Blowing Rock is an excellent place to go on a picnic. Whether you’re looking for a romantic date, a fun lunch with friends, or a family memory, a picnic can be a great option. We’ve compiled a list of picnic locations in and around Blowing Rock that are beautiful and versatile!
The first concert of the series is held on July 1, 2024 and runs through July 29, 2024. The concerts are located at 173 Lakeside Dr. Blowing Rock, NC 28605 and are set up in the gazebo at Broyhill Park. They begin at 6:30 pm, run approximately one to two hours, and are free and open to the public. Performances will cover a little bit of everything from jazz, to country, to show tunes. Attendees will want to bring lawn chairs or blankets for seating comfort. The lineup for the 2024 season is as follows: July 1 – The Conundrums July 8 – Kyle Horton July 15 – Abby Bryant and the Echoes July 22 – Steve Sensenig, Amy Young Escalante, Andy Page, and Krista Jo July 29 – 3 Toe Possum Please note that the lineup is subject to change. How it began The Monday Night Concert Series is steeped in local history. It begins with the Farm House Inn and Restaurant, a Blowing Rock staple from the 1950’s until 1997. Blowing Rock has many amazing restaurants, but The Farm House Inn stands out in people’s memory. They were known for their food, view, and talented, singing, waitstaff. Guests would have a meal and be serenaded by some of the best singers in the area. The owners, EJ and Shirley “Shirl” Blackwell are remembered fondly by their former staff, and Shirl is credited with supporting and inspiring the young performers. Performers at the Farm House Inn and Restaurant would sing solos and put on larger scale productions such as Godspell. The restaurant often served up to 700 people a night! Many longtime Blowing Rock residents and visitors remember The Farm House Inn and their experiences there warmly. Monday Night Concert Series Amy Marie Young Escalante is a previous performer at The Farm House and a creator of The Monday Night Concert Series. She began the series with the help of EJ and Shirl Blackwell continuing the Farm House’s mission to support and showcase rising, local talent while sharing a variety of music with residents and visitors of Blowing Rock. First called “The Farm House Live,” the now Monday Night Concert Series is embarking on its 24th season this summer. Last year Blowing Rock Parks & Recreation took over the management of Monday Night Concert Series and tries to book familiar artists. Photographs courtesy of Amy Marie Productions
Located on the Blue Ridge Parkway and nestled along ridges against the Pisgah National Forest, Blowing Rock is a Rockwell-esque town with rugged nature in its backyard. Offering the feeling of seclusion without isolation and the quality of being old-fashioned but not outdated, the town has an individual charm. Long cherished as an escape from the summer heat of the lowlands, the town has been welcoming visitors since its incorporation, growing to feature dozens of distinctive local shops, galleries, restaurants, and inns. Now, year-round events entertain and delight, many of them part of long-standing traditions. All of this, plus a laid-back mountain attitude, make Blowing Rock a pretty little town worth noting. The “village” has been featured by Travel & Leisure among a dozen “Prettiest Winter Towns in America,” which followed behind a summertime granting of the title “Prettiest Small Town in North Carolina” by a group of southeastern travel writers. The town is appealing in any season, to be sure, but it’s also close to a wide array of attractions and activities from National Parks to fine dining, climbing to fishing. Whether you prefer the adrenaline rush of mountain adventures or the slow pace of relaxation (or both), Blowing Rock is an ideal hub for a mountain getaway. Three Things to Do This Summer Visit an Iconic NC AttractionThe Blue Ridge Parkway is, rightfully, at the top of everyone’s to-do list when they visit the High Country. But did you know that Blowing Rock is also home to NC’s oldest travel attraction AND its first theme park? The town is named for The Blowing Rock, a unique rock formation jutting over broad forests far below; it’s been a landmark destination since 1933. The Blowing Rock is the site of an old romantic legend and home to near-constant winds, where even the snow blows upside down. Tweetsie Railroad, celebrating its 60th anniversary this year, is a rip-roaring Wild West theme park featuring the historic steam engine No. 12 that once ran the commercial rails in Western NC. Enjoy trips on the train and other classic amusement rides, themed performances, gem