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High Country Guide

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Beech Mountain Resort

From skiing and snowboarding in winter to mountain biking, scenic lift rides, and live music in summer, the resort is the heart of year-round adventure on the mountain.
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Explore Beech Mountain

The Town of Beech Mountain offers hiking, fishing, shopping, and dining—all surrounded by stunning high-altitude scenery.
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Fred’s General Mercantile

A Beech Mountain staple since 1979, Fred’s offers everything from groceries and gear to hearty breakfast and mountain-town charm — open 365 days a year.
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Buckeye Recreation Center

A family-friendly hub for indoor and outdoor fun, Buckeye features fitness facilities, hiking trails, sports courts, playgrounds, and scenic lake access — all nestled in the heart of Beech Mountain.
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The Beech Mountain Club

Indulge in upscale dining with a mountain view at The Beech Mountain Club, offering seasonal dishes and a relaxed yet elegant atmosphere.
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Beech Mountain Brewing Co. Taproom and Grill

Enjoy craft beers, a full menu, and live music at one of the area’s top venues, known for year-round events.
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First Chair Coffee Shop

Located just outside the resort entrance, this grab-and-go favorite serves up fresh espresso drinks, teas, and light bites daily.
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5,506′

At 5,506 feet, enjoy sweeping mountain views with cold drinks and quick eats — only accessible by chairlift at Beech Mountain Resort.
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Famous Brick Oven Pizzeria

Enjoy delicious hand-tossed pizzas and hearty Italian fare at this cozy mountain pizzeria, perfect for a casual meal after a day of adventure.
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Fred’s Backside Deli

The heart and soul of the mountain — serving stacked sandwiches, homemade soups, and fresh lunch specials all year long.
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Holy Smokes BBQ

Dig into mouthwatering BBQ at Holy Smokes, where slow-cooked meats and smoky flavors combine for a true Southern feast.
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Bullwinkle’s Pizzeria and Sportsbar

Located at the Top of the Beech Inn, enjoy hand-tossed pizza, cold beer, and plenty of TVs for watching the game with friends.
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Alpen Inn

Savor comforting European-inspired dishes at Alpen Inn, a quaint, mountain-side restaurant offering a warm ambiance and hearty meals.
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Whistle Pig Pub

This rustic pub offers a great selection of craft beers, burgers, and more, making it a perfect spot to unwind after a day on the slopes.
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Slope View Café

A bright and welcoming breakfast and lunch spot with floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the slopes — perfect for a laid-back meal.
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Foot Sloggers Outdoor and Travel Outfitters

A popular outdoor gear store for hiking, camping, and travel enthusiasts. Whether you’re hitting the trails or looking for locally made gear, Foot Sloggers has you covered.
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Mast General Store

A historic and iconic shop offering everything from outdoor equipment and clothing to local food, gifts, and home goods. A must-see stop for anyone exploring the High Country.
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Banner Elk Trading Co.

A unique mountain boutique offering a mix of stylish clothing, accessories, home décor, and gifts. Perfect for those looking for something special and locally inspired.
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Shoppes on the Parkway

A charming collection of boutiques offering everything from mountain-themed gifts to fashion and unique local goods. A great stop while traveling along the Blue Ridge Parkway.
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Provisions

This favorite stop for both locals and tourists has something for everyone! Keely offers a wide selection of locally made, NC, and American-made gifts, décor, natural health & wellness products, and unique food items.
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Tweetsie Railroad

Step into the Wild West with a train ride, live shows, and family-friendly activities in Blowing Rock.
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Apple Hill Farm

Enjoy meeting alpacas, exploring the farm, and taking in stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
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Wilderness Run Alpine Coaster

Experience a thrilling ride through the mountains with this family-friendly coaster in Banner Elk.
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Banner Elk Winery

Sip local wines while enjoying breathtaking mountain views at this charming vineyard just outside Beech Mountain.
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Grandfather Vineyard & Winery

Relax by the river, savor local wines, and listen to live music at this scenic vineyard near Beech Mountain.
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Mystery Hill

Experience mind-bending fun with gravity-defying rooms, hands-on science, and quirky family attractions in nearby Blowing Rock.
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Mast General Store

Visit the original 1883 store in Valle Crucis or the downtown Boone outpost—both full of old-fashioned charm, gear, and regional goods.
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Watauga Lake

One of the most scenic lakes in the Blue Ridge, perfect for swimming, boating, or relaxing by the water’s edge in peaceful seclusion.
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Edge of the World Rafting & Climbing

Kick off a whitewater adventure with guided rafting and climbing trips just minutes from Beech in Banner Elk’s outdoor hub.
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Villa Nove Vineyard

Sip wine with Tuscan flair while overlooking the mountain-wrapped shores of Watauga Lake at this scenic vineyard escape.
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Blue Ridge Parkway

One of America’s most scenic drives, the Blue Ridge Parkway winds through the High Country with overlooks, trails, and photo-worthy views around every turn.
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Grandfather Mountain

A High Country icon, Grandfather Mountain features mile-high swinging bridges, wildlife habitats, and panoramic views from some of the region’s highest peaks.
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High Country Hiking Trails

From rolling ridgelines to forested paths, discover top hikes across Boone, Banner Elk, Blowing Rock, and beyond.
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High Country Fishing

