Issue 118 January the Destination Magazine™

the Issue 118 Local & Regional Destinations & Experiences Off The Beaten Path

In This Issue

Winter Fun, Elevated!

We Tell You Where To Go!

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Local & Regional Destinations & Experiences

RIDGELINE CRAFT BEVERAGE TRAIL

GASTON & CLEVELAND COUNTIES NC

Get Your Pass, Hop On The Trail, Win Prizes!

Go to Explore.GoGastonNC.org to sign up for your passport, check in at 6 of the 8 participating craft beverage producers and win an official Ridgeline Craft Beverage Trail trucker hat*.

Please follow all COVID-19 recommended protocols when in public and remember to drink responsibly.

HOW IT WORKS Step 1 - Get Your Pass Sign up for your passport.

Explore.GoGastonNC.org Step 2 - Check-In Check-in at any participating location with your phone.

Step 3 - Redeem Get 6 check-ins and win a FREE hat! *While supplies last.

GoGastonNC.org | 704-825-4044 theDestinationMagazine.com 704-706-2365

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January 2021 Issue 118

the

W

e tell you where to go!

Whether you are a long time resident or new to the area, you’ll find local & regional events, destinations and experiences in the Destination Magazine™ that will give you memories for a lifetime

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The Destination Magazine™ is about new destinations and experiences to discover on your own, or outings with friends and Contents family. We hope you will find a new memorable experience Check-Out The Ridgeline Craft every month in the Destination Beverage Trail & Check-In Magazine™ .

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Cabin Getaways In Hendersonville, NC

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The Town Of Beech Mountain— Winter Fun, Elevated!

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Experience Stokes County In A New Season!

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Contributing Writers: Lisa Jay, Craig Distl, Leah Hughes, Allison Andrews, Tory Mabe.

Kate Gavenus

Ski Well, Be Well In Banner Elk This Winter

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Contributing Photographers: Andrew Zachary Digital Imagery, Paul Newton,, Lisa Jay

Touchless Scavenger Hunt 21

We know we are on to something!

Lisa & Andy Jay Publishers Published by: Magic Table Media Group LLC Business Development: Lisa Jay Creative: Andy Jay

Cover: Town of Beech Mountain

The list of events in this publication is compiled from various sources dates & times are tentative & subject to change. the Destination Magazine™ is published

by Magic Table Media Group LLC 369 Dovefield Drive Summerfield, NC 27358 (704) 706-2365 www.theDestinationMagazine.com ©2021 All rights reserved. Magic Table Media Group LLC, Agents & Advertisers do not necessarily condone any activities or advertisement listed in this magazine. The Publisher and its officers, employees, agents, volunteers, and sponsors are not responsible for any loss or damage which might be associated with patronage of any party named in this publication, and is not responsible for any Act of God such as inclement weather, fire, flood, natural or man-made disaster, etc., that are out of the control of the Publisher, which affect the publishing of this magazine.

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Local & Regional Destinations & Experiences

All day fun...

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For the snowtubing fanatics and the snowboarding junkies...

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For the nature lovers...

For you. Beech Mountain.

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Local & Regional Destinations & Experiences

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ESCAPE.

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INDULGE. BannerElk.com

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CASUAL & FINE DINING COZY LODGING SKIING Local SNOWTUBING & RegionalBREWERIES Destinations WINERIES & Experiences

Check-Out The Ridgeline Craft Beverage Trail & Check-In

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a s t o n C o u n t y Tr av e l & To u r i s m h a s c r e at e d a free game pass to promote t h e R i d g e l i n e C ra f t B eve rag e Trail experience and the eight i n d iv i d u a l bu s i n e s s e s t h at a re p a r t o f i t i n b o t h G a s t o n a n d C l eve l a n d c o u n t i e s . Th e Ridgeline Craft Beverage Trail d e r ive s i t s n a m e f ro m t h e Ridgeline Trail which connects Crowder s Mountain State Park across Gaston and Cleveland counties.

d ow n a f t e r yo u r a dve n t u r e s than relaxing with friends and family on the comfor table patios, decks and landscapes found at our partner locations.