mining, and even a small zoo. Special guests and events fill the calendar, too, from the Grammy-award winning Riders In The Sky to the Railroad Heritage Weekend. Hit the TrailsBlowing Rock is surrounded by natural beauty, and there is a huge network of nearby trails that provide up-close access. If you are looking for relaxing leg-stretchers, try one of the loops or byways within the 26 miles of carriage trails at Moses Cone Memorial Park, just a stone’s throw from downtown. The Blue Ridge Parkway features more paths to explore, like the Boone Fork and Tanawha trails, which offer glimpses of a wide variety of mountain streams, coves, glens, and vistas. Up for a real challenge? Take on the Grandfather Trail on Grandfather Mountain. This ridge-and-peaks trail is a rugged path that features a series of ladders for access. There’s even a trail right off Main Street in Blowing Rock- the Glen Burney Trail follows the path of New Year’s Creek, ending at a picturesque waterfall. You can also access the extensive Appalachian Trail and the cross-state Mountains to Sea Trail in Blowing Rock. Take in the CultureThe Blowing Rock Art & History Museum (BRAHM) is a distinctive place, offering an impressive permanent collection alongside engaging rotating exhibits that highlight the regional culture of the Blue Ridge Mountains. BRAHM is also dedicated to highlighting creators of art with regular concerts and lectures and encouraging budding artists with workshops and classes, all open to the public. This preoccupation with creativity is itself part of the culture in Blowing Rock, as the town has been a haven for generations of artisans inspired by the Blue Ridge. This tradition is celebrated in local galleries, recurring concert series, and events like the long-running Art in the Park. Right next door to BRAHM in the historic Edgewood Cottage, regional artists are celebrated at Artists in Residence each July and August. Edgewood was the summer cottage of famed artist Elliot Daingerfield, who called Blowing Rock home and taught classical painting classes for ladies (still taboo at the time) at the cottage.
Blowing Rock is home to several waterfalls, and there are even more to be found in the nearby region. See below for directions to more than a dozen waterfall viewing sites. Several require hiking, so they are arranged by trail difficulty. Each of these falls is incredibly beautiful, but danger is an inherent part of that beauty. Many of these falls have steep drops and fast water. Please use every caution when on these trails. Roots, rocks, and wet areas can make trails tricky. Do not attempt trails beyond your skill or fitness level and watch children & pets closely! Be sure you have proper footwear for long hikes, and it’s always a good idea to bring water along for your trip. Take care of our natural resources; please don’t litter. Happy hunting! Easily Accessible Falls These three waterfalls are located right on the roadside. They can be viewed from your vehicle or small pull-offs, making the views great for families with small children or those with mobility issues. Green Mountain Creek Falls: We don’t know of an official name for these falls, but they flow along Green Mountain Creek. Nearly 20 feet high with a shallow plunge pool, these falls empty into a culvert where the stream continues on the other side of the road. They are equally beautiful while frozen in winter, with trickles and bubbles dancing under sheets of ice. There is an easy spot to access the falls for close-up photos. Located on Hwy 221, about 8 miles from Main Street in Blowing Rock. The falls are on the right side of the road, with a pull-off on either side just after the falls. Silvervale Falls: These falls are high series of narrow cascades, 70+ feet of delicate flow. Travel 6 miles south of The Green Park Inn on Hwy 321 from Blowing Rock. Turn right on Waterfalls Rd, SR 1372. Falls are 1.7 miles down on left, with a small pull-off beside them. Falls at Rough Ridge Overlook: These small, sloping “slide” falls on Blue Ridge Parkway at the Rough Ridge Overlook are heavily dependent on rain fall. At times, the water is more heard than seen. The overlook is located at milepost 302.8. There is a parking area with sign, and the falls can be viewed from the sidewalk. A short trail to right of the lot leads to the bridge over the falls- steep, but the footing is not too difficult. Easy to Moderate Trails These falls can be found at the end of easier trails. Trails can be suitable for children, as long as they are watched closely. Still, some portions can be quite steep. Laurel Creek Falls: The local name, Trash Can Falls, makes lots of people