WINTER TIMES
2016-17
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WINTER TIMES
TABLE OF CONTENTS
2016-17
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Advertising Index ...............................................81 Appalachian Ski Mtn. ........................................ 38 Art galleries ....................................................... 56 Ashe County ...................................................... 29 ASU Performing Arts Series .............................. 59 Banner Elk .......................................................... 17 Beech Mountain Resort..................................... 34 Blowing Rock Art and History Museum ........... 53 Blowing Rock WinterFest ................................. 46 Blue Ridge Parkway .......................................... 30 Breweries ............................................................61 Calendar ............................................................. 71 Caving .................................................................21 Chambers of commerce....................................... 6 Choose-and-cut Christmas trees ....................... 40 Downtown Boone .............................................. 22 Emergency numbers ........................................... 5 Fishing ............................................................... 27 Foscoe/Grandfather Community...................... 35 Frescoes ............................................................. 52 General stores.................................................... 47 Grandfather Mountain ...................................... 28 Hawksnest ......................................................... 32 High Country Host .............................................. 6 HighCountryNC.com ........................................ 72 Holiday fun .........................................................51 Mystery Hill ....................................................... 42 Restaurants.........................................................75 Skiing ..................................................................18 Snow gear ...........................................................31 Snow tubing ........................................................15 Snowboarding ....................................................16 Snowshoeing...................................................... 25 Spas.................................................................... 43 Sugar Mountain Resort ..................................... 36 Theater............................................................... 60 Towns of the High Country ..................................7
PHOTO BY HAWKSNEST
Winter in the Mountains Tubing at Hawksnest is always a family fun event with lots of smiles.
Trails .................................................................. 24 Valle Crucis ........................................................ 26 Wineries............................................................. 64 Winter driving ....................................................41 Woolly Worm Prediction .................................. 70
About The Cover
The cover of this year’s 2016-17 Winter Times was provided by Hawksnest Snowtubing and Zipline, turn to page 32.
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er t n i W 2016 Winter Times Staff Gene Fowler Jr. Publisher
in the Mountains
Charlie Price Advertising Director Tom Mayer Editor
Numbers of Note West Jefferson Police (336) 246-9410
Avery County
Law Enforcement Watauga County Watauga County Sheriff’s Office (828) 264-3761 Boone Police Department (828) 268-6900 Blowing Rock Police (828) 295-5210 Appalachian Regional Healthcare System Police (828) 262-4168 Appalachian State Police (828) 262-2150
Ashe County Ashe County Sheriff’s Office (336) 846-5633 Jefferson Police (336) 846-5529
Cannon Memorial Hospital (Linville) (828) 737-7000
Avery County Sheriff’s Office (828) 733-2071
Ashe Memorial Hospital (Jefferson) (336) 846-7101
Banner Elk Police (828) 898-4300
FastMed Urgent Care (Boone) (828) 265-7146
Elk Park Police Department (828) 733-9573
AppUrgent Care (Boone) (828) 265-5505
Newland Police Department (828) 733-2023
Blowing Rock Hospital (828) 295-3136
Seven Devils Police Department (828) 963-6760
Animal Control
Sugar Mountain Police (828) 898-4349 Beech Mountain Police (828) 387-2342
Health Care Watauga Medical Center (Boone) (828) 262-4100
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
Rob Moore Production Chief Johnny Hayes, Sandra Shook, Marianne Lawrence, Taylor Eargle Layout Artists Emily Robb Production Specialist Andy Gainey Circulation Manager Steve Behr, Brian Miller, Sherrie Norris, Jeff Eason, Erik Hoffmann, James Howell, Anna Oakes, Garrett Price, Jamie Shell, Matt Debnam and Sandra Shook Writers Mark Mitchell, Rick Tobin and Ron Brown Sales Meleah Bryan Creative Services Director Kristin Obiso and Brandon Carini Creative Services
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2016-17
A TRAVELER’S TREASURE TROVE High Country Host finds new home in Blowing Rock
BY JEFF EASON
F
or more than three decades, High Country Host served visitors to the area from a modest little building on U.S. 321 in Boone. This past fall, the operation moved into a brand new building at the intersection of U.S. 321 and Edmisten Road in Blowing Rock. The building serves as both the home of High Country Host and the site of the new Appalachian Ski Mtn. Welcome Center. High Country Host is open seven days a week, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday, and from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Sunday. The center is visitors’ onestop for information on High Country attractions, lodging,
restaurants and other destinations. It provides brochures, maps and features a giant bulletin board for notices of current events. It serves Alleghany, Ashe, Avery, Watauga and Wilkes counties. “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, that sort of thing,” said Candace Cook, High Country Host marketing director.” A visit to the High Country Host website will offer visitors information about area attractions, dining and lodging options, shopping areas and museums and craft centers. For more information, visit highcountryhost.com or call (800) 438-7500.
PHOTOS BY JEFF EASON High Country Host shares its new home in Blowing Rock with the Appalachian Ski Mtn. Welcome Center and gift shop.
HIGH COUNTRY CHAMBERS OF COMMERCE ASHE COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
Ashe County, home to the Jeffersons (West Jefferson and Jefferson, that is), is just about as far as you can go in the High Country before entering Southwestern Virginia. The county is considered, in many respects, a step back in time to the way the Appalachian Mountains used to be. The chamber can direct travelers through the scenic and sparsely populated area of Christmas tree farms and rugged mountain landscapes, while offering a wide selection of brochures and maps.
1 N. Jefferson Ave. West Jefferson, N.C. 28694 (336) 846-9550 ashechamber@skybest.com www.ashechamber.com
AVERY COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
The Avery County Chamber of Commerce Visitor Center is conveniently located in the Shoppes at Tynecastle at the intersection of N.C. 105 and N.C. 184. The center offers information on lodging, dining, attractions, shopping
and other businesses in Avery County.
4501 Tynecastle Highway, No. 2 Banner Elk, N.C. 28604 (828) 898-5605 chamber@averycounty.com www.averycounty.com
BANNER ELK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
Located in the heart of town, the Banner Elk Chamber of Commerce promotes the area as a unique place to live in, work and visit. Information on area lodging, dining, shopping and more is available Monday through Saturday, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., and by visiting www.bannerelk. org.
100 W. Main St. Banner Elk, N.C. 28604 (828) 898-8395 bechamber@skybest.com www.bannerelk.org
BEECH MOUNTAIN CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
Whether you’re looking for a North
Carolina mountain vacation full of adventure, or just a few days to relax and breathe the fresh mountain air, Beech Mountain, at an elevation of 5,506 feet, will give your soul something to smile about. The area offers plenty of activities and attractions for the whole family to enjoy, but also plenty of peace and quiet for a relaxing and rejuvenating time. The Beech Mountain Chamber of Commerce is here to help.
403-A Beech Mountain Parkway Beech Mountain, N.C. 28604 (828) 387-9283 chamber@beechmtn.com www.beechmountainchamber.com
BLOWING ROCK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
Blowing Rock is considered one of the crown jewels of the Blue Ridge. Its chamber of commerce knows this tightknit community as no one else, and its representatives are always willing to share this knowledge with visitors. Aside from general information, lists of camping and fishing sites, and brochures, the Blowing Rock Chamber of
Commerce also has a generous stock of menus from the town’s many eateries.
132 Park Ave. Blowing Rock, N.C. 28605 (828) 295-7851 info@blowingrock.com www.blowingrockncchamber.com
BOONE AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
The Boone Area Chamber of Commerce is one of the High Country’s most active chambers, with both a dedicated membership and an overall commitment to the betterment of the area as both a vacation destination and business hub. Now at a new location in downtown Boone on King Street, the chamber is an ideal place to stop for information on area activities, brochures and maps of the community.
870 W. King St., Suite A, Boone, N.C. 28607 (828) 264-2225 info@boonechamber.com www.boonechamber.com
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OUR TOWNS
o matter who you are, winter in the High Country has something for you. Whether it’s the college town atmosphere that Boone provides, the shops in Blowing Rock, the sights of Beech Mountain or any of the other unique experiences provided by Watauga, Avery and Ashe counties, the High Country can be your getaway for a month or an afternoon. Here’s a brief guide to enjoying the entirety of the diverse mountain community that locals are lucky enough to call home.
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 makes up the University of North Carolina system and draws about 18,000 students. Interest in the school 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 “App-uh-latch-un.” Adjacent to the university is King Street and the surrounding area, one of the town’s best shopping destinations. One-of-a-kind stores and eclectic boutiques dot the landscape, interspersed with art and craft galleries and a diversity of restaurants to suit almost any taste. Departing from downtown, 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
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PHOTO BY ROB MOORE Boone is no stranger to snowfalls, but road crews work hard to keep it clear for local residents and visitors.
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. The historic Jones House Community Center, a relic of Boone’s storied past, is located right on King Street. The house was built in 1908 and was given to the town in the early 1980s. Today, the home is a go-to source for art and community functions. Boone is a town where old and new mix, and visitors are made to feel like part of the family. For more information, visit www. townofboone.net.
BLOWING ROCK Blowing Rock manages to cram 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 per-
PHOTO BY ROB MOORE Flat Top tower sits at the end of the carriage trails and is often used by cross country skiers and hikers during the winter months.
mitting, to showcase the town’s namesake and the Native American legend that surrounds it. For another dose of history, visit the renovated and restored Green Park Inn, a site on the National Register of Historic Places that has been a hotel since 1882. While clinging to the small-town
charm and Southern graciousness of its past, Blowing Rock also includes about 20 hotels and inns and more than 100 shops. Find a place to park and spend the day on foot, exploring the shops and parks of downtown. Clothing, antiques, home furnishings, mementos and delicious treats will fill your shopping bags and your stomach as you examine the town’s treasures. Make sure to visit Tanger Shoppes on the Parkway on U.S. 321 to find name-brand items at outlet prices. 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 autumn scene, complete with a gazebo and glistening pond. The trails surrounding Moses Cone Memorial Park and Bass Lake offer another scenic stroll. The picturesque town of Blowing Rock is the perfect place to have an active autumn vacation — or to relax and do nothing at all. For more information, visit www. blowingrock.com.
PHOTO BY ROB MOORE The Valle Crucis Park, which is home to this carved bear, is right behind the Mast Store Annex and it provides a walking path, playground and access points for fishing.
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 SEE OUR TOWNS, PAGE 8
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FOSCOE
FROM PAGE 7 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, art galleries, farms and churches that provide service and comfort to all who enter. The Episcopal church has played a role throughout the community’s history. An Episcopal bishop entered the community in 1842 and provided its name, which is Latin for 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
PHOTO BY AMANDA LUGENBELL A crowd gathers for Blowing Rock’s lighting of the town.
gravel road to the Valle Crucis Park, a recreational area with walking paths, riverfront, picnic areas and sports fields. Dining highlights include Simplicity at the Mast Farm Inn and the 1861 Farmhouse Market, formerly the Ham Shoppe, which boasts some of the best sandwiches in the High Country.
Classic Surroundings, Modern Amenities
Chestnut Grille
Divide Tavern
Serving 6-9 M-F 6-9:30 S-Sun
Serving 5pm-until
ESTD. 1882
9239 Valley Blvd Blowing Rock, NC 28605 828.414.9230 | www.greenparkinn.com
For more information, visit www. vallecrucis.com.
TODD Todd is a town so nice it’s claimed by both Watauga and Ashe counties. The community’s main drag, Railroad 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 flow north. Todd was the last stop of the Norfolk and Western “Virginia Creeper” railroad and got much of its supplies from the train. The Todd Mercantile features the work of local artists and crafters, as well as mountain honey and other local goods, while also hosting monthly square and contra dances, with traditional mountain music by local performers. The ever-crafty Elkland Art Center, known for its colorful parades and environmentally conscious puppet shows, offers summer workshops and programs for those with a flair for creativity. The river itself provides plenty to do, from canoeing and kayaking to excellent fishing. Several companies, including RiverGirl Fishing Company and Wahoo’s Adventures, have outposts near Todd to provide gear and instruction for anyone interested in hitting the river. For more information, visit www. toddnc.org.
Nestled between Boone and Banner Elk is the unincorporated community of Foscoe. But don’t let its size fool you. The community is brimming with shopping, art, dining and outdoor fun. Shopping includes mementos and more at Bear Creek Traders, treats, snacks and other tail-wagging goodies for your furry friends at Mountain Dog & Friends and the luxurious linens of Dewoolfson Downs. If you’re shopping for outdoor fun, cast a line with Foscoe Fishing Company, or pan for gold with the Greater Foscoe Mining Company. Hungry? Sample some homecooked Southern goodness at the Foscoe Country Corner and Deli. Some of the High Country’s finest gourmet sandwiches and baked goods await at Eat Crow, while burgers, billiards and family fun are on cue at Country Retreat Family Billiards. Foscoe’s also home to one of the views that made Grandfather Mountain famous — the ridgeline’s iconic appearance of an old man reclining.
SEVEN DEVILS From elevations of some 5,200 feet, the town of Seven Devils straddles both Watauga and Avery counties. From many areas in the town, one has views of Grandfather Mountain, as well as Beech Mountain, Sugar Mountain, Rich Mountain and Mount Rogers in Virginia. Seven Devils is just a few minutes from Boone, Blowing Rock, Banner Elk and Valle Crucis and can be found off N.C. 105. One of the smaller towns in the region, 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 Winston-Salem, N.C., formed the resort in 1965, and the founders were met with the challenge of naming the resort. At this time, there was a rumor about an old man on the mountain who had seven sons ‘as mean as the SEE OUR TOWNS, PAGE 10
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BEECH MOUNTAIN
OUR TOWNS FROM PAGE 8 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.’ ‘Seven Devils’ seemed to suggest a frivolous, mischievous resort where people could ‘experience the temptation of Seven Devils.’” In the 1960s, the town grew with a golf course, ski slope, lake, riding ground and camping area. After the resort venture experienced financial trouble, the town was incorporated. While the golf course and ski slope have been closed for a number of years, Hawksnest has become one of the town’s centerpieces. Among the attractions at Hawksnest (www.hawksnest-resort.com) are zip lining and snow tubing. For more information and events
2016-17
PHOTO BY ROB MOORE Beech Mountain is a four-season resort, but is best known for its skiing.
at Seven Devils, visit www.townofsevendevils.org.
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. The old stone buildings nestled across campus make for a photographer’s delight. The town hosts numerous shops and restaurants and stays abuzz with activities and events. Visitors can picnic or walk in the town park, hear live music, enjoy exquisite shopping or simply relax by the mill pond and stay in one of the inns after dinner in a fine restaurant. Banner Elk is in the heart of the High Country’s many attractions, and just a short drive will take you to numerous natural settings where you can relax and revel in nature’s beauty. Banner Elk also offers many cultural happenings, with a celebrated summer theater program by Lees-McRae and art festivals by some of the area’s many galleries and artisans. Visitors are encouraged to return to Banner Elk each autumn for its Woolly Worm Festival, which attracts close to 20,000 people annually. 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 Banner Elk Chamber of Commerce at (828) 898-8395, or visit www.bannerelk.org.
At 5,506 feet, Beech Mountain is the highest town in Eastern North America. That means two things: When winter comes, it’s a great place to ski, and, even on the hottest day of the summer, it’s cool on top of Beech Mountain. Even when it’s steamy in the “lowlands” of 3,000-plus feet, the temperature stays comfortable. The rest of the world seems distant when you settle down on the front porch of a rental condominium and survey the magnificent view that is one of Beech Mountain’s trademarks. Beech Mountain is a four-season resort. There are more than 5,000 beds available on top of the mountain. These range from rustic cabins to mountain chalets to luxury condominiums. When it’s time to eat, you can enjoy anything from a deli sandwich to pizza to a gourmet meal by candlelight. During the days, there are many specialty stores for shopping, a golf course, horseback riding, tennis, swimming and hiking. There are nearby canoe and raft runs that are among the best offered in the Eastern United States. Nightlife is alive and well on the mountain. Whatever your musical taste, you can find a spot to enjoy an after-hours scene. There’s another good thing about Beech Mountain. The mountain is so huge that much of it remains in a natural state, with rich forests dotted by rolling farmland. And it’s only a short drive from the “downtown” to the country or resorts. Take your pick. Our guess is if you spend some time in Beech Mountain, you’ll want to come back to do some real estate shopping. Or at least book a slopeside condo for the ski season. For more information, visit www. beechmtn.com.
CROSSNORE Crossnore is a town steeped in educational history. The town is home to Crossnore Academy, founded by Drs. Eustace and Mary Martin Sloop. The Sloops traveled the steep dirt trails in isolated mountain valleys to SEE OUR TOWNS, PAGE 11
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ELK PARK The town of Elk Park borders the state of Tennessee and offers a unique visiting experience. From the old-time feel of Brinkley’s Hardware Store to the additional Lower Street antique shops and classic barbershop, Elk Park takes visitors back to a simpler time. The town’s original thoroughfare, Lower Street, and many businesses originated when Elk Park hosted a train depot for the old East Tennessee and Western North Carolina Railroad, better known as Tweetsie. Elk Park thrived due to the industry and remained vibrant after the trains stopped running through town. For more information, call Elk Park Town Hall at (828) 733-9573. FILE PHOTO Banner Elk is home to Lees-McRae College and has numerous small shops for those who visit nearby Sugar and Beech mountains to ski.
OUR TOWNS FROM PAGE 10 Crossnore Academy, 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 school. Because of poverty and distance, the Sloop school in Crossnore eventually took in boarders and built dormitories to accommodate them. It gained a national reputation for effectiveness in changing lives and in breaking the cycle of poverty, moonshine and child marriages of mountain families. Mary Martin Sloop eventually put these tales to paper in her autobiography “Miracle in the Hills,” which has since been used as the basis for a drama of the same name that takes place each summer in present-day Crossnore. The Sloops built a school, hospital, dental clinic and, eventually, a boarding school to give children the basis for an improved life. They brought to Avery County the first electricity, telephone, paved road and boarding school. Through the Sloopses’ advocacy, public schools flourished in Avery County.
PHOTO BY ROB MOORE Grandfather Mountain with a frosty look after a snow. This mountain is a well visited tourist destination in Avery County and is just outside of Linville.
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’s teachers enable it to meet not only the special needs of Crossnore residents, but also the needs of area students who live at home and whose educational needs are best met at Crossnore. The school is also home to Miracle Grounds Coffee Cafe & Creamery, a
working vocational classroom, featuring specialty coffee drinks, homemade snacks, sandwiches, milkshakes, ice cream, Wi-Fi and more. Crossnore is famous for its Independence Day parade and celebration, and the town’s Meeting House is home to the Crossnore Jam, a series of gatherings and concerts by local musicians on the first Friday night through the summer and fall months. For more information, visit www. crossnorenc.com.
LINVILLE The community of Linville is located just south of the intersection of U.S. 221 and N.C. 105 in Avery County. The community was founded in 1883, designed by Samuel T. Kelsey of Kansas and named for William and John Linville, who were reportedly killed by Cherokees in 1766. East Tennessee and Western North Carolina Railroad passed through the community from 1916 through 1940, when a major flood washed away the tracks. The old rail route later became N.C. 105 in 1956. Linville has three country clubs in the area: Eseeola, Grandfather Golf and Country Club and Linville Ridge, all open late spring to early fall. A number of local tourist areas within a short drive share the Linville name, including the Linville River and majestic Linville Falls, Linville Caverns on U.S. 221 and the Linville Gorge wilderness area. For visitors considering making Linville a part- or full-time home, they can visit Linville Land Harbor, where units are available for sale or rent in a cozy community featuring its own golf course and amenities. A number of residents reside at Land Harbor part time, while others stay year-round to enjoy the beauty of the area’s four seasons. During the winter months, Linville SEE OUR TOWNS, PAGE 12
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PHOTO BY ROB MOORE Winter is a haven for skiers across the region and the slopes in the High Country attract those downhill thrill seekers for some fun in the snow.
OUR TOWNS FROM PAGE 11 is only a short drive to nearby ski slopes at Sugar Mountain and Beech Mountain, popular skiing and snow-tubing destinations. Perhaps the most popular tourist attraction housed in Linville is Grandfather Mountain. The Grandfather Mountain attraction offers picturesque views during all four seasons, animal habitats and the famous Mile High Swinging Bridge. Grandfather Mountain State Park offers hiking trails and backcountry camping opportunities.
