Autumn Times 2025

FACTORY DIRECT FURNITURE OUTLETS

Showroom Samples · Discontinued · Scratch & Dent · Overstocks

Discover more than 66,000 square feet of quality furniture at discounted prices. Located near Hickory, North Carolina — an easy and convenient drive from Charlotte, Greensboro, and Asheville.

Discover more than 66,000 square feet of quality furniture at discounted prices. Located near Hickory, North Carolina — an easy and convenient drive from Charlotte, Greensboro, and Asheville.

Showroom Samples · Discontinued · Scratch & Dent · Overstocks

Showroom Samples · Discontinued · Scratch & Dent · Overstocks

Discover more than 66,000 square feet of quality furniture at discounted prices. Located near Hickory, North Carolina — an easy and convenient drive from Charlotte, Greensboro, and Asheville.

Discover more than 66,000 square feet of quality furniture at discounted prices. Located near Hickory, North Carolina — an easy right here.

autumn times WELCOME TO

IN THE HIGH COUNTRY

2025 Autumn Times Staff

PUBLISHER

Gene Fowler

EXECUTIVE EDITOR

Moss Brennan

SALES MANAGER

EDITORS

Jamie Shell, Nathan Ham, Jerry Snow

CIRCULATION MANAGER

Jeff Winebarger

Mark Mitchell SALES

William Becker

Savannah Beal

WRITERS

Ian Ashton

Jesse Campbell

Zach Colburn

Abigail Eggers

Nick Fogleman

Christian Gardner

WHAT’S INSIDE

Teresa Laws

Landon Reed

Jackson Magdanz

Darla Allen

Rebecca Portis

Trash Your Trash

DEAR NC MOUNTAIN explorers

We extend our warmest welcome as you plan your visit to our fabulous North Carolina High Country fall attractions! We’re thrilled to welcome you back and share with you the incredible resilience and vibrant spirit of our community as we come up on the one year anniversary of Hurricane Helene.

Our communities have worked tirelessly to restore our cherished landmarks, infrastructure and the natural beauty that makes the North Carolina High Country so unique.

Here is what awaits you this fall:

• RENEWED EXPERIENCES: Discover revitalized attractions such as Linville Caverns, Hawksnest Zipline In Seven Devils and the Mast General Store Annex in Valle Crucis and find some exciting new offerings such as the Wilderness Run Adventure Course in Sugar Mountain.

• A COMMUNITY UNITED: Experience the welcoming spirit of our community by visiting our charming downtowns, who are eager

to share their stories and showcase the beauty of their home. By visiting (hopefully overnight!), you are directly supporting locals and helping us spread the word that the High Country is welcoming visitors this fall.

• WIDE OPEN ROADS: The stress-relieving drive up the mountains that start your mountain experience are still here. The main highways that lead to the High Country (421/321/221) are open, as well as the country backroads that make leaf-peeping even more enjoyable. America’s Favorite Drive, the Blue Ridge Parkway, is reopening more sections almost weekly, with 50+ miles currently open in our region.

We encourage you to:

• EMBRACE LOCAL: Dine at a new local restaurant such as Over Yonder at Rhode’s Motor Lodge in Boone. Shop at one of the

High Country’s newly opened stores including the Apple Hill Farm Outpost in Banner Elk.

• EXPLORE THE OUTDOORS: Our North Carolina State Parks and our national park, the Blue Ridge Parkway, have worked tirelessly to get your favorite hiking trails and picnic spots reopened! We even have some new local parks including Paddy Mountain in West Jefferson and newly opened sections of the Middle Fork Greenway in Blowing Rock. Make sure to include a stop during your visit.

• PLAN AHEAD: With more hiking trails opening weekly, and even more businesses expanding hours, we encourage you to double check your itinerary before you hit the road. The easiest way to do this is to stop by and see us at the High Country Host Regional Visitor Center when you get to town.

We can’t wait to welcome you to the High Country and help you create unforgettable memories. If you can’t make it in, you can call us at 828-264-1299, find a list of regional tourism events at HighCountryCalendar.com and view our “everything fall” guide at NCHighCountryFall.com

We believe in the power of travel to create positive change and connection. Your visit is more than just a vacation; it’s a testament to the resilience of the NC Mountains!

Sincerely,

CANDICE COOK

High Country Host Regional Visitor Center

The High Country Host official regional welcome center is located on Highway 321 between Boone and Blowing Rock.

A guide to the High Country’s fall colors

BY ABIGAIL EGGERS

Starting in mid-September and ramping up in October, visitors from all over the United States flock to the High Country to see the colorful foliage that the Blue Ridge Mountains have to offer. The region has 125 species of trees that come together to create vibrant reds, oranges and yellows.

however, “selective” in which trees it knocked down.

“I’ve seen places where one side of the hill has all the trees knocked down and the other side of the hill they’re all standing up just fine,” Neufeld said.

Howard Neufeld, Boone’s “Fall Color Guy” and App State biology professor, said what makes the area’s foliage unique compared to other autumn tourist destinations is the high number of tree species.

“New England has only about a third of the tree species that we do. So we have more trees turning more colors. I tell people we have a larger color palette,” Neufeld said.

Neufeld said the higher the elevation visitors are at, the sooner they will see the leaves change.

Visitors coming to an area at 4,000 to 5,000 feet should expect to see peak colors in late September and early October.

“Where most of the Parkway is in this area is between three and 4,000 feet. For that part of the Parkway, it’s usually about the middle to the third week in October that you get peak colors,” Neufeld said.

For those concerned about what effects Hurricane Helene might have had on the foliage, Neufeld said for trees still standing, an effect

Neufeld recommends getting out to view foliage during the middle of the week to avoid crowds. If visitors can only make it to the area on a weekend, he recommends getting up early because “you get better color early in the morning and there are fewer people out.”

Neufeld recommends going to Grandfather Mountain with a reservation. Grandfather Mountain’s website recommends bringing layers because fall days in the High Country tend to be “crisp and cool.” Grandfather Mountain also boasts more than 100 picnic locations, a 30-minute guided walk with park naturalists, and a two-mile scenic drive to the top of the mountain. To learn more about Grandfather Mountain’s visitor tips, go to grandfather.com/fall.

Neufeld also recommends any of the overlooks and trails at Doughton Park, which is on the Blue Ridge Parkway at mile marker 241.1, to Linville Falls, at mile marker 316.4. Some of these trails and overlooks include Grandview Overlook, Thunder Hill Overlook, Flat Top Mountain Trail, Boone Fork Trail and Rough Ridge Overlook. Neufeld said a great place to go is the Linn Cove Viaduct. Neufeld also recommends taking drives on backroads.

“If you go up into northern Ashe

t COLORS

County and drive some of those back roads there through Todd to Jefferson and those areas up there, you can see very good color without having to go on the Parkway,” Neufeld said.

Neufeld posts fall color reports and updates on his Facebook page, found at facebook.com/FallColorGuy.

Those seeking to find places to view the leaves should check whether roads or trails are closed due to Hurricane Helene or general maintenance.

Any closures on the Blue Ridge Parkway can be found at nps.gov/blri/planyourvisit/ roadclosures.htm.

Local festivals

DELIGHT IN THE FALL

BY MOSS BRENNAN

With many popular fall festivals, Hurricane Helene knocked out many of the popular fall festivals in 2024; this year will see them return in force.

VALLE COUNTRY FAIR

Always held on the third Saturday in October, the 47th annual Valle Country Fair takes over the grounds of the Valle Crucis Conference Center on Saturday, Oct. 18. Located beside NC Hwy 194, admission is free and ample parking is available in the adjoining field for $10 per car.

Upon entering the event, fairgoers encounter the tents of 120 jury-chosen artisans whose original, handmade work stands out for its creativity and quality. Organizers select exhibitors whose offerings will provide Fair guests the greatest selection of products and media, ensuring that shoppers can choose from an abundant assortment of original crafts and that no two craftspeople will be selling the

same product.

After 47 years of neighbors helping neighbors, the Valle Country Fair has raised more than $1.25 million to support the good work of local charities and provide an emergency fund for local families who face critical needs.

WOOLLY WORM FESTIVAL

For over 40 years, the town of Banner Elk has welcomed both old and new friends to the annual Woolly Worm Festival, which takes place on Oct. 18-19 this year. This family event, co-hosted by the Avery County Chamber of Commerce and the Banner Elk Kiwanis Club, welcomes more than 20,000 people to the community to make family memories, the chance to earn the prestigious honor of predicting the High Country winter weather, and win the $1,000 bounty.

Admission for adults is $10.00, for children ages 6-12 it is $5.00, and children 5 and under are free.

Come for the Leaves

Stay for the Framing

All proceeds from the festival are given back to the community to support schools, children’s programs, and to promote business and tourism in Avery County.

SUGAR MOUNTAIN OKTOBERFEST

Sugar Mountain’s annual Oktoberfest will take place Oct. 11-12 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the resort. The Harbour Towne Fest Band will provide a festive Bavarian atmosphere to Sugar’s annual Oktoberfest celebration. Admission, parking and shuttle service are free. Rain, shine, or snow, the festival will go on.

Pets are welcome to attend Oktoberfest. However, they are not allowed on the deck or inside the lodge and must be on a leash at all times.

For the festival’s schedule of events, visit oktoberfest.skisugar.com.

BRUSHY MOUNTAIN APPLE FESTIVAL

Just down the mountain in Wilkes County is the Brushy Mountain Apple Festival, which is one of the largest one-day arts and crafts festivals in the Southeast. The Brushy Mountain Apple has become one of Wilkes County’s biggest fundraisers. Over 100 civic, church and other non-profit organizations

participate in the festival.

During the festival, the streets of downtown North Wilkesboro are filled with over 300 arts and crafts, 50 food concessions, and three different music stages featuring Blue Grass, Country, Folk, Gospel, and Appalachian Heritage. Cloggers, folk dancers, rope skippers, and square dancers provide additional entertainment venues for festival goers. Appalachian Heritage crafts are highlighted, such as woodcarving, chair making, soap making, pottery throwing, and quilting.

AUTUMN AT OZ

Due to damage from Hurricane Helene, the Land of Oz, which hosts Autumn at Oz in September, will not take place in 2025.

“Our goal is to reopen in 2026, but before moving forward, we must thoroughly evaluate key aspects of Autumn at Oz, including guest experience, operations, infrastructure, and overall event sustainability,” the Land of Oz posted on its website. “This pause will allow us to make thoughtful decisions that protect the magic of the event.”

While these are some of the larger fall events that take place every year, there are plenty more smaller pop-up festivals that take place and celebrate autumn in the High Country.

App State football

A new era in the High Country this fall

BY ZACH COLBURN

In the High Country, Saturdays are for App State football, with Kidd Brewer Stadium serving as the epicenter with many great moments on the gridiron for the Mountaineers.

After a down year by their standards, the Mountaineers are ready to work toward becoming bowl-eligible for the eighth time in program history and capturing another Sun Belt Conference championship.

It’s also a new era for App State as it’ll open up the Dowell Loggains era this season, looking to bounce back from a 5-6 record (3-5 in the conference) last year.

The Mountaineers are picked to finish third in the SBC-East standings.

After the 2024 season, App State lost 43 players from its roster, including 18 starters, so there will be lots of new faces for fans to get acquainted with.

“Our fans show up in Boone, whether it’s 70 degrees or the snow is blowing sideways, and I’m so excited about being part of that atmosphere on The Rock for the first time,” Loggains said during his opening statement at SBC Media Day in late July. “We’re excited about what we’ve been able to put together in the first year. We got kids who do things the right way, they make great decisions, don’t get in trouble, they go to class and they care about each other.”

The Mountaineers are guaranteed six home games in 2025 (and potentially a seventh with the SBC championship game), including several highly anticipated matchups.

Lindenwood, Oregon State, Coastal Carolina, Georgia Southern, Marshall and Arkansas State will all come to The Rock this fall. Four of its six home opponents were invited to bowl games in 2024, all of them being conference opponents.

The season kicked off on Aug. 29 when it traveled to Bank of America Stadium to face the University of North Carolina at Charlotte in the Duke’s Mayo Classic.

The Mountaineers open up their home slate the following week against Football Championship Subdivision member Lindenwood for Family Weekend. The Lions are currently provisional FCS members who reside in the Ohio Valley Conference.

Before the Oct. 4 home tilt with Pac12 Conference member Oregon State, App State will open up Sun Belt Play at Southern Miss (Sept. 13); following the open week, they’ll travel to Albertsons Stadium to face the Boise State Broncos on Sept. 27.

The final seven games of the season will be league games, starting with a road date at Georgia State on Oct. 11. Other

road trips include Old Dominion and James Madison on Oct. 25 and Nov. 15, respectively.

After a highly anticipated Oct. 18 homecoming contest with Coastal Carolina, the Mountaineers will host a Thursday night contest with Georgia Southern on Nov. 6. That contest will be broadcast on either ESPN or ESPN2.

Following the contest with the Dukes, App State will close out the regular season with back-to-back home contests against the Thundering Herd (Nov. 22) and the Red Wolves (Nov. 29). The Mountaineers will face Arkansas State for the first time

since 2021, while the game with Marshall will also serve as Black Saturday and Heroes Day.

The Sun Belt Championship game is slated for Friday, Dec. 5, at 7 p.m. Kickoff times have been set for the regular season games with UNC-Charlotte (7 p.m.), Lindenwood (3:30 p.m.), Southern Miss (7 p.m.) and Georgia Southern (7:30 p.m.)

Others have not been finalized yet. When they are known, they will be posted on appstatesports.com/sports/football, where more information on home games can be found.

APP STATE FOOTBALL

tailgating

Something special in the fall air

BY ZACH COLBURN

Tailgating at Appalachian State has become a fixture over the years and with the gorgeous backdrop of the Blue Mountains, it’s certainly special.

Hours before the Mountaineers’ kickoff inside Kidd Brewer Stadium, the outside parking lots have become a melting pot for food, fun and fellowship.

Along with music and the aroma of grilling food, attendees open the back of their vehicles and celebrate the day in parking lots and streets.

Whether it’s the standard tailgate cuisine of hamburgers, hot dogs, brats, and potato salad or the local flavors of pimento cheese and barbecue pork, there’s something for every fan.

Lawn activities, such as cornhole, beer pong (for those of age), ladder golf, listening to pregame broadcasts or watching other games on their phones tend to excite and get fans into the spirit for the upcoming App State game.

On game days at The Rock, fans fill the parking lots around Appalachian State’s campus with their cars and tents, whether on a hot, humid, early September day or, as with last year’s contest with James Madison, a post-snowstorm in late November, and

everything in between.

There are multiple locations open for tailgating around the App State campus, including the Greenwood Lot on Bodenheimer Drive for Yosef Club members and students with a permit (assigned spaces); the Raley/Duncan/Music lots and Stadium and Justice lots, which are open for Yosef Club members with appropriate tags.

According to App State athletics, other tailgating locations/parking lots where possessions and consumption of alcoholic beverages is permitted (unless otherwise stipulated by the University Administration) are, Broyhill Music Building Lot, Chemistry and Physics (CAP) Lot, Duck Pond Field, Durham Park, Farthing Auditorium Lot, Holmes Center Lot, John Thomas Hall Lot, Justice/Coltrane Halls Lots, Katharine Harper Hall Lot, Rivers Street Parking Deck, South Lot, Stadium Lot, Legends Lot, Student Recreation Center Lot and University Drive Parking Spaces.

In addition, the university offers an alcohol-free tailgate section — the Family Fun Zone.

Alcoholic beverages (malt beverages and unfortified wine) may be consumed in certain designated parking lots by fans of

legal drinking age (but they are not allowed to bring beverages inside the stadium). Those looking to participate must be able to present a valid driver’s license or photo ID to reflect their age upon request.

Liquors, spirits, kegs, common containers and glass containers are not permitted in any location.

Yosef Club parking lots will open to pass holders for tailgating at 8 a.m. for games with 2:30 or 3:30 p.m. start times (subject to change). Fans who do not have a Yosef Club parking pass can park for free at Levine College of Health Sciences (75 first-come, first-served spaces) and take the AppalCART route to campus. Other game-day parking options can be found at appstatesports.com.

Per App State’s football tailgating policy, propane and charcoal grills are the only allowable sources of heat for cooking. The university states that burned coals and/ or residue from cooking cannot come into

contact with paved surfaces or the parking lot. Hot coals must be entirely extinguished with water before leaving the tailgating site. Open flame fires are also prohibited.

The university recommends that fans use their vehicles to power any audio or video equipment. While generators and portable heaters are not prohibited, they are not recommended for use due to potential safety hazards.

Fans can use restrooms available in Trivette Hall, the Plemmons Student Union and the Central Dining Hall; portable bathrooms are located in the parking lots and tailgate locations throughout the campus.

Tailgating attendees are asked to dispose of trash in nearby dumpsters that are placed in high-traffic areas. Representatives from a number of organizations pass out trash bags in parking lots throughout the day to ensure all tailgating trash is picked up.

Fans will have six opportunities to tailgate before home games this season. Subject to change, gates will also open two hours early for fans (and two and a half hours early for Student Yosef Club members) for home games.

In addition to tailgating, fans can witness the traditional Mountaineer Walk, where the App State football team will walk from Roess Dining Hall up Stadium Drive to Kidd Brewer Stadium roughly 2 hours and 45 minutes before kickoff on each game day.

Tickets can be purchased at appstatesports.evenue.net or by calling (828) 262-7733 (press 0 for a ticket representative) on Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

HEART OF Appalachia NC High Country exemplifies the

BY JAMIE SHELL

The High Country of North Carolina, nestled in the depths of the Blue Ridge Mountains, encompasses three distinctive counties—Ashe, Avery, and Watauga—each offering unique communities that blend rich Appalachian heritage with modern mountain living.

In the fall, the High Country is one of the prettiest places to be — evidenced by the vibrant colors and the thousands of tourists that flock to the area as soon as the first leaves start to fall. Many of the businesses in each of these communities rely on fall for a significant portion of their revenue each year. In 2024, when Hurricane Helene devastated Western North Carolina, it was at one of the busiest times of the year, and many businesses — those that stayed open —

are still feeling the impacts.

Whether visiting for the first time or a seasoned tourist, these mountain communities provide something special for everyone. With the first fall after Hurricane Helene, make sure to support these local businesses while you’re here.

Avery County ^ BANNER ELK

Situated between two major ski destinations, Banner Elk has evolved from a small mountain hamlet into a year-round resort community offering comprehensive amenities for visitors and residents. The town’s transformation reflects the emergence of the region into a

Monday-Saturday

four-season recreational destination.

Lees-McRae College, a small private liberal arts institution affiliated with the Presbyterian Church U.S.A., serves as Banner Elk’s educational and cultural anchor. Founded in 1900, the college enrolls more than 800 students from more than 20 states and countries, bringing youthful energy and diverse perspectives to the mountain community. The campus features historic stone buildings, which have recently been renovated, creating photogenic settings that attract visitors and provide ideal backdrops for special events.

The town maintains an active calendar of cultural and recreational activities throughout the year. Summer brings theater programs produced by LeesMcRae College, while various art festivals showcase the work of regional galleries and artisans. The annual Woolly Worm Festival, held on the third weekend of October, represents Banner Elk’s largest community celebration, attracting nearly 20,000 visitors who come to participate in the quirky tradition of woolly worm racing and enjoy mountain music, crafts, and food. The college also welcomes alums back to the mountains for Homecoming weekend each autumn.

The town also boasts a thriving art scene, including the Historic Banner Elk School in the heart of downtown, which hosts Ensemble Stage, a company that performs live shows from spring through the holiday season.

Banner Elk’s location provides easy access to numerous outdoor activities and natural attractions. The town sits among Sugar Mountain, Beech Mountain, and Grandfather Mountain, offering residents and visitors quick access to skiing, hiking, scenic drives, wineries and waterfalls. The downtown area features shops, restaurants, and the peaceful Mill Pond, where visitors can relax and enjoy the mountain atmosphere.

Although affected significantly by Hurricane Helene (as have many High Country communities), Banner Elk continues to demonstrate and exemplify its mountain resolve as it bounces back from the storm through various projects to enhance its infrastructure and outdoor amenities.

^ BEECH MOUNTAIN

At 5,506 feet above sea level, Beech Mountain holds the distinction of being

the highest incorporated town in Eastern North America. This elevation provides significant advantages for both summer and winter recreation, creating a unique four-season resort environment that attracts visitors year-round.

The mountain’s height ensures comfortable summer temperatures even on the hottest days, making it an ideal escape from lower elevation heat. During the autumn months, the elevation offers breathtaking views of the fall foliage and a kaleidoscope of colors, serving as a harbinger of the coming winter season, which offers excellent snow conditions for skiing and snowboarding. The ski resort transforms during warmer months into a mountain bike park, offering downhill trails and scenic chairlift rides that provide spectacular views of the surrounding Blue Ridge Mountains.

Beech Mountain accommodates visitors with more than 5,000 beds in various lodging options, from rustic mountain cabins to luxury condominiums. This range ensures options for different budgets and group sizes. Dining options are equally diverse, spanning from casual deli sandwiches and pizza to upscale gourmet restaurants offering candlelit dinners with mountain views.

Recreation opportunities extend beyond the ski slopes to include golf, horseback riding, tennis, swimming, and extensive hiking trail networks. The town’s proximity to some of the East Coast’s finest whitewater rafting and canoeing adds to its outdoor appeal.

“Miracle in the Hills,” which became the foundation for a summer drama production that continues to be performed in present-day Crossnore. This ongoing theatrical presentation helps preserve and share the remarkable story of community transformation that occurred in the mountains.

Today, Marjorie Williams Academy continues the educational mission established by the Sloops, serving both local Crossnore residents and area students whose educational needs are best met in the academy’s specialized environment. The school operates Miracle Grounds Coffee Cafe & Creamery, which functions both as a community gathering place and a vocational training facility for students.

Evening entertainment venues cater to various musical tastes, ensuring that nightlife options complement the daytime activities.

Much of Beech Mountain remains in its natural state, with rich forests and rolling farmland preserving the area’s ecological integrity. This balance between development and conservation creates an environment where visitors can easily transition between resort amenities and natural wilderness experiences.

^ CROSSNORE

Steeped in educational and medical history, Crossnore represents one of the most significant success stories in Appalachian community development. The town’s transformation centers around the work of doctors Eustace and Mary Martin Sloop, who arrived in the early 20th century to bring medicine and education to isolated mountain communities.

The Sloops traveled treacherous mountain trails to provide medical care while simultaneously working to establish educational opportunities for children whose families had limited access to formal schooling. Their efforts led to the creation of a comprehensive complex including a school, hospital, dental clinic and boarding facilities designed to break cycles of poverty and limited opportunity that had previously constrained many mountain families.

Mary Martin Sloop documented these experiences in her autobiography

Crossnore’s community spirit shines during its famous Independence Day celebration, featuring a parade and festivities that draw participants from throughout the region. The town’s Meeting House hosts the Crossnore Jam, a series of monthly musical gatherings featuring local musicians on each first Friday during summer and fall.

^ ELK PARK

Located on the Tennessee border, Elk Park offers visitors an authentic step back into simpler times. The town’s old-fashioned atmosphere centers around Brinkley’s Hardware Store and the Lower Street antique district, where visitors can browse unique finds while admiring classic mural art that decorates building walls.

Lower Street represents Elk Park’s original commercial thoroughfare, dating to the era when the town served as a depot for the East Tennessee and Western North Carolina Railroad, affectionately known as “Tweetsie.” This railroad connection brought prosperity and growth that sustained the community even after train service ended.

Modern Elk Park continues to honor its heritage while embracing new opportunities. The 2013 opening of the new town hall facility adjacent to Lucille Winters Town Park demonstrates the community’s commitment to providing quality municipal services and recreational opportunities for residents and visitors.

Trosly Farm represents the town’s agricultural and culinary offerings.

Owners Amos and Kaci Nidiffer received recognition as 2020 North Carolina Small Farmers of the Year by NC A&T

State University Cooperative Extension, highlighting the continued importance of agriculture in the local economy and the innovation occurring in mountain farming operations, while multiple Christmas tree farms dot the community landscape, welcoming visitors to make memories by purchasing a tree and creating family memories around the holiday season that last a lifetime.

^ LINVILLE

Founded in 1883 and designed by Samuel T. Kelsey of Kansas, Linville represents one of the region’s earlier planned communities. The town was named to honor William and John Linville, who were reportedly killed by the Cherokee in 1766, reflecting the complex and often tragic history of European settlement in the mountains.

The East Tennessee and Western North Carolina Railroad served Linville from 1916 until 1940, when major flooding washed away the tracks and effectively ended the railroad era. The former rail route was later converted into N.C. 105 in 1956, maintaining the transportation corridor while adapting to automobile travel.

Linville supports three country clubs—Eseeola, Grandfather Golf and Country Club, and Linville Ridge—all operating from late spring through early fall to take advantage of the area’s ideal summer climate and spectacular mountain scenery. These facilities attract golfers from across the region and serve as important economic anchors for the community.

The area surrounding Linville shares the community’s name and includes several major tourist attractions. Linville Falls offers spectacular views and hiking opportunities, while Linville Caverns provides underground exploration adventures. The Linville Gorge wilderness area attracts serious hikers and rock climbers seeking challenging outdoor experiences in a pristine natural setting.