Whether situated in one of our vibrant downtowns, along scenic riverbanks or framed by the gorgeous views of mountain peaks and rolling farmlands, you will want to see these perfect post-activity recover y spots for your self. Several include live music, full menus, food trucks and other events, but at each B y s i g n i n g u p f o r t h e one, you’ll enjoy warm smiles and p a s s p o r t a n d s i m p ly v i s i t i n g welcoming interactions with staff the businesses along the trail, and fellow patrons. u s e r s e a r n p r i ze c re d i t s . Th i s opportunity is open to local From east to west, the busir e s i d e n t s a n d v i s i t o r s a l i ke. n e s s e s c o m p r i s i n g o u r t r a i l .

Pass holders checking-in at six A l l p r o d u c e b e ve r a g e s r i g h t of the eight locations over the on location, the one qualifier course of the year are rewarded needed to be listed on the Ridwith a custom Ridgeline Craft geline Craft Beverage Trail.

B e v e r a g e Tr a i l b a s e b a l l h a t produced and shipped on Sign up and/or review additional demand. Pr izes are available information about this program at explore.gogastonnc.org. while supplies last.

In a place known for an extraordinarily broad array of o u t d o o r r e c r e at i o n ch o i c e s , there is no better way to wind

Gaston County offers visitors a variety of attractions to enhance your trip dining and entertainment parks, art and history and more. www.gogaston.org

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Cabin Getaways In Hendersonville, NC

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ocated in the Blue Ridge Mountains, just two hours west of Charlotte and half an hour south of Asheville, Hendersonville maintains the small-town char m many search for in a mountain vacation — shopkeeper s w h o s a y h e l l o, p e d e s t r i a n f r i e n d l y s i d e w a l k s a n d b a ck r o a d s r i p e f o r r a m bl i n g r i d e s through the countr yside.

Fo r v i s i t o r s l o o k i n g t o s t a y in a cozy cabin or vacation rental, together with family o r f r i e n d s ye t a w a y f r o m t h e w i d e r wo r l d , H e n d e r s o n v i l l e offer s plenty of places that f e e l l i ke h o m e.

Fo r a n a u t h e n t i c W N C m o u n t a i n ex p e r i e n c e, b o o k a remote cabin on a hillside surrounded by old-growth forest.

M a ny o f fe r s p e c t a c u l a r v i ew s of the sur rounding Blue Ridge Mountains, par ticularly in the winter when the leaves are o f f t h e t re e s . C h o o s e a n i n d e p e n d e n t ly ow n e d p ro p e r t y, o r book with a specific cabin

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r e n t a l c o m p a n y. C ab i n Fe ve r, j u s t s o u t h o f d ow n t ow n H e n d e r s o nv i l l e, m a i n t a i n s s e ve n rustic cabins on 15 acres.

Rock on the front porch in the s h a d e o f a d e n s e t re e c a n o py, o r c u r l u p b e s i d e t h e wo o d stove. Dog lover s delight in B a r k we l l s , wh e r e f o u r- l e g g e d f amily member s are the focus.

E a ch o f t h e e i g h t c ab i n s h a s i t s ow n f e n c e d ya r d , a n d t h e property has a pond in the c e n t e r.

Those looking for an agrarian escape should book a cabin or home in Hender sonville a p p l e c o u n t r y. T h e m a j o r i t y of Hender sonville’s abundant apple orchards are concentrated nor theast of town in an a r e a k n o w n a s “ a p p l e a l l e y.”

Unwind on a back porch overl o o k i n g r ow s o f ap p l e t r e e s .

Prepare meals in a full kitchen, and spend time together as a f a m i ly. I n r e c e n t ye a r s , v i n e ya r d s h ave i n c r e a s e d i n t h i s area, and the Crest of the Blue R i d g e w i n e r e g i o n r e c e iv e d federal designation as an

Local & Regional Destinations & Experiences

AVA i n 2 0 1 9 . A f e w w i n e r i e s now offer vacation rentals on proper ty.

If downtown Hendersonville is your destination, choose to s t ay i n a l o f t o r c o n d o. L e ave the car parked and walk to grab coffee and window shop along Main Street. When dinner time a r r ive s , ch o o s e f ro m 2 5 i n d e pendently owned restaurants.

Many restaurants now offer traditional dine in, outdoor dining or curbside pickup options to suit all visitor needs.

For a complete listing of cabins in Hendersonville, go to www.

VisitHendersonvilleNC.org.

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The Town Of Beech Mountain— Winter Fun, Elevated!