NEWLAND The highest county seat east of the Mississippi River at 3,589 feet, the town of Newland was incorporated in 1913 as the county seat of the newly formed Avery County. Its original name was “Old Fields of Toe,” because it is located in a broad flat valley and is at the headwaters of the Toe River. Newland was a mustering place for Civil War troops. Toe is short for “Estatoe,” an Indian chief’s daughter who drowned herself in the river in despair because she could not marry a brave from another tribe. A town of about 700 residents, Newland succeeded over three other areas for the honor of county seat. The recently renovated courthouse, originally constructed in 1913, overlooks a classic town square, bordered by shops and churches and complete with a
memorial to Avery County veterans. Adjacent to the courthouse building is the original jail, which has been converted into the Avery County Historical Museum. Exhibits in the museum, which is free to visit, include the original jail cells, numerous artifacts and information about the history of Avery County. During the autumn and fall months, visitors can check out the farmers’ market that meets on Saturday mornings outside of Newland Elementary School, and visitors traveling out of town can picnic or hike at Waterfalls Park, a unique recreation spot sponsored by Newland Volunteer Fire Department. Heritage Park hosts rodeo events on weekends during the summer and is the permanent home for the county’s annual Agriculture and Heritage Fair each September. 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, Tenn., or Grandfather Mountain. For more information, visit www.townofnewland.com.
SUGAR MOUNTAIN If outdoor activity is your thing, look no further than the village of Sugar Mountain. Offering more than just great skiing, Sugar
Mountain also provides its visitors with an array of ways to get outside and enjoy the beauty of the High Country. One attraction in particular is the summer lift rides on Sugar Mountain. On weekends, weather permitting, visitors can ride the ski lift to the 5,300foot peak of Sugar Mountain. The 40-minute roundtrip ride features a spectacular view of the High Country and runs from Independence Day weekend to Labor Day weekend. If heights aren’t what you’re looking for, Sugar Mountain can also be seen on foot. With numerous trails that wind throughout the village of Sugar Mountain, you can see both the brilliant greens of the summer, as well as the vibrant reds and yellows of fall. The trails of Sugar Mountain are not just for those on foot. Many cyclists choose the village of Sugar Mountain for its variety of challenging and picturesque terrain. The village of Sugar Mountain also gives tennis and golf lovers an opportunity to enjoy their favorite sports in the beautiful mountain setting. With Sugar Mountain’s golf course, six fast-dry clay courts and full-service tennis pro shop, visitors will never be faced with the problem of finding something to do. Whether you come for a day or stay in one of the many comfortable lodgings the village has to offer, Sugar Mountain will soon become your destination for great outdoor fun. For more information, visit www.seesugar.com. SEE OUR TOWNS, PAGE 13
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FILE PHOTO Travel to West Jefferson around the holidays and you might run into Santa Claus.
OUR TOWNS FROM PAGE 12
Ashe County CRESTON 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 about 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.
FLEETWOOD Located just off of U.S. 221
between West Jefferson and Deep Gap, Fleetwood is home to great community gatherings at the Fleetwood Community Center and the local volunteer fire department. On your way to and from the busy towns of Boone and West Jefferson, stop by to look at local crafts, antiques and civic pride in Fleetwood.
GLENDALE SPRINGS Home of the breathtaking and aweaspiring fresco painting by Ben Long at Holy Trinity Episcopalian Church, Glendale Springs has become revered for its budding arts scene. The community has become a must for anyone visiting Ashe County. Proximity to the Blue Ridge Parkway is an added bonus as summer sets in and fall colors begin to explode.
GRASSY CREEK Just south of the North CarolinaVirginia border, Grassy Creek is a tightly knit community that is dotted with smiling faces and countless rows of Fraser fir Christmas trees. Check out the sights around the nationally renowned New River, where you will also find the River House
Country Inn and Restaurant for delectable dinners.
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, and was 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 new courthouse, as well as 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.
LANSING Whether you’re looking for a town reminiscent of the past or a town 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 tasting some locally made wine. The town, in the northwestern section of Ashe County, is 20 minutes from Jefferson and West Jefferson and only 45 minutes from Boone. Travelers can arrive in the town in less than an hour from Abingdon, Va., or Mountain City, Tenn. The town has one stoplight, and several businesses line the street. Home-cooked meals can be found at Country House Restaurant, while pizza, sandwiches and salads, along with specialty teas and fresh roasted coffee, are available at Pie on the Mountain. The first post office in the town was established in 1882 and served a rural community, made up of a village and outlying farms until the railroad made its appearance, according to www.lansingnc.com. SEE OUR TOWNS, PAGE 14
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OUR TOWNS FROM PAGE 13 The economy and population began 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 its history, Lansing had a cheese plant, clothing store, coffin shop, doctor’s office, bank and a restaurant, according to the town’s website. The cheese plant allowed area farmers to bring their goods to sell 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, the town continued to flourish and expand. The Works Progress Administration built the Lansing High School in 1941, 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.
LAUREL SPRINGS Another border community, Laurel Springs prides itself with small town charm and beauty that entices motorists from the Blue Ridge Parkway for a quick bite to eat before continuing their adventure on the scenic byway. Although it touches Wilkes, Alleghany and Ashe counties, Laurel Springs is never more than a 30-minute drive from the listed county seats. Also, be sure to stop by the Thistle Meadow Winery for individualized tours of a family-owned wine business.
WEST JEFFERSON With a thriving arts district and Christmas trees 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 rail-
PHOTO BY ROB MOORE Ashe County is known for its Christmas trees, and scenes such as this one can be found around every turn in the road from Fleetwood to Laurel Springs.
road, 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 made and go across the street to the Ashe County Cheese Store to purchase a variety of cheeses, from cheddar to pepper jack and the celebrated cheese curds. 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. Just outside West Jefferson, in the Beaver Creek community, St. Mary’s Episcopal Church can be found. The church is the location for a fresco of Jesus on the cross by renowned artist Ben Long. A painting of Madonna with child also hangs on the sanctuary wall. 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.
WINTER TIMES
2016-17
PAGE 15
GLIDING
ACROSS the SNOW Tubing offers fast fun for entire family
BY JOHN BRASIER
A
ttempting to ski or snowboard can present a daunting challenge for kids or adults who have never skied or snow-
boarded. But there is a way to enjoy the speed and thrills of winter sports without any experience staying upright on narrow footwear. It’s tubing, an activity requiring no skills or previous experience — just a desire to enjoy a fun ride down snowy High Country slopes. Ideal for families with small children or adults looking for some after-dark activity, tubing is a great alternative to skiing or a fun post-skiing form of entertainment. There’s no special equipment needed. Just put on the type of warm clothes appropriate for building a snowman or throwing snowballs, grab a tube and head down the hill. “It’s very family friendly,” said Mallory Poteat of Hawksnest Tubing Park in Seven Devils. “Just dress like you’re going to play out in the snow.” The High Country has several tubing options available at a family friendly cost. Tubing is also popular as an adult activity — especially at night. “It’s faster at night when the snow freezes over,” Poteat said. “That’s when our older crowd comes out.” Appalachian Ski Mountain and Sugar Mountain have areas (terrain parks) devoted to tubing. Like Hawksnest, Jonas Ridge Snow Tubing Park has conveyor belts transporting riders back up the slope to allow for effortless, speedier ascent and more frequent rides.
HAWKSNEST
With about 30 lighted lanes available, the Seven Devils park offers a wide variety of options. Open seven days per week, including night hours that are extended on weekends and holidays, Hawksnest specializes in tubing. The lanes vary in length from 400 feet up to 1,000 feet. Sessions, which last one hour and 45 minutes with a 15-minute break in the middle to smooth the snow, cost $27 on weekdays and $34 on weekends and holidays. Tickets can be purchased at the park, but park operators urge potential guests
to buy tickets online, because space is limited for each session. Ski bibs are the only clothing available for rent at the park. Hawksnest has two conveyor belt-like lifts to transfer riders at no cost back up the hill. The park also operates its zip line during the winter. Hawksnest is located at 2058 Skyland Drive in Seven Devils. For more information, call (828) 963-6561 or visit www.hawksnesttubing.com.
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Another site geared specifically for tubing, Jonas Ridge is located outside Newland in Avery County. Jonas Ridge has six lighted lanes offering different elevation changes and speeds. Open November through March, Jonas Ridge operates a conveyor beltstyle lift making riding easier and more enjoyable. The park’s lodge, which includes a rustic fireplace, is a popular gathering spot with snacks and beverages available. Open Friday through Monday beginning at noon, Jonas Ridge sessions of one hour, 45 minutes cost $30 for adults and $23 for children 6 and younger and groups of 15 or more making reservations. Jonas Ridge is located at 9472 N.C. 181. For more information, call (828) 733-4155, or visit www.jonasridgesnowtube.com.
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Traversing the fairways of Sugar Mountain Golf Course, the Avery County resort offers tubing lanes of up to 700 feet in length from 10 a.m. until 10 p.m. A variety of chutes created from snow berms form lanes 10 feet to 12 feet wide. Tickets are sold at the ice skating/ tubing center between the ice skating rink and the tubing park. Tickets for one hour, 45 minutes sessions are $27 on weekdays and $32 on weekends. Children 4 and younger are free. Tickets, not sold in advance, are available firstcome, first-served. Sessions begin at 10 a.m., with the final session at 8 p.m. A conveyor beltlike lift transports riders up the hill. 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.
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2016-17
SNOWBOARDING CONTINUES TO GROW IN POPULARITY On the rise and a sport of choice
W
ith the popularity of the X Games and the introduction of snowboarding into the Winter Olympics, the winter sport continues to grow throughout the world. That includes the High Country, where Appalachian Ski Mtn. offers three terrain parks for boarders of different skill levels and Beech Mountain will debut a new terrain park. Sugar Mountain also has an area devoted to snowboarding. Somewhat related to skateboarding, wake boarding or surfboarding — where participants do tricks or move at great speed while balanced atop a board — snowboarding has developed its own culture and its own devoted following. Although, on average, snowboarders are younger than skiers, Greg Andersen of Boone’s Recess skateboard and snowboard shop said snowboarding demographics are growing. “Sure, there’s a learning curve,” he said. “But more people are willing to try it.” According to Appalachian Ski Mtn. terrain park builder Ric Wilkinson, beginning snowboarders often only need 20 or so days of practice to become proficient enough in fundamentals to begin learning tricks. In snowboarding, courses and obstacles are created and laid out after snow is on the ground. Snowboarders can use their board like a ski to go downhill and follow a route, or they can do tricks with obstacles and equipment throughout the park. Skiing may be easier at first, but proficiency often takes longer. “It takes a lot to learn (snowboarding), but then it’s easier to progress than skiing can be,” Wilkinson said. Wilkinson, who has been a snowboarder since he was a student at Appalachian State University in the late 1990s, said he’s excited about the growth of the sport in the area. “We’re building some really good parks,” Wilkinson said. “I feel snowboarding is in a better place than it’s ever been here. We’ve come a long way in the 18 years I’ve been involved.” Wilkinson said snowboarding in the
PHOTO BY APP SKI MTN. Appalachian Ski Mtn. has more than 70 features or obstacles for snowboarding.
High Country has a culture separate from those in Colorado or Utah. “It’s the South, so the vibe has always been very friendly,” Wilkinson said. Want to try snowboarding? Boards are available for rental at several outlets in Watauga and Avery counties. “I’d recommend you start with a rental, to see if you like it,” Andersen said. “Signing up for lessons is good way to learn. You’ll learn the fundamentals and important rules about etiquette and who has the right of way.”
Appalachian Ski Mtn. 940 Ski Mountain Road Blowing Rock (828) 295-7828 www.appskimtn.com A hub of snowboarding in the High Country, Appalachian Ski Mtn. offers its three parks — a progress park for beginners; Apple Jack for intermediate boarders; and Apple Jam for advanced boarders. Wilkinson said Appalachian Ski Mtn. can provide as many as 70 snow features or obstacles.
“The whole culture in the area started at Appalachian,” said Wilkinson. “That’s where there’s the most variety.” Rates are $28 from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m. on weekdays and $34 on weekends and holidays. The rates are $37 and $34, respectively, for a pass from 9 a.m. until 10 p.m. Appalachian Ski Mtn. also offers night sessions until 10 p.m. on weekdays and midnight on weekends and holidays. The lodge’s slopeslide restaurant serves breakfast, lunch and dinner. The lodge also houses a ski shop and a gift shop. Snowboard rental is $13 for standard boards and $16 for Burton Learn to Ride boards for beginners. Burton Park Performance boards for advanced boarders are $18.
Beech Mountain Resort 1007 Beech Mtn Parkway Beech Mountain (828) 387-2011 www.beechmountainresort.com The new terrain park will no longer be on Beech Mountain’s powder bowl, which will now to devoted to skiing.
The terrain park has a surface tow lift, new light towers and more than 50 features “This project is not only extremely important to our dedicated park riders, it also increases skiable terrain for the general customer base,” said Wilkinson, who was the terrain park manager at Beech Mountain before moving to Appalachian Ski Mtn. this fall. Weekday lift tickets are $28 for a half day and $50 for a full day. Weekend prices are $50 and $77. Hours are 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Thursday through Sunday and 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Friday, Saturday and holidays. Beech has a ski shop, snack shop, coffee shop, gift shop and game room in addition to a cafeteria and bar and grill in its Alpine Village. Snowboard rental is $35 for all day on weekdays and $40 on weekends. Half-day rentals are $28 and $30. Multiple-day rental prices are also available. Special prices are available for juniors and seniors, as well as night sessions.
Sugar Mountain Resort 1009 Sugar Mountain Drive Sugar Mountain (828) 898-4521 www.skisugar.com The terrain park includes jumps, hits, ramps, banks, jibs, rails and quarter pipe among its features. Open from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. nightly, the park has 15 lighted slopes and a handle tow lift. Lift tickets are $72 for a full day and $56 for a half day on weekends and holidays. The price is $43 and $33 on weekdays. Snowboard rental is $41 and $30 on weekends and $38 and $27 on weekdays. On-site food and beverage options include a full-service bar and a cafeteria. Nearby Banner Elk has a wide selection of restaurants and bars. Sugar Mountain has a variety of on-site lodging. It also offers a snowboarding school and group and individual lessons. Equipment and apparel is available at a sports shop in the base lodge.
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NO PLACE like the HIGH COUNTRY: Region offers premiere skiing experience in the Southeast
W
hen it comes to skiing destinations, the High Country stands as the crown jewel of the Southeastern United States. With three mountains, each of which offer countless opportunities to hit the powder, experiencing all the area has to offer is a journey in itself. Take time to explore these majestic wonders this winter season with the Winter Times as your guide.
APPALACHIAN SKI MTN. Visitors to Blowing Rock will notice a new sight on U.S. 321 this winter season, as the mountain opens the doors of its new 1,500-square-foot Welcome Center, located 1.5 miles from the ski area. After stocking up on information about places to visit in the High Country, skiers will be ready to enjoy all Appalachian Ski Mtn. has to offer, including its nine slopes and three freestyle terrain park areas. At the base of the slopes, an impressive 46,000-square-foot lodge offers amenities for skiers and nonskiers alike, as well as the mountain’s Alpine Ski Shop, which contains all the gear needed to shred the slopes. Rentals are also available at the lodge’s gift shop. From black diamond feats and terrain park exploits to lessons for beginners and intermediaries through the French Swiss Ski College, App Ski Mtn. has something to offer for skiers and snowboarders of all skill levels. For more information on Appalachian Ski Mtn., see page 38, visit www.appskimtn.com or call (800) 322-2373.
GRAPHIC SUBMITTED Appalachian Ski Mtn. offers thrill seekers the chance to catch big air at its three distinct terrain park areas.
BEECH MOUNTAIN Boasting 17 slopes and a 50-feature terrain park, Beech Mountain Resort GRAPHIC SUBMITTED stands as the Beech Mountain’s unique Alpine Village and 5506’ Skybar highest ski slope ensure guests have lots to do both on and off the slopes. in the area. Peaking at 5,506 feet, Beech Mountain has a lot to offer both on and off the slopes. Visitors will begin their journey in the Resort’s Alpine Village, which offers ice skating, a game room, a coffee shop, ski repairs and rentals and the Beech Tree Bar and Grill. Snow tubing is also available at the base of the mountain. After summiting the mountain, skiers and boarders can take in one of the High Country’s highest views from the resort’s 5506’ Skybar, which serves food and drink for every taste. From the Skybar, guests can choose from a variety of routes to get back down the mountain. With eight lifts to take them to different areas of the park, adventure awaits guests of all skill levels at Beech Mountain Resort. For more information on Beech Mountain, see page 34, visit www.beechmountainresort.com, or call (800) 438-2093. SEE NO PLACE, PAGE 19
2016-17
WINTER TIMES
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SUGAR MOUNTAIN
FILE PHOTO With a variety of slope options, make sure you select the proper skiis for your downhill adventure.
From the easyriding slopes at the base of the mountain to the intense double black diamond Whoopdedoo, Sugar Mountain’s 19 trails offer something for everyone, with a wide variety of options for adults and children of all skill levels. With lessons, child care and a full range of rentals available on site, Sugar Mountain stands ready to accommodate the needs of skiers. Returning visitors to the mountain will want to be sure and check out two relatively new features at the park, including the super-fast Summit Express lift and the two-year-old Gunther’s Way slope, which offers a thrilling challenge for advanced skiers. For those who might not have visited in a few seasons, this newly configured lift and trail system is sure to provide a new experience for veteran riders. For more information on Sugar Mountain, see page 36, visit www. skisugar.com or call (800) 784-2768. GRAPHIC SUBMITTED Sugar Mountain’s 19-trail system offers unique challenges for a variety of riders.
WINTER TIMES
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2016-17
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WINTER TIMES
CAVING:
PAGE 21
Going into the mountains, literally
t only seems natural that with mountains, there it was found. He said that some people have gone are going to be caves. into a cave and broken off stalactites and taken them Caving, the process of exploring caves, home or to a dorm room. should be done either by experienced experts or “Going on your own is not recommended,” he with tour guides who know where the caves are. said. “There are some environmental ethics involved Most of the caves in the area are actually not with caving, so it’s kind of kept as mum is the word in the Boone area, but across the state line near on some caves. The only place you can go and share Johnson City, Tenn. There are also local companies information is through a local grotto, which is a that lead tours of caves, local caving club. If you including two that spebecome a member of cialize in leading a tour this grotto, then you’re a of Worley’s Cave, which member of this club and is located in Bluff City, able to find out where Tenn. caves are. So, as an out“It’s one of the largest fitter, we have an ethical caves in our region with duty to not recommend more than seven miles going on your own or givor passages and rooms ing people directions or sometimes large enough any kind of knowledge of to park an airplane in,” that.” said River and Earth Seldombridge recomAdventures tour guide mends wearing a pair of Grant Seldombridge said. blue jeans that people The tour costs $75 and won’t mind getting wet is open to any group or and dirty. Wearing a individuals, and the tours pair of boots with good are generally about two tread patterns and a light to three hours long. jacket are also recomSeldombridge said mended. Bringing a dry that while on the trip, change of clothes is also those who take the tour encouraged. could expect to learn There are several other something about the companies that offer a area. tour through Worley’s “While we’re on the Cave. High Mountain trip, you can expect to get Expeditions, based in a really great history of Banner Elk, also offers the geology of the cave, tours to Worley’s Cave. as well as the history of Their tour cost is $75 and the cave. And, while we’re takes about two to four in there, you’ll get to see hours. PHOTO SUBMITTED the stalactites, stalag“We basically drive Caving should be done with other people and never mites, just to name a few. you guys to and from the alone. Look for an experienced tour guide or join a Also some neat history in cave from our outpost in local grotto for your underground experience. there from the Civil War, Banner Elk,” said tour when they were mining guide James Neville. “We salt peter, which is calcium carbonate, and some of issue the gloves, headlamps and helmets and tour the deposits are there as well.” the cave.” Seldombridge said the cave is on three levels. He Neville said touring Worley’s Cave is more of said a typical route is to go up to the third level and an authentic experience, as opposed to exploring work down to the first level where there is a creek, Linville Caverns. which leads out of the cave. “It is not like a Linville Caverns sort of cave of the Seldombridge said groups, such as families, famwinds thing. It’s more of an authentic spelunking ily reunions and several Boy Scout troops, often take experience. We’re not like using ropes or anything the tour. or rappelling. We are crawling through some pretty Seldombridge does not recommend exploring tight passages. We go down to some pretty tight caves without somebody with knowledge of the area spaces, but we also go to some pretty big rooms in or the caves. There are hazards such as bats living the cave as well.” in the caves, and getting to some of the caves can be Neville also recommends taking tours of caves difficult. instead of going on out your own. He said there are Then there are other factors such as vandalism maps that are online, but it’s easy to get lost getting of the caves and not leaving the cave the same way in and out of cave areas.
