Biking

Eighteen Mile Road

 16.0 miles, moderate dirt road. Total elevation gain is 600 feet. Loack of hairpin turns and rough terrain will allow you to pick up some speed on this gated (forest service) road.

 

Greenway Trail

 6 miles (3 mile turnaround), easy, paved and dirt trails. This gently outing which travels the length of the Lee and Vivian Reynolds Greenway Trail in Boone is perfect for a quick jaunt during your lunch hour.

 

Howard’s Creek Road Loop

 3.3 miles, easy dirt road. Total elevation gain 600 feet, Drive up Howard’s Creek Road (off Hwy 194 north) until it turns to dirt. Curly Maple Road is on the left. Start on Howard’s Creek Road and loop back around to end on Curly Maple Road. Beautiful farmland and forested roadways.

 

Junaluska Road Ride

 14 mile loop, moderate, dirt road. Ride begins near top of Howard’s Knob, at Junaluska Road turn off (to left) and swings along Junaluska, connects with Curly Maple Road to SR 1323, and back to Junaluska. Several significant elevation changes. Total elevation gain: 1200 feet.

 

Linville Gorge Loop

 49 miles, extremely strenuous, dirt roads, paved roads. Total elevation gain 4,050 feet. The longest, toughest ride in the area, with exhausting climbs and scary descents. Basically for adrenaline junkies, definitely not for beginners or intermediates.

 

Lower Wilson Ridge Trail

 8.6 miles moderate to strenuous, single track, old logging road, dirt road. Total elevation gain is 600 feet. Not rides for the directionless, as some sections on the trail are not marked very clearly. A great way to travel this trail is to check with local bike shops about planned rides

 

Lower China Creek Loop

 3.9 miles, easy, dirt road, single track trail. Located off Globe Road in Blowing Rock, China Creek Trail follows the thunderous and beautiful Thunder Hole Creek through the woods, gaining a total of 250 feet in elevation. (If you start riding in Blowing Rock, the ride back will give you a 1750 feet elevation gain in just 3.5 miles!!)

 

Railroad Grade Rd

 10 miles, easy, flat road along the New River, from Fleetwood to Todd: Ends at Todd General Store. Access from Hwy 194 in Todd or Hwy 221 in Fleetwood.

 

Roseborough To Globe Rd

 14.1 miles of moderate to strenuous, single track trail, paved road. Total elevation fain is 1600 feet. A classic mountain bike ride.

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Sugar Mountain Trail Loop

 5.9 miles, moderate to strenuous, double track trail, single track trails, brief section of paved road. This trail, located on the Sugar Mountain Ski Slope (certain parts not opened during ski season – check with the resort for details) has some very significant (1100 feet) elevation changes. Great views and some challenging cycling.

 

 

Table Rock Loop

 26.2 miles, strenuous, dirt road, paved road. Total elevation gain 2450 feet. Very few level spots interfere with this hilly ride. Most of the elevation gains occurs within 11 miles (whew!!), but the paved surface makes for easier handling. Great for experienced road cyclists interested in mountain biking.

 

Virginia Creeper Trail

 The Virginia Creeper Trail stretches 35 miles from Abingdon Virginia thru Damascus Virginia to the NC State Line near Whitetop Virginia. The Virginia Creeper Trail is open to hiking, mountain biking and horseback riding. The former rail bed passes through the back country of Southwest Virginia. The Virginia Creeper Trail is rich in beauty and regional history.

 

Watauga River Road Ride

 8 miles (4 mile turnaround) easy dirt road. Total elevation gain is 150 feet. Begins off Hwy 194, ¼ mile past Mast General Store, at beginning of Watauga River Road (to left). Park at the bridge and enjoy a beautiful, leisurely bike ride along the scenic Watauga River

 

Wilson’s Creek Area

 8.2 miles, moderately strenuous, on old logging roads and 4 wheel drive roads. Total elevation gain is 1100 feet. Erosion on the logging road has left behind some serious ditches that will thrill hammerhead cyclists.

