Winter Times 2014-15

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YOUR 2014-15 WINTER GUIDE UIDE ET TO OT THE H E HI HIGH COUNTRY • HighCountryNC.com

Snowsports Choose & Cut Entertainment Sightseeing Shopping Dining

Winter in the

BLUE RIDGE MOUNTAINS

2014-15

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Advertising Index ..............................................81 Appalachian Ski Mountain ............................... 30 Art Galleries ...................................................... 54 Ashe County ...................................................... 22 ASU Performing Arts Series ..............................61 Banner Elk ...........................................................7 Beech Mountain Resort .................................... 27 Blowing Rock ..................................................... 17 Blowing Rock Art & History Museum .............. 60 Blowing Rock WinterFest ................................. 44 Blue Ridge Parkway .......................................... 39 Breweries .......................................................... 70 Calendar ............................................................ 74 Caving ................................................................41 Chambers of Commerce ..................................... 5 Choose and Cut Christmas Trees ..................... 45 Downtown Boone ............................................. 28 Emergency Numbers .......................................... 5 Fishing .............................................................. 36 Frescoes ............................................................ 53 General Stores .................................................. 64 Grandfather Mountain ..................................... 46 Hawksnest .........................................................16 High Country Host ............................................. 6 HighCountryNC.com .......................................... 6 Hiking ............................................................... 48 Holiday Fun ...................................................... 56 Mystery Hill .......................................................51 Photos of Winter ............................................... 72 Skiing .................................................................18 Snow Gear ......................................................... 32 Snow Tubing ......................................................21 Snowboarding ................................................... 20 Snowshoeing ......................................................19 Spas ................................................................... 68 Sugar Mountain Resort .................................... 24 Theater .............................................................. 62 Towns of the High Country ................................ 8 Valle Crucis ....................................................... 14 Wineries ............................................................ 66 Winter Driving .................................................. 34

Snow Patterns This Mabel tree farm provides unusual patterns when winter sets in and highlights the ground. Patterns like this dot the countryside when snow falls in the High Country.

PHOTO BY ROB MOORE

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in the High Country

NUMBERS OF NOTE Avery County

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

Avery County Sheriff’s Office (828) 733-2071 Banner Elk Police (828) 898-4300 Elk Park Police Department (828) 733-9573

Cannon Memorial Hospital (Linville) (828) 737-7000 Ashe Memorial Hospital (Jefferson) (336) 846-7101

Boone Police Department (828) 268-6900

Newland Police Department (828) 733-2024

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

Blowing Rock Police (828) 295-5210

Seven Devils Police Department (828) 963-6760

AppUrgent Care (Boone) (828) 265-5505

Appalachian Regional Healthcare System Police (828) 262-4168 Appalachian State Police (828) 262-2150

Ashe County Ashe County Sheriff’s Office (336) 846-5633

Sugar Mountain Police (828) 898-4349 Beech Mountain Police (828) 387-2342

Health Care

Jefferson Police (336) 846-5529

Watauga Medical Center (Boone) (828) 262-4100

West Jefferson Police (336) 246-9410

Blowing Rock Hospital (828) 295-3136

Animal Control Watauga County Animal Control (828) 262-1672 Watauga Humane Society (Boone) (828) 264-7865 Animal Emergency & Pet Care Clinic of the High Country (Boone) (828) 268-2833

HIGH COUNTRY CHAMBERS OF COMMERCE

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2014 Winter Times Staff Gene Fowler Jr. Publisher Frank Ruggiero Editor Charlie Price Advertising Director Rob Moore Production Chief Johnny Hayes Layout Artist Emily Robb Pre-Production Specialist Meleah Bryan Creative Services Director Andy Gainey Circulation Manager Jesse Campbell, Jeff Eason, Erika Giovanetti, Justin Grimes, Caroline Harris, Erik Hoffmann, James Howell, Anna Oakes, Jamie Shell and Sandra Shook Writers

Ashe County Chamber of Commerce

Banner Elk Chamber of Commerce

Blowing Rock Chamber of Commerce

Rick Tobin, Rex Goss and Mark Mitchell Sales

Avery County Chamber of Commerce

B eech Mountain Chamber of Commerce

Boone Area Chamber of Commerce

Marianne Koch, Kristin Powers Creative Services

(336) 846-9550 www.ashechamber.com

(828) 898-5605 www.averycounty.com

(828) 898-8395 www.bannerelk.org

(828) 387-9283 www.beechmountainchamber.com

(828) 295-7851 www.blowingrockncchamber.com

(828) 264-2225 www.boonechamber.com

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Love at First Site

HighCountryNC.com raises the bar on tourism in Western North Carolina

G

etting it right in the High Country has never been easier.

You’ve reached the peak of Western North Carolina tourism with Mountain Times Publications’ HighCountryNC.com.

“With more than a dozen professional journalists on staff and more than 125 years of continually serving the High Country, we are in the unique position of providing unparalleled regional tourism content to both our locals and to our out-of-area visitors,” Mountain Times Publications publisher Gene Fowler said.

“We are investing in digital infrastructure that will keep us at the forefront, providing the amassed content our team of outstanding staff has created!”

Established in May 2014, HighCountryNC.com incorporates the efforts of the largest media group serving the North Carolina High Country. Drawing on more than a century of local tourism promotion and press, HighCountryNC. com is the ultimate, all-inclusive resource for High Country tourism traditions, events and happenings.

We’re here to help you get it right with

the High Country’s authoritative source for all things recreation and tourism in our area.

Hiking. Bed and breakfast. Golf. Fine and casual dining. HighCountryNC.com is the definitive resource for these activities and more for visitors, tourists and guests. Whether it’s your first visit to our mountain home or if you’ve decided to make our home yours, HighCountryNC.com brings together the inside scoop on the best places to see and things to do the next time you explore North Carolina’s High Country.

Mountain Times Publications has been at the forefront in showcasing the best of the best in the region for more than a century. That mission expanded with the launch of the Summer Times print publication in the late 1990s, followed by the introduction of the Autumn Times and Winter Times publications. Together, these publications have won multiple awards for content and design, and we’re taking the lessons we’ve learned along the way to get it right with the launch of HighCountryNC.com.

For advertisers, HighCountryNC.com will be an unprecedented opportunity to

reach thousands of readers and prospective customers with one click of the mouse.

“The increase in audience delivered for advertisers is nothing short of incredible, both in quantity and targeted customers,” Mountain Times Publications advertising director Charlie Price said. “Our printed products, Summer Times, Autumn Times and Winter Times, are the most complete and typically the favorite visitor guide for tourists and seasonal residents. They also appeal to local year-round residents who want updated information. These magazines are great to intercept visitors and provide complete information after they arrive. Now we can reach them before they arrive.”

According to Price, HighCountryNC. com is forging new pathways in advertising, publicizing all the great features that the High Country has to offer to a larger audience than ever attempted previously.

“Our newspaper websites already reach more than a million unique visitors yearly, displaying more than 10 million page-views,” Price said. “Much of our current website traffic comes from North Carolina metro regions, Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, Tennessee and many other sections of the country.

We invite you — locals and visitors, alike — to start your journey by clicking to www.HighCountryNC.com.”

Welcome to your website. We hope you love it, too.

YOUR FIRST STOP: High Country Host

BY ANNA OAKES

S

ave yourself time on your visit to the North Carolina mountains with a quick stop at High Country Host, which represents destinations in Alleghany, Ashe, Avery, Watauga and Wilkes counties.

Formed in 1980, the visitor center and its knowledgeable staff offer experienced advice and insider info that can make a significant difference for travelers.

“We work with the five counties, and so we can give people a good idea of how much they could do in a particular day — how far attractions are from one another and that sort of thing,” said Candice

Cook, High Country Host marketing director. “(That is) a huge advantage, especially in the winter.”

Instead of searching for visitor information at a number of separate county and town offices, prospective travelers can visit the Host’s expansive website, request a vacation guide or stop by the visitor center to get information about recreation opportunities in all six High Country counties.

Tens of thousands of visitors step through the doors of the High Country Host’s Visitor Information Center, located

on Blowing Rock Road (U.S. 321) in Boone.

“A lot of folks just prefer looking someone in the eyeballs as opposed to on the computer,” said J.P. Greene, who greets visitors to center.

Most people are looking for directions or news about the week’s festivals or arts events, he said, though questions about children’s activities, suggested hikes and favorite local restaurants are quick to follow.

In addition to being a thorough resource for tourists, High Country Host’s cooperative model benefits the region’s

independent businesses. “Because we’re all working together, we can promote ourselves better,” Cook said.

It’s unlikely that a family-run bed-andbreakfast could purchase advertising space in a magazine, such as Southern Living, Cook said, but the Host is able to showcase the region’s recreation value to larger audiences.

Get personal assistance, maps and weather reports at the Visitor Information Center, located at 1700 Blowing Rock Road in Boone. Hours of operations are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday and 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Sundays. Visit High Country Host online at highcountryhost.com.

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Students take a snow day and build a snowman on the Appalachian State University campus in Boone.

PHOTO BY ANNA OAKES

Our Towns Pageantry of winter season captured in High Country communities Watauga County BOONE No matter which activity draws you to the High Country, it’s likely that you’ll end up in Boone at some point during your visit.

Boone is the hub of Watauga County, the gathering place for people of all walks of life, whether resident or visitor, student or retiree, socialite or seeker of peace and quiet.

The town is home to Appalachian State University, one of the 17 colleges and universities that make up the University of North Carolina system. The university draws about 17,000 students, with interest in the school having boomed after the Mountaineers’ football team won three consecutive NCAA Division I national championships in 2005, 2006 and 2007.

The university’s presence helps create a young and friendly vibe throughout the town. Just make sure not to cross anyone by mispronouncing the name: It’s pronounced “App-uh-latch-un.”

Adjacent to the university is King Street and the surrounding downtown area, one of the High Country’s most

popular shopping destinations. One-ofa-kind stores and eclectic boutiques dot the landscape, interspersed with enticing restaurants and colorful galleries.

A life-size sculpture of the late Doc Watson, the legendary bluegrass performer, sits at the corner of King and Depot streets. The sculpture honors one of Boone’s prized gems, who, despite nearly lifelong blindness, became one of the most talented and prolific musicians in the genre. Watson died May 29, 2012.

Take a stroll to the front steps of the Jones House Community Center, built in 1908. The house was donated to the town in the early 1980s and today houses art galleries and community functions.

Departing from downtown, popular restaurant franchises, retail chains and other shopping areas ensure that residents and visitors lack nothing in the way of modern conveniences.

But Boone has an eye on its past, too.

Named for the pioneer and explorer Daniel Boone, the town dates back to about 1800, when Jordan Councill opened a store on what is now King SEE OUR TOWNS, PAGE 10

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munity is brimming with shopping, art, dining and outdoor fun.

Shopping includes mementos and more, including the luxurious linens of Dewoolfson Down. For your furry friends, grab some treats, snacks and other tail-wagging goodies at Mountain Dog & Friends.

If you’re shopping for outdoor fun, cast a line with Foscoe Fishing Company.

Hungry? Burgers, billiards and family fun are on cue at Country Retreat Family Billards.

Vacation rentals and more await at Echota, along with one of the views that made Grandfather Mountain famous — the ridgeline’s iconic profile of an old man reclining.

OUR TOWNS FROM PAGE 8 Street. In 1820, he opened a post office, and other homes and stores began to spring up nearby.

When Watauga County was created in 1849, Boone was picked as the county seat. It remained a typical small town until the university began to grow in the 1960s.

Boone is a town where old and new mix, and visitors are made to feel like part of the family.

BLOWING ROCK Blowing Rock manages to pack a ton of beauty and fun into just three square miles.

The town’s name comes from an immense cliff overlooking Johns River Gorge, where the winds whip in such a way that light objects thrown over the rock float back to their owners. Anyone wishing to experience the phenomenon firsthand can visit The Blowing Rock attraction, which is open certain dates in winter, weather permitting, to showcase the town’s namesake and the Native American legend that surrounds it.

For another dose of history, visit the

Downtown Blowing Rock.

PHOTO BY FRANK RUGGIERO

renovated and restored Green Park Inn, a site on the National Register of Historic Places that has been a hotel since 1882.

After closing due to age and the recession in May 2009, the building was purchased a year later and promptly underwent a complete overhaul. The inn has since been restored to its former glory, offering lodging, a full bar and fine dining.

While clinging to the small-town charm and Southern graciousness of its

past, Blowing Rock also includes nearly 20 hotels and inns and more than 100 shops.

Find a place to park early in the morning, bundle up and spend the rest of the day on foot, exploring the shops and parks of downtown. Clothing, antiques, home furnishings, mementos and savory treats will fill your shopping bags — and your stomach. Make sure to visit Tanger Shoppes on the Parkway on U.S. 321 to find name-brand items at outlet prices.

If they’re not buried in piles of snow, the benches in Memorial Park at the center of Main Street make the perfect spot to settle down with coffee or hot chocolate and watch the world go by. The less-traveled Broyhill Park down Laurel Lane paints the perfect winter scene, complete with snow-topped gazebo and ice-covered pond.

The trails surrounding Moses Cone Memorial Park and Bass Lake provide another excellent winter wonderland, as well as a recreation opportunity for those trying out cross-country skiing or snowshoeing.

If you visit during the holidays, take a cruise down the length of Main Street and past Chetola Resort to take in the displays of lights, wreaths and beauty of the season.

The picturesque town of Blowing Rock is the perfect place to have an active winter vacation — or to relax and do nothing at all.

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, 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 the “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.

Residents appreciate the store for its post office, morning news and coffee, while visitors can also find gifts, apparel and souvenirs.

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 and sports fields.

TODD FOSCOE Nestled between Boone and Banner Elk is the unincorporated community of Foscoe.

But don’t let it’s size fool you. The com-

Todd is a town so nice it’s claimed by both Watauga and Ashe counties.

The community’s main drag, Railroad SEE OUR TOWNS, PAGE 11

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OUR TOWNS FROM PAGE 10 Grade Road, is popular with bicyclists and walking tours, as it winds along with the New River, one of the few rivers in the world that flows north.

The Todd General Store is an oldfashioned mercantile that dates back to 1914 and was built in anticipation of the Norfolk and Western “Virginia Creeper” railroad. Todd was the last stop of the route and got much of its supplies from the railroad. Today, the store offers dinner, bluegrass, book signings and demonstrations.

The Todd Mercantile features the work of local artists and craftsmen, as well as mountain honey and other local goods.

The mercantile regularly hosts square and contra dances, with traditional mountain music by local performers.

The river itself provides plenty to do, from canoeing and kayaking in the summer to excellent fishing in the winter.

SEVEN DEVILS From elevations of some 5,200 feet, the town of Seven Devils straddles both Watauga and Avery counties.

Seven Devils is just a few minutes from Boone, Blowing Rock, Banner Elk and Valle Crucis and can be found off N.C. 105.

From many areas in the town, one has views of Grandfather Mountain, Beech Mountain, Sugar Mountain, Rich Mountain and Mount Rogers in Virginia.

Seven Devils began life in the 1960s as the Seven Devils Resort, and in 1979, the resort became incorporated as the town.

How did it get its name? According to the Seven Devils website,“The L.A. Reynolds Industrial District of WinstonSalem, N.C., formed the resort in 1965...

At this time, there was a rumor about an old man on the mountain who had seven sons ‘as mean as the devil.’ People were heard commenting that in the winter, the mountain was ‘as cold as the devils’ or ‘as windy as the devil.’ 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 ‘devils.’”

In the 1960s, the town grew with a golf course, ski slope, lake, riding ground and camping area, eventually becoming incorporated.

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While the golf course and ski slopes have been closed for a number of years, Hawksnest, the former ski resort, has become one of the town’s centerpieces with a host of other outdoor activities.

Among its wintertime attractions are snow-tubing and ziplines. For more information and events at Seven Devils, visit sevendevils.net.

Avery County BANNER ELK The mountain valley town of Banner Elk has grown from a tiny hamlet to a town offering year-round amenities and memorable vacations for the entire family.

Banner Elk is home to Lees-McRae College, a small, private, four-year coeducational liberal arts college affiliated with Presbyterian Church U.S.A., with more than 900 students from more than 20 states and countries. Snow-covered old stone buildings across campus make for a photographer’s delight.

The town hosts numerous shops and restaurants and stays abuzz with activities and events. Visitors can stroll through the town park, enjoy ample shopping or simply relax by the Mill Pond. Later, they can check in to one of Banner Elk’s many inns and enjoy a gourmet dinner at one of the town’s fine restaurants.

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 ponder nature’s beauty.

Banner Elk also offers many cultural happenings, with a highly acclaimed performing arts program at Lees-McRae and art festivals by some of the area’s many galleries and artisans.

Cutting between the peaks of Sugar Mountain, Beech Mountain 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 the Banner Elk Chamber of Commerce at (828) 898-5605, or visit www.bannerelk.org.

BEECH MOUNTAIN Regarded as the highest elevated town in the Eastern United States, Beech Mountain is a haven for winter sports enthusiasts.

SEE OUR TOWNS, PAGE 12

A snow-covered Valle Crucis offers some of the most picturesque views in the High Country.

FILE PHOTO

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The sledding hill in Beech Mountain is a popular destination for wintertime fun.

PHOTO SUBMITTED

OUR TOWNS FROM PAGE 11 The slopes at Beech Mountain Resort open in November and offer both beginner and advanced skiers a pristine location to enjoy a winter’s day. Snowboarders can utilize the freestyle terrain park, with manmade terrain, including half-pipes, grind rails and a host of jumps with landing areas.

Sledders can enjoy the hilly terrain, while skaters can go to Beech Mountain Resort’s Alpine Village and enjoy the 7,000-square-foot ice skating rink. The rink is located in the middle of Beech Tree Village, making it a unique and memorable experience. Those seeking more old-fashioned fun can head for the town’s popular sledding hill, open to the public.

For those wishing to spend an extended stay at the Beech, there are more than 5,000 beds available on top of the mountain for rental, ranging from picturesque cabins to chalets and condominiums.

For those not on the slopes or seeking a change of pace, there are numerous

shops and restaurants to visit, in addition to an active nightlife with live music and a fun atmosphere.

For more information and a full calendar of winter events, visit www.beechmtn.com.

SUGAR MOUNTAIN The village of Sugar Mountain is an ideal destination for the individual or family looking to enjoy outdoor winter sports, in addition to activities yearround.

Sugar Mountain is home to Sugar Mountain Resort, one of the South’s premier winter destination playgrounds.

Since 1969, Sugar Mountain Resort has specialized in outdoor recreational fun.

The resort is hailed for its challenging trails for the advanced skier and beginner slopes for those snapping ski bindings on for the very first time. Topping out at 5,300 feet above sea level, Sugar Mountain Resort’s chances of receiving natural snow are good. Seasonal snowfall can reach as high as 130 inches.

A highlight of the winter season at Sugar Mountain is SugarFest, an annual weekend of winter fun, returning Dec. 12

to 14.

For more information, visit www. seesugar.com.

NEWLAND With 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 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, according to legend, drowned herself in the river in despair because she could not marry a brave from another tribe.

A town of around 700 residents, Newland succeeded over three other areas for the honor of county seat. The historic courthouse, originally constructed in 1913, overlooks a classic town square, bordered by shops, churches and a memorial to Avery County veterans.

Adjacent to the courthouse building is the original jail, which has been converted into the Avery County Histori-

cal Museum. Exhibits in the museum include the original jail cells, numerous artifacts and information about the history of Avery County.

Newland hosts an annual Christmas parade through 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 or Grandfather Mountain.

CROSSNORE Crossnore is a town steeped in educational history.

Reportedly named after George Crossnore, one of the first settlers of the area in the late 18th century, the community has grown famous for its other namesake, The Crossnore School, founded by Drs. Eustace and Mary Martin Sloop.

The Sloops traveled the steep dirt trails in isolated mountain valleys to bring medicine to the people and convince farmers to let their children come to SEE OUR TOWNS, PAGE 15

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www.ValleCrucis.com

A haven for travelers since the 1800s, Valle Crucis, a National Rural Historic District, offers shops, beautiful bed and breakfast inns, delicious cuisine, wine tasting, rustic cabins, horseback riding, adventure and more.

Valle Crucis Bakery & Cafe 828-963-2555

Rivercross Made in USA 828-963-8623

Over Yonder Restaurant & Bar 828-963-6301

Valle Crucis Conference Center Est. 1842 828-963-4453

Taylor House Inn Bed & Breakfast ca. 1911 800-963-5581

Valle Crucis Community Web Directory Apple Hill Farm - applehillfarmnc.com Baird House - bairdhouse.com Dutch Creek Trails - dutchcreektrails.com Lazy Bear Lodge - lazy-bear-lodge.com Mast Farm Inn - themastfarminn.com Mast General Store - mastgeneralstore.com Mountainside Lodge B&B - mountainsidelodgebb.com Over Yonder - overyondernc.com Rivercross Made in USA - rivercrossmadeinusa.com Taylor House Inn - taylorhouseinn.com Valle Crucis Bakery & Cafe - sites.google.com/site/vallecrucisbakerycafe Valle Crucis Bed & Breakfast - vallecrucisbandb.com Valle Crucis Conference Center - highsouth.com/vallecrucis Valle Crucis Log Cabin Rentals & Sales - logcabinrentals.com

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the historic 1904 Courthouse.

The Museum of Ashe County History is located in Jefferson and can be found in the 1904 Courthouse. The museum, through items collected and on display, offers a look at who the citizens of the county are, where they came from, how they got to the town, what did they do on the way and where do they go next?

Ashe County Park and Foster Tyson Park are also located in Jefferson, the former of which hosts a nationally celebrated disc golf course. To the north of Jefferson are access areas for New River State Park.

OUR TOWNS FROM PAGE 12 school. Because of poverty and distance, the Sloops’ school in Crossnore eventually took in boarders and built dormitories to accommodate them.

The Sloops also built a 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, telephone, paved road and boarding school. Through the Sloops’ advocacy, public schools flourished in Avery County.

Today, Crossnore Academy carries on the work of the original school and has reclaimed the educational foundation beneath its commitment to give hurting children a chance for a better life.

The school is also home to the Crossnore Weavers working museum and gallery, as well as the Miracle Grounds Coffee Shop, a working vocational classroom, featuring specialty coffee drinks, homemade snacks, sandwiches, milkshakes, ice cream, WiFi and more.

For more information on Crossnore, visit www.crossnorenc.com.