wonder how it came about. There used to be a recycling/dumpster convenience site along the highway that served as a point of reference for the trail head. Now it’s best to use mileage to find the trail. The pool at the falls is a popular swimming hole for locals in warmer months. Travel north on Hwy 321 from Boone. Turn left to follow 321N toward Johnson City (at Skateworld). Access trail is 5.4 miles down on left, just after Laurel Creek Rd. Pull-off for parking is on the right, across from Laurel Creek Rd. The trail is 0.15 miles, narrrow but well-defined, and a little steep toward the top. Elk River Falls: These falls are some of the largest in the area, and are especially impressive because of easy accessibility. From 19E in Elk Park (take Hwy 194 to 19E, about 26 miles from Blowing Rock), turn onto Old Mill Rd at “Elk Park Christian Church” sign (you will also see sign for the falls further down the road). Turn right on Elk River Rd after 0.4 miles. Go 4 mi to Pisgah Forest parking area. Trail is about 1/4 mile, with some steep wooden steps. 60ft plunge falls. The pool at the bottom is a great swimming spot, too. The Cascades: A long series of cascade falls on a narrow stream. The 1.2 mile (loop) moderate trail begins at E. B. Jeffress Park, at milepost 272 on Blue Ridge Parkway. There is plenty of parking, restrooms, and a picnic area. Very steep wooden steps near falls. The Cascades are currently part of the closed portion of the Blue Ridge Parkway. Follow along with the construction here. Linville Falls: These falls are the largest in the area in terms of water volume. The Linville Gorge is a National Wilderness Area, and a beautiful, unspoiled area to enjoy. Turn onto Linville Falls Rd from milepost 316 on the Blue Ridge Parkway. The road ends at a parking lot and Visitor Center. The trail to the upper falls is about 0.5 miles and fairly easy. The trail continues to 3 more overlooks with views of lower falls (45ft), and is steeper, with the last overlook 0.8 mi from Visitor Center. Strenuous, blazed trails into the gorge are an option for those that would like to see the lower falls the bottom of the gorge. It’s recommended to take a compass and maps with you when you enter the gorge and wilderness areas. Difficult to Strenuous Trails The rewards of these trails are worth the effort if you are up to the challenge. These trails may be too challenging for small children, and should not be attempted in icy and slippery conditions. Be sure to watch your step, as most of these trails wind through steep and/or rocky areas and are full of roots and dips. Glen Burney Trail Falls: This rugged trail is right in downtown Blowing Rock, and is still a surprise to some that find it. The trail begins at Annie Cannon Gardens on Laurel Lane. There are three falls in succession: Cascades at 0.8 mi, then Glen Burney at 1.2 mi, and Glen Marie at 1.6 miles from trailhead. The trail is out-and-back and gets very steep after Cascades. Side trails lead
Welcome to Mystery Hill! This local attraction has been in operation for over 70 years, and is operated by the Underwood family. Four generations of the family have worked at Mystery Hill; the current patriarch, Wayne, was 10 years old when his father, RJ, purchased the property in 1958. The previous owners had developed their apple orchard into a roadside attraction after noticing strange occurrences on the hillside. The Mystery House was the first attraction, and many other entertaining elements have been added over the years. Today, visitors can enjoy a wild walk through the disorienting Mystery House, have fun with hands-on science, learn about Appalachian history, see Native American artifacts, and more! There’s locally-made (giant) doughnuts, fossils, and the quirkiest gift shop. The newest element is Tomahawk Hill, where visitors can try their hand at axe throwing, archery, or blow darts! All of this is located on the completed portion of the Middle Fork Greenway, connecting the attraction to others. Matthew Underwood, a 3rd generation caretaker at Mystery Hill, is excited about the recent updates and changes, and he’s looking forward to the ones still coming. The family works to showcase the history and unique fun of the property, and you’ll find that the entire staff is enthusiastic about welcoming visitors. Matthew says that friendly welcome is something they focus on, and that visitors will always find a helpful guide nearby, no matter where they are at Mystery Hill. Mystery Hill is open every day, year round, rain or shine, from 9am-6pm. Fun family events are a new focus at Mystery Hill, so keep an eye on their calendar. See more at mysteryhill.com.