 

Wiseman’s View Ride

 8.2 miles, fairly tough out and back trail dirt road. Total elevation gain is 1200 feet. Not for cream puffs, but the view is worth the climb.

 

Canoeing

Appalachian Adventures

 Canoeing, tubing and mountain biking along the scenic head waters of the New River and back country roads of historic Todd, NC Phone: 336-877-8800

 

Carolina Wilderness

 The only riverside outpost in the High Country, the Nolichucky River is rated up to Class V rapids, making it one of the most challenging rivers. Located in Hot Springs, NC Phone 800-872-7437

 

Edge of The World Outfitters

 Canoeing, rafting, rock climbing, rappelling and caving. Located in Banner Elk, NC Phone: 828-898-9550

 

High Mountain Expeditions

 White water rafting, family float trips, funyaking, and kayaking. Located in Blowing Rock, NC Phone: 800-262-9036

 

New River Outfitters

 Tubing and canoeing the New River. Visit the New River General Store, the oldest continuously operating store in the area. Located in Jefferson, NC Phone: 800-982-9190

 

Wahoo’s Adventures

 Six locations in the mountains, serving nine rivers. Rafting, canoeing, inner-tubing, and caving. Located in Boone, NC Phone: 800-444-RAFT

 

Zaloo’s Canoes

 Canoe the New River, the world’s second oldest river. Located in Jefferson, NC Phone: 800-535-4027

 

Riverside Canoe and Tube Rentals

 2966 Garvey Bridge Road Crumpler, NC 28617 Ph: 336-982-9439

 

Riverside General Store

 7181 Railroad Grade Rd Todd, NC 28684 Ph: 336-877-1858

 

Christmas Tree Farms

Frasier Knoll Christmas Tree Farms

 384 Burnt Hill Rd Laurel Springs, NC Phone: 36-982-3517

 

Shady Rest Christmas Tree Farm

 287 Trading Post Rd Glendale Springs, NC Phone: 336-877-1908

 

Mountain Memories Christmas Tree Farm

 252 Rocky Gap Rd West Jefferson, NC Phone: 336-877-4308

 

Cardinal Christmas Tree Farm

 571 Baldwin Rd West Jefferson, NC Phone: 336-246-2976

 

Fishing

Appalachian Angler Fly Shop and Guide Service

 Fly fishing guide service and full service fly shop. Located in Boone, NC Phone: 828-963-5050

 

Moses Cone Park

 Bass and blue gill with Trout Lake designated as native trout waters.

 

Grandfather Trout Farm

 Trout fishing for the whole family in a stocked pond. A fishing license is not required for the trout farm and the charge is based upon the amount of fish caught. The trout pond season generally runs from the first Saturday in April through about mid November. Located on Hwy 105, across from the entrance to town of Seven Devils, Banner Elk, NC Phone: 828-963-5098

 

New River

 Fly fish from small mouth bass, red eye bass, catfish and in some areas rather large muskies along with three varieties of trout on the New River which winds through Alleghany, Ashe, and Watauga counties.

 

W. Kerr Scott Dam And Reservoir

 A beautiful mountain reservoir with numerous boat launching areas and fishing piers. There are several swimming sights and an area for canoe launching. For more information contact the Resource Manager at PO Box 182 Wilkesboro, NC 28697 or call 336-921-3750

 

Watauga Lake

 A short drive from our area heading west on Hwy 321. Swimming, fishing, water skiing, jet skiing, power boating and sailing. For more info call Phone: 615-768-3164

 

Golf

Blue Ridge Country Club

 Located in Linville Falls, NC, it has 18 holes, yardage: 6862 feet, par: 72, lessons. Phone: 800-822-HAWK

 

Boone Golf Club

 Located in Boone, NC – 18 holes, yardage: 6401 feet, par: 71, lessons. Phone: 828-264-8760

 