CRESTON

Sugar Mountain is home to the annual SugarFest at Sugar Mountain Resort.

FILE PHOTO

esque views during all four seasons, animal habitats and attractions and the famous Mile-High Swinging Bridge.

Ashe County WEST JEFFERSON

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.

East Tennessee and Western North Carolina Railroad (ET&WNC) 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: Linville Golf Course, Grandfather Golf and Country Club and Linville Ridge.

A number of local tourist areas within a short drive share the Linville name, including the Linville River and majestic Linville Falls, Linville Caverns on U.S. 221 and Linville Gorge wilderness area.

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. One of the newest among North Carolina’s state parks, Grandfather Mountain offers hiking trails, pictur-

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With a thriving arts district, downtown shopping and scenery galore, West Jefferson makes its mark on the High Country as a destination for locals, as well as visitors.

The town was built around the Virginia-Carolina Railroad depot during the early 1900s. According to the town’s history, the first ownership of the valley now known as West Jefferson began in 1779 when N.C. Gov. Richard Caswell granted 320 acres to Col. Ben Cleveland, who battled the British at King’s Mountain.

More than a century later, the West Jefferson Land Company surveyed the new town and fixed its limits as a square one-half mile north, south, east and west of the Virginia-Carolina Depot. The town was chartered in 1915.

The town’s initial growth came through the railroad, but early development was also spurred by the opening of the First National Bank of West Jefferson in 1915.

The bank’s branch office, built in 1962, is now home to West Jefferson Town Hall.

The town continues to thrive today and has a little something for everyone.

Those visiting the town can browse one of the many art galleries, gift shops and retail stores.

West Jefferson is home to many varieties of artwork, from paintings and

photographs to sculptures and quilted items. More information about the area’s art district can be found at the Ashe Arts Center, located at 303 School Ave., just off of East Main Street.

The center is home to the Ashe County Arts Council, which sponsors a variety of community programming and exhibits throughout the year.

A popular spot in the town is the Ashe County Cheese Plant, where visitors can see cheese being made. They can then go across the street to the Ashe County Cheese Store to purchase a variety of cheeses, from cheddar to pepper jack and all types in between, including the celebrated cheese curds (aka “squeaky cheese”). Old-fashioned snacks and candies and locally made wines can also be purchased at the store. The cheese plant is open year round and located at 106 E. Main St. in West Jefferson.

Local eateries and cafes offer all sorts of tasty treats, coffee, spirits and more, from one end of the town to the other.

For more information, visit www. visitwestjefferson.org.

JEFFERSON A rich history, dating from 1799, lies in the picturesque town of Jefferson.

Jefferson was founded prior to its counterpart, West Jefferson, and stood at the base of Mount Jefferson. The town was first known as Jeffersonton, but then became Jefferson — one of the first towns in the nation to bear the name of U.S. founding father Thomas Jefferson.

The town is the county seat of Ashe and is home to the courthouse, as well as

Located in the northwestern corner of Ashe County, Creston lies on the border of Tennessee.

The curvy winding roads can offer travelers some of the most beautiful scenic byways in the area. The Riverview Community Center is located off of N.C. 88 West in Creston and is home to festivals and other events all year long.

Worth’s Chapel at Creston United Methodist Church is located in Creston and was listed as a National Historic Building in 2005. The chapel was built circa 1902. The interior of the chapel is finished, in part, with American chestnut wood, harvested before the blight reached the northwestern mountains of North Carolina.

GLENDALE SPRINGS Home of the breath-taking and aweaspiring fresco painting by Ben Long at Holy Trinity Episcopalian Church, Glendale Springs has become revered for its budding arts scene. For more information, visit www.ashechamber.com.

LANSING Whether you’re looking for a town reminiscent of the past or one that offers whispers of tomorrow, the small, friendly town of Lansing beckons to travelers from near and far to visit and relax while browsing its shops, trying some home cooking and taking in the mountain scenery.

Lansing, in the northwestern section of Ashe County, is 20 minutes from Jefferson and West Jefferson and only 45 minutes from Boone. Travelers can arrive there in less than an hour from Abingdon, Va., or Mountain City, Tenn.

The town has one red light, and several businesses line the street. Lansing’s first SEE OUR TOWNS, PAGE 16

PAGE 16

WINTER TIMES

OUR TOWNS FROM PAGE 15 post office was established in 1882 and served a rural community, made up of a village and outlying farms until the railroad made its appearance. The economy and population begin to take off by 1914, as the Norfolk and Western Railroad, better known as the Virginia Creeper, came to town.

A big commodity for area residents was iron ore mined from the mountains. The railroad served as an avenue to transport the ore to markets in Richmond, Va., and Pittsburgh, Pa. During the course of its history, Lansing had a cheese plant, clothing store, coffin shop, doctor’s office, bank and a restaurant. The cheese plant allowed area farmers to bring their goods to sale instead of having to travel into West Jefferson. The town was chartered and incorporated in 1928.

Lansing faced two devastating fires in the 1930s and ’40s and faced Hurricane Hugo later that century. Despite these setbacks, Lansing continued to flourish and expand.

The Works Progress Administration built the Lansing High School in 1941,

Mt. Jefferson looms over the communities of Jefferson and West Jefferson in Ashe County.

FILE PHOTO

using local granite stone. The school still stands today.

The scenic Virginia Creeper biking trail is available to visitors, as is the town’s park.

For more information about Lansing, visit www.explorelansingnc.com.

Wilkes County Wilkes County was founded in 1777, effective Feb. 12, 1778, and its history dates from pre-Revolutionary War times. It was named in honor of John Wilkes, who

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was a member of the British Parliament and, at one time, lord mayor of London.

The first man to settle in Wilkes County was Christopher Gist, who settled in the Yadkin Valley in 1750. Daniel Boone also made his home in Wilkes for many years.

Col. Benjamin Cleveland and other Revolutionary War heroes also lived in Wilkes. It was the “mountain men” of Wilkes who arrived at the Battle of Kings Mountain and, in doing so, helped turn the tide of the Revolutionary War, according to the Wilkes County Historical Association.

Also of historical note, Wilkes was once

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known as the “Moonshine Capital of the World” and was a leading producer of illegal homemade liquor. The county also claims to be the birthplace of NASCAR, as many would make a living delivering, or running, moonshine, thus producing some racing legends.

One such driver of note is Junior Johnson, and Benny Parsons also had his start in Wilkes before gaining notoriety on the circuit.

The county is also the site of the North Wilkesboro Speedway, built in 1946. It was among the first tracks recognized

by NASCAR during its inaugural year in 1949. The short track closed in 1996, but briefly reopened for special events.

Today, Wilkes draws those who love the outdoors, with such sites as the W. Kerr Scott Dam and Reservoir, and those who love music, with such festivals as the world-renowned MerleFest held on the campus of Wilkes Community College each April. MerleFest has been the stage for artists, including Willie Nelson, Dolly Parton, The Avett Brothers and the founder of the festival, the late Doc Watson.

Today, Wilkes has a projected population of 69,340, according to the U.S. Census. Its county seat is Wilkesboro, and its largest town is North Wilkesboro.

WINTER TIMES

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PAGE 17

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WINTER ’14-’15 CALENDAR Nov 28

Christmas in the Park & Lighting of the Town (828) 295-5222

Nov 28-30

Chetola Horse & Carriage Rides, Santa, Cookie Decorating, Buffet (828) 295-5535

thru Jan 25

Chetola’s Festival of Lights (828) 295-5500

Nov 29

Bolick Pottery Kiln Opening (828) 295-5099

Nov 29

Blowing Rock Christmas Parade, 2pm (828) 295-5222

Nov 29

Mountain Home Music: A Celtic Christmas (828) 964-3392

Nov 29

Holiday Open House • Blowing Rock Art & History Museum

Nov

29

thru Dec 24

Dec 6

It's A Wonderful Life Staged Radio Drama • Blowing Rock School Auditorium, 7pm (828) 414-1844 Choose & Cut Christmas Tree Season (828) 262-5826 Mountain Home Music: An Appalachian Christmas (828) 964-3392

Dec 19-21

Christmas in the High Country Variety Show • Blowing Rock School Auditorium (828) 414-1844

31

New Year's Eve Extravaganza Appalachian Ski Mountain (828) 295-7828

Dec

Jan

22-25

Winterfest (828) 295-7851

4

Blowing Rock Trout Derby (828) 295-5222

April

April 16-19

Blue Ridge Wine & Food Festival (828) 295-7851

enjoy all it

has to offer...

WINTER TIMES

PAGE 18

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Appalachian Ski Mountain’s open terrain areas offer a change of pace while skiing or snowboarding.

SKIING IN GOD’S COUNTRY

BY CAROLINE HARRIS

W

elcome to the land of Southern skiing.

If you’re from out of town, chances are you picked up this magazine while here in the High Country to ski.

With three top-notch ski resorts, each pushing 50 years-worth of history, skiers of all skill levels flock to this area each winter, whether it be for the weekend or for the season.

In sheer defiance of being in the South, where it seems no skiing should be possible, peaks stretch up to some of the highest elevations on the East Coast.

Thanks to this nearness to heaven here in “God’s Country,” a miniature climate that’s more like Canada than Carolina allows for optimum skiing conditions.

Having a good time is what skiing is all about, whether it be racing down a black diamond run or playing on the bunny slopes. If you’re prepared and informed before you go, nothing stands between you and a day of snowsport fun.

If this is your fledgling ski trip, not to worry. Beech Mountain Resort, Appalachian Ski Mountain and Sugar Mountain

From atop Sugar Mountain Resort’s ski slopes, skiers can enjoy postcardquality vistas and downhill thrills.

PHOTOS SUBMITTED

Resort all offer ski instruction. You will be shredding on the slopes in no time.

Before heading out into the wide white yonder, make sure you’ve made a list and checked it twice. Hats, scarves, goggles, gloves, a change of clothes and a good pair of socks are just a few of the essentials.

The High Country is in the top 5 percent in the nation in terms of wind production, meaning it may feel more than a bit brisk out even when you’re not speeding down a mountain on skis. As a result, wearing multiple layers of clothing is essential. Conversely, as you ski, you will warm up from the physical exertion and may want to shed a layer or two.

While not a legal requirement, consider wearing a helmet. Skiing is fun, but like any sport, there is some level of risk.

Lower the possibility of injury, or even tragedy, by wearing a helmet. In addition to being a life-saving accessory, it is also a warm one.

For physical and mental preparedness, stay hydrated. When you are cold, it can be easy to forget that you are sweating when you ski. Under all those layers you are losing precious hydration. Stay physically strong and mentally sharp by drinking plenty of fluids and noshing on

a snack or two throughout the day.

It’s also smart to check slope and weather conditions before embarking on your ski adventure. The official website of the North Carolina Ski Areas Association is www.goskinc.com, which contains all the current information for all area ski slopes, including snow reports, which are updated in live time.

Visit one or all of these resorts in our area.

APPALACHIAN SKI MOUNTAIN 940 Ski Mountain Road, Blowing Rock (828) 295-7828 www.appskimtn.com

BEECH MOUNTAIN RESORT 1007 Beech Mountain Parkway, Beech Mountain (828) 387-2011 www.beechmountainresort.com

SUGAR MOUNTAIN RESORT 1009 Sugar Mountain Drive, Sugar Mountain (828) 898-4521 www.skisugar.com

WINTER TIMES

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PAGE 19

An alternative to trudging knee-deep down a snowy trail, snowshoeing lets winter explorers travel on the surface of the snow, offering a relaxing, fun and familyfriendly activity.

PHOTO SUBMITTED

SNOWSHOEING finds a foothold in the High Country

BY JESSE CAMPBELL

T

here is more than one way to carve and slash a new path of fresh snow this winter.

While snowboarders and skiers continue to populate popular resorts and hillsides region wide, snowshoeing is, too, finding a welcoming audience.

According to Snowshoe’s Magazine’s “Guide to Snowshoeing,” there is no better way to begin snowshoeing other than “just going and doing it.”

While snowshoeing might seem like an alternative-minded sport, the on-slope action has been around for thousands of years.

What is considered by some publications as the fastest growing winter sport in the nation, snowshoeing can be enjoyed as a relaxing trek through the woods or more competitive outdoorsmen who prefer the thrill of a race.

Lucy Binning, a sales associate at Farmer’s Ski Shop, located at 140 S. Depot St. in Boone, said snowshoeing is catching on in the High Country.

“Last year was the first year that we

sold snowshoes here,” Binning said. “We almost sold out. People are definitely wanting to enjoy (this activity) outside.”

Snowshoeing hotspots in Watauga County include trails on the Blue Ridge Parkway, the trails at Moses Cone Manor in Blowing Rock and almost any wooded area with trails, Binning said.

Currently, Farmer’s Ski Shop sells Coleman and Tubbs snowshoes, which range in price from $40 to $50 a set for a limited time sale.

“These snowshoes are specifically tailored for the High Country,” Binning said. “They are lightweight and fit any shoe. They strap down and are adjustable to any size.”

You can reach the ski shop by calling (828) 264-4565.

The High Country Ski Shop, located at 3085 Linville Falls Highway in Newland, carries the Faber brand snowshoe that currently runs around $180.

“It’s an aluminum frame that can fit any shoe,” manager Wayne Clark said.

SEE SNOWSHOEING, PAGE 20

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WINTER TIMES

PAGE 20

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SNOWBOARDING in the High Country

BY ERIKA GIOVANETTI

S

nowboarding season started early this year with the High Country’s first snow on Halloween.

Visitors and locals alike are granted bounteous opportunities to learn and practice snowboarding, one of the area’s most popular winter sports.

APPALACHIAN SKI MOUNTAIN Now in its 53rd season, Appalachian Ski Mountain offers 12 slopes for boarders of all experience levels to enjoy. Three runs are considered easiest, six more difficult and three more most difficult.

App Ski Mountain’s longest slope, Orchard Run, presents a half-mile of twists and turns, falling into the “more difficult” classification. Appaltizer is a great place for beginners to learn, while Hard Core is a challenge for even experienced snowboarders.

Burton’s Learn to Ride Center at App Ski offers concentrated learning with a four-to-one student-toinstructor ratio. The French-Swiss Ski College has been teaching skiers and snowboarders how to ride for decades.

Three terrain parks dare seasoned snowboarders with rails and jumps.

Once the season is under way, slopes are open all day from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m., with special discounted lift tickets for nighttime riders.

Appalachian Ski Mountain is located at 940 Ski Mountain Road in Blowing Rock. For more information, call (828) 295-7828, or visit www.appskimtn.com.

BEECH MOUNTAIN RESORT Boasting 13 trails, two freestyle terrain parks and the fastest ski lifts in the Southeast, Beech Mountain Resort is another great option for snowboarders in the High

A group of snowboarders rides the lift up Beech Mountain Resort.

PHOTO SUBMITTED

Country.

At 5,506 feet, Beech Mountain is the highest place to snowboard in the area. At the top of the mountain is “5506’,” a skybar offering light fare. Beech Mountain Resort also has its own brewery, offering freshbrewed ales year-round.

Like Appalachian Ski Mountain, Beech Mountain Resort offers instruction through Burton’s Learn to Ride program. Beech Mountain’s own snowboard instructors also offer group and private lessons.

The fun at Beech Mountain Resort doesn’t stop at the arrival of summer. The chair lift is available for use in the warmer season for mountain bikers, disc golfers and other visitors.

Beech Mountain Resort is open at 9 a.m. and closes at 9 p.m. on weekdays and 10 p.m. on weekends and holidays. Beech Mountain Resort is located at 1007 Beech Mountain Parkway in Beech Mountain. For more information, call (828) 387-2011, or visit www. beechmountainresort.com.

SUGAR MOUNTAIN RESORT Sugar Mountain’s slopes opened

early this season on Nov. 2 to accommodate snowboarders eager to shred some powder following the year’s first snowfall.

Reaching heights of 5,300 feet at the summit, Sugar Mountain is the only resort in the area with a double-black diamond (expertlevel) run, Whoopdedoo. Beginners need not worry, however, as 86 percent of the trails are considered beginner or intermediate.

With seven lifts to service 21 trails, including a terrain park, Sugar Mountain Resort is the largest ski park in the area. The longest trail is one and a half miles long.

Sugar Mountain Resort added a new slope this year, Gunther’s Way, which is classified as a “more difficult” slope.

Group and private lessons are available to those eager to learn or refine their snowboarding skills.

Sugar Mountain Resort is open at 9 a.m. and offers night boarding on 15 of its trails. Sugar Mountain Resort is located at 1009 Sugar Mountain Drive in Sugar Mountain. For more information, call (828) 898-4521, or visit www. skisugar.com.

Snowshoe sessions at Sugar Mountain Resort can be tailored to fit the needs and age of a group. Adult tours are for snowshoers age 12 or older, while tours for children are designed for kids ages 8 to 11.

PHOTO COURTESY OF KIM JOCHL

SNOWSHOEING FROM PAGE 19 For more information, call High Country Ski Shop at (828) 733-2008.

Snowshoers should prepare for any trek outside by consuming plenty of water and easily digestible meals with whole foods. They should also dress warmly and in layers to avoid hypothermia and frostbite, according to Snowshoe Magazie.

Knowing one’s personal physical limits, keeping track of approaching weather and carrying a map and compass are also recommended for successful trips snowshoeing.

Those seeking an ideal location to test out their new kicks can find just that at Sugar Mountain Resort, which offers snowshoe rentals and tours every Monday, Wednesday and Friday at 3 p.m. and Saturday at 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. Additional tours can be given on demand for groups of four to 15 snowshoers. Participants should sign up at least 15 minutes prior to the tour time at the resort’s ski/snowboard school building.

For more on snowshoeing at Sugar, call (800) SUGAR-MT, or visit www.skisugar.com/snowshoeing/.

WINTER TIMES

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PAGE 21

SNOW TUBING IN THE HIGH COUNTRY Classic Fun for the Whole Family

BY ERIKA GIOVANETTI

S

now tubing is a great winter sport alternative for those who don’t want to put in the training time to learn how to snowboard or ski.

All of the snow tubing venues in the High Country offer conveyor-belt style lifts, lights for nighttime tubing and groomed lanes for a safe, fun snow tubing experience.

At all venues, children must be accompanied by an adult, and waivers must be filled out by parents. Rules vary from place to place, so make sure to visit each venue’s website before embarking on your snowtubing trip.

JONAS RIDGE SNOW TUBING Avery County residents have quick access to Jonas Ridge Snow Tubing in Newland. With six snow tube lanes rang-

ing from gradual and slower to steeper and faster, Jonas Ridge has a run for even the most timid of tubers.

To truly capture the thrill of snow tubing, Jonas Ridge has added photographers to the staff to take family pictures and action shots that are available as souvenirs.

When finished tubing, tubers can relax at the lodge, while warming up by the old-fashioned fireplace. The lodge offers snacks and beverages, including cider, coffee and hot chocolate.

Jonas Ridge offers affordable tubing, with rates being $25 per person per twohour session, while offering discounts for larger groups. Jonas Ridge operates Friday through Monday, December through March, during its normal hours, with different hours during the holidays.

SEE SNOWTUBING, PAGE 25

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WINTER TIMES

PAGE 22

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WINTER TIMES

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WINTER TIMES

PAGE 24

2014-15

SUGAR MOUNTAIN RESORT New major slope, ‘Gunther’s Way,’ debuts for 2014-15 season

BY JUSTIN GRIMES

W

hether it’s ice skating under the stars, taking direction from Olympic skiers, hanging out with Sugar Bear and Santa on the slopes, racing in a league, matching your skills in NASTAR, snow-tubing down a roller-coaster lane or snowshoeing through the mountain’s extensive backcountry, Sugar Mountain Resort strives to sweeten the experience of winter sports aficionados and beginners alike season-after-season.

Boasting one of the longest ski seasons in North America, Sugar Mountain makes big news this year with a major expansion, a new slope named Gunther’s Way. The talk of social media ski sites across the Southeast, the new slope boldly captures patron’s attention as they enter the village of Sugar Mountain; it’s the very large slope running down the right side of the resort.

Sugar is the Southeast’s largest ski resort, featuring the longest vertical drop of 1,200 feet. It has 21 slopes — 15 that are lit for night skiing — and its terrain classification is 34 percent easy, 52 percent intermediate and 14 percent most difficult. The longest slope runs 1.5 miles.

The new slope is situated on nine acres

A view of Sugar Mountain’s new slope, Gunther’s Way; the very large slope running down most of the mountain in the far right of photo.

PHOTO BY JUSTIN GRIMES

and is 150-feet wide and 2,900-feet long.

An impressive 700-foot vertical drop encompasses a variety of undulating, changing and challenging terrain. Ten new SMI snowmaking machines line Gunther’s Way ensuring quality snow coverage.

Mountain Hours

WINTER LIFT AND SLOPE SESSION TIMES •

• • • • • • Len Bauer, longtime director of Sugar Mountain Resort’s Ski and Snowboard School, displays brand new children’s skis and snowboards for this season.

Day Session: 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Half-Day Session: 12:30 to 4:30 p.m.

Twilight Session: 12:30 to 10 p.m. (closed 4:30 to 6 p.m.)

Night Session: 6 to 10 p.m.

Christmas Eve: 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Christmas Day: Noon to 10 p.m.

Tubing: 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. (session times may vary) Ice Skating: 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. (session times may vary)

TICKET HOURS Full Day tickets go on sale at 8 a.m. and may also be purchased the night

“If you put in a brand new slope and don’t expand the snowmaking system, you really haven’t made much of an improvement,” said Sugar Mountain Resort’s owner and president, Gunther Jochl. As a result, the pump house has been redesigned and rebuilt to accom-

before from 8 to 9 p.m. in the Rental Department. Twilight and Half Day tickets available at noon; Night tickets available at 5 p.m.

modate an additional 1,000-gallon-perminute vertical water pump.

“We decided to build the slope two years ago,” Jochl said. “Laying the foundation of our master plan; we are not standing still. This is a huge step, an investment of more than $1 million; this will take us to the next phase.”

One triple chairlift, four double chairlifts — including the two longest in North Carolina — and two surface lifts make up Sugar’s lift network.

“Gunther’s Way significantly increases Sugar’s capacity for skiers and snowboarders. We now have more than 125 skiable acres,” said Kim Jochl, vicepresident and director of marketing and merchandising for the resort. “I’ve seen many visitors hiking the slope at all times of day this summer and fall; plus inquiries and press has been wide-spread, way beyond North Carolina.”