Linville Land Harbor provides residential options for those considering full-time or part-time mountain living. This community features its own golf course, tennis and pickleball courts and various amenities designed to support year-round or seasonal residents who want to enjoy the area’s four-season beauty. Each second weekend in July, the area of Linville and Grandfather Mountain swells to approximately 50,000

people as the Grandfather Mountain Highland Games take place over four days. The event showcases professional competitions, clan and ancestral Scottish pride and celebrates “America’s Braemar.”

^ NEWLAND

As the highest county seat east of the Mississippi River at 3,589 feet, Newland holds a unique distinction while serving as the governmental and commercial center of Avery County. Incorporated in 1913 when Avery County was formed, the town was originally known as “Old Fields of Toe” due to its location in a broad valley at the headwaters of the Toe River.

The name “Toe” derives from “Estatoe,” honoring a Native American chief’s daughter who, according to legend, drowned herself in the river when forbidden to marry a brave from another tribe. This story reflects the deep indigenous history that preceded European settlement in the region.

Newland’s Civil War history includes its use as a mustering place for troops, highlighting its strategic importance even in its early years. The town succeeded over three competing locations to become the county seat, a central location within the newly formed county.

The renovated courthouse, originally constructed in 1913, overlooks Avery

comprehensive four-season activities at an elevation of 5,300 feet. This high altitude ensures cool summer breezes and spectacular mountain views, creating ideal conditions for various recreational pursuits.

The village-owned golf and tennis club serves as a local favorite and regional destination. The 18-hole golf course, voted the No. 2 short course in the USA, features meticulously maintained greens and stunning mountain vistas. Green fees start at just $15, making quality golf accessible to a wide range of players. The Caddyshack Café provides dining options that round out the golf experience.

Tennis enthusiasts enjoy six courts surfaced with fast-dry Har-tru clay, maintained to professional standards. Daily “friendly” matches accommodate men’s, women’s and mixed play, creating a welcoming environment for players of all skill levels. Professional instruction is available for those seeking to improve their games.

Square and is surrounded by shops, churches and a memorial honoring Avery County veterans. The adjacent original jail has been converted into the Avery County Historical Museum, where visitors can explore preserved jail cells along with exhibits detailing local history.

Newland hosts a regular farmers’ market, providing a venue for local growers to sell fresh produce and handmade goods. Waterfalls Park, which was recently purchased through the Southern Appalachian Highlands Conservancy, preserves a pristine location that offers picnicking and hiking opportunities just outside town.

Mountain Glen Golf Club is a public course that provides recreational amenities with its 18-hole layout, in addition to a clubhouse dining facility, pro shop, and practice areas. Heritage Park serves multiple community functions, housing the Cooperative Extension office and 200-seat community building, hosting events ranging from weekend rodeos to high school proms, local concerts and the annual Agriculture and Heritage Fair each September.

^ SUGAR MOUNTAIN

The Village of Sugar Mountain specializes in outdoor recreation and mountain adventure, offering visitors

The annual “Grillin’ & Chillin’” summer music series takes place every Wednesday evening on the golf club’s outdoor deck, combining live entertainment with spectacular sunset views over the Blue Ridge Mountains. These free concerts, accompanied by food service from the Caddyshack Cafe, have become a beloved community tradition.

Sugar Mountain Resort transforms its ski slopes into mountain biking terrain during summer months, offering downhill trails and scenic chairlift rides most weekends from Memorial Day through Labor Day. Riders can experience a 1,200foot elevation drop from summit to lodge, while those preferring a more relaxed experience can enjoy round-trip scenic rides for panoramic views.

Special events throughout the year include Fourth of July fireworks viewable from the chairlift and the challenging Summit Crawl. The Fine Art & Master Crafts Festival, typically held on two summer weekends, showcases regional artistic talent and traditional mountain crafts.

Sugar Mountain’s location adjacent to Grandfather Mountain and within Pisgah National Forest provides access to additional activities, including alpine coaster rides, gem mining, whitewater rafting, yummy fudge, ice cream, and other homemade treats, and extensive

hiking trail networks. Twenty-five restaurants within five miles offer diverse dining options, while local galleries and boutiques provide shopping opportunities that reflect regional culture and craftsmanship.

Ashe County

^ JEFFERSON

As the county seat of Ashe County, Jefferson stands as a cornerstone of local government and community life. Home to approximately 1,600 residents, this historic town was founded in 1799 and named after Thomas Jefferson, who was serving as Vice President at the time. Originally called “Jeffersonton,” the community has grown from its modest 50-acre beginnings into a thriving municipal center.

The town’s civic importance is evident in its landmarks, including the Ashe County Courthouse, Ashe County Park and the Law Enforcement Center. History enthusiasts can explore the restored 1904 Courthouse, now listed on the National Register of Historic Places and housing the Museum of Ashe County History. This architectural gem sits adjacent to the Jefferson Police Department, creating a unique blend of past and present in the town’s governmental district.

^ WEST JEFFERSON

The bustling heart of Ashe County’s cultural and economic activity, West Jefferson draws visitors from across the region with its vibrant downtown district.

This community of approximately 1,300 residents has transformed itself into one of the county’s premier destinations, featuring an impressive array of shops, art galleries and locally-owned restaurants that reflect the area’s commitment to supporting homegrown businesses.

Incorporated in 1909, West Jefferson’s growth was significantly influenced by the Virginia Creeper Railroad, which brought commerce and connectivity to the mountain community. Today, the town serves as headquarters for several important organizations, including the Ashe County Arts Council, which promotes local cultural activities, and the New River Conservancy, dedicated to protecting the region’s pristine waterways.

The community is consistently active with engaging events throughout every season. Spring and summer bring regular concerts to the downtown area, while the unique Christmas in July festival and the September Ole Time Antiques Fair rank among Ashe County’s largest annual celebrations, drawing thousands of visitors to experience the town’s welcoming atmosphere and mountain hospitality.

^ LANSING

The smallest of Ashe County’s incorporated towns, Lansing, represents a living testament to the region’s railroad heritage. With approximately 130 residents, this community was incorporated in 1928 and served as a crucial stop along the Virginia Creeper railroad route, connecting it to West Jefferson, Todd and the community of White Oak.

Lansing’s historical significance

extends far beyond its small size, boasting five locations listed on the National Register of Historic Places: the Old Lansing School, Perry-Shepherd Farm, Miller Homestead, Clark-Miller Mill, and the Lansing Historical District. These preserved sites offer glimpses into the daily life and economic activities that sustained mountain communities throughout the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

The town’s population has declined since the railroad era ended, dropping from 278 residents in 1960 to 126 in the 2020 census. However, this smaller scale has helped preserve Lansing’s intimate, close-knit community character, making it a prime spot for those seeking authentic mountain town experiences.

^ GLENDALE SPRINGS

Strategically located near the Blue Ridge Parkway, Glendale Springs offers visitors easy access to one of America’s most scenic driving routes while providing its unique attractions. The community is renowned for the stunning fresco painting housed within Holy Trinity Episcopal Church, a remarkable work of religious art from artist Ben Long that draws visitors from around the region and nation.

The historic Glendale Springs Inn & Restaurant adds to the area’s appeal, having once hosted President Bill Clinton

and Vice President Al Gore during the duo’s 1998 visit to Ashe County. This establishment, added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1979, continues to welcome guests seeking fine dining and historic accommodations in the heart of the mountains.

Beyond its historical and cultural attractions, Glendale Springs serves as an excellent base for outdoor recreation, offering proximity to both the Blue Ridge Parkway and the New River, where visitors can enjoy hiking, scenic drives, water activities and the peaceful beauty of the Appalachian landscape.

^ FLEETWOOD

Positioned between West Jefferson and Deep Gap, Fleetwood serves as a gateway to some of the region’s best water recreation opportunities. The community’s location provides excellent access to the New River, where outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy kayaking, canoeing, and floating adventures along one of North America’s oldest rivers.

The areas between Fleetwood and Todd, particularly along Railroad Grade Road, have become popular launching points for river activities, offering various access points for different skill levels and trip lengths. Fleetwood is an unincorporated

community whose proximity to nature and outdoor activities encourages a strong sense of community and additionally boasts a dog-friendly atmosphere.

^ GRASSY CREEK

Straddling the North Carolina-Virginia border, Grassy Creek represents the unique character of communities that exist at the intersection of states and cultures. The area is home to The Old Store, a local landmark that serves both practical and social functions for residents and visitors exploring the border region.

The Grassy Creek Historic District, added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1976, preserves important examples of rural Appalachian architecture and land use patterns. Visitors traveling through the area will notice the extensive Christmas tree farms that have become a signature industry for this border community, contributing to the regional economy while maintaining the area’s agricultural character.

^ CRESTON

Located in Ashe County’s northwest corner, Creston is a community that offers visitors a glimpse into the region’s religious and cultural heritage. Worth’s Chapel, constructed in the early 1900s and listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1976, stands as a testament to the faith communities that helped shape the region’s mountain society.

The township’s location near the Tennessee state line provides easy access to multi-state exploration opportunities. The Riverview Community Center serves as the heart of local social life, hosting numerous community events throughout the year and maintaining the tradition of regular fish fries that bring neighbors together in the spirit of mountain hospitality.

^ TODD

This small community, shared between Watauga and Ashe counties, nestles in a picturesque bend of the South Fork New River, creating one of the region’s most scenic settings. Todd’s history stretches back nearly 6,000 years, with archaeological evidence indicating extensive Native American activity in the area long before European settlement. The Todd General Store held the distinction of being Ashe County’s oldest functional business before a

devastating fire destroyed it in 2021. The store served as both a commercial center and community gathering place, selling local provisions and merchandise while maintaining the social fabric that binds small communities together.

The New River remains Todd’s primary attraction, offering some of the finest recreational opportunities in the region. As one of the few rivers in the United States to flow north, it provides unique geographical interest along with excellent fishing, kayaking, and tubing. Several professional outfitters, including RiverGirl and Wahoo’s, operate in the area to help visitors safely enjoy these water activities.

Green Valley Community Park serves as Todd’s recreational headquarters, featuring playground equipment, sports fields, a paved walking track, picnic facilities, restrooms, canoe access, hiking trails and direct river access. This comprehensive facility makes Todd an ideal destination for families and outdoor enthusiasts seeking diverse recreation options in a compact, accessible location.

Watauga County

^ BOONE

As the county seat of Watauga County, Boone proudly bears the title “The Heart of the High Country.” This designation reflects both its geographic centrality and its role as the region’s primary economic, educational, and cultural hub.

converted into a cultural center, hosts live music performances spanning jazz, bluegrass and contemporary genres. This venue plays a key role in the inaugural Boonerang Music Festival held each summer, which attracts thousands of people to downtown Boone for a weekend-long celebration of music, art, food, and local culture. The festival’s success has established it as an annual tradition.

Boone’s connection to bluegrass music tradition is commemorated by the Doc Watson “Man of the People” statue on King Street. Watson, a local guitar virtuoso and bluegrass legend, earned seven Grammy awards and a Grammy Lifetime Achievement award during his career. Though he passed away in 2012, his musical legacy remains an important part of Boone’s cultural identity.

^ BLOWING ROCK

Appalachian State University serves as Boone’s defining institution, ranking as the sixth-largest school in North Carolina’s public university system with more than 20,000 students. This substantial student population creates a unique blend of academic energy, youthful vitality and cultural diversity that distinguishes Boone from other mountain communities. The university’s presence ensures year-round activity and provides educational, cultural and athletic programs that benefit the entire region.

Downtown Boone features a distinctive collection of locally-owned boutiques and businesses that reflect the community’s commitment to supporting entrepreneurship and maintaining authentic character. Anna Bananas on King Street specializes in unique secondhand clothing. At the same time, The Shoppes at Farmers, a family-owned business operating since 1924, offers everything from jewelry and art to toys and mountain crafts.

The local craft brewing scene has become a significant attraction, with establishments like Appalachian Mountain Brewery, Booneshine and Lost Province Brewing Company providing gathering places for residents and visitors. These breweries regularly host live music events and community activities, contributing to Boone’s reputation as an entertainment destination.

The Jones House, a historic home

Despite covering only three square miles, Blowing Rock maximizes its natural beauty and recreational opportunities to offer a destination that feels much larger than its physical boundaries suggest. The town’s name originates from the unusual wind patterns around the rocky cliff overlooking Johns River Gorge, where updrafts can cause light objects to float back up rather than fall, creating a boomerang-like effect.

Visitors can experience this natural phenomenon while learning about the area’s indigenous history at the Blowing Rock attraction on Rock Road. This site provides both natural wonder and cultural education, helping visitors understand the deep connections between the landscape and the people who have called these mountains home for thousands of years.

The portion of the Blue Ridge Parkway within Blowing Rock’s limits includes some of the region’s most spectacular hiking opportunities and scenic views. Moses Cone Manor and Julian Price Park offer well-maintained trails and interpretive programs, while off-Parkway destinations like Bass Lake Trail and Broyhill Park provide additional outdoor recreation options.

The Blowing Rock Art and History Museum, known locally as BRAHM, operates year-round, presenting exhibitions and programs that celebrate Appalachian culture, history, and artistic traditions. The museum’s location near downtown makes it easily accessible to visitors exploring the town’s shops and restaurants.

Blowing Rock’s downtown district features a pedestrian-friendly environment with numerous shops, restaurants and hotels lining picturesque sidewalks. Options range from casual mountain fare to upscale dining, with accommodations spanning from cozy bed-and-breakfasts to luxury resort properties.

^ SEVEN DEVILS

Strategically positioned between Banner Elk and Boone, Seven Devils provides convenient access to multiple High Country destinations while maintaining its own unique character and attractions. The town’s distinctive name reflects both geographical features and marketing creativity, as the founders noted seven prominent rocky peaks surrounding Valley Creek and decided to embrace the “devilish” theme for its attention-getting potential.

Surrounded by Sugar Mountain, Grandfather Mountain and Beech Mountain, Seven Devils offers easy access to major recreational destinations while providing its own outdoor adventures. The Otter Falls Trail represents one of the area’s most accessible hiking experiences, featuring a 0.6-mile hike to the falls for a total round-trip distance of 1.2 miles. The trail welcomes dogs, making it an ideal family outing for those traveling with pets.

Seven Devils continues to grow and develop new amenities while maintaining its community focus. Plans for a new community center and expanded trail system demonstrate the town’s commitment to enhancing recreational opportunities. Connections linking existing routes, including Otter Falls and Peak Mountain Trail, while extending to the Seven Devils Resort Club, offer additional outdoor exploration potential.

Established in the 1960s, Seven Devils has successfully balanced growth with community values, adapting to changing needs while preserving the small-town atmosphere that attracts residents and visitors seeking an authentic mountain experience.

^ VALLE CRUCIS

Located just off N.C. 105 south of Boone, Valle Crucis offers a pastoral riverside setting that embodies mountain tranquility and simplicity. The valley contains archaeological evidence of the only known Native American village in the immediate area, while also serving as the site where Samuel Hicks, Watauga County’s first European settler, built a

fort during the American Revolution.

An Episcopal bishop entered the community in 1842 and provided its Latin name, which translates to “Vale of the Cross,” reflecting the religious influence that helped shape the community’s development. The Episcopal Church continues to play an important role in Valle Crucis through ongoing programs, fundraising efforts and services.

The Valle Crucis Conference Center, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, maintains busy schedules hosting retreats for various groups throughout the year. The center’s proximity to Crab Orchard Falls provides easy access to one of the area’s most beautiful natural attractions, requiring only a short hike from the conference facilities.

The original Mast General Store, operating since 1883, serves as the community’s central gathering place

Elk, the unincorporated community of Foscoe proves that small size doesn’t limit opportunities for shopping, dining and exploration. Despite its compact footprint, Foscoe, which exists along the primary highway artery connecting Watauga and Avery counties, offers diverse experiences that attract visitors seeking unique mountain adventures and authentic local products.

Shopping opportunities span from antiques at Front Porch Antique Market to specialty items like golf apparel and clubs from Peanuts Club Pro Shop. Maggie Black Pottery showcases ceramics and porcelain created by local artisans, while Winkler Knives produces custom blades for collectors and outdoor enthusiasts. These businesses reflect the community’s commitment to traditional craftsmanship and local entrepreneurship.

Outdoor recreation options include Foscoe Fishing Company for angling enthusiasts and Greater Foscoe Mining Company for families interested in gold panning experiences. These activities provide hands-on opportunities to engage with the region’s natural resources and historical mining heritage.

Dining establishments like The Dog House Cafe offer soups, sandwiches, and sweets in a casual mountain atmosphere, while Country Retreat Family Billiards combines food service with entertainment, providing burgers and pool tables for social gatherings.

and commercial anchor. This historic establishment continues the tradition of providing local goods and services while welcoming visitors seeking authentic mountain shopping experiences. The Mast Store Annex, opened approximately 25 years after the original store, expands shopping opportunities while maintaining the same commitment to quality and service.

Valle Crucis Park, accessible via a gravel road behind the Mast Store Annex, provides comprehensive recreational facilities including walking paths, riverfront access, picnic areas, sports fields, and summer live music performances. This community amenity ensures that residents and visitors have convenient access to outdoor recreation and entertainment.

^ FOSCOE

Nestled between Boone and Banner

Foscoe’s location provides some of the High Country’s most spectacular mountain scenery, including famous profile views of Grandfather Mountain. This natural beauty serves as a constant backdrop for community life and provides countless photography opportunities for visitors documenting their mountain experiences.

The towns and communities of North Carolina’s High Country are an unparalleled blend of Appalachian heritage, natural beauty and contemporary mountain living. From bustling college towns to quiet historic hamlets, each community contributes its own character to the region’s identity while sharing common values of hospitality, outdoor recreation and preservation of mountain traditions.

Whether seeking adventure, relaxation, cultural enrichment or just the peace that comes from mountain vistas, visitors to the region will find experiences that create lasting memories and often inspire return visits or permanent relocation.

BOB MEIER artist/owner 585 W. King St., Boone, NC 28607 meier@doeridgepottery.com (828) 264-1127 doeridgepottery.com

Volunteerism can be great fun at the Valle Country Fair, as demonstrated by the Sausage booth crew. In addition to forming tight bonds while prepping bratwurst, peppers and onions for the lunch hour rush, volunteers say that they find great satisfaction in knowing that the results of their efforts will be that members of their communities will get help in times of need.

VALLE COUNTRY FAIR HITTING THE

BY CATHERINE MORTON

IIt’s time for a reboot.

on OCTOBER 18TH button

Hurricane Helene knocked out all hope for travelers and tourists to safely drive on washed out roads in the High Country during October 2024. In the same swipe, it destroyed any hope of the Valle Country Fair welcoming visitors with food, music, crafts and the Appalachian Autumn festival that had been a staple of life in Valle Crucis, North Carolina, for 46 years.

That was then, this is now. And the mission of the popular harvest-season fair, to raise money for neighbors in need, has never been required so acutely. Mountain families are still struggling to recover from the losses they endured on Sept. 27, 2024. It is time to get the Valle Country Fair started up once again.

Always held on the third Saturday in October, the 47th annual Valle Country

Fair takes over the grounds of the Valle Crucis Conference Center on Saturday, Oct. 18. Located beside NC Hwy 194, admission is free and ample parking is available in the adjoining field for $10 per car.

Upon entering the event, fairgoers encounter the tents of 120 jury-chosen artisans whose original, hand made work stands out for its creativity and quality. Organizers select exhibitors whose offerings will provide Fair guests the greatest selection of products and media, ensuring that shoppers can choose from an abundant assortment of original crafts and that no two craftspeople will be selling the same product.

Mountain music floats on the Autumn breeze throughout the day. The main stage, located by the dining tent, showcases the best in local bluegrass, country and gospel

music.

A second stage located near the Kids’ Activity Area features younger musicians, cloggers and more. In the Activity Area, youngsters can visit with alpacas, compete in games like corn hole and pumpkin ring toss, get a temporary tattoo, or have their faces painted.

Most of the food booths at the Valle Country Fair are operated by the parishioners of Holy Cross Church. Serving up barbecue, Brunswick Stew, chili, burgers and sausages with onions, the members of the little country church dedicate all of their proceeds to the Fair charities.

The baked goods booth spreads out an excess of sweetness on long tables laden with cookies, candies, cakes and pies. For apple cider to accompany your treats, wander down behind the red barn where locally grown apples are loaded into a 1940s-era cider press and brute strength is used to squeeze every drop of thirstquenching goodness from the fruit. Need a souvenir to take back to a coworker or a Christmas gift for the kids’ teachers? The jelly ladies have been canning all summer to fill their booth with homemade jellies, jams, relishes and pickles.

And for a stocking stuffer you won’t find anywhere else, visit the Apple Butter

Boys. They’ll be over by the sorghum patch, stirring their thick, sweet, cinnamon-laced condiment over an open fire in huge copper kettles.

After 47 years of neighbors helping neighbors, the Valle Country Fair has raised more than $1.25 million to support the good work of local charities and provide an emergency fund for local families who face critical needs.

The single-day harvest festival is held in a large pasture located alongside NC Highway 194 between Valle Crucis and Banner Elk. Admission to the Valle Country Fair is free and parking is available in the adjoining field for $10 per car, $25 for a small bus or van, and $50 for a motor coach. Official hours for the fair are 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., but many guests arrive early. No pets are allowed.

Media sponsors for VCF 2025 are Mountain Times Publications and Curtis Media Group.

Holy Cross Episcopal Church produces the event in cooperation with the Valle Crucis Conference Center. Proceeds are used to provide grants to local non-profit organizations and relief to local families with emergency needs.

For more information, contact Holy Cross Church at (828) 963-4609 or visit www.vallecountryfair.org.

BANNER ELK

Woolly Worm

FESTIVAL

anticipating triumphant return for 2025

BY JAMIE SHELL

After an unexpected cancellation in 2024 due to Hurricane Helene, the annual Banner Elk Woolly Worm Festival will make a major return in 2025. Under the leadership of Victoria Bowman, organizers are not only preparing for the comeback but also modernizing the event to ensure long-term success, so that the festival can remain as prominent as it has been since its start in 1978.

The festival, which draws more than 20,000 attendees over two days, is a longtime Avery County staple. This year, it will take place on Oct. 18-19. Bowman, who took over the leadership role after serving on the festival committee, acknowledged the challenges of stepping into the position. Bowman succeeded Mary Jo Brubaker, who chaired the event for more than a decade.

“It was overwhelming at first,” Bowman admitted. “But I knew the festival was an essential part of our community, and I wanted to build on its success while bringing in new ideas.”

One of the most significant changes Bowman introduced is shifting from a

seasonal planning model to a year-round approach. In the past, festival planning began in February or March, but now organizers work continuously to enhance efficiency and prevent last-minute rushes.

A small advisory group leads the planning, while the Avery Chamber of Commerce staff handles vendor applications and logistics. With more than 170 vendors, including craft artisans, food vendors and nonprofit organizations, careful coordination is crucial to the success of the event.

Bowman has also prioritized expanding community involvement beyond Banner Elk to reach the greater Avery County area. She introduced new leadership to bring fresh ideas and drive innovation, ensuring the festival keeps pace with an everevolving society.

One major focus is the festival’s digital presence. Organizers partnered with Bramble Marketing to revamp the festival’s website and improve social media engagement. Looking ahead, Bowman hopes to launch an event app that will provide real-time updates on traffic, parking and scheduling.

“We want to make the festival experience as seamless as possible for both attendees and vendors,” Bowman said. “Technology is a big part of that.”

While the modernization efforts have been well received, Bowman noted that resistance to change from long-time community members has been a challenge. Additionally, the festival is entirely volunteer-run, making organization and execution a complex task.

The impact on the festival in 2024 due to Hurricane Helene was significant. The festival generates critical revenue for local businesses, Avery County Schools and nonprofit organizations. Many groups depend on festival-generated grants to fund sports teams, children’s programs and community initiatives. Without that financial boost, some organizations have struggled.

“Losing the festival in 2024 was devastating, not just for the event itself, but for the many local groups that rely on it,” Bowman said. “That’s why we’re working

even harder to make 2025 a success.”

As plans for the 2025 festival take shape, organizers are focused on delivering an exceptional experience while maintaining the traditions that have made the event a beloved staple in Avery County. Stronger collaborations with Avery County Schools and other local organizations are in the works, alongside continued improvements to logistics and efficiency.

With renewed enthusiasm and a fresh approach, Bowman and her team are ready to bring the festival back stronger than ever.

“We’re excited for what’s ahead,” she said. “The best is yet to come.”

The Banner Elk Woolly Worm Festival is co-sponsored by the Avery County Chamber of Commerce and the Banner Elk Kiwanis Club, and is scheduled for the third weekend of each October.

For more information on the festival, visit www.woollyworm.com or call the Avery Chamber of Commerce at (828) 898-5605.

JOURNEY BEGINS WITH

HIGH COUNTRY DEALER WITH THE LARGEST NEW INVENTORY TO CHOOSE FROM

COMMERCIAL CUSTOMERS GET

COMMERCIAL VEHICLES

Be weather wise IN THE FALL

BY MOSS BRENNAN

Summers bring high temperatures and strong thunderstorms. Winter brings extreme cold and snow/ice storms. The fall can bring a mixture of both.

With temperatures ranging from below freezing to slightly chilly to warm, autumn weather in the High Country can be tricky to dress for.

On average, Watauga County — which sits between Avery and Ashe counties — sees an average high of 71 and an average low of 52 in September. In October, temperatures start to get colder with an average low of 41 and a high of 63. November, when the final leaves fall from the trees and the fall air turns to winter, the average high is 53 with an average low of 32. It’s recommended that you pack a light jacket for the cool fall evenings. If you tend to get cold easily, consider bringing a heavier jacket, especially during the late fall months.

