Autumn Times 2024

autumn autumn times times

PUBLISHER

Gene Fowler

EDITORS

Moss Brennan, Jerry Snow, Jamie Shell and Nathan Ham

BUSINESS MANAGER

Tim Walker

PRODUCTION

Donna Thomas, Rebecca Portis

CIRCULATION MANAGER Jeff Winebarger

WRITERS

Luke Barber, Derek Halsey, Christian Gardner, Zach Colburn, Jaren Gragg, Francisco Hernandez, Amelie Fawson and Cassidy Narron

SALES

Austin Fowler, Mark Mitchell, Henry Volk, Teresa Laws and William Becker

INDEX PHOTO:

by Christian Gardner

COVER PHOTO: Photo by Zach Colburn Hellbender Bed and Beverage

Photo

Embrace your Autumn trip with High Country Host

BY Amelie Fawson

Planning a trip to the High Country wouldn’t be complete without a little help from the High Country Host.

The organization is a nonprofit regional welcome center that helps visitors plan their vacations to Boone, Blowing Rock, Banner Elk, Beech Mountain, West Jefferson and Wilkesboro. They welcome over 50,000 people yearly to their Regional Visitor Information Center on Hwy 321 in Boone.

High Country Host offers detailed guides on local attractions, lodging, dining and events. By visiting their website or regional welcome center, visitors can easily find the best spots to explore, whether a serene hike or a day spent at a local orchard. Their regional welcome center also has maps, brochures and other paper information. Autumn is a prime time to visit the High Country. The mountains transform into vibrant reds, oranges and yellows, offering picturesque views and great weather for outdoor activities.

The organization’s fall season guide, available on its website and in its

information about the best spots to view the fall foliage, from scenic drives along the Blue Ridge Parkway to hidden hiking trails. It also features seasonal activities like fall festivals, apple picking, corn mazes, pumpkin patches and river fishing guides.

For accommodations, High Country Host’s website lists a variety of options, from rustic cabins to upscale resorts. Their recommendations help visitors find the perfect place to unwind after a long day of activities.

Dining in the High Country is a treat with its range of restaurants offering everything from farm-to-table dishes to high-end dining experiences. High Country Host’s dining guide features top restaurants and local favorites.

High Country Host’s curated weekly events calendar keeps visitors informed about the latest happenings in the region. This calendar is sure to keep you updated on the best activities around the High Country, from live music to farmer’s markets.

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, High Country Host is there to make your trip to the High

Photo submitted

The High Country Host regional office is located on Hwy 321 between Boone and Blowing Rock.

Stick to Trails & Sidewalks

When exploring Boone, keep to designated trails, camp at existing or designated sites, practice waterfall safety, and always follow posted signage.

We all have a responsibility to preserve the awe for those enjoying its beauty today and for those discovering it tomorrow.

Learn more at PreserveTheAwe.com.

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BY Amelie Fawson

Your guide to fall foliage

As the days grow shorter and the air gets colder, the mountains of the High Country transform. The colors of the region’s 125 species of trees turn into vivid reds from sourwoods and red maples, vibrant oranges, and yellows from sugar maples, and deep burgundies from dogwoods.

For those planning a trip to the High Country to witness its fall colors, timing your trip is essential to catching the colors at their peak.

The best time to experience the full spectrum of fall colors in the region is generally around mid-October. To view the most vibrant displays, aim for a trip between Oct. 12 and 20.

“If you wanted to hedge your bets, I would always say make your reservations a little later rather than a little earlier,” said Appalachian State University Professor of Plant Ecophysiology Howard Neufeld, also known locally as the “Fall Color Guy.”

One of the great things about visiting the High Country to see leaves is the number of beautiful viewing spots available.

Neufeld recommends visiting the sites equipped with a rain jacket during the middle of the week and early in the day. The earlier in the day you visit, the brighter the colors will be.

The area’s best and most popular leafviewing spot is Rough Ridge Trail, right off the Blue Ridge Parkway at Milepost 302.8. The trail has views extending to Grandfather Mountain, Linville Gorge and the Linn Cove Viaduct.

“The best color is off Rough Ridge Trail because the slopes you look down always have fantastic color,” said Neufeld. “Even if it’s a bad year, it’s going to be good color there.”

Neufeld also recommends that visitors stop at the Linn Cove Viaduct, Price Lake, Beacon Heights, and Flat Rock Trail. These sights will have the best leaf colors in mid-October.

The Linn Cove Viaduct is a seven-

mile bridge on the Blue Ridge Parkway. It hugs the face of Grandfather Mountain and offers far-reaching views of the mountains.

Price Lake is located right off the Blue Ridge Parkway at Milepost 296.7. Visitors can sit by the lake or take the 2.7-mile trail loop around it.

Beacon Heights is a rock summit off of the Blue Ridge Parkway at Milepost 305.2. The trail is just under a mile and looks down towards Wilson’s Creek drainage.

Flat Rock Trail is a 2.5-mile, oneway trail off the Blue Ridge Parkway at Milepost 308.3. The trail offers views of beautiful rock outcrops and looks west towards the southern tip of Grandfather Mountain.

For those arriving a little earlier in the season Neufeld recommends visiting Crabtree Falls, Craggy Gardens and Graveyard Fields because they’re at higher elevation. The higher the elevation, the earlier the leaves turn.

Crabtree Falls is a 3-mile hike right off the Blue Ridge Parkway at Milepost 339.5 that has a 60-foot rock cliff blanketed by a waterfall surrounded by fall colors.

“Crabtree Falls is quite a hike down to the falls, but it’s beautiful,” said Neufeld.

Craggy Gardens and Graveyard Fields are both high-elevation sites near Asheville, so if you’re in the area, plan on visiting in early October.

“Graveyard Fields has nice falls and a wooden walkway,” said Neufeld. “It has beautiful color.”

For more information about the science and secrets of fall colors from Neufeld, visit www.exploreasheville. com/science-behind-fall-color/.

More Trail Information

Black Rock Trail is a one-mile trail that begins at the Black Rock Parking

See Foliage on page 16

Photo by Leslie Restivo | Grandfather Mountain Stewardship Foundation

This bridge leads to a network of trails that show spectacular views of Linville Falls.

Foliage

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 14

Area and is characterized by its unique rock formations. The trail gradually descends a total of 300 feet in elevation and is mostly shaded thanks to the northern hardwood and spruce forest and the giant boulders along the side of the trail. About halfway to Black Rock, you will pass Arch Rock. Be sure to take a slight detour and walk under this ginormous boulder for a cool photo opportunity! At the end of the trail, you will be rewarded with a breathtaking view of Pisgah National Forest via rock outcroppings. To gain an even better viewing point, use the short ladder and cable to climb on top of the rock.

Feeling up to a challenge? The Grandfather Trail is the “literal pinnacle of hikes on Grandfather Mountain,” according to Grandfather Mountain’s website. This trail is extremely strenuous and should only be attempted by experienced hikers. The Grandfather Trail can be accessed from

the Top Shelf parking lot or the Black Rock Parking Area in the Grandfather Mountain Stewardship Foundation’s natural area. Although the hike is only 4.8 miles round-trip, it’s recommended that you allow yourself at least 5 hours to complete the hike. The route follows the crest of Grandfather Mountain from the Top Shop Parking Area out 2.4 miles to Calloway Peak. Total vertical gain is almost 1,800 feet, and extra steep sections require hikers to use in-place cables and ladders. At the end of this trail, you will be standing 5,946 feet above sea level, looking miles and miles across the mountains and valleys.

All trails on Grandfather Mountain Stewardship Foundation’s property will close at 5 p.m. between Sept. 3 and Nov. 3. Visit www.hikewnc.info/ for more information on Western North Carolina trails.

Photo by Skip Sickler | Grandfather Mountain Stewardship Foundation

This sunset shot in Valle Crucis shows a late autumn view of golden and crimson hues

Looking at the backside of Grandfather.

Near Hound Ears.

Featuring the works of Boone’ s Joe Miller this October

Blowing Rock's oldest Art Gallery established in 1994

World's leading Gallery for Elliott Daingerfield

Autumn Checklist

Get out and enjoy the many offerings of the area

BY Explore Boone

The air is crisp, the views are aweinspiring, and the leaf color is stunning – welcome to autumn in Boone! Living here means we get to enjoy a cascading canvas of vibrant hues that last for weeks, from the mile-high peaks at Beech and Grandfather to our charming downtown valley.

✓ PICK OUT THE PERFECT PUMPKIN Autumn in Boone wouldn’t be complete without a visit to a local pumpkin patch or corn maze. Immerse yourself in the beauty of western North Carolina as you navigate through twisting corn stalks or handpick the perfect pumpkin amidst the vibrant landscape.

Check on availability and hours before heading out to these nearby farms:

• Harvest Farm Corn Maze and Pumpkin Patch in Valle Crucis

• New River Corn Maze and Pumpkin Patch in Deep Gap

• C&J Pumpkin Patch and Corn Maze in Boone

✓ CELEBRATE THE HARVEST AT A FARMERS’ MARKET Take a sensory journey through our local farmers’ markets, offering the season’s best produce, from crisp mountain apples to vibrantly-colored gourds and seasonal handcrafted decor. With several weekly markets and numerous produce stands throughout the county, there’s no better way to connect with our community’s rich agricultural traditions.

• Watauga County Farmers’ Market: Every Saturday through November

• Blowing Rock Farmers’ Market: Every Thursday through October

• King Street Market: Every Tuesday

through October

• Boone Winter Farmers’ Market: Every Saturday, December through March

✓ RAISE A STEIN AT OKTOBERFEST

Oktoberfest echoes Boone’s communal spirit and joy of embracing life’s simple pleasures. Enjoy a diverse selection of craft beers from the High Country at these local Oktoberfest celebrations:

• High Country Oktoberfest at Appalachian Mountain Brewery (September 21)

• 33rd Annual Oktoberfest at Sugar Mountain Resort (October 12 & 13)

✓ SOAK IN FALL COLOR We’re lucky to have numerous scenic routes that provide a beautiful escape from the crowds on the Blue Ridge Parkway, but there are so many unique activities to enjoy leaf color here in the Boone area. For those seeking an adrenaline rush, try coasting through the trees or tackling ropes courses at Wilderness Run Alpine Coaster. For a more relaxed experience, sit back at a local winery or brewery and take in the vibrant views.

✓ CHEER ON THE ‘NEERS Nothing beats the excitement of cheering on the Appalachian State Mountaineers. Attending a home football game means immersing yourself in long-cherished traditions. Need information on parking, stadium policies, and game times? Check out Explore Boone’s Guide to Game Day Planning on exploreboone.com.

✓ MAKE MEMORIES AT A FALL FESTIVAL The High Country hosts a series of celebrations that capture the essence of the season. The Valle Country Fair in historic Valle Crucis

is a beloved event where community, craftsmanship, and culture intertwine. Alternatively, the Woolly Worm Festival in Banner Elk is a whimsical celebration centered around the quirky woolly worm caterpillar.

✓ ENJOY FAMILY-FRIENDLY FRIGHTS

Tweetsie Railroad’s Ghost Train transforms the historic attraction into a spooky wonderland, featuring a ghostly train ride through the haunted Blue Ridge Mountains. This popular fall family tradition begins Friday, September 20, and continues every Friday and Saturday night through October 26. Downtown Boone hosts the annual Boone BOO! trick-or-treating event on October 31st, featuring a judged costume contest that will take place on the closed, central part of King Street.

✓ EXPLORE LOCAL HIKING TRAILS

The fall season offers the perfect opportunity to hit under-the-radar trails you may have never explored and take in the breathtaking beauty of Boone’s natural surroundings. Several local hiking spots are less crowded than the more well-known tourist paths along the Parkway, allowing you to enjoy the vibrant fall colors in peace. The Blue Ridge Conservancy has a 2.2-mile trail right next to their new Conservation Campus off of Aho Road, or check out the incredible progress being made along the Middle Fork Greenway nearby. The Boone United Trail is a 2.5-mile loop beginning behind Boone United Methodist Church, winding its way through a hardwood forest halfway up the summit of Howard’s Knob.

✓ TAKE A HISTORIC WALKING

TOUR

Learn more about Boone’s rich history by taking a self-guided historic walking tour of downtown, available on exploreboone.com. Many locals overlook the fascinating stories behind familiar landmarks, so this is a great way to see the town with fresh eyes. Highlights include:

• Jones House Cultural and Community Center

• The Appalachian Theatre

• The Chocolate Bar Mural Honoring the Junaluska Community

✓ PICK OUT THE PERFECT TREE Watauga County is home to several scenic choose-and-cut Christmas tree farms. Fragrant Fraser Fir trees, the nation’s most prized Christmas tree, are native only to the High Country of northwestern North Carolina and adjacent summits. Bring the family to a local farm to find the perfect tree, sip on hot cocoa, and create a memorable tradition that supports local tree growers!

As we embrace the vibrant hues of autumn and the crisp mountain air, it’s clear how fortunate we are to call Boone our home. By practicing responsible recreation, we can preserve this natural beauty and foster a harmonious outdoor environment. This means respecting trail etiquette, trashing your trash, and being mindful of others seeking the same tranquility and beauty. Let’s cherish the season, support our local community, and commit to leaving the places we love as pristine as we found them.

Photo courtesy Explore Boone Make sure to stop by a farmers market during your trip to the High Country.

High Country fall festivals celebrate art, music, tradition

BY: Amelie Fawson

Fall festivals in the High Country have a little something for everyone. From the warmth of Sugar Mountain’s Oktoberfest to the bustling streets of North Wilkesboro’s Brushy Mountain Apple Festival, visitors can enjoy artisan crafts, music, and High Country traditions.

Woolly Worm Festival

The 47th annual Woolly Worm Festival, a three-day event, will be held Oct. 19-20 at the Historic Banner Elk School. Tickets are $10 for adults and $5 for children. Admission for kids 5 and under is free.

One of the festival’s main attractions is the Woolly Worm Race. The winning worm earns up to $1,000 and the prestigious title of the official winter weather predictor. The festival’s folklore states that the winning woolly worm’s color bands can forecast the severity of the upcoming winter.

In addition to the races, 150 vendors set up shop at the festival selling food, art, souvenirs and more.

Proceeds from the festival are

given back to the community to enhance its schools and children’s programs and to promote businesses and tourism in Avery County.

For more information, visit www. woollyworm.com.

Valle Country Fair

The Valle Country Fair will be held on Oct. 19 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. The fair is held in a large hayfield alongside NC Highway 194 between Valle Crucis and Banner Elk.

Attendees can explore over 150 artist vendor booths offering hand-made crafts, artwork and unique gifts. Food booths will serve homemade country cooking, apple butter, baked goods, jams and jellies.

Entertainment at the fair includes performances by cloggers, storytellers, square dancers and musicians.

Funds from the fair will support grants for various High Country nonprofit organizations, area ministries and the church outreach committee, which assists See Fair on page 20

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•E xpress Care Clinic (Mountain Family Care)

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•G ynecology

•H ematology and Oncology

•H ospitalist Program

•I maging Services

•I nternal Medicine

• Mountain Hearts

• Wellness Center

•O bs tetrics

•O ph th al mology

•O tolaryngology

•P ediatrics

•P odiatry

•P rimary Care

•R ehabilitation Services

•R espiratory Services

•S ur gic al Se rv ic es

•U ro logy

•Women’s He alth

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 19

individuals and families in crisis throughout the year.

Admission to the Valle Country Fair is free, and parking is available in the adjoining field for $10 per car, $25 for a small bus or van, and $50 for a motor coach. Pets are not allowed.

For more information about the fair, visit www.holycrossvallecrucis. net/valle-country-fair.

Sugar Mountain Oktoberfest

Sugar Mountain Resort’s 34th

annual Oktoberfest will be held Oct. 12-13 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission, parking and shuttle service are free.

Sugar Mountain Oktoberfest is an autumn German folk festival that offers an opportunity to enjoy the fall foliage with the family. The festival features a variety of activities, including a Bavarian costume contest, live music, a scenic chairlift ride and local artist and craftsman booths. Food vendors will serve traditional German fare alongside local specialties.

Photo by Moss Brennan Walter Pitts and his hand-picked successor Bob Gates at the 45th Annual Valle Country Fair.

For more information, visit http:// oktoberfest.skisugar.com/.

Brushy Mountain Apple Festival

The Brushy Mountain Apple Festival will be held on Oct. 25 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. in downtown North Wilkesboro.

Drawing more than 160,000 visitors, the event is one of the Southeast’s largest one-day arts and crafts festivals.

The streets of downtown North Wilkesboro will be lined with more than 400 arts and crafts vendors, 100 food concession stands and four different music stages. Local apple growers will sell apples, apple cider and dried apples. Cloggers, folk dancers, rope skippers and square dancers will perform.

The event is a community fundraiser for the Brushy Mountain Ruritan Club. Admission to the festival is free.

For more information, visit www. applefestival.net/festival.php.

The Autumn at Oz Festival

The Autumn at Oz Festival will be held on nine days, spread out across Sept. 6 -8, Sept. 13-15 and Sept. 20-22 at the Land of Oz on Beech Mountain.

Visitors can explore the Ozthemed park, enjoy performances

by iconic Wizard of Oz characters, shop for unique craft vendors, and get their faces painted.

Admission is $60, and children 2 and under get in free. Tickets are available at www.landofoznc.com/ buy-tickets/.

Photo by Christian Gardner

A large crowd was on hand for the 2023 Woolly Worm Festival in Banner Elk

App State Football: A High Country fall staple

By Zach Colburn

Football in the High Country offers several options for the pigskin enthusiast, whether it’s under the Friday Night Lights at Jack Groce Stadium in Boone, Macdonald Stadium in Newland or Husky Stadium in West Jefferson.

But when it comes to Saturdays, all eyes turn to the play at Kidd Brewer Stadium on the campus of Appalachian State University.

On its 10th anniversary as a member of the Football Bowl Subdivision, the Mountaineers are ready to work towards becoming bowl-eligible for the eighth time in program history and capturing another Sun Belt Conference championship.

Appalachian State, which coaches picked to win the Sun Belt-East Division championship after its 9-5 campaign last fall.

In addition to winning SBCEast last year and making the SBC championship game (where it fell to Troy), the Mountaineers finished 6-2 in the league and then captured the Avocados from Mexico Cure Bowl championship with a 13-9 win against the University of Miami at Ohio.

After the 2023 season, App State lost 24 players from its 75-player roster, including 10 starters. But it will return nine preseason AllSun Belt selections headlined by quarterback Joey Aguilar, who was named the Preseason Player of the Year.

“We have a very determined

group of players on our football team who are on a mission in 2024. We return almost 70 percent of our production on offense and defense,” Appalachian State head coach Shawn Clark said at SBC Media Day. “Thanks to the support from our campus, our athletic leadership, App State’s in a great position to continue competing for championships and we offer our players a world-class education.”

The Mountaineers are guaranteed six home games this fall (and potentially a seventh with the SBC championship game), including several highly anticipated matchups.

East Tennessee State, South Alabama, Liberty, Georgia State, Old Dominion and James Madison will all made the trek to The Rock this season. Five of its six home opponents made a postseason appearance in 2023, including all four conference opponents.

The season kicked off on Aug. 31 when it welcomed former Southern Conference foe East Tennessee State University.

The Mountaineers will play two road games on Sept. 7 and Sept. 14, respectively, at Clemson and East Carolina.

Appalachian will open Sun Belt play on Sept. 19 against South Alabama, the first of two Thursday night games (the other is Nov. 7 at Coastal Carolina) that the Mountaineers will play in 2024.

After closing out non-conference play on Sept. 28 with Liberty — the

first meeting since 2014 and the first one as FBS members — the Mountaineers will hit the road for two games. Appalachian State will travel to Marshall on Oct. 5 and then the Ragin Cajuns of Louisiana on Oct. 12 before taking off the following Saturday.

Appalachian will play a unique schedule with three games over a two-week span. It’ll start with the second installment of back-to-back home games against Georgia State (Oct. 26) and Old Dominion (Nov. 2) before a nationally televised contest at Coastal Carolina on Thursday, Nov. 7.

Following the game with the Chanticleers, the Mountaineers will be open the next two Saturdays before it hosts a highly-anticipated tilt with James Madison.

The Nov. 23 game with the Dukes will also serve as the traditional Black Saturday and Senior Day at Kidd Brewer.

Appalachian State closes out the regular season on Nov. 30 at rival Georgia Southern. The Sun Belt Championship game is slated for Dec. 7 at 7:30 p.m.

Kickoff times have been set for the regular season games with ETSU (3:30 p.m.), Clemson (8 p.m.), East Carolina (4 p.m.), South Alabama (7:30 p.m.) and Coast Carolina (8 p.m.).

Others have not been finalized yet. When they are known, they will be posted on appstatesports. com/sports/football, where more information can be found.

Photo courtesy Andy McLean courtesy App State Athletics The crowd at Kidd Brewer Stadium during an App State football game

Photo courtesy App State Athletics Kidd Brewer Stadium surrounded by fall colors, making it the perfect place to be on a Saturday in the fall

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App State Football tailgating: A fall tradition

By Zach Colburn

A staple of the college football experience, tailgating is a fixture of that and the experience at Appalachian State on gameday is certainly special.

With the Blue Ridge Mountains as a backdrop, thousands of fans gather at designated locations outside of Kidd Brewer Stadium for food, fun, and fellowship.

Along with music and the aroma of grilling food, attendees open the back of their vehicles and celebrate the day in parking lots and streets.

Whether it’s the standard tailgate cuisine of hamburgers, hot dogs, brats, and potato salad or the local flavors of pimento cheese and barbecue pork, there’s something for every fan.

Lawn activities such as cornhole,

beer pong (for those of age), ladder golf, or listening to pregame broadcasts or watching other games on their phones tend to excite and get people into the spirit for the upcoming Appalachian State game.

On game days at The Rock, fans fill the parking lots around Appalachian State’s campus with their cars and tents. The anticipation tends to build more as game time approaches and the Mountaineers take the field.

There are multiple locations open for tailgating around the App State campus, including the Greenwood Lot on Bodenheimer Drive for Yosef Club members and students with a permit (assigned spaces); the Raley/Duncan/Music lots and Stadium and Justice lots, which are open for Yosef Club members with

appropriate tags.

In addition, the university offers an alcohol-free tailgate section — the Family Fun Zone.

Yosef Club parking lots will open to pass holders for tailgating at 8 a.m. for games with 2:30 or 3:30 p.m. start times (subject to change). Fans who do not have a Yosef Club parking pass can park for free at Levine College of Health Sciences (75 first-come, first-serve spaces) and take the AppalCART route to campus. Other game-day parking options can be found at appstatesports.com.

Alcoholic beverages (malt beverages and unfortified wine) may be consumed in certain designated parking lots by fans of legal drinking age (but they are not allowed to bring beverages inside the stadium). Those looking to participate must be able to present a valid driver’s license or photo ID to reflect their age upon request.

Liquors, spirits, kegs, common containers and glass containers are not permitted in any location.

Per App State’s football tailgating policy, propane and charcoal grills are the only allowable sources of heat for cooking. The university states that burned coals and/pr residue from cooking cannot make contact with paved surface or the parking lot. Hot coals must be extinguished completely with water prior to leaving the tailgating site. Open flame fires are prohibited.

The university also recommends that fans use their vehicles to power

any audio or video equipment. While generators and portable heaters are not prohibited, they are not recommended for use due to potential safety hazards.

Fans can use restrooms available in Trivette Hall, the Plemmons Student Union and the Central Dining Hall; portable bathrooms are located in the parking lots and tailgate locations throughout the campus.

Tailgating attendees are asked to dispose of trash in nearby dumpsters that are placed in high-traffic areas. Representatives from a number of organizations pass out trash bags in parking lots throughout the day to ensure all tailgating trash is picked up.

Fans will have six opportunities to tailgate before home games this season. Subject to change, gates will also open two hours early for fans (and two and a half hours early for Student Yosef Club members) for home games.

In addition to tailgating, fans can witness the Mountaineer Walk, where the App State football team will walk from Roess Dining Hall up Stadium Drive to Kidd Brewer Stadium roughly 2 hours and 45 minutes before kickoff on each game day.

Tickets can be purchased at appstatesports.evenue.net or by calling (828) 262-7733 (press 0 for a ticket representative) on Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Photo courtesy Zach Colburn Parking lots are full on gameday for tailgating

Photo courtesy Zach Colburn Cooking up a burger while tailgating is a classic

By Cassidy Narron

A-MAZE-ing corn mazes

Corn mazes are a classic autumn activity and a perfect way to spend an afternoon as a family. Lucky for readers, the High Country is home to a number of different great corn mazes.