Jefferson Landing

 Located in Jefferson, NC – 18 holes, yardage: 6500 feet, Par: 72, pro shop, lessons and packages. Phone: 800-292-6274

 

Magic Mountain Mini-Golf

 Located in Boone, NC, Family fun.. Phone: 828-265-4653

 

Mountain Aire Golf Club

 Located in West Jefferson, NC – 18 holes, yardage: 6200 feet, Par: 71, lessons and packages. Phone: 336-877-4716

 

Hiking

Appalachian Trail

 This trail crosses Roan Mountain, Hump Mountain, and Yellow Mountain, all known for their large expanse of mountain-top meadows with distant views. Trail heads are in Elk Park and Carvers Gap on Roan.

 

Beacon Heights Trail And Flat Rock Nature Trail

 Both are within 4 miles of Linville on the Blue Ridge Parkway. The Beacon Heights Trail is a 15 minute tail leading to fine views of Grandfather and the piedmont below. To the south, is the Flat Rock Nature Trail and Overlook which looks down into the Linville River Valley.

 

Black Rock Cliffs Cave Trail

 Located at Grandfather Mountain. Black Rock Cliffs Cave Trail is 1.3 miles to a cave with fine views. The Grandfather Trail Extension has a 2.5 mile round trip to views of the valley. Crag Way and Daniel Boone Scout Trail form a view loop hike over rocky crags. A permit is required. For a free map write Backcountry manager/Grandfather Mountain Linville, NC

 

Cascades On The Parkway

 A trail about half a mile leads to these series of beautiful cascading waterfalls. It is located about 3.5 miles north of the Parkway intersection with US 421 at Deep Gap.

 

Crabtree Falls

 Located off the Blue Ridge Parkway about six miles north of Little Switzerland. The walk down to the falls is about a mile.

 

Doughton Park Trails

 Located in Ashe County near Laurel Springs, has over 30 miles of hiking trails, ranging from moderate strolls to day long outings. Call 336-372-8877

 

Grandfather Trail

 Located at Grandfather Mountain. It begins at the Mile High Swinging Bridge and eventually hits all of Grandfather’s three highest peaks. This 2.4 mile trail requires approximately 5 hours of hiking time to travel the entire length. It’s extremely rugged with only wooden ladders making some sheer cliff faces accessible. It intersects with several other trails at its northern terminus. A serious trail for serious hikers only. A permit with nominal fee is required.

 

Julian Price Park

 Near Blowing Rock on the Parkway. Easy hikes include the Price Lake Trail that circles the lake and the Green Knob Trail, which is 2 miles long.

 

Linville Falls

 Located off the Parkway. A number of trails lead to the head of the falls with views of the cataract and the Gorge Wilderness Area. The Parkway has a trail head leading to the Falls and another trail head just off the Kistler Hwy. Four miles down the highway is Wisemans View Trail, with one of the most awesome views of the Gorge. Also a good place to see Brown Mountain Lights.

 

Linville Gorge

 Located on the Blue Ridge Parkway. Across the Gorge from Wiseman’s View the trail climbs 1 mile to the Table Rock Summit. Great views into the Gorge.

 

Moses Cone Memorial Park

 Near Blowing Rock on the Parkway. The park offers 25 miles of easily graded paths also popular for cross country skiing.

 

Mt Jefferson State Park

 Located in Ashe County, includes 4900 foot summit of Mt Jefferson, from where hikers can view North Carolina, Tennessee, and Virginia

 

Roan Mountain

 On the NC/TN line. At the last parking area on the Forest Service Road, the Cloudland Trail climbs to an observation deck with a 4000 foot drop

 

Summit Trail

 Beginning at the parking lot on Mt Jefferson, the Summit Trail passes through the picnic ground and ascends .3 miles to the peak of Mt Jefferson. Rhododendron rail – a moderate 1.1 mile trail that starts near the end of the Summit Trail.