In 2024, the first snowfall in Avery, Ashe, and Watauga counties took place on Nov. 22. Beech Mountain — which sits on a higher elevation in Avery and Watauga Counties — received between 6 and 9 inches of snow.

However, snow can come earlier, as it’s not unusual to see snow in late October — even if it is just a dusting.

Of course, the higher in elevation you travel, the colder it can get. The Grandfather Mountain Stewardship Foundation posts monthly weather reports from data collected from a weather station at the top of the Mile High Swinging Bridge.

The average high temperature for October 2024, not including three days of missing data, was 56.20 degrees Fahrenheit, with an average low of 44.65 degrees and a mean of 50.43 degrees. The warmest temperature recorded for the month was 66.2 degrees on Oct. 13, almost 9 degrees shy of the mountain’s record October high of 75

Hues of orange, red and yellow descend Grandfather Mountain’s slopes, past the nonprofit nature park’s upper switchbacks and into a sea of clouds below during sunrise in October.

degrees, observed Oct. 3, 1986. Generally, October sees fall weather conditions continue on Grandfather Mountain, with cooler temperatures starting to take hold.

The average high temperature for November 2024 was 47.24 degrees Fahrenheit, with an average low of 35.67 degrees and a mean of 41.46 degrees. The warmest temperature recorded for the month was 63 degrees on Nov. 7, exactly 6 degrees shy of the mountain’s record November high of 69 degrees, observed on both Nov. 1 and 2, 2004. Generally,

November sees winter weather conditions start to take hold on Grandfather Mountain.

Whether you are a seasoned visitor to the High Country enjoying the fall colors or here for the first time, be sure to bring layers and check the weather before heading out to enjoy all this beautiful area has to offer.

Make sure to stay up to date with news and weather by following our news publications, the Watauga Democrat (Watauga County, the Avery Journal Times (Avery County), and the Ashe Post and Times (Ashe County).

Open Wed –Sun, 4–11pm

Late Night Lounge Fri & Sat until 2am with music & dancing.

Late Night Lounge Fri & Sat until 2am with music & dancing.

130 Main St E, Downtown Banner Elk

130 Main St E, Downtown Banner Elk Open Wed –Sun, 4–1 1pm

trails HIGH COUNTRY

beckon as autumn adventures await at the peak

BY IAN ASHTON

The High Country region stretches across seven counties and holds some of the most iconic peaks in the eastern United States. It’s where the Blue Ridge Parkway weaves through ridgelines, the Appalachian Trail brushes through grassy balds, and historic paths lead to waterfalls, overlooks and places you never forget.

This area is home to the tallest peaks east of the Rockies, and the trails here are more than just a way to pass the time — they’re a tradition. Whether you’re hiking with kids, seeking a meditative solo trek, or chasing scenic views, the High Country has a trail for you.

For beginners, families, or those looking for a quick nature fix, Greenway Trails in Boone and Blowing Rock are the ideal launch point. These multi-use paths are flat, paved in sections, friendly to bikes, strollers and walkers alike. As a bonus, they offer serene views of streams, bridges and local

plant life without the steep climbs.

A fresh chapter is unfolding in the High Country with the Middle Fork Greenway — an inspiring trail project that’s steadily taking shape. Once completed, this scenic six-mile route will seamlessly link Boone to Blowing Rock, offering walkers, bikers and nature lovers a vibrant, car-free connection between the two towns. Spearheaded by the Blue Ridge Conservancy, the project is a testament to the region’s passion for protecting wild spaces while opening them up for everyone to enjoy.

Just a short drive from Boone, Elk Knob State Park offers a steady, rewarding climb to sweeping 360-degree summit views — especially stunning when fall colors set the ridges ablaze with crimson and gold.

The Blue Ridge Parkway is more than just a scenic drive — it’s your trail map to adventure. As you drive south from Boone, you’ll see mileposts along the road, which serve as helpful reference points for

trailheads and overlooks.

At milepost 294, turn into Moses Cone Memorial Park — where a stately mansion anchors over 25 miles of scenic former carriage trails, perfect for walking, jogging, or horseback rides. One beloved path climbs to a fire tower with panoramic views over Boone and Blowing Rock.

Continue for a few more minutes to find Shulls Mill Road, which leads to the Rich Mountain Carriage Trail. This three-mile loop takes you through mossy forests and gentle meadows before delivering longrange views from the mountain’s upper ridge. It’s a quiet alternative to some of the busier trails and makes for a perfect halfday escape.

One of the most popular trails in the area is Rough Ridge, located near milepost 302. It’s famous for its sweeping cliffside views and sunset photo ops — but it’s no secret, and the trail gets crowded during peak fall color seasons.

For a quieter adventure, try the Ship Rock Route. From the Rough Ridge lot, walk a quarter mile south to milepost 301. Just before the Linn Cove Viaduct, a hidden trail behind a stone wall climbs to Ship Rock. From there, connect to Rough Ridge and loop back with stunning views the whole way.

At milepost 305, you’ll find the entrance to one of the region’s most recognizable landmarks: Grandfather Mountain. The park itself offers a zoo, the famous Mile High Swinging Bridge and wellmaintained trails (with an entrance fee), but serious hikers can explore its rugged terrain for free via the Profile Trail, located off NC 105 in Banner Elk.

This trail, newly updated with expanded parking and restrooms, is strenuous and remote. Expect steep inclines, shifting weather and technical climbs — but also sweeping vistas, alpine ecosystems and one of the most satisfying summit treks in the area.

Standing at just under 6,000 feet, Grandfather Mountain is notorious for producing its own weather. Even on clear days in town, clouds can form and swirl around the summit, adding to the mountain’s mystique — and challenge. Be prepared with layers, snacks, water and solid hiking boots if you take this one on.

Twenty miles from Grandfather, along the North Carolina–Tennessee border, lies one of the most unique hiking zones in the eastern U.S. — the Roan Highlands. This area contains the largest stretch of grassy balds (treeless mountain tops) on the Appalachian Trail and reaches elevations of more than 6,000 feet. The terrain is open, breezy and filled with wildflowers during the summer and bold color in the fall.

The Carvers Gap to Round Bald section

is a favorite for day hikers and backpackers alike, providing big views early and often. It’s an hour’s drive from Boone, but it’s worth every mile.

Not every High Country hike requires a full day or tons of gear. Just south of Grandfather Mountain, the Beacon Heights Trail (milepost 305.2) is short — just a quarter mile — but opens to jawdropping views. Look for a stone bench partway up. If you turn left at the bench and climb a small set of natural stairs, you’ll find a rock ledge with expansive views of Table Rock, Hawksbill Mountain, and Wilson Creek Gorge.

Similarly, Flat Rock Trail (milepost 308) offers an easy 30-minute loop through shady forest that ends at an overlook perfect for catching a sunset with friends.

Craving solitude? Take Old Jonas Ridge Road past milepost 311, then follow Forest Road 464 by the white church. Big and Little Lost Cove Cliffs reward moderate hikes and sweeping, uncrowded views.

Further south is the Linville Gorge Wilderness — a true backcountry area. For the easiest access, head to Wiseman’s View, a short paved trail off Old NC 105 (Route 1238). This spot delivers one of the most iconic views in the Blue Ridge Mountains. However, be careful because the gravel road is steep and rutted, so only attempt the drive in dry conditions and preferably with a four-wheel drive or all-wheel vehicle.

The gorge also offers some of the High Country’s most exhilarating hikes — like Table Rock, Hawksbill and The Chimneys — where rugged paths, dramatic elevation

changes, and wild, untamed beauty await. These trails are best suited for experienced adventurers, as the terrain is steep, remote and requires confident navigation. But for those ready to take on the challenge, the rewards are unforgettable.

The High Country of North Carolina is more than just a destination—it’s a trail network that weaves people, history and nature together. Whether you’re out for a casual afternoon or a multi-peak weekend, the region offers an endless supply of beauty, challenge and discovery.

So lace up your boots, plan your route and get ready to find out why these trails have been drawing explorers for generations.

HIGH COUNTRY HIKING safety tips

BY WATAUGA COUNTY RESCUE SQUAD

The High Country is filled with a multitude of beautiful hikes that make the region a wonderful place to explore. Trails like Moses Cone, Hebron Falls, Boone Fork, Otter Falls, and many others offer breathtaking views and outdoor experiences, especially in the fall. As you explore, it’s important to stay safe and be prepared. Here are some helpful safety tips to keep in mind.

Have a plan before you head out. Ask yourself who you’re with. Constantly check in with the people you’re hiking alongside, and make sure to go at your own pace while being mindful of those who are slower. Know what trail you’re on, including its difficulty level, and take time to research it ahead of time.

Understand your own physical limitations, and make sure to bring extra water and snacks just in case.

Think about when you’re starting your hike. It’s best to enter the trail with enough daylight to complete your hike before dark. It’s important to be aware of daylight hours, especially since the forest can become darker sooner than expected.

Know where you are. Be familiar with the trailhead, your route, and where the exit is. Stay on official trails and watch where you step. Snakes and other wildlife may be nearby. Leave wildlife alone and respect the environment, including any hikers who came before you.

If you become lost, stay where you are. The best advice is to “hug a tree.” This means remaining in one spot so that rescuers can find you more easily. Moving around can make it harder for responders to locate you.

“Call 911- they can plot your location and give us GPS coordinates for your location, or an approximation of your

location, allowing us to better find you. Stay put!” WCRS Chief Nate McCoy said.

It’s also wise to carry a backup paper map in case your phone dies or loses service.

“We always want our visitors and locals

to be safe on the trails,” McCoy said. Following these tips will help keep you safe while hiking and enjoying the fall colors.” By staying aware and prepared, you can safely enjoy all that the High Country has to offer.

Open Sunrise to Sunset, Seven Days a Week

Exploring the High Country’s final frontier on the BLUE RIDGE parkway

BY WATAUGA COUNTY RESCUE SQUAD

The Blue Ridge Parkway’s hiatus following Hurricane Helene is over, welcoming thousands of returning guests to the High Country’s premier corridor for marvelling at Mother Nature’s undisturbed mountain majesty.

The Blue Ridge Parkway offers hiking, trail running, and general natural observation in addition to long, leisurely drives into the High Country’s scenic byway.

Although Hurricane Helene extensively damaged long stretches of the Blue Ridge Parkway, state cleanup efforts have restored most portions of the iconic mountain thoroughfare.

Nearly 16.7 million people visit the 469 miles that comprise the Parkway, a popular leaf-peeping sightseeing destination during the autumn months.

While isolated Parkway closures persist with ongoing repair work detouring motorists to safer roadways, High Country nature enthusiasts can still enjoy several local overlooks as the region transitions into a brilliant canopy of burnt orange, cyan, yellow, and red hues during the cooler months.

CURRENT ROAD CLOSURES

Guests motoring to the BRP should click to nps.gov for a complete and up-todate road closures before day tripping or booking a mountain chateau on Airbnb.

While the NC-16 to US 421 parkways segment remains closed for a multi-year construction project, the US 421 to US 221/421 interchange is open. The Bamboo Gap to Aho Gap parkway section is also closed, although the Aho Gap to Green Hill Road is ungated.

The well-traveled Green Hill Road to the US 321/221 section in Blowing Rock is open.

US Highway 321/221 Blowing Rock to Sandy Flat Gap, including Moses Cone Manor, is also ready for the influx of High Country visitors ready to pose for scenicview selfies and last-second excursions along the Blue Ridge’s spacious peaks. These closures are as of mid-August and are subject to change.

TRAVEL TIPS

The Blue Ridge Parkway official website says guests should always consider daily weather updates before enjoying an impromptu excursion to the meandering Parkway that’s always a short drive from Blowing

Newland, and West Jefferson. While snow and ice are the more common hazards, isolated thunderstorms and torrential downpours are possible during the late summer and early fall, according to the National Weather Service.

Hikers should always stay on marked trails, like the Mountains-to-Sea Trail, which snakes alongside the Parkway. Trail blazers should look for distinctive signposts with the MST logo, said the NPS. Trailheads are visible at several overlook spots, including the “Jumping Off” spot in Ashe County near the intersection of NC 163 and NC 16 in Glendale Springs. Hikers can also discover Segment 5 of the MST at Beacon Heights and careens near Tanawha Trail near the base of Grandfather Mountain.

PARKWAY GEMS

The Doughton Park Recreation Area and the Bluffs Restaurant are open in Alleghany County. Prospective drivers and guests can find the recreation area between milepost 238.5 and 244.7 in Laurel Springs. Doughton Park is well-known for frollicking meadows, hiking trails, and campgrounds. Guests can enjoy ranger talks and craft demonstrations, according to the NPS.

Bringegar Cabin, located at nearby milepost 238.5, is a restored 19th-century cabin, offering guests a historical refresher on rugged mountain life before modernization. Travelers looking to stretch their legs before continuing to Doughton Park can see the small family cabin, shed, spring house, and fertile gardens that once supported the Brinegar family.

Parkway guests traveling between Deep Gap and West Jefferson can view “The Lump,” or “Dooley Hill,” at milepost 264.4 to look down into the sleeping mountain communities of Wilkes County that give way to rolling hills and an elevated plateau before converging with the western Piedmont area.

The nearby “Cascades” stop, located at milepost 271.9, is another popular Parkway destination. The Cascades offers a gentle and refreshing walk from the parking lot to a breathtaking waterfall that cascades off the mountain. Although the trail is graveled in most sections, hikers and walkers should wear closed-toe shoes or sturdy boots with gripping tread, as some sections are often wet from the falls’ spraying mist.

Although Linville Falls on the Avery County section of the Parkway is open, guests should stay apprised of updated openings and closures due to Helene damage. The famous Linn Cove Viaduct, which hugs the backside of Grandfather Mountain, is also open to drivers.

Top 10

things to do during fall in the High Country

BY NICK FOGLEMAN

Fall in the High Country of North Carolina isn’t just a season, it’s a celebration. Crisp mornings, colorful leaves and a calendar packed with events make autumn one of the most anticipated times of year for locals and visitors alike. According to Amanda Lugenbell, Assistant Director of Communications and Public Relations for the Blowing Rock Tourism Development Authority, autumn is one of the busiest and most important seasons for the area.

“People escape the heat in July, and they come in October for the beauty of the area,”

Lugenbell said. “The foliage is a huge draw, but there are so many other things the mountain offers during this time of year.”

Here are some of the best things to do in the High County during the Fall season:

FESTIVALS

Fall weekends bring a steady stream of festivals and events that bring several visitors to the High Country. The Valle Country Fair (Oct. 18) transforms the quiet community of Valle Crucis into a market of handmade crafts, home-cooked food, and live bluegrass. On the same weekend, Banner Elk’s Woolly Worm Festival (Oct. 18–19) draws thousands for live music,

street food and the famous worm races. Celebrating the spooky season, Blowing Rock’s Monster March costume parade and downtown trick-or-treating (Oct. 25) bring a family-friendly Halloween flair to the season.

HIKING

Fall hiking in the High Country offers one-of-a-kind scenery and several diverse trails. Moses H. Cone Memorial Park provides easy access to over 25 miles of wide carriage trails from the Moses Cone Manor trailhead, just off the Blue Ridge Parkway. Elk Knob State Park features sweeping views from its 5,500-foot peaks with ongoing conservation efforts to protect the surrounding land. For more challenging trails, Grandfather Mountain’s rugged terrain and rocky ridges rise nearly a mile above the valleys, with trails like the Grandfather and Daniel Boone Scout requiring ladder climbs and offering spectacular views from the summit. For a gentler experience, the Price Lake Loop Trail on the Blue Ridge Parkway circles a scenic lake with views of Grandfather Mountain.

OKTOBERFEST

The High Country embraces Oktoberfest season with enthusiasm, combining the region’s craft beer culture with mountain hospitality. Beginning in September, breweries and towns host events that range from lively gatherings to family-friendly afternoons. Favorites include Appalachian Mountain Brewery’s seasonal festivities, Boonetoberfest in downtown Boone, Booneshine Brewery’s fall events and the Annual Oktoberfest at Sugar Mountain Resort, where live music and Germaninspired food create a festive atmosphere.

PUMPKIN PATCHES AND CORN MAZES

Local farms make autumn a hands-on experience for families with pumpkin patches and corn mazes. Visitors can explore the seven-acre maze at Harvest Farm in Valle Crucis, ride hay wagons at New River Corn Maze in Deep Gap or enjoy games and a haunted maze at C&J Corn Maze in Boone. West Jefferson’s Ashe County Corn Maze offers activities from bounce houses to marshmallow roasting,

while Lantern Farm near the Blue Ridge Parkway features both corn and hay mazes along with a pumpkin patch.

APP STATE FOOTBALL

Nothing says fall in the High Country quite like an Appalachian State University football game. The roar of the crowd, the backdrop of autumn leaves on the surrounding mountains and the tradition of college football make home games a must-see event. Game schedules and tickets are available online, and early planning is recommended.

SCENIC CHAIRLIFT

For a bird’s-eye view of autumn’s colors, Beech Mountain Resort and Sugar Mountain Resort offer scenic chairlift rides during the fall season. These rides provide sweeping views of the surrounding peaks and valleys at the height of leaf color. Dates and hours vary by resort, so checking event schedules in advance is recommended.

TWEETSIE RAILROAD

A fall tradition for many families, the Ghost Train at Tweetsie Railroad blends seasonal spookiness with the historic Wild West theme park. Riders can enjoy haunted attractions, costumed characters and a nighttime train ride through the mountains lit by jack-o’-lanterns and special effects.

FISHING

Autumn offers some of the best fishing of the year, with trout season in full swing. Whether you’re a fly-fishing enthusiast or new to the sport, guides like Speckled Trout Outfitters, Todd River Girl, MountainBound Fly Guides, West Fork Anglers and Holston River Fishing Guides provide expert instruction and access to

pristine rivers and streams framed by autumn foliage.

BIRD WATCHING

The Blue Ridge Mountains are home to roughly 160 breeding bird species, with more than 250 species regularly passing through during migration seasons. September is one of the best months to witness fall migrations in the High Country. Popular birdwatching locations include Valle Crucis Community Park, the Boone Greenway, Moses H. Cone Memorial Park and Grandfather Mountain, where visitors can spot warblers, hawks and other seasonal travelers. Early mornings offer the best opportunities to see migratory birds.

SHOPPING

From the historic Mast General Store in Valle Crucis, stocked with everything from outdoor gear to old-fashioned candies, to boutique-lined streets in Blowing Rock, West Jefferson, and Banner Elk, fall shopping in the High Country is as much about the setting as the finds. These local communities are known for their unique stores that are sure to be well stocked with seasonal clothes and goods.

For Lugenbell, the combination of natural beauty and community tradition is what makes autumn in the High Country so memorable.

“The mountains are just a special place to experience fall,” she said. “It just makes it the perfect place to be.”

With so much happening, Lugenbell suggests planning a midweek visit for nonevent trips, arriving early helps avoid traffic and secure parking and making reservations in advance for dining, guided tours or special events.

Fall’s cool return

signals thriving High Country hunting season

BY CHRISTIAN GARDNER

As the crisp air sweeps through the High Country, hunters are gearing up for one of the most anticipated seasons of the year. Hunting in the High Country offers more than the pursuit of game; it provides a rare sense of peace and solitude that’s hard to match. In the stillness of an autumn morning, the mist hangs low over the ridges, the only sounds being the rustle of leaves underfoot or the distant call of a crow. Hours can pass in quiet reflection, as the cool mountain air sharpens the senses and the landscape stretches out in brilliant shades of gold and crimson. For many hunters, these moments when the pace of life slows and nature takes center stage are as rewarding as any harvest.

The tradition continues with the early bow season for deer, set to open statewide Sept. 13, offering a peaceful chance to escape the hustle of daily life and reconnect with nature’s rhythm.

In Western North Carolina, archery hunters will have an extended window from Sept. 13 through Nov. to pursue antlered bucks. Come mid-November, blackpowder season kicks in (Nov.–28),

followed by gun season beginning Nov. and running through Jan., 2026. In a nod to youth, the Fall Youth Deer Hunting Days are scheduled statewide for Sept. 27–28, with an added opportunity in the Western Zone on Nov. 28.

Though muzzleloader season terminology historically varied, this year’s seasons are clearly defined by weapon type and zone. There’s no separate “muzzleloader week”; those hunters will fall under the established archery or black powder dates above.

Outdoor enthusiasts are encouraged to practice safety and courtesy. Hunters, hikers, and birdwatchers using public lands are advised to wear blaze orange during open seasons to ensure visibility and safety. This approach safeguards all users even during non-rifle seasons since archers remain active in the field.

Small game hunters also have plenty to look forward to. Gray and red squirrels, rabbits, grouse, bobcats, raccoons, and opossum seasons are open from Oct. 13 through Feb. 28, 2026. Quail and pheasant hunting begin later in November, quail from Nov. 22, and pheasants (statewide)

from Sept. 1 through Feb. 28 in most areas, with special dates for barrier islands.

Turkey spring season concluded in May (April 12–May 10), but hunters can look ahead to 2026 for that cherished opener.

Before heading to the woods this fall, remember that hunting requires the proper

license and any needed privileges (like big-game or waterfowl privileges), along with harvest reporting and adherence to bag limits and local regulations. Hunters are encouraged to consult the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission for the most current details and maps before planning their outings.

BANNER ELK BOOK EXCHANGE

coupon entitles you to one FREE BOOK without a swap! Visit the Banner Elk Book Exchange!

Summer Hours: Tues.-Fri. 10am - 4pm, Sat. 1pm-4pm For more information about our programs, please visit www.bannerelkbookexchange.com

Enjoy the fall by

fishing

in the HIGH COUNTRY

BY CHRISTIAN GARDNER

As autumn color sweeps across the mountains, the High Country comes alive with some of the year’s most breathtaking views. From mountaintops and overlooks to the quiet banks of rivers and streams, there’s no better time to grab your gear and head out for a day of fishing. The vivid reds, oranges, and golds of the season frame the cool, clear waters, making each cast as much about the scenery as the catch.

Fishing remains one of the High Country’s most beloved outdoor activities, drawing anglers of all ages. Fly fishing, in particular, offers a unique challenge and reward. Unlike traditional fishing, where bait is cast below the water’s surface, fly fishing uses small, lightweight lures known as “flies” that skim along the top, imitating the movement of insects that tempt hungry trout. Patience and practice are key, but once mastered, the technique becomes a deeply satisfying pursuit.

Fall is prime time for trout, with water

temperatures dropping back into the 50s, sparking active feeding.

“Fall fishing is usually some of the best of the year,” said professional guide Cade Buchanan of Mountain Troutfitters in Linville, NC. “Stoneflies, eggs and streamers are my go-to for catching big, hungry browns this time of year.”

Fly rods differ from standard fishing rods; they’re longer, thinner, and designed for precision and flexibility, perfect for working the fly across the surface. For beginners, aluminum reels offer a dependable and affordable start, while seasoned anglers may opt for reels made of carbon fiber or stainless steel for greater durability. Choosing the right fly is equally important, with a wide variety of sizes, styles, and materials available to match the conditions and the fish’s appetite.

For newcomers, booking a guided trip can be the best way to learn the ropes. Local guide services like Mountain Troutfitters in Linville, Deep South

Co Outfitters in Elk Park, Foscoe Fly Fishing, Elk Creek Outfitters, High Country Guide Outfitters, Mountains to Coast Fly Fishing Guide Service, and Speckled Trout in Blowing Rock all offer expert instruction and local knowledge to help anglers of any skill level find success on the water.

Whether you’re casting a line for the first time or you’re a seasoned angler chasing trophy trout, fall fly fishing in the High Country offers more than just the thrill of the catch, it’s a chance to immerse yourself in stunning scenery, breathe in the crisp mountain air, and connect with the natural beauty of the season.

under the stars camping AUTUMN

BY NATHAN HAM

Camping in the great outdoors brings you closer to nature, and what better place to do that than in the beautiful mountains of the High Country during the fall?

Just in time for the autumn months, campsites along Loop A at Julian Price Park along the Blue Ridge Parkway were recently opened by the National Park Service. The campgrounds at Price Lake had been closed since Hurricane Helene struck the area last fall. This area is perfect for a peaceful, romantic getaway or for a family adventure for a weekend trip. When fully operational, Julian Price Park offers 190 campsites, including RV, trailer and tent sites. Amenities include restrooms, picnic areas and access to potable water. The campground is pet-friendly. You can make reservations for camping spots online by visiting www.recreation.gov/camping/ campgrounds/234037.

Another camping hotspot off the Blue Ridge Parkway is the Linville Falls Campground. Located at Milepost 316, the campground is near the Linville Gorge and has locations for tents, RVs, cabins and even hammock camping. Feel free to bring your pets along as this campground is also pet-friendly. To learn more about Linville Falls Campground or to reserve a site, visit linvillefalls.com.

Established in 1970, Buck Hill Campground has a long history of serving

campers in Avery County. The North Toe River flows through the campground, giving campers immediate access to kayaking, tubing, and fishing. Nearly 70 RV sites and 10 cabins are available. A catchand-release pond, playground, basketball court, pickleball court, and game room are also available. For more information, call (828) 766-6162 or visit www. buckhillrvcampground.com.