Harvest Farm

Harvest Farm in Valle Crucis has a 7-acre corn maze, and if you can navigate your way through the maze, you win a free pumpkin! You can pick pumpkins, take a hayride or bring your own picnic to enjoy at the farm. Harvest Farm’s corn maze and pumpkin patch opening day is September 9. Learn more at www. harvestfarmwnc.com/.

Address: 3287 NC 194 Valle Crucis, NC 28691

New River Corn Maze

New River Corn Maze on the historic Brown Family Farm is situated quaintly next to the scenic New River. Their corn maze is more than a mile long, and at the New River Farm pumpkin patch you can choose from both edible and ornamental pumpkins. Kids 5 years old and under can enjoy the corn maze and tram ride for free. Visit the maze website at www. newrivercornmaze.com/home.html to learn more.

Address: 660 Laurel Gap Ridge Rd. Boone NC 28607

C&J Pumpkin Patch

C&J Pumpkin Patch and Corn Maze is located in Boone and has a fiveacre corn maze, as well as a pumpkin patch, hayrides, jump castles, a mini corn maze and various other games. When you’re worn out from all of the activities, grab some food.

They have BBQ, hot dogs, cotton candy, snacks and drinks. The purchase of an admission ticket includes access to all activities. Visit their Facebook page @ CandJPumpkinPatchandCornMaze.

Address: 3490 NC Highway 194 North Boone, NC 28607

Ashe County Corn Maze

The Ashe County Corn Maze, located at 1332 NC Highway 16 S, has quickly become a fall tradition for many. The maze opens on September 14 and offers a variety of activities for all ages. The maze itself is four acres and can take as little as 30 minutes to complete or an hour. Fore more information, visit ashecornmaze.com/#the-cornmaze.

Lantern Farm

Another Ashe County corn maze resides at Lantern Farm, located at Doe Meadows Drive in West Jefferson. From mid-September to late October, the farm hosts Halloweentime with a pumpkin patch and a four-acre corn maze. More information can be found at lanternfarm.com/halloweentime.

A community member tries to find her way out of a corn maze.

blue deer

Photo submitted

The Burnett Sisters play live at a recent Valle Country Fair.

Photo by Karen Lehmann Quilt square plaques are one of more than 150 arts and crafts vendors that have wares on offer at the Valle Country Fair this year.

Homegrown meets handmade at Valle Country Fair October 19

Saturday, Oct. 19, marks the 46th consecutive year that Holy Cross Episcopal Church and the Valle Crucis Conference Center have invited the public to join them in the heart of one of the most ethereal valleys in Western North Carolina for their annual fall festival. Harvest flavors of Brunswick Stew, Western NC barbecue, homemade apple butter, and hundreds of cakes, pies and breads are served up in this elevation of all things homegrown, handmade and local.

Started as a small church bazaar to raise money to build a parish

hall, the Valle Country Fair has turned into a major attraction attended by 10,000 people a year. The combination crafts fair, mountain music jam, and harvest festival now raises funds for human service organizations in Avery and Watauga counties, generating more than $1 million for people in need since the event’s founding in 1978. Always held on the third Saturday in October, the 46th annual Valle Country Fair is happening from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 19, on the grounds of the Valle Crucis Conference Center on NC Highway 194. Festivities include crafts, food,

children’s activities and mountain music. Admission is free and ample parking is available adjacent to the fair for $10 per vehicle.

The Fair takes place in a huge meadow between a picturesque red barn and a field planted with sorghum. The tents of 150 craft exhibitors’ line wide lanes that meander back and forth across the grounds. Bales of hay are stacked in the intersections of these alleys to offer fairgoers a spot to sit as they ponder which craft booths to visit next.

Handmade is the organizing principle behind the arts and crafts

items available for sale at the Fair. In addition to ensuring that all work is made by artists’ hands, organizers jury the craft vendors see that there is a wide variety of creative products available to shoppers. Exhibitors selected for the event donate at least ten percent of their proceeds back to the charitable work of the Fair. Two stages are set up to provide live entertainment throughout the day. The main stage is for homegrown mountain music, while a smaller venue presents See Valle Country on page 29

Sink Your Teeth Into Savings

Valle Country

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 28

storytellers, folk dancing and other children’s entertainment.

Guests can feel good about pigging out at the Valle Country Fair because most of the food concessions are operated by the church or other nonprofit organizations that dedicate 100 percent of their proceeds to community service. Tables and chairs are provided under a large tent located near the main stage so that fairgoers can enjoy the music while they dine.

Food concessions include Brunswick Stew, barbecue, chili, hot dogs and hamburgers, sausage with onions, ice cream, funnel cakes, baked goods, jams and jellies, fresh-pressed apple cider, and hot-out-of-the kettle apple butter.

Proceeds from the 2023 Valle

Country Fair were shared between Amorem, the Children’s Council, the Community Care Clinic, The Hearts of Hospitality House, the Hunger & Health Coalition, the Jason Project, Mountain Alliance, Parkway After School Program, Valle Crucis School PTSO and WAMY. The outreach committee at Holy Cross Church distributes all remaining proceeds to help local families.

Media sponsors for VCF 2024 are Curtis Media Group and Mountain Times Publications.

The event is produced by Holy Cross Episcopal Church in cooperation with the Valle Crucis Conference Center. Proceeds are used to provide grants to local nonprofit organizations, and relief to local families with emergency needs. For more information, contact Holy Cross Church at (828) 963-4609 or visit the Fair online at www.vallecountryfair.org.

Weekender

Photo by Catherine Morton

Valle Country Fair vendors serve guests grilled sausages, a favorite concession at the yearly event

A guide to the Blue Ridge Parkway

By Moss Brennan

Since the mid-1940s, the Blue Ridge Parkway has been the most traveled section of the National Park System.

One of 429 sites managed by the National Park Service, the Blue Ridge Parkway was created as a national rural roadway with limited access. According to the National Park Service, it was designed in the 1930s for pleasant motoring and was free from commercial traffic. The Blue Ridge Parkway travels

the crests, ridges, and valleys of five major mountain ranges, encompassing several geographic and vegetative zones ranging from 600 to over 6,000 feet above sea level. It provides visitors with many varied vistas of scenic Appalachian landscapes ranging from forested ridge tops and mountain slopes to rural farmlands to urban areas. The parkway offers a “ride-a-while, stopa-while” experience that includes scenic pullouts, recreation areas, historic sites, and visitor contact

stations. It is known nationally and internationally for its designed landscape as a scenic motorway, according to the NPS.

In 2023, Blue Ridge Parkway visitation numbers increased by 1 million, or 6%, over 2022, with slight increases across most months of the year for approximately 16.7 million visitors, according to the NPS.

“The Parkway’s location, design, and proximity to so many gateway communities provide a wide

array of rich natural, cultural, recreational, and historical experiences for park visitors,” said Blue Ridge Parkway Superintendent Tracy Swartout in a press release. “Appealing to so many visitors of so many different interests and abilities is a hallmark of the Parkway experience across the decades.”

In the fall, the famous thoroughfare sees thousands upon

Photo by Skip Sickler | Grandfather Mountain Stewardship Foundation Fall color and sunlight illuminate this iconic bridge along the Blue Ridge Parkway in this photo taken near the Linville Falls Picnic Area, at Milepost 316.5.

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 30

thousands of visitors daily to take in the stunning views of fall color.

Beginning in the Shenandoah Valley of Virginia, the 469-mile Blue Ridge Parkway was built to showcase the region’s immense natural beauty.

Constructed during the Great Depression and sanctioned by President Roosevelt, the Blue Ridge Parkway (BRP) has a historical aspect as well, with impressive stone archway bridges throughout the roadway constructed by the WPA workers of the day. Ultimately, however, it is the incredible mountaintop vistas and views that make this road a destination for tourists from all over the United States as well as the world. They come here to visit Boone, Deep Gap, and Blowing Rock and then further south to the ski slopes, mountain bike trails,

and vineyards of Banner Elk, the wilderness areas of Linville Gorge and Linville Falls, and on to Mount Mitchell, which is the highest peak found east of the Rocky Mountains.

This amazing locality is considered one of the more picturesque parts of the BRP journey, and there will be much to do here in 2024.

The north side of our trip starts with the Deep Gap exit on the BRP at milepost 276. The turnoff will put you onto RT 421. Heading west is one of the main ways to get to our lovely mountain college town of Boone, where there is much to do in terms of food, live music, art, craft beer brewing, antiquing, festivals, and more.

At milepost 291 of the BRP, you will find the Rt. 221 exit to Blowing Rock, which has been a famous tourist stop since the 1800s. There

is much to do and take in while visiting Blowing Rock, from the many distinctive shops on Main Street to mountain views and fine restaurants. Live music will also be a big part of the summer there, from the every-Friday-evening shows at the Inn at Ragged Gardens to the Concerts in the Park, the Symphony At The Lake in July and more. For more information, please go to www.blowingrockncchamber. com/upcoming-events/.

Further down the Parkway, the exit onto another section of U.S. 221 at milepost 305 will take you to the entrance of Grandfather Mountain State Park and the resort towns of Banner Elk and Beech Mountain.

Grandfather Mountain is known for the Mile High Bridge, Nature Center, and its Zoo, which has bears, mountain lions, and elk. It also offers many souvenirs and hiking opportunities. In July,

the world-famous Grandfather Mountain Highland Games take place on McRae Meadow, the biggest Scottish games and live music event in the U.S. To make a reservation and buy tickets for your visit, please go to grandfather.com.

Right up the mountain from Banner Elk is the Beech Mountain Resort, where the 5506’ Skybar Club is located on top of the mountain for brews, live music, and incredible views. Downhill mountain biking trails and a mountainside disc golf course are also open to the public.

Make sure to visit www. blueridgeparkway.org/ for the most up-to-date closures or detours.

DerekHalseycontributedtothis story.

Photo by Skip Sickler | Grandfather Mountain Stewardship Foundation

The area around the Linn Cove Viaduct is typically vibrant every season, attracting thousands of visitors looking to see this engineering marvel surrounded by a kaleidoscope of color.

Autumn camping promises stunning views, serene escapes

BY Amelie Fawson

Camping in the mountains is an experience like no other, especially under a colorful fall canopy. Whether you prefer the majesty of Linville Falls Campground or the family-friendly amenities of Boone KOA, camping is an unforgettable experience in the High Country. Here are just a few of the High Country campgrounds to choose from.

Julian Price Campground

Located just 10 miles outside Boone, Julian Price Campground sits beside Price Lake just off the Parkway. By camping on the shore of Price Lake during the fall, enjoying the colors of the surrounding forest and the backdrop of rolling mountains is inevitable.

The campground boasts 190 campsites, including RV, trailer and tent sites. Amenities include restrooms, picnic areas and access to potable water. The campground is pet-friendly, making it fun for the whole family.

Camping at Julian Price Campground is a unique experience thanks to Price Lake and the activities it provides. Canoes can be rented at the lake, and a dock off the shore offers opportunities for fishing. The lake and campground are surrounded by hiking trails, including Boone Fork, Green Knob, Price Lake and Tanawha trails.

Reservations are recommended and can be made through the

National Park Service website. The campground is open seasonally from April to October.

For more information, visit www. nps.gov/blri/planyourvisit/price-cg. htm.

Linville Falls Campground

Linville Falls Campground, located near Milepost 316 off the Blue Ridge Parkway, offers a prime spot for fall camping. The campground provides easy access to Linville Gorge and the Linville River. The surrounding forest offers “an epic array of orange and red shades of leaves in the autumn,” according to the NC Recreation website.

The campground offers tent, RV and hammock camping. Amenities include flush toilets, a dump station and drinking water. The campground is pet-friendly, making it perfect for a family getaway. Campers can explore numerous trails from the campground, including the Linville Gorge trail, offering breathtaking views of the falls and gorge. The nearby Linville Falls Visitor Center provides additional information and resources for visitors. Linville Caverns, a privately maintained cave just south of Linville Falls, offers guided tours year-round. There are 39 sites available for reservation, and there are 25 available on a first-come, firstserved basis.

Beyond hiking, activities include bird watching, wildlife viewing and photography. The campground’s

location also makes it a great spot for enjoying the breathtaking views of autumn in the High Country. For more information, visit www.recreation.gov/camping/ campgrounds/234036?tab=info.

Blue Bear Mountain Camp

Located in Todd, Blue Bear Mountain Camp offers many ways to camp in style. The campground includes tent and RV sites, hike-in sites, Stargazer Domes, and Cabin rentals spread over 150 acres of serene mountain land. This private, family-owned campground provides a peaceful retreat for any camping enthusiast.

Amenities include restrooms, hot showers, a laundry room, a camping store, a free dump station, and on-site garbage disposal. Pets are welcome to the campground if they’re leashed.

The stargazer domes offer a unique glamping experience with clear roofs for unobstructed night sky views, providing a cozy and memorable stay under the stars. The domes are equipped with a bed, blankets and a heated blanket.

Blue Bear Mountain Camp provides access to miles of hiking and biking trails. The New River is just minutes from the campground, where visitors can kayak or fly fish.

Reservations are recommended and can be made directly through the Blue Bear Mountain Camp website.

For more information, visit www. bluebearmountain.com.

Boone KOA Holiday

Boone KOA campground is a convenient 10-minute drive from the heart of Boone, offering easy access to the town and the attractions surrounding it.

This campground provides a variety of accommodation options, including tent sites, RV sites and deluxe cabins. The campground is equipped with restrooms, a laundry room, cabin sites, EV car charging, a game room, an outdoor pool and a farm animal mini zoo.

Boone KOA Campground’s central location allows easy exploration of nearby attractions like Grandfather Mountain, Tweetsie Railroad and the Blue Ridge Parkway. Hiking, fishing and exploring local shops and restaurants are popular activities among guests.

Reservations can be made directly through the Boone KOA website.

For more information, visit www. koa.com/campgrounds/boone/ If you’re going camping and want to bring your dog with you, be sure to check the guidelines at the campsite you would like to stay at. Campgrounds including New River State Park, Blue Bear Mountain, Down by the River Campground, Grandfather Campgrounds, Linville Gorge Wilderness Area, Grandfather Mountain State Park, Flintlock Campground, Honey Bear Campground, Julian Price Campground and Boone KOA all allow dogs.

NPS Photo/J.Ruff.)

Photo by Appalachian Holler Hunters Hunter Dawsen Turbyfill in a stand looking for a target.

BY Christian Gardner

A guide to autumn hunting in the High Country

Fall is in the air, and the notion of chasing wild game grows as the heritage of hunting. Most hunting seasons don’t begin until the fall, with the exception of turkey hunting, which takes place in the spring months. Hunting in the High Country, as the leaves have changed, and a slight breeze comes through to take them away as you wait on a buck or bear to pass by, can be the most relaxing experience you’ll ever have in these mountains. Hunting offers a time to reflect or simply get away from all the busyness of life and simply enjoy the beauty that’s around you. For the big game hunters, bow season for deer opens on Saturday, Sept. 7, in the Western part of North Carolina and runs through Nov. 15. Bow season is open to harvest buck or doe with the use of a compound or crossbow. That early portion of the season can be fun to hunt, as deer are typically off of their summer feeding patterns and are now feeding on acorns and starting to wander further away from their summer spots. In the midst of bow season, NC hosts a Youth season date of Sept. 28. On this day, any under the age of 18 can harvest a buck or doe with the use of any legal weapon on this day only. All hunters must wear orange regardless of what weapon is used that day.

Saturday, Nov. 16 marks the opening day of muzzleloader season for deer in Western NC. The season runs through Nov. 29, which

allows hunters to harvest a buck with a single-shot muzzleloading rifle. Nov. 23 begins either sex season for muzzleloading, meaning for that one week and one day, you can harvest buck or doe (antlerless). This is always an exciting time for hunters, as buck actions tend to rev up, as bucks begin to search for does prior to the rut, and as the season prolongs into the ladder stages of November, bucks run wild as the rut kicks in full swing, giving many hunters great opportunities at harvesting a respectable buck.

Lastly, Saturday, Nov. 30, marks the infamous rifle season in Western NC. From Nov. 30 to Jan. 1, 2025, hunters are allowed to harvest a buck with a rifle; from Nov. 30 to Dec. 14, hunters are allowed to harvest a doe (antlerless) with a rifle.

Remember to keep safety a main priority. According to NC Wildlife, Any person hunting bear, feral swine, rabbit, squirrel, grouse, pheasant or quail with the use of firearms must wear a cap or hat made of hunter orange material or an outer garment of hunter orange visible from all sides. Anyone hunting deer during a deer firearms season, regardless of weapon, must wear hunter orange, visible from all sides. This includes archery hunters who hunt on Sunday during the deer firearms season and anyone hunting on Youth Deer Hunting Day. This requirement does not apply to a landholder, his or her spouse and children if they

are hunting on the landholder’s property. It is highly recommended that hikers, birdwatchers and all others participating in outdoor activities on public land, during open seasons wear orange in order to be easily seen by hunters.

Deer hunting isn’t the only big deal in the High Country. Mountain bear hunting is split into two seasons with the first opening Oct. 14 and ending Nov. 23, With Dec. 16 marking the beginning of the second season and goes through the first of the year. Its recommended to be aware and courteous of hunters seen by roadways as many bear hunters are working to retrieve hounds and keep them out of harm’s way on the roadways.

Small game hunting begins in October with red and gray squirrel, racoon and opossum season starting Oct. 14 and ending Feb. 28. This makes a perfect opportunity for the “not so serious” hunter to get out and take a youth to be

involved in the outdoors as it can be a easy and fun task to take a small caliber rimfire rifle or shotgun to walk the woods and hunt squirrels, rabbits or what have you.

One may wonder where you can hunt. To legally hunt private land, you must have written permission from the land owner, or, the State of North Carolina has thousands of acres of public hunting land, which can be found online or in NC Wildlifes annual handbook which can be picked up anywhere you may obtain a NC hunting license.

To legally hunt in North Carolina, you must have an up-to-date hunting license. Licenses, including lifetime license can be purchased online at gooutdoorsnorthcarolina. com/.

For all information on hunting seasons and more can be found on the NC Wildlife Organization’s website by visiting www.ncwildlife. org/

Photo by C.Gardner Media A buck in the woods.

Fly fishing in the High Country

By Chirstian Gardner

As the color of fall erupts in the mountains, the breathtaking scenes can be viewed from mountain tops, overlooks, or roadways. One of the best views you may take in is that you’ll see as you stand by a river, stream, or even a pond with

the colorful, picturesque scene the autumn trees paint around you as you wet a line and fly fish for trout.

Fishing in the High Country has always been one of the most popular outdoor activities for people of all ages. Fly fishing typically takes a little more

patience and a lot more education to learn the proper way to catch a fish, but everyone can definitely enjoy it. Instead of casting your line out into the water, you use a lure that is often referred to as a “fly” because of the way they skim across the surface of the water and

imitate the movement of bugs that a hungry fish might want to grab. The size and composition of fly lures can vary but are usually very small and lightweight.

“Fall fishing is usually some of

Fish on page 42

Photo by C.Gardner Media

A Mountain Brown trout.

See

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 41

the best fishing of the year. With water temps dropping back down in the mid to lower 50s, the fish get super active. Stoneflies, eggs, and streamers are my go-to for catching big hungry fall browns,” said Professional guide Cade Buchanan of Mountain Troutfitters in Linville, NC.

Fly fishing rods are also different from the normal rods used to fish with your bait under the surface of the water. Fly fishing rods are longer and thinner and offer a greater amount of flexibility to be

able to pull the fly lure across the top of the water. Picking the correct fly fishing reel is also important as they are made of many different materials, come in different sizes, and may vary in price.

The average fly fishing reel for a beginner fisherman is made of aluminum. However, if you want to venture out and invest more in your fly fishing gear, some reels made of carbon fiber and stainless steel are plentiful on the market and may be up your alley.

For someone completely new

to the venture, checking into a fly fishing guide service might be your best bet, particularly if you are new to trout fishing or river fishing in general.

There are many guides to pick from in the High Country, all offering many different places and levels of experience for anglers to enjoy fly fishing in the area. Among some of the many guide services are Mountain Troutfitters in Linville, Deep South Co Outfitters in Elk Park, Due South Outfitters, Foscoe Fly Fishing, Elk Creek

Outfitters, and High Country Guidefitters all located in Boone and Mountains to Coast Fly Fishing Guide Service and Speckled Trout in Blowing Rock, all offering local guided fishing tours from experts of the High Country trout waters. Whether you’ve never cast a fishing pole, or consider yourself the “Bill Dance” of river fishing, there is no reason not to wet a line, and catch a fish while you enjoy the natural beauty the High Country has to offer.

Photo by Mountain Troutfitters

Cade Buchanan holding up his catch

Thursday, January 23 THROUGH

Sunday, January 26, 2025

Join the Village of Blowing Rock as we celebrate the fun side of winter with the 27th annual Blowing Rock WinterFest! Many events are kid-friendly –bring the whole family!

WinterFeast • Polar Bear Plunge • Silent Auction & Raffle

Live Ice Carvings • Beer Garden • Hendrick Hunt Rotary Chilley Chili Challenge • Hay Rides

Winter Paws Dog Show • Wine Tasting & Auction Pancake Breakfast • and more!

High Country Towns

The place to be in the fall

and West Jefferson in Ashe County. In the fall, expect busy roads— especially in October—as the High Country is a hot spot for leaflookers who come to see the vibrant fall colors, which can be seen from all over.

Ashe County Jefferson

Jefferson, the county seat of Ashe County, is home to roughly 1,600 residents within the town limits. The town was first founded in 1799 and was named after thenVice President Thomas Jefferson. The town was originally called “Jeffersonton” for a short period and encompassed approximately 50 acres of land.

Now, Jefferson is home to the Ashe County Courthouse, Ashe County Park, the Ashe County Law Enforcement Center, and numerous

right next door to the Jefferson Police Department.

West Jefferson

The bustling downtown area of West Jefferson is one of the most popular destinations in Ashe County. West Jefferson currently has around 1,300 residents who live within the town limits and has a wide variety of shops, art galleries, local restaurants, and much more that bring tourists to the area. The Ashe County Arts Council calls West Jefferson home, as does the Ashe County Cheese Plant, West Jefferson Park, and the local office of the New River Conservancy.

West Jefferson was first incorporated in 1909 and originally saw much of its growth and popularity increase due to the Virginia Creeper Railroad that passed through downtown.

the Olde Time Antiques Fair in September are two of the largest annual events that take place in Ashe County.

Lansing

Lansing was the third and final town in Ashe County to be

community of White Oak. The town has major historical significance to the area as there are currently five places in the town that are included in the National Register of Historic

File photo

The Old Time Antique Fair held in downtown West Jefferson is a popular fall event

See Town on page 46

Photo by William Becker A river runs through Lansing

Town CONTINUED FROM PAGE 45

Places: The Old Lansing School, Perry-Shepherd Farm, Miller Homestead, Clark-Miller Mill and the Lansing Historical District.

The population of Lansing within its town limits has dropped throughout the years after the railroad industry ceased in the county. The 1960 census showed 278 people lived in the town, while the most recent census in 2020 showed just 126 town residents.

Glendale Springs

Located just off of the Blue Ridge Parkway, Glendale Springs is most well-known for the fresco painting at Holy Trinity Episcopal Church and the Glendale Springs Inn & Restaurant, where President Bill Clinton and Vice President Al Gore once dined after a visit to Ashe County in 1998. The Glendale Springs Inn was also added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1979. In addition to its easy access to the Blue Ridge Parkway, Glendale Springs is near the New River and offers some beautiful opportunities for enjoying nature.

Fleetwood

Fleetwood is located between West Jefferson and Deep Gap and is another of the many small communities in Ashe County that offer easy access to the New River. Whether you want to kayak, canoe or float down the river, areas between Fleetwood and Todd off of Railroad Grade Road are popular places to get into the water. Fleetwood is also home to a brand new fire department right off of U.S. 221.

Grassy Creek

The community of Grassy Creek lies right on the state line between North Carolina and Virginia. Grassy Creek is home to The Old Store and features the Grassy Creek Historic District that is part of the National Register of Historic Places. The historic district was added to the registry in 1976. As you will notice

driving through the area, much of the land in Grassy Creek is used for growing Christmas trees.

Creston

Creston township can be found in the northwest corner of Ashe County. It is home to Worth’s Chapel, a church that was constructed in the early 1900s and added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1976. A drive through Creston brings you close to the Tennessee state line in one direction. Creston is also home to the Riverview Community Center, which holds numerous community events throughout the year, and is home to a local fish fry every other week.

Laurel Springs

The town of Laurel Springs is right on the border of Ashe, Alleghany and Wilkes counties. The town offers quick and easy access to the Blue Ridge Parkway and is home to several family-owned businesses and the Thistle Meadow Winery that is open in the spring, summer and fall months. Thistle Meadow Winery offers tours and tasting events and an online store where you can order products if you live outside of the area.

