City editor David here. Western, NC is my favorite year-round road trip destination to beat the heat in the summer, take a scenic drive in the fall, and hit the slopes in the winter. A visit to Appalachian Ski Mountain for night skiing and snow tubing, followed by dinner + drinks in nearby Boone or Blowing Rock is practically tradition when we visit.
There are an abundance of activities to choose from in the NC Highcountry , but here are a few of my favorites.
Take a hike for a scenic view of the Blue Ridge Mountains. | Photo by Andy Shelton
Why go?
- At an elevation of 5,496 ft., Grandfather Mountain and its famous mile-high swinging bridge are a must-visit for the scenic views, wildlife, hiking trails, and picnic areas.
- Home to Appalachian State University , Boone is buzzing with college town energy, so you’ll get a mountain town feel with plenty of modern amenities.
- Choo, choo — the sound of the Tweetsie Railroad echoes through the hills as it takes you around the Wild West Theme Park.
- Oh, and try these three delicious restaurants — F.A.R.M. Cafe , Come Back Shack , Wild Craft Eatery .
- Check out this travel guide for more information.
Act like a local:
- Food: Get your Southern food fix at Dan’l Boone Inn , which has been serving homecooked meals for over 50 years. The Boone staple regularly makes Southern Living’s lists of “best country cooking restaurants.”
- Drink: Some of the finest craft beer in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Appalachian Mountain Brewery offers a rotating cast of IPAs, lagers, stouts, and lagers on tap.
- Explore the outdoors: From fly fishing to mining for gemstones, immerse yourself in the many outdoor activities that the NC mountains naturally offer.
- Listen: Built in 1938 and re-opened in 2019, Appalachian Theatre of the High Country is a beautiful venue to catch a show or concert.
Where to stay
- Vrbo: Bright Boone Home , stay just a short walk to downtown and the Daniel Boone Native Gardens. ($363/night)*
- Airbnb: Glass Treehouse , wake up to the sound of the nearby waterfall and enjoy 360-degree mountain views. ($454/night)
- Boutique hotel: The Horton Hotel , Boone’s only boutique hotel features a rooftop bar. (~$550/night)