Are you considering a first-time visit to Blowing Rock? Looking to get outdoors but not sure how to plan ahead? For this primer, our Trip Tip host Brian Baldwin answers some basic questions about the recreational areas around Blowing Rock.
Brian is the store manager at Footsloggers of Blowing Rock, a local outfitter & outdoor supply shop. He’s an avid hiker, backpacker, camper, and lover of all things outdoors. Brian’s true outdoor passion is just being in nature! He’s all about taking a walk in the woods, getting bare feet in a creek, and finding serenity in a still, green place that’s full of birdsong. Check out his thoughts below, and stop by Footsloggers if you have more questions- the folks there really do love the outdoors!
About Recreation in Blowing Rock
What sets Blowing Rock apart from other destinations?
Blowing Rock’s proximity to natural areas is what sets it apart. And I mean true proximity. We have all these places to eat and stay, outfitters to get geared up, and they are literally adjacent to all these gorgeous trails and views. You barely even have to go 2 miles from the center of downtown before you feel like you are fully immersed in nature, away from everything.
What’s unique about the facilities and infrastructure in Blowing Rock?
Again, that proximity to nature makes the infrastructure unique. Blowing Rock is like a gateway to those natural places, and locals know and appreciate that. So I think the people here help make a visitor’s experience stand out. Locals know they live in a place with a special relationship with natural spaces, and that relationship draws others here. They understand the importance of welcoming those visitors, too- it keeps our economy going.
What level of experience is needed to recreate in Blowing Rock?
People of all levels of experience can find something incredible here. No experience to expert. You can come up to do a guided float trip with the family, with no previous experience, and have a great time. You can also head out to climb in Linville Gorge, a true life-risking adrenaline rush, reserved for experienced climbers. Linville Gorge also has some of the toughest hiking on the East Coast, in my opinion.
What’s your favorite season to recreate in and around Blowing Rock and why?
Late spring into early summer is an incredible time here. Bird migrations and spring blooms make that time super special. It can be rainy then, but that’s why our summers are so verdant, so green. It’s hard to beat summer here, too. It’s so much cooler than down the mountain.
Planning for the Trip
How long should someone plan on visiting the area?
Any amount of time will do you good! But ideally, if you can do it, I think two weeks would be a great amount of time to really explore this area. You will not run out of places to see! You still wouldn’t experience all of the outdoor areas and trails, but it would be enough time to really immerse yourself in the vibe and location. I’ve been hiking in this area for well over a decade and still find new places or trails to enjoy.
How do you plan ahead and prepare for your preferred recreational activity?
Preparedness scales. This is important, and what I mean by that is my prep for a short walk in the woods versus a full day of hiking is different, even though they are both getting out on a trail. I tend to keep a basic pack that I take with me anytime I spend time outdoors. It includes water, a snack, a pocket knife, a headlamp, and I have my phone. If I am planning to go more than 5 miles one way, I take everything I need to be comfortable sleeping outside, just in case. No matter what the trip is, though, I always tell someone where I’m going and when I expect to be back.
How do you put one Leave No Trace principle in action before, during, or after you spend time in the outdoors?
It’s so important to pack out all your trash. I always carry a reusable water bottle so that’s one less item that’s wasted or becomes trash to carry.
What piece of outdoor equipment is your must-have?
That water bottle! Water is the most important thing to have with you outdoors. If you’re going on a longer trip outdoors, being able to filter water will keep you from having to carry it all in with you, since water weighs a lot. Water is so essential that it might not even count as equipment, so I think footwear is worth noting. No matter the length of an outdoor experience, proper footwear is key equipment. If your feet aren’t comfortable, you won’t be.
Hidden Gems & Recommendations
What is your ‘can’t miss experience’ in the area?
Grandfather Mountain State Park. Incredible trails, and they will challenge you, no matter how experienced a hiker you are. The views and forests are beautiful. And Footsloggers for all your outfitting!
Are there any overlooked or under-visited activities in the area to see while in town?
I think the Blowing Rock Art & History Museum is probably missed more than it should be. When it comes to activities, the fishing here is amazing! We have so many waterways nearby that you will absolutely catch fish, especially if you go with one of the local guides.
What is your favorite place to visit before or after an outdoor adventure for refreshment?
I love to get a burger and a beer at the bar at Bistro Roca after a great day outside! For coffee, it’s gotta be Camp Coffee, especially before an adventure.
Share a unique place to stay in the area. Why do you recommend these accommodations?
Mountainaire Inn & Log Cabins has these cute little cabins right on Main Street. You can walk to everything in town, which is especially nice after dinner and drinks downtown.
Do you have an insider tip for visiting the area?
Honestly, my insider tip for people visiting this area is to stay in Blowing Rock. Sounds like a weird tip, but lots of people know about Boone and it’s bigger, so they tend to stay there and visit Blowing Rock. Do it the other way around. Stay in Blowing Rock, be closer to the Parkway, all the restaurants, and all these gorgeous outdoor places, and then visit Boone for a different vibe and different places to eat. Totally different trip.