Located near Grandfather State Park, Grandfather Campground is perfect for anybody who wants to be a short drive or hike from breathtaking views. With plenty of hiking trails around the area, campers will have plenty to explore. RV hookups, tent campsites and cabins are all available. This campsite is open year-round, so if you can’t make it in the Summer, consider later in the year! For more information, visit www.grandfatherrv.com or call (800)

Located near Todd, Blue Bear Mountain Camp features over 150 acres of camping areas. This campsite offers tent sites, RV sites, cabins and Stargazer Domes. Blue Bear Mountain Camp has restrooms, hot showers, on-site garbage disposal and even a laundry room to wash your clothes. The area has plenty of hiking and biking opportunities and you are just a few minutes away from the New River. Pets are allowed as long as they remain on a leash. To check on campsite availability and learn more about what Blue Bear Mountain Camp has to offer, visit www. bluebearmountain.com.

Honey Bear Campground is a familyfriendly campground located just over four miles from downtown Boone. Cabins are available for rent, as well as tent and RV sites. Amenities include a full-service coffee shop, fishing pond, swings, and bathhouse. Throughout their May 15 to October 31 season, they host special events, including BBQs, karaoke, cornhole tournaments, haunted trails and zombie paintball. For more information, visit www. honeybearcampground.com.

While KOA campgrounds can be found across the United States, this site has the unique distinction of being the highest east of the Mississippi at an altitude of nearly 4,000 feet. Boone KOA is located 15 minutes from downtown Boone. Tent sites, RV sites and cabins are all available. You’ll have no lack of things to do, with amenities including mini golf, a pool and arcade games, in addition to more traditional camping activities like hiking and fishing. For more information, call (828) 264-7250 or visit www.koa.com/campgrounds/boone/ Flintlock remains a pleasant campground as it enters its 55th year as a family-owned and operated business. Campers will have access to amenities including a bathhouse, Wi-Fi, electricity and water, laundry services, a play area, and more. Plenty

of shade and a gentle stream make this a picturesque site in the High Country. Flintlock is located 10 minutes from downtown Boone. For more information, call (828) 963-5325 or visit www. flintlockcampground.com.

In Ashe County, Raccoon Holler Campground in Jefferson is located just off the Blue Ridge Parkway. The campground has bathhouses, laundry sites, and numerous recreational opportunities, including disc golf, pickleball, fishing, walking trails, and bike riding. Pets are allowed; however, they must be on leashes at all times, and the campground asks that you do not bring aggressive dogs to the campsites. For more information, visit raccoonholler.com/.

Located at the border of Ashe and Alleghany counties, New River State Park is perfect for those who love fishing, swimming, kayaking and tubing. Several campsites are available, including paddle-in sites that provide a unique sense of privacy. The New River is home to the Hellbender, the largest salamander in the U.S., and a protected species. Wildflowers and pleasant hills dot the landscape around the river. Hiking trails remain partially open in the wake of Hurricane Helene. For more information, call (336) 982-2587 or visit www.ncparks.gov/new-river-state-park.

AUTUMN comes

alive with color, creatures, and conservation at GRANDFATHER MOUNTAIN

BY IAN ASHTON

As crisp mountain air returns and vibrant leaves begin their yearly transformation, Grandfather Mountain prepares to dazzle thousands of fall visitors with unforgettable views, immersive events and a celebration of the region’s rich biodiversity. Tucked high in the Blue Ridge Mountains, this natural wonder offers more than just a scenic drive — it’s a living classroom, a conservation hub, and a front-row seat to one of the Southeast’s most spectacular seasonal displays.

According to Molly Dowdle, Director of Marketing and Communications for the Grandfather Mountain Stewardship Foundation, fall at Grandfather Mountain is when nature truly shines.

“One of the best things is the colors of leaves — tremendous views, especially the summit in early October,” she shared. “The colors all across the mountain make us really special.”

From late September through mid-October, Grandfather Mountain transforms into a painter’s palette of reds, oranges and golds. While every trail offers something different, Dowdle recommends starting at the Mile High Swinging Bridge.

“The summit is incredible for color changes,” she said. “Any trail across the mountain can get you into the wilderness.”

Visitors can also take in fall’s majesty from Linville Peak or one of the many scenic overlooks that dot the park. For those looking to stretch their legs,

a range of trails — both beginnerfriendly and more challenging — offer close encounters with the season’s finest foliage.

Beyond its dazzling canopy, Grandfather Mountain is alive with ecological activity in the fall. One highlight is the mountain’s role in hawk migration, a phenomenon that draws birders from across the country.

“We are ideal for hawk migration,” Dowdle noted. “It happens in early fall, and it’s really amazing — one of the most unique things we offer.”

As one of over 300 hawk watch sites designated by the Hawk Migration Association of North America, Grandfather provides prime vantage points for spotting raptors on the move. Visitors can join official Hawk Watch events hosted throughout the

season.

And for those looking for a little fun with their fauna, fall also brings the return of Creepy Crawlers, a familyfriendly program that puts a spotlight on the park’s more mysterious critters.

“We come to life in the fall,” Dowdle said with a laugh.

With the rise in fall tourism, Grandfather Mountain remains committed to protecting its unique ecosystem. “Our entire mission is to inspire conservation of the natural world through education, exploration and example,” Dowdle emphasized. That mission comes to life at the Wilson Center for Nature Discovery, a state-of-the-art facility featuring interactive exhibits on mountain ecology, geology, and wildlife.

“We promote education and

exploration,” she said. “If there’s an influx of visitors, we have naturalists on staff who are keen on the ecology and help people learn. We want to inspire them to become good stewards of the land.”

Even with the influx of leaf-lookers, the park maintains a delicate balance.

“It’s not a challenge,” Dowdle said, “but we do have a number of endangered species — including plants and animals — that we work hard to conserve. We’re very informative and focused on awareness.”

If you only have one day to explore Grandfather Mountain this fall, Dowdle has a full itinerary ready.

“You can fit so much into a single day,” she said. “Visit the Mile High Swinging Bridge, explore Linville Peak, enjoy the animal habitats with elk, otters, cougars and bears. Spend time in the Wilson Center and check out all of the ecology in the museum.”

She also recommends checking the park’s event calendar for fall programming like Grandfather by Night, Junior Naturalist Day

and special talks with the park’s knowledgeable staff.

“There’s always something happening, even in the fall,” she added. “It’s a great way to educate yourself and connect with nature.”

Whether you’re a seasoned hiker, a passionate birder, or simply someone looking to leaf-peep in style, Grandfather Mountain in the fall offers something for every kind of adventurer. With awe-inspiring views, rare wildlife and a deep commitment

to conservation, it’s no wonder that for many, autumn here is nothing short of magical.

For more information on fall events, admission and trail conditions, visit www.grandfather.com.

HIGH COUNTRY

State Parks

entice guests with scenic views, recreational activities

BY JESSE CAMPBELL

Getting to a higher plain in the High Country isn’t about a higher price point because there’s no admission for feeling free above 3,000 feet.

While the thinner air might feel as if it will take your breath away, the region’s three enchanting state parks will have nature enthusiasts planning the next excursion from the last with bated breath, but not exasperation.

New River State Park and Mt. Jefferson State Natural Area are Ashe County’s premier state parks, offering visitors wellmaintained trail systems and scenic views. Park ranger-led educational activities are also available, along with DYK placards on local fauna and flora, inviting

guided exploration without the need for bulky mountain climbing equipment or expensive trail guides.

MT JEFFERSON STATE NATURAL AREA

Mt. Jefferson is located between Jefferson and West Jefferson, off US 221, approximately 19 miles from the Deep Gap US 421 intersection where Ashe, Watauga, and Wilkes counties converge.

Arriving from Boone, familiar brown state park signs direct motorists from US 221 in West Jefferson up the mountain and nature area. Prospective visitors drive up a graded two-lane road that hangs tightly to the side of the mountain, breaking for oblique switchbacks that pull peeling eyes glancing to the valleys

before back to the road as they attentively and eagerly climb to the park’s main gate - located about three-forths up the mountain, or less than a mile from the intersection near Ashe County Civic Center.

Guests should be mindful of the park’s 20 miles per hour speed limit, lest they plan a less-than-encouraging chat with vigilant park rangers before the evening’s scheduled nature tour.

Drivers and guests will want to enjoy prominent overlooks before reaching the park’s main parking lot near the mountain’s peak, which banks into the three-mile trail system that circumvents near and far side summits.

The Jefferson Overlook is about a

quarter-mile from the park’s main gate and offers a panoramic view (bring your selfie stick for Instagram views from stay behind the wooden rail) of West Jefferson and Jefferson, bifurcated by US 221 like that looks like a Hot Wheels track a thousand feet above the county seat, or approximately 4,000 ft total.

From this overlook, guests can see, depending on the fog and visibility, Bald Mountain, Three Top in northwest Ashe County, and with keener eyes, can make out the dark bluish-green silhouette of Grandfather Mountain to their southwest.

While the first overlook will tempt explorers to settle in for the evening to watch the sleepy mountain communities hum to life below, two more equally

captivating overlooks await before trekkers bust out the walking sticks to reach the summit.

After continuing up the mountain road past the Jefferson Overlook, motorists will notice a gravel pull-off area at the Sunset Overlook to their right. This overlook gives park goers a gander at the county’s southern peaks and rolling plateau that blends with the Blue Ridge near the Wilkes County line. Although bicyclists, hikers, and nature photographers frequent the quiet mountain pass, the Sunset Overlook is ideal for guests craving quiet contemplation and early morning reading as the fog slowly lifts above the glistening dews of the chestnut trees with the rising morning sun. A moderateexertion trailhead is located opposite the overlook across the two-lane road. This trail connects the Jefferson and Sunset Overlooks. Although the trail is rated green, or novice, in most areas, moderate inclines over rocky outcrops require sturdy hiking boots and sure footing.

The last scenic entreat, the Sunset Overlook, is located a short distance up the mountain on the same road as the previous two overlooks. The Sunset Overlook, which features a large boulder, gives guests a hawk’s eye view of the towns

and the surrounding areas of Tennessee and Virginia.

NEW RIVER STATE PARK

New River State Park is located 35 miles northeast of Boone in Ashe and Alleghany counties at 358 New River State Park Road, Laurel Springs. The park, which is open daily from 7 am to 9 pm, with hours transitioning to slower drawdowns with shortening days and time change, has two primary entry points in eastern Ashe County.

Visitors traveling from Boone should take US 221 from the US 421 Deep Gap interchange, then drive through West Jefferson and Jefferson before continuing on NC 88 in East Jefferson. Alternatively, they can veer left at the Corner Market in Jefferson to access the Crumpler access point from NC 16 and Old 221 south.

TRADING PADDLES FOR HIKING BOOTS

While New River State Park’s peak summer season is ideal for kayaking and canoeing, the autumn months give guests a slower recreational pace to match the lazy river’s easy-going flow.

Trading paddles for hiking boots allows trail blazers of all difficulty levels

to explore the park’s variable terrains while enjoying summer’s transition to fall without battling for prime vantage spots along more crowded portions of the Blue Ridge Parkway.

Nestled in the mountainsofJefferson, NC, restsanupscale resort community ideal for weekend getaways, specialeventsand ever yday living. Jefferson Landing is agorgeous, gated development featuring luxurious accommodations, finedining andaffordable membership options to our golfand socialclubs.

Bookyour adventuretoday to explore, experience and enjoyall that Jefferson Landing hastooffer.

ecosystem into docile hibernation. New River angling is great for fly fishing and traditional hook-and-worm and plastic lures dangling, as the water is teeming with fish swimming in from stocked creeks. Park rangers require state fishing permits.

Changing seasons also bring diversifying eclectic tastes. Feasting on watermelon and hamburgers in the summer gives way to comfort food and fall picnicking with cooler weather. New River State Park has several picnic tables. The Wagoner Access locale has 10-table covered shelter areas. This access point is located at 1018-1478 Wagoner Access Rd, Jefferson, off NC 88, travelling towards Laurel Springs.

PADDY MOUNTAIN STATE PARK

Paddy Mountain State Park is one of

the newest state parks in North Carolina, with the official ribbon cutting taking place in May 2025. The Park features 3.4 miles of sustainably built stacked loop trail, parking area, covered pavilion, restroom facilities, trail kiosks with maps, wayfinding signage along the trail, and a custom-made park entrance sign. This work was completed by MBI Builders, Interface Environmental Consulting, LLC, and Nature Trails, LLC.

“North Carolina’s parks are integral to our state’s quality of life and economy,” said Governor Josh Stein. “We are all grateful that so many organizations and agencies came together to open Paddy Mountain Park for future generations of North Carolinians to enjoy.”

The entrance sign was designed and donated by Carolina Timberworks, trail signage was funded by the Ashe County Rotary Club, and bear-proof trash cans were funded by Keep Ashe Beautiful.

“Paddy Mountain Park is the model for how land trusts, private citizens, local governments, and businesses can collaborate to protect critical property for public access and recreation,” stated BRC executive Director Charlie Brady.

“The Park is a beautiful gem providing an undeveloped visual backdrop to the Town of West Jefferson. Everyone who contributed to the completion of Park has left a permanent legacy to the community. Hopefully, Paddy Mountain Park’s success will inspire others across the region to pursue similar projects which build healthy, resilient communities for all people.”

The Park, a conservation victory over a decade in the making, provides recreational opportunities for locals and tourists alike, and will serve as the West Jefferson trailhead of the Northern Peaks State Trail.

ELK KNOB STATE PARK

Elk Knob State Park is Watauga County’s lone state park, but its towering heights and peaks make it a sight to behold as guests can enjoy hiking, trail running, and observing nature while peering down on fall canopies and surrounding communities. Elk Knob is located off NC 194 and Meat Camp Road. Driving 7.5 miles south from Boone on NC 194 from New Market Center, guests will turn left onto Meat Camp Road before travelling approximately three miles before arriving at the park’s gate. Elk Knob is open 7 am to 8 pm daily during September and October and 7 am to 6 pm during November. Most hiking trails are currently closed due to Hurricane Helene damage, according to the park’s website, but it is also great for viewing leaves and enjoying cooler weather above 4,000 feet.

For more information, search Elk Knob State Park on ncparks.gov.

Enjoy twists and turns in seasonal HIGH COUNTRY

corn mazes

Corn mazes are a great way to repurpose farmland to generate community interest and family fun.

BY JAMIE SHELL

As the seasons change and cooler temperatures inhabit the High Country region, the time for harvest of summer crops arrives, including the infinite rows of corn for family farms. Farmers often find an additional way to utilize their fields of corn stalks by creating corn mazes that guests can walk through and attempt to navigate. Due to damage from Hurricane Helene, some regular High Country visitors may notice some corn mazes are not open this year.

Several corn mazes dot the landscape of the region that includes Ashe, Avery and Watauga counties, where individuals and families can enjoy a day of outdoor fun and activities.

Corn mazes are a classic autumn activity and a perfect way to spend an afternoon as a family. Lucky for readers, the High Country is home to several different great corn mazes. The following are some of the region’s best corn maze destinations.

HARVEST FARM

Address:

3287 NC 194, Valle Crucis

Harvest Farm in Valle Crucis has a 7-acre corn maze, and if you can navigate your way through the maze, you win a free pumpkin! You can pick pumpkins, take a hayride or bring your own picnic to enjoy at the farm. Harvest Farm’s corn maze and pumpkin patch opening day is Sept. 9. Learn more at www.harvestfarmwnc.com/.

C&J PUMPKIN PATCH AND CORN MAZE

Address:

3490 NC Highway 194 N, Boone

C&J Pumpkin Patch and Corn Maze is located in Boone and has a five-acre corn maze, as well as a pumpkin patch, hayrides, jump castles, a mini corn maze and various other games. When you’re worn out from all of the activities, grab some food. They have BBQ, hot dogs, cotton candy, snacks and drinks. The purchase of an admission ticket includes access to all activities. Visit their Facebook page @ CandJPumpkinPatchandCornMaze for more information.

ASHE COUNTY CORN MAZE

Address: 1332 NC Highway 16 S, Jefferson

The Ashe County Corn Maze has quickly become a fall tradition for many. The maze opens on Sept. 20 and offers a variety of activities for all ages. The maze itself is four acres and can take as little as 30 minutes to complete or an hour. For more information, visit their Facebook page at Ashe County Corn Maze and Pumpkin Festival.

LANTERN FARM

Address: 221 Doe Meadows Dr, West Jefferson

Another Ashe County corn maze resides at Lantern Farm, located at Doe Meadows Drive in West Jefferson. From mid-September to late October, the farm hosts Halloweentime with a pumpkin patch and a four-acre corn maze. More information can be found at lanternfarm. com/halloweentime.

BECK MOUNTAIN CORN MAZE

Address: 100 Corn Maze Lane Elizabethton, Tennessee

Beck Mountain Corn Maze, located approximately 25 minutes from the Avery County border offers visitors a challenging 4-acre maze with plenty of turns, cross paths and dead ends. Established in 2005, the family-owned attraction is nestled in the Appalachian Highlands. Beyond the corn maze, Beck Mountain Farms also operates as a wedding and event venue with an entertainment barn, offering year-round services for parties and celebrations.

HIGH COUNTRY

scenic drives

stun in the fall

BY NICK FOGLEMAN

When the mountains leave their summer greens for reds, golds and oranges, the High Country of North Carolina becomes a destination for outdoor enthusiasts in search of the best views and drives.

According to Amanda Lugenbell, Assistant Director of Communications & Public Relations for the Blowing Rock Tourism Development Authority, fall is one of the most important and beautiful seasons in the region.

“The Blue Ridge Parkway is always going

to be a top recommendation, just because the views are so big. But some of my favorite drives are going to be the ones that can take you into the foliage,” Lugenbell said.

A drive along the Blue Ridge Parkway, known as America’s Favorite Drive, offers breathtaking views, rich history, and countless opportunities for activities. The following are popular High Country scenic routes:

BLOWING ROCK TO GRANDFATHER MOUNTAIN

This iconic stretch features the Linn

Cove Viaduct, Rough Ridge Trail and Price Lake. Sweeping mountain vistas alternate with wooded sections, with ample overlooks for photos

Grandfather Mountain to Linville

This twisting road hugs the base of Grandfather Mountain, with dramatic cliff views and stops such as Beacon Heights Trail and the Mile High Swinging Bridge.

BLOWING

ROCK TO STONY FORK

A scenic drive with several scenic overlooks, entrances to the Mountain to

Sea Trail and views.

While visitors can’t go wrong on the Parkway, Lugenbell also suggests other routes that can provide different opportunities and perspectives on the region.

SHULLS MILL ROAD TO FOSCOE

A tree-lined drive leading to Grandfather Vineyard & Winery, offering close-up views of autumn color. Known for its “woodland ceiling,” this winding route

swaps long-range vistas for an immersive canopy of leaves.

BANNER ELK TO BLUE RIDGE PARKWAY VIA NC 194

From Banner Elk, wind through charming streets and rolling farmland before climbing toward the Parkway. Highlights include Banner Elk Winery and Apple Hill Farm, with bursts of fall color peaking in October.

VALLE CRUCIS & BROADSTONE ROAD

A detour from Banner Elk takes you through Valle Crucis and follows the

Watauga River past pastoral fields and mountain ridges, especially scenic in late afternoon light.

BLOWING ROCK TO BOONE

VIA US 321 & US 221

Connecting two of the High Country’s most popular towns, this route passes Glen Burney Trail, Moses Cone Park, Trout Lake, and the Green Knob Trail. Autumn foliage lines the road in gold and crimson.

BOONE TO WEST JEFFERSON

Along Hwy 421 and 221, you’ll see mountain peaks, the New River, country stores and a vast amount of canopy covering the mountains.

Many routes feature additional activities,

from historical stops like Moses Cone Manor to hikes such as the Flat Top Trail, offering spectacular views.

Lugenbell notes that autumn weekends, especially on the Parkway, can be crowded. Visitors should expect longer travel times and embrace “mountain time.”

“Be an early bird,” she advised. “It can make a big difference.”

SCENIC BYWAYS

North Carolina’s 62 scenic byways showcase the state’s natural beauty while promoting conservation efforts and offering travelers a glimpse into local history and culture across diverse landscapes from mountains to coast.

The byways allow motorists to experience a bit of the state’s history, geography and scenery while raising awareness for protecting and preserving these treasures.

The N.C. Department of Transportation carefully selects the byway routes as safe and interesting alternatives to the faster pace and commercial areas found along major highways and interstates.

The Mission 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, visit the Mast Farm Inn and Mast General Store, an authentic general store that opened in 1882. Established in 1812, the farm 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 as you climb 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 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. The route is not recommended for recreational vehicles or buses.

Little Parkway traverses through Avery, Watauga, and Caldwell counties. Built in 1889 by men and mules as a toll road, it is also known as Yonahlossee Trail (one of many privately owned roads in the state). It 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.

The New 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 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 form a common boundary between North Carolina and Tennessee.

For more information on North Carolina’s Scenic Byways, visit www.ncdot. gov/travel-maps/traffic-travel/scenicbyways/Documents/nc-scenic-bywaysguidebook.pdf

from the Blue Ridge into the Dark Sky Stargazing

BY JESSE CAMPBELL

Stargazing in the High County is peering into infinity.

While denser population centers’ light pollution obscures galaxy viewing, clear mountain skies provide perfectly darkened horizons and apogees for wistfully gazing into the blackened yonder, sprinkled with white diamonds enticing novel astronomy.

Stars are the roadmap to creation and cryptic and prodigious universal abundance. While we can only hope to fathom esoteric physics hidden within the stars’ glistening beacons, remote stargazing removed from society’s static noise allows careful contemplation on existence and life’s meaning.

The Zodiac constellation, which includes Aquarius, Aries, and Pisces, is also

prominent in the night sky, according to constellation-guide.com.

Appalachian State University’s Dark Sky Observatory, just across the Watauga County line in Purlear, Wilkes County, hosts monthly public nights for stargazing and galaxy gazing.

Observatory staff announce the events on dso.appstate.edu in the “Upcoming Evening at DSO” announcement box at the webpage’s bottom section.

All events are ticketed, and tickets and event info are available at the DSO secure ticketing website.

Ashe Dark Sky Coalition also hosts several monthly meetings for canvassing the universe and discussing celestial bodies. Visit ashedarksky.org for more information.

An outdoor space to share the things that matter most.

An outdoor space to share the things that matter most.

At Trex®, the #1 brand in outdoor living, we believe that a deck is more than just a deck.

At Trex®, the #1 brand in outdoor living, we believe that a deck is more than just a deck.

At Trex®, the #1 brand in outdoor living, we believe that a deck is more than just a deck. It’s a place to be enjoyed with the people that matter most — not sanded, stained and sealed. And you can feel good knowing that our high-performing, lowmaintenance decking is made from 95% recycled materials and comes backed by up to a 50-year warranty. At Trex, we see it too.

It’s a place

It’s a place to be enjoyed with the people that matter most — not sanded, stained and sealed. And you can feel good knowing that our high-performing, lowmaintenance decking is made from 95% recycled materials and comes backed by up to a 50-year warranty. At Trex, we see it too.

At Trex®, the #1 brand in outdoor living, we believe that a deck is more than just a deck.

To learn more, contact New River Building Supply & Lumber Company.

It’s a place to be enjoyed with the people that matter most — not sanded, stained and sealed. And you can feel good knowing that our high-performing, lowmaintenance decking is made from 95% recycled materials and comes backed by up to a 50-year warranty. At Trex, we see it too.

we see it too.

To learn more, contact New River Building Supply & Lumber Company.

To learn more, contact New River Building Supply & Lumber Company.

3148 Hwy 105 South, Boone, NC 28607

828.264.5650

3148 Hwy 105 South, Boone, NC 28607 828.264.5650

3148 Hwy 105 South, Boone, NC 28607

828.264.5650

2340 Tynecastle Hwy, Banner Elk, NC 28604 828.898.5660

Tynecastle Hwy, Banner Elk, NC 28604

828.898.5660

2340 Tynecastle Hwy, Banner Elk, NC 28604 828.898.5660

To learn more, contact New River Building Supply & Lumber Company. www.newriverbuilding.com

2340 Tynecastle Hwy, Banner Elk, NC 28604

828.898.5660

Several popular Blue Ridge Parkway overlooks are available for unguided stargazing, although motorists should monitor changing road conditions impacted by storm recovery.

Although an affordable Amazon telescope enhances casual stargazing, purists seeking an untethered and natural experience only need a clear mind and cloudless sky to become lost in the heavenly splendor.

Earlier stars are visible further east in early October before moving further west in the night sky.

Stargazers hoping to catch meteor shows should turn their attention to the night sky to see the Orionids, peaking Oct. 21, and the Leonids, with an apogee on Nov. 17 when dark, moonless nights prevail, according to Daniel Caton, App State Director of Observatories.

“You don’t need any equipment other than a

lounge chair and perhaps a blanket — these are naked eye events,” said Caton.

Stargazers looking to expand their burgeoning astronomical knowledge should search online for the Forsythe Astronomical Society, the Catawba Valley Astronomy Club, and the Charlotte Amateur Astronomers’ Club. Amateurs also meet yearly at Guilford Technical Community College’s TriStar event, said Caton.

While hiking, biking, kayaking, and other outdoor sports require higher entry points for pricey equipment investments, stargazing is the High Country’s most affordable and accessible autumnal activity.

Novice astronomers stand to benefit the most by exploring the endless dark skies, as every constellation - from the familiar Big Dipper to Orion’s belthints at our place in the universe’s vast unknownjust look up.

