Banner Elk, a quaint town situated amidst the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina, offers travelers a unique combination of adventure, relaxation, and warm southern hospitality. The town boasts a unique mountain experience with activities to suit all interests and tastes.
One of the town's standout features is its close proximity to the world-renowned Beech Mountain Ski Resort, which holds the distinction of having the highest elevation of any ski resort east of the Rockies. With 17 slopes, a terrain park, and a vertical drop of 830 feet, the resort offers something for skiers of all levels. When the snow melts, Beech Mountain is a haven for hikers, mountain bikers, and nature lovers.
Another top east coast ski destination near Banner Elk is Sugar Mountain Ski Resort. With 21 slopes, over 125 acres of skiable terrain, and a vertical drop of 1,200 feet, it's a favorite destination for skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts from across the globe. Sugar Mountain offers plenty of outdoor activities all year round, including scenic chairlift rides, tubing, and other adventure activities.
For those seeking cozy accommodations close Banner Elk, The Beech House (thebeechhouse.io) is an excellent choice. Beautifully renovated and modernized in 2023, The Beech house features a full kitchen, gas log fireplace, game room and three full baths. Enjoy the fresh mountain air and amazing views from the wrap around deck with hot tub.
Banner Elk also boasts a thriving arts and culture scene, with numerous festivals and attractions throughout the year. One such attraction is the Wooly Worm Festival, which takes place every fall. The festival is a celebration of the Wooly Worm Caterpillar, believed to predict the severity of the upcoming winter weather. The festival features live music, food vendors, crafts, and wooly worm races.
Another unique attraction close to Banner Elk is the Magical Land of Oz NC, a theme park inspired by the classic movie "The Wizard of Oz." Visitors can tour the park, which features interactive exhibits, a re-creation of Dorothy's house, and a yellow brick road that leads to the Emerald City.
For foodies and shoppers, Banner Elk has a plethora of options. The Banner Elk Cafe and Lodge is a casual dining spot that serves up mouth-watering burgers, sandwiches, and salads. For a more upscale experience, the Artisanal Restaurant offers a farm-to-table menu with locally-sourced ingredients. The Tynecastle Shoppes offers a wide range of specialty shops and boutiques for shopping enthusiasts. Banner Elk Winery is a family-owned winery that is a must visit. It is the first commercial winery in the High Country region and produces a variety of wines, including red, white, and fruit wines. The winery offers tastings, tours, and events throughout the year, and visitors can also enjoy a picnic on the winery's scenic grounds.
Banner Elk also offers numerous opportunities for outdoor adventures with several outfitters and guide services. High Mountain Expeditions is a popular choice for rafting, while Edge of the World offers guided hikes and nature tours.
In addition to skiing, hiking, and outdoor adventures, Banner Elk also boasts an Alpine Coaster and Adventure Park that offers a unique and thrilling experience for visitors. The Alpine Coaster is a one-of-a-kind ride that takes passengers on a twisting, turning ride down the mountain, with speeds of up to 27 miles per hour. The coaster runs year-round, so visitors can enjoy the ride even in the warmer months. The Adventure Park, located next to the Alpine Coaster, offers a range of outdoor activities for visitors of all ages. The park features a zip line, a ropes course, a climbing wall, and a bungee trampoline. There's also a playground for younger children, making it a great spot for families.
Lastly, Banner Elk is home to the prestigious Lees-McRae College, a liberal arts college that offers degrees in various fields. Visitors can tour the campus and enjoy its architectural beauty and stunning views.
Banner Elk is a hidden gem that's perfect for adventure seekers, nature enthusiasts, and those seeking a relaxing getaway. Come and experience the magic of Banner Elk for yourself and create unforgettable memories.
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