North Carolina Extreme
Posted On Tuesday, May 15, 2012
Going Outdoors In North Carolina's High Country
Is As Extreme As You Make It!
Recently named one of the top four North American Adventure Destinations by Adventure Sports Magazine, North Carolina's High Country is brimming with ways to head outdoors and get your heart pumping. From mountain biking to rappelling, whitewater rafting to golf, visitors of all ages, shapes and stress-tolerance levels will find an activity sure to please.
High Country Flyfishing inlcuding Boone NC Flyfishing
www.ncwildlife.org
Anglers will find themselves in high heaven in High Country, with large rivers and small streams providing challenging, exciting and abundant fishing. Stocked and wild trout, musky and smallmouth bass are the most prevalent fish, and numerous guides and instruction services take anglers of all levels where they need to go to make a catch. Guides operate on many rivers both in North Carolina and Tennessee, including the Watauga, the South Holsten, the Nolichucky, the New River and the French Broad. Trips are not only entertaining, but scenic as well - guides know where to find some of the purest, most untouched parts of nature. Keep up to date on catch and release regulations and purchase your fishing license before you go at www.ncwildlife.org.
Blue Ridge Anglers
828-773-7751
www.blueridgeanglers.com
Full- and half-day floats, wades, musky or trout trips are available on four different rivers - or hit two rivers on the same day. Provides equipment and offers instruction at all levels. 828-773-7751 www.blueridgeanglers.com.
Grandfather Trout Farm
Hwy 105 across from entrance to town of Seven Devils
828-963-5098
Pay only for what you catch in this stocked trout pond, great for kids. Hwy 105 across from entrance to town of Seven Devils. 828-963-5098.
Foscoe Fishing Company and Outfitters
9440 Hwy 105 S - Foscoe
828-963-6566
www.foscoefishing.com
Foscoe offers excursions, float and wade trips on more than 300 miles of streams and rivers. Packages available with Chetola Resort at Blowing Rock. 9440 Hwy 105 S., Foscoe. 828-963-6566. www.foscoefishing.com
Elk Creek Outfitters
91560 Hwy 105 - Boone
828-264-6497
www.ecoflyfishing.com
Fish for trout, musky or smallmouth bass during a float trip, wilderness walk trip, flyfishing school or overnight excursion. Elk Creak caters to all skill levels. 1560 Hwy 105, Boone. 828-264-6497. www.ecoflyfishing.com
Appalachian Angler
174 Old Shulls Mill Rd.- Boone.
828-963-5050
www.appalachianangler.com
18 years of guiding and outfitting experience ensures an 80 percent return rate of guests. Offers overnight trips, wilderness wades, floats and instruction. 174 Old Shulls Mill Rd., Boone. 828-963-5050. www.appalachianangler.com
Appalachian Angler
174 Old Shulls Mill Rd.- Boone.
828-963-5050
www.appalachianangler.com
18 years of guiding and outfitting experience ensures an 80 percent return rate of guests. Offers overnight trips, wilderness wades, floats and instruction. 174 Old Shulls Mill Rd., Boone. 828-963-5050. www.appalachianangler.com
Lost Cove Trekking
Elk Hill Drive - Banner Elk
828-898-9885
www.lostcovetrekking.com
Full-day or multi-day backcountry fly-fishing adventures combining hiking and fishing. Elk Hill Drive, Banner Elk. 828-898-9885. www.lostcovetrekking.com
Hiking
There's no better way to appreciate the natural beauty of High Country than to actually get outside and walk around. Trails of varying strenuousness wrap around the mountains, hills, forests and rivers, allowing hikers of all levels of experience and fitness levels to easily navigate their way. For trail maps and a breakdown of the difficulty and length of dozens of trails, go to www.highcountryhiking.com. The website also features easy walks, maps, camping information and safety advice before you start your journey on foot. To benefit from the experience of an expert, try a guided hike from one of many companies offering half-, full- or multi-day treks. The benefits of a guided hike are ensured safety, the opportunity to learn more about the area from a local, and oftentimes, the added perk of a van to pick you up on the other side of the trail.
