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What’s Inside NUMBERS OF NOTE.....................8
WINTER SNOWSHOEING............... 76
HIGH COUNTRY HOS..................... 14
HIGH COUNTRY THEATERS............ 78
OUR HIGH COUNTRY TOWNS......... 15
APPALACHIAN THEATRE................ 81
APP SKI MTN............................... 22
APP STATE THEATRE AND DANCE.. 84
BEECH MOUNTAIN RESORT........... 24
ART GALLERIES............................ 86
SUGAR MOUNTAIN RESORT........... 26 SNOWBOARDING THE SLOPES....... 28 WINTER ZIPLINING....................... 30 HIGH COUNTRY SNOW TUBING...... 32 HIGH COUNTRY HIKING................. 34 DRESSING FOR WINTER................ 36 WINTER OUTDOOR FUN................ 38 DON’T FORGET GLOVES................. 40 SHOPPING LOCAL......................... 42 WINTER DRIVING.......................... 43 BLOWING ROCK WINTERFEST........ 54 WOOLLY WORM PREDICTION......... 56 HOLIDAY HAPPENINGS.................. 60 LIGHTING UP THE HIGH COUNTRY.. 62
LOCAL ART................................... 90 FASCINATING FRESCOES............... 92 HIGH COUNTRY SHOPPING............ 94 HIGH COUNTRY SPAS................... 97 GENERAL STORES......................... 98 CHOOSE AND CUT..................... 100 STAY WARM AT A BREWERY...... 102 WINTER MARKETS.................... 105 HIGH COUNTRY WINES.............. 106 BEE FARM BUZZING.................. 109 CHRISTMAS TREE TIPS............... 110 SMALL-TOWN CHRISTMAS......... 112 GEAR UP FOR WINTER............... 115
GRANDFATHER MOUNTAIN............ 65
SCENIC BYWAYS....................... 117
MYSTERY HILL............................. 72
PARKS LARGE AND SMALL......... 124
BLUE RIDGE PARKWAY................. 74
HIGH COUNTRY ANTIQUING........ 128
2023 Winter Times Staff
PUBLISHER Gene Fowler
CIRCULATION MANAGER Jeff Winebarger
EDITORS
Moss Brennan, Jerry Snow, Jamie Shell and Nathan Ham
4 | WINTER TIMES • 2023
PRODUCTION Darla Allen Rebecca Portis
WRITERS
Lexie Carroll, Luke Barber, Erin Isley, Christian Gardner, Patrick McCormack
SALES
Austin Fowler, Mark Mitchell, Henry Volk, Teresa Laws, William Becker
INDEX PAGE PHOTO:
ADVERTISING DIRECTOR Tim Walker
Snowy scene at Grandfather Mountain. (Photo by Victoria Darlington courtesy GMSF)
winter high country
Welcome to
in the
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Welcome to the 2023-24 edition of the Winter Times. Winter in the High Country has a tendency to arrive early and leave late. The temperature started dropping into the teens at night in late November in 2023. The ski slopes in the area, which strive to open in mid-November when possible, had a slight delay to the start of their 2023-24 season. Mountains capped with snow typically bring visitors to the High Country, both to ski and tour. Boone, Blowing Rock, Banner Elk, Beech Mountain, West Jefferson and the Blue Ridge Parkway are among the areas most popular for anyone visiting the region. For more information, go online to https://highcountryhost.com/ Visit-NC-High-Country 5 | WINTER TIMES • 2023
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NUMBERS OF u Watauga County Watauga County Sheriff ’s Office (828) 264-3761 Boone Police Department (828) 268-6900 Blowing Rock Police Department (828) 295-5210 Appalachian Regional Healthcare System Police (828) 262-4168
Jefferson Police Department (336) 846-5529 West Jefferson Police Department (336) 246-9410
u Avery County Avery County Sheriff ’s Office (828) 733-2071 Banner Elk Police Department (828) 898-4300
Appalachian State University Police (828) 262-8000
Elk Park Police Department (828) 733-9573
u Ashe County
Newland Police Department (828) 733-2023
Ashe County Sheriff ’s Office (336) 846-5600
Seven Devils Police Department (828) 963-6760
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Sugar Mountain Police Department (828) 898-4349
note
Beech Mountain Police Department (828) 387-2342
(828) 265-7146
Blowing Rock Medical Park (828) 295-3116
u Animal Control/ Shelter
u Health Care
Watauga County Animal Control (828) 262-1672
Watauga Medical Center (828) 262-4100
Watauga Humane Society (828) 264-7865
Cannon Memorial Hospital (Linville) (828) 737-7000
Animal Emergency & Pet Care Clinic of the High Country (828) 268-2833
Ashe Memorial Hospital (Jefferson) (336) 846-7101
Ashe County Animal Control (336) 982-4060
FastMed Urgent Care (Boone)
Avery County Humane Society (828) 733-9265
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Townhomes At Brookshire Continues to Provide New Construction Options in the High Country
“An innovative community where sunrises and sunsets are exquisite, and stars are the only sounds at night. ... homes are contemporary and innovative. The grounds are safe and pristine. It is a community with a happy heartbeat and visionary professionals. From reservation to closing, my experience was seamless. This is an oasis tucked on the top of a mountain.” Beth C.
When looking for a mountain getaway, we were so excited to find Townhomes At Brookshire – great location, mountain views, new construction, perfect size – and we were not disappointed! We were so pleased with the process from contract to construction to closing. The team was easy to work with, responsive, and professional. Our home is well-built and the property well-maintained. We appreciate the partnership and guidance from everyone involved.” Sue D. and Lynn T.
Developers with RCPBD Investments, LLC have completed construction in phase I and 2A of Townhomes At Brookshire, with the completion of 80 new townhouses to date and underway with phase 2B. This is a community with 206 homes proposed, located 4/10ths of a mile on the left past the Appalachian State University soccer fields off Brookshire Road. Developers Rick Miller (Owner of Miller Properties Inc.), Patrick Morgan (with Keller Williams High Country), Chris Hodges (Owner of Chris Hodges Construction, LLC), Dan Nguyen and Bryan Pitts partnered to purchase the 95.12 acre property in January 2020 for the project. Miller said he and his partners had recognized for years that there was a need in Watauga County for this type of housing. 11 | WINTER TIMES • 2023
“The project is designed and marketed to serve individuals and families who seek moderately priced housing that is convenient to town, parks and amenities,” according to the project’s proposal. Morgan said the project was created to assist individuals at all stages of life. Those looking to buy their first home, those retiring and anyone who would like a home where outside maintenance is provided. “It’s our attempt, although hard because of pricing in our area ··· at trying to make a more affordable housing project,” Morgan said. Prices start in the mid $300s; with options available for one, two and three-bedroom with and without garages. New Construction contracts and reservations for phase 2B are being accepted for meadow sites and lots with views.
“I’ve loved living in the Townhomes At Brookshire community for the past two years. It’s perfectly located close to town, but it still feels like you are in the countryside. I’ve seen it grow in amenities and landscaping, both of which add value and beauty to the community. I’m so thankful to call it my home.” Savannah S.
Approximately 15% percent of the 95.12 acre property will be developed, which Miller said will leave room for amenities like hiking trails to accompany the existing dog park. The best way to learn more about this project and availability is to call Patrick Morgan at: (828)-773-2960 or visit www.townhomesatbrookshire.com.
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High Country Host:
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A one-stop shop for all your visiting needs By MOSS BRENNAN
The beautiful landscape and multiple exciting destinations in the High Country offer many adventures for those traveling. But the rolling peaks and valleys of the Blue Ridge Mountains also make for plenty of winding, curvy, two-lane roads, making a road trip a destination in itself. That can mean specific destinations a weary traveler sees on a map may not be as “close together” as it seems, and travel time takes longer than it would in flatter areas off the mountain. That’s where a stop or call to the High Country
Host regional welcome center comes in. High Country Host – a nonprofit regional welcome center – answers any questions you might have about lodging, food and events in the area. High Country Host can help you plan your day trips so that you’re not spending big chunks of your vacation in the car. North Carolina High Country Host operates the Official Regional Welcome Center located between Boone and Blowing Rock, within view of part of the area’s
portion of the Blue Ridge Parkway at Milepost Exit 291. The Welcome Center provides maps, brochures, coupons, upcoming event handouts and travel counselor support, as well as clean public restrooms and an area to walk your pets. The center is housed in (but not affiliated with) Appalachian Ski Mtn.’s visitor kiosk. For more than 40 years, High Country Host has represented destinations in five counties, including the towns of Boone, Blowing Rock, Banner Elk, Beech Mountain, West Jefferson, Wilkesboro and Sparta. On weekends, when area ski slopes are giving great deals, finding somewhere to stay can be
pretty tricky. High Country Host maintains a list of cancellations at various hotels and cabins in the area so they can help find somewhere to stay in last-minute situations. If you stop by the High Country Host office, you can find many brochures and maps. With so many hiking trails throughout the High Country, these maps are useful. The visitor center staff can also advise on group size limits at various establishments and whether you can walk in on the day of your visit or need to book several days in advance, Cook said. The High Country Host Official Regional Welcome Center is located at 6370 U.S. Highway 321 South in Blowing Rock, N.C. The center is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday and from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Sunday. For more information, call (828) 264-1299 or (800) 438-7500, or visit highcountryhost.com. Photo submitted
14 | WINTER TIMES • 2023
North Carolina High Country Host operates the Official Regional Welcome Center located on Hwy 321 between Boone and Blowing Rock, within view of N.C. Blue Ridge Parkway Milepost Exit 291.
Our towns
Downtown Blowing Rock includes an Art and History Museum. The museum has year-round exhibits, cultural programs, art workshops and lectures.
u WATAUGA COUNTY BOONE When you make a trip to the High Country, a visit to Boone is a must, especially during the winter months for those who love snow. Boone is the centerpiece of Watauga County. Historic King Street, the focal point of downtown, offers an array of opportunities for visitors and locals. Appalachian State University, located in the heart of Boone, is one of the 17 higher education institutions that make up the University of North Carolina system; App State has more than 20,000 students. Interest in the school boomed in the 2000s, after the Mountaineers’ football team won three consecutive NCAA Division I-AA national championships in 2005, 2006 and 2007 and stunned the University of Michigan in September of 2007. The win over Michigan is considered the biggest upset in college football history. The university’s presence gives the town energy. To make sure you stay good with the locals, be sure to properly pronounce the name: It’s “App-uh-latch-un.” King Street and the surrounding area 15 | WINTER TIMES • 2023
is a destination, and one of the town’s premier places for shopping. One-ofa-kind stores and eclectic boutiques dot the landscape, interspersed with artistic shops, legal offices and a diversity of restaurants that are capable of satisfying almost any taste. For more information, visit www. townofboone.net. BLOWING ROCK Blowing Rock is roughly three square miles of jam-packed opportunities for fun. 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 who wants to experience this phenomenon in person can visit The Blowing Rock attraction, which showcases the town’s namesake and the Native American legend that surrounds it. The trails around Moses Cone Memorial Park and Bass Lake offer a beautiful walk. There’s also the downtown Blowing Rock Art and History Museum, where you can experience art and learn more about CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE
history. The museum has year-round exhibits, cultural programs, art workshops and lectures. The town of Blowing Rock is an ideal place to enjoy a summer vacation — or to relax and do a whole lot of nothing. For more information, go online to www. blowingrock.com.
Our towns
Center, on The original Mast the National General Register Store has a of Historic provided a Places offers gathering retreats for space in the groups, and community Crab Orchard since 1883. VALLE CRUCIS Falls is a short Residents Located just off N.C. 105 south of hike from the appreciate Boone, Valle Crucis offers simplicity conference the store and serenity in a pastoral riverside center. The for its post community. The valley contains Celtic Cross office, the site of the only known Native symbolizes morning American village in the immediate news and the deep area. The first European settler of coffee. connectedness Watauga County, Samuel Hicks, built Visitors between a fort in the area during the American can also Heaven and Revolution. find gifts, Earth, Life The community offers numerous apparel and and Death. historic inns, restaurants, art galleries, souvenirs. The town of Seven Devils straddles both Watauga and The circle farms and churches that provide Just down Avery counties and is about 5,200 feet above sea level. represents service and comfort. The Episcopal the road is Wholeness, Church has played a role throughout the Mast Healing, Communion, the Circle of the community’s history. An Episcopal Store Annex, which opened about Life; its crossbeams symbolize Focus, bishop entered the community in 1842 25 years later. Behind the annex is a and provided its name, which is Latin Clarity, Direction, and the Death and gravel road to the Valle Crucis Park, a for “Vale of the Cross.” Resurrection of Jesus Christ, according recreational area with walking paths, riverfront, picnic areas, sports fields The Valle Crucis Conference to https://vcconferences.org and live music during the summer. A favorite local dining spot is Over Yonder, which opened in 2014 in the former homestead of the Taylor Family, one of the founding families of Valle Crucis. “An Interactive & Immersive Experience, Great for Problem Solvers, Families, Challenge For more information, go to the Seekers, Team Building, & anyone looking for an interactive and immersive experience!” website: www.vallecrucis.com.
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TODD Todd is 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 in the world that flows north. Todd is an unincorporated community straddling the county lines of Watauga and Ashe counties in northwestern North Carolina on the South Fork of the New River. The Todd General Store was an oldfashioned mercantile that dated back to 1914 and was built in anticipation of the Norfolk and Western “Virginia Creeper” railroad. Todd was the last stop of the route and got much of its supplies from the 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. FOSCOE Nestled between Boone and Banner Elk is the unincorporated community of Foscoe. The community is brimming with shopping, art, dining and outdoor fun. Shopping includes mementos and more at Bear Creek Traders, treats, snacks and other tailwagging goodies for your furry friends at Mountain Dog & Friends and the luxurious linens of Dewoolfson Down. If you’re shopping for outdoor fun, cast a line with Foscoe Fishing Company, or pan for gold with the Greater Foscoe Mining Company. The Greater Foscoe Mining Company makes Foscoe “a treasure of a little town” for families, according to https://www.exploreboone.com/about/ local-communities/foscoe/. There’s much more, including one of the best views imaginable of Grandfather Mountain. The face of the old man towers high on the horizon. 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 ridge line’s iconic profile 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 CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE
Our towns
The elevation in Avery County is a couple thousand feet higher above sea level than it is in Boone (which is about 3,333 feet above sea level). 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. According to the Seven Devils website, “The founders wanted a catchy, unique name that would bring attention to the mountain. They noticed the repeated appearance of the number seven, including the seven predominant rocky peaks surrounding Valley Creek, as well as the many coincidental references to ‘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. 17 | WINTER TIMES • 2023
hawksnestzipline.com) is year-round ziplining. To learn more about events at Seven Devils, visit www.sevendevils.net.
u 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 LeesMcRae College, a 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. CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE
Banner Elk also has a lot to offer culturally, with a celebrated summer theater program by Lees-McRae and art festivals by some of the area’s galleries and artisans. Visitors are encouraged to return to Banner Elk each year 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. BEECH MOUNTAIN Resting 5,506 feet above sea level, 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 on the hottest day of the summer, it’s always cool on top of Beech Mountain. Even when it’s steamy
in the “lowlands” of 3,000-plus feet, like Boone, 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 year-round 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.
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There’s another good thing about Beech Mountain. The mountain is so large that much of it remains in a natural state, with rich forests dotted by rolling farmland. And it’s only a short drive from the “downtown” to the country or resorts. Take your pick. If you spend some time in Beech Mountain, you might want to come back to do some real estate shopping — or at the 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 Communities for Children, 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, telephones, paved road and boarding school. Through the Sloops’ advocacy, public schools flourished in Avery County. Today, Crossnore Communities for Children 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. ELK PARK The town of Elk Park borders Tennessee. From the old-time feel of Brinkley’s Hardware Store to the additional Lower Street antique shops, 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. 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, CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE
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 is only a short drive to nearby ski slopes at Sugar Mountain and Beech Mountain, popular skiing and snowtubing 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 19 | WINTER TIMES • 2023
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 summer and fall months, visitors can check out the farmers’ market that meets on Saturday mornings outside of Newland Elementary School, and visitors traveling out of town can picnic or hike at Waterfalls Park, a unique recreation spot sponsored by Newland Volunteer Fire Department. Heritage Park hosts 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 5,300-foot peak of Sugar Mountain. The 40-minute round-trip 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 summer, the vibrant reds and yellows of fall, and the white of winter. 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.
u ASHE COUNTY CRESTON Located in the northwestern corner
of Ashe County, Creston borders Tennessee. The winding roads 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 hosts a lot of 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 CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE
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look at local crafts, antiques and civic pride in Fleetwood, according to http:// www.fleetwoodfalls.com. The scenic Blue Ridge mountains of western North Carolina is a quiet place called Fleetwood Falls®. Here recreation doesn’t move in the fast lane; its pace leaves one renewed. Utilities are underground to maintain harmony with nature. Public water is available to each lot. Nearby are fine public golf courses and the south’s best ski resorts. The New River flows serenely by the entrance to the Fleetwood Falls® community for canoeing, fishing, swimming and tubing. Fed by sparkling mountain streams, the waters nourish rainbow trout and other game fish. The Railroad Grade Road follows the New River from the communities of Fleetwood to Todd, providing a well-known bicycling route for young and old. Fleetwood Falls® is located in Ashe County, just a few miles off US 221, between West Jefferson and Boone, North Carolina.
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. 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. 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 CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE
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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, and the former 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 railroad, but early development was also spurred by the opening of the First National Bank of West Jefferson in 1915. The bank’s branch office, built in 1962, is now home to West Jefferson Town Hall. The town continues to thrive today and has a little something for everyone. Those visiting the town can browse one of the many art galleries, gift shops and retail stores. West Jefferson is home to many varieties of artwork, from paintings and photographs to sculptures and quilted items. More information about the area’s art district can be found at the Ashe Arts Center, located at 303 School Ave.,
just off of East Main Street. The center is home to the Ashe County Arts Council, which sponsors a variety of community programming and exhibits throughout the year. A popular spot in the town is the Ashe County Cheese Plant where visitors can see cheese 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 a child also hangs on the sanctuary wall. For more information, go online to www.visitwestjefferson.org.
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Appalachian Regional Healthcare System is now UNC Health Appalachian Working together to ensure a healthy future for all Effective July 27, 2023, Appalachian Regional Healthcare System has changed its brand to UNC Health Appalachian. This move reflects our efforts to align with UNC Health’s rebranding strategy. We’re making changes to serve you better!
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Appalachian Ski Mtn. has plenty to offer
By PATRICK MCCORMACK
Winter sports enthusiasts will find lots of enjoyment and recreational options at Appalachian Ski Mtn., just outside Blowing Rock. Appalachian Ski Mtn. is in possession of some of the greatest snowmaking pump capacity per acre of any ski resort in the Southeast region.
In addition to Orchard Run, more technical slopes are available — including Hard Core, Thin Slice, Upper Big Appal, Lower Big Appal, and Strudel. Children’s programs on offer include “Ski Wee” and “Cruiser Camp” for ages 4–10 and 7–12 respectively.
Reservations are required for skiing, snowboarding, ice skating and equipment The use of rentals, high-quality while season snowmaking memberships automation, are also snow guns available. with significant Clothing rental, pumping childcare, park capacity, and passes and enhanced water parking are storage create also available the foundation to be secured of Appalachian online. If these Ski Mtn.’s Courtesy of Appalachian Ski Mtn activities are snowmaking Skiers of all ages can enjoy Appalachian Ski Mtn. scheduled ahead capabilities. of time, guests With recent will garner more time on the slopes additions to their equipment in 2022, the ski resort has been able to and less time at the ticket booth or lodge. provide improved snow surfaces. Skiers of all ages and skill levels can choose from a dozen slopes at Appalachian Ski Mtn. Orchard Run, the longest run at the resort, is a half mile long. 22 | WINTER TIMES • 2023
App Ski Resort starts thinking of their guest’s comfort right at the front gate, where a gatehouse with a sizable covered entryway shields guests from the weather, and
Appalachian Ski Mtn. offers a variety of slopes to choose from.
multiple lanes for lines to form to reduce wait times. The French-Swiss Ski College has been a supplemental service to aid skiers and snowboarders in developing their talents with qualified training for almost as long as Appalachian Ski Mtn. has been in business. Typically, group instruction, equipment rental, slope ticket, and equipment rental are all included in the instructional packages. There are also options for private lessons. Reservations are necessary and class space is limited. More than a million people have received education from the French Swiss Ski College since its founding in 1969. Luke
Courtesy of Appalachian Ski Mtn
Winkelmann, a current member of the U.S. Ski & Snowboarding team, began skiing at Appalachian Ski Mtn. when he was just 6 years old. For updates on App Ski Mtn., visit appskimtn.com.
23 | WINTER TIMES • 2023
Beech Mountain Resort
welcomes snow enthusiasts to its mountain By CHRISTIAN GARDNER
Beech Mountain Resort is ready to roll into another successful ski season. Beech opened on Saturday, Dec. 2, a little later than usual with the unseasonably warm weather in the High Country. The resort offers a slew of things to do, including Skiing, snowboarding, tubing, and many more fun activities. Beech Mountain Resort is always working to grow and improve for their customers. Last year the resort underwent many new upgrades including lifts, snowmakers and much more. This year, Beech introduced a new RFID ticketing policy, eliminating the need to wait in line. Easily order your lift tickets online and pick them up at a Pick Up Box (PUB). Scan your barcode, and it quickly prints your RFID card. Simply tuck your card into a pocket, breeze through the gate at the chairlift with ease, and say goodbye to waiting in line. Load your card online and head straight to the lift. Additionally, if you’ve purchased rental equipment online, head directly to the rental tech station and bypass the self-entry kiosk. Save time by purchasing online. Do note that RFID cards must be kept in a closed pocket by themselves; they can’t be in a pocket with any other cards. Also new for this year, the slope will open Carolina Caribbean, a new beginner’s slope with a carpet conveyor lift. In the past, snow tubing at Beech Mountain Resort was open depending on the weather, as the 24 | WINTER TIMES • 2023
Photos courtesy Beech Mountain Resort
Beech Mountain Resort introduced several new changes this season, one of which being the replacement of Lift One.
previous snowmaking system supplemental, to make sure that we can keep tubing open more required a certain temperature consistently for our customer and humidity range. Recently the base,” said BMR Director of resort has gotten a new all-weather Marketing Talia Freeman. snowmaking system, which can Among make snow recent in more upgrades on the mountain marginal were Lift One, temperatures, which was said Talia replaced with Freeman, a Doppelmayr director of Quad Chairlift marketing equipped with a loading at Beech conveyor, Mountain BMR Director of Marketing Talia Freeman enjoying which is Resort. an afternoon at Beech Mountain Resort with the facility’s Merryweather the woolly worm mascot of the annual “It’s just third new Banner Elk Woolly Worm Festival. kind of Doppelmayr
Quad lift installed in the past five years. Carolina Caribbean, a new beginner trail that’s paired with an enclosed carpet conveyor lift, gives newer skiers more space to practice. The resort added 10 new SMI automated fan guns as a part of a multi-year snowmaking equipment upgrade, bringing the fan gun total up to 93. Other additions include an advanced terrain park in Powder Bowl, beginner park in Meadows with new LED lights and improvements to Lift Seven, which services West Bowl — formerly known as Oz Run. BMR also will host many events in the winter months, including a number of concerts in the Winter Music Series. Beech Mountain Resort celebrates its 10th year with Beech Mountain Brewing Company, and to mark the success of the journey, BMR will host a live music series every Friday and Saturday night, many of which are free for the performances. Those wishing to attend can buy tickets to the select few shows on Beech Mountain Brewery Company’s website. Beech will host many other events, such as their New Year’s Eve celebration, as well as silent discos and more. For the holidays, there will also be Santa appearances, light displays, a place to sit by a fire and much more. Beech Mountain Resort is located at 1007 Beech Mountain Parkway, Beech Mountain. For more information, visit www. beechmountainresort.com or call (828) 387-2011.