Todd

Todd is a small town shared by Watauga and Ashe counties, nestled in a bend of the South Fork of the New River.

Todd is an area with a rich history, one dating back to nearly 6,000 years ago. According to the Todd Community Preservation Organization, that is when the earliest human activity in the area occurred.

For more recent history, look to the Todd General Store. Before a devastating fire destroyed the store in 2021, Todd General Store was the oldest functional business in Ashe County. The store sold local provisions and merchandise, and is currently on the path to rebuilding.

As for recreation, the New River — one of only a few rivers in the U.S. to flow North — is the main attraction in Todd, especially in the summer.

Go fly fishing, kayaking or tubing with one of the several river outfitters in the Todd area, such as RiverGirl or Wahoo’s.

Anyone wanting to explore on their own should check out Green Valley Community Park. The park features playground equipment, playing fields, a paved walking track, a picnic shelter, restrooms, a canoe ramp, hiking trails and access to the New River.

Being one of the smaller towns in the High Country, Todd is a closeknit community. To connect with nature (and friendly locals), be sure to check it out.

Avery County Banner Elk

The mountain town of Banner Elk lies between two major ski attractions, and has grown from a tiny hamlet to a town offering yearround amenities and memorable vacations for the entire family.

Banner Elk is home to LeesMcRae College, a small, private, four-year coeducational liberal arts college founded in 1900 and is affiliated with Presbyterian Church U.S.A., with more than 900 students from more than 20 states and countries. The old stone buildings,

some of which are currently being renovated and restored, are nestled across campus to make for a photographer’s delight.

The town hosts numerous shops and restaurants and stays abuzz with activities and events.

Visitors can picnic or walk in the town park, hear live music in the town park during summer or within various venues in all seasons, enjoy exquisite shopping or simply relax by the Mill Pond and stay in one of the inns after dinner in a fine restaurant.

Banner Elk is in the heart of the High Country’s many attractions, and just a short drive will take you to numerous natural settings where you can relax and revel in nature’s beauty, from slopes to hiking trails to wineries and waterfalls.

Banner Elk also offers many cultural happenings, with a celebrated summer theater program by Lees-McRae College and numerous art festivals by some of the area’s many galleries and artisans.

Visitors are encouraged to return to Banner Elk in the fall each year for its Woolly Worm Festival, which attracts close to 20,000 people annually on every third weekend in October.

Cutting between the peaks of Sugar Mountain, Beech Mountain See Town on page 48

Photo by Christian Gardner

The Lees-McRae College campus and town of Banner Elk bursts with color in the fall.

and Grandfather Mountain, the topography of the town provides natural definition and gentle undulation through the town’s boundaries.

For more information or a calendar of events, call Banner Elk Chamber of Commerce at (828) 8988395 or visit www.bannerelk.org.

Beech Mountain

At 5,506 feet, Beech Mountain is the highest town in Eastern North America. That means two things: When summer comes, it’s a great place to go biking as the ski resort offers a bike park. Even on the hottest day of the summer, it’s cool atop the peaks of the mountain.

Even when it’s steamy in the “lowlands” of 3,000-plus feet, the temperature stays comfortable. The rest of the world seems distant when you settle down on the front porch of a rental condominium and survey the

magnificent view that is one of Beech Mountain’s trademarks.

Beech Mountain is a four-season resort, with more than 5,000 beds available on top of the mountain. These range from rustic cabins to mountain chalets to luxury condominiums.

When it’s time to eat, you can enjoy anything from a deli sandwich to pizza to a gourmet meal by candlelight.

During the days, there are many specialty stores for shopping, a golf course, horseback riding, tennis, swimming and hiking. In warmer weather, there are nearby canoe and raft runs that are among the best offered in the Eastern United States, while in the cool of winter there are skiing and snowboarding opportunities, as well as the town’s very own sledding hill near town hall. Nightlife is alive and well on the mountain. Whatever your

musical taste, you can find a spot to enjoy an after-hours scene.

There’s another good thing about Beech Mountain: The mountain is so large that much of it remains in a natural state, with rich forests dotted by rolling farmland. Not to mention, it’s only a short drive from the “downtown” area to the country or resorts. Take your pick.

Our guess is if you spend some time in Beech Mountain, you’ll want to come back to do some real estate shopping or at least book a slopeside condo for the ski season.

For more information, visit www. beechmtn.com.

Crossnore

Crossnore is a town steeped in educational history. The town is home to Marjorie Williams Academy, founded by doctors Eustace and Mary Martin Sloop.

The Sloops traveled steep dirt trails in isolated mountain valleys to bring medicine to the people and convince farmers to let their

children go to school. Because of poverty and distance, the Sloops school in Crossnore eventually took in boarders and built dormitories to accommodate them.

It gained a national reputation for effectiveness in changing lives and in breaking the cycle of poverty, moonshine and child marriages of mountain families. Mary Martin Sloop eventually put these tales to paper in her autobiography “Miracle in the Hills,” which has since been used as the basis for a drama of the same name that takes place each summer in present-day Crossnore.

The Sloops built a school, hospital, dental clinic, and, eventually, a boarding school to give children the basis for an improved life. They brought to Avery County the first electricity, telephones, paved roads, and boarding schools. Through the Sloops’ advocacy, public schools flourished in Avery County. Today, Williams Academy carries on the work of the original school and has reclaimed the educational foundation beneath its commitment to giving hurting children a chance for a better life. The school’s teachers enable it to meet not only the special needs of Crossnore residents but also the needs of area students who live at home and whose educational needs are best met at Crossnore. The school is also home to Miracle Grounds Coffee Cafe & Creamery, a working vocational classroom, featuring specialty coffee drinks,

LocalCraftsmen, Vintage and Antiques

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Aver yCounty’sOldest Realty Firm Main Street -Newland, NC •(828)733-2151 •(828) 733-5222

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WATAUGA COUNTY

Numbers of Note

Watauga County Sheriff ’s Office (828) 264-3761

Boone Police Department (828) 268-6900

Blowing Rock Police Department (828) 295-5210

Appalachian Regional Healthcare System Police (828) 262-4168

Appalachian State University Police (828) 262-8000

ASHE COUNTY

Ashe County Sheriff ’s Office (336) 846-5600

Jefferson Police Department (336) 846-5529

West Jefferson Police Department (336) 246-9410

AVERY COUNTY

Avery County Sheriff ’s Office (828) 733-2071

Banner Elk Police Department (828) 898-4300

Elk Park Police Department (828) 733-9573

Newland Police Department (828) 733-2023

Seven Devils Police Department (828) 963-6760

Sugar Mountain Police Department (828) 898-4349

Beech Mountain Police Department (828) 387-2342

HEALTH CARE

Watauga Medical Center (828) 262-4100

Cannon Memorial Hospital (Linville) (828) 737-7000

Ashe Memorial Hospital (Jefferson) (336) 846-7101

FastMed Urgent Care (Boone) (828) 265-7146

Blowing Rock Medical Park (828) 295-3116

ANIMAL CONTROL/SHELTER

Watauga County Animal Control (828) 262-1672

Watauga Humane Society (828) 264-7865

Animal Emergency Clinic of the High Country (828) 268-2833

Ashe County Animal Control (336) 982-4060

Avery County Humane Society (828) 733-9265

Town CONTINUED FROM PAGE 48

homemade snacks, sandwiches, milkshakes, ice cream, Wi-Fi and more.

Crossnore is famous for its Independence Day parade and celebration, and the town’s Meeting House is home to the Crossnore Jam, a series of gatherings and concerts by local musicians on the first Friday night through the summer and fall months.

For more information, visit www. crossnorenc.com.

Elk Park

The town of Elk Park borders the state of Tennessee and offers a unique visiting experience. From the old-time feel of Brinkley’s Hardware Store to the additional Lower Street antique shops and classic mural wall, Elk Park takes visitors back to a simpler time.

The town’s original thoroughfare, Lower Street, and many businesses originated when Elk Park hosted a train depot for the old East Tennessee and Western North Carolina Railroad, better known as Tweetsie. Elk Park thrived due to the industry and remained vibrant after the trains stopped running through town.

In 2013, Elk Park opened its new town hall facility to the public adjacent to its town park named

Linville name, including the Linville River and majestic Linville Falls, Linville Caverns on U.S. 221 and the Linville Gorge wilderness area.

For visitors considering making Linville a part- or full-time home, they can visit Linville Land Harbor, where units are available for sale or rent in a cozy community featuring its own golf course, tennis and pickleball courts and amenities.

A number of residents reside at Land Harbor part time, while others stay year-round to enjoy the beauty of the area’s four seasons.

courthouse, originally constructed in 1913, overlooks a classic town square, bordered by shops and churches and complete with a memorial to Avery County veterans.

Adjacent to the courthouse building is the original jail, which has been converted into the Avery County Historical Museum. Exhibits in the museum, which is free to visit, include the original jail cells, numerous artifacts and information about the history of Avery County.

after longtime former mayor Lucille Winters.

Elk Park is also the home of Trosly Farm and The Liar’s Table Restaurant. Owners Amos and Kaci Nidiffer were named 2020 North Carolina Small Farmers of the Year by NC A&T State University Cooperative Extension.

For more information, call Elk Park Town Hall at (828) 733-9573.

Linville

The community of Linville is located just south of the intersection of U.S. 221 and N.C. 105 in Avery County. The community was founded in 1883, designed by Samuel T. Kelsey of Kansas and named for William and John Linville, who were reportedly killed by Cherokees in 1766.

East Tennessee and Western North Carolina Railroad passed through the community from 1916 through 1940, when a major flood washed away the tracks. The old rail route later became N.C. 105 in 1956.

Linville has three country clubs in the area: Eseeola, Grandfather Golf and Country Club and Linville Ridge, all open late spring to early fall.

A number of local tourist areas within a short drive share the

During the winter months, Linville is only a short drive to nearby ski slopes at Sugar Mountain and Beech Mountain, popular skiing and snow-tubing destinations.

Perhaps the most popular tourist attraction housed in Linville is Grandfather Mountain.

The Grandfather Mountain attraction offers picturesque views during all four seasons, animal habitats and the famous Mile High Swinging Bridge.

Grandfather Mountain State Park offers hiking trails and backcountry camping opportunities.

Newland

The highest county seat east of the Mississippi River at 3,589 feet, the town of Newland was incorporated in 1913 as the county seat of the newly formed Avery County.

Its original name was “Old Fields of Toe,” because it is located in a broad flat valley and is at the headwaters of the Toe River.

Newland was a mustering place for Civil War troops. Toe is short for “Estatoe,” an Indian chief’s daughter who drowned herself in the river in despair because she could not marry a brave from another tribe.

A town of approximately 700 residents, Newland succeeded over three other areas for the honor of county seat. The recently renovated

During the summer and fall months, visitors can check out the farmers market that meets on Saturday mornings outside of Newland Elementary School, and visitors traveling out of town can picnic or hike at Waterfalls Park, a unique recreation spot sponsored by the Newland Volunteer Fire Department. Just outside of Newland is Mountain Glen Golf Club. The club consists of an 18hole golf course, clubhouse with a large upstairs dining facility for special events or occasions, pro shop, snack bar, driving range, golf shed, and putting green. Another popular location near town is Heritage Park, which houses the Avery County Cooperative Extension office and community building and hosts everything from rodeo events on weekends during the summer to concerts and functions. The location also serves as the permanent home for the county’s annual Agriculture and Heritage Fair each September.

Newland hosts an annual Christmas parade downtown, with decorations adorning the town reflecting the area’s rich Christmas tree industry.

With a number of restaurants and boutiques downtown, Newland is a prime destination for dining and shopping or just to stop in on a visit to nearby Roan Mountain, Tenn., or Grandfather Mountain.

See Town on page 63

Photo by Christian Gardner

Weather rolling atop the ridge on Little Elk in Elk Park offers a contrast of color to the low gray clouds.

Town CONTINUED FROM PAGE 62

For more information, visit www. townofnewland.com.

Sugar Mountain

If outdoor activity is your thing, look no further than the village of Sugar Mountain.

Offering more than just great skiing, Sugar Mountain also provides its visitors with an array of ways to get outside and enjoy the beauty of the High Country.

The Village of Sugar Mountain provides plenty of outdoor adventure and relaxation for family summer trips, whether it’s a day or a week. Located at 5,300 feet elevation, enjoy cool breezes and spectacular views from a variety of vacation rentals, ranging from mountaintop condos to log cabins.

Their public golf and tennis club, owned and operated by the village, is a local’s favorite. Voted the No. 2 short course in the U.S.A., the 18-hole golf course has immaculate greens and plenty of mountain views. Green fees start at just $15. The friendly pro shop and Caddyshack Café rounds out the perfect golf day.

Next door, play on six tennis courts, meticulously maintained of fast-dry, Har-Tru clay. Men’s, women’s, and mixed play “friendly’s” can be found every day of the week. Tennis lessons are available.

Another local’s favorite is the annual summer music series, Grillin’ & Chillin’. Enjoy live bands every Wednesday evening while watching the sunset over the Blue Ridge. The free concerts take place on the big outdoor deck at the village’s golf and tennis club, and food is available from the Caddyshack Cafe.

At Sugar Mountain Resort, the ski slopes become home to a network of downhill mountain bike trails and scenic lift rides. On most summer weekends (Friday-Sunday, Memorial Day Weekend and July

through Labor Day Weekend), ride the lift up to the summit and race down 1,200 feet in elevation to the lodge. For a more relaxing option, take a leisurely round-trip scenic chairlift ride to the top for panoramic views.

On the Fourth of July, ride the lift for a bird’s-eye view of the fireworks. Earlier in the day, join the fun with the challenging Summit Crawl. Another popular event is the Fine Art & Master Crafts Festival on two weekends (July 14-16 and Aug. 11-13, 2023).

Located adjacent to Grandfather Mountain and surrounded by Pisgah National Forest, the Village of Sugar Mountain provides plenty of other adventures including the alpine coaster, gem mining, whitewater rafting and hiking. Unwind at 25 restaurants within five miles, along with plenty of galleries and boutiques to browse.

Whether you come for a day or stay in one of the many comfortable lodgings the village has to offer, Sugar Mountain will soon become your destination for great outdoor fun.

For more information, visit www. seesugar.com.

Watauga County

Boone

Boone is the county seat of Watauga County and is affectionately known as “The Heart of the High Country.”

Boone is the hometown of Appalachian State University, the sixth-largest school in the N.C. public university system with more than 20,000 students. With the mix of students, tourists and easygoing locals, there’s something for everyone in Boone.

Downtown Boone hosts a unique collection of local boutiques and businesses. For funky handpicked second-hand clothes, head over to Anna Bananas on King Street. For a unique shopping experience

at a family owned and operated business since 1924, check out The Shoppes at Farmers. There, you can find anything from jewelry to art, toys, and more.

Tired of shopping? Kick back at one of Boone’s many breweries, many of which host live music and events in the evenings. Appalachian Mountain Brewery, Booneshine, and Lost Province Brewing Co. are a few local favorites for a brew and a bite to eat.

The Jones House, a historic home turned local cultural center in downtown Boone, also hosts live music on weekends. They feature musicians of all genres, spanning from jazz to bluegrass and everything in between. In June of 2022, the Jones House was one of three stages set up for the inaugural Boonerang Music Festival. The weekend-long, free event attracted thousands of people downtown to enjoy music, art, food, and beer, all provided by people with ties to the town of Boone.

For those interested in Boone’s bluegrass traditions, check out the Doc Watson “Man of the People” statue located on King Street. Doc Watson was a famous guitarist and bluegrass musician local to Boone. Watson won seven Grammy awards and a Grammy Lifetime Achievement award during his active years. Though he passed

away in 2012, his celebrity and spirit is alive and well in Boone.

Boone is the place to be for shopping, good food, good music, and definitely good times. For more information, visit www. townofboone.net.

Blowing Rock

Don’t be fooled by the small size of Blowing Rock — there’s enough natural beauty for a lifetime in the just three-square-mile town.

The town’s name comes from the rocky cliff overlooking Johns River Gorge where it is said the winds blow in such a way that light objects falling from the rock float back up, almost like a boomerang.

Anyone wishing to experience the phenomenon and learn some of the rich Indigenous history of the town can visit the attraction located on The Rock Road.

The small portion of the Blue Ridge Parkway that falls into the town’s limits includes beautiful hikes and views like those at Moses Cone Manor and Julian Price Park. Visitors can find the same beauty off of the Parkway at Bass Lake Trail and Broyhill Park.

For those seeking educational enrichment, the Blowing Rock Art and History Museum is a year-round museum that houses exhibitions and programs

See Town on page 64

Photo by Skip Sickler | Grandfather Mountain Stewardship Foundation Historic Cone Manor rests above Bass Lake in nearby Blowing Rock, as fall color beams from the shoreline and hillsides

Town CONTINUED FROM PAGE 63

celebrating and remembering the culture, history and traditions of the Appalachian region displayed throughout time in the High Country. The museum is just moments away from the bustling sidewalks of downtown Blowing Rock.

Numerous shops, restaurants, and hotels line the picturesque sidewalks, with options ranging from casual to high-end available for all accommodations.

From hiking to gallery viewing to enjoying a spa day at the hotel, Blowing Rock crams a lot into its small stature. For more information, visit www. blowingrock.com.

Seven Devils

Seven Devils sits between Banner Elk and Boone. Moments away from Boone, Blowing Rock, Banner Elk and Valle Crucis, it is the perfect place to stop and rest amidst the mountains.

How did it get its name?

According to the Seven Devils website, “The founders wanted a catchy, unique name that would bring attention to the mountain. They noticed the repeated appearance of the number seven, including the seven predominant rocky peaks surrounding Valley Creek, as well as the many coincidental references to ʻdevils.’

ʻSeven Devils’ seemed to suggest a frivolous, mischievous resort where people could experience the temptation of Seven Devils.”

Sugar Mountain, Grandfather Mountain, and Beech Mountain surround the elevated town. For those looking to adventure, take a trek to Otter Falls. The trail is a 0.6mile hike to the falls, in total the hike is 1.2 miles, including the way back. The trail encourages those going to the falls to bring furry friends to hike alongside.

The town is growing with new additions, such as plans for a new community center and trails.

The new trail would connect existing trails, Otter Falls and Peak Mountain Trail, and would end near the Seven Devils Resort Club. Separate plans to create a trail that connects Bear Paw State Preserve to the town and bike trails are in the works as well.

The town of Seven Devils was established in the 1960s, the town has continued to adapt and grow while maintaining a commitment to their community.

For more information, visit www. sevendevils.net/.

Valle Crucis

Just off N.C. 105 south of Boone, Valle Crucis offers simplicity and serenity in a pastoral riverside community. The valley contains the site of the only known Native American village in the immediate area. The first European settler of Watauga County, Samuel Hicks, also built a fort in the area during the American Revolution.

Today, the community offers several historic inns, restaurants, art galleries, farms and churches

that provide service and comfort to all who enter. The Episcopal Church has played a role throughout the community’s history. An Episcopal bishop entered the community in 1842 and provided its name, which is Latin for “Vale of the Cross.”

The Valle Crucis Conference Center, on the National Register of Historic Places, stays busy with retreats for numerous groups, and Crab Orchard Falls is a short hike from the conference center.

The original Mast General Store provides a central gathering space in the community, as it has since 1883. Just down the road is the Mast Store Annex, which opened about 25 years later. Behind the annex is a gravel road to the Valle Crucis Park, a recreational area with walking paths, riverfront, picnic areas, sports fields and live music during the summer. For more information, visit www.vallecrucis.com.

Foscoe

Tucked between Boone and Banner Elk is the unincorporated community of Foscoe. Although small, the community is packed with opportunities to shop, dine and explore.

Shopping includes antiques at Front Porch Antique Marker, souvenirs and sundry at Bear Creek Traders, ceramics and porcelain at Maggie Black Pottery and custom blades at Winkler Knives.

Interested in outdoor fun? Check out Foscoe Fishing Company, or pan for gold with the Greater Foscoe Mining Company.

Soups, sandwiches, sweets and more are on offer at The Dog House Cafe, while at Country Retreat Family Billiards burgers and shooting pool is on the menu. Foscoe is also home to some of the most gorgeous mountain scenery in the High Country, including the famous profile views of Grandfather Mountain.

For more information, visit www. foscoenc.com.

Photo by Skip Sickler | Grandfather Mountain Stewardship Foundation

This photo of fall color was taken from the town of Seven Devils

Photo by Josh Floyd

A view of the historic downtown Appalachian Theatre highlighted by fall colors. The theater stands out in downtown Boone.

Photo by Christian Gardner

A drone’s-eye view of the town of Newland and its many fall colors

Christmas trees are a major boost to the High Country economy

By Nathan Ham

The local Christmas tree industry does so much for the High Country, way beyond a few dollars for the tree growers. While the livelihood of many farmers relies on growing Christmas trees, the overall economic impact and community support for the industry have become just as important as the workers and farm owners that harvest and sell the trees.

Currently, more than 40,000 acres of land across North Carolina are used to grow Fraser fir Christmas trees, with more than 850 growers in charge of producing the trees. Alleghany, Ashe, Avery and Watauga counties are all home to the popular Fraser fir Christmas trees that make up more than 94% of the tree species grown in

the state. In total, North Carolina produces more than a quarter of the Christmas trees that are harvested in the United States, second only to Oregon.

Fraser firs grow naturally in the southern Appalachian Mountains above 3,000 feet, according to the North Carolina Christmas Tree Association. Fraser firs have a uniform pyramid shape with dark blue-green leaves that are among the most noticeable of all Christmas tree types.

The most prestigious honor bestowed upon any Christmas tree grower is having their trees selected to make the trip to Washington D.C. to the Blue Room of the White House. Growers in North Carolina have accomplished that feat 15 times now, most recently

in 2023 when a tree from the Cline Church Nursery in Ashe County won the National Christmas Tree Association contest. By winning the contest, the growers were honored with the opportunity to supply the President and First Lady with a Christmas tree.

Amber Scott and Alex Church took over Cline Church Nursery from their parents, Cline and Ellen Church, who started the farm in 1974. In 1981, Cline Church Nursery sold its first harvest of Christmas trees. Now, Cline Church Nursery is a 700-acre business that includes a Christmas tree farm and garden center nursery.

Choose and Cut Farms

Something to keep in mind for the upcoming holiday season is

the numerous choose-and-cut Christmas tree farms available in the High Country. Families have the chance to make some special memories each Christmas season by searching through the fields of local farms for the perfect Christmas tree.

According to the North Carolina Christmas Tree Association, there are 23 Choose and Cut farms in Alleghany, Ashe, Avery and Watauga counties.

Ashe County

Cranberry Creek Farms

1777 N. Burnt Hill Road Laurel Springs, NC 28644

See Trees on page 68

Photo by Todd Swanson

An aerial photo of the Cline Church Nursery located in Fleetwood.

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CONTINUED FROM PAGE 66

Day’s Choose and Cut Christmas Trees

398 Park Vista Road

West Jefferson, NC 28694

Frosty’s Choose & Cut

2152 Beaver Creek School Road West Jefferson, NC 28694

Mistletoe Meadows Christmas Trees

583 Burnt Hill Road Laurel Springs, NC 28644

Shady Rest Tree Farm

287 Trading Post Road Glendale Springs, NC 28629

Avery County

Avery Farms/Trinity Tree Company

615 Avery Lane Plumtree, NC 28664

B&T Trees, LLC

1778 Miller’s Gap Highway

Newland, NC 28657

Cartner’s Christmas Tree Farm 901 Balsam Drive

Newland, NC 28657

Christmas Corner CNC/C&G Nursery

204 White Pine Road Newland, NC 28657

Reece’s Farm & Nursery 241 John Jones Road Elk Park, NC 28622

Snowy Mountain Christmas Tree Farm 4699 Linville Falls Highway Newland, NC 28657

Sugar Plum Farm 1263 Isaacs Branch Road Newland, NC 28657

Two D’s Nursery

7849 Linville Falls Highway Newland, NC 28657

Watauga County

Appalachian Christmas Mountain Farms

7177 U.S. Highway 421 Boone, NC 28607

Appalachian Evergreens, Inc. 390 Castleford Road Boone, NC 28607

C and J Christmas Trees 1999 Brookshire Road Boone, NC 28607

Circle C Tree Farms 372 Will Cook Road Boone, NC 28607

Clawson’s Choose and Cut 4944 N.C. Highway 194 Boone, NC 28607

Cornett Deal Christmas Tree Farm

142 Tannenbaum Lane Vilas, NC 28692

Good Shepherd Farms, LLC 2155 Blackberry Road Boone, NC 28607

Panoramic View Christmas Tree Farm

368 Panoramic Lane Boone, NC 28607

Alleghany County

Lil Grandfather Choose and Cut 15371 NC Highway 18 South Laurel Springs, NC 29644

Wishon Evergreens 535 Napco Road Sparta, NC 28675

For more information on High Country Christmas trees, visit ncchristmastrees.com/.