Lost Cove Trekking
Elk Hill Drive - Banner Elk
828-898-9885
www.lostcovetrekking.com
Trek through the wilderness of Pisgah National Forest with a personalized low volume, low environmental impact guide service catering to small groups, families, couples and individuals. Elk Hill Drive, Banner Elk. 828-898-9885. www.lostcovetrekking.com
Backwoods Adventures
0615 Hwy 105 S - Banner Elk
828-963-2050 - 800-MTN-RAFT
www.backwoodsadventure.com
Scenic customized trips through the Blue Ridge Mountains for all levels. 10615 Hwy 105 S, Banner Elk. 828-963-2050. 800-MTN-RAFT. www.backwoodsadventure.com
High Mountain Expeditions
Main Street - Blowing Rock
800-262-9036
www.highmountainexpeditions.com
Offers tours for the novice hiker looking for a lakeside walk or for the more adventurous looking to trek the backcountry around Grandfather Mountain. Main Street, Blowing Rock. 800-262-9036. www.highmountainexpeditions.com
River and Earth Adventures, Inc.
P.O. Box 3618 - Boone
828-963-5491
www.raftcavehike.com
Offers customized hikes with lunch and childcare service. P.O. Box 3618, Boone. 828-963-5491. www.raftcavehike.com
Whitewater Rafting & Kayaking
North Carolina's High Country offers some of the best and most diverse recreational rivers in the country, each with varying degrees of rapids. Whether you are an adrenaline junkie or a relaxation seeker, there is a class of rapids for you. Rapids are given a rating of Class I(very easy) to Class IV(nearly impossible). Float on an inner tube or canoe down the Class I New River or race down the Class IV Nolichucky. No matter what, area experts will be there to give you the best rafting and rapids advice and ensure your high-intensity activities are also safe.
Wahoo's Adventures
Hwy 321- Boone
1-888-444-RAFT - 828-262-5774
www.wahoosadventures.com
Tubing, rafting, canoeing, kayaking. From gentle adventures and family trips to extreme adventures and waterfalls. Hwy 321, Boone. 1-888-444-RAFT. 828-262-5774. www.wahoosadventures.com
River and Earth Adventures, Inc.
P.O. Box 3618- Boone
828-963-5491
www.raftcavehike.com
Offers customized hikes with lunch and childcare service. P.O. Box 3618, Boone. 828-963-5491. www.raftcavehike.com
Edge of the World
Hwy 184 - Banner Elk
800-789-EDGE
www.edgeoworld.com
Rafting, kayaking. 23 years of rafting experience, this outfitter offers lunch and a family atmosphere. Hwy 184, Banner Elk. 800-789-EDGE. www.edgeoworld.com
Extreme Family River Rafting & Guide Service
3071 Tynecastle Hwy - Banner Elk
828-898-7669
www.extremenc.com
Rafting, funyaks, river boarding. Family-oriented guide service with less intense trips. 3071 Tynecastle Hwy, Banner Elk. 828-898-7669. www.extremenc.com
Lost Cove Trekking
Elk Hill Drive - Banner Elk
828-898-9885
www.lostcovetrekking.com
Rafting, funyaks. Dedicated solely to guide services, Lost Cove prides itself on personalized attention, low volume of guests and highly experienced guides. Elk Hill Drive, Banner Elk. 828-898-9885. www.lostcovetrekking.com
Backwoods Adventures
10615 Hwy 105 S - Banner Elk
828-963-2050 - 800-MTN-RAFT
www.backwoodsadventure.com
Rafting, kayaking. The newest guide service in town, Backwoods offers medium intensity and high intensity trips in NC and TN featuring daylong excursions and a picnic lunch. 10615 Hwy 105 S, Banner Elk. 828-963-2050. 800-MTN-RAFT. www.backwoodsadventure.com
High Mountain Expeditions
Main Street - Blowing Rock
800-262-9036
www.highmountainexpeditions.com
Rafting, kayaking. The heart of its business, High Mountain offers varying levels of intensity for families and adventure-seekers alike. Main Street, Blowing Rock. 800-262-9036. www.highmountainexpeditions.com
River and Earth Adventures, Inc.
P.O. Box 3618 - Boone
828-963-5491
www.raftcavehike.com
Rafting, kayaking, canoeing. From float trips to kayak instruction, this smallish guide service offers a lot of personal attention. P.O. Box 3618, Boone. 828-963-5491. www.raftcavehike.com
Rock Climbing & Rappelling
It may look insanely dangerous, but rock climbing is probably safer than your morning commute to work. It is also way more challenging, physically rewarding and mentally stimulating. High Country is a great place to climb for beginners and experts alike. If you're nervous about dedicating a day to climbing, try out the climbing wall at Footsloggers in Boone for a quick feel of the challenging activity. Otherwise, many area climbing professionals offer instructional and recreational climbing excursions year round.