25 | WINTER TIMES • 2023
Sugar Mountain Resort offers sweet winter adventures
Photo submitted
Skiers take in the beautiful winter day on Sugar Mountain.
By JAREN GRAGG
Sugar Mountain Resort is a favorite among locals and the largest snow sport destination in North Carolina. From beginners to seasoned snowboarders ready to shred down the many slopes at Sugar Mountain, there is something for every adventurous guest that comes on the mountain. Sugar offers a wide array of winter activities for all the family such as skiing, snowboarding, ice skating, tubing and snowshoeing. For those who are new to the slope at Sugar Mountain and are looking to learn the ropes and get some guidance, lessons are available to get ready to get on any slope. Guests who are coming to Sugar Mountain especially for the first time should prepare beforehand and dress warmly for the occasion with waterproof 26 | WINTER TIMES • 2023
A snowboarder shreds down the slopes at Sugar Mountain.
clothing. Make sure to have snow goggles to help stop the effects of snow blindness and the effects of sunlight reflecting off the snow.
Recently Sugar Mountain Resort expanded its infrastructure to 3,000 ft. of space, which means Sugar has doubled its selling stations for
equipment rentals. Sugar Mountain Resort wouldn’t be what it is without constantly trying to improve on its snow making capabilities. Six fully automated SMI snowmaking machines turn the slopes of Upper Flying Mile, Sugar Slalom and Oma’s Meadow into a wintery wonderland. The resort’s snowmakers on the lower mountain have the ability to deepen the snow base and spread out the snow from tree line to tree line. This will enhance the experience for all those looking to ski, snowboard or tube down the slopes at Sugar Mountain. For a convenient way to get from the base of the ski resort to all of the slopes that are at Sugar Mountain, there is a Magic Carpet CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE
conveyor lift. This lift consists of a clear UVresistant polycarbonate gallery enclosure which protects skiers and snowboarders from the wintery weather outside while riding. The conveyor lift will also ensure that there is consistent operation on the mountain. To further improve the riding experience of the patrons at Sugar, the resort recently completed the Oma’s Meadow chairlift, a high-speed detachable four-passenger lift. The lift is 2,225’ long and A wintery view looking at the Sugar Mountain Resort. cuts the travel time to the zenith of slopes during that weekend, where from nine minutes to two minutes. skiers and snowboarders look It carries 2,400 passengers per at the newest equipment from hour from its base to its summit Salomon, Volkl, Nordica, Burton, elevation of 4,915 feet. The chairlift Head, Never Summer, K2, Atomic, makes way and widens the lower Rossignol, Ride and Line and many portion of Oma’s Meadow, creating other prominent manufacturers. a comfortable loading experience After a day of being on the while making a clear pathway slopes and looking at the latest for bypassing ski and snowboard and hottest equipment from the traffic. showrooms, guests can grab a meal and a hot chocolate while Sugar Mountain Resort is ideal listening to live music all through for individuals and families the weekend, ending the night with looking to get away for a weekend Saturday fireworks presented by or take a ski trip for the day out the Village of Sugar Mountain. in the snow, but for those that are wanting to enjoy a getaway, there Also, Sugar Mountain Resort will are plenty of places to check out host a New Year’s Eve celebration and explore around the village to with an alpine torchlight parade satisfy any adventurous soul and beginning at 11:45 p.m. and keep them occupied. Sugar has a fireworks show to begin at large cafeteria along with a snack midnight on Dec. 31. There is no bar and the Last Run Lounge that fee for attending. There will be are all on site. events held at the Third Floor Cafeteria and Last Run Lounge, From December 8 to 10, the with live music and dancing resort offers a preseason ski clinic. throughout New Year’s Eve, but The clinic includes a three-day there is a charge for these events lift ticket, coaching fees, along and it is age restricted. with video analysis. In addition, SugarFest will be taking place For those looking for 27 | WINTER TIMES • 2023
Photo submitted
competition, the NASTAR Series is back this winter at Sugar Mountain. NASTAR is a public racing program that provides recreational opportunities to compare their abilities to the fastest member of the US Ski Team (USST). The NASTAR races are held at Sugar Mountain on Oma’s Meadow on Saturdays and Sundays at noon during its season. Participants earn a ranking after competing in one race and after three race days competitors will earn a state and national ranking. This allows competitors to compare to others across the country. Competitors who win medals can qualify for the national championship. Onmountain registration starts at 11 a.m. and ends at 11:50 a.m. prior to the noon start. All races are subject to weather and slope conditions. Lift ticket/slope pass or a season pass is required to participate. Additionally, the annual Sugar Mountain Adult Race League (SMARL) will be taking place. The league is open to any snowboarders and skiers who are 21 years or
older. Teams consist of a maximum of eight racers and a minimum of five. The scores from each of the top four racers will contribute to the overall team score every competition. The top overall teams in skiing and snowboarding will win the High Country Cup. Each racer who’s participating will be given a bib number for the whole season and have two runs at every race. Every skill level is welcome to compete. Registration for SMARL is for six races and costs $50 per person, which includes a season-ending party at Sugar Mountain
Resort. Kids age four and younger accompanied by a ticketed adult receive a complimentary lift/ slope ticket with approval. Rental equipment and lessons are excluded. Complementary tickets are available in the administration office from 8 a.m. until 5 p.m. daily. In the evening when the administration office is closed, complimentary four and under lift/ slope tickets are available at the Snowsports building. Sugar Mountain Resort is located at 1009 Sugar Mountain Drive, Sugar Mountain, NC. Sugar Mountain Resort is North Carolina’s largest snowsport resort, providing the best skiing, snowboarding, ice skating, tubing and shoeing experience possible. Historical winter season opening dates and annual natural snowfall totals can be found by clicking to http://www.skisugar.com/sugarmountain-stats/. For opening day information please call (828) 8984521.
Shredding the slopes Snowboarding in the High Country
snowboarding and its physics are so similar, experienced skateboarders and surfers will likely have no trouble finding their footing. The equipment architecture and movement dynamics from skateboarding and surfing translate well to snow-covered mountains. Skiers will find similarities between the two winter sports as well, in terms of gliding, speed control and stopping.
By PATRICK MCCORMACK
Across the country, snowboarders are dusting off their snow pants, putting on their boots, tightening their bindings, and cleaning their goggles in anticipation of the approaching winter. Each year, tens of thousands of boarders head to the High Country to stay at one of the three premier snowsport resorts located in Avery and Watauga counties. The last few decades have seen a steady growth in the area’s winter sports culture, so it should come as no surprise that boarders and skiers go from all over the nation to visit the three local slope destinations. Beech, Sugar, and Appalachian Ski Mountain each offer sizable skiable acreage, a range of difficulty levels, terrain parks, shops and rentals and a supportive snowboarding culture to draw in guests. Experienced and novice snowboarders alike come to enjoy the excellent shredding, though planning is needed to create a great trip. The first concern for visitors from outside the area should be accommodations. A nearby rental cabin is an ideal place for a boarder to stay while traveling through the mountains, though there many other possibilities in nearby towns. Traveling to the mountain’s base should be organized carefully and at the right time. If you don’t have your own equipment, you can always rent it from the resort or one of the many board stores in the 28 | WINTER TIMES • 2023
A snowboarder shreds on Beech Mountain.
region. Weather has a major role in each trip, particularly at the summit of the mountain where temperatures can drop significantly. Considerations should include raw temperature, precipitation, wind speed, and elevation. There is nothing worse than freezing your tail off while riding a chairlift on a snowboarding excursion. Expert snowboarders will recommend wearing lots of layers and making sure your final jacket, pants, bibs, and gloves are waterproof or water-resistant. Additionally, while nighttime boarding is an amazing experience, be prepared for far lower temps once the sun sets. Keep a watchful eye on other boarders if you’re new to the sport. To begin, bend your knees
Photo courtesy Beech Mountain Resort
while angling your feet in the direction you want to go, and use your arms to aid in maintaining balance. Consider utilizing the more beginner-friendly slopes to become accustomed to having motionless feet while practicing with your body movements and equipment. Once you’re comfortable, go onto the chairlift with one foot inside the bindings and one outside. Try to ride the board straight off the chair when it’s time to exit the lift, then tie your other foot before going down the mountain. Because
Snowboarders of all skill levels can find something to enjoy in the local resorts, which should provide an excellent foundation for novices and pleasant settings for more seasoned riders. Here in the High Country, visiting boarders will find a supportive environment, accessible board shops with knowledgeable personnel and scenic mountain settings unique to the Eastern Seaboard.
Photo courtesy App Ski Mtn
App Ski Mtn. is a popular spot for snowboarding.
EDGE WORLD OF THE SNOWBOARD SHOP REPAIR & DEMO CENTER (828) 898-9550
@edgeoworldNC
394 Shawneehaw Ave
Downtown Banner Elk 29 | WINTER TIMES • 2023
Winter ziplining
A different way to see High Country views By MOSS BRENNAN
Ziplining is a fun activity for all, especially those wanting to see some High Country views in a different way. Here are some of the local zipline businesses.
u Hawksnest Winter ziplining at Hawksnest in the High Country could be just the ticket for those seeking a new kind of thrill during the winter. Located outside Boone, there’s no better way to adventure in the North Carolina mountains than
visiting Hawksnest Zipline, which offers two full-tour options or a “doit-all package.” The tours stretch across four miles worth of ziplining fun. They feature 20 ziplines in total. Guests get to enjoy heights of more than 200 feet and speeds up to 40 mph while ziplining over the treetops — which may include snow during the winter — and through the canopy and over lakes and creeks. This is all while taking in the spectacular panoramic views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. The attraction that eventually came to be known as Hawksnest opened its doors to the public in 1964, originally as a ski resort. A few years later, a golf course was added, and, in 1968, the ski resort’s name was officially changed to Ski Hawksnest.
u Sky Valley Zip Tours in Boone
File photo
Jenny Hunter of Mount Holly zip lines at Sky Valley Zip Tours. 30 | WINTER TIMES • 2023
Sky Valley Zip Tours in Boone was professionally designed and features 10 ziplines, a cliff jump, a swinging bridge, and countless views. The course is located on 140 acres, including a beautiful waterfall. The tour groups are led by two trained canopy rangers who will guide visitors along the three-hour tour, which begins with an offroad ATV ride through the river and up the mountain. Once at the top of the mountain, participants learn the simple techniques used to navigate the course before departing on the first ride across the valley.
The cliff jump takes zippers to a 45-foot rock cliff, where they jump from the platform and then rappel down the cliff face. Sky Valley zippers must be at least 10 years old, at least 70 pounds, and no more than 250 pounds. Tours start at $79 per person. Advanced booking is encouraged, and reservations made within 10 days of the trip must be paid in full. Sky Valley is located three miles from the Boone Mall in Boone at Camp Sky Ranch, located at 634 Sky Ranch Road. For more information, visit www.skyvalleyziptours.com, or call (855) 475-9947.
u High Gravity Adventures High Gravity Adventures, located between Boone and Blowing Rock at 215 Tweetsie Railroad Road, provides zip liners with a zip line tour and aerial adventure experience. High Gravity Adventures offers something for everyone. Of course, one of the most popular appeals to HGA is its zip lines. Participants, young and old, must weigh at least 75 pounds to take part in the zip line as it soars through the trees for up to two hours. The tour features multiple zip lines, a sky bridge, and 1,700 feet of zipping. The tour ends at the Dropzone, a thrilling simulated freefall from atop the High Gravity Adventure Park using top-of-the-line technology for a smooth descent and controlled landing, all while remaining securely connected via a climbing
File photo
Zip lines are a popular attraction at Hawksnest not only in the summer months, but also through the winter season, with breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks along the ride.
harness. HGA also offers slowermoving rappel options for the less adventurous. Zip Line tour groups generally are small, promising less waiting in line, and during the experience, the guides do the braking for the riders. HGA is open Wednesday through Friday for zip tours by reservation. It is open Saturday and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more information, call (828) 266-0176 or email info@highgravityadventures. com.
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Tubing fun By CHRISTIAN GARDNER
Tubing is a wonderfully fun activity that is sometimes overlooked when thinking about winter activities in the High Country. With little skill needed, it makes an accessible way to join in on the fun while zooming down the mountain of snow. Tubing offers all the nostalgia of sledding down neighborhood hills, but with the intensity of skiing down the steep slopes. Tubing is an activity that can be enjoyed by folks of all ages. Outlaw tubing on the unofficial slopes around the High Country is a daunting and at times perilous task that often leaves popped tubes or worse, a collision with a tree, or rock, with an uncontrolled tube can leave you injured, and can lead to some very expensive urgent care bills. So instead of
Photo courtesy Hawksnest Resort
Hawksnest offers numerous opportunities to zoom down its slopes for snow tubing fun. 32 | WINTER TIMES • 2023
having an awesome winter adventure ruined by uncertain times, join the High Country in tubing at safe and exciting courses maintained by the professionals. Two area ski resorts feature snow tubing and there are two other venues that are specific to snow tubing. Call ahead, or you can buy online to book yourself a fun time on the slopes. This is great practice in case weather conditions prevent the availability of the location. Beech Mountain Resort, located at 1007 Beech Mountain Parkway in Beech Mountain, has eight tubing lanes up to 700 feet long. Riders must be at least 42 inches or taller. Waivers can be signed digitally at beechmountainresort.com. Sugar Mountain Resort, located at 1009 Sugar Mountain Drive in Sugar Mountain, also offers multiple tubing lanes that stretch up to 700 feet. A conveyor lift is
in the High Country
available for reaching the top of the hill. Riders must be at least three years old to tube, and those six or younger must share a tube with an adult. All children younger than eight must be supervised by an adult at all times, and those younger Photo courtesy Sugar Mountain Resort than 11 must Snow tubing at Sugar Mountain offers more than 700 feet of lanes to have a waiver slide down for enjoyment. signed. Night tubing is Hawksnest tubing venue is available, with more information located at 2058 Skyland Drive in available online at skisugar.com. Seven Devils. The tubing lanes Jonas Ridge Snow Tubing is range from 400 to 1,000 feet in located at 9472 NC 181 South, in Jonas Ridge. This venue is available length, spread more than 30 individual lames in four sections, without concern of pre-ordering tickets. However, it is best to call making Hawksnest Snow Tubing ahead for parties of 15 or more. one of the largest snow tubing Children three years or older are venues in the nation. Tubers permitted to tube, and lifts are age three and older can create available. More information can be a great winter experience until found at jonasridessnowtube. 8 p.m. Hot chocolate, coffee com. and pizza are available for purchase for those times when tubers need a break from the cold. For more information visit jonasridgesnowtube.com.
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High Country hiking not just for the warm months
Hiking in the snow can be hard at times as the trail may not be easily found as seen at the Beech Tree Trail at Elk Knob State Park.
By MOSS BRENNAN
Some may think hiking is strictly a spring, summer and fall activity, but that could not be farther from the truth, especially in the High Country. Like many things, hiking is a fun activity that has no season, and it becomes an entirely different experience during the winter. The outdoors becomes a magical place during the winter. Snowfall throughout the cold months creates beautiful environments that look straight out of an art gallery, while the changes in nature can make one place you have been to 100 times seem entirely new and fresh. Many people have preferred hiking spots — repeatedly going to trails they know like the back of their hand — but will not go to them if they think the weather is not right. The truth is that with careful planning and good decision-making, nearly any hike — as long as you can get to them safely — can be done in the winter. 34 | WINTER TIMES • 2023
FIRST, HERE ARE SOME SAFETY TIPS FROM THE NATIONAL PARK SERVICE:
• •
•
• •
•
Snowshoes and traction devices are recommended on ice and snow. In winter, some trails are not marked or maintained. Route-finding skills are important. Don’t rely on others’ tracks, which can lead you astray. Be aware that it is common courtesy not to trample on existing cross-country ski tracks as it can trip up skiers. Know your route. Snow-covered landscapes look very different than in summer. Snow can be deep once you are off trail. Keep off any ice. Streams and lakes can have thin ice and be very dangerous. Be avalanche aware. Check with your park for the latest safety information and avalanche forecast. Always be willing to turn around.
CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE
File photo
Make time for the outdoors, and dress appropriately, like this hiker at Elk Knob during a snowy day.
Weather and trail conditions can change quickly as snow falls and melts. • Watch for wildlife. Always keep your distance and practice safe wildlife viewing practices. When hiking, in the winter, you will need a few more layers than if it were 70 degrees and sunny outdoors. With temperatures dropping, thicker jackets, gloves, and a hat are a good start. Make sure to start with thinner clothes as a base layer. Checking the weather is essential before a hiking trip any time of year, but it is especially important in the winter. Precipitation — rain or snow — can cause some parts of the hike to get slick and increase the chance of getting sick. One of the key points to keep in mind with winter hiking is that exposed skin means two things: heat loss and frostbite. Having as
much skin covered as possible will help keep you warm and avoid frozen tissue. Making sure your ears, fingers and toes stay warm is very important in winter hiking. Additionally, hand and toe warmers are a must for staying warm and staying comfortable. When looking at cold weather gear, be sure to avoid cotton products. Cotton is notorious for taking a long time to dry, so it will make you miserable
if it gets wet. At the same time, tight clothing can cause poor circulation, which is not good when you’re already cold. Also, the sun still comes out in the winter, so pack sunscreen to avoid getting sunburned. When it comes to food and drink, the first rule is to remember them. The human body is like a car engine; if it has fuel, it will get warm. Food and drinks are not immune from the effects of a snowy day. The
G
water bottle or hydration reservoir you have with you can freeze up, so outdoor equipment company REI suggests keeping them insulated in a backpack and blowing back into your reservoir tube to keep it empty. Another option is to pick up a vacuum-insulated bottle, which will help keep water from freezing or warm drinks like hot tea. At the same time, many different foods like chocolate, nuts, cheese, and candy bars can succumb to the cold and be more reminiscent of bricks, so keeping them in a warm place is a good idea. Ultimately, hiking in the winter is a little more work than heading out on an April afternoon, but the reward of seeing nature in a different light is worth it. Always remember safety, as you can’t hike if you can’t get to the trail.
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Dress in layers and go pick out a sled By PATRICK MCCORMACK
Sledding — literally dashing through the snow — is an endlessly repeatable winter activity for all ages. Here in the High Country, the mixture of winter weather and terrain make it an excellent region for the beloved winter hobby. Finding the nicest spots to go to, what to wear and the best style of sled for you can provide assistance in making your sledding encounter even more enjoyable. The first obstacle to tackle is selecting a sled for yourself. There are many different kinds of sleds out there, some of which are better suited for different types of people. For example, there are traditional wooden sleds, as well as more modern and plastic sleds that offer more comfort. Additionally, some sleds come with steering mechanisms, making them easier to control, while others just require pushing with one’s weight. Sleds come in different shapes and sizes, and nowadays some are even manufactured with padding for riders. Many local shops in the area sell varieties of the more modern plastic sleds, but take note, they usually sell out fast during the winter months, particularly just before and after large snow events. It is recommended that you dress in layers when sledding in the winter. It is best to wear water-resistant outerwear that will not soak up moisture. It is not uncommon for even 36 | WINTER TIMES • 2023
the most expert of sledders to come to a stop by bailing from the sled, or landing in a pile of fresh snow. Best to stay dry in order to ensure maximum comfort and extended time on the slopes. Finally, the last step is to find a hill that is the right size for sledding. Though the High Country is home to many hills, many of these may be located on private land. It is best to ask the permission of the landowner before making your way onto private property for a sledding excursion. Also, be sure there are no fences, ditches, rocks or other hazards that can potentially cause harm to you or your passengers at the bottom of your hill. Sometimes sleds can be unwieldy and hard to stop. For those unable to find that perfect spot, fortunately there is an official sled riding hill atop Beech Mountain. Operated by Beech Mountain Parks and Recreation Department, the sledding hill is designated for kids 12 and younger using plastic sleds from 1 to 5 p.m. Located beside the Beech Mountain Visitors Center at 403 Beech Mountain Parkway, there are multiple nearby stores that will sell or rent sleds for those who cannot bring their own. A snowblower is on hand to add to the natural snow levels when needed. For more information on snow conditions at Beech Mountain Town Sledding Hill and other details, call (800) 468-5506.
A young rider kicks up powder at Beech Mountain’s sledding.
File Photo
Photo courtesy Mark Mitchell
Wyeth Collins sleds down a hill along Blairmont Drive in Boone.
DIY SAVINGS Want to reduce your heating/ cooling costs by 10 to 20%, while increasing your home’s comfort? Sealing air leaks is an inexpensive way to save energy, and anyone can do it!
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Winter outdoor fun
is a blast in the High Country By ERIN ISLEY
The High Country of North Carolina is known for its evergreen trees, the Appalachian mountain range, camping, hiking, fishing and vast array of other outdoor activities. However, when the leaves start to fall and the trees are left bare, when the ponds and lakes begin to freeze over and the animals stock up for hibernation, the High Country can still provide tourists and locals alike with abundant outdoor adventures. With the steep slopes and cold temperatures, the High Country is the perfect place to practice winter sports like snowboarding, skiing and ice skating. By visiting ski mountains like Appalachian Ski Mountain or resorts like Beech Mountain and Sugar Mountain, visitors can try their hand at any of the above sports or work on perfecting their technique. Each of the ski mountains offers beginner, intermediate and advanced slopes as well as free ski areas for those just learning to keep their balance. Appalachian Ski Mountain’s ski season lasts until mid March or later. This year, ski slopes were delayed because of warm temperatures, but ski mountains can use artificial snow to keep their slopes pristine if the temperatures stay cold. Appalachian Ski Mountain offers a variety of ski and snowboarding opportunities for visitors on any of their nine slopes as well as workshops, camps and private 38 | WINTER TIMES • 2023
Sleds can be found at most stores during the winter in the High Country.
lessons. For those wanting to stay on level ground while enjoying the cold air, ice skating is another good option. The ice skating season at Appalachian Ski Mountain begins Nov. 22 and runs through March 17. Beech Mountain offers skiing, snowboarding, ice skating
Photo by Erin Isley
and snow tubing. Snow tubing allows those who are unfamiliar with skis or snowboards to experience the thrill of flying down a snowy mountain. While water tubing is a relaxing and usually slowpaced activity, snow tubing is more fast-paced as the tubes race down the Building a snowman is a classic outdoor activity in the winter — if there’s enough snow same slopes as on the ground. the skiers and
snowboarders. Beech Mountain has 95 skiable acres at a base elevation of 4,675 feet and a peak elevation of 5,506 feet. Beech Mountain’s eight lifts bring tourists to 17 trails ranging in difficulty. Group lessons, private lessons, camps and ski and ride school are available for beginner skiers to help improve their skiing and snowboarding skills. The ice skating rink at Beech Mountain is 7,000 square feet and offers skate rentals. Ski mountains like Appalachian Ski Mountain, Beech Mountain and Sugar Mountain offer gear and clothing rentals to help enhance the experience for those who lack their own supplies. Sugar Mountain also hosts a start to ski season event called SugarFest. The SugarFest weekend includes consumer ski and snowboard equipment demos, live music from the Glen Harlow and North Fork band, pre-season ski clinics, skiing, snowboarding, tubing and fireworks at dusk on Saturday. SugarFest will occur Dec. 8-10 this year. Visitors can purchase discounted packages and tickets to the ski resort over the SugarFest weekend. SugarFEAST, the food portion of the weekend consists of a whipped cream and hot chocolate bar, a soup safari and North Carolina barbecue. CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE
Sugar Mountain’s regular season events also include snowshoe guided tours every Monday, Wednesday and Friday at 3 p.m. and Saturday at 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. with available snowshoe rentals. For visitors to the High Country who want a more relaxed outdoor experience this winter, the town of Blowing Rock has just the thing. Blowing Rock’s Winterfest will take place Jan. 25-28. Visitors to Blowing Rock during the celebration can enjoy the ice sculpture contest, polar plunge into Chetola lake, polar plunge costume contest, winter feast and beer garden. The Winterfest tradition started in 1998 and is now run by the Blowing Rock Chamber of Commerce. Another traditional outdoor activity enjoyed by people of all ages without the necessity of a facility, ski mountain or multiple pieces of gear is sledding. Locals and visitors to the High Country can purchase sleds at grocery stores, Walmart and local shops to enjoy the exhilarating ride when the snow sticks around.
