Winter Times 2025-26

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YOUR 2025-26 WINTER GUIDE TO THE HIGH COUNTRY • WWW.HIGHCOUNTRYNC.COM

SNOW PREDICTIONS • SKIING • SNOWBOARDING • SLEDDING • SHOPPING • DINING

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WHAT’S INSIDE

WELCOME TO WINTER TIMES ....................... 5

BLUE RIDGE PARKWAY ................................. 47

SLEDDING...................................................... 90

WELCOME TO THE HIGH COUNTRY ................ 8

HIKING SAFETY............................................. 52

MUSEUMS...................................................... 92

WINTER WEATHER ....................................... 10

CHRISTMAS TREES ....................................... 55

PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION........................... 94

WINTER PREDICTIONS ................................... 11

SNOW TUBING .............................................. 59

SCENIC BYWAYS ........................................... 95

OUR TOWNS ................................................... 13

HIGH COUNTRY THEATRES........................... 60

WINERIES.......................................................97

WINTER DRIVING ......................................... 30

APPALACHIAN THEATRE.............................. 63

BREWERIES ................................................ 100

BEECH MOUNTAIN RESORT.......................... 34

WINTER HIKING............................................ 64

SNOW TUBING ............................................ 102

SUGAR MOUNTAIN RESORT ......................... 39

APPALACHIAN ARTS SERIES........................ 66

FRESCOES.................................................... 103

APP SKI MTN................................................. 42

HOLIDAY EVENTS.......................................... 70

ZIPLINING.................................................... 105

OUTDOOR WINTER FUN ................................72

PARKING...................................................... 107

WINTERFEST.................................................. 74

AREA CHAMBERS ....................................... 108

INDOOR FUN...................................................76

GENERAL STORES ......................................... 111

CLEARING THE ROADS ................................. 80

WINTER FARMER’S MARKET ...................... 113

GRANDFATHER MOUNTAIN........................... 81

AREA GALLERIES ......................................... 114

CHRISTMAS TREE TIPS................................. 84

NUMBERS OF NOTES ................................... 118

WHERE CHRISTMAS GROWS ....................... 88

EATING/DRINKING GUIDE........................... 119 ADVERTISERS INDEX.................................. 129

Rime ice on spruce trees next to the Mile High Swinging Bridge as seen on Grandfather Mountain.

Photo courtesy Grandfather Mountain Stewardship Foundation

2025-26 Winter Times Staff PUBLISHER Gene Fowler

CIRCULATION MANAGER Jeff Winebarger

DESIGN Darla Allen

EXECUTIVE EDITOR Moss Brennan

EDITORS Jamie Shell Nathan Ham

LAYOUT Rebecca Portis

SALES MANAGER Mark Mitchell

4 | WINTER TIMES • 2025-26

WRITERS Zach Colburn Nick Fogleman Christian Gardner Jesse Campbell

SALES William Becker Savannah Beal Teresa Laws Landon Reed Jackson Magdanz

winter WELCOME TO

times

Welcome to the 2025-26 edition of the Winter Times. With cold weather and snow hitting the area early this year, this winter season will be one to remember.

Every year, mountains capped with snow attract visitors to the High Country, both for winter sports or just to visit during the holiday season. Boone, Blowing Rock, Banner Elk, Beech Mountain, West Jefferson, and the Blue Ridge Parkway are among the areas most popular with visitors.

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a longtime friend of these mountain communities, this guide is designed to help you discover the best of what Watauga, Ashe and Avery counties have to offer. Inside, you’ll find everything from how to drive in winter weather and

outdoor adventures to local dining spots and cultural attractions that make the High Country special yearround.

For more information on everything to do in the High Country, visit www.highcountrync.com. For the most up-to-date news in each county, visit www.wataugademocrat. com, www.averyjournal. com or www. ashepostandtimes. com.

Best, Executive Editor Moss Brennan Mountain Times Publications

2025-26 • WINTER TIMES | 5

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2025-26 • WINTER TIMES | 7

WELCOME TO

WINTER in the High Country

Winter in the High Country carries its own rhythm and beauty. elcome to winter in North Frost-covered Frasier furs line Carolina’s High Country! scenic byways, sunlight glints Winter transforms our off our snowy ski slopes, and the mountains into a breathtaking evenings glow with firelight from winter wonderland. As the cozy hotels and restaurants. Here, season settles in, crisp mountain the season invites you to slow air, endless views, and warm down, take in the views and savor Appalachian hospitality come simple joys—like a steaming cup together to create an unforgettable of coffee at a local coffee shop escape. Whether you’re arriving or the quiet crunch of fresh snow for adventure, relaxation, or a little beneath your boots. of both, we’re delighted you chose Our region offers winter to visit our magical corner of the activities for every traveler. Skiers Blue Ridge Mountains. and snowboarders carve their way

DEAR READERS,

W

8 | WINTER TIMES • 2025-26

down trails at our three beloved ski resorts, while families glide across our outdoor ice rinks and snow tubing runs. Those who prefer a gentler pace can enjoy serene winter views from our spas, get back to nature with a farm tour, or explore charming small mountain towns with shops filled with handcrafted treasures. And when the day winds down, you’ll find no shortage of welcoming spots to warm up with hearty winter plates and craft beverages beside the fire.

Most of all, we hope you feel the spirit that makes the High Country

so special. It’s a place where natural beauty inspires, community thrives, and every visitor becomes part of our story. As you take in the snowy vistas and winter traditions, may you find moments of joy, connection and wonder.

Thank you for choosing to spend your winter season with us in the NC High Country. We’re glad you’re here- and wish you a magical, memorable stay.

Candice Cook High Country Host Regional Visitor Center

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2025-26 • WINTER TIMES | 9

WINTER

WEATHER In The High Country

BY NICK FOGLEMAN

W

into a mean temperature of 34.9.

On average, 5.2 inches of rain falls during December, along with just over 4 inches of snow, just enough to kick off the ski season.

According to NOAA’s data, Dec. 31 claims the title of coldest day of the month at 32.6 degrees, while Dec. 1 stands as the warmest, also at 32.6, a reminder of how tightly temperatures cluster as winter begins.

January is the season’s true challenge, the month when

Boone feels coldest. Average temperatures hover at a mean of 31.5 degrees, with highs around 41.4 and lows dipping to 21.6. The town sees about 4.39 inches of precipitation and an average of 6.6 inches of snowfall, perfect for crisp morning hikes or a warm cup of coffee.

NOAA’s data shows New Year’s Day as January’s warmest at 32.4 degrees, while the coldest, a stark 31.1, appears on several dates throughout the month.

February, though still undeniably cold, hints at the beginnings of change. Highs average 44.7 degrees and lows about 23.8, bringing the monthly mean to 34.2 degrees. Snowfall

inter in the High Country is more than a season, it’s a time that brings cold temperatures, snowy conditions and beautiful landscape to the region.

As the last leaves fall along the Blue Ridge and the first cold fronts slip over the ridgelines, the High Country shifts into a winter wonderland.

According to NOAA’s long-term climate records, taken from the Boone 1 SE Station and averaged from 1991 to 2020, over the three winter months, December through February, Boone averaged a brisk 33.5 degrees Fahrenheit.

Afternoon highs typically climbed into the mid-40s, while nights routinely dropped into the low 20s.

Snow, of course, is part of the High Country’s identity. NOAA’s Climate Normals show Boone receiving an average of 18.5 inches of snowfall each winter, paired with about 12 inches of rainfall, a mix that feeds the region’s icy streams and covers the mountain peaks.

Of course, higher elevations in Ashe, Avery and Watauga counties can see more snow due to colder temperatures.

December arrives with a blend of anticipation and chill.

The month averages a high of 45 degrees and a low of 24.7, settling The difference between a winter storm watch and a warning.

10 | WINTER TIMES • 2025-26

remains steady at 6.7 inches, and the month records 3.64 inches of precipitation. According to NOAA, Feb. 1 marks the coldest day at 31.9 degrees, but by Feb. 28, the warmest day, 36.9 degrees, suggests that spring isn’t as far off as it feels.

Longtime High Country residents know that snow in early November — like in 2025 — or in late April is not out of the question.

Taken together, NOAA’s 1991– 2020 Climate Normals reveal what longtime residents already know: winter in Boone is a season of cold, with dark mornings and breathtaking snowcapped views of the region.

GRAPHIC COURTESY NWS

Billy predicts

WILD AND

WOOLLY WINTER SEASON

Burleson said with a grin, “you’d better find your snow shovel he Woolly Worm Festival came before Thanksgiving.” and went just as quickly as the Of note, Billy was right as the cold winter air moved into the High Country saw its first snow in High Country. The 2025 festival mid-November. was a successful and robust event, Billy has predicted a cold and proving, yet again, the resilience snowy start to the season. Midof the mountains recovering winter will bring light snow, with steadily from Hurricane Helene. below-average temperatures Now that the racing is over, our and some warmer weather mixed wiggly friends can rest easy in a in, which will prepare us for well-deserved hibernation, as our late winter, when we will finish Woolly Worm winter predictions strong, staying true to our snowy are finally in! Billy the Woolly mountain spirit. The snow will Worm is our 2025 festival racing return late winter, temperatures champion and esteemed winter will drop to below-average, and predictor! the last couple of weeks will be a The Woolly Worm has been winter wonderland for the High predicting the High Country Country. winters since 1978, and many High What does this mean for our Country families and tourists look mountain communities? Well, forward to the worm’s prediction if you’re feeling adventurous, each winter as part of the county’s skiing, snowboarding, and seasonal tradition. The Woolly snowtime fun can be had to kick Worm’s 13 segments correlate off winter. Though be prepared to the 13 weeks of winter, where for some heavy snow and each segment’s color indicates freezing temperatures that will conditions for that week. Darker continue and linger throughout stripes mean colder weather and the season. If you’re looking for a snow, and lighter stripes mean cozy Christmas getaway, the High warmer, milder conditions— Country just might be calling, the and Billy the Woolly Worm has weather will certainly uphold to certainly spoken. He has deemed it snowy standards and you’re sure to get some winter white photos a rather chilly season. for your Christmas cards!

“If Billy’s right,” Tommy

BY GIADA EHRESMAN

T

PHOTO COURTESY WOOLLY WORM FESTIVAL

Maribel Murphy from Indiana with her winning worm, Billy.

PHOTO SUBMITTED

he 2025 Woolly Worm Festival champion, Billy, whose trainer is Maribel Murphy from Indiana.

It’s always good to be prepared for heavy winter weather, and thanks to Billy, we get the chance to prepare before this year’s winter spell settles in! Stock up on

FILE PHOTO

The analysis of Billy the winning worm’s segments predicting the 2025 winter.

blankets, hot cocoa, and maybe buy a ski lift ticket or two, because winter is on its way!

2025-26 • WINTER TIMES | 11

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WINTER in the

HIGH COUNTRY Where mountain charm meets snow-covered serenity

BY MOSS BRENNAN

W

hen winter settles over the Blue Ridge Mountains, the High Country takes on a quieter kind of beauty. Frost clings to the mountain laurel, ski lifts hum to life across Watauga and Avery counties, and the glow of small-town lights shimmers against a blanket of fresh snow.

From the slopes of Beech Mountain, Sugar Mountain, and Appalachian Ski Mtn. to the cozy inns of Blowing Rock and West Jefferson, the region transforms into a true winter wonderland.

In this place, adventure meets warmth and tradition.

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a lifelong traveler of these winding roads, the mountain communities of the High Country offer something for everyone. From chasing powder and exploring snow-dusted trails to simply watching the sun set behind a ridge of icy pines, winter here always tells a story worth remembering.

ASHE COUNTY Creston

Located in Ashe County’s

northwest corner, Creston offers visitors a glimpse into the region’s religious and cultural heritage.

Worth’s Chapel, constructed in the early 1900s and listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1976, stands as a testament to the faith communities that helped shape the region’s mountain society.

The township’s location near the Tennessee state line provides easy access to multi-state exploration opportunities. The Riverview Community Center serves as the heart of local social life, hosting numerous community events throughout the year and maintaining the tradition of regular fish fries that bring neighbors together in the spirit of mountain hospitality.

Fleetwood

Positioned between West Jefferson and Deep Gap, Fleetwood serves as a gateway to some of the region’s best water recreation opportunities. The community’s location provides excellent access to the New River, where outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy kayaking, canoeing, and floating adventures along one of North America’s oldest rivers.

See TOWNS | page 15 2025-26 • WINTER TIMES | 13

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fresco painting in Holy Trinity Episcopal Church, a remarkable The areas between Fleetwood work of religious art by artist Ben and Todd, particularly along Long that draws visitors from Railroad Grade Road, have around the region and nation. become popular launching points The historic Glendale Springs for river activities, offering various Inn & Restaurant adds to the access points for different skill area’s appeal, once hosting levels and trip lengths. Fleetwood President Bill Clinton and Vice is an unincorporated community President Al Gore during the whose proximity to nature and duo’s 1998 visit to Ashe County. outdoor activities encourages a This establishment, added to strong sense of community and the National Register of Historic additionally boasts a dog-friendly Places in 1979, continues to atmosphere. welcome guests seeking fine dining and historic accommodations in Grassy Creek Straddling the North Carolina- the heart of the mountains.

Beyond its historical and Virginia border, Grassy Creek cultural attractions, Glendale represents the unique character Springs serves as an excellent of communities that exist at the intersection of states and cultures. base for outdoor recreation, The area is home to The Old Store, offering proximity to both the Blue Ridge Parkway and the New River, a local landmark that serves both where visitors can enjoy hiking, practical and social functions for scenic drives, water activities residents and visitors exploring and the peaceful beauty of the the border region.

Appalachian landscape.

The Grassy Creek Historic District, added to the National Jefferson Register of Historic Places in As the county seat of Ashe 1976, preserves important County, Jefferson stands as a examples of rural Appalachian cornerstone of local government architecture and land use patterns. and community life. Home to Visitors traveling through the area approximately 1,600 residents, will notice the extensive Christmas this historic town was founded in tree farms that have become 1799 and named after Thomas a signature industry for this Jefferson, who was serving border community, contributing as Vice President at the time. to the regional economy while Originally called “Jeffersonton,” maintaining the area’s agricultural the community has grown from its character. modest 50-acre beginnings into a thriving municipal center.

Glendale Springs The town’s civic importance is Strategically located near the evident in its landmarks, including Blue Ridge Parkway, Glendale Springs offers visitors easy access the Ashe County Courthouse, to one of America’s most scenic Ashe County Park and the Law driving routes while providing its Enforcement Center. History unique attractions. The community enthusiasts can explore the is renowned for the stunning restored 1904 Courthouse, now

TOWNS | Continued from page 13

PHOTO COURTESY ASHE COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

An overview photo of Glendale Springs during a winter morning.

listed on the National Register of Historic Places and housing the Museum of Ashe County History. This architectural gem sits adjacent to the Jefferson Police Department, creating a unique blend of past and present in the town’s governmental district.

Lansing The smallest of Ashe County’s incorporated towns, Lansing, represents a living testament to the region’s railroad heritage.

With approximately 130 residents, this community was incorporated in 1928 and served as a crucial stop along the Virginia Creeper railroad route, connecting it to West Jefferson, Todd and the community of White Oak. Lansing’s historical significance extends far beyond its small size, boasting five locations listed on the National Register of Historic Places: the Old Lansing School, Perry-Shepherd Farm, Miller Homestead, Clark-Miller Mill, and the Lansing Historical District.

These preserved sites offer glimpses into the daily life and

economic activities that sustained mountain communities throughout the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

Todd

This small community, shared between Watauga and Ashe counties, nestles in a picturesque bend of the South Fork New River, creating one of the region’s most scenic settings. Todd’s history stretches back nearly 6,000 years, with archaeological evidence indicating extensive Native American activity in the area long before European settlement.

The New River remains Todd’s primary attraction, offering some of the finest recreational opportunities in the region. As one of the few rivers in the United States to flow north, it offers unique geographic features and excellent fishing, kayaking, and tubing. Several professional outfitters, including RiverGirl and Wahoo’s, operate in the area to help visitors safely enjoy these water activities.

See TOWNS | page 16 2025-26 • WINTER TIMES | 15

TOWNS | Continued from page 15

Green Valley Community Park serves as Todd’s recreational headquarters, featuring playground equipment, sports fields, a paved walking track, picnic facilities, restrooms, canoe access, hiking trails and direct river access. This comprehensive facility makes Todd an ideal destination for families and outdoor enthusiasts seeking diverse recreation options in a compact, accessible location.

Warrensville Warrensville is another of the many unincorporated towns within Ashe County. The town was originally known as Buffalo Creek and has roughly 1,400 residents.

The town is home to two county schools, Blue Ridge Elementary

and Ashe County Middle School, and a pair of popular small businesses including Warrensville Drug Store and Jim’s Corner Furniture.

West Jefferson The bustling heart of Ashe County’s cultural and economic activity, West Jefferson draws visitors from across the region with its vibrant downtown district.

This has transformed into one of the county’s premier destinations, featuring an impressive array of shops, art galleries, and locally owned restaurants that reflect the area’s commitment to supporting homegrown businesses.

Incorporated in 1909, West Jefferson’s growth was significantly influenced by the Virginia Creeper Railroad, which brought commerce and

PHOTO COURTESY ASHE COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

An overhead shot of West Jefferson in the winter.

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TOWNS | Continued from page 16

waterways.

WATAUGA COUNTY Blowing Rock Despite covering only three square miles, Blowing Rock maximizes its natural beauty and recreational opportunities, making it feel much larger than its physical boundaries suggest.

The town’s name comes from the unusual wind patterns around the rocky cliff overlooking Johns River Gorge, where updrafts can lift light objects back up rather than let them fall, creating a boomerang-like effect.

Visitors can experience this natural phenomenon while learning about the area’s indigenous history at the Blowing Rock attraction on Rock Road.

This site provides both natural wonder and cultural education, helping visitors understand the deep connections between the landscape and the people who have called these mountains home for thousands of years.

The portion of the Blue Ridge Parkway within Blowing Rock’s limits includes some of the region’s most spectacular hiking opportunities and scenic views.

Moses Cone Manor and Julian Price Park offer well-maintained trails and interpretive programs, while off-Parkway destinations like Bass Lake Trail and Broyhill Park provide additional outdoor recreation options.

The Blowing Rock Art and History Museum, known locally as BRAHM, operates year-

PHOTO COURTESY BLOWING ROCK TDA

See TOWNS | page 20 The town of Blowing Rock lights up in the winter with festive lights.

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TOWNS | Continued from page 17

round, presenting exhibitions and programs that celebrate Appalachian culture, history, and artistic traditions. The museum’s location near downtown makes it easily accessible to visitors exploring the town’s shops and restaurants.

Blowing Rock’s downtown district features a pedestrianfriendly environment with numerous shops, restaurants and hotels lining picturesque sidewalks. Options range from casual mountain fare to upscale dining, with accommodations spanning from cozy bed-andbreakfasts to luxury resort properties.

Boone

As the county seat of Watauga County, Boone proudly bears the title “The Heart of the High Country.” This designation reflects both its geographic centrality and its role as the region’s primary economic, educational, and cultural hub.

Appalachian State University serves as Boone’s defining institution, with more than 21,000 students. This substantial student population creates a unique blend of academic energy, youthful vitality and cultural diversity that distinguishes Boone from other mountain communities. The university’s presence ensures year-round activity and provides educational, cultural and athletic programs that benefit the entire region.

Downtown Boone features a distinctive collection of locallyowned boutiques and businesses that reflect the community’s commitment to supporting 20 | WINTER TIMES • 2025-26

entrepreneurship and maintaining authentic character. Anna Bananas on King Street specializes in unique second-hand clothing. At the same time, The Shoppes at Farmers, a family-owned business operating since 1924, offers everything from jewelry and art to toys and mountain crafts.

The Jones House, a historic home converted into a cultural center, hosts live music performances spanning jazz, bluegrass and contemporary genres.

Boone’s connection to bluegrass music tradition is commemorated by the Doc Watson “Man of the People” statue on King Street. Watson, a local guitar virtuoso and bluegrass legend, earned seven Grammy awards and a Grammy Lifetime Achievement award during his career. Though he passed away in 2012, his musical legacy remains an important part of Boone’s cultural identity.

Foscoe

Nestled between Boone and Banner Elk, the unincorporated community of Foscoe proves that small size doesn’t limit opportunities for shopping, dining and exploration. Despite its compact footprint, Foscoe, which exists along the primary highway artery connecting Watauga and Avery counties, offers diverse experiences that attract visitors seeking unique mountain adventures and authentic local products.

Shopping opportunities span from antiques at Front Porch Antique Market to specialty items like golf apparel and clubs from Peanuts Club Pro

PHOTO COURTESY TOWN OF BOONE

The Jones House in downtown Boone is a landmark on King Street.

Shop. Maggie Black Pottery showcases ceramics and porcelain created by local artisans, while Winkler Knives produces custom blades for collectors and outdoor enthusiasts.

These businesses reflect the community’s commitment to traditional craftsmanship and local entrepreneurship.

Outdoor recreation options include Foscoe Fishing Company for angling enthusiasts and Greater Foscoe Mining Company for families interested in gold panning experiences. These activities provide hands-on opportunities to engage with the region’s natural resources and historical mining heritage.

The Country Retreat Family Billiards combines food service with entertainment, providing burgers and pool tables for social gatherings.

Foscoe’s location provides some of the High Country’s most spectacular mountain scenery, including famous profile views of Grandfather Mountain. This natural beauty serves as a

constant backdrop for community life and provides countless photography opportunities for visitors documenting their mountain experiences.

Seven Devils

Strategically positioned between Banner Elk and Boone, Seven Devils provides convenient access to multiple High Country destinations while maintaining its own unique character and attractions. The town’s distinctive name reflects both geographical features and marketing creativity, as the founders noted seven prominent rocky peaks surrounding Valley Creek and decided to embrace the “devilish” theme for its attention-getting potential.

Surrounded by Sugar Mountain, Grandfather Mountain and Beech Mountain, Seven Devils offers easy access to major recreational destinations while providing its own outdoor adventures. The Otter Falls Trail represents one of the area’s most accessible hiking See TOWNS | page 21

the area’s most beautiful natural attractions, requiring only a short experiences, featuring a 0.6-mile hike from the conference facilities. hike to the falls for a total roundThe original Mast General trip distance of 1.2 miles. The trail Store, operating since 1883, welcomes dogs, making it an ideal serves as the community’s central family outing for those traveling gathering place and commercial with pets. anchor. This historic establishment Seven Devils continues to grow continues the tradition of and develop new amenities while providing local goods and services maintaining its community focus. while welcoming visitors seeking Established in the 1960s, Seven authentic mountain shopping Devils has successfully balanced experiences. The Mast Store growth with community values, Annex, opened approximately adapting to changing needs 25 years after the original store, while preserving the small-town expands shopping opportunities atmosphere that attracts residents while maintaining the same and visitors seeking an authentic commitment to quality and mountain experience. service.

Valle Crucis Valle Crucis Park, accessible Located just off N.C. 105 south via a gravel road behind the of Boone, Valle Crucis offers a Mast Store Annex, provides pastoral riverside setting that comprehensive recreational embodies mountain tranquility facilities including walking paths, and simplicity. The valley contains riverfront access, picnic areas, archaeological evidence of the sports fields, and live music only known Native American performances. This community village in the immediate area and amenity ensures that residents is also the site where Samuel and visitors have convenient Hicks, Watauga County’s first access to outdoor recreation and European settler, built a fort entertainment.

The Elk that sits in downtown Banner Elk. during the American Revolution.

AVERY COUNTY An Episcopal bishop entered anchor. Founded in 1900, the the community in 1842 and gave it Banner Elk college enrolls more than 900 Situated between two major its Latin name, “Vale of the Cross,” students from more than 20 states ski destinations, Banner Elk has reflecting the religious influence and countries, bringing youthful that helped shape its development. evolved from a small mountain energy and diverse perspectives hamlet into a year-round The Episcopal Church continues to the mountain community. The resort community offering to play an important role in Valle campus features historic stone Crucis through ongoing programs, comprehensive amenities for visitors and residents. The town’s buildings, creating photogenic fundraising efforts and services. settings that attract visitors and transformation reflects the The Valle Crucis Conference provide ideal backdrops for special region’s emergence as a fourCenter, listed on the National events. season recreational destination.

Register of Historic Places, The town maintains an Lees-McRae College, a small maintains busy schedules hosting active calendar of cultural and private liberal arts institution retreats for various groups recreational activities throughout affiliated with the Presbyterian throughout the year. The center’s the year.