MOUNTAINS-TO-SEA

trail

North Carolina’s natural beauty and heritage

BY IAN ASHTON

As autumn sweeps across the Tar Heel State in a blaze of crimson and gold, the Mountains-to-Sea Trail (MST) becomes a living canvas — stretching 1,175 miles from the high peaks of the Great Smoky Mountains to the rolling dunes of the Outer Banks. The trail offers one of North Carolina’s most scenic and diverse hiking adventures. This sprawling footpath is not just a trail — it’s a journey through the heart of North Carolina’s rich natural and cultural heritage — including right here in the High Country.

What began as an ambitious idea in 1977 by then-Secretary of Natural Resources and Community Development Howard Lee became a statewide treasure more than two decades later. In 2000, the trail was officially designated as a North Carolina State Trail and folded into the state parks system. Today, the MST stands as a symbol of connection — linking people to landscapes, history to heritage and mountains to sea.

According to the Friends of the Mountains-to-Sea Trail, the nonprofit organization that oversees and maintains much of the route, the MST passes through four national parks, three national forests, 10 state parks and two national wildlife refuges. It is divided into 18 walkable and bikeable segments, as well as a water-based alternative route that offers a paddling experience along the Neuse River.

Unlike many long-distance trails in the United States, the MST offers users a variety of terrain, from steep ridgelines and dense forests to quiet piedmont farmland and sandy coastal paths. Along the way, hikers, bikers, horseback riders and paddlers can find themselves immersed in not just North Carolina’s natural wonders, but also the state’s living history and rural charm.

The journey officially begins at Clingmans Dome, the highest peak in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. From there, Segment 1 challenges hikers with 46.8 miles of strenuous terrain, ending at Waterrock Knob, a scenic pull-off on the Blue Ridge Parkway. Segment 2 continues

for another 63.6 miles through high-altitude forests to Pisgah Inn, offering breathtaking ridge views and cool mountain breezes.

Segment 3 picks up the pace with a 71.5mile trek to Black Mountain Campground, weaving through rhododendron-filled valleys and along old logging roads. The trail starts here in the High Country with segment 4, covering 76.8 miles to Beacon Heights in Avery County and is rated moderate to strenuous — an ideal stretch for experienced hikers seeking solitude and views of the Linville Gorge. Segment 5 rounds out the mountain portion with a final 84.9 miles through Watauga and Ashe Counties to Devil’s Garden Overlook, tracing through remote wilderness and steep switchbacks.

As the trail descends into North Carolina’s Piedmont region, the landscape opens up into rolling hills, small towns and rural farmland. Segment 6 stretches 69.2 miles from Devils Garden Overlook to Pilot Mountain State Park. Rated easy to strenuous, this section offers variety and includes several popular rest points and access areas. Segment 7 continues for 35 miles to Hanging Rock State Park, winding through hardwood forests, rock outcroppings and cascading waterfalls.

Segment 8 takes hikers and bikers 60.4 miles to Bryan Park in Greensboro. With an easy to moderate difficulty rating, this section is especially popular with cyclists, families and first-time long-distance hikers. Segment 9 continues with a gentle 60.9-mile stretch to Eno River State Park, following greenways, trails and rural backroads. Segment 10, also rated easy to moderate, offers a 78.6-mile path to Falls Lake Dam, featuring lakeside views and birdwatching opportunities.

Segment 11 concludes the Piedmont section with a 66.6-mile journey to Howell Woods Environmental Learning Center in Johnston County. This section highlights the transition into North Carolina’s Coastal Plain, where pine forests and open wetlands begin to dominate the landscape.

For those who prefer paddling over

hiking, an alternative water route — Segments 11A through 16A — follows the Neuse River Paddle Route. This 169.3-mile option provides a tranquil, scenic passage from Smithfield to the Neusiok Trail near the coast and is suitable for canoes and kayaks.

On land, Segment 12 carries hikers 65.7 miles from Howell Woods to Suggs Mill Pond Game Land, passing through flatwoods and open fields. Segment 13 is a shorter but equally scenic 39.2-mile segment to Singletary Lake State Park, home to one of the Carolina Bay lakes, known for its mysterious origin and biodiversity.

Segment 14 is often called the “Land of History” due to its Revolutionary Warera structures and historic farmlands. This segment leads travelers to Holly Shelter Game Land, offering quiet beauty and occasional wildlife sightings. Segment 15, an easy-to-moderate 90.4 miles, is particularly popular with cyclists and stretches to Stella, near the White Oak River.

Segment 16 continues for 67.4 miles to Oyster Point Campground, winding past tidal creeks and pine savannahs. Segment 17 is a peaceful 47.9-mile route to Cedar Island Ferry, where travelers can cross to the Outer Banks via boat. The final segment — Segment 18 — offers a moderate 47.9-mile journey along the barrier islands, ending triumphantly at Jockey’s Ridge State Park in Nags Head, where sweeping views atop the tallest sand dunes on the Atlantic coast greet hikers.

Whether you complete all 18 segments or simply wander a few miles on a crisp autumn afternoon while visiting here in the High Country, the Mountains-to-Sea Trail delivers something for every adventurer. From misty mountaintops to windswept beaches, it remains a testament to North Carolina’s diverse terrain and the thousands of volunteers, hikers and conservationists who help keep the dream alive.

For maps, trailhead directions, event information and segment guides, visit the Friends of the Mountains-to-Sea Trail online at www.mountainstoseatrail.org.

riding the HIGH COUNTRY

Autumn’s perfect playground for motorcyclists

BY CHRISTIAN GARDNER

For those who live to ride, there’s nothing quite like hitting the open road in the High Country during fall. With crisp air, vibrant foliage, and winding mountain stretches, this region is a magnet for motorcycle enthusiasts seeking both challenge and beauty. The twisting routes here offer views and experiences unlike anywhere else, and with each turn, you’re met with the raw charm of the Appalachian Mountains.

“In the mountains, it’s totally different,” says Keith Honeycutt of the Peacemakers Club. “People talk about great rides in other parts of the state, but here, the scenery and the roads set it apart.”

One of the most sought-after routes remains the Blue Ridge Parkway, stretching 469 miles from Shenandoah National Park in Virginia to Cherokee, NC. The Parkway delivers sweeping overlooks, endless curves, and a chance to ride through nature’s autumn showcase. Riders are encouraged to explore it on weekdays if possible to avoid heavy weekend traffic. With leaves changing, vehicle counts rise, and more cars, trucks, and

RVs can make the ride trickier. Watching for wildlife, gravel patches, and changing road conditions is essential, especially along tighter curves.

For those looking for a slower, scenic challenge, the climb to Grandfather Mountain offers tight turns and a steady elevation gain, topped off by panoramic views from the mile-high suspension bridge. The ride along U.S. 221 between Blowing Rock and Linville is another rider favorite, with Sunday drives through Shull’s Mill Road, Foscoe, and Blowing Rock offering plenty of small-town charm.

South of Avery County, a detour to Mount Mitchell, the highest peak east of the Mississippi, provides an unforgettable ride and unmatched mountain vistas. For riders looking to stretch their trip, crossing into Virginia via the Parkway or looping through rural Tennessee roads can add miles of scenic beauty to any fall weekend.

For some set rides, the Ashe County Chamber of Commerce debuted the Devil’s Stairs in 2022, which covers 118 miles of highway in Ashe, Allegheny, and Watauga counties in North Carolina, stretching all the way into Johnson City, Tennessee. The ride starts and ends in a big loop in downtown West Jefferson, a loop featuring more than 167 curves that takes riders nearby to at least

30 restaurants and 40 lodging locations in the area - if one should decide to stop and grab a bite to eat or stay overnight. The Devil’s Stairs also takes riders through Laurel Springs and Scottsville and Allegheny County, as well as into Trade, Tenn.

It also includes scenic routes in Boone, Todd and through Appalachian State University’s campus and some scenic stretches of highway along the New River.

Along with the Devil’s Stairs, another loop to consider is the 124-mile “Post Office Loop,” which makes stops at several townships in Ashe County that have post offices, including Lansing, Laurel Springs, Todd, Warrensville, Creston and Crumpler.

If these rides are not challenging enough, there are four other roads that will take you on a longer, adventurous drive where you will need an entire day to complete without consideration of stopping for an overnight stay along the routes.

Skulls Gap covers 175 miles, and it will take riders from West Jefferson to Mouth of Wilson, Va., into Chilhowie and Saltville, Va., as well as going through Glade Spring and Damascus, Va., and on into Tennessee. Riders will travel through Butler and the Doe River Valley in Tennessee before returning to North Carolina and coming out, New, Sugar, Grove

and Vilas. “The Crumpler” begins in West Jefferson and covers 309 total miles. This loop takes riders through Virginia into West Virginia. This route goes through Crumpler in Ashe County and into Crumpler, W. Va., a small town west of Princeton, W. Va. Not to leave out the cyclists, another route that many might like to take is called “Paint Bank,” which covers around 346 miles. This ride takes travelers through Tazewell, Va., across West Virginia before crossing back into Virginia near Paint Bank and New Castle. It travels south to Roanoke, Floyd, and eventually returns to Hillsville and Galax, Va.

“The Lansings” ride is considered the longest trip, covering 400 miles. The journey takes riders through Lansing in Ashe County and up through Southwest Virginia to Lansing, West Virginia. The loop circles back through Hillsville, Galax, and the Mouth of Wilson, Va., before circling back on into Ashe County.

Motorcycle routes in the High Country vary from sweeping straightaways to hairpin curves, ensuring there’s something for every rider,whether you cruise on a touring bike, lean into the corners on a sport model, or roll a classic cruiser. As Honeycutt puts it, “There’s not another view in the world that will compare to what we have here.”

fall COLORS

Elevate Your Lifestyle

From the shores of Lake Norman...

LUXURY WATERFRONT LIVING WITH REGENCY ON THE LAKE

If you’re searching for high-end lakefront living, Regency on the Lake delivers unparalleled expertise in the Lake Norman real estate market. We specialize in helping you find the perfect waterfront property tailored to your lifestyle.

BLUE RIDGE MOUNTAIN RETREATS WITH REGENCY AT THE LAKE

If

Scan to schedule your PERSONALIZED PROPERTY SHOWCASE of luxury mountain homes, tailored to your taste and lifestyle.

Fall presents great opportunities to

hit the links

BY ZACH COLBURN

Between Ashe, Avery and Watauga counties, there’s certainly no shortage of options when it comes to teeing off in the High Country, regardless of skill level.

Ashe County is home to a pair of golf courses — one public course and one semiprivate golf club.

Mountain Aire Golf Club in West Jefferson is a public course and the third-oldest in the

High Country. When it opened in 1949, it was originally called West Jefferson Golf Club. Carl Hagel purchased the course in 1971, and it has remained in the family ever since.

Mark Hagel expanded the course to 18 holes in 1985, and his son-in-law, Philip Shepherd, handled all the day-to-day management of the course and the playoff

surface.

In addition to hosting numerous community golf tournaments during the year, it is also the home course for the Ashe County High School golf teams.

To book a tee time, contact Mountain Aire at (336) 877-4716. For more info about the course and housing community, see www. mountainaire.com.

Jefferson Landing, located in Jefferson, is a semi-private club located off Highway 16 and surrounded by mountain views, luxurious homes and condominiums.

The course was designed by Professional Golfers Association Hall of Famer Larry Nelson and opened in 1991.

The course is 7,110 yards long, which is said to be the longest in the High Country. It regularly hosts golf tournaments throughout the spring, summer, and fall. It also hosted the North Carolina Amateur Golf Championships in the summer of 2023.

For tee times and more information, call the Jefferson Landing pro shop at (336) 982-7767 or visit www.visitjeffersonlanding.com/Golf.

Watauga County is home to a quintet of golf courses, including the Boone Golf Club, which is typically open from April to November. It was designed by Ellis Maples — a protégé of well-known course designer

Donald Ross.

Opened to the public in 1959, it is also the home course of both the boys’ and girls’ golf teams at Watauga High School.

With a total distance of 6,686 yards (and 6,018 from the regular tees), BGC sits at an elevation of 3,346 above sea level and has a mixture of short tees with par threes, averaging 199 yards.

Call the pro shop at (828) 264-8760 to set up a tee time. More information on the course, including a hole-by-hole overview, visit www. boonegolfclub.com

Nearby Vilas is home to the Willow Creek Golf Course, which Tom Jackson designed in the 1970s.

Known to some as “the little green monster,” Willow Creek has par-3 holes ranging from 137 yards to 221 yards, leading to small putting greens. It is open from April 1 to Oct. 31 (weather permitting).

According to its website, www.willowvalleyresort.com/willow-creek-golf-course, there are no reserved tee times, meaning it is first-come, first-served.

For prices and any other additional information on Willow Creek Golf Course, visit the website or call (828) 963-6865.

Operating from May through October, the Blowing Rock Country Club opened for its first round in 1915 and was recently redesigned for an even better playing experience.

Jefferson Landing, located in Jefferson, is a semi-private club.

The course is also the one in North Carolina designed by Seth Raynor, who created around 85 courses from the late 1800s to the early 1900s.

The club purchased the golf course, which was previously named the Green Park Norwood Golf Course, added nine new holes and renovated the original nine in 1973.

That same year, renovations were made to the clubhouse, which was destroyed by a fire the following year, and a brand new clubhouse was opened in June 1975. Since then, the club community as a whole has continued to grow and change as one of the most elite private organizations in the Southeast.

To learn more about BRCC, including memberships, visit blowingrockcountryclub. com/Golf or call (828) 295-3171.

Hound Ears Club, located in Boone, was the third course in Watauga County to open (Behind Blowing Rock and Boone GC) when it opened in 1964. George Cobb designed the 18-hole course.

The course, which is located off NC Highway 105 near Shulls Mill, plays at 6,307 yards and is 6,145 yards from the regular tees. It offers a variety of par 3, par 4 and par 5 holes and is well-known for having several longer par 4s.

Like many golf courses, Hurricane Helene caused severe damage and the full course wasn’t reopened until late summer after remoations and repairs.

More information about Hound Ears Club and the golf course can be found online at www.houndears.com/Golf.

Beech Mountain Golf Club has the unique and rare distinction of being able to play golf while experiencing views of North Carolina, Tennessee and Virginia.

The course, which opened in 1969 with the first nine holes, was designed by Willard Byrd and recently redesigned to extend the course

of play to 6,250 yards. It sits at an elevation around 4,500 feet.

More about the course, which is open from May through October, can be learned by visiting beechmtn.club/the-course.

Beech Mountain, Hound Ears and Blowing Rock are all private clubs.

Another private club in Avery County is the Linville Ridge Golf Course, which, at 4,949 feet, is the highest elevation course east of the Mississippi River.

The elevation also offers one of the most comfortable rounds of golf as the temperatures in the summer and early fall are not nearly as high.

Originally designed by George Cobb, Linville Ridge has the distinction of being the final golf course he designed. It underwent a redesign in 2007, with Bobby Weed brought in to introduce additional challenges for players. Linville Ridge plays to 6,813 yards from the back tees and 6,210 from the regular tees.

For more information on the club and the golf course, visit www.linvilleridge.com/golfpages/golf.

Avery County also offers public courses, including the Sugar Mountain Golf Club, which opened in 1974.

Owned and operated by the town and

celebrating its 50th season, Sugar Mountain GC features nine par 3s, eight par 4s and one par 5 hole to make up its 18-hole course. The course measures 4,443 yards overall and 4,071 from the regular tees.

At over 4,000 feet of elevation, Sugar Mountain has a par-64 layout. Tee times can be reserved online at see sugar.com/golf/ or call (828) 898-6464.

Over in Newland, Mountain Glen Golf Club opened in 1964 with nine holes and then opened another nine the following year.

The public course, which is the home field for Avery County High School’s golf teams, was designed by George Cobb. The golf course architect is also known for first designing Quail Hollow in Charlotte and the Augusta National Par Three Course.

Mountain Glen plays at 5,968 yards from regular tees and a challenging 6,523 yards from the back tees.

To set up a tee time, call Mountain Glen at (828) 733-5804.

Land Harbor Golf Club in Linville was originally opened as a nine-hole course. But after a collaboration between Tom Jackson

and local golfer Ernie Hayes, they were able to create a second nine-hole course out of 23 acres of rugged property that was thought by many to be unusable.

The first nine holes measure at 2,950 yards with the back nine measuring in at 1,927 yards. The course play combines for a par score of 69.

According to linvillelandharbor.com/golf, the golf club operates as a semi-private facility and offers several options to accommodate the occasional player and the passionate golfer as well.

As a resident of Land Harbor, unlimited golf is available for one low yearly fee.

Tee times can be made through their website or by phone at (828) 733-8325.

AUTUMN climbing in the HIGH COUNTRY

Indoor and Outdoor Adventures Across North Carolina’s Mountains

BY NICK FOGLEMAN

As fall settles over North Carolina’s High Country, climbers flock to the region for the cool, dry air, which creates ideal conditions that make autumn a prime climbing season. From world-class outdoor routes to well-equipped indoor gyms, the High Country offers opportunities for everyone, from first-timers to seasoned athletes.

“Climbing was becoming a bit more mainstream when we opened, but there weren’t television shows or commercials like you see now,” said Aaron Parlier, owner of Boone’s Center 45 gym. “It’s definitely become more popular over the years. It’s in

the Olympics.”

Since opening in 2015, Center 45 has become a place to train, learn and connect with the growing climbing community. Climbers can access a Moonboard, campus board, hangboards and a complete fitness zone. The gym recently expanded to include a studio space with an adjustable training wall and a classroom area. Beyond the physical space, Center 45 runs regular “Intro to Bouldering” classes and “Access & Ethics Clinics” that promote responsible outdoor recreation. Youth programs include both competitive and recreational teams, helping young climbers grow in a supportive, structured environment.

Parlier emphasized the gym’s role in creating community and bridging the gap between beginners and experts.

“It just enriched this already incredible community,” he said. “It’s been a real pleasure to be part of.”

For those who want to get outside, the High Country has everything from roadside boulder fields to epic backcountry lines. Parlier, who’s helped develop many local areas, says the region stands out for its sheer variety and natural beauty.

“There are some of my favorite places to go bouldering anywhere in North America within driving distance from Boone,” he said.

For those newer to outdoor climbing, navigating the area can be tricky. Due to the amount of climbs and the different

styles and skill levels required, Parlier recommends stopping by local climbing stores like Rock Dimensions or using resources like the Carolina Climbers Coalition to plan trips.

Once you’re ready to get outside, Rock Dimensions, owned by Jenny Allen and Ryan Beasley, offers guided outdoor climbing experiences and gear. Most clients start with top-rope climbing, which Allen calls “a great way to introduce people to outdoor climbing.” More advanced offerings include multi-pitch, sport and trad climbing trips tailored to individual goals and skill levels.

The company also provides instruction in gear use, climbing techniques and outdoor safety. For aspiring professionals, Rock Dimensions offers Professional

Climbing Instructors Association (PCIA) certification courses.

A prominent feature of the business is its 40-foot outdoor climbing tower in downtown Boone, next to Footsloggers Outfitters. The tower offers slab, vertical and overhanging routes, and hosts classes, birthday parties and “Tower to Rock” days that combine indoor and outdoor experiences.

Operating under official permits for Pisgah National Forest and Blue Ridge Parkway lands, Rock Dimensions guides responsibly while helping preserve access for others.

One thing that connects both businesses is a commitment to education and responsible access. Center 45’s “Access & Ethics Clinics” and Rock Dimensions’ permit-based guiding model both reflect the sensitivities of climbing in a region where some areas are off-limits or are sensitive to human impact.

Both Allen and Parlier agree that fall is one of the best times to climb in the High Country. Cool, dry weather combined with peak foliage creates perfect conditions for long days on the rock.

“Fall’s the primo season,” Allen said.

Parlier added, “From fall through early

spring, as long as the rocks are dry, it offers some of the best climbing you could ask for.”

POPULAR OUTDOOR CLIMBING SPOTS IN AND AROUND THE HIGH COUNTRY

Bouldering:

Grandmother Mountain – Must-visit bouldering with problems from V0 to V14; shaded and cool.

Lost Cove – Sunny destination with crimps, slopers and overhangs.

Blowing Rock Boulderfield – Close to town and easily accessible, grades V0–V13.

Buckeye Knob & The Barn – Protected by Carolina Climbers Coalition; beginner to advanced problems.

Grayson Highlands State Park (VA) –Over 1,000 boulder problems in a scenic high-elevation setting.

Sport and Traditional Climbing:

Pilot Mountain State Park – A popular rock climbing destination, known for its diverse climbing routes, including sport, trad, and multi-pitch options, and its accessibility for both beginners and experienced climbers.

Linville Gorge – Sport climbing and bouldering with rugged wilderness views.

Jim’s Corner

Wilson Creek Area – Wilderness bouldering and roped climbing amid waterfalls.

Shiprock – Classic climbing area near Boone with dramatic exposure.

Blue Ridge Parkway - Along the Blue

Parkway are a number of small climbing areas accessible by trails, including The Dump and Little Wilson climbing Area

Table Rock, Shortoff and Hawksbill – Granite multi-pitch routes in Pisgah National Forest with sweeping views.

The High Country's Oldest Furniture Store

MOUNTAIN biking options in the HIGH COUNTRY

BY JERRY SNOW

The North Carolina High Country offers a lot of adventures for mountain bikers. There are trails for all levels of ability. Popular destinations include Beech Mountain Resort, The Emerald Outback Trail Park in Beech Mountain, Sugar Mountain Bike Park and Rocky Knob Mountain Bike Park in Boone.

Bikes use the High Country’s dozens of courses and paths, which range from easy to expert.

In addition to Rocky Knob, The Emerald Outback, Beech Mountain Resort, and Sugar Mountain, the Boone Greenway is also accessible for bikers.

THE EMERALD OUTBACK TRAIL PARK

328 N Pinnacle Ridge Rd., Beech Mountain

The Emerald Outback loop has seven trails that cover about eight miles; it’s about 5,400 feet above sea level.

Five of the seven trails at The Emerald Outback are rated as moderate to advanced, and two trails are rated easy.

The USA Cycling Collegiate Mountain Biking National Championship has twice been held at The Emerald Outback.

BEECH MOUNTAIN BIKE PARK

1007 Beech Mountain Pkwy

Beech Mountain Resort rents mountain

bikes, helmets and body armor. Mountain bike lessons are also an option at Beech Mountain Resort. From June until October, the ski slopes become downhill mountain bike trails.

The Beech Mountain Bike Park has 10 downhill mountain trails, and they range in degree of difficulty (beginner, intermediate, advanced, expert), according to bannerelk. com.

The 2025 Beech Mountain Bike Park Downhill Southeast Round 5 was held at Beech Mountain Resort last June.

Chairlifts to the top of Beech Mountain are offered to mountain bikers for almost half the year.

SUGAR MOUNTAIN BIKE PARK

1009 Sugar Mountain Dr. From May into October, the Sugar Mountain Ski Resort is converted into the Sugar Mountain Resort Bike Park.

The Go Nuts North Carolina Regional Enduro was held at Sugar Mountain last May.

The Summit Express, Chairlift and Easy Street Chairlift operated from July 4 through Sept. 1.

The Summit Express Chairlift shuttles sightseers and mountain bikers from the base of Sugar Mountain to its 5,300-

t BIKING FROM PAGE 83

foot peak – taking visitors 1,200 feet in elevation. Bikers ride down the network of trails back to the lodge, according to seesugar.com.

ROCKY KNOB

MOUNTAIN BIKE PARK

285 Mountain Bike Way, Boone

The Rocky Knob Mountain Bike Park in Boone covers 185 acres and has about 11 miles of trails.

The Rocky Knob Park is a National

Recreational Trail System.

Boat Rock Loop, an advanced 3.6-mile trail, includes a “bail-out” option. Ol’ Hoss is the highest elevation trail in the Park and is rated “very advanced.”

The Park’s stacked-loop system provides a wide variety of options, according to trailforks.com.

The Rocky Knob Mountain Bike Park has a large picnic pavilion and is available for rent by calling the Watauga County Parks & Recreation office at (828) 2649511.

BOONE GREENWAY

607 Deerfield Rd., Boone

The 55-acre Boone Greenway has paved paths and single-track trails for mountain biking. The dirt trails are more challenging, with roots and rocks to battle. THere are also plenty of pedestrians walking or running the trail as well .

The Greenway is a better option for a leisurely ride, or “a quick urban escape,” according to tourboone.com.

AREA

BIKE SHOPS

Boone Bike & Touring

774 E King St., Boone

Magic Cycles

140 Depot St. #2, Boone

Rhoddie Bicycle Outfitters

7593 Valley Blvd., Blowing Rock

Headquarters Bike and Outdoor

2945 Tynecastle Hwy, Banner Elk

Cycle 4 Life Bike Shop

76 High Country Square, Sugar Mountain

Brew Racing Frames

1241 Industrial Park Way, West Jefferson

the High Country’s fall colors Zip past

BY ABIGAIL EGGERS

Located in Seven Devils, Hawksnest Zipline offers two different tours. The Hawk Tour is an hour and a half to two hours in duration, has 11 cables and a top speed of 35 miles per hour. According to the Hawksnest website, the Hawk Tour is the more popular and scenic route of the two tours.

The Eagle Tour is an hour and a half to two hours in duration, has nine cables and a top speed of 50 miles per hour. The tour is higher, faster and longer than the Hawk Tour and it is recommended that riders have previous zipline experience.