File photo
Community members have a blast sledding down a local hill.
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Don’t forget
your gloves File photo
A skier needs to wear warm clothes to best enjoy the activity. By ERIN ISLEY
Snowboarders who want to stay warm while riding need to wear the right clothes. As temperatures fall, the need for winter clothing rises. While getting ready to hit the slopes in the High Country, it is important to know where to get the must-needs for winter sports. The Alpine Ski Shop at Appalachian Ski Mountain in Blowing Rock has everything needed for winter sports from helmets, gloves and boots to skis and snowboards. It is also important to get the right gear for staying warm and dry while skiing, snowboarding or any outdoor 40 | WINTER TIMES • 2023
activity in the winter weather. The shop has outerwear options from some of the top winter sports industry brands such as Oakley and Burton. Independently owned Recess Skate and Snow in Boone offers all the necessary equipment for hitting slopes as well as clothing, outerwear and accessories. Recess has been providing Boone locals with stylish snowboards and gear since it was established in 2009. 1st Tracks Ski and Snowboard Shop, also located in Boone, has been supplying winter sports gear for decades in the High Country. 1st Tracks offers both skis and snowboards for purchase and
rental, and also has a full service ski repair shop. Regear Outdoors in Boone, offers winter sports enthusiasts with gently-used, name-brand equipment and gear such as winter boots, ice skates and ski bibs. Regear Outdoors is a part of the High Country Local First organization, which supports local farmers and independently owned businesses, and offers a 10% discount to those with a Local First card. Located conveniently minutes from Sugar Mountain ski resort, Extreme Snowboard and Ski offers winter gear and equipment rental packages for all ages. Customers
can easily reserve their equipment in advance online. Ski Country Sports in Banner Elk offers skiing and snowboarding equipment to both buy and rent along with boots, bibs and headwear. Serving the mountain community since 1983, Ski Country Sports aims to provide the best outdoor winter gear for everyone with name brands from Patagonia to Obermeyer. The High Country has a variety of ski and snowboarding shops to cover all one may need for enjoying western North Carolina’s winter sports playground.
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The Old Orchard Creek Store in Lansing is well worth the visit even if it is a little off the beaten path.
Shopping local in the High Country
By NATHAN HAM
Supporting local businesses across the High Country has become one of the best and easiest ways to help these thriving communities continue to grow. Whether it is an artisan’s shop on King Street in Boone, or one of the unique boutiques that call downtown West Jefferson home, each business has a story to tell. Spending your hard-earned money at local shops and businesses is also a great way to boost the local economy. Even if you are just searching for a small gift or buying food or drinks from a local establishment, those funds go a 42 | WINTER TIMES • 2023
long way to helping a local business owner keep their doors open. According to studies done by the American Economic Association, over half of Americans make the decision to shop at small businesses because it is a way to make sure the money that they spend goes back to benefit the area that they live in. Over 90% of people surveyed said they make purchases for products or services with a small business at least once a week, and more than half of those individuals said that they buy products or services locally at least three times a week. Sharing positive news and reviews about a business is another
Mountain Outfitters is located in downtown West Jefferson.
great way to help local businesses. By telling a few friends you know or some of the people you work with about the positive experience you had at a local establishment can help bring more people and money into a local shop or store. If you would rather leave a thoughtful message or a detailed review of a business on one of the many social media networks, those reviews could go a long way to bring shoppers and visitors to a local
File photos
store. Taking the time to get involved in community initiatives that support local businesses is another important way to help small businesses succeed. The local chambers of commerce in Ashe, Watauga and Avery counties are always searching for volunteers to help out with events throughout the year. Many of those events will feature products and services from small businesses.
Drive smarter
Tips for safe driving in the winter
Side roads in the High Country can be difficult to drive on during times of moderate to heavy snowfall.
By NATHAN HAM
Winter driving in the High Country can be tricky and troublesome if you are not prepared for it. If you’re a resident in the area, you know all about what it is like to tackle the snowcovered roads. However, if you are new to the area, learning to drive on snow and icy roads can be a stressful time. The first thing that you need to do is make sure that your vehicle is capable of handling those types of weather conditions. It is highly recommended to have a 4WD or AWD vehicle when driving on slick roads. Front wheel drive vehicles can handle small amounts of snow, but are not recommended for mountainous and steep terrains. Rear wheel drive vehicles will struggle the most in the snow as 43 | WINTER TIMES • 2023
there is typically not enough weight in the rear of the vehicle for it to gain much traction in ice and snow. You should also make sure that your vehicle maintenance is up to date. Make sure your brakes and wipers are in good condition and that your battery is able to withstand cold temperatures. Having plenty of tread on your tires or having snow tires for winter are two logical ideas to consider. As you are about to embark on a trip through the winter wonderland, make sure that your vehicle has proper emergency supplies if you happen to get stuck in traffic or encounter conditions that force you to stop driving for a brief time. Keep non-perishable food items and remember to take water to drink if needed. Other things to consider having include jumper cables, blankets, a
flashlight, a shovel, phone charging cables, a first-aid kit and an extra coat or sweatshirt to stay warm if needed. Once your vehicle is safely prepared for travel, remember to drive at slower speeds and to allow for a greater amount of distance between your vehicle and the vehicle in front of you. As you travel on any snow-covered roads, be sure to limit sudden movements such as quick turns, rapid acceleration or hard braking. If you are unsure of yourself traveling during winter weather, the best piece of advice could be to simply just stay safe and sound in the warm comfort of your home. Unless your trip is an emergency, sometimes just staying home until conditions improve is the smartest thing you can do.
File photo
Keeping an eye on weather forecasts is something else to consider when you are out and about during the winter months. You do not want to be caught out unprepared in a snowstorm. Weather conditions can rapidly change across the High Country and an innocent winter day could turn into a wild winter storm in just a short period of time. The North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) will have workers out clearing roads as soon as possible, but oftentimes the side roads will be the last roads to be scraped and salted. Highways such as U.S. 221 and U.S. 421 as well as downtown areas in Boone, West Jefferson, Jefferson, Newland and Blowing Rock will be treated first. Use a little extra caution traveling on the many backroads that exist across the High Country.
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Blowing Rock’s WinterFest By LEXIE CARROLL
In the High Country, some inhabitants hibernate to avoid the cold temperatures and ice and snow while others layer up and brave the cold to experience all that winter in the area has to offer. Hundreds of full-time residents and visitors alike celebrate winter festivities every year at Blowing Rock’s annual WinterFest, coming this year from January 25 to 28, 2024. Since 1998, Blowing Rock has celebrated its annual event that is WinterFest, and its mascot Chilly the snowman. Over the years, both WinterFest and Chilly the snowman have evolved to create a recognizable and distinguished part of winter in Blowing Rock. More events have been added throughout the years to reflect the culture within the town. This year, WinterFest includes the famous Polar Bear Plunge at Chetola Lake, WinterFeast, ice carving demonstrations, Winter Beer Garden, Chilly Chili Challenge, ice stroll and more. Aside from the various fun-filled events, WinterFest also gives back to the community through raising thousands of dollars for various charitable organizations in the High Country. Blowing Rock WinterFest is 54 | WINTER TIMES • 2023
Blowing Rock’s WinterFest features a Polar Plunge for those who are daring.
now put on by the Chamber of Commerce, in partnership with numerous community, civic and nonprofit organizations. “With the predictions of a cold snowy winter ahead, we expect this year to be a great opportunity for visitors to experience all the splendor of winter in the High Country,” said Cathy Barker, Vice President of Business Development for the Chamber of Commerce.
Due to COVID-19, WinterFest had to scale back some of its events to comply with public safety standards. This year, however, WinterFest is back and better than ever. “All the long-time traditional events will be back on the schedule this year, from Winter Feast to Polar Bear Plunge to the Chili tasting to the Beer Garden and Wine Tasting and Auction,” Barker said. “On Sunday, the festival will feature a pancake breakfast and to conclude, Winter Paws pet show. WinterFest has always been an event to ‘celebrate Winter’. It is a time
File photos
that hotels and restaurants will be full and the merchants will be busy ringing up orders. Historically, it has also been a time for the community to come together to support our many nonprofits in the slow winter season.” Some features of WinterFest are still evolving, so it is advised to stay up to date with the WinterFest schedule of events from Jan. 25 to 28 at www.blowingrockwinterfest. com, or contact the Blowing Rock Chamber of Commerce at info@ blowingrock.com or calling (828) 295-7851.
62nd Annual
26th AnnuAl
January 25th - 28th, 2024
IN THE PARK MAY 18 JUNE 15 JULY 13 AUGUST 17 SEPTEMBER 7 OCTOBER 5
Don’t Hibernate, CELEBRATE! Winterfeast Ice Sculpture Stroll Beer Garden Rotary Chilly Chili Challenge Polar Bear Plunge Wine Tasting & Auction Pancake Breakfast Winter Paws Silent Auction Hendrick Hunt Hay Rides Live Ice Carvings and more...
Over 90 Juried Artists Artist: Courtney Tomchik
PARK AVENUE IN DOWNTOWN BLOWING ROCK 10 AM UNTIL 5 PM • FREE ADMISSION FREE SHUT TLE WOOD • CLAY • JEWELRY • METAL • GLASS FIBER • PAINTING • PHOTOGRAPHY
A BLOWING ROCK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE EVENT Blowing Rock, NC • 828/295-7851 www.BlowingRock.com
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For more details, contact the Chamber at: www.BlowingRockWinterfest.com or call 828.295.7851
‘Jeffrey’ has the ‘Wright’ stuff in wiggling to top prize at 46th annual WOOLLY WORM FESTIVAL forecast. On Sunday, Oct. 22, the BANNER ELK — The event hosts corporate races town of Banner Elk played for sponsors and other host once again for the local businesses, as well 46th annual Woolly Worm as another championship Festival on a sunny, but race where the winner breezy weekend on Saturday receives $500. The and Sunday, Oct. 21 and corporate race winner 22, in the field adjacent to was Scott Garland from Historic Banner Elk School. Cornerstone Cabins, while The annual event holds a the regular race winner special place in the hearts on Sunday afternoon was of many around the county, another Avery County local, and visitors from all over Michael Holland of Beech the country and nations Mountain. around the world show up There is more to the to see and participate in the event than just the races, spectacle which is racing a however. Also on hand woolly worm. Specifically at were more than 160 this year’s festivities, folks vendors, selling wares from 21 different states ranging from artwork to and six different countries, Photo by Christian Gardner crafts to food, and much including Germany, South Massive crowds were on hand Saturday, Oct. 21, to watch as races took place onstage during the Woolly Worm more. Entertainment was Africa, Mexico, Ukraine, Festival. provided by the Shed House Japan and Switzerland, Trio, SureFire Bluegrass participated in races over day, narrowing down the field to on the pavement,” said race winner Band, and more who kept the the weekend. In all, the event is semifinal races and an eventual Brock Wright. The father-and-son crowd pleased. Numerous food estimated to have hosted 20,000 championship race, where first duo happily took home the prize trucks dotted the festival grounds, people over the course of the place wins a $1,000 cash prize and money and bragging rights. After including the likes of Lakeo’s weekend festivities. is used to be the official weather the race, “Woolly Worm Doctor” Steakhouse, Famous Brick Oven predictor for the High Country’s Dr. Bill Burroughs studied the The Banner Elk Woolly Worm Pizzeria, Diggy Donuts and many winter weather forecast. Newland’s worm and determined that “The Festival is hosted annually through more, all combining to make the very own Brock and Max Wright worm wasn’t affected by any PEDs a partnership effort by the Avery festival one of the top small-town took home the championship (Performance Enhancing Drugs),” County Chamber of Commerce festivals in the nation. with their Woolly Worm named and was declared as the official and the Banner Elk Kiwanis Club. “Jeffrey.” winner. Afterward, Avery County “It was like clockwork. I believe The Woolly Worm Festival is a twolegend Tommy Burleson read the we’ve got it down to a system day extravaganza, with Saturday “We actually found him (Jeffrey) 13 segments of the woolly worm (Kiwanis of Banner Elk and Avery being the most congestive day, as on the road. We almost ran over attendees race more than 1,400 him, looked in the rearview mirror, to offer the official prediction for CONTINUED ON PAGE 58 worms in heats throughout the and saw him just bouncing around the High Country’s winter weather By JAMIE SHELL
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many who said they thought this was our best festival yet, and also Chamber Chamber of Commerce) heard many say that they couldn’t so that folks can get in easily and believe this could be so much fun.” enjoy the The festivities,” festival is a said Mary combined Jo Brubaker effort from with Banner the Avery Elk Kiwanis County and the Chamber of Banner Commerce Elk Woolly and the Worm Banner Elk Festival Kiwanis Committee. Club, as the “From the organizations Photo by Christian Gardner races to the evenly split A Woolly Worm soaking up the autumn sun on a breezy vendors, it the funds Banner Elk festival October weekend. all worked raised flawlessly.” after expenses. Kiwanis Club “We had a really good turnout, funds are distributed through about the same as last year’s grant applications within local event,” said Avery Chamber of organizations, scholarship and Commerce Executive Director other grants for area schools and Robin Morgan. “We heard from other groups that qualify and
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JEFFREY’S PREDICTION FOR THE 2023-24 HIGH COUNTRY WINTER Following the final championship race on Saturday, Oct. 21, the champion worm of the 2023 Banner Elk Woolly Worm Festival, “Jeffrey” was read by NC State basketball legend and longtime woolly worm seer Tommy Burleson to share what the worm’s colors and features predicted for the High Country’s coming winter (taking into consideration for comparison that the average winter temperature in Banner Elk is 27 degrees.) Burleson shared that Jeffrey’s segments reflected snow and below-average temperatures for the first four weeks of winter (indicated by four black segment colors), followed by one week of fleck-colored and two weeks of amber-colored segments, indicative of frost and light snow with below average temperatures during that period. Weeks 8 to 10 are highlighted by light brown fur on Jeffrey, indicating above average temperatures, with weeks 11 and 12 indicating fleck coloring (light snow/frost with below average temps) and the final week showing a black segment (snow and below average temperatures).
present need. Funds that the Avery Chamber receives go to help the group promote the businesses of its membership, as well as assist with operations and other needs.
“Overall we’re very happy. The event was great,” Morgan added. “We could never do it without all our great staff and wonderful volunteers. Without them, we could not pull it off.”
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Holiday Happenings IN THE HIGH COUNTRY
Photo submitted
Christmas trees adorned with lights are popular in local High Country towns. By LEXIE CARROLL
As early as November, communities in the High Country start getting into the holiday spirit. From parades to winter sports to festivals, there is always a plethora of holiday activities for both fulltime residents and visitors to enjoy throughout the winter season. In Boone, holiday festivities started on a high note with the annual Festive First Friday and Solar Christmas Tree Lighting at the Jones House on King Street on Dec. 1. This event also had carriage rides, visits with Santa and Mrs. Claus, carolers and more in downtown Boone. Boone’s Christmas Parade proceeded on King Street on Dec. 9. Local organizations and businesses got into the holiday spirit 60 | WINTER TIMES • 2023
Banner Elk’s A Small-town Chrismtas featured a variety of events.
with parade floats, costumes and performances. The Annual Appalachian Christmas Concert on Dec. 15 featured performances in honor of Joe Shannon, founder of Mountain Home Music. The concert served as a fundraiser for the Hospitality House and Santa’s Toy Box as well as a way to preserve traditional mountain music, singing and
dancing. In downtown Blowing Rock, the holiday festivities began the weekend after Thanksgiving with the Christmas Festival, Lighting of the Town and Christmas Parade. With games, live music and festive floats, the Blowing Rock community ushered in the holiday season with lots of cheer. Another Blowing Rock holiday
Photo submitted
staple in the area is the Chetola Resort Winter Festival of Lights. The festival is free and open to the public, and offers visitors with a dazzling display of 50,000 holiday lights. Visiting North Carolina’s Oldest Attraction is always fun, but being able to visit with Santa and Mrs. CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE
Fuke photo
The Carolina Snowbelles during the Blowing Rock Parade
Claus themselves at the Blowing Rock is all the more special. From Thanksgiving to Christmas Eve, children told Santa their wish lists for Christmas while also learning about the history of the Blowing Rock. In January, Blowing Rock will host its annual WinterFest which offers a variety of ways to enjoy the winter weather with fun activities. In Banner Elk, the Apple Hill Farm hosts its Christmas Celebration from Nov. 17 to Jan. 1 every Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Visitors get to meet alpacas on the
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45-minute guided tour around the farm. The unique gifts made from alpaca wool and hand-tied wreaths from the gift shop make for great holiday gifts. Banner Elk’s Small Town Christmas celebration featuring the Christmas Tree Lighting and Christmas in the Park was on Dec. 1-3. Festivities included train rides, a light show, hot cocoa and other activities. Looking for an activity reminiscent of old television Christmas specials? A Banner Elk Christmas is a great time and
features lots of singing, dancing and comedy sketches at the Old Banner Elk School on Dec. 1, 15 and 16 at 7 p.m. and Dec. 3 and 17 at 2 p.m. At Beech Mountain, the sledding hill, with an on-site snow maker, is a great way to be active in the colder weather. Children under 12 can enjoy free sledding on Mondays through Fridays until February. Back in November, Beech Mountain hosted its holiday market for those who were ready to get a jump start on holiday arts and crafts. All day at the Buckeye Recreation Center, visitors shopped,
listened to live music and visited with Mrs. Claus. Beech Mountain will host its annual Christmas Parade and Festival on Dec. 21, starting at the Beech Mountain Resort. With free crafts, cookies, cocoa and Santa, there are plenty of holiday happenings for the whole family to enjoy. So bring up the whole family and take in crisp winter air in the mountains while celebrating the holidays in the High Country.
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Lighting Up
the HIGH COUNTRY
File photo
Holiday lights are a popular attraction in the High Country.
By LUKE BARBER
The High Country’s festive display of Holiday Lights often sits against a backdrop of snowcapped mountains. Each year travelers come from all over to enjoy the winter wonderland the High Country transforms into each holiday season, including its numerous offerings of holiday light displays. The High Country’s premier display of dazzling Holiday lights occurs each year at Chetola Resort as part of its “Festival of Lights.” Access to the display is free and 62 | WINTER TIMES • 2023
open to the public, as travelers and locals alike are welcomed to stroll or drive around the resort grounds to take in the festive atmosphere. The uses about 30,000 lights to illuminate the resort and features displays of glittering ice skaters, “Rudolph” reeling in a big fish, strolling carolers and numerous other captivating holiday scenes. Hot cocoa and food are available at the resort’s restaurant, which is also adorned with festive lights. The “Festival of Lights” opens to the public in late November
and lasts throughout the duration of Blowing Rock WinterFest until Sunday, Jan. 28, 2024. The lights are illuminated each evening at dusk. Chetola Resort is located at 185 Chetola Lake Dr, in Blowing Rock. The property’s front gates are adorned by illuminated nutcrackers. Other light displays can be found throughout the High Country in downtown Boone, Blowing Rock and West Jefferson, as giant snowflakes are adorned on street lights and stores and restaurants light up their windows and
streetside facades. The towns also light up Christmas trees, and nearby private homeowners will decorate their houses as they see fit. Christmas Tree choosing and cutting, shopping, and food and drinks will be available downtown for the entire season. The Blowing Rock area is a perfect destination for the whole family or a romantic getaway. For more information visit blowingrock.com/blowing-rockholidays. CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE
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A magical winter on
Grandfather Mountain Photo courtesy Grandfather Mountain Stewardship Foundation
A look at the landscape transformed to a winter wonderland on Grandfather Mountain. By JAREN GRAGG
“Winter at Grandfather Mountain can be a pretty magical time. It’s a quieter season that allows for those special moments where you feel like you have more of the park to yourself,” said Sarah Lowery, director of communications with Grandfather Mountain Stewardship Foundation. “The colder months bring many clear days, with deep blue skies without the haze of summertime. Walking the Mile High Swinging Bridge will often showcase long-range views and, at times, postcard scenes of trees covered in ice and snow. While trails are closed for safety during icy and snowy 64 | WINTER TIMES • 2023
periods, hiking can still be enjoyed on milder days this time of year and will likely be a more solitary experience.” Locals in the High Country often refer to the wintertime as the “secret season” because many people don’t necessarily experience Grandfather during the winter months. Often, the winter months in the High Country are not thought of as a time to make a trip to the elevated locales besides to ski and snowboard. While the landscape on the mountain may look dramatically different than any other season, visitors to Grandfather CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE
will enjoy many of the attractions that are hallmarks of the attraction. For those willing to trek up to Grandfather, they will have both a unique and memorable experience. Winter is one of the most amazing times to visit Grandfather Mountain. Guests may have the opportunity to see many of the animals playing in the snow. Otters steal the show as they play on their frozen pond and slide around on their bellies and make tunnels in their exhibit. Elk regally stand against the backdrop of snow and cougars frolic in the fluffy flakes that the season brings. Black bears enter into a quasi-hibernation during the wintertime. Black bears do not truly hibernate, but will reach a significant amount of calories as winter approaches and then slowly stop eating and go into their dens and sleep the winter away. On occasions during warmer weather, it is not unusual to see a
Photo courtesy Grandfather Mountain Stewardship Foundation
An otter enjoys the snow while playfully looking at the camera.
sleepy bear wandering the habit searching for something to eat. Since bears that are at Grandfather are fed by the keepers, they simulate winter feeding patterns.
