. Café Portofino offers daily culinary specials and fresh seafood as well. (“Like” us on Facebook to see daily specials.) Their extensive wine & beer list and all ABC permits compliment any dining experience. Come see what the Boonies already know! n 828-264-7772. www.cafeportofino.net. See ad on page 35
CASA RUSTICA BOONE. Conveniently located right off of N.C 105, Casa Rustica offers some of the finest Northern Italian-American cuisine in the High Country accentuated by a cozy, fireside atmosphere. Dishes on the menu from the crisp salads to the scrumptious pastas are adapted from old family recipes that have been handed down for generations. The chefs and owners at Casa Rustica are also committed to offering local beef in their cuisine and proudly offer homestyle meals made with love and meticulous care. Casa Rustica’s extensive wine list is updated every 30 days to include interesting vintages and new organics for guests to try. Enjoy live jazz every Thursday night. The
karo nigh ke on F rid ts at 8pm ay !
Best Burgers & Wings In Town
Casual Food & Atmosphere Open 7 Days a Week
Daily Food Specials Children’s Menu All ABC Permits Free WIFI
828-898-9613 4527 Tynecastle Hwy, Banner Elk Located in The Shoppes of Tynecastle Corner of Hwy 105 & Tynecastle Hwy www.nicksrestaurantandpub.com
A favorite of the Boone locals. Located in an historic 100 year old railroad repair station. Celebrating 15 years of great food and service! Reservations accepted.
970 Rivers Street, Boone | 828-264-7772 | CafePortofino.net v i s i t o r ’ s g u i d e W I N TER 2 0 1 6
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Great Places To Eat... Local Restaurants restaurant also features a full bar and fantastic drink selections to delight even the pickiest patron. n 828-262-5128. www.casarustica1981. com. See ad on page 44
DAN’L BOONE INN BOONE. Serving for 50 years, Dan’l Boone Inn offers diners home cooked, familystyle meals for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Dan’l Boone Inn’s country cuisine has been honored by both Southern Living and Our State magazines. The Inn takes reservations for parties of 15 or more. n 825-2648657. www.danlbooneinn.com. See ad on page 42
GAMEKEEPER BLOWING ROCK. Housed in a 1950’s stone cottage, you haven’t fully experienced the region until you’ve dined at The Gamekeeper. It’s a true gourmet restaurant, with the perfect blend of upscale elegance and simple mountain charm. The staff is top notch and very attentive. The Gamekeeper is famous for Southern favorites - ultimate in comfort food - prepared with creativity and originality, offered through an evolving seasonal menu that blends the traditional with the exotic, satisfying both the meat lover and the vegetarian. Much quality and care goes into each dish, from the selection of the freshest ingredients to the wood fire preparation and the exquisite presentation. It is perfection for even the most discerning palate! The restaurant is located off Shulls Mill Road near Yonahlossee Resort. n 828-963-7400. www.Gamekeep-
Alpen Restaurant & Bar B E E C H M O U N TA I N I N N S
er-NC.com. See ad on page 45
THE LOCAL
Fresh American Cuisine with a European Flair
Open Sunday – ThuRSday, 5 – 9 FRiday & SaTuRday, 5 – 10 700 Beech Mountain parkway Beech Mountain, north Carolina www.alpenRestaurant.com
828-387-2252 • 866-284-2770 36
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BOONE. The Local - a place to enjoy a fresh meal, crafted in-house from local High Country ingredients. Serving traditional southern favorites, she-crab soup and shrimp & grits, as well as grass-fed beef burgers, specialty sandwiches, unique tacos, wood-fired flatbreads & pizzas, quinoa bowls, steaks, seafood and plenty of glutenfree and vegan choices. The Local also features 20 taps, serving mostly local and regional beers, as well as national favorites. At The Local you can enjoy drinks & appetizers while relaxing on comfortable leather couches in the lounge, play a game of billiards, or watch your favorite sports event on large flat screen TVs. The Local is
Great Daily Specials
Re t ro 50' s A tmo sphere
"Best Little Diner in the High Country!" Serving Breakfast All Day Daily Specials Homemade Soups & Salads Burgers & Sandwiches Old Fashioned Banana Split & Shakes Assorted Bottle Beers
265-1344
1286 Hwy 105 in Boone • Next to Comfort Suites
Mon-Thurs 7:00am - 9:00pm • Fri & Sat 7:00am - 10:00pm • Sunday 7:00am - 3:00pm
R E S TAU R A N T
AT CHETOLA RESORT
Winter Schedule Starting January 3, 2016 Breakfast Daily 7:30-10am Dinner Wed-Sat 5-10pm wednesdays: Steak on the Lake thursdays: Oyster Night fridays: Jazz Night saturdays: Bonfire Night
295-5505 | chetola.com
828-295-5505 | www.Chetola.com v i s i t o r ’ s g u i d e W I N TER 2 0 1 6
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(ALMOST) WORLD FAMOUS WINGS NC BARBECUE, BURGERS, SALADS, WRAPS, SANDWICHES, APPETIZERS & DESSERTS • 19 HI-DEFINITION TV’s • LARGEST OUTDOOR DINING AREA IN THE HIGH COUNTRY LIVE MUSIC EVERY FRIDAY KARAOKE ON SATURDAYS 10 LOCAL & REGIONAL CRAFT BEERS ON TAP AND OVER 30 BOTTLED BEER SELECTIONS
Great Places To Eat... Local Restaurants also the place to be for Live music performances on Friday and Saturday nights. Experience Local. Open Daily 11am. Sunday Brunch 11am-4pm. n 828-266-2179. www.TheLocalBoone.com. See ad on page 39