Church USA, serves as Banner proximity to Crab Orchard Falls provides easy access to one of Elk’s educational and cultural The annual Woolly Worm TOWNS | Continued from page 20

PHOTO COURTESY VISIT BANNER ELK

Festival, held on the third weekend of October, represents Banner Elk’s largest community celebration, attracting nearly 20,000 visitors who come to participate in the quirky tradition of woolly worm racing and enjoy mountain music, crafts, and food.

The town also boasts a thriving art scene, including the Historic Banner Elk School in downtown, which hosts Ensemble Stage, a company that performs live shows from spring through the holiday season.

See TOWNS | page 24 2025-26 • WINTER TIMES | 21

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Recreation opportunities extend beyond the ski slopes Banner Elk’s location to include golf, horseback provides easy access to riding, tennis, swimming, and numerous outdoor activities extensive hiking trail networks. and natural attractions.

Evening entertainment venues The town sits among Sugar cater to a range of musical Mountain, Beech Mountain, tastes, ensuring that nightlife and Grandfather Mountain, options complement daytime offering residents and visitors activities. quick access to skiing, hiking, Much of Beech Mountain scenic drives, wineries and remains in its natural state, waterfalls. The downtown area with rich forests and rolling features shops, restaurants, farmland preserving the area’s and the peaceful Mill Pond, ecological integrity. This where visitors can relax balance between development and enjoy the mountain and conservation creates an atmosphere. environment where visitors Beech Mountain can easily transition between At 5,506 feet above sea resort amenities and natural level, Beech Mountain holds wilderness experiences. the distinction of being the Crossnore highest incorporated town in Steeped in educational and Eastern North America. This medical history, Crossnore elevation provides significant represents one of the most advantages for both summer and winter recreation, creating significant success stories in Appalachian community a unique four-season resort development. The town’s environment that attracts transformation centers around visitors year-round. the work of doctors Eustace The winter season offers and Mary Martin Sloop, who excellent snow conditions arrived in the early 20th for skiing and snowboarding century to bring medicine at Beech Mountain Resort, which has 17 trails, two terrain and education to isolated parks, tubing, nine lifts and 95 mountain communities.

The Sloops traveled total skiable acres. treacherous mountain trails Beech Mountain offers a to provide medical care while variety of lodging options, simultaneously working from rustic mountain cabins to establish educational to luxury condominiums. opportunities for children This range ensures options whose families had limited for different budgets and access to formal schooling. group sizes. Dining options Their efforts led to the are equally diverse, spanning creation of a comprehensive from casual deli sandwiches complex including a school, and pizza to upscale gourmet hospital, dental clinic, and restaurants offering candlelit dinners with mountain views. boarding facilities, designed

TOWNS | Continued from page 21

24 | WINTER TIMES • 2025-26

to break the cycles of poverty and limited opportunity that had previously constrained many mountain families.

Today, Marjorie Williams Academy continues the educational mission established by the Sloops, serving both local Crossnore residents and area students whose educational needs are best met in the academy’s specialized environment.

The school operates Miracle Grounds Coffee Cafe & Creamery, which functions both as a community gathering place and a vocational training facility for students.

Crossnore’s community spirit shines during its PHOTO COURTESY TOWN OF BEECH MOUNTAIN VISITOR CENTER famous Independence Day While Beech Mountain is known for the ski resort, there are celebration, featuring a parade plenty of other offerings on a cold winter day. and festivities that draw participants from throughout the region.

Elk Park

Located on the Tennessee border, Elk Park offers visitors an authentic step back into simpler times.

The town’s old-fashioned atmosphere centers on Brinkley’s Hardware Store and the Lower Street antique district, where visitors can browse unique finds while admiring classic mural art adorning building walls.

Lower Street represents Elk Park’s original commercial thoroughfare, dating to the era when the town served as a depot for the East Tennessee and Western North Carolina See TOWNS | page 25

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Railroad, affectionately known The area surrounding Linville as “Tweetsie.” This railroad shares the community’s name Linville connection brought prosperity and includes several major tourist Founded in 1883 and and growth that sustained the attractions. Linville Falls offers community even after train service designed by Samuel T. Kelsey of spectacular views and hiking Kansas, Linville represents one ended. opportunities, while Linville of the region’s earlier planned Trosly Farm represents the Caverns offers underground communities. The town was named exploration. The Linville Gorge town’s agricultural and culinary to honor William and John Linville, wilderness area attracts serious offerings. Owners Amos and Kaci who were reportedly killed by the hikers and rock climbers seeking Nidiffer received recognition Cherokee in 1766, reflecting the as 2020 North Carolina Small challenging outdoor experiences complex and often tragic history Farmers of the Year by NC A&T in a pristine natural setting. of European settlement in the State University Cooperative Linville Land Harbor provides mountains.

Extension, highlighting the residential options for those The East Tennessee and continued importance of considering full-time or part-time Western North Carolina Railroad agriculture in the local economy mountain living. This community served Linville from 1916 until and the innovation occurring in features its own golf course, tennis 1940, when major flooding washed and pickleball courts and various mountain farming operations, away the tracks and effectively while multiple Christmas tree amenities designed to support ended the railroad era. The former year-round or seasonal residents farms dot the community rail route was later converted into who want to enjoy the area’s fourlandscape, welcoming visitors to season beauty.

N.C. 105 in 1956, maintaining make memories by purchasing a TOWNS | Continued from page 24

tree and creating family memories around the holiday season that last a lifetime.

Each second weekend in July, the area of Linville and Grandfather Mountain swells to approximately 50,000 people as the Grandfather Mountain Highland Games take place over four days. The event showcases professional competitions, clan and ancestral Scottish pride and celebrates “America’s Braemar.”

Newland As the highest county seat east of the Mississippi River at 3,589 feet, Newland holds a unique distinction while serving as the governmental and commercial center of Avery County.

Incorporated in 1913, when Avery County was formed, the town was originally known as “Old Fields of Toe” because of its location in a See TOWNS | page 26

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a clubhouse dining facility, pro shop, and practice areas. Heritage broad valley at the headwaters of Park serves multiple community the Toe River. functions, housing the Cooperative The name “Toe” derives from Extension office and a 200-seat “Estatoe,” honoring a Native community building, and hosting American chief’s daughter who, events ranging from weekend according to legend, drowned rodeos to high school proms, herself in the river when forbidden local concerts, and the annual to marry a brave from another Agriculture and Heritage Fair each tribe. This story reflects the deep September. indigenous history that preceded European settlement in the region. Sugar Mountain The Village of Sugar Mountain Newland’s Civil War history specializes in outdoor recreation includes its use as a mustering and mountain adventure, offering place for troops, highlighting its visitors comprehensive fourstrategic importance from its season activities at an elevation early years onward. The town of 5,300 feet. This high altitude succeeded over three competing ensures spectacular mountain locations to become the county views and ideal skiing conditions. seat, a central location within the Sugar Mountain Resort is newly formed county.

North Carolina’s largest snowThe renovated courthouse, sports resort. It strives to provide originally constructed in 1913, the most electrifying skiing, overlooks Avery Square and is snowboarding, ice skating, tubing, surrounded by shops, churches and snowshoeing experience and a memorial honoring Avery possible. The 2025-26 season County veterans. The adjacent opened on Nov. 11 — one of the original jail has been converted earliest in recent memory. into the Avery County Historical The village-owned golf and Museum, where visitors can tennis club serves as a local explore preserved jail cells along favorite and regional destination. with exhibits detailing local The 18-hole golf course, voted history. the No. 2 short course in the USA, Newland hosts a regular features meticulously maintained farmers’ market, providing a greens and stunning mountain venue for local growers to sell vistas. fresh produce and handmade Tennis enthusiasts enjoy goods. Waterfalls Park, which six courts surfaced with fastwas purchased through the dry Har-tru clay, maintained to Southern Appalachian Highlands Conservancy, preserves a pristine professional standards. Daily location that offers picnicking and “friendly” matches accommodate men’s, women’s and mixed hiking opportunities just outside play, creating a welcoming town.

Mountain Glen Golf Club is environment for players of all skill a public course that provides levels. Professional instruction recreational amenities with its is available for those seeking to 18-hole layout, in addition to improve their games.

TOWNS | Continued from page 25

26 | WINTER TIMES • 2025-26

PHOTO COURTESY VISIT BANNER ELK

In 2025, the village of Sugar Mountain welcomed skiers and snowboarders earlier than usual due to a mid-November snow.

Sugar Mountain’s location adjacent to Grandfather Mountain and within Pisgah National Forest provides access to additional activities, including alpine coaster rides, gem mining, whitewater rafting, yummy fudge, ice cream, and other homemade treats, and extensive hiking trail networks.

Twenty-five restaurants within five miles offer diverse dining options, while local galleries and boutiques provide shopping opportunities that reflect regional culture and craftsmanship.

The towns and communities

of North Carolina’s High Country are an unparalleled blend of Appalachian heritage, natural beauty and contemporary mountain living. In winter, that character deepens — from the ski slopes of Avery County to the twinkling streets of Blowing Rock and Boone.

Whether gliding down a slope, exploring a quiet main street dusted in frost, or watching twilight settle over frozen peaks, visitors discover that the magic of winter here never truly fades — it simply waits for the next snowfall.

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The following winter weather driving tips from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration are key to ensuring a safe arrival at your destination if you have to travel.

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It’s harder to control or stop your vehicle on a slick or snow-covered surface, so slow down. In 2023, there were an estimated 101,390 police-reported traffic crashes that occurred when snow or sleet was present at the time of the crash. On the road, increase your following distance enough so that you’ll have plenty of time to stop for vehicles ahead of you.

Don’t crowd a snowplow or travel beside the truck. Snow plows See WEATHER | page 33

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32 | WINTER TIMES • 2025-26

GRAPHIC COURTESY OF NOAA

WEATHER | Continued from page 30

Stock Your Vehicle

Carry items in your vehicle to travel slowly, make wide turns, stop handle common winter drivingoften, overlap lanes, and exit the related tasks, and supplies you road frequently. might need in an emergency, What to Do in including: an Emergency • a snow shovel, broom, and ice If you are stopped or stalled in scraper; wintry weather, stay focused on • abrasive material (sand or kitty yourself and your passengers, your litter), in case your vehicle gets car and your surroundings. stuck in the snow; • Stay with your car and don’t • jumper cables, flashlight, overexert yourself. and warning devices (flares and • Let your car be seen. Put bright emergency markers); markers on the antenna or windows • first aid kit, including a and keep the interior dome light on. tourniquet; • Be mindful of carbon monoxide • blankets for protection from poisoning. Make sure your exhaust the cold; and pipe is clear of any snow and run • a cell phone and charger, water, your car only sporadically — just food, and any necessary medicine. long enough to stay warm. Don’t Gas Up or Plug It In run your car for long periods of Keep your gas tank close to full time with the windows up or in an enclosed space. whenever possible.

Similarly, for electric and hybrid-electric vehicles, it is important to keep your battery charged and minimize its drain.

In general, batteries with liquid electrolyte have reduced energy storage and delivery capabilities at lower temperatures, which is why most vehicle batteries use battery power for self-heating in low temperatures. The battery drain due to heating can be minimized by keeping your electric vehicle as warm as possible during freezing temperatures. A common way to do this is to plug your vehicle in at night during the winter, keeping the battery in its optimal temperature range.

Plan Your Route Check your local weather and traffic reports before heading out.

If your roads are not in good shape,

consider postponing non-essential travel until the roads are cleared.

If you do have to go out, make sure you are prepared in case you become delayed while traveling. If taking a long road trip when winter weather is forecast, consider leaving early or changing your departure time to avoid being on the roads during the worst of the storm.

Familiarize yourself with directions and maps before you go—even if you use a GPS—and let others know your route and anticipated arrival time. On longer trips, plan enough time to stop to stretch, get something to eat, check your phone, and change drivers or rest if you feel drowsy.

For more winter weather driving safety tips, visit www.nhtsa.gov/ winter-driving-tips#driving-inwinter-weather.

2025-26 • WINTER TIMES | 33

BEECH MOUNTAIN RESORT offers plenty of

WINTRY FUN highest ski resort in eastern North America. ocated high in the Blue Ridge In addition, the mountain offers Mountains, Beech Mountain 17 trails, including two terrain Ski Resort is surrounded by parks, and nine lifts that take riders beautiful mountain scenery and up the mountain. has become a hub for winter sports Like many other ski mountains, enthusiasts and families seeking Beech offers a variety of prices winter adventure. and packages depending on Opening in 1967, Beech when and how long you want Mountain offers 95 acres of ski to ski. One of the most enticing terrain to offer skiers of any options is the flex ticket, which, as its name implies, provides the skill level. At 5,506 feet, it is the

BY ZACH COLBURN

L

34 | WINTER TIMES • 2025-26

ultimate flexibility to start your ski or snowboard session whenever you want (within the hours of operation). The Flex Options come in 4-hour, 8-hour and 12-hour increments.

Hours throughout the year vary, with 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. in the early season, which is through the beginning of December. The regular season, which runs from Dec. 5 to March 8, offers longer hours during the week (9 a.m. to 9

PHOTO COURTESY SAM DEAN PHOTOGRAPHY

Patrons enjoyed the slopes during the season last winter.

p.m.) and on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday (9 a.m. to 10 p.m.).

“This season, guests can expect several improvements across Beech Mountain Resort. Beech Mountain Brewing Co Taproom See RESORT | page 36

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2025-26 • WINTER TIMES | 35

PHOTO COURTESY SAM DEAN PHOTOGRAPHY

An overview of Beech Mountain Resort.

multiple free and ticketed events, the Not So Gala Gala, Runs for and Grill has been completely Buns in March, and the Recess remodeled and the historic Red RECklESS Rail Jam on Dec. 7. We Baron Room received a refresh,” have weekday specials, and new said Talia Freeman, Director of this year added Locals Night on Marketing for Beech Mountain Mondays with $23 tickets.”

Resort, Inc. “We completed In addition, Beech Mountain exterior updates to the lodge, offers a terrain park, located in cafeteria, and rentals, added a For Pete’s Sake, with a tow rope. new Pisten Bully groomer, and It is designed for advanced riders upgraded our glycol cooling while offering opportunities system for the air compressors. We for all skill levels. Features are also opened a second location of routinely reshaped to provide First Chair Coffee Shop. fresh challenges to test anyone’s “Our winter lineup includes a freestyle skills. large New Year’s Eve celebration, January typically has the most our winter music series with snow, but no matter where you RESORT | Continued from page 34

36 | WINTER TIMES • 2025-26

go, Beech Mountain offers 100% coverage from its snowmaking machines, ensuring that no matter what the forecast is, there will be no shortage of fresh powder to shred on.

The park also offers tubing for anyone taller than 42 inches, and there are two options to choose from throughout the week; each session lasts 90 minutes.

There’s the standard tubing, which takes place during the day, and then there’s cosmic snow tubing, where you can slide under the stars, next to colorful lights and music, during evening sessions for a unique nighttime experience.

Beech Mountain offers a variety of restaurants and bars to kick back after a long day on the slopes.

There’s the Beech Mountain Brewing Co. Taproom and Grill, the 5,506’ Bar at the top of the mountain, a cafeteria (The Lodge), a cocktail bar (The Red Baron Room) and two coffee shops (First Chair Coffee Shop and Arcade).

There is also Playyard Provisions — an outdoor space for play and relaxation, perfect for families to unwind and enjoy snacks between runs.

Beech Mountain Brewing Co. See RESORT | page 37

RESORT | Continued from page 36

hosts a Winter Music Series featuring a diverse lineup of bands all season long. The brewery offers a full selection of craft beer and a full menu to enjoy with the music, which offers a unique experience after a day of skiing. The restaurant has also started offering brunch on Sundays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

In addition to the slopes and eateries and brewhouses, Beech Mountain also offers Ski Beech Sports — a one-stop shop for all skiing and snowboarding essentials, from high-quality apparel to top-notch equipment.

Beech Mountain Resort is located at 1007 Beech Mountain Parkway. For more information, visit www.beechmountainresort. com or call (828) 387-2011 Plenty of options off the slopes, including snowman making, are available at Beech Mountain Resort.

PHOTO COURTESY SAM DEAN PHOTOGRAPHY

2025-26 • WINTER TIMES | 37

38 | WINTER TIMES • 2025-26

SUGAR MOUNTAIN RESORT offers plenty of sweet

ADVENTURES & FUN

BY ZACH COLBURN

N

estled in the folds of the Blue Ridge Mountains, the Sugar Mountain Resort was the first resort to open for the 202526 season on Nov. 11 and looks forward to a season full of fun and memories.

A beloved destination for winter sports enthusiasts, Sugar Mountain contains activities for all ages and skill levels. Sugar Mountain has something for everyone, from skiing and snowboarding to tubing, ice skating, and snowshoeing.

Sugar Mountain’s history stretches back more than five decades, with its first runs and lifts opening in 1969, and it has expanded to become one of the Southeast’s premier winter resorts.

This winter brings several upgrades with three brand-new fully automated SMI Super Polecat snowmaking machines, as well as the installation of 20 new LED lights on the slopes.

“All 20 LED lights will be positioned on the Lower Fling Mile slope. Additionally, the massive snowmaking fleet will be joined by three brand-new, fully automated SMI Super Pole Cat snowmaking machines, piling up even more bright white snow on the slopes of Sugar Mountain,” Sugar Mountain said in a statement. “Two of the three new snowmaking machines will be placed along the Northridge

PHOTO COURTESY OF SUGAR MOUNTAIN RESORT

Snowtubing is one of the many activities, in addition to skiing and snowboarding, that can be enjoyed at Sugar Mountain.

Slope and one at the halfway point of Flying Mile; muralist Ashley Roberts has been busy all summer and fall decorating the Summit Express parking garage. From slope lights and snowfall, to the arts, Sugar Mountain Resorts lights up this winter.”

Mountain hours vary by activity, with the bulk of operations from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., with several

other sessions as viable options.

One of those is the Twilight Session from 12:30 to 10 p.m.

Tubing (10 a.m. to 10 p.m.), ice skating (10 a.m. to 10 p.m.), and snowshoeing are also available; check the website for updated details.

Ski and snowboard group lessons are available for all levels and abilities. Groups are put

together by ability level, with beginner group lessons taking priority.

Group lessons are an hour and a half. Group lessons are for skiers and snowboarders ages eight and up. Registration for group lessons is on the day, with a valid lift/ slope ticket, and ski/snowboard equipment is required to take a See SUGAR | page 40 2025-26 • WINTER TIMES | 39

SUGAR | Continued from page 39

lesson.

Events at the resort will really kick into high gear the weekend of Dec. 12-14 with SugarFest, which will coincide with a preseason ski clinic.

Sponsored by the Village of Sugar Mountain TDA and Ski Country Sports, SugarFest is a weekend full of fun that includes consumer ski/snowboard equipment demos, live music performed by Classic Highway, fireworks at dusk, a preseason ski clinic, appearances by Sweetie and Sugar Bear, and lodging specials.

Guests are also encouraged to indulge in a hot chocolate and whipped cream bar, a safari soup and North Carolina BBQ during SugarFest.

The Preseason Ski Clinic is three days of nonstop individual ski-racing instruction. Clinic includes a three-day lift ticket, coaching fees, video analysis, and a scrumptious Saturday night dinner.

Daily participation is welcome.

That will be followed up by a visit from Santa on Dec. 16-24 and a New Year’s Eve Celebration on Dec. 31.

The start of 2026 will continue all the excitement of 2025 with the High Country Junior Race Series Giant Slalom on Jan. 4. That will lead into the 20-year celebration of the Sugar Mountain Ski & Snowboard Adult Race.

The Sugar Mountain Ski & Snowboard adult race league brings together teams of recreational skiers and snowboarders for weekly competition and camaraderie. The six-week series begins Monday, Jan. 5 and concludes on Monday, 40 | WINTER TIMES • 2025-26

PHOTO COURTESY OF SUGAR MOUNTAIN RESORT

A snowboarder hitting Terrain Park at Sugar Mountain.

Feb. 9, when an awards party is held at Sugar Mountain Ski Resort.

The top overall ski and snowboard team will take home the High Country Cup. When not on the slopes or in the snow, guests can take a break at the Sugar Mountain Resort dining spots, including an outdoor grill on deck (weather permitting) and an Annex Snack Bar. There’s a 350-seat Cafeteria (open daily) and a 250-seat “Top Floor” Cafeteria (open when needed), and there’s also the Last Run Lounge Restaurant.

The resort is located at 1009 Sugar Mountain Dr, Sugar Mountain, NC 28604. For more information, visit skisugar.com.

PHOTO COURTESY OF SUGAR MOUNTAIN RESORT

Sessions to enjoy snowshoeing are available throughout the week (3 p.m. on Monday, Wednesday and Friday, and 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. on Saturday).

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Scan Me!

2025-26 • WINTER TIMES | 41

APPALACHIAN SKI MTN. excited for another season of

MEMORIES

PHOTO COURTESY APPALACHIAN SKI MTN

Appalachian Ski Mtn. is one of three area ski resorts in the High Country.

in the Southeast Region.

With recent additions to their ver the last 50-plus years, equipment three years ago, the Appalachian Ski Mtn. has ski resort has provided improved become a focal point for snow surfaces. winter sports enthusiasts, offering “App Ski Mtn. has been focused a wide range of recreational on a variety of projects that guests opportunities. can appreciate during their visit The facility has one of the for the 2025-26 season,” App Ski greatest snowmaking pump Mtn. stated in a recent post on its capacities per acre of any ski resort website. “As always, snowmaking

BY ZACH COLBURN

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42 | WINTER TIMES • 2025-26

has been added on several slopes to ensure an even deeper, more consistent base depth. Select existing snow guns have been converted into auto guns, which utilize an onboard weather monitor and make continuous adjustments to maximize both quality and quantity of snow output. A new Pisten Bully Park Pro 400 snowcat joins the fleet at ASM for 25-26,

to provide the best snow surface possible on a daily basis.”

Opening in 1962 as the Blowing Rock Ski Lodge, it officially became Appalachian Ski Mtn. in 1968.

According to Appalachian Ski Mtn., more than 1 million people have been taught to ski or snowboard through the See MEMORIES | page 44

Celebrating 92 Years of Operation Panoramic Views

Panoramic Views

Observation ObservationTower Tower Short ShortWalking WalkingTrails Trails WheelChair ChairAccessible Accessible Wheel CR ITTE ER R FFR RIIEENNDDLY LY

PhotoGallery Gallery Photo GiftShops Shops 432 The Rock Road, Blowing Rock, NC 28645 Gift 828.295.7111. TheBlowingRock.com

“Enjoy the Legend” “Enjoy the Legend” NORTH CAROLINA’S OLDEST TRAVEL ATTRACTION, SINCE 1933

432 The Rock Road, Blowing Rock, NC 28605 828.295.7111. TheBlowingRock.com 2025-26 • WINTER TIMES | 43

MEMORIES | Continued from page 42 also available for ages 8 and up.

French-Swiss Ski College since its inception in 1969.

One member who has come through there is Luke Winkelmann, a current member of the U.S. Ski and Snowboard team and a native of Blowing Rock.

Group and private lessons are taught in a safe, fun, and friendly environment. For nearly as long as the ski resort has been in business, it has provided supplemental services to aid skiers and snowboarders, starting at age 6, in developing their talents through qualified training.

There are two levels to choose from — Beginner I (those who have never skied or snowboarded) and Beginner II (those who have skied or snowboarded before and need help turning and stopping on the beginner trail).

Each one-hour group lesson, with times of 10 a.m., 11:15 a.m., 12:30 p.m., 2:30 p.m., 6:15 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. — is $35 person with gratuities not included. Each small class is six people or fewer.

Intermediate Workshops are

Nearly all instructional packages include group instruction, slope tickets, and equipment rental.

Skiers of all ages and skill levels can choose from a dozen slopes at Appalachian Ski Mtn. One of those is Orchard Run, the resort’s longest run at a half-mile.

More technical slopes include Hard Core, Thin Slice, Upper Big Appal, Lower Big Appel, and Strudel.

Two children’s programs are also offered: Ski Wee (for ages 4 to 10) and Cruiser Camp (for ages 7 to 12).

Reservations are required for skiing, snowboarding, ice skating, and equipment rentals, but season memberships are also available.

Clothing rental, childcare, park passes, and parking are also available and can be secured online.

One benefit of scheduling activities ahead of time is that guests will spend more time on the slopes and less time at the ticket booth or lodge. If individuals do elect for more wait time, there is a gatehouse with a sizable covered

PHOTO BY ZACH COLBURN

Appalachian Ski Mtn. serves as the home of the Special Olympics Southeast Winter Games for Alpine Skiing and Snowboarding.

entryway that shields guests from the weather, and multiple lanes to form lines, reducing wait times.