From wild mountain streams to well-stocked lakes, the High Country offers scenic spots to cast a line and enjoy a peaceful day of trout or bass fishing.
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High Country Waterfalls

Scattered across the High Country, waterfalls like Elk River Falls and Linville Falls offer scenic hikes, peaceful views, and photo-worthy natural beauty.
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The Care Collective

A sanctuary for relaxation, offering soothing massages, foot soaks, and sauna sessions. The Care Collective focuses on rejuvenation and stress relief, providing a peaceful space for natural healing and personal wellness.
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The Spa at Crestwood

Located in Boone, the Spa at Crestwood provides top-tier therapeutic services including Swedish and deep tissue massage, facials, and aromatherapy. Guests also have access to a lap pool, steam bath, sauna, and cardio fitness center.
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The Spa at Chetola Resort

This spa offers a variety of relaxing services, from massages and facials to nail treatments and teeth-whitening. Guests can enjoy the heated indoor pool, Jacuzzi, sauna, and fitness room while soaking in the scenic beauty of Blowing Rock.
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Westglow Resort & Spa

A luxurious, all-inclusive resort with customized spa experiences. Westglow offers a wide range of services, including body wraps, Thai massage, and medical treatments like Botox and CoolSculpting, set in a serene, top-rated location.
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The Art of Living Retreat Center

This wellness retreat specializes in Ayurvedic treatments, with a variety of massages, facials, and holistic services. It also offers yoga and meditation, making it a peaceful retreat for those seeking mental and physical balance.
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Beech Mountain Resort Summer Concert Series

Every summer, Beech Mountain Resort hosts a variety of live music performances featuring local and national artists. The concert series is the perfect way to enjoy mountain views while listening to great tunes.
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The Woolly Worm Festival

Held in October, this quirky festival celebrates the Woolly Worm, the local weather-predicting insect. Guests enjoy a weekend of races, arts and crafts, music, and food, all set in the heart of Banner Elk.
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Grandfather Mountain Highland Games

This four-day event in July celebrates Scottish heritage with a variety of activities, including the famous caber toss, piping and drumming competitions, and traditional Highland dancing, all with stunning mountain views.
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Boonerang Music & Arts Festival

Held in mid-summer, Boonerang brings a mix of music, arts, food, and craft beer to Boone. This festival highlights local and regional talent, giving guests a chance to experience live performances, unique art pieces, and delicious food in a fun, vibrant atmosphere.
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Blowing Rock Art in the Park

Held select Saturdays from May through October, this juried outdoor art show showcases local and regional artists with works in a variety of mediums. Visitors can enjoy live art demonstrations, shop for unique pieces, and explore the charming downtown area of Blowing Rock.
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Ski Beech Sports at Beech Mountain Resort

Offering mountain bike rentals, helmets, and accessories, this spot is perfect for exploring Beech Mountain’s trails during the warmer months.
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White Wolf Lodge Rentals

Located on the upper mountain, White Wolf Lodge offers a range of summer gear, including mountain bikes and other outdoor equipment, with flexible hours.
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High Mountain Expeditions

Offering mountain bike rentals, guided tours, and more, this shop helps guests explore Beech Mountain’s rugged terrain. They also have rental gear for other outdoor pursuits.
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Headquarters Bike + Outdoor

A short drive from Beech Mountain, The Bike Shop offers full-service bike rentals, including mountain bikes and accessories, along with expert recommendations for local trails.
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Magic Cycles

Located in downtown Boone, Magic Cycles provides high-quality mountain bike rentals for exploring the scenic trails of Beech Mountain and beyond, with expert advice on the best local routes.
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Beech Mountain Resort Rental Shop

Conveniently located at Beech Mountain Resort, this rental shop offers everything you need to hit the slopes, from skis and snowboards to helmets and outerwear. Great for a quick and easy rental experience.
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Fred’s General Mercantile

Located inside Fred’s General Mercantile, this rental shop provides skis, snowboards, and accessories, along with expert tuning services. It’s the perfect stop for all your gear needs on Beech Mountain.
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Ski Celebration

This family-owned shop offers an extensive selection of ski and snowboard rentals, with a focus on high-quality gear. Conveniently located for both beginners and experienced skiers, it’s a top choice for mountain enthusiasts.
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Beech Meadows Ski Shop

A local favorite, Beech Meadows offers ski and snowboard rentals, along with gear for purchase. The friendly staff ensures quick fittings and is perfect for those who want to avoid resort crowds.
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White Wolf Lodge Rentals

Located on the upper mountain, White Wolf Lodge offers ski and snowboard rentals with flexible hours for guests. It’s a great option for those staying nearby or looking for a quieter rental experience.
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Banner Elk

The closest town, full of restaurants, boutiques, and a small-town charm that makes it worth the quick drive down the mountain.
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Boone

A vibrant college town with breweries, shopping, arts, and easy access to Blue Ridge Parkway stops and big-box amenities.
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Blowing Rock

Known for its storybook streets, upscale boutiques, and iconic views, Blowing Rock is a polished escape filled with small-town magic.
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Valle Crucis

This peaceful countryside community is home to rolling hills, quiet farms, and the original Mast General Store—great for slow-paced wandering.
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West Jefferson

Tucked in the rolling hills northwest of Beech, West Jefferson blends mountain art, walkable streets, and local flavor—great for a laid-back afternoon escape.