Throughout the winter months the staff maintains the habitats and makes sure that the ponds do not freeze over and heat to the ponds remain functional. Even in the
worst conditions on the mountain, the animals are well taken care of. “Our resident animals, especially the river otters, really reveal their playful personalities after a snowfall. And, for birders, there are roughly 40 to 50 bird species that call the mountain home year-round and can be spotted during winter visits,” said Lowery. “Grandfather’s unique ecology and high-elevation forests mean that guests are able to witness species of birds not found elsewhere in the Southeast. The best place to spot birds in the winter is by the feeders on the deck of the Wilson Center, so you can warm up and take it all in from Mildred’s Grill.” The Wilson Center is a conservation campus that nearly doubles the size of the previous nature museum, and offers all new, state-of-the-art exhibits, interactive CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE
Get away from it all. Get
Folks come to Grandfather Mountain for all sorts of reasons — to get close to nature or simply get away from it all. But after a day on the mountain, and in the new interactive Wilson Center For Nature Discovery, everyone leaves inspired.
g ra n d fa t h e r. co m NEW
Inspired.
GRANDFATHER MOUNTAIN ®
Wonders Never Cease
Wilson Center for Nature Discovery NOW OPEN
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GM_WINTER_TIMES_9.375x4.5_10_30_23.indd 1
Grandfather Mountain | Winter Times print | 1/2 page horizontal | 9.375w x 4.5h | Due 10/30/23 | Get Away Get Inspired
10_30_23 4:48 PM
A breathtaking view of the Mile High Swinging bridge during the winter.
exhibits, and hands-on activities for visitors of any age. The Wilson Center is sure to keep everyone entertained and educated. The center offers interactive educational classrooms and speaker space. The on-site auditorium has been renovated with an additional terrance pavilion to watch speakers and a botanical garden. “For those cold and blustery days on the mountain, the Wilson 66 | WINTER TIMES • 2023
Center for Nature Discovery helps bring the outdoor world inside and is the perfect place to hold up for a bit. It nearly doubles the size of the original museum’s public space, with 10,000 square feet of new education space, including exhibits, three classrooms, an ADA-accessible theater that expands capacity for housing events and programs. Exhibits include a 3D interactive map of the mountain, flora and
Photo courtesy Grandfather Mountain Stewardship Foundation
fauna walls with field guide touch screens, a hands-on demonstration of wind speeds and other exhibits focusing on the mountain’s natural history and geology,” Lowery explained. “Beginning every half hour throughout the day, our new ‘A Mountain of Inspiration’ video loop is filled with history, moments of nature, trivia and the plants and animals of Grandfather Mountain and is shown in the Hodges
Theater.” While taking a look around Wilson Center, stop by the gift shop to find many unique gift ideas for every member of the family for the holidays. The gift shop offers many local arts and crafts, GFM merchandise, as well as fudge that is made on site. There are also adoption and sponsorship CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE
opportunities to help benefit the wildlife that are a part of Grandfather Mountain. For more information on how to adopt visit www.grandfather.com/ suppport/give/adoptan-animal/. Enjoying a Grandfather outdoor adventure For those who are less inclined to mingle with the crowds on the mountain and also don’t mind the cooler weather during the winter months, Grandfather tends to be less crowded and the perfect time to hike the various trails that dot the landscape. Winter hikes on Grandfather can be breathtaking and magical, but guests should make sure to take precautions due to the winter weather than can happen at the mountain. Visitors who want to hike trails during the winter should plan ahead and make a list of trails that are in the park that they would like to hike. Several shorter trails are perfect for a family event like Bridge and Woods Walks trails, since they are lower on the mountain and have picnic areas. Guests should check the weather before arriving at Grandfather. Temperatures
tend to drop around five to ten degrees at the summit of the mountain, and are generally 20 degrees cooler than the foothills, so guests should dress accordingly, such as dressing in layers with moisture-wicking material. When guests begin a hike, it might tend to be cooler until the body warms up from the hike. Wear head coverings and gloves to combat the sometimes extreme wind chills associated with Grandfather. Wearing hiking boots is recommended, and visitors should expect ice and snow-covered trails. Slip-resistant boots are very useful.
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Hikers enjoying a stroll on one of Grandfather Mountain’s numerous trails.
It would also be useful for anyone planning on hiking to tell others of their plans, just in case there is a delay or an accident. Take a fully charged cell phone, as sometimes electric devices are not always reliable. It
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is suggested that only experienced hikers should venture out into the Grandfather backcountry. Guests may encounter more challenging treks with trails that have more ice and snow. Allow for more time to navigate
the more treacherous terrain. Some back country hikes will take the majority of the day, so it is suggested to bring plenty of food/ snacks, along with lots of water. Grandfather Mountain, regardless of the season, is an incredible place to visit. Whether watching the many animals that are a part of Grandfather or visiting Wilson Center and interacting with the state-of-the-art exhibits to taking in the wintery scenery along the many trails upon Grandfather, the mountain is perfect for making mile-high memories.
For an updated schedule of programs click to www. grandfather.com/planyou-visit. Weather permitting, Grandfather Mountain is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m, every day except Thanksgiving and Christmas. In case of severe weather, the park opening is delayed until all roads and paths can be cleared of snow and ice. A phone call to the entrance gate at (828) 733-4337 can confirm the day’s conditions and set the stage for a memorable outing, making sure everything is in peak condition prior to your visit.
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2023 • WINTER TIMES | 71
Mystery Hill
offers opportunity to defy gravity File photo
Gravity defying is one of the biggest attractions for Mystery Hill. By JERRY SNOW
Mystery Hill, which is open most days year-round from 10 a.m. until 6 p.m., offers fun for all ages. More than 70,000 visitors each year go to Mystery Hill and most experience the “gravity vortex.” These gravitational anomalies force your body into a 45-degree angle; water will flow uphill, and balls will roll upward right before your eyes. Mystery Hill is a “gravity-defying, ax-throwing, bull-bucking, rockhounding … kind of good time,” according to mysteryhill.com. But there’s more to Mystery Hill than the feature attraction. A great way to chronicle the event is 72 | WINTER TIMES • 2023
at Professor Finnegan’s Old Time Photo Parlour. Patrons can see thousands of arrowheads at Moon Mullin’s Native American Artifacts Museum. It is one of the world’s largest private collections of Native American artifacts in the world, featuring items from 20 states, with more than 250,000 different pieces. Try the Hall of Mystery, which features a variety of hands-on science activities, including optical illusions, a shadow wall and a flying mirror. The many activities and events CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE
Mystery Hill is located in between Boone and Blowing Rock.
File photo
To find out more about Mystery Hill and to reserve tickets, visit mysteryhill.com.
typically sell out by midday, so online reservations and scheduling is recommended. The 1903 Dougherty House Museum was the home of Appalachian State University’s founder. It was the first home in the region to have electricity. Explore what life in Boone and the High Country was like in the early 1900s. Mystery Hill is located between Boone and Blowing Rock at 129 Mystery Hill Ln. Among the attractions are the Hall of Mystery, Bubblerama, Tomahawk Hill and the Rodeo Rampage Bull Riding Challenge. To find out more about Mystery Hill and to reserve tickets, visit mysteryhill.com. 73 | WINTER TIMES • 2023
Ax throwing is offered at Mystery Hill.
File photo
File photo
Blue Ridge Parkway offers a lot of outdoor opportunities
Blue Ridge Parkway offers a lot of outdoor opportunities.
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File photo
File photo
The Bluffs Restaurant in Doughton Park is a popular spot off of the Parkway.
Scenic views are offered all along the Blue Ridge Parkway By ERIN ISLEY
NORTH CAROLINA— The Blue Ridge Parkway is a staple of northwestern North Carolina attractions. The 469-mile road is the longest road planned as a singular entity in the United States. Meant to be a scenic drive, the Blue Ridge Parkway is one of the best ways to view the beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains in North Carolina’s High Country. The Blue Ridge Parkway is a series of parks that combined create an almost 500-mile elongated park structure stretching from the Great Smoky Mountain National Park in North Carolina to the Shenandoah National Park in Virginia. “It is the product of a series of major public works projects which provided a boost to the travel and tourism industry and helped the Appalachian region climb out the depths of the Great Depression,” according to the Blue Ridge Parkway organization. 75 | WINTER TIMES • 2023
Milepost markers begin in Virginia and stretch down into North Carolina to direct drivers along their way. The Blue Ridge Parkway is home to several special attractions including mountains, waterfalls, lakes, parks, campgrounds and historic places. During the winter months visitors can drive along the parkway and stop at campgrounds or hiking trails to snowshoe or cross country ski while camping or RVing. Mount Mitchell is located in Yancey County just 30 miles north of Asheville, North Carolina. Mount Mitchell was the first in North Carolina’s state parks system. Mount Mitchell is the highest point of elevation east of the Mississippi River at 6,684 feet, according to the North Carolina Division of Parks and Recreation. Visitors to Mount Mitchell can picnic, camp, birdwatch, hike and look out at the views from Mount Mitchell’s observation deck. Some of the trails surrounding the park
connect to the Mountains-to-Sea trail and Pisgah National Forest. The Linville Gorge Wilderness is also accessible from the Blue Ridge Parkway as part of the Pisgah National Forest. Here visitors to the Blue Ridge Parkway can enjoy rock climbing, fishing, hiking, backpacking and hunting. The Linville River runs through the gorge and flows for 2,000 feet downstream. Whitewater Falls is the highest waterfall east of the Rocky Mountains, according to the United States Forest Service. The water from Whitewater Falls drops 411 feet and is a great spot for pictures that capture the majesty of nature. For those visiting Boone and Blowing Rock, the Blue Ridge Parkway is easily accessible through a series of inlets. Price Lake, located at milepost 297, offers visitors to this area of the parkway a chance to camp, fish, boat, kayak, RV, canoe,
paddle board and cross country ski during the winter months. Price Lake is situated in Julian Price Memorial Park, a 4,200 acre area. Price Lake takes up 47 acres of the park and offers park boat rentals for boating and canoe rentals, not articulated with the Blue Ridge Parkway. The Blue Ridge Parkway is also home to overlooks, visitor centers and a select few restaurants. Pisgah Inn is a restaurant along the parkway in Canton, North Carolina open for travelers to access without diverting from the scenic route. The Bluffs Restaurant in Doughton Park is in Allegheny County. The diner has been redesigned to mimic the original look when the diner was first opened in 1949. The Bluffs Restaurant was the first dining establishment that opened directly along the Blue Ridge Parkway.
Snowshoeing a popular activity in High Country By PATRICK MCCORMACK
Are you a hiker looking for a unique seasonal adventure? Snowshoeing may be an activity to consider. Snowshoeing is a practice that dates back thousands of years, but has recently become a popular activity for outdoor enthusiasts who are interested in trying a travel method that can take them off the typical beaten path. There are times in the High Country when snowfall can be heavy, as the area averages approximately 25 inches of snowfall, but some locations reach 3 to 4 times that amount. Nearby Roan Mountain receives the mostly average snowfall of any location in the area, at 100 inches per year on average. Sometimes a single snowfall can bring more than a foot of accumulation, which makes driving difficult, but provides ideal conditions for snowshoeing since the activity requires at least six inches of snow. Over the years, the wooden snowshoes of the past have since been replaced by ones made of plastic or rubberized fabric, usually combined with a metal frame. In general, the same basic principle behind the snowshoe will always apply: have equal distribution of the shoe to the snow, thus distributing the wearers weight more broadly, allowing traversal of snow without 76 | WINTER TIMES • 2023
sinking. For anyone hoping to get into the activity, typical snow shoes can range from less than $100 to approximately $300. Compared to rival sports of cross country skiing and snowboarding, snowshoeing is certainly a cheaper endeavor and many describe it as a more adaptable sport when it comes to various snow conditions. Additionally, the majority of snowshoe enthusiasts also use hiking sticks, also known as trekking poles. These accessories allow the users to help keep themselves balanced while also adding to an upper body workout that can go along with the sport of snowshoeing. These hiking poles can be purchased from approximately $25-$200, depending on where they are purchased and what material they’re made out of. Although not strictly necessary, the trekking sticks are a very useful addition to any snowshoe excursion. The High Country possesses many locations to snowshoe ranging from local parks and greenways, to nearby trails, to ski lodges and resorts. One such location is Sugar Mountain Resort. “Snowshoeing at Sugar Mountain is one of many activities we offer, and it is an alternative outdoor activity that requires little-to-no skill. We cater to the fitness level of the groups. Our one-hour guided tours will walk patrons over easy terrain
Skiers enjoy the snow at Sugar Mountain.
or traverse them around the mountain or climb them to the mountain’s peak,” described Kimberley Jochl, Vice President of Sugar Mountain Resort. Another possible option is to park near gated-off sections of the Blue Ridge Parkway, and traipse along the flat and beautiful historic roadway. When doing so, be sure not to park directly in front of any gate. Access to the parkway — even when gates are closed for the winter — can be found off Highway 221 at milepost 305, on Roseboro Road at milepost 208 and on Old Jonas Ridge Road at milepost 311. Elk Knob State Park is also one of the few state parks in the region that allows both snowshoeing and cross country
Todd Bush Photography via Sugar Mountain Inc.
skiing. Elk Knob makes an effort to keep the park open, even in extreme winter conditions, allowing for unprecedented access during some of the most extreme whiteout conditions. The park is located at 5564 Meat Camp Road in Todd. As for finding pairs of snow shoes and locations to hit the trails, local outfitter Footsloggers is a go-to location. Currently Footsloggers has locations in Boone, Blowing Rock, and West Jefferson.An added bonus all weekend — Santa’s Mailbox accepts letters to Santa at the Banner Elk Chamber of Commerce. Children may write letters at the Chamber during business hours; see www.
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Photo by Lynn Willis
Appalachian State University’s Department of Theatre and Dance offers performances by their students that can be viewed by visitors.
Plenty of theaters to choose from in
High Country
By JERRY SNOW
The performing arts are and have been a staple in the High Country. From musicals, concerts, stage productions to dance recitals, the High Country is a hotbed for the performing arts. Locals and visitors alike have the opportunity to patronize a variety of theaters within a short drive of downtown Boone. Appalachian State Department of Theatre and Dance Appalachian State University’s Department of Theatre and Dance offers performances by their students that can be viewed by visitors. Some shows are studentwritten-and-produced shows. Live performances are integral to their 78 | WINTER TIMES • 2023
learning and a powerful way for the larger community to engage with students. During the 2023-24 season, the department will hold six shows including a performance from the Fall Appalachian Dance Ensemble (FADE), a Short Play Festival, “A Fable for Now” by Wei Yu-Chia, a performance by the Spring Appalachian Dance Ensemble (SADE), “The Hundred Dresses” by Ralph Covert and “As You Like It” by William Shakespeare. Venues located on the University’s campus include the main stage at the Valborg Theatre and the smaller L.G. Greer Studio, providing spaces for big hits as well as more intimate artistic shows.
To learn more about show schedules and tickets, go online to theatreanddance.appstate.edu or call (828) 262-3028.
u Ashe County Little Theatre
Ashe County is home to the Ashe County Little Theatre, which has been showcasing the finest talent from the community. It is an all-volunteer, community-based theatre group located in the Ashe Civic Center in West Jefferson. Many students and residents participate in productions. In August 2022, after a hiatus due to the pandemic, Ashe County Little Theatre returned to the stage with a musical production of “Matilda.” The 2023 season announcement has
yet to be released. Check out their website for upcoming dates and ticket purchases. For more about the ACLT production schedule or to make a donation to the organization, visit www.ashecountylittletheatre.org or call (336) 846-2787.
u Appalachian Theatre of the High Country
The Appalachian Theatre of the High Country was established in 1938 and has become a centerpiece for King Street in Boone. It has been closed, renovated and taken on many roles in the High Country community in its many years of operation. In 2019, the theater was CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE
restored and has since been putting on shows, concerts and moviescreenings. The Dan Tyminksi Band will perform at the Appalachian Theatre on Jan. 13 from 7:30 to 10 p.m.. Grammy Award-winning American country music singer/ songwriter, producer and actress Pam Tillis (daughter of country music legend Mel Tillis) brings a stimulating blend of country, pop and jazz, featuring her distinctive vocals. Throughout his 30-plus year career, Tyminski has left his mark in every corner of modern music. Tyminski’s voice famously accompanies George Clooney’s performance of the Stanley Brothers’ Classic song, “I’m A Man of Constant Sorrow,” in the film, “Oh Brother, Where Art Thou” and his vocal collaboration with Swedish DJ Avicii on the song
The Beanstalk Community Theatre is a volunteer, nonprofit. “At BeanStalk Community Theatre we know the positive effects of participating in the performing arts,” according to the theatre’s website, https://www. beanstalknc.com. For the upcoming production schedule, auditions and more, go to Beanstalk Community Theatre’s Facebook, Instagram and website, www.beanstalknc.com. Beanstalk Community Theatre can also be reached by phone at (828) 312-0263 or by email at info@beanstalknc. com. The Beanstalk Community Theatre is a volunteer, nonprofit.
“Hey, Brother” was a global smash, having been streamed over 1 billion times to date. To learn more about the Appalachian Theatre and its
Fri, Dec. 15 7pm | Sat, Dec. 16 7pm | Sun, Dec. 17 2pm
Musical Variety Show Tickets Adults $24 / Child $12 + Tax
79 | WINTER TIMES • 2023
File photo
upcoming events, visit www. apptheatre.org.
u Beanstalk Community Theatre
u Ensemble Stage Located at the Historic Banner Elk School in Banner Elk, Ensemble Stage brings quality performances with local acting. They returned from their COVIDCONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE
related hiatus in 2021 and have been performing dramas, comedies and kids shows. The Ensemble Stage is “dedicated to culturally enriching the lives of residents and visitors alike by providing a broad range of live theatrical presentations of the highest possible quality at an affordable price,” according to ensemblestage.com. To learn more about the Ensemble Stage and to view its event calendar, visit www. ensemblestage.com or contact the theater by phone at (828) 414-1844 or by email at info@ ensemblestage.com.
For more about the ACLT production schedule or to make a donation to the organization, visit www.ashecountylittletheatre.org.
Located at the Historic Banner Elk School in Banner Elk, Ensemble Stage brings quality performances with local acting. 80 | WINTER TIMES • 2023
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Appalachian Theatre celebrating 85 years in High Country Photo submitted
The stage at App Theatre hosts a wide range of talented acts throughout the year. By JERRY SNOW
The Appalachian Theatre of the High Country celebrated its 85th year in November of 2023. The iconic theater, also known as the “King of King Street,” is the centerpiece of historic King Street in Boone. The Appalachian Theatre is a staple, not just of Watauga County, but the entire High Country. The nonprofit theater was built in 1938, and operated for nearly 70 years until its closure in 81 | WINTER TIMES • 2023
2007. The Appalachian Theatre, which received a $10 million renovation before reopening, is building on its legacy once again; it reopened in late 2019, but closed shortly after due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The App Theatre, located at 559 W King St. in historic downtown Boone, reopened again on March 30, 2022. Suzanne LIvesay has been the Executive Director since August of 2022, and has steadily found
ways to bring new acts to the community. Livesay’s first trip to the High Country was in 1989, when she had a summer job as a “farm animal.” “When I was in college, there was a place called The Farmhouse in Blowing Rock and it was over the gorge,” she said. “They hired college kids every summer from all over the Southeast to come and perform and wait tables, and we were called farm animals.”
In college, Livesay fell in love with the area, but never thought she would one day bring her family here, she said. After she had her daughters, they took a family vacation to Boone, and the High Country quickly became their favorite place to vacation. Livesay said the job is challenging, but she loves it. “We are still in an exploration CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE
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The Appalachian Theatre is located at 559 W King St. in downtown Boone.
mode,” she said. “Our first fiscal year of operation just wrapped up in June of this year. I was at the helm for most of that and it was a real learning experience… We are really experimenting and trying to figure out where we are heading. Bluegrass music, especially names most people know, does beautifully. I hardly have to market it… 82 | WINTER TIMES • 2023
“When we try new things, it’s often hit or miss. It just depends,” she continued. “We are finding our local acts, (and) people love it. They love to see their local acts perform here. Adam Church did very well here. We started a local night last year. … We have a lot of acts up here that want to get on this stage. We want to make that happen for them.”
Livesay was the vice president of education at the Straz Center for the Performing Arts in Tampa, Fla., for around six years before moving up here permanently. “We had always thought we might retire to the area, but we went ahead and put feelers out, and I ended up getting a job teaching at Valle Crucis School,” she said. “That got us moved up to
the High Country. I did that for two years, and then put my name in the hat here this summer.” Patrons who want to learn more about the theater can take one of the historic guided tours, which take place every Wednesday at 1 p.m. through the end of December. Admission for this 45-minute CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE
tour of the facility is free and reservations, which can be made on their website, are recommended. When the theater celebrated its 85th birthday on Nov. 14, App Theatre had balloon animals from Twist the Balloon Man and face painting. The highlight of the night was the showing of the 1939 release of “The Wizard of Oz.” The theatre has hosted dozens of shows in 2023, including “A Carolina Snowbelle Christmas.” On Jan. 13, the Dan Tyminksi Band will perform, starting at 7:30 p.m. Grammy Award-winning
American country music singer/ songwriter, producer and actress Pam Tillis (daughter of country music legend Mel Tillis) brings a stimulating blend of country, pop and jazz, featuring her distinctive vocals. The Boone Docs Film Fest will be held at the App Theatre on Feb. 23-24. The Appalachian Theatre of the High Country The annual film festival “Celebrating Life in Appalachia” is through the lens of documentary filmmaking. Sam Bush will perform on March 3 starting at 7:30 p.m. at the Appalachian Theatre of the High Country. There is only one consensus pick of
The renovations in the theatre included the addition of cushioned-back seats.
83 | WINTER TIMES • 2023
peers and predecessors, of the traditionalists, the rebels, and the next gen devotees, according to apptheatre.com; there is only one Sam Bush. “We’re going to try to create some things that are more of an event as opposed to just a film,” Livesay said. “Stuff like doing a wine tasting before a movie, or even with New Year’s Eve, turning that into more of an event than just seeing a film. It’s exciting that we can have the flexibility to be able to use a little creativity to come up with new ways of experiencing films.” For more information and to purchase tickets, go online to apptheatre.org.
Jerry Snow
Suzanne Livesay has been working as Executive Director for the non-profit Appalachian Theatre of the High Country since August of 2022. She has an extensive background in performance arts.
2023 • WINTER TIMES | 83
Photo courtesy of App State Theatre
Men on Boats is a loosely-interpreted history lesson of an 1869 expedition.
Appalachian State’s Department of Theatre and Dance
celebrating 34th anniversary
By JERRY SNOW
In fall of 2023, Appalachian State’s Department of Theatre and Dance celebrated its 34th anniversary. Over those three-plus decades, the department has grown to have more than 20 full-time faculty, plus additional adjunct instructors and artists in residence. Currently, the department rehearses and performs in three different locations on App State’s campus: Varsity Gym Dance Studios, I.G. Greer Studio Theatre and Valborg Theatre. Men on Boats by Jaclyn Backhaus will be performed Feb. 28, 2024 through March 3 in Varborg Theatre. Men on Boats is a looselyinterpreted history lesson of an 1869 84 | WINTER TIMES • 2023
expedition; a one-armed captain and a crew of insane yet loyal volunteers set out to chart the course of the Colorado River. It is produced by special arrangement with Dramatists Play Service. All evening performances begin promptly at 7 p.m. with matinee curtains at 2 p.m. April 3-7, the Theatre will feature Spring Appalachian Dance Ensemble (SADE) in the Valborg Theatre. Student tickets are $10, faculty/staff tickets are $15 and adult tickets are $17. Appalachian Young People’s Theatre will present Winnie-ThePooh, directed by Gordon Hensley, April 12-14 2024 in the Greer Studio Theatre. All tickets are $5.