Appalachian Ski Mtn. and App Terrain Park will also hold three Signature Shred for the Cup Series competitions on Jan. 4 (Smith/686 Shred for the Cup Rail Jam), Jan. 25 (Arbor Shred for the Cup Big Air) and Feb. 8 (Volcom / Burton / Anon Shred for the Cup Slopestyle Finals).

Jan. 31 and Feb. 1, ASM will

offer the USASA Series for skiers and snowboarders of all ages and abilities. There will be tons going on, with participants having the chance to qualify for the USASA Nationals in Colorado.

Appalachian Ski Mountain will also serve as the home of the Special Olympics Southeast Winter Games for Alpine Skiing and Snowboarding. That will take place on Feb. 8-10.

PHOTO BY NICK FOGELMAN

Appalachian Ski Mtn. in Blowing Rock has 12 slopes and covers 46,000 square feet. It also features six lifts and an ice skating rink.

44 | WINTER TIMES • 2025-26

P L A N YO U R

adventure AT C H E TO L A . C O M

From Guided Fly Fishing Trips, Tranquil Spa Days, and Clay Shooting at the Sporting Reserve, Chetola Resort Offers an Adventure for Everyone.

BLOWING ROCK NORTH CAROLINA

2025-26 • WINTER TIMES | 45

Photo by Nick McCann

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WINTER on the

PARKWAY

Healing landscapes, open roads and cautious travel visitors back to familiar overlooks and trails just in time for the ach year, the Blue Ridge season’s quiet beauty.

Parkway welcomes millions of According to the National Park visitors into the heart of the Service, recovery is unfolding Appalachian Mountains, guiding in three major phases. Phase them through a landscape rich 1, focused on stabilizing and with diverse flora and fauna reopening heavily impacted areas, and sweeping mountain vistas. is set to wrap up going into this Whether you’re seeking a scenic fall, with more than 48 miles winter drive or a peaceful outdoor restored across western North escape, the Parkway remains one Carolina. Phase 2 and Phase 3— of the region’s most cherished scheduled through fall 2026—will year-round destinations. tackle the most complex repair Last September, however, zones, including 21 landslide Hurricane Helene delivered one sites between milepost 318.2 and of the most devastating blows 323.4 near Linville Falls and 23 in the road’s nearly 90-year additional sites between milepost history. Torrential rain and violent 336.7 and 351.9, spanning the winds carved deep scars into the Little Switzerland and Mount landscape—triggering landslides, Mitchell region. uprooting thousands of trees, and While full recovery will take washing out critical sections of time, the road ahead is bright. roadway. In the storm’s aftermath, Large portions of the Parkway all 469 miles of the Parkway were remain open, safe, and as stunning forced to close for two weeks, as ever, offering winter travelers and many segments remained the chance to enjoy frost-kissed inaccessible for months as crews forests, quiet overlooks, and the worked to clear debris and assess peaceful Appalachian charm that damage. has made the Parkway an icon for Now, a little over a year generations. later, the Blue Ridge Parkway is The Parkway’s high elevations entering winter with renewed can experience sudden weather resilience. Thanks to ongoing changes, icy patches, and restoration efforts, most of the See PARKWAY | page 49 road has reopened, welcoming

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Smart Savings Tips for a Cozy Winter Comfort at home doesn’t have to mean high costs.

Here are a few tips to help you SAVE! Install a programmable HVAC thermostat.

Turn off lights that aren’t being used.

Wash dishes and clothes in cold water.

Replace your air filters regularly, about every two months.

On sunny days keep your curtains drawn.

In the winter months take advantage of the warmth from natural light.

Block drafts around doors or windows by replacing weatherstripping or with a rolled-up towel.

Wait until your dishwasher is full before starting a wash cycle.

Prep meals for the week and store leftovers in the freezer.

Bake with glass or ceramic pans.

Don’t peek in the oven while baking! (also a good baking tip!)

More Money-Saving Tips Available at BlueRidgeEnergy.com

48 | WINTER TIMES • 2025-26

PHOTO COURTESY NPS

During the winter months, portions of the Blue Ridge Parkway may be closed when it is covered with snow and ice.

PARKWAY | Continued from page 47

the Parkway’s most tranquil—and often most magical—season. occasional closures for safety.

As winter settles into the Visitors are encouraged to check mountains, the Parkway invites real-time road conditions through visitors to return, explore, and the National Park Service before witness a landscape still healing, heading out, carry extra layers and yet undeniably hopeful. Winter emergency supplies, and avoid may not bring the fiery reds driving at dawn or dusk when and golds that define the fall temperatures drop quickly. With season, but it offers its own the proper preparation, winter enchantment—soft blankets of snow, shimmering ice crystals, travelers can safely experience

and long, quiet stretches of road framed by frosted mountain ridges.

To plan your trip or find maps and information — including any road closures — visit www. blueridgeparkway.org and experience America’s Favorite Drive.

SOME HISTORY AND KEY LOCATIONS

Stretching 469 miles through the Appalachian Mountains, the Blue Ridge Parkway is one of the most iconic drives in America.

Known as “America’s Favorite Drive,” the mountain route offers visitors beautiful views and cultural heritage, immersing travelers in the unique natural environment of the High Country.

See PARKWAY | page 50 2025-26 • WINTER TIMES | 49

PHOTO COURTESY NPS

This picture shows how beautiful the Parkway looks covered in snow, but it’s not the best for driving. This is a portion of the BRP near Blowing Rock.

the diverse wildlife, vegetation and geological features of the Work began on the project, Blue Ridge Mountains. originally called the Appalachian Drivers can visit any of the Scenic Highway, in 1935, and many parks connected by the almost all of it was completed by Parkway that feature mountain 1966. The Parkway winds through trails, waterfalls, lakes and Southern Virginia and Western campgrounds. Be sure to stop at North Carolina, highlighting the the many overlooks to enjoy lunch Blue Ridge Mountains. Millions of and take in all that the Blue Ridge visitors enjoy the bright autumn has to offer. foliage and wildflowers that Near Blowing Rock, you blanket the area each year. can find Moses H. Cone Manor It covers a wide range and Estate. The area features of habitats unique to the the original home of the Cone Appalachian Mountains, and family, prominent figures in the visitors can be sure to encounter area’s economic development.

PARKWAY | Continued from page 49

50 | WINTER TIMES • 2025-26

The mansion sits atop a hill with beautiful views of the surrounding lakes and carriage roads. Nearby, a trail leads up to an observation tower with stunning views of Grandfather Mountain, Boone and Blowing Rock.

The Linville Gorge, in Burke County, is another popular destination. It is the deepest gorge east of the Grand Canyon. Linville Falls is one of the most famous waterfalls in the Blue Ridge and hosts 350,000 visitors annually.

This area features campgrounds, trails and nearby fishing spots.

Mount Mitchell, in Yancey

County, is the highest mountain peak in the eastern U.S. at 6,684 ft. It’s located in the 1,855-acre Mt. Mitchell State Park, which is accessible only via the Parkway.

This park includes trails, picnic spots, an observation deck, and a natural history museum and is a popular destination for travelers.

Other highlights include the Brinegar Cabins, Daniel Boone’s Trace, Julian Price Memorial Park, and Flat Rock. The Parkway also features several other attractions, events, restaurants, lodging, and adventures.

BEECHMOUNTAINRESORT.COM

BEECHMOUNTAINBREWINGCO.COM 2025-26 • WINTER TIMES | 51

High Country

WINTER HIKING

TIPS

LINVILLE-CENTRAL RESCUE SQUAD, MOUNTAIN RESCUE TEAM

With good gear, thoughtful planning, and the right mindset, you’ll improve your chances of returning safely.

Roaring Creek, and many others offer a great wintertime hiking Mountain Rescue Team experience. he High Country is truly a Be aware that Profile Trail in beautiful winter wonderland, Grandfather Mountain State Park and hiking is still a great way to is currently closed because of experience the outdoors The trails damage from Hurricane Helene. of Daniel Boone Scout Trail, Rough Grandfather Mountain State Park Ridge, Beacon Heights, Hebron can be accessed from trails off the Falls, Yellow Mountain Gap Trail, Blue Ridge Parkway, such as the accessing the Appalachian Trail via Daniel Boone Scout Trail.

BY LINVILLE-CENTRAL RESCUE SQUAD,

T

52 | WINTER TIMES • 2025-26

Winter hiking in the High Country demands more than enthusiasm — it requires preparedness.

The volunteer members of the Mountain Rescue Team at the Linville-Central Rescue Squad offer the following tips to be prepared for winter hiking.

Let someone know your route and estimated return time.

Be aware of rapidly changing conditions—snow, ice, wind and shorter daylight all increase risk.

Layer your clothing and watch for signs of hypothermia or frostbite.

Carry traction devices for your boots because even well-used trails may become slick. Keep your phone charged and a batterySee HIKING | page 53

HIKING | Continued from page 52

pack handy—cold drains batteries fast. Bring extra food and water because exertion burns calories quicker in the cold, and you may need more time to complete your hike than expected.

If you are lost or injured, call or text 911. Once 911 is notified, you should try to stay in the same location if it is safe to do so. Also, respond to any text received from a search & rescue team.

They can send you a text with a link that may be able to receive the GPS coordinates of your location or approximate location.

“When you’re heading into the backcountry during the winter, you have to respect the terrain—and respect how fast LINVILLE-CENTRAL RESCUE SQUAD, MOUNTAIN RESCUE TEAM

See HIKING | page 59

Winter hiking in the High Country demands more than enthusiasm — it requires preparedness so you don’t end up injured in the cold.

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Ain’t Nothing Like the

REAL

THING Choose-and-cut Christmas tree farms a vital key to holiday experience PHOTO COURTESY OF FROSTY’S CHOOSE & CUT

It takes anywhere from 7 to 10 years to harvest a Christmas tree that measures 6 to 7 feet tall.

the allure of the holiday as jolly ol’ Santa Claus himself. ots of families share memories Choose and cut Christmas tree of hopping into the family farms in the High Country feature car and driving to a nearby locally grown Fraser fir trees and Christmas tree farm to pick out are quite popular this time of the the perfect tree for that Christmas year. Visitors can wander through season. Along with the presents, the tree fields or even ride on a bows and feasts fit for a king, trailer behind a tractor looking for the selection and decoration of a the tree they want to take home.

Christmas tree is every bit a part of Several farms have even doubled

BY JAMIE SHELL

L

down on the experiential aspect of the search by offering hot cocoa or other amenities as guests peruse for the perfect tree.

Christmas tree farms in Ashe, Avery, Alleghany, and Watauga counties are among the top five largest Christmas tree-growing counties in North Carolina. That is why this area is easily one of the most popular choose and cut

destinations in the entire country.

As a whole, North Carolina ranks as the nation’s second-largest Christmas tree producer, with approximately 850 growers cultivating more than 50 million trees annually. The vast majority of these iconic Fraser firs come from the high-elevation counties See TREES | page 57 2025-26 • WINTER TIMES | 55

COME EXPERIENCE THE DIFFERENCE WHEN YOU CHOOSE

ROAN

O NTAIN, TN

825 S- E, ROAN O NTAIN, TN (42 ) 2- 5

BAKERSVILLE, NC 604 S NORTH CAROLINA 226, BAKERSVILLE, NC (828) 820-8058

HEALTH • WELLNESS • VITALITY • TRUST 56 | WINTER TIMES • 2025-26

PHOTO COURTESY JONAS RIDGE TREE FARM

Jonas Ridge Tree Farm is a family choose-and-cut farm that, for the past 21 years, has offered customers the opportunity to take home the perfect Christmas tree.

damaged infrastructure, washed out roads and destroyed thousands of Ashe, Avery, Alleghany, Watauga of trees across the region. Yet and beyond, where the cool mountain farmers demonstrated mountain climate creates ideal remarkable resilience, working growing conditions. These trees tirelessly to ensure trees reached require up to 13 years of careful families across the nation. tending before they’re ready to Cartner’s Christmas Tree Farm, grace family living rooms. despite losing approximately 7,000 The 2024 holiday season trees, still provided the official carried particular significance White House Fraser fir in 2024. following Hurricane Helene’s Frosty’s Choose & Cut farm, devastating impact in late located on Beaver Creek School September of that year. The storm Road in West Jefferson, is one TREES | Continued from page 55

of the largest choose and cut operations in the High Country.

The farm typically gets so crowded that local law enforcement agencies have officers standing by to help direct traffic off of the small two-lane road on which the farm is located.

Located between Deep Gap and Boone, just off of U.S. Highway 421, is Appalachian Christmas Mountain Farms. The farm offers a variety of different tree sizes for people to choose from, as well

as wreaths, Christmas décor, and even a hayride experience to enjoy the beautiful views that the farm has to offer. Local vendors also supply the farm with jams, jellies, honey and other products that people can purchase along with their Christmas tree.

Some of the other choose and cut farms in the High Country include Appalachian Evergreens (Blowing Rock), Bear Wallow See TREES | page 59 2025-26 • WINTER TIMES | 57

The High Country’s #1 Store For a New Mattress and a Better Night’s Sleep

Visit our Stressless Gallery at our Foscoe location.

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Boone: 828-264-2402 Foscoe: 828-963-5503 WWW.BLACKBERRYMATTRESS.COM

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TREES | Continued from page 57

Choose & Cut (Sugar Grove), Bobby D’s Christmas Trees (Newland), C and J Christmas Trees (Boone), Cartner Christmas Tree Farm (Newland), Christmas Corner CNC/C&G Nursery (Newland), Circle C Tree Farms (Boone), Clawson’s Choose and Cut (Boone), Cornett Deal Christmas Tree Farm (Vilas), Cranberry Creek Farms (Laurel Springs), Jonas Ridge Tree Farm (Jonas Ridge), Lil’ Grandfather Choose and Cut (Laurel Springs), Mistletoe Meadows Christmas Trees (Laurel Springs), Panoramic View Christmas Tree Farm (Boone), Peak Farms (Jefferson), Reece Farm & Nursery (Elk Park), Snowy Mountain Christmas Tree Farm (Newland), Stone Mountain Farms (Trade, Tennessee), Sugar Plum Farm (Newland), Two D’s Nursery (Newland) Wintergreen Farm (Mountain City, Tennessee) and Wishon Evergreens (Sparta).

For more information on the choose-and-cut Christmas tree industry in northwest North Carolina, visit the NC Christmas PHOTO COURTESY APPALACHIAN EVERGREENS Tree Association website at Appalachian Evergreens, Inc. is donating $5 from each choose-and-cut Christmas tree sold, as well as matching any additional contributions made by its customers to the area nonprofit Western Youth Network. ncchristmastrees.com/.

HIKING | Continued from page 53

weather can turn,” Linville-Central Mountain Rescue Team Volunteer Christopher Brown said.

Here are the 10 essentials to bring along on a winter hike: • Proper footwear with traction devices (micro-spikes) • Fully-charged cell phone plus a battery-pack/portable charger • Extra layers of clothing (insulation layer, hat, gloves,

shell—critical for winter hiking) • Sufficient food and highenergy snacks • Ample water (and a way to treat water if necessary) • Headlamp or flashlight with spare batteries for each person • Shelter (Tarp and/or emergency blanket) • Navigation device (GPS device, map and compass) • First-aid kit including supplies

for cold-weather injuries • Whistle or signaling device Winter scenery is beautiful, but the mountains demand respect.

With good gear, thoughtful planning, and the right mindset, you’ll improve your chances of returning safely—and enjoy the crisp clarity of the backcountry winter world.

Linville-Central Rescue Squad’s Mountain Rescue Team is an all-

volunteer, donor supported nonprofit organization with the mission to locate, provide wilderness medical treatment, stabilize, and transport patients from difficult, mountainous terrain in Avery County and as requested by surrounding counties.

They were voted as the 2024 winner of the Defender Service Award in the Search, Rescue, & Emergency Services category among search and rescue teams in North America. Linvillecentralrescue.org 2025-26 • WINTER TIMES | 59

HIGH COUNTRY

THEATERS bring a fun energy to the stage

PHOTO BY MOSS BRENNAN

Appalachian Theatre, located on King Street in downtown Boone, offers a wide variety of programming throughout the year.

BY NATHAN HAM

W

hether it’s a musical, a dramatic show, or even something as simple as poetry reading, the many theaters in the High Country have some interesting characters to offer for your viewing pleasure.

The Appalachian Theatre of 60 | WINTER TIMES • 2025-26

the High Country on King Street in Boone has captivated folks for decades with shows, music, movie screenings and more.

The theatre originally opened in 1938, and after a brief hiatus, the Appalachian Theatre came back to life in 2019 and has been rolling right along ever since.

Some of the upcoming shows

at the Appalachian Theatre of the High Country include Christmas with Darin & Brooke Aldridge (Dec. 19), Chosen Road’s Appalachian Christmas (Dec. 20), Andrea Chenier (Dec. 28), StevieMac - A Fleetwood Mac & Stevie Nicks Experience (Jan. 9), I Puritani (Jan. 10), The Magic Flute (Jan. 25), Broadway in Love (Feb. 6),

Cinderella (Feb. 14), Tuba Skinny (Feb. 20) and The Red Hot Chilli Pipers (Feb. 26).

For schedule updates and ticket information, visit www.apptheatre. org.

The Ashe County Little Theatre is an all-volunteer, See THEATERS | page 61

PHOTO BY MARTIN SEELIG COURTESY OF ASHE COUNTY LITTLE THEATRE

Cassondra Greer and Sommer Ray during one of the many scenes in “Who’s on First?” that was presented earlier in 2025 by the Ashe County Little Theatre.

volunteer, nonprofit performance group that has put on several shows, community-based group that including most recently presents performances year“Willy Wonka” and “Too Many round at the Ashe Civic Center Detectives at the Murder in West Jefferson. The group Mansion” in 2025. Before recently shared their 2026 that, the group presented schedule of performances, “Matilda the Musical,” “Steel beginning with “Exit Laughing: Magnolias,”, “Wizard of Oz” on March 26-28. Next up, the and “Shrek the Musical” in Ashe County Little Theatre will their lineup of shows. present “Shrek the Musical” Currently, the BeanStalk on June 25-28. The final two Community Theatre has performances of 2026 will be not shared an upcoming “Turn of the Screw” Sept. 17performance list for 2026. To 20 and “Elf the Musical” Dec. keep up with their upcoming 3-6, 2026. shows and for additional For ticket information, information, visit their website showtimes and more, visit at www.beanstalknc.com/ www.ashecountylittletheatre. or follow them on Facebook org. at www.facebook.com/ bsctboone.

BeanStalk Community Theatre in Boone is another Ensemble Stage in Banner THEATERS | Continued from page 60

PHOTO BY TODD BUSH

The 99-seat Hahn Auditorium at Ensemble Stage in Banner Elk is often filled to capacity for topflight performances throughout the year.

Elk came to life in 2009 and has been presenting a variety of musicals, comedies and dramas over the past 15 years. Located at the Historic Banner Elk School, the nonprofit theater group hopes to continue building the performance talent in the High Country, especially among youth and young adults. Previously in 2025, Ensemble Stage presented “The Smell of the Kill,” “Alice in Wonderland,” “Bakersfield Mist,” “Alive and Well,” “A Red Plaid Shirt” and “Hitchcock Radio Hour.”

To keep an eye out for the 2026 production schedule and for additional information, visit www.ensemblestage.com/.

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www.stayhihotels.com 828-264-2457 • www.highlandhillscabins.com 2025-26 • WINTER TIMES | 61

PRESENTS

A Blowing Rock Chamber Event

Thursday, January 22 - Sunday, January 25, 2025 Join Blowing Rock as we celebrate the fun side of winter with the 28th annual Winterfest!

Many events are kid-friendly - bring the whole family!

WinterFeast • Polar Bear Plunge Beer Garden • Hendrick Hunt Rotary Chilly Chili Challenge Winter Paws Dog Show Wine Tasting & Auction Ice Stroll • Ice Carvings

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BLOWING ROCK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE 828/295-7851 • BlowingRockWinterFest.com

62 | WINTER TIMES • 2025-26

THE APPALACHIAN

THEATRE A centerpiece of downtown Boone

BY RILEY GLEASON

A

s winter settles over the High Country, the Appalachian Theatre in downtown Boone has quite the lineup for another festive season filled with music, storytelling, and holiday tradition.

The theatre has entertained the community during the colder months, and this year’s winter schedule brings together a wide mix of performances that offer something for everyone.

The Appalachian Theatre of the High Country is one of the crown jewels of downtown Boone. The iconic theater, an independent non-profit organization, serves as the entertainment hub for the region.

App Theatre hosts concerts, films, plays, camps, forums and other events. It first opened on Nov. 14, 1938, and operated for about seven decades until it closed in 2007. On Oct. 14, 2019, the fully renovated ATHC reopened to the public.

The Appalachian Theatre of the High Country’s mission is to engage, entertain and educate.

App Theatre is under the guidance of Executive Director Suzanne Livesay; she has held the position since August 2022.

The governing body of the Appalachian Theatre of the High Country is the Board of Trustees, which consists of up to 27 elected volunteer members serving staggered, three-year terms.

With many events each week, the Appalachian Theatre is a great place to take in a great performance on a cold winter night.

The following are events at the Appalachian Theatre. For more information on events and to purchase tickets, visit www. apptheatre.org/.

New Year’s Eve @ The AppTheatre with Thurston Howell (Dec. 31)

Ring in 2026 at the historic Appalachian Theatre as we set sail on a smooth voyage with Charlotte’s own Thurston Howell, Your Premier Yacht Rock Spectacular! Picture this: a musical escapade that whisks you away on a nostalgic odyssey through the smooth sounds of the 70s and 80s, sprinkled with a dash of modern zest. The bridge crew of Captain J.P. “Silky” Lents on keys, alongside the dynamic duo of First Mate Cameron Love on guitar and Activities Director Leona Love on percussion, will

PHOTO SUBMITTED

The Appalachian Theatre is the centerpiece of downtown Boone.

have you feeling the wind in your hair with their soaring vocals! And the engine room rhythm section of Commodore Jasper Tenpenny on bass, Phineas Wigglesworth IX on drums, and Dr. Artemis Thatch on Sax, will have you dancing the night away on the deck! Thurston Howell crafts a symphony of classic hits all night long, from Toto and Michael McDonald, all the way to Hall and Oates and Steely Dan!

talking about for years to come.

Django Reinhardt Birthday Celebration - The Page Brothers (Jan. 23)

Django Reinhardt, the legendary jazz guitarist and the music is pioneered as “Gypsy Jazz”, celebrated through an annual birthday tribute concert by local musicians, The Page Brothers, consisting of Boone-based twin brothers Andy and Zack Page, StevieMac: A Fleetwood Mac performing a “Hot Club” style of & Stevie Nicks Experience jazz modeled after Reinhardt’s (Jan. 9) classic ensemble, joined onstage StevieMac authentically and with other impressive musicians to flawlessly pays tribute to the honor the spirit of Django! legends of Fleetwood Mac. In The Red Hot Chilli Pipers this mesmerizing production, (Feb. 26) StevieMac replicates the most Bagpipes with attitude, drums popular hits and memorable with a Scottish accent, and a live performances spanning the show so hot it carries a health decades-long career of Fleetwood warning! The Red Hot Chilli Pipers, Mac as well as the solo careers a multi-platinum, award-winning of Stevie Nicks, Christie McVie Celtic rock band from Scotland, and Lindsay Buckingham. Time are bringing their signature period wardrobe, multimedia and “BAGROCK” sound to Boone. story-telling transport guests to Their energetic and infectious the specific eras being celebrated, music appeals to all ages, with immersing the audience in a multisensory experience you will be See APP | page 65 2025-26 • WINTER TIMES | 63

Take a

(WINTER)

HIKE!

Service: • Snowshoes lthough blazing new trails and other traction in the High Country during devices are FILE PHOTO the summer months involves recommended for ice Bass Lake in Blowing Rock makes for a beautiful and safe wintertime stroll. dodging sporadic thunderstorms, and snow. maneuvering around thick foliage • Due to winter the picnic area before veering right Boone, Meat Camp, Buffalo, and on low-hanging limbs, and conditions, some trails may not be Paddy Mountain, with additional near the weather monitoring tower exchanging awkward pleasantries marked or maintained, and some trailheads planned for Jefferson and and continuing along the ridgeline. with other hikers on narrow trails trails may not be maintained during West Jefferson.