The Hawk Tour costs $70 per rider, and the Eagle Tour costs $80 per rider. Hawksnest advises patrons to arrive 30 minutes before their reserved time.

“Enjoy heights of over 200 feet and speeds up to 40 mph while ziplining over the treetops, through the canopy, and over lakes and creeks. All while taking in the spectacular panoramic views of the Blue Ridge Mountains,” its website states.

Hawksnest Zipline requires reservations for each trip. To make a reservation, visit www.hawksnestzipline.com or call (828) 963-6561.

SKY VALLEY ZIP TOURS

Sky Valley Zip Tours offers a canopy tour, a kids zipline and a “night flight.”

“Located on 140 private acres just minutes from Boone or Blowing Rock, our guided tours give you the chance to fly above and through the tree tops, cross a swinging bridge, and see the natural beauty of the Appalachian Mountains in a totally

new way,” its website states.

The Canopy Zip Tour has 10 ziplines, a swinging bridge and a cliff jump/rappel. The Zip Tour is three hours and costs $105 per adult, but offers discounts for App State students, faculty and staff, veterans and active duty military members, law enforcement personnel, firefighters, EMTs, and first responders.

The Whistle Pig Kid Zip is two hours

long and costs $55 per kid. The course or “adventure park” features seven mini zips, a swinging bridge and a tunnel slide.

The Night Flight is a two-hour tour and starts as the sun begins to set. It costs $95 per person.

“You’ll gear up with a headlamp and launch into the night. This tour covers the first half of the main canopy course, ending with the dramatic 45-foot cliff jump that’ll

Sky Valley Zip Tours also offer beautiful views of the fall colors.

leave your heart pounding. It’s perfect for couples, friend groups, or anyone who wants something wildly different to do after dinner.”

For more information, visit skyvalleyziptours.com/book-now

HIGH GRAVITY ADVENTURES

High Gravity Adventures is an adventure park next to the Tweetsie Railroad. High Gravity Adventures offers not only a zip tour, but a giant swing and “ninja courses” as well.

Their zip tour, the High Altitude Zip

Line Tour, is two hours long and costs $80 per person. They offer five ziplines and one freefall.

If patrons want to experience all three adventures that High Gravity offers, they can save by spending $100 to zipline, which includes three hours to explore the ninja courses in the Aerial Adventure Park and two tickets to the giant swing.

For more information on High Gravity Adventures, call (828) 201-2507 or visit www.highgravityadventures.com.

Fly through the High Country for a bird’s eye view of the fall colors with any

one of these local outdoor adventures.

As with all outdoor activities, visitors are advised to wear comfortable clothing and often required to wear closed-toed shoes.

The mountain weather can be unpredictable and change on a dime — especially in the fall when snow is not an uncommon sight in the later months. Be prepared for anything and bring layers or rain gear depending on the forecast.

WILDERNESS RUN

ALPINE COASTER

Don’t want to zipline, but still want to

go fast on the mountain? Check out the Wilderness Run Alpine Coaster in Banner Elk at 3229 Tynecastle Highway near Sugar Mountain Resort.

The attraction features a 2,930-foot track, including 2,160 feet of down track, which includes full left and right looping turns, a U-turn, and a three-quarter turn. Riders control the speed of the ride through a brake system, but can reach speeds up to 27 miles per hour. The ride starts and ends in the same spot.

For more information or to plan a trip, visit www.wildernessrunalpinecoaster.com.

Disc Golf

in the HIGH COUNTRY

continuing to rattle the chains

BY ZACH COLBURN

The unique activity of disc golf continues to grow in popularity, especially in the Northwest North Carolina area, which has some of the best disc golf courses in the state.

Disc golf is the consummate sport for anyone who wants to teach, share, and enjoy a lifetime sport. It’s a healthy activity that is considerably less expensive than its golfing counterpart, but still has all the nuances.

Disc golf offers many benefits, including

upper and lower body conditioning, aerobic exercise, and mental stimulation. Mastering shots and negotiating obstacles expands concentration skills. At the same time, players in less-than-top physical condition can still enjoy the sport by starting slowly and gradually increasing their level of play.

Disc golf is played much like regular golf, but a flying disc is used instead of a ball and clubs, similar to a Frisbee. According to the Professional Disc Golf Association, the sport was formalized in the 1970s and shares with golf the objective of completing each hole in the fewest strokes or, in the case of disc golf, as fewest tosses as possible.

A disc golf hole begins from a tee area and ends at a target, the most common of which is an elevated metal basket. As a player progresses down the fairway, they

must make each consecutive throw from where the previous throw landed.

In group play, the farthest away player always throws first. Players should not get ahead of the away player. Like regular golf, trees, shrubs and terrain changes in and around the fairways provide challenging obstacles to reach the final destination. The hole is complete when the “putt” lands in the basket.

According to the PDGA, the flying discs are made of solid, non-magnetic plastic material and are between 21 centimeters and 30 centimeters. The maximum weight of a disc can not exceed 200 grams.

There are three types of discs that players can use: a long-range driver, a mid-range wood or iron, and a short-range putter.

Discs are also reasonably cheap, with a decent set ranging from about $50 or less. Other recommended discs include an approach driver and a distance driver.

For those wanting to try disc golf, the High Country offers a variety of courses for all ages to play.

THE HIGH COUNTRY DISC COURSE

Located at Ashe County Park in Jefferson, the High Country Disc Course is great for beginners or pros to improve their skills. The park offers 20 holes of disc golf. Throughout the two-mile course, concrete and platform rubber-decked tee pads and easy-to-spot DiscCatcher baskets have been installed on every hole.

The last nine holes are deep in the woodland, while the front nine are more open. Some of the holes have alternate baskets for newer players. The course also provides “Birdies” and “Tree Love” scorecards that double as field guides, allowing players to identify birds and trees during their round.

The course is also home to a variety of tournaments, including the MVP Circuit Challenge, which took place at the end of August.

For more information, visit www.

kidsinparks.com/ashe-county-parkntdgc.

WAHOO’S ADVENTURES

Another great disc golf course is at Wahoo’s Adventures, where you can also camp, canoe, and tube in the New River.

The course, located in Todd, features nine holes with both long and short tees. It also has a warm-up hole for players to prep their throwing arm. The course itself is a beautiful hike in the New River area for disc golf players. It features a catwalk bridge over a creek, perfect for a hot summer’s day.

The course costs $5 per person or is free for tubers with Wahoo’s Adventures. More information can be found at www. wahoosadventures.com.

BEECH MOUNTAIN RESORT

Beech Mountain Resort is welcoming for players of all skill levels. The course features 18 holes designed into the mountain landscape. Players can walk the course for free, or they can take a scenic lift ride for $12 to tee off from the summit.

A rental of three discs costs $10. For more information, call 1-(800)-438-2093 or visit www.beechmountainresort.com/ summer/disc-golf/.

SEE DISC GOLF ON PAGE 91 u

CHETOLA RESORT

Chetola Resort in Blowing Rock offers a nine-hole course with three practice holes. Unlike other courses, Chetola is a private resort, and its course is reserved for guests. For more information, call (828) 295-5535 or visit the resort website at www.chetola. com.

ROAN MOUNTAIN

DISC GOLF COURSE

Located mere minutes from Avery County at 133 Freeman Rd. in Roan Mountain, Tenn., Roan Mountain Disc Golf Course was created in 2006. RMDGC is a basically flat course that makes it friendly for all levels of ability. A river runs along Hole Nos. 1 and 9, with dual tees on Hole No. 18. and alternate layout plays 3,

5 and 1.

Primarily a beginner’s course or a practice course for letting loose long drives, the final hole on the 9-hole course calls for a long tee-off throw. The course is a popular destination for those hiking, vacationing in the area, and is only a few minutes’ drive from nearby Roan Mountain State Park.

OTHER NEARBY DISC GOLF COURSES

In neighboring Wilkes County, there are two more disc golf courses available.

Rolling Pines Disc Golf Course, which opened in 2015, is located at Old U.S. 421 and Peace Street in Wilkesboro.

The 18-hole course is located on 70 acres of well-maintained land. Players will have several challenges through the hilly, wooded areas of the course. The Pat 56 course had

18 baskets with concrete tees, along with a practice basket and tee to warm up.

The course, which is free to the public and open from dawn till dusk daily, has been ranked among the world’s best disc golf courses each of the last four years by UDisc. It was ranked 77th out of 100 in 2025 as one of five North Carolina-based courses.

Another option is Highland Hills Disc Golf Course, which is located at 22 South Park Road in North Wilkesboro.

Built in 2010, the course has 18 holes and is open from Dawn until Dusk daily.

App State Disc Golf Club

The university-based club team competes in a variety of tournaments throughout the year.

While the majority of the Mountaineers’

tournaments take place in Ashe County and Wilkes County, they also have the opportunity to compete in the College Disc Golf National Championships in Rock Hill, SC.

Integral Disc Dyes and Disc Golf Family Store

The Boone-based business creates unique disc designs for competition use, which are currently available for purchase at the Disc Golf Family Store in Jefferson.

To learn more about Disc Golf Family Store, visit discgolffamilystore.com. To learn more about Integral Disc Dyes, follow them on Facebook and Instagram.

More Information

For more information on disc golf and its rules, visit the Professional Disc Golf Association at www.pdga.com.

Autumn fun at

Mystery Hill

BY NICK FOGLEMAN

For more than 75 years, Mystery Hill has been a High Country staple, blending illusions, handson activities and local history into a destination families return to generation after generation. This fall, Manager Jordan Justice said visitors can expect the same mix of fun and fascination that’s kept the attraction popular since it first opened.

Originally opened by the Hudson family and purchased by the Underwoods in the 1950s, Mystery Hill has maintained its spot along U.S. 321 for decades. Justice, who started working there as a high school student nine years ago, now manages the operation.

“I grew up coming here and have never known it not to be here,” he said.

The gravitational anomaly remains the biggest draw, a guided tour where science and optical

illusions merge to create a mindbending experience. Families also go for the gem mining station, where each group gets its own indoor or outdoor flume to sift for treasures.

“It’s included in our Adventure Pass, and you keep what you find,” Justice said.

Other popular stops include tomahawk throwing at Tomahawk Hill, the mechanical bull ride challenge and two on-site museums.

The Dougherty House, built in 1903 by the founders of Appalachian State University, offers a glimpse into local history, while the Native American Artifacts Museum showcases the world’s largest private collection of arrowheads and tools, over 250,000 pieces collected over 70 years.

The base ticket includes the gravitational anomaly tour, both museums, and the bull ride challenge. The Adventure Pass adds

gem mining and a $10 discount for the Old Time Photo Parlor, also located on-site.

From grandparents bringing their grandchildren to families discovering it for the first time, Mystery Hill remains a multigenerational experience. As Amanda Lugenbell, Assistant Director of Communications and Public Relations for the Watauga County Tourism Development Authority, noted, fall tourism is crucial to local businesses before the slower winter season.

“The fall season is one that everyone counts on,” she said. “We’re always happy to welcome people up to enjoy fall in the mountains because we love to see them.”

For hours, ticket details, and more about the attractions, visit mysteryhill.com.

Huge Selection

Chandeliers, Mirrors & Wall Art

in the HIGH COUNTRY Halloween

BY JERRY SNOW

The High Country has plenty of ways to celebrate Halloween 2025. Check out some of the events happening below: BLOWING ROCK HALLOWEEN FESTIVAL AND MONSTER MARCH

The Festival will be held on Oct. 25 and include the Monster March of the children down Main Street, trick or treating on Main Street, an airwalk in Memorial Park, a hay ride, a fun house in the Recreation Center, a costume contest, a scavenger hunt and other activities.

At the end of the day, the Festival will have a bonfire in Memorial Park. Call (828) 295-7987 for more information.

BOONE BOO!

Boone Boo will be held on Oct. 31 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.

Downtown Boone will host trick-ortreating at participating merchants. A costume contest and other activities are planned.

The Boone Boo costume contest will be judged, and prizes will be awarded. The Jones House and the Watauga Public Library will help with the entertainment.

The central part of King Street will be

closed to accommodate trick-or-treaters and make room for guests and performances, according to townofboone.net.

BANNER

ELK SCHOOL

TRUNK OR TREAT

The Historic Banner Elk School (185 Azalea Cir. SE) will host a Trunk or Treat on Oct. 31 from 4 to 6 p.m.

Children and adults should come dressed for the occasion for the trick-or-treat experience from the trunks of vehicles.

For more information, call (828) 8988395.

TWEETSIE RAILROAD GHOST TRAIN

The Tweetsie Ghost Train is held on Friday and Saturday nights from Sept. 19 through Nov. 1 at 300 Tweetsie Railroad Ln. in Blowing Rock as part of the Tweetsie Railroad Halloween Celebration.

All ages are encouraged to participate. It will include haunted mazes and trickor-treating. Visitors will want to frequent the Haunted House and explore the murky Freaky Forest.

Tickets are $65 for adults, $45 for children (ages 3 through 12) and free for kids age 2 and under.

See the Ghost Train Park map

at tweetsie.com/assets/ documents/2024-GT-Print-Map. pdf.

BEARY SCARY HALLOWEEN AT GRANDFATHER MOUNTAIN

The Beary Scary Halloween celebration at Grandfather Mountain (2050 Blowing Rock Hwy) in Linville is scheduled for Oct. 25. It will feature trick-ortreating on the mountain, followed by Halloween-themed enrichment for the animals.

Children in costume are admitted at half price.

For more information, go to grandfather.com/event/bearyscary-halloween.

HAUNTED RACES

The Haunted 5-kilometer, 10K, half-marathon (13.1 miles), and marathon (26.2 miles) races will be held at Clawson-Burnley Park (355 MLK Jr. St.) in Boone on Oct. 25, starting at 8:30 a.m.

The price to take part ranges from $33.05 to $96.65. All participants must pre-register (findarace.com).

Runners can dress up in costumes for a chance to win the Best Costume award.

celebrated during local OKTOBERFEST events culture

BY JERRY SNOW

Oktoberfest is best known for its German beer. The celebration officially begins each year when the Lord Mayor of the city taps the first keg — tapping of the first keg symbolizes the celebration of the season’s first brew.

The first Oktoberfest was held nearly 200 years ago in celebration of Crown Prince Ludwig’s marriage to Princess Therese.

In the High Country, multiple Oktoberfests take place at various breweries.

BOONETOBERFEST

SEPT. 20

Boonetoberfest will be held on Sept. 20 at SouthEnd Brewing, Lost Province Brewing and Fizz Ed in downtown Boone. Abby Bryant will kick off Boonetoberfest 2025 at Lost Province on the upper patio deck with a show starting at noon. Boonetoberfest will have beer, prepared

food and activities for all ages.

This year, Boonetoberfest will coincide with the Watauga Arts Council’s annual Busker Fest (2 to 7 p.m.) in downtown Boone.

HIGH COUNTRY

OKTOBERFEST 2025

SEPT. 20

Boone’s High Country Oktoberfest 2025 will be held again at Appalachian Mountain Brewery on Sept. 20 from noon until 10 p.m.

AMB (163 Boone Creek Dr.) will have beer, food, music and carnival games. Call (828) 263–1111 for more information.

SUGAR MOUNTAIN’S

OKTOBERFEST

OCT. 11-12

Sugar Mountain’s 35th annual Oktoberfest will be held Oct. 11-12 from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. at the Sugar Mountain Ski Resort.

The Harbour Town Fest Band will perform from noon until 4 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday (Oct. 11-12). The free festival will include arts and crafts, Bavarian food, and inflatables.

“We’ve got lots of reasons for you to grab your beer stein, put on your Lederhosen or your dirndl and head to Sugar Mountain Resort,” the Resort posted on oktoberfest. skisugar.com. For more information, call (828) 898-4521.

There will be Bavarian music and dancing, Bavarian food (bratwurst, knockwurst, sauerkraut, strudel, pretzels), beer, arts and crafts, a children’s fun center with inflatables, hayrides and corn hole.

Make sure to keep an eye out as other Oktoberfest events are announced closer to October.

antiquing HIGH COUNTRY

BY JESSE CAMPBELL

The High Country is a pickers’ paradise. Although plucking banjos and toetapping fiddles echo through the region that’s world-renowned for Bluegrass and Old Time traditional folk music, the High Country has a knack for another cultural arts preservation that sings a pretty tune for the right price.

The High Country is home to several antique shops with products and pricing ranging from 18th-century high-end decor

to more modern artifacts of bygone eras. Antiquers and thrifty connoisseurs meticulously select lost treasures and historic relics that denote skyrocketing sentimental value that eludes the untrained eye to the tiny fortunes that await at esoteric vendors’ booths whose owners share a wanderer’s lust for condensed keepsakes - an exalted encyclopedia of living history incarnate. Each trinket, vase, creaky rocking chair, decorated plate, or pendulum-

BRUSHY MOUNTAIN POWERSPORTS SELLS MORE MOTORCYCLES, ATVs ,AND UTVs THAN ANYONE ELSE IN THE HIGH COUNTRY.

HERE ’S WHY:

• SALESAND SERVICE FORHONDA, KAWASAKI, AND YAMAHA PRODUCTS

• WE DELIVER TO AND FROM ANYWHERE IN NC,TN, AND VA,FOR SALESAND SERVICE

• NO ADDED “DOC ” FEES- THE PRICE IS THE PRICE!

• NO PRESSURE FRIENDLYCUSTOMER SERVICE

• FAMILYOWNED AND OPERATED SINCE 1997

swinging clock swaying at the tune of an overlooked era bespeaks volumes of their previous owners’ illustrious past.

Appalachian Antique Mall, located at 631 W. King St, in Boone, is the region’s quintessential museum for timeless collectibles. The building is a “three-story gem nestled in a historic building that spans an impressive 15,000 sq ft,” said co-owner Brittany Reeves, who shares the mall’s anthropological prowess with her sister, Sam Reeves.

“Our space is rustic; it’s an old historic building with the original wood floors that creak just right to add to the charm and character of the space,” said Brittany. “We’re all about creating a welcoming and casual environment that’s fun and personable. You’ll probably find yourself singing along to a retro hit we’re playing on our vintage speakers, even dancing a little, or a lot (we’ve seen it). It’s a nostalgic experience, and each visit promises new treasures waiting to be discovered.”

Brittany said that guests will discover a “mix of vintage treasures, one-of-a-kind antiques, and beautiful handmade creations by local artists.” She was also quick to point to the mall’s penchant for authenticity and veracity - “It’s cool stuff and it’s not AI.”

The mall, which is home to 30 independent dealers, is a living artifact, as well. Beginning life as the former Belk Department Store in the historic downtown, the family-owned business is run by two sisters who took over from their mother, who operated it for 25 years.

“The 15,000-square-foot, three-floor space is home to over 30 independent dealers who rent space to showcase their curated items, and some are also local artists who showcase their beautiful craft,” said Reeves. “They are very passionate about what they do, so when you shop here, you’re truly supporting local businesses who pour their heart into what they do.”

Mall guests can expect a wide variety of antiques and collectibles from the 1700s to the 2000s, including CDs, cassettes, art, quilts, books, photography gear, sports memorabilia, tools, and jewelry.

“Our dealers actively refresh their booths weekly, so every visit is a new adventure. If you see something you love, grab it before it’s gone,” said Reeves. “What’s cool is we see all age groups shopping our store, all generations, some are seeking out nostalgic items, some are collectors, some are creators, curators of history, and most love the thrill

of the hunt. Creators are seeking out predigital forms like old camera equipment or typewriters, and some are creating new ones with old.”

In nearby Blowing Rock, there are many options as well, including Antiques on Main, Blowing Rock Antiques and Windwood Antiques.

DIVERSE SELECTIONS AS UNIQUE AS THEIR ILLUSTRIOUS PROVENANCE

High Country antiquing doesn’t require deep pockets or an astute understanding of nuanced artifacts. However, an impassioned appreciation of cherished antiquity and expendable allowances opens opportunities for serious collectors unmoved by stickershock.

Gilded Age Antiques in Banner Elk specializes in English Anglican ceramics, home decor, candles, fragrances, and new home accessories.

The shop, located at 10890 NC-105, Banner Elk, recently reopened following Hurricane Helene recovery efforts, said Sales Director Olivia Daly.

Although the shop is more “high-end” than other area establishments, Daly said

the Gilded Age’s gift shop has “something for everyone.”

Along with a rich collection celebrating a more luxurious era of American expansionism, the Gilded Age also offers designer handbags, including Chanel, Gucci, and Louis Vuitton purses and pocketbooks.

The Gilded Age is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Tuesday through Saturday.

Along with handcrafted furniture salvaged from felled hardwoods and innate home decor featuring decorative glass that harkens back to the 1920s and ‘30s, local antique shops prominently display Appalachian folk art, too. This includes animal wood carvings and honeysuckle baskets, carefully woven together by worn, calloused hands with softer souls. Local antiquers will find several locally produced items at one of Lansing’s newest shops.

The Squirrel and Nut, owned and operated by Lindsey Kulp, strives to provide customers with a lot of items produced in Ashe County and other areas of North Carolina. The items that aren’t made in the state are typically made somewhere in the United States by small crafters and artists. Some of the items you will find in the store

include goods from Amy Bumgardner Jewelry, Appalachian Folk Craft, Bob Schindler Metal Work, Books By Bailey, Crochet By Denise, Headwaters Wood Artisans, Hidden Jemz, Photography by Lora Young, Mountain Soaps By Crystal, P. Odin Art, Pottery By Suz, Regrown Grounds, Rolling River Girl Designs, The Burr Nest, The Helpful Homestead and The Infinite Daisy.

The shop, located at 9288 NC 194 in Lansing, is open Thursday, Friday and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sundays.

WEST JEFFERSON

ANTIQUES FAIR

Collectors and aspiring archivists looking for new artifacts should check out the Olde Time Antiques Fair that takes place in September in downtown West Jefferson. The event will feature dozens of regional vendors and artisans showcasing many everyday shop wares, highlighting traditional American and Appalachian culture. Old-timey rocking chairs, lamps, folk art, coins, and other collectibles are a few of the selected offerings. For more information, visit wjeffersonantiquesfair. com.

APPALACHIAN arts

hosting a star-studded 2025-26 lineup

STAFF REPORT

The Appalachian Arts Performing Arts Series, presented by Appalachian State University’s Office of Arts Engagement and Cultural Resources, has a vibrant lineup that celebrates artistic excellence and rich cultural legacies for its 2025-26 season.

From bluegrass sensation Billy Strings and Americana icon Lyle Lovett to category-crossing musicians Margo Price and Rhiannon Giddens, the season features a dazzling spectrum of events that also includes a screening of Disney’s Moana with the score performed live by Polynesian musicians and vocalists, the high-flying acrobats of Cirque Kalabanté, the acclaimed Ailey II dance company, and genre-blending jazz trumpeter Etienne Charles.

All performances take place at the Schaefer Center for the Performing Arts. The following listings take place in October and November. For the full lineup — or information about APPlause! K-12 Performing Arts series — and tickets, visit TheSchaeferCenter.org.

LYLE LOVETT AND HIS ACOUSTIC GROUP ON SUNDAY, OCT. 5 AT 7:30 P.M.

A singer, composer and actor, Lyle Lovett has broadened the definition of American music in a career that spans 14 albums. Coupled with his gift for storytelling, the Texas-based musician fuses elements of country, swing, jazz, folk, gospel, and blues in a conventiondefying manner that breaks down barriers.

Whether touring as a ‘Duo’ or with his ‘Acoustic Group’ or his ‘Large Band,’ Lovett’s live performances show not only the breadth of this Texas legend’s deep talents, but also the diversity of his influences, making him one of the most compelling and captivating musicians in popular music. Since his self-titled debut in 1986, Lyle Lovett has evolved into one of music’s most vibrant and iconic performers. Among his many accolades, besides the four Grammy Awards, he was

given the Americana Music Association’s inaugural Trailblazer Award, and was named Texas State Musician. His works, rich and eclectic, are some of the most beloved of any artist working today.

DISNEY’S MOANA LIVE-TO-FILM CONCERT ON SUNDAY, OCT. 19, AT 6 P.M.

If you loved Coco with a live orchestra, you don’t want to miss this experience. Disney Concerts and AMP Worldwide present Disney’s MOANA Live-To-Film Concert North American tour, featuring a full-length screening of the beloved movie accompanied by live performances of a unique on-stage musical ensemble of top Hollywood studio musicians, Polynesian rhythm masters, and vocalists, celebrating the music and songs from this award-winning Walt Disney Animation Studios animated classic.

CIRQUE KALABANTÉ: AFRIQUE EN CIRQUE ON WEDNESDAY, NOV. 12, AT 7:30 P.M.

Afrique en Cirque is a show by Yamoussa Bangoura, inspired by daily life in Guinea. This performance shares the beauty, youth and artistry of African culture. A colorful show beyond its scenery, costumes and staging, it makes any theatre vibrate with energy and represents the strength, agility and life’s joys of young Africans. The audience will see acrobats execute gravitydefying moves and human pyramids, accompanied by the contemporary sounds of live Afro-Jazz, percussion, and kora. Welcome to the universe of Kalabanté Productions, and prepare for an unforgettable journey.