Sugar is known for its grooming and snowmaking. Peaking at 5,300 feet above sea level, 36 degrees latitude and 81 degrees longitude, the resort’s chances of receiving natural snow are also good; with season snowfall reaching as high as 130 inches.

As weather varies throughout the season, the many upgrades Sugar has made SEE SUGAR, PAGE 25

may be closed for grooming and maintenance, please check the current conditions for the latest information.

ICE SKATING GROUP SALES TICKET HOURS Full Day tickets go on sale at 8 a.m.

(7:30 a.m. on weekends and holiday) and may also be purchased the night before from 7 to 7:30 p.m. Twilight and Half Day tickets available at noon; Night tickets available at 5 p.m.

TUBING When conditions permit, the tubing run will operate on the following schedule: 10 a.m., noon, 2 p.m., 4 p.m., 6 p.m. and 8 p.m. Each session is one hour and 45 minutes. Some sessions

The Sugar Mountain Resort Ice Skating Rink generally operates from early November through March, weather permitting. Skate sessions are one and a half hours long and are offered daily at 10 a.m., noon, 2 p.m., 4 p.m., 6 p.m. and 8 p.m.

Some sessions may be closed for maintenance, please check the Current Conditions page for the latest information.

OFFICE HOURS Ski season: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

WINTER TIMES

2014-15

SUGAR FROM PAGE 24

Sugar Mountain’s newest children’s skis are ready to hit the slopes.

SNOWTUBING FROM PAGE 21 Jonas Ridge is located at 9472 N.C. 181 in Newland. For more information, call (828) 733-4155, or visit www.jonasridgesnowtube.com.

45 minute session on weekdays and $31 per session on weekends and holidays.

The cost of zipline tickets depends on the tour and time of year.

Hawksnest is located at 2058 Skyland Drive in Seven Devils. For more information, call (828) 963-6561, or visit www. hawksnesttubing.com.

SUGAR MOUNTAIN HAWKSNEST Boasting the largest snow tubing park on the East Coast, Hawksnest is located in the snowy mountain oasis of Seven Devils. Tubers surely won’t have to ride the same run twice with 20 lanes to choose from, ranging in length from 400 to 1,000 feet.

Operating seven days a week during the winter season, Hawksnest offers an exciting weekday getaway. The tubing slopes operate on extended hours on Friday and Saturday nights as well as on holidays.

Hawksnest also hosts the longest zipline on the East Coast, featuring 20 cables, which also operates during the winter.

Snowtubing costs $25 per 1 hour and

Known around the region for its skiing and snowboarding runs, Sugar Mountain also offers tubing for those who want a different winter sport experience.

The tubing lanes, which are located on the Sugar Mountain Golf Course, run up to 700 feet long. Under normal operating hours, sessions run from 10 a.m. till 10 p.m.

Tickets are available at the tubing run itself, rather than the lodge where ski lift tickets are sold. Weekday rates are $25 per one hour and 45 minute session and $30 per weekend and holiday session.

Sugar Mountain Resort is located at 1009 Sugar Mountain Drive in Sugar Mountain. For more information, call (828) 898-4521, or visit www.skisugar. com/tubing.

over the years, including the addition of higher energy snowmaking machines, provide better and more consistent slope conditions.

Sugar has terrain for all abilities. For those who just want to cruise the open slopes, try the Big Red slope, which has been renamed Oma’s Meadow.

“Oma” is often a term of endearment and means grandmother in Germanspeaking countries. The wide and gentle cruiser services guests staying at Sugar Ski & Country Club, NASTAR, High Country Junior Race Series competitions and the local’s Monday Night Adult Race League are all held on Oma’s Meadow. Experts can challenge Tom Terrific, Boulder Dash and Whoopdedoo.

Beginners should appreciate that Sugar has, in addition to its Ski School Play Yard and Magic Carpet training areas, one of the ski industry’s longest and gentle slopes, Easy Street. The green slope is serviced by its own chair lift and is protected from the advanced and intermediate slope traffic providing an un-intimidating learning environ-

PAGE 25

ment for beginning skiers and snowboarders or those wishing to take it easy, warm up and work on drills.

Ice skaters, including beginners, can enjoy Sugar’s 10,000-square-foot refrigerated outdoor ice skating rink.

For those who enjoy the easy-to-do and thrilling snow-tubing rides, the resort’s 700-foot-long Tubing Park is fully equipped with its own snowmaking machines.

When the weather makes driving difficult but the snow conditions great, Sugar is one of the easiest ski areas to reach in the Southeast, having its base lodge and parking on the same level as the main highway. The lodge has everything a snowsports patron needs under one roof: ticket sales, equipment rentals, cafeterias, The Last Run Lounge, the sports shop, group sales, locker rooms and it wouldn’t be Sugar without the Candy Shop.

With more social events and racing than you can shake a ski at, top-notch snowmaking, the latest in rental equipment and a fleet of snow-grooming machines, customers may expect a complete winter experience at Sugar Mountain Resort. For more information, call (800) SUGAR-MT, or visit www.skisugar.com.

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2014-15

BEECH MOUNTAIN RESORT

BY CAROLINE HARRIS

T

he High Country may be southern in latitude, but in elevation it hosts the highest peak in the eastern United States. Beech Mountain Resort, eastern North America’s highest ski resort, sits atop 5,506-foot Beech Mountain and offers a unique skiing experience, with slopes that offer something for the casual skier to the professional.

Established in 1967, building a ski resort in the South was an ambitious undertaking. That dream of Southern skiing continues today, with 95 skiable acres at a resort that has continually improved on all it has to offer.

With one of the most sophisticated snowmaking systems on the market, Beech takes part in on-going efforts to expand and upgrade its snowmaking capabilities.

SEE BEECH, PAGE 31

Sitting atop 5,506-foot Beech Mountain, Beech Mountain Resort provides a unique skiing experience, with slopes that offer something for the casual skier to the professional.

PHOTO SUBMITTED

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WINTER TIMES

2014-15

People of all ages can enjoy the snow tubing lanes at Hawksnest Resort in Seven Devils.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF HAWKSNEST RESORT

HAWKSNEST

Snow Tubing a fun-filled thrill ride

BY CAROLINE HARRIS

W

hen it comes to winter sports, if gracefully making your way down a snowy slope on skis just isn’t your speed, the High Country offers two fun and easy alternatives, snow tubing and ziplining.

Snow tubing and ziplining are noskills-required, adrenaline-packed activities. If you are looking for a great group or family activity, check out Hawksnest Snow Tubing.

Located atop the town of Seven Devils, Hawksnest is the largest local snow tubing park on the East Coast.

The 20-lane tubing park offers lanes from 400-feet to 1,000-feet long. Two conveyer lifts take riders back to the top.

Even when Mother Nature doesn’t provide, the resort makes its own snow and provides lighting on all lanes.

Children must be at least 3 years old to snow tube at Hawksnest and anyone younger than 18 must have a parent or guardian fill out the liability form. Each session lasts approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes.

For the 2014-15 season, a single snow-tubing session costs $25 Monday through Thursday, or $32 for two

sessions. The sessions begin at 10 a.m., noon, 2 p.m. and 4 p.m.

The rates remain the same on Friday, but an additional session is also offered at 6 p.m.

On Saturdays and near holidays, snow tubing is $31 for one session and is offered at 10 a.m., noon, 2 p.m., 4 p.m. and 6 p.m. Holidays are considered to be Dec. 23 through Jan. 4, 2015.

On Sunday, sessions are $31 and start at 10 a.m., noon and 2 p.m.

If you love snow tubing, try your hand at winter ziplining. Hawksnest now features the longest zipline tour on the East Coast, featuring 20 cables.

“Zippers” must be ages 5 and older. Enjoy speeding through treetops and over valleys for incredible views, and sometimes catch a glimpse of local wildlife from above.

The “Hawk Tour” features 11 cables with two swinging bridges and is $75 per person. This tour is 1.5 miles of cable riding with two cables more than 1,500 feet and heights more than 150 feet. Travel through the trees, over lakes and creeks with speeds up to 35 mph. Children must be at least 5 years old to ride. Riders canSEE HAWKSNEST, PAGE 31

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2014-15

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2014-15

APPALACHIAN SKI MOUNTAIN

BY CAROLINE HARRIS

O

f the many slopes in the High Country, Appalachian Ski Mountain is one that’s definitely worth a try this season.

With ideal snowmaking capabilities and special event weekends, this is one ski park that can keep you coming back week after week this winter.

Now in its 53rd season, the park features 12 slopes with difficulty ranging from easy to challenging. There are also three terrain park areas with more than 70 features that change weekly. Three designated areas on the slopes feature jumps, boxes and rails to offer an added variety and bigger challenge.

Equipment and clothing rentals, as well as ski instruction for all ages and levels, is available on-site.

Appalachian Ski Mountain has a lift capacity of more than 9,200 patrons per hour, accommodating even the largest of crowds on the slopes.

The alpine-style lodge overlooks the slopes and offers amenities, such as a 200-foot observation deck, fireplace, ski shop, game room, gift shop, WiFi and a restaurant that serves breakfast, lunch and dinner.

In addition to regular hours of 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. seven days a week, Appalachian Ski Mountain is known for its Midnight Blast, when late-night skiing lasts until midnight. Midnight Blast’s expanded days are every Friday and Saturday from Jan. 3 through March 1, Nov. 29 and 30, Dec. 26 through 30, and Sundays, Jan. 20 and Feb. 16. New Year’s Day and President’s Day will feature a fireworks display.

If you need a change of pace from skiing, take advantage of the park’s skating rink, the only Zamboni-maintained rink in the region.

Special event weekends include Dec. 6 and 7, the park’s anniversary weekend.

Enjoy ticket prices from 1962: $5 for the 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. day session. Special event weekends also include brandsponsored events, skiing with Santa on Christmas Eve, ice-skating on Christmas Day and a New Year’s Eve Extravaganza with fireworks and more.

On Friday, Nov. 21, opening day, the

Now in its 53rd season, Appalachian Ski Mountain features 12 slopes with difficulty ranging from easy to challenging.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF APPALACHIAN SKI MOUNTAIN

first 100 guests to the ticket cashier window will receive a free ski ticket. The season will run through March 29, weather permitting.

The flex ticket allows you to begin an eight-hour session as early or as late as you would like. Flex tickets range in price from $29 to $59 for adults, depending on the day of the week or season. Appalachian Ski Mountain also offers multi-day ski ticket packages, school snow day rates and a special military discount.

Regular ticket prices range from $19 to $67 for adults, $13 to $47 for juniors and seniors and $19 to $67 for students during the regular season.

Appalachian Ski Mountain is located at 940 Ski Mountain Road in Blowing Rock. For more information, call (828) 295-7828, or visit www.appskimtn.com.

App Ski Mountain hosts three terrain park areas with more than 70 features that change weekly.

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2014-15

PAGE 31

In addition to the wide range of tubing possibilities, Hawksnest offers the largest ziplining facility on the East Coast.

HAWKSNEST

Newcomers need not worry, as Beech Mountain Resort also offers ski instruction.

FILE PHOTO

FROM PAGE 27 not be more than 250 pounds or have a waist larger than 40 inches.

The “Eagle Tour” features nine cables, a swing bridge and is $85 per person.

This tour has almost three miles of cable riding. Two cables ride more than 2,000 feet, three more than 1,200 feet and with heights more than 200 feet. Children must be at least 8 years old. Riders cannot be more than 220 pounds or less than 80 lbs or have a waist larger than 40 inches.

Tours start at 10 a.m., noon, 2 p.m., and 4 p.m. Early morning tours are available on request and availability.

Reservations are required. Tours take about one and a half to two hours to complete.

For more information, visit Hawksnest at 2058 Skyland Drive in Seven Devils, click to www.hawksnesttubing. com, or call (828) 963-6561.

BEECH FROM PAGE 26 Beech Mountain Resort’s 95 skiable acres feature a vertical rise of more than 800 feet and a capacity of 9,300 skiers per hour.

The resort also offers two terrain parks, a 7,000-square-foot outdoor ice-skating rink, four restaurants, three sport shops, clothing and ski rentals.

Skiers and snowboarders enjoy 15 total trails serviced by seven lifts.

Skiers and snowboarders can enjoy the slopes on a continuous basis from daytime to nighttime without session breaks. Sunday through Thursday, the resort’s operating hours will be 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. with no session break. Fridays, Saturdays and holidays, the resort will operate from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. with no session break.

The resort’s new Burton Learn to Ride

Center features half-day and full-day snowboarding lessons for kids ages four to 12 in a beginner-friendly learning environment.

A Rossignol Experience Center features Rossignol skis that are specially engineered to make learning the basics of skiing easier. Newly offered this season, free first-time ski lessons are available Monday through Thursday with equipment rental.

At the heart of the resort is Beech Tree Village, featuring restaurants, such as View Haus Cafeteria, Beech Tree Bar and Grill, the Beech Mountain Brewery and Beech Mountain Bakery. Retail shops include Ski Beech Sports, Roots Rideshop, Beech Mountain Gifts and Clothing Rentals and a game room, Munchies. The 5506, a skybar at the top of the mountain, offers food and beverages in a cozy, glass roundhouse, where skiers can relax in comfort while taking

in the panoramic view of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

Adult rates for the 2014-15 season are $27 for a half-day and $37 for a full-day or twilight session Monday through Friday, with night sessions offered at $25 on weekdays. For weekends and holidays, adult rates are $50 ($35 for juniors/seniors) for a half-day and $65 ($45 for juniors/seniors) for full-day or twilight session. Night sessions for Friday and Saturday nights and holidays cost $32 for adults and $25 for juniors (ages 5 to 12) and seniors (ages 65 to 69). Adults age 70 and older and kids age 4 and younger ski free, with a ticketed adult.

Beech Mountain Resort is located at 1007 Beech Mountain Parkway in Beech Mountain.

For more information, visit www. beechmountainresort.com or call (828) 387-2011.

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2014-15

PREPPING FOR THE POWDER Finding the newest and best equipment for area slopes

BY JAMIE SHELL

A

mong winter hobbies, high on the list is the desire to find the best bases and snowiest local slopes to ski, snowboard or for tubing.

One of the first and most important decisions a winter sports enthusiast must consider is where to find the best and latest in gear, or the hot spots to rent quality equipment to enjoy the time on the powder.

Fortunately, the High Country’s many ski shops and outdoor adventure suppliers are able to meet most every need of skiers, snowboarders, snowshoers and those that just love to be outdoors during the coldest months of the year.

With the sometimes bitter cold and blustery weather conditions that snowsports practitioners face each winter, equipment manufacturers often adapt from year to year, releasing cutting edge performance and safety equipment.

When it comes to skis, snowboards, apparel and all things in between, the High Country has you covered.

PHOTOS SUBMITTED

To keep the whole family warm and safe and to make sure you have the gear to keep up with the crowds, it is important to know where to go to get outfitted for the 2014-15 winter season.

From winter-wear basics like coats and gloves to the high-performance equipment for competition skiing and

Banner Elk

snowboarding, a number of local shops can outfit thrill-seekers in whatever they need to keep their adventures exciting, fun and safe.

Whether heading from Boone to Blowing Rock to Banner Elk, the shops listed are easy to find in the High Country’s most sought-after locales for winter

Boone

ALPINE SKI CENTER

1ST TRACKS

3150 Tynecastle Highway Banner Elk, N.C. 28604 (828) 898-9701 www.alpineskicenter.com

1380 N.C. 105 Boone, N.C. 28607 (828) 264-4565 www.1sttracks.com

EDGE OF THE WORLD

FARMER’S SKI SHOP

394 Shawneehaw Ave. Banner Elk, N.C. 28604 (828) 898-9550 www.edgeoworld.com

140 S. Depot St. Boone, N.C. (828) 264-4565 On Facebook and Google+

EXTREME SNOWBOARD AND SKIS 3071 Tynecastle Highway Banner Elk, N.C. 28604 (828) 898-3665 On Facebook

HIGHLAND HOUSE SKI RENTALS 4516 Tynecastle Highway Banner Elk, N.C. 28604 (828) 898-9581 www.highlandhouseskishop.com

Beech Mountain

FOOTSLOGGERS 139 St. Depot St. Boone, N.C. (828) 262-5111 www.footsloggers.com

SNOW TOYS

ALPINE SKI CENTER

MAST GENERAL STORE

1757 Tynecastle Highway Banner Elk, N.C. 28604 (828) 898-4199 www.snowtoysnc.com

C-3 Beech Towers, Beech Mountain Parkway Beech Mountain, N.C. 28604 (828) 387-9291 www.alpineskicenter.com

630 W. King St. Boone, N.C. (828) 262-0000 www.mastgeneralstore.com

sports.

If new equipment is perhaps too tight on the individual or family budget, fun can still be had, as many of these retailers also provide high-end equipment rentals, making them essential stops on any adventure-seeker’s way to the slopes, trails or tubing lanes.

Snowsports enthusiasts aren’t the only people that need equipment to stay warm. Clothing, coats, gloves, hats and other items sold at local shops do not just function well on the slopes, but also look good for everyday winter living.

Whatever the need may be, the shops listed below have the solution when it comes to winter wear and gear. To find the shop nearest to you, check the address listed with location. Not sure what you are looking for? Click to each shop’s website to learn more about what they offer. Have a specific need or question?

Call any of these shops using the phone numbers listed below.

REGEAR OUTDOORS CO. 967 Rivers St., Boone (828) 386-6100 www.regearnc.com

RECESS RIDE SHOE 1158 N.C. 105 Boone, N.C. 28607 (828) 355-9013 www.recessrideshop.com

SAGESPORT Boone Mall, 1180 Blowing Rock Road Boone, N.C. 28607 (828) 262-1112 www.sagesport.com

Blowing Rock FOOTSLOGGERS 921 Main St. Blowing Rock, N.C. 28605 (828) 295-4453 www.footsloggers.com

WINTER TIMES

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Bacon, Egg & Cheese Biscuit

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A Coffee Shop, Bakery, Bagelry and Creamery (828) 897-1798 Open Mon-Sat 9am - 2pm Reserve Our Dining Room for Your Special Events

PAGE 33

Sugar Mountain

Village of

BOOK FOR WINTER!

Dennis Lacey Broker

Dennis Lacey Broker

Ski in/out on Oma’s Meadow

www.SugarTop.com • 828-898-5226

Year-round resort offering efficiency, efficiency with loft, 1 & 2 BDR condos.

Clubhouse featuring indoor heated swimming pool, hot tub, sauna and computer room. Easy access to hiking & biking trails, public golf and tennis all on Sugar Mountain at an elevation of 4900ft.

Enjoy Breathtaking Views

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with current weeks lift ticket

www.sugarmountain.com • info@sugarmountain.com

800-634-1320 100 Sugar Ski Drive, Banner Elk, NC 28604

Prices Starting at $99,900 303 Sugartop Drive •Sugar Mountain, NC

Rock Climbing • White Water Kayak • Instruction White Water Rafting • Hiking • Kayaking • Skii

Caving • Christian Camps • Fishing • Gem Mining • Golf • Hot Air Balloon Rides • Shopping

2014-15

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3411 Hwy. 321 S Blowing Rock 828-264-1422 Mon-Sat 10 am-6 pm • Sun 1-5 5 pm, through Christmas

www.incredibletoycompany.com

2014-15

When on the road, maintain a safe speed. Sudden acceleration or braking on wet roads can lead to a loss of traction.

FILE PHOTO

BEAUTY AND THE BEAST Driving the wintry roads of the High Country

BY ERIK HOFFMANN

S Stoves / Fireplaces

Hot Tubs

Patio Furniture

now can be beautiful. Snow can be pure. Snow can be clean. Snow can also be dangerous, if not respected.

The northwest corner of North Carolina, also known as the High Country, is known for its many peaks and winding roads. But as temperatures drops and roads become covered with snow and ice, the risk for traffic accidents increases.

The North Carolina Department of Transportation wants motorists to remain safe throughout the wintery season by remembering to do a few things before starting off on their journeys.

Appliances

• Brakes – The ability to stop properly on icy roads takes precision and patience. Make sure your brakes are at their top performance before taking to the roads this winter.

• Tires – When the rubber meets the roads turns to when the rubber meets the ice. Colder weather can drastically change the air pressure in your tires. Lower tread make for less traction. Proper tire inflation and tread are important for safer stopping ability.

• Windshield and Wipers – Cracked or chipped windshields are dangerous enough. Cold weather can increase the size of cracks and chips and can further obstruct the driver’s view. Always use a snowbrush or ice scrapper to remove snow or ice as using wiper blades can possibly damage the blades and reduce their effectiveness while driving.

PREPARING YOUR VEHICLE

(828) 262-0051 | 4912 US HWY 421 S. | BOONE, NC WWW.MOUNTAINHOMEANDHEARTH.COM

• Battery – A battery needs more energy in cold temperatures to start a car. Ensure your battery is fully charged.

• Lights – There is less daylight in the winter months.

Mix that with wintry clouds and snowfall, and it’s important for motorists be seen. Check all your lights before driving.

Chance does indeed favor the prepared mind. With that, preparing your vehicle is only part of the equation to increase your chances. You should never take to the road without a winter roads driving kit.

SEE BEAUTY, PAGE 35

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PAGE 35

BEAUTY FROM PAGE 34

WINTER ROADS DRIVING KIT •

• • • • • • • • •

•

Traction mats or a bag of abrasive material (sand, kitty litter, etc… to gain traction) Small shovel (for digging out a stuck vehicle) Flashlight (if stuck in the dark) Window-washer fluid (to keep windshields clean) Gloves (to keep warm) Ice scraper (to keep windshields clear) Cloth or paper towels (to keep mirrors clear) Jumper cables (for yourself or stranded motorists) Blanket (to keep warm) Reflective triangles (to warn passing motorists of an emergency) Cell phone and car charger (to report accidents and emergencies)

If you driving in wintry conditions is necessary and unavoidable, NCDOT wants you to remember the following: • Keep your windows and mirrors clear • Drive slower and leave plenty of room between you and other vehicles. Leave eight to 10 seconds between you and the vehicles ahead.

• Compensate for longer stopping distances on icy roads • Maintain a safe following distance behind brine application trucks, spreader trucks and plows.

• Approach bridges and overpasses with extreme caution as they ice over before roads. Never apply your brakes while on a bridge.

• If you begin to slide, take your foot off the accelerator and turn the steering wheel in the direction of the slide.

Never apply the brakes, as they will cause further loss of control.