Hikers should be mindful of the - welcomed pets from the doggos other parts of the year. Be aware Paddy Mountain is one of the park’s posted hours near the gate aside - winter hiking offers ardent that it is common courtesy not to trail system’s newest additions, - typically at sunset - and avoid the trample on already-made crosstrailsmen more room to navigate with more easements planned mountain on inclement weather country ski tracks, as it can be and explore, as long as you can imminently, allowing year-round days. Prevailing sunny days in dangerous to skiers. withstand the windchill. access for hikers to traverse the West Jefferson can beguile hikers • Consider packing an extra Many prominent High Country mountain’s south slope near as Mt. Jefferson’s peak jaunts into layer (such as dri-fit leggings park trails remain open during the Radiohill, overlooking West low-hanging clouds. Many locals winter months, weather permitting, and tops as a base layer to wear Jefferson.

A freshly paved parking awaken to the mountain’s frosty underneath your hiking gear). for hikers to explore nature’s lot provides ample parking for peaks in the morning while the • Understand the route, as post-autumnal metamorphosis. guests below the trailhead.

While valleys stay dry. landscapes can look and feel very Bare naked tree limbs offer hikers most sections of the trail are rated Visitors can access the park’s different in winter and spring. Snow a new perspective on the wooded as easy or moderate, hikers should entrance by turning right at the can be deeper once you’re off the trail’s layout as the cool, crisp early watch for dislodged rocks and second intersection past the trail. winter air fills their lungs with a downed tree limbs from the High primary Walmart traffic light • Avoid and stay off ice, as rejuvenated, fresh breath before Country’s notorious gusty winds frozen streams and lakes can intersection. tackling the next steep grade. as they sidewind to the mountain’s have thin ice, which is dangerous.

While trailheads and peak before descending back to the Weather and trail conditions can passageways are often covered parking lot to complete the 3.1-mile Jumping Off Trail change quickly as snow falls and with soft leaf bedding, colorful High Country hiking is one of loop. melts. trail markers remain to guide your the few season-spanning activities • If you’re not comfortable trek through switchbacks and long Mt Jefferson that offer panoramic views of the with a trail, don’t be afraid to turn stretches of open trail where it’s An adjoining connector to the surrounding mountains and valleys around and go another route. easy to become lost in thought NPSP, Mt. Jefferson offers a similar in adjacent counties. Denuded • Watch out for wildlife, always and in your sense of direction - as mountaintop trail loop system treelines in winter also allow hikers keep your distance, and practice hikers transcend introspection and across the summit with one-mile unobstructed views of typically elevation in enjoying winter’s subtle safe wildlife viewing practices. loop deviations that rendezvous hidden forests and remote vantage splendor. near the mountain’s rocky Jefferson points.

Northern Peaks State Park Before venturing out, here overlook, which allows hikers to The Northern Peaks State Park The Jumping Off Trail, located are a few things to consider with catch their breath after ascending is expanding to connect distant See HIKE | page 65 safety trips from the National Park ridgelines between Howard’s Knob, the steep hill at the trail’s head at

BY JESSE CAMPBELL

A

64 | WINTER TIMES • 2025-26

summer hiking boots. Most trails are located within a few miles of the one mile from the N.C. 16 and 163 regional county seats’ population intersection along the Ashe-Wilkes centers. county lines on the Blue Ridge Elk Knob State Park is one of Parkway, tests hikers’ lapsed cardio the more remote and potentially with a brisk half-mile excursion challenging winter hiking trails. The before leveling off near an overlook park is located approximately 20 for views of Wilkesboro, Pilot minutes, 11.2 miles from Boone, off Mountain, and Stone Mountain’s N.C. 194 and Meat Camp Road. 7 signature rocky outcrop. Hikers can a.m. to 6 p.m. daily from November then return to the overlook parking through February. The park is lot and continue downhill toward closed on Christmas Day. the parkway’s overpass on the Like most state park trails, Elk county line.

Knob State Park is located more than 2,000 feet above nearby Elk Knob State Park communities and towns, creating While High Country winter distinctly separate microsystems hiking comes with caveats and with temperatures that quickly dip enduring treks, the occasional pitfalls — like prolonged cold snaps in the afternoon and increased precipitation chances. that zap energy and motivation —each trail system is different in Beech Mountain terms of difficulty and accessibility Although skiing, snowboarding, for novice outdoor enthusiasts. and tubing are the High Country’s Most state-maintained trails premier winter sports, winter are enjoyable for hikers of various hiking is in the upper echelons for skill and fortitude. Some trails are mountain adventures, regardless steeper and more challenging for of the changing seasons. Like other pinnacle trail systems, Beech trekkers looking to dust off their HIKE | Continued from page 64

Mountain offers a vast network for year-round access. The network consists of 27 public trails, including the Emerald Outback system and trails near Buckeye Lake. While the leaves have long departed, Beech Mountain’s trails offer a plethora of wildlife sightings, including squirrels, deer, rabbits, and the occasional black bear. Travel in 4x4 AWD vehicles is recommended during the colder months when Beech Mountain’s snowfall totals tower above that of Boone and Banner Elk.

Flat Rock Loop Trail

FILE PHOTO

Make time for the outdoors, and dress appropriately. This was a snowy hike on Elk Knob one morning after a big snowfall.

well. Visit nps.gov to monitor Blue Ridge Parkway closures.

The Flat Rock Loop Trail, located at milepost 308.3 in Avery County, is another Parkway gem for winter hiking.

The short three-quarter-mile loop offers a brief winter hiking sample in the High Country without the all-day commitment. Parkway hikes are the ideal side trip for winter drives along the Blue Ridge Parkway. Traveling on the Parkway?

Make sure to stop by Grandfather Mountain for some great hikes as

Situated on top of a hill, the luxurious Flat Top Manor looks down across five acres of apple orchards leading to Bass Lake, which is easily accessed on Route 221 south (a.k.a. Yonahlossee Road) just outside of Blowing Rock. On wintery days, it can be the perfect place to hike as it is mostly flat.

bagpipers and traditional marching America! snare, backed by a five to seven“Are You Ready For It?” - A fans that include Ewan McGregor, piece band.

Taylor Experience (March 29) Sir Paul McCartney, and Samuel Puppy Pals LIVE (March 20) Are You Ready For It? A Taylor L. Jackson. The Chillis’ blend of Puppy Pals LIVE is a family Experience, recreates the magic traditional Scottish music and rock fun action-packed show where of the Eras Tour in a spectacular, creates an electrifying experience adopted and rescued dogs unforgettable show starring Traci that you have to see to believe. perform spectacular stunts and Marie as Taylor. Traci’s attention Feel the Chilli heat: it’s time to breathtaking feats. Watch as we to detail will not go unnoticed by come closer to the fire! The Red lead the puppies and audience Swifties. Her authentic costumes, Hot Chilli Pipers is a Celtic rock through challenging and comical mannerisms, and voice embody band from Scotland. Formed in tricks as the pooches show the essence of Taylor Swift. This 2002, the band became popular everyone who is really boss! Full of theatrical style show is filled with internationally in 2007 after everything you’d expect to see winning the BBC talent show When canine stunts and laugh-out-loud from the Eras Tour: choreography, canine comedy it is no surprise Will I Be Famous? The band’s stunning multimedia visuals, lineup features three highland this show has been a hit all over

costume changes, and audience participation. Traci, a small-town theater girl from the suburbs of Chicago, grew up surrounded by musical talent. Throughout her career, she has opened for national touring artists such as Tony Orlando, The Righteous Brothers, Chubby Checker, and more. This former “Miss Congeniality” winner has been nominated for Tribute Artist of the Year (2024) for the Josie Music Awards. Are You Ready For It? A Taylor Experience, is one of the nation’s most recognized and requested recreations of the Eras Tour.

APP | Continued from page 63

Bass Lake

2025-26 • WINTER TIMES | 65

THE SCHAEFER

CENTER

brings the finest of arts to Appalachian State University

BY RILEY GLEASON

A

s the High Country quiets beneath frosty skies this winter, the Schaefer Center for the Performing Arts at Appalachian State University remains one of Boone’s most vibrant gathering places. With its 1,660-seat auditorium and a mission rooted in both community enrichment and student artistic growth, the Schaefer Center hosts a wide variety of performances, from student concerts to worldclass touring artists.

Looking ahead to the new year, the Appalachian Arts series brings two events you should definitely check out to the Schaefer stage.

On Feb. 14, country performer Margo Price returns with her Wild at Heart Tour, delivering heartfelt songs that bring storytelling and artistry together. Price has created a lane where independentminded, insurgent country music can exist and thrive alongside the mainstream. Now she’s back with an exquisite, timeless album that reconnects with her roots. At its core, Hard Headed Woman is about

66 | WINTER TIMES • 2025-26

that furious instinct to never waver. It’s country music as only Price can make it: free of rules, cherishing tradition, hard-headed but with a delicate beating heart.

Then, on Feb. 20, the celebrated dance ensemble Ailey II – The Next Generation of Dance – for over 50 years, has merged the spirit and energy of the country’s finest early-career dance talent with the passion and creative vision of today’s most outstanding and emerging choreographers. Founded by Alvin Ailey in 1974, this universally renowned company embodies his pioneering mission to establish an extended cultural community that provides dance performances, training, and community programs for all people. Under the leadership of Sylvia Waters, who served as artistic director for 38 seasons, Ailey II flourished into one of the most popular modern dance companies, combining a rigorous touring schedule with extensive

PHOTO COURTESY OF APPALACHIAN ARTS

Modern Dance Ensemble Alley II takes the stage this season at The Schaefer Center.

community outreach programs.

Today, with Artistic Director Francesca Harper at the helm, she brings fresh perspectives to Mr. Ailey’s legacy, while nurturing new creative voices and propelling the company forward.

Looking even further ahead,

Rhiannon Giddens will perform on April 18, and Etienne Charles: “Earth Tones” will take place on April 24.

Beyond these highlight performances, The Schaefer See SCHAEFER | page 67

PHOTO COURTESY OF APPALACHIAN ARTS

Margo Price and the Wild at Heart Tour is one of the presentations this winter at The Schaefer Center.

dance company, the timeless insights of an Americana-folk icon, Center would like to let the or a multimedia jazz exploration community know “Our 2026 Spring of climate change, each program season embodies our mission to invites audiences to connect in a present a wide spectrum of artistic meaningful way. In addition, Ailey voices that reflect the complexities II and Etienne Charles will lead of our world and the character masterclasses and workshops of our community. Whether for App State students and local through the soulful storytelling residents, underscoring our belief of a Grammy-nominated country that community engagement is not artist, the powerful narrative just an offering, but a cornerstone of Appalachian Arts.” movement of a contemporary SCHAEFER | Continued from page 66

2025-26 • WINTER TIMES | 67

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HOLIDAY

SEASON

brings joy to the High Country Chetola. Don’t miss these edible masterpieces—a feast for both he holiday season is upon the eyes and the taste buds! us, and the High Country is If you’d rather get cozy already shimmering with winter and enjoy classic holiday fun, magic. As the last autumn leaves Tweetsie Christmas is the perfect scatter across mountain roads, destination. Guests can enjoy a towns from Avery to Watauga to 20-minute nighttime train ride, a Ashe County are lighting up their live Christmas variety show, kidstreets, preparing festive events, friendly rides, visits with Santa, and celebrating the warmth of the and more. The event runs every community that defines Christmas Friday, Saturday, and Sunday from in the Appalachians. Whether November 28 to December 28, you’re a visitor passing through with extra shows on December or a long-time local, this year’s 22, 23, 29, and 30. Tickets are seasonal celebrations promise required in advance. something for everyone—cozy Festival of Lights traditions, small-town charm, Every season, Chetola Resort and the unmistakable spirit of the features a sparkling display of mountains. lights. The Festival of Lights Blowing Rock: is free and open to the public, Cookies & Trains and you are invited to enjoy For those with a sweet thousands of dazzling illuminations tooth, Blowing Rock offers throughout the resort. As you the Gingerbread Competition: drive or stroll around Chetola Building Sweet Futures, hosted Lake, view glittering ice skaters,

by The Children’s Council and “Rudolph” reeling in a big fish, Chetola Resort. Entries compete strolling carolers, and many more for cash prizes in categories for captivating holiday scenes. professionals, adult amateurs, Close to 30,000 holiday and under-18 novices, plus illuminations light up Chetola the “People’s Choice” award. beginning at dusk. The Festival The gingerbread creations will of Lights is free and open to the be on display November 28– public nightly. Every year, it begins December 31 from 9 A.M. to 7 the Friday after Thanksgiving and ends Jan. 25, after Blowing Rock’s P.M. at Timerlake’s Restaurant at

BY GIADA EHRESMAN

T

70 | WINTER TIMES • 2025-26

PHOTO COURTESY BLOWING ROCK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Close to 30,000 holiday illuminations light up Chetola beginning at dusk for the Festival of Lights.

opportunity for unique, locally West Jefferson: Art, Music, made holiday shopping.

Music is at the heart of West and Mountain Traditions Jefferson’s festivities. The Celtic During the holiday season, Christmas Concert, featuring West Jefferson and surrounding the trio Stone’s Throw on violin, communities transform into a flute, and harp, brings peaceful, hub of music, art, markets, and nostalgic sounds to the holidays mountain heritage, offering an authentic Appalachian celebration. while supporting local community projects. Later in December, the The season kicks off with the Blue Ridge Opry: Holiday Edition Ashe County Christmas Parade, delivers high-energy performances a cherished tradition that fills the streets with marching bands, local with Appalachian music, storytelling, and classic country organizations, festive floats, and entertainment at the Ashe Civic Santa. Downtown continues to Center. shine with the Holiday Farmers Market through late November From Banner Elk’s small-town and early December, along with the charm to Blowing Rock’s sweet West Jefferson Christmas Gallery treats and West Jefferson’s artistry Crawl on December 5, featuring and music, the High Country’s live music, local art, and extended holiday season is alive with lights, shop hours. laughter, and community spirit.

Holiday markets round out the These celebrations aren’t just season’s offerings. Visitors can about festive activities; they’re browse handmade gifts, pottery, about neighbors coming together, ornaments, and mountain crafts traditions carried forward, and the that showcase the region’s deep See SEASON | page 71 craftsmanship and offer a perfect

WinterFest.

SEASON | Continued from page 70

mountains’ holiday magic shining bright.

Banner Elk: A Small Town Christmas Few places capture the heart of a High Country holiday quite like Banner Elk. The annual Small Town Christmas Weekend, held Dec 5–7, 2025, transforms downtown Banner Elk into a festive village filled with lights, music, and family traditions. The event is hosted by the Town of Banner Elk, the Banner Elk Chamber of Commerce, and dozens of local businesses.

Friday evening kicks off with the beloved Tree Lighting Ceremony at the Corner on Main. Shortly after, Ensemble Stage opens its doors for its annual holiday variety show, A Banner Elk Christmas.

G

Saturday brings the heart of the festivities. Families can start their morning with Breakfast with Santa at Lees-McRae College’s Welcome Center before cheering on runners at the Reindeer Run 5K hosted by the Williams YMCA. Throughout the day, downtown is alive with activity: Christmas markets, craft stations, ornamentmaking, children’s yoga playtime, and warm treats available from local businesses. Santa makes several stops, including a special Storytime & Fire Truck Tour at the Banner Elk Fire and Rescue Station. Shoppers can browse handmade gifts, meet local artists, or warm up by fire pits throughout the village.

As night falls, Main Street glows with the annual Parade of Lights at 6 p.m., a favorite tradition that fills

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Tweetsie Railroad to transform into a Wild West Christmas Town for the holidays” and change the byline to “Photo courtesy Tweetsie Railroad.

the streets with illuminated floats, music, and plenty of festive cheer.

The celebration continues at the Historic Banner Elk School from 6:30 to 9 p.m., complete with hot cocoa, Christmas lights, caroling, train rides, and a final visit from Santa himself.

Sunday closes out the weekend with a matinee performance of A Banner Elk Christmas, bringing the festivities to a heartfelt close.

Those wishing to contribute their own event or activity can still register and join in the holiday magic.

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2025-26 • WINTER TIMES | 71

WINTER OUTDOOR

ACTIVITIES abound in the High Country

Night on Tuesdays, Men’s Night on Wednesdays and Ladies’ Night he High Country offers a on Thursdays. Opening day is wide range of outdoor winter scheduled for Nov. 29, weather activities, turning the region permitting. into a cold-weather destination North Carolina’s first ski area, well beyond its well-known ski Appalachian Ski Mtn. opened slopes. With warm layers and a in 1962 and features two quad bit of preparation, visitors can chairlifts, one double chairlift, explore skiing, snowboarding, two conveyor lifts, a handle-pull snowshoeing, ice skating, tubing, lift and 13 runs, including four sledding and cross-country trails terrain parks. The French-Swiss throughout the season.

Ski College offers instruction, and the resort operates a ZamboniSkiing and Snowboarding maintained outdoor ice rink.

Sugar Mountain is the largest Opening day is set for Nov. 21, snow-sports area in North weather permitting. Equipment Carolina, offering 20 runs across rentals are available with 125 skiable acres, from beginner terrain to expert slopes. The resort reservations. features six lifts, a snow tubing Ice Skating park, full snowmaking capabilities Two High Country resorts offer and a 1,200-foot vertical drop. Ski outdoor ice skating surrounded by and snowboard schools, equipment mountain views. rentals, an outdoor ice rink, two Appalachian Ski Mountain cafeterias, the Last Run Lounge, provides a scenic rink with rinkand several gear shops are on site. side seating and a bonfire. Daily Beech Mountain is the highest sessions and private lessons are ski area in the eastern United available.

States at 5,506 feet. The resort Sugar Mountain Resort features includes 17 trails, six chair lifts, a 10,000-square-foot rink adjacent two surface lifts and an 830-foot to the snow tubing area and gear vertical drop. Tubing lanes are shops. Children 11 and under must located at the base of the slopes, skate with a parent, and a waiver is and the Beech Tree Village offers required. fire pits, dining, shopping, a Sledding and Tubing brewery and the 5506’ Sky Bar. In addition to tubing at Sugar Ski School and the Youth Learning and Beech Mountain resorts, Center are available, and midweek discounts include Student visitors can head to Hawksnest,

BY NICK FOGLEMAN

T

72 | WINTER TIMES • 2025-26

PHOTO BY MOSS BRENNAN

When it snows, many get creative in making their own snowboarding obstacles.

home to the largest snow tubing park in the Southeast. Hawksnest offers up to 30 lanes ranging from 400 to 1,000 feet across four tubing areas.

Beech Mountain also operates a youth sledding hill, designed for children 12 and under.

The hill is open daily, weather permitting, from late November or early December through early March. Beech Mountain receives an average of nearly 84 inches of snowfall each year and uses snowmaking when needed. Plastic sleds are required and can be brought from home or rented nearby.

Snowshoeing and Cross-Country Skiing

Snow conditions vary, but the High Country often receives some of the deepest natural snow in the Southeast. Roan Mountain can see around 100 inches annually

at 6,300 feet, and Moses Cone Memorial Park typically receives just under 50 inches.

Nordic skiing is beginnerfriendly, with flat terrain found throughout the area, particularly along the Blue Ridge Parkway and the carriage paths at Moses Cone.

Experienced skiers can explore steeper terrain using telemark turns on Roan Mountain and other high-elevation trails.

While the region does not currently offer Nordic ski rentals or lessons, 1st Tracks in Boone sells Nordic skis, and Regear offers snowshoe sales. Sugar Mountain Resort conducts guided snowshoe hikes on its acreage.

Popular Winter Trails With 25 miles of carriage paths and snow-covered forests, Moses Cone Memorial Park is a See ACTIVITIES | page 73

ACTIVITIES | Continued from page 72

staple winter destination. The Bass Lake Trail, accessible from U.S. 221 South, is a frequent option for cross-country skiers.

When snow closes sections of the Parkway, skiers and snowshoers can access areas such as Price Lake, the Grandfather Mountain section near Linn Cove Viaduct and the trails around Linville Falls.

The only North Carolina state park dedicated to winter sports, Elk Knob offers trails designed for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. Boone’s Greenway Trail can also be skiable during heavy snowfall.

From skiing and tubing to snowshoeing and scenic winter hikes, the High Country offers outdoor activities for all ages and skill levels throughout the colder months.

The High Country has a little bit of everything for everyone. Whether you are looking for something fast-paced or more serene, the High Country has it and will surely leave lasting memories to cherish.

PHOTO BY TODD BUSH PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY SUGAR MOUNTAIN INC.

A happy snowshoe excursion group reaches the summit of Sugar Mountain.

Open Sunrise to Sunset, Seven Days a Week New 2026 Side by Sides and Slingshots Available to Rent!

We also have Mountain Biking and Hiking Trails!

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(423) 460-1295 2025-26 • WINTER TIMES | 73

Winter fun returns for

BLOWING ROCK’S

WinterFest

BY NICK FOGLEMAN

B

lowing Rock’s WinterFest returns Jan. 22, ushering in a long weekend of cold-weather cheer, community traditions and crowd-pleasing events that bring fresh energy to the mountain town’s quietest season.

Many fan favorites return for 2025, promising family-friendly entertainment and plenty of ways to eat, shop and stay warm.

“WinterFest brings visitors to Blowing Rock during the slow season, generating valuable revenue for shops, restaurants, and hotels,” said Brooke Rule,

Blowing Rock’s WinterFest returns Jan. 22, 2026.

74 | WINTER TIMES • 2025-26

event coordinator for the Blowing Rock Chamber of Commerce.

“Beyond economic impact, WinterFest keeps the town vibrant in the off-season and reinforces Blowing Rock’s reputation as a year-round destination.”

The festival is presented by Hendrick Automotive Group.

The festival opens Jan. 22 with WinterFeast, a multi-station tasting event featuring dishes from many of Blowing Rock’s top restaurants, often one of the first events to sell out each year.

On Friday, Jan. 23, downtown transforms for the Artisan Ice Stroll, where custom sculptures

PHOTO COURTESY OF BLOWING ROCK TDA

Artisan Ice Sculptors crafted a snow globe in Memorial Park at the 2025 WinterFest.

take shape in front of participating businesses. Visitors can snap photos, browse the shops and indulge in a hot drink or ice cream while admiring the temporary frozen artwork before it melts.

One of WinterFest’s signature attractions returns Saturday, Jan. 24, at Chetola Lake: the Polar Plunge. Check-in begins at 9 a.m., and the plunge starts at 10 a.m. Spectators are encouraged to arrive early to secure parking and a good view, whether they’re cheering on the brave or enjoying the spectacle.

Later that afternoon, from 1–4 p.m., the Rotary Chilly Chili Challenge heats up inside the Blowing Rock School Gym. Amateur and professional chefs compete side by side, offering everything from traditional recipes to inventive creations with unexpected spices and PHOTO COURTESY OF WINTERFEST ingredients.

Also on Jan. 24, the Speckled

Trout parking lot hosts the WinterFest Beer Garden from 1–4 p.m., featuring regional breweries and cider makers pouring a wide range of craft beverages. Nearby, the Rotary Club’s Wine Tasting and Auction gives guests the chance to sample favorite varieties and bid on bottles.

The festival winds down Sunday, Jan. 25, with WinterPaws, the annual community dog show presented by the Watauga Humane Society. Pet owners can dress up their four-legged companions and compete for prizes in the familyfriendly showcase.

Tickets for most events go on sale in December, with several— especially WinterFeast—known to sell out quickly.

Many WinterFest events support local nonprofits through direct fundraising, volunteer involvement and shared proceeds.

“WinterFest plays an important See FEST | page 75

PHOTO BY MOSS BRENNAN

Casting Bread ducks jump into the lake during the 2025 Polar Bear Plunge.

FEST | Continued from page 74

role in supporting High Country nonprofit organizations by creating opportunities for

fundraising and community engagement,” Rule said. “Many participate through on-site activities, volunteer involvement, and interactive experiences that

connect them with visitors. Plus, most WinterFest events donate a portion of their proceeds to participating nonprofits. By weaving charitable opportunities

into the festival, WinterFest creates an event that benefits everyone—visitors, businesses, and the nonprofits that keep our community thriving.”

2025-26 • WINTER TIMES | 75

INDOOR

ACTIVITIES to help beat the winter blues Parlour.

Mystery Hill is located between uring the winter months, Boone and Blowing Rock at 129 there’s a plethora of things Mystery Hill Lane. The Hall of to do outside in the High Mystery, Bubblerama, Tomahawk Country.

Hill and the Rodeo Rampage Bull But with the time change, once Riding Challenge are among the it gets too cold or too dark to be attractions. To learn more about outdoors, it’s time to head indoors, Mystery Hill and reserve tickets, where there are plenty of indoor visit mysteryhill.com. activities to escape the winter Bowling blues.

High Country Lanes in Boone Below is a list of just some of is a fun destination for the whole the indoor activities that area family. residents have access to, and It can get busy on rainy days, where some good places are so booking a lane in advance can around the High Country to do save time and inconvenience. On them.