Edge of the World
Hwy 184 - Banner Elk
800-789-EDGE
www.edgeoworld.com
No experience necessary for this instruction-based beginners climbing trip. Hwy 184, Banner Elk. 800-789-EDGE. www.edgeoworld.com
Backwoods Adventures
10615 Hwy 105 S - Banner Elk
800-MTN-RAFT
www.backwoodsadventure.com
Customized hiking and climbing trips for all levels. 10615 Hwy 105 S, Banner Elk. 828-963-2050. 800-MTN-RAFT. www.backwoodsadventure.com
Rock Dimensions
131-B S. Depot St. - Boone
828-265-3544
www.rockdimensions.com
The most comprehensive climbing guide service, Rock Dimensions offers varying types of climbing for beginners to old pros and a challenging ropes course. 131-B S. Depot St., Boone. 828-265-3544. www.rockdimensions.com
Skiing & Snowboarding
High Country has often been dubbed the Ski Capital of the South because of the size of the mountains (the highest east of the Rockies), the abundance of snow and the amount of quality ski resorts. All within 30 minutes of each other, High Country's ski resorts offer first-class skiing conditions and enough activities and entertainment to keep the whole family entertained while off the slopes. The ski season begins in mid-November and runs to mid-March.
Appalachian Ski Mountain
Off Hwy 321 - Blowing Rock
800-322-2373
www.appskimtn.com
Skiing, snowboarding, ice-skating. Rentals and lessons available. . 800-322-2373. www.appskimtn.com
Hawksnest Golf and Ski Resort
Hwy 105 S. - Seven Devils
828-963-6561
www.hawksnest-resort.com
Ski, snowboard, tube. Night skiing on weekends, shops, rentals and more. Hwy 105 S., Seven Devils. 828-963-6561. www.hawksnest-resort.com
Ski Beech Resort
1007 Beech Mountain Pkwy. - Beech Mountain
800-438-2093
www.skibeech.com
Skiing, snowboarding, ice skating. Eastern America's highest elevation ski resort also features shops and restaurants. 1007 Beech Mountain Pkwy., Beech Mountain. 800-438-2093. www.skibeech.com
Sugar Mountain Resort
1009 Sugar Mountain Dr. - Banner Elk
800-SUGARMT
www.skisugar.com
Skiing, snowboarding, tubing, snowshoeing day and night. 115 acres of ski runs, 20 trails, instruction, rentals, shops and restaurants. 1009 Sugar Mountain Dr., Banner Elk. 800-SUGARMT. www.skisugar.com
Caving
It is dirty, dark and damp, but people young and old still love descending into the ground with lamps on their heads. Perhaps it's what they're seeing down there: beautiful limestone formations, 37,000 feet of natural underground passages and an unearthed prehistoric stonewall as evidence of Aboriginal people who called the cave home. I'd say it is worth the trip. Plus, caving is a great way to spend a rainy day, and an excuse for the whole family to get shamelessly dirty.
Extreme Family River Rafting & Guide Service
3071 Tynecastle Hwy. - Banner Elk
828-898-7669
www.extremenc.com
Explore Worley's Cave in Tennessee, its limestone formations, hidden crawlways and sparkling streams. 3071 Tynecastle Hwy, Banner Elk. 828-898-7669. www.extremenc.com
Backwoods Adventures
10615 Hwy 105 S. - Banner Elk
800-MTN-RAFT
www.backwoodsadventure.com
Spelunk through Worley's Cave on a forty-foot rope-not for those afraid of the dark. 10615 Hwy 105 S, Banner Elk. 828-963-2050. 800-MTN-RAFT. www.backwoodsadventure.com
High Mountain Expeditions
Main Street - Blowing Rock
800-262-9036
www.backwoodsadventure.com
High Mountain offers caving trips in both Worley's Cave and the further away Roberts Cave. Main Street, Blowing Rock. 800-262-9036. www.highmountainexpeditions.com
Rock Dimensions
131-B S. Depot St. - Boone
828-265-3544
www.rockdimensions.com
Takes spelunkers to many different caves in NC, VA or TN. 131-B S. Depot St., Boone. 828-265-3544. www.rockdimensions.com
River and Earth Adventures, Inc.
P.O. Box 3618 - Boone
828-963-5491
www.raftcavehike.com
Explore Worley's Cave; groups welcome. P.O. Box 3618, Boone. 828-963-5491. www.raftcavehike.com
Horseback Riding
www.highcountryhorseback.com
Enjoy the scenery aboard a trusty companion?a horse. Many area stables offer trail rides through country you wouldn't otherwise get to see. Experienced and knowledgeable guides offer insight and instruction for riders of all levels. Visit www.highcountryhorseback.com for more information about area stables and opportunities available for equestrians and horse-lovers.