• Come to a complete stop or yield the right of way when approaching an intersection when traffic lights are out. Always treat this scenario as a four-way stop.

• Snowy or icy surfaces require smooth, precise steering. Avoid hard acceleration or braking, high speeds and jerky movements of the steering wheel.

• Travel the path most taken on multi lane roads. Unnecessarily switching lanes could lead to skidding and losing control

Be aware of shady spots, bridges, overpasses and intersections where ice often forms first. Focus your attention as far ahead as possible.

FILE PHOTO

of the vehicle.

DOT also suggests having a list of emergency phone numbers stored in your cell phone. Emergency numbers should include: • • • • • •

911 800-445-1779 or *HP: NC Highway Patrol 800-PARK-WATCH: Blue Ridge Parkway (828) 264-3761: Watauga County Sheriff’s Office (336) 846-5600: Ashe County Sheriff’s Office (828) 733-2071 ext. 1208: Avery County Sheriff’s Office

Additionally, NCDOT reminds you to: • • • • • • • •

ALWAYS stay alert ALWAYS wear a seat belt NEVER drink and drive ALWAYS use approved child restraints ALWAYS be patient and obey the posted speed limit NEVER tailgate ALWAYS watch the road ALWAYS avoid in-car distractions

“Beech Mountain’s ard Best Ski & Snowbo Rentals for 31 Years!”

Grocery • Deli • Ski and Snowboard Rentals • Hardware Gifts • Outdoor Clothing & Winter Footwear Open Everyday from 7:30am to 10:00pm (828) 387-4838 501 Beech Mountain Parkway • Beech Mountain, NC • www.fredsgeneral.com

Come visit us at Eastern America’s Highest Town

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2014-15

Outfitters at a Glance Local fishing shops and outfitters offer area newcomers a chance to find out the best fishing spots and what the fish are hitting.

Appalachian Angler 174 Old Shull’s Mill Road Boone, N.C. 28607 (828) 963-5050 www.appangler.com

Elk Creek Outfitters 1560 N.C. 105 Boone, N.C. 28607 (828) 264-6497 www.ecoflyfishing.com

Winter fishing in the High Country is a favorite pastime for young and old.

PHOTO SUBMITTED

Foscoe Fishing Co. & Outfitters

FISHING IN THE HIGH COUNTRY

BY JAMES HOWELL

F

ishing in the winter may be more difficult than other times of the year when the water warms, but with the right moves, winter fishing can be just as rewarding as other seasons.

According to Scott Robinson, a park ranger at New River State Park, fish move much more slowly in winter, meaning that anglers will need to give a slower presentation.

“You have to be more patient and have a slower retrieve,” Robinson said. “With the cooler temperatures, you have a better chance to catch trout by reeling more slowly.”

Northwest North Carolina offers a few species of trout anglers can target, though the New River in particular is more well-known for smallmouth and redeye bass populations.

The cold water introduced during the winter season means trout feed less than other times of the year. Because of this, one tip from experienced cold-water fishermen is to cut back on the size of bait used to catch trout.

Cold water anglers should use bait as small as they can find. Live bait fishermen can use maggots or meal worms, or pinch nightcrawlers into thirds or quarters.

Anglers looking for more of a challenge and a bigger prize can head for deeper waters in search of the rare muskie.

Muskellunge (also called muskies) are not native to the High Country; instead, they have been stocked in the New River since the 1970s.

“There are muskies in these waters; they are stocked more downstream, north of the (U.S.) 221 access (in Ashe County) near the Virginia line,” Robinson said.

The muskie is a species of large, freshwater fish found in North America and is the largest member of the pike family, the Esocidae. These fish range from 28 to 48 inches long and weigh five to 36 pounds. Some muskies have reached up to six feet long and almost 70 pounds.

Due to their size, muskie often stay in deeper water. Their unusual size makes muskie a great “trophy fish” that anglers can mount — if they manage to catch

one.

Anglers looking to land this freshwater monster will need to use heavy tackle and big lures, as muskie can shred lighter equipment. The other key to land a muskie is to fish in the right spot; anglers will need to fish in deeper waters on the North Carolina/Virginia boarder.

Another practical tip for anglers in the winter months is to keep their hands warm using gloves or hand warmers.

The North Carolina Wildlife Resources commission offers fishermen information on where to fish, what they can catch and state laws regarding fishing. For more information, visit www. ncwildlife.org/fishing.aspx.

Anglers will need a state fishing license to fish in North Carolina waters. This can be purchased at any local fishing outfitters. A 10-day license costs $5 for N.C. residents and $10 for out of state visitors.

Before hitting the water for a day of fun, anglers will need to read up on rules and regulations for trout streams.

These regulations can be complex, vary from stream to stream, and fines can be expensive.

8857 N.C. 105 Boone, N.C. 28607 (828) 963-6556 www.foscoefishing.com

Grandfather Trout Farm 10767 N.C. 105 Banner Elk, N.C. 28604 (828) 963-5098 www.grandfathertroutfarm.com

Rick’s Smallmouth Adventures 1757 Pleasant Home Road Sparta, N.C. 28675 (336) 372-8321 www.fishthenew.com

RiverGirl Fishing Co. 4041 Railroad Grade Road Todd, N.C. 28684 (336) 877-3099 www.rivergirlfishingco.com

Rock On Charters 7449 Fernway Drive Roanoke, Va. 24018 (540) 520-9629 www.rockoncharters.net

Watauga River Anglers 5712 N.C. 105 South Boone, N.C. 28607 (828) 963-5463 www.wataugariveranglers.com

2014-15

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2014-15

YOUR FIRST RESORT for FAMILY FUN

RENOWNED SKI INSTRUCTION

FLEX TICKET

TOP-RANKED TERRAIN PARKS

North Carolina’s only Flex Ticket.

Your session starts when you do!

Up to 8 consecutive hours.

3 terrain parks featuring over 70 rails, boxes and tabletops, over a dozen competitions and events, and a dedicated crew hand-grooming features throughout the day.

MIDNIGHT BLAST WEEKENDS

ICE SKATING

SPECIAL EVENTS

Late Night Skiing 5:00pm - Midnight Fridays and Saturdays January 2 - February 28 Now also November 28 - 29 & December 26 - 31 and Sundays January 18 & February 15

November 16 - March 22 weather permitting.

3 sessions daily: Noon - 2:00pm, 2:30 - 4:30pm and 7:00 - 9:00pm

Visit AppSkiMtn.com for our schedule of fun events going on all season long.

Appalachian Ski Mtn is the place to learn to ski and snowboard. Having taught more than 1 million people, the French Swiss Ski College is the region’s leader in ski instruction.

Scheduled 2014-15 Season: November 21 - March 29 Blowing Rock, NC • www.appskimtn.com • 828.295.7828 • www.appterrainpark.com

WINTER TIMES

2014-15

PAGE 39

79 YEARS OF WINTERY BEAUTY Blue Ridge Parkway transitions lush greenery to pristine white majestic views

BY ERIK HOFFMANN

C

risp, clean mountain air. Immensely vast skyline. Blankets of white purity covering the landscape.

Welcome to the wintry wonderland that is the Blue Ridge Parkway.

As the roadway passes through Avery, Ashe and Watauga counties, most of the campsites and visitor centers are closed. But that shouldn’t stop you from a leisurely drive for some of the most beautifully scenery found throughout Appalachia.

The roads at times can at times become a bit overrun with snow and ice and will close down when extremely dangerous driving conditions arise, but on the right

day, the juice is definitely worth the squeeze.

If you are so inclined, take a stroll on one of the Parkway’s several hiking trails. Make sure to wear adequate layers of clothes for warmth, bring healthy snacks for energy and a bottle of water to maintain hydration. For the more frisky adventurers, trails specifically for cross-country skiing can be located at Milepost 295 at Moses Cone Park on the Bass Lake Trail or the Tanawha Trail at Milepost 297 at Grandfather Mountain to name a couple.

With so many overlooks and stops along the Parkway, to not bring a camera could be considered a major travesty. Cascade Falls at SEE PARKWAY, PAGE 40

Flat Top Manor, located in Moses Cone Park on the Blue Ridge Parkway, was home to denim magnate Moses Cone.

FILE PHOTO

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WINTER TIMES

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2014-15

PARKWAY FROM PAGE 39 Benge Gap at Milepost 268 is a not-to-be-missed photo opportunity on the right day. Another picturesque stop along the Parkway is Price Park at Milepost 295, just outside of Boone.

A popular indoor winter attraction is the Museum of North Carolina Minerals in Spruce Pine at Milepost 331.

The museum offers interactive exhibits about regional gems and minerals seven days a week, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Hours are subject to change. For more information, call (828) 765-2761.

For more information about the Blue Ridge Parkway, including road closings, call (828) 298-0398 or 800-PARK-WATCH, or visit www.nps.gov/blri or www.blueridgeparkway.org.

A frosty swinging bridge can be seen close to Milepost 304.4 on the Parkway.

PHOTO BY ROB MOORE

Mileposts of Interest

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248.1: NC 18 Crossover 2 Mi. west of Laurel Springs. 24 mi. east to North Wilkesboro, NC. 261: NC 16 Crossover. West 12 mi. to Jefferson, 14 mi. to West Jefferson, 26 mi to Grassey Creek.

East 20 mi. to North Wilkesboro.

268: Benge Gap. 272: E.B. Jeffress Park. Picnic area, Comfort station, trail to Cascades.

276.4: Deep Gap. US 421 Crossover. W. 11 mi. to Boone. E 26 miles to North Wilkesboro.

291.9: US 221/321 Crossover. 7 mi. north to Boone, 2 mi. south to Blowing Rock.

292.7: Moses H. Cone Memorial Park, 3,600 acres.

Many miles of horse and carriage trails, hiking, fishing.

294: Historic Flat Top Manor House; Parkway Craft Center; comfort station; visitor information, publications.

295: Julian Price Memorial Park. 4,344 acres.

Campground, picnic area, lake, boating, fishing, trails. Alt. 3,400. Reservations for camping www.recreation.gov.

304.4: Linn Cove Viaduct Information Center. Visitor information, comfort station, publications. Trail access viaduct. Alt. 4,000.

305.2: Junction Parkway and US 221. 3 mi. west to Linville.

308.2: Flat Rock Parking Area. Self-guiding nature trail to superb view of Linville Valley and Grandfather Mountain.

312: NC 181 Crossover, 32 miles southeast to Morganton, 2 mi. north to Pineola.

316.3: Linville Falls. Visitor Center. Campground

and picnic area. Trail to overlooks of falls and gorge. For more information on Linville Falls, click here. For camping reservations www. recreation.gov.

316.4: Linville River Parking Area. One of the Parkway’s largest stone arch bridges. Three spans of 80 feet each. Fish in Linville River.

Picnic area. Comfort Station. Alt. 3,250. Take Spur Rd. to Linville Falls, campground and visitor center.

317.4: South 1 mi. to Linville Falls community. 24 mi. To Marion.

320.7: Chestoa View offers an unusually fine view from one of the many vertical cliffs on Humpback Mountain.

331: NC 226 Crossover. 6 mi. north to Spruce Pine.

14 mi. south to Marion.

331: Museum of North Carolina Minerals. Junction of Parkway & NC 226. Features minerals found in North Carolina and regional geology. County Chamber of Commerce Office. Restrooms. Open daily year around.

331: Overmountain Victory National Historic Trail - Commemorates the campaign leading up to the American victory at Kings Mountain in 1780. Route crosses the Blue Ridge Parkway at Gillespie Gap, near the Mineral Museum.

Administered by the National Park Service. www.nps.gov/ovvi.

334: NC 226A Crossover to Little Switzerland.

339.5: Crabtree Falls. 250 acres. Hiking, picnic area, camping, comfort station, drinking water.

40-minute walk to Crabtree Falls.

WINTER TIMES

2014-15

CAVING:

BY ERIKA GIOVANETTI

Seasons change as temperatures plummet above the earth’s crust.

Under the surface, however, consistent year-round temperatures host an array of native wildlife. Caving is a great way to escape the blistering winter cold, while testing the your inner-adventurer.

Private Caves & Caverns LINVILLE CAVERNS If you don’t want to get down and dirty, Linville Caverns is an ideal setting for those looking to explore the ecosystems at play under our earth’s surface.

Located within Humpback Mountain, the caverns are host to a diverse set of wildlife. Visitors have been learning

PAGE 41

Exploring the High Country from Inside a Mountain

about the underground ecosystem in Linville since 1937.

Although the caverns stay at a comfortable 52 degrees year-round, Linville Caverns operates on a seasonal schedule. In December, January and February, the caverns only operate on weekends from 9 a.m. till 4:30 p.m.

For more information, visit www. linvillecaverns.com.

WAHOO’S ADVENTURES In the warmer months, Wahoo’s Adventures offers whitewater rafting, camping, river tubing and more — throughout the year, cave exploration is an option for all of Wahoo’s adventurers.

Based out of Boone, Wahoo’s takes patrons out to its cave near Johnson City, which is the largest cave in all of Tennessee, according to the outfitters’ website.

Groups are led by expert guides,

Located within Humpback Mountain, Linville Caverns stays at a comfortable 52 degrees year-round.

FILE PHOTO

who will take cavers through narrow passages and tight corridors. This caving experience is certainly more of an adventurous one, as it is more of an expedition than a tour.

For more information, visit www. wahoosadventures.com.

WORLEY’S CAVE A number of Boone-based exploration companies go out to Worley’s Cave, located in Bluff City, Tenn.

According to River and Earth Adventures, one of the three companies utilizing Worley’s, the cave consists of over seven miles of large rooms and narrow passages.

River and Earth Adventures takes explores through tight corridors, shallow water and vast caverns. Those with claustrophobia need not worry, as most of the rooms are big enough to contain a house, according to the outfitters’ website at www.raftcavehike.com/caving.

Rock Dimensions, the group that operates the rock wall on Depot Street in Boone, also takes adventurers to Worley’s Cave in Tennessee. According to the company’s website, winter is an ideal time to go caving, as it’s never too cold or too rainy to explore a cave.

Visitors should expect to go through Worley’s Cave for about three to four hours, discussing the ecosystem of the cave, while witnessing its natural beauty. For more information, visit www.rockdimensions.com/caving.

Finally, High Mountain Expeditions goes the extra mile by saving customers some miles, as the company takes cavers from Banner Elk to the cave’s location in Tennessee.

High Mountain Expeditions notes that Worley’s is a beginner/intermediate level cave, so no prior caving experience is needed. For more information, visit www.highmountainexpeditions. com.

WINTER TIMES

PAGE 42

2014-15

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WINTER TIMES

2014-15

DON’T HIBERNATE, CELEBRATE! 17th annual WinterFest to bring family fun to Blowing Rock Jan. 22-25

BY JEFF EASON

C

Ac NE ro W ss LO fro C m AT th ION e ! pa rk

WinterFest Polar Plungers dress in various costumes, and some travel from all over the Southeast for their few seconds of fame.

abin Fever.

While medical problems like the Ebola virus and influenza grab all the headlines, it is Cabin Fever that is most likely to strike winter weary residents at the end of January.

Fortunately, Blowing Rock has the cure.

Join the town of Blowing Rock when it celebrates its 17th annual WinterFest celebration, scheduled for Thursday, Jan. 22, through Sunday, Jan. 25.

WinterFest 2015 will feature all sorts of indoor and outdoor activities, such as the WinterFeast buffet, Cocoa and Canvas at the Blowing Rock Art and History Museum, special events at Appalachian Ski Mountain, the Fire and Ice cocktail fundraiser, the Polar Plunge and Chetola Lake, WinterFashion Show, silent auction and raffle, Chilly Chili Cook-Off, wine tasting and auction, ice-carving demonstrations, bonfire in the

park, children’s activities, WinterPaws dog show and Little Miss WinterFest Pageant.

Presented each year by the Blowing Rock Chamber of Commerce, WinterFest attracts thousands of visitors to the High Country at a time of year that is ordinarily not part of the tourist season. The economic boon is felt by restaurants, hotels and other businesses that are generally slow at this time of year.

Several downtown Blowing Rock merchants hold special events during WinterFest. Last year, one of the more popular events was the Blowing Rock Market’s oyster roast, held on Saturday as snow was flying in the air. It featured roasted oysters on the half shell, wine tasting and a liquor luge for ice cold shots.

For more information on WinterFest, including a complete schedule, call the Blowing Rock Chamber of Commerce at (828) 295-7851, or visit www.blowingrockwinterfest.com.

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WINTER TIMES

2014-15

Finding the perfect Christmas tree is a family-friendly activity unique to the Western North Carolina High Country.

PAGE 45

PHOTOS SUBMITTED

CHOOSE AND CUT SEASON HAS ARRIVED

BY JAMES HOWELL

I

t’s that time of year when families pile into their cars, drive to a familyowned Christmas tree farm, pick out their favorite tree and chop it down to commemorate the holiday season.

The High Country is one of the few places in the United States that can grow the Fraser fir, one of the most popular species of Christmas tree. Not only does a Christmas tree look great inside the home during the holidays, it’s also a great way to work in some family bonding time.

“Give your family an experience that may very well develop into a tradition that carries on for generations,” reads a brochure from the Ashe County Christmas Tree Association.

According to the N.C. Christmas Tree Association, there are several benefits to real, home-grown Christmas trees over fake trees. And it goes beyond the charming fragrance real trees possess.

For example, real Christmas trees

Traditionally, the choose and cut season begins every year on the Friday after Thanksgiving. In many mountain towns, local shops decorate for the holiday season, offer sales for visitors and host special events to get everyone into the Christmas spirit.

absorb carbon dioxide and other harmful greenhouse gases and release fresh

oxygen into the air. According to the N.C. Christmas Tree Association, one acre of

Christmas trees provides the daily oxygen requirement for 18 people.

With 500,000 acres of Christmas trees in the United States, Christmas trees provide oxygen for 9 million people per day.

A young, fast-growing trees like Christmas trees release more oxygen than mature forest trees.

Also, Christmas tree fields support local economies, and local wildlife populations like turkey, quail, songbirds, rabbits and deer.

Traditionally, the choose and cut season begins every year on the Friday after Thanksgiving. In many mountain towns, local shops decorate for the holiday season, offer sales for visitors, and host special events to get everyone into the Christmas spirit.

Information about local choose and cut farms can be found on the following websites: www.ashecountychristmastrees. com, www.averycountychristmastrees. org and www.wataugachristmastrees. org.

WINTER TIMES

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2014-15

Visitors to Grandfather have a unique opportunity during the winter months to experience the mountain for a price less than the cost of two adult day tickets.

PHOTO BY HUGH MORTON, COURTESY OF GRANDFATHER MOUNTAIN

WINTER WONDERS AWAIT ATOP GRANDFATHER

BY JAMIE SHELL

U

sually the spring, summer and fall seasons are busy times at Grandfather Mountain.

From the budding of spring vegetation and playfulness within the animal habitats to the hustle and bustle of summer activities and spectacle of the annual Highland Games to the majestic colors of leaves in autumn, Grandfather offers countless perspectives of the seasons.

However, the winter season is often overlooked as a great time to visit the mountain, when one’s breath can be seen in chilly temperatures as it is being taken away due to the picturesque views the mountain offers.

Grandfather is open year-round, including winter months, weather permitting. Winter atop Grandfather provides an entirely unique feel from other seasons. Despite the colder climate in

winter, every habitat, attraction, trail and the restaurant — with its homemade soup and chili and other food — remains open to the public.

According to Grandfather Mountain vice president Harris Prevost, the highest satisfaction from customer surveys is during the winter months.

“Traditionally, the Friday after Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s are the three busiest times all year,” Prevost explained.

Visitors to the park can visit the mountain’s gift shops, where many holiday presents for all age ranges can be found among the dozens of memorable items and collectibles stocked especially for the winter months. The scenery offers views that take a visitor’s breath away, even if the visitor can see his or her breath outdoors as they exhale.

“People can do the exact same things as in the summer,” Grandfather Moun-

tain director of education and natural resources Jesse Pope said of the winter offerings on the mountain. “It’s colder, but the views are astonishing here in the winter. It’s the best time to have clear views of surrounding peaks and even the skyline in Charlotte.”

Grandfather Mountain offers to anyone who works or lives in Mitchell, Avery, Watauga, Ashe, Alleghany or Wilkes counties, along with guests traveling in the same vehicle, a special Dollar Days rate. During the month of December, visitors are invited to visit Grandfather Mountain for $3 per person with proof of local employment or residency. In lieu of cash, you may bring two cans of food per person for distribution to area food pantries.

Visitors to Grandfather have a unique opportunity during the winter months to experience the mountain for a price less than the cost of two adult day tickets.

Whether it’s for the opportunity to see wildlife in the snow or the chance to enjoy endless vistas cleared out by winter’s chill, Grandfather Mountain’s Secret Season pass is a treat for those who live and work in surrounding areas. The pass, good from Nov. 1 through April 30, 2015, is an affordable way to experience the mountain without the crush of the summer crowds that routinely inhabit the landscape.

For only $32, adult pass holders can visit every day for six months at a rate that is cheaper than two individual day tickets. Individual child passes, for those ages four to 12 years old, cost just $18 each. Group passes good for six people traveling in the same vehicle are sold for $90 and pays for itself on the first visit.

The term “secret season” refers to the winter months when traffic at GrandfaSEE GRANDFATHER, PAGE 47

2014-15

GRANDFATHER FROM PAGE 46 ther slows down. Secret Season pass holders are rewarded not only with the sensation of being on top of the world, but also with the sensation of having it all, from the habitats to the attractions like the famous Mile-High Swinging Bridge, to themselves.

“It’s very different to be on the bridge with the rime ice on the trees,” Pope said of the sights winter visitors will encounter at Grandfather. “You really feel like you’re in a winter wonderland. It’s a photographer’s paradise to be here in the winter. The views, the rime ice is really pretty when it gets on the trees. When snow is on the ground and there’s a blue sky or pink sunrise, you have beautiful colors.”

When the snow falls, a number of animals in the attraction’s habitats come out to play, offering a prime opportunity for photos and fun.

“The otters love winter,” Pope said.

“They love to play in the snow. If you catch a day when there’s snow on the ground, they like to slide down

WINTER TIMES the hills in the habitat. If it’s a deep snow, they tunnel underneath the snow, and pop their heads out. Cougars also like the snow. In the winter, the bears will be hibernating, but you can occasionally catch a glimpse of a bear.”

The mountain has its own snow-removal equipment, but the mountain winter weather systems occasionally leave snowfall too heavy to safely open the park. It is recommended to call ahead to the gate on a day with extremely inclement weather to see if the gate will open that day.