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t a r t yo u r n e w ye a r o u t w i t h a h e a l t hy, f u n a n d a f fo rd abl e t r i p t o B e e ch Mountain. In the highest town in easter n Amer ica, the 5506’ altitude provides the p e r f e c t cl i m a t e f o r o u t d o o r a c t iv i t i e s ye a r- r o u n d . Wi n t e r sports abound, with the Beech Mountain Ski Resort right in town. The slopes complex also c o n t a i n s a n i c e - s k at i n g r i n k , snowtubing r uns, restaurants, shops and a brewery. Skiers and snowboarders of all skill levels can choose from 17 slopes or take a lesson at the ski school.

N e x t d o o r t o t h e To w n Vi s i t o r C e n t e r, a dv e n t u r o u s kids will have a great time on the municipal sledding hill. It’s limited to people aged 12 and under, and it’s free. Parents are welcome to ride with their little ones. This season, a second sledding area has been created across the street, to reduce crowding. Check conditions by calling 828-387-9283. Bring your ow n p l a s t i c s l e d o r re n t o n e locally for $5.

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Those who want to stay on the mountain can choose from hotels to condos and houses.

Come find that perfect couples’ retreat right in town, or a familys i ze d c ab i n t u cke d i n t h e

Local & Regional Destinations & Experiences

woods. Beech Mountain is one of the most affordable vacation destinations in North Carolina, and there are plenty of shops, restaurants, hiking and biking trails and activities right in town to keep you happy for a day, a week or longer. Extra precautions are being taken by all businesses on the mountain in response to COVID-19.

Everyone is so caring, They care about me the same way they care about my mom. It’s like a family, my mom is happy, and that makes a huge difference, -Residents Daughter-

By Kate Gavenus

Go to www.beechmtn. com or call 828-387-9283 for more information.

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If you are in a Tier 1 or 2 County, Please Contact Us.

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Wheels Through Time Museum 62 Vintage Lane, Maggie Valley North Carolina 28751

(828) 926-6266

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Local & Regional Destinations & Experiences

Luxury & Performance at the Lake!

RANDYMARIONCADILLAC.COM Visit Randy Marion Cadillac for all your service, parts and accessory needs

220 W. Plaza Drive I-77, Exit 36, Hwy.150 Open 9 am - 8 pm Weekdays 9 am - 8 pm Saturday

www.duckworths.com

Ballantyne Rea Farms Mooresville Huntersville Uptown

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HUNTERSVILLE

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Local & Regional Destinations & Experiences

Experience Stokes County In A New Season!

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diver se region of ar tists, agr iculture, char ming general stores, local e a t e r i e s , a n d s c e n i c b e a u t y, Stokes County, Nor th Carolina is a gloriously good time in the wonderland of Mother N at u r e ’s s p l e n d o r. Fi n d yo u r escape from the ever yday hustle and bustle by distancing yo u r s e l f f ro m t h e c row d s fo r a little retail therapy or a h e ap i n ’ h e l p i n o f v i t t l e s a n d fixin’s at souther n diner s and longtime favorites like Hillbilly Hideaway. At this hidden gem in Pine Hall, br ing a group to g at h e r r o u n d t h e t abl e f o r a Meat and Three. Waiter s br ing o u t a t abl e f u l l o f c a s s e r o l e dishes and pans of meats, green beans, taters, creamed corn and m o re. E a ch t abl e i n t h i s l o n g standing restaurant is likened to the traditional southern d i n n e r t a b l e a t g r a n d m a ’s house.

With cool temperatures comes ample outdoor recreation at Hanging Rock – a picturesque state park just waiting to be explored in a whole new

season. Take a brisk winter hike u p t h e p a rk ’s w i n d i n g m o u ntain paths and enjoy spect a c u l a r v i ew s o f t h e a re a . O n the coldest of days, the park’s five waterfalls – Window Falls, Hidden Falls, Tor y’s Den Falls, U p p e r C a s c a d e s , a n d L o we r Cascades – can be found frozen in time – a majestic and awe-inspiring sight.

Soar above the treetops a l l ye a r r o u n d w i t h C a r o l i n a Ziplines, offering thrilling zips with unparalleled views. From the Jessup Mill Public Fishing Area, residents and visitors cast their lines into the Dan River, in hopes of catching a stunner of a trout and at Harts Access and Public Fishing Area, a concrete ramp lead down to the Dan River for easy access.

Continued On Page 19

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Local & Regional Destinations & Experiences

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Stokes Continued From Page 17

T h e A r t s P l a c e o f S t o ke s i s t h e c o u n t y ’s c u l t u r a l a n d entertainment center for visitors and locals, showcasing local and regional artisans and mu s i c i a n s t h r o u g h ex h i b i t s , and featur ing a retail market.