Photo by Todd Swanson

The Cline Church Family celebrated having one of their Christmas trees selected for the Blue Room of the White House in November of 2023.

Photo by Todd Swanson

The 2023 White House Christmas tree was picked locally in Ashe County at Cline Church Nursery.

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Banner Elk, NC 28604

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A High Country Halloween

between going to pumpkin patches and picking apples you can visit a number of Halloween-themed events and attractions suitable for families with youngsters or those who deem themselves thrill seekers.

Starting Sept. 20, Tweetsie Railroad transforms from the iconic Wild West theme park to a Ghost Train at nightfall complete with costumed characters, decorations, music and Halloween-themed attractions. There’s something for

available for younger children, while the Ghost Train, the Haunted House and the Freaky Forest are for the braver kids and adults to explore. Visit their website for more information on pricing and tickets. www.tweetsie.com/specialevents/ghost-train.

On Oct. 26, Blowing Rock Parks and Recreation throws the Blowing Rock Halloween Festival and Monster March. This is a free all-day event open to the public that takes place in the heart of

Memorial Park after dark, you don’t want to miss this festive community event.

On Halloween night, King Street in downtown Boone transforms into a bustling celebration of the holiday. From 5 to 7:30 p.m., central King Street will be blocked off to accommodate trick-or-treaters and performers. Participating downtown merchants will be handing out candy, and a judged costume contest will take place with

joneshouse.org/booneboo.

Visit Grandfather Mountain on Oct. 26 to experience their Beary Scary Halloween event. Beary Scary is a day of nature programs and trick-or-treating on the mountain! Children who show up in a costume get half-price admission on this day. It’s a great opportunity to explore the natural beauty of the High Country and celebrate the season. Visit www.grandfather.com/ event/beary-scary-halloween/ for more information.

Photo by Josie Armes.

The Monster March made its way through Blowing Rock.

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File photo.

Matthew and Brianna Bryant, Haley and Carson Henson, Derek and Bentley Hare at Boone Boo

By Luke Barber

Mystery Hill continues to entice wonder

Mystery Hill has been thrilling High Country visitors for decades. The popular roadside attraction opened its doors in 1948 and has been welcoming patrons from across Boone, Blowing Rock and beyond ever since.

The tourist attraction centers around a mysterious gravitational anomaly, in which water flows uphill and visitors can feel the effects of the phenomenon firsthand. Mystery Hill also offers a plethora of other indoor and outdoor attractions that are open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily. While the gravitational anomaly is the must-see attraction amongst High Country tourists and locals alike, Mystery Hill has much more to offer. Other experiences include Tomahawk Hill, bull riding, gem mining, old-timey photos, shopping, and much more.

Mystery Hill is located along the Middle Fork Greenway, and rental pedal cars are available for people to use along the walking and bike paths. Once the greenway is expanded and completed, visitors can go from Boone and Blowing Rock.

An escape room is coming to Mystery Hill in the near future, which will be based on theories of aliens that some have speculated due to the gravitational anomaly.

Mystery Hill also offers a premier gem mining experience at Prospector Hill Gem Mining, where people of all ages can purchase a bucket of up to four pounds of gems and gravel to sort by hand.

An option to purchase a bucket with 10 pounds of real fossils is also available. Children can also enjoy a dig site to live out their dreams of becoming an archaeologist, using tools to brush away sand and find arrowheads that they can keep.

For those looking to beat the heat during the summer months, Mystery Hill offers a large selection of old fashioned sodas with up to 168 options for those desiring a classic syrupy sweet beverage. Folks can also purchase a mix and match six pack as an alternative.

Front Porch Eats also offers a full lunch menu and features mason jar milkshakes, soft baked pretzels, nachos and much more.

Mystery Hill offers four retail stores on site, including a main gift shop that offers much more than simple souvenirs. The gift shop at Prospector Hill Gem Mine has earth science gifts, and the museum has shops that sell historical-related gifts. Lastly, for the bull riding area, there is a western-themed gift shop available.

Mystery Hill offers several ticket packages, giving patrons and visitors opportunities to enjoy all the fun the hill has to offer at affordable prices. The attraction’s base package includes access to the gravitational anomaly, the Hall of Mystery, the Bubblerama, the native american artifacts museum,

the 1903 Dougherty House and Farmyard, and the Rodeo Rampage bull ride challenge.

Visitors can also add access to ax throwing or gem mining for $10 or only $15 for both. Other ticket packages include specific access to gem mining, ax throwing, and old-time photos. Mystery Hill also offers a summer package deal that includes the base ticket, gem mining, ax throwing and 20% off on the old time photo session.

For more information, visit Mystery Hill’s website at mysteryhill.com or call (828) 2642792.

The main gift shop is open 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily.

has many “gravitational anomalies” to discover.

Mystery Hill

Mystery Hill, shown here, is a great place to visit on a rainy High Country day.

The Furr family enjoys Mystery Hill’s bubble room.

Fall Color in the High Country

All photos by Christian Gardner Fall in the High Country gives off beautiful views of the various colors that appear in the trees. Check out photos from across the area during a previous fall season.

By Christian Gardner

Cycling in the High Country a great way to see the views

Cycling down a winding road of the High Country as orange trees hang overhead is an experience those in the High Country have the joy of encountering. For those looking for a leisurely bike ride through a park, a longer tranquil ride, or maybe a challenging course with uphill climbs, the High Country has something for all cycling skill sets.

Seasoned and rookie cyclists agree that the Greenway in Boone is a great place for cyclists of any ability. The Greenway offers multiple miles of flat paved or gravel trails for an easy ride. It is a fully accessible trail open for walkers, runners, and cyclists that follows the South Fork of the New River. The Greenway entrance can be found at the Watauga County Recreation Complex near State Farm Road or adjacent to Clawson Burnley Park. For more information on the Greenway, visit www. exploreboone.com/outdoors/ hiking/boone-greenway.

For those looking for another laid-back paced ride, “Railroad Grade Road” in Todd offers about 10 miles of paved road built on an old railroad grade. The road is open for walking pedestrians and cyclists. To get to Railroad Grade Road, take U.S. 221 South towards West Jefferson and turn on N.C. 194 to go to Todd. For more information on Railroad Grade Road, visit www. traillink.com/trail/railroad-graderoad.

Additionally, a route on Old U.S. 421 near the Cove Creek

Elementary School offers a more gradual path for cyclists to cruise the backroads of Cove Creek, Zionville, Mabel, and Sugar Grove. One of the more favorable spots for the more experienced cyclists in the High Country is the Blue Ridge Parkway. The Parkway spans 465 miles through Virginia and North Carolina and offers scenic views of beautiful mountains with frequent overlook stops.

However, ride with caution, as there are no bicycle lanes along the route. Cyclists can travel onto the Parkway by turning onto it from U.S. 321 in Blowing Rock. For more information on the

Blue Ridge Parkway, visit www. blueridgeparkway.org.

Cycling opportunities in the High Country run the gamut from leisurely strolls through parks in many of the local mountain towns to challenging excursions that will lead cyclists down the mountains and out of the High Country altogether.

The Mountains to Coast Ride is a seven-day bike ride across North Carolina. It begins in Lake Junaluska and goes through towns like Tryon, Belmont, Albemarle, Laurinburg, and Whiteville before finishing at Holden Beach. The event is not a race but a

recreational trek across the state’s many scenic backroads. The ride is scheduled to take place from Oct. 1 to 8. To learn more, click on nesports.org/event/cyclenc_ mountainstocoast_ride.

Those looking to ride with a group can get involved with several cycling clubs and regular riding events throughout the summer and fall in Boone and Blowing Rock. One such club is the Boone Area Cyclists, which can be reached by looking up booneareacyclists.org.

Photo by C.Gardner Media Cyclists ride down Snakes Den

By Jamie Shell

Cold outside? Head indoors to rock climb

Autumn in the High Country region can be one of vast change, with the nights ushering in cool air and the daytime bringing warm temperatures. When visiting, it is easy to wish to reach the top of some of the area’s most breathtaking mountains while climbing many of the area’s outdoor destinations. But for those days when weather isn’t cooperating so favorably, one option is taking on the challenge of indoor rock climbing.

Center 45 Climbing and Fitness is a primary destination for indoor rock climbing aficionados. Located in Boone, Center 45, Climbing and Fitness scratches the itch when it comes to the rush and thrill of indoor climbing. With several walls placed at different angles, climbers are able to challenge themselves to their liking. Center 45 is known as the hub for climbing fitness and knowledge. The establishment offers guidebooks, training exercises, and safety measures, all while you enjoy the slope you’re on.

“Here at Center 45, we are dedicated to creating safe and strong climbers, both indoors and outside,” Center 45 states on its website. In addition to indoor climbing, it also offers locations for outdoor rock climbing when the weather is nice.

Upon entering Center 45, you will be met with 2,000 square feet of indoor climbing terrain. The walls offered are constructed at 14 feet at the apex, with a variety of terrain. In addition to the walls, it also offers weightlifting activities as well

as general fitness.

General day passes are offered at $16, and for those aged 12 and under, they are offered at $14. Veterans, first responders, and teachers get a discount at $12. If you’re looking to stay in the area, memberships are also available at an Adult/Family package level. If you’re looking for shoes and chalk, they’re also available to rent at $5 and $2 a day, respectively, or you can get a bundle for $6 a day. A waiver must be signed before taking on the challenge of the walls. Center 45’s mission is to be the area’s “indoor climbing and fitness hub, providing the High Country climbing community a central, comfortable, and welcoming location for climbing and training.” Center 45 Climbing and Fitness is located at 200 Den Mac Dr., Boone, NC 28607. hours of operation or Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m., Sunday from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Monday from 3 to 9 p.m. For more information on Center 45 and how to get into indoor rock climbing, visit their website at www.center45.com.

Another indoor climbing wall available is at App State’s Student Recreation Center. However, in order to get a membership at the rec center and climb the wall, you either have to be an App State faculty member or staff member, a university affiliate, an alumni, or a retiree.

Information on the 50-foot-tall climbing wall can be found at urec. appstate.edu/pagesmith/954.

Photo by Moss Brennan

Indoor Rock Climbing: Finan Kiser climbs one of the bouldering walls at Center 45. There are multiple routes for people to climb that are varying in difficulty.

Photo courtesy Rock Dimensions

Rock climbing excursions in the High Country lead to breathtaking views on the way to the top

Scale the Heights of the High Country

A guide to area rock climbing

By Luke Barber

Among outdoor enthusiasts, numerous ways exist to scale the peaks of the mountains and vistas surrounding the High Country. While most will prefer to hike a leisurely and winding path, others prefer to get to the top by going completely vertical.

Since August 1998, Boone’s Rock Dimensions’ adventures have been

widely popular with tourists and locals alike. The establishment allows visitors to follow guides on rock climbing outings and scale the most beautiful natural areas.

The PCIA-certified climbing guides are dedicated to providing a safe and enjoyable climbing experience to all of their clients.

Rock Dimensions operates in downtown Boone, and anyone who has ever spent time in downtown

will be aware of the large climbing wall next to Footsloggers that is operated by Rock Dimensions. The 40-foot climbing tower is the focal point of Rock Dimension’s “Tower to Rock” instructional program. The program is a great introduction to the world of climbing and what better way to get into the activity by practicing in an environment specifically catered to beginners. The program combines

a two to two-and-a-half hour session course on the tower the first day and a half-day climb on a real rockface the next day. All required equipment is provided, and the course is designed to be a full dive into climbing.

One of the unique aspects of climbing is there is no wrong age to start. Climbing is an activity

Photo courtesy Rock Dimensions Rock climbing isn’t just for the adults. Many kids also learn the ins and outs of the sport

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that young people are introduced to in a safe environment. Rock Dimensions also holds camps for children ages 8 to 16 to begin their adventures in the climbing world. The five-day camp takes participants through the ins and outs of climbing.

Those just starting out can visit downtown Boone to stock up on gear, learn more and practice on the climbing tower. The site provides a great place to train, take classes, work with partners and even bring the whole family along for a chance at the wall.

For experienced climbers, the day-rate belay course will allow you to pay only $25, with gear and shoes included for a daytime climbing experience in the heart of downtown. After visiting the tower, Rock Dimensions offers

the following on-site climbing locations.

Holloway Mountain

Holloway Mountain is just minutes away from Boone down NC 105 in the Foscoe area. It’s also a great spot for new climbers as it offers a variety of different levels of routes. Due to its proximity to town, it can be crowded at times, but with 10 routes that range from easy to difficult, it’s guaranteed to be a fun trip.

To get there from Boone, take NC 105 to Foscoe and take a left on Church Road. Drive a short distance and then take another left on Holloway Mountain Road before turning left onto Holloway Mountain Road, which turns from a paved to an unpaved road. A small cut out for parking will be on the right.

The Chimneys of Linville Gorge

The Linville Gorge was formed by the Linville River, which now meanders some 2,000 feet

below the rim of the gorge. This wilderness area is part of Pisgah National Forest. The gorge offers breathtaking views, a variety of climbing options, exciting rappels, and for a unique recreational experience, an exhilarating Tyrolean Traverse, which involves crossing across a chasm between two high points connected by rope. Primitive camping suitable for groups is available about a quarter mile from the parking lot and picnic area. In the summer, the Linville Gorge is a nice break from the heat and humidity of the Piedmont. Meanwhile, Fall brings an array of colors to the forest, in addition to perfect camping weather. In Spring, the rhododendrons and mountain laurels are in beautiful bloom.

Wilson Creek Area

Wilson Creek begins its journey from the top of Grandfather Mountain and flows into the Johns River 23.3 miles downstream.

Surrounded by the Pisgah National Forest, the creek makes its way through some of the oldest rocks in the southern Appalachians. The climbing is scenic and exposed, with views of Grandfather and Grandmother Mountains. Primitive camping is available along the forest service roads near the climbing access.

Pilot Mountain State Park Pilot Mountain rises 1,400 feet above the surrounding Piedmont area near Winston-Salem, with an elevation of 2421 feet. Pilot Mountain’s Big Pinnacle is a highly visible knob, seen standing solid as a mountain of rock that has withstood the elements that eroded the foothills around it. The mountain, which was recognized as a National Natural Landmark in 1976, is a part of the ancient Sauratown Mountain Range. Climbing sites are located on the

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Little Pinnacle.

There are fairly primitive group campsites available for $1 per person and a family campground with more modern facilities for $12 per site. Both campsites contain a table and grill and fire pit area. Call the park for reservations and

information.

Rocky Face Park

Rocky Face Recreational Area is an Alexander County park located in Hiddenite, NC. Formerly a rock quarry in the early 1900s, the mountain offers a south-facing rock face with climbing opportunities for various levels of ability. In May 2012, the recreational area opened to the public as a county park and climbing became a major activity.

Rock Dimensions facilitates rock climbing programs at the park during the annual Spring RockyFest at the Fall Rock Climbing Festival and with Scout troops and other groups throughout the year. The best seasons for climbing there are Fall, Winter and Spring. For Scouts and other groups wishing to camp, there is an easy backcountry site established with reservations required.

For your next rocky adventures, visit rockdimensions.com or call (828) 265-3544.

Additional Local Climbing Companies

Center 45, Boone NC (Indoor Climbing)

828-386-1550

center45.com

Edge of the World, Banner Elk NC (828) 898-9550

edgeoworld.com/summer

Photo courtesy Rock Dimensions

Ropes and safety equipment are a necessary part of having a fun, safe day rock climbing

Zip-lining offers aerial adventure

By Luke Barber

Through the thrill of Ziplining, adventurous High Country patrons can experience the beauty of the natural environment from a bird’s eye view, or perhaps more like from the vantage point of one of the local famous flying squirrels.

There are three main ziplining outfitters in the High Country that provide a fun and safe outdoor adventure: Hawksnest Zipline in Seven Devils, High Gravity Adventures and Sky Valley Zip Tours of Blowing Rock.

Hawksnest Zipline

Hawksnest Zipline nests about 10 miles outside Boone in the Seven Devils community. Originally a ski resort and golf course, this outfitter has worn many hats since opening in 1964. Hawksnest’s ski season officially ended in 2008, when the

resort switched to creating the East Coast’s largest snow tubing park. Shortly thereafter, the park added a zipline course to give guests more thrill-seeking options.

Hawksnest has three different ziplining trips: the Hawk Tour, the Eagle Tour and the Do It All Tour.

The Hawk Tour is the most popular option for visitors. For two hours, adventurers will travel on 11 cables for a total of 1.5 miles through the sky. This scenic route is a great option for families and firsttime zipliners.

Participants must be at least five years of age, and children under the age of 12 must be accompanied by an adult. For this tour, riders cannot be more than 250 pounds, and there is no weight minimum.

The Eagle Tour takes about two hours to complete as participants soar through nine cables for a total

of three miles. This tour features two cables that are more than 2,000 feet long and a suspension bridge. It is recommended that adventurers on this tour have some zipline experience and are relatively physically fit. At certain points, participants will be zooming around 200 feet above the ground.

Finally, the Do It All Tour combines the Hawk and Eagle Tours for a total of 20 cables, four mega zips and three swinging bridges. This four-hour trip is an exciting adventure for visitors looking for a thrilling experience through the High Country.

Both the Eagle Tour and the Do It All Tour require participants to be at least eight years old and a minimum of 80 pounds. Riders cannot exceed 220 pounds. Hawksnest Zipline requires reservations for each

or call (828) 963-6561.

Sky Valley Zip Tours

Tucked away on more than 140 acres of serene mountain landscape, Sky Valley Zip Tours is located about 15 minutes from Blowing Rock and immerses participants in high-flying adventure from start to finish as part of its Canopy Tour, Kid Zip and Night Flight.

The Canopy Tour enthusiastically starts off with an ATV ride that takes you through the river and up the mountain to get to the first zipline destination. Before riders set off into the sky, they will zip through a training course to prepare for the adventure to come.

While up in the air, participants

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Scenic views such as this one, as seen at Hawksnest, await adventure seekers this autumn in the High Country.

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will have the chance to take a leap of faith and cliff jump. The jump descends back to the earth before embarking on the final leg of the tour. But that’s not all! Guests then traverse across a 120-foot-long swinging bridge that extends 50 feet in the air, overlooking a tall cascading waterfall.

For those looking for more adventure, Sky Valley Tip Tours also offers a Night Flight tour, which covers the first five cables of the Canopy Tour. The platforms are lit and participants will have headlamps to illuminate their path through the trees. The tour ends with the cliff jump where the ATV will bring them back to the Zip Shack.

The nighttime tours are available on select weekends after dark and take about an hour and a half to complete, while the Canopy Tour is three hours long. It is important to note that for both

tours, participants must be 10 years or older and between 70 and 250 pounds.

The Kid Zip turns the thrill of the adult-tour into a kid-sized option that offers seven zip lines, a bridge and a 20-foot slide. Participating children must be between the ages of 4 and 18 years old. Riders must be able to reach up and touch 48 inches high.

Sky Valley Zip Tours encourages booking your tour in advance but walk-ins are welcome on a firstcome first-serve basis. For more information, visit skyvalleyziptours. com or call (828) 264-0002.

High Gravity Adventures

The High Gravity Adventures park is jam-packed with opportunities for fun in the air. The park officially opened in 2015, and the Aerial Adventure Park was completed. In 2017, the High Altitude Zip Line Tour was added. The park currently has four different adventures to choose from: zip, climb, swing or combine them all for the ultimate adventure.

The two-hour zipline tour travels across five cables with one 70-foot freefall. This adventure starts off slow and builds in speed as you go. If speed is not on your agenda, no worries. High Gravity also has a slow-moving rappel option.

Purchase of the zip tour will also give participants access to the ground-level Ninja Course. Participants must be 7 years or older and weigh a minimum of 75 pounds. The maximum weight for this course is 265 pounds.

The Aerial Adventure Park has two options: the Foothills Park and Zipline and the Blue Ridge Park. Both parks give participants access to the Ninja course as well.

The Foothills Park is ideal for young adventurers. The park features 13 aerial obstacles and three kid-friendly zip lines. The ticket supplies kids with two hours of adventure time. This park is open to children ages 4 and older. All participants must have a minimum reach height of 5’3” or be accompanied by a guest who does.

The Blue Ridge park goes the

extra mile with 64 obstacles and four rappels. For three hours of fun, guests can traverse swinging logs, sky bridges, spiderwebs and more. Participants must be 7 years old or older and have a reach of 6’1” or accompanied by a guest who does.

The three-person giant swing is the final attraction, and it’s exactly what it sounds like. At four stories tall, three people are harnessed into the giant swing for a wild ride. Each ticket includes two swings, and participants must be at least 48 inches tall.

If you can’t pick just one adventure, do not fret. High Gravity offers the Ultimate Adventure package that bundles it all together for a chance to zip, climb and swing. Age restrictions and weight requirements apply and vary depending on the attraction. For more information on High Gravity Adventures, visit highgravityadventures.com or call (828) 383-8823.

File photo

A guest at Hawksnest Zipline rides between the treetops.

File photo

Flying high over the hills and dales of the High Country, zipline tours offer a unique way of taking in the area’s beautiful views.

By Amelie Fawson

As autumn blankets North Carolina, the state’s flagship Mountains to Sea Trail transforms into a vibrant corridor of fall colors. Stretching 1,175 miles from the mountains to the coast, this trail offers hikers the unique opportunity to hike through the state’s diverse landscapes.

The idea of a mountains-tosea trail in N.C. began in 1977 when then-Secretary of Natural Resources and Community Development Howard Lee proposed its creation. In 2000, Lee’s vision became reality when the trail was

Mountains to Sea Trail: North Carolina from summit to shore

designated a state trail and became part of the state parks system.

Today, the trail stands as a cornerstone of North Carolina’s natural heritage, linking four national parks, two wildlife refuges, 10 state parks and three national forests from the mountains to the coast through 18 segments. These segments accommodate hikers, backpackers, mountain bikers, horseback riders and paddlers. Starting in the Great Smoky Mountains, the trail begins in Clingmans Dome. This first segment is 46.8 miles long, rated as strenuous and stretches to

Waterrock Knob off the Blue Ridge Parkway. The second segment continues from Waterrock Knob to Pisgah Inn for 63.6 miles. The third segment continues to Black Mountain Campground for 71.5 miles. Segment four, rated moderate to strenuous, is 76.8 miles long and finishes at Beacon Heights, a popular hiking trail in Avery County og. Segment five finishes the tour of the mountains with a final stretch of 84.9 miles to Devils Garden Overlook.

Segments 6 to 10 of the trail run through the Piedmont of N.C. Segment six, rated easy to

strenuous, stretches from Devil’s Garden Overlook to Pilot Mountain State Park for 69.2 miles. Segment seven, rated moderate to strenuous, continues for 35 miles to Hanging Rock State Park. The eighth segment ends at Bryan Park after 60.4 miles. This segment is rated easy to moderate and popular with bikers. Segment nine, rated easy and stretching 60.9 miles, goes to Eno River State Park. Segment ten is an easy-to-moderate 78.6-mile stretch to Falls Lake Dam. Segment eleven finishes the tour of the Piedmont with a 66.6-mile stretch to Howell Woods in Johnston

Photo by Derek Halsey

The Mountains to the Sea Trail in the High Country near Beacon Heights

County, N.C.

Segments 12 through 18 take travelers through the Coastal Plains and the Outer Banks. Travelers who prefer water over land may choose to paddle segments 11A to 16A on the Neuse River Paddle Route from Smithfield to the Neusiok Trail on the coast for 169.3 miles. Otherwise, segment 12 begins in the coastal plains and stretches from Howell Woods to Suggs Mill Pond Game Land for an easy 65.7 miles. Segment 13 continues until Singletary Lake State Park for 39.2 miles. Segment 14, nicknamed “Land of History” for its historic Revolutionary War Era buildings, takes travelers 66 miles to Holly Shelter Game Land. Next is segment 15, an easy-to-moderate 90.4 miles popular with bikers, which carries on from Holly Shelter Game Land to Stella. Segment 16 is also rated easy to moderate. This section is 67.4 miles long and stretches to Oyster Point Campground. Segment 17 is

an easy 47.9 miles to Cedar Island Ferry in the Outer Banks. Finishing off the Mountains to Sea Trail is segment 18, a moderate 47.9-mile mile trail that ends at Jockey’s Ridge State Park.

For those interested in hiking the Mountains to Sea Trail, visit www.mountainstoseatrail.org/thetrail/segments/ for maps, segment length and difficulty ratings, tips and guides.

