Winter Outdoors

The High Country never lacks for outdoor options

BY PATRICK MCCORMACK

The High Country has some of the most exciting outdoor activities available anywhere, even in the winter. While some may think that winter is the time to stay in and cozy up by the fire, it can also be a time to experience unforgettable memories of exploration, adventure and various fun outdoor activities.

The seven-county High Country region is known for its hiking opportunities, ranging from the popular Greenway in the middle of Boone, to the intense and spectacular Profile Trail on Grandfather Mountain. While some hikes may be unsuitable in the winter, there are many trails that are still open and can be enjoyed. With a little preparation and some common sense, hiking in the winter can be a great way to see nature in a unique way, and it is definitely possible to do so without any problems.

Hiking in winter is a great way to get nature shots that are only possible during that time of year. The colors and scenery are unique, and your photos of the winter wonderland will pop with ease.

The High Country is also famous for its abundance of skiing, snowboarding and tubing options. With Appalachian Mountain Ski Resort in Blowing Rock, Sugar Mountain Resort in Banner Elk and Beech Mountain Resort located on Beech Mountain, you can find whatever winter activity best suits you.

The resorts in the High Country are not only for hitting the slopes, as each has bars, restaurants, breweries and other amenities that will help you warm up after a day out in the frigid air.

However, the real beautiful connections of the High Country come down to the community’s ties to the nature around it. Towns like Boone, Banner Elk and Blowing Rock were literally defined by the nooks, crannies, rivers and hills that dot the landscape.

Even the roads are miniature scenic drives, and although many feature wonderful views, the Blue Ridge Parkway tends to remain the most scenic and most popular of them all.

For those wanting to explore the great mountaintop road, check this website for information on road closures during the winter months: www. nps.gov/blri/planyourvisit/roadclosures.htm.

Despite all of the fun and enticing things to do outdoors, ultimately how you enjoy the winter season is up to you. There’s nothing wrong with spending the day inside, tucked up in front of a fire, or with your nose in a book, or binge-watching your favorite shows, but you can also keep it simple outdoors and take a walk down a snowcovered lane or traipse up a hill with a sled in hand.

Whatever you decide to do outside this winter, the High Country snowcovered vistas will surely leave lasting memories that you will cherish.

PHOTO BY SKIP SICKLER | GRANDFATHER MOUNTAIN STEWARDSHIP FOUNDATION Grandfather Mountain welcomes visitors to celebrate the winter and holiday seasons from a mile high.