Sundays, the alley offers unlimited Mystery Hill bowling from noon to 5 p.m. The Mystery Hill is open most bowling alley is open Monday days year-round from 10 a.m. through Thursday 4 to 11 p.m., until 6 p.m. and offers fun for all Friday through Saturday 12 p.m. to ages. More than 70,000 visitors 12 a.m. and Sunday from 12 p.m. each year go to Mystery Hill to to 1 1p.m. experience its famous gravity High Country Lanes offers a full vortex. This gravitational anomaly bar, snacks, and some baskets that forces your body into a 45-degree include menu items like burgers angle. Meanwhile, water flows and chicken tenders. And if you uphill, and balls roll upward, right aren’t quite ready to be done with before your eyes. the fun once your time slot has ended, they also offer corn hole, Mystery Hill is a gravitydefying, ax-throwing, bull-bucking, darts, and arcade games. rock-hounding kind of a good Gem Mining time. Best of all, there is more There are a number of gem to Mystery Hill than simply its mining options in the High feature attraction. A great way to Country, including Foggy Mountain chronicle the event is at Professor See INDOOR | page 78 Finnegan’s Old Time Photo

BY ZACH COLBURN

D

76 | WINTER TIMES • 2025-26

• Cardiology

• Obstetrics

• Chemotherapy

• Ophthalmology

• Endoscopy

• Orthopaedics

• Express Care Clinic

• Otolaryngology

(Mountain Family Care)

• Gynecology • Hematology and Oncology • Hospitalist Program • Imaging Services • Internal Medicine • Mountain Hearts Wellness Center

• Pediatrics • Primary Care • Rehabilitation Services • Respiratory Services • Surgical Services • Urology • Women’s Health

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Finished jewelry for that perfect gift or memento from your adventures.

Rare specimens that tell a fascinating story.

2025-26 • WINTER TIMES | 77

INDOOR | Continued from page 76

Gem Mine, The Greater Foscoe Mining Co, Prospector Hill Gem Mining, Doc’s Rocks Gem Mine, and Sugar Creek Gem Mine.

You don’t actually go into the mines and chip away at the rocks.

That part is already done for you.

Instead, you sift through a bucket of what has already been mined and find the treasures hidden amongst the rocks. Some of the mines offer polishing and shaping services if you want to turn your treasures into a souvenir.

Blowing Rock Art and History Museum

The Blowing Rock Art and History Museum is a free art museum that occasionally has interactive exhibits for kids.

During the week, they also offer some art classes for kids.

Doodlebug Club is for preschoolaged kids (and an accompanying parent), and Afternoon Art Club is for kids aged 6 to 10 years old.

If you’re looking for an indoor activity back at home or at your accommodation, they also offer “Backpack Art Kits” in their gift shop. In the backpack, you’ll find supplies and instructions for 5-to-6 different art projects.

Museum of Ashe County History

The Museum of Ashe County History, Inc. is a non-profit organization dedicated to preserving the historic 1904 Ashe County Courthouse building as a county heritage museum for visitors of all ages.

The museum, which is located at 301 East Main Street in Jefferson, features exhibits, both See INDOOR | page 79 Mystery Hill after a snowfall.

78 | WINTER TIMES • 2025-26

PHOTO COURTESY MYSTERY HILL

PHOTO BY LUKE BARBER

One of the glow-in-the-dark pieces of art by John Pipes at High Country Lanes features Hebron Falls.

INDOOR | Continued from page 78

permanent and revolving, suitable for all ages. Some of the indoor ones include Early Education in Ashe County and Moonshine & Music, which opened in 2016.

Some others are one for Ashe County’s first century, the Virginia Creeper Train, Ore Knob Mine, Veterans Hall, the Ashe Sports Hall of Fame, the Timber Industry and The Bare Room for Local Furniture.

The Museum is open Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Center 45 Rock Climbing Center 45 is a climbing gym that focuses on bouldering.

So, if you’re a family that loves rock climbing but doesn’t love the thought of climbing in bad weather, Center 45 could be a fun stop for you. If rock climbing isn’t for the whole family, Hatchet Coffee is right next door, offering warm beverages.

Indoor Putt-Putt

The home of Doc’s Rocks Gem Mine also houses “Paleo Putt-Putt” — a nine-hole indoor miniature golf course. Before or after your gem mining experience, stop by for a quick game of putt-putt. And if there are any interested paleontologists or geologists in your crew, you could also check out their fossil museum while you’re there.

2025-26 • WINTER TIMES | 79

How the NCDOT prioritizes plowing

SNOW-COVERED

ROADS

BY MOSS BRENNAN

A

snowy High Country day can bring headaches to many.

Roads may be impassable due to snow and ice or closed due to stuck cars.

Each winter, North Carolina Department of Transportation crews in Watauga, Avery, and Ashe counties work to clear roads when snow hits. Every time that happens, local social media pages for traffic alerts are filled with “When will they plow my road?”

When the winter weather hits, NCDOT crews work on 12-hour

shifts until the weather event ends.

When it comes to clearing roadways of snow and ice, the NCDOT’s primary responsibility is to interstates and four-lane divided primary routes, which are essential to the movement of intrastate and regional traffic.

Other types of roadways, as outlined in the table below, are then prioritized based on the following criteria: • Connectivity • Traffic volume • Trucking routes and major business avenues

FILE PHOTO

An N.C. Department of Transportation snowplow works to clear up roads in Boone during a past snowy day.

• Importance to hospitals and emergency routes NCDOT crews have designated snow and ice removal routes that they must follow. The priority for those routes is: • Routes in the Bare Pavement System, which generally consist of all interstate and four-lane divided primary routes and other primary and secondary routes considered to be essential to the fulfillment of the overall objectives of snow and ice removal, and the movement of intrastate traffic.

• Other U.S. and N.C. routes not included in the Bare Pavement System.

• Other paved secondary routes not included in the Bare Pavement System.

• Unpaved secondary routes.

The NCDOT also prepares roads in advance of winter weather with salt or brine to help keep the roads clear.

NCDOT does not remove snow and ice from sidewalks, nor does FILE PHOTO it clear driveways or driveway The NCDOT spreads brine along the roads to help keep them clear in advance of winter weather. entrances. Typically, sidewalks in a 80 | WINTER TIMES • 2025-26

municipality will be cleared by the town’s government.

North Carolina law gives NCDOT and the N.C. State Highway Patrol the authority to legally remove abandoned vehicles from the shoulders of roadways and highways.

Before or during adverse weather, abandoned vehicles may be towed to facilitate maintenance operations and make roads safer for drivers who might lose control.

The quick clearance also prevents potential damage to abandoned vehicles that could occur during maintenance operations (e.g., snow and ice being thrown against a vehicle) or from a vehicle being struck by a passing motorist.

Vehicles off the roadway and not considered safety hazards are not immediately towed.

Drivers whose vehicles were abandoned within city limits can call their local police department.

For vehicles abandoned outside city limits, drivers can contact the Highway Patrol at (919) 7333861.

GRANDFATHER

MOUNTAIN sparkles in the winter

weather permitting. Guests are encouraged to make reservations inter brings a quieter pace to online before visiting.

Grandfather Mountain. From Exploring Indoors November through March, The Wilson Center for Nature visitors can experience the park in a new way, with smaller crowds, Discovery is a good starting open views, and peaceful trails. point for a winter visit. Located The weather can change quickly, halfway up the mountain near but on clear days, the mountain the wildlife habitats, the center offers some of the region’s best features interactive exhibits about scenery.

Grandfather’s natural history, Grandfather Mountain is open weather, and wildlife. Visitors can year-round, every day except PHOTO COURTESY GRANDFATHER MOUNTAIN STEWARDSHIP FOUNDATION See GRANDFATHER | page 82 Ice and snow suspended on trees at Grandfather cause a winter wonderland.

Thanksgiving and Christmas,

BY RILEY GLEASON

W

Get away from it all.

Get

Folks come to Grandfather Mountain for all sorts of reasons — to get close to nature or simply get away from it all. But after a day on the mountain, and in the interactive Wilson Center for Nature Discovery, everyone leaves inspired.

g ra n d fa t h e r. co m VISIT THE

Inspired.

GRANDFATHER MOUNTAIN ®

Wonders Never Cease

Wilson Center for Nature Discovery

GFM_WinterTimes_Dec2025_9.375x4.5.indd 1 Grandfather Mountain | Winter Times | Half Horizontal | 9.375w x 4.5h | Date 11/26/25 | Get away, get inspired

2025-26 • WINTER TIMES | 81 10/29/2025 11:44:20 AM

FILE PHOTO

On days when it is too snowy or icy to go to the top of Grandfather, the price of admission is reduced if it is only partially open.

GRANDFATHER | Continued from page 81

also watch short films, shop for gifts, or enjoy lunch at Mildred’s Grill, which serves soups, salads, and sandwiches. The center provides an easy way to learn more about the mountain while staying warm indoors.

Wildlife in Winter

Winter is also a great time to see Grandfather’s animals.

Cougars, elk, and otters often stay active, especially when snow is on the ground. Black bears may be less visible, but they aren’t true 82 | WINTER TIMES • 2025-26

hibernators and can sometimes be seen on warmer days. The animal care team adjusts feeding schedules through the season to match each species’ needs.

Visitors interested in birding can also spot many winter species around the habitats and feeding stations.

to Charlotte, more than 80 miles away. The Mile High Swinging Bridge remains open when weather allows, offering a chance to take in the view and enjoy the fresh mountain air. It’s important to dress warmly and prepare for strong winds.

Views and the Swinging Bridge

Mildred’s Grill at the Wilson Center stays open through the winter and provides indoor seating with views of local wildlife. On milder days, the park’s picnic areas remain available for outdoor meals.

Gift shops at both the Wilson

Driving to the top of Grandfather Mountain during the colder months can lead to some of the clearest views of the year.

Without summer haze, visitors can sometimes see all the way

Dining and Shopping

Center and the Top Shop sell souvenirs, clothing, hiking gear, and local crafts. Purchases help support the Grandfather Mountain Stewardship Foundation, which funds conservation and education efforts. Guests can also adopt one of the mountain’s resident animals as a unique gift.

Winter Events and Hiking

Grandfather Mountain hosts several seasonal events. The Holiday Tree Arrival takes place on Nov. 21 from 11 a.m. to noon, marking the start of the holiday See GRANDFATHER | page 83

Fabulous Furniture at Fantastic Prices

Huge Selection Lamps, Chandeliers, Mirrors & Wall Art 9,000 Square Feet of Furniture from Traditional to Eclectic Large Selection of Stone Top • Bathroom vanities PHOTO COURTESY GRANDFATHER MOUNTAIN STEWARDSHIP FOUNDATION

Snow-capped mountains are a regular occurrence in the colder climate and high altitudes of Grandfather Mountain.

periods of snow, ice, or high winds, the mountain may close fully or partially. When only the season. On New Year’s Day, lower portion is open, the price visitors can attend Sunrise at of admission is reduced. Updates the Swinging Bridge, a morning gathering to watch the first sunrise on park openings and conditions are posted at grandfather.com, or of the year from one of the best visitors can call (828) 733-4337 viewpoints in the High Country. for the latest information.

Many winter days are mild Winter on Grandfather enough for hiking. Trails close at 4 p.m., and some may be closed Mountain is a calm, scenic during icy conditions for safety. experience that offers new Checking weather updates before perspectives on a familiar place. visiting is recommended.

Whether you’re exploring the exhibits, watching wildlife, or Plan Your Visit walking the Swinging Bridge, it’s a Grandfather Mountain is open time to enjoy the mountain at its from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., with ticket sales ending at 3:30 p.m. During most peaceful.

GRANDFATHER | Continued from page 82

Open Mon. - Sat. 10:00-5:00

828.295.9600

7531 Valley Blvd, BLOWING ROCK

Located in the Food Lion Shopping Center Visit BRASS EXCHANGE HOME located in Charlotte at the Arboretum Shopping Center 2025-26 • WINTER TIMES | 83

Taking care of your

CHRISTMAS

TREE

ADOBE STOCK

• The trunk should be sticky to LIGHTING THE TREE the touch, and branches should not • Use lights labeled by a very year, thousands of homes easily snap when bent. recognized testing laboratory. light up with Christmas trees as Some lights are only for indoor or PLACING THE TREE the holiday season peaks. outdoor use.

• Before placing the tree in the Christmas trees can become • Replace any string of lights hazards as more than 25%of home stand, cut 2 inches from the base with worn or broken cords or Christmas tree fires are caused by of the trunk. loose bulb connections. Read the an electrical problem, according to • Make sure the tree is at least manufacturer’s instructions for the Boone Fire.

3 feet away from any heat source, number of light strands to connect.

In order to make sure the such as fireplaces, radiators, • Always turn off Christmas tree holiday doesn’t get ruined by a fire, candles, heat vents, or lights. lights before leaving the home or follow these steps from the Boone going to bed.

• Make sure the tree does not Fire Department to keep your block an exit.

• Never use lit candles to home safe and the Christmas tree decorate the tree. in tip-top shape.

• Add water to the tree stand and replenish it daily.

ARTIFICIAL TREES PICKING THE TREE

BY MOSS BRENNAN

E

• Choose a tree with fresh, green needles that do not fall off when touched.

84 | WINTER TIMES • 2025-26

• Keep the bottom 2 inches of • Artificial trees and the trunk submerged in water at all decorations should be labeled, certified, or identified by the times.

manufacturer as fire-retardant or flame-resistant.

ELECTRICAL SAFETY • Only use extension cords with a label from a recognized testing laboratory.

• Do not place heavy items on power cords.

• Do not run cords under carpets, through windows or doors, through walls, ceilings, floors or other areas where they may be subjected to physical damage.

• Do not “piggyback” extension cords or surge protectors. Plug surge protectors directly into an See TREE | page 85

FILE PHOTO

More than 25% of home Christmas tree fires are caused by an electrical problem, according to Boone Fire.

TREE | Continued from page 84

per year.

outlet.

• Replace smoke alarms when they reach the end of its life per manufacturer recommendations (typically 10 years).

• Do not overload electrical circuits.

SMOKE AND CARBON MONOXIDE ALARMS

• Carbon monoxide alarms are needed whenever your home is heated by or has an appliance that • Be sure you have working burns fuel oil, kerosene, propane, smoke alarms. natural gas, wood or other fossil • Test alarms monthly. fuel, or the residence has an • Replace batteries at least once attached garage.

• Carbon monoxide alarms should be tested monthly and have the batteries replaced at least once per year.

AFTER CHRISTMAS

left in the home, garage, or placed outside against the home. Check with your local community to find a recycling program. Bring all outdoor Christmas lights inside for storage after the holidays to prevent hazards and extend their lifespan.

Boone Fire would like everyone to remove the tree after Christmas or when it is dry. Dried-out trees are a fire hazard and should not be

For more tips on how to take care of your tree and how to keep it safe, visit realchristmastrees.org/ all-about-trees/care-tips/.

• Replace carbon monoxide alarms per manufacturer recommendations (often 7 years).

2025-26 • WINTER TIMES | 85

Morgan-Keefe Builders Morgan-Keefe Builders is a luxury custom home builder based in Asheville, NC. We craft bespoke homes in Western North Carolina and Upstate South Carolina for luxury living. www.morgankeefe.com

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Join us Fridays for Karaoke and Saturdays for live music.

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Impeccable Pooch Full service dog grooming and bathing salon. No walk-ins, appointments are a must!

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86 | WINTER TIMES • 2025-26

Amy Brown, CPA P.C. Certified Public Accountant Amy Brown, CPA Certified Public Accountant Avery County Chamber of Commerce www.averycounty.com | info@averycounty.com 828.898.5605

C re at i v e Int e r i or s

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2025-26 • WINTER TIMES | 87

PHOTO BY CHRISTIAN GARDNER

The Cartner family presented the tree to former First Lady Jill Biden in November 2024.

WHERE CHRISTMAS

GROWS

Inside Cartner’s Christmas Tree Farm

BY GIADA EHRESMAN

T

he best way to invite holiday magic into your home is by decorating a beautiful Fraser fir Christmas tree, and Avery County has a rich history of Christmas trees and their production. Local 88 | WINTER TIMES • 2025-26

to Avery County is Cartner’s Christmas Tree Farm, a familyowned business that has been around since the 1950s, involved in both wholesale vending and choose-and-cut sales. Cartner’s has even provided, and continues to provide, an assortment of trees

for the White House.

Cartner’s Christmas Tree Farm sits on 350 planted acres and has accumulated decades of hard work dedicated to growing and nurturing Fraser firs. The farm has always been family-owned, and brothers Sam Jr., David and Jim Cartner have all played a role in its operations over the years.

Now retired, Sam Cartner Jr. works full-time at the farm and shares its heartwarming story. His father, Sam Cartner Sr., promoted the indigenous Fraser fir long before tourism flourished in the High Country. In the 1950s, he became one of the strongest

advocates for the Christmas tree industry in the mountains. His major contributions later earned him a place in the Western North Carolina Agricultural Hall of Fame.

But the importance of the Fraser fir goes well beyond its iconic look, rich color and unmatched fragrance, Sam Jr. explains. The species grows slowly and is native to Western North Carolina. A typical 8-foot Christmas tree takes 13 to 14 years to grow from seed to selling height. It takes about 20 years for mature trees to produce viable seeds, and that process also See GROWS | page 89

GROWS | Continued from page 88

requires careful attention.

The seeds spend 3 to 4 years in a greenhouse. When the trees reach about 5 years old, they become seedlings ready to be planted in the fields. From there, they grow roughly a foot per year. Cartner’s trees require constant fertilizing, weeding, insect treatment and careful trimming to achieve their signature cone shape.

“A tree you’ve taken into your home—we say a person has touched it one hundred times,” Sam Jr. said.

Because of the steep mountain terrain, nearly all the work is done by hand. Motorized vehicles and tractors can’t reach the hilly areas.

The farm relies on a dedicated team of employees—some who have been with them for 25 years or more, and their farm manager, Ronnie Beam, has worked there for 40 years. Sam Jr. credits the operation’s smooth success to the staff’s expertise and long-term commitment.

“If there’s anything you take away from this, it’s that everyone should buy a fresh Christmas tree,” he said.

Fresh-cut trees don’t just smell like the holidays—they also offer a major boost to the local economy. Many visitors ask Sam Jr. where they can eat, stay or explore, meaning tree farms directly support High Country businesses. They also support the environment.

“Fresh cut Christmas trees are your sustainable and environmentally friendly choice,” Sam Jr. said. Fraser firs sequester carbon, pulling it from the atmosphere in exchange for

PHOTO BY CHRISTIAN GARDNER

White House officials picked the tree for the Blue Room for 2024 at Cartner Christmas Tree Farm.

oxygen. Cartner’s farm alone produces enough oxygen for 70,000 people. Fresh trees are biodegradable and can be composted or used for wildlife habitats. For every tree harvested, one or two more are planted at Cartner’s Christmas Tree Farm—a true cycle of sustainable holiday tradition!

Fraser firs cannot grow below 3,000 feet in elevation and require slightly acidic, well-draining soil and plenty of rainfall. These needs,

combined with their slow growth, made many farms vulnerable when Hurricane Helene struck. A major landslide washed away the topsoil on portions of the Cartners’ land, destroying an estimated 8,000 to 10,000 trees.

“We were lucky ours were between three and four feet tall and not market size,” Sam Jr. said.

“Not everyone was this lucky.”

Some farms were completely devastated.

Still, the mountains and their

communities continue to show resilience, and locally owned farms benefit from increased holiday tourism. If you’re looking for the perfect Christmas centerpiece, consider going all natural with a fresh-cut Fraser fir—a holiday staple and an Avery County treasure. A Fraser fir isn’t just a decoration; it’s a piece of the mountains, a little bit of Avery County magic brought indoors to shine all season long.

2025-26 • WINTER TIMES | 89

STAYING

CHILL

and rediscovering old thrills while sledding in the High Country

BY JESSE CAMPBELL

L

ooking for High Country winter fun but don’t have the cash for a lift ticket or the patience for long queues?

Sledding could be the remedy for your winter doldrums.

Tobogganing down a High Country hill after a fresh, fluffy overnight snowfall conjures the inner child with the exuberance of barrelling and dashing over wind-driven snowdrifts before sliding into a smooth landing and

90 | WINTER TIMES • 2025-26

springing to your feet to trudge up the hill for another downhill romp.

Sledders looking to catch a short burst of adrenaline-pumping winter fun can satiate their latent winter sports fascination at several High Country public parks.

BEECH MOUNTAIN Beech Mountain Sledding Hill, located near the ski resort, is a popular short and monitored venue for kids’ wintry fun without

FILE PHOTO

Sledding can be enjoyed by the whole family — all you need is a hill with snow and something to See GROWS | page 90 slide on.

GROWS | Continued from page 91

the commitment of pricey equipment rentals and time needed to enjoy a full afternoon or evening on the slopes.

The hill is open to children 12 and under, with exemptions to allow adults to ride with their preschool children in tow.

Plastic sleds are required, and protective equipment, including weather-resistant clothing, is recommended. The hill is open to the public from late November - snowfall dependent - to early March. Beech Mountain enjoys more than 60 inches of fresh annual snow, giving young tobogganers the best spot to break into winter sports without the mom and dad’s pervasive fear of broken bones at high speeds spoiling the fun. Monitor mobile weather maps for rapidly changing conditions—Boone and Beech Mountain have different microclimates and varying precipitation levels.

“Beech Mountain has the only free Sledding Hill in the area, so families visit from all over the High Country and beyond,” said Armando Garcia, Tourism and Marketing Director for the Town of Beech Mountain. “It’s a great and wallet-friendly activity for parents to spend a fun afternoon with younger kids and introduce them to the thrills of winter sports.”

BOONE

Rock Road.

Sledders should ask park attendants for permission to sled and the rules of play. Call (828) 268-6200 for more information.

While sledding’s inherent renegade attitude can negate the sobering task of asking permission before playing in the snow, sledders should avoid private residential and business properties and always gain the blessing of town officials before going rogue in the snow throughout the High Country.

ASHE

Although Ashe County Park in Jefferson is teeming during the summer months with disc golfers slinging frisbee-like discs, skateboarders, hikers, and children climbing on several installed playgrounds, the county park becomes a winter wonderland with the first heavy snow of the season.

The park has several mediumgauge hills near the fenced pond and maintenance buildings.

Call (336) 982-6185 for more information.

West Jefferson Municipal Park is another local favorite for sledding and snowball fights. The hill located below the pickleball courts, flanked by the picnic shelter closest to the parking lot, offers a short, controlled sledding run. Sledders should check their speed after launching and plan their stop before reaching the hill’s bottom because of a small creek that runs through the park, lest sledders plan to add a polar plunge to their snowday outing.

Jaycee Park, located at 728 Horn in the W Dr in Boone, is another popular seasonal sledding spot, allowing kids and adults to indulge in winter activities between WHERE TO BUY Several High Country winter downtown shopping sprees before specialty shops and retailers sell warming up for dinner at several plastic sleds and winter gear. Fred’s local establishments on Blowing

FILE PHOTO

Florida family Barry, Dylan and Jack Higgins slide down the Beech Mountain Sledding Hill.

General Mercantile, located at 501 Beech Mountain Pkwy, sells sleds for wintry fun, according to exploreboone.com.

Target, Walmart, Tractor

Co

Supply, and Ace Hardware have also previously sold sleds to outdoor enthusiasts. Stop by Mast General Store on King Street in Boone for seasonal sledding sales.

ee in very County and urroundin unities afe and ar for years ocally ned and erated

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STOP IN and visit the

MUSEUMS OF THE HIGH COUNTRY

BY NATHAN HAM

W

hether you are a history connoisseur or a fan of fine art, there are a handful of museum spots to visit across the High Country.

The Museum of Ashe County History in Jefferson has featured several different exhibits throughout the years. They also frequently host live musical performances in the recently renovated upstairs area of the old 1904 Courthouse, which serves as the museum.

Some of the current exhibits at the museum include the Virginia Creeper Railroad, Ashe County Veterans, Music and Moonshining, Education in Ashe County, and,

most recently, Recreation and Tourism in Ashe County.

The Museum of Ashe County History is located at 301 E. Main Street in Jefferson. For more information, visit www. ashehistory.org/.

Another museum for fans of history is the Hickory Ridge History Museum in Boone. Located at 591 Horn in the West Drive, the Hickory Ridge History Museum offers a deep dive into the history and culture of the Appalachian Mountains. The museum aims to “recreate the atmosphere of a small mountain community to show guests about the daily lives of our colonial ancestors.”