“One of the things that has limited is to what caves we can go into are bat populations, especially since some of the bat populations are sick,” he said. “We don’t want to risk going into those caves and then cross-contamination with another cave or another bat population.” Neville also stresses the need for any cavers to be careful not to harm any of the rock formations in a cave. “The little thing we give our customers is, ‘Leave only footprints, take only pictures, kill only time,” he said.
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2016-17
WINTER HIKING AND WALKING: F
or the hearty, well-equipped adventurous spirit, hiking isn’t just a summer activity. In fact, the cold weather provides a challenging and unique perspective of some the High Country’s best-traveled trails. If you’re interested in a high-elevation haul up the side of a mountain or a flatter trajectory is more your taste, there are facilities and trails blazed all over the area to suit your needs.
LEE AND VIVIAN REYNOLDS GREENWAY TRAIL
The greenway is located behind State Farm Road in Boone, with an entrance by the Watauga County Parks and Recreation complex and the National Guard Armory. The paved trail is 3 miles long, but relatively flat, winding back and forth past a creek. Some other hiking trails go off the main path. More information is available at (828) 264-9511. A full greenway map is available at www.townofboone.net.
MOSES H. CONE MEMORIAL PARK
Whether you are looking for a strenuous hike up a mountain or a light walk on the paved paths, Cone Memorial Park on the Blue Ridge Parkway between Boone and Blowing Rock has more than 25 miles of trails to suit the level of walking difficulty of your choice. Ask at the Manor House during operating hours for a recommendation of the best trail for your plan — some trails also allow horseback riding.
JULIAN PRICE MEMORIAL PARK
The Price Lake Loop Trail at Julian Price Memorial Park on the Blue Ridge Parkway between Boone and Blowing Rock is a 2.7-mile trail around the fishing and canoeing hot spot, Price Lake. The relatively flat trail is ideal for trail runners and walkers alike. The park also has six other trails that range from moderate to strenuous (including the famed 13.5-mile Tanawha Trail).
GRANDFATHER MOUNTAIN
Although Grandfather Mountain in the Linville area has some of the most strenuous hikes in the High Country along the face-silhouette peaks, it also boasts some lesser difficulty trails. The gentler paths can be reached via the summit road, creating a low-impact chance to view the area’s natural landscapes.
GLEN BURNEY TRAIL
Within Blowing Rock, this trail is relatively steep, but only 1.5 miles with a turn-around, which goes past three waterfalls. More information is available at the Blowing Rock Chamber of Commerce at (828) 295-7851 or visitor information (toll free) at (800) 2957851.
BOONE UNITED TRAIL
One of the area’s newest trails is the Boone United Trail, created by volunteers under the direction of Boone United Methodist Church and officially opened in 2104. Located on 40 acres of church-owned conservation land, this 3-mile loop is free and for pedestrians only. There is no camping, no guns and
An outdoor adventure
no alcohol allowed. Dogs on leashes are allowed.
EMERALD OUTBACK TRAIL
The Emerald Outback Trail is located atop of Beech Mountain. A year-round destination for hikers, trail runners and mountain bikers, the trail has an average altitude of 5,400 feet and features eight miles of gorgeous and challenging trails, as well as some spots with 50-mile views. Built by the town of Beech Mountain, the trail is free and open to the public seven days a week.
HEBRON ROCK COLONY
Spanning the length of a massive low-slope waterfall, the trails around Hebron Rock Colony offer some of the most unique scenery in the area. In winter, it is advisable to use extreme caution around the frigid water and possible slippery rocks. Like always, make sure you dress appropriately for changing weather conditions. Hebron Rock Colony can be accessed from the Julian Price Memorial Park picnic area between Blue Ridge Parkway mileposts 296 and 297.
DAILY FOOD AND DRINK SPECIALS! Reservations are not required
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PHOTO BY ROB MOORE Unique and interesting scenery is sure to greet the hiker who ventures into the woods outside of the summer months.
WINTER TIMES
2016-17
A WALK in the SNOW:
PAGE 25
Snowshoeing offers a chance to appreciate the wonders of winter
T
here’s nothing like a walk in the snow on a bright sunny day with the snow sparkling like a diamond mine or a cool, crisp clear night surrounded by oaks and pines with majestic mountains serving as the backdrop. But sticking to cleared paths is the only major limitation. Hiking boots, hunting shoes and galoshes will keep your feet warm, but they won’t help you make fast tracks through inches of show. Struggling through snow is slow and exhausting. Snowshoeing provides the best way to enjoy an unspoiled walk through a winter wonderland. The large shoes are designed to distribute a person’s weight and allow them to walk atop the snow. Although not as popular as skiing, snowboarding or tubing, snowshoeing owns a special niche among winter activities in the High Country, often as a relaxing break from high-speed thrills of racing down slopes. With snowshoeing, there’s time to appreciate the sights and sounds of the snow-covered mountains. And unlike skiing and boarding, there’s no acquired skill needed to snowshoe. Just start walking. “It’s a little bit awkward at first, but you get used to it pretty quickly,” said Kim Jochl, vice president of Sugar Mountain Resort, which offers guided snowshoeing tours, including snowshoe rental. Jochl, a former member of the U.S. Alpine Ski Team, compares walking in snowshoes with wearing flippers in water. At Sugar Mountain, the tour routes depend on the customer. If there’s a lot of snow, the options include much of the mountain. If there’s not much natural snowfall, the tours must stick to the skiing areas where there’s plenty of manmade snow. Guides also tailor the routes according to the customer’s fitness and preferences. Sugar Mountain’s one-hour tours begin at 3 p.m. on Monday, Wednesday and Friday. The times are 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. on Saturday. Groups of at least four can schedule other times with the resort. Jochl said one of Sugar Mountain’s most popular events is free snowshoe-
PHOTO COURTESY OF WBUSHPHOTO.COM Snowshoeing gives people the opportunity to enjoy nature at their own pace.
PHOTO COURTESY OF WBUSHPHOTO.COM Snowshoeing allows people an opportunity to see the winter wonderland with relative ease.
ing — including snowshoe rental — for eight hourly tours of 45 minutes each beginning at 9 a.m. on Jan. 8, National Winter Trails Day. The cost of a snowshoeing session, including snowshoe rental, at Sugar Mountain is $25. Of course, snowshoeing can be enjoyed practically anywhere accessible where the ground is covered with snow. Favorite spots in Watauga County include trails on the Blue Ridge Parkway and trails at Moses Cone Manor on the Blue Ridge Parkway in Blowing Rock. Snowshoes can be purchased at a few High Country outdoors retailers. Major national retailers such as Dick’s Sporting Goods, Gander Mountain and Bass Pro Shops sell a variety of snowshoes for between $100 and $200.
There’s no acquired skill needed to snowshoe.
Just start walking.
WINTER TIMES
PAGE 26
2016-17
www.ValleCrucis.com
Dutch Creek Trails 828-297-7117
St. John’s Church ca. 1858
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.
Little Red School House ca. 1907
Original Mast General Store Est. 1883 828-963-6511
Over Yonder Restaurant & Bar 828-963-6301
Taylor House Inn Bed & Breakfast ca. 1911 800-963-5581
Valle Crucis Community Web Directory 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
Mast Store Annex Outfitters & Candy Barrel ca. 1909 828-963-6511
Rivercross Made in USA 828-963-8623
Mountainside Lodge Bed & Breakfasat 877-687-4333
Mast Farm Inn Lodging & Restaurant ca. 1812 828-963-5857
Lazy Bear Lodge Bed & Breakfast 828-963-9201
2016-17
WINTER TIMES
WINTER FISHING:
PAGE 27
Colder days mean a different strategy
I
n the High Country, the fish don’t stop biting when the snow falls. In fact, many anglers, residents and visitors alike welcome the challenge of winter fishing in the mountains. Fishing in the winter provides sportsmen a wholly different experience from the soporific sunbaked summer days along the creek bank that most people associate with the sport. The cold water found in a mountain stream in the winter makes for slower fish, so anglers hoping to score a catch will need to adjust their methods. Experts recommend a slower presentation and to allow slower-moving fish to react to bait. Anglers will also likely need to adjust baits. In the winter, fish eat less, so the enterprising fisherman will need to use smaller bait such as maggots or mealworms, rather than the traditional night crawler. But it’s not just fish the sportsman needs to consider when planning a winter fishing trip to the High Country, the cold winter weather will provide an entire set of challenges on its own. According the U.S. Climate Data, the average low temperature in Boone falls well below freezing from December through March. Fishermen will need to ensure they are wellequipped with quality waterproof boots and plenty of warm clothing. It helps to dress in layers if you are (wisely) unsure of the High Country’s quickly
NEED HELP REELING IN THE BIG ONE? The following outfitters can assist you: PHOTOS BY ROB MOORE Fishermen use a fly rod in the streams to catch native and brown trout.
changing weather conditions. You’ll never regret bringing too many warm clothes. The typical fare for High County fishermen is largely unchanged in the winter months. Anglers can expect to catch trout, both stocked and native in creeks, streams and tributaries. Rivers in the area are more likely to supply fishermen with smallmouth and Redeye bass. The North Carolina Wildlife
Resource Commission has information on where to fish on its website at www.ncwildlife.org/fishing.aspx. The site also hosts all the rules and regulations that fishermen must adhere to while visiting the High Country. A 10-day fishing license may be purchased from any local outfitter for $5 for N.C. residents and $10 for out-ofstate fishermen. An annual license costs $15 in state and $30 out-of-state.
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
Foscoe Fishing Co. & Outfitters 8857 NC-105 Boone, N.C. 28607 (828) 963-6556 www.foscoefishing.com
Grandfather Trout Farm 10767 NC-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.fighthenew.com
RiverGirl Fishing Co. 4041 Todd Railroad Grade Road Todd, N.C. 28684 (336) 877-3099 www.rivergirlfishingco.com
Watauga River Fly Shop
Price Lake, just off the Blue Ridge Parkway, offers fisherman an idyllic spot to ply their trade.
5712 N.C. 105 South Boone, N.C. 28607 (828) 963-5463 www.wataugariveranglers.com
PAGE 28
WINTER TIMES
A SPECIAL WINTER:
2016-17
The ‘Secret Season’of Grandfather Mountain
The secret season also boasts some unique educational opportunities. While the mountain’s staff naturalists now-capped evergreens, panorapresent daily programs throughout the mas of a frost-kissed landscape summer and fall, the programming and rime ice on a swinging becomes more specialized during winbridge some 5,280 feet above ter. As such, visitors can expect intersea level. pretive talks on weekends during the Winter is different at a mile high. season. Welcome to Grandfather Mountain’s Meanwhile, Grandfather Mountain’s “secret season,” when the crowds have Nature Museum provides an educationflown South and tranquility arrives with al respite from the weather, featuring each sunrise. exhibits on the mountain’s geological What makes winter special at and natural history, while an adjacent Grandfather Mountain? auditorium showcases an exclusive “Winter brings more solitude to the documentary on the mountain and its mountain’s slopes — an opportunity flora and fauna. to experience a trail alone or sit at an In the same building, the mountain’s PHOTO BY SKIP SICKLER | GRANDFATHER MOUNTAIN STEWARDSHIP FOUNDATION overlook to reflect in the quiet,” said very own restaurant — Mildred’s Grill, From its rime-ice covered peaks, Grandfather Mountain offers unparalleled views Mickey Shortt Jr., director of educanamed after the late black bear and during wintertime, as well as an exhilarating sense of wonder. tion and natural resources for the Grandfather mascot — serves freshGrandfather Mountain Stewardship hustle and bustle of summer and world-famous Mile High Swinging made fare, including soup, sandwiches, Foundation, the nonprofit organization autumn, visitors — like Grandfather’s Bridge, Grandfather Mountain is home hot cider, coffee and more. Consider it that oversees the Linville, N.C.-based namesake profile — can stretch out and to a variety of nature-based activities fuel for the trails, of which the mounnature preserve and travel attraction. relax, while enjoying the mountain’s and attractions for the whole family. tain has many. Unlike its resident black bears, innumerable natural offerings and Environmental wildlife habitats Grandfather Mountain offers hiking Grandfather Mountain doesn’t hiberamenities. offer an up close and opportunities for all skill nate during winter. But without the Although it’s widely known for the personal view of black levels and abilities, from bears (which hibernate a leisurely stroll through for winter, but occasionthe woods to a cliffside ally make an appearscramble up the ladders ance when the weather of MacRae Peak. With suits), river otters, bald access to more than 12 eagles, cougars and miles’ worth of hiking white-tailed deer, all of trails, options abound, whom were either resalthough wintertime cued (after being injured hikers are encouraged or orphaned in the wild to call ahead to check on and deemed unfit for trail conditions, particurelease) or adopted larly during inclement (after being born into weather. captivity). Skiing Snowboarding Ice Skating Tubing If some aren’t so keen PHOTO BY VICTORIA DARLINGTON | Unlike exhibits to brave it on their own, GRANDFATHER MOUNTAIN found at most zoos, New STEWARDSHIP FOUNDATION they can book a guided Grandfather’s habitats hike, led by one of the Terrain Park One of Grandfather Mounare built around the mountain’s interpretain’s resident river otters animals’ actual native Free Lessons tive rangers and offered frolics in the snow. River environments, offering Mon-Thurs, non Holiday, otters are extraordinarily ac- year-round, weather perthem room to roam as Ages 8 and Older mitting. tive during winter, reveling they please, even out of Hiking or not, advenNew in the snow and often using sight should they want turers should dress for it to slide around on their Tubing Facility ty some privacy. the occasion. bellies. But the secret sea“Park visitors should 5506’ son offers guests a rare be prepared for dramatic Highest SkyBar in NC C glimpse of other wildlife — the sort of changes in temperature compared to animals found outside of the habitats. Shopping the lower elevations below,” Shortt said. “While a number of the park’s aniAt its lofty altitude — the highest Dining mals have left or started their winter peak in the Blue Ridge Mountain range rest, there are several species of aniat 5,946 feet — brisk winds, low windNightlife mals that are more commonly viewed chill values and the possibility of snow in the winter,” Shortt said, “like pine Live Music and ice should be expected, meaning siskins, red crossbills and bobcats, all of which are spotted more frequently this 17 slopes SEE GRANDFATHER, PAGE 30 time of year.” & 8 Lifts #beechmtn BeechMountainResort.com BY FRANK RUGGIERO
S
WINTER TIMES
2016-17
PAGE 29
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PAGE 30
WINTER TIMES
BLUE RIDGE PARKWAY: W
hile the autumnal color palette is the undisputed star of the show for sightseers along the Blue Ridge Parkway, those more adventurous drivers who embark on a wintertime trip along America’s most scenic stretch of road are sure to be rewarded with incredible views and experiences of their own. While most of the campgrounds and visitor sites along the length of the parkway are closed for the season during the winter, there is still ample opportunity for you to get a look at some of the best scenery in the Appalachian Mountains. And, with fewer travelers along the road in the winter months, you’ll feel like you have the whole place to yourself. It is important to note that, during the winter months, the parkway, which is not served by the N.C. Department of Transportation for snow and ice removal, can become impassable. After severe weather, the parkway will often be closed to travelers.
When the parkway gates are open, so is the road, but even in the best conditions it is worthwhile to use extra caution when driving winding, high-elevation mountain roads in the winter. Even in the winter, there are trails and attractions open to visitors who don’t mind the chill. If you choose to hike in these conditions, however, make sure you are well equipped with plenty of warm clothing. If you are unsure about how conditions might change, you are best served to dress in layers. The parkway in winter can even provide entertainment for skiers, 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. There are innumerable opportunities to take an amazing photo along the length of the parkway, but places such as Cascade Falls at Benge Gap, milepost 268, is a not-to-be-missed photo opportunity on the right day.
2016-17
When the weather is right, trails and attractions to see and the road to meander
Another picture-perfect stop along the parkway is Price Park located at milepost 295, just outside of Boone. If you are interested in getting away from the cold, a popular indoor winter attraction can be found at 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, call (828) 298-0398 or 800-PARK-WATCH or visit www.nps. gov/blri or www.blueridgeparkway. org.
Mileposts 248.1: N.C. 18 crossover. 2 miles west of Laurel Springs. 24 miles east to North Wilkesboro. 261: N.C. 16 crossover. West 12 miles to Jefferson, 14 miles to West Jefferson, 26 miles to Grassy Creek. East 20 miles to North Wilkesboro. 268: Benge Gap. 272: E.B. Jeffress Park. Picnic area, comfort station, trail to Cascades. 276.4: Deep Gap. U.S. 421 crossover. West 11 miles to Boone. East 26 miles to North Wilkesboro. 291.9: U.S. 221/321 crossover. 7 miles north to Boone, 2 miles 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. Altitude 3,400 feet. Reservations for camping www.recreation. gov. 304.4: Linn Cove Viaduct Information Center. Visitor information, comfort station, publications. Trail access viaduct. Altitude 4,000 feet. 305.2: Junction parkway and U.S. 221. 3 miles west to Linville. 308.2: Flat Rock parking area. Self-guiding nature trail to superb view of Linville Valley and Grandfather Mountain. 312: N.C. 181 crossover, 32 miles southeast to Morganton, 2 miles north to Pineola. 316.3: Linville Falls. Visitor Center. Campground and picnic area. Trail to overlooks of falls and gorge. For camping reservations, visit 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. Altitude 3,250 feet. Take Spur Road to Linville Falls, campground and visitor center. 317.4: South 1 mile to Linville Falls community. 24 miles to Marion. 320.7: Chestoa View offers an unusually fine view from one of the many vertical cliffs on Humpback Mountain. 331: N.C. 226 crossover. 6 miles north to Spruce Pine. 14 miles south to Marion.
GRANDFATHER FROM PAGE 28 visitors should bring waterproof jackets, multiple layers of clothing and footwear with quality tread. They should also bring a camera. “Of course, all seasons at Grandfather Mountain have their own unique beauty,” said Jesse Pope, the stewardship foundation’s executive director. “But in my opinion, when the mountain is shrouded in rime ice and you can see for a 100 miles from the top, there’s really an exhilarating sense of wonder you experience while up here.” But there’s something else the secret season offers — in a sense, the keys to the mountain. “Because not as many people visit during the winter season, you really do feel like you have the mountain to yourself on any given day,” Pope said. “We’re definitely one of the better kept secrets of the High Country in winter.”
IF YOU GO •
Grandfather Mountain is open yearround, weather permitting, with the exception of Thanksgiving and Christmas.
•
Winter hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., although opening can be delayed until all roads and paths are cleared of snow and ice.
•
To determine the day’s weather conditions, visitors are encouraged to call the mountain’s entrance gate at (828) 733-4337.
•
Admission costs $20 for adults and $9 for children, although numerous discounts are available, such as AAA, military and senior citizen. From Nov. 1, 2016, through April 30, 2017, Grandfather Mountain also offers its “Secret Season Pass,” which grants unlimited access to the park for six months.
•
For more information, call (800) 4687325, or visit www.grandfather.com.
WINTER TIMES
2016-17
WINTER:
I
t’s the middle of winter, which means it’s ski season. But nothing ruins a trip to the slopes more than cold that is brought on by being wet. Tumbles along a ski slope occasionally happen. It doesn’t mean that the day can be ruined because of wet and cold conditions. Dressing for the slopes can make the difference between a successful day and one that sends you back to the lodge hours early. When dressing to go skiing, dressing in layers and dressing in as much waterproof clothing are key in staying dry and warm. It starts from wearing warm socks to a jacket that keeps the layers of clothing underneath dry. “I guess if you were going to break it down, it would be an under armor layer and then do an outer layer on top of that,” said Logan Isaacson, an employee at Recess Skate and Snow in Boone. For socks, it’s recommended that the socks should be warm, but thin. Wearing thin woolen socks is preferred, but sometimes thicker socks are preferable if you are renting boots. Isaacson said a thicker sock is more helpful with a snowboarder. “You definitely don’t want cotton,” Isaacson said. “It will hold moisture. You want a polyester-type material. It’s definitely going to be a mixture of materials, but you definitely want to avoid cotton.” Another piece of clothing to consider wearing is thermal underwear. Even though it might be warm, thermal underwear can help with keeping moisture away from the skin.
PAGE 31
Dress for success on the snow
Avoid cotton, since cotton holds moisture and will make a chill layer. Silk thermals are ideal. A second layer is also recommended, usually either fleece or wool and wool-blend clothes. Again, avoid cotton. Waterproof ski pants are ideal, especially if they are waterproof. Snow can get on the chairlifts and falling into snow is always a possibility. The snow in North Carolina tends to have more water in it than the snow in Colorado or Utah, especially during winter months. Isaacson said some skiers will wear blue jeans, especially in the spring, but he recommends avoiding jeans since they can hold on to water. “You’ll see all kinds of guys wearing jeans and all kinds of crazy stuff,” he said. “I wouldn’t recommend it for sure, but you see it.” Having a jacket that is waterproof and windproof is also a good idea. Not only is there the possibility of wind on a slope, but also on the chairlift. As with the pants, it’s a good idea for jackets to be waterproof, since the snow in North Carolina is usually very wet, compared to the dryer snow in Colorado or Utah. It is also idea that the jacket zip up to the neck area. Goggles are also recommended, especially on windy days. They are also necessary on bright days to prevent snow blindness, which is extremely painful. A hat or a helmet is also recommended, not just for safety, but to help keep body heat. A waterproof pair of gloves is also recommended.