The Mountains to Sea Trail is maintained and supported by Friends of the Mountains to Sea Trail. The organization works statewide to build and maintain the trail, encourage communities to create new sections of trail and help people hike it. To become a member or volunteer for the organization, visit www. mountainstoseatrail.org/getinvolved/.

Your complete guide to everything tourism in the High Country

By Jaren Gragg

Breweries provide diverse tastes of High Country

Whether you are looking for a relaxing glass of wine or in the mood for an IPA beer, or perhaps even something sweet like a cider, the High Country has plenty of selections that will make your taste buds happy. In recent years, there has been an industry boom in breweries around the High Country, with many offering their unique twist on delectable libations. The following are locations offering local brews and tastes.

Appalachian Mountain Brewery

Appalachian Mountain Brewery, or “AMB” as many locals call it, has been in operation since 2013 and is the first place that many in the High Country think of when it comes to local beers. AMB has also partnered with Bojangles to offer a brew that accentuates the restaurant’s legendary sweet tea, adding a bit of a hard kick to the classic Southernstyle staple. The Bojangles Hard Sweet Tea has an ABV of 5% and is sold across the Carolinas.

For more information, you can visit their website at amp.beer or call (828) 263-1111.

Beech Mountain Brewing Company

Beech Mountain Brewing Company is one of the only breweries that is operated at a ski resort in the United States. Beech Mountain offers 12 year-round beers, including the 5506 Pale Ale, which is a tribute to the elevation of the mountain, as well as the Beech Blonde Lager, Mountain Town Amber and Patroller Porter. Beech Mountain offers five seasonal beers

and four sour ales for those wishing to try something different.

For more information, visit their website at beechmounainresort. com/mountain/brewery or call (828) 387-2011.

Blowing Rock Brewing Company

Blowing Rock Brewing Company has been in operation for more than 11 years and also operates its own ale house in Blowing Rock and a draft house in Hickory. The brewery currently offers seven year-round beers and more than 10 seasonal specialty selections.

Some of patrons’ favorite yearround brew options include the 321 Crushable IPA, High Country Hazy Pale Ale, Cloud Rise IPA, and Blowing Rock IPA.

For more information, visit the Blowing Rock Brewing Company website at blowingrockbrewing. com or call (828) 414-9600.

Boondocks Brewing

Boondocks is located in downtown West Jefferson and has a restaurant at its Brew Haus just down the street, offering all of its beer varieties on tap. Boondocks’ quality brews certainly, and they are certainly worth a trip to Ashe country and Boondocks to grab one of your favorite brews.

A few of the favorite choices among the patrons at Boondocks include many of its locally inspired IPAs, such as the West Jefferson Juice, the 3Top-3Hop IPA, and What’s Your Name, after the Three Top Mountain located in the county. They also serve the West Jefferson

Centennial Ale, which celebrates West Jefferson’s 100th birthday, along with the Blue Ridge Brutal Brown, named after the Blue Ridge Brutal bike race that takes place every August.

For more information, visit the Boondocks website at www. boondocksbeer.com or call (336) 246-5222.

Booneshine Brewing Company

Booneshine Brewing grew from a small tasting location that was located behind the Boone Mall to expand its large tasting room and restaurant to its beer garden, located off Industrial Drive just off US Highway 421. Booneshine has

been in operation for more than eight years, and some of its famous brews include the East Boone Pilsner, Space Pegasus IPA, and the Moonshine IPA. Booneshine also offers several seasonal beers that include the Kringleberry Stout, the South Fork Grapefruit Gose, and the Golden Hour Double IPA.

For more information, visit the brewery website at booneshine. beer or call (828) 386-4066.

Kettell Beerworks

Banner Elk is home to Kettell Beerworks, formerly known as

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Various beers on tap from Booneshine Brewing Company, located off Highway 421 on Industrial Park Drive in Boone.

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Banner Elk Brewing Company before its current owners rebranded. Kettell’s beers are canned as well as on tap at several locations throughout the High Country.

Beerworks currently has eight beers that it carries throughout the year, along with two seasonal beers that include Oktoberfest and its winter ale that is known as Alpine Rush. Its popular year-round selections include the Crabby Louie, an imperial IPA, along with Velvet Panda, which is an oatmeal stout.

For more information, visit Kettell’s website at www. kettellbeerworks.com or call at (828) 898-8677.

Lost Province Brewing Company

Lost Province Brewing Company has a brewpub in downtown Boone as well as a taproom at Hardin Creek just off of U.S. 421 in East Boone, which serves as their primary production facility for the business. They also have a taproom at Coyote Kitchen, a popular allergy friendly restaurant in Boone. Lost Province was at the forefront of expanding the beer scene in the Boone area. Boone Light Lager, Hipster Juice Hazy IPA and Kiss My Grits Southern Lager are just some of the craft brews in their ever-growing selection. For more information, visit the brewery’s website at lostprovidence.com or call (828) 265-3506.

Molley Chomper Hard Cidery

While taking a trip to Ashe County, a popular libation location includes the High Country’s only cidery, which is located in the tiny town of Lansing. Molley Chomper offers a wide variety of tasty ciders that include ciders from apples and fruits grown just a few steps away

from the cidery, as well as neighboring areas. Ashe and Watauga counties. A favorite among patrons is the Porch Swing Cider, produced from the wild crab apples that are just up the hill from the building. Mountain Maelstrom comes from many locally grown fruits around the area. According to Molley Chomper, 93% of the fruit that it uses for its ciders comes from farms within 60 miles of the cidery. They also purchase dozens of tons of fruit from small farms around the area.

For more information, visit its website at www. molleychomper.com or call (404) 769-1439.

New River Brewing Company

Starting out in Lansing, New River Brewing has since grown and expanded into greater populated areas of Ashe County. New River Brewing now operates a restaurant that is in downtown West Jefferson, along with a taproom about a half-mile down US Business 221 between West Jefferson and Jefferson.

Some of the popular selections at New River are the Farmhouse Ale and the Take Me to the River Lager. If you are searching for something that is sweet but also has a bit of kick, try the Skeeter Pee Hard Lemonade. The Skeeter Pee comes in many different flavors throughout the year that includes pineapple and other fruity drinks. For more information visit the brewery’s website at newriverbrewing.beer or call them at (336) 846-2739.

Photo submitted

Kettelworks Brewers in Banner Elk pairs its various brews with appetizers and food items on its menu.

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Lost Province Brewery offers multiple IPAs for discriminating tastes.

Photo courtesy AMB

Bojangle’s Hard Sweet Tea is a specialty item available from Boone’s Appalachian Mountain Brewery.

Disc Golf in the High Country

By Zach Colburn

The unique activity of disc golf continues to grow in popularity, especially in the Northwest North Carolina area, which has some of the best disc golf courses in the state.

Disc golf is the ideal solution for anyone who wants to teach, share, and enjoy a lifetime sport. It’s a healthy activity that is considerably less expensive than its golfing counterpart.

Disc golf offers many benefits, including upper and lower body conditioning, aerobic exercise, and mental stimulation. Mastering shots and negotiating obstacles expands concentration skills, while players in less-than-top physical condition can still enjoy the sport by starting slowly and gradually increasing their level of play. Disc golf is played much like

regular golf, but players use a flying disc instead of a ball and clubs, similar to a frisbee.

According to the Professional Disc Golf Association, the sport was formalized in the 1970s and shares with golf the object of completing each hole in the fewest strokes or, in the case of disc golf, as fewest tosses as possible.

A disc golf hole begins from a tee area and ends at a target, the most common of which is an elevated metal basket. As a player progresses down the fairway, they must make each consecutive throw from where the previous throw landed.

In group play, the farthest away player always throws first. Players should not get ahead of the away player. Like regular golf, trees, shrubs and terrain changes in

and around the fairways provide challenging obstacles to reach the final destination. The hole is complete when the “putt” lands in the basket.

According to the PDGA, the flying discs are made of solid, non-magnetic plastic material and are between 21 centimeters to 30 centimeters. The maximum weight of a disc can not exceed a weight of 200 grams.

There are three types of discs players can use: a long-range driver, a mid-range wood or iron, and a short-range putter. Discs are also fairly cheap, with a decent set ranging at about $50 or less, while golf clubs can range to hundreds of dollars for a decent set. Other recommended discs include an approach driver and a distance driver.

For those wanting to try disc golf, the High Country offers a variety of courses for all ages to play.

The High Country Disc Course

Located at Ashe County Park in Jefferson, the High Country Disc Course is great for beginners or pros to improve their skills. The park offers 20 holes of disc golf. Throughout the two-mile course, concrete and platform rubberdecked tee pads and easy-to-spot DiscCatcher baskets have been installed on every hole. The last nine holes are deep in the woodland, while the front nine are more open. Some of the holes have alternate baskets for newer players. The course also provides “Birdies” and “Tree Love” scorecards that double as field

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Photo Courtesy Beech Mountain Resort

A disc golf hole at Beech Mountain Resort is pictured in the foreground with a chairlift transporting mountain bikes in the background

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guides, allowing players to identify birds and trees during their round. For more information, visit www. kidsinparks.com/ashe-countyparkntdgc.

WAHOO’S ADVENTURES

Another great disc golf course is at Wahoo’s Adventures, where you can also camp, canoe, and tube in the New River.

The course features nine holes that each have both long and short tees. It also has a warm-up hole for players to prep their throwing arm. The course itself is a beautiful hike in the New River area for disc golf players. It features a catwalk bridge over a creek, perfect for a hot summer’s day.

The course costs $5 per person or is free for tubers with Wahoo’s Adventures. More information can be found at www.wahoosadventures. com.

Beech Mountain Resort

Beech Mountain Resort is welcoming for players of all skill levels. The course features 18 holes designed into the mountain landscape. Players can walk the course for free, or they can take a scenic lift ride for $12 to tee off from the summit.

A rental of three discs costs $10. For more information, call 1-(800)-438-2093 or visit www. beechmountainresort.com/summer/ disc-golf/.

Chetola Resort

Chetola Resort in Blowing Rock offers a nine-hole course with three practice holes. Unlike other courses, Chetola is a private resort, and its course is reserved for guests. For more information, call (828) 295-5535 or visit the resort website at www. chetola.com.

Roan Mountain Disc Golf Course

Located mere minutes from Avery

County at 133 Freeman Rd. in Roan Mountain, Tenn., Roan Mountain Disc Golf Course was created in 2006. RMDGC is a basically flat course that makes it friendly for all levels of ability. A river runs along Hole Nos. 1 and 9, with dual tees on Hole No. 18. and alternate layout plays 3, 5 and 1.

Primarily a beginners’ course or a practice course for letting loose long drives, the final hole on the 9-hole course calls for a long tee-off throw. The course is a popular destination for those hiking, vacationing in the area and is only a few minutes drive from nearby Roan Mountain State Park.

Other nearby disc golf courses

In neighboring Wilkes County, there are two more disc golf courses available.

Rolling Pines Disc Golf Course, which opened in 2015, is located at Old U.S. 421 and Peace Street in Wilkesboro.

The 18-hole course is located on 70 acres of well-maintained land. Players will have several challenges through the hilly, wooded areas of the course. The Pat 56 course had 18 baskets with concrete tees, along with a practice basket and tee to warm up.

The course, which is free to the public and open from dawn till dusk daily, has been ranked among the world’s best disc golf courses each of the last four years by UDisc. It was ranked 90th out of 100 in 2024.

Another option is Highland Hills Disc Golf Course, which is located at 22 South Park Road in North Wilkesboro.

Built in 2010, the course has 18 holes and is open from Dawn until Dusk daily.

More Information

For more information on disc golf and its rules, visit the Professional Disc Golf Association at www.pdga. com.

File Photo

The nationally recognized High Country Disc Golf Course is located in Ashe County Park at Ashe Park Road in Jefferson.

High Country golf: A great activity on a beautiful fall day

By Zach Colburn

When it comes to golfing in the High Country, there’s certainly no shortage of options when it comes to teeing off.

Between Ashe, Avery and Watauga Counties, there are plenty

of options for play, regardless of skill level.

Ashe County is home to a pair of golf courses — one public course and one semi-private golf club.

Mountain Aire Golf Club in West Jefferson is a public course and the

third oldest in the High Country.

When it opened in 1949, it was originally called West Jefferson Golf Club. Carl Hagel purchased the course in 1971, and it has remained in the family ever since.

Mark Hagel expanded the course

18 holes in 1985, and his son-inlaw, Philip Shepherd, handled all the day-to-day management of the course and the playoff surface. In addition to hosting numerous

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A view from the Boone Golf Course.

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community golf tournaments during the year, it is also the home course for the Ashe County High School golf teams, with the girl’s squad hosting matches during the fall.

To book a tee time, contact Mountain Aire at (336) 877-4716. For more info about the course and housing community, see www. mountainaire.com.

Jefferson Landing, located in Jefferson, is a semi-private club located off Highway 16 and surrounded by mountain views, luxurious homes and condominiums.

The course was designed by Professional Golfers Association Hall of Fame Larry Nelson and opened in 1991.

The course is 7,110 yards long, which is said to be the longest in the High Country. It regularly hosts golf tournaments throughout the Spring, Summer, and Fall; it also hosted the North Carolina Amateur Golf Championships in the Summer of 2023.

For tee times and more information, call the Jefferson Landing pro shop at (336) 982-7767 or visit www.visitjeffersonlanding. com/Golf.

Watauga County is home to a quintet of golf courses, including the Boone Golf Club, which is typically open from April to November. Opened to the public in 1959, it is also the home course of both the boys’ and girls’ golf teams at Watauga High School.

Boone Golf Club also hosted the Northwestern 4A/3A Conference tournament for boys golf this past spring.

With a total distance of 6,686 yards (and (6,018 from the regular tees), BGC sits at an elevation of 3,346 above sea level and has a mixture of short tees with par threes, averaging 199 yards.

Call the pro shop at (828) 2648760 to set up a tee time. More information on the course, including a hole-by-hole overview, visit www.boonegolfclub.com

Nearby Vilas is home to the Willow Creek Golf Course, which was designed by Tom Jackson in the 1970s.

Known to some as “the little green monster,” Willow Creek has par-3 holes ranging from 137 yards to 221 yards, leading to small putting greens. It is open from April 1 to October 31 (weather permitting).

According to their website, www. willowvalley-resort.com/willowcreek-golf-course, there are no reserved tee times, meaning it is first come, first serve.

Currently, they have a promotion going on that guests who book a week’s rental at the resort from April to October will get another night for free, plus receive free greens fees.

For prices and any other additional information on Willow Creek Golf Course, visit the website or call (828) 963-6865.

Operating from May through October, the Blowing Rock Country Club opened for its first round in 1915 and was recently redesigned for an even better playing experience.

The course is also the one in North Carolina designed by Seth Raynor, who designed around 85 courses from the late 1800s to the early 1900s.

To learn more about BRCC, including memberships, visit blowingrockcountryclub.com/Golf or call (828) 295-3171.

Hound Ears Club, located in Boone, was the third course in Watauga County to open (Behind Blowing Rock and Boone GC) when it opened in 1964. George Cobb designed the 18-hole course.

The course, which is located off NC Highway 105 near Shulls Mill, plays at 6,307 yards and is 6,145

yards from the regular tees. It offers a variety of par 3, par 4 and par 5 holes and is well-known for having several longer par 4s.

More information about Hound Ears Club and the golf course can be found online at www.houndears. com/Golf.

Beech Mountain Golf Club has the unique and rare distinction of being able to play golf while experiencing views of North Carolina, Tennessee and Virginia.

The course, which opened in 1969 with the first nine holes, was designed by Willard Byrd and recently redesigned to extend the course of play to 6,250 yards. It sits at an elevation around 4,500 feet.

More about the course, which is open from May through October, can be learned by visiting beechmtn.club/the-course.

Beech Mountain, Hound Ears and Blowing Rock are all private clubs. Another private club in Avery County is the Linville Ridge Golf Course, which, at 4,949 feet, is the highest elevation course east of the Mississippi River.

The elevation also offers one of the most comfortable rounds of golf as the temperatures in the summer and early fall are not nearly as high.

Originally designed by George Cobb, Linville Ridge has the distinction of being the final golf course he designed. It went through a redesign in 2007 as Bobby Weed was brought in to add additional challenges for players. Linville Ridge plays to 6,813 yards from the back tees and 6,210 from the regular tees.

For more information on the club and the golf course, visit www. linvilleridge.com/golf-pages/golf.

Avery County also offers public courses, including the Sugar Mountain Golf Club, which opened in 1974.

Owned and operated by the town and celebrating its 50th season, Sugar Mountain GC features nine

par 3s, eight par 4s and one par 5 hole to make up its 18-hole course. The course measures 4,443 yards overall and 4,071 from the regular tees.

At over 4,000 feet of elevation, Sugar Mountain has a par-64 layout. Tee times can be reserved online at see sugar.com/golf/ or call (828) 898-6464.

Over in Newland, Mountain Glen Golf Club opened in 1964 with nine holes and then opened another nine the following year.

The public course, which is the home course for Avery County High School’s golf teams, was designed by George Cobb. The golf course architect is also known for first designing Quail Hollow in Charlotte and the Augusta National Par Three Course.

Mountain Glen plays at 5,968 yards from regular tees and a challenging 6,523 yards from the back tees.

To set up a tee time, call Mountain Glen at (828) 733-5804.

Land Harbor Golf Club in Linville was originally opened as a nine-hole course. But after a collaboration between Tom Jackson and local golfer Ernie Hayes, they were able to create a second nine-hole course out of 23 acres of rugged property that was thought by many to be unusable.

The first nine holes measure at 2,950 yards with the back nine measuring in at 1,927 yards. The course play combines for a par score of 69.

According to linvillelandharbor. com/golf, the golf club operates as a semi-private facility and offers several options to accommodate the occasional player and the passionate golfer as well.

As a resident of Land Harbor, unlimited golf is available for one low yearly fee.

Tee times can be made through their website or by phone at (828) 733-8325.

Photo submitted

Jefferson Landing, located in Jefferson, is a semi-private club.

Area Chambers offer assistance, opportunities to locals and visitors alike

By Jamie Shell

The North Carolina High Country is a popular destination for firsttime visitors, returning friends and full-time residents. As part of its mission, area chambers in Ashe, Avery and Watauga counties strive to serve all individuals and businesses who find their way to our corner of the world.

From After Hours events to annual dinners recognizing excellence from individuals and member businesses, area chambers of commerce are threads that connect people and foster cooperation and companionship across a wide range of the region. The following are chambers of commerce that are serving High Country counties.

ASHE COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Ashe County, home to both the towns of Jefferson and of West

Jefferson, is just about as far as you can go in the High Country before entering Southwestern Virginia.

The county is considered, in many respects, a step back in time to the way the Appalachian Mountains used to be. The chamber can direct travelers through the scenic and sparsely populated area of Christmas tree farms and rugged mountain landscapes while offering a wide selection of brochures and maps.

01 N. Jefferson Ave., Suite C West Jefferson, N.C. 28694 (336) 846-9550 www.ashechamber.com

AVERY COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

The Avery County Chamber of Commerce Visitor Center is conveniently located in the Shoppes at Tynecastle at the intersection of N.C. 105 and N.C. 184. The center offers information on lodging,

dining, attractions, shopping and other businesses in Avery County. 4501 Tynecastle Highway, Unit No. 2

Banner Elk, N.C. 28604 (828) 898-5605 www.averycounty.com

BANNER ELK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Located in the heart of town, the Banner Elk Chamber of Commerce in Avery County promotes the area as a unique place to live in, work and visit. Information on area lodging, dining, shopping and more is available Monday through Saturday, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., and all the time by visiting www. bannerelk.org.

100 W. Main St. Banner Elk, NC 28604 (828) 898-8395 www.bannerelk.org

BEECH MOUNTAIN CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

www.beechmountainchamber. com

BLOWING ROCK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Blowing Rock is considered one of the crown jewels of the Blue Ridge. Its chamber of commerce knows this tight-knit community as no one else, and its representatives are always willing to share this knowledge with visitors. Aside from general information, lists of camping and fishing sites, and brochures, the Blowing Rock Chamber of Commerce also has a generous stock of menus from the town’s many eateries.

132 Park Ave. Blowing Rock, NC 28605 (828) 295-7851 www.blowingrockchamber.com

BOONE AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Whether you’re looking for a North Carolina mountain vacation full of adventure or just a few days to relax and breathe the fresh mountain air, Beech Mountain, at an elevation of 5,506 feet, will give your soul something to smile about. Beech Mountain, which straddles both Avery and Watauga counties, offers plenty of activities and attractions for the whole family to enjoy, but also plenty of peace and quiet for a relaxing and rejuvenating time.

403-A Beech Mountain Parkway Beech Mountain, NC 28604 (828) 387-9283

The Boone Area Chamber of Commerce is one of the High Country’s most active, with both a dedicated membership and an overall commitment to the betterment of the area as both a vacation destination and business hub. Located in the heart of Boone, the chamber is an ideal place to stop for information on area activities, brochures and maps of the community.

579 Greenway Road Suite 101 Boone, NC 28607 (828) 264-2225

www.boonechamber.com

File photo

The Ashe County Chamber of Commerce is located at 1 N Jefferson Ave. in West Jefferson

Motorcycling through the High Country

By Christian Gardner

For those who wish to get their motors running, perhaps no scenery to hit the open road is as appealing as the highways of the High Country. Breathtaking views and windy mountain roads make the High Country a sought-after destination for motorcycle riders, especially during the fall season. The views the High Country offers to riders are unlike anywhere else. In addition to the scenery, the roads offer an exciting ride with twists and turns for those looking for something beyond the mundane.

“When you hear folks come here to ride from other areas, a lot of times they say that roads down in the piedmont, on the coast, or wherever are flat, straight, and not really exciting,” said Keith Honeycutt of the Peacemakers Club. “Up here in the mountains, it’s totally different.”

One popular destination for local motorcycle enthusiasts is the Blue Ridge Parkway. For 469 miles, from Shenandoah National Park in Virginia to Cherokee, N.C., and the

Great Smoky Mountains National Park in Tennessee, the Parkway cuts through a sensory delight, a treasure forest of twists and turns, highs and lows, and, of course, grand vistas from 200 overlooks.

Tired of riding? Many overlooks also serve as trailheads, so a chance to stretch your legs is also available. It’s advised that motorcyclists should try to enjoy the Parkway on weekdays instead of weekends, if possible. With leaves changing rapidly, vehicle traffic increases dramatically, meaning many more cars, trucks and RVs on the road, making it slightly more hazardous. Riders should also be aware of wildlife that could be on the Blue Ridge Parkway, such as deer, turkey or possibly bears. All while watching for those things, watching out for gravel and debris on roads after rain is advised as well. More information on the Blue Ridge Parkway can be found at www. blueridgepark-way.org.

For a challenging and slow test of twists and turns, be sure and visit Grandfather Mountain. The winding road to the top is a treat

in itself, but stop and walk across the mile-high suspension bridge. The horizon stretches and stretches before you in at least three directions.

If a leisurely day-trip ride is more your speed, the 19 miles U.S. 221 between Blowing Rock and Linville is a Sunday drive type of treat, or Shull’s Mill Road from near Blowing Rock to Hound Ears and Fos-coe brings lots of smiles. You might even see some unusual country residences along the way, and if you don’t mind a dirt and gravel road, a side trip on the Old Turnpike Road Country pays colorful dividends.

A little further south of Avery County, Mount Mitchell thrusts up as the highest peak east of the Mississippi River and, as you might expect, is worth the ride to the topbut only if mountaintop panorama grandeur is your thing.

For riders who may not be experienced when it comes to traveling on mountain roads, the two-day trip on the Parkway from Boone up into Virginia would be a good place to go. Other rides

typically suggested are U.S. 421 starting in Boone toward Mountain City, through Todd on the 26-mile long N.C 194 Scenic Byway or U.S. 221 from Blowing Rock to Marion. It’s suggested that a rider grab lunch in Blowing Rock, enjoy a ride to Marion, have a treat, and then head back.

“There’s not another view that will compare to what we have here,” Honeycutt said. “That also applies to the country roads that zip in and out of the small communities scattered throughout the High Country.”

In and around the High Country, there are plenty of great country roads to explore. Straightaways are rare, So opportunities to “hit the apex” of a curve are numerous. Whether you have a Bonnie, a Duck, a Hog or a Dresser, motorcycling in the High Country is another name for fun, especially in autumn.

Photo by C.Gardner Media

A group rides a motorcycle down to Price Lake.

BRUSHY MOUNTAIN POWERSPORTS SELLS MORE MOTORCYCLES, ATVs ,AND UTVs THAN ANYONE ELSE IN THE HIGH COUNTRY.

