Nikki's Guidebook
Sightseeing
Hike the Appalachian Trail or check out the incredible views from Roan Mountain.
67 locals recommend
Roan Mountain
Hike the Appalachian Trail or check out the incredible views from Roan Mountain.
Elk River Falls
Elk River RoadElk River falls offers beautiful waterfalls and hiking.
Food scene
Johnson City TN is just a 25 minute drive away with shopping, malls, movie theaters, and lots of dining restaurants.
59 locals recommend
Johnson City
Johnson City TN is just a 25 minute drive away with shopping, malls, movie theaters, and lots of dining restaurants.
So yummy! Great gluten free and vegan options. Handcrafted beer made in house. Outdoor dining and live entertainment.
106 locals recommend
Homeplace Beer Company
321 W Main StSo yummy! Great gluten free and vegan options. Handcrafted beer made in house. Outdoor dining and live entertainment.
Historic
The historic town of Bakersville NC is a great place to visit for its art studios.
Historic Bakersville NC is a lovely town with a abundance of art studios and artists. The creek walk makes for a nice stroll. If your stay is during the town’s annual Rhododendron Festival, then you must attend.
16 locals recommend
Bakersville
Historic Bakersville NC is a lovely town with a abundance of art studios and artists. The creek walk makes for a nice stroll. If your stay is during the town’s annual Rhododendron Festival, then you must attend.
Historic Burnsville NC has a variety of shops, local art, and family owned dining. Walk around the square and enjoy lunch at The Garden Deli. Check out the cool hippie inspired decor and jewelry at The Colorful Gypsy. Pick up groceries at Ingles while in town too.
64 locals recommend
Burnsville
Historic Burnsville NC has a variety of shops, local art, and family owned dining. Walk around the square and enjoy lunch at The Garden Deli. Check out the cool hippie inspired decor and jewelry at The Colorful Gypsy. Pick up groceries at Ingles while in town too.
Banner Elk is a quaint mountain village between the Beech Mountain and Sugar Mountain ski areas (our top North Carolina Ski Town). It's home to Lees-McRae College, a beautiful historic campus at the highest elevation of any college east of the Mississippi (3,700 ft.). Nearby is Grandfather Mountain and the popular Mile High Swinging Bridge. Be sure to have dinner at Stonewalls, personal favorite!
214 locals recommend
Banner Elk
Banner Elk is a quaint mountain village between the Beech Mountain and Sugar Mountain ski areas (our top North Carolina Ski Town). It's home to Lees-McRae College, a beautiful historic campus at the highest elevation of any college east of the Mississippi (3,700 ft.). Nearby is Grandfather Mountain and the popular Mile High Swinging Bridge. Be sure to have dinner at Stonewalls, personal favorite!
Rafting
In the mood for a river rafting excursion or a relaxing tube ride to cool off on a hot day? Visit Loafers Glory’s and experience our amazing river.
Loafers Glory Rafting and Tubing
2637 NC-226Have a great time river rafting or tubing.
Horseback Trail Rides
If you’re in the mood to saddle up, head to Springmaid Stables and take a trail ride on one of their horses. Call ahead for reservations.
Saddle up at Springmaid Riding Stables in Spruce Pine NC. Fun trail rides through woods and rivers. Call first for reservations.
42 locals recommend
Spruce Pine
Saddle up at Springmaid Riding Stables in Spruce Pine NC. Fun trail rides through woods and rivers. Call first for reservations.
Festival’s
North Carolina
Check out some of the local festivals held throughout the year.
Skiing & Mountain Biking
One of the favorite ski mountains around is Beech Mountain.
367 locals recommend
Beech Mountain Ski Resort
1007 S Beech Mountain PkwyOne of the favorite ski mountains around is Beech Mountain.