FILE PHOTO Proper headgear will guard against a bad crash, and good goggles can help against snow blindness.
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WINTER TIMES
PAGE 32
2016-17
HAWKSNEST SNOW TUBING: A unique High Country experience
F
or more than 50 years, Hawksnest, located in the town of Seven Devils, has been a premiere destination for family fun in the High Country. First opening as a ski slope in 1964, Hawksnest added golf to its list of offerings a few years later. The property was purchased by the Cottom family in the early 1990s. After closing its slopes to skiing following the 2006-2007 winter season, the following year saw a dramatic change for the resort. Hawksnest began offering snow tubing during the 2007-2008 winter season, opening 20 lanes for visitors, a move that has made the resort a tubing destination for guests from all across the country. “We had an interest in being something that was different than the other ski areas, so we began focusing just on the snow tubing,” Hawksnest co-owner Lenny Cottom said.
PHOTO BY HAWKSNEST Snow tubing at Hawksnest offers the thrill seeker dozens lanes of downhill fun.
400 to 1,000 feet in length, Hawksnest Snow Tubing Park provides a wide variety of terrain options for the most advanced of snow tubers. “Over the years, we’ve added more areas to snow tube, more snowmaking, more lighting, more lanes and more grooming equipment. We continue to focus on the snowmaking and the best possible conditions for the snow tubing experience,” Cottom said. After finishing their ride, tubers can hop on board one of the park’s “magic carpet” lifts and go back up to the top for another round of fun. Each session on the mountain lasts one hour and 45 minutes, allowing ample opportunities to explore the park’s offerings.
Booking your trip
Since that first season nine years ago, the park has grown by leaps and bounds, taking the title as the largest snow tubing operation in the South and
the second largest tubing park in the United States. With four distinct tubing areas and more than 30 lanes that range from
For those who choose to use Hawksnest’s online booking system, SEE HAWKSNEST, PAGE 33
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The Blowing Rock Attraction Planning a Wedding or Special Event, make it a breathtaking event for your special day at The Blowing Rock Attraction. Contact us for further information.
432 The Rock Road Blowing Rock, NC 28645 828.295.7111 brockattraction@bellsouth.net
WINTER TIMES
2016-17
PHOTO BY HAWKSNEST Hawksnest is the largest snow tubing operation in the South and the second largest tubing park in the United States.
HAWKSNEST FROM PAGE 32 there’s no danger of showing up only to find out that sessions are sold out for the day. Visitors to Hawksnest are encouraged to make reservations, since tours will fill up quickly as the season progresses. Visit www.hawksnesttubing.com, click the “book now” button, select your time and date and you’re ready to tube. “People can buy tickets online and reserve their specific spot,” Cottom said. “We’re going to sell out some sessions during the weekends and holidays, so it’s great to be able to book the session before you arrive to save any disappointment for your family.” Snow tubing season usually starts in mid-November and runs seven days a week from Dec. 9 through late March, allowing plenty of opportunities to hit the slopes. Sessions are available at 10 a.m., noon, 2 p.m. and 4 p.m. Monday through Thursday; 10 a.m., noon, 2 p.m., 4 p.m. and 6 p.m. Friday and Saturday; and 10 a.m., noon and 2 p.m. on Sundays. Individual rates for weekday sessions are $27 per person, while weekend and holiday rates are $34 per person. Holiday rates apply on Nov. 25 for Thanksgiving; from Dec. 19 through Jan. 1 for Christmas and New Year’s; Jan. 16 for Martin Luther King Day; and Feb. 20 for President’s Day. Military discounts for $3 off the price of admission are available for active military personnel and veterans. Whether bringing the family for a day of fun or planning a larger group outing with multiple people, Hawksnest can accommodate. With group rates available for parties of 15 or more, Hawksnest is the perfect location for an exciting trip for youth groups, business
Planning your trip What to wear • Dress appropriately in multiple layers, with lighter layers on the bottom and heavier layers on the outside. • Add a waterproof layer while tubing. Hawksnest offers bib rentals for $11. • Always wear a hat that covers your ears. • Make sure to wear warm, waterproof gloves that are appropriately sized. • Protect your eyes with sunglasses or goggles while tubing. • Keep feet and ankles warm with long, thick socks.
Getting there Hawksnest Snow Tubing Park is located at 2058 Skyland Drive in Seven Devils and is accessible by N.C. Highway 105. Check road conditions to ensure safe travel by either calling the resort or visiting www. ncdot.org/traffictravel.
Plan ahead As one of the premier winter activities in North Carolina and the surrounding region, tubing sessions at Hawksnest sell out fast. If you’re arranging a group trip, fill out the group form at www.hawksnesttubing.com, book your tickets and mark your calendars well in advance for a fantastic and large family gatherings.
Winter Zip Lining
While snow tubing makes up a large portion of Hawksnest’s winter business, the summer season offers SEE HAWKSNEST, PAGE 34
PAGE 33
WINTER TIMES
PAGE 34
2016-17
VIEW FROM THE TOP: Beech Mountain Resort provides winter snow satisfaction
O
f all the High Country winter operations, perhaps Beech Mountain Resort possesses and offers to the public the most well-rounded arsenal of a true destination ski resort. Established in 1967 and nestled in Eastern America’s highest town at an elevation of 5,506 feet, Beech Mountain Resort is the one-stop shop for all things snow. The resort boasts 17 slopes, with the newest slope accommodating the largest terrain park in resort history, with a dedicated rope tow. For this season, the resort has added five additional SMI snow guns, given the resort a total of 65 fully automated guns, which complement dozens of smaller guns. Among the myriad offerings that Beech Mountain Resort affords is its one-of-a-kind village, found nowhere else in the High Country. The village and its amenities positively enhance the overall adventure of a trip up to Beech. Beech Mountain Resort’s village boasts its own brewery, Beech Mountain Brewing Co., that celebrates its three-year anniversary in December 2016. In addition, 5506’ Skybar is a unique amenity where guests are invited to take a break from skiing and snowboarding. Constructed in 2013, Beech Mountain Resort added the facility in part to pay tribute to the elevation that gives Beech the title of the highest ski area in Eastern America. 5506′ consists of: a 2,800-squarefoot deck with Adirondack chairs and
picnic tables, a glass roundhouse complete with bar, barstools and tables, a snack bar and heated restrooms. The views from 5506’ are tremendous and like no other, as the Blue Ridge Mountains provide the backdrop to vistas as far away as Virginia and Tennessee. Hungry and thirsty snow enthusiasts have the opportunity to please their palates with copious food and drink options. In the summer, 5506′ is popular with mountain bikers, hikers, disc golfers and visitors, possessing the same amenities offered in the winter season, with the option of adding a scenic lift ride up and down the mountain. In recent years, Beech Mountain Resort has been on the cutting edge of popular winter activities, going out of its way to offer the best in facilities to aficionados of both skiing and other snow activities that include skating and snowboarding. Beech expanded its range of activities for guests with the construction of its new 700-foot, eight-lane tubing facility. This winter, Beech Mountain Resort is excited to unveil a new terrain park. Aptly named “The Park,” the newly constructed facility is the largest terrain park in resort history. Beech Mountain Resort hosts numerous events during the winter months, including the popular Retro 80s Ski Weekend, its Winter Music Series, College Week, and is now part of the USASA Southeastern Series, a slopestyle freeski and snowboard competition for all ages that will take place in the Beech Mountain Resort new terrain park in January 2017.
HAWKSNEST
The Snowbird Tour begins on Dec. 1 and runs seven days a week through March 31. Each tour lasts between 45 minutes to an hour and costs $45 per rider. Sessions begin each day, on the hour from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Children participating in the Snowbird tour must be at least 5 years old. Riders cannot be more than 250 pounds or have a waist larger than 40 inches. All participants must sign a waiver, or have one signed by a parent
FROM PAGE 33 amazing opportunities to fly down the mountainside on the resort’s two zip line tours. Although those extensive tours are not available during the winter months, visitors who are looking for a change of pace can sign up for the resort’s Snowbird Tour, a high-flying four-cable tour that offers a bird’s-eye view of the surrounding area.
PHOTO COURTESY BEECH MOUNTAIN RESORT A newly expanded terrain park, aptly named ‘The Park,’ will greet winter sports enthusiasts at Beech Mountain Resort for the 2016-2017 winter season.
Although the visitor to the High Country remains an integral part of the success of Beech Mountain Resort, local residents also play a pivotal role. For those making plans to come to the mountain, tickets may be purchased in Beech Tree Village, and at the ticket booth adjacent to the Play Yard in front of View Haus. Group tickets are sold only in the Group Sales Office. Note that there are no refunds or returns on lift/slope tickets, and patrons are always encouraged to check the slope and weather conditions before buying tickets. Beech Mountain Resort offers daily, snow day, season and discounted ticket prices. For a full list of resort hours and 2016-17 resort ticket prices,
visit www.beechmountainresort.com/ tickets-passes/winter-lift-tickets. For a full calendar of events throughout the year at Beech Mountain Resort, visit the resort’s website by visiting www.beechmountainresort.com. If high-quality equipment, a vast array of activities and amenities and friendly customer service are a must, Beech Mountain Resort strives for excellence and to make each customer’s experience at the resort a positive adventure worth replicating time and again. 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.
or guardian if they are younger than 18 years of age.
lanes and zip lines.
Warm up in the lodge
For more information about the snow tubing and zip line opportunities available at Hawksnest this winter, visit www.hawksnesttubing.com, call (828) 963-6561 or email info@hawksnesttubing.com. To check out the conditions at the park, visit Hawksnest’s livestream camera at www.resortcams.com/webcams/hawksnest.
After a long day on the slopes or riding the zip lines, nothing can beat the warm, inviting atmosphere of Hawksnest’s three-story lodge. With food, coffee drinks and hot chocolate available, the lodge serves as a great place to unwind and enjoy the scenery, with a large indoor area, as well as an outdoor deck overlooking the tubing
More information
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SUGAR, SPICE AND EVERYTHING NICE A strive to provide the best ski, snowboard and tubing
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he winter season means a little bit more in the High Country, and sitting at 5,300 feet above sea level, Sugar Mountain Resort knows that as well as anyone else in the South. Hailed as one of the premier skiing destinations in the Southeast, owner Gunther Jochl and the rest of his team of snow sport professionals have worked tirelessly during the summer months to ensure the mountain will be primed for the best possible experience for visitors as soon as the weather permits. “As soon as it gets cold, we’re ready to go,” vice president and director of marketing Kim Jochl said. “Snowcats are out and tracked, the snow machines are on the slopes. …
We’re ready to go.” In 2015, the mountain unveiled the Summit Express, a new highspeed, detachable, six-passenger chairlift that can travel from base to summit in five minutes. The mountain expanded to 21 skiable slopes with the addition of Gunther’s Way, an intermediate-level slope 2,900 feet long and featuring an elevation change of 700 feet. Those innovations alone were enough to exceed the industry standard, but any good business is always improving. “We strive to provide the best ski, snowboard and tubing experiences that we possibly can,” Gunther Jochl said. “We are constantly updating and improving our infrastructure and product.” A testimony of that mindset was announced in early October, when Sugar Mountain Resort added a new Pisten Bully Winch Groomer to its
already impressive fleet of snowmakcertified by both the Professional ing and grooming technologies. Twice Ski Instructors of America and the a day, the slopes at Sugar Mountain American Association of Snowboard Resort are groomed and treated to Instructors. Once you’ve gotten your ensure the best quality experience, feet wet, the mountain has three difand this new powerful equipment ferent training areas, including one provides extra hold and efficiency on of the ski industry’s longest and most the mountain, specifically for groomgentle slopes named Easy Street. ing Sugar Mountain‘s signature Black If skiing isn’t your forte, Sugar Diamond slopes. Mountain boasts The mountain’s 700-foot-long extreme elevation tubing lanes, a creates the oppor10,000-squaretunity for as much foot refrigeras 130 inches ated ice skating of fresh powder rink, trails for a year, but the snowshoeing and snowmaking team breathtaking 360 will be putting the degree views of effort in to create the High Country. a base as thick as Its base lodge propossible. vides everything “We can’t a snow sports groom unless we patron could have snow. So need, located once again, we conveniently at have stepped it up PHOTO BY SUGAR MOUNTAIN the base of the by upgrading two A young snowboarder rests on top of slopes: Ticket existing snowsales, equipthe world for a moment, before plungmaking machines ing down one of Sugar Mountain’s 21 ment rentals, and installed cafeterias, The different slopes. two brand new, Last Run Lounge, fully automatic the sports shop, machines,” said Jochl. “We have also group sales, locker rooms and even added two new SMI stick snow guns, the Candy Shop are housed inside. and two Ratnik snow guns. Since we The lodge is where the ski day are fanatical about snow, we have begins and ends, but that doesn’t made improvements to the pump mean your vacation has to stop house, as well.” once you’ve gotten off the slopes. All these new additions were Throughout the winter, Sugar made to enhance the functionality Mountain Resort offers a multitude of the 125 skiable acres across Sugar of special events and happenings, all Mountain. That amount of skiable taking place on the mountain. Events area means Sugar Mountain is able such as live music from local artists, to offer something for people of every ski clinics, Sugarfest, New Year’s celskill level. The slopes are classified ebrations and more. Sugar Mountain as 34 percent beginner, 52 percent even hosts a Septuagenarian Party on intermediate and 14 percent expert. Jan. 10 to recognize Sugar’s senior Among those, you can find the loncitizen skiers. gest vertical drop in the High Country Sugar Mountain Resort has surat 1,200 feet; 15 slopes lit for night rounded itself with those passionate skiing; a terrain park; a beginners about all aspects of the ski industry area; and 4,000 complete sets of skis from the top down. Kim Jochl is and snowboard rentals to fit your a former nine-year member of the every need. United States Alpine Ski Team and If you are a beginner, Sugar Gunther Jochl can be seen frequently Mountain is a great place to get your competing in Sugar Mountain ski skiing career started. The mountain events. provides ski and snowboard schools For more information, call (828) for newcomers of all ages, and is 898-4521 or visit www.skisugar.com.
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APPALACHIAN SKI MTN.: 1 million have learned to ski at the resort
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or people who want to learn how to ski and snowboard, Appalachian Ski Mtn. offers everything from rentals to world-class instruction from its famous FrenchSwiss Ski College. “More than a million people have learned to ski here through lessons with the French-Swiss Ski College,” said Drew Stanley, marketing director for Appalachian Ski Mtn. The French-Swiss Ski College was begun at the ski resort in the winter of 1969-70 and one of its founders, Jim Cottrell, continues to lead the organization. Its presence is one of the reasons that Special Olympics has held its Winter Games at the resort for more than three decades. But Appalachian Ski Mtn. is much more than a learning facility for skiing and snowboarding. The resort features 12 slopes, three terrain parks, a scenic outdoor ice arena and special events throughout the winter snow season. “Depending on the weather, we open each year on the Friday before Thanksgiving; this year that’s Nov. 18,” Stanley said. “And we’ll stay open until the end of the fourth weekend in March.” Special events at the resort this year include fireworks on New Year’s Eve and on an event-filled Presidents Day Family Weekend and the season concluding Meltdown Games, complete with costume contest and pond skim. The Shred for the Cup Series includes the Shred for the Cup Rail Jam on Jan. 8, the Shred for the Cup Big Air Contest on Jan. 22 and the Shred for the Cup Slopestyle Contest Feb. 26. Ski gear companies such as Burton and K2 will host special events at Appalachian Ski Mtn. this season, including two snowboarding events for kids, a High Ollie contest and several ladies nights at App Terrain Park. “Our midnight blast weekends will be offered on Fridays and Saturday nights all season long,” Stanley said. Appalachian Ski Mtn. is also the only ski resort in North Carolina to offer a flex ticket, which means the eight-hour session starts whenever you buy your ticket.
PHOTO BY JEFF EASON Opening the new Welcome Center: Pictured are, from left, Wiley Speckmann, Jensen Moretz, Reba Moretz, Brad Moretz, Grady Moretz, John Speckmann, Jennifer Moretz, Avery Moretz, Sophie Speckmann Brenda Speckmann.
Appalachian Ski Mtn. will also host a special WinterFest Family Night on Friday, Jan. 27, in conjunction with all of the other Blowing Rock WinterFest activities.
Ice skating
Appalachian Ski Mtn.’s ice arena is North Carolina’s only Zamboni maintained outdoor skating rink. The arena’s shop provides rental skates in both the traditional figure skating
style and hockey skates. The outdoor rink is fully lighted for skating under the stars and is open whenever the slopes are open. Group rates and birthday packages are available at the skating rink. For more information, call (828) 322-2373.
Christmas Day
There’s even more good news for folks who woke up on Christmas
morning and found a new snowboard or skis under the tree: Appalachian Ski Mtn. will be open on Christmas Day for the first time ever. The slopes will be open from 1 to 10 p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 25. The day will serve as a fundraiser for Appalachian Ski Mtn.’s ski patrol and customers who purchase their tickets online before Dec. 25 will receive a 50 percent discount. For more information, visit www. appskimtn.com/xmas.
Welcome Center
PHOTO BY JEFF EASON The resort features 12 slopes, three terrain parks, a scenic outdoor ice arena.
PHOTO BY JEFF EASON The Shred for the Cup Series starts on Jan. 8 with the Jam.
During your trip to Appalachian Ski Mtn., be sure to visit its new Welcome Center, located at the bottom of Edmisten Road on U.S. 321. This official regional Welcome Center features a gift shop, travel brochures and maps, and is the new home of High Country Host, an organization providing tourist information for North Carolina’s northwest mountain region.
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SHREDDING THE GNAR: Boarders and skiers can catch big air at terrain parks
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hile nothing can quite equate with the rush of speeding downhill at the area’s ski mountains, for some thrill-seeking boarders and skiers, there is no greater thrill than catching big air and sticking sweet tricks on the specialized elements of terrain parks. From jumps to halfpipes and rail jams, terrain parks offer unique challenges for experienced riders to push their skills to the limit. Both Appalachian Ski Mtn. and Beech Mountain are constantly pushing the envelope with their parks, looking for bold new ways to tickle the fancies of their most extreme customers.
Appalachian Terrain Park With three distinct terrain park areas, Appalachian Ski Mtn.’s Appalachian Terrain Park attracts riders from across the country each winter season. Each time one visits one of the three parks, they are likely to have a completely different experience, as elements are constantly shifted to make new and exciting opportunities for riders. Since the park opened, it has been the site for large events sponsored by national companies, hosting some of the top riders from across the United States. For first time riders, the Appal Top progression park allows riders to experi-
tains more difficult, most difficult and expert snow features, jump-on rails with gaps and narrow rail surfaces. For more information on the Appalachian Terrain Park, visit www. appterrainpark.com.
The Park at Beech Mountain
PHOTO BY MATT DEBNAM With a new expansion of Beech Mountain’s terrain park, ‘The Park’ promises fresh, exciting thrills for boarders this winter.
ence some of the basics of terrain park riding, building their skills to take on the Appal Jack Terrain Park and eventually the Appal Jam. The Appaljack park, built for intermediate riders, offers snow berms and banks and a variety of ever-changing elements to keep riders on the edge of their boards. For riders prepared for a serious challenge, the Appal Jam contains jumps and advanced elements. This park con-
PHOTO BY MATT DEBNAM With a motto of ‘founded by riders, built for riders,’ Appalachian Ski Mtn.’s three terrain parks offer an ever-changing array of elements, providing a fresh experience with each visit to the mountain.
Beech Mountain Resort is set to unveil a new terrain park this winter. Aptly named The Park, the newlyconstructed facility is the largest terrain park in resort history. It caters to riders with rotating freestyle features, a dedicated snowmaking system, new light towers, and a surface tow lift providing top-notch conditions in the park day and night. The Park, which has more than 50 features in its inventory, now has more acreage to build more elaborate jumps
and features. As an added bonus, relocating the park away from the Powder Bowl slope recaptures prime terrain for skiers. For the last seven years, the terrain park’s location on the Powder Bowl slope limited the amount of skier traffic that section could handle. Powder Bowl will now re-open as skiable terrain with a blue square designation. “We are very pleased with the results of this project because it does so much to enhance the guest experience at Beech Mountain Resort,” general manager Ryan Costin said. “It increases the amount of skiable acreage, creates better flow for snowboarders and skiers and allows us to handle more skiers at peak times.” For more videos and photos from The Park, click to www.beechmountainresort.com/mountain/freestyle-terrain.
