“Fall” in Love with The High Country: Your Total Autumn Guide
As the leaves start to turn and the crisp autumn air settles in, Boone and Blowing Rock in North Carolina’s High Country transform into a vibrant fall wonderland. Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, these charming towns offer endless activities for those looking to immerse themselves in the beauty of the season. Whether you're a lover of scenic drives, outdoor adventures, or cozying up with a warm drink, here's your complete fall guide to Boone and Blowing Rock.
Experience the Fall Foliage
Best Time to Visit: Mid-October
The Blue Ridge Mountains are world-renowned for their fall foliage, and Boone and Blowing Rock provide some of the best vantage points. The area is blanketed in hues of red, orange, and gold, creating a stunning backdrop for your visit.
Top Spots for Fall Views:
The Blowing Rock: Known for its dramatic cliffs and breathtaking panoramic views, this is a must-visit.
Grandfather Mountain: Take a hike or drive to the top for unparalleled vistas.
Moses H. Cone Memorial Park: With its wide, gently rolling trails, it's perfect for a leisurely walk among the autumn leaves.
Scenic Drives Along the Blue Ridge Parkway
The Blue Ridge Parkway is a quintessential fall destination, offering miles of scenic overlooks, winding roads, and vibrant forests. Take a drive along this historic roadway to fully appreciate the region’s beauty.
Must-See Stops:
Linn Cove Viaduct: This iconic bridge offers spectacular views of the mountains and is one of the most photographed spots on the Parkway.
Price Lake: Stop for a peaceful lakeside view, or rent a canoe and paddle out on the serene waters.
Rough Ridge Lookout: For a short hike with big rewards, Rough Ridge gives visitors a sweeping view of the foliage below.
Fall Hikes for All Skill Levels
Hiking is one of the best ways to experience the High Country’s fall magic. From easy nature trails to challenging mountain climbs, there’s something for everyone.
Top Fall Hikes:
Rough Ridge Trail: A moderately easy hike that rewards you with sweeping views of the autumn landscape.
Glen Burney Trail (Blowing Rock): This trail winds through wooded areas and leads to a stunning waterfall—a perfect way to soak in the fall colors.
Boone Fork Trail: A 5-mile loop with waterfalls, creek crossings, and rich autumn foliage.
Local Fall Festivals and Events
Autumn in Boone and Blowing Rock brings a host of seasonal festivals celebrating the harvest, local crafts, and, of course, the fall colors.
Don’t Miss:
Woolly Worm Festival (Banner Elk): This quirky festival celebrates the woolly worm, a local caterpillar said to predict winter weather. It’s fun for families, complete with worm races and local crafts.
Valle Country Fair (Valle Crucis): This annual fall festival features local crafts, delicious food, and live bluegrass music, all set against the picturesque autumn backdrop of Valle Crucis.
Pumpkin Picking and Corn Mazes
Fall wouldn’t be complete without a trip to a pumpkin patch or getting lost in a corn maze. Several local farms around Boone and Blowing Rock offer classic fall activities for families.
Top Spots:
New River Corn Maze: Located just outside Boone, this corn maze is perfect for families, with hayrides and pumpkin picking.
Harvest Farms: Located in Valle Crucis, Harvest Farms is known for its sprawling maze, pumpkin patch, and fun fall activities for all ages.
Source: https://www.vallecountryfair.org
Cozy Restaurants and Cafés for Fall Comfort Food
After a day of exploring, there’s nothing better than warming up with a delicious meal or a hot drink. Boone and Blowing Rock have no shortage of cozy spots to relax and refuel. You can also check out our full restaurant guide here.
Where to Eat:
The Best Cellar (Blowing Rock): This upscale restaurant is perfect for a cozy fall evening, offering warm, comforting dishes and a great wine selection.
Café Violette (Blowing Rock): A cozy French-inspired café known for its gourmet dishes and warm atmosphere.
Dan'l Boone Inn (Boone): Known for hearty, family-style Southern meals—perfect for a filling fall dinner.
Stick Boy Kitchen (Boone): Warm up with a cup of coffee or hot apple cider and try their fresh-baked pastries, especially their seasonal pumpkin specialties..
Apple Picking and Fall Harvests
Autumn in North Carolina also means it’s apple season! Take advantage of the local orchards offering pick-your-own apples, cider, and fresh-baked goods.
Best Orchard:
Apple Hill Farm (Banner Elk): While technically a little outside Boone, this charming farm offers apple picking, farm tours, and a fall market.
The Orchard at Altapass (Spruce Pine): Visitors can enjoy live music, hayrides, and nature trails, while also picking apples. It’s a great place to learn about the area’s rich history and enjoy a delicious homemade pie.
Explore Local Breweries and Wineries
Warm up on a chilly fall afternoon with a visit to one of the area’s breweries or wineries, many of which offer seasonal fall beers and cider.
Recommendations:
Blowing Rock Brewing Company: Enjoy a craft beer on their patio, surrounded by the vibrant fall landscape.
Grandfather Vineyard & Winery: Sip local wine with a view of the Blue Ridge Mountains, especially stunning in the fall.
Appalachian Mountain Brewery (Boone): Known for their seasonal brews, including autumn-inspired beers and ciders.
With its stunning fall foliage, outdoor adventures, and cozy town charm, Boone and Blowing Rock are the perfect destinations for a fall getaway. Whether you're exploring the Blue Ridge Parkway, hiking through colorful forests, or enjoying a local festival, there's no shortage of ways to experience the magic of autumn in the North Carolina High Country.
