CHOOSE & CUT
Fly Fishing
GALLERIES & GREENHOUSES
HIKING
HORSEBACK RIDING
SHOPPING
SKIING & TUBING
WHITEWATER RAFTING
WINE TASTING
ANNUAL FESTIVALS
CHOOSE & CUT
Come experience North Carolina’s Choose and Cut Christmas Tree Capital – visit a tree farm and roam across tree-covered hillsides hunting the perfect tree. Choose and Cut in the Valle Crucis NC area is the essential holiday family tradition, where young and old alike can enjoy a day on a real North Carolina tree farm. Many farms offer hayrides, farm animals, cookies and cocoa and even Christmas Shops to purchase other holiday gifts. Wreaths and roping are also available to purchase.
Many families visit the same Choose and Cut farm year after year, establishing not only long-lasting friendships but also cherished family traditions that take us back to a simpler, slower pace of life. Come bring your family and stay in the Valle Crucis area. Shop at unique mountain craft stores and visit classic destinations like the Original Mast General Store.
Area tree farms listed below:
Cornett Deal Christmas Tree Farm142 Tannenbaum Lane, Vilas, NC 28692 Products: Fraser Fir, Other Christmas Tree Species |
Long Ridge Farms406 Long Ridge Farm Road, Sugar Grove, NC 28679 Products: Fraser Fir, Other Christmas Tree Species, Seedlings Transplants, Roping, Wreathes |
Two D’s Nursery7849 Linville Falls Hwy, Crossnore, NC 28616 Products: Fraser Fir, Other Christmas Tree Species, Roping, Wreaths |
Hickory Nut Christmas Tree Farm3025 Hickory Nut Gap Road, Newland, NC 28657 Products: Fraser Fir, Other Christmas Tree Species, Wreaths |
Hudler Carolina Tree Farms2545 Beaver Creek School Road, West Jefferson, NC 28694 Products: Fraser Fir, Other Christmas Tree Species, Roping, Wreaths, Nursery Stock |
Mountain Memories Christmas Trees252 Rocky Gap Road, West Jefferson, NC 28694 Products: Fraser Fir, Other Christmas Tree Species, Roping, Wreaths, Boughs or Tips |
Sunnyside Trees636 Glendale School Road, West Jefferson, NC 28694 Products: Fraser Fir, Other Christmas Tree Species, Roping, Wreaths, Boughs or Tips |
More Christmas tree farms can be found at the North Carolina Christmas Tree Association’s website. Click here to visit.
Fly Fishing
The High Country areas of Valle Crucis, Boone, Blowing Rock and Ashe County have over 4,200 miles of cool, mountain streams, with the majority managed by the North Carolina Wildlife Resource Commission and classified as either wild or hatchery supported. Currently there are five different types of stream classifications with different regulations on each. Be sure to check with a local fishing store or licensing agency before going out as regulations are enforced. Also, anyone who is 16 years of age or older will need a fishing license in order to fish anywhere in the area.
The Blue Ridge Parkway runs through the High Country and features some great places to go fishing for the day. Price Lake, Sims Pond, Bass Lake and Trout Lake allow bank fishing and are all located just near the Blue Ridge Parkway allowing for some beautiful scenery. Also, following up Highway 105 towards Banner Elk there are several hotspots known to those in the area and you can experience fishing in one of the Watauga River tributaries.
In Ashe County NC, the New River is the best place to fish and there are several streams that flow from it. Be sure to check out the fishing spots near Todd NC and Fleetwood NC in Ashe County, near Railroad Grade Road. The New River and its many tributaries are well stocked with trout, smallmouth bass, and nice sized muskies. No matter where you are in our beautiful mountains, there is sure to be suitable trout fishing ponds in Western North Carolina.