Hiking is one of the best ways to see the beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains. There are countless trails in the area, especially along the Blue Ridge Parkway. From the myriad destination hikes and the 26 mile network at Moses Cone Park, to local sections of the Appalachian Trail and the Mountains to Sea Trail, deciding where to start can be overwhelming. Here’s a short list of some of the most popular hikes closest to Blowing Rock, and they are well-loved for good reason. You’ll find easy parking access, well-defined trails, and sights unique to this region of the Blue Ridge. Take your pick and get out there! Bass Lake LoopEasy | 1 mile loop | Access on Hwy 221, one mile from Main Street in Blowing Rock.This picturesque loop is a regular stop for many locals, and you’ll see plenty of people out walking dogs or taking a jog on most days. The trail is flat, well-maintained gravel, following a path around Bass Lake. The lake was built by Moses Cone as part of his estate, and you can see the Flat Top manor house from various points on the route. The trail is a nice location to see plenty of waterfowl and beavers and is a good fishing spot, too. The loop connects to the other 26 miles of carriage trails in Cone Park, and can be a place to take laps or a great starting point for a longer hike. Glen Burney TrailModerate to Strenuous | 3 miles total, out-and-back | Trail head inside Annie Cannon Gardens on Laurel Lane in Blowing RockThis varied trail follows the path of New Years Creek from Annie Cannon Gardens. It starts out easy, with a wide path that crosses the creek and passes behind properties in the Mayview community. After crossing the water again, the trail descends sharply into John’s River Gorge. Along the way, views of cascades and Glen Burney Falls are a beautiful highlight. Glen Mary Falls awaits at the bottom of the trail. Because of drop offs by the falls, this trail approaches steep and treacherous areas- take care to obey posted signs and stay on the trail. The trail is one way, so once you reach the bottom, the strenuous hike back to the gardens begins. The elevation change is worth it, however, as waterfalls and various stages of wild blooms and foliage are your companions along the way. Boone Fork TrailEasy to Moderate | 5 mile loop | Access at at Price Park Picnic Area at MP 296Following the Boone Fork River and tributaries, this loop provides a varied look at local flora and terrain. Through hardwood forests and rhododendron thickets, the trail also passes by small waterfalls and cascades. The trail intersects and shares some route with both the Tanawha Trail and the Mountains to Sea Trail, so take care to note signage at intersections. Rough Ridge Overlook TrailModerate to Strenuous | 0.8 miles to view | Access at Rough Ridge Overlook parking area at MP 302.8 on Blue Ridge ParkwayThis trail is especially popular because it’s easy to find and provides one of the best views in the area. From the parking area, take the trail up to the fork and turn left to go across the little wooden bridge. This is the shortest route to the top. It’s quite a climb, and you’ll know you’ve arrived when you reach the boardwalks. These have been built to protect the fragile lichen and shrub communities on the ridge- please stay on the boardwalks and trails to help ensure their survival. The trail along the ridge is actually the Tanawha Trail, so there is plenty more to see if you want to keep following the path once you reach the top. Keep in mind that Tanawha is not a loop, and that you’ll need to double back to return to your vehicle. The vista on the ridge is expansive, with views that include Grandfather, Grandmother, Hawksbill, and Pilot Mountains, along with various communities far in the distance. On very clear mornings, you can see the Charlotte skyline. Flat Top TrailModerate | 5.6 miles round trip | Access at Cone Manor at MP 294 on the Blue Ridge ParkwayAnother carriage trail in Cone Park, this route takes you to the top of Flat Top, where a fire tower waits to provide a 360 degree view above the canopy. The distance is long, but the trail is wide and inclines are not very steep so most consider it a moderate trail. About halfway up, the trail crosses a beautiful highland meadow where the graves of the Cone family are found in a small cemetery. From the top of the firetower, the communities of Blowing Rock, Boone, and others can be easily seen. The trail is out-and-back, so your return trip follows the same path. Happy Hiking!