Appalachian Arts, formerly known as “The Schaefer Center Presents,” is a performing arts series offering campus and community audiences a diverse array of music, dance and theatre programming designed to enrich the cultural landscape of the Appalachian State University campus and surrounding area. By creating memorable performance experiences and related educational and outreach

A singer, composer and actor,

has broadened the definition of American music in a career that spans 14 albums.

activities, the series promotes the power and excitement of the live performance experience; provides a “window on the world” through the artistry of nationally and internationally renowned artists; and showcases some of the finest artists of our nation and our region. Musical events range from symphony orchestra and chamber music performances to jazz, folk, traditional, international, and

popular artists. Theatre productions run the gamut from serious drama to musical comedy. Dance performances offer an equally wide array of styles, from ballet to modern dance to international companies

representing cultural traditions from around the world. For more information, visit http://theschaefercenter.org.

BY JAMIE SHELL

Over the years, society has progressed and continues to move away from the past. Shopping is often done online these days. Many stores have everything you could ever want and in every color, but they are lacking something – a sense of community.

General stores populated many rural towns in the U.S. before the introduction of the car, as many folks bought most of what they needed in these establishments. People would gather and socialize at the general stores, where they would barter with the

owner for their goods. This is still true for the communities in the High Country, where owners know everyone’s names and customers can purchase goods from local vendors.

As a significant part of the community, these general stores often offer goods not carried in other stores, as well as host community events. Summer is one of the most popular times for these events, and seasonal goods and local general stores offer many. The following are a few of the general stores that offer myriad products to customers.

MAST GENERAL STORE ORIGINAL STORE

3565 Hwy 194, Valle Crucis www.mastgeneralstore.com

ANNEX

2981 Broadstone Rd. Banner Elk (Valle Crucis) (828) 963-6511

BOONE

630 West King St. (828) 262-0000

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 modernday 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 1913. 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 Watauga County, including Asheville, Winston-Salem, Columbia, South Carolina, Greenville, South Carolina, Roanoke, Virginia, and Knoxville, Tennessee.

FRED’S GENERAL MERCANTILE

(Beech Mountain)

501 Beech Mountain Parkway (828) 387-4838

In operation since 1979, Fred’s General Mercantile is a staple in the Beech Mountain community. It includes a grocery store, a hardware store, and a deli as well as seasonal fruits and vegetables.

Fred’s General Mercantile has been a staple in the Beech Mountain community for more than 40 years. Due to the isolated locales of the mountaintop, the store serves as a veritable cornucopia of items for locals and visitors alike that bear out the business’s tagline of “If they don’t have it, you don’t need it.”

Fred’s has a clothing store, a hardware store, and a grocery store. Fred’s grocery selection offers a wide variety of items, including canned goods, essential staples like milk and eggs, tools and hardware, and unexpected necessities like shoes, a jacket and more.

Fred’s Backside Deli is also located in

the store and serves breakfast, lunch and dinner daily. Because of its proximity to Beech Mountain Resort, Fred’s also offers guests ski and snowboard rentals and other amenities. Fred’s is also a fantastic spot to find information about activities and events to see and do on Beech Mountain throughout the year.

VINTAGE FARMHOUSE

GENERAL STORE

(West Jefferson)

424 E. Second St. (336) 846-4777

Vintage Farmhouse General Store has its very own full-service coffee shop and bakery, boasting a large menu that includes specialty lattes, cookies, and ice cream. Vintage Farmhouse is open Monday through Saturday and has something for everyone. They have a wide variety of clothing for women and children, as well as other merchandise, including home decor, items and jewelry. Vintage Farmhouse even hosts a “man cave” for all of the men in the store, which is located in the basement.

PHIPPS GENERAL STORE (Lansing)

2425 Silas Creek Rd (336) 384-2382

For those who trek near the small town

of Lansing, a stop at the Phipps General Store is a must. The store is a spot for locals and visitors to enjoy old-time and bluegrass music.

Musicians from all around the High Country travel to play at the weekly jam sessions at the general store, which happen on Fridays. Locally crafted items and merchandise, including jewelry, pottery, and handbags, are on offer, along with food and beverages available at the sessions.

RED BARN FARM SUPPLY & GENERAL STORE

6024 S US 19E Hwy., Newland (828) 387-7564

The Red Barn Farm Supply & General Store in the Spear community of Avery County opened its doors in the fall of 2024, offering an array of supply goods, livestock feed, and other convenient items.

The store offers a selection of fence mending tools, deer hunting supplies and even some home decor like mums and pumpkins, as well as drinks, snacks and baked goods.

The Red Barn also has vendor space available for anyone looking to sell personal goods. The store is open noon to 6 p.m. through the week and half-days on Saturdays.

Chambers support the business community AREA

BY MOSS BRENNAN

Fall in the High Country of North Carolina isn’t just a season, it’s a celebration. Crisp mornings, colorful leaves and a calendar packed with events make autumn one of the most anticipated times of year for locals and visitors alike.

The North Carolina High Country is a popular destination for first-time visitors, returning friends and full-time residents. As part of its mission, area chambers in Ashe, Avery and Watauga counties strive to serve all individuals and businesses who find their way to our corner of the world.

From “After Hours” business events to annual dinners recognizing excellence from individuals and member businesses, area chambers of commerce are threads

that connect people and foster cooperation and companionship across a wide range of the region. The Chambers also stepped up to help the community in a big way in the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, raising funds for the community, acting as donation centers and volunteering their time.

The following are chambers of commerce that serve High Country counties.

ASHE COUNTY

CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Address: 01 N. Jefferson Ave., Suite C, West Jefferson, NC 28694

Phone: (336) 846-9550

Online: www.ashechamber.com

Ashe County, home to both the towns

of Jefferson and West Jefferson, is just about as far as you can go in the High Country before entering Southwestern Virginia. The county is considered, in many respects, a step back in time to the way the Appalachian Mountains used to be. The chamber can direct travelers through the scenic and sparsely populated area of Christmas tree farms and rugged mountain landscapes, while offering a wide selection of brochures and maps.

AVERY COUNTY

CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Address: 4501 Tynecastle Highway, Unit No. 2, Banner Elk, NC 28604

Phone: (828) 898-5605

Online: www.averycounty.com

The Avery County Chamber of

Commerce Visitor Center is conveniently located in the Shoppes at Tynecastle at the intersection of N.C. 105 and N.C. 184.

The center offers information on lodging, dining, attractions, shopping and other businesses in Avery County.

BANNER ELK

CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Address: 100 W. Main St., Banner Elk, NC 28604

Phone: (828) 898-8395

Online: www.bannerelk.org

Located in the heart of town, the Banner Elk Chamber of Commerce in Avery County promotes the area as a unique place to live, work, and visit. Information on area lodging, dining, shopping and more is available Monday through Saturday,

14th ANNUAL RAIN OR SHINE

from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., and all the time by visiting www.bannerelk.org.

BEECH MOUNTAIN

CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Address: 403-A Beech Mountain Parkway, Beech Mountain, NC 28604

Phone: (828) 387-9283

Online: www.beechchamber.com

Whether you’re looking for a North Carolina mountain vacation full of adventure or just a few days to relax and breathe the fresh mountain air, Beech Mountain, at an elevation of 5,506 feet, will give your soul something to smile about. Beech Mountain, which straddles both Avery and Watauga counties, offers plenty of activities and attractions for the whole family to enjoy, but also plenty of peace and quiet for a relaxing and rejuvenating time.

BLOWING ROCK

CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Address: 132 Park Ave., Blowing Rock, NC 28605

Phone: (828) 295-7851

Online: www.blowingrockchamber.com

Blowing Rock is considered one of the crown jewels of the Blue Ridge. Its chamber of commerce knows this tightknit community as no one else, and its representatives are always willing to share this knowledge with visitors. Aside from general information, lists of camping and fishing sites, and brochures, the Blowing Rock Chamber of Commerce also has a generous stock of menus from the town’s many eateries.

BOONE AREA

CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Address: 579 Greenway Road Suite 101, Boone, NC 28607

Phone: (828) 264-2225

Online: www.boonechamber.com

The Boone Area Chamber of Commerce is one of the High Country’s most active, with both a dedicated membership and an overall commitment to the betterment of the area as both a vacation destination and business hub. Located in the heart of Boone, the chamber is an ideal place to stop for information on area activities, brochures and maps of the community.

FRIDAY: SEPTEMBER 19th 1:00 p.m. - DARK

SATURDAY: SEPTEMBER 20th 8:00 a.m. -5:00 p.m.

LARGEST

Cooler days can mean higher energy use—but it doesn’t have to. These simple tips will make your home more e cient and your bills more a ordable all year long.

Unplug battery chargers and electronics when not needed.

Check that the dryer vent hose is tightly connected to the dryer and is not kinked or clogged.

Hire a qualified professional to inspect your furnace or boiler and replace your filters regularly through the season.

Clean your dryer's lint trap before each load.

When heating keep windows locked and caulk around gaps in windows and doors.

Replace damaged shingles and clean gutters making sure downspouts point away from the house. For more tips and other helpful resources visit

DECK the

evergreen scent slopes

and breathe in the fresh

Christmas tree farming season is thriving in the High Country

BY IAN ASHTON

Nestled in the northwestern mountains of North Carolina — encompassing Alleghany, Ashe, Avery and Watauga counties — the region stands as a powerhouse in America’s real-Christmas-tree industry. According to the North Carolina Christmas Tree Association, the state ranks second nationally in trees harvested, with more than 3 million cut annually (2022 USDA Census).

It all traces back to 1959, when five Avery County growers came together to form the NCCTA. From those humble roots, North Carolina’s tree growers now cultivate over 53 million trees across roughly 33,000 acres, supplying upwards of 22% of all real Christmas trees sold in the U.S.

Fraser fir, native to the High Country’s high-elevation ridges, dominates nearly 99%

of North Carolina’s tree production — a testament to its soft needles, long-lasting aroma and sturdy branches.

Over the years, Fraser firs from the High Country have become a national symbol of holiday tradition. In 1971, a Fraser fir was chosen as the White House Christmas tree for the first time — and North Carolina surpassed all other states by holding that honor 16 times through 2024.

Most recently, Cartner’s Christmas Tree Farm of Newland, in Avery County, was crowned Grand Champion Grower by the National Christmas Tree Association. Their award-winning Fraser fir — nicknamed “Tremendous” — adorned the Blue Room of the White House during the 2024 holiday season.

Founded in 1959 by Sam and Margaret Cartner and now led by their sons David, Jim, and Sam Jr., Cartner’s Christmas Tree Farm has grown to about 500 acres and serves wholesale and choose-and-cut customers across the country. The farm employs seasonal workers, and each tree is tended to over many years — often touched

more than 100 times before shipment.

Despite suffering heavy losses — 5,000–6,000 trees — during Hurricane Helene, the farm persevered, turning its White House selection into a powerful symbol of regional

resilience and unity.

Today, the NCCTA includes nearly 940 growers covering over 33,000 acres. In 2022, annual sales exceeded $144 million, not including wreaths and greenery. Many

farms in western NC now offer public choose-and-cut experiences — complete with wreaths, roping and family activities. Whether you’re drawn to the tradition of a Fraser fir in your living room or the story behind the trees, High Country Christmas tree farms offer more than just seasonal greenery — they deliver heritage, perseverance and cherished memories. Snow caps, the peaks and evergreen rows stretch across slopes. From mountain firs to holiday lights, this region’s growers define what it means to “cut local.”

The following are local Christmas tree farms.

AVERY COUNTY

Cartner Christmas Tree Farm, 901

Balsam Dr, Newland, NC 28657

Snowy Mountain Christmas shop and sweets, 4699 Linville Falls Hwy, Newland, NC 28657

Two D’s Nursery, 7849 Linville Falls Hwy, Newland, NC 28657

Trinity Tree Company - Avery Farms, 615 Avery Ln, Newland, NC 28657

Johnson Brothers Nursery, 5261 Linville Falls Hwy, Newland, NC 28657

ASHE COUNTY

Long’s Tree Farm - Wholesale Christmas Trees, 162 Mountain View Dr, Jefferson, NC 28640

Mile High Tree Farm, Mile High Lake Rd, West Jefferson, NC 28694

Day’s Choose and Cut Christmas Trees, 398 Park Vista Rd, West Jefferson, NC 28694

Sexton Farms, 1616 NC-16 S, Jefferson, NC 28640

Big Ridge Tree Farm, 8539 U.S. Hwy 221 N, Crumpler, NC 28617

WATAUGA COUNTY

Miller’s Choose and Cut, 1739 Ball Branch Rd, Boone, NC 28607

Greene Pine Farm Choose and Cut, 724

Heg Greene Rd, Deep Gap, NC 28618

Longview Christmas Tree Farm, 6167

Howard’s Creek Rd, Boone, NC 28607

Swinging Bridge Farm, 711 Old Glade Rd, Deep Gap, NC 28618

C&J Christmas Tree Farm, 1999 Brookshire Rd, Boone, NC 28607

ALLEGHANY COUNTY

Kathy Shore Nursery Choose and Cut, 1731 US-21, Sparta, NC 28675

Andrews Tree Farm and Nursery, 691 Hoppers Dairy Rd, Sparta, NC 28675

Papa Goats Tree Farm, 687 3 Creeks Ln, Sparta, NC 28675

Wishon Evergreens, 535 Napco Rd, Sparta, NC 28675

Billy Edwards Choose and Cut Christmas Trees, 8882 NC-18, Ennice, NC 28623

Stop

by an

art gallery

during your HIGH COUNTRY stay

BY JERRY SNOW

The work of so many established, gifted artists in the region’s galleries can be found across the High Country. Visitors can spend days adoring the paintings, drawings, sculptures, and other forms of media. Here are some of the various galleries in Watauga, Ashe and Avery counties.

WATAUGA COUNTY

BLOWING ROCK ART & HISTORY MUSEUM

159 Ginny Stevens Ln. Blowing Rock, NC 28605 (828) 295-9099

www.blowingrockmuseum.org

BRAHM is a hub of artistry and creativity in the heart of the High Country. The Museum is rooted in the creative cultures of Appalachia and seeks to cultivate a community that extends beyond its walls and region, positioning Western North Carolina as a leader in the arts through educational programs, exhibitions, activities and permanent collections. The Blowing Rock Art & History Museum is open from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday to Saturday and till 7 p.m. on Thursdays. The Museum is open on Sunday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. May through October. It is closed on Mondays. For more information, visit www. blowingrockmuseum.org.

BLOWING ROCK

FRAMEWORKS & GALLERY

7539 Valley Blvd.

Blowing Rock, NC 28605 (828) 295-0041

www.blowingrockgalleries.com

Blowing Rock Frameworks & Gallery was founded in 1994 by Tim Miller and has brought together more than 25 of the best artists in the southeast. In addition to the outstanding artwork on display, they also offer custom art framing, everything from paintings and photos to prints and even newspaper clippings. Blowing Rock Frameworks & Gallery is open from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday.

HANDS GALLERY

543 W. King St. Boone, NC 28607 (828) 262-1970

Hands Gallery first came about through the efforts of a small group of craftspeople in 1975. Since then the co-op gallery has brought dozens of artisans into the gallery to showcase their years of hard work. The gallery is open daily from 10 a.m. until 6 p.m. Winter hours are 10 a.m. until 5 p.m.

JONES HOUSE CULTURAL CENTER

604 W. King St. Boone, NC 28607 (828) 268-6280

www.joneshouse.org

The Jones House is now home to the Mazie Jones Gallery, which rotates different exhibits throughout the year. The Jones House also has two permanent exhibits that highlight the history of Boone and the Jones House. Galleries are open from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. Monday through Friday and 11 a.m. until 4 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday.

TRADITIONS POTTERY

1055 Main St.

Blowing Rock, NC 28605 (828) 295-5099

www.traditionspottery.com

Mike and Janet Calhoun produce handmade pottery in several different designs and shapes. Their studio is located at 4443 Bolick Road, about three miles south of Blowing Rock.

TURCHIN CENTER FOR THE VISUAL ARTS

423 W. King St. Boone, NC 28608 (828) 262-3017

tcva.org

The Turchin Center for the Visual Arts on the campus of Appalachian State offers numerous dynamic tours and exhibit celebrations throughout the year. The Turchin Center also holds workshops, art talks and other events. The center is open from 10 a.m. until 6 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday and Saturday, and from noon until 8 p.m. on Friday.

WATAUGA COUNTY ARTS

COUNCIL – BLUE RIDGE ART SPACE

377 Shadowline Dr. Boone, NC 28607 (828) 264-1789

www.watauga-arts.org

The Blue Ridge Art Space has four galleries and a gift shop as well as classrooms for different art workshops. The space is open from 9 a.m. until 4 p.m. Monday through Friday and extended hours for classes and workshops.

ASHE COUNTY

ASHE ARTS CENTER

303 School Ave. West Jefferson, NC 28694 (336) 846-2787

www.ashecountyarts.org

The Ashe Arts Center is home to a year-round exhibition space that showcases different works by local and regional artists. In addition to the rotating gallery of work, a gallery shop offers locally produced arts and crafts to purchase. The Ashe Arts Center is open from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. Monday through Friday and from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. on Saturday.

ASHE CUSTOM FRAMING & GALLERY

105 S. Jefferson Ave. West Jefferson, NC 28694 (336) 846-2218

ashecustomframing.com

Ashe Custom Framing & Gallery has been open for 18 years and gives local artists a location to exhibit their work, and gives customers a place to custom frame their design services. The hours of operation are from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. Tuesday through Friday and 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. on Saturday.

DOE RIDGE POTTERY

125 Burley Ave, West Jefferson, NC 28694

doeridgepottery.homestead.com

Doe Ridge Pottery is owned and operated by Nate Fields. The studio is open from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday and from noon to 5 p.m. on Sunday.

CATCHLIGHT GALLERY

118 N. Jefferson Ave. West Jefferson, NC 28694 (336) 846-1551

catchlightgallery.net

Since 2012, CatchLight Gallery has dedicated its space to talented photographers who want to display and sell their creations. The gallery is located in downtown West Jefferson and is open from 11 a.m. until 5 p.m. on Monday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday and from 11 a.m. until 4 p.m. on Sunday.

FLORENCE THOMAS ART SCHOOL

10 S. Jefferson Ave.

West Jefferson, NC 28694 (336) 846-3827

florenceartschool.org

With gallery exhibits and multiple workshops and classroom opportunities, the Florence Thomas Art School has a little bit of everything to offer. The school is open from 10 a.m. until 4:30 p.m. Monday through Saturday.

LOST PROVINCE CENTER FOR CULTURAL ARTS

9710 Highway 194 Lansing, NC 28643

lostprovincearts.org

The Lost Province Center for Cultural Arts offers a variety of classes, including basketry, ceramics, fiber arts, printmaking, wine making, and classes for children as well. Operating hours are from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. by appointment only.

ORIGINALS ONLY GALLERY

3-B N. Jefferson Ave. West Jefferson, NC 28694 (336) 846-1636

originalsonlygallery.com

Originals Only Gallery displays work from Ashe County artists Joan Stiles Bell and Susan Van Wyk. The gallery also has handcrafted woodwork from Elijah Holman as well as a wide selection of North Carolina pottery. The gallery is open from 11 a.m. until 4 p.m. Wednesday through Saturday and other times by appointment.

RT MORGAN ART & GLASS BY CAMILLE

120 N. Jefferson Ave. West Jefferson, NC 28694

(336) 246-3328

rtmorganartgallery.com

RT Morgan has operated an art studio fulltime in the Appalachian Mountains since 1986. The RT Morgan Art Gallery opened in 2002 and began showcasing his work. Camille Morgan is a self-taught stained glass artist and has been creating glass works since 1986. The gallery is open from noon until 5 p.m. Thursday through Saturday and on other days by appointment.

AVERY COUNTY

ART CELLAR GALLERY

920 Shawneehaw Ave.

Banner Elk, NC 28604 (828) 898-5175

www.artcellargallery.com

The Art Cellar Gallery first opened in 1993 and offers a diverse range of fine artwork in various styles and mediums, including paint, clay, stone, wood, and glass. The Art Cellar Gallery is open to visitors Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

BE ARTISTS GALLERY

185 Azalea Cir. Banner Elk, NC 28604 (828) 898-6767

www.seymourcc.net/beartistsgallery

BE Artists Gallery in the Historical Banner Elk School that has a large variety of work on display, including paintings and drawings in oils, acrylics and pastels; photography, graphic arts, pottery, jewelry, metalworks, fine furniture, wood turnings, wood carvings, fabric art and more. The gallery is open from 11 a.m. until 4 p.m. Thursday through Saturday.

CARLTON GALLERY

10360 Highway 105 S.

Banner Elk, NC 28604 (828) 963-4288

www.carltongallery.com

Carlton Gallery first started as a weaving studio in 1982 and is now one of the most popular galleries in the region. Over 300 artisans have their works featured in the gallery, everything from blown glass to pottery, paintings, and jewelry. Carlton Gallery is open from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday and from 11:30 a.m. until 5:30 p.m. on Sunday. The gallery is also open by appointment.

CLARK GALLERY

393 Shawneehaw Ave.

Banner Elk, NC 28604 (828) 789-9290

www.chrisclarkgallerync.com

The Clark Gallery has been open in the High Country since 2001. The gallery is open from 10:30 a.m. until 4 p.m. Thursday through Saturday.

SALLY NOONEY GALLERY

7137 Highway 194 S.

Banner Elk, NC 28604 (828) 963-7347

www.sallynooney.com

The Sally Nooney Gallery features animal paintings, landscape paintings, still life paintings and glass art. The gallery is open 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday and 11 a.m. until 5 p.m. on Sunday.

APPALACHIAN

Theatre

A regional entertainment destination

BY JERRY SNOW

The Appalachian Theatre of the High Country (559 W King St.) is the crown jewel of downtown Boone.

The iconic theater, an independent non-profit organization, serves as the entertainment hub for the region.

App Theatre hosts concerts, films, plays, camps, forums and other events.

It first opened on Nov. 14, 1938, and operated for about seven decades until it closed in 2007. On Oct. 14, 2019, the fully renovated ATHC reopened to the public.

The Appalachian Theatre of the High Country’s mission is to engage, entertain and educate.

App Theatre is under the guidance of Executive Director Suzanne Livesay; she has held the position since August 2022.

The governing body of the Appalachian Theatre of the High Country is the Board of

Trustees, which consists of up to 27 elected volunteer members serving staggered, threeyear terms.

The Appalachian Theatre of the High Country Board of Trustees include: Keith Martin (Chair), Bill Pelto (Vice Chair), Brady Combs (Treasurer), Sharon Smoski (Secretary), Tucker Deal (Legal Counsel), John Cooper (immediate past Chair), Bettie Bond, Beth Davison, Bob Gates, Alfred Glover, Alex Hooker, Jane Lonon, Susan McCracken, Jesse Miller, Benjamin Parker, Chris Petti, Denise Ringler, Nancy Rosen Schaffel, Matt Vincent, Angela Warren and Todd Wright.

The autumn of 2025 App Theatre schedule will feature The Wallin’ Jennys and Sam Bush.

The Theatre steadily adds events to its lineup.

To take a virtual tour of the historic Theatre,visit www.apptheatre.org/virtualhistory-tour.

THE WAILIN’ JENNYS

Nov. 9 (7-9 p.m.)

The Wailin’ Jennys is made up of Nicky Mehta, Ruth Moody and Heather Masse — three distinct voices that make up their vocal sound.

Premium tickets to see the show on Nov. 9 are $44 and standard seating is $37.

A bluegrass band known for their harmony, The Wailin’ Jennys are inspired by their traditional roots.

The Wailin’ Jennys are one of today’s most beloved international folk acts. Founding members Moody and Mehta, along with New York-based Masse, continue to create some of the most entertaining music on the folk-roots scene.

Learn more about them at www. thewailinjennys.com.

SAM BUSH

Nov. 14 (7:30-9:39 p.m.)

Premium seats are $53.37 and standard seating is $46.97 to see Sam Bush perform at App Theatre on Nov. 14

In 2009, the Americana Music Association awarded Sam Bush the Lifetime Achievement Award for Instrumentalist.

Punch Brothers, Steep Canyon Rangers, and Greensky Bluegrass are among the bluegrass vanguards he’s influenced. His

performances are annual highlights of the festival circuit, including last April’s show at 2025 Merlefest in Wilkesboro.

Boone hometown father/son duo Parker’s Mandolin will open the show. Find out more about Sam Bush at sambush.com.

Enjoy the High Country’s talented

Theatre GROUPS

BY JERRY SNOW AND MOSS BRENNAN

The High Country offers a wide range of options for theater lovers. Community, historic and campus theaters are throughout the region.

The casts and crews come from near and far. They can include students, community members and professional actors from abroad.

The High Country venues each offer something unique, and they all highlight the region’s rich culture.

ENSEMBLE STAGE

Ensemble Stage (185 Azalea Cir.) in Banner Elk was founded in 2009 and started presenting productions in Blowing Rock.

In 2017, the professional theater was relocated to the Cultural Art Center at the Historic Banner Elk School. Since its inception, it has presented more than 100 productions and 500-plus shows.

The 2025 Main Stage productions include Hitchcock Radio Hour: Episode 24 (Oct. 24-25) and the A Banner Elk Christmas (Dec. 5-20).

To learn more, visit www.ensemblestage.

HAYES AUDITORIUM

Lees-McRae College (191 Main St. W in Banner Elk) has a year-round theater department — performers travel from all over to participate in Lees-McRae’s Summer Theatre.

During the school year, the LMC Theatre Department puts on three public performances of main stage productions at Hayes Auditorium with casts of performing arts students, according to lmc.edu.

Lees-McRae has not released the production lined up for the 2025-26 school

year.

For more information, including this year’s theater productions at Lees-McRae, visit www.lmc.edu/academics/programs/ theatre-arts/calendar.htm.