Find your Look at...
205 B Long Street • Shamrock Square Shopping Center • Jefferson, NC 336-846-9551 • LibbysLook.com
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CHOOSE AND CUT: N
Holiday fun for the whole family
o activity brings area residents and visitors together more than choose-and-cut Christmas tree services offered at many area tree farms. The Christmas tree industry has a strong presence in the High Country, particularly in Ashe and Avery counties. Ashe County is actually the nation’s leading producer of Christmas trees and greenery, with more than $85 million in sales every year. “We have over 12,000 acres of land in Christmas trees and 3.5 million trees were harvested in 2015,” said Ashe County Cooperative Extension Director Carolyn Shepherd. “That makes Ashe County the largest tree producing county in the nation.”
With all that energy dedicated to Christmas tree production, it only seems fit for locals to embrace and promote the industry. No local community puts more effort into promoting the Christmas tree industry than West Jefferson, a small town in the center of Ashe County. Last year, hundreds of visitors came to West Jefferson on Small Business Saturday, and thanks to choose-and-cut services, most of those visitors took Christmas trees back home with them. Choose and cut allows families to tour local farms and pick their favorite tree to take home. According to Avery County Cooperative Extension Director Jerry Moody, it’s all about the experience. “It’s the experience. It’s like asking why people come up here to look at the
Celebrating 34Years
leaves every fall, when they could probably find them right outside their homes,” Moody said. “It’s the experience of going out to a farm and choosing their own tree, and spending time with the family.” When visitors buy choose-and-cut Christmas trees, they are supporting small- and medium-sized farms and supporting the environment by buying real trees rather than artificial ones. But that’s nothing compared to the sentimental value of spending a crisp winter day with the family and finding that special tree to huddle under on Christmas morning. Choose and cut is an experience everyone should have at least once. Although local farmers grow several varieties of Christmas tree, the High Country is home to the majestic Fraser fir, often lauded as the best for its size, shape, color and aroma. Also known as the “Cadillac of Christmas Trees,” the Fraser fir can only grow in elevations near 5,000 feet above sea level. “The Fraser fir comes from high elevation, so this area is well suited for
them,” Moody said. “This is one of the few areas where they grow naturally. Once they go off the mountain, they don’t do well.” According to Moody, Christmas tree sales account for $110 million to $115 million in North Carolina, with about $25 million generated in Avery County. Like West Jefferson, other local towns will offer fun activities this holiday season, and local farms will be ready for visitors. The following links provide information for choose-and-cut services in the High Country: • Ashe County: www.ashecountychristmastrees.com/docs/choosecutbrochure.pdf • Avery County: www.averycountychristmastrees.org/members/ • Watauga County: www.wataugachristmastrees.org/choose-and-cut-christmastrees.html The North Carolina Christmas Tree Association encourages everyone to buy real Christmas trees made in the USA, rather than artificial ones.
Winter Group & “Small Works Exhibition” November 25 - April 30 Holiday Open House November 25th and 26th, 10am-5pm 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
PHOTO BY JAMES HOWELL Drew Baldwin cuts down a miniature tree at Lyalls Nursery in November 2015.
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WINTER DRIVING S
pend any time at all on the High Country’s mountain roads, and it soon becomes apparent that driving during snow season calls for caution, patience and extra time. It doesn’t take a deep snowfall for the road to become troublesome or even treacherous. The least bit of precipitation, depending on the temperature, can result in delays or dangerous travel. And, as for that temperature, the mercury can drop quickly this time of year without warning, and that’s especially true after sunset.
Preparation The best route is to prepare for winter driving before the first snow.
First of all, it is important to make sure that your vehicle is ready to face nature’s fury by having it “winterized” at the beginning of the season, and then keeping it maintained throughout the coming months. Snow tires and/or chains are a must in the mountains, with tire pressure checks frequently needed. Adequate amounts of fuel should be in the tank at all times, just in case you are stranded on the roadside, or in the middle of a traffic jam waiting for an accident to clear. Your exhaust system should be checked to prevent any deadly fumes from seeping through the vents. Check wiper blades, battery, oil and other fluid levels, brakes and belts. Stock in your car a few basics in case you become stranded: • A scraper and brush, small shov-
el, jumper cables, tow rope or chain. • A bag of sand, kitty litter or carpet strips for traction. • A flashlight with extra batteries. • Extra clothing and winter apparel accessories. • Nonperishable foods. • Extra windshield washer fluid and antifreeze. Preparing your vehicle for the winter is vital, so when you wake one morning with snow piling up outside your window, you will not panic. When the weather turns bad, you should obtain from a local news source the condition of the roads that you will be traveling.
Heading out • For those vehicles not garaged overnight, it is important that they are given a chance to warm up and that all snow and ice is cleared from the windows, mirrors and lights.
• The hood and roof should be cleared as well. • Leave plenty of room between you and the vehicle in front of you. • Pay close attention to those around you. • Use brakes carefully. • If your car begins to fishtail, it probably means you are going too fast. If you begin sliding, turn into the slide to correct. • Remember that bridges freeze first. • Even supposedly clear roads can contain “black,” or hidden, ice. • Don’t become overconfident on the roadway just because you have a four-wheel-drive. Many heavier vehicles take longer to stop. • Look farther ahead in traffic than you normally do. • Give space to maintenance vehicles; stay back at least 200 feet and don’t pass on the right. • Maintain a slow and safe speed, and always wear a seatbelt.
THE HIGH COUNTRY’S PREMIER DOG AND CAT STORE AND GROCERY • Highest Quality Dog and Cat Foods + Raw • Organic Treats and Gourmet Bakery Items • Holistic Nutritional Supplements • Toys • Raincoats, Sweaters, Collars, Harnesses • Outdoor Gear and Travel Goods • Gifts for People and Pets • Grooming Supplies • Quality Beds and Blankets • World Fair Trade Products
LOCALLY OWNED Specializing in USA Made and Organic Products
PHOTO BY ROB MOORE Winter driving in the High Country is a much needed skill set. Prepare your car for any of the many scenarios that icy conditions could throw your way.
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FILE PHOTO Mystery Hill is located between Boone and Blowing Rock on U.S. 321.
SPEND A WINTER’S DAY AT MYSTERY HILL L
et’s face it, when it’s cold and nasty outside, sometimes the best thing to do is to find some nice indoor fun. That’s one of the reasons that Mystery Hill is the perfect antidote to brutal winter weather. You can spend an entire day exploring Mystery Hill. Now in its 60th season, Mystery Hill is a family friendly roadside attraction nestled in a curve on U.S. 321 between Boone and Blowing Rock. It includes the Mystery Platform and Mystery House, the Hall of Mystery, the Native American Artifacts Museum and the Appalachian Heritage Museum. Constructed around the slope of the surrounding hillside, the Mystery Platform and Mystery House feature a stronger than average pull to the north, which causes some of our basic laws of physics to work differently than normal. When you walk into the Mystery House, your body will be at a 45 degree angle, even though you are trying to stand at a 90 degree angle.
lection includes artifacts from 23 different states. Arrowheads, pottery, pipes and knives are just a few of the remarkable pieces in the collection.
Appalachian Heritage Museum
FILE PHOTO Make a ‘human bubble wrap’ at Mystery Hill.
Native American Artifacts Museum What began as a labor of love for R.E. “Moon” Mullins and his wife, Irene, turned into a remarkable collection of more than 50,000 Native American artifacts. Started on the riverbanks of Georgia, their col-
The Appalachian Heritage Museum found its home at Mystery Hill in 1989. Originally located on the campus of Appalachian State University, it was formally known as the Dougherty House and was one of the first buildings erected on the state university grounds in 1903. Inside the museum are memories of life in the 19th century and early 20th century, including antiques such as sewing machines, household furnishings, photographs, clothing and other items that give visitors a glimpse into a cherished past. Mystery Hill is open seven days a week. Hours of operation from June through August are 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Hours of operation from September through May are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more information, call (828) 264-2792, or visit www.mysteryhill-nc.com.
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GETAWAY for a DAY
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Unwind at the High Country’s destination and day spas
COMPILED BY CHAMIAN CRUZ
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his winter, take a break from the cold and enjoy the benefits of taking care of the mind and body by spending some time at the spa.
DESTINATION SPAS Westglow Resort & Spa
224 Westglow Circle Blowing Rock, NC 28605
Recognized among Travel and Leisure’s 2015 World’s Best Spas, Westglow Resort & Spa is an allinclusive 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 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) 295-4463 or (800) 562-0807, email info@westglow.com or visit westglowresortandspa.com.
PHOTO SUBMITTED Ease your mind and soothe the soul with a trip to spa.
ter.org/spa or call (828) 264-8382.
The Spa at Chetola Resort 185 Chetola Lake Drive Blowing Rock, NC 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’s 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, teethwhitening treatments and cosmetic applications. For more information, call (800) 243-8652, email spa@chetola.com or visit www.chetola.com/spa. html.
Art of Living Retreat Center 911 Rock Cliff Road Boone, NC 28607
The menu of services at the Art of Living Retreat Center Spa 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 artoflivingretreatcen-
For more information, call (828) 737-9500 or visit EseeolaSpa.com.
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) 836-5046 or visit www.crestwoodnc.com/spa-services-packages.
The Spa at Eseeola Lodge 34 Dogwood Street Linville, NC 28646
The Eseeola Spa is one of the fine experiences 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.
DAY SPAS Heavenly Touch Day Spa 246-D Wilson Drive Boone, NC 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. For more information, call (828) 264-4335 or visit heavenlytouchboone.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) 963-2355 or SEE SPA, PAGE 44
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SPA FROM PAGE 43 visit 7thheaven.vpweb.com.
Serenity Day Spa
72 Arnett Road Banner Elk, NC 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 35 years and a skin care specialist for 25 years. For more information, call (828) 898-3550, email cashbaugh@charter. net or visit relaxatserenity.com.
Lavender Fields Skin Care and Laser Spa 820-C State Farm Road Boone, N.C. 28607
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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) 265-1029 or visit www.lavenderfieldssalon.com.
The Wisdom Tree
719A Greenway Road Boone, NC 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) 964-8691.
Natural Healing Day Spa
2960 Tynecastle Highway Banner Elk, NC 28604
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.
PHOTO SUBMITTED Many of the rooms at the Art of Living Retreat Center have a view of the mountains, which helps to assure visitors get the most out of their stay.
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) 898-8400 or visit naturalhealingdayspa.com.
The Care Collective at Shear Shakti 693 West King Street Boone, NC 28607
The Care Collective at Shear Shakti provides massages and body work in Boone. The professionals at The Care Collective have a variety of skill sets and backgrounds that complement each other to provide a relaxing experience. Massages range from 30 minutes to 120 minutes, depending on the desired area of focus. For more information, call (828) 865-7425 or visit takecareboone.com.
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FILE PHOTO Appalachian State University students build a snowman on campus.
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WINTERFEST:
2016-17
Celebration salute to the season
I
f you live in the Southeast, the mountains of North Carolina are the closest place you can go to experience an honest-to-goodness winter. That’s one of the reasons that Blowing Rock’s WinterFest celebration has become one of the most popular events in the High Country. The 19th annual WinterFest celebration will be held from Thursday through Sunday, Jan. 26-29, and will include all sorts of indoor and outdoor events for winter lovers of all ages. Events at this year’s WinterFest include WinterFeast at Timberlake’s Restaurant at Chetola Resort; beer tasting at Foggy Rock; WinterFeast after party; WinterFashion Show; wine tastings at Sunset and Vine; Cork and Canvas at the Blowing Rock Art and History Museum; WinterFest ice sculpture stroll; WinterFest Family Night at Appalachian Ski Mountain; pancake breakfast at Sunny Rock; Sunday brunch at Foggy Rock Eatery and Pub; Polar Plunge at Chetola Lake; Arctic Art at BrrrAHM!; Little Miss WinterFest Pageant; silent auction and raffle; hayrides; WinterFest Snowflake Parade with special guests from Appalachian State; bonfires at Chetola Resort; WinterPaws Dog Show and more. The annual WinterFest celebration is presented by the Blowing Rock Chamber of Commerce and is a way to shake off the winter doldrums and cure some of that cabin fever. It has become a family tradition for hundreds of families to travel to Blowing Rock and make it their winter home for a nice long weekend. Many of the WinterFest events, such as the Polar Plunge and the WinterPaws Dog Show, are free. Others, such as WinterFeast, require tickets and sell out every year, so be sure to order your today. And don’t forget the motto of WinterFest: “Don’t hibernate, celebrate!” For more information, call the Blowing Rock Chamber of Commerce at (828) 295-7851, or visit www.blowingrockwinterfest. com.
PHOTOS BY JEFF EASON Divers take an icy dip during WinterFest’s annual Polar Plunge at Chetola Lake.
Ugga Mugga Bakery served up sweet treats at last year’s WinterFest.
Meris Gantt walks the runway at the WinterFashion Show.
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ONE-STOP and UNIQUE T
he general stores scattered throughout the area are a one-stop location for all family needs, whether it is seasonal home décor, outdoor gear or something to keep the family’s belly full while searching for neat treasures unique to the High Country.
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 at 7 p.m. For more information, call (336) 384-2382 or visit their Facebook page.
TODD MERCANTILE
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General stores bring back old-fashioned shopping
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 and T-shirts. Take a look at their events calendar as well, as they often host special dinners, dances and musical performances. The Todd Mercantile is located at 3899 Railroad Grade Road and is open Monday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Tuesday through Thursday 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., Saturday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sundays from 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. For more information, call (336) 877-5401, visit their Facebook page or visit www.toddmercantile.com.
COVE CREEK STORE
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-
The Cove Creek Store has assisted customers with their grocery and hardware needs since the late 1950s and has been a cornerstone of the SEE STORES, PAGE 49
PHOTO BY CHAMIAN CRUZ The original Mast General Store and Annex is in Valle Crucis, about eight miles away from downtown Boone. The Mast General Store and Annex opened in 1883 and has remained the community’s one-stop destination for all types of shopping.
See where to:
HighCountryNC.com
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EAT SHOP PLAY STAY in the High Country
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FILE PHOTO Fred’s General Mercantile is the general store with the highest elevation in America. It is located on Beech Mountain at an elevation of 5,049 feet.
STORES FROM PAGE 48 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 also offers a small deli. They are open daily from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. For more information, call (828) 297-2111 or visit their Facebook page.
FRED’S GENERAL MERCANTILE
Fred’s General Mercantile has the distinction of being the highest general store in America, topping 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, Beech Mountain. For more information, call (828) 387-4838 or visit www.fredsgeneral.com.
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 Web with their in-house Wi-Fi, all the while comfortably basking in the warmth of their woodstove. Take a moment to enjoy a cup of their gourmet coffee or a bite of their fine pastries. If food is an afterthought, check out their aisles of local crafts, collectibles
and antiques. Located at 6371 U.S. 221 South in Blowing Rock, the store is open Sunday through Thursday from 10 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. and Friday through Saturday 10 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. For more information, call (828) 295-6100 or visit www.grandfathercountrystore.com.
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 visitor’s bucket list. Opening its doors in 1883, the original Mast General Store in Valle Crucis, along with the Annex, is still located at 3565 Hwy. 194 South and still offers up a 5 cent cup of coffee, creaky wooden floorboards, cast iron cookware, clothing, footwear, hardware and much, much more. The Annex, located right next door, is one of the remaining fixtures for penny candy left in the High Country. Everything from old-time favorites to the most recent sugary concoctions, it’s sure to be every kid’s dream. Both the Valle Crucis store and Annex are open Monday through Saturday 10 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. and on Sunday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. The Boone Mast General Store is located at 630 West King St. and offers many of the same sights and sounds as the Valle Crucis original does. The Boone store is open Monday through Thursday 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Friday and Saturday 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Sunday 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. For more information, call (828) 963-6511, (828) 262-0000 or (866) 367-6878. You can also check them out online at www.mastgeneralstore. com or find them on Facebook.
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WINTER PARKWAY DRIVING CAN BE IMPACTED BY WEATHER, MAINTENANCE V
isitors to the Blue Ridge Parkway often ask when the parkway closes for the winter. Even as many park facilities close seasonally, the parkway motor road remains open. Temporary weather or maintenance related closures, though, often impact parkway travel during the winter months. In response to ever changing road conditions, National Park Service staff developed an online tool that allows visitors to monitor openings and closings along the historic, 469-mile route using an interactive, real time road map. The map allows visitors to zoom in on specific sections of the parkway, provides up to the minute road closure information and becomes an essential parkway planning tool for park visitors, especially in the winter. Winter weather can impact the parkway for extended periods given
a number of variables, including the route’s north facing slopes, tunnels, high elevations and limited sight distances. Limited snow and ice removal may take place, however, the parkway’s natural resource protection priorities limit the use of ice melting chemicals. Park rangers monitor conditions in affected areas and open the road as soon as safe travel can resume. In the coming weeks and months, visitors may also experience closures in certain areas for annual maintenance involving boom axe operations. Both lanes of the parkway will be closed to all activity (cars, bicycles and hikers) during these closures to ensure the safety of the staff and visitors. This work requires using a large tractor with a cutting head on a long arm, or boom. Precise locations and dates for these closures are available
on the parkway’s website. In addition, affected sections will be noted on the real time map and regular updates related to this work will also be available on the parkway’s
social media sites. Additional facility and winter activity information is available on the parkway’s website at www.nps.gov/ blri.
PHOTO BY ROB MOORE The Blue Ridge Parkway will shut down for long periods of time due to inclement weather. Locals enjoy a snowshoe walk on the Parkway when it is snow covered.
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Celebrate the holidays in the High Country Area residents and visitors alike are invited to attend the area’s many holiday celebrations. For a comprehensive list of local events, pick up a copy of The Mountain Times or the Watauga Democrat and look for the calendar section.
TREE FEST
Nov. 21 through the holiday season The Ashe Arts Center will be decked out in its finery again this year starting Nov. 21 and can be viewed Monday through Saturday throughout the holiday season. Decorated trees, handmade ornaments, holiday crafts, gifts and miniature paintings are on display. An opening reception takes place from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. The Ashe Arts Center is located at 303 School Ave. in West Jefferson. For more information, visit ashecountyarts.org.
HOMETOWN CHRISTMAS
Nov. 25 The annual Hometown Christmas will be held from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. Friday, Nov. 25, at the West Jefferson Backstreet Park. It’s the official lighting of the community Christmas tree with Santa, carolers and hot chocolate.
BLOWING ROCK LIGHTING OF THE PARK AND CHRISTMAS PARADE
Nov. 25-26 The town of Blowing Rock will hold its annual “Lighting of the Park” celebration on Friday, Nov. 25. The event includes a visit with Santa Claus in the gazebo (2 to 4 p.m.), hayrides (2 to 7 p.m.), a bounce house in the park (2 to 5:30 p.m.), live music (3 to 7 p.m.), free hot chocolate and cider (4 to 7 p.m.) and the ceremonial lighting of the town tree and park (5:30 p.m.). Blowing Rock’s Christmas parade will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 26. The parade will wind its way down Main Street from the Mellow Mushroom to the Edgewood Cottage. For more information, call (828) 2955222.
FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS
Nov. 25- Jan. 31 Chetola Resort’s Festival of Lights in Blowing Rock is a destination holiday event for visitors and local families. Visitors may take a free drive around Chetola Lake, finding brightly lit scenes such as ice skaters, a color-
ful train, Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer and nativity scenes. For more information, visit www. chetola.com/calendar.
MOUNTAIN HOME MUSIC’S CELTIC CHRISTMAS AND APPALACHIAN CHRISTMAS CONCERTS
Nov. 26 and Dec. 3 Each year, Joe Shannon’s Mountain Home Music welcomes the community and visitors to ring in the season with two holiday-themed concerts. The first, A Celtic Christmas, features singer-songwriter and guitarist John Doyle at 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 26, at St. Luke’s Episcopal Church (170 Councill St.) in Boone. Tickets are $20 for adults and $10 for students. Then, at 7:30 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 3, a free concert, An Appalachian Christmas, features multiple artists at Grace Lutheran Church (115 E. King St.) in Boone. The event benefits the Hospitality House and Santa’s Toy Box. Donations will be accepted. For more information and tickets, visit www.mountainhomemusic.com.