Banner Elk Stables
796 Shomaker Rd. - Banner Elk
828-898-5424
Guided rides on miles of rigorous trails. Open year round. Reservations required. 796 Shomaker Rd., Banner Elk. 828-898-5424.
Blowing Rock Equestrian Preserve
1500 Laurel Lane - Blowing Rock
828-295-4700.
Access to 26 miles of carriage trails. 1500 Laurel Lane, Blowing Rock. 828-295-4700.
Chadi Farm
4635 Hwy 194 S - Valley Crucis
828-963-5399
www.chadifarm.com
Privately owned trails from beginner to advanced. Belgian draft horses, carriages, and an 18th-century farm. 4635 Hwy 194 S, Valley Crucis. 828-963-5399. www.chadifarm.com
New River Ranch
180-5 Gleneagles Dr - Boone
828-264-6782.
Classical teaching and training with indoor and outdoor rings. 180-5 Gleneagles Dr., Boone. 828-264-6782.
Yonahlossee Resort Saddle Club
226 Oakley Green - Boone
800-962-1986 - 828-963-6400
www.yonahlossee.com
Boarding and riding instruction. The Inn at Yonahlossee 226 Oakley Green, Boone. 800-962-1986. 828-963-6400. www.yonahlossee.com
Dutch Creek Trails
3287 Hwy 194 S. - Sugar Grove
828-297-7117 - 828-291-1708
www.dutchcreektrails.tripod.com
Guided rides through farm fields and wooded trails. 3287 Hwy 194 S., Sugar Grove. 828-297-7117. 828-291-1708. www.dutchcreektrails.tripod.com
Leatherwood Mountains
512 Meadow Rd. - Ferguson
800-462-6867
www.leatherwoodmountains.com
Vacation resort and residential community with a focus on boarding and riding horses. 100 miles of trails. 512 Meadow Rd., Ferguson. 800-462-6867. www.leatherwoodmountains.com
Golf
Spectacular views, cooler weather and challenging courses?so what if it is not extreme? It is still an adventure. Golfing may be North Carolina's state pastime, but mountain golfing is a whole new way to play. Whether you are looking for pro-quality or a Par 3, there is a course in the High Country that can suit your tastes. And no matter where you tee off, you're sure to be surrounded by extraordinary views. Be sure to call ahead for a tee-time and to determine course rules.
Boone Golf Club
433 Fairway Dr. - Boone
828-264-8760
www.boongolfclub.com
Blowing Rock Country Club
Country Club Dr. - Blowing Rock
828-295-7311
Hound Ears Club
328 Shull's Mill Rd. - Blowing Rock
828-963-4321
www.houndears.com
Willow Creek Golf Course
Bairds Creek Rd/Hwy 105 - Boone
828-963-6865
www.willowvalley-resort.com
Mountain Aire Golf Club
1104 Golf Course Rd. - West Jefferson
336-877-4716
www.mountainaire.com
Hawksnest Resort
Hwy 105 S. - Seven Devils
828-963-6561
www.hawksnest-resort.com
Elk River Club
Hwy 194- Banner Elk
828-898-9773
Village of Sugar Mountain Golf Course
Sugar Mountain Dr. - Banner Elk
828-898-6464
The Beech Mountain Club
Clubhouse Rd. - Beech Mountain
828-387-2372
Grandfather Golf & Country Club
Hwy 105 - Linville
828-898-4531
Grandfather Golf & Country Club
Hwy 221 - Linville
828-733-8325
Linville Golf Club
83 Roseboro Rd. - Linville
828-733-4363
Linville Ridge Country Club
Hwy 105. - Linville
828-898-9741
Blue Ridge Country Club
Hwy 221 S. - Linville Falls
828-756-40
Other Activities
Mountain Biking
High Mountain Expeditions
Main Street - Blowing Rock
800-262-9036
www.highmountainexpeditions.com
Motorcycling
Action Cycle Sports
Elk Hill Drive - Banner Elk
828-262-1558
www.actioncyclesports.com
Snowshoeing & Cross Country Skiing
Main Street - Blowing Rock
828-898-9885
www.lostcovetrekking.com
Lost Cove Trekking
Wanna get-a-way to the mountains of North Carolina? Call 4 Seasons Vacation Rentals today and book your next adventure! Our North Carolina Mountains cabin rentals are located in West Jefferson, Jefferson, Todd, and near Blowing Rock and Boone, NC.