 

Wilson Creek Trails

 Located in Pisgah National Forest near NC 181. About 6 trails in this area require and hour to hike and lead to views waterfalls and cliffs

 

Other Attractions

Appalachian Challenge Guide Service

 Outdoor fun for the entire family. Rafting, caving, climbing, rappelling or hiking. We can help you plan your perfect outdoor adventure. Toll Free 888-844-RAFT. www.appalachianchallenge.com

 

Appalachian Cultural Museum

 The Appalachian Cultural Museum provides an accurate picture of Appalachia including its geology, history, inhabitants, crafts and culture. Something for all ages. Phone: 828-262-3117

 

Ashe Civic Center

 Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, the Ashe Civic Center encourages citizens young and old to be involved together in the community and to nurture heritage and traditions. Phone: 336-246-4483www.ashecivic.com

 

Ashe County Cheese Inc

 North Carolina’s only cheese factory, free tour, founded in 1930; open daily 8:30AM-5:00PM, Monday through Saturday, located in West Jefferson, NC Phone: 336-246-2501.

 

Blowing Rock

 An immense cliff 4000 feet above sea level, overhanging Johns River Gorge 3000 feet below. Views, trails and more, located on Hwy 321 South, Blowing Rock, NC Phone: 828-295-7111

 

Blowing Rock Stage Company

 The Blowing Rock Stage Company is a professional theatrical company presenting live comedies and musicals throughout the summer and during the holidays at the Blowing Rock Arts Center located on Sunset Dr. Phone: 828-295-9627 www.blowingrockstage.com

 

Blowing Rock Stables

 25 miles of guided trails on the Moses Cone Estate, located off Hwy 221 South in Blowing Rock on Laurel Lane. Open May-November 9AM-5PM. Group rates available, reservations required for all riding, no children under 9. Phone: 828-295-7847.

 

Blue Ridge Soap Shed

 The Soap Shed makes 50 plus fragrances of "old fashioned” handcrafted soap bars and glycerin loaves. Soap made on the premises daily. Workshops, herbal garden, mountain crafts, soap shoppe. Seasonal, seven days, FREE. Phone: 828-765-6001 www.soapshed.com

 

Blue Ridge Parkway

 One of America’s most scenic drives with 469 toll free miles of awesome natural beauty. The most visited national park with spectacular views and vistas as you drive along the crest of the Blue Ridge mountains. For more information you can write the Blue Ridge Parkway Association at PO Box 453 Asheville, NC 28802.

 

Blue Ridge Discovery Tour

 Discover the history and natural heritage of the Northwestern Carolina Mountains. A guided, three hour walking tour on four trails along the Blue Ridge Parkway. Every Saturday at 9:30AM, May through October. Phone: 828-295-3650

 

Christmas In July

 A timely celebration of arts, crafts, music, Christmas trees and tradition in July!! Located on the Main St in Downtown West Jefferson, NC Phone: 336-246-5855 www.christmasinjuly.net

 

Clear Creek Dude Ranch

 Rustic luxury with spectacular views – Horseback riding, hayrides, fishing, hiking, tubing and whitewater rafting. Special children’s activities, cookouts, line dancing. Toll Free: 800-651-4510www.clearcreekranch.com

 

Daniel Boone Native Gardens

 Daniel Boone Native Gardens features a collection of North Carolina native plant material in an informal landscape design, for education and preservation. See the Wrought Iron Gates made by Daniel Boone VI, a direct descendant of the great pioneer, Daniel Boone. Seasonal operation.

