Things To Do

Grandfather Mountain State Park

Grandfather Mountain, at 5,946 feet, it is the highest peak on the eastern escarpment of the Blue Ridge Mountains, one of the major chains of the Appalachian Mountains. Check out the mile high bridge. The Mile High Swinging Bridge, America’s highest suspension footbridge, was built to give visitors easy access to the breathtaking view from Grandfather Mountain’s Linville Peak.

Blue Ridge Parkway

The Blue Ridge Parkway is a ribbon of road that weaves through the region’s vibrant living traditions. From Cherokee life and agricultural history to Southern Appalachian crafts and music, the Parkway’s 469 miles through Virginia and North Carolina offer many ways to explore rich traditions.

Wildcat Lake

The 13-acre lake is the centerpiece of a public-access facility that includes a white sand beach, swimming pier and fishing dock. The most popular activities at Wildcat Lake are swimming, sun bathing, fishing and boating. Lifeguards are on duty during summer hours. Boating is limited to non-motorized boats along with canoes and kayaks.

The Banner Elk Greenway

Banner Elk has approximately 1.1 miles of greenway trails. The trails begin at Tate-Evans Park in downtown Banner Elk, which features a trail that loops a third of a mile around the grounds. The park also has two playground areas, wading pools, a volleyball court, picnic tables, a covered picnic shelter

Elk River Falls Trail

Just a short drive from Banner Elk is one of the most impressive waterfalls in the NC mountains. Elk River Falls, also known as Big Falls, features large volumes of water dropping 50 feet over a rock cliff into a picturesque oval pool. The trail to the falls is an easy-to-follow trail, but there are ample rocks and roots along the way.

Foscoe Fishing Company & Outfitters

Foscoe Fishing Co. provides expert outfitting and fly fishing guide service for everybody from first-timers to experienced anglers.

Banner Elk Stables

View the Blue Ridge Mountains via horseback at Banner Elk Stables. This Banner Elk attraction offers one-hour guided rides on rustic trails perched along the mountain ridges.

Kettell Beerworks Brewery

Banner Elk Winery & Villa

Asheville

Asheville is a city in the Blue Ridge Mountains about 1 hour and half from Banner Elk. Asheville is a vibrant city known for food, art and breweries.