Town Tavern
LOUISIANA PURCHASE food & spirits BANNER ELK. Louisiana Purchase has been Banner Elk’s premier restaurant and wine bar since 1984. Made-to-order elegance. Chef owner Patrick Bagbey’s menu evolves with the changing seasons, and will always include all the favorites. All ABC permits and the largest wine list in the area. Open Tuesday to Saturday 5:30 p.m. until ... Call ahead for Jan. and Feb. hours Reservations suggested. n 828-9635087 or 828-898-5656. www.louisianapurchasefoodandspirits.com. See ad on page 36
BLOWING ROCK
MAKOTO’S BOONE. Dining at Makoto’s Seafood and Steakhouse of Japan is a unique experience. During your visit, a waiter will guarantee you a pleasant dining time. Your personal chef will provide a little free culinary entertainment while cooking your dish right in front of you. Makoto’s also offers a lunch and dinner sushi bar. All ABC permits. n 828-264-7976. www.makotosboone.com. See ad on page 39
MAIN STREET • 828-295-7500 www.towntavernbr.com
menchies frozen yogurt Boone. Self-serve frozen yogurt with over 100 rotating flavors and more than 70 rotating toppings! After making your perfect mix, the yogurt is weighed and paid for by the ounce. Menchie’s uses only high quality frozen yogurt and offers non-fat, low carb, non-dairy, no sugar added, and gluten-free soft serve options. Celebrate a special Birthday at Menchies! We offer three party packages full of fun & smiles. n 828-386-1765. See ad on page 44
NICK’S RESTAURANT & PUB BANNER ELK. Dine on wings, burgers, quesadillas, steaks, salmon and much more at Nick’s Restaurant. Nick’s has all ABC permits and a relaxed atmosphere. Open for lunch and dinner seven days a week, Nick’s features a children’s menu, free wireless, NFL sports package and karaoke 38
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Best Tasting Show In Town
Japanese Steak House & Sushi Bar
2124 Blowing Rock Road Boone, NC 28607 828 264 7976 www.makotos-boone.com v i s i t o r ’ s g u i d e W I N TER 2 0 1 6
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Great Places To Eat... Local Restaurants every Friday night! n 828-898-9613. www. nicksrestaurantandpub.com. See ad on page 35
Pedalin’ pig
P
Delicious Espresso & Coffee Drinks Homemade Baked Goods Breakfast, Lunch & Soup Items Cozy Mountain Setting • Free WIFI
banner elk and boone. Now two locations. Utilizing local produce, meats smoked nightly, homemade desserts and made-from-scratch sauces, the Pedalin’ Pig is a unique place to grab a non-traditional meal. Offering three different sauces to go on a variety of meats, the Pedalin’ Pig is open seven days a week with locally crafted beers, local wines and a full bar. Try out old favorites like pulled pork, ribs and pork rinds or go for something a bit more unconventional, like barbeque tacos and bacon corn muffins! n 828-898-7500 and 3559559. www.thepedalinpig.com. See ad on page 43
PEPPER’S BOONE. Serving up fresh, deli-style sandwiches and a wide range of dinner entrees, Pepper’s is a High Country favorite. The restaurant is decorated with items from the original opening location in 1975 and features a laid-back atmosphere. Save room for the famous original Pepper’s carrot cake! n 828-262-1250. www.peppers-restaurant.com. See ad on page 42
3616 Mitchell Ave., Suite 1 Linville, NC • 828-733-9333 Mon-Fri 7am-3pm • Sat & Sun 8am-3pm
PRIMO’S BOONE. Primo’s is an Italian Restaurant. It is a pizza place. It is a great place to bring your family, or come with your friends to watch a game. Primo’s is the kind of place you come to just have a beer and a slice, but end up staying for 3 hours and having dessert. It is a cool place to enjoy a cold drink and live music on the patio. Primo’s is kinda casual and kinda fancy. n 828-355-9800. www.boonepizzapasta.com. See ad on page 38
river dog coffeehouse & cafe linville. Located in Linville, just off the Blue Ridge Parkway. Offering delicious espresso drinks, coffee, homemade baked goods, soups, breakfast and lunch items. Cozy mountain setting with free Wi-Fi. n 828-733-9333. www.theriverdogcoffeehouse.com. See ad on page 40
STONEWALLS BANNER ELK. The High Country’s premier steak and seafood house since 1985. 40
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Delicious, Unique, Scratch-Made Items Breakfast All Day Lunch from 10:30 am Great Food & Portions at Great Prices!
CoMe & Get YoUr SUnSHIne on! Open: 6:30am-2pm Monday to Friday 7am-3pm Saturday & Sunday 1675 Hwy 105, Boone • 828-262-5400 • www.sunrisegrillboone.com
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Great Places To Eat... Local Restaurants Enjoy your favorite steaks, prime rib, chicken or baby back rib entrée or choose from the extensive seafood selection or daily specials. Serving daily from 5:00 p.m. in a casual, family-friendly dining atmosphere. All ABC permits. n 828-898-5550. www.stonewallsresturant.com. See ad on page 34
Family Style Meals
For over 50 years, Dan’l Boone Inn has been serving Boone and the high country delicious home-cooked meals, just like you remember at Grandma’s house. Our family style meals begin with a salad in the summer and soup in the winter. Three meats and five vegetables are served along with biscuits, preserves, dessert and beverage. A full breakfast is served on Saturdays and Sundays.
