The High Country – Banner Elk, Boone, Blowing Rock and the valleys in between – changes completely with the seasons. Here's what to expect, and what to book early.
Winter (December – March)
Ski season. Sugar Mountain and Beech Mountain are both minutes from Banner Elk, with skiing, snowboarding and snow tubing. Weekdays are far quieter than weekends. Mountain roads can be icy – a vehicle with good tyres (or all-wheel drive) helps.
Spring (April – May)
Waterfalls are at their fullest. Walk the short trails at Linville Falls, then spend a slow morning at the original Mast General Store in Valle Crucis. Some higher sections of the Blue Ridge Parkway may still be closed early in spring.
Summer (June – August)
The reason many families come: cool mountain air while the rest of the South swelters. Hike Grandfather Mountain, ride Tweetsie Railroad with the kids, and finish the day by the river at Grandfather Vineyard.
Autumn (September – November)
Leaf season usually peaks in October and it is the busiest time of year. Drive the Blue Ridge Parkway and Linn Cove Viaduct early in the morning, and don't miss the Woolly Worm Festival in Banner Elk.
Book early for…
- October weekends (leaf season)
- Holiday weeks and ski weekends
- Appalachian State home football weekends in Boone
Our Banner Elk cottage sits near the river and park – see Banner Elk homes and check live availability.