FESTIVAL OF TREES
Dec. 1-4 The Festival of Trees returns to Chetola Resort in early December. Admission is by donation, and attendees may bid to win uniquely decorated holiday trees, wreaths and gift baskets. Proceeds will benefit the Western Youth Network, a local nonprofit. The Festival of Trees takes place on Dec. 1 from 6:30 to 9 p.m.; Dec. 2 from 2 to 9 p.m.; Dec. 3 from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.; and Dec. 4 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. For more information, visit www. chetola.com/calendar.
BOONE TREE LIGHTING AND HOLIDAY PARADE
Dec. 2-3 Downtown Boone’s Christmas celebration begins with a tree lighting on the Jones House Community Center lawn at 6 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 2. The event coincides with the monthly First Friday event at downtown art galleries and businesses. The next day is the Downtown Boone Christmas Parade. The parade along King Street begins at 11 a.m. Dec. 3, with hot cider and other refreshments at the Jones House Community and Cultural Center to follow. For more information, visit www. downtownboonenc.com.
PHOTO BY JEFF EASON Every month, the Blowing Rock Chamber of Commerce hosts a business after hours gathering at a different location, like this special one held at historic Cone Manor Estate.
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FRESCOES What are frescoes and where to find them
Y
ou don’t need to travel 5,000 miles to Italy to view amazing works of art. Instead, you could visit two Episcopal churches in Ashe County, or a chapel in Avery County to see genuine fresco murals, compliments of famed artist Ben Long. “Fresco” is a technique of mural painting executed on wet lime plaster. Water is used as the vehicle for the pigment to merge with the plaster, and when it sets, the painting actually becomes part of the wall. The word fresco is actually derived from an Italian adjective meaning “fresh.” Due to how frescoes are crafted, they can last for hundreds of years. The Ashe County frescoes have become a popular tourist destination, not only for those on a religious pilgrimage, but also for those who just enjoy great works of art. One set of frescoes is located at Saint Mary’s Episcopal Church, at 400 Beaver Creek School Road in West Jefferson, while another is located at Holy Trinity Episcopal Church at 120 Glendale School Road in Glendale Springs. A third fresco, “Suffer the Little Children,” is located in the E.H. Sloop Chapel at The Crossnore School in Crossnore, with viewings from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. All three were painted by internationally known contemporary artist Benjamin Franklin Long IV. Born in Texas, Long grew up in Statesville, N.C., and studied at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. From there, he began advanced studies at The Art Students League of New York. In 1969, with men his age subject to being drafted into military service, he entered a two-year enlistment in the U.S. Marine Corps with the hope of becoming a combat artist. Initially that opportunity was not available. After serving as an enlisted man, he
went through Officer Candidate School, was commissioned, and on his second tour of duty in Vietnam served as commander of the Combat Art Team. Much of his art from this time period is on display at the Smithsonian Institute. When his military service ended, Long went to Italy and became an apprentice to internationally acclaimed artist Pietro Annigoni, learning fresco art techniques, while also devoting himself to the mastery of oil on canvas. In 1974, desiring to exhibit his skill and at the same time gain greater recognition for fresco art, Long arranged with the rector of Saint Mary’s parish at that time, the Rev. Faulton Hodge, to create the first in a series of frescoes in Ashe County. The first, “Mary Great with Child,” was followed by another called “John the Baptist.” Long then began working on a large mural covering the entire sanctuary wall at St. Mary’s Episcopal Church, showing the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. It became known as “The Mystery of Faith.” In 1977, Long, with several apprentices and assistants, created “The Last Supper” at Holy Trinity Episcopal Church in Glendale Springs. Thousands flock to these sites every year to view the frescoes. In 2013, Long was honored with a tribute at the Jefferson Landing clubhouse to recognize his artistic abilities and contributions to Ashe County. The tribute was sponsored by the Ashe County Frescoes Foundation. “Our objective is to show the artist that his work is widely appreciated,” said Barbara Sears, president of the ACFF in 2013. “For many thousands of admirers, his fresco creations are valued for their religious significance, their contribution to the world of fine art and, locally, as an attraction for visitors to our community.” Although Long has painted several frescoes throughout North Carolina, none mean as much to the locals as the two frescoes in Ashe County, and the one in Avery County.
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BRAHM bringing culture to the community T
he Blowing Rock Art and History Museum is a perfect place to see outstanding art, but it is much more than that — it is a community involved organization dedicated to reaching out to folks in the High Country young or old. Since its inception in 2011, BRAHM has emerged as a driving force for all matters of cultural offerings in the area. Book signings, concerts, community meetings, chamber events and school field trips are regular happenings at the museum, just to name a few. “The community of the High Country is the heart of BRAHM,” said Lee Carol Giduz, executive director. “Community is what created us and sustains us. The many people who participate, join and enjoy BRAHM make the museum
what it is.” Programs for children include the Doodlebug Club, the Afternoon Art Club and other regularly scheduled events throughout the year. Programs for adults at BRAHM include movie and film screenings, Thursday Arts and Culture Talks, Scholars and Scones series, Alexander Arts Lectures, Coffee with the Curator and the Blowing Rock Arts and Antiques Show. Of course, BRAHM couldn’t be a first-class museum without art exhibits, and it features some of the finest in the Southeast. With local artists, national artists, permanent collections and ever-changing exhibits, there is plenty to explore. “BRAHM offers a unique PHOTO SUBMITTED
SEE BRAHM, PAGE 54
One of BRAHM’s most recent exhibits was Elizabeth Bradford’s ‘Time + Terrain.’
THE LARGEST SELECTION OF CRAFT BEERS IN THE AREA! — Over 250 Beers! Local Beers on Tap! — Don’t Miss Our Famous
Winter Oyster Roasts Saturday November 26 A great spot to watch the Blowing Rock Christmas Parade
Saturday January 1 New Years Day
Saturday January 28 WinterFest Weekend
Saturday February 18 President’s Day Weekend
990 Main Street Blowing Rock, NC 28605 P (828) 414-9322 www.blowingrockmarket.com
Plus, Over 400 Wines!
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BRAHM FROM PAGE 53 resource to Western North Carolina by broadly telling the story of the Southern Appalachians through the region’s history, arts and crafts,” said Giduz. “It hosts exhibitions that highlight great American artists and makes them accessible through educational programs for all ages.” Just in time for the winter season, BRAHM invites the community to celebrate the grand opening of several exhibitions with a reception from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. on Thursday, Dec. 8. The museum will provide free admission, refreshments, hors d’oeuvres and live music throughout the evening. The event is free and open to the public. The museum will feature three exhibitions at the reception which will continue throughout the winter.
PHOTO SUBMITTED BRAHM brings culture to the High Country with art exhibits, concerts, educational programs and more.
‘Everyman Jack: Stories & Illustrations’ by Gail E. Haley Dec. 3 - March 25, 2017 “Everyman Jack: Stories and Illustrations by Gail E. Haley” takes a detailed look at more than 100 original prints and illustrations created by Gail E. Haley for several of her books, including “My Kingdom for a Dragon,” “Mountain Jack Tales,” “Birdsong,” “The Green Man” and “A Story, A Story.” During the course of her career, Haley has written and illustrated more than 40 books retelling many classic stories. She has been awarded both the Caldecott Medal and the Kate Greenaway Medal. Haley’s inspiration for the “Mountain Jack Tales” in particular came to fruition during her long term residency at Appalachian State University. Andy Warhol: Six Silkscreen Prints Nov. 19-April 8, 2017 (On loan from the Turchin Center for the Visual Arts, Appalachian State University.) American artist Andy Warhol (19281987) was the leading figure in the Pop Art movement during the 1960s. He launched his career with his wellknown Campbell’s Soup can paintings. He is recognized for the work he and his assistants developed in his Warhol Factory in New York City, where printmaking, painting, photography and film were employed to churn out thousands of works of art. Warhol redefined the artist’s role in the creation of artwork, the art market and the recycling of popular imagery as high art. The Andy Warhol Foundation for the Visual Arts, established in 1987, completed years of planned giving through the donation of his unsold work to educational institu-
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tions around the world. This exhibition features six original silkscreen prints from the Turchin Center’s permanent collection that are out of edition. This means that they were created during the original print run, but did not make the cut when Warhol decided what would be included in the final print release. A Town Within A Town: History of the Junaluska Community Aug. 6- March 11, 2017 (Made possible in part through the support of the Watauga County Community Foundation and the Junaluska Heritage Association.) The Appalachian Mountains are some of the oldest in the world. If you’ve traveled to the top of Howard Knob to see the beautiful view across the town of Boone, you’ve been on Junaluska Road, but you may not have known that you passed by one of the oldest African-American communities in Western North Carolina: Junaluska, the “town within a town.” Much of Boone’s African-American history was not thoroughly recorded until after 1900, making it difficult to trace earlier history. We do know, however, that African-Americans have lived in the North Carolina mountains since the 1700s. African-Americans in Boone have historically lived in the tight-knit area that is today known as Junaluska. Even after desegregation and amidst all the bustle and growth of the 21st century, Junaluska has remained a predominantly African-American community, although today you’ll find both blacks and whites living there. The rich stories and history of the community of Junaluska makes it one of Boone’s treasures.
GLASSWORK
The Alexander Community Gallery will also be open and will feature recent glassworks by local artist Beth Shuford. The exhibition, “Plays with Glass: Reimagining with the Help of the Sun,” will open to the public on Dec. 6.
HOURS
BRAHM is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday, from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. on Sunday and from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Thursday. Admission is free for BRAHM members, active military, children ages 4 and younger and EBT cardholders. Admission is $7 for adults, $6 for seniors, $4 for students and children and $5 per person for groups of 10 or more. For more information on the museum and to stay up-to-date on current exhibitions and happenings, visit http://blowingrockmuseum.org or call (828) 295-9099.
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Art galleries highlight the winter season
M
PHOTO SUBMITTED Master potter Eric Reichard was featured in Hands Gallery, proving the variety of media that can be involved in the arts.
any people enjoy getting outside in the cold and snowy weather that the High Country never ceases to offer, but others prefer avoiding the outdoors when winter settles in. Thankfully, the plethora of art galleries in the area offers a happy medium for those who don’t want to be stuck inside the house, but who also want to avoid the bitter cold that can come with the season. The art galleries of the High Country are destinations that will please every crowd, boasting countless opportunities in various art forms from pottery to painting to jewelry. You don’t have to be an artist or art collector to appreciate the area’s many museums and shops that showcase impressive talents, both local and global. While the seasons change, the galleries change as well, constantly developing with new exhibitions and material to showcase to the public. During the winter months in the High Country, it’s common for local artists to capture the natural beauty of our mountain landscapes and festive activities, as the art is always in the spirit of the season. Appalachian State University’s Turchin Center for the Visual Arts in Boone and the Blowing Rock Art and History Museum are among the largest showcases in the High Country, with collections both permanent and temporary. On a smaller and more intimate scale, the area is home to countless privately owned galleries that display the artwork of local talent. Many of these galleries give you the option to buy paintings, pottery, jewelry, gifts and more. During the winter months, expect galleries to host artist receptions, exhibition openings and more. So, for those of you who would rather look at a painting of a winter landscape over your fireplace than physically be outside in the snowy conditions, there are plenty of opportunities to explore the beauty of winter in the High Country, whether it’s through the eyes of local artists or artists from around the world.
GALLERY LISTINGS BANNER ELK The Art Cellar Gallery 920 Shawneehaw Ave. (828) 898-5175 www.artcellaronline.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 Sally Nooney Gallery 7143 N.C. 194 South (828) 963-7347 www.sallynooney.com Studio 140 140 Azalea Circle (828) 352-8853 www.facebook.com/studio140
BLOWING ROCK Blowing Rock Gallery of Home & Land 159 Sunset Drive (828) 414-9400 www.brghomesandland.com Blowing Rock Frameworks & Gallery 7935 Valley Blvd. (828) 295-0041 www.blowingrockgalleries.com Bolick Pottery & Traditions Pottery The Martin House, 1116 Main St. (828) 295-6128 www.traditionspottery.com SEE ART GALLERIES, PAGE 57
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Art Galleries FROM PAGE 56 Morning Star Gallery 1151 Main St. (828) 295-6991 www.morningstargalleryusa.com
BOONE Blue Ridge Artspace 377 Shadowline Drive (828) 264-1789 www.watauga-arts.org Doe Ridge Pottery 585-D W. King St. (828) 264-1127 www.doeridgepottery.homestead.com Hands Gallery 543 W. King St. (828) 262-1970 www.handsgallery.org Jones House Community Center 604 W. King St. (828) 262-4576 www.kevinbeck.com Kevin Beck Studio 1590 Shull’s Mill Road (828) 963-1181 www.kevinbeck.com Nth Degree Gallery 683 W. King St. (828) 719-9493 www.nthdegreegallery.com Turchin Center for the Visual Arts 423 W. King St. (828) 262-3017 www.tcva.org
CROSSNORE, LINVILLE AND NEWLAND
www.crossnoregallery.org Linville River Pottery 2180 Goose Hollow Road, Pineola (828) 387-1944 www.linvilleriverpottery.com Pam Brewer Studio 41 Redbird Lane, Newland (828) 733-5755 www.pambrewer.com
VALLE CRUCIS Alta Vista Gallery 2839 Broadstone Road (828) 963-5247 www.altavistagallery.com Rivercross Market 3595 N.C. 194, Sugar Grove (828) 963-8623 www.rivercrossmarket.com
WEST JEFFERSON Acorn Gallery 103 Long St. (336) 246-3388 www.acorngallery.com Ashe Arts Center Gallery 303 School Ave. (336) 846-2787 www.ashecountyarts.com Ashe Custom Framing & Gallery 105 S. Jefferson Ave. (336) 846-1498 http://www.ashecustomframing.com Bohemia 5 N. Jefferson Ave. (336) 846-1498 www.bohemianc.com
87 Ruffin Street Gallery 87 Ruffin St., Linville (828) 737-0420
Broomfields Gallery 414 E. and 2nd St. (336) 846-4141 www.broomfieldsgallery.com
Anvil Arts Studio 9600 Linville Highway, Newland (828) 765-6226 www.studiosculpture.com
Originals Only 3 S. Jefferson Ave. (336) 846-1636 www.originalsonlygallery.com
Crossnore Fine Arts Gallery The Crossnore School, 205 Johnson Lane (828) 733-3144
R.T. Morgan Art Gallery & Glass by Camille 120 N. Jefferson Ave.
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From local acts to national superstars Appalachian State brings unforgettable talent to its stages With local roots in bluegrass music and a wide variety of cultural backgrounds flowing out of Appalachian State University, the High Country is identified as an eclectic destination when it comes to performing arts. While the High Country is home to several intimate venues, ASU offers opportunities to enjoy stage performances by the best touring musicians, actors, dancers and other performers through its multiple stages on campus. From local acts to some of the biggest names in the performance business, ASU offers something that everyone can enjoy. The Schaefer Center for Performing Arts continues to bring well-known acts from around the world to the small town of Boone. The 1,673-seat auditorium featuring orchestra and balcony level seating hosts the most high-profile acts that visit the High Country, including the school’s performing arts series, “The Schaefer Center Presents,” which has featured acts including the Beach Boys, Kansas and others. In addition to “The Schaefer Center Presents,” the university hosts its APPlause! series, featuring school-based artists, as well as local, regional and world-renowned artists, plus many performances utilizing the school’s wealth of student and faculty talent. Students and faculty are also regular performers at the Broyhill Music Center, a part of the Hayes School of Music. On a slightly smaller scale is the intimate venue, Legends. When walking into Legends, one may find old posters promoting acts such as the Dave Matthews Band, John Mayer and Jimmy Fallon scattered upon the walls, as a reminder of what superstar acts have come to the small venue on campus. Today, the venue is host to artists big and small, while still spotlighting local and student bands. Used for theater and dance productions and more, the Valborg Theatre makes for an intimate performance venue. According to the website, the farthest seat from the edge of the stage is only 40 feet away. From student productions to professional performances, the venue brings in classic works from Shakespearean theatre to young adult plays. Through its many stages and cultural op-
old-time country and swing music. Their superb harmonies are backed by instrumental virtuosity on the acoustic and electric guitar, five-string banjo, mandolin, cello banjo, ukulele, percussion and many other instruments. For more information on the Schaefer Center and to purchase tickets, visit http:// theschaefercenter.org or call (800) 841-2787.
VALBORG THEATRE
PHOTO COURTESY OF PTM PHOTOGRAPHY Lake Street Dive performs at the Schaefer Center for the Performing Arts on Feb. 25. The eclectic quartet’s retro sound combines a refreshing blend of pop, classic R&B, jazz and soul with an infectious, easy going groove.
portunities, ASU is consistently presenting one show after another. Following is what to look forward to on stage this winter:
SCHAEFER CENTER Wednesday, March 22: The Banff Mountain Film Festival World Tour: Student Edition, starts at 10 a.m. The films selected for the student screening of the Banff Mountain Film Festival World Tour highlight a variety of themes, from adrenalin pumping adventure to thought provoking environmental concerns – capturing the essence of mountain life and
culture throughout the globe. Tuesday, April 4: The Nile Project performs at 10 a.m. Founded in 2011 by Egyptian ethnomusicologist Mina Girgis and Ethiopian-American singer Meklit Hadero, the Nile Project is one of the tightest cross-cultural musical collaborations in history. Wednesday, April 26: Cathy Fink and Marcy Marxer perform at 10 a.m. Two-time Grammy Award winners, Cathy Fink & Marcy Marxer, are a formidable powerhouse of sound, with a repertoire of traditional and contemporary folk,
Wednesday-Saturday, March 29-April 1: The Spring Appalachian Dance Ensemble will feature original pieces of modern dance, contemporary ballet, hip-hop, dance/theater and tap within the program of eight dances. Faculty members will contribute dances for the concert, while dance students will be selected to create original choreography. All performances take place at 7 p.m. Friday-Sunday, April 21-23: The Appalachian Young People’s Theatre presents the “Mischief Makers” at 7 p.m. April 21-22 and at 2 p.m. April 23. This delightful play combines traditional tales from African, European and Native American cultures, and introduces young audiences to Anansi the Spider from Africa, Reynard the Fox from Europe and the Native American trickster, Raven. Wednesday-Sunday, April 26-30: The ASU Department of Theatre and Dance presents “Flight from the Mahabharath” at 7 p.m. April 26-29 and at 2 p.m. April 30. The play looks at the Mahabharata from a woman’s point of view and the epic becomes a metaphor for the patriarchal society in which women function mainly as adjuncts. For more information on the Valborg Theatre and to purchase tickets, visit http://theatreanddance.appstate.edu or call (828) 262-3028. The Hayes School of Music offers weekly recitals, concerts and more for faculty, students and the public to attend. For more information, visit https://music.appstate. edu. Legends in Boone offers concerts and events throughout each semester. To learn more about Legends and to stay up-to-date on shows, visit https://legends.appstate. edu.
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THEATER IN THE HIGH COUNTRY: Sit back and enjoy a live performance Open 7 days a Week Year Round!
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During the winter months, there are many chances to see live performance and theater in the High Country. The BeanStalk Community Theatre is located in Boone and is dedicated to bringing in aspiring actors from Watauga County and surrounding areas. The theater offers workshops and it also puts on productions during the year. At the heart of the BeanStalk Community Theatre is former theater arts teacher Amy Beane and small business owner Andrea McDonough, who created the troupe in 2012. The volunteer-driven nonprofit is located at 450 New Market Blvd., located off of U.S. 421 just east of downtown. Some of the previous shows produced by the BeanStalk Community Theatre during the last four years have included Disney’s “The Little Mermaid,” “Shrek the Musical,” “Night at the Wax Museum,” “The Last Dance of Doctor Disco” and more. This winter, the group will perform “Cinderella and the Candy Kingdom” on Dec. 1- 3 at 7 p.m. The show will take place at the Harvest House Performing Arts Center in Boone. For those wanting to audition for a future shows, your time is coming soon. In January, the community theater group will be auditioning actors for the adult musical “Back to the ‘80s,” and auditions will be held in May for the summer production of Disney’s “High School Musical.” More information and updates can be found at beanstalknc.com and (828) 312-0263. Appalachian State University has a robust theater and dance department that is accredited by the National Association of Schools of Theatre and the National Association of Schools of Dance. The theater side of the program features majors such as B.A. theatre generalist, B.A. design/tech, B.A. performance, B.A. theatre education, theatre honors, elementary ed., second area concentration and theatre minor. As a part of the theme of community outreach, the ASU Theatre and
Dance Department will take part in the national Day of Theatre Workshops to be held on Feb. 25. The workshops are for high school students and teachers and the focus is on providing “workshop sessions for a variety of interests and ability levels that are taught by professionals with graduate level training in theatre.” And, you do not have to be a “theater person” to come to the workshops. More information can be found at theatreanddance.appstate.edu or (828) 262-8179. Finally, every winter, you can count on special shows created by the Ensemble Stage. The nonprofit company located in Blowing Rock bills itself as “Professional Theater at Affordable Prices.” The troupe also uses local auditions to find local talent and every summer it hosts workshop camps. The registration for the camps begins on April 15. Ensemble Stage has produced more than 70 productions and 250 shows during the last seven years. The company usually puts on a show around Halloween and always at Christmastime. This year, the Ensemble Stage will present the “Holiday Musical Variety Show” on Dec. 17 and 18. “We’ve been around since 2009,” said Gary Smith, artistic director for Ensemble Stage. “We’re a professional theater, but in the fall and winter months we bring the community into the theater for a number of reasons. It gives people who enjoy doing theater an opportunity to perform, those who have so-called regular jobs who don’t normally have the time to devote to our professional season. Usually, it is six days a week and six to eight hours a day of rehearsal and people that have real jobs can’t do those kinds of things. I want people to get a microcosmic feel of what it takes to put on a show. It is all about educating people and understanding that there is a lot more behind it then the old Judy Garland and Mickey Rooney thing of, ‘Hey, let’s put on a show out at the barn!’” More information can be found at ensemblestage.com or (828) 919-6196.