HERE ’S WHY:

• SALESAND SERVICE FORHONDA, KAWASAKI, AND YAMAHA PRODUCTS

• WE DELIVER TO AND FROM ANYWHERE IN NC,TN, AND VA,FOR SALESAND SERVICE

• NO ADDED “DOC ” FEES- THE PRICE IS THE PRICE!

• NO PRESSURE FRIENDLYCUSTOMER SERVICE

• FAMILYOWNED AND OPERATED SINCE 1997

Mountain biking adventures in the High Country

By Nathan Ham Hopping

on a mountain bike to take on the elevated climbs and rapid downhill descents that the High Country offers is one of many outdoor activities you can enjoy.

The most popular mountain biking spot has to be the Rocky Knob Mountain Bike Park, which is located off of U.S. Highway 421 just east of Boone. The park is free and open to the public and features five main trails along with several smaller side trails that will test your biking abilities. All bikers are required to wear helmets. While the park is open year-round, the spring, summer, and fall months are the most popular times to hit the trails.

In the skiing off-season, Sugar Mountain and Beech Mountain become mountain biker paradises, with both resorts offering trails for beginning riders up through the most experienced riders who want a true challenge. Chairlifts take bikers from the base to the top of the mountain.

In the near future, mountain bikers will be able to visit Ashe County to enjoy a new mountain biking experience. Ashe County Parks and Recreation received a $500,000 grant from the North Carolina Parks and Recreation Trust Fund to help fund numerous updates to Ashe Park, including the addition of a bike skills course and multi-use trails. The bike skills course will accommodate different skill levels. For younger riders, a pump track can be utilized. For those who are more experienced, the course will include jumps and boardwalks.

While no opening date for the bike park or trails has been set yet, Ashe County Parks and Recreation Director Kevin Anderson says that they could be open as early as this fall or next spring at the latest.

File Photo

Rocky Knob Mountain Bike Park just off of U.S. 421 in Boone offers five trails to ride

Photo courtesy Beech Mountain Resort

Beech Mountain biking: Mountain biking at Beech Mountain Resort has become a popular getaway during the spring, summer and fall months.

Hellbender Bed and Beverage: More than a place to stay

Nestled in the picturesque town of Blowing Rock, North Carolina, Hellbender Bed & Beverage offers a timeless retreat that perfectly marries historic charm with modern comfort. Since 1921, this locally owned establishment has been a beloved destination for visitors seeking a cozy escape in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Hellbender Bed & Beverage is more than just a place to stay—it’s an experience that invites guests to immerse themselves in the warm hospitality of the region. With seven modern guest rooms and a separate cottage, the inn caters to a variety of needs, from romantic getaways to family vacations. Each room is thoughtfully designed to blend contemporary amenities with classic touches, ensuring a comfortable and memorable stay. The decor often reflects the natural beauty of the surrounding landscape and the outdoor

adventures just outside their doors.

One of the standout features of Hellbender Bed & Beverage is its four pet-friendly rooms, making it an ideal choice for travelers who wish to bring their furry companions along. The inn’s welcoming atmosphere ensures that pets and their owners can enjoy their stay without any added stress.

The Restaurant, a cornerstone of the inn, provides a relaxed dining experience. The large dining room showcases local mountain ranges and is perfect for enjoying a leisurely meal. For those who prefer to dine outside, the front yard has seating and fire tables that allow guests to enjoy their meals in the fresh mountain air year round.

The culinary offerings at Hellbender are as varied as they are delicious, featuring a menu that highlights local ingredients and daily specials like Taco Tuesday,

Weiner Wednesday, and Fried Oyster Friday. Their no reservation policy makes it easy to get in for a quick meal without having to plan ahead, and it being family friendly makes this a great option for breakfast, lunch or dinner. Whether you’re indulging in our daily scratch made Buttermilk Biscuits, Smash Burgers, or Shrimp and Grits, the restaurant’s commitment to quality and taste is evident in every dish.

After a day of exploring historic Blowing Rock and its scenic surroundings, guests can unwind in the cozy lounge area or indulge in the fully stocked bar, featuring local draft beer, craft cocktails, or one of the area’s best bourbon selections. This inviting space, complete with fireplaces, offers the perfect setting to relax and enjoy a well deserved drink or engage in conversation. Hellbender Bed & Beverage, has a deep commitment to the local

community and the preservation of the area’s natural resources, supporting many local nonprofits. Named after the endangered Salamander, the Hellbender is a rare and fascinating creature. It’s native to the region and known for its distinctive appearance and elusive nature.

Hellbender Bed & Beverage is quickly becoming a sought out destination for visitors to Blowing Rock, offering a welcoming atmosphere, excellent dining options, and pet-friendly policies, it is a perfect place for those seeking a memorable stay in one of North Carolina’s most enchanting locales. Whether you’re here for a relaxing retreat or an adventure in the mountains, Hellbender promises an experience that captures the essence of Southern hospitality and the beauty of the Blue Ridge.

Rooms at Hellbender are comfortable for all.

Hiking in the High Country

By Derek Halsey

By Derek Halsey

This mountainous region located in and around Boone is called the High Country. Made up of seven counties, this beautiful segment of the Blue Ridge Mountains contains the highest peaks found east of the Rockies. Amongst this section of the greater Appalachian Mountains, the second oldest mountain chain on the surface of the earth, are the trails that lead to the summits, valleys, rivers, and multiple gorges that are found here.

This mountainous region located in and around Boone is call the High Country. Made up of seven counties, this beautiful segment of the Blue Ridge Mountains contains the highest peaks found east of the Rockies. Amongst this section of the greater Appalachian Mountains, the second oldest mountain chain on the surface of the earth, are the trails that lead to the summits valleys, rivers, and multiple gorges that are found here.

Hiking is one of the most popular activities in and around the towns of Boone, Blowing Rock, and Banner Elk, and along the Blue Ridge Parkway that runs through and around these mountain towns. In the fall, the following hikes are popular spots to few the gorgeous colors the High Country provides. Most of the trails mentioned below can be easily found on GPS, Google Maps and similar apps. For the more secluded trails that require more detailed directions, they will be provided. As always, when you hike in and on these

Hiking is one of the most popular activities in and around the towns of Boone, Blowing Rock, and Banner Elk, and along the Blue Ridge Parkway that runs through and around these mountain towns. In the fall, the following hikes are popular spots to few the gorgeous colors the High Country provides. Most of the trails mentioned below can be easily found on GPS, Google Maps and similar apps. For the more secluded trails that require more detailed directions, they will be provided. As always, when you hike in and on these mountains, know your physical

mountains, know your physical limits, be prepared fo many scenarios on the trail because mountain weather can change on a dime, and learn the simple rules when dealing with wildlife.

limits, be prepared fo many scenarios on the trail because mountain weather can change on a dime, and learn the simple rules when dealing with wildlife.

One good place to start for the beginning hiker is the Greenway Trail, which is built for hikers, walkers and bikers. There are sections of the Greenway Trail located in Blowing Rock and Boone. It is mostly fl at and in an urban setting, but the exciting news is that a new segment of the Greenway Trail is being constructed to eventually connect Blowing Rock and Boone. Called the Middle Fork Greenway and built by the Blue Ridge Conservancy, the 6-milelong, 10-foot-wide trail will be an exciting addition to the region once it is completed.

One good place to start for the beginning hiker is the Greenway Trail, which is built for hikers, walkers and bikers. There are sections of the Greenway Trail located in Blowing Rock and Boone. It is mostly flat and in an urban setting, but the exciting news is that a new segment of the Greenway Trail is being constructed to eventually connect Blowing Rock and Boone. Called the Middle Fork Greenway and built by the Blue Ridge Conservancy, the 6-milelong, 10-foot-wide trail will be an exciting addition to the region once it is completed.

For those who seek more adventurous hiking, the Elk Knob State Park Trail is a two-hour walk up to the summit of Elk Knob Mountain, just a short drive from Boone. The trail leads to fabulous near-360-degree views that extend

For those who seek more adventurous hiking, the Elk Knob State Park Trail is a two-hour walk up to the summit of Elk Knob Mountain, just a short drive from Boone. The trail leads to fabulous near-360-degree views that extend= into nearby states, with many other peaks visible on the horizon.

To access many of the best trails in the High Country, the Blue Ridge Parkway (BRP) will be your connection. The Deep Gap exit on the BRP is found east of Boone on Rt. 421. Once on the BRP and heading south, the roadway will feature white posts found on the side of the road that are numbered mile markers to be used for reference.

into nearby states, with many other peaks visible on the horizon.

To access many of the best trails in the High Country, the Blue Ridge Parkway (BRP) will be your connection. The Deep Gap exit on the BRP is found east of Boone on Rt. 421. Once on the BRP and heading south, the roadway will feature white posts found on the side of the road that are numbered mile markers to be used for reference.

At milepost 294 on the Parkway, for example, you will find the Moses Cone Manor. The preserved farmhouse and 1,000-plus acres of surrounding land were turned into a park many years ago aft er being donated by the Cone Family. There, you will find a 2.5-mile former horse carriage trail that will take you to a climbable fi re tower that overlooks Boone.

At milepost 294 on the Parkway, for example, you will find the Moses Cone Manor. The preserved farmhouse and 1,000-plus acres of surrounding land were turned into a park many years ago after being donated by the Cone Family. There, you will find a 2.5-mile former horse carriage trail that will take you to a climbable fire tower that overlooks Boone.

If you continue driving about half a mile further south on the BRP, you will find the RT. 221 exit to Blowing Rock. Once you turn onto the exit, you will also see a sign for Shulls Mill Road. If you stay on

If you continue driving about half a mile further south on the BRP, you will find the RT. 221 exit to Blowing Rock. Once you turn onto the exit, you will also see a sign for Shulls Mill Road. If you stay on Shulls Mill Road for about .7 tenths of a mile, you will come across a metal fence with a wooden gate

Shulls Mill Road for about .7 tenths of a mile, you will come across a metal fence with a wooden gate next to it, located beside a small dirt parking lot found next to the one-way exit road for Trout Lake. This is the awesome Rich Mountain Carriage Trail.

next to it, located beside a small dirt parking lot found next to the one-way exit road for Trout Lake. This is the awesome Rich Mountain Carriage Trail.

About three miles in length, the Rich Mountain Carriage Trail is a moderate hiking and running trail that takes you through a Wizard of Oz-type of forest to the left , then it winds up to the top of the mountain where you will find a more prairie-type of landscape, and eventually you will circle around to a wonderful view. Then, the trail will take you back down to where you began your hike. If you wish to walk more, there is also a lower, downhill extension of the trail that leads to Trout Lake, which features an easy walk at the end that goes back up to your vehicle.

About three miles in length, the Rich Mountain Carriage Trail is a moderate hiking and running trail that takes you through a Wizard of Oz-type of forest to the left, then it winds up to the top of the mountain where you will find a more prairie-type of landscape, and eventually you will circle around to a wonderful view. Then, the trail will take you back down to where you began your hike. If you wish to walk more, there is also a lower, downhill extension of the trail that leads to Trout Lake, which features an easy walk at the end that goes back up to your vehicle.

Back on the BRP and driving further south, look for the parking lot to the Rough Ridge Trail on your right. This is a very busy trail in the summer months and can be crowded, yet the views are See Hiking on page 1113

Back on the BRP and driving further south, look for the parking lot to the Rough Ridge Trail on your right. This is a very busy trail in the summer months and

Photo by Leslie Restivo | Grandfather Mountain Stewardship Foundation

This image from the Black Rock Trail shows golden autumn hues strikingly contrasted against the green rhododendron leaves below in October 2023.

Hiking

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exceptional. But, there is another way to utilize the Rough Ridge Trail for more experienced hikers.

If you park in the Rough Ridge parking lot and then walk along the side of the Parkway for a quarterofa-mile further to the south, you will find milepost 301 right before you cross a short section of viaduct/ bridge. At the end of the viaduct, you will see a rock wall on the right. Along the side of the rock wall, there will be a trail that follows the cliff up the mountain to the famous Ship Rock geological formation. You do not need ropes to make this trek. Once you are at the very top of the trail, turn right, and that summit trail will eventually head downhill and connect with the Rough Ridge trail, which will return you to the parking lot. The views are fantastic, and this route will be a lot less crowded for those willing to and able to take the Ship Rock

route.

At milepost 305 on the BRP, you will find the turnoff to another section of Rt. 221 that, leads to the Grandfather Mountain attraction and the resort town of Banner Elk.

The Grandfather Mountain Nature Park, Preserve, and Swinging Bridge require an entrance fee to explore the top of the mountain, walk on the famous Mile High Bridge, and visit the zoo, which features bears, mountain lions, eagles, otters, elk, and more. For more information on the trails and to reserve tickets for the attraction, please go to grandfather. com.

Land surrounding the Nature Park belongs to the state of North Carolina. For more information on hiking and camping opportunities on that state park’s land, please go to www.ncparks.gov/state-parks/ grandfather-mountain-state-park. For more experienced hikers, however, another demanding yet adventurous uphill trail leads to various peaks on Grandfather

Mountain, also known for the famous Profile Trail. A couple of years ago, a brand new parking area and building were built for the Profile Trailhead, and it is located on Rt. 105 in Banner Elk. The Profile Trail is marked as strenuous as it will take most of the day to complete, so be sure to research the trail online so you know what to expect as far as clothing, unexpected weather, and how early in the day to begin the trek. There are bears and plenty of wildlife on Grandfather Mountain, so prepare accordingly and increase your bear knowledge. For the experienced hikers, however, it is a great trail to conquer.

Grandfather Mountain is 56 feet shy of 6,000 feet in elevation, and is perhaps the most Rocky Mountainlooking peak in all of Western North Carolina. The views are amazing, but the peak is also very capable of capturing and holding low-ceiling clouds, which enables it to cause its own weather at times. So, have

fun on the mountain, but do not underestimate its power.

The Roan Mountain Grassy Balds Trail is located about 20 miles from Grandfather Mountain on theNorth Carolina-Tennessee border. A part of the Appalachian Trail, the Roan Mountain trails are unique and spectacular, representing the largest stretch of grassy balds to be found in the whole Appalachian Mountain chain. Climbing to over 6,000 feet, the views and the rare plants and flowers and different terrains found on the path are worth the trip if you are visiting our region next year or further in the future.

If you return to the BRP at the Grandfather Mountain exit, the first parking lot on your left heading south will be for the Beacon Heights Trail. Considered one of the “Coolest Short Trails in the East,” the Beacon Heights Cliff Trail takes only a quarter of a mile of

Hiking

takes only a quarter of a mile of walking to reach the top. You will see signs for two other much longer trails once you are on the Beacon Heights trail, so just pay attention to the signs and stay on the Beacon Heights Trail only.

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 113

walking to reach the top. You will see signs for two other much longer trails once you are on the Beacon Heights trail, so just pay attention to the signs and stay on the Beacon Heights Trail only.

Once near the peak, you will find a stone bench on the Beacon Heights Trail. Go straight to the bench for a cool and easy view, but the better vista happens when you take a left at the stone bench. After turning left, you will hike up a short set of natural rock stairs that will lead to a flat cliff where the views are simply spectacular. From there, you can see Grandfather Mountain to the north, Wilson Creek Gorge in the middle, and the dual elbowshaped mountains to the southeast known as Hawksbill Mountain and Table Rock Mountains that overlook the Linville Gorge.

Once near the peak, you will find a stone bench on the Beacon Heights Trail. Go straight to the bench for a cool and easy view, but the better vista happens when you take a left at the stone bench. After turning left , you will hike up a short set of natural rock stairs that will lead to a fl at cliff where the views are simply spectacular. From there, you can see Grandfather Mountain to the north, Wilson Creek Gorge in the middle, and the dual elbowshaped mountains to the southeast known as Hawksbill Mountain and Table Rock Mountains that overlook the Linville Gorge.

At milepost 308 on the BRP, there is an easy 30-minute hike on the right known as the Flat Rock Trail. Once you leave the parking lot, the fairly flat trail leads through some wonderfully thick woods and ends up with a view that looks over the valley below. This is also known as the “Sunset Trail” as it is a superb place to watch a sunset with friends, especially if nature is putting on a good show as the sun fades under the horizon.

At milepost 308 on the BRP, there is an easy 30-minute hike on the right known as the Flat Rock Trail. Once you leave the parking lot, the fairly flat trail leads through some wonderfully thick woods and ends up with a view that looks over the valley below. This is also known as the “Sunset Trail” as it is a superb place to watch a sunset with friends, especially if nature is putting on a good show as the sun fades under the horizon.

For some impressive side adventures down in Wilson Creek Gorge, you will take a left turn onto Old Jonas Ridge Road just past milepost 311 on the BRP. Once you turn left onto Old Jonas Ridge Road, go two miles until you see a white church on your left at a big curve in the road. Beside the church is a gravel road that goes straight at the turn. That is Forest Road 464, aka Pineola Road. Once on Forest Road 464, you will see the trailhead for Big Lost Cove Cliffs on the left a couple of miles in, and three miles farther, you will see a small parking lot on the right for the Little Lost Cove Cliffs trail. The latter is a

For some impressive side adventures down in Wilson Creek Gorge, you will take a left turn onto Old Jonas Ridge Road just past milepost 311 on the BRP. Once you turn left onto Old Jonas Ridge Road, go two miles until you see a white church on your left at a big curve in the road. Beside the church is a gravel road that goes straight at the turn. That is Forest Road 464, aka Pineola Road. Once on Forest Road 464, you will see the trailhead for Big Lost Cove Cliff s on the left a couple of miles in, and three miles farther, you will see a small parking lot on the right for the Little Lost

Cove Cliff s trail. The latter is a shorter hike, but both of these moderately difficult trails lead to outstanding cliff -top vistas.

shorter hike, but both of these moderately difficult trails lead to outstanding cliff-top vistas.

Do some research online, and you will find many other trails, waterfalls, and more on this same Forest Road 464 road as it goes deeper into the Wilson Creek Gorge area.

Back on the Parkway, within a few short miles, you will enter the Linville Gorge and Linville Falls sections of the High Country.

For an easy and amazing view of Linville Gorge, go to the RT 221 exit at milepost 317 on the BRP. At the end of the exit, turn left onto Rt. 221 and then take another left onto Rt. 183 less than a mile ahead. At about 0.7 of a mile on RT. 183, you will find a gravel road on the right with signs that will lead you to Wiseman’s View and Linville Falls. This will be RT. 1238, aka Old Route 105. The first parking lot you will see on the left is for two trails that show you different views of Linville Falls.

If you take RT. 1238 for almost exactly four miles past the Linville Falls parking lot, however, you will see the sign for the Wiseman’s View parking lot on the left. Turn left there, and you will find a short, wheelchair-accessible paved

Do some research online, and you will find many other trails, waterfalls, and more on this same Forest Road 464 road as it goes deeper into the Wilson Creek Gorge area. Back on the Parkway, within a few short miles, you will enter the Linville Gorge and Linville Falls sections of the High Country. For an easy and amazing view of Linville Gorge, go to the RT 221 exit at milepost 317 on the BRP. At the end of the exit,= turn left onto Rt. 221 and then take another left onto Rt. 183 less than a mile ahead. At about 0.7 of a mile on RT. 183, you will find a gravel road on the right with signs that will lead you to Wiseman’s View and Linville Falls. This will be RT. 1238, aka Old Route 105. The fi rst parking lot you will see on the left is for two trails that show you different views of Linville Falls. If you take RT. 1238 for almost exactly four miles past the Linville Falls parking lot, however, you will see the sign for the Wiseman’s View parking lot on the left . Turn left there, and you will find a short,

wheelchair-accessible paved walkway that leads to a very special view of Linville Gorge. The vistas seen there will simply take your breath away.

walkway that leads to a very special view of Linville Gorge. The vistas seen there will simply take your breath away.

RT 1238 to Wiseman’s View is a gravel mountain road, so if you have a 4-wheel drive or all-wheel drive vehicle, you should be fine. If you are in a vehicle that is only twowheel drive, only go on the gravel road if it is completely dry. Watch out for the occasional deep ruts as you venture forth to ensure they are passable, and turn around if they are not. Otherwise, the heartstopping sights at Wiseman’s View are very much worth the effort.

RT 1238 to Wiseman’s View is a gravel mountain road, so if you have a 4-wheel drive or all-wheel drive vehicle, you should be fine. If you are in a vehicle that is only twowheel drive, only go on the gravel road if it is completely dry. Watch out for the occasional deep ruts as you venture forth to ensure they are passable, and turn around if they are not. Otherwise, the heartstopping sights at Wiseman’s View are very much worth the effort.

There are many trails located in Linville Gorge, but please understand that this 12-mile-long gorge is a true wilderness area with

There are many trails located in Linville Gorge, but please understand that this 12-mile-long

very strenuous trails found within that are literally dangerous for the beginner hiker, whether it be the heat, the occasional rattlesnakes and bears or the underestimating of the trails that lead down to the river, which require much effort to climb out of to your vehicle. For those of you hikers that up for the task, seek out and research the Hawksbill Mountain summit trail, the Table Rock Mountain summit trail, and the first mile and a half of the popular Chimneys Trail.

These hiking hints will keep you occupied for many hours, if not days, on the trail. Plan your adventures right now, and you will soon experience why this is one of the best hiking areas in America.

gorge is a true wilderness area with very strenuous trails found within that are literally dangerous for the beginner hiker, whether it be the heat, the occasional rattlesnakes and bears or the underestimating of the trails that lead down to the river, which require much effort to climb out of to your vehicle. For those of you hikers that up for the task, seek out and research the Hawksbill Mountain summit trail, the Table Rock Mountain summit trail, and the first mile and a half of the popular Chimneys Trail. These hiking hints will keep you occupied for many hours, if not days, on the trail. Plan your adventures right now, and you will soon experience why this is one of the best hiking areas in America.

Photo by Christian Gardner

The Rock at Beacon Heights, a popular hiking spot, looking toward Grandfather Mountain surrounded with fall color in October 2023

Photo by Christian Gardner Hiking to waterfalls, like Elk River Falls, can really make fall color pop.

Horseback riding in the High Country

By Derek Halsey

By Cassidy Narron

The historic Moses Cone Estate is a stunning piece of property and a great place to explore on horseback. The 3,500-acre area sits right off the Blue Ridge Parkway and offers spectacular mountain range views. Blowing Rock Trail Rides provides private 2 1⁄2 hourlong professionally guided rides that span approximately 24 miles. For hassle-free booking and detailed pricing information with Blowing Rock Trail Rides, simply visit www.blowingrocktrailrides.

com/.

Are you not comfortable on horseback but still want to explore Moses Cone Estate Park in a fun and unique way? Carriage Run Carriage Services offers horsedrawn carriage tours of the Moses Cone property. Enjoy 32 miles of views from the comfort of a carriage with the same great views. Visit www.carriage-run.com/home for more information.

Elk Mountain Riding Company, located in Newland, leads guided horseback rides and gives children

as young as 8 years old the opportunity to ride. Book a private tour with family and friends, or join a larger group ride. Want something a bit longer? Book a camp and ride an excursion. You’ll take a 4-hour long ride up Elk Mountain to a campsite and enjoy a night on top of the mountain before riding back down the following morning. To book an appointment with Elk Mountain Riding Company, visit www. elkmountainriding.co/. Dutch Creek Trails Horseback

Riding Adventures, located in Sugar Grove, is just minutes away from Boone and offers more of a backwoods riding experience through wooded trails and fields. The trails sit on a 132-acre piece of property owned by Bennie Yates, who has lived here for most of his life and has shared many stories about the area with the owner of Dutch Creek Trails, Keith Ward. To book a horseback riding trip with Dutch Creek Trails, visit www. dutchcreektrails.com/.

Photo by Tommy White Photography Horseback riding is a fun activity any time of the year.

238086-1; Autumn Times; Accounts Payable; Color; 6 x 4.5; XPos: 0 YPos: -0, Width: 675 x 324

Photo by Tommy White Photography

A group of horseback riders traversing a trail near Leatherwood Mountains in the fall

The State Parks of the High Country

BY Amelie Fawson

BY Amelie Fawson

From the towering peaks of Grandfather Mountain State Park to the serene waters of New River State Park, the state parks of the High Country offervisitor s an opportunity to experience the magic of the mountains. Whether you’re seeking a challenging climb, a peaceful paddle or a family picnic spot, you’ll finda n activity to enjoy in one of North Carolina’s mountain state parks.

From the towering peaks of Grandfather Mountain State Park to the serene waters of New River State Park, the state parks of the High Country offer visitors an opportunity to experience the magic of the mountains. Whether you’re seeking a challenging climb, a peaceful paddle or a family picnic spot, you’ll find a n activity to enjoy in one of North Carolina’s mountain state parks.

