10 places to visit in the High Country

January 4, 5:26 PMHigh Country Tourism ExaminerDanielle Beavers

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           If you are planning your first trip to the North Carolina Mountains, here is a list of some of my personal favorite tourist spots that give you every aspect of the great area that is The High Country. 

        Moses Cone Estate – Here you can sit in the rocking chairs on the porch of the estate, visit the craft center with great local artwork or take a ranger-led walk through the trails of Cone Park.

        Blue Ridge Parkway – Take a drive along the most breathtaking views in the East.  Throughout this stretch of Highway there are various overlooks to stop, park and take it all in or for the adventurous tae a hike on one of the many trails that range from easy to more experienced hikes.

        Blowing Rock – To find specialty boutiques and great small restaurants head to the village of Blowing Rock. Not only is there shopping, eating and a performing arts center there is also the Blowing Rock with views of Grandfather Mountain and Table Rock.

        Land of Oz – Just follow the yellow brick road to Beech Mountain.  This theme park is only open one weekend a year (usually the beginning of October).  Although it will never be what it was at its creation in the 1970s, it is still a great place to take the family, walk the yellow brick road and meet all the characters that made up the movie.

        Grandfather Mountain Swinging Bridge – Push aside your fear of heights and travel across the one mile high swinging suspension bridge at Grandfather Mountain.  

        Various Ski Mountains – If the slopes are what you are looking for head to Beech Mountain, Sugar Mountain, Hawks Nest, or Appalachian Ski Mountain all within 45 minutes of one another.

        Canyons – This restaurant offers huge views and perfectly priced meals making it a great place to stop and fill up for lunch or dinner while touring the area (also a great night spot).

        Howard’s Knob – Sitting above Boone, the Howard’s Knob Park provides outstanding views of the city that sits below, an easy drive and short hike.

        Mast General Store – Valle Crucis, NC, was built in 1883 and still to this day is considered the “store that has everything” from outer wear to candy, it is a great place to shop. 

        Tweetsie Railroad – A wild west family theme park located between Boone and Blowing Rock features a 3-mile steam-powered train ride through the mountains, amusement rides, and petting zoo.  Open Memorial Day through October.