Grandfather Mountain is located on U.S. 221, two miles north of Linville and a mile south of the Blue Ridge Parkway at Milepost 305. Winter hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., with ticket sales ceasing at 4 p.m. For patrons not taking advantage of the Secret Season pass, admission is $20 for adults ages 13 to 59, $18 for seniors 60 and older, $9 for children 4 to 12, and free for children younger than four years of age. The park is closed Thanksgiving and Christmas days.

For more information, call (828) 7334337, or visit Grandfather Mountain’s website at www.grandfather.com.

PAGE 47

Holiday Highlights NATURE ON THE MOUNTAIN PROGRAMS The Fraser fir is the quintessential Christmas tree, but how much do you really know about this stately evergreen?

Join Grandfather Mountain naturalists for a program about the Fraser fir and the red spruce, two high-elevation trees that create a unique ecosystem atop the highest peaks. These programs will be held at 1 p.m. each Saturday and Sunday, Nov. 29 through Dec. 28, weatherpermitting, and may include a short walk to observe the trees up close. Meet at the second floor of the Top Shop Visitor Center (location subject to change due to weather).

LIGHTING OF GRANDFATHER For the first time in decades, Grandfather Mountain’s Mile High Swinging Bridge will be illuminated with lights for the holidays. An anonymous donor has provided four 200-foot strands of solarpowered lights to decorate for the Christmas season. The lights will be placed on the bridge as weather conditions allow.

“We hope these lights will provide some holiday cheer but also remind

Visitors to Grandfather in the wintertime can catch a different glimpse of its many inhabitants.

PHOTOS SUBMITTED

visitors of the importance of being environmentally conscious,” Grandfather public relations specialist Kellen Short said. “Grandfather Mountain also makes use of solar thermal panels, rain barrels, compact fluorescent lighting and other sustainable features that help to preserve and protect the environment.”

WINTER TIMES

PAGE 48

2014-15

BLAZE A WINTER TRAIL

BY ANNA OAKES

W

inter is a beautiful time to be outdoors in the mountains.

Clear, crisp days present opportunities for long-range views, and depending on the weather, you could see rolling hills of snow or dramatic icicle formations, so don’t leave home without your camera.

And be very careful — even though the road may be clear, the shaded trail areas could be covered in snow or ice. If you can make it to the trailhead safely, try hitting the snow-covered trails in a pair of crosscountry skis or snowshoes.

Blue Ridge Parkway Trails Trails located along the Blue Ridge Parkway offer hikers just about any level of trekking their hearts might desire. Some of the trails are long and challenging, others are short loops leading to waterfalls or scenic vistas.

The 469-mile scenic highway winds through Western North Carolina and into Virginia, passing through the High Country counties of Avery, Watauga and Ashe.

Although most Parkway facilities close in winter, the road remains open as long as snow and ice do not create dangerous driving conditions.

For more information, phone (828) 2957591 or (828) 295-3782.

• Mountains to the Sea Trail: The trail is broken down into sections. The sections closest to Boone are sections 13 to 17: Blue Ridge Parkway North Beacon Heights to Devil’s Garden Overlooks. It covers 88-miles and crosses several main roadways. It actually begins at the rugged base of Grandfather Mountain. For more information visit the website: www.ncmst. org.

• Doughton Park Trails: Doughton Park, located in Ashe County near Laurel Springs, has more than 30 miles of hiking trails, ranging from modest strolls to day-long outings. Some examples include: Bluff Mountain Trail: 7.5 miles, moderate; Cedar Ridge Trail: 4.4 miles, strenuous; Grassy Gap Fire Road: 6.5 miles, easy

Three backcountry skiers descend Mount Mitchell on the Mountains-to-Sea Trail on a clear winter day.

PHOTO BY MATTHEW BROWNING, FRIENDS OF THE MOUNTAINS TO SEA TRAIL

(horses allowed); Basin Creek Trail: 6.6 miles, moderate; Fodder Stack Trail: 2 miles, moderate. Milepost 241. Call (336) 372-8568 for trail maps.

• The Cascades Trail: One of the Blue Ridge Parkway’s most scenic trails — and one of its easiest — this 0.5 mile turnaround leads to the scenic Cascades waterfalls. It begins at the Cascades parking lot, about three miles north of Deep Gap, Milepost 271.9.

• Moses Cone Carriage Trails: Easy to moderate. The Moses Cone Park includes 25 miles of gently sloping carriage trails of varying lengths, available to hikers, joggers, horseback riders and cross-country skiers. Most trails begin near the Moses Cone Manor, Milepost 294.0.

• Green Knob Trail: Starting at Sims Pond (Milepost 295), this moderate 2.4 mile trail winds along a stream through rhododendron forest, then changes scenery to climb up along a ridgeline.

• Boone Fork Trail: A moderate/ strenuous loop leading through deep woods and along a cascading river of 4.9 miles in length. The trailhead is located in the Price Park Picnic Area, Milepost 296.5.

• Price Lake Trail: An easy trail leading around scenic Price Lake for 2.7 miles.

If you are lucky, the beavers will be working. Trailhead is at Price Lake parking area, Milepost 297.0.

• Tanawha Trail: This trail, 13 miles in length, can be started at either the Price Park Campground, in Blowing Rock, or at the Linn Cove Viaduct’s parking lot, at Grandfather Mountain (Milepost 305.5).

Check with Grandfather Mountain for a map of the trail.

• Linn Cove Viaduct Access Trail: The world-famous Linn Cove Viaduct, an engineering masterpiece, can best be seen from this trail, which begins at the Linn Cove Visitor Center, Milepost 304.4. The trail actually travels underneath the bridge, giving hikers an unparalleled view of this unique construction project. The trail is handicapped accessible for part of the way and is a relatively easy stroll, but does link up with the Mountains to the Sea Trail, Nuwati, Boone Fork and the Tanawha Trail.

• Beacon Heights: A short hike gives you access to great views of Grandfather, the Linville Falls area, Hawksbill and Table Rock. A nice place to hang out in the sun.

Milepost 305.2.

• Linville Falls Trails: Several trails begin at the Linville Falls Visitor Center in Linville Falls. All less than a mile in length, some lead to the top of the falls, while two lead to the bottom of Linville Falls. All are recommended, although the lower falls trails can be a bit strenuous but give the better images from below. Milepost 316.4.

• Linville River Bridge Trail: This very short trail takes you down to the Linville River underneath one of the oldest old arched stone bridges on the Parkway.

Picnic tables, restrooms and water are all available. Going north on the Parkway, take a left toward the Linville picnic area and another left just before entering the picnic area. Milepost 316.5.

• Chestoa View Loop Trail: A little over a half a mile long, this trail gives you a great view of Table Rock. Milepost 320.8.

• Crabtree Falls Trail: A strenuous 2.6-mile loop, which leads to both the bottom and top of Crabtree Falls. This trail begins and ends in the Crabtree Falls Campground’s parking area, near Little Switzerland, Milepost 339.5.

• Other Trails: Several small trails of varying difficulty dot the Parkway south past the Linn Cove Viaduct. For a listing of mileposts and trail lengths, call the Gillespie Gap ranger office at (828) 765-6082.

Grandfather Mountain Trails Grandfather Mountain, one of the tallest and most rugged in the Eastern United States, is crisscrossed with well maintained trails, most of them for experienced hikers.

Some lead into Grandfather’s deep woods, but most scale cliffs that can sometimes be dizzying in height. Always carry water, food and a trail map, and wear sturdy boots.

Permits are required for trail access, and hikers are strongly advised to exercise caution in case of thunderstorms or other adverse weather conditions. For further information, phone (828) 733-2013 or (828) 737-0833, send an e-mail to hiking@ grandfather.com, or look online at www. grandfather.com.

PARK SIDE TRAILS • The Bridge Trail: Grandfather’s newest trail begins at the Black Rock Parking Area and meanders through forested areas, eventually traveling underneath the Mile High Swinging Bridge. An easy SEE HIKE, PAGE 49

WINTER TIMES

2014-15

HIKE FROM PAGE 48 30-minute walk.

• Black Rock Nature Trail: This self-guided nature trail begins in the parking lot just below Grandfather’s Swinging Bridge and is good for beginning hikers.

It’s a one-mile turn-around through the forests of this majestic mountain and offers an excellent view.

CREST TRAILS • Grandfather Trail: This is the big one! It begins at Grandfather Mountain’s Mile High Swinging Bridge and eventually hits all of Grandfather’s three highest peaks. This 2.4-mile trail requires approximately five hours of hiking time to travel the entire length. It’s extremely rugged, with only wooden ladders making some sheer cliff faces accessible. It intersects with several other trails at its northern terminus.

• Underwood Trail: A 0.5 mile bypass around McRae Peak that lets hikers avoid most of the ladders, ropes and/or severe weather on the peak. There is one ladder.

Strenuous and rocky.

WEST SIDE TRAILS • Profile Trail: 2.7 miles. The lower part of the trail is an easy out-and-back leg stretcher, but the upper section is fairly strenuous. Links with Calloway Trail. The trailhead is located near the Shoppes of Tynecastle on N.C. 105 in Banner Elk. • Calloway Trail: 0.3 mile strenuous trail that links the Profile Trail (at Shanty Spring) and the Grandfather Trail (at Calloway Gap) • Bottom-to-Top Linked Trail Outing: Profile Trail (2.7 miles) to Calloway Trail (0.3 mile) to Grandfather Trail (2.4 miles) Very strenuous – an all day outing for serious hikers only.

EAST SIDE TRAILS • Daniel Boone Scout Trail: Strenuous. Ascends 2,000 feet in just 2.6 miles (allow 4.5 hours for round trip). Recommended access is from the Boone Fork Parking Area via the Tanawha Trail.

Strenuous and steep trail to Calloway Peak, the highest point in the Blue Ridge.

• Nuwati Trail: 1.2 miles, easy but rocky. Located 0.4 miles on Tanawha Trail from Boone Fork Parking Area.

• Cragway Trail: Rocky and strenuous trail that links Nuwati and Daniel Boone Scout Trails. Beautiful views from this trail. 1.0 mile.

• Asutsi Trail: 0.4 mile. An easy connecting trail from Hwy 221 at Serenity Farm to Boone Fork Footbridge. Provides winter access to the East Side Trails.

PERMITS Permits are required for hiking all Grandfather Mountain trails and are available at the following locations: Grandfather Mountain Main Entrance, U.S. 221, Linville. Trailhead entrances at the Nuwati and Profile Trail provide a free permit into the park.

Linville Gorge Trails Here is a list of some of the more popular and longer trails in the Linville Gorge area.

The Linville Gorge Wilderness is one of the most remote, rugged wilderness areas in the entire Eastern United States. Trails are marked at the trailhead, but are not signed or blazed once inside the wilderness. Make sure you know how to read a topographical map and use a compass. Be prepared!

Some trails include crossings of the Linville River — exercise extreme caution when crossing moving water. Hikers, campers and rock climbers get lost within this wilderness area annually, and deaths are not uncommon. Contact the U.S. Forest Service office in Marion for maps, permits, information on other trails and safety details. Permits are required for overnight outings. For more information, phone (828) 652-2144.

• Linville Gorge Trail: 11.5 miles ranging from easy to strenuous, wellmarked to poorly maintained. Not for beginners! Take your compass and topo map and enjoy riverside hiking through virgin forest in the bottom of the gorge.

• Sandy Flats Trail: A strenuous trail on the west rim of the Linville Gorge. 1.3 mile in length and rather poorly maintained – be careful!

• Babel Tower Trail: Located on the west rim, this trail has an elevation change of 1,000 feet within 1.3 miles.

• Cabin Trail: A strenuous 1-mile descent starting at Forest Service Road 1238. Poorly marked and maintained, so take your map and compass and exercise extra caution.

• Cambric Branch Trail: Accessed from Shortoff Mountain Trail, this 1.2 mile trail descends along a ridgeline into the gorge. Your strenuous exercise is rewarded with good views.

• Conley Cove: This is a popular trail thanks to its more gradual descent into the

PAGE 49

gorge. It accesses Rock Jock Trail on the way to the gorge floor. A moderate 1.3 mile hike with good views along the way.

• Bynum Bluff Trail: One mile long, this west rim trail starts out easy but becomes strenuous. A short spur from the main trail leads to great views of the river and gorge.

• Devil’s Hole Trail: This strenuous 1.5 mile trail descends into the gorge and connects with the Linville Gorge Trail. Be careful crossing the river!

• East Rim Trails: Included are Devil’s Hole Trail (1.5 miles); Jonas Ridge Trail (4.4 mile roundtrip); Table Rock Gap Trail (1.6 miles). These and many other Linville Gorge trails interconnect to make trips of varying length.

• Pinch In Trail: The southernmost access trail into the wilderness area, this very steep and rocky trail is a strenuous 1.4 miles that affords good views.

• Spence Ridge Trail: A moderate 1.7 mile descent from the east rim to the gorge floor, this is a well-used access point to the area. Cross the river to connect to the Linville Gorge Trail.

• Table Rock Summit Trail: 1.4 miles, moderate. This trail ascends from the Table Rock parking area to the towering, 4,000-foot summit on the rim of

the gorge. Views are worth the hike. The Mountains to the Sea Trail uses/crosses over this trail.

• Shortoff Mountain Trail: A moderate 5.2-mile roundtrip starts at the Table Rock parking area. The 2.6 mile trail follows the dramatic edge of the Linville Gorge to Shortoff Mountain, with great views of the gorge, Lake James and the N.C. Piedmont.

• Hawksbill Trail: This 1.5-mile moderate roundtrip starts on Forest Service Road 210. The short steep hike goes to the top of Hawksbill Mountain. The top provides beautiful views of the gorge and back to Table Rock.

Wilson Creek The Wilson Creek Proposed Wilderness area, National Forest Service land composed of Lost Cove Ridge and the Harper’s Creek Area, borders the Blue Ridge Parkway in Avery County. Twenty-five miles of primitive wilderness trails offer excellent hiking and backpacking opportunities for travelers in this little-known, out of the way (but only about 45 minutes from SEE HIKE, PAGE 50

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WINTER TIMES

PAGE 50

HIKE FROM PAGE 49 Boone!) wilderness area.

Call Pisgah National Forest at (828) 682-2144 for details. Maps available through the Pisgah office or area outfitters. The following are a few of the trails offered in this area: • Huntfish Falls: Moderately strenuous, 1.4-mile roundtrip descends steeply to a big pool beneath 10foot waterfalls. Starts on Forest Service Road 464.

• Lost Cove Trail: This moderate 6-mile roundtrip starts at Huntfish Falls and follows Lost Cove Creek for 3 miles.

• Big Lost Cove Cliffs Trail: Easy 3-mile roundtrip starts on forest service road (FSR) 464.

Offers excellent view of Grandfather Mountain.

• Wilson Creek Trail/ Wilson Creek Access/ White Rocks Trail: These three trails combine to create an 8.8 mile, moderate to strenuous outing.

Offers remote outdoors with fishing, abundant wildlife and rugged terrain.

• Harper Creek Trail: Strenuous 6.3-mile trail, connects to nine other area trails, leading to gorgeous waterfalls, aspiring views and excellent backpacking opportunities.

Elk Knob State Park Elk Knob State Park is one of the newest additions to the North Carolina State Parks System.

• Summit Trail: This moderate to strenuous 1.9-mile trail leads to the summit of Elk Knob, one of the highest vantage points in the High Country. Enjoy views of peaks in North

Carolina, Tennessee and Virginia.

• Backcountry Trail: A 2-mile moderate to strenuous trail that crosses streams and leads to several campsites in this Northern hardwood forest.

• Beech Tree Trail: This one-mile, easy loop circles around the park’s picnic area.

Mount Jefferson Mount Jefferson State Park covers 541 acres, and hikers can view North Carolina, Tennessee and Virginia. The abundance of plants and shrubs led to the area’s protection in 1975.

For more info, phone (336) 246-9653.

• Rhododendron Trail: A moderate 1.1-mile trail that starts near the end of the summit trail.

Self-guided booklets are available at the trailhead, providing information about points of interest at various stations along the trail. The trail is at its most beautiful in early June when the purple-flowered Catawba rhododendron is in bloom. Magnificent view of summit ridge and valley below.

• Summit Trail: Beginning at the parking lot on Mount Jefferson, the summit trail passes through the picnic ground and ascends 0.3 miles to the highest point on Mount Jefferson.

Moderate.

Roan Mountain Roan Mountain and the Roan Mountain Highlands straddle the North Carolina/Tennessee border about a 45-minute drive from

Boone. Several designated hiking trails, ranging up to four miles in length and varying in difficulty, meander through the park’s forests and stretches of Grassy Balds. For the experienced hiker, the famed Appalachian Trail crosses Roan Mountain at one of its most scenic junctures. The top of the mountain is open from April to October. For more information, phone (423) 772-3314.

• Cloudland Trail: A 3-mile intermediate trail, the Cloudland Trail follows the crest of Roan Mountain, with a trailhead at the top of the Roan.

• Gardens Trail: This trail, 1 mile in length, is paved and travels throughout Roan Mountain’s famed rhododendron gardens which usually bloom in June. This trail is handicapped accessible.

• Appalachian Trail: The Appalachian Trail crosses Roan Mountain, literally going “right over the top.” It’s difficult trekking in spots, but well worth the effort. The view is beautiful and if you are lucky the horses might be grazing in the field. Check the AT trail maps for shelters and springs.

Beech Mountain A series of nature trails crisscross Beech Mountain, all passing through gently sloping woodlands and passing over several of Beech’s main roadways.

For more information, phone (828) 387-9283, or visit www.hikingbeechmtn.com.

• Lake Coffey Course: This scenic 1/4 mile course wraps around the lake and is perfect for both walking and jogging.

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• Pond Creek Trail: This easy to moderate 2-mile trail begins at Tamarack Road, following the creek past Lake Coffey to Locust Ridge Road. The lower end of the trail has a few small waterfalls. Park at Perry Park area.

• Grassy Creek Trail: This easy 1.2-mile trail follows the creek from Hawthorn Road and ends at Grassy Gap Creek Road.

• Cherry Gap Trail: An easy to moderate 1.6-mile walk up undeveloped Wild Iris Road. Start at Cherry Gap Road.

• Buckeye Gap Loop Trail: Moderate 8.4 miles.

• West Bowl Buckeye Creek Trail: Moderate 3.4 miles.

• Grassy Gap Creek Trail: Easy to moderate 2 miles.

• Smoketree Trail: Easy to moderate 2 mile loop.

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2014-15

MYSTERY HILL continues to excite young and old

BY JESSE CAMPBELL

A

lthough physicists believe they are getting close to identifying the mystical energy source that seemingly defies the laws of science at Blowing Rock’s Mystery Hill attraction, owner Wayne Underwood would just as well see the mystery continue.

And it’s not just because Underwood has a vested interest as a businessmen to see gravity turn a blind eye to the happenings of what was once an unassuming apple orchard that now attracts tourists as far away from Miami, Fla., on an annual basis.

For Underwood and guests of the museum, Mystery Hill is more than just a funhouse of trick mirrors and platforms for optical illusions that fool even the most discerning eyes. Mystery Hill is a hall of cherished memories that instantly overwhelm guests, who have now become more like family as the years pass, with a distinct feel of nostalgia and perhaps a yearning for “the good old days.”

The museum and adjoining properties are home to more than 40 puzzles, games and illusions that continue to stump tourists and scientific sleuths who are fans of the weird and unknown.

Some of the fan favorites include what Underwood calls “mystery rocks” that glow under fluorescent lighting, a “spooky spigot” that drips water despite not being firmly connected to anything, a magic mirror, the floating ball and a puzzle room.

One of the museum’s more popular attractions, “Shadow Play,” often leaves guests’ hair standing on end as they try to figure out why their silhouette remains on the wall after moving away.

“About 70 percent of our customers are repeat,” Underwood said. “A lot haven’t been here in 10, 15, 20 years, but they do keep coming back, and a lot keep coming back four times a year.”

A fresh rotation of exhibits maintaining a mix of the fan favorites enables Mystery Hill to attract a fresh clientele while respecting the demands of returning guests.

“The things that keep them coming

Mystery Hill is located between Boone and Blowing Rock on U.S. 321.

PHOTO BY JESSE CAMPBELL

back is it’s fun, different and unusual,” Underwood said. “We keep changing the exhibits. We have some new exhibits on the board now, and we have got to add new square footage to the museum and add new exhibits that will mystify and puzzle people.”

The family appeal of Mystery Hill adds to the attraction’s overall charm and heritage of being a mountain retreat where guests’ can truly let their minds wander — and wonder.

“To be able to have a place where people can come and have fun as a family is what makes it special to me,” Underwood said.

“It seems like families don’t get to do things together as much as they use to. To have a place where they can come do that is special to us.”

Rates and hours Children 4 and younger are admitted free of charge. Children ages 5 to 12 are admitted for $7, and admission costs $9 for individuals between the ages of 13 and 59. Ages 60 and older are admitted for $8. Group rates start for groups of 12 people or more.

Mystery Hill is open year around except Christmas Day, seven days a week. Winter hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more information, call (828) 264-2792, or visit www.mysteryhill-nc.com.

Mystery Hill is located off U.S. 321 at 129 Mystery Hill Lane in Blowing Rock.

PAGE 51

Lovill House Inn is a

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165 Hwy 105 Ext. Boone, NC 28607 Phone: 828.262.1234 Fax: 828.262.1254 www.laquintaboone.com

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WINTER TIMES

2014-15

PAGE 53

ASHE COUNTY home to awe-inspiring frescoes

BY JAMES HOWELL

E

ach year, thousands of visitors flock to the awe-inspiring frescoes painted in the Episcopal churches in Ashe County, and whether visitors come for religious reasons or just to admire the breathtaking art, visitors often leave with a new sense of wonder.

Fresco is a technique of mural painting executed upon freshly laid lime plaster.

Whereas other forms of painting often fade over time, the colors and hues of frescoes become richer with age.

Ashe County’s frescoes were painted in Benjamin Franklin Long IV, a contemporary artist of international stature renowned as a portrait painter and master of the ancient art of fresco painting.

Long grew up in Statesville, N.C., and studied at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Eventually, Long visited Italy and became an apprentice to internationally acclaimed artist Pietro Annigoni, learning fresco art techniques while also devoting himself to mastery of oil on canvas.