Are you looking for a place by the water to enjoy the view? Perhaps you’d like to cool off on a warm Blue Ridge day. The Blowing Rock area features lots of places where water and related activities are the main attraction.
You’ve crossed Grandfather’s Mile-High Swinging Bridge and been hiking at Bass Lake, enjoyed a show at the Shaefer Center and ridden the rails at Tweetsie, and now you’re looking for more. Or perhaps you just like to find those out-of-the-way gems first. Below, we’ve outlined a great weekend of activities and sights that are sometimes overlooked, but should definitely be experienced! You’ll get a good dose of local history, culture, and personality, as well as leg-stretching activity with this lineup.
Blowing Rock WinterFest was created to celebrate the the fun side of a chilly, sleepy season. As we all look for ways to enjoy the outdoors and find little things to celebrate in 2021, WinterFest invites everyone to do just that! Though the festival will look different from any of its prior presentations, there will still be plenty to enjoy from Thursday, January 28 through Sunday, January 31. “This year, we modified WinterFest to still have aspects of our favorite events without large gatherings,” says Suzy Barker, festival coordinator. “For example, WinterFeast, A Restaurant Crawl and the Chili Challenge are taking place at individual restaurants to spread out attendance. WinterFest is all about celebrating the fun side of winter and that spirit is still present at this year’s festival with ice sculptures, fun activities, and delicious winter treats!” The festivities begin on Thursday with the WinterFeast Restaurant Crawl. Individual restaurants are cooking up something special so you can get the best bites in Blowing Rock during WinterFest. The WinterHawk Tournament begins at Mystery Hill on the same day. Folks can register to compete in the tomahawk throwing competition that continues through the weekend. Plus, you can get a jump on the weekend’s Scavenger Hunt to compete for a special prize package. The Ice Stroll opens Friday, where visitors can view a variety of ice sculptures outside local businesses. Find the participant list online so you don’t miss any of these fun and intricate creations! Saturday brings the annual Chili Challenge, presented at participating restaurants this year. Grab a cup or bowl and contribute to local charities with your purchase: all proceeds from Chili Challenge sales on January 30 go to local nonprofits. The winner of the coveted trophy will be decided by a secret judges’ panel! In Memorial Park, the Carolina Snowbelles will be performing in free shows from noon to 2pm. Though the live ice carving demonstrations will not take place this year, there will still be a centerpiece Ice Sculpture in Memorial Park, ready for photos. Mystery Hill presents the WinterDuck Derby, sure to be a big hit with kids! And don’t forget the Mountain Alliance Silent Auction, which is presented in person and online this year. There are many more specials and activities presented throughout the entire weekend, from kids crafts and s’mores bonfires, to painting workshops and dining features! Drop-in formats and take-away options make social distancing easier. “Those that can’t join in person this year can find fun features posted on our Facebook page during the event weekend. Enjoy a virtual hayride or a video walk down Main Street viewing the ice sculptures,” says Suzy. Clothing retailers will also be sharing what they have available online and in-store in a special set of WinterFest fashion videos. “Many of our boutiques have winter fashion on sale and are stocking up on spring arrivals!” Suzy adds. As we celebrate winter, WinterFest reminds us all to share warmth by partnering with Hospitality House for their Blanket Drive. Make a donation of new or gently used blankets to help those in need! The Blowing Rock Chamber of Commerce and Mystery Hill will both serve as collection sites during WinterFest. For full details and an expandable schedule of events, go to blowingrockwinterfest.com. Follow Blowing Rock WinterFest on Facebook for special online content throughout the weekend: facebook.com/BRWinterfest. Information is also available by calling 828-295-7851. A range of accommodations is available; visit blowingrock.com/lodging for details. Blowing Rock WinterFest is organized by the Blowing Rock Chamber of Commerce and presented by Hendrick Luxury Group. Released January 2021