In warmer months, be sure to

PHOTO COURTESY OF BRAHM

The Blowing Rock Art and History Museum.

check out the Horn in the West outdoor drama that takes you back to life in the High Country during the 18th Century before and during the Revolutionary War. For additional information on the Hickory Ridge History Museum and Horn in the West, visit www.

horninthewest.com/.

If you are interested in a combination of art and history, the Blowing Rock Art and History Museum (BRAHM) is the place to visit on your winter vacation.

BRAHM is located in downtown Blowing Rock and features galleries that showcase the history of the southern Appalachian region, as well as a permanent exhibit on the history of Blowing Rock.

BRAHM opened in 2011 and has delighted the hearts and minds of visitors for nearly 15 years. The current exhibits you will find include The Shape of Color: Understanding Color Theory in BRAHM’s Collection (through Dec. 27), Jack Boul: Land, City, Home (through March 7, 2026), and Patrick Dougherty: Pilgrimage (through May 17, 2026).

For hours and exhibit PHOTO BY NATHAN HAM information, visit www.

The Flags for Heroes are placed on the grounds of the Museum of Ashe County History by the Ashe County Rotary Club as part of the 9/11 Memorial event that happens at the museum each year. blowingrockmuseum.org/.

92 | WINTER TIMES • 2025-26

Nestled in the mountains of Jefferson, NC, rests an upscale resort community ideal for weekend getaways, special events and everyday living. Jefferson Landing is a gorgeous, gated development featuring luxurious accommodations, fine dining and affordable membership options to our golf and social clubs.

Book your adventure today to explore, experience and enjoy all that Jefferson Landing has to offer.

2025-26 • WINTER TIMES | 93

High Country

PUBLIC

TRANSPORTATION SERVICES

BY MOSS BRENNAN

E

ven in the winter, High Country public transportation services provide accessible and sustainable options for residents and visitors alike — helping them get from Point A to Point B. Typically, affordable, or even free, public transit ensures that people from various socioeconomic backgrounds can travel without transportation being a barrier to mobility. From the elderly and low-income individuals to students, public

transportation can be vital in completing daily tasks.

In Watauga County, AppalCART, is the primary provider of public transportation, serving Boone and the county.

With in-town bus services, the community can enjoy fare-free rides on fixed routes. It even has the state’s first double-decker public transit bus. For those who want to access the bus service but live or are staying outside the town limits, making AppalCART’s Rural services part of the commute will help keep you connected

PHOTO COURTESY AVERY COUNTY TRANSPORTATION

Avery County Transportation, also known as ACT, has been serving the community since 1981.

to Boone. AppalCART also provides Paratransit Services for individuals with disabilities. The buses also have bike racks, making it convenient for passengers to combine cycling with public transit for their commutes.

AppalCART will delay its services on inclement-weather days if roads are covered in snow or ice. Sometimes, they will either stop routes early or begin them later in the day to allow the weather to warm up or roads to clear. For information on specific routes, closures or delays, visit www.appalcart.com.

In Ashe County, the Ashe County Transportation Authority serves the community by offering both fixed-route van services and demand-response transportation.

The fixed routes run on weekdays PHOTO BY NICK FOGLEMAN and connect key areas like West Jefferson and Jefferson, serving The 42.5-foot, 13.5-foot-tall bus seats 88 passengers, more than double the 32 seats on a standard schools, medical facilities, 40-foot bus, and can accommodate more than 100 riders when including those standing.

94 | WINTER TIMES • 2025-26

and shopping areas. Demandresponse transportation requires passengers to schedule their trips in advance by calling the Ashe County Transit System. For more information, visit www.actatravels. com.

Avery County Transportation, also known as ACT, has been serving the community since 1981.

It offers demand-response transit services both within the county and to nearby areas. Operating Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., ACT requires passengers to schedule their rides in advance by contacting the transportation office. This service helps residents access essential destinations such as medical appointments, shopping centers, and other vital services.

For more information, visit www. averycountync.gov/departments/ transportation_department.php

High Country

SCENIC

VIEWS

open up in the winter

BY NICK FOGLEMAN

W

hen taking one of these routes, make sure to plan in advance for inclement weather as some roads may close due to snow and ice.

The following are popular High Country scenic routes:

can’t go wrong on the Parkway, Lugenbell also suggests other routes that can provide different opportunities and perspectives on the region.

Shulls Mill Road to Foscoe

A tree-lined drive leading to Grandfather Vineyard & Winery, Blowing Rock to offering close-up views of autumn color. Known Grandfather for its “woodland ceiling,” Mountain this winding route swaps This iconic stretch long-range vistas for features the Linn Cove Viaduct, Rough Ridge Trail an immersive canopy of and Price Lake. Sweeping leaves. mountain vistas alternate Banner Elk to Blue with wooded sections, Ridge Parkway with ample overlooks for via NC 194 photos From Banner Elk, wind

Grandfather Mountain to Linville

This twisting road hugs the base of Grandfather Mountain, with dramatic cliff views and stops such as Beacon Heights Trail and the Mile High Swinging Bridge.

A scenic drive with several scenic overlooks, entrances to the Mountain to Sea Trail and views.

While visitors

afternoon light.

Blowing Rock toBoone via US 321 & US 221

Connecting two of the High Country’s most popular towns, this route passes Glen Burney Trail, Moses Cone Park, Trout Lake, and the Green Knob Trail. Autumn foliage lines the road in gold and crimson.

Boone to West Jefferson

Along Hwy 421 and 221, you’ll see mountain peaks, the New River, country stores and a vast amount of canopy covering the mountains.

Many routes feature additional activities, through charming streets from historical stops like Moses Cone Manor to and rolling farmland hikes such as the Flat Top before climbing toward Trail, offering spectacular the Parkway. Highlights include Banner Elk Winery views. and Apple Hill Farm.

Valle Crucis & Broadstone Road

A detour from Banner Elk takes you through Valle Crucis and follows the Watauga River past pastoral fields and mountain ridges, especially scenic in late

Scenic Byways

North Carolina’s 62 scenic byways showcase the state’s natural beauty while promoting conservation efforts and offering travelers a glimpse into local history and culture across diverse landscapes from

mountains to coast.

The byways allow motorists to experience a bit of the state’s history, geography and scenery while raising awareness for protecting and preserving these treasures.

The N.C. Department of Transportation carefully selects the byway routes as safe and interesting alternatives to the faster pace and commercial areas found along major highways and interstates.

The Mission Crossing byway guides motorists through Avery and Watauga counties along NC 194 through North Carolina’s ski country and along the northern range

of the Roan Mountains in Pisgah National Forest before descending into the Watauga River Valley, the name of which is derived from the Native American word for “beautiful water,” and ending in the community of Vilas.

Before leaving the valley, visit the Mast Farm Inn and Mast General Store, an authentic general store that opened in 1882. Established in 1812, the farm is one of the best preserved 19thcentury farms in Western North Carolina and is listed in the National Register of Historic See SCENIC | page 96

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SCENIC | Continued from page 95

Places.

After leaving Valle Crucis, notice the unusual barn on the right as you climb out of the valley. The Baird Barn, built in the late 19th to early 20th century, is an excellent example of a transverse crib barn.

Little Parkway byway begins at the intersection of US 221 and NC 105 in Linville. Follow US 221 (Blowing Rock Hwy.) for 18.5 miles to the intersection with US 321 Bus (Main Street) in Blowing Rock, where the byway ends. The route is not recommended for recreational vehicles or buses.

Little Parkway traverses through Avery, Watauga, and Caldwell counties. Built in 1889 by men and mules as a toll road, it is also known as Yonahlossee Trail (one of many privately owned roads in the state). It winds its way along the side of Grandfather Mountain and served as the link between Blowing Rock and Linville before the completion of the Blue Ridge Parkway in 1987.

Linville, established in 1883 and designed by Samuel T. Kelsey of Kansas, is located on the Linville River. South of Linville are Linville Falls and Linville Gorge. All were named for William and John Linville, who were killed below the falls

by Native Americans in 1766.

The upper and lower falls, accessed from the Blue Ridge Parkway, are 12 feet and 90 feet tall, respectively. Linville Gorge is among the nation’s largest gorges and is located in one of the wildest uninhabited areas in the Eastern United States.

96 | WINTER TIMES • 2025-26

FILE PHOTO

The Blue Ridge Parkway offers stunning views for those looking for easy access to beautiful views. Make sure to stay up to date on road closures as when it snows, the BRP will close.

While traveling from Linville to Blowing Rock, watch for signs marking the Eastern Continental Divide, an invisible line that separates the waters flowing to the Atlantic Ocean from those flowing to the Gulf of Mexico.

The New River Valley Byway begins at the intersection of US 421/US 221 and NC 194 in Boone. Follow NC 194 north for 17.8 miles to the intersection of NC 194 and US 221 in the Baldwin community where the byway temporarily ends. Turn left onto US 221 and follow for 3.5 miles to the West Jefferson

town limits. Continue on US 221 for another 4.5 miles through West Jefferson and Jefferson to the intersection of US 221 and NC 16/NC 88. Follow NC 16/ NC 88 straight for another 3.1 miles to the intersection of NC 16 and NC 88. (This section is not part of the designated scenic byway.) Continue straight on NC 88 for 10.1 miles to continue the designated byway to the intersection of NC 88 and NC 18 in Laurel Springs, where the byway ends.

Venturing through Watauga and Ashe, the New River Valley

Byway allows motorists to experience some of the most beautiful mountain scenery and the largest concentration of Christmas tree farms in the state.

The route travels north from Boone to Laurel Springs through the Stone Mountains, which form a common boundary between North Carolina and Tennessee.

For more information on North Carolina’s Scenic Byways, visit www.ncdot.gov/travelmaps/traffic-travel/scenicbyways/Documents/nc-scenicbyways-guidebook.pdf

PHOTO COURTESY OLD BARN WINERY

The Old Barn Winery, located just minutes from downtown West Jefferson, offers a variety of seasonal wines and some of the best views you’ll find in the High Country.

WINE

OPTIONS

aplenty this winter in the High Country

BY NATHAN HAM

A

sip of wine during these cold months can certainly help the winter blues go away. With

multiple wineries across the High Country, finding the perfect bottle of wine or an enjoyable winter outing through the countryside can be a fun experience.

Avery County is home to three wineries that have been open for more than a decade, attracting thousands of visitors each year to sample the local wines.

Banner Elk Winery and Villa was the first to open in 2005 and has plenty of award-winning selections to prove its winemaking talent.

They offer all of the classic tastes as well as special varieties such as the Banner Elk Blueberry Wine, the High Country Rose, the Banner Elk Red and the Banner Elk White.

Banner Elk Winery and Villa is also home to a breathtaking wedding venue and rental properties where guests can enjoy a longer stay than just a quick visit to the winery.

Another winery located in Banner Elk is the Grandfather Vineyard and Winery. In business since 2011, Grandfather Vineyard and Winery features several white, red, rosé, sparkling and sweet wine options, as well as private wine See WINERY | page 98 2025-26 • WINTER TIMES | 97

WINERY | Continued from page 97

tasting events and cabana rentals for birthday parties, anniversaries, and any other special occasion that you would like to celebrate.

Linville Falls Winery calls Newland home and has been in operation since 2012. The winery offers several tasty options, including sweet fruit wines made from strawberry, cherry, blueberry, and blackberry.

Some of their other featured wines include the Painted Lady, Red Barn Blend, Trillium and Wiseman’s View.

In Ashe County, the Old Barn Winery is one of the newest entries into the field of High Country wineries. The winery opened in 2022 and also shares its space with Frosty’s Tree Farm, one of the most popular choose and cut farms in the area. You can combine your Christmas tree cutting experience with a smooth glass of wine. The winery has live music throughout the year and several wine selections that vary with the season. Currently, some of their most popular creations include The Mountaineer, Ray’s Red, Railroad Red 1914 and their sweet BlackBeary wine.

Mill Camp Wines & Ciders just opened in 2025 on the outskirts of Boone. Their new facility includes a tasting room where you can try their handcrafted wines and ciders. They also plan to host events and food trucks as they begin to grow their operation.

Over in Alleghany County, Thistle Meadow Winery in Laurel Springs has been in business for nearly 25 years and has shipped its wines to over 30 different

PHOTO COURTESY OLD BARN WINERY

The Old Barn Winery, located just minutes from downtown West Jefferson, offers a variety of seasonal wines and some of the best views you’ll find in See WINERY | page 99 the High Country.

98 | WINTER TIMES • 2025-26

WINERY | Continued from page 98

states. In addition to stopping by to taste and purchase their wine, Thistle Meadow Winery will take you on a tour and tasting of their property, which typically lasts 30 to 45 minutes. Thistle Meadow hosts their own wine festival each fall to bring in additional wineries from outside the area.

LEARN MORE Banner Elk Winery and Villa www.bannerelkwinery.com/ Grandfather Vineyard and Winery - www. grandfathervineyard.com/ Linville Falls Winery www.linvillefallswinery.com/ Old Barn Winery https://oldbarnwinery.com/ Mill Camp Wines & Ciders www.millcampboone.com/ PHOTO COURTESY LINVILLE FALLS WINERY

Thistle Meadow Winery www.thistlemeadowwinery.com/

The Linville Falls Winery has a little bit of everything to suit your taste buds. Two of their favorite seasonal varieties are the blueberry and blackberry wines.

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Warm up with

COLD

BEER

BY MOSS BRENNAN

T

here are many local options across the High Country to warm up with a nice, cold beer on a chilly winter day. If you want to hang out at a tasting room or receive a full restaurant experience along with your smooth lager or ale, the choices in Ashe, Avery and Watauga counties are numerous.

In Ashe County, there are two local breweries and a cidery that call the area home. Molley Chomper Cidery is a bit off the beaten path in Lansing, but well worth the drive for a little something different. Their ciders are infused with a variety of fruit flavors. Some of their other most popular selections include Mountain Maelstrom, Bent Apple, School House, Porch Swing, Penny Stick, and the Old Orchard Creek, which is a blend of Molly Chomper’s apples and blueberries from the blueberry farm at the Old Orchard Creek Store nearby in Lansing. You can see all their available selections at www.molleychomper.com/.

Boondocks Brewing, founded in 2012 in downtown West Jefferson, was the first licensed craft beer brewery in Ashe County. Starting off as a restaurant with its brewing equipment in the same building, Boondocks has since grown to two locations with the restaurant and beer garden just up the street from the Boondocks Brew Haus, which serves as the home to the beer making and an event venue with a 100 | WINTER TIMES • 2025-26

PHOTO COURTESY BOONDOCKS

Boondocks Brewing, founded in 2012 in downtown West Jefferson, was Warm up with a cider at Mill Camp Wines and Ciders just outside of Boone. the first licensed craft beer brewery in Ashe County.

PHOTO COURTESY MILL CAMP WINES AND CIDERS

music stage and rooftop bar. The beer menu has several craft beers to fit whatever it is you are looking for.

Just a few of the Boondocks staple selections include the JMB Stout, the popular Honey Orange Kolsch, 3 Top 3 Hop IPA, Backwoods Campfire Scottish Ale, and the Blue Ridge Brutal Brown, created to celebrate the annual Blue Ridge Brutal cycling race. Some of their newest creations include the Pit Stop Pilsner, which was created after the reopening of nearby North Wilkesboro Speedway, the Strawberry-Blonde Mint Saison, the Vaquero Cerveza Mexican Lager, the New River Red ale, a tribute to one of the oldest rivers in the world, and the Mountain Fog Lager, a beer in support of the Ashe County Arts Council. Boondocks Brewing Taproom & Restaurant is located at 108 South Jefferson Avenue. Boondocks Brew Haus is located just a few steps away at 302 South Jefferson Avenue. Learn more about Boondocks Brewing at www. boondocksbeer.com/.

The final choice for a cold craft brew in Ashe County is at New River Brewing. NRB has two locations in West Jefferson. Their restaurant features a full beer and food menu, while their tasting room, located roughly a mile away, is a place to hang out and enjoy a beer and a smaller food menu, or bring your own food to snack on. Their beer selections have some fun names and flavors, including Skeeter Pee, which comes in a variety of sweet flavors throughout the year, such as All the Berries, Apple Pie, Blackberry, Pineapple, and Pink Lemonade. Some of their other, more classic-style beers include Take Me to the River American Lager, Jooce IPA, Farmhouse Ale, This Ain’t the Muffler Shop IPA, and Hopsessive Compulsive IPA. Find out more about their food and brews at newriverbrewing.beer/.

In Avery County, Banner Elk is home to Kettell Beerworks, the county’s only brewery. Kettell Beerworks was originally founded

in 2010 and changed ownership in 2024. Right now, they have seven year-round beers, two seasonal beers available in the fall and winter months. The two seasonal selections are an Oktoberfest beer available during the fall and Alpine Rush, an amber winter ale. Their other beers include Crabby Louie Imperial IPA, Supernova IPA, Melon Kolsch, Velvet Panda Oatmeal Stout, Copper Elk American Amber, Vonderbier and Rollcast German Kolsch. Visit kettellbeerworks.com/ for more information on their beers and where to find them.

Along the Watauga and Avery County line is Beech Mountain Brewing Co., located in the village of Beech Mountain Resort, and is open to the general public. It has a cozy ski resort atmosphere with a large fireplace and is a social hub perfect for winding down after a day on the mountain. Last year, they introduced the Red Baron Room, a See BREWERIES | page 101

BREWERIES | Continued from page 100

1914 speakeasy-style bar serving cocktails. Find out more at www. beechmountainbrewingco.com/.

Moving to Watauga County, Appalachian Mountain Brewery in Boone has been in operation since 2013 and has continued to grow its footprint across North Carolina.

AMB has their staple lineup of beers that are kept on the menu all the time, including the classic Long Leaf IPA, the Boone Creek Blonde Ale and the Low and Hazy IPA. They also offer ciders and some seasonal beers that you can be on the lookout for each year. It now has two locations in western NC. You can find them at 163 Boone Creek Drive in Boone or if you head a bit further south, they now have a location at 46 N. Mills River Road in Mills River.

To learn more about AMB and their beers, visit www.amb.beer/.

Booneshine Brewing, located in “East Boone” as the locals call it, has been in operation since 2015.

They were originally located in Boone near Basil’s Restaurant and the Boone Mall. Now, they have expanded to a much larger operation near the industrial park that features a restaurant and beer garden that opened in 2019. They celebrated this move by, of course, creating a beer and naming it the East Boone Pilsner, one of their flagship beers available throughout the year. Other beers available all the time are the Space Pegasus Hazy IPA, Tropicale Ale, High Country Honey Amber Ale, Booneshine IPA and the Palate Painter IPA. A few of their seasonal beverages are the Golden Hour Double IPA, Electric Hellbender IPA, Overlook Oktoberfest and the Kringleberry Stout. Visit www. booneshine.beer/ to learn more about Booneshine Brewing.

Another brewery that calls Boone home is Lost Province Brewing Company. They have a downtown Boone brewpub as well as an expanded taproom area in East Boone on Hardin Creek, which is also their primary brewing operation. They also have a taproom at Coyote Kitchen — a popular allergy-friendly restaurant in Boone. Lost Province was at the forefront of expanding the beer scene in the Boone area. In addition to their flagship brews — like the Kiss My Grits, What’s Up Bro? and Hipster Juice —they create several interesting seasonal drinks each year. You can learn more about Lost Province Brewing Company at www. lostprovince.com/.

After making the short drive to Blowing Rock, be sure to stop by Blowing Rock Ale House to enjoy the local libations of Blowing Rock Brewing. Their main brewing facility

is located in Hickory; however, the first location opened in its current spot in Blowing Rock in 2013.

With a large variety of year-round and seasonal beers, Blowing Rock Brewing will have something you will enjoy. The Cloud Rise IPA, Blowing Rock IPA, High Country Hazy Pale Ale and their Kolsch are all readily available throughout the year.

Find out more about Blowing Rock Brewing at blowingrockbrewing. com/.

Finally, one of the newest spots to grab a cider — or wine — is Mill Camp Wines and Ciders just outside of Boone. Located just outside Boone, the property features a patio overlooking a developing vineyard and orchard, along with a fireplace and a wide selection of wine and ciders. It opened in October and is located at 1584 Tom Jackson Road.

For more information, visit https:// www.millcampboone.com/.

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HIGH COUNTRY

TUBING

comes full circle for family fun are $40 during the week and $48 on the weekend. Weekend rates lthough skiing and apply starting Friday at 5 p.m. snowboarding are the High and continue through the end of Country’s premier outdoor Sunday night, according to the ski winter sports, snow tubing is resort’s website. carving a welcome niche in the Guests can purchase tickets fresh powder at local ski resorts. online at beechmountainresort.

Adjacent to the ski area at com/mountain/tubing/.

Beech Mountain Resort is its snow Although Hawksnest in Seven tubing park. The park features Devils was once a ski resort, the usually 6-8 lanes at any given region-renowned slopes have time. The runs stretch to 700 transformed into a popular snow feet, with long runoffs to provide tubing destination. maximum enjoyment. The Magic Hawksnest Tubing Park is home Carpet conveyor lift quickly to one of the largest snow tubing transports tubers back to the top. parks on the East Coast. With The evening sessions are lit up up to 30 lanes of snow tubing with cosmic lights for an out-offun, Hawksnest is your family’s this-world experience. Participants destination for a unique winter must be at least 42 inches tall. experience. Its four snow tubing Children cannot ride on a parent’s areas offer a variety of terrain that lap. Ski boots are not allowed in appeals to tubers of all experience tubes or on the run. levels. Snow tubing at Hawksnest Standard tubing session times is available to participants ages on Monday-Thursday begin at 3 and up. Small children will be 12 p.m., 2 p.m., and 4 p.m. with required to ride with an adult if Cosmic Snow tubing beginning they are not able to reach their at 6 p.m. Weekend snow tubing feet outside the tube to stop sessions, including Friday, themselves at the bottom of the Saturday, and Sunday, start at tubing lane.

10 a.m., 12 p.m., 2 p.m., and 4 Hawksnest’s one-hour and p.m. Cosmic tubing sessions 45-minute sessions are available begin at 6 p.m. and 8 p.m. during to ages three and above, offering the weekends, according to thrills and spills across four tubing beechmountainresort.com. areas on 30 lanes.

Session times are The 2025-26 session rates are approximately 1.5 hours at Beech $42 Monday - Thursday. Weekday Mountain. Tubing session tickets session times begin at 10 a.m.,

BY JESSE CAMPBELL

A

102 | WINTER TIMES • 2025-26

PHOTO COURTESY HAWKSNEST

Beech and Sugar Mountain ski resorts, and Hawksnest offer daytime and twilight tubing.

12 p.m., 2 p.m., and 4 p.m. Friday session times are 10 a.m., 12 p.m., 2 p.m., 4 p.m., and 6 p.m., and each costs $50.

Saturday and holiday sessions begin at 10 a.m., 12 p.m., 2 p.m., 4 p.m., and 6 p.m. Those sessions cost $56. Hawksnest Sunday sessions begin at 10 a.m., 12 p.m., and 2 p.m. and cost $56.

The Weekday Special features a $10 second session pass with a $42 single session purchase. Visit hawksnesttubing.com/ for more information.

Sugar Mountain’s snow tubing area is located on the Sugar Mountain Golf Course across from the base lodge and offers 700-foot-long tubing lanes, serviced by a Magic Carpet lift.

Sessions are one hour and 45 minutes long and begin at 10 a.m., 12 p.m., 2 p.m., 4 p.m., 6

p.m., and 8 p.m. It is $42 during the week and $53 on weekends.

Visit skisugar.com for more information.

Jonas Ridge Snow Tubing is located just north of the city of Morganton and south of Boone, North Carolina. The 400-foot-long slopes are steep and fast, allowing guests to squeeze in more runs so you can get the most out of your snow tubing experience. It even has a viewing area so you can watch the fun while you’re taking a break.

The park’s steep 400-foot drop allows more runs and shorter queues, according to the park’s website. An adjoining viewing area allows tubers to enjoy all the action while taking a break before another run on the mountain.

Visit jonasridgesnowtube.com to book your family’s next session.

HIGH COUNTRY

and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and on Sundays from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. Group tours with a docent presentation can be scheduled Monday through Thursday by wintery inspiration emailing frescoes@rumplechurch. org.

BY JESSE CAMPBELL In Avery County, Long’s frescoes inter is a time of quiet can be found in two churches: St. contemplation and John’s Episcopal Church in the manifestation. small community of Eseeola.

Although nippy weather is a Sloop Chapel in Crossnore refreshing reprieve from warm, offers viewers the “Suffer the humid summers, the colder months Children” fresco. Children from offer a pause for quiet reflection FILE PHOTO the school and the painter’s and cultural enrichment.