In 1974, desiring to exhibit his skill and at the same time gain greater recognition for fresco art, he arranged with the then Rector of St. Mary’s Episcopal Church, the Rev. Faulton Hodge, to create the first of two frescoes in Ashe County.

The fresco housed in St. Mary’s Church, located at 400 Beaver Creek School Road in West Jefferson, depicts the crucifixion and ascension of Jesus Christ.

In 1977, Long, with a gathering of apprentices and assistants, created a fresco of The Last Supper at Holy Trinity Episcopal Church, located at 120 Glendale School Road in the Glendale Springs community. The fresco shows Jesus and his disciples gathered around a table for the Last Supper, the disciples each not knowing how the events to unfold would change their lives and the course of history.

In the art form known as fresco painting, the artist presses pigment into wet plaster. The pigment becomes chemically bonded with the plaster and, in so doing,

The Last Supper is depicted in the fresco in Holy Trinity Episcopal Church in the Glendale Springs community.

FILE PHOTOS

The crucifixion of Jesus Christ is depicted in a fresco in St. Mary’s Episcopal Church in West Jefferson.

hardens with the plaster to produce a surface that is remarkably resistant to the ravages of time.

Fresco paintings date back 3,000 years or more, testifying to their durability.

Some of the best known frescoes are those by Michelangelo painted on the ceiling of the Vatican’s Sistine Chapel in Rome. Ashe County has been blessed with these awe-inspiring and eternal art treasures.

Each year, the Festival of the Frescoes is held to honor and draw attention to Long’s work.

A record number of vendors and visitors participated in this year’s Festival of the Frescoes in the Glendale Springs community in October. According to Christine Franklin, 18 vendor booths were set up for the festival, more than any other year since the festivals inception in the early 1990s.

“This has been an outstanding event,” Franklin said. “The weather has held out, and we’ve had a big turnout.”

The Festival of the Frescoes is put on by the parish at Holy Trinity Episcopal Church. According to Franklin, this event works as a fundraiser for the parish’s

work during the year.

“We’re a very small parish; we have 60 members, so an event like this is a pretty big deal,” Franklin said. “We do a lot of outreach in the community, and this is one of our biggest fundraisers.”

According to Franklin, 20,000 to

30,000 visitors come to see the frescoes each year. The churches housing the Frescoes are open 24 hours a day, seven days per week.

For more information about the frescoes, including directions, visit www. ashefrescoes.org.

PAGE 54

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THE HIGH COUNTRY’S ART GALLERIES

A

rt buyers and enthusiasts will find that the High Country’s art galleries have much to offer. Home to almost countless venues that host a variety of styles and mediums, there’s a gallery for just about every artistic disposition.

Fit for a Museum

When the Blowing Rock Art and History Museum opened its doors to the public on Oct. 1, 2011, it was the culmination of more than a decade of effort put forth by a dedicated group of supporters determined to make the project a success.

The museum was organized in 1999 in response to a local art collector’s desire to find a permanent home for his collection of work by North Carolina native and seasonal Blowing Rock resident Elliot Daingerfield, who was a significant figure in the American art scene at the turn of the 20th century.

Boasting three levels with approximately 21,000 square feet, the museum includes five galleries, a large multi-purpose community meeting room, a conference room, educational and workshop space, a gift shop and a garden.

General admission costs $8, although admission is free to members. Special discounts are also available.

For hours and a current list of exhibits, workshops and classes, visit www.blowingrockmuseum.org, or call (828) 295-9099.

‘Daylight at the Orchard’s Edge’ by Andrew Braitman at Carlton Gallery near Banner Elk. PHOTO SUBMITTED

Seeking Council

The Ashe County Arts Council is a private, nonprofit community-based cultural organization that has diligently worked toward bringing the arts to Ashe since 1977.

Ongoing community concerts, art exhibits, school assembly programs, the Mountain Arts Program, residencies, murals and special events for all ages have given Ashe County residents countless opportunities in which to experience the arts. Partnerships with various local groups and businesses create situations in which the arts are integrated into the community in a myriad of ways.

The continuing goal of the Ashe Arts Council is to enrich the cultural life of Ashe, believing that this will go far in making it a first-class community, which is good for families, the economy, businesses and visitors.

The Ashe County Arts Council, including its gallery space, is located at 303 School Ave. in West Jefferson.

For more information, including a schedule of events, call (336) 846-2787, or visit www.ashecountyarts.org.

828-898-5625

Fine Art

Carlton Gallery in Banner Elk is one of the most established fine art galleries in North Carolina. It is known for its spirited collections and diversity of artwork.

Representing more than 200 local, regional and

national artisans, the gallery is filled with art in all mediums, including paintings, glass, sculpture, wood, clay, wearable art and jewelry.

Artist and Boone native Toni Carlton is celebrating 30 years as owner the gallery, which now hosts artistled workshops. The gallery is located 10 miles south of Boone and seven miles north of Linville on N.C. 105 in the Grandfather Mountain community. For more information, call (828) 963-4288, or visit www.carltongallery.com.

Jewelry

With more than 30 years of experience, Old World Galleries owners Charlie and Joy Travis value the relationship with each client, striving to ensure that every transaction provides true customer satisfaction.

Old World specializes in fine jewelry in platinum, gold, sterling silver, precious and semi-precious gemstones, as well as custom-designed jewelry for budget-minded customers. The gallery also buys, sells and appraises antique and estate jewelry, including diamonds and precious gems, while offering a full line of jewelry repair, cleaning, evaluation and more. For more information, call (828) 264-6559, or visit www. oldworldgalleries.com.

SEE GALLERIES, PAGE 55

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2014-15

GALLERIES

Hands Gallery

FROM PAGE 54

543 W. King St. (828) 262-1970 www.handsgallery.org

Gallery Listings Banner Elk

Jones House Community Center 604 W. King St. (828) 262-4576 www.joneshousecommunitycenter.org

The Art Cellar 920 Shawneehaw Ave. (828) 898-5175 www.artcellaronline.com

Kevin Beck Studio 1590 Shull’s Mill Road (828) 963-1181 www.kevinbeck.com

Art Purveyors World HQ 112 Aldridge Park (828) 963-7246 www.artpurveyors.com

Carlton Gallery 10360 N.C. 105 South (828) 963-4288 www.carltongallery.com

Clark Gallery 393 Shawneehaw Ave. (828) 898-2095 www.clarkgallerync.com

Maggie Black Pottery 1225 N.C. 105 (828) 773-2459 www.maggieblackpottery.com

Paintings by Sherri Peterson are one of many colorful creations available at ArtWalk in downtown Boone.

Rock Galleries of Fine Art 1153 Main St. (828) 295-9752 www.thomaskinkadeasheville.com/ blowingrock

Valle Crucis Alta Vista 2839 Broadstone Road (828) 963-5247 www.altavistagallery.com

Rivercross Market 3595 N.C. 194 (828) 963-8623 www.rivercrossmarket.com

West Jefferson

Old World Galleries 697 W. King St. (828) 264-6559 www.oldworldgalleries.com

Morning Star Gallery 257 Sunset Dr. (828) 295-6991 www.morningstargalleryusa.com

PAGE 55

Ashe Arts Center Gallery 303 School Ave. (336) 846-2787 www.ashecountyarts.org

Shed Studios 555 W. King St.

Acorn Gallery

Turchin Center for the Visual Arts

103 Long St. (336) 246-3388 www.acorngallery.com

423 W. King St. Boone, N.C. 28607 (828) 262-3017 www.tcva.org

Linville & Newland

Bohemia 106 N. Jefferson Ave. (336) 846-1498

www.bohemianc.com

Broomfields Gallery Sally Nooney Gallery

87 Ruffin Street Gallery

7137 N.C.194 South (828) 963-7347 www.sallynooney.com

87 Ruffin St., Linville (828) 733-6449

414 E. 2nd St. (336) 846-4141 www.broomfieldsgallery.com

Pam Brewer Studio

Ripples Gallery

41 Redbird Lane, Newland (828) 733-5755 www.pambrewer.com

101 N. Jefferson Ave. (336) 219-0089 www.claytonproctor.com

Blowing Rock Art & Artifacts 159 Sunset Drive (828) 414-9402 www.artandartifactsbr.com

Blowing Rock Art & History Museum 159 Chestnut St. (828) 295-9099 www.blowingrockmuseum.org

Blowing Rock Frameworks & Gallery 7935 Valley Blvd.

(828) 295-0041 www.blowingrockgalleries.com

Pottery by Bob Meier is available at his downtown Boone studio, Doe Ridge Pottery, along with the work of other area artists.

PHOTO SUBMITTED

Boone ArtWalk 611 W. King St. (828) 264-9998 www.artwalkboone.com

Blue Ridge ArtSpace 377 Shadowline Drive (828) 264-1789 www.watauga-arts.org

Bolick Pottery & Traditions Pottery The Martin House 1116 Main St. (828) 295-6128 www.traditionspottery.com

Pineola, Crossnore & Linville Falls

R.T. Morgan Art Gallery & Glass by Camille 120 N. Jefferson Ave. (336) 246-3328 www.rtmorganartgallery.com

Linville River Pottery 2180 Goose Hollow Road, Pineola (828) 387-1944 www.linvilleriverpottery.com

The Artists’ Theatre 8 E. Main St. (336) 846-3355 www.theartiststheatre.com

Crossnore Fine Arts Gallery The Crossnore School 205 Johnson Lane (828) 733-3144 www.crossnoregallery.org

Ashe Custom Framing & Gallery 105 S. Jefferson Ave. (336) 846-2218 www.ashecustomframing.com

Anvil Arts Studio Doe Ridge Pottery 585-D W. King St. (828) 264-1127 www.doeridgepottery.homestead.com

9600 Linville Highway, Linville Falls (828) 765-6226 www.studiosculpture.com

Originals Only 3-B N. Jefferson Ave. (336) 846-1636 www.originalsonlygallery.com

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2014-15

The Festival of Lights at Chetola Resort is a fun, free way to brighten up the holidays.

PHOTO COURTESY OF CHETOLA RESORT

HOLIDAYS IN THE HIGH COUNTRY: Always a Reason to Celebrate Starting at 11 a.m., the parade proceeds down King Street with decorated floats, local celebrities, music and more. Special guest Santa Claus joins in for the holiday festivities.

After the parade, head on down to the Jones House Cultural and Community Center for hot cider and cookies.

For more information, visit www. downtownboonenc.com.

BY ERIKA GIOVANETTI

CHRISTMAS IN THE PARK & LIGHTING OF THE TREE Nov. 28 Every year, Blowing Rock residents and holiday visitors gather downtown at Memorial Park to mark the beginning of the Christmas season with a free celebration complete with the lighting of the town Christmas tree.

Naturally, an appearance from Santa is a given. Join the people of Blowing Rock for hot chocolate, carols, entertainment and family fun all afternoon.

For more information, visit www. blowingrock.com/calendar.

JOE SHANNON’S MOUNTAIN HOME MUSIC PRESENTS ‘AN APPALACHIAN CHRISTMAS’

CHETOLA RESORT’S FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS Nov. 28 – Jan. 25 The same day as the town lights up its Christmas tree, Chetola Resort in Blowing Rock lights up Chetola Lake.

Bringing in thousands of visitors annually, Chetola Resort’s Festival of Lights continues the classic Christmas tradition of viewing a sparkling array of holidaythemed lighting.

Visitors may take a free drive around

Santa Claus ia regular fixture at area Christmas parades.

FILE PHOTO

Chetola Lake, finding ice skaters, a nativity scene and Rudolph the Red-nosed Reindeer himself.

For more information, visit www. chetola.com/calendar.

BOONE CHRISTMAS PARADE Dec. 6 The Downtown Boone Christmas Parade is an annual tradition celebrating the holidays in the heart of the High Country.

Dec. 6 Following the Downtown Boone Christmas Parade, join Joe Shannon’s Mountain Home Music for a free concert at Grace Lutheran Church (115 E. King St.) in Boone.

Beginning at 7:30 p.m., the Mountain Home Bluegrass Boys will be providing the music, featuring David Johnson, Steve Lewis, Scott Freeman and Josh Scott playing bluegrass and country Christmas favorites.

This event benefits the Hospitality House and Santa’s Toy Box. Donations SEE HOLIDAYS, PAGE 58

2014-15

WINTER TIMES

Sugar Mountain Resort

1009 Sugar Mountain Drive • Sugar Mountain, NC 28604 www.skisugar.com • 800-Sugar-MT

PAGE 57

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2014-15

HOLIDAYS FROM PAGE 56 will be accepted.

For more information, visit www.mountainhomemusic.com.

TEMPLE OF THE HIGH COUNTRY’S HANNUKAH PARTY

The Temple of the High Country will host a Hanukkah service Dec. 19.

PHOTO SUBMITTED

Dec. 19 In 1974, a small group of Jewish residents in the High Country formed a congregation, the Boone Jewish Community. Until recently, the group had to meet at various locations within the community, even Appalachian State University.

In 2008, the Schaefer Foundation received a donation of $1 million toward opening a temple in Boone. Thus, the Temple of the High Country was built.

In the past, the High Holiday services were housed at St. Elizabeth of the Hill Country Catholic Church.

Although the organization was thankful for being able to use the facilities, its members are now excited to be hosting holiday services in their own temple.

On Dec. 19, the Temple of the High Country (1043 W. King St., Boone) will host its Hanukkah party. The party starts at 7 p.m., and the temple is hosting a service beforehand at 6 p.m. Guests are asked to bring a menorah.

For updates and more information, call (828) 2669777.

From left, community members Joan and Dick Hearn march in Blowing Rock’s annual Christmas parade.

FILE PHOTO

CHOOSE AND CUT CHRISTMAS TREES Every year, people migrate from all over the state and beyond to pick the perfect Christmas tree from the picturesque Blue Ridge Mountains, while at the same time contributing to the local economy.

According to the Watauga County Christmas Tree Association, the High Country is “the choose and cut capital,” with 22 choose and cut farms listed in the 2014 directory.

For more information about the benefits of buying local Christmas trees, and for a directory of Christmas tree farms in Watauga County, turn to page XX, and visit www.wataugachristmastrees.org.

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PAGE 59

Winter Car Care STUCK IN THE SNOW? DON’T GET STUCK WITH A BIG TOWING BILL! Celebrating 50 years in the High Country Recognized 4 years as Watauga County’s Best of the Best Auto Body Repair by “Best of The Best” voters!

UNITED MUFFLER SHOP “ALL ALUMINIZED MUFFLERS & PIPES” “NO MUFF” “TOO TUFF”

BRUSHY FORK AUTO SERVICE Formerly Steve's Auto Service

828-262-1025

Providing 30 Years of Dependable, Quality Service to the High Country

Professional Service Since 1980

ALSO SERVICING MOST MODELS

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We now do quality UNDERCOATING

VOTED BEST OF THE BEST AUTO REPAIR

SNOW CHARLIE’S AUTO PARTS 701 Hwy 105 Ext. • Boone, NC

828.264.4777

BOONE TIRE CENTER, INC. “More Than Just A Tire Store” 2014

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Hours: Mon - Fri 8am-5:30pm Sat 8am-2pm

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359 East King St. | Boone, NC 28607 828.265.5932

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CULTURE AND PASSION are always in fashion at BRAHM

BY JEFF EASON

T

he High Country is well known for its amazing array of outdoor sights and adventures. There are also quite a few indoor adventures to be had here — if you know where to look for them.

The Blowing Rock Art and History Museum (BRAHM) is one such place. This winter, when you need a break from the harsh, cold weather, spend a few hours in BRAHM; you’ll be glad you did.

EXHIBITIONS This winter, BRAHM features three large exhibits that give a unique glimpse into the culture and history of our area.

“Common Threads: Five Influential Women and Their Legacies” is on display in BRAHM’s Main Gallery from now through Jan. 4, 2015; “Whimmy Diddles ’n’ Flipper Dingers: Toys of Appalachia” will be on display in the Historic Objects Gallery; and “Selections from the Collection” will be on display in three galleries: David and Nancy Rankin, Kay and Tom Rankin, and Gena and Bill Atwell.

The “Common Threads” exhibit celebrates the lives of five influential women and their contributions to the High Country over the span of 100 years: • • • • •

Emily Prudden, founder of a school for mountain children after the Civil War. Bertha Cone, widow of Moses Cone, who sustained their home after his death for 35-plus years.

Mary Martin Sloop, founder of Crossnore School.

Lucy Morgan, founder of the Penland School of Crafts.

Vera Lachmann, Holocaust survivor and founder of Camp Catawba for Boys.

Visitors to the exhibit will learn about each of these women individually and explore the commonalities that connect them together through the educational reform they promoted in the mountains.

The Blowing Rock Art and History Museum’s exhibition, “Whimmy Diddles ’n’ Flipper Dingers: Toys of Appalachia,” will be open to the public on in the upstairs Historic Objects Gallery through Feb. 1, 2015.

On display, viewers will see toys and learn more about the history behind toys traditionally made and played with in Southern Appalachia. Newer toys will also be on display, some of which museum-goers young and old will be able to play with in the gallery and experience firsthand.

“Selections from the Collection” is BRAHM’s latest

The Blowing Rock Art and History Museum features rotating exhibits and activities aplenty during the winter months, offering patrons a reprieve from the cold and a taste of High Country art and history.

PHOTO BY JEFF EASON

exhibition, featuring more than 100 selected paintings, drawings, prints, glass, ceramic and mixed media pieces from Blowing Rock Art and History Museum’s Permanent Collection in three galleries.

Since its first work of art was acquired in 2002, BRAHM has added works by many artists, historic and contemporary, to its growing Permanent Collection. The exhibition will include works on view by Elliott Daingerfield, Philip Moose, Andrew Wyeth, Philip Leslie Hale, Walter Schofield, William Charles Anthony Frerichs, Herb Cohen, Everett Shinn, Jose Fumero, and many others. The exhibition will also feature twenty-five etchings of North Carolina landmarks by Louis Orr. Many of the represented artists found inspiration amongst the hills of our local region, while others crafted work representing stories of beauty, belief, place and people across the rest of the state and country.

These selections possess commonalities found in the details on the surface of each painting, reflections in the glass, and line work in the drawings, yet they also tell stories all their own.

A reception celebrating the exhibit will be held during the museum’s Holiday Open House from 2 to 4 p.m.

Saturday, Nov. 29. The event is free and open to the public.

The Blowing Rock Art and History Museum also offers a variety of programs for the entire family, including Doodlebug art classes for children, cork and canvas events for adults and lectures from visiting art and history experts.

BRAHM is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday, and from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Thursday. During the winter, it is closed on Sunday and Monday, as well as on Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and New Year’s Day. Admission is $5 for adults and $4 for children, seniors, students and active military personnel.

BRAHM is located at 159 Chestnut St. in downtown Blowing Rock. Free parking is available in the lot adjacent to the museum.

For more information, call BRAHM at (828) 2959099.

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PERFORMING ARTS AT APPALACHIAN

BY FRANK RUGGIERO

S

easons are changing at Appalachian State University.

ASU’s Office of Arts & Cultural Programs presents the 2014-15 Performing Arts Series, featuring the Broadway tour of “Rain: A Tribute to The Beatles” (March 4, 2015), The Peking Acrobats (March 17, 2015) and the Koresh Dance Company (April 17, 2015).

If the selection seems rather slim, it’s because the series is still adding performances to its lineup — and with your help.

“We have our staples … but we’re looking to do more of a continuous booking this year, realizing that some of the more popular artists aren’t ready to book a show for April 2015 yet, even though we are,” said Megan Stage, the office’s marketing and public relations manager at the time. “We don’t want to miss out on any opportunity to bring an artist to the area for our community and campus, so we decided to keep the booking lines open, keep talking to the agents and looking at artists for tour schedules and just adding on a date if we find a good fit.”

The university is also reaching out to the community at large.

“In telling people that we’re continuously booking, it’s opened up communication a lot more,” Stage said. “People are sending us ideas, telling us about different bands they heard of or are up and coming, or other popular artists who are touring during the year.”

People are invited to share their suggestions online at http://pas.appstate. edu and through social media.

“We do get a lot of ideas (submitted), and a lot of the series gets birthed that way,” Stage said, “because of the

feedback we received from our audience members.”

THE LINEUP (SO FAR) On March 4, 2015, the PAS forecasts “Rain: A Tribute to The Beatles,” as part of the Broadway production’s current tour.

“We’re pumped about this, because the renovation of the Schaefer Center (formerly Farthing Auditorium) means we’re able to bring in some larger scale shows,” Stage said.

And “Rain” fits the bill.

“It’s gotten incredible reviews, and a lot of people are saying it’s like reliving The Beatles,” Stage said. “These are professional actors who have studied this iconic band forever, and they’re just incredible. They don’t just look like them; they sound like them and embody the essence of them completely.”

On March 17, 2015, The Peking Acrobats will swing into the Schaefer Center, with their full complement of tumblers, contortionists, jugglers, cyclists and gymnasts.

According to their bio, the acrobats are “known for leaving audiences around the globe spellbound by the graceful athleticism of their ancient folk art. Since their debut in 1986, The Peking Acrobats have redefined audience perceptions of Chinese acrobatics. They perform daring maneuvers atop a precarious pagoda of chairs; they are experts at treacherous feats of daring, trick-cycling, precision tumbling, somersaulting and gymnastics.

They defy gravity with amazing displays of contortion, flexibility and control.

They push the envelope of human possibility with astonishing juggling dexterity and incredible balancing feats, showcasSEE ARTS, PAGE 63

The Koresh Dance Company, founded by Israeli-born choreographer and artistic director Ronen ‘Roni’ Koresh, will perform at ASU April 17, 2015.

PHOTO SUBMITTED

Celebrating 32Years

Winter Group & Small Works Exhibition November 28 - April 30

Holiday Open House November 28 & 29, 10-5 CARLTON GALLERY Located 10 Miles South of Boone on Highway 105 in Grandfather Community 828-963-4288 | www.carltongallery.com | carltongallery@carltongallery.com

PAINTINGS • CLAY • GLASS • WOOD • FIBER ART • JEWELRY

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Blowing Rock’s Ensemble Stage presents an annual holiday variety show, ‘Christmas in the High Country.’

PHOTO COURTESY OF ENSEMBLE STAGE

TRADE IN THE COLD FOR CULTURE with theater this winter

BY ERIKA GIOVANETTI

T

he High Country offers yearround opportunities to see live performances at local professional and community theaters, and attending a performance is a great way to escape the blistering cold.