 

Echos Of The Blue Ridge

 Tour company specializing in birding and natural history tours of the High Country and state of North Carolina. Group bookings and step on services available. Phone: 828-265-0198

 

Emerald Village

 Gemstone mining, underground mine tours, mining museum, two locations in Little Switzerland, NC. Phone 828-765-6463 www.emeraldvillage.com

 

Gem Mountain

 Gemstone mining, free inspection of stones, gem cutting and jewelry making, open 7 days, March –December, located between Spruce Pine and the Blue Ridge Parkway on Hwy 226, NC Toll Free 888-817-5829

 

Grandfather Mountain

 Drive to the top, enjoy the nature museum, natural wildlife habitats, picnic areas, hiking trails, and cross the mile-high swinging bride, located 17 miles south of Boone and Blowing Rock, US 221 and Blue Ridge Parkway milepost 305, Linville, NC. Toll Free 800-468-7325

 

High Mountain Expeditions

 Whitewater rafting, funyaking, mountain bike tours and rentals, caving and hiking. Offering the highest quality wilderness trips available. An entire fleet of self-bailing rafts and funyaks, state-of-the-art equipment and gear, comfortable, well maintained vehicles, gourmet meals and professional guides. Fun for all ages and abilities. Toll Free: 800-262-9036www.highmountainexpeditions.com

 

Horn In The West

 Stage plays reliving the struggles of the early mountain settlers. Hickory Ridge Homestead – demonstrations of eighteenth century mountain life. Daniel Boone Native Gardens – a display of mountain flora, dedicated to the preservation of Earth’s treasures. All located together in Boone, NC. Open mid-June through mid-August. Phone: 828-264-2120.

 

Linville Caverns

 North Carolina’s only cavern, located on Hwy 221 between Linville and Marion, 4 miles south of the Blue Ridge Parkway. Open June 1 through Labor Day 9:00AM-6:00PM, April, May, September, October 9:00AM-5:00PM, November, March 9:00AM-4:30PM, December, January, February weekends only. Phone: 828-756-4171.

 

Merlefest

 Merlefest Music Festival is held in April of every year on the campus at Wilkes Community College. 10 stages, crafts, commercial and food vendors. Contests.

 

Mountain Music Jamboree

 Family fun and entertainment. Located in Glendale Springs, NC Toll Free: 800-233-1505

 

Mystery Hill

 Scenic optical illusions and natural phenomena. Located on Hwy 321 between Boone and Blowing Rock. Open all year long. Summer: Monday-Saturday 8:00AM-8:00PM, Sunday 1:00PM-6:00PM Winter: Monday-Saturday 9:00AM-5:00PM, Sunday 1:00PM-5:00PM. Phone: 828-264-2792.

 

New River Zoo

 3581 Big Flatts Church Rd Fleetwood, NC Phone: 336-877-9219

 

Orchard At Altapass

 Historic Orchard At Altapass (founded in 1907) on Orchard Rd Blue Ridge Parkway Milepost 328.4. Open late May to early November. Fresh baked goods, homemade fudge, ice cream, sundries, crafts made locally, tours, hay rides, history, tall tales, live local music, craft demonstrations and fresh apples in season. Phone 828-765-9531

 

Parkway Craft Center

 Located at Moses Cone Manor, on the Blue Ridge Parkway at Milepost 294. For nearly 50 years, the Southern Highland Craft Guild has showcased here, the best crafts from a nine state region. Weaving, basketry, pottery, woodcarving, glass and metal work. Open 9:00AM-6:00PM May – October and 9:00AM-4:00PM, other months, call to verify. Phone 828-295-7938

 

Todd General Store

 Recapture a time when life was simple and genuine. Meet the mountain folks and listen to tales of the railroad days when Todd was the largest town in Ashe and Watauga Counties.

 

Tweetsie Railroad

 Wild West Theme Park, authentic steam engine train ride, fair rides, petting zoo and shows. Located between Boone and Blowing Rock on Hwy 321. Toll Free 800-526-5740

 

Ski Areas

Appalachian Ski Mountain

 Located in Blowing Rock, NC – elevation 4000 feet, 8 slopes, 6 lifts, lessons, ski

 rentals and ice skating. Toll Free: 800-322-2373

 

Hawksnest Ski Resort

 Located in Seven Devils, NC – elevation of 4819 feet, 10 slopes, 4 lifts, lessons and ski rentals. Call Toll Free: 800-822-HAWK

 

Ski Beech

 Located in Beech Mountain, NC – elevation of 5505 feet, 14 slopes, 11 lifts, lessons, ski rentals, and ice skating. Toll Free: 800-438-2093

 

Sugar Mountain

 Located in Banner Elk, NC, Sugar Mountain has an elevation of 4000, 8 slopes, 6 lifts, lessons, ski rentals and ice skating. Toll Free 800-SUGARMT

 

Shopping

North Wilkesboro Main St.