Is As Extreme As You Make It!
Recently named one of the top four North American Adventure Destinations by Adventure Sports Magazine, North Carolina's High Country is brimming with ways to head outdoors and get your heart pumping. From mountain biking to rappelling, whitewater rafting to golf, visitors of all ages, shapes and stress-tolerance levels will find an activity sure to please.
High Country Flyfishing inlcuding Boone NC Flyfishing
www.ncwildlife.org
Anglers will find themselves in high heaven in High Country, with large rivers and small streams providing challenging, exciting and abundant fishing. Stocked and wild trout, musky and smallmouth bass are the most prevalent fish, and numerous guides and instruction services take anglers of all levels where they need to go to make a catch. Guides operate on many rivers both in North Carolina and Tennessee, including the Watauga, the South Holsten, the Nolichucky, the New River and the French Broad. Trips are not only entertaining, but scenic as well - guides know where to find some of the purest, most untouched parts of nature. Keep up to date on catch and release regulations and purchase your fishing license before you go at www.ncwildlife.org.
Blue Ridge Anglers
828-773-7751
www.blueridgeanglers.com
Full- and half-day floats, wades, musky or trout trips are available on four different rivers - or hit two rivers on the same day. Provides equipment and offers instruction at all levels. 828-773-7751 www.blueridgeanglers.com.
Grandfather Trout Farm
Hwy 105 across from entrance to town of Seven Devils
828-963-5098
Pay only for what you catch in this stocked trout pond, great for kids. Hwy 105 across from entrance to town of Seven Devils. 828-963-5098.
Foscoe Fishing Company and Outfitters
9440 Hwy 105 S - Foscoe
828-963-6566
www.foscoefishing.com
Foscoe offers excursions, float and wade trips on more than 300 miles of streams and rivers. Packages available with Chetola Resort at Blowing Rock. 9440 Hwy 105 S., Foscoe. 828-963-6566. www.foscoefishing.com
Elk Creek Outfitters
91560 Hwy 105 - Boone
828-264-6497
www.ecoflyfishing.com
Fish for trout, musky or smallmouth bass during a float trip, wilderness walk trip, flyfishing school or overnight excursion. Elk Creak caters to all skill levels. 1560 Hwy 105, Boone. 828-264-6497. www.ecoflyfishing.com
Appalachian Angler
174 Old Shulls Mill Rd.- Boone.
828-963-5050
www.appalachianangler.com
18 years of guiding and outfitting experience ensures an 80 percent return rate of guests. Offers overnight trips, wilderness wades, floats and instruction. 174 Old Shulls Mill Rd., Boone. 828-963-5050. www.appalachianangler.com
Appalachian Angler
174 Old Shulls Mill Rd.- Boone.
828-963-5050
www.appalachianangler.com
18 years of guiding and outfitting experience ensures an 80 percent return rate of guests. Offers overnight trips, wilderness wades, floats and instruction. 174 Old Shulls Mill Rd., Boone. 828-963-5050. www.appalachianangler.com
Lost Cove Trekking
Elk Hill Drive - Banner Elk
828-898-9885
www.lostcovetrekking.com
Full-day or multi-day backcountry fly-fishing adventures combining hiking and fishing. Elk Hill Drive, Banner Elk. 828-898-9885. www.lostcovetrekking.com
Hiking
There's no better way to appreciate the natural beauty of High Country than to actually get outside and walk around. Trails of varying strenuousness wrap around the mountains, hills, forests and rivers, allowing hikers of all levels of experience and fitness levels to easily navigate their way. For trail maps and a breakdown of the difficulty and length of dozens of trails, go to www.highcountryhiking.com. The website also features easy walks, maps, camping information and safety advice before you start your journey on foot. To benefit from the experience of an expert, try a guided hike from one of many companies offering half-, full- or multi-day treks. The benefits of a guided hike are ensured safety, the opportunity to learn more about the area from a local, and oftentimes, the added perk of a van to pick you up on the other side of the trail.