Ensemble Stage presents its annual holiday musical variety show, “Christmas in the High Country,” featuring music, dancing, comedy and more this December.

The exact date and time are to be determined.

For more information, visit www. ensemblestage.com.

ENSEMBLE STAGE Blowing Rock’s Ensemble Stage is a professional theater company that has brought culture to the High Country since 2009, with more than 200 performances since its inception.

On Nov. 29 at 7 p.m., Ensemble hosts a live radio drama version of “It’s a Wonderful Life.” Truly a traditional American Christmas story, this live presentation is sure to put any scrooge in the holiday spirit.

BEANSTALK COMMUNITY THEATRE Since 2012, BeanStalk Community Theatre has been producing shows and offering affordable entertainment to Watauga County.

Harvest House Performing Arts venue hosts BeanStalk’s “Christmas in Oz, Y’all,” departing from the traditional “Wizard of Oz” tale by transplanting Dorothy’s trailer to the North Pole,

where she meets Christmas legends, such as Frosty the Snowman. The performance takes place on Dec. 4 and 5 at 7 p.m. and Dec. 6 at 2 p.m.

From March 26 to 28, BeanStalk presents “Dearly Departed” by David Bottrell and Jessie Jones. Taking place in the Bible Belt, the play follows a family that proves “that living and dying in the South are seldom tidy and always hilarious.”

The second two nights of the showing are accompanied by a barbecue dinner, catered by Casa Rustica.

For more information, visit www. beanstalkcommunitytheatre.com.

ASU THEATRE & DANCE Being in a town with a liberal arts college means that the community gets to enjoy the culture taught and prac-

ticed by the school’s art programs.

Appalachian State University’s College of Fine and Applied Arts puts on a number of theatrical performances throughout the year, allowing community members to see the fruits of educational labors.

This winter, Dr. Paulette Marty directs “The Countess,” an exploration of truth based on actual events surrounding Effie Ruskin, her husband and famed art critic John Ruskin and famed artist John Millais.

“The Countess” will be performed nightly at Valborg Theatre from Wednesday, Feb. 25, at 7:30 p.m. through Sunday, March 1, when it plays at 2 p.m. Tickets are $16 for general admission and $9 for students.

For more information on theater at ASU, visit www.theatre.appstate.edu.

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ARTS FROM PAGE 61 ing tremendous skill and ability. With live accompaniment, from musicians playing traditional Chinese instruments, the acrobats transform 2,000-year-old traditions of agility and grace into a modern day kaleidoscope of entertainment and wonder.”

The Koresh Dance Company will take the stage April 17, 2015, and Stage anticipates the group will also enjoy a residency at the university, working personally with students prior to the show.

“We were part of a statewide dance initiative, and last year, we brought River North Dance Chicago, and they were here for a week on campus, working with students and deepening that connection,” she said. “When people came to their performance, they felt they had this connection with the dancers. Koresh Dance Company will do something similar.”

According to its official description,

The Koresh Dance Company is “widely recognized for its superb technique and emotionally compelling appeal.”

The group was founded in Philadelphia in 1991 by Israeli-born choreographer and artistic director Ronen “Roni” Koresh. Since then, the company has toured in more than 38 states and seven countries, and its “interdisciplinary foundation promotes high-speed attack and gestural diversity, drawn from Graham technique, Luigi jazz, classical ballet, hiphop and Israeli folk dance,” the description reads.

The remainder of the 2014-15 PAS lineup is yet to be determined, although Stage promised updates via PAS social media and online at http://pas.appstate. edu.

TICKETS Tickets to the 2014-15 Performing Arts Series are currently on sale. To purchase them, or for more information, call (800) 841-2787, or visit http://pas.appstate. edu.

On March 4, 2015, the PAS forecasts ‘Rain: A Tribute to The Beatles,’ as part of the celebrated Broadway production’s current tour.

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TAKE A STEP BACK IN TIME General stores provide old-fashioned, extra personal touch

BY ERIK HOFFMANN

S

ure, you can get a bargain at one of those national chain stores, but nothing beats the history, personal service and entertainment you can find inside general stores located throughout the High Country.

Whether you’re looking for something to fill your stomach or looking for something to fill your scrapbook, our general stores more than likely have just what you’re looking for.

the most recent sugary concoctions, it’s sure to be every kids dream — and every dentist’s nightmare.

Both the Valle Crucis store and Annex are open 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Saturday and noon to 6 p.m. Sunday.

The downtown Boone Mast General Store is located at 630 W. King St. and offers many of the same sights as sounds as the Valle Crucis original does. The Boone store is open 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Saturday and 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday.

For more information, call (828) 963-6511, (828) 262-0000 or (866) 367-6878. You can also visit www. mastgeneralstore.com or find the store on Facebook.

For more information, call (828) 387-4838, or visit www.fredsgeneral.com.

Phipps Country Store in Lansing hosts jam sessions throughout the year and is located in the former Silas Creek Post Office.

PHIPPS GENERAL STORE Phipps General Store is located in Lansing at 2425 Silas Creek Road and offers a weekly jam session with local and regional musicians playing traditional mountain music every Friday night at 7 p.m.

For more information, call (336) 384-2382, or visit their Facebook page.

TODD GENERAL STORE AND TODD MERCANTILE

Mast General Store has several locations, including King Street in downtown Boone.

FILE PHOTOS

Billed as America’s highest general store, Fred’s General Mercantile in Beech Mountain is located at 5,049 feet above sea level.

MAST GENERAL STORE AND ANNEX Bringing a cool and eclectic historical vibe to the High Country, the Mast General Store is a do-not-miss on any tourists bucket list.

Opening its doors in 1883, the original Mast General Store in Valle Crucis is still located at 3565 N.C. 194 South and still offers 5-cent cup of coffee, creaky wooden floorboards, cast iron cookware, clothing, footwear, hardware and much, much more.

The Mast Store Annex, located just down the road, is one of the remaining fixtures for penny-candy left in the High Country. Everything from old-time favorites to

FRED’S GENERAL MERCANTILE Fred’s General Mercantile has the distinction of being the highest general store in America, toppling all others at a staggering 5,049 feet above sea level.

A popular destination for skiers, the store offers the latest ski fashions, accessories for sale or rent, sleds, locally grown seasonal fruits and vegetables, gourmet foods and more.

Open daily from 7:30 a.m. to 10 p.m., Fred’s General Mercantile is located at 501 Beech Mountain Parkway.

Built in 1914, The Todd General Store has been a staple of the High Country. Explore the rich history of Appalachia from the early 1900 displayed throughout the store. Hungry travelers can grab a bite to eat at their deli or pick up some homemade jellies. Shoppers can check out local crafts, antiques, collectibles and much more.

Located at 3866 Railroad Grade Road, the store overlooks the south fork of the New River. It is closed from Jan. 1 to March 15.

For more information, call (336) 877-1067, or visit www.toddgeneralstore.com.

Dubbed the “Friendliest Little Store in Todd, North Carolina,” The Todd Mercantile offers a quaint atmosphere and delectable aromas. People have been known to drive from miles around just for a sample of their melt-in-your-mouth homemade cinnamon rolls.

While you’re waiting for your food to digest, make sure to look over their supply of locally handcrafted goods, pottery, T-shirts and, a regional favorite, moonSEE STORES, PAGE 65

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STORES FROM PAGE 64 shine. Take a look at their events calendar, as well, as they often host special dinners, dances and musical performances.

The Todd Mercantile is located just across the street from The Todd General Store at 3899 Railroad Grade Road and is open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday and 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sundays.

For more information, call (336) 877-5401, visit their Facebook page, or go to www.toddmercantile.com.

COVE CREEK STORE The Cove Creek Store has assisted customers with their grocery and hardware needs since the late 1950s and has been a cornerstone of the community ever since. Located at 1182 U.S. 321 in Sugar Grove, Cove Creek Store offers lots of gluten-free products and healthy foods and snacks.

The store is open Monday through Saturday, from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. For more information, call (828) 2972111, or visit their Facebook page.

Todd General Store has been in business since 1914 and features memorabilia from the early 1900s on display throughout the store.

GRANDFATHER COUNTRY STORE Since the early 1920s, the Grandfather Country Store has been “the country store” for the eastern slope of Grandfather Mountain.

Offering a mixture of today and yesteryear, Grandfather Country Store offers patrons a chance to surf the

Specialty Beers - Visit our “BEER CAVE” Wines from the affordable to the rare & collectable Unique cheese from around the world Incredible chocolates Expanded selection of gourmet specialty foods, condiments & oils

web with their in-house WiFi, all while comfortably basking in the warmth of the wood stove.

Take a moment to enjoy a cup of the store’s gourmet coffee or a bite of its fine pastries. If food is an afterthought, check out the aisles of local crafts, collectibles

and antiques.

Located at 6371 U.S. 221 South in Blowing Rock, the store is open Thursday through Tuesday, 11:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. For more information, call (828) 295-6100, or visit www.grandfathercountrystore.com.

JUST SAY CHEESE The High Country’s largest selection of foreign and domestic cheeses, hand cut

Gluten-free products Exclusive distributor for L’Arrigo Olive Oil Gift baskets & party trays, wine & dining accessories Custom wine ordering

Grandfather Center NC 105 & NC 184, next to the ABC store Banner Elk, NC / 828.898.9424 erickscheeseandwine.com

Saturday Wine Tastings 1:00 - 5:00 pm

HighCountryNC.com

live the adventure Find your adventure

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WINERIES:

Getting Toast-y in the High Country

BY JESSE CAMPBELL

BANNER ELK WINERY Like the succulent and well-cultivated grapes that replenish the vines of Banner Elk Winery each spring, the awards and accolades of this thriving estate prove that despite the elevation, a fine wine can find a well deserving niche in the High Country.

When co-owner and vintner Dick Wolfe said he was going to grow grapes and produce wine in the High Country, his Yadkin Valley counterparts and soon-to-be rivals scoffed at the notion and wrote him off as another novice.

In the years since, Banner Elk Winery has won myriad medals, including bronze, silver gold and the prestigious double-gold from the N.C. State Fair Wine Competition.

Winning varieties include its Chianti vintage and 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon, Banner Elk White and 2011 Seyval Blanc. In the real hybrid category, Banner Elk won for its 2011 Banner Elk Red and 2011 Marechal Foch.

In the Rosé/Blush Native American segment of the

The High Country’s elevation yields bountiful grapes, leading to award-winning wines.

PHOTOS BY FRANK RUGGIERO

2014-15

contest, Banner Elk took home gold for the 2011 High Country variety. The awards were handed out in October 2013.

“I know a thing or two about making wine,” Wolfe said.

Since Wolfe and business partner Angelo Accetturo opened Banner Elk Winery in 2005, the winery has won an accolade every year for its mountain-grown varieties.

“It’s not just me, but other wineries that are getting the awards, too,” Wolfe said Over Yonder, formerly known as the 1861 Farmhouse in Valle Crucis, brought home five medals from the state fair in 2013, building its already strong foundation for making quality wine.

Growing in a cooler environment demands a little bit of creativity from cultivators.

“In the High Country, you have to grow on the south slopes, because it’s too cold to grow on the north,” Wolfe said. “You can’t grow on the valleys either. The frost makes it too difficult.”

There are some advantages, however, to growing in higher elevations and upon rockier terrain. Since growers can’t use large machines to the harvest the grapes, they must pick the varieties by hand. This affords them the opportunity to select the very best possible grape.

“The whole objective of this area should be quality over quantity,” Wolfe said.

Tastings are also held year-round for $10 person and are available from noon to 6 p.m. Tuesday SEE WINERIES, PAGE 67

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WINERIES FROM PAGE 66 through Sunday. Banner Elk Winery ‘s villa bed and breakfast is also available 365 days a year.

Banner Elk Winery is located at 60 Deer Run in Banner Elk. For more information, call (828) 898-9090, or visit www. bannerelkwinery.com.

GRANDFATHER VINEYARD AND WINERY Steve and Sally Tatum started planting grapevines in their backyard in 2003, which led to Watauga County’s first winery.

They opened the vineyard and winery with the help of their son, Dylan Tatum, who studied viticulture and enology at Surry Community College.

The winery also boasts an array of award-winning wines, which visitors can sample in the tasting room. From Dec. 1 to May 15, 2015, the tasting room will be open from noon to 6 p.m. Monday and Wednesday through Saturday, and 1 to 5 p.m. Sunday. It is closed on Tuesday.

The vineyard and winery can be accessed from N.C. 105 South, approximately 9.3 miles from the U.S. 321/N.C. 105 intersection in Boone.

From Dec. 1 to May 15, 2015, the tasting room will be open Monday and Wednesday through Saturday, from noon to 6 p.m., and 1 to 5 p.m. on Sunday. It is closed on Tuesday.

The vineyard is also available for smaller weddings, parties and corporate events.

Grandfather Vineyard and Winery is located at 225 Vineyard Lane in Banner Elk. For more information, call (828) 9632400, or visit www.grandfathervineyard.com.

Banner Elk Winery co-founder and vintner Dick Wolfe tends to the vines at the vineyard.

Want to Go? Banner Elk Winery & Villa

60 Deer Run Banner Elk, N.C. 28604 (828) 898-9090 www.bannerelkwinery.com

Grandfather Vineyard & Winery

Vineyard Lane Banner Elk, N.C. 28604 (828) 963-2400 www.grandfathervineyard.com

Linville Falls Winery

9557 Linville Falls Highway Newland, N.C. 28657 (828) 765-1400 www.linvillefallswinery.com

Thistle Meadow Winery

102 Thistle Meadow Laurel Springs, N.C. 28644 (800) 233-1505 www.thistlemeadowwinery.com

Watauga Lake Winery

6952 Big Dry Run Road Butler, Tenn. 37640 (423) 768-0345 www.wataugalakewinery.com

Marissa Greene pours a sample during a wine-tasting at Grandfather Vineyard and Winery.

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North Carolina’s Most Trusted Furniture & Design Resource for Over 50 Years Beat the winter blues with a trip to one of the High Country’s many spas.

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THE PAMPERED TRAVELER Make time for you at the High Country’s destination and day spas COMPILED BY ANNA OAKES

D

ry air and cold weather shouldn’t derail your winter travel activities, but it does mean your trip should include time for taking care of your body and mind.

weight loss packages are offered, and medical treatments include CoolSculpting and Botox. Multiple facial, hair, nail and wax services are also available.

For more information, call (828) 2954463 or (800) 562-0807, email info@ westglow.com or visit westglowresortandspa.com.

Destination Spas THE SPA AT CHETOLA RESORT WESTGLOW RESORT & SPA 224 Westglow Circle Blowing Rock, N.C. 28605

2220 Hwy 70 SE (I-40, exit 126), Hickory, NC Mon-Sat, 9am-6pm www.hickoryfurniture.com 1-800-462-MART (6278)

Recognized among the “Top Destination Spa Resorts in the World” in the Condé Nast Traveler 2014 Readers’ Choice Awards, Westglow Resort & Spa is an all-inclusive resort in Blowing Rock offering customized spa experiences for a spa vacation, weekend getaway or day retreat.

Westglow Spa offers Vichy rain therapies and body services, including a firming seaweed and mud wrap, eucalyptus salt glow, detoxification body wrap, deep tissue body massage, Thai massage, raindrop therapy and more. Fitness and

500 N. Main St. Blowing Rock, N.C. 28605 The Spa at Chetola Resort opened in 2009, offering five treatment rooms (one for couples), a relaxation room, nail treatment area, a complimentary Swan Bar and women and men’s locker rooms.

Adjoining the spa is a heated indoor pool, Jacuzzi, sauna and fitness room. Wellness programs include fitness and cooking classes.

The Spa features a wide variety of services, including massage therapies, facials, nail treatments, teeth-whitening treatments and cosmetic applications.

SEE TRAVELER, PAGE 69

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TRAVELER

9500, or visit EseeolaSpa.com.

FROM PAGE 68 The Spa is open from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily. For more information, call (800) 243-8652, email spa@chetola.com, or visit www.chetola.com/spa.html.

BLUE HEAVEN RESORT & SPA 911 Rock Cliff Road Boone, N.C. 28607 The menu of services at Blue Heaven was created to offer guests life-enhancing treatments based on the principles of Ayurveda. A variety of massages, facials and holistic treatments are available, as well as a hotel with incredible views, balanced vegetarian meals, yoga and meditation.

For more information, visit www.blueheavenresortandspa.com, or call (800) 368-5168.

SPA AT CRESTWOOD 3236 Shulls Mill Road Boone, N.C. 28607 Therapeutic services and treatments at the Spa at Crestwood include the highest grade of professional massage and skin therapy services available, including Swedish massage, deep tissue massage, facials and aromatherapy. In addition, each spa guest is also invited to enjoy access to Crestwood’s lap pool, steam bath, sauna and cardio fitness center.

For more information, call (877) 8365046, or visit www.crestwoodnc.com/ spa-services-packages.

THE ESEEOLA SPA AT ESEEOLA LODGE 34 Dogwood St. Linville, N.C. 28646 The Eseeola Spa is a new spa experience at the historic Eseeola Lodge in Linville. Located near the premier restaurant and accommodations of the Eseeola Lodge and the Linville Golf Club, the spa offers stone massage, aromatherapy massage, golfer’s massage, facials, body wraps and scrubs, as well as hair, nail and waxing services. The spa also has a full health club fitness facility, pool and activity center.

For more information, call (828) 737-

Day Spas HEAVENLY TOUCH DAY SPA 246-D Wilson Drive Boone, N.C. 28607 Heavenly Touch in Boone offers a variety of spa services, including facials, waxing, massages, body treatments, sunless tanning, manicures and pedicures, GloMinerals makeup and more. Gift cards and packages are available.

Hours are Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., Saturday from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Sunday from 12:30 to 6 p.m. For more information, call (828) 264-4335, or visit www.heavenlytouchmassage.com.

7TH HEAVEN DAY SPA 4457 N.C. 105 South Boone, N.C. 28607 Swedish massage, sports massage, lymphatic massage, prenatal, hot stone massage, wraps, stress management counseling, facials and hair removal are among the services offered by 7th Heaven Day Spa. Multiple discounts and specials are available.

For more information, call (828) 9632355, or visit 7thheaven.vpweb.com.

SERENITY DAY SPA 72 Arnett Road Banner Elk, N.C. 28604 Serenity Day Spa in Banner Elk offers massage, facials, microdermabrasion, body treatments, manicures, pedicures and waxing.

Its location — across from the entrance to Sugar Mountain and directly behind Extreme in Banner Elk — offers a charming cottage atmosphere with four treatment rooms, a couples room and fireplace. Relax in the sunroom between appointments and enjoy a cup of hot apple cider.

Owner and operator Cari Ashbaugh has worked as a licensed massage therapist for 25 years and a skin care specialist for 15 years.

For more information, call (828) 8983550, email cashbaugh@charter.net, or visit relaxatserenity.com.

LAVENDER FIELDS SKIN CARE AND LASER SPA 820-C State Farm Road Boone, N.C. 28607 Laser hair removal, permanent makeup, corrective facials, electrolysis, massages, nail care and more are among the services provided at Lavender Fields.

Free consultations are available.

For more information, call (828) 2651029, or visit www.lavenderfieldssalon. com.

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Natural Healing Day Spa is a North Carolina day spa and wellness center that has been in business for more than 20 years. Natural Healing offers many spa and therapeutic services to help clients achieve health and wellbeing. Its services include massage therapy, facials, body wraps and scrubs, foot reflexology and a variety of manicures and pedicures.

Wellness and weight loss services include infrared sauna sessions.

For more information, call (828) 8988400 or visit naturalhealingdayspa. com.

THE WISDOM TREE 240 Shadowline Drive, Unit 6A Boone, N.C. 28607 The Wisdom Tree provides therapeutic massage, body and energy work, reiki, hot stones and wraps, as well as exercise and movement classes and gifts.

For more information, visit www. thewisdomtreenc.com or call (828) 9647600.

NATURAL HEALING DAY SPA 2960 Tynecastle Highway Banner Elk, N.C. 28604

THE RIVERSIDE SPA 9649 N.C. 105 South Banner Elk, N.C. 28604 The Riverside Spa in Foscoe offers high quality spa treatments in a relaxing environment. Services include therapeutic massage, sports massage, deep tissue massage, Swedish massage, trigger point therapy, pre-natal massage, hot stone massage, salt glow, paraffin treatments, facials, oxygen facials, peels, waxing and tinting.

For more information, call (828) 9637800.

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Brewer Aaron Maas examines the brewhouse at Lost Province Brewing Company in downtown Boone.

PHOTOS BY FRANK RUGGIERO

LOCAL BREWERIES tap into the High Country

BY FRANK RUGGIERO AND ANNA OAKES

A

sheville may be the top beer city in the Southeast, but the Boone area is brewing its own craft beer scene.

The newest in this small community of breweries is Lost Province Brewing Company, which opened this August in downtown Boone at 130 N. Depot St. A family business of Andy, Lynne, J.P. and David Mason, the brewpub serves beer brewed on site, as well as wood-fired pizza and other beer-infused fare.

“You’ll find that most of our menu incorporates the use of the wood-fired oven and/or beer,” Lynne Mason said. “The menu has something for everyone, and all of

our desserts are made in house. David is also getting as much of the food items locally as we can.”

Andy Mason, an award-winning brewer, has enjoyed bringing his craft to the tap, including seasonal brews and a weekly unveiling of a special cask every Friday at 5 p.m., playfully dubbed “Freakin’ Firkin Friday at Five.

“We want to demonstrate the diversity of beer,” he said. “From malty to hoppy, light to dark, sweet to sour, German clean yeast to Belgian funky yeast, we want to celebrate the diversity, and we want to do some fun stuff that’s totally off the wall — because we can.”

When it comes to brewing, Andy Mason is SEE BREWERIES, PAGE 71

Appalachian Mountain Brewery was the first brewery to open in Boone since the Cottonwood brewpub closed more than a decade ago.

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BREWERIES FROM PAGE 69 tedly a purist, a “stickler for classic styles using classic materials and preparation methods,” he said, “to the degree I can do it and experiment with funky (recipes) and push the limits of how beer styles are traditionally thought of.”

To that end, the bar features 12 brews on draft, and should a patron return after a couple of weeks, the Masons expect they’ll find, at least, two new varieties on the menu. The same applies to food. “Whatever’s fresh, whatever’s available, whatever’s fun,” Andy Mason said.

Lost Province also features regular live music and other activities, including football game screenings on the weekends. For more information, visit lostprovince.com, or call (828) 2653506.