Wilkesboro Main St.

The Shoppes at Farmer’s Hardware, Boone

Blowing Rock Main St.

1st Tracks

 Boone’s most complete ski shop is equipped with skis, skates and snowboards and ready to serve you in sales, service and rentals. Located on Hwy 105 South. Phone: 828-264-7368

 

Bob Timberlake Gallery at Blowing Rock

 The gallery showcases bob’s artwork, personal memorabilia, home furnishings and accessories. Toll Free 800-244-0095 www.bobtimberlake.com

 

Book Warehouse

 Full service book store specializing in quality bargain books. Most books 50-90% off. Also featuring lectures and book signings from popular authors. Gifts, maps, and special orders too. On Hwy 321 in Boone. Phone: 828-264-4636

 

Buffalo Creek Weavers

 1700’s and 1800’s patterns, throws, coverlets, bags etc. Located at 154 Warrensville School Rd Warrensville, NC Phone: 336-384-2632

 

Cheap Joe’s Art Stuff

 Their e-commerce site includes an entire catalog of products in addition to: Artist and Community Links; Artist Bulletin Board; Workshop Listings; Customer Service/FAQ interactivity; gift registry and remember-me feature. Retail outlet space and workshops now available. Phone 828-262-0793www.cheapjoes.com

 

Crossroads Harley Davidson

 Providing motor clothes, collectibles, parts and accessories, new and used bike sales, parts and accessories, new and used bike sales with financing and factory-trained technicians in the service department. Just a quarter mile off Hwy 421 in Wilkesboro. Phone: 336-667-9158

 

Charleston Forge Outlet

 Wrought iron accessories and furniture. Located off Hwy 105 extension in Boone. Phone: 828-262-0096

 

DeWoolfson’s Fine Linens

 Featuring goose down pillows and comforters, and European linens including Italian cotton, Lechlade cotton blankets and flannels from Lancashire. Located on Sunset Drive. Open 10-6 Monday through Saturday and Noon-5 on Sunday. Toll Free: 800-833-3696

 

Everything I Love

 Located in Downtown West Jefferson. Phone: 336-246-3848

 

Fred’s General Mercantile

 Featuring outdoor apparel, unique gifts, toys, food, kitchen gadgets, auto supplies, tools and much more. Located on Beech Mountain Parkway. Phone: 828-387-4838.

 

Greenhouse Crafts Shop

 Specializing in fine local and regional crafts, as well as a large selection of acoustic tapes and CD’s, books, herb plants, collectables, cards and jewelry. Located in Glendale Springs. Phone: 336-982-2618

 

Hillbilly Trading Post

 The areas #1 source for NC souvenirs, t-shirts, moccasins, jams and jellies. Phone: 828-264-9335

 

Incredible Toy Company

 Specializing in toys for the older child including science and nature, books, puzzles, toys and games. Located between Boone and Tweetsie Railroad. Phone: 828-264-1422

 

J&S Beaumont Pottery

 Featuring pottery made by local artists. View pottery as it is being made. Located on Hwy 194 behind Mast General Store. Phone: 828-963-6399

 

Lady Bug

 402 E Main St Jefferson, NC

 

Libby's

 "We’ve got the look” Clothing Boutique. Located at 205B Shamrock Square, Jefferson, NC. Phone: 336-246-9551

 

Mast General Store

 An old general store listed in the National Register of Historical Places. Retail and mail order. Open year round. Hours at the historic store: Mon-Sat 7am-6:30PM; Sunday 1pm-6pm

 

