Head for the Hills
The North Carolina mountains are one of the state’s best natural resources. A quick retreat to the mountains for a weekend spent exploring and getting exercise outside can be a perfect way to rejuvenate and recharge, especially for coastal dwellers weary of summertime heat and seasonal population increases.
The North Carolina mountains offer a wide array of fun outdoor activities, especially Boone, North Carolina. If you want to avoid the crowds at well-known spots like Tweetsie Railroad or downtown Blowing Rock, check out the following:
-
Hiking – What better way to escape the heat, get some outdoor exercise and check out some incredibly scenic views than hiking? There are a variety of well-marked trails in the Boone area, ranging from short, flat beginner terrain to long, demanding uphill climbs. The Rough Ridge Lookout trail at Grandfather should not be missed, as the tough initial climb through the forest delivers long-range views, available on many outcrops on this slowly meandering ridgeline trail. Fog can be an issue, but the clouds keep it cool and the views from the rock at the top of the trail make it well-worth the trip.
-
Zip Lining – For thrill seekers who are looking to soar above the trees over lakes and creeks, the Hawksnest Zip Line could be a great way to spend an afternoon. Located on the site of the former ski resort, it features four miles of zip lines that reach heights of over 200 feet and speeds up to 50 miles per hour. If that is not enough, Sky Valley Zip Tours is also located nearby, in Blowing Rock.
-
ATV Tours – A guided tour on an all-terrain vehicle or utility terrain vehicle (UTV) could be a fun, unique way to see the backcountry. Two operators of ATV and UTV tours serve the Boone area, Appalachians Outdoor Adventures and Off the Grid Mountain Adventures, which now offers a three-wheeled electric scooter for the eco-minded.
-
Mountain Biking – There are many options for mountain biking near Boone, which range in difficulty from beginner, intermediate and expert to the certifiably insane. There are a number of free places to ride, including Rocky Knob Mountain Bike Park in Boone and the Emerald Outback at the top of Beech Mountain, though be advised, what is rated as intermediate on the coastal plain can sometimes be vastly different in the mountains.
-
Golf – Though golfing almost always offers scenic area views and relaxation, the experience is upped substantially in the mountains, as the region is home to some of the most beautiful courses in the Carolinas. Significant elevation changes allow for endless views, while challenging even the most seasoned golfer’s shot control and placement; empty, pristine courses can offer numerous opportunities to spot local wildlife.
-
Kayaking/Swimming/Stand Up Paddle Boarding – Located nearby the town of Morganton within close proximity to the Boone area, Lake James State Park offers a scenic, approximately 6,800 acre lake with a number of boat/kayak launches, great fishing, hiking and mountain bike trails, campsites and picnic tables. Water level fluctuations associated with the production of hydroelectric power keep vegetation levels at a minimum, so the water is typically clear. Kayak/boat rentals are available and there is a beach for swimming/sunbathing.
Whether looking for adventure, relaxation or just a break from the everyday, the mountains of North Carolina have a lot to offer. On a quick weekend trip, it is worthwhile to splurge on a room or a vacation rental with a view, as watching the clouds move across the mountains is the perfect way to cap off a long day spent exploring or getting exercise outdoors.
​
High Country Adventure Resources
Aerial & Backcountry Tours
For those seeking a bird’s-eye view of the Blue Ridge, Hawksnest Zip Line offers one of the most expansive courses in the Southeast. If you prefer to stay on the ground, Off the Grid Mountain Adventures and Appalachians Outdoor Adventures provide rugged UTV and ATV tours through the Boone backcountry.
​
Cycling & Trail Systems
The Rocky Knob Mountain Bike Park is a premier local resource for riders of all levels, while the Emerald Outback at the top of Beech Mountain offers a high-altitude experience with unmatched views. For hiking, the Grandfather Mountain Stewardship Foundation maintains the essential Rough Ridge trails mentioned in this guide.
Water & Recreation
To find the clear, cool waters of the Catawba River basin, visit Lake James State Park. It is an ideal spot for kayaking and swimming when the coastal heat becomes too much to bear.