Designed for students from kindergarten to third grade, all ages can revisit their inner child as Winnie-The-Pooh, adapted for the stage by Gordon Hensley, weaves its charming narrative. This enchanting journey into the Hundred Acre Wood celebrates the magic of childhood, reminding us why these stories have remained cherished treasures for decades. Carrie The Musical, by Michael Gore, will be held April 24-28 Carrie White is a teenage outcast who longs to fit in. At school, she’s bullied by the popular crowd, and virtually invisible to everyone else. At home, she’s dominated by her loving but cruelly controlling
mother. What none of them know is that Carrie’s just discovered she’s got a special power, and if pushed too far, she’s not afraid to use it. All evening performances begin promptly at 7 p.m. with matinee curtains at 2 p.m. Tickets are sold through the Schaefer Center Box Office, and can be purchased in person, at the venue door one hour ahead of showtime, by calling (828) 262-4046 or online by visiting theschaefercenter.org/tickets/. For more information, including the department’s full 2024 schedule and directions to each of the theaters, visit theatreanddance. appstate.edu/.
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85 | WINTER TIMES • 2023
Carlton Gallery
HIGH COUNTRY
art galleries
Outside the Turchin Center for the Visual Arts is a stair mural titled ‘Transit Candy’ by Jessie Unterhalter and Katey Truhn
Celebrating 42Years Owner/Artist Toni Carlton says
“These original artworks open our hearts and touch our souls to inspire and lift our spirits” 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 86 | WINTER TIMES • 2023
By JERRY SNOW The High Country is a hotspot for artistic talent, much of which is on display at the numerous art galleries throughout the area. Anvil Arts Sculpture Garden and Gallery Hwy. 221 / 9600 Linville Falls Highway, Linville Falls (828) 765-6226 www.studiosculpture.com Anvil Arts Sculpture Garden & Gallery: Art & Nature in a unique arts destination
offering visitors the opportunity to experience sculpture in an outdoor garden area and in the interior gallery. Anvil Arts is also the working studio of sculptor Bill Brown. Explore, experience and collect sculptural works created by artists from the Southeast. Large outdoor sculpture and small scale sculpture in metal, glass, clay and stone, the gallery also features paintings on panel and canvas. Open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday to Saturday and closed on Sundays and Mondays. For other times, call ahead or by appointment. CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE
u The Art Cellar 920 Shawneehaw Lane, Banner Elk (828) 898-5175 www.artcellaronline.com The Art Cellar Gallery is celebrating its 30th season this year as a High Country Arts Destination in beautiful Banner Elk, NC. On display year-round is a wide range of original works from traditional to modern, including paint, pottery glass and more. With three floors and more than 50 artists represented, there is something for every collector and admirer. In the adjoining Frame Shop you can select the perfect frame for your artwork by choosing from thousands of molding samples and taking advantage of museumquality conservation materials. The Art Cellar Gallery is open to visitors Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. u Ashe County Arts Council 303 School Ave., West Jefferson (336) 846-2787 www.ashecountyarts.org Ashe County Arts Council and Arts Center is located in a beautiful stone building constructed by the Works Progress Administration in the 1930s. The Arts Center also boasts a gallery shop that sells the work of more than 100 artists and crafts artisans. The Ashe Arts Center is also the site of concerts, literary events, meetings, and rentals, and is even the polling place for West Jefferson. u BE Artists Gallery The Historic Banner Elk School 185 Azalea Circle, Banner Elk (828) 898-6767 www.beartistsgallery.com Join us to see our latest art, including paintings, photography, graphic arts, pottery, jewelry, metalworks, glassworks, fine furniture, wood carvings and fabric art. Simply stop by the gallery and call (or text) the number on the sign outside — we will promptly let you in. We will be open from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Thursday to Saturday and by appointment. You can schedule a private appointment by emailing art@beartistsgallery.com, or calling (828) 898-6767. Please check our website at BEartistsgallery.com for scheduling updates and upcoming events. u Blowing Rock Art & History Museum 159 Ginny Stevens Lane, 87 | WINTER TIMES • 2023
Blowing Rock (828) 295-9099 www.blowingrockmuseum.org The Blowing Rock Art and History Museum is open from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday to Saturday and on Thursdays from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Visitors can visit the gallery’s website and follow @brmuseum on social media to view a variety of videos, artist interviews, behind-the-scenes sneak peeks, art lessons geared toward youth and more. BRAHM is a hub of artistry and entertainment in the heart of the High Country. The museum seeks to provide cultural enrichment to the High Country communities by promoting the arts and Southern Appalachian heritage and history through educational programs, exhibitions, activities and permanent collections. See a full list of gallery events online at www.blowingrockmuseum.org/ calendar.
Carlton Gallery
u Blowing Rock Frameworks & Gallery 7539 Valley Blvd., Blowing Rock (828) 295-0041 www.blowingrockgalleries.com On Instagram and Facebook: @brframeworks Visit anytime Tuesday to Saturday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and make sure to follow Blowing Rock Frameworks & Gallery on Facebook and Instagram (@brframeworks) to stay up to date with brand new work that is on display. u Blue Ridge ArtSpace 377 Shadowline Drive, Boone (828) 264-1789 www.watauga-arts.org/ The Blue Ridge ArtSpace is the main office for the Watauga Arts Council and is a community space for art-related groups to meet and practice, as well as a space for classes and instruction. For additional information, visit the Blue Ridge ArtSpace/ Watauga County Arts Council’s website at www.watauga-arts.org, subscribe to its newsletter to receive monthly updates and follow their social media at Watauga-Arts on Facebook and Instagram. u Bolick and Traditions Pottery 1155 Main St., Blowing Rock (828) 295-6128 www. bolickandtraditionspottery.com Located in Blowing Rock, the shop CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE
Celebrating 42Years
WINTER GROUP & SMALL WORKS EXHIBITION Continues through April 30, 2024
For information on 2024 Workshops please call 828-963-4288 or visit www.carltongallery.com 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
offers the largest selection of pottery on Main Street. Shop local and handmade. Shop owners Michael and Janet Calhoun of Traditions Pottery offer unique wares such as bacon cookers, microwave egg bowls, and French butter dishes. Michael’s Santa jugs and mugs are always a great gift. Bolick Pottery, Glenn and Lula Owens Bolick, are longtime potters of the High Country and continue to offer a large selection of functional pottery such as baking dishes, pitchers, and serving bowls. Their new snowman candle lanterns are great for the porch, or inside winter décor. Original Owens Pottery of Seagrove, NC is also represented. The Signature Owens Red Glaze is a beautiful color, and they offer candle holders, Rebekah Pitchers, and vases in this much desired glaze. Sue Salvaterra Pottery has large platters, in oval, and rectangular shapes, butter trays, and soup and cracker bowls. McWhirter Pottery offers a great mug selection including sgraffito “Blowing Rock” mugs. Millie Goodnight Pottery has nice mugs and large vases with her artistic flair added to each piece. Daisy Coffey is a great up-and-coming potter so look for her hand-built gnomes, rabbits, and other unique items. The shop offers lots of local and handmade items such as candles, soaps, jewelry, including polymer clay earrings by Marla Decubellis, plus charcuterie boards, and cutting boards. Open daily. Phone orders welcome. u Carlton Gallery 10360 Hwy. 105 S Banner Elk (828) 963-4288 Contemporary paintings by Debbie Arnold, Lori Hill, Mary Kamerer, Trena McNabb, and Vae Hamilton range from a 48 x 48 oil on canvas of Sunflowers to stylized trees, fruits, flowers, and imaginative animals. Kate Worm’s figurative paintings are in watercolor and gouache, while Marion Cloaninger’s figurative style is eye catching and inventive. Lisa Boardwine exhibits abstracts in oil and cold wax in her gorgeous color palette. Figurative paintings by the late Warren Dennis are “Ordinary People doing Ordinary Things” in his humorous signature style. This Autumn Group Exhibition showcases new sculptural clay vessels which are Saggar Fired with Horsehair and Soluble Metal Salts and Horsehair by Scott Stockdale. Molly Lithgo and Jim Rientjes have an eclectic collection of hand-painted vases, bowls, mugs, trays, butter dishes, spoon rests and soap dishes in a myriad of colors. 88 | WINTER TIMES • 2023
Art and photography galleries are among the attractions at the Jones House. The gallery is located 10 miles south of Boone, 7 miles north of Linville or Banner Elk and 8 miles from Blowing Rock on NC 105 in the Grandfather Mountain community. Hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday and 11:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. on Sunday. u Crossnore Fine Arts Gallery 205 Johnson Lane, Crossnore (828) 733-3144 www.crossnore.org/fine-arts-gallery The Crossnore Fine Arts Gallery represents regional painters, sculptors and fine craft persons. A portion of all proceeds benefit the children of Crossnore Communities for Children. Gallery hours are from Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday. u Crown Gallery 1153 Main St., Blowing Rock (828) 818-0008 crowngalleryusa.com Crown Gallery is proud to represent exceptional local, regional and nationally acclaimed artists, each offering a unique style. The gallery has been designed with a relaxed atmosphere to comfortably view the ever-changing collection. Gallery owners, James Selby Rue and Carolyn Crocker-Rue, bring many years of combined experience in the field of art to their roles as curators of original fine art by an exceptional roster of mid-career professional artists. James studied at the Layton School of Art in Milwaukee, The American Academy of Art in Chicago and received an MFA and business degree in Boston. He taught classes and owned a successful advertising and product design agency with offices in Chicago, Boston and Miami for more than 40 years. Carolyn is an oil painter specializing in the landscape. Her work has been consistently represented in national level galleries for the last 20-plus years and has earned a loyal following in North America, Mexico, Great Britain and Australia. Together they
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continue to develop innovative fine art products, such as the RUE Signature Wall Easel, that are used by artists around the world. Gallery hours are 10:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Sunday and from noon to 4 p.m. on Sunday. u Doe Ridge Pottery 585 W. King St. Unit D, Boone (828) 264-1127 www.doeridgepottery.homestead.com The 7th Annual Mug Show will begin the first week in November, an invitational show of potters primarily from the northwestern region of North Carolina, hosted by Doe Ridge Pottery Gallery on West King Street and will run through Dec. 31. This is a great opportunity to see samples of a wide assortment of work from many different potters. Mugs will be for sale at the show and will provide a great opportunity to pick out an affordable unique piece of pottery for yourself or that special someone, a coworker, customer or family member. When you buy handmade, you aren’t buying just a thing, you are buying a piece of someone’s heart, a bit of soul, a private moment from their creative life. It is well known that people love their ceramic mugs, especially those handmade. The value of something made by an artist is hard to describe. Some enjoy the human connection they feel with the artist, others the sustainability of supporting and buying work from local craftsmen. If you have never been to Doe Ridge Pottery Gallery, you are missing something special. This is the only gallery in the High Country that sells exclusively handmade pottery from a collection of artists from our region. Regular potters represent some of the best from Watauga, Avery, Ashe and Surry counties. You will find a wonderful selection of functional ware and display pieces including a beautiful collection of lamps and unique one of a kind hand-carved pieces by Bob Meier. Doe Ridge Pottery supports a working studio on site where most days you will
find folks in the back preparing work to put into our kilns. We hope you will make our Gallery one of your regular stops for purchasing gifts this season as well as adorning your own home with beautifully handmade local work. As a side note, parking in downtown Boone is free on weekdays after 5 p.m. and all day on weekends. Hours are 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Saturday and noon to 5 p.m. on Sunday. u Florence Thomas Art School and Gallery 10 S Jefferson Ave., West Jefferson (336) 846-3827 www.florenceartschool.org Florence Thomas Art School is open from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday to Saturday. In-person workshops in fine arts and heritage crafts are offered throughout the year. Visitors can see monthly art exhibits at the school. Featured exhibits have included works by members of the Open Studio program at Florence Thomas Art School. Open Studio is a membership program for area artists to use the workshop space at the school in downtown West Jefferson. Open Studio is non-instructional and informal with the intention of fostering creativity and connections in an atmosphere of conversation and freedom of expression. The Open Studio Exhibit is dedicated to Gary Poe, who was a wonderful member of the local community and attended Open Studio. Gary will be remembered for many things including being an educator and hosting the Old Time Bluegrass show. At the art school we enjoyed seeing Gary Poe’s drawings. He had excellent draftsmanship and would often come in, grab a book off the shelf, and draw something from a page he found interesting. u Hands Gallery 543 West King St., Boone 828-262-1970 Hands Gallery is open seven days a week from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. We carry only local artists and represent close to 50 different professionals in wide-ranging media. There is a chill in the air, and leaves will fall. Another autumn season has arrived in the High Country. While it may be cold outside, you will always find it warm CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE
and inviting at Hands Gallery at 543 West King St. in downtown Boone. We have the finest selection of art and craft in the area. Everything you are looking for is under one roof. We have painting, pottery, fibers, woodwork and glass on display. Our cooperative gallery features about 50 different local artists, each with a unique vision and creativity. Start your holiday shopping now. We have you covered. See you soon at the store. The long and the short of it is we cover you for the holidays. Please stop in and enjoy our store. u Jones House Gallery 604 W. King St., Boone (828) 268-6280 www.joneshouse.org When open, the Jones House Gallery hours are from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday, and from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday. u King Street Art Collective 585 West King St., Boone (828) 964-7233 www.watauga-arts.org Operated by the Watauga Arts Council, the King Street Art Collective located in downtown Boone is a new gallery and interactive art space that features changing exhibits and activities celebrating the arts. For an upcoming list of events check out the Watauga Arts Council website at www.watauga-arts.org, or following Watauga-Arts on Facebook and Instagram. u Martin House Gallery 1098 Main St, Blowing Rock (336) 508-2828 www.martinhousegallery.com/ Martin House Gallery, located in the historic Martin House on Main Street in Blowing Rock, is showcasing local, regional, and international artists. We are excited to represent our featured artist, Hillary Scott, an academically trained landscape painter from northeast Massachusetts. Hillary has an affinity for marshes, seas, and skies, and she finds endless inspiration in the beautiful New England landscape. Hillary’s compositions are designed to evoke an emotional reaction from the viewer; she considers a visceral response from her audience an important measure of success for a painting. Though she considers herself a realist, the minute details of a place are 89 | WINTER TIMES • 2023
Photo by Patrick McCormack
Some of the paintings from the GIFTED: Collecting the Art of California at Gardena High School, 1919-1956 collection, on display inside the Atwell Gallery at BRAHM through Dec. 2023. secondary to the mood and lighting they capture. Since she began exhibiting her oil paintings, she has been accepted into numerous juried shows and won several awards. Her landscape paintings are in private collections worldwide. Our gallery offers free local delivery and installation as well as after-hours showings. Visit the Martin House Gallery website to see featured artists and available work. Find us on Facebook and Instagram @martinhousegallery. Email us at martinhousegallery@gmail.com. Please call for after-hours showings at (336) 5082828. u RT Morgan Gallery 120 N. Jefferson Ave., West Jefferson (336) 246-3328/(336) 977-8972 www.rtmorganartgallery.com Enjoy fine art in a small town setting. Internationally known artist/co-owner R.T. Morgan is very diverse with his art. On display are stainless steel sculptures and wall hangings for outdoors and interiors ranging from 2 to 12 feet, working and incorporating different materials and styles. R.T. is also an accomplished stone sculptor in alabaster, black alberene and marble. He is known for his colorful paintings of birches and local scenes from abstract to realistic. The gallery also houses a framing business in which Morgan frames all his work and serves the public. This year, R.T. is sharing his talent and knowledge of painting by giving painting lessons, limited to two people. Materials included. Call for an appointment to create your own work of art. R.T. and Camille are celebrating 34 years as professional artists. Commissions are accepted — “if we don’t have it, we can make it.” Hours are noon to 5 p.m. on Thursday, Friday and Saturday. Call for private
viewings anytime. Visit the gallery’s Facebook at www.facebook.com/ rtmorganartgallery. u Sally Nooney Gallery 7143 NC 194, Banner Elk (828) 963-7347 www.sallynooney.com Sally Nooney Gallery has reopened, and it is stocked with a limited supply of colorful, washable masks by tie-dye artist Laurie Hardin. The gallery is full of one-of-a-kind glass, paintings, jewelry and other treasures and Sally continues to create new items every day. Follow her Facebook page for new images and frequent updates. Further inquiries and commissions can be discussed by calling the gallery. Gallery hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday, and from 11 a.m. until 5 p.m. on Sunday. u Studio 140 at Sorrento’s 140 Azalea Circle, Banner Elk (828) 898-5214 www.facebook.com/studio140 Studio 140 at Sorrento’s features large paintings by artist Kent Paulette. As they enter the gallery, visitors will see paintings of animals that once roamed the area such as elk and wolves. They might hear live music coming from the next room which is dedicated to pop art portraits of famous musicians. The upstairs gallery features Paulette’s paintings of dancing female figures and abstract mountain landscapes. The main gallery has a section dedicated to horses. A 6-foot-tall portrait of a horse with thick impasto texture hangs next to paintings of wild horses running free in a Cubist style. In another section, visitors will see local scenes from the Blue Ridge Parkway along with deer and bears. There’s also a gallery space dedicated
to Paulette’s colorful op-art-inspired paintings based on geometric patterns. Paulette is a self-taught artist who uses uninhibited, energetic brushstrokes to create paintings that leap off the canvas, alive with color, texture and movement. His work can be viewed online at www.kentpaulette.com. Paulette also commissions custom pet portraits. The gallery is open from 4 to 10 p.m. Monday through Thursday, from 4 to 11 p.m. Friday and Saturday and from 5 to 10 p.m. on Sunday. u Turchin enter For The Visual Arts 423 W. King St. Boone (828) 262-3017 www.tcva.org The Turchin Center for the Visual Arts, located on King Street in Boone, has six galleries with changing contemporary art exhibitions and is the largest facility of its kind in the region. The Turchin Center is open Tuesday to Thursday & Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Friday from noon to 8 p.m. Admission is free. Upcoming exhibitions include Considering Carbon by Kathleen Thum, which consists of a series of drawings and cut-paper wall installations which explore the theme of fossil fuels, specifically oil and coal. The exhibition features different visual and conceptual approaches to examine the physical, material qualities of coal and oil to heighten an awareness of our disconnection and dependence on fossil fuels. Thum states that oil and coal are an integral part of our contemporary existence, yet remain mysterious, unknown substances, contained and controlled by the industry. The exhibition is on display from Dec. 1 to May 4, 2024. u The Wilkes Art Gallery 913 C Street, North Wilkesboro (336) 667-2841 Wilkesartgallery.org The Wilkes Art Gallery is a nonprofit arts center that believes art enriches individuals and the community alike. WAG offers a variety of youth and adult classes, workshops and outreach projects. Gallery exhibitions rotate throughout the year including two juried exhibits and Youth Art Month. We are happy to host more than 50 local artist and craftsman in our gift shop. The gallery is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Friday, and from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturdays.
Celebrate local art during this winter season By LUKE BARBER
The High Country has much to offer for cold-weather lovers in the winter, like skiing and snowboarding. However, there is also much to enjoy for those looking for a cozier, relaxing activity. The Blowing Rock Art and History Museum and the Turchin Center for Visual Arts in Boone are two free museums that are a great way for those looking to stay indoors to enjoy the winter months. u Blowing Rock Art and History Museum
BRAHM is a museum nestled in the heart of Blowing Rock. With so much to offer the community, a free visit often feels like a steal. 90 | WINTER TIMES • 2023
The museum focuses primarily on American art as well as history of the southern Appalachian region with its three rotating galleries and two to four permanent spaces. The exception to offering art outside of the country is when the pieces have local connection. The museum is offering “GIFTED: Collecting the Art of California at Gardena High School, 1919-1956” from now until Dec. 30, 2023. “Today, the Gardena High School Art Collection is widely acknowledged as one of the nation’s outstanding collections of early 20th century California art, with works by some of the state’s most celebrated artists. Through more than 40 paintings, GIFTED traces the history of Southern California
art in the early 20th century, when plein-air painting and the Arts and Crafts movement were flourishing, and chronicles the school’s ambitious efforts within the wider cultural scene of Los Angeles at that time.” according to the Blowing Rock Art and History Museum. The exhibit features pieces from the 40 years that Gardena High School collected art throughout the early 1900s. The pieces demonstrate the evolution of art history in California. This is the first time this collection has been exhibited on the East Coast. Another current exhibit, showing until May 5, 2024, is the “Lee Hall: Immediate Landscapes.” Lee Hall was a visual artist that is best known for her abstract landscapes
and being a pioneer in the post-war art scene. According to BRAHM’s website, the exhibit asks “What constitutes a landscape?” Moreover, why is landscape as a concept and signifier so persistent across the visual cultures of the past and present?” The BRAHM offers its permanent exhibit on the history of Blowing Rock. BRAHM has an attached garage and is handicap accessible. The Museum is open Tuesday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m and Thursdays 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. For more information visit www. blowingrockmuseum.org. CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE
u Turchin Center for the Visual Arts
The Turchin is located on King St. in Boone. Associated with Appalachian State University, the Turchin Center for the Visual Arts has six rotating exhibits, and offers up to 12 exhibits a year. Many sculptures around Boone and Appalachian’s campus are displayed by the Turchin Center. The Turchin offers interactive PDFs on the website called “connections: Exhibit Guides.” These PDFs are to help guests have a more profound experience at the museum. There is information about the artists, the exhibition, other works created by the artist, and educational art activities related to the work for the participant to do at home. To access this guide, visit tvca. org/learn/for-everyone. This winter’s exhibitions are “Considering Carbon: Kathleen Thum” and “Revelation: Michael O’Neill.” “Considering Carbon: Kathleen Thum” is an exhibit that will be showcased at the Turchin from Dec. 1 until May 4, 2024. “The exhibition, Considering Carbon, consists of a series of drawings and cutpaper wall installations which explore the theme of fossil fuels, specifically oil
91 | WINTER TIMES • 2023
and coal. In the exhibition, I use different visual and conceptual approaches to examine the physical, material qualities of coal and oil, as I aim to heighten an awareness of our disconnection and dependence on fossil fuels. Oil and coal are an integral part of our contemporary existence, yet remain mysterious, unknown substances, contained and controlled by the industry,” according to Thum’s artist statement on Turchin’s website. “Revelation: Michael O’Neill” is artistic photography that changes the lens in which the viewer sees the world. O’Neill’s Magical Realistic style highlights the beauty of and threats to our fragile environment, according to the Turchin. Visit this exhibit until May 4, 2024. Additionally, the museum offers virtual tours of exhibit spaces through the “Turchin Center for the Visual Arts” Youtube channel. For each exhibit, a video walks guests through the gallery. The museum’s Youtube channel has also offered some behind the scene-type videos for patrons. The Turchin Center’s hours are, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Tuesdays through Thursdays and Saturdays and noon to 8 p.m. on Fridays. For more information, visit www.tcva.org/
A sculpture like this can be found around the High Country.