Midtown Antique Mall

 Wide assortment of antiques. Located at 145 Robin Lane West Jefferson, NC Phone: 336-246-9055

 

Northwest Trading Post

 Gift shop sponsored by the Northwest Development Association to keep alive crafts that are now almost a thing of the past. Over 258 types of handmade crafts on display for sale. Closed November-April. Located at Milepost 259 Phone: 336-982-2543

 

Old Boone Mercantile

 An old general store listed in the National Register of Historical Places. The Boone location of Mast General Store. Retail and Mail order. Open Monday-Saturday 10am-6pm and Sunday 1pm-6pm. Phone: 828-262-0000

 

Old World Galleries

 Featuring oriental rugs, estate and custom jewelry and more. Located in the Village of Blowing Rock. Phone: 828-295-7508

 

Olde Town Gifts and Clock Shoppe

 Located in Downtown West Jefferson. Phone: 336-246-3772

 

Parkway Craft Center

 Southern Highland Craft Guild features crafts from a nine state region including weaving, basketry, pottery, woodcarving, glass and metal work. Located at the Moses Cone Mansion at Milepost 294. Phone: 828-295-7938

 

Red Barn Antiques and Crafts

 Featuring unique crafts, antiques and country collectables. 3.6 miles from Mast General Store in Vilas. Open daily 10am-6pm. Phone: 828-297-1633

 

Sally Mae’s Emporium

 Located in Downtown West Jefferson. Find unique gifts and collectibles. Phone: 336-246-9069

 

Shoppes At The Farmhouse

 A unique shopping village on the grounds of the historic Hard-Taylor House across from the Mast General Store in Valle Crucis. Over 35 vignettes offering an array of specialty gift items, pottery, antiques, artwork and dried flowers. Phone: 828-963-6411

 

Ski Country Sports

 Featuring ski equipment and apparel for sale and rent. Located in Banner Elk Phone: 828-898-9786

 

Tanger Shoppes On The Parkway

 Outlet stores featuring something for everyone. Clothing, shoes, housewares, Christmas items and more. Located off Hwy 321 in Blowing Rock, NC Phone: 828-295-4444

 

Tanner Factory Store

 Extensive collection of classic apparel for women. Located on Hwy 321 in Blowing Rock. Phone: 828-295-7031

 

Todd General Store

 Established in 1914, Todd General Store features early 1900’s memorabilia as well as crafts, country foods, teas, spices, baked goods, a deli and old time candy shop. Located off Hwy 194 in Todd, just 11 miles North of Boone. Summer Hours: Monday through Saturday: 7am-7pm, Sunday 12:30pm-5pm. Winter Hours: Monday through Saturday 8am-6pm and Sunday12:30pm-5:00pm. Phone: 336-877-1067

 

Todd Mercantile

 3899 Todd Railroad Grade Rd Todd, NC Phone: 336-877-5401

 

Valle Crucis Rustic Furnishings

 Featuring elegant, rustic handmade furniture, unique accessories and much more. Many items made by local or regional craftsman. Truly the place to find a piece of the mountains to take home with you. Phone: 828-963-4635

 

The Weaving Room

 Located at Crossnore School. Weaving Room and Gallery featuring hand woven items made by the students of Crossnore School. Located on Johnson Lane in Crossnore. Toll Free: 800-374-4560

 

Wilcox Emporium

 A historic 60,000 square foot renovated warehouse featuring more than 180 vendors. Four retain shoppes, a food court and the only brew pub in the area. Featuring crafts, antiques, collectables, home furnishings and food. Located on Howard Street. Phone: 828-262-1221

 

Wildcat Flea Market

 Indoor flea market featuring antiques, collectables, coins, giftware, dolls, Depression glass, china, furniture quilts and much more. Also featuring Auction Barn open every Sat at 7PM. Located on Hwy 421/221, 8 miles East of Boone. Phone: 828-264-7757

 

State and Federal Parks

Doughton Park

 At Milepost 241 on the Blue Ridge Parkway, this is the largest recreation area on the Parkway. It offers picnic areas, hiking trails, fishing, a restaurant and gas station.