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HIGH COUNTRY ON TAP with CRAFT BREWERIES BY DEREK HALSEY
I
n less than five years, the craft brewery industry has taken off in Ashe, Watauga and Avery counties. In fact, throughout the state of North Carolina, more than 10,000 jobs can now be credited to the burgeoning craft brew industry. Here in the High Country, craft breweries have become a great source of locally brewed, fresh beer of superb quality and these establishments are also supplying places where local, regional and national musicians can play for the public.
Boondocks Brewing Company In Ashe County there is the Boondocks Brewing Company, found at two locations in West Jefferson. Founded by head brewer Gary Brown, Boondocks Brewing Company is a locally owned business that is employee owned and growing every year. Like a lot of future craft brewery owners, Brown began to make his own beer while with the 101st Airborne Division in Fort Campbell, Ky. That soon became a passion and eventually Brown moved forward with the idea of starting his own company in Rocky Mount, N.C. Brown and his family often vacationed in Ashe County and he found the mountain water there to be of high quality. In 2012, Brown retired from his day job and set out to create Boondocks Brewing Company. As West Jefferson began to make the changes that would make it the happening small town that it is today, he saw an opportunity to locate his business there and catch the wave. Now, Boondocks Brewing Company makes beers that include the Crumpler Crippler Citra 2XIPA, JMB Stout, Honey Orange Kolsch, Third Knob Truth Serum Belgian Triple, the campground Scottish Ale and more. More information on the Boondocks Brewing Company can be found at boondocksbeer.com or (336) 246-5222.
Flat Top Brewing Company The Flat Top Brewing Company is located in ski country at 567 E. Main St. in the resort hamlet of Banner Elk. Like other craft breweries, the folks at Flat Top are always in the search for a good new beer. Recently, they debut their Apple Butter Porter for the fall of the year and also resurrected their Homecoming East Coast IPA. Flat Top is a small batch brewery that also relies on the fresh and high quality Appalachian Mountain water. Some of the other brews they make include the Slope Side Session IPA, the Sunrise Scientist Imperial Coffee Chocolate Stout, the Hanging Rock Hefeweissen, the Better Call Saul Shandy Tart and many more. More information on the Flat Top Brewing Company can be found at flattopbrewing.com or (828) 898-8766.
PHOTO SUBMITTED AMB has created a fun place to drink beer and also committed to the use of sustainable business practices and the support of local nonprofit organizations.
Beech Mountain Brewing Company Beech Mountain Brewing Company is located literally at the bottom of the Beech Mountain Resort ski slopes. In fact, it is the only brewery owned and operated by a ski resort in the state. Run by head brewer Billy Smith, the brewery is closed in the fall, but will open up soon when the ski season arrives. The venue provides the classic attraction of ending your ski runs at a small batch brewery right at the bottom of the slopes where fun, food and live music take place. Some of the beers made by the Beech Mountain Brewing Company include Beech Blonde, the 5506’ Pale Ale, named after the elevation of the mountain, Wee Heavy Bevy Scotch Ale, the Patroller Porter and the Powderbowl IPA. More information on the Beech Mountain Brewing Company can be found at www.beechmountainresort. com or (800) 438-2093. SEE BREWERIES, PAGE 62
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BREWERIES FROM PAGE 61
Blind Squirrel Brewery
PHOTO SUBMITTED Boonshine breweries is one of the newest in town founded by Carson Coatney and Tim Herdklotz.
The Blind Squirrel Brewery is located in Plumtree, on the western side of Avery County. Founded in 2012, the head brewmasters is a collective known as “Earl the Squirrel.” They are a friendly bunch whose creed is the following: “We feel that great beer directly correlates to the quality of ingredients as well as the time and energy put into the care of its creation. We are always excited to meet other brewers and simply ‘talk beer.’ If you’re ever in the area, feel free to stop by the brewhouse and watch us brew up a batch of our favorite beer. Who knows, we may just make a brewer out of you.” Some of the beers on tap and available in bottles include the Mocha Java Porter, Belgian Quad, Belgian Tripel, Squirrelly Eye PA, Nut Brown Ale, the Backwoods Blonde and more. The Blind Squirrel Brewery complex also offers lodging, a restaurant and activities, including disc golf, tubing and zip lines. More information can be found at blindsquirrelbrewery.com or (828) 765-9696.
Booneshine Brewing Company Booneshine Brewing Company is one of the newer breweries to open up in Boone. Founded by beer lovers Carson Coatney and Tim Herdklotz, the two home brewers met while fishing with mutual friends in the Outer Banks barrier islands of North Carolina. Coatney is also the owner of the Stick Boy Bread Company, while Herdklotz came out of the financial business to brew some fine beer. Located at the Winkler’s Creek Shopping Center, the brewery offers libations that include Tropicpale Ale, Booneshine IPA, Golden Hour, Elk Knob Amber, Molasses Porter, the Professor Stout and more. More information on the Booneshine Brewing Company can be found at booneshine.beer and (828) 386-4066.
Blowing Rock Brewing Company The Blowing Rock Brewing Company is located at 152 Sunset Drive in beautiful Blowing Rock.
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Opening in 2013, the brewery’s founders, Jeff Walker and Todd Rice, set out to take advantage of the fresh mountain water and ingredients found in the area. Their master brewer is Ray Hodge and their lead brewer is Nikki Bitsche. You can find their beers at the brewery and at their Blowing Rock Ale House Restaurant located next door. The company’s creed is as follows: “The Blowing Rock Brewing Company is committed to providing you with handcrafted, mountain artisan beer. All of our beers are brewed using fresh, local ingredients. ‘Go To The Mountains’ can be found on our cans for a reason, and it is not just because we want you to visit.” Some of the beers offered include the award-winning Midnight Raspberry Wheat, Grandfather Breakfast Stout, Blowing Rock IPA, Blowing Rock Stout, Blowing Rock Mountain Spring Ale and many more. More information on Blowing Rock Brewing Company can be found at blowingrockbrewing.com and (828) 414-9600.
Appalachian Mountain Brewery Appalachian Mountain Brewery was the first craft brewery to open in Boone. Not long ago, Appalachian State University began its new ASU Fermentation Sciences program and an alumnus of that department is Nathan Kelischek, now the head brewer at Appalachian Mountain Brewery. Known fondly by locals and visitors alike as “AMB,” the company has created a fun place to drink beer at its establishment at 163 Boone Creek Drive. Featuring live music on most nights and a high-end food truck for your eating needs, AMB is a popular spot for beer and cider lovers of all ages and stripes. AMB is also committed to the use of sustainable business practices and the support of local non-profit organizations. The company uses solar panels when possible, has helped to restore Boone and Hodges creeks and have constructed bike stations in town. AMB’s beer is also bottled and sold regionally. Recently, they have branched out to make hard ciders as well. The brewery is perhaps best known for its Black Gold Porter. Other craft brews include the Boone Creek Blonde Ale, Long Leaf Indian Pale Ale, Daniel’s Double IPA, the High Country Cider and a large array of other varieties. SEE BREWERIES, PAGE 64
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A TOAST TO THE WINERIES OF THE HIGH COUNTRY
BY DEREK HALSEY
D
uring the last decade, wineries have sprung up in the North Carolina mountains. While the winemaking business in the Tar Heel State has a ways to go to catch up with other states and regions, the local vineyards are making ground all of the time and producing better and better awardwinning wines every year. A few years ago, Appalachian State University created the new Enology and Viticulture program that includes a fermentation science degree, as well as research and lab work geared for the North Carolina winemaking industry. The aim of the ASU Enology and Viticulture program is as follows: “The wine industry in North Carolina is a
significant tourism-based economic driver, centered on profitable agricultural value-added products. Small businesses account for the majority of growth in the wine and brewing industries in the Southeast. The initiatives of the Enology and Viticulture program support rural development and agritourism by directly contributing to the sustainability of the wine industry in North Carolina. Appalachian State University supports this grant-funded program by providing lab space and investing in an innovative four-year fermentation science degree program to collaborate with the ongoing outreach projects. The long-term goal of this outreach program is to support SEE WINERIES, PAGE 65
PHOTO SUBMITTED Linville Falls Winery is located close to the Blue Ridge Parkway.
BREWERIES FROM PAGE 62
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Lost Province Brewing Company Lost Province Brewing Company was named after moniker given to Ashe, Watauga and Alleghany counties in the early 1900s. Due to the mountainous region and the difficulty of travel from the east, the mountains were often thought of as isolated from the rest of the Tar Heel State. Lost Province Brewing Company features a brewery, wood-fired restaurant and live music venue all in one location at 130 N. Depot St. in Boone. Owned and operated by Andy and Lynne Mason, the brewery offers up a continuing array of beers due to the fact that the perfection and invention of new
brews is what fascinates the staff and brew team. Some of the brews now on tap include a wonderfully fresh Abbey-style Apple beer, Sunset Saison, Deep Valley German Dunkel Lager, Alpine Meadows Farmhouse Saison, Chill Pilz Pilsner and many more with the variety and lineup changing often. Lost Province Brewing Company is also committed to sustainable business practices, as well as providing a venue for local musicians. More information on the Lost Province Brewing Company can be found at lostprovince.com and (828) 265-3506. As you can see, a tour of the High Country’s local craft breweries can make for a wonderful vacation, especially considering the natural beauty of the mountains and gorges and rivers that surround this area.
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WINERIES FROM PAGE 64 grape, wine and other craft beverage producers across the Southeast in creating high quality, marketable products and sustainable agricultural businesses.� In the High Country, neighborhood wineries take advantage of the beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains to provide green spaces where tourists and locals can enjoy a cool glass of wine. Most wineries grow their own grapes, while also shipping in other grape varieties that are grown in other areas. They then use their winemaking talents to create wonderful new libations. As with beer breweries, winemaking talent is essential to producing great wines, as it is a science going back for thousands of years.
Banner Elk Winery and Villa
PHOTO SUBMITTED This is a view of the Grandfather Vineyard and Winery.
Banner Elk Winery and Villa was the first commercial winery built in Avery County back in 2005. Like most High Country wineries, it combines its own grapes with other varieties brought in from high-quality growers. Located at 60 Deer Run Lane on
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the mountainous outskirts of the resort town of Banner Elk, the winery stays open all winter for tastings and purchases. The attached villa with its various luxury suites and event rooms are available to rent, including for weddings. Some of the premium wines made by the Banner Elk Winery and Villa include its Cabernet Sauvignon, the Marechel Estate Foch, Seyval Blanc, Banner Elk Red and Banner Elk White, High Country Rose and more. Banner Elk Winery wines have won multiple medals at the North Carolina State Fair and International Eastern Wine Competition in Sonoma County, Calif. More information can be found at www.bannerelkwinery.com and (828) 898-9090.
Grandfather Vineyard and Winery Grandfather Vineyard and Winery is also situated in a beautiful place amidst the Blue Ridge Mountains at 225 Vineyards Lane located between Banner Elk and Boone. The winery has the Watauga River running through the middle of the SEE WINERIES, PAGE 67
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FILE PHOTO Winter scenes like this pop up in Watauga County when the snow falls.
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Linville Falls Winery
FROM PAGE 65 grounds, which provides for a wonderful space for folks to enjoy wine as the water flows by, just a couple of miles from the Eastern Continental Divide. At all times, the magnificent view of Grandfather Mountain is seen from the winery grounds. Grandfather Mountain, after which the winery is named, is one of the most famous and distinctivelooking mountains in the eastern half of the United States, rising up to just 45 feet shy of 6,000 feet. If you view Grandfather Mountains from the northeastern side, you can see the outline of an old man’s face as he lies on his back and looks up to the stars. It is this famous profile of Grandfather Mountain that you see every day from the winery grounds. Owners Steve and Sally Tatum created the winery, which claims to be the first wine-producing winery in Watauga County. The couple met while working at one of the local ski resorts almost 40 years ago. They created Grandfather Vineyard and Winery and made it a family business. Their son, Dylan Tatum, is the chief winemaker, having earned degrees in enology and viticulture from Surry Community College. Some of the wines that are offered for tasting and sale include Pinot Noir Rose, Tanawha Tempranillo, Winemakers Blend, Verdelho, Tanawha Big Boulder Red, Terraced Gold, Pinot Gris and many more vintages. More information can be found at grandfathervineyards.com and (828) 963-2400.
At the heart of Linville Falls Winery is local entrepreneur Jack Wiseman. Since he was a young man in the 1950s, Wiseman always had an interest and a talent for making wine and brandy. After traveling the world and country, and spending time in Napa Valley of California in the 1960s befriending people who made high-quality wines, Wiseman came home again to Avery County. His first successful venture was in the Christmas tree business, where he was the first to plant thousands of Fraser fir trees here in this section of the Blue Ridge Mountains. That business continues today, but winemaking was still in his blood and he created Linville Falls Winery about four years ago. Linville Falls Winery is located in a gorgeous valley a short drive from the Blue Ridge Parkway. The winery is also a couple of miles from the beautiful Linville Falls and the rest of the magnificent Linville Gorge, which is the steepest gorge east of the Mississippi River. The winery itself is located on 9557 Linville Falls Highway (U.S. 221). Wiseman had a vision of growing grapes that would thrive in this area. Unlike the desert environment that is the Napa Valley of California, these mountainsides are best suited for fruits such as the Riesling grape. Linville Falls Winery has three fields of Riesling grapes growing at just about 3,200 feet. According to Wiseman, growing the grapes just a 100 feet higher or lower on the mountains would change the flavor and characteristic of his grapes. This is something he has learned from what he calls the six-year process of planting the grapes, letting
them grow to a certain age, making wine with the grapes and aging the wine. His latest creation is a wine called Elevation, made from his grapes specifically grown at 3,200 feet on the misty, cool High Country mountains. Other wines made by Linville Falls Winery include a unique blend called Trillium, Mountain White, Rose, Cabernet Sauvignon, a dry Riesling and a standard Riesling, a special holiday-time wine called Cherry Bounce, which is a bend of sour cherries, cinnamon and apple brandy concocted by George Washington’s wife, Martha, more than 200 years ago, and the wineries signature Blueberry wine. More information can be found at www.linvillefallswinery.com and (828) 765-1400.
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LINVILLE CAVERNS: L
inville Caverns offers visitors to the High Country one of the few experiences that can literally be called unique — unique to caverns at least. If it’s too hot or too cold outside, visitors can find shelter in the cavern system, which maintains a year-round temperature of approximately 50 degrees. First opened to the public in 1937, Linville Caverns is an active limestone cavern system that is home to an array of extraordinary natural rock formations made easily available to the amateur spelunker. “Linville Caverns offers a total walking tour,” said Lanie Gross, a manager and 14-year employee of the caverns. “You won’t have to crawl or get dirty; you don’t have to be afraid of the dark.” The caverns have been retrofitted with a system of concrete paths and ample electric lighting that make a trip under the mountain as simple as walking in and sticking close to the tour
guide. Discovered in the early 1800s by local fishermen following trout into what appeared to be a solid rock wall, Linville Caverns has played host to an eclectic group of denizens in its long history. During the American Civil War, deserters from both sides of the conflict are said to have used the cavern system as a welcome, however dark, respite from their inevitable capture. In 1915, two teenage boys carrying only one lantern and undoubtedly on a mission imbued with all the recklessness that comes with their age, were lost in the cavern system for two days in the complete darkness. Their eventual escape was only made possible by their decision to wade into the frigid, chest-deep water and follow its current to the mouth of the caverns. Linville Caverns is home to a variety of wildlife that, until recently, included a population of blind trout that unfortunately came off worse in a life-anddeath struggle with a river otter which
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See the inside of a mountain
broke into their quiet, otherwise safe neighborhood, for a late night meal. The cavern staff has since restocked the — now sighted — fish and they can be seen flitting rock to rock in the creek that runs adjacent to the cavern path. Joining the trout in their subterranean habitat are a smattering of cavern insects, including granddaddy longlegs and cave crickets that seem to work in tandem. They cover some of the cavern walls like a crawling, many legged tapestry. Conspicuously missing from the typical roster of cave life are bats. Linville Caverns, along with many other cave and cavern systems in Eastern North America, has been affected by the spread of white-nose syndrome, a disease that affects hibernating bats. According to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, white-nose syndrome has killed 5.5 million bats in the U.S. and Canada and in some cases has a 90 percent to 100 percent mortality rate. There does appear to be some progress being made in treatment of bats with WNS. Scientists are now using a special bacteria to prevent and even reverse the effects of the disease. Geomyces destructans, the fungus that causes white-nose syndrome in
bats, has no effect on humans, according to scientists. Linville Caverns provides an unequalled service to those visiting the High Country. Natural wonder aside, the courtesy and professionalism of the cavern’s staff is special. “You have a unique opportunity (at Linville Caverns) to see what water can create,” Gross said. “The experience is made even more valuable with one of our guides because of their experience and enthusiasm.” The tour guides are equal parts well informed and entertaining and are more than ready to answer questions or to take photos for a visiting group. “There is just so much that I like about the caverns,” Gross said. “Every time I go in, I am amazed and I feel like I see something new.” For more information on Linville Caverns, visit its website at www. linvillecaverns.com/ or call toll free at (800) 419-0540. Linville Caverns is open to guests daily from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. in November and from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays only in December, January and February, before returning to a daily schedule in March. It is located at 19929 U.S. 221 North in Marion.
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PHOTO SUBMITTED Linville Caverns are home to an amazing array of rock formations.
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WOOLLY WORM WINTER PREDICTION: A mild one
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PHOTO SUBMITTED Brothers Reyn and Hickson Beekman, sons of Andy and Kay Beekman of Boone, won $1,000 during the main event at the Woolly Worm Festival on Oct. 15. The brothers’ worm, dubbed ‘Hans Solo,’ smoked the competition to be named the weekend’s champion worm and to forecast this winter’s weather.
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When the smoke cleared and the din of war subsided, only two worms were measured and found to be worthy of
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2016
o you know that caterpillars can help predict winter weather? And most of the time, they hit the mark. While there are many festivals which take place across the United States each year, there are none quite like the Banner Elk Woolly Worm Festival. Beginning as a small gathering of 50 people in the gymnasium of LeesMcRae College in 1977, the fall festival has grown into a major event for Avery County, drawing crowds upward of 20,000 people to the small mountain town of Banner Elk. For the past 39 years, visitors have flocked to the High Country under the unique premise of watching small brown and black creatures race up strings in a semi-mystical attempt to predict the weather for the coming winter season. With more than 120 craft, souvenir and art vendors, 17 food vendors, 17 nonprofit organizations, a performance stage for musicians and a host of fun rides and activities for children, the festival had something for everyone of every taste to see, buy, taste and do. Ever-present and imposing at the heart of the action, the big, yellow 25-stringed race board was a constant flurry of activity throughout the weekend. During the course of the event, hundreds upon hundreds of the tiny creatures jockeyed up the strings during the festival, each battling for the eternal glory that comes with being named the champion worm. Officiated by the likes of Judd Gowin, Tommy Burleson, Jason Dewitt, Adam Binder and Roy Krege, each race was non-stop action, driven even higher by the enthusiasm of the announcers and the cheering of the crowd.