Lost Cove Trekking
Elk Hill Drive - Banner Elk
828-898-9885
www.lostcovetrekking.com
Trek through the wilderness of Pisgah National Forest with a personalized low volume, low environmental impact guide service catering to small groups, families, couples and individuals. Elk Hill Drive, Banner Elk. 828-898-9885. www.lostcovetrekking.com
Backwoods Adventures
0615 Hwy 105 S - Banner Elk
828-963-2050 - 800-MTN-RAFT
www.backwoodsadventure.com
Scenic customized trips through the Blue Ridge Mountains for all levels. 10615 Hwy 105 S, Banner Elk. 828-963-2050. 800-MTN-RAFT. www.backwoodsadventure.com
High Mountain Expeditions
Main Street - Blowing Rock
800-262-9036
www.highmountainexpeditions.com
Offers tours for the novice hiker looking for a lakeside walk or for the more adventurous looking to trek the backcountry around Grandfather Mountain. Main Street, Blowing Rock. 800-262-9036. www.highmountainexpeditions.com
River and Earth Adventures, Inc.
P.O. Box 3618 - Boone
828-963-5491
www.raftcavehike.com
Offers customized hikes with lunch and childcare service. P.O. Box 3618, Boone. 828-963-5491. www.raftcavehike.com
Whitewater Rafting & Kayaking
North Carolina's High Country offers some of the best and most diverse recreational rivers in the country, each with varying degrees of rapids. Whether you are an adrenaline junkie or a relaxation seeker, there is a class of rapids for you. Rapids are given a rating of Class I(very easy) to Class IV(nearly impossible). Float on an inner tube or canoe down the Class I New River or race down the Class IV Nolichucky. No matter what, area experts will be there to give you the best rafting and rapids advice and ensure your high-intensity activities are also safe.
Wahoo's Adventures
Hwy 321- Boone
1-888-444-RAFT - 828-262-5774
www.wahoosadventures.com
Tubing, rafting, canoeing, kayaking. From gentle adventures and family trips to extreme adventures and waterfalls. Hwy 321, Boone. 1-888-444-RAFT. 828-262-5774. www.wahoosadventures.com
River and Earth Adventures, Inc.
P.O. Box 3618- Boone
828-963-5491
www.raftcavehike.com
Offers customized hikes with lunch and childcare service. P.O. Box 3618, Boone. 828-963-5491. www.raftcavehike.com
Edge of the World
Hwy 184 - Banner Elk
800-789-EDGE
www.edgeoworld.com
Rafting, kayaking. 23 years of rafting experience, this outfitter offers lunch and a family atmosphere. Hwy 184, Banner Elk. 800-789-EDGE. www.edgeoworld.com
Extreme Family River Rafting & Guide Service
3071 Tynecastle Hwy - Banner Elk
828-898-7669
www.extremenc.com
Rafting, funyaks, river boarding. Family-oriented guide service with less intense trips. 3071 Tynecastle Hwy, Banner Elk. 828-898-7669. www.extremenc.com
Lost Cove Trekking
Elk Hill Drive - Banner Elk
828-898-9885
www.lostcovetrekking.com
Rafting, funyaks. Dedicated solely to guide services, Lost Cove prides itself on personalized attention, low volume of guests and highly experienced guides. Elk Hill Drive, Banner Elk. 828-898-9885. www.lostcovetrekking.com
Backwoods Adventures
10615 Hwy 105 S - Banner Elk
828-963-2050 - 800-MTN-RAFT
www.backwoodsadventure.com
Rafting, kayaking. The newest guide service in town, Backwoods offers medium intensity and high intensity trips in NC and TN featuring daylong excursions and a picnic lunch. 10615 Hwy 105 S, Banner Elk. 828-963-2050. 800-MTN-RAFT. www.backwoodsadventure.com
High Mountain Expeditions
Main Street - Blowing Rock
800-262-9036
www.highmountainexpeditions.com
Rafting, kayaking. The heart of its business, High Mountain offers varying levels of intensity for families and adventure-seekers alike. Main Street, Blowing Rock. 800-262-9036. www.highmountainexpeditions.com
River and Earth Adventures, Inc.
P.O. Box 3618 - Boone
828-963-5491
www.raftcavehike.com
Rafting, kayaking, canoeing. From float trips to kayak instruction, this smallish guide service offers a lot of personal attention. P.O. Box 3618, Boone. 828-963-5491. www.raftcavehike.com
Rock Climbing & Rappelling
It may look insanely dangerous, but rock climbing is probably safer than your morning commute to work. It is also way more challenging, physically rewarding and mentally stimulating. High Country is a great place to climb for beginners and experts alike. If you're nervous about dedicating a day to climbing, try out the climbing wall at Footsloggers in Boone for a quick feel of the challenging activity. Otherwise, many area climbing professionals offer instructional and recreational climbing excursions year round.