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2023 • WINTER TIMES | 91
The unique art form of
fascinating frescoes Ben Long’s work, “Suffer the Little Children,” is on display at Sloop Chapel on the campus of Crossnore School and Children’s Home campus.
By CHRISTIAN GARDNER
For many years, there has been a particular form of art that has illuminated the local community in both the winter season and year-round, the fascinating Fresco. This kind of art has become an amazing part of the High Country. There are many works such as “The Last Supper,” “The Mystery of Faith” and more with paintings from our area’s artist Ben Long. Long grew up in Statesville which was where 92 | WINTER TIMES • 2023
he became interested in fresco paintings. His grandfather, McKendree Robbins Long, is a well-known artist. Ben Long has spent time overseas on more than one occasion. He has spent time on military duties and for art purposes. In the 1960s and 1970s, Long held an apprenticeship where he completed many Frescoes in Europe. The process of making a Fresco takes a lot of time. It takes lots of concentration and focus as the
artist pressed pigment into wet plaster instead of painting like normal on a white canvas. The art then bonds with the plaster and makes a surface that does not fade over time once it has hardened. Because of this, the painting lasts a lifetime. Since Long started in 1978, he has finished more than 30 Frescoes in the United States. Ashe County is where one of Long’s pieces is housed, in the St. Mary’s Episcopal Church, which is located at 400 Beaver
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Creek School Rd. The piece here is named “The Mystery of Faith” which he completed in 1977. The Holy Trinity Episcopal Church in Glendale Springs is where the piece titled “The Last Supper” is held. Prints of this piece are available to purchase at the church itself or online. Holy Trinity Episcopal Church hosts the annual festival of the Frescoes in the fall which raises money for various outreach CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE
programs. Another piece that Long painted is in Avery County’s Sloop Chapel, located at the Crossnore Communities for Children. The Fresco here is called “Suffer the Little Children.” Long has outreached the High Country and has become a very accomplished artist, with works completed for Bank of America in Charlotte and many others. To view more of his pieces
visit his website at www. Benlongfineart.com. If you would like more information on the Ashe County Frescoes and the foundation, visit http:// www.ashefrescoes.org. St. Mary’s Episcopal Church and Holy Trinity Episcopal Church continue to open their doors to anyone who would like to view and experience the Ben Long Frescoes.
The ‘Mystery of Faith” fresco by Ben Long is featured on the wall of St. Mary’s Episcopal Church in West Jefferson.
“The Last Supper,” painted by North Carolina artist Ben Long is inside the Holy Trinity Episcopal Church. 93 | WINTER TIMES • 2023
Finding that
special gift in the High Country
Ashe County Cheese in downtown West Jefferson has many different cheeses that make great gift ideas. By NATHAN HAM
There are hundreds of shops and stores across the High Country that have plenty of enticing gifts to choose from for whoever you may be shopping for during this winter season. You can start your gift search in downtown Boone along King Street where you can find a little bit of everything. The Appalachian Antique Mall, Footsloggers, Mast General Store, Shoppes at Farmers and Village Jewelers are just a few of the retail places you will find on a stroll through Boone. In Blowing Rock, you can find similar retail shops on Main Street. Blowing Rock Antiques, Funky Tulip, High Country Woodworks, J.W. Tweeds, Monkee’s of Blowing Rock and 94 | WINTER TIMES • 2023
Monkee’s of Blowing Rock has a well-known women’s apparel section.
Twin Creeks all call Blowing Rock home. If you are more interested in larger retail stores, there are plenty of options at the Boone Mall and at Shoppes on the Parkway. Boone Mall features store locations for Bath & Body Works, Belk, Hobby Lobby, HomeGoods, T.J.Maxx and Ulta. At the Shoppes on the Parkway located just as you enter
Blowing Rock, the outlet stores include American Eagle, Chico’s, Sunglass Hut, Vera Bradley, Bananda Republic, Columbia, Gap, Hanesbrands, Rack Room Shoes, Talbots Outlets and The Incredible Toy Company, just to name a few. In downtown West Jefferson, no trip is complete without a visit to Ashe County Cheese to browse their wide variety of
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cheeses and other food items. Bull’s Boots, Footsloggers, MO’s Boots and Mountain Outfitters all call West Jefferson home with stores all just a short walk through town. If you are interested in browsing the area boutiques and clothing stores, drop in and check out Madi’s Clothing & Accessories, Pam’s Unique Boutique, Sisters on CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE
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Main, The Foundry Downtown and Wranglin’ Mae. On your visit to Avery County, visit Avery Knifeworks in Banner Elk, the Carlton Gallery in Banner Elk, Fred’s General Mercantile in Beech Mountain, MO’s Boots in Newland, Mountain Jewelers in Newland, Ski Country Sports in Sugar Mountain, The Dande Lion in Banner Elk and The Gilded Age Antiques in Banner Elk.
Photo by Lily Kincaid
A set of custom made knives at Avery Knifeworks.
Footsloggers has locations in downtown West Jefferson, downtown Blowing Rock and on King Street in downtown Boone. 96 | WINTER TIMES • 2023
Photo submitted
Spas in the High Country By NATHAN HAM
HIGH COUNTRY– In the cold winter months, northwestern North Carolina can see freezing temperatures, ice, snow, wind and storms. It can be the perfect time for sledding, snowboarding, skiing, snow tubing or ice skating. However, in an effort to provide residents and tourists with a warm activity to combat the cold, the High Country offers a plethora of resorts and spas dedicated to relaxation and warmth. WESTGLOW RESORT AND SPA in Blowing Rock, North Carolina is a 42-acre estate housing five properties including a sixbedroom Greek revival mansion and a four-bedroom estate home. Westglow offers indoor swimming pools for when outside temperatures threaten to freeze over the water, whirlpools, a steam room, saunas, cardiovascular centers, a weight room, tennis courts and a relaxation lounge. CHETOLA RESORT in Blowing Rock has a similar style spa on its complex. The spa houses five treatment rooms, a relaxation room with wall fountain, a nail treatment area, hair salon, jacuzzi, sauna, fitness room and their Swan Bar complete with complementary teas and coffees and proseccos available for guests to purchase. Chetola’s massage therapies include the Haven of Rest signature massage, Equoni Rock Hot Stone massage, Mother-to-Be massage, Moon & Sun Couples massage, Healing Touch massage, CranioSacral Therapy massage, and the Chetola Signature Massage and Facial all of which can include a hand and foot scrub, cold stones, hot stones, back scrub, hot oil scalp 97 | WINTER TIMES • 2023
treatment, yoga balm, arnica oil, and/or aromatherapy if added onto the treatment. THE SPA AT ESEEOLA LODGE in Linville, North Carolina offers swedish, integrative, therapeutic, deep tissue and sports massages. Their available massages include the Blue Ridge Hot Stone, Posture Pleaser, Soothe the Sole, Aromatherapy, Active Isolated Stretching, Golfer’s Edge, Two-Hearts Couple’s Massage and Pre-natal massages all with the option to add a scalp refresher with plush turban, dry brush exfoliation, invigorating back scrub, soothing mack stones, customized stones, exfoliation for hands and/or feet, or botanical hand and/or foot indulgence. Spas are not only used for relaxation, often they are required for healing of the body, mind and soul. Spas like the one at the Art of Living Retreat Center in Boone, North Carolina are available for growth and transformation. THE ART OF LIVING RETREAT CENTER uses Shankara Ayurveda Wellness practices to help their visitors. Shankara Ayurveda wellness has four aspects which include what is good for the body, what is not good for the body, what makes us happy and what makes us unhappy. By exploring these concepts, Shankara Ayurveda wellness hopes to help people grow within themselves. The Art of Living Retreat Center offers whole food meals, meditation sessions, yoga classes, workshops, nature trails, bonfires, a fitness room, a steam room, pottery studio and more to those visiting the wellness center. Visitors can access a variety
The 180 Float Spa in Boone, North Carolina features sensory deprivation therapy.
of packages including a couples wellness escape, two solo escapes, girlfriends escape, motherdaughter escape, men’s wellness escape and weekend of creativity escape. WESTHAVEN AESTHETICS AND WELLNESS in West Jefferson also takes a more healthbased approach to spa treatments. Westhaven offers five-element acupuncture treatments, an infrared 3-in-1 mPulse Sunlighten Sauna with customizable or preset program options for visitors to experience, chromotherapy which uses the science of colors to adjust the body’s vibrations to frequencies resulting in harmony and health as well as acoustic resonance therapy which draws healing effects from sounds and vibrations in the room, according to Westhaven Aesthetics and Wellness. Their infrared sauna can focus on heart health, detoxification, pain relief, relaxation, weight loss and anti-aging according to the selected or customized program. For those who want to experience a more traditional spa, Westhaven also offers aesthetic services like
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anti-wrinkle injections, dermal fillers, PRP Microneedling facial, PRP hair restoration, laser hair removal, vascular removal and reduction, hydrafacial, luxury therapeutic facials, the salt facial, ultherapy, IPL photo facial, acne reduction, PRP injections, Lip flip, VI peel, RF microneedling and a weight loss program. The High Country is also home to a family owned FLOAT SPA. The 180 Float Spa in Boone, North Carolina features sensory deprivation therapy. This therapy places visitors in private saltwater pods. Visitors can float in one of Angela and Brad Heavner’s pods for 60 to 90 minutes. The pods are darkened and enclosed to eliminate as much outside stimuli as possible. The pod experiences can be customized with ambient lighting and music if the visitors wish for a less silent space. 180 Float Spa is also home to a deluxe float suite with 7-foot ceilings where visitors who are uncomfortable in small spaces can still experience the effects of floating.
General stores in the High Country
By NATHAN HAM
General stores may not be nearly as popular as they were decades ago, however there are still several successful general stores that call the High Country home. Throughout history, general stores were very popular in rural towns where large retail stores and grocery stores were few and far between. General stores offer a large variety of items that include food, clothes, tools and household items all under one roof. The most popular general store in the High Country is the MAST GENERAL STORE . The store’s original location in Valle Crucis as well as an annex just down the street in Valle Crucis and a store located on King Street in downtown Boone, all have the small-town, general store feel with modern-day goods for sale. Mast General Store was originally founded in the 1850s and was called the Taylor & Moore General Store. After purchasing half of the store in 1897, W.W. Mast put his name on the store and it would eventually be known as Taylor and Mast General Store through 2013. It was then that Mast purchased the remaining half of the store to form the first Mast General Store in Valle Crucis. Since then, Mast General Store has expanded to areas outside 98 | WINTER TIMES • 2023
Watauga County including Asheville, Winston-Salem, Columbia, South Carolina, Greenville, South Carolina, Roanoke, Virginia and Knoxville, Tennessee. In Beech Mountain, FRED’S GENERAL MERCANTILE is one of the most popular stops in the area. Located at an elevation of 5,506 feet, Fred’s CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE
The Vintage Farmhouse General Store is located just outside of downtown West Jefferson.
Fred’s General Mercantile is located on top of Beech Mountain.
Photo courtesy of Fred’s General Mercantile
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The Old Orchard Creek General Store is well worth the trip to Lansing in nearby Ashe County.
General Mercantile is owned and operated by Fred Pfohl. The store first opened in February of 1979 and offers everything from groceries and hardware supplies to clothes and ski gear. Ashe County is currently home to three general stores, one in West Jefferson, one in Lansing and one in Grassy Creek right at the Virginia state line. The Vintage Farmhouse, located in West Jefferson, offers plenty of baked goods, coffee, 99 | WINTER TIMES • 2023
ice cream, home décor items as well as men’s and women’s apparel. THE OLD STORE in Grassy
Creek, originally build in 1900, was remodeled and reopened in the spring of 2022. The store, which sits right near the state lines North Carolina and Virginia, has several home décor items, food, crafts, toys, clothes and even a small venue for local musicians
The Old Store in Grassy Creek first opened over a century ago and was remodeled and reopened in the spring of 2022.
to play. During the summer months, you can pick your own blueberries in June, July and August and in November and December, you are invited to come and choose a pre-cut Christmas tree from the HartT-Tree Farms that is owned and operated by store owners John and Kathy Chefas. THE OLD ORCHARD CREEK GENERAL STORE is located
on Highway 194 in Lansing. The store was refurbished
in 2020 and is stocked full of local jams, honey and other food items. They also offer Hatchet Coffee and desserts from Stick Boy Bakers, two local businesses owned and operated in Boone. The Old Orchard Creek Store is also well-known for its nearby blueberry farm located on Swansie Shepherd Road in Lansing. While the farm is closed for the winter, it is a popular destination in the spring and summer months.
The choose and cut
Christmas tree tradition
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Families wait to ride through the tree fields at Frosty’s Choose & Cut in West Jefferson
By NATHAN HAM
Lots of families share memories of hopping into the family car and driving to a nearby Christmas tree farm to pick out the perfect tree for that Christmas season. Choose and cut Christmas tree farms in the High Country feature locally-grown, Fraser fir trees 100 | WINTER TIMES • 2023
and are quite popular this time of the year. Visitors can wander through the tree fields or even ride on a trailer behind a tractor looking for the tree they want to take home. Christmas tree farms in Ashe, Avery, Alleghany and Watauga counties are four of the top five largest Christmas tree growing
counties in North Carolina. That is why this area is easily one of the most popular choose and cut destinations in the entire country. Frosty’s Choose & Cut farm located on Beaver Creek School Road in West Jefferson is one of the largest choose and cut operations in the High
Country. The farm typically gets so crowded that local law enforcement agencies have officers standing by to help direct traffic off of the small two-lane road that the farm is located on. Located between Deep Gap and Boone just off of U.S. CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE
Highway 421 is Appalachian Christmas Mountain Farms. The farm offers a variety of different tree sizes for people to choose from as well as wreaths, Christmas décor and even a hayride experience to enjoy the beautiful views that the farm has to offer. Local vendors also supply the farm with jams, jellies, honey and other products that people can purchase along with their Christmas tree. Some of the other choose and cut farms in the High Country include Appalachian Evergreens (Blowing Rock), Bear Wallow Choose & Cut (Sugar Grove), Bobby D’s Christmas Trees (Newland), C and J Christmas Trees (Boone), Cartner Christmas Tree Farm (Newland), Christmas
Corner CNC/C&G Nursery (Newland), Circle C Tree Farms (Boone), Clawson’s Choose and Cut (Boone), Cornett Deal Christmas Tree Farm (Vilas), Cranberry Creek Farms (Laurel Springs), Jonas Ridge Tree Farm (Jonas Ridge), Lil’ Grandfather Choose and Cut (Laurel Springs), Mistletoe Meadows Christmas Trees (Laurel Springs), Panoramic View Christmas Tree Farm (Boone), Peak Farms (Jefferson), Reece Farm & Nursery (Elk Park), Snowy Mountain Christmas Tree Farm (Newland), Stone Mountain Farms (Trade, Tennessee), Sugar Plum Farm (Newland), Two D’s Nursery (Newland) Wintergreen Farm (Mountain City, Tennessee) and Wishon Evergreens (Sparta).
Indoor & Outdoor Sluices Open Rain or Shine! Photo courtesy of Appalachian Christmas Mountain Farms
Santa Claus was there to greet people at Appalachian Christmas Mountain Farms. 101 | WINTER TIMES • 2023
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Stay warm at a
High Country Brewery
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sourced materials and recycles as much as they can, priding themselves on sustaining the land that provides so much for their products. For more information, you can go online to their website, www. blowingrockbrewing.com, or call (828) 414-9600. Blowing Rock Brewery is located at 152 Sunset Drive Blowing Rock, NC 28605
By NATHAN HAM
Winter is a top-flight season for beer, with many new brews coming out every year using spices and flavors that increase in popularity as the temperature decreases. The High Country is home to numerous breweries providing refreshment and camaraderie to the multitudes enjoying the crisp winter weather. If you asked 10 High Country residents, “Where’s the best place to grab a drink?” they may give you 10 different answers. In recent years, the area has become the home to a blossoming brew scene with a variety of unique options. u Appalachian Mountain Brewery More commonly known as AMB, Appalachian Mountain Brewery is the home of more than 100 beers and ciders. Since opening in 2013, AMB quickly became known as the first brewery in Boone and a popular spot among the town’s college crowd, visitors and locals alike. Their numerous beverage options include the famous Boone Creek Blonde, Porter and the Spoaty-Oaty as flagship year-round brews. They also have some seasonal beers on tap such as the C.R.E.A.M. coffee and doughnut-infused milk stout, which is a collaboration with fellow Boone staple Local Lion. If you’re more of a cider person, their Mystic Dragon Cider is an apple-based cider infused with green tea, rhubarb and strawberries. AMB also has events every 103 | WINTER TIMES • 2023
The hub of Appalachian Mountain Brewery is located at 163 Boone Creek Drive in Boone.
week including open mic nights, fundraisers and charitable endeavors. For more information, you can go to their website, www.amb. beer, or call (828) 263-1111. AMB is located at 163 Boone Creek Drive.
Breakfast Stout, which is brewed with specialty malts, housetoasted oats and natural cocoa powder. Maple syrup is added during fermentation with a touch of locally roasted coffee. This brew is among the brewery’s most decadent and complex seasonal offerings, exhibiting u Blowing Rock nuances of mocha, toasted nut Brewing and spice. After Other more than offerings on a decade in tap include the business, the Cloud Blowing Rock Rise IPA, Brewing has with notes stuck to its of crushed core values pineapple of capturing and orange the finest zest, and qualities of the autumn the High exclusive Mel Country and Electrum sustainability. Honey Amber Ale. One of the brewery’s Blowing Appalachian Mountain Brewery’s Hop Rain Drop Rock Brewing wintertime won a silver medal at the Great American Beer staples is the Festival and contributed funds to the Watauga uses only Grandfather’s Riverkeeper. locally
u Boondocks Brewing Boondocks is a constant presence in the West Jefferson and Ashe County communities, and their beers reflect that. The brewery has released beers like the Blue Ridge Brutal Brown, which celebrates the endurance of the annual Blue Ridge Brutal Bike Race, and the West Jefferson Centennial Ale, which was first brewed for the celebration of West Jefferson’s 100th Anniversary. When they aren’t celebrating their home, Boondocks is putting out brews like the New River Red IPA and the Strawberry-Blonde Mint Saison. Boondocks is home to both the Brew Haus and a restaurant section, so those who just want to drink and grab a bite are covered. In the Brew Haus, visitors can see the tanks used to brew their new favorite beers, each named after some of founder Gary Brown’s favorite guitarists. For more information, you can go to their website, www. boondocksbeer.com, call (336) 246-5222 or stop by either location on North Jefferson CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE
purple raspberries, grown in Ashe County, NC. Molley Chomper takes a lot of pride in using fruits, berries and other ingredients that they get from local farmers in Ashe and the surrounding counties, saying that they want to know who’s growing their product. For more information, you can go online to their website, www. molleychomper.com, or call (336) 488-0809.
Avenue in West Jefferson. u Booneshine Brewing Company Founded in 2015 by two friends with a love for beer, Booneshine is known for limited runs and beers that get the job done. Booneshine specializes in unique and fun brews, such as the Hatchet Coffee Porter, a collaboration with the Hatchet Coffee company in Boone, the Trail Mojo is a double IPA that honors the spirit of local hikers and outdoor enthusiasts, and the High Country Honey, which is infused with sourwood honey. The brewery opened a new location in 2019, doubling as a restaurant serving delicious food to pair with delicious beer. Since its opening, the new spot has hosted events, live music and people looking for a good time while becoming a staple of the Boone beer scene. For more information, you can go to their website, booneshine. beer, call (828) 278-8006 or stop by 465 Industrial Park Drive in Boone. u Kettell Beerworks The Banner Elk brewer features three tiers of alcohol by volume and a few seasonal beers. The variety allows for new drinkers to find their niche, or challenge themselves to go higher. Their Vonderbier is a contemporary Munich-style lager with a color resembling a Fall leaf, the Speak Easy carries a whopping 10 percent ABV along with its bourbon barrel-aged Baltic porter flavors and their Copper Elk is an American amber with slight hints of chocolate and 104 | WINTER TIMES • 2023
Kayleigh Wheeling-Dunn pours a tap beer at Flat Top Mountain Brewery.
caramel. Sit down at their location for a good time filled with food, friends and beer. For more information, you can go online to their website, www. kettellbeerworks.com, call (828) 898-8677 or head over to 567 Main Street East in Banner Elk. u Lost Province As Downtown Boone’s microbrewery, the names of some of Lost Province’s beers will make you want to get lost in their menu. Kiss My Grits is a “Southernstyle” lager brewed with yellow corn grits, Hipster Juice is a refreshing New England-style IPA and Bless Your Heart is an enticing blonde ale. You can also grab a bite to pair with your beer, with wood-fired pizzas, meat and cheese boards and classic pub fare lining the menu. Lost Province takes buying from local farmers very seriously, so you might end up sitting next to the person who grew your
dinner. In 2021, the brewery opened a second location on the other side of Boone, just off U.S. 421. The satellite operation does not have a kitchen, instead hosting a massive brewing operation to allow Lost Province to spread its beer far and wide. For more information, you can go online to their website, lostprovince.com, or call (828) 265-3506. u Molley Chomper Molley Chomper is based out of Lansing in Ashe County, and has a passion for making delicious ciders that people will love and show off the fruit and farmers of the southern Appalachia region. Some of their ciders include Old Orchard Creek, which is a bubbly fruit wine that features the blueberries of Old Orchard Creek farm, in Lansing, NC. , the Mountain Maelstrom, which uses fruit grown in Ashe and Watauga counties, and Carpenter Hill, which is made with organic
u New River Brewing Founded by the father-and-son team of Greg and Adam Hershner in Lansing, the brewery quickly became a staple in restaurants and stores in the area. Now in West Jefferson, the brewery has expanded to a entire restaurant, with food to complement their beer. New River Brewing has more than 25 signature beers, including the Tipsy Kilt, with flavors of toffee, vanilla and dark fruit which spent more than 200 days in a bourbon barrel for maximum flavor, in addition to the Take Me to the River lager, Bald Mountain Brown Ale and the Kentucky Common Historical Beer, among many other unique pours and flavors. Outside of their own building, New River’s brews can be found in establishments throughout the High Country such as The Rock and Macado’s in Boone, and Carolina Country Wines and Craft Beers in West Jefferson. For more information, you can go to their website, newriverbrewing.beer, or call (336) 846-2739.
Winter markets
across the High Country
File photos
Greene’s Trading Post in Lenoir, North Carolina is just outside of Blowing Rock. By ERIN ISLEY
HIGH COUNTRY—The holidays are a time when families gather together in thanks and gratitude to exchange gifts with one another. Many visitors to the High Country do their holiday shopping while up in the mountains. For some, the holiday season can also be a time to support local businesses, artisans and craft makers. Holiday markets in the High Country are an occasion when multiple local businesses are brought together, making it easy for holiday shoppers to 105 | WINTER TIMES • 2023
purchase one-of-a-kind gifts. Those who travel to Boone this holiday season can enjoy Boone’s Winter Farmers Market. The market is open every Saturday from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. from December through March. Visitors can find the market at 252 Poplar Grove Rd. in downtown Boone. Greene’s Trading Post in Lenoir, North Carolina is just outside of Blowing Rock. This small business is open Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Photo by Luke Barber
A crowd explores the available offerings at the King Street Winter Farmers’ Market on Saturday, Dec. 2.
