Grandfather Mountain, a majestic icon of the Blue Ridge Mountains, stands as one of North Carolina's most beloved natural treasures. A highlight of the mountain is the Mile High Swinging Bridge that sways high up above, offering breathtaking views of Grandfather Mountain State Park's scenic environs. Be sure to bring your camera to capture your mesmerizing experience. The mountain's rugged landscape is a melange of natural habitats and ecological communities that are home to bears, cougars, eagles, otters, and other flora and fauna.
Moses H. Cone Memorial Park preserves the extensive country estate of its namesake, a noted conservationist whose dedication to the preservation of the region's natural heritage drove him to plant the white pines, hemlock hedges and apple trees that form a part of the estate. Several carriage, horse-riding and hiking trails traverse the expanses of the 3600-acre (1457-hectare) estate, centered around the majestic Flat Top Manor. Open seasonally, the historic manor is now the home of the Parkway Craft Center, which showcases the work of regional artists and hosts quilting, glass-blowing, weaving, pottery and other craft demonstrations. Visitors can also fish for bass and trout at the estate's artificial lakes, or join in a guided tour of the manor.
Take a hike up the trail at Howards Knob County Park for breathtaking views of the entire city. This high-altitude park features picnic tables, trails and observation points that are great for family recreation. The park closes by 7:30 so plan your day accordingly.
Just a few miles away from Banner Elk, sits atop a hill is a charming farm set against beautiful scenery. The Apple Hills Farm is a lovely animal farm that welcomes visitors and animal lovers to spend a day amid wonderful creatures. The beautiful farm is home to alpacas, goats, donkeys, and cows. Unlike a typical petting zoo and much like a farm, the Apple Hills Farm is a place to enjoy the animals in their habitat. Offering guided tours, the Apple Hills Farm makes it a lovely stopover when in town.
Set in a pristine location along a scenic river, Grandfather Vineyard and Winery sits atop 3,300 feet ( 1006 meters). This gorgeous vineyard located near Banner Elk is known to produce world-class wine from the region. The charming little winery is a family-owned property that opened its doors in 2011, and ever since, there is no looking back. Tour the vineyard, and taste their delicious wine collection. Buy a bottle or two as a souvenir.
Spread over 13 acres ( 5 hectares), Wildcat Lake is a stunning water body in Banner Elk. The Scenic spot is surrounded by Bushy trees and blue sky, where visitors can spend a whole day relaxing. Featuring a sandy beach by the shore, the lake sees moderate traffic. Locals and visitors often spend a day by the lake sunbathing and swimming. Located just outside downtown Banner Elk, the swimming hole also attracts activities like boating, fishing, kayaking, and canoeing.
Overlooking the gorgeous Linville Gorge Wilderness, the Wiseman's View Scenic Overlook is a must stop for all nature lovers. The phenomenal views of the beautiful lush green expanse is something you will cherish forever. There are several well marked trails leading to this spot and a sign greets you at the spot's entrance to let you know that you have reached your destination.
The Cherokee National Forest covers an area of 655,598 acres (2,65,311 hectares) across several prominent mountain ranges such as Great Smoky Mountains and Big Frog Mountain, with the Ocoee River flowing in the park confines. With multiple recreation areas, each more different than the other, the Cherokee National Forest presents one with a plethora of recreational and relaxation activities. These include camping, fishing, hiking, nature viewing and a whole lot of water and winter sports. Replete with the spectacular bounty of nature, there is something here for everyone.
Located amidst the Blue Ridge Mountains in the Appalachian Mountain range, Roan Mountain State Park is a great place to visit. Away from the bustling city, this state park covers an area of 2,000 acres (809 hectares). Set against the backdrop of the majestic Roan Mountain, this park offers a variety of facilities for activities like camping, biking, fishing, cross-country skiing, and more. The park offers an extensive network of hiking trails, including those leading to Roan Mountain's balds. Camping facilities at the park provide a rustic and serene environment for overnight stays, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the natural surroundings.
Tucked away along the Blue Ridge Parkway amid the fragile foliage that defines the landscape of the Grandfather Mountain State Park, Rough Ridge Lookout offers spectacular views of the majestic Linn Cove Viaduct and the imposing Grandfather Mountain itself. Begin at the trailhead at the parking area and hike your way upwards as you take in the breathtaking vistas of the surrounding terrain. A wooden boardwalk snakes pasts lush trees in all their seasonal colors to reach the summit. Here, you can take a stroll to admire the panoramic views, sit down for a picnic, and take amazing pictures for keepsakes.
Moses H. Cone Memorial Park preserves the extensive country estate of its namesake, a noted conservationist whose dedication to the preservation of the region's natural heritage drove him to plant the white pines, hemlock hedges and apple trees that form a part of the estate. Several carriage, horse-riding and hiking trails traverse the expanses of the 3600-acre (1457-hectare) estate, centered around the majestic Flat Top Manor. Open seasonally, the historic manor is now the home of the Parkway Craft Center, which showcases the work of regional artists and hosts quilting, glass-blowing, weaving, pottery and other craft demonstrations. Visitors can also fish for bass and trout at the estate's artificial lakes, or join in a guided tour of the manor.
Grandfather Mountain, a majestic icon of the Blue Ridge Mountains, stands as one of North Carolina's most beloved natural treasures. A highlight of the mountain is the Mile High Swinging Bridge that sways high up above, offering breathtaking views of Grandfather Mountain State Park's scenic environs. Be sure to bring your camera to capture your mesmerizing experience. The mountain's rugged landscape is a melange of natural habitats and ecological communities that are home to bears, cougars, eagles, otters, and other flora and fauna.