For those that want some advice before stepping out and trying fishing all alone, there are several fishing and guide shops in the area that offer their expert knowledge on the area’s fishing spots and many offer guided day trips for small groups and families.
| North Carolina Wildlife Resource Commission 919-662-4381 www.ncwildlife.org |
Watauga River Anglers 5712 NC Hwy. 105 S Vilas, NC, 28692 828-963-5463 www.wataugariveranglers.com |
Elk Creek Outfitters 1560 Hwy 105 South Boone NC, 28607 828-264-6497 |
Grandfather Trout Farm 10767 Highway 105 South Banner Elk, NC 28604 |
| J & B Trout Lake 407 Shatley Springs Rd Crumpler, NC 28694 336-982-4447 |
Mt. Jefferson/New River State Park 1481 Mt. Jefferson State Park Road Jefferson, NC 28640 336-982-2587 |
River Girl Fishing Co./New River Adventures, LLC 4041 Railroad Grade Rd. Todd, NC 28684 336-877-3099 |
GALLERIES & GREENHOUSES
Alta Vista Gallery
2839 Broadstone Road | Valle Crucis, NC 28691
Gleaming original wood floors beckon you to casually wander through the fine art gallery, enjoying the works of over 200 artists from around the world and around the corner. Many of the gallery artists, such as B. Jean Baird and Louise Pinto, live very nearby yet are recognized in galleries across the country. Other artists are internationally famous, such as ALVAR of Spain, Boulanger of Bolivia, and folk artist Will Moses, great-grandson of renowned artist ” Grandma Moses.”
If you are looking for a mountain landscape painting or print, Alta Vista Gallery is the place to visit, with the largest selection in the area – ranging from the highly detailed watercolors of B. Jean Baird and prints of William Mangum, to the impressionist oils of Alta Vista owner, Maria Santomasso-Hyde.
The gallery also shows an eclectic mix of subjects, styles, and mediums in originals and prints – as well as fine crafts, including glass, pottery, jewelry, and kaleidoscopes.
http://www.altavistagallery.com/
River Cross Market
Hwy 194 | Valle Crucis, NC 28691
River Cross Market houses a collection that is handmade in America. The selections include: potter, jewelry, handbags, birdhouses, glass, metal, garden accessories, painting, photography and a fun selection for children.
HIKING
Hiking is perhaps one of the most popular outdoor activities in the Valle Crucis area and one of the best ways to see the unspoiled Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina. Many of the best hiking spots are not easily accessible by vehicle, but are some of the best kept secrets of the mountains. Across Boone, Banner Elk and Blowing Rock you’ll find numerous places to hike and trails of all types. Here we’ve outlined some of the most popular hikes and some suggestions for a variety of skill levels.
The High Country is intersected by the Blue Ridge Parkway, which provides the region with easy access to many of the more popular NC hiking spots. In Blowing Rock, you can enjoy the Moses H. Cone Julian Price Memorial Park and the many trails that are located in the park. The carriage trails were made for easy walking, jogging, as well as horseback rides by carriage, so these are perfect for beginners and those looking for something less strenuous. The Boone Fork Loop trail, the Tanawha Trail and the Price Lake Loop trail are three moderate level hiking trails that are popular for those hoping to see some beautiful views.
There are some great hiking trails in Valle Crucis for residents and visitors to enjoy. A great walking trail is located at the Valle Crucis Community Park. Residents and visitors enjoy walking the paved trail which follows alongside the Watauga River. Fishing and other activities are allowed as well. Located in Banner Elk are two more exciting trails that are widely known in the area. The Linn-Cove Viaduct parkway trail and the Beacon Heights trail are both moderate level hiking trails that many visitors and locals enjoy. Also in Banner Elk are the Linville Falls trails and the Linville Gorge trails which are both must sees for anyone venturing out hiking in the area. Grandfather Mountain NC is one of the best known hiking areas in the High Country, where in addition to some breathtaking scenery you can also see bear, cougars, eagles, deer, and more.
Boone NC is also home to some great walking trails and scenic walkways. The Lee and Vivian Reynolds Greenway Trail is a three mile paved trail, great for walking or jogging. You can even bring along your four legged friend on a leash so they can enjoy some time in the outdoors as well! In town residents can also enjoy the Watauga County Recreation Complex and its many amenities.
HORSEBACK RIDING
Dutch Creek Trails
793 Rubin Walker Rd., Vilas, NC 28679 | 828.297.7117
Open Monday through Saturday year round.