Greene’s Trading Post has seasonal specialities like apples and cider in the fall and early December. They also sell
apple butter, sourdough bread, handmade goods, wood works, fried peanuts, moccasins and more.
High Country wines
A way to escape from the winter’s cold
Photo by Anchor and Veil Photography
Grandfather Vineyard and Winery offers a variety of wine.
By MOSS BRENNAN
Winter is beloved for the beautiful snowy landscapes and cold weather that encourages fashionable jackets. With the cold weather, the season is also perfect for sitting at home by the fire with light music on and a glass of wine in hand. The big decision is what wine will be in that glass. The High Country features numerous local wineries that can find the 106 | WINTER TIMES • 2023
perfect drink for those relaxing nights. u Old Barn Winery Opening up in the summer of 2022, Old Barn Winery has made its mark on Ashe County. The Sexton Family, owners of Frosty’s Choose and Cut, opened the winery on the Christmas tree grounds and have since been providing some of the High Country’s tastiest wine to
both locals and tourists. With choices ranging from Pinot Grigio, Sauvignon Blanc, sweet Rosé to the classic reds and whites, the winery can satisfy any of your needs. In addition to the wine, the Old Barn Winery also offers live music every weekend. Old Barn Winery is located at 2152 Beaver Creek School Road, West Jefferson, North Carolina 28694. For more information,
visit their website at www. oldbarnwinery.com or call (336) 246-8494. u Banner Elk Winery and Villa Banner Elk Winery and Villa was the first winery in Avery County after opening in 2005, and since then, it has made its mark as one of the premiere wineries in the High Country. CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE
It has won many awards, including a gold, silver and two bronze medals for its products at the 2016 North Carolina State Fair. Known as “the jewel of the High Country,” Banner Elk Winery and Villa offers an array of wines such as reds, whites, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Blueberry Wine and more. Aside from the wine, Banner Elk Winery and Villa features numerous suites for guests to stay in and is a destination wedding location. For more information on Banner Elk Winery and Villa,
visit www.bannerelkwinery. com. u Grandfather Vineyard and Winery Starting as a hobby-sized vineyard, Grandfather Vineyard and Winery in Banner Elk grew into a business and opened its doors in 2011. Talk about a scenic view: the Watauga River flows right down the middle of the property. Grandfather Vineyard and Winery offers shipping of its products to approximately 34 states. Products range from hard cider to bottles of Petite Sirah and Cabernet Sauvignon
Some of the wines that are offered at Banner Elk Winery and Villa.
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and everything in between. In the 2023 NC Wine Competition, area winery Grandfather Vineyard & Winery brought home five medal awards, including three gold medals and two silver medals The winery’s tasting room allows guests to choose from multiple tasting experiences that will give any wine lover their choice of tasting. Reservations are not needed for the tasting room, and the area is pet-friendly. For a group of eight or more visitors, it’s requested that they call 48 hours in advance.
For more information on Grandfather Vineyard and Winery, visit www. grandfathervineyard.com. u Linville Falls Winery Located at an elevation of 3,200 feet, Linville Falls Winery offers a space for weddings, private events, classes and reservations. After opening in 2012, the winery has become a hot spot for locals and tourists. Guests can get a tasting experience that is both childand pet-friendly. For those CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE
Photo courtesy Banner Elk Winery and Villa
2023 • WINTER TIMES | 107
of age, chosen wines can be tasted in one-ounce pours with requests for a glass or a bottle. Guests can pair that with live music on Saturday and Sunday afternoons. This winery grows several types of grapes for its wine, such as Riesling, Seyval Blanc, Noiret, Marquette, Petit Verdot, and Foch, so there’s something for everyone. The farm also grows blueberries, blackberries, raspberries, heirloom apples, pumpkins and Christmas trees. For more information on Linville Falls Winery, visit www. linvillefallswinery.com. u Thistle Meadow Winery Thistle Meadow Winery is the preferred winery of Alleghany County. Thistle Meadow offers 30- to 45-minute winery tours and wine tastings, with each guest able to taste up to five wines. There are 60 different wines to choose from; selections can be found in dry red, dry white, blush/sweet and cooking wines. Wine examples include the Bourgeron, with an easydrinking taste with fresh berry flavors like the Feather Bed White, which has hints of green apple, melon and citrus, and Double Black, with a taste of sweet black cherries and Pinot Noir. The winery was recently ranked third among North Carolina wineries by the South Eastern Winery Review and scored a perfect “10” in friendliness. Thistle Meadow can create 108 | WINTER TIMES • 2023
The Old Barn Winery is located at 2152 Beaver Creek School Road in West Jefferson.
custom wines and blends as well as private-label products. For more information on Thistle Meadow Winery, visit www.thistlemeadowwinery. com. u MenaRick Vineyard & Winery MenaRick Vineyard & Winery is a family-owned vineyard in Wilkes County that specializes in Spanish and Portuguese varieties. The winery chooses not to filter its products, believing that it helps keep the authenticity of the wine’s aroma and flavor intact. MenaRick is currently
offering 10 wines for guests to enjoy in its tasting room, including the blackberry and peach wines, a Portuguese-style Vinho Branco wine and a light red Grenache wine. Bottles of wine can also be purchased for $21 to $27, depending on the wine. For more information on MenaRick Vineyard and Winery, visit www.menarick. com. u Roaring River Vineyards Another winery located in Wilkes County is Roaring River Vineyards, which officially opened in 2016.
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Roaring Rivers offers a selection of six wines, such as its crisp Chardonnay, a French-American hybrid of its Chambourcin wine and the Traminette wine with grapefruit and citrus flavors. Wine lovers can enjoy wine tastings of up to six different wines for $10, a glass of wine for $8 or a bottle of wine for $24. Reservations are required for groups of eight or more. Roaring River Vineyards also offer restaurant and lodging options. For more information on Roaring River Vineyards, call (336) 957-2332.
Bee Farm buzzing with holiday festivities By LUKE BARBER
Hidden Happiness Bee Farm is buzzing with holiday festivities this season, as the farm and gift shop, located at 1060 Chestnut Mountain Road in Deep Gap, opens its Beeville Seasonal Christmas Shop. As part of its seasonal festivities, Hidden Happiness Bee Farm will host its Christmas in the Gap event on Saturday, Dec. 9 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and will feature Santa, a coffee bar, art and gifts for the holidays. The farm store will be lined with barrels of assorted candies, seasonal File photo ornaments and gift Decorative honey bottles for sale at Hidden Happiness baskets. The farm’s prized Farm. item, its non-pasteurized display and a live beehive. The honey, will be available as beehive is enclosed with glass for well. consumers to see the live process Store owner H.S. Greene said of honey making. the reason raw, unpasteurized Hidden Happiness Bee honey has the most health Farm is the primary provider benefits is because pasteurized of woodware, hive health honey is heated, which kills the supplements and honey natural pollens that help relieve extraction equipment and allergies. supplies for the High Country, The store offers a place to serving Wilkes, Ashe, Watauga stock up on holiday gifts as well and surrounding counties. as beekeeping supplies. Locally In addition, the farm offers made chocolates, lotions, soaps, ongoing training and support for pottery and hand-turned wood beekeepers at all levels. carvings are available year round as well. Hidden Happiness Bee Farm resides right off of US 421, Christmas in Beeville features an illuminated miniature town midway between Wilkesboro and 109 | WINTER TIMES • 2023
Old-fashioned candy is available at Hidden Happiness Bee Farm
Boone. The Deep Gap location is conveniently located to act as a visitors center and to greet travelers as they head to West Jefferson, Boone or Blowing Rock. Coffee and honey samples are complimentary, and drinks and snacks are also available in the store. Store hours are from 8
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a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday and closed on Sundays. Buses and SUVs are welcome, as there is plenty of space to park and maneuver. For more information, www. hiddenhappinessbeefarm.com or call (336) 973-5412.
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Avery County’s choose-and-cut lots, such as Christmas Corner located in Pineola, offer an authentic Christmas tree shopping experience.
Taking care of your
Christmas tree this holiday season
By JAMIE SHELL
Christmas trees are an iconic symbol of the holiday season. Whether they are personal trees nestled in the corner of a living room for families to enjoy, or towering evergreens serving as the focal point of a town square, Christmas trees are a wonder to behold. The sight of an illuminated and decorated Christmas tree evokes fond memories of times spent around the tree sharing gifts and family traditions. Live trees and their pine-like aroma can be especially nostalgic 110 | WINTER TIMES • 2023
trees to include in holiday plans. The National Christmas Tree Association says that approximately 25 to 30 million real Christmas trees are sold annually in the United States. North American trees hail from all 50 states, as well as regions of Canada. While freshly cut trees can be particularly beautiful and aromatic additions to the season, they require a bit more work than an artificial tree in order to remain beautiful and thrive throughout the holidays. Maintenance can help keep
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The best way to purchase a long-lasting tree is to find a fresh evergreen off the farm to take home and decorate for the holiday season, but safety is paramount to keeping a tree safe at home.
Christmas trees as healthy and perfect as possible, and the following tips are offered when it comes to caring for your special greenery. • Even though it is tempting to buy a real tree as early as possible, a tree’s shelf life is limited, even with the best care. Under the most ideal conditions, a real tree
•
should last up to four weeks before dying out. Consider the needles when out in the field or retail shop looking to purchase a real tree. Pull your hand toward your body along the branches. If many needles fall off, the tree is past its
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When purchasing a tree, its health is important in preserving its longevity. Be sure to check needles and keep the tree moist for maximum lifespan when celebrating the holiday. 111 | WINTER TIMES • 2023
peak. Think about the room in which the tree will be located. Leave at least six inches between the tip of the tree and the ceiling, accounting for the height of the tree stand as well. If possible, buy a freshly cut tree from a reputable nursery or tree farm, advises The Old Farmer’s Almanac. Many pre-cut trees sold elsewhere were likely cut weeks before and may not be fresh. Cut the bottom of the tree trunk before bringing it home to facilitate the uptake of fresh water daily. Trees can absorb as much as a gallon of water in a day, so make sure the tree gets fresh water every day. Keep trees away from as many heat sources as possible, as well as away from direct sunlight, to prolong longevity. To make a Christmas tree last longer, boil a gallon of water and then dissolve one cup of sugar in the water. Allow to cool. After freshly cutting the trunk, pour in the warm sugar water. Continue to add fresh, cool, plain water to the tree stand afterward. Once needles begin to fall off the tree with frequency, the tree is passing its prime. Remove it so it does not become a fire hazard inside the home.
Banner Elk Small-Town Christmas’ welcomes holiday season By JAMIE SHELL
Soak up a season of holiday cheer with “A Small Town Christmas in Banner Elk” the first full weekend in December. Escape the rush and enjoy an authentic small town holiday Dec. 1-3, 2023, in downtown Banner Elk.. Festivities start Friday and run through Sunday. Most events take place within walking distance in the downtown area of Banner Elk, and the 2023 schedule is chock full of activities. For out-oftown visitors, weekend lodging packages are available that include a choose & cut Christmas tree from Elk River Evergreens. Get in the mood for the weekend on Friday evening with caroling, hot chocolate and the lighting of the official town tree in the Corner On Main Park at 6:30 p.m. After the tree lighting, Ensemble Stage presents “A Banner Elk Christmas 5” at 7 p.m., just a short walk away at the Historic Banner Elk School. The holiday musical variety show is one of the most popular shows each year by the local professional theater group. Saturday’s schedule starts early with the 5K Reindeer Run at 9 a.m. beginning in Tate-Evans Park. Less strenuous activities that morning include Breakfast with Santa from 8:30 to 10:30 a.m. at Banner Elk Presbyterian Church, and story time with Santa 112 | WINTER TIMES • 2023
(and fire truck tour) at 10:30 a.m. at the Banner Elk Fire and Rescue Station. During the afternoon Saturday, events include “Christmas at Apple Hill Alpaca Farm” (tickets required), a Christmas market and kids crafts activities in the Cultural Arts Center at Historic Banner Elk School, and a 3 p.m. Community Carol Sing at Banner Elk Presbyterian Church. More Saturday afternoon events are listed with this story, and on the Banner Elk Chamber’s A Small Town Christmas webpage. Saturday’s festivities continue with a 6 p.m. Christmas Parade on Main Street leading back to TateEvans Park for a synchronized Christmas light snow, train rides through luminary lights, visits with Santa and Mrs. Claus, a DJ with karaoke, hot chocolate and more. Visitors can put a bow on their holiday experience Sunday with a visit to one of many Christmas tree farms in the area, or they can opt for a 2 p.m. performance of “A Banner Elk Christmas 5” at Historic Banner Elk School. “The whole town gets involved with ‘A Small Town Christmas,’” says Nancy Owen, Banner Elk’s tourism director. “We love seeing families and couples get away from the hustle and bustle to enjoy a simpler celebration in a small town. And what better way to end the weekend than visiting a tree farm and driving home with
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Santa and Mrs. Claus are always a hit with the kiddos each year during Banner Elk’s Small Town Christmas, held this year from Friday to Sunday, Dec. 1 to 3.
a hand-picked tree on top of the car?” Also available all three days are Christmas-themed walking tours of Apple Hill Alpaca Farm. Tours take place between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. each day. Cost is $19 for adults, $17 for seniors and military, $14 for children ages 4-10
and $3 for children 3 and under. An added bonus all weekend — Santa’s Mailbox accepts letters to Santa at the Banner Elk Chamber of Commerce. Children may write letters at the Chamber during business hours; see www. CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE
An illuminated train for rides is decked out for the Christmas season in Banner Elk during “Small Town Christmas”.
Photo courtesy Banner Elk Chamber of Commerce
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An illuminated “Merry Christmas” sign invites visitors as part of Banner Elk’s “Small-Town Christmas”.
bannerelk.org for hours. Great lodging options available Because it is a resort town, Banner Elk has many accommodations that allow families and couples to find the ideal lodging option for this special weekend. Seek out your perfect accommodations by clicking to www.bannerelk. 113 | WINTER TIMES • 2023
com/types/lodging/, or check our special Choose & Cut Christmas tree lodging packages by visiting www.bannerelk.com/postings/ banner-elk-choose-cut-packages/. For a promotional video with more information on the weekend, visit https://youtu.be/ rqSvXiBigBI and click to www. bannerelk.com.
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Your complete guide to everything tourism in the High Country
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Get geared up for
winter activities By CHRISTIAN GARDNER
It’s finally time to get bundled up and ready to start hitting the ski slopes. Winter tourism in this region is a vital key to the economic survival of many restaurants and stores due to many folks traveling to Appalachian Ski Mtn, Beech Mountain Resort, Sugar Mountain Resort and Hawksnest, among other favorite winter destinations. Visitors and residents alike get to enjoy skiing, snowboarding, snow tubing, and can even partake in some ice skating activities. To get geared up in Avery County, those seeking winter thrills can visit Ski Country Sports, located at 3149 Tynecastle Hwy. in Banner Elk, as a go-to spot for all of one’s equipment and clothing needs. In addition to ski and snowboard equipment to buy and rent, Ski Country Sports has a great variety of boots, jackets, pants, headwear, bibs and goggles. Alpine Ski Shop at Appalachian Ski Mtn. in Blowing Rock has everything you’ll need for the latest and greatest equipment available. Everything from skis and snowboards to helmets, gloves, bindings, boots and goggles, having the right gear necessary to stay warm and dry is essential to enjoying your stay. The ski shop has all the outerwear options needed from some of the top brands in the industry, including Spyder, Volcom, Burton, and Oakley. Recess Skate and Snow on Hwy. 105 115 | WINTER TIMES • 2023
in Boone is an independently owned shop started in 2009 by JP and Ashley Pardy. Recess strives to meet all of its customers’ needs with the best products available on the market. Recess offers all the equipment needed on the slopes as well as clothing, outerwear and accessories needed while you are out there battling the elements taking on the mountain.
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Numerous shops across the High Country offer top-quality gear for your snow sports adventures, from googles to boots to skis and snowboards.
Another option for gear and equipment is 1st Tracks Ski & Snowboard Shop, located on Hwy. 105 in Boone. The shop has been open for business for more than three decades in the High Country and has everything you need for a comfortable day on the ski slopes. Don’t hesitate, go out there, get what you need and be prepared to have a blast. CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE
2023 • WINTER TIMES | 115
1st Tracks Ski and Snowboard Shop is Boone is one of several locations across the High Country to purchase the latest and greatest in snow sports essentials.
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NORTH CAROLINA
scenic byways
in the High Country
The Linn Cove Viaduct carries the Blue Ridge Parkway gently across the slopes of Grandfather Mountain, allowing visitors to witness the beauty of the changing colors of fall up close. By JAMIE SHELL
Christmas trees are an iconic symbol of the holiday season. trees nestled in the corner of a living room for families to enjoy, or towering evergreens 117 | WINTER TIMES • 2023
serving as the focal point of a town square, Christmas trees are a wonder to behold. The state of North Carolina is home to 62 scenic byways, stretches of highway that
accentuate the natural beauty and wonder that makes the Tar Heel State so unique and breathtaking to see. The byways allow motorists to experience a bit of the state’s
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history, geography and scenery while also raising awareness for the protection and preservation of these treasures. CONTINUED ON PAGE 1 2 0
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An example of the rolling hills along
New River Valley Scenic Byway in Ashe County the
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The byway routes are carefully selected by the N.C. Department of Transportation as safe and interesting alternatives to the faster pace and commercial areas found along major highways and interstates. Travelers get to know North Carolina’s people and communities and see the diverse beauty the Tar Heel state has to offer – from the high peaks of the Appalachian Mountains to the fertile hills of the Piedmont to the marshes, sounds and beaches of the Coast Plain. In the High Country, several byways offer peak viewing opportunities, whether it is the greenery and lush vegetation and historic sites during the summer months, or even a return trip in the fall to see the kaleidoscope of autumn colors and leaves on a leisurely drive in the backcountry. The byways in some cases traverse through major thoroughfares of rural communities, while others take travelers through roads less traveled. Following the byways, motorists will see some of North Carolina’s most breathtaking scenery, from the Blue Ridge Mountains to the fertile plains of the Piedmont to the crystal blue shores of the coast. The routes are clearly marked with N.C. Scenic Byways signs, and motorists are encouraged to follow maps and route descriptions carefully. NC Department of Transportation notes that portions of some routes are not suitable for various types 121 | WINTER TIMES • 2023
of vehicles, and also states that a few routes may be briefly interrupted by commercial or municipal areas. In such cases, the scenic byway may temporarily end, but directions are available to help drivers resume the route. N.C. Scenic Byways vary in length from 1.5 to 170 miles and in character from curvy mountain roads to ferry rides across coastal sounds. If following the byways in reverse order from the descriptions given, please keep in mind that the directions will be used in reverse order as well. The following are a number of NC Scenic Byways that traverse through the High Country of Avery, Ashe and Watauga counties. Blue Ridge ParkwayThe Blue Ridge Parkway is often referred to as the original “scenic byway.” The parkway’s 252 miles in North Carolina are recognized as an “All American Road” by the Federal Highway Administration. The route provides spectacular mountain and valley vistas, quiet pastoral scenes, sparkling waterfalls, and colorful flower and foliage displays. Construction began in 1935 under President Franklin D. Roosevelt’s New Deal program. During President Ronald Reagan’s administration, the last mile was completed around Grandfather Mountain. An effort of 52 years, nine presidents, and $130 million resulted in the 469 miles that connect the Shenandoah CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE
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National Park in Virginia to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park in North Carolina. Mission CrossingMission Crossing byway guides motorists through Avery and Watauga counties along NC 194 through North Carolina’s ski country and along the northern range of the Roan Mountains in Pisgah National Forest before descending into the Watauga River Valley, the name of which is derived from the Native American word for “beautiful water,” and ending in the community of Vilas. Before leaving the valley, be sure to visit the Mast Farm Inn and Mast General Store, an authentic general store that opened in 1882. The farm, established in 1812, is one of
the best preserved 19th-century farms in Western North Carolina and is listed in the National Register of Historic Places. After leaving Valle Crucis, notice the unusual barn on the right while climbing out of the valley. The Baird Barn, built in the late 19th to early 20th century, is an excellent example of a transverse crib barn. Little ParkwayLittle Parkway byway begins at the intersection of US 221 and NC 105 in Linville. Follow US 221 (Blowing Rock Hwy.) for 18.5 miles to the intersection with US 321 Bus (Main Street) in Blowing Rock where the byway ends. Little Parkway traverses through Avery, Watauga and
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Caldwell counties. Built in 1889 by men and mules as a toll road, Little Parkway, also known as Yonahlossee Trail (one of many privatelyowned roads in the state), winds its way along the side of Grandfather Mountain and served as the link between Blowing Rock and Linville before the completion of the Blue Ridge Parkway in 1987. Linville, established in 1883 and designed by Samuel T. Kelsey of Kansas, is located on the Linville River. South of Linville are Linville Falls and Linville Gorge. All were named for William and John Linville who were killed below the falls by Native Americans in 1766. The upper and lower falls, accessed from the Blue Ridge Parkway, are 12 feet and 90
feet tall, respectively. Linville Gorge is among the nation’s largest gorges and is located in one of the wildest uninhabited areas in the Eastern United States. While traveling from Linville to Blowing Rock, watch for signs marking the Eastern Continental Divide, an invisible line that separates the waters flowing to the Atlantic Ocean from those flowing to the Gulf of Mexico. New River Valley BywayNew River Valley Byway begins at the intersection of US 421/ US 221 and NC 194 in Boone. Follow NC 194 north for 17.8 miles to the intersection of NC 194 and US 221 in the Baldwin community where the byway temporarily ends. Turn left CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE
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• Otolaryngology • Pediatrics
• Vascular Surgery • Women’s Health
200 Hospital Avenue, Jefferson NC 336-846-7101 • ashememorial.org 122 | WINTER TIMES • 2023
13 N. Jefferson Avenue • West Jefferson, NC • 336.846.BULL (2855)
onto US 221 and follow for 3.5 miles to the West Jefferson town limits. Continue on US 221 for another 4.5 miles through West Jefferson and Jefferson to the intersection of US 221 and NC 16/NC 88. Follow NC 16/NC 88 straight for another 3.1 miles to the intersection of NC 16 and NC 88. (This section is not part of the designated scenic byway.) Continue straight on NC 88 for 10.1 miles to continue the designated byway to the intersection of NC 88 and NC 18 in Laurel Springs where the byway ends. Venturing through Watauga and Ashe, the New River Valley Byway allows motorists to experience some of the most beautiful mountain scenery and the largest concentration of Christmas tree farms in the state. The route travels north from Boone to Laurel Springs through the Stone Mountains, which forms a common boundary between North Carolina and Tennessee. The byway bends and turns as it crosses mountains and passes over rivers and streams through the New River Valley. As you travel on NC 194 along what was once called the “Old Buffalo Trail,” imagine buffalo herds using this route as a migration path like they once did. The route provides access to areas that are popular for hiking, white water rafting, and canoeing as well. US 421 Scenic Byway As the US 421 Scenic Byway travels across Watauga County through the Blue Ridge 123 | WINTER TIMES • 2023
File photo
The main road in Lansing has become a scenic byway, perfect for a peaceful mountain drive.