New River State Park

New River State Park

New River State Park lies 35 miles

New River State Park lies 35 miles northeast of Boone. This Park is

known for its scenic beauty along the New River, one of the oldest rivers in North America. It’s home to seven access points to the river, all allowing access to launch kayaks and inner tubes, swimming, and fishing.

northeast of Boone. This Park is known for its scenic beauty along the New River, one of the oldest rivers in North America. It’s home to seven access points to the river, all allowing access to launch kayaks and inner tubes, swimming, and fishing.

including family campgrounds, RV campsites and paddle-in sites.

The Park has access points at the U.S. 221, Wagoner, Kings Creek, and Elk Shoals.

The Park has access points at the U.S. 221, Wagoner, Kings Creek, and Elk Shoals.

For more information about the Park, visit www.ncparks.gov/ stateparks/ new-river-state-park.

in Linville, stands at 5,946 feet, making it one of the highest peaks in the region.

Grandfather Mountain State Park

The Park offers nine miles of hiking trails, where visitors can explore the Park’s scenic landscapes or take a swim in the New River. For those looking to extend their stay, the Park features a variety of camping options, including family campgrounds, RV campsites and paddle-in sites.

For more information about the Park, visit www.ncparks.gov/stateparks/new-river-state-park.

The Park offers nine miles of hiking trails, where visitors can explore the Park’s scenic landscapes or take a swim in the New River. For those looking to extend their stay, the Park features a variety of camping options,

Grandfather Mountain State Park

Nestled in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Grandfather Mountain State Park offers challenging trails, stunning views and untouched wilderness. Grandfather Mountain, located

Nestled in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Grandfather Mountain State Park offers challenging trails, stunning views and untouched wilderness. Grandfather Mountain, located in Linville, stands at 5,946 feet, making it one of the highest peaks in the region.

The Park is a hiker’s paradise, with 13 miles of hiking covering 9 trails ranging in difficulty from easy to strenuous. All trailheads are free to access. However, free permits are required and must be filled out at the trailhead prior to hiking. Visitors to the Park can also camp if interested. The Park offers tent and group tent sites, all of which are backpacking-accessible only. Camping in this remote, outdoor environment provides a unique See Hiking on page 1113

The Park is a hiker’s paradise, with 13 miles of hiking covering 9 trails ranging in difficulty from easy to strenuous. All trailheads are free to access. However, free permits are required and must be filled out at the trailhead prior to hiking.

Visitors to the Park can also camp if interested. The Park offers tent and group tent sites, all of which are backpacking-accessible only. Camping in this remote, outdoor

Photo submitted

Mount Jefferson State Natural Area includes drive-up overlooks along the park road, showcasing great views, as well as an annual downhill skateboarding event; with moderate to strenuous hikes.

Hiking

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 112

environment provides a unique opportunity to fully immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the area.

Grandfather Mountain State Park is home to unmatched biodiversity “that has been recognized as a United Nations International Biosphere Reserve,” according to the Park’s website. Birdwatching enthusiasts will be thrilled with the chance to spot a variety of species, including peregrine falcons, redtailed hawks and many others.

opportunity to fully immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the area.

Grandfather Mountain State Park is home to unmatched biodiversity “that has been recognized as a United Nations International Biosphere Reserve,” according to the Park’s website. Birdwatching enthusiasts will be thrilled with the chance to spot a variety of species, including peregrine falcons, redtailed hawks and many others.

For those interested in learning more about the Park’s natural wonders, the Wilson Center for Nature Discovery offers interactive exhibits and educational programs about the unique environment of Grandfather Mountain. It’s a great stop for curious minds of all ages.

For those interested in learning more about the Park’s natural wonders, the Wilson Center for Nature Discovery offers interactive exhibits and educational programs about the unique environment of Grandfather Mountain. It’s a great stop for curious minds of all ages.

For more information, visit www.ncparks.gov/state-parks/ grandfather-mountain-state-park.

For more information, visit www.ncparks.gov/state-parks/ grandfather-mountain-state-park.

Mount Jefferson State Natural Area

Located in Ashe County, 25 miles northeast of Boone, Mount Jefferson State Natural Area has hiking opportunities, scenic views, and picnicking areas.

Mount Jefferson State Natural Area

Located in Ashe County, 25 miles northeast of Boone, Mount Jeff erson State Natural Area has hiking opportunities, scenic views, and picnicking areas.

The Park features five miles of trails, including a scenic hike to Luther Rock, where you can enjoy panoramic views extending to Tennessee. Two trails are loops, while three are one-way. Trail difficulty ranges from moderate to strenuous.

The Park features fi ve miles of trails, including a scenic hike to Luther Rock, where you can enjoy panoramic views extending to Tennessee. Two trails are loops, while three are one-way. Trail difficulty ranges from moderate to strenuous.

With over 700 plant species, the area attracts a variety of wildlife, including the beautiful swallowtail butterfly. Birdwatching is another popular activity guests to the area can enjoy.

With over 700 plant species, the area attracts a variety of wildlife, including the beautiful swallowtail butterfly. Birdwatching is another popular activity guests to the area can enjoy.

For more information about the Mount Jefferson State Natural Area, visit www.ncparks.gov/state-parks/ mount-jefferson-state-natural-area.

For more information about the Mount Jeff erson State Natural Area, visit www.ncparks.gov/ state-parks/ mount-jeff erson-statenatural-area.

Elk Knob State Park

Elk Knob State Park

of hiking trails, tent camping sites, picnic areas, and opportunities to cross-country ski or snowshoe across 1 mile of ungroomed trail in the winter.

to cross-country ski or snowshoe across 1 mile of ungroomed trail in the winter.

The Park was established in 2003 to protect the mountain and the headwaters of the North Fork of the New River and it covers 4,423 acres of land.

The Park was established in 2003 to protect the mountain and the headwaters of the North Fork of the New River and it covers 4,423 acres of land.

For more information about the Park, visit www.ncparks.gov/stateparks/elk-knob-state-park.

For more information about the Park, visit www.ncparks.gov/ stateparks/ elk-knob-state-park.

Stone Mountain State Park

Stone Mountain State Park

Stone Mountain State Park is located 55 miles from Boone in both Alleghany and Wilkes counties. The Park is home to a 600foot granite dome that is designated as a National Natural Landmark, a restored mid-19th century farm, hiking trails and waterfalls, camping, rock climbing, fishing and horseback riding trails.

Stone Mountain State Park is located 55 miles from Boone in both Alleghany and Wilkes counties. The Park is home to a 600foot granite dome that is designated as a National Natural Landmark, a restored mid-19th century farm, hiking trails and waterfalls, camping, rock climbing, fishing and horseback riding trails.

The Park’s granite dome is estimated to be over 300 million years old. The giant rock sits 2,305 feet above sea level.

The Park’s granite dome is estimated to be over 300 million years old. The giant rock sits 2,305 feet above sea level.

The Hutchinson Homestead, a restored mid-19th-century farm, offers visitors to the Park a glimpse

The Hutchinson Homestead, a restored mid-19th-century farm, offers visitors to the Park a glimpse

into the past through its various buildings.

into the past through its various buildings.

The Park’s 20 miles of hiking trails offer various levels of difficulty, including the Stone Mountain Loop Trail, which provides views of the granite dome and the Park’s waterfalls. The Park also connects to the Mountainsto-Sea State Trail by an 11.32-mile one-way hike. For horseback riders, the Park features miles of bridle trails and designated horse trailer parking.

The Park’s 20 miles of hiking trails offer various levels of difficulty, including the Stone Mountain Loop Trail, which provides views of the granite dome and the Park’s waterfalls. The Park also connects to the MountainstoSea State Trail by an 11.32-mile one-way hike. For horseback riders, the Park features miles of bridle trails and designated horse trailer parking.

Campers can choose from various options, including family campsites, backpacking sites and group camping areas. Rock climbing enthusiasts can explore designated climbing areas on the granite face, while anglers will enjoy fishing in over 20 miles of designated trout waters.

Campers can choose from various options, including family campsites, backpacking sites and group camping areas.

Rock climbing enthusiasts can explore designated climbing areas on the granite face, while anglers will enjoy fishing in over 20 miles of designated trout waters.

For more information about the Park, visit www.ncparks.gov/stateparks/stone-mountain-state-park.

For more information about the Park, visit www.ncparks.gov/ stateparks/ stone-mountain-statepark.

Rendezvous Mountain

Rendezvous Mountain

Located in Wilkes County, Rendezvous Mountain features

Located in Wilkes County, Rendezvous Mountain features

five-and-a-half miles of selfguided trails that include exhibits, tree identification signs, a forest education center and a talking tree trail.

five-and-a-half miles of selfguided trails that include exhibits, tree identification signs, a forest education center and a talking tree trail.

Rendezvous Mountain is an excellent spot to spend a day birdwatching. The Park is home to “11 species of warblers, along with woodpeckers, vireos, the northern cardinal and the scarlet tanager,” according to the NC Division of Parks and Recreation website.

Rendezvous Mountain is an excellent spot to spend a day birdwatching. The Park is home to “11 species of warblers, along with woodpeckers, vireos, the northern cardinal and the scarlet tanager,” according to the NC Division of Parks and Recreation website.

For those looking to relax and enjoy a meal outdoors, the Park has open picnic sites with amenities for grilling, tables and a shelter accompanied by a stone fireplace.

For those looking to relax and enjoy a meal outdoors, the Park has open picnic sites with amenities for grilling, tables and a shelter accompanied by a stone fireplace.

The Park’s forest education center offers programs and information for visitors interested in learning more about the local ecosystem. Park staff are available to conduct classes for school and other youth groups.

The Park’s forest education center offers programs and information for visitors interested in learning more about the local ecosystem. Park staff are available to conduct classes for school and other youth groups.

For more information, visit www.ncparks.gov/state-parks/ rendezvous-mountain.

For more information, visit www.ncparks.gov/state-parks/ rendezvous-mountain.

Elk Knob State Park is located in Watauga County 11 miles north of Boone. The park off ers 5.5 miles

Elk Knob State Park is located in Watauga County 11 miles north of Boone. The park offers 5.5 miles of hiking trails, tent camping sites, picnic areas, and opportunities

Photo submitted

New River State Park offers hiking trails, RV campsites and other amenities

Theatre arts a big hit in the High Country

By Jerry Snow

By Jerry Snow

The High Country is a hub for theater arts. There are campus, community and historic theaters spread throughout the region.

The High Country is a hub for theater arts. There are campus, community and historic theaters spread throughout the region.

The productions put on at these theaters include an array of performers. The casts and crews include students, community members, and/or professional actors.

The productions put on at these theaters include an array of performers. The casts and crews include students, community members, and/or professional actors.

theater was relocated to the Cultural Art Center at the Historic Banner Elk School. Since its inception, it has presented more than 100 productions and more than 500 performances.

theater was relocated to the Cultural Art Center at the Historic Banner Elk School. Since its inception, it has presented more than 100 productions and more than 500 performances.

On Oct. 25-26, the Ensemble Stage will present Hitchcock Radio Hour: Episode 24, “Death of a Doll” and “The Last Soul.”

On Oct. 25-26, the Ensemble Stage will present Hitchcock Radio Hour: Episode 24, “Death of a Doll” and “The Last Soul.”

including showtimes and ticket prices, go to www.ensemblestage. com.

Hayes Auditorium

Hayes Auditorium

Each of these venues offers something unique, and they all highlight the rich culture of the High Country in some way.

Each of these venues offers something unique, and they all highlight the rich culture of the High Country in some way.

Ensemble Stage

Ensemble Stage

Ensemble Stage was founded in 2009 and originally started presenting productions in Blowing Rock. In 2017, the professional

Ensemble Stage was founded in 2009 and originally started presenting productions in Blowing Rock. In 2017, the professional

Each year, Ensemble Stage puts on a staged radio play based on Alfred Hitchcock’s stories just in time for Halloween.

Each year, Ensemble Stage puts on a staged radio play based on Alfred Hitchcock’s stories just in time for Halloween.

Lees-McRae College has a yearround theater department. In the summer, performers travel from all over to participate in LeesMcRae’s Summer Theatre. During the school year, the LMC Theatre Department puts on three main stage productions with casts of= performing arts students.

Lees-McRae College has a yearround theater department. In the summer, performers travel from all over to participate in LeesMcRae’s Summer Theatre. During the school year, the LMC Theatre Department puts on three main stage productions with casts of performing arts students.

Lees-McRae has not announced the productions it has lined up for this upcoming academic year.

Ashe County Little Theatre

Ashe County Little Theatre

Ashe County Little Theatre is a community theater group located in Ashe County aimed at providing “opportunities for people of all ages to participate in and enjoy the performing arts.”

Ashe County Little Theatre is a community theater group located in Ashe County aimed at providing “opportunities for people of all ages to participate in and enjoy the performing arts.”

Ensemble Stage’s performances occur in the 99-seat Hahn Auditorium, located inside the Historic Banner Elk School (185 Azalea Circle SE) in downtown Banner Elk. For more information,

Ensemble Stage’s performances occur in the 99-seat Hahn Auditorium, located inside the Historic Banner Elk School (185 Azalea Circle SE) in downtown Banner Elk. For more information, including showtimes and ticket prices, go to www.ensemblestage.

Lees-McRae has not announced the productions it has lined up for this upcoming academic year.

For more information, including this year’s theater productions at Lees-McRae, visit www.lmc.edu/ academics/programs/theatre-arts/ calendar.htm.

For more information, including this year’s theater productions at Lees-McRae, visit www.lmc.edu/ academics/programs/theatre-arts/ calendar.htm.

Throughout the year, ACLT stage’s a variety of productions including plays, musicals, and other performances. For more information on upcoming events, visit www.ashecountylittletheatre. org/.

Throughout the year, ACLT stage’s a variety of productions including plays, musicals, and other performances. For more information on upcoming events, visit www.ashecountylittletheatre. org/.

Schaefer Center for the Performing Arts

Schaefer Center for the Performing Arts

Located on Appalachian State See Theater on page 121

Located on Appalachian State University’s campus, the Schaefer

Photo courtesy Schaefer Center

The Next Generation of Dance will be on the stage at the Schaefer Center on Oct. 4.

Center for the Performing Arts offers campus and community events and hosts visiting artists from all over. In addition to its 1,660-seat venue, the Schaefer Center also hosts events all around App State’s campus.

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 120

University’s campus, the Schaefer Center for the Performing Arts offers campus and community events and hosts visiting artists from all over. In addition to its 1,660-seat venue, the Schaefer Center also hosts events all around App State’s campus.

This season, Ailey II: The Next Generation of Dance will be at the Schaefer Center on Oct. 4 starting at 7:30 p.m. On Nov. 8, the Schaefer Center will host Black Violin — BV20: Then & Now starting at 7:30 p.m.

The Schaefer Center hosts speakers throughout the season. For more information on the Schaefer Center for the Performing Arts and its upcoming shows, visit theschaefercenter.org.

The Schaefer Center hosts speakers throughout the season. For more information on the Schaefer Center for the Performing Arts and its upcoming shows, visit theschaefercenter.org.

Appalachian Theatre of the High Country

Built in 1938, this icon theater in downtown Boone operated for nearly 70 years before closing in

This season, Ailey II: The Next Generation of Dance will be at the Schaefer Center on Oct. 4 starting at 7:30 p.m. On Nov. 8, the Schaefer Center will host Black Violin — BV20: Then & Now starting at 7:30 p.m.

Appalachian Theatre of the High Country Built in 1938, this icon theater

2007. In 2019, it re-opened as a performing arts center under nonprofit ownership. Suzanne Livesay serves as the Executive Director.

Appalachian Theatre of the High Country offers a variety of shows and events for all ages.

in downtown Boone operated for nearly 70 years before closing in 2007. In 2019, it re-opened as a performing arts center under nonprofit ownership. Suzanne Livesay serves as the Executive Director. Appalachian Theatre of the High Country offers a variety of shows and events for all ages.

Appalachian Theatre’s lineup in October will include Liam Purcell & Cane Mill Road (Oct. 4), the Appalachian State University Jazz Ensemble (Oct. 13), and Old Gods of Appalachian (Oct. 25).

Appalachian Theatre’s lineup in October will include Liam Purcell & Cane Mill Road (Oct. 4), the Appalachian State University Jazz Ensemble (Oct. 13), and Old Gods of Appalachian (Oct. 25).

The November lineup at App Theatre will include the Appalachian Roadshow with special guest Bryan Sutton (Nov. 14), Three Times A Lady (Nov. 22), and the Highland Echoes Holiday Show (Nov. 29).

The November lineup at App Theatre will include the Appalachian Roadshow with special guest Bryan Sutton (Nov. 14), Three Times A Lady (Nov. 22), and the Highland Echoes Holiday Show (Nov. 29).

Appalachian Theatre of the High Country is located in downtown Boone. For more information, including a calendar of events and ticket prices, visit www.apptheatre. org.

Appalachian Theatre of the High is located in downtown Boone. For more information, including a calendar of events and ticket prices, visit www.apptheatre. org.

The Theatre Arts program at Lees-McRae College prepares artists and leaders for a diverse and challenging job market.

Full Interior Design Studio. Over 6,000 Square Feet of Showroom.

Largest Selection in the Area for Furniture, Home Accessories, Gifts, Lamps, Pillows & More!

Open All Year Mon-Sat 10-5

Work of many local, established artists can be found in High Country

By Jerry Snow

The work of a lot of established artists populate the region’s galleries. Visitors can spend days soaking in all of the paintings, drawings, sculptures and other forms of mediums. Here are some of the various galleries in Watauga, Ashe and Avery counties.

Watauga County

Blowing Rock Art & History Museum

159 Ginny Stevens Ln. Blowing Rock, NC 28605 (828) 295-9099

www.blowingrockmuseum.org

The Blowing Rock Art & History Museum (BRAHM) first opened in 2011 and offers a glimpse at art and historical exhibits about Appalachian Heritage and History. The museum is open from 11 a.m. until 5 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday and 11 a.m. until 4 p.m. on Sunday.

Blowing Rock Frameworks & Gallery

7539 Valley Blvd.

Blowing Rock, NC 28605 (828) 295-0041

www.blowingrockgalleries.com

Blowing Rock Frameworks & Gallery was founded in 1994 by Tim Miller and has brought together more than 25 of the best artists in the southeast. In addition to the outstanding artwork on display, they also offer custom art framing, everything from paintings and photos to prints and even newspaper clippings. Blowing Rock Frameworks & Gallery is open from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday.

Hands Gallery

543 W. King St. Boone, NC 28607 (828) 262-1970

Hands Gallery first came about behind the effort of a small group of craftspeople in 1975. Since then the co-op gallery has brought dozens of artisans into the gallery to showcase their years of hard work. The gallery is open daily from 10 a.m. until 6 p.m. Winter hours are 10 a.m. until 5 p.m.

Jones House Cultural Center

604 W. King St. Boone, NC 28607 (828) 268-6280

www.joneshouse.org

The Jones House is now home to the Mazie Jones Gallery, which rotates different exhibits throughout the year. The Jones House also has two permanent exhibits that highlight the history of Boone and the Jones House. Galleries are open from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. Monday through Friday and 11 a.m. until 4 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday.

Traditions Pottery

1055 Main St. Blowing Rock, NC 28605 (828) 295-5099

www.traditionspottery.com

Mike and Janet Calhoun produce handmade pottery in a number of different designs and shapes. Their studio is located at 4443 Bolick Road about three miles south of Blowing Rock.

Turchin Center for the Visual Arts

423 W. King St. Boone, NC 28608 (828) 262-3017

tcva.org

The Turchin Center for the Visual Arts on the campus of Appalachian State offers numerous dynamic tours and exhibit celebrations throughout the year. The Turchin Center also holds workshops, art talks and other events. The center is open from 10 a.m. until 6 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday and Saturday, and from noon until 8 p.m. on Friday.

Watauga County Arts Council – Blue Ridge Art Space

377 Shadowline Dr. Boone, NC 28607 (828) 264-1789

www.watauga-arts.org

The Blue Ridge Art Space has four galleries and a gift shop as well as classrooms for different art workshops. The space is open from 9 a.m. until 4 p.m. Monday through Friday and extended hours for classes and workshops.

Ashe County

Ashe Arts Center

303 School Ave. West Jefferson, NC 28694 (336) 846-2787

www.ashecountyarts.org

The Ashe Arts Center is home to a year-round exhibition space that showcases different works by local and regional artists. In addition to the rotating gallery of work, a gallery shop offers locally produced arts and crafts to purchase. The Ashe Arts Center is open from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. Monday through Friday and from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. on Saturday.

Ashe Custom Framing & Gallery 105 S. Jefferson Ave.

West Jefferson, NC 28694 (336) 846-2218

ashecustomframing.com

Ashe Custom Framing & Gallery has been open for 18 years and gives local artists a location to exhibit their work and gives customers a place to custom frame design services. The hours of operation are from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. Tuesday through Friday and 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. on Saturday.

Doe Ridge Pottery

125 Burley Ave, West Jefferson, NC 28694

doeridgepottery.homestead.com

Doe Ridge Pottery is owned and operated by Bob Meier. The studio is open seven days a week from 10 a.m. until 7 p.m.

CatchLight Gallery

118 N. Jefferson Ave. West Jefferson, NC 28694 (336) 846-1551

catchlightgallery.net

Since 2012, CatchLight Gallery has dedicated its space to talented photographers who want to display and sell their creations. The gallery is located in downtown West Jefferson and is open from 11 a.m. until 5 p.m. on Monday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday and from 11 a.m. until 4 p.m. on Sunday.

Florence Thomas Art School 10 S. Jefferson Ave. West Jefferson, NC 28694 (336) 846-3827

florenceartschool.org

With gallery exhibits and multiple workshop and classroom See Art on page 124

multiple workshop and classroom opportunities, the Florence Thomas Art School has a little bit of everything to offer. The school is open from 10 a.m. until 4:30 p.m. Monday through Saturday.

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 123

opportunities, the Florence Thomas Art School has a little bit of everything to offer. The school is open from 10 a.m. until 4:30 p.m. Monday through Saturday.

Lost Province Center for Cultural Arts

9710 Highway 194 Lansing, NC 28643

Lost Province Center for Cultural Arts

lostprovincearts.org

9710 Highway 194 Lansing, NC 28643

The Lost Province Center for Cultural Arts offers a variety of classes including basketry, ceramics, fiber arts, printmaking, wine making and classes for children as well. Operating hours are from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m. by appointment only.

lostprovincearts.org

The Lost Province Center for Cultural Arts offers a variety of classes including basketry, ceramics, fiber arts, printmaking, wine making and classes for children as well. Operating hours are from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m. by appointment only.

Originals Only Gallery

3-B N. Jefferson Ave.

Originals Only Gallery

West Jefferson, NC 28694 (336) 846-1636

3-B N. Jeff erson Ave.

originalsonlygallery.com

West Jeff erson, NC 28694 (336) 846-1636

originalsonlygallery.com

Originals Only Gallery displays work from Ashe County artists Joan Stiles Bell and Susan Van Wyk. The gallery also has handcraft ed woodwork

Originals Only Gallery displays work from Ashe County artists Joan Stiles Bell and Susan Van Wyk. The gallery also has handcrafted woodwork from Elijah Holman as well as a wide selection of North Carolina pottery.

The gallery is open from 11 a.m. until 4 p.m. Wednesday through Saturday and other times by appointment.

from Elijah Holman as well as a wide selection of North Carolina pottery. The gallery is open from 11 a.m. until 4 p.m. Wednesday through Saturday and other times by appointment.

RT Morgan Art & Glass by Camille

120 N. Jefferson Ave.

West Jefferson, NC 28694 (336) 246-3328

rtmorganartgallery.com

RT Morgan Art & Glass by Camille 120 N. Jeff erson Ave. West Jeff erson, NC 28694 (336) 246-3328

rtmorganartgallery.com

RT Morgan has operated an art studio full time in the Appalachian Mountains since 1986. The RT Morgan Art Gallery opened in 2002 and begin showcasing his work. Camille Morgan is a self-taught stained glass artist and has been creating glass works since 1986. The gallery is open from noon until 5 p.m. Thursday through Saturday and other days by appointment.

RT Morgan has operated an art studio full time in the Appalachian Mountains since 1986. The RT Morgan Art Gallery opened in 2002 and begin showcasing his work. Camille Morgan is a self-taught stained glass artist and has been creating glass works since 1986. The gallery is open from noon until 5 p.m. Thursday through Saturday and other days by appointment.