sunrise grill Boone. Family owned and operated breakfast and lunch restaurant located in the heart of Boone on Hwy 105. We strive to provide delicious, varied and creative comfort food in a relaxed and casual atmosphere. Many of our menu items are true Sunrise originals. Unique offerings you will not find anywhere else. n 828-262-5400. www. sunrisegrillboone.com. See ad on page 41
timberlake’ RESTAURANT AT CHETOLA RESORT BLOWING ROCK. On July 28, 2012, Chetola officially opened Timberlake’s Restaurant in Blowing Rock at the renowned Chetola Resort. Timberlake’s Restaurant features a menu inspired by world-renowned North Carolina artist and designer Bob Timberlake’s culinary favorites. Featuring Mesquite-dusted shrimp and salads of mountain-grown spinach, to Carolina-raised trout and roasted Carolina quail. The restaurant features three dining rooms, an intimate wine room and waterfront dining on the Patio. n 828-295-5505. www.chetola.com. See ad on page 37
130 Hardin Street in Boone • 264-8657 www.danlbooneinn.com
TOWN TAVERN BOONE. The Town Tavern is a locally owned sports bar with two locations, one in Boone and Blowing Rock. Since opening our doors we have become the hot spot in the High Country to eat great food, have a cold drink, and watch your favorite sports team in action. Whether you are a family looking to have a good time in a warm friendly atmosphere, a tourist traveling through this beautiful Blue Ridge Mountain Region, or a local wanting to meet up with friends; The Town Tavern is the place for you! We have the best food at great prices, a fully stocked bar with the coldest beer, and an extremely friendly staff to serve you. n 828-264-2226 & 828-295-7500 www.thetowntavern-boone.com. See ad on page 38 42
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Hours:
Featuring Boone Bagelry Bagels
Monday - saturday 6:00am - 5:00pm sunday 7:00am - 3:00pm
Boone’s Original Bagel Shop Since 1988 Serving Breakfast and Lunch All Day 14 Varieties of Freshly Baked Bagels Vegetarian & Gluten Free Options Available Featuring Deli Sandwiches, Fresh Salads, Home made Flavored Cream Cheeses, Omelettes, Pancakes, French Toast, Burgers, Gyro
Espresso Coffee Bar serving Bald Guy Coffee Gourmet Lunch Menu Breakfast Served All Day Check Out Our Menu Online at: bbwaterwheelcafe.com Hours: Mon - sat. 6:00 am - 3:00 pm sun. 7:00 am - 3:00 pm
• FREE DELIVERY! • Home of the Famous Bagelicious
Free Delivery!
at the 105 waterwheel
Old dOwntOwn lOCatiOn
125 Graduate Lane • 262-1600 www.bbwaterwheelcafe.com
516 West King St. • 262-5585 www.boonebagelry.com
n style with a gourmet flair souther
Banner Elk Location:
Boone Location:
4235 Hwy 105 South Banner Elk, NC 28604 ..................
2968-A Hwy 105 Boone, NC 28607 ..................
828.898.7500
828.355.9559
ThePedalinPig.com v i s i t o r ’ s g u i d e W I N TER 2 0 1 6
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Great Places To Eat... Local Restaurants TROY’S 105 DINER BOONE. Troy’s 105 Diner is the High Country’s only true 1950’s-style classic diner. From platters to burger baskets and from temptations to shakes, Troy’s provides a long-list of American diner favorites. For a trip down Memory Lane, go to Troy’s with that high school sweetheart of yours or take the entire family to experience the good ol’ days again. n 828-2651344. www.troys105diner.com. See ad on page 37
VIDALIA BOONE. Vidalia is a casual, upscale restaurant featuring “creative American cuisine.” It offers daily specials, various events, wine tastings and special nights. Vidalia holds all ABC permits and has an extensive, 60+ bottle wine list, craft beers, martinis, whiskeys, scotches and cordials. Vidalia’s menu changes twice a year to keep it seasonal and practices farm-to-table food, using local vendors as much as possible. n 828-2639176. www.vidaliaofboone.com. See ad on page 41
Bring in this ad for 20% off your cup
water wheel café BOONE. Welcome to the Water Wheel Café, featuring Boone Bagelry bagels. Find us on Highway 105 in Boone – just look for the monumental Water Wheel in our parking lot! We are locally owned and operated our location offers a lodge-like feel with an impressive rock fireplace, a spacious open floor plan, and cozy booth seating. Our Culinary Team developed The Water Wheel Cafe menu to feature many of the Original classics we are known for, as well as new and exciting menu items that will win you over. We also offer a coffee bar with Espresso drinks. We look forward to serving you. n 828-2621600. www.bbwaterwheelcafe.com. See ad on page 43
menchies frozen yogurt
ZUZDA
$3.00 Mondays Double Discount Tuesdays 1/2 Price Kids 13 & Under Wednesdays 1760 blowing rock road boone, nc 28607 828.386.1765 (Across from Lowes)
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tripadvisor
R
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BANNER ELK. Zuzda is a “tapas style” chefowned restaurant that offers over 125 small plates of all cuisines. The “progressive alternative dining” offers the opportunity to taste and share small portions of food in a random order of presentation. Zuzda offers inside and patio dining and two bars. Zuzda holds all ABC permits, and the wine list is as extensive as the menu, offering many wines by the glass. n 828-898-4166. www.zuzda.com. See ad on page 32
The Best Place for FOOD, FUN, & FRIENDS in the Heart of Banner Elk
The Banner Elk Cafe
828-898-4040
“Casual Dining for the Whole Family”
Come Out For Monday Night Football Specials
Open 7am Everyday Serving Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Daily
Live Music on our Heated Patio Saturdays 6–10pm
1200 Large One Topping Pizza
$
expires March 15, 2016
The Lodge Pizzeria & Espresso Bar
Fresh Roasted Coffees and Espresso • 828-898-3444
SMOOTHIE & FRAPPE BAR • MUFFINS, BAGELS & PASTRIES DELI SUBS & SANDWICHES • SALADS & PASTAS • GOURMET PIZZA & CALZONES
www.bannerelkcafe.com for entertainment schedule and current promotions
WE’RE SERIOUS ABOUT GOOD GRUB AAA FOUR DIAMOND RATING NINE YEARS RUNNING
YEARS
AND STILL DOIN’ IT. BLOWING ROCK, NC • 828-963-7400 RESERVATIONS RECOMMENDED
OUTDOOR DINING • BAR / LOUNGE • CATERING • PRIVATE FUNCTIONS v i s i t o r ’ s g u i d e W I N TER 2 0 1 6
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Snow
TUBING
Hawksnest Tubing Park
B
esides the traditional methods of skiing or snowboarding to venture down a hill, there is also “tubing.” Just like sledding on a neighborhood hill, tubing in the High Country takes sledding to a whole new level. Hawksnest Tubing Park is the largest park on the East Coast featuring 21 tubing lanes up to 1,000 feet long. Sugar Mountain Resort also has a tubing park with 700 foot long tubing lanes. And new this year, Beech Mountain opens their new 700 foot long run. All are covered by snow makers and are regularly groomed for the smoothest ride. Tubes are provided and a “magic carpet” takes you back to the top for more runs. Great fun for everyone and really easy to do.