Mountains, it offers sweeping views of the valleys, woodlands, and mountains between the towns of Deep Gap and Boone. It also runs near the home of multiple Grammy Award winner and cultural icon Doc Watson. Near the beginning of the route, you will see where the Blue Ridge Parkway crosses US 421 on a bridge covered with native stones to reflect the beauty of the area. As the byway ascends the ridge toward Boone, the home of Appalachian State University, motorists are provided with panoramic views of Snake Mountain and Elk Knob, which are a part of the Amphibolite Range. Along the way, motorists can take in views of the area’s hardwood and mixed forests, as well as horse and cattle farms. Also visible are a
number of Fraser Fir Christmas tree farms. Watauga County is a leading national producer of these firs. Big Horse Creek BywayIn Ashe County, Big Horse Creek Scenic Byway highlights the rural life in the beautiful mountains of Ashe County. The county was once known as one of North Carolina’s “lost provinces,” a remote, inaccessible county cut off from the rest of the state by the Eastern Continental Divide where, it was said, that the only way to get there was to be born there. As the byway begins, notice the peaks (4,710 feet elevation) of Phoenix Mountain to the east. Just as the rugged mountains close in with their densely wooded terrains, the byway gives way to the verdant pastures along
the creek bottoms that extend up the bluffs. This rustic countryside is a short distance from undisturbed natural areas such as Pond Mountain and the Cherokee National Forest. The byway parallels Big Horse Creek all the way into the town of Lansing and crosses it again in numerous locations, making it a great place to cruise with the windows down to enjoy the sound of the rushing water. Occasionally, the road rises and follows the ridge above the creek where travelers can witness spectacular views of the narrow valleys with farmhouses, farm animals, old barns, and country churches. The hillsides feature mixed forests with intermittent pastures and Christmas tree farms. The byway also offers a snap shot of culture through the renowned songwriting and performances of former folk music artist Ola Belle Reed, a National Heritage Fellowship award winner, who was originally from the New River Valley in the Blue Ridge Mountains. (Information from the NCDOT publication “North Carolina Byways” was used in production of this story. For a digital copy of the North Carolina Byways Guidebook, click to www.ncdot.gov/travelmaps/traffic-travel/scenicbyways/Documents/nc-scenicbyways-guidebook.pdf, or mail a message for a hard copy (with mailing address) to: North Carolina Byways Program, 1557 Mail Service Center, Raleigh, NC 27699-1577.
Parks large and small in the High Country
In the winter, Grandfather Mountain can sometimes close due to snow like it was on Dec. 6. STAFF REPORT
The Middle Fork River is an integral part of High Country history and has provided emotional, physical and environmental benefits 124 | WINTER TIMES • 2023
to Appalachia for centuries. As the world changes around the river, the Blue Ridge Conservancy seeks to protect the river and surrounding land while encouraging community
Photo courtesy Grandfather Mountain Stewardship Foundation
members and tourists to reap the benefits of the river through the Middle Fork Greenway Project. The Middle Fork Greenway is an in-progress multi-use
recreational trail that will connect Boone and Blowing Rock. The Blue Ridge Conservancy continues to CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE
partner with the town of Boone, town of Blowing Rock and Watauga County in developing the trail as an access to local attractions and green spaces while protecting more than 90 linear acres of land. Once completed, the Middle Fork Greenway will be about six-and-a-half miles long and connect to the existing Boone Greenway, creating more than 15 miles of continuous trail for walking, jogging, cycling, rollerblading and skateboarding. The miles of trail will allow access to the Blue Ridge Parkway, the Mountain-to-Sea Trail, Shoppes on the Parkway, Tweetie, Mystery Hill, the hospital and acute care facility and downtown Blowing Rock in
addition to several pocket parks and trailheads. Creating safe access, improving health and supporting the local economy are essential objectives in each step of creating the trail, but while the trail has many intentions, preserving access to public land is the main priority of the Blue Ridge Conservancy. Stories from the River, made possible through a grant from the Blue Ridge National Heritage Area, is part of the Middle Fork Greenway’s historical preservation and aims to enrich the experience of greenway users while protecting and celebrating the natural and cultural heritage of the Middle Fork River. The outcome of the project is currently displayed on the
project’s website and social media account and kiosks at the three pocket parks along the Greenway will detail known-history of each area. With picnic tables and benches along the creek, Sterling Creek Park offers a great place to enjoy the wildlife and greenery of the mountains. Wildflowers are shaded by a wide variety of tree species, the oldest of which is believed to be the Northern Red Oak. Four parking spaces are available in the gravel parking lot outside the park that is about one mile away from tourist attractions like Mystery Hill and Tweetsie Railroad. As the Greenway project progresses, the green space will connect to the Blowing Rock and U.S. 321 Trailheads.
Traveling north from the U.S. 321 trailhead, the Greenway will eventually connect to Goldmine Branch Park. The land that makes up Goldmine Branch Park off Nayeli Cook Road was donated by the Cook family. A pair of conjoined red maples rooted in the bank weather, high water, wind, drought and the clearcutting of nearby forests in the first two decades of the 20th Century. The stream and surrounding land is now protected by the Blue Ridge Conservancy and can be appreciated by those traveling the Greenway. Eventually, travelers will be able to take the Greenway north to get from Goldmine Branch Park to get to Payne
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Branch Park. Payne Branch Park was dedicated in 2005 as the first park along the route of the Middle Fork Greenway. At a celebration on Oct. 2, more than 50 community members gathered at the green space to celebrate “a new chapter of the river’s life.” In 2020, the state of North Carolina funded the removal of a decommissioned dam which opened up the floodplain and promoted restoration. The park with a picnic area, river access, boulders and places to fish is now ample with wildlife. Nature enthusiasts can also look forward to Boone Gorge Park — which is projected to open in 2024. With bridges, a parking area, restrooms, river access points and observation decks, the park is sure to have impressive views of the beautiful Middle Fork River. With anticipated progression of the trail and green spaces like Boone Gorge Park, the Blue Ridge Conservancy is raising funds to fill the gaps grants do not cover. For more information on how to support the Middle Fork Greenway Project, visit www. middleforkgreenway.org. u State Parks There are few places to better enjoy the sights and sounds of nature in the High Country than at the numerous state parks that you will find across this mountainous terrain. Whether you want to be on top of the world at the highest peak east of the Mississippi 126 | WINTER TIMES • 2023
File photo
The Boone Greenway Trail covered in snow.
River at Mount Mitchell, or hanging out along the banks of the New River, one of the oldest rivers in the world, all of that and more can be found on just a few short drives. u Grandfather Mountain Grandfather Mountain State Park truly has something for everyone. The park, located in Linville, has numerous hiking and backpacking trails that offer fresh air and exercise for the adventurists that want to get off of the beaten path. For the nature enthusiasts, be sure to visit the wildlife habitats that the mountain has to offer, as well as the newly completed Wilson Center for Nature Discovery. No visit
to Grandfather Mountain would be complete without taking a stroll across the Mile High Swinging Bridge, which happens to be the highest suspension footbridge in the United States. Throughout the year, Grandfather Mountain offers special events and programs on the mountain. Those events typically take place from April through the end of October and feature guest speakers, outdoor events, animal encounters and much more. To plan your visit to Grandfather Mountain State Park, visit grandfather.com/ visit. u Mount Mitchell
Mount Mitchell State Park, located in Burnsville in Yancey County, is the highest peak east of the Mississippi River. Standing at 6,684 feet above sea level, Mount Mitchell has some of the most breathtaking views that you will ever find. Be sure to take advantage of the observation deck to enjoy the views off of the mountain. The park offers campsites (by permit) as well as hiking trails and picnic shelters to enjoy the tremendous beauty of the mountain. The trail system at Mount Mitchell connects to the Mountains-toSea Trail and offers parking for campers that want to begin their backpacking trek into the CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE
Pisgah National Forest. For more information on Mount Mitchell State Park, visit www.ncparks.gov/state-parks/ mount-mitchell-state-park. u Mount Jefferson Mount Jefferson State Natural Area is located in nearby Ashe County, roughly a 25-mile drive from Boone. Mount Jefferson has five miles of hiking trails and is home to over 700 native plants along the slopes of the mountain. Mount Jefferson’s peak sits 4,665 feet above sea level and is about 1,600 feet above the towns of West Jefferson and Jefferson that sit at the base of the mountain. The hiking trails feature the Mountain Ridge Trail, the steeper Summit Ridge Trail, the Rhododendron Trail and the
Lost Province Trail, the latter two being loop trails that will bring you through different views of the natural area each step of the way. For additional information on the Mount Jefferson State Natural Area, visit www. ncparks.gov/state-parks/mountjefferson-state-natural-area. u New River State Park New River State Park in Ashe County features four different access points: The U.S. 221 Access, Wagoner Access, Kings Creek Access and Elk Shoals Access. Throughout the park, there are nine total miles of hiking trails as well as picnic shelters, camping sites and even trailer and RV sites. The waters are perfect for
Heading to your Mountain Home? Weekender Internet
canoeing, kayaking or simply floating down the river to enjoy beautiful scenery and enjoy some time on the water with friends and family. The New River was designated as an American Heritage River in 1998 and flows through North Carolina, Virginia and West Virginia. The river, which flows north for 320 miles, is widely considered to be the oldest river in North America and one of the five oldest rivers in the world. Geologists estimate that the river formed between 260 million and 325 million years ago. For more information on the access locations of New River State Park, visit www.ncparks. gov/state-parks/new-river-statepark.
u Elk Knob Elk Knob State Park is located off of Meat Camp Road in Todd, near the Watauga and Ashe County line. The state park covers 4,423 acres and first opened in 2003. Elk Knob is the third highest peak in Watauga County, reaching an elevation of 5,520 feet. The park offers campsites as well as approximately 5.5 miles of hiking trails and even a mile of cross country skiing and snowshoeing trails if you are brave enough to venture to the park in the winter months. For additional information on Elk Knob State Park, visit www. ncparks.gov/state-parks/elkknob-state-park.
Jim’s Corner
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VISIT SKYBEST.COM OR CALL 1-800-759-2226 TO SIGN UP. 127 | WINTER TIMES • 2023
160 Northwest School Rd. Warrensville, NC 336.384.2929 jimscornerfurniture.com
Antiquing in the High Country
Making the old new again
Visitors browsed through collectibles, antiques and other vintage items during the 12th annual West Jefferson Olde Time Antiques Fair. By ERIN ISLEY
The rusty Coca-Cola signs, vintage portraits, handmade wooden furniture with brass fixtures and the smell of dust are characteristic of the familiar 128 | WINTER TIMES • 2023
antique shop. Antiquing has become a hobby for many across the nation with family heirlooms lost and returned, a craving for the nostalgia for the good ole’ days and the decorative vintage
appeal. In the High Country, the history of antiques is preserved in many ways. Museums like the Museum of Ashe County History, Blowing Rock Art &
Photo by Nathan Ham
History Museum, Appalachian Cultural Museum and Avery County Historical Museum help to showcase the history of each CONTINUED ON PAGE 1 3 1
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West Jefferson, NC • 336-246-5647 | Boone , NC (at Boone Mall) • 828-266-1401 | The CarolinaCabinStore.com
Po wood Furnitu e in stock Polywood Furniture stock 1108 S Jeffersonin Avenue, West Jefferson, NC • 336-219-0301 | The CarolinaCabinStore.com Email: cabinstore@earthlink.net
129 | WINTER TIMES • 2023
Coming 2024!
Your Seasonal guides to the High Country Call or email us today to reserve your place! tim.walker@mountaintimes.com 828-264-3612
Entertainment | Attractions | Outdoors Shopping | Lodging | Dining | & More highcountrync.com 130 | WINTER TIMES • 2023
from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. Shoppers can find Antiques on Howard at 199 Howard St. in Boone. Charlene Headley has owned Antiques on Howard for 18 years. “I like antiques, and I would come in and hang out with the girls who worked here,” Headley said. One vendor at the store, Stevie Lambert, runs a booth with sea shells, old photos, records and more. Old cassette tapes are one of his best sellers. “Most of this stuff is from my grandfather,” Lambert said. Students moving into new apartments from Appalachian State University also bring in a lot of business to antique stores like Antiques on Howard because they want to buy furniture and decor, Headley
The Mountain Boomer Restaurant
Antiques on Howard is one of the many antique stores in the High Country.
town and culture. Today, many individuals want to preserve the items and memories of the past in their own homes as well. One way to do this is by antiquing, especially in the winter when trying to beat the chill. Antique shops in the High Country are plentiful, but each has their own style and manner of items. Antique hobbyists will often find themselves visiting many different antique shops looking for that perfect relic. By shopping in antique stores, one can receive new decorations, furniture, signs and glassware with the character of the past. 131 | WINTER TIMES • 2023
In Watauga County, those looking for antiques can visit Antiques on Howard, Appalachian Antique Mall, Hidden Valley Antique Mall Inc., Blowing Rock Antiques and many more. Inside these stores one might find a piece of the past that calls to them with its charm and worn look. Antiques on Howard has received the Best of the Best Antique Shop in Watauga County for four years in a row and has 6,000 square feet of space for people to explore. They are open Monday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday
said. Antiques on Main in West Jefferson offers a variety of household items, kitchenware, outdoor supplies and knickknacks. This antique store has over contributing 50 vendors and 30,000 square feet of floor space within their building. They are open Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and on Sunday from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. Avery County is home to Back Alley Pickers, Terry’s Attic, Graylight Gallery, Hidden Treasures and even more antique shops for residents and visitors to choose from. Hidden Treasures features over 20 vendors and are open Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. They are located at 137 Main Street in Elk Park.
Where Neighbors Gather
Food-Drink-Community
Menu includes BBQ, Smoked Wings, Salmon Beer, Wine, and Cider Live Music: Friday 6-9 PM Open Mic: Monday from 5:30 PM Indoor & Outdoor Seating (Pet Friendly) / Takeout Minutes from Grandfather Mountain and Linville Falls HWY 181 at Mile Marker 312 on Blue Ridge Parkway 1600 Jonas Ridge Hwy. 828-260-3069 Veteran Owned & Operated
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174593 same as this, but add their four best of Watauga Ribbons. 2022 2021
Fresh pasta, sandwiches, salads Wednesday night wine tastings Friday craft beer specials Saturday $6 cocktails 246 Wilson Drive • Boone, NC Open Daily at 11
www.basilspasta.com 134 | WINTER TIMES • 2023
Tasting Room, Restaurant, and Beer Garden www.booneshine.beer BOONESHINE BREWING COMPANY 465 INDUSTRIAL PARK DRIVE, BOONE, NC, 28607
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Country Retreat Family Billiards & Grill is conveniently located in Foscoe - 8 miles south of Boone and Blowing Rock off highway 105 (next to the Dollar General), and 8 miles north of Banner Elk and Linville. This summer Family Billiards is celebrating 25 years in operation as the high country’s only pool room, featuring 10 professional pool tables. Family Billiards is a family friendly non-alcohol recreational destination as well as a full service restaurant I grill. They host weekly handicapped pool tournaments for the more dedicated pool players of all levels, as well as catering to recreational and first time pool players. The grill operates from 11 am - 8:30pm Monday through Saturday, with the pool room remaining open until 11 pm Monday through Saturday. The dining area includes a covered front porch for those wishing to eat outside. Family Billiards is closed on Sundays. 135 | WINTER TIMES • 2023
Family Billiards & Grill’s pool room and pool tables have always been considered as top notch and are maintained in immaculate condition, but their main business is their quality food & beverage operation, of which close to half of which is take-out orders. The majority of regulars come for their quality, consistent and affordable food offerings, although many have never played pool here. The room features numerous large screen TV’s generally featuring sports I news I weather during the daytime and sporting events at night. Chef Brian Anderson prepares daily specials Monday through Friday, which virtually always sell out. Family Billiards is a small operation that caters to and depends largely on their loyal following of regulars, but everyone is welcome as a family friendly recreation I entertainment and dining option for locals as well as tourists visiting the high country.
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Home Pool Table Repairs, Recovery & Move & Setup Cues, Lights, Covers & Complete Billiards Accessories HIGHWAY 105 · FOSCOE, NORTH CAROLINA · 8 MILES SOUTH OF BOONE 828-963-6260 · 11:00am until 11:00pm Everyday
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Banner Elk Location:
4235 Hwy 105 South Banner Elk, NC 28604 828.898.7500
Blowing Rock Location:
8304 Valley Blvd. Blowing Rock, NC 28605 828.295.3651
Boone Location:
2968-1 Hwy 105 Boone, NC 28607 828.898.7500
Downtown West Jefferson | 336-846-8327 Downtown Blowing Rock | 828-327-7070
ThePealinPig.com Dine-In • Take Out • Delivery and Catering 136 | WINTER TIMES • 2023
ADVERTISERS INDEX ABBEY CARPET & TILE..................................... 21
DAN’L BOONE INN. . ....................................... 134
MUSEUM OF ASHE COUNTY HISTORY................. 53
ANTIQUES ON HOWARD................................... 45
DIANNE DAVANT............................................. 57
MY BEST FRIENDS BARKERY.. ........................... 49
APPALACHIAN THEATRE................................... 44
DOE RIDGE POTTERY . . ...................................... 44
MYSTERY HILL.. 8, 18, 35, 67, 101, 113, 121
ASHE COUNTY ARTS COUNCIL........................... 53
EDGE OF THE WORLD.. ..................................... 29
ASHE COUNTY CHEESE.................................... 53
ENSEMBLE STAGE........................................... 79
ASHE MEMORIAL HOSPITAL............................ 121
EVERYBODY’S BRUNCHEON CLUB...................... 44
BANNER ELK OLIVE OIL & BALSAMICS ............... 49
FAMILY BILLIARDS . . ....................................... 135
BANNER ELK TRADING CO ............................... 50
FOSCOE REALTY RENTALS.. ............................. 139
BANNER ELK WINERY. . .................................... 51
FREDS GENERAL MERCANTILE............................ 8
BASILS FRESH PASTA AND DELI...................... 134
GAINES KIKER................................................ 46
RANDY MARION FORD INC... ........................... 118
BEECH MOUNTAIN RESORT............................... 25
GOODWILL INDUSTRIES OF NWNC................... 115
RECESS SKATE AND SNOW LLC. . ....................... 15
BERNHARDT FURNITURE OUTLET......................... 3
GRANDFATHER MOUNTAIN............................... 65
REMAX REALTY GROUP.................................... 17
BLACK BEAR WINE + SPIRITS. . ............................ 7
GRANDFATHER MOUNTAIN CAMPGROUND . . ......... 35
SHOPPES AT TYNECASTLE......................... 68, 69
BLACKBERRY CREEK MATTRESS COMPANY......... 12
GREGORY ALAN’S. . .......................................... 46
BLOWING ROCK ANTIQUES............................... 47
HAPPY VALLEY FILLING STATION.. .................... 135
BLOWING ROCK ART/HISTORY MUSEUM.. ........... 47
HAWKSNEST.................................................. 31
BLOWING ROCK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE.......... 55
HCNC. . ........................................................ 115
BLOWING ROCK FURNITURE GALLERY.................. 9
HEMLOCK INN................................................ 47
BLUE RIDGE ELECTRIC..................................... 37
HERITAGE PROPERTIES.. ................................... 70
BOONESHINE . . .............................................. 134
HIGH COUNTRY SOUVENIRS.............................. 45
SUPERIOR SPAS. . ............................................ 10
BRASS EXCHANGE........................................ 121
HIGH COUNTRY WOODWORKS. . ......................... 47
TAZMARAZ.. ................................................... 46
BRUSHY MOUNTAIN POWER SPORTS, INC. . ......... 41
HOLIDAY INN EXPRESS.................................... 53
THE BEST CELLAR......................................... 136
BULL’S WESTERN STORE................................ 121
JENKINS REALTORS. . ......................................... 6
THE BLOWING ROCK ATTRACTION...................... 33
CABIN STORE........................................ 58, 129
JIM’S CORNER FURNITURE............................. 123
CAPONE’S.................................................... 136
KELLER WILLIAMS - PATRICK MORGAN...... 11, 140
CARLTON GALLERY................................... 86, 87
KINCAID FURNITURE OUTLET.. ............................. 3
CARTER COUNTY TOURISM............................... 40
LAKE HICKORY HAUNTS................................... 16
CASA RUSTICA OF BOONE INC. . ....................... 134
MAST GENERAL STORE...................................... 2
CLASSIC STONE WORKS. . ................................. 13
MCCOY MINERALS.......................................... 77
CORNERSTONE BOOKSTORE.............................. 23
MILLER PROPERTIES. . ............................. 11, 140
VILLAGE JEWELERS LTD................................... 45
CRUZ THRU . . .................................................. 67
MOUNTAIN HOME AND HEARTH INC. . .......... 19, 40
VILLAGE OF BANNER ELK ................................ 49
CW HOME. . .................................................... 21
MOUNTAIN OUTFITTERS................................. 121
WINKLER KNIVES. . .......................................... 95
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NEW RIVER BUILDING SUPPLIES . . .................... 138 NORTH WILKESBORO TOURISM......................... 59 PARKER TIE CO. INC........................................ 53 PEDALIN PIG................................................ 136 RANDY MARION CHRYSLER DODGE JEEP INC.... 119
SKYLINE TELEPHONE CORP . . ........................... 122 SORRENTOS BISTRO........................................ 48 SPICE AND TEA EXCHANGE . . ........................... 136 STONEWALL’S....................................... 49, 135 SUNSET TEE’S & HATTERY................................ 47
THE GAMEKEEPER RESTAURANT . . ........... 132, 133 THE MOUNTAIN BOOMER . . .............................. 122 UNC HEALTH APPALACHIAN.............................. 21 UNWOUND YARN............................................ 46 VANNOY ( JAMES) CONSTRUCTION CO............... 85
138 | WINTER TIMES • 2023
139 | WINTER TIMES • 2023
Located In Beautiful Boone, North Carolina 1, 2 and 3 bedroom townhomes with garage options available
Starting in the mid $300,000s Brand New Construction In The Heart Of Boone
Located In Beautiful Boone, North Carolina 1, 2 and 3 bedroom townhomes with garage options available
Starting in the mid $300,000s Brand New Construction In The Heart Of Boone
Located in beautiful Boone, NC off Brookshire Road, you will find Boone’s newest development, Townhomes At Brookshire. Created to give residents a place that is both affordable and convenient, Townhomes At Brookshire is less than one mile from the New River, Industrial Park, Brookshire Park, ASU Soccer Field and Greenway Walking Trail, yet only 5 minutes to downtown Boone.
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Located Broker Interest in beautiful Boone, NC off Brookshire Road, you will find Boone’s newest development, Townhomes At
Created to give residents a place that is both affordable and convenient, Townhomes At Brookshire is 140Brookshire. | WINTER TIMES • 2023 less than one mile from the New River, Industrial Park, Brookshire Park, ASU Soccer Field and Greenway Walking Trail, yet only 5 minutes to downtown Boone.
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