Avery County

Avery County

Art Cellar Gallery

920 Shawneehaw Ave.

Art Cellar Gallery

Banner Elk, NC 28604 (828) 898-5175

www.artcellargallery.com

920 Shawneehaw Ave. Banner Elk, NC 28604 (828) 898-5175

www.artcellargallery.com

The Art Cellar Gallery first opened in 1993 and offers different fine artwork from a broad range of styles and

The Art Cellar Gallery first opened in 1993 and off ers diff erent fine artwork

mediums including paint, clay, stone, wood and glass. The Art Cellar Gallery is open to visitors Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

from a broad range of styles and mediums including paint, clay, stone, wood and glass. The Art Cellar Gallery is open to visitors Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

BE Artists Gallery

BE Artists Gallery

185 Azalea Cir.

185 Azalea Cir. Banner Elk, NC 28604 (828) 898-6767

Banner Elk, NC 28604 (828) 898-6767

www.seymourcc.net/ beartistsgallery

www.seymourcc.net/ beartistsgallery

BE Artists Gallery in the Historical Banner Elk School that has a large variety of work on display including paintings and drawings in oils, acrylics, and pastels; photography, graphic arts, pottery, jewelry, metalworks, fine furniture, wood turnings, wood carvings, fabric art and more. The gallery is open from 11 a.m. until 4 p.m. Thursday through Saturday.

BE Artists Gallery in the Historical Banner Elk School that has a large variety of work on display including paintings and drawings in oils, acrylics, and pastels; photography,= graphic arts, pottery, jewelry, metalworks, fine furniture, wood turnings, wood carvings, fabric art and more. The gallery is open from 11 a.m. until 4 p.m. Thursday through Saturday.

Carlton Gallery

Carlton Gallery

10360 Highway 105 S. Banner Elk, NC 28604 (828) 963-4288

10360 Highway 105 S. Banner Elk, NC 28604 (828) 963-4288

www.carltongallery.com

www.carltongallery.com

Carlton Gallery first started as a weaving studio in 1982 and is now one of the most popular galleries in

Carlton Gallery first started as a weaving studio in 1982 and is now one of the most popular galleries in

the region. Over 300 artisans have their works featured in the gallery, everything from blown glass to pottery, paints, and jewelry. Carlton Gallery is open from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday and from 11:30 a.m. until 5:30 p.m. on Sunday. The gallery is also open by appointment.

the region. Over 300 artisans have their works featured in the gallery, everything from blown glass to pottery, paints, and jewelry. Carlton Gallery is open from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday and from 11:30 a.m. until 5:30 p.m. on Sunday. The gallery is also open by appointment.

Clark Gallery 393 Shawneehaw Ave. Banner Elk, NC 28604 (828) 789-9290

Clark Gallery 393 Shawneehaw Ave. Banner Elk, NC 28604 (828) 789-9290

www.chrisclarkgallerync.com

www.chrisclarkgallerync.com

The Clark Gallery has been open in the High Country since 2001. The gallery is open from 10:30 a.m. until 4 p.m. Thursday through Saturday.

The Clark Gallery has been open in the High Country since 2001. The gallery is open from 10:30 a.m. until 4 p.m. Thursday through Saturday.

Sally Nooney Gallery 7137 Highway 194 S. Banner Elk, NC 28604 (828) 963-7347

Sally Nooney Gallery 7137 Highway 194 S. Banner Elk, NC 28604 (828) 963-7347

www.sallynooney.com

www.sallynooney.com

The Sally Nooney Gallery features animal paintings, landscape paintings, still life paintings and glass art. The gallery is open 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday and 11 a.m. until 5 p.m. on Sunday.

The Sally Nooney Gallery features animal paintings, landscape paintings, still life paintings and glass art. The gallery is open 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday and 11 a.m. until 5 p.m. on Sunday.

Toni Carlton is an artist and owner of Carlton Gallery and has been creating community art spaces in the High Country for 40 years.

Photo submitted

The Ashe Arts Center in West Jefferson is located at 303 School Ave.

Photo by Jerry Snow

Asher Fazal, left, a sophomore at Appalachian State University, got his first experience with pottery during the 3rd Annual Buskers Fest in Downtown Boone on Friday, Oct. 6 in front of Hands Gallery with veteran potter Tim Brown

By Jaren Gragg

Walk back into days of old with area general stores

There is something special that harkens people back to a bygone era when stepping into a local general store. For decades, general stores have served as a one-stop shop for groceries, live bait, firewood, gift s, and much more, and high country general stores continue to uphold that tradition. While many traditional small-town general stores are becoming less and less common in areas around the country, general stores still thrive here in the High Country. The following are some of the

stores where you can drop by, say hello, and grab myriad staple items.

Fredʼs General Mercantile (Beech Mountain)

501 Beech Mountain Parkway www.fredsgeneral.com (828) 387-4838

Fred’s General Mercantile for more than 40 years has been a staple in the Beech Mountain community. Due to the isolated locales of the mountaintop, the store serves as a veritable cornucopia of items for locals= and visitors alike that bear out the

business’s tagline of “If they don’t have it, you don’t need it.”

Fred’s has a clothing store, a hardware store, and a grocery store. The grocery selection at Fred’s offers canned goods, along with essential items like milk and eggs, a wide variety of tools and hardware, and things you might need to pick up that you may not ordinarily think of, such as shoes, a jacket, and much more.

Fred’s Backside Deli is also located in the store and serves breakfast, lunch and dinner daily. Because of its proximity to Beech

Mountain Resort, Fred’s also off ers guests ski and snowboard rentals and other amenities. Fred’s is also a fantastic spot to find information about activities and events to see and do on Beech Mountain throughout the year.

Goober Peas Country Store (Boone) 1773 NC-194 (828) 386-1017

Carrying local meats, farmfresh eggs, Ashe County cheese, jellies

See General Stores on page 127

Carrying local meats, farmfresh eggs, Ashe County cheese, jellies and jams, firewood, and ice, Goober Peas Country Store is a hidden treasure among the locals in Watauga County.

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 126

and jams, firewood, and ice, Goober Peas Country Store is a hidden treasure among the locals in Watauga County.

Goober Peas is located right along Highway 194, going north out of Boone. It offers Cheek’s whole milk, niche soda brands, and much, much more.

Goober Peas is located right along Highway 194, going north out of Boone. It offers Cheek’s whole milk, niche soda brands, and much, much more.

Besides having top-of-the-line foods, Goober Peas offers soaps, live bait, greeting cards, and a wide variety of items that are made by local artists.

Besides having top-of-the-line foods, Goober Peas off ers soaps, live bait, greeting cards, and a wide variety of items that are made by local artists.

Mast General Store

Original Store

Mast General Store

Original Store

3565 Hwy 194, Valle Crucis www.mastgeneralstore.com

3565 Hwy 194, Valle Crucis www.mastgeneralstore.com

Annex 2981 Broadstone Rd. Banner Elk (Valle Crucis) (828) 963-6511

Annex 2981 Broadstone Rd. Banner Elk (Valle Crucis)

(828) 963-6511

Boone 630 West King St. (828) 262-0000

Boone 630 West King St. (828) 262-0000

Mast General Store’s success is attributed to having locations in many different areas around the High Country, but also has branched out into stores in Asheville, Hendersonville, Waynesville and Winston-Salem.

Mast General Store’s success is attributed to having locations in many different areas around the High Country, but also has branched out into stores in Asheville, Hendersonville, Waynesville and Winston-Salem. Mast also has locations in Columbia and Greenville, South Carolina, along with Knoxville, Tennessee, and Roanoke, Virginia stores.

Mast also has locations in Columbia and Greenville, South Carolina, along with Knoxville, Tennessee, and Roanoke, Virginia stores.

Mast General Store has a wide range of selections that the community may be interested in, such as old-timey and modern candies to cookbooks and tents.

Mast General Store also offers outdoor gear anywhere, along with casual clothes, other clothing, and a sorted array of items for all members of the family. The store has been a proud historic High

Mast General Store has a wide range of selections that the community may be interested in, such as old-timey and modern candies to cookbooks and tents. Mast General Store also offers outdoor gear anywhere, along with casual clothes, other clothing, and a sorted array of items for all

Country treasure for many of the local community, with its roots firmly in the tiny town of Valle Crucis.

members of the family. The store has been a proud historic High Country treasure for many of the local community, with its roots firmly in the tiny town of Valle Crucis.

Store (West Jefferson) 424 E. Second St. (336) 846-4777

thevintagefarmhousewj@gmail. com

Vintage Farmhouse General Store (West Jeff erson) 424 E. Second St. (336) 846-4777

thevintagefarmhousewj@gmail. com

Phipps General Store (Lansing)

Phipps General Store (Lansing) 2425 Silas Creek Rd (336) 384-2382

2425 Silas Creek Rd (336) 384-2382

For those who trek near the small town of Lansing, a stop at the Phipps General Store is a must. The store is a spot for locals and visitors to enjoy old-time and bluegrass music.

For those who trek near the small town of Lansing, a stop at the Phipps General Store is a must. The store is a spot for locals and visitors to enjoy old-time and bluegrass music.

Musicians from all around the High Country travel to play at the weekly jam sessions at the general store, which happen on Fridays. Locally crafted items and merchandise, including jewelry, pottery, and handbags, are on offer, along with food and beverages available at the sessions.

Vintage Farmhouse General

Musicians from all around the High Country travel to play at the weekly jam sessions at the general store, which happen on Fridays. Locally craft ed items and merchandise, including jewelry, pottery, and handbags, are on offer, along with food and beverages available at the sessions.

Vintage Farmhouse General Store has its very own full-service coffee shop and bakery and boasts a large menu to choose from that includes specialty lattes, cookies, and ice cream. Vintage Farmhouse is open Monday through Saturday and has something for everyone. They have a wide variety of clothing for women and children, as well as other merchandise, including home decor, items and jewelry. Vintage Farmhouse even hosts a “man cave” for all of the men in the store, which is located in the basement.

Vintage Farmhouse General Store has its very own full-service coffee shop and bakery and boasts a large menu to choose from that includes specialty lattes, cookies, and ice cream. Vintage Farmhouse is open Monday through Saturday and has something for everyone. They have a wide variety of clothing for women and children, as well as other merchandise, including home decor, items and jewelry. Vintage Farmhouse even hosts a “man cave” for all of the men in the store, which is located in the basement.

Photo courtesy Goober Peas

Goober Peas General Store offers a wide range of products for varying tastes.

Photo submitted

Fred’s General Mercantile atop Beech Mountain houses a backside deli, myriad food and camping items, as well as winter rentals.

File Photo s Mast General Store carries a variety of candy, including Tootsie Roll Pops.

Photo submitted

The Mast General Store has a massive variety of olde-time and new-age provisions.

A Trip Down Memory Lane: Anti�ing in the High Country

By Cassidy Narron

There is an overarching sense of slower living in the Blue Ridge Mountains. Much of the past has been preserved and the history of the area continues to inform the way people live in the Appalachian region.

In the spirit of this nostalgic culture, antiquing is a hobby that many locals and tourists enjoy Anything you could imagine wanting, you can findw aiting for you on the shelf of one of the many antique shops across the High Country.

Appalachian Antique Mall has made a name for itself as one of the most visited antique shops in the area. Spanning three stories and 1,500 sq. ft.a nd located in the heart of historic downtown Boone, it is a must-see for anyone spending an afternoononKingS treet. The store is full of booths, which are rented out, meaning that there is no particular theme of goods, and it makes walking around and exploring the space all the more

fun. Visit its Facebook page at www. facebook.com/p/AppalachianAntique-Mall-Ltd-100054577489079/ or call (828) 268-9988. It’s located at 631 W King St, Boone, 28607.

Front Porch Antique Market located in Foscoe is just a short drive from Boone. It boasts a wide variety of quality antiques with more than 60 booths in the store and the vendors specialize in books, china and kitchen accessories among other things. With their ever-changing inventory you could go in each week and discover something new! Visit their website www.frontporchantiquemarket. com/ or call at 828-963-7450. It’s located at 8807 NC-105 S, Boone 28607.

Blowing Rock Antiques is located in Blowing Rock and it’s hard to miss! The property has plants, chairs and quirky items around the building. The store is unique for the area in that it features antique European and Continental decor, garden accessories, furniture, art and more. It’s located at 379 Sunset

Dr, Blowing Rock 28605. While strolling down Main Street in Blowing Rock, you’ll come across Windwood Antiques. For the last 41 years, Windwood Antiques has provided the community with unique, high-quality antiques. Their shelves boast antiques from around the world, including Germany, France and England. It has more than 2,500 sq. ft. of basement space, where occasional basement sales occur, with items going for up to 50% off. Visit its Facebook page at www.facebook.com/ windwoodantiques/.

For more than 30 years, The Gilded Age Antiques & Interiors has directly imported English and European pieces to their store in Banner Elk. Their pieces are primarily from the 18th and 19th centuries and include paintings, furniture, porcelain and vintage handbags. You can visit it in person at 10890 NC-105, Banner Elk, NC 28604 or bid on their pieces online at www.1stdibs.com/dealers/thegilded-age-antiques-and-interiors/.

In the historic town of West Jefferson, Antiques on Main is home to more than 50 vendors and 30,000 square feet of merchandise. It was named the best antique store in Ashe County in 2022 by The Ashe Post & Times. It is the sister store to Antiques Main located at 109 Aho Rd., Blowing Rock, 28605. At Antiques on Main, find collectibles, signs, tools, furniture, seasonal outdoor items and more.

West Jefferson Old Time Antiques Fair takes place on Sept. 20 and 21 in downtown West Jefferson. West Jefferson has a lot of history, and this event celebrates that history and heritage. There will be booths from locals and the region alike selling antiques and collectibles. This is a town-wide event where various businesses, restaurants and the downtown Farmers Market will be participating. Bring a chair to enjoy the lineup of musical performances planned as well! Visit www.wjeffersonantiquesfair.com/ for more information.

Photo by Nathan Ham

The West Jefferson Olde Time Antique Fair is a popular event.

By Jamie Shell

By Jamie Shell

Area wineries cultivate award-winning taste, business

locals and tourists.

During the fall, the leaves change and the scenery that dots the landscape of the North Carolina High Country is nothing short of remarkable. The changing leaves and cooler temperatures pair serenely with the temptation to indulge and relax and sip from some of the most refreshing and elegant wines the area has to off er.

Over the years, many diff erent wineries have established themselves as “a cut above” in product quality and have made their mark in the High Country. While Watauga and Avery counties have been a hub for these establishments, Ashe County has also introduced its own wineries that will fullfill all of a connoisseur’s desires.

During the fall, the leaves change and the scenery that dots the landscape of the North Carolina High Country is nothing short of remarkable. The changing leaves and cooler temperatures pair serenely with the temptation to indulge and relax and sip from some of the most refreshing and elegant wines the area has to offer. Over the years, many different wineries have established themselves as “a cut above” in product quality and have made their mark in the High Country. While Watauga and Avery counties have been a hub for these establishments, Ashe County has also introduced its own wineries that will fulfill all of a connoisseur’s desires.

Old Barn Winery

Old Barn Winery

High Country’s tastiest wine to both locals and tourists.

The winery off ers choices ranging from Pinot Grigio, Sauvignon Blanc, and sweet Rosé to classic reds and whites, satisfying any need.

The winery offers choices ranging from Pinot Grigio, Sauvignon Blanc, and sweet Rosé to classic reds and whites, satisfying any need.

In addition to the wine, the Old Barn Winery also off ers live music every weekend.

In addition to the wine, the Old Barn Winery also offers live music every weekend.

Old Barn Winery is located at 2152 Beaver Creek School Road, West Jeff erson, North Carolina 28694. For more information, visit their website at www. oldbarnwinery.com or call (336) 246-8494.

Old Barn Winery is located at 2152 Beaver Creek School Road, West Jefferson, North Carolina 28694. For more information, visit their website at www. oldbarnwinery.com or call (336) 246-8494.

Banner Elk Winery and Villa

Banner Elk Winery and Villa

Sauvignon, Merlot, and blueberry wine.

Sauvignon, Merlot, and blueberry wine.

Aside from the wine, Banner Elk Winery and Villa features numerous suites for guests to stay in and is a destination wedding location.

Aside from the wine, Banner Elk Winery and Villa features numerous suites for guests to stay in and is a destination wedding location.

Banner Elk Winery and Villa is located at 135 Deer Run Ln., Banner Elk, NC 28604. For more information and to shop wines, visit www.bannerelkwinery.com.

Banner Elk Winery and Villa is located at 135 Deer Run Ln., Banner Elk, NC 28604. For more information and to shop wines, visit www.bannerelkwinery.com.

Grandfather Vineyard and Winery

Grandfather Vineyard and Winery

trucks are onsite to accompany you while you take a sip of the locally sourced beverages. The winery also recently took home fi ve awards, including three gold medals, at the 2023 NC Wine Competition.

trucks are onsite to accompany you while you take a sip of the locally sourced beverages. The winery also recently took home five awards, including three gold medals, at the 2023 NC Wine Competition.

Grandfather Vineyard and Winery is located at 225 Vineyard Lane, Banner Elk, NC 28604. For more information, visit www. grandfathervineyard.com or call (828) 963-2400.

Grandfather Vineyard and Winery is located at 225 Vineyard Lane, Banner Elk, NC 28604. For more information, visit www. grandfathervineyard.com or call (828) 963-2400.

Linville Falls Winery

Linville Falls Winery

Opening up in the summer of 2022, Old Barn Winery has made its mark on Ashe County. The Sexton Family, owners of Frosty’s Choose and Cut, opened the winery on the Christmas tree grounds and have since been providing some of the

Opening up in the summer of 2022, Old Barn Winery has made its mark on Ashe County. The Sexton Family, owners of Frosty’s Choose and Cut, opened the winery on the Christmas tree grounds and have since been providing some of the High Country’s tastiest wine to both

The first winery to open in Avery County was Banner Elk Winery and Villa. It opened in 2005 and has made its mark as one of the most popular wineries in the High Country. Its products won awards, including gold, silver, and two bronze medals, at the 2016 North Carolina State Fair.

The first winery to open in Avery County was Banner Elk Winery and Villa. It opened in 2005 and has made its mark as one of the most popular wineries in the High Country. Its products won awards, including gold, silver, and two bronze medals, at the 2016 North Carolina State Fair.

Known as “the jewel of the Hig Country,” Banner Elk Winery and Villa off ers an array of wines, including reds, whites, Cabernet

Known as “the jewel of the High Country,” Banner Elk Winery and Villa offers an array of wines, including reds, whites, Cabernet

Grandfather Vineyard and Winery in Banner Elk opened its doors in 2011, but it was long planned before then. The Tatum Family bought land in 2000 and knew they would one day open up the winery. With a Christmas Tree business in mind, the family’s love for wine took the bait and they began planting grapevines instead.

Grandfather Vineyard and Winery in Banner Elk opened its doors in 2011, but it was long planned before then. The Tatum Family bought land in 2000 and knew they would one day open up the winery. With a Christmas Tree business in mind, the family’s love for wine took the bait and they began planting grapevines instead.

The vineyard off ers shipping of its products to approximately 34 states. Products range from $9.95 for the 22-ounce hard cider to the $26.95 bottles of Petite Sirah and Cabernet Sauvignon.

The vineyard offers shipping of its products to approximately 34 states. Products range from $9.95 for the 22-ounce hard cider to the $26.95 bottles of Petite Sirah and Cabernet Sauvignon.

In addition, live music and food

In addition, live music and food

Located at an elevation of 3,200 feet, Linville Falls Winery off ers a space for weddings, private events, classes and reservations. Aft er opening in 2012, the winery has become a hot spot for locals and tourists.

Located at an elevation of 3,200 feet, Linville Falls Winery offers a space for weddings, private events, classes and reservations. After opening in 2012, the winery has become a hot spot for locals and tourists.

According to Jessica Boone, the winery planted their mountain vineyard 19 years ago, taking cues from vineyards around the world that share the area’s similar climate, such as the Rhine River Valley in Germany and the Alsace region in France.

According to Jessica Boone, the winery planted their mountain vineyard 19 years ago, taking cues from vineyards around the world that share the area’s similar climate, such as the Rhine River Valley in Germany and the Alsace region in France.

“Among the grapes, we produce are Riesling, Petit Verdot, Seyval

“Among the grapes, we produce See WINERIES on page 135

Photo submitted

Visitors to Roaring River Vineyards can enjoy their favorite sips on a patio overlooking the river below.

Wineries

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 131

are Riesling, Petit Verdot, Seyval Blanc, Vidal Blanc, Noiret, Marechal Foch, and Marquette, but we are still adding to that list as we learn more about the grapes that will fl ourish here in the Appalachian High Country,” said Boone. “Our vineyard thrives in the warm days and cool nights that are part of the personality of the Blue Ridge Mountains, and those conditions are optimum for developing great fl avor in our grapes that give way to excellent wines. Our wines cover a wide spectrum of preferences, from full-bodied reds like our Cabernet Sauvignon, to crisp white wines like our Cascade blend, to the fruitfilled flavors found in our Riesling, all the way to dessert wines with a lot of history like our Cherry Bounce.”

Guests can get a tasting experience that is both child and

pet friendly. For those of age, chosen wines can be tasted in one ounce pours with requests taken for a glass or a bottle. Guests can pair that with live music on Saturday and Sunday aft ernoons. Linville Falls Winery is located at 9557 Linville Falls Hwy., Newland, NC 28657. For more information, visit www.linvillefallswinery.com.

Thistle Meadow Winery

Thistle Meadow Winery, located in Laurel Springs, is the winery of choice in Alleghany County. The offer 30 to 45 minute winery tours as well as wine tastings, with each guest able to taste up to fi ve wines.

Their wine list includes a wide variety of wines—dry reds, dry whites, blush wines, sweet wines, and even cooking wines. Many of the wines made at Thistle Meadow Winery are named after landmarks, communities, or people in Alleghany County.

The winery was recently ranked third among North Carolina

516 W King St., Boone, NC 28607

(828) 262-5585

7am-2pm

wineries by the South Eastern Winery Review and scored a perfect “10” in friendliness.

Thistle Meadow can create custom wines and blends as well as private-label products.

Thistle Meadow Winery is located at 102 Thistle Meadow, Laurel Springs, NC 28644. For more information, visit www. thistlemeadowwinery.com.

MenaRick Vineyard & Winery

The Yadkin Valley’s tasty winery is deemed MenaRick Vineyard and Winery. They specialize in Spanish and Portuguese varieties.

The winery chooses not to filter its products, believing that it helps keep the authenticity of the wine’s aroma and flavor intact. MenaRick is currently off ering wine flights (five wines/flight) and wine by bottle or glass.

Shipping to no less than 40 states, the winery offers an incredible variety of wines, including Tempranillo, Rosalina, Grenache

and more.

MenaRick Vineyard and Winery is located at 328 Luff man Road, Ronda, NC 28670. For more information, visit www.menarick. com.

Roaring River Vineyards

Roaring River Vineyards is another winery located in Wilkes County, which officially opened in 2016. The establishment combines wine, beer and food with a unique and breathtaking atmosphere.

Roaring Rivers offers a selection of nine wines such as the Cabernet Sauvignon, the Norton Red, the Rock and Roar and more. Onsite, you can find a tasting room, a restaurant, and an incredible view, all while you sip on your cool glass of wine.

Roaring River Vineyards is located at 493 Brewer Mill Road, Traphill, NC 28685. For more information, visit www. roaringrivervineyards.com.

Country Retreat Family Billiards & Grill is conveniently located in Foscoe - 8 miles south of Boone and Blowing Rock off highway 105 (next to the Dollar General), and 8 miles north of Banner Elk and Linville. This summer Family Billiards is celebrating 25 years in operation as the high country’s only pool room, featuring 10 professional pool tables. Family Billiards is a family friendly non-alcohol recreational destination as well as a full service restaurant I grill. They host weekly handicapped pool tournaments for the more dedicated pool players of all levels, as well as catering to recreational and first time pool players. The grill operates from 11 am - 8:30pm Monday through Saturday, with the pool room remaining open until 11 pm Monday through Saturday. The dining area includes a covered front porch for those wishing to eat outside. Family Billiards is closed on Sundays.

BRUNCH IN B OWING ROCK? RUNCH WING OCK

Family Billiards: A Tradition of Excellence Since 1996

Family Billiards & Grill’s pool room and pool tables have always been considered as top notch and are maintained in immaculate condition, but their main business is their quality food & beverage operation, of which close to half of which is take-out orders. The majority of regulars come for their quality, consistent and affordable food offerings, although many have never played pool here. The room features numerous large screen TV’s generally featuring sports I news I weather during the daytime and sporting events at night. Chef Brian Anderson prepares daily specials Monday through Friday, which virtually always sell out. Family Billiards is a small operation that caters to and depends largely on their loyal following of regulars, but everyone is welcome as a family friendly recreation I entertainment and dining option for locals as well as tourists visiting the high country.

SEAFOODSPECIAL EVERYFRIDAY

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