Fall means harvest time, and it brings more to mind than just pumpkin spice… everything. Whether you’re looking for a pick-your-own orchard, a corn maze, or just want to take home a taste of fall in the NC Mountains, this list has you covered. From orchards to farm stands, plan your perfect fall outing! Check links for activity and product pricing. Apple Orchards The Orchard at AltapassThis historic orchard is located on the Blue Ridge Parkway, south of Blowing Rock. There are over 40 apple varieties at the orchard, and you can buy some at the shop or pick your own! Most of the varieties are available from mid-September to late October. The orchard is open Wednesday-Sunday. There are lots of activities, including live music, hiking, and educational programming. It takes about an hour to get to the Orchard at Altapass from Blowing Rock along the Blue Ridge Parkway. The drive is stunning in the fall, and well worth the time!1025 Orchard Rd, Spruce Pine, NC 28777 | 828-765-9531altapassorchard.org Pick-Your-Own Pumpkins & Corn Mazes New River Corn MazeLocated along the New River near Deep Gap, this corn maze is a destination for many in the fall. Enjoy tram rides, a pick-your-own pumpkin patch, and a maze with over a mile of path.660 Laurel Gap Ridge Rd., Boone, NC 28607 | 828-264-2986newrivercornmaze.com Lantern Farm From mid-September to late October, enjoy a 4-acre corn maze, and pick your own pumpkin patch! Partake in some fresh corn and drinks at their concession stand. Add a hay ride onto your ticket in October. See what Autumn along the Blue Ridge Parkway is all about! Doe Meadows Dr., West Jefferson, NC 28694 | 828-278-4489 lanternfarm.com/halloweentime Farm Tours Apple Hill FarmThis working alpaca farm offers daily public tours by reservation through early October! Get up close to alpacas, llamas, angora goats, guardian donkeys, dogs, and all the other animals that call Apple Hill Farm home. The farm specializes in producing alpaca fiber, and the farm shop has a wide selection of yarns and products made with beautifully dyed alpaca.400 Apple Hill Road, Banner Elk, NC 28604 | 828-963-1662applehillfarmnc.com Produce Stands & Country Stores Sunset Tees & HatteryJack gathers over 25 different varieties of NC apples at his Main Street shop over the fall season. You can purchase them by the bag or the bushel. With so many choices, you might be a bit overwhelmed, but the folks at Sunset Tees will guide you to a new favorite. You can even sample varieties before you decide!1117 Main Street, Blowing Rock, NC 28605 | 828-295-9326Find them on Facebook J&M ProduceSo. Many. Pumpkins! This stand is conveniently located between Blowing Rock and Boone near Tweetsie Railroad. Throughout the fall season, pumpkins fill every vacant spot around the stand. The squash come in a variety of shades, from pale blue-green to vibrant red-orange, ready to make an impressive statement in a fall display. Many are edible, too, just ask the folks about their favorites. J&M has NC apples as well, and a wide selection of local jams, honeys, and other products.117 Shore Drive, Blowing Rock, NC 28605 | 828-414-9149Find them on Facebook Greene’s Trading PostLocated just south of Blowing Rock, this sprawling country store is a must-stop for many that visit the area. From NC apples to country hams, they have a host of fall flavors waiting for you. Add in tons of rustic handcrafts, old-fashioned candies, and roadside snacks, and it’s easy to see why Greene’s Trading Post is a popular destination. They also enjoy an beautiful view from the edge of the ridge!5361 Blowing Rock Rd., Lenoir, NC 28645 | 828-295-0890See them on Facebook Looking for Autumn events? See this year’s seasonal celebrations here! See more activities on our Fall Page!
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