Local Attractions

Ken and Wendy’s recommendations of local things to do
Rich Mountain
Close by, we like to hike up Rich Mountain, parking located just up Shulls Mill Rd. Also located at the foot of Rich Mountain is Trout Lake, a flat mile long loop around the lake.

Bass Lake
Bass Lake a little closer to Blowing Rock offers a nice walk, about the same distance. And there are carriage trails, built by the Cones that connect all of the above to Cone Manor and weave through Blue Ridge Parkway land.

Julian Price Lake
Julian Price Lake down the parkway about 5 miles, has canoeing and a little longer lake loop.

Grandfather Mountain
Very close by, The Boone Fork Trail is a little more challenging 5 mile loop. From there you can make a long hike up Grandfather Mountain. Plan your day around it. There are various hikes up Grandfather Mountain that vary in length and difficulty. The Profile Trail is a tough one, but lots of fun. Also at the top of Grandfather is a zoo and nature science center worth checking out. The late owner, Hugh Morton is highly acclaimed for developing this purely Appalachian living and learning center that is Grandfather Mountain.

Valle Crucis
Valle Crucis has a charming historic district. The Mast General Store is a step back in time offering top notch needs for mountain living. Located behind the store is the Valle Crucis Park, perfect place to stretch your legs, fly fish or let the kids play.

Downtown Areas
The downtowns of Boone, Blowing Rock, and Banner Elk offer nice village strolling with shops, coffee, restaurants and parks. A favorite for kids is the Central Park in Blowing Rock and Wendy’s favorite store Neaco (link www.Neaco.com)

Ski Spot
Our favorite mountain is Appalachian. Though not the longest slopes in the area, they are the best groomed and maintained and their facilities are clean and perfect for a family ski trip. Their new terrain park kicks butt.
www.SkiNC.com