Sugar Mountain Resort
Photos by Todd Bush 46
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Ice
SKATING
Beech Mountain Resort
Sugar Mountain Resort
Appalachian Ski Mtn.
A
ll three ski resorts have refrigerated outdoor skating arenas that are also fully lighted for skating under the stars. Skating sessions last from one and a half to two hours and include skate rentals if needed. Individuals, families and groups are welcome, from beginners to experts. Sessions cost $14 to $15. Call ahead for special pricing for groups and birthday parties. Ice skating is an excellent winter activity for everyone in your group or family to enjoy together.
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Check Out These...
Shops & Retailers
anna banana’s BOONE. A fine consignment store located in the heart of downtown. With new fashions everyday, this thrifty store truly has something for everyone! Shopping here is like a treasure hunt – you never know what you will find. Shoppers can find designers at discounted prices and enjoy a fun atmosphere everyday. Fashionistas and shopaholics alike should come in and check it out! n 828-865-2000. See add on page 53
BAnner elk pharmacy BANNER ELK. Your local family-style drug store that is conveniently located next to the Banner Elk Town Hall. Banner Elk Pharmacy is owned and operated by Debbie Turner and Jay Ogburn. Both pharmacists are very involved with the community and have been for years. Most Insurance Plans are accepted. Banner Elk Pharmacy offers special mail service to the elderly & seasonal visitors & shut-ins. n 828-898-4271. www.bannerelkpharmacy. com. See ad on page 50
BAYOU GENERAL STORE BANNER ELK. Browse eclectic! Find locally made jams, jellies and jewelry, Texas & Louisiana gourmet, hot sauces, cigars, unique gifts and Ashe County Cheeses. Wines include selections from North Carolina wineries, and other unique, yet inexpensive, offerings. Beer lovers are invited to “Mix Your Own Six-Pack” from over 140 American Craft and Import beers. n 828-898-8953. See ad on page 33
BOONE MALL BOONE. Boone Mall is the Hub of the High Country! It’s the only climate 48
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controlled shopping complex in the region and a comfortable, convenient place to shop with over 30 stores & kiosks to choose from. Open Mon-Sat 10am-9pm, Sunday 12:30-5:30pm. n 828-264-7286. www.boonencmall.com. See ad on page 52
BOONE ROCK ‘N’ ROLL EMPORIUM BOONE. Inside Boone Rock-N-Roll Emporium you will hear some great rock-n-roll tunes, see posters on the walls, and thumb through the racks filled with your favorite rock t-shirts. You’ll also love the latest fashions in dresses, tops and jewelry. There is something for everyone in the family. Everything from used books and retro collectible toys to tobacco accessories. n 828-865-ROCK. See ad on page 53
CARLTON ART GALLERY FOSCOE. Originally opened as a weaving studio in 1982, the gallery itself is as beautiful as the artwork inside. This unique building holds a large and varied selection of fine art and handmade crafts by more than 300 local, regional and nationally recognized artisans. Step inside and see why Carlton Gallery has become one of the best-known galleries in the Southeast. It’s a chance to take an authentic piece of the High Country back home. n 828-963-4288. www.carltonartgallery.com. See ad on page 51
THE HAPPY PLACE BOONE. Step back to the 60s & 70s! When you walk through the door, the incense, music and tie-dyes will take you on a trip back to peace, love and happiness. All that’s left to do is smile, smile, smile. n 828-264-0196. Ad on page 53
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Check Out These... Shops & Retailers
We’re Your Hometown Pharmacy
lilian jade BOONE. The Concept - Designer home furnishings and accessories, vintage collectables, antiques and unique treasures not needed by one and desired by another. For shoppers, Lilian Jade, a fine consign is an extraordinary venue offering quality designer merchandise at moderate prices. The continuous introduction of new items inspires clients’ decorating senses and instills a desire to return and see what’s new. For consignors, Lilian Jade is a lucrative and rewarding way to resell your unwanted furnishings, housewares, boutique clothing, jewelry, purses, etc. n 28-355-9995. See ad on page 52
Locally Owned & Operated by Jay Ogburn & Debbie Turner, Pharmacists Friendly, Fast Service Providing Healthcare to the Community
BANNER ELK PHARMACY 110 Park Avenue, Banner Elk Phone: 828-898-4271 • Fax: 828-898-6761 M-F: 8:30 am-6 pm • Sat: 9 am-2 pm
lucky penny BOONE. Be unique, shop Lucky Penny. Offering a wide range of clothing and accessories. Lucky Penny is your affordable boutique located at 693 W. King Street. New arrivals daily! Check out the Lucky Penny blog at n www.luckypennyboone.com. 828-264-0302. See ad on page this page