Edge of the World
Hwy 184 - Banner Elk
800-789-EDGE
www.edgeoworld.com
No experience necessary for this instruction-based beginners climbing trip. Hwy 184, Banner Elk. 800-789-EDGE. www.edgeoworld.com
Backwoods Adventures
10615 Hwy 105 S - Banner Elk
800-MTN-RAFT
www.backwoodsadventure.com
Customized hiking and climbing trips for all levels. 10615 Hwy 105 S, Banner Elk. 828-963-2050. 800-MTN-RAFT. www.backwoodsadventure.com
Rock Dimensions
131-B S. Depot St. - Boone
828-265-3544
www.rockdimensions.com
The most comprehensive climbing guide service, Rock Dimensions offers varying types of climbing for beginners to old pros and a challenging ropes course. 131-B S. Depot St., Boone. 828-265-3544. www.rockdimensions.com
Skiing & Snowboarding
High Country has often been dubbed the Ski Capital of the South because of the size of the mountains (the highest east of the Rockies), the abundance of snow and the amount of quality ski resorts. All within 30 minutes of each other, High Country's ski resorts offer first-class skiing conditions and enough activities and entertainment to keep the whole family entertained while off the slopes. The ski season begins in mid-November and runs to mid-March.
Appalachian Ski Mountain
Off Hwy 321 - Blowing Rock
800-322-2373
www.appskimtn.com
Skiing, snowboarding, ice-skating. Rentals and lessons available. . 800-322-2373. www.appskimtn.com
Hawksnest Golf and Ski Resort
Hwy 105 S. - Seven Devils
828-963-6561
www.hawksnest-resort.com
Ski, snowboard, tube. Night skiing on weekends, shops, rentals and more. Hwy 105 S., Seven Devils. 828-963-6561. www.hawksnest-resort.com
Ski Beech Resort
1007 Beech Mountain Pkwy. - Beech Mountain
800-438-2093
www.skibeech.com
Skiing, snowboarding, ice skating. Eastern America's highest elevation ski resort also features shops and restaurants. 1007 Beech Mountain Pkwy., Beech Mountain. 800-438-2093. www.skibeech.com
Sugar Mountain Resort
1009 Sugar Mountain Dr. - Banner Elk
800-SUGARMT
www.skisugar.com
Skiing, snowboarding, tubing, snowshoeing day and night. 115 acres of ski runs, 20 trails, instruction, rentals, shops and restaurants. 1009 Sugar Mountain Dr., Banner Elk. 800-SUGARMT. www.skisugar.com
Caving
It is dirty, dark and damp, but people young and old still love descending into the ground with lamps on their heads. Perhaps it's what they're seeing down there: beautiful limestone formations, 37,000 feet of natural underground passages and an unearthed prehistoric stonewall as evidence of Aboriginal people who called the cave home. I'd say it is worth the trip. Plus, caving is a great way to spend a rainy day, and an excuse for the whole family to get shamelessly dirty.
Extreme Family River Rafting & Guide Service
3071 Tynecastle Hwy. - Banner Elk
828-898-7669
www.extremenc.com
Explore Worley's Cave in Tennessee, its limestone formations, hidden crawlways and sparkling streams. 3071 Tynecastle Hwy, Banner Elk. 828-898-7669. www.extremenc.com
Backwoods Adventures
10615 Hwy 105 S. - Banner Elk
800-MTN-RAFT
www.backwoodsadventure.com
Spelunk through Worley's Cave on a forty-foot rope-not for those afraid of the dark. 10615 Hwy 105 S, Banner Elk. 828-963-2050. 800-MTN-RAFT. www.backwoodsadventure.com
High Mountain Expeditions
Main Street - Blowing Rock
800-262-9036
www.backwoodsadventure.com
High Mountain offers caving trips in both Worley's Cave and the further away Roberts Cave. Main Street, Blowing Rock. 800-262-9036. www.highmountainexpeditions.com
Rock Dimensions
131-B S. Depot St. - Boone
828-265-3544
www.rockdimensions.com
Takes spelunkers to many different caves in NC, VA or TN. 131-B S. Depot St., Boone. 828-265-3544. www.rockdimensions.com
River and Earth Adventures, Inc.
P.O. Box 3618 - Boone
828-963-5491
www.raftcavehike.com
Explore Worley's Cave; groups welcome. P.O. Box 3618, Boone. 828-963-5491. www.raftcavehike.com
Horseback Riding
www.highcountryhorseback.com
Enjoy the scenery aboard a trusty companion?a horse. Many area stables offer trail rides through country you wouldn't otherwise get to see. Experienced and knowledgeable guides offer insight and instruction for riders of all levels. Visit www.highcountryhorseback.com for more information about area stables and opportunities available for equestrians and horse-lovers.