Appalachian Mountain Brewery is now entering its third year of operation after becoming the first brewery to open in Boone since the Cottonwood brewpub closed more than a decade ago.

AMB offers more than a dozen brews on tap and donates a portion of proceeds to area nonprofits. The taproom also plays host to live music and yard games.

The brewery and taproom are located at 163 Boone Creek Drive and are open from 4 to 10 p.m. Monday, 4 to 11 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday, 3 to 11 p.m. Friday, 1 to 11 p.m. Saturday and 1 to 10 p.m. Sunday.

The brewery regularly features live music, trivia, open-mic night and more. For more information, visit www.appalachianmountainbrewery. com, look the brewery up on Facebook, or call (828) 263-1111.

Blowing Rock Brewing Company debuted Blowing Rock Ale several years ago and recently opened the Blowing Rock Ale House at the former Maple Lodge on Sunset Drive in Blowing Rock.

Although numerous Blowing Rock brews can be found in grocery stores on and off the mountain, the ale house features a special selection of craft beers not found anywhere else.

The venue also offers eight rooms and a full pub and is open from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Thursday through Tuesday. Brewery tours are available from 1 to 5 p.m. Saturday.

For more information, visit www.blowingrockalehouseandinn.com.

In Ashe County, Boondocks Brewing Tap Room & Restaurant is located at 108 S. Jefferson Ave. in West Jefferson, offering small batches of handcrafted beers, as well as more than 30 craft beers with a strong focus on North Carolina brews. The tap room is open from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and until 11:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday.

Check out www.boondocks-brewing.com for more information.

From left, Andy Mason, Lynne Mason and David Mason recently opened Lost Province Brewing Company in downtown Boone.

Appalachian Mountain Brewery co-founder Sean Spiegelman pulls a pint at the brewery and tap room in Boone.

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A visit into the neighboring counties will open up to views like this one looking off toward Mabel in Watauga County.

Snowmen come in many shapes and sizes once the snow begins to fall in the mountains.

ONE MOORE SHOT Winter views for the warmest viewers

Travel the Parkway close to Price Park, Milepost 305.5, and you will see this beatiful tree standing proudly for all to view.

PHOTOS BY ROB MOORE | MTNSNAPSHOTS.COM

Fir trees are in abundance in the High Country as they are shipped out for families to enjoy at Christmas.

Scenes like this pop up all over the High Country when Old Man Winter sends his bite. This is a small mountain in Watauga County called Sugar Loaf.

Left, A wintery scene off of Junaluska Road just outside of Boone.

Right, Price Lake, Milepost 296.7, creaks and pops when it is covered with a layer of ice.

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Rime ice can collect on the branches during the winter season and on a clear blue sky after the storm clears, the glistening of the ice is beautiful.

Above, decorating a Christmas tree is a favorite pastime for those celebrating the holiday. It is a treat to see a tree decorated outside with snow collected on the branches.

Grandfather Mountain displays a winter cap after a snowfall. This mountain, with all its majestic beauty, gives a photographer a picture perfect moment.

Right, patterns are located all over the High Country and are most prevalent on the tree farms. A snowfall gives a stark contrast between the trees and the paths to get through the ďŹ elds.

More

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Monday-Friday 9:30 a.m. - 6 p.m.

Saturday 9:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.

Closed on Sunday

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Your Winter Times Calendar NOV. 27 TURKEY TROT: For the fourth consecutive year, the High Country Turkey Trot 5K will take place Thanksgiving morning.

The 5K timed run will kick off at 9 a.m. with casual runners, joggers and walkers immediately following. Hearts of Hospitality House, the ambassador group of Hospitality House, is organizing the event, with 100 percent of proceeds going to provide food, shelter and services to individuals and families living in poverty. All participants are asked to bring nonperishable foot items – canned goods, boxed goods, dry goods – for donation to the Bread of Life Community Kitchen. Preregistration is $30 for adults and teens and $10 for kids 12 and younger. Adult and teen registration includes a commemorative T-shirt, while kids’ registration includes a Turkey Trot sticker. On-site registration will be available beginning at 7:30 a.m. and ending at 8:30 a.m. for anyone wishing to compete in the 5K time run. On-site registration fee is $35 for adults and teens and $15 for kids 12 and younger. For more information, visit http://HCTurkeyTrot. org, email todd@hosphouse.org, or call (828) 264-1237.

NOV. 28 COLORFUL FRIDAY SALE: The Blowing Rock Art and History Museum will hold a “Colorful Friday Sale” at the museum’s gift shop from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Nov. 28. All kinds of artful, educational and creative items will be on sale, with an additional 10 percent off for all BRAHM members. For more information, call (828) 295-9099.

CHRISTMAS IN THE PARK: The town of Blowing Rock will kick off the holiday season with its annual Christmas in the Park event on Nov. 28. The afternoon includes a visit with Santa Claus from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m., hayrides through town from 2 p.m. to 7 p.m., bounce house from 2 p.m. to 5:30 p.m., caroling in the park with the Watauga Community Band from 3 p.m. to 4:30 p.m., “A Bluegrass Christmas” with Diana and Sarvis Ridge from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. and the official lighting of the town at 5:30 p.m. For more information, call Blowing Rock Parks and Recreation at (828) 295-5222.

NOV. 29 TOWN LIGHTING: The town of New-

land will hold a Christmas tree lighting ceremony at 6:30 p.m. Nov. 29 at town square.

THEATER: Ensemble Stage will present a live radio stage version of Frank Capra’s holiday classic “It’s a Wonderful Life” at the Blowing Rock School auditorium at 7 p.m. on Nov. 29. Join George Bailey, Mary, Mr. Potter and the whole gang from Bedford Falls as they the learn the spirit of the season with the help of a clumsy angel named Clarence. The stage presentation includes all of the classic radio sound effects performed by the actors. Tickets are $14 for adults and $8 for students, seniors, and military personnel. For more information, call (828) 414-1844, or visit www.ensemblestage.com.

BEECH HOLIDAY MARKET: A Holiday Market will be held from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Nov. 29 at the Beech Mountain Recreation Center. Admission is free. Vendor tables are available. For more information, visit www.beechrecreation.org.

CHRISTMAS PARADE: Blowing Rock’s annual Christmas parade will take place at 2 p.m. on Nov. 29. The parade will start at the intersection of U.S. 221 and Main Street and will travel down Main Street to Chestnut Street. The parade will include live music, local dignitaries, classic cars, horses, floats and much more. For more information, call Blowing Rock Parks and Recreation at (828) 295-5222.

OPEN HOUSE: The Blowing Rock Art and History Museum will host a Holiday Open House from 2 to 4 p.m. on Nov. 29. The event will feature holiday crafts for children, hot cider and snacks, and free admission from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

The acoustic music duo Little Windows will perform at 2 p.m. There will also be a Grandfather Home for Children Angel Tree in the museum’s lobby for those who would like to make a child’s Christmas brighter. For more information, call BRAHM at (828) 295-9099.

KILN OPENING: The annual Thanksgiving Kiln Opening will be held beginning at 10 a.m. Nov. 29 at the Traditions Pottery Studio. For more information, call (828) 295-3862 or visit http://www.traditionspottery.com. Items in the wood kiln will include work from Bolicks and from Traditions. There will be face jugs such as

Santas, wizards and cry babied, Rebekah pitchers, candlesticks, sculpted chickens, and other traditional wares. There will be Christmas caroling. Food will be served.

Free admission.

CONCERT: Mountain Home Music’s A Celtic Christmas concert featuring Little Windows, a duo that performs Appalachian Irish music, will be held beginning at 7:30 p.m. Nov. 29 at St. Elizabeth of the Hill Country, 259 Pilgrims Way, Boone.

For more information, visit www.mountainhomemusic.com.

DEC. 5 PARADE: The town of Newland will hold its Christmas parade at 5:30 p.m. on Dec. 5 in the downtown area. Events on the Square will follow the parade.

PARTY: The New Public House and Hotel in Blowing Rock will party like it’s 1933 when it hosts its 21st Amendment Party celebrating the end of prohibition.

The event takes place beginning at 4 p.m. on Dec. 5 and 6, with drinks and hors d’oeuvres in the bar. A $50 gift certificate will be awarded to the best dressed couple each night. For more information, call (828) 295-3487.

DEC. 6 ANNIVERSARY: Appalachian Ski Mountain will hold an anniversary weekend celebration from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Dec. 6-7. “Celebrate our 53rd year of family fun, as we roll back tickets to 1962 prices,” a spokesman said. Ski tickets for the day sessions from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. are $5.

CHRISTMAS IN THE PARK: The town of Banner Elk will hold a Parade of Lights at 5:30 p.m. Dec. 6. The parade will line up on Banner Road, travel from the Duck Pond down Shawneehaw Avenue and then turn right on N.C. 194 at Tate Evans Park. There is no registration, just dress up and line up. Park activities after the parade include the arrival of Santa, Santa’s Train, 1,600 luminaries on display, a live nativity scene, Santa’s workshop with working elves, Letter to Santa station, “Arthur Christmas” showing on park stage and campfire for s’mores. Other activities are also planned during the day. For more information, call (828) 898-8395.

CHRISTMAS PARADE: The town of Boone will hold its annual Christmas pa-

rade beginning at 11 a.m. Dec. 6. After the parade, there will be hot cider and cooes at the downtown Jones House Cultural and Community Center. For Information, call (828) 268-6280 or (828) 268-6200 or visit www.downtownboonenc.com or www.townofboone.net.

REINDEER RUN: A Reindeer Run, a 3.1 mile race, will be held beginning at 10 a.m.

Dec. 6. at the Crossnore School in Crossnore. Participants may choose to run, jog or walk the course. The course is mostly paved, but includes some trail and gravel paths. After the race, stay for the Blitzen Bash and Silent Auction. There will be face painting, bounce house, Santa, Christmas music, cookies, hot chocolate and more.

All proceeds from the Reindeer Run and silent auction will benefit the Williams YMCA of Avery County’s Scholarship Fund. Register at the Williams YMCA or at www.ymcaavery.org.

DEC. 14 SUGARFEST: SugarFest will be held at Sugar Mountain Friday, Dec. 12, through Sunday, Dec. 14. Events include ski clinics, ice skating and tubing, demonstrations

by Olympic athletes, consumer demos, After Ski Party with Boss Hawg, fireworks display, special concessions and a freestyle and snowboard rail jam. For more information, visit http://averycounty.com/ sugarfest.

NEW YEAR’S EVE: A New Year’s Eve Celebration at Sugar Mountain on Dec. 31 will feature music by The Johnson Brothers. The public is invited free of charge to the torchlight parade and fireworks at midnight. A fee as well as reservations for the indoor festivities are required and should be made in early December by calling (828) 898-4521, ext. 233.

JAN. 19 CELEBRATION: A Martin Luther King Day Celebration will be held beginning at 7 p.m. Jan. 19 at the Ashe Arts Center in West Jefferson. Admission is free. This will be a tribute to Dr. Martin Luther King and his teachings with readings and music and featuring storyteller Donna Washington. For more information, visit http://www.ashecountyarts.org.

SEE CALENDAR, PAGE 80

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PAGE 75

RESTAURANTS True Authentic Italian Cuisine 276 Watauga Village Dr, Boone, NC 28607 (828) 386-1723

Monday world famou s bistr o

Wing Night (4pm-close) 45¢ Wings/55¢ Boneless Wings $1.50 Fatty Natty Bottles

Tuesday Third Generation Chef Nicole Palazzo preparing traditional southern Italian family recipes.

Please check our website for hours and specials.

Cornhole Tournament at 8:30pm $2 Hot Dogs (4pm-close) $1.50 PBR Tallboy Can $2.75 Shock Top Pints $10 Shocktop Pitchers

Wednesday

Thursday Night - Prime Rib • Friday Night - Lobster

Team Trivia 7pm/ Karaoke 9pm $1.50 Tacos

Also try our Banner Elk Sushi Bar and BARRA Sport Bar and Cigar Lounge

$2.50 Dos XX Pints $4 Margaritas/$12 Pitchers

Thursday Coaches Show Live at 7pm $2.50 Coors Light Bottles $4.50 Long Island Ice Tea $4 Fireball Shots

Friday Open Mic Night (9pm-close) $1 off Carolina Pints

Saturday $1 off Carolina Bottles/Cans

Sunday $4.50 Bloody Mary $4 Mimosa

(4pm-close)

140 Azalea Circle | Banner Elk, NC | 828.898.5214 www.sorrentosbistro.com | www.bannerelksushiclub.com

Serve Menu:

All week ‘til 12 a.m. • Bar open ’til 2 a.m.

Enjoy our Excellence in Courtesy & Customer Service 1121 Main St · Blowing Rock · 828-295-3155 · www.sixpencepub.com

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RESTAURANTS

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Daily drink Specials

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Discover the scenic splendor of paradise on Beech Mountain

Nestled on the Banner Elk side of Beech Mountain American Local Farm-to-Table with European Cuisine Influence Chef Anthony Burton

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Reservations are recommended.

Book online or call.

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WINTER TIMES

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PAGE 77

RESTAURANTS The High Country’s Premiere Steak & Seafood House SINCE 1985

Introducing our new Banner Elk Olive Oil and Balsamic tasting room

Cocktails, Beer & Wine

The Red Onion Dine in the cool mountain air, rain or shine, on our covered outdoor patio! Locally Owned.

Children’s Menu Available

Highway 184 · Downtown Banner Elk Serving Daily from 5pm · 828-898-5550 www.stonewallsrestaurant.com

828-898-5552 Open Daily 11am-9pm

A Favorite of High Country Locals • Extensive Wine List • Large Selection of Craft Beers • All ABC Permits • Daily Culinary & Beverage Specials

Unique and varied menu offerings that you’ll want to experience again and again!

• Homemade Soups & Desserts • Kids Eat FREE All Day Wed. • Large Parties Welcome • Reservations Accepted • Adjacent Tap Room with Billiards & Games

OPEN ALL DAY TUESDAY-SUNDAY Closed on Mondays

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227 Hardin Street, Boone, NC 28607

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RESTAURANTS

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ALL GAMES ALL WEEKEND

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Follow us on at Chick-fil-A of Boone

2014-15

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RESTAURANTS

www.nicksrestaurantandpub.com

BURGERS SANDWICHES PIZZA SALADS PASTA OUTDOOR SEATING - PET FRIENDLY

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On the corner of Backstreet & West Main West Jefferson, NC 28694

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SEAFOOD ALL ABC PERMITS 2013

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Best Restaurant in Ashe County

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RESTAURANTS

Your Winter Times Calendar JAN. 21

Chinese, Japanese, Sushi & Thai 100% No M.S.G. 240 Shadowline Dr., AA3 + AA4 - Boone Inside Harris Teeter Shopping Center OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK Mon-Thurs: 11:00 a.m.-10:00 p.m.

Fri-Sat: 11:00 a.m.-10:30 p.m.

Sunday: 11:00 a.m.-9:30 p.m.

828-386-1170 • 828-386-1179

ASU 10% OFF (with ID)

TAKE OUT AVAILABLE or use Boone Take-Out • tastegrill@hotmail.com www.tastegrill.wix.com/tastegrillboone

Two Great Choices for your Dining Pleasure

MUSIC: The Infamous Stringdusters will be in concert beginning at 9 p.m. Jan. 21 at Legends on the Appalachian State University campus. Admission is $10 for students in advance, $12 at the door and for the public.

FEB. 7 MUSIC: Amy White and Al Pettaway will be in concert at the Ashe Arts Center in West Jefferson at 7:30 p.m. Feb. 7. The two perform a blend of contemporary, Celtic-influenced, original and traditional instrumental music. For more information, visit www.ashecountyarts.org.

FEB. 24 MUSIC: Yesterday and Today: The Interactive Beatles Experience will be presented at 7:30 p.m. Feb. 24 at the Ashe Civic Center. Rock to the music of the Beatles in a new interactive concert experience where the audience creates the playlist for the night. “There’s no denying that everyone has a Beatles song attached to an event in their life. Through laughter and personal

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stories, Yesterday and Today: The Interactive Beatles Experience connects the audience and performers in a way like none other,” organizers said. “With dead-on musical precision and stunning set designs, you will be immersed in the sights, sounds and memories of the 1960s.” Admission is $16 for adults and $5 for students. For more information, visit www.ashecountyarts.org.

MARCH 7 CONCERT: Jeff Little and Friends will be in concert at 7:30 p.m. March 7 at the Ashe Civic Center. The “piano man” of the Blue Ridge will play traditional old-time country, bluegrass, rockabilly, and blues like you’ve never heard before. For more information, visit www.ashecountyarts.org.

MARCH 23 PRESENTATION: Mary Frances Berry will be speaking on “Whatever Happened to the Civil Rights Movement?” at 7 p.m.

March 23 at the Schaefer Center for the Performing Arts at Appalachian State University. Admission is free.

!

Mon-Sat

Grill Hours: Mon - Thurs 11:00am - 8:30pm and Fri - Sat 11:00am - 9:00pm Daily Lunch Specials Mon - Fri Open until 11pm Mon - Thurs and Midnight Fri - Sat

Home Pool Table Repairs, Recovery & Move & Setup Cues, Lights, Covers & Complete Billiards Accessories

WINTER TIMES

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ADVERTISER INDEX

4 Seasons Vacation Rentals Real Estate Sales ....... 22 A.J.’s Tire & Auto .................................................... 59 Alray Tire & Auto .................................................... 59 Antiques on Howard .............................................. 29 Appalachian Ski Mountain .....................................38 AppUrgent Care .......................................................51 Ashe County Arts Council ...................................... 22 Ashe County Chamber of Commerce ..................... 23 Ashe County Cheese ............................................... 22 Banner Elk TDA ........................................................ 7 Banner Elk Winery & Villa ...................................... 11 Beech Mountain Resort ..........................................40 Best Cellar and The Inn at Ragged Gardens, The ..80 Bistro Roca & Antlers Bar ...................................... 79 Blowing Rock Art & History Museum .................... 69 Blowing Rock Furniture Gallery ............................ 39 Blowing Rock Market ............................................. 42 Boone Bagelry ........................................................28 Boone Mall ............................................................. 26 Boone Tire Center Inc. .......................................... 59 Brushy Fork Auto Service ...................................... 59 Cabin Store, The .................................................... 58 Café Portofino ........................................................ 77 Capone’s Untouchable Pizza .................................28 Carlton Gallery ...................................................... 61 Casa Rustica Restaurant ........................................ 76 Cha Da Thai ........................................................... 29 Charlie’s Auto Parts ............................................... 59 Chick-fil-A .............................................................. 78 Cilantro’s Mexican Grill & Cantina .......................28 Clark Tire ............................................................... 59 CoBo Sushi Bistro and Bar .................................... 29 Coffey Furniture ...................................................... 8 Cornbread Tactical ................................................ 29 Country Retreat Family Billiards ..........................80 Crossnore School, The ........................................... 37 Dan’l Boone Inn Restaurant .................................. 76 Darci & Co. .............................................................28 Dewoolfson ............................................................. 47

Dos Amigos ............................................................ 76 Echota ....................................................................84 Edge of the World .................................................... 9 Erick’s Cheese & Wine ........................................... 65 Festiva Hospitality Group ..................................... 19 Fleetwood Max General Store ............................... 22 Footsloggers ..................................................... 10, 28 Foscoe Fishing Company ...................................... 72 Foscoe Rentals ........................................................83 Fred’s General Mercantile ..................................... 35 Gilded Lily by Patra, The ....................................... 44 Glen Burney Grocery ............................................. 43 Grandfather Mountain .......................................... 19 Green Park Inn ........................................................ 9 Hampton’s Body Shop ........................................... 59 Hawksnest Snow Tubing & Zipline ....................... 66 Hickory Furniture Mart .........................................68 HighCountryNC.com ....................................... 65, 81 Honey Hole, The .................................................... 23 Hotel Equities ........................................................ 52 Hotel of West Jefferson .........................................82 Hotel Tavern, The .................................................. 79 Incredible Toy Company ....................................... 34 Jackalope’s The View Restaurant .......................... 76 Jim’s Corner Furniture ........................................... 23 Kincaid Factory Direct Outlet ............................... 63 Lees-McRae College ..............................................50 Libby’s .............................................................. 23, 73 Local, The ........................................................ 29, 41 Logs America ......................................................... 49 Los Arcoiris ............................................................ 78 Lovill House Inn .....................................................51 Lucky Penny ..........................................................28 Makoto’s Japanese Steakhouse & Sushi Bar ......... 77 Mast General Store ................................................... 2 Monkee’s .................................................................13 Mountain Dog & Friends ....................................... 16 Mountain Home & Hearth .................................... 34 Mountain Outfitters ............................................... 21

Mountain Sotheby’s International Realty ............. 43 My Best Friend’s Barkery ...................................... 54 Mystery Hill ............................................................. 9 New Public House & Hotel, The ............................ 79 Nick’s Restaurant & Pub ....................................... 79 Old World Galleries .........................................26, 28 Parke Tie Company Inc. ........................................ 23 Past & Present Antiques & Artisan Shoppes ......... 22 Peddler Steak House, The .....................................50 Pepper’s Restaurant & Bar .................................... 78 Perry’s Gold Mine .................................................. 21 Petal Pusher Designs & Gifts ................................. 23 Proper ....................................................................28 Ram’s Rack Thrift Shop .........................................28 Recess Ride Shop ................................................... 25 Red Onion, The ...................................................... 77 Restaurant at Gideon Ridge, The .......................... 79 Rivercross Market ................................................. 27 Rock Sports Bar & Grill, The ................................. 75 Roots Restaurant ...................................................80 SageSport ............................................................... 44 Serenity Day Spa .................................................... 33 Seven Devils ........................................................... 53 Six Pence Pub ........................................................ 75 SkyBest Security .................................................... 16 Sorrento’s ................................................................ 75 Stonewalls .............................................................. 77 Sugar Mountain Resort ......................................... 57 Sugar Ski & Country Club ...................................... 33 Sugar Top Resort Sales .......................................... 33 Sunalei Preserve ...................................................... 3 TApp Room, The .................................................... 78 Taste Grill ..............................................................80 Tis the Season For All Seasons .............................. 22 United Muffler Shop .............................................. 59 Valle Crucis ............................................................ 14 Village Inns of Blowing Rock, The .......................... 17 Woodlands Barbecue & Pickin’ Parlor, The .......... 75 Yum Yum Café, The ............................................... 33

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2014-15

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