One of the Frescoes at Rumple. family served as models for this With winter’s first bite inspirational piece, according Rumple Memorial Presbyterian to highcountryhost.com. The coinciding with the holidays, many dedication to art and perseverance.

Frescoes are wall paintings Church in Blowing Rock recently High Country residents and guests fresco is located at E.H. Sloop created by applying waterinstalled two new Frescoes, a turn to religion and spirituality Chapel at Crossnore Communities based pigments onto fresh, wet depiction of the 23rd Psalm and as the year draws to a close to for Children. Guests can view lime plaster. The term “fresco,” The Good Shepherd. cogitate on the past year while the fresco. Art fans and casual “23 Psalm” is an interpretation looking to the New Year for solemn derived from the Italian word for observers can see the fresco from resolutions and renewed direction. “fresh,” reflects the essence of the of the Old Testament verse of the 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. technique: as the plaster dries, same name. Walters Artistic appreciators and chic the colors bond to it, making the says the fresco is connoisseurs seeking new, stoic, artwork a lasting part of the wall’s filled with elements and dynamic exhibitions move surface. not present in the beyond downtown galleries and Each work demands patience actual verse, which public installations for renewed and precision, as pigment is is meant to tie it into inspiration. pressed into wet plaster rather the New Testament.

Fresco murals and paintings than brushed onto canvas. When “The Good satisfy cultural and spiritually JANUARY the plaster hardens, the colors Shepard,” similarly imbued cravings without the ONLY! ay the ay romotion fuse with the wall itself—enduring, connected to Psalm overdriven, pretentious themes luminous, and timeless.

23, shows a shepherd that are invariably found in some Pay the oinin Total Several High Country fresco holding a dandelion. modern abstract art.

Day ee Price With the relocation Frescoes are a salient figurative installations allow guests to marvel ay of the Month ne time ay of the rice ou ay for 1 at the paintings’ intrinsic beauty. of “23 Psalm” and art form that draws on religion fee 25 Month Month Mem er hi Ashe County is home to St. “The Good Shepard” and historical events, depicting Pay The Day Promotion from South Carolina, poignant moments and connecting Mary’s Episcopal Church, located How it works: The number of day equals the amount you pay for the month onday the nd or the month Thursday the th or the month all 14 of Long’s viewers with timeless themes while at 400 Beaver Creek School Rd. in West Jefferson. It showcases frescoes are now in reminding them that AI art can hat ill ou o At he Ben Long’s fresco piece titled North Carolina. never compare with humanity’s olunteer Lower Your Blood Pressure “The Mystery of Faith,” which he The Rumple ongoing renaissance and Connect ith riends Let your kids play in the Child completed in 1977.

Memorial transformation.

Development Center Learn to wim Holy Trinity Episcopal Church While frescoes are often seen Presbyterian Church educe Your isk or Dia etes Try a Group Exercise Class in Glendale Springs houses “The as strictly religious artworks, the Fresco Ministry is Call our Avery location at 828.737.5500, or our Mitchell murals are foremost expressions Last Supper.” Prints are available to open to the public for location at 828.520.9101, for more information. of creativity and a tireless, lifetime purchase at the church or online. viewing on Fridays

FRESCOES’

W

START THE YEAR OUT STRONG

2025-26 • WINTER TIMES | 103

HAWKSNEST

Snow Tubing

NC’s Largest Tubing Park Fun For Ages 3+ 4 Tubing Areas Up To 30 Tubing Lanes

hawksnestadventures.com RAFTING Book your

ADventure online!

Located Between Boone & Banner, NC 104 | WINTER TIMES • 2025-26

ZIPLINE

WHAT A

RUSH

Feel the thrills of ziplining

BY ZACH COLBURN

Z

ip lining is an activity that can be enjoyed by people from almost any walk of life and at any time of year.

That includes even during the coldest of winters in the High Country, where participants can enjoy the picturesque views of the Blue Ridge Parkway and the Blue Ridge Mountains.

Those views look even more breathtaking from the treetops on a biplane, even if that air is a little bit cooler in the winter months.

There are three main places in the High Country that offer fun, safe outdoor adventures: Hawksnest Zipline in Seven Devils, High Gravity Adventures, and Sky Valley Zip Tours in Blowing Rock.

It’s recommended that visitors wear comfortable clothing and closed-toe shoes; with the unpredictability of the weather in the High Country, consider dressing in layers and bringing rain gear, depending on the weather forecast.

Also, those with long hair should have it tied back, and many places require that a helmet be worn.

HAWKSNEST ZIPLINE

Hawksnest Zipline is located just outside Boone. Originally Hawksnest Golf and Ski Resort, this outfitter has served in many capacities since opening in 1964.

After discontinuing skiing and snowboarding following the

conclusion of the 2008 season, Hawksnest switched its focus to creating the East Coast’s largest snow tubing park.

A year later, construction broke on the original biplane course with the first zippers coming in the summer of 2009.

There are three ziplining trips to choose from: the Hawk Tour, the Eagle Tour, and the Do It All Tour.

Reservations are required for each trip and participants must arrive 30 minutes prior to their scheduled tour time. To make a reservation, visit www. hawksnestzipline.com or call (828) 963-6561.

The most popular option for visitors, families and first-time zipliners, Hawk Tour features 11 cables for a total of a mile-and-ahalf through the sky.

Participants must be at least 5 years old, and children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult.

For this tour, riders cannot weigh more than 250 pounds, and there is no weight minimum.

The Eagle Tour takes about two hours to complete, as participants will be soaring through nine cables for a total of three miles. This tour features two cables that are more than 2,000 feet long and a suspension bridge. Some zipline experience is recommended, as well as being somewhat physically fit, as participants will be moving around 200 feet above the ground at certain points.

Lastly, the Do It All Tour

FILE PHOTO

Jenny Hunter of Mount Holly ziplines at Sky Valley Zip Tours.

combines the Hawk and Eagle Tours, offering 20 cables, four mega zips, and three swinging bridges.

Both the Eagle Tour and the Do It All Tour require participants to be at least 8 years old and weigh at least 80 pounds. Riders cannot exceed 220 pounds.

SKY VALLEY ZIP TOURS

Located about 15 minutes from Blowing Rock, Sky Valley Zip Tours thrills participants from start to finish across 140 acres of mountain landscape. They offer the Canopy Tour, Kid Zip and the Night Flight tours.

Sky Valley encourages booking your tour in advance, but walk-ins are welcome on a first-come, first-served basis.

For more information, visit www. skyvalleyziptours.com.

The signature Canopy Tour features 10 ziplines, including Big Momma — a 1,600-foot-long and 300-foot-high zipline, along with a 120-foot swinging bridge and a

thrilling 45-foot vertical descent.

An adrenaline rush from start to finish, it’s designed for ages 10 and up and weights ranging from 70 to 250 pounds.

The Kid Zipline, also known as the Whistle Pick Adventure, was specifically built for kids, designed with fun, freedom and bravery in mind.

Kids’ zipline offers seven zip lines, a bridge, and a 20-foot slide.

Participating children must be between the ages of 4-and-18, less than 5 ‘6’’ in height, and less than 180 pounds. Riders also must be able to reach up and touch 48 inches high.

Sky Valley also offers a Night Flight tour. This tour under the stars covers the first five cables of the Canopy Tour. The platforms are lit, and participants will have headlamps to illuminate their path through the trees.

The nighttime tours are available on select weekends after See ZIP | page 106 2025-26 • WINTER TIMES | 105

That honor was received in May 2022. dark and take about 1.5 hours to High Gravity Adventures’ most complete, while the Canopy Tour enticing experience leads to a day is 3 hours long. It is important of ultimate trial adventure and a to note that for both tours, lifetime of memories. participants must be 10 years of For $100 per person, age or older and weigh between 70 participants can zip, climb, swing and 250 pounds. and experience the High Country’s HIGH GRAVITY largest aerial adventure park destination between Boone and ADVENTURES Blowing Rock, next to Tweetsie The park officially opened Railroad. in 2015, and in 2017, the High Ages seven and up can Altitude Zip Line Tour was experience everything HGA added. The park currently has offers for one low price, including four different adventures to the High Altitude Zip Line Tour, choose from: zip, climb, swing or Blue Ridge Adventure Park, the combine them all for the ultimate three-person Giant Swing, and the adventure.

High Gravity Adventures is one Mountain Ninja Course.

Two other options include the of the first aerial park and zip tour High Altitude Zip Line Tour and operators to receive Operations Accreditation from the Association the Foothills Zip Line Adventure Park and Ninja Course. of Challenge Course Technology.

ZIP | Continued from page 105

FILE PHOTO

Ziplining is a winter and summer sport in the High Country, with gear available year-round at some outfitters throughout the area.

For more information on all options, visit https://www.

highgravityadventures.com/ or call (828) 201-2507.

TURN YOUR HOUSE INTO A Home

Neighborhood-style living featuring comfortable, casual suites at a great value.

Our warm, inviting staff are available 24/7 and will make you feel right at home.

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106 | WINTER TIMES • 2025-26

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PARKING

OPTIONS

in the busiest High Country towns

BY NICK FOGLEMAN

O

ne of the first challenges you may encounter while visiting the High Country in winter is finding parking. The season brings holiday shoppers, winter sports enthusiasts and festive events that draw crowds to mountain towns.

Parking can be especially limited in downtown Boone during weekends and holiday celebrations, but there are several options to keep in mind.

King Street in Boone offers metered parking close to shops, restaurants and the Appalachian Theatre. Meters allow up to two hours, payable with coins or credit cards.

King Street in Boone offers metered parking close to shops, restaurants and the Appalachian Theatre. Meters allow up to two hours, payable with coins or credit cards.

For longer visits, the largest parking areas downtown are located on Depot Street and Queen Street. These paid lots allow up to eight hours of parking, ideal if you plan to spend the day browsing stores, dining or attending events. Simply pay at the kiosk, place the printed ticket on your dashboard and enjoy your time in town.

Another recent addition is the

Queen Street parking garage, which is open to the public after 5:30 p.m. on weekdays and all weekend. Officials have discussed future plans to enforce parking restrictions and pay models, so be sure to check the signage for updated policies.

Parking in downtown Boone is enforced Monday through Saturday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., with free parking on Sundays and holidays.

Take note of the red and white “Emergency Snow Route” signs that are placed throughout downtown Boone on King Street.

Cars remaining in these areas during the times designated on the signage will be towed. The bulk of the snow removal occurs overnight between the hours 11 p.m. and 7 a.m. Any cars parked in the street will be towed.

In Blowing Rock, public parking remains free in town lots, though some private lots charge fees.

Given the heavy fall crowds, arriving early is recommended to secure a spot near Main Street.

There are parking desks by the Blowing Rock Art and History Museum and the American Legion building.

Time limits are enforced so be aware of any signage indicating parking policy.

If your travels take you to Ashe County, downtown West Jefferson

FILE PHOTO

These emergency snow route signs are posted in numerous locations throughout downtown Boone.

offers three large public parking lots as well as free street parking, all within walking distance of shops, galleries, antique stores, Ashe County Cheese and the

Parkway Theater.

Most parking in Avery County is also free, making it easier to explore its mountain communities during peak foliage season.

2025-26 • WINTER TIMES | 107

AREA

CHAMBERS support the community

As snow blankets the High Country’s peaks and frost he North Carolina High Country glistens on bare branches, the is a popular destination for region’s chambers of commerce first-time visitors, returning work year-round to ensure friends and full-time residents both winter adventurers and — especially those headed to longtime residents find warmth in the area to participate in winter community connections. From ski activities. As part of its mission, slopes to cozy downtown shops, area chambers in Ashe, Avery and these organizations serve as vital Watauga counties strive to serve links between the people and all individuals and businesses who businesses that make the North find their way to our corner of the PHOTO COURTESY BOONE AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE See CHAMBER | page 109 The Boone Area Chamber of Commerce staff is there to help the community. world.

BY MOSS BRENNAN

T

Appalachian Furniture Appalachian Furniture Mattress Gallery

You’ll Be Amazed!

2550 HWY 421 NORTH, BOONE 828-297-5055 WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/APPALACHIANFURNITURE5055 108 | WINTER TIMES • 2025-26

Voted Best Furniture Store 9 Years in a Row

CHAMBER | Continued from page 108

Carolina mountains home.

The following are chambers of commerce that serve Ashe, Avery and Watauga counties:

BOONE AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

BLOWING ROCK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Address: 132 Park Ave., Blowing Rock, NC 28605 Phone: (828) 295-7851 Online: www.blowingrockchamber. com Blowing Rock is considered one of the crown jewels of the Blue Ridge.

Its chamber of commerce knows this tight-knit community as no one else, and its representatives are always willing to share this knowledge with visitors. Aside from general information, lists of camping and fishing sites, and brochures, the Blowing Rock Chamber of Commerce also has a generous stock of menus from the town’s many eateries.

Address: 579 Greenway Road Suite 101, Boone, NC 28607 Phone: (828) 264-2225 Online: www.boonechamber.com The Boone Area Chamber of Commerce is one of the High Country’s most active, with both a dedicated membership and an overall commitment to the betterment of the area as both a vacation destination and business hub. Located in the heart of Boone, BEECH MOUNTAIN the chamber is an ideal place CHAMBER OF COMMERCE to stop for information on area Address: 403-A Beech Mountain activities, brochures and maps of the PHOTO COURTESY BLOWING ROCK CHAMBER community.

See CHAMBER | page 110 The Blowing Rock Chamber of Commerce is located at 132 Park Ave, Blowing Rock.

Located in the heart of Banner Elk’s Theater District

Dec. 5, 7, 12, 13, 14, 19 & 20, 2025 Musical Variety Show Tickets Adult $26/ Child $12 + tax

Info & �x at (828) 414-1844 www.ensemblestage.com 2025-26 • WINTER TIMES | 109

CHAMBER | Continued from page 109 family to enjoy, but also plenty of

Parkway, Beech Mountain, NC 28604 Phone: (828) 387-9283 Online: www.beechchamber.com Whether you’re looking for a North Carolina mountain vacation full of adventure or just a few days to relax and breathe the fresh mountain air, Beech Mountain, at an elevation of 5,506 feet, will give your soul something to smile about. Beech Mountain, which straddles both Avery and Watauga counties, offers plenty of activities and attractions for the whole

peace and quiet for a relaxing and rejuvenating time.

BANNER ELK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Address: 100 W. Main St., Banner Elk, NC 28604 Phone: (828) 898-8395 Online: www.bannerelk.org Located in the heart of town, the Banner Elk Chamber of Commerce in Avery County promotes the area as a unique place to live, work, and visit.

Information on area lodging, dining, shopping and more is available Monday through

Saturday, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., and all the time by visiting www. bannerelk.org.

shopping and other businesses in Avery County.

Address: 4501 Tynecastle Highway, Unit No. 2, Banner Elk, NC 28604 Phone: (828) 898-5605 Online: www.averycounty.com The Avery County Chamber of Commerce Visitor Center is conveniently located in the Shoppes at Tynecastle at the intersection of N.C. 105 and N.C. 184. The center offers information on lodging, dining, attractions,

Suite C, West Jefferson, NC 28694 Phone: (336) 846-9550 Online: www.ashechamber.com Ashe County, home to both the towns of Jefferson and West Jefferson, is just about as far as you can go in the High Country before entering Southwestern Virginia. The county is considered, in many respects, a step back in time to the way the Appalachian Mountains used to be. The chamber can direct travelers through the scenic and sparsely populated area of Christmas tree farms and rugged mountain landscapes, while offering a wide selection of brochures and maps.

ASHE COUNTY AVERY COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE Address: 01 N. Jefferson Ave.,

PHOTO COURTESY AVERY CHAMBER

The Avery County Chamber of Commerce, located in the Shoppes of Tynecastle, serves Avery County residents and businesses through multiple programs, from After Hours to sponsoring the annual Banner Elk Woolly Worm Festival.

110 | WINTER TIMES • 2025-26

Find some treasures at the...

LOCAL

General STORE

BY NATHAN HAM

G

eneral stores are still a popular attraction in the High Country.

From the North Carolina/ Virginia state line all the way to the top of Beech Mountain, the High Country has several general stores worth checking out.

The Mast General Store was originally opened in Valle Crucis before the Civil War and has remained open ever since. With multiple locations throughout

FILE PHOTO

Old Orchard Creek General Store in Lansing reopened in December of 2024 after being closed for over two months due to damage sustained during Hurricane Helene.

western NC, the store’s original location in Valle Crucis, the annex just down the road in Valle Crucis and the busy location on King

Street in downtown Boone are some of the most popular stores in the area. With their growing regional popularity, Mast General

Store has expanded to other areas, including Asheville, WinstonSee GENERAL | page 112

Experience

Grocery • Deli with Patio Dining Ski & Snowboard Rentals • Clothing • Hardware Sycamore Shoals State Historic Park

Learn about our history and more at tourcartercounty.com

Open Everyday (828) 387 4838

501 Beech Mountain Parkway • Beech Mountain, NC • www.fredsgeneral.com

Come visit us at Eastern America’s Highest Town

2025-26 • WINTER TIMES | 111

GENERAL | Continued from page 111

Salem, Columbia, South Carolina, Greenville, South Carolina, Roanoke, Virginia, and Knoxville, Tennessee.

Head to the top of Beech Mountain to find Fred’s General Mercantile, another popular stop in the area. Located at an elevation of 5,506 feet, the store, owned

by Fred Pfohl, first opened its doors in February 1979. Fred’s General Mercantile has food, clothes, household items, hardware supplies, and even a great selection of ski and snowboarding gear.

If you venture out through the countryside in Ashe County, you’ll find a pair of general stores well off the beaten path. The Old Orchard Creek General Store in Lansing took a bit of a beating during Hurricane Helene but reopened sooner than other places in Lansing, reopening in December of 2024, a little over two months after the storm swept through the area.

“We had to gut the entire place and kind of assess the extent of

FILE PHOTO

Families took advantage of the opportunity to spend time with Santa Claus at the Mast General Store in downtown Boone before last Christmas.

Kelly McCoy tells tales of the hellbender on the front porch of The Old Store at Grassy Creek.

the damage to see what the water ruined,” owner Shelby Tramel said.

Tramel and hundreds of volunteers spent more than 1,000 hours reviving the store.

Tramel took over ownership of the store from previous owners Johnny Burleson and Walter Clark.

Before that, it was the old Hart Store, which operated until the 1990s.

The Old Orchard Creek Store is located at 9350 NC Highway 194 in Lansing.

In the small community of Grassy Creek, the Old Store is more than a century old and was recently brought back to life by owners John and Kathy Chefas and their daughter, Carrie McClain, in 2022.

“We are so excited to see so many here that have grown up in

Fred’s General Mercantile is located high atop Beech Mountain.

112 | WINTER TIMES • 2025-26

PHOTO COURTESY NRC

Grassy Creek and have so many wonderful memories. It has been fun to be in the store and have people come through and tell us all of their crazy stories that happened right here in this building or right around here,” McClain said. “We are excited to continue to tell the story of Grassy Creek. We are excited for the future of the store and excited for it to be a center for the community and a place for people to come and rest and enjoy the countryside.”

Grassy Creek sits along the border of North Carolina and Virginia, and was officially listed on the National Register of Historic Places on Dec. 14, 1976.

The historical district originally contained 29 buildings, some of which are no longer there.

However, the store is still standing and continuing to serve a new generation of residents and visitors.

The Old Store at Grassy Creek is PHOTO COURTESY FRED’S GENERAL MERCANTILE located at 710 Grassy Creek Road.

Get fresh, local food at the

WINTER FARMERS

MARKET

stained glass, and indoor houseplants. Several bath and he King Street Farmers’ Market body vendors will join the market, launched its winter season including Resupply, which sells Saturday, Dec. 6, operating refillable soaps and personal-care from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the products in a bring-your-ownWatauga County Agricultural container model, and Carolina Bath Conference Center. and Body Co., which offers scrubs The winter market, which runs Sandreuter noted that new every Saturday through March, baked-goods vendors will join in except for the weekend following January, including Magpies and the Christmas, will feature a rotating bread-focused Four Sisters Bakery cast of about 25 vendors each from Black Mountain. week.

The market will also host The King Street Market, seasonal activities and themed supported by Blue Ridge Women events. A holiday-focused market in Agriculture, has operated since is scheduled for Dec. 20 with 2017. While the traditional outdoor additional vendors. Other planned market runs on Tuesdays from events include a cookie-baking May through October, the winter season offers residents a chance to competition in early December, a Valentine’s Day market on Feb. 14, continue shopping locally. senior day celebrations and a Día “We have about four to five Latino event. Live music, children’s different produce vendors, and crafts and community organization they sell a lot of organic produce booths will be available throughout and are certified naturally grown,” the season. said Market Manager Sarah Sandreuter said the first 20 Sandreuter. customers to arrive on opening day She added that egg and beef will receive a free produce bag as producers, including farmers from part of a promotional giveaway.

Beech Mountain, will return with The winter market is held at “really high-quality meat,” along 252 Poplar Grove Road in Boone. with a vendor specializing in lamb More information, including vendor cuts. announcements and event updates, Craft vendors will also be is available on Facebook at @ a major presence throughout KingStreetMkt, on Instagram at @ the season. Offerings include kingstreetmarket, or by emailing handmade journals, bags and purses, pet collars and bows, farmersmarkets@brwia.org.

BY NICK FOGLEMAN

T

PHOTO COURTESY OF BRWA

The market hosts a wide variety of vendors, selling crafts, goods, food and more.

PHOTO COURTESY OF BRWA

The market is held at the Watauga County Agricultural Conference Center during the winter.

PHOTO COURTESY OF BRWA

This year, the market will host specialty vendors like Resupply, a zero-waste store, supplying personal and household care products.

2025-26 • WINTER TIMES | 113

High Country

ART

GALLERIES

BY MOSS BRENNAN

T

he High Country arts scene has a lot to offer.

So when the weather is a little too cold to be outside, check out some of these many art galleries in the area and support local artists.

ANVIL ARTS SCULPTURE GARDEN AND GALLERY

9600 Linville Falls Hwy, Newland (828) 765-6226 www.studiosculpture.com Anvil Arts Studio Sculpture is a unique arts destination featuring the works of Founder Bill Brown as well as a rotating group of regional sculptors working in various styles and mediums. Visitors and collectors can experience a wide range of outdoor sculpture, as well as sculpture and art for interiors, displayed across the grounds, sculpture garden, and indoor gallery space. Visitors can view and purchase 3-D works in metal, glass, clay, stone, as well as 2-D paintings and drawings. Walk-ins at the Linville Falls location are welcome, as are private appointments. It is open Monday-Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. from March through October and Tuesday-Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. from November through February.

THE ART CELLAR

920 Shawneehaw Lane, Banner Elk (828) 898-5175 www.artcellaronline.com Established in 1993 in the Western North Carolina Mountain community of Banner Elk, The Art Cellar Gallery has continued to offer the artwork of the area’s most beloved artists, reaching throughout the Southeast and nationally to present an exciting variety of works in a broad range of styles and mediums. From primitive to realistic, impressionistic to abstract, the gallery features fine-quality artwork by both established and emerging artists, unlike anywhere else in the Southeast. The Art Cellar Gallery provides its clients with a relaxed and comfortable exhibition space in which to select art that becomes treasured additions to their collections, large or small. The House Frame Shop offers museum-quality conservation framing services, consultations, and other specialty custom framing services. It is open Monday-Saturday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and by appointment.

114 | WINTER TIMES • 2025-26

ASHE COUNTY ARTS COUNCIL

303 School Ave., West Jefferson (336) 846-2787 www.ashecountyarts.org The Arts Council offers leadership, collaboration & growth through the arts. The ACAC operates two facilities in Ashe County. A historic WPA building, the Ashe Arts Center, in downtown West Jefferson, houses the offices for the Arts Council, The Gallery, & Gallery Shop. The Ashe Civic Center, a 282-seat theatre space, also serves as the home of the Ashe County Little Theatre. These two facilities offer numerous options for arts programming. In addition to offering year-round art experiences in these spaces, Ashe County Arts Council offers programming at other sites such as the public school systems, the Ashe Park, the West Jefferson Farmers Market, and other community spaces. It is open Monday-Friday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

BE ARTISTS GALLERY

185 Azalea Circle, Banner Elk (828) 898-6767 www.beartistsgallery.com The BE Artists Gallery is a cooperative art gallery operating in the Cultural Arts Center at the Historic Banner Elk School in downtown Banner Elk. Members offer their fine arts and crafts for sale, and work together to operate the gallery. It also represents the work of local consignment artists. The BE Artists Gallery and Historic Banner Elk School is one of the newest stops on the Blue Ridge Craft Trails, a major initiative of the Blue Ridge National Heritage Area. The gallery is by appointment only from January to mid-April.