The home of Dutch Creek Trails is a 132 acre farm owned by Mr. Bennie Yates. Mr. Yates, now in his 80’s moved here when he was 5 years old. He has told many tales about the place and people who used live around here. For instance, the valley, which you will ride through coming back to the barn is called the Luthrey. It is called that because many years ago a man by the name of Luthrey was found froze to death in the head of that holler; The mountain that is seen from the front porch is called Taylors Mountain; … so many stories. I have ridden the trails with Mr. Yates and he has a story about every valley and knoll. The views from the trails are stunning. Gazing out across lush mountains and valleys, Grandfather Mountain and Hanging Rock are profiled beautifully in the background.
VC Farm
4365 NC HWY 194 South, Valle Crucis, NC 28691 | 828.963.5399
Many years ago, early pioneers built a one room cabin on what it is now called Valle Crucis Farm. The hand laid chimney still stands at the entrance to the homestead as a reminder of the rich family history that continues to bless their family and guests.
SHOPPING
MAST GENERAL STORE
Highway 194 | Valle Crucis, NC 28691 | Phone: 828-963-6511
Along the Mission Crossing Scenic By-way, you’ll discover an enchanted river valley, rustic countryside, and a place Charles Kuralt called “a destination.” That place is the Mast General Store in the rural historic district of Valle Crucis. Since 1883, we’ve been outfitting the Appalachians with traditional mercantile goods, comfortable clothing, rugged footwear and quality outdoor gear for all mountain seasons. When in the North Carolina High Country, we invite you to warm up by our potbellied stove, mail a letter at our antique post office and discover for yourself why…Some times are too good to leave behind.
MAST STORE ANNEX
Highway 194 | Valle Crucis, NC 28691 | Phone: 828-963-6511
The Mast Store Annex can outfit you with stylish casual clothing and hiking gear. You’ll also find over 500 old-fashioned favorite candies-by-the-barrel in a building that was once a competing general store. The Dutch Creek Ice Cream stand is open seasonally out back by the creek.
THE JERKY OUTPOST
www.JerkyOutpost.net 828-260-260-6221
2107 Broadstone Road, Banner Elk, NC 28604
Email: jerkyoutpost@gmail.com
The Jerky Outpost is a local Craft Jerky Store with the best and largest selection of Craft Jerky in the High Country. The Jerky Outpost features not only Beef Jerky, but Exotics from Elk, Pork, Venison, Buffalo, Wild Boar, Kangaroo and Alligator to name a few. In addition, they also carry a large selection of hot sauces,barbecue sauces, sausages, salsas, marinades, seasonings, deep fried peanuts and gourmet popcorn. Anything to do with Jerky you can find it here.
SKIING & TUBING
North Carolina’s High Country, known as the Ski Capital of the South, is home to three premier resorts – Appalachian Ski Mtn, Beech Mtn Resort and Sugar Mtn Resort. All are located within a 30-mile radius, making the High Country a favorite destination of families, couples and adventure-seekers. North Carolina has the highest mountains east of the Rockies and caters to skiers of all abilities. Away from the slopes, there is plenty to see and do in Valle Crucis, Boone, Blowing Rock and Banner Elk.
Not a skier? We are home to the largest snow tubing park on the east coast. Hawksnest features more than 20 lanes of tubing fun. Also, each ski resort offers other winter activities, including ice skating, snow shoeing and tubing.
Another favorite option is the youth sleeding hill in the Town of Beech Mountain. This free sledding hill is open all winter for children 12 and under.
WHITEWATER RAFTING
RIVER AND EARTH ADVENTURES
1655 Highway 105 | Boone, NC | Toll Free: 866.411.RAFT
River and Earth Adventures is the only guide owned and operated adventure outfitter with worldwide headquarters in Boone, NC and outpost locations in Asheville, NC and Elizabethton, TN.
The mission of River and Earth Adventures is to provide you with the highest quality outdoor adventure in the world. We pair expert guides, pristine wilderness, top of the line equipment, and the best lunches on the river to guarantee you a safe, thrilling, and memorable experience. From exploring hidden caves, to languid river cruises, to high adventure rafting, you will explore the secrets of the Appalachian Mountains.
