Hayrides with a twist at WinterFest

BY AMANDA LUGENBELL

Ahayride around Blowing Rock is a classic WinterFest activity, featured on the festival schedule since the first celebration of winter in this little mountain town back in 1998. It’s a crowd favorite; simple fun for families, couples and friends.

This year, festival attendees can enjoy an idyllic ride through the scenic winter village, pulled slowly along by a ... Humvee?

That’s right! This year, friends at Speckled Trout Outfitters will help out with the hayrides.

Speckled Trout Outfitters offers outdoor adventures like guided hikes and fly fishing experiences in the area. Naturally, their fleet of vehicles includes those best-suited for rugged roads and landscapes. So, while a tractor may be the usual transportation for hayrides, this year’s WinterFest hayrides will be a unique experience.

Hayrides are free to enjoy. Space is first come, first served. Rides run on Saturday, Jan. 28 from noon to 3 p.m. Pick up and drop off is located at the Blowing Rock Chamber of Commerce on Park Avenue in downtown Blowing Rock.