BLOWING ROCK ART & HISTORY MUSEUM

159 Ginny Stevens Lane, Blowing Rock (828) 295-9099 www.blowingrockmuseum.org BRAHM is a hub of artistry and creativity in the heart of the High Country. The Museum is rooted in the creative cultures of Appalachia and seeks to cultivate a community that extends beyond its walls and region, positioning Western North Carolina as a leader in the arts through educational programs, exhibitions, activities and permanent collections. Visitors

See ART | page 115

ART | Continued from page 114 can visit the gallery’s website and follow @ brmuseum on social media to view various videos, artist interviews, behind-the-scenes sneak peeks, art lessons geared toward youth and more. For more information, visit www. blowingrockmuseum.org. The Blowing Rock Art & History Museum is open from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday to Saturday and till 7 p.m. on Thursdays. The Museum is open on Sunday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., May through October. It is closed on Mondays.

BLOWING ROCK FRAMEWORKS & GALLERY

7539 Valley Blvd., Blowing Rock (828) 295-0041 www.blowingrockgalleries.com Since its founding in 1994, Blowing Rock Frameworks & Gallery, LTD. has become a premier destination for fine art and regional landscapes in the Southeast. Starting with established local artists, the gallery has grown into a core of internationally recognized talents, featuring over twenty-five of the most accomplished artists in the region. A stroll through our gallery is as pleasing to the firsttime visitor as it is to our seasoned collectors.

They provide fine art for individual and corporate collectors. Blowing Rock Frameworks & Gallery also proudly represents a select number of local artists who specialize in local landscape and wildlife art. It is open TuesdaySaturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

BOLICK AND TRADITIONS POTTERY

1155 Main St., Blowing Rock (828) 295-6128 www. bolickandtraditionspottery.com Established in 1992 after training and inspiration from Janet’s parents (Glenn & Lula Owens Bolick), Traditions Pottery produces a wide range of tableware, drinkware, sculpted face jugs, and seasonal items. All wares are made with clay dug right from the ground and then processed through an old brick mill. All glazes are self-developed and food-safe. Call or email us with any questions. It is open MondaySaturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sunday from 12 to 6 p.m.

CARLTON GALLERY

10360 Hwy 105 South, Banner Elk, NC 28604 (828) 963-4288 www.carltongallery.com Soon to celebrate its 44th anniversary, Carlton Gallery is one of the most established fine art galleries in Western North Carolina.

The gallery exhibits Paintings, Glass, Wood, Clay, Sculpture, Wearable Fiber, and Jewelry from many local and regional artisans. Painting Workshops, Receptions, and Art Dashes are

held during the Spring through Autumn.

Carlton Gallery is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Tuesday-Saturday and 11:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. on Sunday, or by appointment. Winter hours are Wednesday through Saturday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., beginning on Jan. 1 through April 30, 2026.

CROSSNORE FINE ARTS GALLERY

205 Johnson Ln., Crossnore (828) 733-3144 www.crossnore.org Crossnore Fine Arts Gallery represents regional painters, sculptors, and fine craft persons who want to take part in benefiting the children of Crossnore Communities for Children. The gallery specifically supports Crossnore’s Youth Independent Living program, which transitions students from foster care to successful independent living, and the Avery campus Student Work Program. The gallery is open Monday-Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

CROWN GALLERY

1153 Main St., Blowing Rock (828) 818-0008 crowngalleryusa.com Crown Gallery features exceptional paintings from nationally recognized and emerging artists. Discover works that inspire in an inviting and elegant setting. The gallery has been designed with a relaxed atmosphere to comfortably view the ever-changing collection.

The gallery is open 10:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday and Wednesday-Saturday and from 12 to 4 p.m. on Sunday. It is closed on Tuesday.

DOE RIDGE POTTERY

125 Burley Ave. West Jefferson (828) 264-1127 www.doeridgepottery.com Doe Ridge Pottery started in the home of Bob Meier in 1978. In the 1980s, Bob moved his business to King Street in Boone, sharing a parking lot with Daniel Boone Inn. Bob’s work is well known in the High Country and can often be found in local homes, churches and businesses. Mountain scenes, pine trees, and nature-inspired artwork adorn this functional stoneware, including dinnerware, mugs, vases, baking dishes, lamps, and more.

In 2001 Nathan Fields, known to all as Nate, started an apprenticeship with Meier while pursuing a degree in Recreation Management at Appalachian State University. Nate had experimented with clay in high school in Wisconsin and then Florida, but his love for the art form grew exponentially during his time at Doe Ridge with Bob. Nathan and Ashley Fields, who have called Ashe County home for the past 21 years, purchased Doe Ridge and moved it to Ashe County. It is open from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

See ART | page 116 2025-26 • WINTER TIMES | 115

ART | Continued from page 115 Monday-Saturday and 12 to 5 p.m. on Sunday.

FLORENCE THOMAS ART SCHOOL AND GALLERY

10 S. Jefferson Ave., West Jefferson (336) 846-3827 www.florenceartschool.org Florence Thomas Art School’s mission is to provide resources for instruction, exhibition and experience in the fine arts and heritage crafts for Ashe County and the region. FTAS strives to cultivate a thriving, intergenerational arts community where creativity, connection, and lifelong engagement with the arts are accessible to all in Ashe County and beyond. It offers a wide variety of art workshops, exhibitions, outreach programs, and community events designed to inspire artists of all ages and skill levels. It is open Monday-Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and is closed on Sundays.

HANDS GALLERY

543 W King St., Boone 828-262-1970 @handsboonenc Hands Cooperative Gallery is owned and operated by a core group of local artists. The gallery features a wide selection of one-ofa-kind handmade artwork, including jewelry, pottery, basketry, woodwork, handmade paper journals, paintings, stained glass, and fiber arts.

Along with the member’s work, you can find work by 30 consignment artists. The gallery, which has operated for more than 50 years, is open daily from 10 a.m. until 6 p.m. except on Thanksgiving and Christmas. It is also open for First Friday Art Crawls.

JONES HOUSE MAZIE JONES GALLERY

604 W King St., Boone (828) 268-6280 www.joneshouse.org The Mazie Jones Gallery in the heart of the historic Jones House is named for Mazie Jones Levenson, who grew up in the home and was instrumental in preserving the home as a cultural and community center in Boone.

The gallery features monthly rotating exhibits, displaying work from talented local artists, photographers, craftspeople, and historians.

During the monthly First Friday Art Crawl, the Jones House will host an art reception celebrating the month’s artist with food and refreshments for all. The gallery is open Monday-Friday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Saturday-Sunday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

MAGGIE BLACK POTTERY

112-1 Clubhouse Drive, Banner Elk (828) 773-2459 maggieblackpottery.com/index. html 116 | WINTER TIMES • 2025-26

MARTIN HOUSE GALLERY

1098 Main St., Blowing Rock (336) 508-2828 www.martinhousegallery.com/ The Martin House Gallery’s mission is to provide a platform for artists to share their unique visions and connect with art lovers and collectors alike. It strives to create an environment where art lovers can come to discover new artists and find their next favorite piece.

Whether you are a seasoned collector or simply looking for a beautiful piece for your home, we have something for everyone. The Gallery’s knowledgeable staff is always on hand to answer any questions and assist you in finding the perfect piece for your collection.

NTH DEGREE GALLERY

683 W King St, Boone (828) 919-6919 or (828) 719-9493 tinyurl.com/ ysp2uwnd The Nthº Gallery & Studios is a not-forprofit, member and donation supported art venue in Boone, N.C., which features monthly exhibitions of local and regional contemporary and emerging artists. The gallery’s season spans the entire year with shows taking place on the first Friday of every month. The space also features six studio rooms and seven (mostly) active artists who use the space to create their own work and also contribute to the operation of the Gallery. Approximately three shows a year are member shows. Shows are held on the First Friday of every month (except for January), in conjunction with the Downtown Boone First Friday Art Crawl. The Nth also holds regular weekly meetings -- open to the public -- from 8-9pm every Monday evening.

RT MORGAN GALLERY

120 N. Jefferson Ave., West Jefferson (336) 246-3328 rtmorganartgallery.com R. T. Morgan was born in Rome, Georgia in 1960. He majored in art marketing and production at St. Andrews Presbyterian College, Laurinburg, NC and at Appalachian State University, Boone, NC. He apprenticed under a professional sculptor and has maintained a full-time professional artist studio in the Appalachian Mountains since 1986. He creates art in both two and three dimensions. Having worked mainly in stone into the late 1990s, R.T. began working in steel and stainless steel as well as returning to his childhood passion of painting. As a self-taught stained glass artist since 1986, Camille Morgan discovered a world of talent within herself. Making simple sun catchers in her early years, she has now created original door panels, window panels, and even three-dimensional stained glass wall hangings.

She finds that she is constantly challenging

herself with many new and complex artworks.

Her desire is to create more original works has led to the idea that leaded/copper foil glass shouldn’t be just something to hang in a window.

Her diversified wall hangings have become a delight for the serious art collector.

SALLY NOONEY GALLERY

7137 Hwy 194 South, Banner Elk (828) 963-7347 www.sallynooney.com Sally Nooney grew up in the South Carolina low country; where fishing, hunting, and walks in the wild were almost daily activities.

Living just minutes from Charleston, she was a frequent visitor to the city, which gave her a love of history, antiquities, and architecture as well. Sally has painted throughout her life, but decided to seriously pursue her creative talents when she and her husband, Frank, moved to the beautiful North Carolina mountains in 1987.

She began placing more emphasis on her fine art paintings in 1996, opening her own gallery and school in 2001. Her attraction to the beauty and form of glass led her to take a class in kiln-formed, fused glass, and by 2012, she had happily added the medium to her creative talents.

STUDIO 140 AT SORRENTO’S

140 Azalea Circle, Banner Elk (828) 898-5214 www.facebook.com/studio140 Located inside the dining rooms of Sorrento’s, Chef’s Table and Barra restaurants in the heart of Banner Elk, Studio 140 showcases the artwork of painter Kent Paulette. Enjoy the paintings while dining, or feel free to walk inside and view the paintings even if you are not eating there. All paintings are for sale, and staff members are happy to answer questions about the artwork. Paulette, a local artist, is known for bold brushstrokes and bright colors. He works in a studio with a view of the mountains, which provides inspiration. He also conducts live painting demonstrations around town. Find him on the patio at Sorrento’s on Saturday evenings when the weather is nice. When Paulette paints along with live music, it becomes a multisensory experience.

THE POTTERY LOT

5014 NC Hwy 105 S, Vilas (828) 967-0133 www.thepotterylot.com/ The Pottery Lot is a community pottery studio and gallery dedicated to bringing people together through a shared love of clay. Located in the heart of the High Country, The Pottery Lot offers a year-round space for potters of all levels to create, learn, and connect. In addition to its workshops and classes, the studio features a curated retail gallery showcasing the work of many local potters. It is open Monday 11 a.m. to

8 p.m., Sunday and Tuesday-Thursday 11 a.m.

To 4 p.m., Friday 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday 10:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.

TOE RIVER ARTS

269 Oak Avenue, Spruce Pine (828) 765-0520 toeriverarts.org Toe River Arts, first organized as the Toe River Arts Council in 1976, was founded to promote and encourage the existing cultural and educational organizations of Mitchell and Yancey Counties, North Carolina. The arts council’s strong focus on arts education preceded the arts in the regular school curriculum. Over the course of 38 years, Toe River Arts has continued to work with Mitchell, Yancey, and Avery County school systems to provide access to arts experiences. The Toe River Arts Gift Shop and Gallery is open Tuesday-Saturday from 10:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.

TURCHIN CENTER FOR THE VISUAL ARTS

423 W King St., Boone (828) 262-3017 tcva.appstate.edu The Turchin Center is a dynamic, living, breathing presence in the App State community.

The center has been nationally recognized by organizations such as The Andy Warhol Foundation for the Visual Arts, which has supported the center through exhibition grants and through a gift of artworks by the foundation.

Building upon its early successes, the center is poised to move forward in making a difference for many years to come within the campus and community through the visual arts. The center presents a challenging and exciting year-round schedule of exhibitions, offering a diverse look at the visual arts and inviting visitors to expand their perspectives through creative and critical thinking. It is open Tuesday-Thursday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Friday from 12 to 8 p.m., and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. It is closed on Sunday and Monday.

WATAUGA ARTS COUNCIL

377 Shadowline Dr, Boone (828) 264-1789 www.watauga-arts.org The Watauga Arts Council (WAC) fosters a thriving, diverse, vibrant, creative community through arts advocacy, education, support, and inspiration. Serving professional and emerging artists, WAC facilitates and provides a structure for arts initiatives that enrich the lives of artists, residents, and visitors alike. Offering art classes for all ages, grant funding to artists and arts organizations, gallery exhibits, community groups, and special projects and events, their work enriches the lives of residents and visitors alike. WAC is open Monday-Thursday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and is closed Friday-Sunday.

SCAN HERE for the “History of the Belt Knife” 2025-26 • WINTER TIMES | 117

NUMBERS TO

NOTE u All emergencies: Call 911 u Watauga County Watauga County Sheriff ’s Office (828) 264-3761 Boone Police Department (828) 268-6900 Blowing Rock Police Department (828) 295-5210 Appalachian Regional Healthcare System Police (828) 262-4168 Appalachian State University Police (828) 262-8000 Watauga Medical Center (828) 262-4100 FastMed Urgent Care (Boone) (828) 265-7146 Blowing Rock Medical Park (828) 295-3116

118 | WINTER TIMES • 2025-26

Watauga County Animal Control (828) 262-1672

Beech Mountain Police Department (828) 387-2342

Watauga Humane Society (828) 264-7865

Cannon Memorial Hospital (Linville) (828) 737-7000

Animal Emergency Clinic of the High Country (828) 268-2833

Avery County Humane Society (828) 733-9265

u AVERY COUNTY

u ASHE COUNTY

Avery County Sheriff ’s Office (828) 733-2071

Ashe County Sheriff ’s Office (336) 846-5600

Banner Elk Police Department (828) 898-4300

Jefferson Police Department (336) 846-5529

Elk Park Police Department (828) 733-9573

West Jefferson Police Department (336) 246-9410

Newland Police Department (828) 733-2023 Seven Devils Police Department (828) 963-6760 Sugar Mountain Police Department (828) 898-4349

Ashe Memorial Hospital (Jefferson) (336) 846-7101 Ashe County Animal Control (336) 982-4060

YOUR GUIDE TO EATING & DRINKING IN THE HIGH COUNTRY! 2025-26 • WINTER TIMES | 119

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203 Sunset Drive, Blowing Rock, NC 28605 828.295.9703 . Ragged-Gradens.com . 828.295.3466 122 | WINTER TIMES • 2025-26

Restaurant and Wine Bar

For menus and hours please visit our website at vidaliaofboonenc.org

| www.vidaliaofboonenc.com

831 West King Street | 828.263.9176 | Reservations Strongly Recommended

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Downtown Blowing g Rock | 828-327-7070 Downtown West Jefferson | 336-846-8327 2025-26 • WINTER TIMES | 123

AN ARCADE HAS COME TO BOONE MALL! · Coffee eam r C e c I · n · ’80s Fu

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Boone Mall Family Billiards: A Tradition of Excellence Since 1996 Country Retreat Family Billiards & Grill is conveniently located in Foscoe - 8 miles south of Boone and Blowing Rock off highway 105 (next to the Dollar General), and 1.8 miles north of Banner Elk and Linville.

This summer Family Billiards is celebrating 29 years in operation as the High Country’s only pool room, featuring 10 professional pool tables. Family Billiards is a family friendly, non-alcohol recreational destination as well as a full service restaurant & grill.

They host weekly handicapped pool tournaments for the more dedicated pool players of all levels, as well as catering to recreational and first time pool players.The grill operates from 11am - 8pm Monday through Saturday.

The dining area includes a covered front porch for those wishing to eat outside. Family Billiards is closed on Sundays.

Family Billiards & Grill’s pool room and 124 | WINTER TIMES • 2025-26

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S AL Y I EC DA SP FRI SH Y FI VER E

pool tables have always been considered top notch and are maintained in immaculate condition. Their main business is their quality food & beverage operation, of which, close to half is take-out orders. The BEST majority of regulars come for their BURGER quality, consistent and affordable food & HOT DOGS offerings, although many have never played pool here. The room features AROUND! numerous large screen TV’s generally featuring sports or weather during the daytime and sporting events at night. Chef Brian Anderson prepares daily specials Monday through Friday, which virtually always sell out.

Family Billiards is a small operation that caters to and depends largely on their loyal following of regulars. Family Billiards is a family friendly recreation, entertainment, and dining option for locals as well as tourists visiting the high country.

oii CCoo inn n

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Pool Cues, Pool Balls & Billiards Accessory Sales

HIGHWAY 105 · FOSCOE, NORTH CAROLINA · 8 MILES SOUTH OF BOONE 828-963-6260 · 11:00am until 11:00pm Everyday

Proudly Serving You like Family for 65 Years!

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Thursday's smash burger and a beer special for only $12! www.booneshine.beer BOONESHINE BREWING COMPANY

465 INDUSTRIAL PARK DRIVE, BOONE, NC, 28607

Warm up this winter!

Craft Cocktails.

Delicious Cuisine.

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eat. sleep. drink.

B l o w i n g R o c k E l e g a n c e H e l l b e n d e r . B a r 2 3 9 S u n s e t D r i v e B l o w i n g R o c k 2025-26 • WINTER TIMES | 125

ARCADE GAMES!

FOOD & DRINKS!

POOL TABLES!

208 FACULTY ST BOONE NC www.facebook.com/Elevation3333

TRIVIA, KAROKE & LIVE MUSIC!

Join Us! Joinus in our new home inside the Rhodes Motor Lodge in Boone!

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Rhodes Motor Lodge, 1377 Blowing Rock Rd, Boone, NC

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Reservations are available via Resy or call 828-865-3255 126 | WINTER TIMES • 2025-26

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PIZZA & CHILL AT CAPONES!

139 New Market Centre • Boone, NC 28607 2025-26 • WINTER TIMES | 127

A Flooring Outlet,, Inc.

565 Main St E., Banner Elk, NC 28604 (828) 812-8681 Monday - Friday: 9:00 AM - 4 PM Saturday and sunday: Closed 128 | WINTER TIMES • 2025-26

THRIVES FOR QUALITY OVER QUANTITY

ADVERTISER A FLOORING OUTLET .......................................... 128 ABBEY CARPET & FLOOR ................................... 106 ALPINE VILLAGE INN............................................ 53 ANNA BANANA’S....................................................18 APPALACHIAN FURNITURE ............................... 108 APPALACHIAN THEATRE.......................................18 AQUA B BOUTIQUE ............................................... 37 ASHE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ..........................14 ASHE COUNTY ARTS COUNCIL..............................14 ASHE MEMORIAL HOSPITAL................................ 76 AVERY COUNTY HABITAT FOR HUMANITY.........95 BEECH MOUNTAIN RESORT...................................51 BEST CELLAR, THE...............................................122 BIG MIKE’S CREEKSIDE .......................................122 BLACK BEAR WINE & SPIRITS ..............................31 BLACKBERRY CREEK MATTRESS COMPANY 29, 58 BLOWING ROCK ART/HISTORY MUSEUM............ 23 BLOWING ROCK ATTRACTION, THE.....................43 BLOWING ROCK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE .......62 BLOWING ROCK FRAMEWORKS & GALLERY...... 24 BLOWING ROCK FURNITURE GALLERY............. 130 BLUE RIDGE ELECTRIC .........................................48 BLUE RIDGE PROPANE, INC. .................................91 BOLICK & TRADITIONS POTTERY......................... 22 BOONE BAGELRY .................................................127 BOONESHINE........................................................125 BRUSHY MOUNTAIN POWERSPORTS..................54 BULL’S WESTERN STORE......................................99 CABIN FEVER ........................................................ 22 CAPONES ..............................................................127 CARLTON GALLERY.......................................114, 115 CARTER COUNTY TOURISM..................................111 CHETOLA RESORT AT BLOWING ROCK................45 CLASSIC STONE WORKS.......................................46 CORNERSTONE BOOKSTORE .................................18 DAN’L BOONE INN................................................125 DIANNE DAVANT...............................................9, 29

INDEX

DOCS ROCK’S GEM MINE...................................... 79 DOE MOUNTAIN RECREATION AUTHORITY ..28, 73 DRIP COFFEE BAR..................................................18 EDGE OF THE WORLD...........................................38 ELEVATION 3333................................................. 126 ELEVEN 80 EATERY .............................................124 ENSEMBLE STAGE............................................... 109 FAMILY BILLIARDS ....................................... 29, 124 FOSCOE REALTY RENTALS ............................29, 131 FREDS GENERAL MERCANTILE............................111 GAMEKEEPER RESTAURANT, THE .............. 120, 121 GOODWILL INDUSTRIES OF NWNC ....................101 GRANDFATHER MOUNTAIN...................................81 GRANDFATHER MOUNTAIN CAMPGROUND ........71 GRANDFATHER VINEYARD...................................29 GREGORY ALAN’S.................................................. 22 GROUNDED WORKS.............................................. 23 HANNA’S ORIENTAL RUGS AND GIFTS ................ 25 HAWKSNEST ....................................................... 104 HELLBENDER........................................................125 HIGHLAND HILLS CABINS .....................................61 HOLIDAY EXPRESS BLOWING ROCK SOUTH....... 23 HOMESTEAD INN .................................................. 53 JEFFERSON LANDING ...........................................93 JENKINS REALTORS ................................................ 6 JIM’S CORNER FURNITURE...................................30 KINCAID FURNITURE OUTLET ............................... 3 KING STREET FLOWERS ........................................18 MARSH PROPANE CO......................................28, 53 MAST GENERAL STORE .......................................... 2 MCCOY MINERALS................................................ 77 MINK CRAFTS........................................................28 MO’S SWEETS.........................................................18 MOUNTAIN HOME AND HEARTH INC .................. 47 MOUNTAIN OUTFITTERS .......................................71 MUSEUM OF ASHE COUNTY HISTORY..................14 MY BEST FRIENDS BARKERY............................... 27

NEW LIFESTYLES CARPET ONE ........................... 27 NEW RIVER BUILDING SUPPLIES........................ 35 OVER YONDER..................................................... 126 PARAMOUNT MOTORS ........................................132 PARKER TIE CO. INC...............................................14 PEABODYS..............................................................17 PUERTO NUEVO....................................................122 RAM’S RACK ...........................................................19 RANDY MARION CHRYSLER DODGE JEEP INC.... 32 REGENCY ON THE LAKE........................................68 REMAX REALTY GROUP.........................................13 ROAN MOUNTAIN PHARMACY.............................56 SCHAEFER CENTER............................................... 67 SERVES YOU RIGHT...............................................90 SHOPPES AT TYNECASTLE .............................86, 87 SKYLAND FURNITURE & MATTRESS ....................12 SKYLINE TELEPHONE CORP.................................99 SOCIAL ON MAIN .................................................122 SPICE AND TEA EXCHANGE ................................123 STONEWALLS .................................................27, 123 SUMMIT GROUP OF THE CAROLINAS, THE......... 27 SUNSET TEE’S & HATTERY.................................... 22 SUPERIOR SPAS .....................................................16 TATUM GALLERIES.......................................... 27, 29 TAZMARAZ ............................................................ 22 THE DRAWING CENTER ........................................29 THE EMBERS HOTEL ............................................125 THOMPSONS SEAFOOD RESTAURANT ...............123 TOWNEPLACE SUITES BY MARRIOTT................ 106 VIDALIA................................................................123 VILLAGE JEWELERS LTD........................................19 WILDERNESS RUN ALPINE COASTER..................34 WILLIAMS YMCA OF AVERY COUNTY............... 103 WINDWOOD FURNITURE .....................................83 WINKLER KNIVES......................................... 1, 7, 117

2025-26 • WINTER TIMES | 129

Lowest Price, Highest Quality

8486 Valley Blvd. Blowing Rock, NC 28605 · 828-295-7755

Mon-Sat 10am - 6pm · Sun 1 - 6pm · www.blowingrockfurniture.com 130 | WINTER TIMES • 2025-26

Stay in the Heart of the High Country.

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Foscoe Rentals is your key to the perfect mountain stay.

Find yourself at FoscoeRentals.com.

828.963.8142 133 Echota Parkway Boone, NC 28607

Hickory’s Best Deals Are Waiting – Come See Paramount Automotive Today!

Take the drive down the mountain and EXPERIENCE THE PARAMOUNT DIFFERENCE. We have a car to fit any budget.

1205 & 1234 South Center St. • Hwy 70 • Hickory • 828-328-1050 • ParamountAuto.com