A Colorful Comeback: Enjoying Blowing Rock After Helene
As we embrace the fall season in Blowing Rock, we invite you to enjoy the beauty of the season with us in new and meaningful ways. Despite the challenges we've faced, we’ve witnessed an incredible spirit of resilience as western North Carolina rallies together to rebuild and support one another. We are deeply grateful for the outpouring of support from all areas, which reminds us that even through the darkness, there is always light. Join us in celebrating the season and making a positive impact in our community!
Commitment to Kindness and Safety
We kindly ask that you approach your visit with respect and empathy for the residents who have been profoundly affected by recent events. Read more on Explore Boone’s updated travel guidance for Boone and Blowing Rock’s visitors. Please confine your explorations to designated areas open to tourists, and adhere to the established routes. Your safety is paramount, so be sure to consult this road closure resource before you travel.
Experience the Fall Foliage
Best Time to Visit: Mid-Late 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 Spot in Town for Fall Views:
The Blowing Rock: Known for its dramatic cliffs and breathtaking panoramic views, this is a must-visit. In light of Hurricane Helene, The Blowing Rock has stepped up to support recovery efforts by donating $20,000 to Samaritan's Purse disaster relief initiatives. Additionally, throughout October, 20% of adult ticket sales will be donated to help those affected. Your visit not only brings joy to your autumn experience but also contributes to meaningful support for our community.
Glen Burney Trail ( Downtown Blowing Rock): This trail winds through wooded areas and leads to a stunning waterfall—a perfect way to soak in the fall colors.
A scenic 1-mile carriage trail loop around Moses Cone’s serene lake, adorned with rich autumn foliage. A convenient sidewalk connects from the entrance of the getaway to the 221 entrance of the trail, making it easy to enjoy this beautiful fall experience. It’s about a 20-minute walk, covering roughly 0.9 miles, from the getaway to the Bass Lake entrance, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the vibrant mountain landscape along the way.
This scenic view is accessible via a hike starting at the Beacon Heights parking area, located just before milepost 305. The trail, just under a mile and of moderate difficulty, follows a section of the NC Mountains-to-Sea Trail. At the end, hikers are rewarded with expansive southern views from two broad rock outcroppings.
The drive along the Blue Ridge Parkway to Grandfather Mountain is stunning year-round. From Blowing Rock, head south on the Parkway for just 11 miles, then exit and continue for 1 mile down Hwy 221 to reach the Grandfather Mountain entrance. The Wilson Center for Nature Discovery, Mildred the Bear Environmental Habitats, Top Shop, Mile High Swinging Bridge, as well as access to Woods Walk, Bridge Trail, Black Rock Trail, and Grandfather Loop are now open! To ensure entry, it’s best to book tickets and reserve a time slot online ahead of your visit. Those purchasing admission online will also have an opportunity to contribute to the park’s ongoing Hurricane Helene relief efforts.
Downtown Blowing Rock captured on October 9th, 2024
Main Street Adventures
Main Street in Blowing Rock is the heart of the town, offering a delightful mix of locally owned shops and boutiques. You’ll find everything from handcrafted jewelry and local art to cozy apparel and home décor, all in a charming setting filled with friendly shop owners and historic buildings. The street’s relaxed, small-town atmosphere makes it perfect for a leisurely afternoon of shopping and exploring. Be sure to stop by and support some of our favorite local businesses!
Beyond the Shops
You can easily access the Glen Burney Trail directly from Main Street for a scenic hike, or enjoy a peaceful walk and picnic at Broyhill Park. Families will love the enchanting, nature-inspired playground, featuring treehouse towers, unique climbers, and fun slides, making it an ideal spot for both kids and adults to unwind and enjoy the mountain air.
Pumpkin Picking and Corn Mazes
Fall wouldn’t be complete without a trip to a pumpkin patch or getting lost in a corn maze. These local farms offer classic fall activities for families.
C and J Pumpkin Patch and Corn Maze: We are thrilled to share that the Corn Maze and Pumpkin Patch are set to open on Friday, October 11th! Fortunately, these beloved attractions were spared, and they’re offering free admission (donations welcomed) to provide a sense of normalcy and fun during these challenging times. Visitors can enjoy the Corn Maze, Pumpkin Patches, and a Haunted Corn Maze over the next three weeks. It’s a perfect opportunity to unwind, have some fun, and take home a pumpkin to brighten the season. Check out their Facebook page for open days in October and join in the autumn festivities!