www.bannerelkpharmacy.com NEW ARRIVALS WEEKLY LUCKYPENNYBOONE.com
MAST GENERAL STORE BOONE & VALLE CRUCIS. The Mast General Store in historic Valle Crucis is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Both it and the Mast Store in downtown Boone are packed with everything you need for modern life, including shoes and boots, rocking chairs, cast iron, country gourmet food, traditional fashions, outdoor gear and old-fashioned candy. n Boone 828-262-0000. Valle Crucis 828-963-6511. www.mastgeneralstore.com. Ad on page 7
STORE HOURS
MON - SAT 10 - 6 SUN 12 -5
RIVERCROSS MARKET
693 West King St. • 828.264.0302 50
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VALLE CRUCIS. Rivercross Market is located next to the Original Mast General Store in Valle Crucis and features a wide collection of hand-made
CARLTON GALLERY Celebrating 33Years
“Winter Group & Small Works Exhibition” November 27 - April 30
PAINTINGS • CLAY • GLASS • SCULPTURE • WOOD • FIBER ART • JEWELRY Located 10 Miles South of Boone on Hwy. 105 in the Grandfather Community
Unique Gifts for Everyone on Your List
TUESDAY-SATURDAY 10:00-5:00 • SUNDAY 11:00-5:00 8 2 8 - 9 6 3 - 4 2 8 8 • Call or check our website for workshop dates www.carltongallery.com • carltongallery@carltongallery.com WILLOW TREE
OLD FORT STUDIOS
SKIP HOP BIG WHEEL CLOCK UGG BOOTS HUBSAN DRONES FREAKERS JANSKA JACKETS
Holiday Shopping HOODED PONCHOS
Get it ALL done with one stop.
www.ShoppesAtFarmers.com
HOLIDAY HOURS: 10-6 MON-THU; 10-8 FRI-SAT; 12-5 SUN • 661 WEST KING ST • 828-264-8801 v i s i t o r ’ s g u i d e W I N TER 2 0 1 6
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Check Out These... Shops & Retailers
oos e Chr istm as at The Rede RCab e lk D o w n T o w n Ba n n
pottery, jewelry, artwork, wood working, photography and more from local artists and craftsmen. Open daily, see ad for hours. n 828-963-8623. www.rivercrssmarket.com Ad on page 49
SHOPPES AT FARMER’S HARDWARE
Wild Bird & Gift Store Not Just a Bird store ...
Eclectic Decor & Gifts
Candles, Wind Chimes, Garden Flags
For WiNtEr: Hats, Gloves, Socks, Sleds
... and fudge! 441 Shawneehaw Ave. • Banner Elk, NC 828-898-5008 • www.wingnitnc.com
BOONE. The newly renovated Shoppes at Farmer’s Hardware is a glimpse of the historic Farmer’s Hardware as it was in 1924. The original tin ceilings and oiled wooden floors enhance the more than 100 shops now featured in this downtown Boone landmark. Shoppes at Farmer’s Hardware features a variety of furniture, regional artists and craftsmen, home accessories, clothing, antiques, collectibles, jewelry, services and gifts. n 828-264-8801. www.shoppesatfarmers.com. See ad on page 51 Enjoy our CoffEE Bar
Unique furniture, housewares, art, jewelry, boutique clothing and accessories. Come see the variety of items for your home or office decor.
STORE HOURS: Tues., Wed., Thurs: 11-5:30 Fri. 2-6 & Sat. 12-5:30 Consignment by Appointment Only 196 Perkinsville Drive, Boone, NC • 828.355.9995 52
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WINGNIT BANNER ELK. WingN’It is an eclectic shop ... with not only the largest selection of Wild Bird Feeders, Houses and Seed in the High Country, BUT a full array of “bird gifts & accessories!” BUT, we’re NOT JUST A BIRD STORE!!! We ALSO are a full-range gift store ... garden flags, wind chimes, Milkhouse candles, soaps, rustic decor and accessories, and even Chala purses/bags. NOW IN THE WINTER – we have a wonderful Christmas Holiday Collection of accessories, gifts and ORNAMENTS for your holiday needs! And winter needs: hats, gloves, socks, including our new line of Snoozies slippers and SoulMate socks, fingerless mittens, hats & scarves ... AND SLEDS! And DON’T FORGET – the creamy FUDGE! n 828-898-4199. www.winginitnc.com. See ad on page 52
Boone Rock - n - Roll ◆ emporium ◆
e n i F 's a n a n a B a Ann Consignmeanmte.brand ’s n Women and men discount. fashions at a
SAVE 70% OTFAFIL. REGULAR RE
Anna Banana’s is a MUST
in Boone!
641 W. King Street • 828.865.2000
THE HAPPY PLACE In The Boone MInI Mall 641 w. King StReet Downtown Boone
828-264-0196
ROCK-N-ROLL T-SHIRTS
Incense 641 W. King St. • Downtown Boone
828-865-ROCK
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take a drive
NORTH CAROLINA’S DESIGNATED SCENIC ROADWAYS
As you make your way to the High Country this winter, don’t stop driving. Across our state the NCDOT has designated 50 Scenic Byways for their allure, culture and mystery. The High Country has three of these Scenic Byways, and they give you the opportunity to really cover some ground. Along these byways, you’ll find park attractions, small mountain towns and historic landmarks. Try to make frequent stops and wander off the beaten path to really catch a glimpse of what is truly Appalachian beauty. See for miles into the forest. Watch the flow of roadside streams and rivers. These roads set the stage for welcoming one of the most breathtaking times of year: winter.