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PHOTO SUBMITTED This year’s champion worm, Hans Solo, was used to predict the 2016-17 winter forecast. With more brown than black on his body, Solo predicts a mild winter in store for the High Country.
the title “champion.” After three rounds of elimination, with dozens of heats in between, the two worms which proved themselves faster than all others were natives of the High Country. Standing as the grand champion of the final race, “Hans Solo” moved at light speed up the string, to defeat his opponents, earning his trainers, toddlers Reyn and Hickson Beekman of Boone, a cool $1,000 in cash, which was graciously accepted by their parents, Andy and Kathy Beekman, who were accompanied by the boys’ grandmother, Kathy Ligon. A separate competition proved to be just as interesting, with another local family taking home $500 after their worm, “Pumpkin,” won the day. This worm, like “Hans Solo” before him, was also trained by a pair of youngsters. Eden and Grady Gates, along with their mother, Holly Gates, of Valle Crucis, who took home the grand prize, thanks to their black and brown little buddy.
The forecast
As the winning worm, “Hans Solo,” had the honor of being used to predict the winter forecast for the High Country. After the woolly worm physician had inspected Solo for illegal performance enhancing drugs and issued a clean bill of health, Burleson played the role of woolly worm auger, divining a surprisingly mild forecast for the 2016-17 season. According to the worm, the first week of winter, beginning on Dec. 21, will hold normal temperatures with light snow, followed by three weeks of below-normal temperatures with accumulations of snow. Weeks five through 11 will hold above-normal temperatures with little or no snow, while the winter will be rounded out by average temperatures and light snow during the last two weeks of winter. Thus spoke the woolly worm.
WINTER TIMES
2016-17
WINTER TIMES CALENDAR NOV. 24
STATE PARK: Grandfather Mountain State Park will host a twomile round-trip hike from 3:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. on Nov. 24. Meet at the Boone Fork parking area, just north of the 300 milepost on the Blue Ridge Parkway. Appropriate for all ages; younger than 16 must be accompanied by an adult. No pets. Information: grandfather.mountain@ncparks.gov or (828) 963-9522. TURKEY TROT: The High Country Turkey Trot will be held on Thanksgiving Day at 9 a.m. at the Clawson-Burnley Park on the Boone Greenway Trail. It will be a 5K and fun run and walk. Information: Todd Carter at todd@hosphouse.org; or HCTurkeyTrot.org.
NOV. 25 HOLIDAY WEEKEND: Chetola Resort in Blowing Rock will host a number of special events during Thanksgiving weekend. On both Friday, Nov. 25, and Saturday, Nov. 26, events will include horse and carriage rides around Chetola Lake (5:30 to 9:30 p.m.), visits with Santa Claus (5:30 to 9:30 p.m.) and cookie decorating (5:30 to 7:30 p.m.). The weekend also marks the beginning of Chetola’s Festival of Lights. For more information, call (828) 295-5505 or visit www.chetola. com. HOMETOWN CHRISTMAS: The annual Hometown Christmas will be held from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. Nov. 25 at the West Jefferson Backstreet Park. It’s the official lighting of the community Christmas tree with Santa, carolers and hot chocolate. LIGHTING: The town of Blowing Rock will hold its annual “Lighting of the Park” celebration on Nov. 25. The event includes a visit with Santa Claus in the gazebo (2 to 4 p.m.), hayrides (2 to 7 p.m.), bounce house in the park (2 to 5:30 p.m.), live music (3 to 7 p.m.), free hot chocolate and cider (4 to 7 p.m.) and the ceremonial lighting
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There’s No Greater than Peace of Mind!
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of the town tree and park (5:30 p.m.). Information: (828) 295-5222.
NOV. 26 HOLIDAY MARKET: Buckeye Recreation Center at Beech Mountain will host its 10th annual holiday market from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Nov. 26, featuring crafts, artisans and unique gifts. Information: (828) 387-3003 or email recassistant@townofbeechmountain. com. KILN OPENING: Bolick and Traditions Pottery will host their annual Thanksgiving kiln opening beginning at 10 a.m. Nov. 26 in the Blackberry community, just south of Blowing Rock. The wood-fired kiln will be emptied and all of its wares will be sold on a first-come, first-served basis. The event is free and will include craft demonstrations, food and drinks and live music. Information: (828) 295-6128. PARADE: Blowing Rock’s Christmas parade will be held at 2 p.m. Nov. 26. The parade will wind its way down Main Street from the Mellow Mushroom to the Edgewood Cottage. Blowing Rock Parks and Recreation is now accepting entries for the parade. Information: (828) 295-5222. TREE FESTIVAL: A Festival of Trees will be held Nov. 26 at the Rock Gym in Newland.
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TREE FESTIVAL: The second annual Western Youth Network Festival of Trees will be held Dec. 1-4 at Chetola Resort in Blowing Rock. Organizers are looking for individuals, organizations and businesses to donate Christmas trees, wreaths and gift baskets decorated with a theme (art supplies, sports teams, travel). The items will be sold through a silent auction and proceeds will be donated to Western Youth Network, a program that helps at risk teens in our area. SEE CALENDAR, PAGE 72
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2016-17
HIGH COUNTRY NC A special resource for visitors and locals in the area
M
any winter adventures await visitors and residents alike in the High Country, and since 2014, HighCountryNC.com has been at the forefront of helping you easily navigate all there is to do and see in our mountain communities. HighCountryNC is filled with stories, photographs and information about regional events, activities and attractions. So much so, that it has become the leading tourism website of the High Country “HighCountryNC is a special resource for visitors and locals in the area,” said a founding member of the tourism site. “We’re able to keep content fresh with input from writers who have grown up here and continue to chose to live here for special reasons — including a love for the Blue Ridge Mountains and the out-
door adventures they present.” HighCountryNC highlights the outdoor activities available throughout the region, including where to hike, ski, snowboard, tube and fish, in addition to keeping tabs on local events and festivals, restaurants, entertainment, shops and hotels that specifically cater to the visitors and locals alike. “Not only does HighCountryNC.com offer resources for where to stay, play and eat, but our website also keeps readers in the know with breaking news,” the spokesman said. “Is the Blue Ridge
Parkway open or closed? Find out here.” The journalists who contribute to HighCountryNC. com belong to Mountain Times Publications, the largest regional media group in the area. The website accompanies MTP’s seasonal magazines: Winter Times, Summer Times and Autumn Times — publications that have won multiple awards for content and design. HighCountryNC.com also presents a unique opportunity for advertisers who are looking for exposure
to tourists from outside the region, said MTP Advertising Director Charlie Price. “We offer seasonal stories that engage visitors,” Price said. “We share our stories on Facebook pages to reach thousands of current and new viewers. About 70 percent of HighCountyNC.com’s visitors come from cities outside of the High Country, including North Carolina, South Carolina and Tennessee. MTP’s newspaper websites have more than a million unique visitors each year, with more than 10 million page views, and HighCountryNC. com adds to that total. If you’re interested in exploring the beautiful High Country, visit HighCountryNC.com to start your journey. We’ll see you there!
Your Winter Times Calendar FROM PAGE 71
DEC. 2 FESTIVAL: The town of Banner Elk will host its annual Christmas Festival on Dec. 2 and 3. Caroling will take place at 6 p.m. on Dec. 2. Highlights for Dec. 3 will include a 5K Reindeer Run sponsored by Williams YMCA and a parade of lights at 6 p.m. Information: Banner Elk Chamber of Commerce at (828) 898-8395 or visit www.bannerelk.org.
DEC. 9 BONFIRE: The town of Crossnore will hold its annual Christmas bonfire on the night of Dec. 9. The event will feature caroling and warm drinks and cookies.
DEC. 25 STATE PARK: Grandfather Mountain State Park will host a guided Christmas Day photo scavenger hunt from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. Dec. 25. Meet
at the Profile Trail parking area, N.C. 105 South, Banner Elk. Information: www.ncparks.gov or ncparkphotohunt@gmail.com. Weather dependent. Children yhounger than 16 must be accompanied by an adult. No pets.
JAN. 1 STATE PARK: Grandfather Mountain State Park will hold a twomile round-trip hike at 9:45 a.m. on Jan. 1. Meet at the gravel parking lot on Holloway Mountain Road, one mile north of the Blue Ridge Parkway entrance ramp. If there are several inches of snow, the hike will be led as a snowshoe hike. A few pairs of snowshoes will be available for use. In formation: (828) 963-9522
JAN. 26 WINTERFEST: Don’t hibernate ... celebrate. WinterFest, Blowing Rock’s annual winter-fun celebration with the Polar Plunge, Chili Challenge, music, SEE CALENDAR, PAGE 73
PHOTO BY ROB MOORE With snow in the forecast there will be plenty of outdoor activities to choose from for you to ‘live the adventure.’
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2016-17
Your Winter Times Calendar
PAGE 73
FROM PAGE 71
hayrides, auctions, and more, will be held Jan. 26-29. Many free events, some ticketed. Information: (828) 2957851.
FEB. 8 DANCE: Jessica Lang Dance will perform at the Schaefer Center for the Performing Arts on the ASU campus at 7 p.m. Feb. 8. Tickets are $25, $20 and $10. Tickets are now on sale. Founded in 2011, New York-based Jessica Lang Dance is known for repertoire rich with stunning movement and dynamic visuals that transforms classical ballet into emotionally engaging contemporary work. Hailed “a master of visual composition” by Dance Magazine, the Bessie Award-winning Jessica Lang choreographs to enrich and inspire audiences by immersing them in the beauty of movement and music.
FEB. 22 “SILENCE”: Monty Python meets Game of Thrones in this dark comedy set in England at the turn of the first millennium. King Ethelred the Unready
PHOTO BY APP SKI MTN.I Skiing in the High Country in a family sport.
of England forces fiercely independent Princess Ymma of Normandy to marry a 14-year-old Viking Lord named Silence. When King Ethelred turns
against the couple, they flee across the countryside with a doubting priest, a mouthy servant and a blood-thirsty soldier who sees visions and yearns to
speak telepathically. As violence unfurls around them, this motley group seek a SEE CALENDAR, PAGE 80
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WINTER TIMES
2016-17
PHOTO BY ROB MOORE Winter scenes like this can be found in the surrounding counties. This is in the Mabel Community and the red barn stands out on a cold day in Watauga County.
RED BARN IN WINTER
WINTER TIMES
2016-17
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EXPERIENCE LOCAL!
ENJOY A FRESH MEAL, CRAFTED IN-HOUSE WITH LOCAL INGREDIENTS.
Serving traditional southern favorites, she-crab soup and shrimp & grits, as well as grass-fed beef burgers, specialty sandwiches, unique tacos, wood-fired flatbreads & pizzas, quinoa bowls, steaks, seafood and plenty of gluten-free and vegan choices.
HOURS: Mon. - Sat. 6am - 5pm Sun. 7am - 3pm
HOURS: Mon. - Sat. 6am - 3pm Sun. 7am - 3pm
Boone's original Bagel Shop since 1988
Featuring Boone Bagelry Bagels
Serving Breakfast and Lunch All Day 14 Varieties of Freshly Baked Bagels Vegetarian and Gluten Free Options Available Featuring: Deli Sandwiches, Fresh Salads, Home made Flavored Cream Cheeses, Omelettes, Pancakes, French Toast, Burgers, Gyro Free Delivery
Home of the Famous Bagelicious
Coffee Bar with Espresso, Latte and Cappuccino drinks, with Bald Guy Brew Coffee Gourmet Lunch Menu Featuring: Turkey Apple Grilled Cheese, Fresh Chicken Salad w/Blueberry Balsamic, Lox Hash, Burgers, Deli Sandwiches Breakfast served All Day: Omelettes, Pancakes, French Toast Vegetarian and Gluten Free Options Free Delivery
OLD DOWNTOWN LOCATION
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516 West King Street 262.5585 www.boonebagelry.com
125 Graduate Lane 262.1600 www.bbwaterwheelcafe.com
Kaye’s Kitchen Café & Catering
FIVE STAR RATED HOURS: Monday - Friday (closed Wednesdays) Breakfast/Lunch 8am-2pm • Saturday Breakfast Buffet 8am-2pm Sunday Brunch 9am-2pm • Call for dinner hours
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2016-17
Unique and varied menu offerings that you’ll want to experience again and again!
Red Onion Dine in the cool mountain air, rain or shine, on our covered outdoor patio! 227 Hardin Street, Boone, NC 28607
828.264.5470
www.theredonioncafe.com
Dine-in • Take Out • Delivery and Catering
25th ANNIVERSARY For F or a Taste aste of Mexico
Chinese, Japanese, Sushi & Thai 100% No M.S.G. 240 Shadowline Dr., AA3 + AA4 - Boone Inside Harris Teeter Shopping Center
The High Country’s Favorite Mexican Restaurant
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 Everyday Specials: Sushi Rolls
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2016-17
WINTER TIMES
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A Favorite of High Coun y Locals • Extensive Wine List • Adjacent Tap Room with Billiards & Games • Large Selection of Craft Beers • Patio Dining Available, • All ABC Permits Leashed Dogs Welcome • Daily Culinary & Beverage Specials • 12 Rotating Taps to Include a • Large Parties Welcome Large Selection of Local Beers • Reservations Accepted
• Open Lunch & Dinner, All Day 7 Days a Week
Large Screen TVs
See all College games Saturdays and NFL Package on Sundays.
970 Rivers Street, Boone, NC 828-264-7772 • www.CafePortofino.net Follow us on Facebook & stay up to date on special events and daily specials!
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ALL GAMES ALL WEEKEND
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2016-17
RESTAURANTS
14 Drafts Import & Micro Brews
Kitchen Always Open Until Midnight BAR OPEN: Sunday - Wednesday Thursday - Saturday Until Midnight Until 2 a.m.
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2082 Blowing Rock Rd • Boone, NC 28607 828-264-4660 • www.cfarestaurant.com/boone/home
Home Pool Table Repairs, Recovery & Move & Setup Cues, Lights, Covers & Complete Billiards Accessories
2016-17
WINTER TIMES
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Like Family for 57 Years!
Sports Bar & Grill Monday - Wing Night Tuesday - Taco Night Wednesday - Wieners Night Thursday - Red Solo Cup Night Daily Drink Specials 11am - 12am Sun. - Thurs. 11am - 2am Fri. & Sat. elevation3333.com 828-386-6000 208 Faculty Street Boone, NC
WINTER TIMES
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2016-17
Your Winter Times Calendar FROM PAGE 73 place where they can escape the restrictions of their society and live as their true selves. Performances are at the Valborg Theatre on the ASU campus. Times are 7 p.m. Feb. 22, Feb. 23, Feb. 24 and Feb. 25 and at 2 p.m. Feb. 26. Tickets are $10 for students and $17 for adults. Information: (828) 262-4046 or (800) 841-ARTS.
FEB. 25 LAKE STREET DIVE: Lake Street Dive will perform at 7 p.m. Feb. 25 at the Schaefer Center for the Performing Arts on the ASU campus. Tickets are $30, $25 or $20. “A band steeped in Motown Soul, Beatles melodies, and pop divas from Dusty Springfield to Adele,” says Rolling Stone, “the retro vibe rules, vividly captured by producer Dave Cobb … pretty irresistible.” Information: (828) 262-4046 or (800) 841-ARTS.
APRIL 4 NILE PROJECT: The Nile Project will be in concert at 7 p.m. April 4 at the Schaefer Center for the Performing Arts on the ASU campus. Tickets are $25, $20, $10. From its debut concert, captured live on the 2013 release titled “ASWAN,” it was clear that the Nile Project was something completely new. National Public Radio named the recording one of five “Must Hear International Albums.” Fast forward a few years and almost all major media outlets agree that the Nile Project is much more than just a band. The New York Times described it as “a committed, euphoric international coalition.” Afropop Worldwide calls it “seductive and beautiful (…) nothing short of revolutionary.” Information: (828) 262-4046 or (800) 841ARTS.
APRIL 7 EXHIBITION: A Spring Exhibition Celebration will be held from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. April 7 at the Turchin Center for the Visual Arts on the ASU campus. Several times a year, to celebrate new exhibitions, the Turchin Center invites the public inside after hours, to “engage, discover and connect through the arts.” It’s an opportunity for art lovers to meet the artists, have some food and enjoy a cocktail while wandering one of the the most exciting venues in town: a collection of six galleries filled with a diverse mix of contemporary art from local, regional, and international artists. Information: (828) 2623017.
PHOTO BY APP SKI MTN. Catching air on a High Country winter day..
WINTER TIMES
2016-17
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ADVERTISER INDEX
4 Seasons ................................................................ 29
Cobo ........................................................................ 23
Mast General Store ............................................. 2, 26
Action Auto Glass ................................................... 69
Consignment Cottage ..............................................17
Mountain Dog ......................................................... 41
AJ’S Tire & Auto ..................................................... 69
CR Catering ............................................................ 75
Mountain Home and Hearth ...................................15
Anna Bananas ......................................................... 22
Crossnore School .................................................... 37
Mountainside Lodge B & B .................................... 26
Antiques on Howard .............................................. 23
Dan’l Boone Inn ...................................................... 79
My Best Friends Barkery .........................................17
Antiques on Main ...................................................60
Dewolfson ......................................................... 35, 66
Appalachian Regional Health Services .................. 25
Dutch Creek Trails .................................................. 26
Appalachian Ski Mtn. .............................................20
Echota ......................................................... 35, 55, 84
AppUrgent Care ...................................................... 36
Elevation 3333 ........................................................ 79
Ashe County Arts .................................................... 29
Fairway Cafe ........................................................... 75
Ashe County Chamber ............................................ 29
Family Billiards ................................................ 35, 78
Ashe County Cheese ............................................... 29
Foscoe Rentals ........................................................83
Banner Elk Winery ..................................................17
Freds General Merchantile .................................... 64
Barras .......................................................................17
Gamekeeper ............................................................ 49
Basil’s ...................................................................... 77
Grandfather Campground .......................................31
Recess ..................................................................... 33
Beech Mountain Resort ..........................................28
Grandfather Mountain ........................................... 56
Red Onion ............................................................... 76
Bernhardt ................................................................. 3
Grandfather Vineyard Winery ............................... 35
River Street Ale ....................................................... 23
Bill’s Garage & Towing ........................................... 69
Green Park Inn 8 ........................................................
Rivercross ......................................................... 26, 65
Blackberry Creek Mattress ............................... 35, 70
Hawksnest .............................................................. 45
Six Pence ................................................................. 78
Blowing Rock Chamber of Commerce ................... 63
Hickory Furniture Mart ......................................... 67
SkyBest Medical Alert ............................................ 54
Blowing Rock Furniture .........................................48
High Country Resort Rentals .................................50
Sorrentos .................................................................17
Blowing Rock Market ............................................. 53
High South Wrecker ............................................... 69
Stonewalls ................................................................17
Blue Ridge Realty & Investments ...........................51
Home Acres ............................................................ 58
Sugar Mountain Resort .......................................... 19
Boone Bagelry ................................................... 22, 75
Incredible Toy Co. .................................................. 61
Booneshine ............................................................. 77
Jenkins Realtors ..................................................... 10
BRAHM .................................................................. 57
Juice Boone ............................................................ 79
Brushy Fork Auto Service ....................................... 69
Kayes Kitchen ......................................................... 75
Brushy Mountain Motorsports ..............................68
Kincaid Furnishings ................................................. 3
Cabin Store, The ..................................................... 73
Lazy Bear Lodge ..................................................... 26
Café Portofino ......................................................... 77
Lees McRae College ................................................30
Caldwell Memorial Hospital .................................. 52
Libbys ............................................................... 29, 39
Capones .................................................................. 22
Local, The ......................................................... 23, 75
Carlton Galleries .....................................................40
Los Acoiris .............................................................. 76
Tis the Season ......................................................... 29
Casa Rustica ........................................................... 75
Lost Province .......................................................... 22
Town of Seven Devils ............................................. 62
Charlies NAPA Auto Parts ...................................... 69
Lucky Penny ........................................................... 22
Village Jewelers ...................................................... 23
Chefs Table ..............................................................17
Makotos .................................................................. 77
Water Wheel Cafe ................................................... 75
Chic Fil A ................................................................ 78
Mast Farm Inn ........................................................ 26
Woodlands Barbecue .............................................. 79
HighCountryNC.com
Mystery Hill .............................................................. 9 Over Yonder ............................................................ 26 Paramount ..............................................................82 Parker Tie ..........................................................29, 71 Pedalin Pig .............................................................. 76 Perry Gold Mine ..................................................... 44 Proper ..................................................................... 22 Rams Rack .............................................................. 22
Sugar Top Resort Condominiums .......................... 18 Tapp Room ............................................................. 77 Taste Grill ............................................................... 76 Tatum Galleries ...................................................... 35 Taylor House Inn .................................................... 26 The Blowing Rock ................................................... 32 The Cardinal ........................................................... 24 The Rock ................................................................. 78
live the adventure
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WINTER TIMES
2016-17