Banner Elk Stables
796 Shomaker Rd. - Banner Elk
828-898-5424
Guided rides on miles of rigorous trails. Open year round. Reservations required. 796 Shomaker Rd., Banner Elk. 828-898-5424.
Blowing Rock Equestrian Preserve
1500 Laurel Lane - Blowing Rock
828-295-4700.
Access to 26 miles of carriage trails. 1500 Laurel Lane, Blowing Rock. 828-295-4700.
Chadi Farm
4635 Hwy 194 S - Valley Crucis
828-963-5399
www.chadifarm.com
Privately owned trails from beginner to advanced. Belgian draft horses, carriages, and an 18th-century farm. 4635 Hwy 194 S, Valley Crucis. 828-963-5399. www.chadifarm.com
New River Ranch
180-5 Gleneagles Dr - Boone
828-264-6782.
Classical teaching and training with indoor and outdoor rings. 180-5 Gleneagles Dr., Boone. 828-264-6782.
Yonahlossee Resort Saddle Club
226 Oakley Green - Boone
800-962-1986 - 828-963-6400
www.yonahlossee.com
Boarding and riding instruction. The Inn at Yonahlossee 226 Oakley Green, Boone. 800-962-1986. 828-963-6400. www.yonahlossee.com
Dutch Creek Trails
3287 Hwy 194 S. - Sugar Grove
828-297-7117 - 828-291-1708
www.dutchcreektrails.tripod.com
Guided rides through farm fields and wooded trails. 3287 Hwy 194 S., Sugar Grove. 828-297-7117. 828-291-1708. www.dutchcreektrails.tripod.com
Leatherwood Mountains
512 Meadow Rd. - Ferguson
800-462-6867
www.leatherwoodmountains.com
Vacation resort and residential community with a focus on boarding and riding horses. 100 miles of trails. 512 Meadow Rd., Ferguson. 800-462-6867. www.leatherwoodmountains.com
Golf
Spectacular views, cooler weather and challenging courses?so what if it is not extreme? It is still an adventure. Golfing may be North Carolina's state pastime, but mountain golfing is a whole new way to play. Whether you are looking for pro-quality or a Par 3, there is a course in the High Country that can suit your tastes. And no matter where you tee off, you're sure to be surrounded by extraordinary views. Be sure to call ahead for a tee-time and to determine course rules.
Boone Golf Club
433 Fairway Dr. - Boone
828-264-8760
www.boongolfclub.com
Blowing Rock Country Club
Country Club Dr. - Blowing Rock
828-295-7311
Hound Ears Club
328 Shull's Mill Rd. - Blowing Rock
828-963-4321
www.houndears.com
Willow Creek Golf Course
Bairds Creek Rd/Hwy 105 - Boone
828-963-6865
www.willowvalley-resort.com
Mountain Aire Golf Club
1104 Golf Course Rd. - West Jefferson
336-877-4716
www.mountainaire.com
Hawksnest Resort
Hwy 105 S. - Seven Devils
828-963-6561
www.hawksnest-resort.com
Elk River Club
Hwy 194- Banner Elk
828-898-9773
Village of Sugar Mountain Golf Course
Sugar Mountain Dr. - Banner Elk
828-898-6464
The Beech Mountain Club
Clubhouse Rd. - Beech Mountain
828-387-2372
Grandfather Golf & Country Club
Hwy 105 - Linville
828-898-4531
Grandfather Golf & Country Club
Hwy 221 - Linville
828-733-8325
Linville Golf Club
83 Roseboro Rd. - Linville
828-733-4363
Linville Ridge Country Club
Hwy 105. - Linville
828-898-9741
Blue Ridge Country Club
Hwy 221 S. - Linville Falls
828-756-40
Other Activities
Mountain Biking
High Mountain Expeditions
Main Street - Blowing Rock
800-262-9036
www.highmountainexpeditions.com
Motorcycling
Action Cycle Sports
Elk Hill Drive - Banner Elk
828-262-1558
www.actioncyclesports.com
Snowshoeing & Cross Country Skiing
Main Street - Blowing Rock
828-898-9885
www.lostcovetrekking.com
Lost Cove Trekking
Wanna get-a-way to the mountains of North Carolina? Call 4 Seasons Vacation Rentals today and book your next adventure! Our North Carolina Mountains cabin rentals are located in West Jefferson, Jefferson, Todd, and near Blowing Rock and Boone, NC.