Highway 194 from Vilas to Elk Park Length: 17 miles Watauga & Avery Counties Begin drive where Hwys. 421 and 194 converge in Vilas. Follow Hwy. 194 into Valle Crucis and out of the valley. You will come to a triple S curve, in front of the Sweet Retreat B&B. Continue through Matney. Eventually, you’ll arrive in Banner Elk, home of Lees-McRae College. Then, continue your drive along the winding road to Elk Park - site of the 60 foot Elk Park Waterfall.
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Highways 194 & 88: From Boone to Laurel Springs
Highway 221 from Blowing Rock to Linville
Length: 18 miles Watauga & Ashe Counties
Length: 18 miles Watauga & Avery Counties
It starts in Boone at the New Market Shopping Ctn. You’ll first pass the Meat Camp community. Turn left on Meat Camp Road and travel 5.5 miles to visit Elk Knob State Park. Then, hop back on 194 for Todd. The byway route temporarily ends at the intersection with Hwy. 221. Head north to Jefferson and Mt. Jefferson to pick up the byway at the intersection of Hwys. 16 and 88. Follow Hwy. 88 to Laurel Springs.
Take Hwy 221 south from Blowing Rock, after the Parkway turnoff, you’ll pass a quaint park. Later, you’ll pass under a huge rock that hangs over the road. Look up for a view of the Linn Cove Viaduct on the face of Grandfather Mountain. Finally, after seeing another Parkway entrance, you’ll arrive at Grandfather Mountain. The byway ends in Linville at the intersection of Hwys. 221 and 105.
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WINTER
forecast Woolly Worm Twinkle Toes Predicts Cold Winter
Twinkle Toes, the winning woolly worm at the 38th annual Woolly Worm Festival in Banner Elk in October, forecasts that the upcoming winter will certainly be more daunting than the name “Twinkle Toes.” After examining “Twinkle Toes,” festival organizers determined that the first three weeks of the 2015-16 winter would be cold and snowy. The next six weeks of weather will feature below normal temperatures with snow. The final four weeks of winter is expected to have two weeks of milder temperatures and two weeks of cool weather with light dustings of snow. Organizers say that in its 38-year history, the winning woolly worm has an 84-percent track record of predicting accurately. According to Appalachian folklore, one can predict the upcoming winter by examining the 13 body segments of woolly worm, which is a black and brown tiger moth caterpillar. Each body segment represents the 13 weeks of winter. The black-colored segments on the caterpillar are associated with harsh-winter conditions, such as more snow and colder-than-usual temperatures, and the brown segments predict a mild winter.
Woolly Worm Prediction Week Week Week Week Week Week Week Week Week Week Week Week Week
13 Segments = 13 Weeks
1 (Dec. 21 - 27): cold and snowy 2 (Dec. 28 - Jan. 3): cold and snowy 3 (Jan. 4 - 10): cold and snowy 4 (Jan. 11 - 17): below normal temperatures with snow 5 (Jan. 18 - 24): below normal temperatures with snow 6 (Jan. 25 - 31): below normal temperatures with snow 7 (Feb. 1 - 7): below normal temperatures with snow 8 (Feb. 8 - 14): below normal temperatures with snow 9 (Feb. 15 - 21): below normal temperatures with snow 10 (Feb. 22 - 28): milder temperatures 11 (Mar. 1 - 7): milder temperatures 12 (Mar. 8 - 14): cool weather, light snow dustings 13 (Mar. 15 - 21): cool weather, light snow dustings
Ray’s Fearless Forecast
RaysWeather.com is the go-to weather outlet in Western North Carolina, and each October, it releases the “Fearless Forecast.” Now, Ray Russell, owner of RaysWeather.com, isn’t a big fan of the weather folklore featuring woolly worms, acorns, groundhogs or fogs. He also isn’t a fan of releasing a winter forecast months in advance, but he publishes the annual report because he knows the readers love it. For the 2015-16 , Ray offered up a “bullish” forecast, one for the “snowhounds.” The fearless forecast calls for 33 percent greater snow than the 56-year average for the High Country and temperatures averaging 1 to 2 degrees below the long-term average. “This forecast would place the Southern Appalachians in the top 20 percent of seasonal snowfall totals,” the report says. RaysWeather.com forecasts 67 inches of snow in Banner Elk; 54 inches in Boone; 110 inches in Beech Mountain; and 105 inches atop Sugar Mountain. To produce this report, Russell analyzed El Nino Southern Oscillation (ENSO) – as well as 10-year average snow trends in Boone, the North Atlantic Oscillation Wildcard and Arctic ice cover. Note that woolly worm segments and beans plan in jars in August weren’t analyzed. Have fun in the snow!
Ray’s 2014-15 Forecasted Snow Totals
City Expected Total Snow/Ice Asheville 20 inches Banner Elk 67 inches Beech Mountain 110 inches Boone 54 inches Hickory 9 inches Jefferson/West Jefferson 35 inches Lenoir 11 inches Morganton 12 inches Sparta 31 inches Spruce Pine 29 inches Sugar Mountain 105 inches Waynesville 19 inches Wilkesboro 13 inches v i s i t o r ’ s g u i d e W I N TER 2 0 1 6
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ParkwayHikes & Sites
T
his winter, take advantage of the 469-mile stretch known as the Blue Ridge Mountains. Of those 469 miles, 108 make up the High Country with 33 hiking trails, four major lakes and ponds, three pristine waterfalls and more than 40 scenic overlooks. Use the mileposts for easy navigation. Have your camera ready, and discover a different perspective during this snowy season. Here are a few of our favorite hikes and sites just to get you started.