Harvest Farms: Harvest Farms is known for its sprawling maze, pumpkin patch, and while their location will not be open this year due to damages to their farm and loss of equipment, you can still support them by purchasing their first harvest of pumpkins! Give them a call for more information (828)-260-0765.
Fall Favorites: Local Restaurants and Cafés to Support
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: This upscale restaurant is perfect for a cozy fall evening, offering warm, comforting dishes and a great wine selection.
Café Violette: A cozy French-inspired café known for its gourmet dishes and warm atmosphere.
Speckled Trout Restaurant and Bottle Shop: A cozy atmosphere with a menu that highlights fresh, local ingredients and classic Appalachian dishes.
Bistro Roca: A charming, rustic setting and is known for its creative comfort food and extensive wine selection
Hellbender’s Bed and Beverage: Combines a laid-back vibe with craft beers and comfort food, making it a perfect spot for relaxation after outdoor adventures.
Photo of Grandfather Mountain taken over Foscoe on October 3rd, 2024.
Explore Local Breweries
Warm up on a chilly fall afternoon with a visit to one of the area’s breweries, many of which offer seasonal fall beers and cider.
Recommendations:
Blowing Rock Brewing Company: Located in the heart of downtown Blowing Rock, known for its craft beers and delicious food in a cozy, welcoming atmosphere. With a charming outdoor patio, it’s the perfect spot to relax and enjoy local brews after exploring the town, making it a favorite among both locals and visitors.
Booneshine Brewing Co.: Booneshine Brewing Co. in Boone, NC, offers a relaxed atmosphere with great food, craft beer, and a spacious outdoor patio and beer garden. It’s the perfect spot to enjoy local brews and mountain views while dining outside.
Appalachian Mountain Brewery: AMB is a popular spot for craft beer lovers, offering a wide selection of local brews in a laid-back setting. Their spacious outdoor seating area, complete with picnic tables and outdoor games, makes it a great place to relax with friends. Known for supporting the community, AMB is also committed to sustainability, making it a go-to destination for both great beer and a positive impact.
Explore Local Wineries
Embrace a crisp fall afternoon with a stop at one of the area’s cozy wineries, where you can savor seasonal wines inspired by autumn’s rich flavors. Many wineries offer special blends for the season and inviting tasting rooms, perfect for relaxing as the weather cools.
Grandfather Vineyard & Winery: Nestled in the scenic Watauga River Valley, it’s known for its unique mountain terroir and picturesque setting with views of Grandfather Mountain. The vineyard offers a variety of wines, including reds, whites, and sparkling wines, many of which are crafted from grapes grown on-site.
Old Barn Winery: Old Barn Winery is a small, family-owned winery located in West Jefferson, North Carolina. This boutique winery is known for its rustic charm and welcoming atmosphere, set in a renovated barn that gives it a cozy, down-to-earth feel. They offer a selection of wines crafted from both locally grown and regionally sourced grapes, including reds, whites, and fruit-based wines that reflect the flavors of the region.
How Can We Help Those In Need?
We understand that many areas are still facing challenges, and our hearts are aching for everyone in western North Carolina who has been affected. With the western and northern parts of Watauga county being most heavily impacted by the storm, many of our neighbors are still in need, and we have taken direct action to help them. The Getaway is partnering with The Blowing Rock Manor to collect supply donations for those impacted by Helene. To support our community in a simple and meaningful way, we’re inviting guests who feel called to contribute to our non-perishable food drive. If you’re staying at The Getaway this October and November, and would like to participate, simply leave your non-perishable items in your townhome at checkout, and we’ll take care of the rest. We’ll load up the supplies and store them until they are donated to Hospitality House of Boone the week before Thanksgiving.
For those who prefer to give directly, we also recommend two organizations with which we have personal experience, both of which are actively serving western North Carolina. Additionally, there are wonderful volunteer opportunities for those looking to make a hands-on difference. Whether it’s donating your time, resources, or supporting local businesses every effort counts in helping our community rebuild and recover.
As the fall season unfolds in Blowing Rock, we encourage you to carry the spirit of creativity and community into your visit. Embrace the opportunity to explore beyond the typical tourist routes and discover the beauty that surrounds us. While challenges persist, the strength and compassion of our community shines brightly, illuminating western NC’s path to recovery. We remain thankful for the support that continues to flow in from all corners, reminding us that together, we can rebuild a hopeful path ahead.