Listen to home-grown music as it sweeps through the hills and t ow n s o f S t o ke s C o u n t y. A n d taste the flavors of the area with an exper tly crafted brew from Midsummer Brewing Company in Westfield. Celebrate the most magical day of any lifetime with a private event at Moore Springs Manor – Stokes County’s premier event venue.

W h e t h e r i t ’s e s c a p i n g i n t h e g r e a t w h i t e wo n d e r l a n d

of a snow covered state park, h av i n g yo u r b re at h t a ke n away at the enchanting and magical sight of a frozen waterfall, or embracing the ar ts and crafts of the county’s q u a i n t , ch a r m i n g , a n d a lway s welcoming towns, Stokes County has everything you have been looking for in an ideal winter getaway.

The perfect mountain getaway, closer than you think. Experience hiking trails, waterfalls, rock climbing, mountain biking. www.hangingrock.com

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Ski Well, Be Well In Banner Elk This Winter

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h e r e ’s g o o d n e w s f o r skiers and snowboarders heading to Banner Elk this winter. Beech Mountain Resort and Sugar Mountain Resort are participating in the national Ski Well, Be Well initiative to promote COVID-safe skiing.

Both resorts follow protocols set forth by the National Ski Areas Association.

Those include a face covering m a n d at e, p hy s i c a l d i s t a n c i n g indoors and out, enhanced cleaning and disinfecting s t rat e g i e s i n a l l p u bl i c a re a s , o p e rat i o n a l p l a n s t o m a n ag e t h e f l ow o f p e o p l e a n d d a i ly wellness checks for employees.

On the chairlifts, guests are grouped and only ride with people in their traveling par ty.

And the open-air chair s are spaced approximately 50 feet apar t and provide constant air flow.

Sugar Mountain vice president Kim Jochl and Beech Mountain general manager Ryan Costin are board members of the NC Ski Areas Association and

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leading the effort to keep NC’s slopes as safe as possible. Both resor ts increased contactless o n l i n e o p t i o n s f o r l i f t t i cke t purchases and renting ski and s n ow b o a r d e q u i p m e n t . B o t h have also enlarged and modified equipment rental facilities to create more distancing.

In general, the NC Ski Areas Association believes skiing i s we l l p o s i t i o n e d f o r s a f e t y during a pandemic. The ski areas encompass many acres of open space, the major ity of time is outdoor s cr uising solo down the slopes, face coverings and helmets are already standard gear, and general etiquette calls for spacing on the slopes.

L a s t , bu t n o t l e a s t , a s s e s s your health before heading to the slopes. If you are or could be sick, stay home — even if it is a fresh powder day. It stinks to miss a day of skiing, but it’s worse to miss an entire season.

For more info about ski season in Banner Elk, go to BannerElk.com.

Local & Regional Destinations & Experiences

TRAIL POST Touchless Scavenger Hunt

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appy New Year! We hope that during 2021 you get a chance to take care of yourself, and step back from the stress of the time. Relax, explore, reboot.

Check-in at 25 of the passport d e s t i n a t i o n s a n d r e c e iv e a stainless steel double wall c a r a b i n e r c u p. Ye s , w e w i l l reward you for treating yourself well while helping others!

We suggest discovering bout i q u e c ra f t b eve rag e p ro d u cers across the state responsibly and suppor ting small communities while creating memories for a lifetime.

If you are a craft beverage p ro d u c e r o r h ave a bu s i n e s s suppor ting the craft beverage industr y and would like to be listed on the passport, contact us through the app or website at CraftPassport.app. You will be on our app in less than a week, and you’ll be a new destination for thousands of people wanting to contribute to small businesses and enjoy exploring new destinations.

Download the passport app or tap into the website at CraftPasspor t.app, collect the memories from your drive, and c h e ck - i n a t t h e d e s t i n a t i o n digitally from your phone, tablet, or laptop.

The app works by using the p owe r o f G o o g l e, Wo rd P re s s , and Geolocation to guide you to your destinations and verify your location. You never have to hand your phone to anyone or ask for a “check-in code,” and the staff at the location never have to stop serving customers to check you in.

The Carolina Craft Passport is a reward program to nudge you to get off the well worn path and experience boutique craft beverage destinations across the region.

CraftPassport.app

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Andrew Zachary Digital Imagery

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Local & Regional Destinations & Experiences

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