River and Earth Adventures is dedicated to world class adventure, eco-education, and healthy, sustainable living. Your adventure is your time to connect with friends and family, while challenging yourself in the most breathtaking natural areas in the Appalachians. If you have any questions about our adventures, please give us a call at 1-866-411-RAFT or drop us an email. With River and Earth Adventures, you have friends in the high country!
It’s Easy to Design Your Own Adventure!
It’s easy to set up your adventure! Give us a call at 1-866-411-RAFT and we’ll chat about your budget, comfort level and experience, and we’ll help you find the adventure that is perfect for you and your family.
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WINE TASTING
1861 FARMHOUSE RESTAURANT & WINERY
3608 Broadstone Rd. | Valle Crucis, NC 28691 | Phone: 828.963.6301 | 1861Farmhouse.com
The 1861 Farmhouse operates a small, boutique winery located in the restored barn on the property. Along with the historic farmhouse, the barn is listed as a contributing property on the National Register of Historic Places. The 1861 Farmhouse Winery has enjoyed incredible success in its short history, posting impressive Silver, Gold, Double-Gold, and Best in Category wins in state and regional wine competitions. The Old World Tasting Room at the 1861 is open during restaurant hours. Winery tours can be accommodated with advance notice.
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ANNUAL FESTIVALS
The community of Valle Crucis is home to several events during the course of the year. The first big event that has its beginning and end in the valley is Blood, Sweat, and Gears, which is a century bicycle ride around Watauga County and is a fund raiser for the Watauga County Chapter of the American Red Cross. It is held the fourth Saturday in June. The ride offers two routes one that is just over 100 miles and one that is just over 50 miles in length. Both include challenging hill climbs and beautiful scenery and are fully supported by aid stations.
The next event is a summer-long festival of music held at the Valle Crucis Community Park. Typically the Music in the Valle schedule will begin in mid May and will end on the second Friday of September. Performances include bluegrass and old-time music along with rock and roll and perhaps a little jazz. Bring a picnic dinner and enjoy spending time with others in the community. The concerts are free, but show your appreciation when they pass the hat.
The Annual Valle Crucis Park Auction is always a community highlight. It is held the Saturday before Labor Day Saturday each year and is the primary fund raiser for the Community Park. You’ll find all kinds of items at this auction from antiques and furniture to gift certificates and artwork. There’s also a flea market held in conjunction with the auction. The usual location is the Valle Crucis Elementary School.
The Valle Country Fair, sponsored by Holy Cross Episcopal Church, is held in the field across from the Apple Barn on the third Saturday of October each year. The idea for the Fair actually came about as a fundraiser for the Church of the Holy Cross building fund. When it was “pitched” to the rector, he agreed with the idea with the understanding that in coming years the fund from the Fair would be shared with the community.
In the beginning, the people of the church made many of the crafts, cooked the food, provided the entertainment, helped with parking, and threw a big square dance at the Apple Barn on Fair night. Over the last 20 plus years, a few things have changed. Now, vendors from all over the South make their way to what they term as “the most successful show of the year.” Parking is typically handled by another community group as a fundraiser; the elementary school does a chicken or poor man’s supper in the evening; and other non-profit groups set up booths with food, etc.
One of the goals of the Valle Country Fair is to provide a “home-grown” experience. Crafters are juried in and must hand-make their items. The canned goods, cakes, muffins, cookies, etc. are all made in home kitchens. The entertainment is all local and can range from bluegrass to storytelling to clogging to poetry reading. Come early for the best selection and get your applebutter first thing – it sells out before the end of the day.
Christmas in the Valle is a series of activities at the Mast General Store beginning on Thanksgiving Weekend. The exact schedule may change year to year, but the elements are visits with Santa Claus in the Little Red School House behind the Original Mast Store, live musical performances, Kids’ Make-and-Take Craft Projects (just bring a couple of cans of food for the Hunger and Health Coalition), pet pictures with Mr. and Mrs. Paws (a fund raiser for the Watauga Humane Society), and a sampling of holiday cheer.