ASHE COUNTY LITTLE THEATRE

Ashe County Little Theatre is a community theater group that provides “opportunities for people of all ages to participate in and enjoy the performing arts,” according to the Ashe County Arts Council.

Throughout the year, ACLT stages plays, musicals and other performances at

the Ashe Civic Center (962 Mt. Jefferson Rd.) in West Jefferson.

Learn details at www.facebook.com/ ashecountylittletheatre/.

For more information on upcoming events, visit www. ashecountylittletheatre.org/.

BEAN STALK COMMUNITY THEATRE

Based in Watauga County, the Beanstalk Theatre put on its first production in 2012 and was originally founded and organized by Amy Beane and Andrea McDonough, who now act as director and assistant director, respectively. Its mission is to produce shows for adults and children in the high country with imagination, ingenuity, and innovation.

More information on the community theatre can be found at www.beanstalknc.com/.

BLUE RIDGE COMMUNITY THEATRE

For almost five decades, the Blue Ridge Community Theater has showcased local talent in the High Country. From the backstage area to the entrance of the venue, the theater truly believes that everyone deserves a chance to shine.

Whether you’re a fan of live theater, a musician, a technician, or an actor, you’re invited as we strive to bring high-quality entertainment to our town and the surrounding areas.

For more information, visit blueridgecommunitytheatrenc. com.

Make sure to check out the other articles in this Autumn Times for information about the Appalachian Theatre and Schaefer Center for the Performing Arts.

Experience the fall colors by

the HIGH COUNTRY cycling

BY CHRISTIAN GARDNER

As trees in the High Country turn to vibrant colors, it’s a wonderful experience to cycle down a winding

road with orange trees hanging overhead is an experience those in the High Country have the joy of encountering. For those looking for a leisurely bike ride through

a park, a longer tranquil ride, or maybe a challenging course with uphill climbs, the High Country has something for all cycling skill sets.

Seasoned and rookie cyclists agree that the Greenway in Boone is a great place for cyclists of any ability. The Greenway offers multiple miles of flat paved or gravel trails for an easy ride. It is a fully accessible trail open for walkers, runners, and cyclists that follows the South Fork of the New River. The Greenway entrance can be found at the Watauga County Recreation Complex near State Farm Road or adjacent to Clawson Burnley Park. For more information on the Greenway, visit www. exploreboone.com/ outdoors/hiking/boone-greenway.

For those looking for another laid-back paced ride, “Railroad Grade Road” in Todd offers about 10 miles of paved road built on an old railroad grade. The road is open for walking pedestrians and cyclists. To get to Railroad Grade Road, take U.S. 221 South towards West Jefferson and turn on N.C. 194 to go to Todd. For more information on Railroad Grade Road, visit www. traillink.com/trail/railroad-grade-road. Additionally, a route on Old U.S. 421 near the Cove Creek Elementary School offers a more gradual path for cyclists to cruise the backroads of Cove Creek, Zionville, Mabel, and Sugar Grove. One

40thCelebratingouryearinbusiness

Full Interior Servicewith 40 years of experience

Full Interior Servicewit h40 yearsofexperience

Our Showroomhas the LargestSelection in theArea forfurniture, Home Accessories, Gif ts ,L amps , Pillows &more!

Our Showroom has the LargestSelection in the Area forfurniture, Home Accessories, Gifts, Lamps, Pillows&more!

Open All Year!

Open All Year!

Mon- Sat 10-5

Mon-Sat10-5

of the more favorable spots for the more experienced cyclists in the High Country is the Blue Ridge Parkway. The Parkway spans 465 miles through Virginia and North Carolina and offers scenic views of beautiful mountains with frequent overlook stops.

However, ride with caution, as there are no bicycle lanes along the route. Cyclists can travel onto the Parkway by turning onto it from U.S. 321 in Blowing Rock. For more information on the Blue Ridge Parkway, visit www.blueridgeparkway.org.

Cycling opportunities in the High Country run the gamut from leisurely strolls through parks in many of the local mountain towns to challenging excursions that will lead cyclists down the mountains and out of the High Country altogether.

The Mountains to Coast Ride is a seven-day bike ride across North Carolina. It begins in Lake Junaluska and goes through towns like Tryon, Belmont, Albemarle, Laurinburg, and Whiteville before finishing at Holden Beach. The event is not a race but a recreational trek across the state’s many scenic backroads. The ride is scheduled to take place from Oct. 1 to 8. To learn more, click on nesports.org/event/ cyclenc_ mountainstocoast_ride.

Those looking to ride with a group can get involved with several cycling clubs and regular riding events throughout the summer and fall in Boone and Blowing Rock. One such club is the Boone Area Cyclists, which can be reached by looking up booneareacyclists.org.

HIGH COUNTRY Farmers Markets

BY NICK FOGLEMAN

As the leaves turn and the air cools, fall is the perfect time to explore the High Country’s farmers markets. Autumn’s harvest brings a number of seasonal fruits and vegetables to the stalls of markets. Visitors can find apples, pumpkins, squash, root vegetables and fresh-pressed cider, alongside the familiar breads, meats, cheeses and handmade goods that make these markets so popular. Farmers markets are also a chance to meet the people who grow your food, ask questions about ingredients and connect with the community organizations.

Many markets also feature live music, crafts, food trucks, body-care products and handmade art, making each visit an experience. Even if you don’t bring a shopping list, you’ll find plenty to enjoy.

AVERY COUNTY

FARMERS MARKET

Behind the Banner Elk Volunteer Fire & Rescue and beside the Historic Banner Elk School, this Thursday afternoon market (3 to 6 p.m.) showcases local produce, meats, and community pride under its rows of white tents.

More info: averycountyfarmersmarket.net | (828) 733-8270

ASHE COUNTY

FARMERS MARKET

Located in downtown West Jefferson, this Saturday market (8 a.m. to 1 p.m.) features around 50 vendors with apples, crafts, baked goods, and more. An interactive map on their website helps you plan your visit.

More info: ashefarmersmarket.com

BEECH MOUNTAIN FARMERS MARKET

Held on the first Friday of each month from 2 to 6 p.m. (through October), this market feels more like a fall festival. With music, giveaways, mountain views, and goods like honey, baked treats, gourmet dog snacks and farm-raised beef, it’s a lively seasonal stop. Located across from Fred’s General Mercantile.

More info: beechmtn.com/visit/farmersmarket

BLOWING ROCK

FARMERS MARKET

The Blowing Rock Farmers Market is perfect for a weekday stop. Open Thursdays from noon to 6 p.m. through October on Sunset Drive. Seasonal fruits, vegetables, flowers and baked goods line the stalls, all from regional growers.

Info: (828) 372-9500

KING STREET

FARMERS MARKET

Supported by Blue Ridge Women in Agriculture, this Tuesday market was designed with working families in mind. Located outside the Watauga County Social Services building, it runs from 3:30 to 6:30 p.m. through October. Expect local organic produce, crafts, and community spirit.

More info: brwia.org/ksm.html | (828) 386-1537

WATAUGA COUNTY

FARMERS MARKET

Founded in 1974, the Watauga County Farmers’ Market remains a centerpiece of Boone’s community life. With more than 60 vendors, you’ll find everything from apples and pumpkins to honey, locally raised meats and seasonal produce. Local artists sell jewelry, woodwork, textiles and paintings. Weekly entertainment includes children’s activities and live music, with two food trucks on-site. Open Saturdays from 8 a.m. to noon through November at the Daniel Boone Parking Lot by Horn in the West.

More info: wataugacountyfarmersmarket. org

HIGH COUNTRY FOOD HUB

For those who prefer to shop ahead, the High Country Food Hub—also run by Blue Ridge Women in Agriculture—offers an online market with local produce, meats, dairy, bread, flowers, and crafts. Order in advance and pick up at designated sites across the High Country on Wednesdays and Thursdays.

More info: highcountryfoodhub.org | (828) 412-0834

We are here to keep you healthy

• Cardiology

• Chemotherapy

• Endoscopy

• Express Care Clinic (Mountain Family Care)

• Geriatrics

• Gynecology

• Hematology and Oncology

• Hospitalist Program

• Imaging Services

• Internal Medicine

• Mountain Hearts Wellness Center

• Obstetrics

• Ophthalmology

• Orthopaedics

• Otolaryngology

• Pediatrics

• Primary Care

• Rehabilitation Services

• Respiratory Services

• Surgical Services

• Urology

• Women’s Health

Grab a cold

in the HIGH COUNTRY beer

BY NICK FOGLEMAN

There are many local options across the High Country to enjoy a nice, cold beer on a crisp autumn day. If you want to hang out at a tasting room or receive a full restaurant experience along with your smooth lager or ale, the choices in Watauga, Ashe and Avery counties are numerous.

Appalachian Mountain Brewery in Boone has been in operation since 2013 and has continued to grow its footprint across North Carolina. AMB has their staple lineup of beers that are kept on the menu all the time, including the classic Long Leaf IPA, the Boone Creek Blonde Ale and the Low and Hazy IPA. They also offer ciders and some seasonal beers that you can be on the lookout for each year. It now has two locations in western NC. You can find them at 163 Boone Creek Drive in Boone or if you head a bit further south, they now have a location at 46 N. Mills River Road in Mills River. To learn more about AMB and their beers, visit www.amb.beer/.

Booneshine Brewing, located in “East Boone” as the locals call it, has been in operation since 2015. They were originally located in Boone near Basil’s Restaurant and the Boone Mall. Now, they have expanded to a much larger operation near the industrial park that features a restaurant and beer garden that opened in 2019. They celebrated this move by, of course, creating a beer and naming it the East Boone Pilsner, one of their flagship beers available throughout the year. Other beers available all the time are the Space Pegasus Hazy IPA, Tropicale Ale, High Country Honey Amber Ale, Booneshine IPA and the Palate Painter IPA. A few of their seasonal beverages are the Golden Hour Double IPA, Electric Hellbender IPA, Overlook Oktoberfest and the Kringleberry Stout. Visit www.booneshine.beer/ to learn more about Booneshine Brewing.

Another brewery that calls Boone home is Lost Province Brewing Company

They have a downtown Boone brewpub as well as an expanded taproom area in East Boone on Hardin Creek, which is also their primary brewing operation. They also have a taproom at Coyote Kitchen — a popular allergy-friendly restaurant in Boone. Lost Province was at the forefront of expanding the beer scene in the Boone area. In addition to their flagship brews, they create several interesting seasonal drinks each year. You can learn more about Lost Province Brewing Company at www.lostprovince.com/.

After making the short drive to Blowing Rock, be sure to stop by Blowing Rock Ale House to enjoy the local libations of Blowing Rock Brewing. Their main brewing facility is located in Hickory; however, the first location opened in its current spot in Blowing Rock in 2013. With a large variety of year-round and seasonal beers, Blowing Rock Brewing will have something you will enjoy. The Cloud Rise IPA, Blowing Rock IPA, High Country Hazy Pale Ale and their Kolsch are all

readily available throughout the year. Some of their biggest hits for seasonal brews include their spring and summer beer, Plunge Pool Wheat, Oktoberfest available in the fall, the Midnight Raspberry Wheat Ale and the Mexican Lager are just a few of the seasonal beers. Find out more about Blowing Rock Brewing at blowingrockbrewing. com/.

Along the Watauga and Avery County line is Beech Mountain Brewing Co., located in the village of Beech Mountain Resort and is open to the general public. It has a cozy ski resort atmosphere with a large fireplace and is a social hub perfect for winding down after a day on the mountain. Last year, they introduced the Red Baron Room, a 1914 speakeasy-style bar serving cocktails. Find out more at www.beechmountainbrewingco.com/

In Ashe County, there are two local breweries and a cidery that call the area home. Molly Chomper Cidery is a bit off the beaten path in Lansing, but well worth the drive for a little something different. Their ciders are infused with many different fruit flavors. The Dregs is one of their most popular ciders and is the biggest seller in the autumn months. Some of their other most popular selections include Mountain Maelstrom, Bent Apple, School House, Porch Swing, Penny Stick, and the Old Orchard Creek, which is a blend of Molly Chomper’s apples and blueberries from the blueberry farm at the Old Orchard Creek Store nearby in Lansing. You can see all their available selections at www.molleychomper.com/.

Boondocks Brewing, founded in 2012 in downtown West Jefferson, was the first licensed craft beer brewery in the county. Starting off as a restaurant with its brewing equipment in the same building, Boondocks has since grown to two locations with the restaurant and beer garden just up the street from the Boondocks Brew Haus, which serves as the home to the beer making and an event venue with a music stage and rooftop bar. The beer menu has several craft beers to fit whatever it is you are looking for. Just a few of the Boondocks staple selections include the JMB Stout, the popular Honey Orange Kolsch, 3 Top 3 Hop IPA, Backwoods Campfire Scottish Ale, and the Blue Ridge Brutal Brown, created to celebrate the annual Blue Ridge Brutal cycling race that is entering

its 35th year. Some of their newest creations include the Pit Stop Pilsner, which was created after the reopening of nearby North Wilkesboro Speedway, the Strawberry-Blonde Mint Saison, the Vaquero Cerveza Mexican Lager, the New River Red ale, a tribute to one of the oldest rivers in the world, and the Mountain Fog Lager, a beer in support of the Ashe County Arts Council. Boondocks Brewing Taproom & Restaurant is located at 108 South Jefferson Avenue. Boondocks Brew Haus is located just a few steps away at 302 South Jefferson Avenue. Learn more about Boondocks Brewing at www.boondocksbeer.com/.

The final choice for a cold craft brew in Ashe County is at New River Brewing. NRB has two locations in West Jefferson. Their restaurant features a full beer and food menu, while their tasting room, located roughly a mile away, is a place to hang out and enjoy a beer and a smaller food menu, or bring your own food to snack on. Their beer selections have some fun names and fun flavors, including their Skeeter Pee that is in a variety of sweet flavors throughout the year, such as All the Berries, Apple Pie, Blackberry, Pineapple, and Pink Lemonade. Some of their other more classic style beers include Take Me to the River American Lager, Jooce IPA, Farmhouse Ale, This Ain’t the Muffler Shop IPA, and Hopsessive Compulsive IPA. Find out more about their food and brews at newriverbrewing.beer/.

In Avery County, Banner Elk is home to Kettell Beerworks, the county’s only brewery. Kettell Beerworks was originally founded in 2010 and changed ownership in 2024. Right now, they have seven year-round beers, two seasonal beers available in the fall and winter months. The two seasonal selections are an Oktoberfest beer available during the fall and Alpine Rush, an amber winter ale. Their other beers include Crabby Louie Imperial IPA, Supernova IPA, Melon Kolsch, Velvet Panda Oatmeal Stout, Copper Elk American Amber, Vonderbier and Rollcast German Kolsch. Visit kettellbeerworks.com/ for more information on their beers and where to find them.

Typically in the fall, many of these breweries host Oktoberfest’s celebrations and other events, like Flannel Fest at AMB.

HIGH COUNTRY

wineries

BY NICK FOGLEMAN

Sipping on a refreshing glass of wine on a crisp autumn day is the idea of a perfect way to relax for a lot of people who live in and visit the High Country. Thanks to an ever-growing list of wineries sprinkled across Ashe, Watauga and Avery counties, you have the opportunity to find the perfect flavor and enjoy the perfect view of Mother Nature at the same time.

In Ashe County, the Old Barn Winery is nestled against the backdrop of growing vineyards and growing Christmas Trees, a business in which the winery owners first got their start 3years ago. The Old Barn Winery has become a place to enjoy a tasty variety of wine while also enjoying great views, live music, and food trucks on just about every weekend during the spring, summer, and autumn months. The winery is currently open seven days a week, and in addition to the live music offerings, you can come buy and sample some of the most popular wine options and even take a tour of the winery. For more information, visit oldbarnwinery.com/.

Near the Ashe and Alleghany County line lies the Thistle Meadow Winery, which is one of the area’s oldest wineries,

operating for nearly 25 years. The winery offers around 20 different wines to sample, as well as a full event calendar featuring live music, food trucks and their own wine festival that happens in the fall each year. To learn more about their wine offerings and event listings, visit thistlemeadowwinery.com.

Avery County is home to three different wineries that have all flourished in recent years.

The Banner Elk Winery and Villa is credited as the first winery to open in Avery County, first offering a wine selection to customers in 2005. The award-winning winery has food and wine tasting events and live music throughout the year. They also provide a wedding venue for couples who are ready to tie the knot. Additional information about the winery can be found online at www.bannerelkwinery.com/.

Near the Watauga and Avery County line is the Grandfather Vineyard & Winery. The winery is complete with a tasting room, outdoor seating and picturesque views along the Watauga River. Music events and food trucks can be found at the property almost every day of the week during their busiest seasons. The winery

is open seven days a week and will surely have something to offer to fit your favorite wine taste. Visit grandfathervineyard. com/ for more information.

Linville Falls Winery, located just off the Blue Ridge Parkway near Newland, opened for business in 2012. Vineyards planted on the property years before provide a nice supply for the wines made at the property. Linville Falls Winery features around 20 different types of wine and has a calendar full of special events throughout the year, including live music, artisan markets, food trucks, and yoga. Click to www. linvillefallswinery. com/ for additional information.

TheDande Lion

We areaunique fashion boutique catering to women of various shapes and styles.Celebrating 23 years of business in the High Countr y!

4501 Tynecastle Hw y, Suite12 828.898.3566

CreativeInteriors

Interior Design Service·Furnishings,Lighting,and Ar t Gifts, Accessories,and More

4501 Tynecastle Hw y, Suite4 828.898.9636

Impecc able Pooch

Full ser vicedog grooming and bathing salon. No walk-ins, appointments areamust!

4501 Tynecastle Hw y. Unit 2, Banner Elk, NC 828-260-7067

Avery County Chamber of Commerce

www.averycounty.com

info@averycounty.com

828.898.5605

Public Accountant

AmyBrown,CPA Certified Public Accountant

PO Box21239 4501 Tynecastle Hw y, Suite16 browncpa@skybest.com 828.898.7601

Salon Suites at Tynecastle Salon M

Highlander ’s Grill &Tavern

GreatFood,Cold Beer and AwesomeSpirits

Join us Fridaysfor Karaokeand Saturdays forlivemusic

4527 Tynecastle Hw y 828.898.9513

Yoga828

Experienceyoga in the hear tofthe High Countr y-on the mat, on the lake, or outdoors.Yoga828 welcomes all ages and skill levels,led by passionate local teacher Jenna Stone

828-406-9610 jenna@yoga828.com

SkyMountain Nail Bar 828-783-9393 Monday-Saturday9:30am -6:30pm Gift CertificatesAvailable!

Hero’sAxe House

Peak Real Estate

25 Years of ExperienceinHighCountr yReal Estate “Weunderstand the impor tanceofyour investment.”

401 Tynecastle Hw y, Suite6 www.peak-realestate.com 828.898.1880

(828) 898-HERO (4376) email:info@herosaxehouse.com

(828) 898-9219

Branch /ATM Hours: Lobby: 9am-5pm ATM: 24 hrs

DriveThru: 9am-5pm www.truist.com/branch/nc/banner- elk/28604/4501tynecastle -hwy-unit-15

Co thren Construction

Walgreens Pharmac yand PhotoSer vices

Valle de Bravo Mexic an Grill valledebravomexicangrill.net 828.898.4949

Cothren Construc tion 828-964-3103 /Fax 828-733-1838 cothren.construc tion@gmail.com C th C t

4059 NC Hw y105 South 828.898.8971

Parking

options in the HIGH COUNTRY

CLASSIC STONE WORKS

Countertop Fabricator & Tile Showroom

"Come

-Eric & Debbie Guinn

BY NICK FOGLEMAN

One of the first challenges you may encounter while visiting the High Country in the fall is finding parking. Autumn is the busiest season in the mountains, with leaf season travelers, festivals and football weekends drawing large crowds.

Parking can be especially limited in downtown Boone during October

weekends and holiday events, but there are several options to keep in mind.

King Street in Boone offers metered parking close to shops, restaurants and the Appalachian Theatre. Meters allow up to two hours, payable with coins or credit cards.

For longer visits, the largest parking

areas downtown are located on Depot Street and Queen Street. These paid lots allow up to eight hours of parking, ideal if you plan to spend the day browsing stores, dining or attending events. Simply pay at the

Another recent addition is the Queen Street parking garage, which is open to the public after 5:30 p.m. on weekdays and all weekend. Officials have discussed future plans to enforce parking restrictions and pay models, so be sure to check the signage for updated policies.

Parking in downtown Boone is enforced Monday through Saturday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., with free parking on Sundays and holidays.

In Blowing Rock, public parking remains free in town lots, though some private lots charge fees. Given the heavy fall crowds, arriving early is recommended to secure a spot near Main Street. There are parking desks by the Blowing Rock Art and History Museum and the American Legion building.

Time limits are enforced so be aware of any signage indicating parking policy.

If your travels take you to Ashe County, downtown West Jefferson offers three large public parking lots as well as free street parking, all within walking distance

of shops, galleries, antique stores, Ashe County Cheese and the Parkway Theater.

Most parking in Avery County is also free, making it easier to explore its mountain communities during peak

foliage season.

Enjoying an App State football game in Boone? Make sure to park in designated spots, as parking is limited to two hours on game day.

•Dinner Nightlyfrom 5pm

•Restaurant of theYear

•B estRestaurant Service of theYear

•FineDiningRestaurant of theYear

•Steakhouseofthe Year

•Seafood of theYear

•Burgerofthe Year

•Salad Barofthe Year

•Private room available

•Avery County Chamber Businessofthe Year

Catering

The High Countr y’sBest Choice forEvent Catering

•Caterer of theYear

•Creativity, passionand culinar y excelence

•Parties of all sizes

•In-home catering

•Fullyinsured andlicensed

•Largestmobilekitchen in theHigh countty

• B est of the B est Lodging 2025

• Onemainlodge andthree cabins with mountain views

• Up to 5bedroomswithbunkroom available

• Eventbarn, picnic pavilion, open field, meanderingstreams,and ponds all onsite

• Located in theheart of Sugarand Beech Mountains, with proximity to all High Countr yattractions

• Pet-friendly

828-260-3673

Event Venue

The High Countr y’sBest Spacefor Gatherings

•Event Facility of theYear

•Vacations,weddings, family reunions, church events, andbusinessretreats

•Newlybuilt barn with 1,700 sq.ft., and18 ft. highceilings

•Barnequipped with acompletecatering kitchen

•1,750 sq.ft.outdoor pavilionwithfire pit

•Lodge andcabin rentals

• Fields, streams,and ponds

828-260-3673

64 CornerstoneCir,BannerElk thebarnatcornerstone.com

numbers OF NOTE

ALL EMERGENCIES: Call 911

ASHE COUNTY

Ashe County Sheriff’s Office (336) 846-5600

Jefferson Police Department (336) 846-5529

West Jefferson Police Department (336) 246-9410

Ashe Memorial Hospital (Jefferson) (336) 846-7101

Ashe County Animal Control (336) 982-4060

AVERY COUNTY

Avery County Sheriff’s Office (828) 733-2071

Banner Elk Police Department (828) 898-4300

Elk Park Police Department (828) 733-9573

Newland Police Department (828) 733-2023

Seven Devils Police Department (828) 963-6760

Sugar Mountain Police Department (828) 898-4349

Beech Mountain Police Department (828) 387-2342

Cannon Memorial Hospital (Linville) (828) 737-7000

Avery County Humane Society (828) 733-9265

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

Appalachian State University Police (828) 262-8000

Watauga Medical Center (828) 262-4100

FastMed Urgent Care (Boone) (828) 265-7146

Blowing Rock Medical Park (828) 295-3116

Watauga County Animal Control (828) 262-1672

Watauga Humane Society (828) 264-7865

Animal Emergency Clinic of the High Country (828) 268-2833

YOUR GUIDE TO EATING & DRINKING IN THE HIGH

COUNTRY!

Countr yRetreat Family Billiards& Grill is convenientlylocated in Foscoe -8miles southofBoone andBlowing Rock off highway 105 (next to theDollar General), and8miles northofBannerElk andLinville. Thissummer Family Billiards is celebrating29years in operationasthe High Countr y’sonlypoolroom, featuring 10 professional pooltables. Family Billiardsisafamilyfriendlynon-alcohol recreational destination as well as afull service restaurant &grill. Theyhostweekly handicappedpooltournaments forthe more dedicated poolplayers of alllevels, as well as catering to recreational andfirst time poolplayers.Thegrill operatesfrom 11 am -8pmMondaythrough Saturday.The diningareaincludes acovered frontporch forthose wishingtoeat outside.Family Billiardsisclosed on Sundays.

pooltables have always been considered as topnotch andare maintained in immaculatecondition,but theirmain businessistheir qualityfood &beverage operation, of whichclosetohalfof whichistake-outorders. The majority of regulars come fortheir quality, consistent andaffordablefood offerings, although many have neverplayedpoolhere. The room features numerous large screen TV’s generallyfeaturing sports or weather during thedaytime andsportingeventsat night. Chef BrianAndersonpreparesdaily specials Monday throughFriday, which virtuallyalwayssellout.FamilyBilliards is asmall operation that caters to and depends largely on theirloyal following of regulars,but ever yone is welcome as a family friendlyrecreationIentertainment anddiningoptionfor localsaswellas touristsvisitingthe highcountry Family Billiards: ATradition of ExcellenceSince1996

Family Billiards& Grill’s poolroomand

ADVERTISER INDEX