 

Julian Price Memorial Park

 South of Blowing Rock, located at Milepost 297 on the Blue Ridge Parkway, this park features picnic grounds, boat rentals, fishing and popular hiking trails like Boone Fork and Tanawha.

 

Linville Gorge Wilderness Area

 This 7,600 acre tract has been preserved to provide a primitive natural environment. The steep walls of the Gorge enclose Linville River which descends 2,000 feet in only 12 miles. Access to Linville Gorge Wilderness Area is by foot trails via a Forest Service Road off US Hwy 221 at the Linville Falls Community exit. Look for Milepost 317.

 

Moses Cone Memorial Park

 North of Blowing Rock at Milepost 294 on the Blue Ridge Parkway, this is one of the chief Parkway recreation areas. This 3,600 acre park offers bridle paths, hiking trails, trout streams, two lakes and a craft center in the Manor House.

 

Mount Jefferson State Park

 539 undeveloped acres, picnicking, hiking and nature study available. Located off Hwy 221 in Jefferson, NC.

 

Mount Mitchell State Park

 At 6684 feet it’s the highest peak in Eastern America. A short walk takes you to the observation tower on top. Picnicking, hiking, and nature study available. Located at Milepost 355.

 

New River State Park

 Located in the Appalachian Mountains of Alleghany, Ashe and Watauga Counties, this 26.5 mile stretch of river has been named a national wildlife and scenic river. It’s one of the few rivers in the world that flows north. Canoeing, rafting, tubing, and fishing are popular here.

 

Pisgah National Forest

 The Pisgah National Forest offers lake and stream fishing, as well as large and small game. Roan Mountain and the Linville Gorge Wilderness area are both located within this National forest.

 

Stone Mountain State Park

 This park is named for its 600 foot high granite formation, three miles in circumference at the base. Fishing, hiking and nature study are available in this virtually undeveloped park area. Stone Mountain is located in Alleghany and Wilkes Counties.

 

Waterfalls

Boone Fork Trail Falls

 25 feet on Boone Fork Trail leading from the picnic area at Julian Price Park, Milepost 295 on the Blue Ridge Parkway near Blowing Rock.

 

Cascades On The Parkway

 Series of three cascading falls, 30-40 feet in height, at Jefferson Park Milepost 272 on the Blue Ridge Parkway. Self guided nature trail of one-mile round trip leads from a picnic area.

 

Crabtree Falls

 60 feet at a Visitor Center at Milepost 340 on the Blue Ridge Parkway. A 30 minute walk along a nature trail leads to the falls.

 

Elk River Falls

 85 feet, about 2 miles north of Elk Park on a secondary road. Also can hike in from SR 1308 near Heaton on NC 194 between Elk Park and Banner Elk.

 

Glen Burnie Falls

 75 feet, in John’s River Gorge off the Globe Road below Blowing Rock.

 

Laurel Creek Falls

 85 feet just past Cove Creek/Sugar Grove on US Hwy 321 at Laurel Creek Road before Cove Creek joins the Watauga River. Can hike to it from US Hwy 321.

 

Linville Falls

 A series of two falls, upper at 12 feet and lower at 90 feet, plunge into the 2000 foot deep Linville Gorge. Parking area at Milepost 316 on the Blue Ridge Parkway. A one-mile round trip hike leads to the Falls.

 

Mitchell Falls

 40 feet at Mt Mitchell State Park on NC 128 at Milepost 355 on the Blue Ridge Parkway.

 

 

Please click on the following links for more area information:

NC New River | Grandfather Mountain | Tweetsie Railroad | Virginia Creeper Trail

New River Fishing | Railroad Grade Road Biking | New River Whitewater Rafting

Ashe County Cheese | Jefferson Landing | New River Wineries | Attractions | Dining

If you have any questions or would like more information, please contact us 336-246-2700, email us, or use our online request form.