Moses Cone Manor – Milepost 294.6 Named after the post-Civil War textile entrepreneur, conservationist and philanthropist, Moses Cone, this Victorian mansion exemplifies the resort home tradition in the High Country. The home is open spring through fall, closed in the winter. A network of trails that winds the 3,500-acre Moses Cone Park is open year round. All trails are gentle grade and great for larger groups with children. Easy to moderate
Boone Fork Trail – Milepost 296.4 The Boone Fork Trail differs from most parkway hikes in two ways. The first is that the majority of the trail is in the woods, where tumbling streams and rock outcroppings replace typically grand vistas. The second is its length. At 4.9 miles, the Boone Fork Trail is longer than most, and slightly strenuous. But given adequate time to complete and a picnic lunch, it is one of the most beautiful hikes in the area, with several stream crossings, rhododendron tunnels and open grasslands. Strenuous
Price Lake – Milepost 297.2 Just one mile south from the Boone Fork Trail, Price Lake is ideal for larger groups or those looking for something a little less strenuous. The 2.4-mile loop around the Price Lake is suitable for hikers of any level. Views of 56
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Price Lake (milepost 297.2) Photo by Randy Johnson Grandfather Mountain can be seen from several points along the trail, which runs primarily along the lake’s shore. Easy to Moderate
Wilson Creek Overlook – Milepost 302 If you looking for grandiose, long-range views directly from the parkway then this is the overlook. High above the waters of Wilson Creek, which originates on Grandfather Mountain, this overlook is the perfect opportunity to witness first-hand why they call it the High Country. Look out beyond the surrounding mountains and the lowlands unfold themselves into the piedmont of North Carolina. On perfectly clear days, visitors have reported sighting the Charlotte skyline.
Hikers get a bird’s eye view of Grandfather’s foothills from the popular Rough Ridge trail.
Tanawha Trail to Rough Ridge – Milepost 302.8 Rough Ridge is one of the most easily accessed vistas along the Blue Ridge Parkway. The Tanawha Trail is actually more than 13 miles long, spanning from Price Park to Beacon Heights, but the section from the parkway to Rough Ridge is a short 1.5 miles with great views as close as 0.6 miles from the parkway. The trail follows a ridge crest and leads to boardwalks where 360-degree views give visitors a birds eye view of the High Country. Moderate to Strenuous
Linn Cove Viaduct – Milepost 304.4 Even if it’s your first visit to the High Country, you’re more than likely familiar with the Linn Cove Viaduct. As the final piece of the parkway, the Viaduct was put in place in 1987. It is known as “the world’s only bridge built from the top down”, meaning it was airlifted into place using specialized construction helicopters and cranes to avoid defacing the mountain with heavy equipment. For no other reason than to marvel at the engineering feat, the Viaduct is a must stop along the parkway.
Rough Ridge TRAIL Milepost 302.8
Grandfather Trail to Calloway Peak – Milepost 305.1 At 5,964 feet, Calloway Peak is the tallest point of the entire Blue Ridge Mountain Range. It is part of Grandfather Mountain, which has several other high altitude peaks including MacRae Peak (5,939 feet). Calloway can be accessed via multiple trails, including the Grandfather Mountain Trail, which is one of our favorites for its boulder formations and beautiful evergreen forests. And, it’s only a short distance from the parkway. Just travel south on the Blue Ridge Parkway to the US 221 intersection at Milepost 305. Take 221 South for one mile to the entrance of Grandfather Mountain. The Grandfather Trail begins at the highest parking lot opposite the Linville Peak Visitor Center. Strenuous
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Bass lake Blowing Rock
THE MOSES H. CONE MEMORIAL PARK – 3,500 HUNDRED ACRES WITH A 24 ACRE LAKE - 25 MILES OF CARRIAGE TRAILS – A 112-YEAR-OLD MANOR
T
he Moses H. Cone Memorial Park stretches for two miles along the Blue Ridge Parkway and also borders the picturesque Town of Blowing Rock. The estate was built in 1901 by textile millionaire Moses H. Cone and has approximately 25 miles of carriage trails on the grounds, all of which are gentle grade and great for larger groups with children. One beautiful part of the estate that is not accessible by vehicle from the Parkway is Bass Lake. The entrance to the lake is off of U.S. 221 only a half-mile from Blowing Rock. The lake property has ample parking, on-site bathrooms and a scenic one-mile trail around the lake. From the trail, the 13,000-square-foot Moses Cone Manor can be seen. Sometimes you’ll find . . .
Snowy Winter Days When a blanket of snow covers a frozen Bass Lake, and all is quiet and peaceful.
Bass Lake on Feb 7, 2010
And Sometimes you’ll find . . .
Warm Winter Days
Bass Lake on Dec 16, 2009 58
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When the sun warms the air and the coats come off to enjoy a walk or jog around Bass Lake.
STEP AWAY FROM YOUR BACKYARD AND STEP OUTSIDE YOURSELF Start your adventure today. 800.852.9506 ExploreBoone.com
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Big Events This Winter RING IN THE NEW YEAR
Rossignol, Ride and Line. For more information, visit www. skisugar.com.
Get fired up for 2016 at Appalachian Ski Mountain’s New Year’s Eve Blast. Ski until 11:30 p.m. and enjoy the torchlight parade followed by fireworks at midnight. Enjoy moonlight skating on the ice rink from 9:45-11:45 p.m. and dinner specials from 9 p.m. to midnight. Check out www.appskimtn. com for more information.
