TOP ATTRACTIONS

Visit Grandpa: Grandfather Mountain is one of the most popular hiking destinations in North Carolina. Check out the rocky outcroppings that sit above 5,000 feet, and walk across the Mile-High Swinging Bridge. www.grandfather.com.

Defy Gravity: The Blowing Rock is an immense rock cliff that hangs a thousand feet above John’s River Gorge and has played a role in local lore for ages. The story behind the name? The wind patterns at the rock are so erratic and forceful, it’s known as the “only place in the world where snow falls upside down.”

Take in a Movie and a Brew: Boone now has its very own cinema/pub called the Dragonfly Theater. Because beer and movies should never be segregated. www.dragonflytheater.com.

Shop through History: The Mast General Store in Valle Crucis has been outfitting the Appalachian since 1883 with traditional mercantile goods, comfortable clothing, rugged footwear, and quality mountain gear for all seasons. Listed on the Register of Historic Places, warm up by the pot-bellied stove or mail a letter at the antique post office at this local landmark.

EAT HERE

Alpen Restaurant and Bar: Located inside the famous Beech Alpen Inn, the restaurant offers mountain views, fine dining, and a unique atmosphere complete with old fashion fireplace and rough sawn beams. www.Alpenrestaurant.com

Jackalope’s View Restaurant: You’ll find an eclectic menu with fare ranging from roasted duck and fresh mountain trout to burgers and wings at this mountainside gem. www.Archersinn.com

STAY HERE

Top of the Beech: A ski lodge with a great view of the slopes just a short walk to the lift. Check the website for special lift ticket deals. www.Beech-mountain.org

Beech Alpen Inn: Located on the top of Beech Mountain with views that extend for miles, the Beech Alpen Inn compliments its mountain setting with an old world charm reminiscent of the rustic inns of the European Alps.
www.Beechalpen.com