Totally 80s Retro Ski Weekend: Feb. 18-21
New Year’s Eve Blast at ASM: Dec. 31
New Year’s Eve Celebration at Sugar: Dec. 31
Celebrate mountain style at Sugar Mountain Resort and live music from 9 p.m. to 1 a.m. by the Johnson Brothers. A fee and reservation for the indoor festivities are required and should be made in early December by calling 828-898-4521 ext. 233. The general public is invited free of charge to the torch light parade at 11:45 p.m. followed by fireworks at midnight.
New Year’s at Beech Mountain Resort: Dec. 31
Enjoy a family New Year’s Eve event in View Haus or the New Year’s Eve Party in Beech Tree. Visit www.beechmountainresort. com or call 800-438-2093 for more information.
WINTER FESTIVALS
SugarFest 2015: Dec. 11-13
Don’t miss this annual celebration at Sugar Mountain Resort. The festival will feature lodging specials, EDGE of the WORLD mini games, an after ski party and fireworks, the annual SugarFeast, meet and greet and on-ice clinic with 1992 Olympic silver medalist Paul Wylie and demos with the latest in ski and snowboard equipment from Salomon, Volkl, Nordica, Burton, Head, Never Summer, K2, Atomic, Dynastar, BEECH MOUNTAIN RETRO SKI WEEKEND
SUGAR MOUNTAIN SUGARFEST
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Hit the slopes during this four-day throwback event at Beech Mountain. The weekend will feature retro skiing, nightly live 80s music and so much more. Enjoy exciting new additions like Totally Tubular Snow Tubing, a PacMan video game contest and a Rubik’s cube contest. Sport your 80s ski garb and retro fashions and get ready go back in time to the best decade ever. You might even with the $500 first-place prize for best retro apparel. Visit www.beechmountainresort.com for more information.
WINTER SPORTS EVENTS
Meltdown Games: March 26-27
End the winter sport season at Appalachian Ski Mountain with the annual Meltdown Games! Enjoy this classic end-ofwinter celebration with a series of events you won’t see any other time of the year. All events are free with your ski ticket and tons of prizes will be up for grabs. Register for events in these all-day celebrations at the Alpine Ski Shop. Check out www.appskimtn.com for details.
21st Annual National Winter Trails Day
Winter feels good at Sugar Mountain Resort! This event offers children and adults new to snow sports the chance to try snowshoeing for free. Discover the fun and fitness of snow sports. Guided tours are available every hour on the hour between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. The program includes a 45-minute tour and snowshoe rental. Visit www.skisugar. com for more information. ASM MELTDOWN GAMES
ASM NEW YEAR’S FIREWORKS
BONFIRE
Polar plunge Photo by Todd Bush
Blowing Rock
Winterfest
January 28 - 31 • Polar plunge, chili challenge, and more!
W
inter fun heats up in Blowing Rock when the temperature drops! Don’t miss the 2016 installment of the town’s WinterFest celebration Jan. 28-31. This annual weekend of festivities has become one of the High Country’s most popular ways to enjoy the season. On Thursday, Jan. 28, enjoy the High Country Small Plate Crawl on Main Street, Shop Til You Drop at downtown stores, the annual WinterFeast culinary event at Chetola Resort and after party at Twigs. Friday, Jan. 29 events will feature a bonfire in Memorial Park, a Cork and Canvas art event at Blowing Rock Art and History Museum, and family night at Appalachian Ski Mountain. On Saturday, Jan. 30, join in the fun with a silent auction and raffle, hayrides, free admission to BRAHM, various kids’ activities, the annual chilly chili cook-off, a wine tasting and auction, the Little Miss WinterFest pageant, a firewalk, the popular Polar Plunge at Chetola Resort, the Southeast Regional Invitational Collegiate Ice Carving Competition and so much more! For more information, check out www.blowingrockwinterfest.com.
January 28-31, 2016 BlowingRockWinterFest.com 877.295.7801 Polar Plunge WinterFeast Chilly Chili Cookoff Wine Tasting Silent Auction & Raffle Bonfire & Hayrides Shop ‘Til you Drop Ice Carving Demos Kids Activities WinterPaws Dog Show Appalachian Ski Mtn Events WinterFashions Show
A Blowing Rock Chamber of Commerce Event
Visit our website for Lodging Packages & Tickets
BlowingRockWinterFest.com
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LARGE TRACTS! mountains4sale.com
Mountain Land C O M P A N Y
336-973-8640 Acres
1140 592 354 285 276 196 194 181 165 134
County
Price
$6,900,000 $1,955,400 Watauga $2,301,000 $741,000 Cleveland $991,000 Burke $248,500 Wilkes Alleghany $1,070,600 $725,400 Wilkes $618,750 Wilkes $1,498,000 Ashe Caldwell Burke
Acres 129 79 77 49 44 41 40 33 25 13
County
Price
Wilkes
$599,000 $383,856 $246,000 $219,500 $223,000 $389,000 $171,000 $264,000 $158,700 $98,500
Caldwell Caldwell Wilkes Alleghany Ashe Alexander Watauga Wilkes Wilkes
MAJOR PRICE REDUCTIONS! Acres
County
767 259 155 132 121 120 108 104 96 88
Caldwell
Price
$6,499,000 Ashe $998,000 Ashe $737,000 Alexander $396,000 Caldwell $302,300 Ashe $973,000 Avery $870,000 Wilkes $675,000 Wilkes $290,070 Wilkes $289,000
Paul Breden Broker/Owner 828-263-2340 62
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Acres
County
Price
77 75 55 53 44 41 39 31 18 10
Caldwell
$299,000 $199,000 $216,879 $148,892 $163,000 $375,000 $97,000 $206,024 $59,990 $85,000
Wilkes Caldwell Caldwell Wilkes Wilkes Caldwell Avery Wilkes Wilkes
Mountain Land Company 15784 U.S. Hwy 421 S. Deep Gap, NC 28618