Things To Do
Scenic Drives and Towns
Drive the Blue Ridge Parkway
(Breathtaking mountain views)
Explore Blowing Rock village
(40 min drive)
Visit the Grandfather Mountain
(1 hr drive) 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.
Dark Sky Observatory
Step outside at night for some awesome stargazing in the dark mountain skies. In fact, there is a dark sky observatory less than a mile from our venue! The Dark Sky Observatory is equipped with four telescopes and is used to conduct observational research in astrophysics. The observatory holds monthly public nights where visitors can sign up to enjoy gazing through its 32-inch telescope.
Explore the town of Boone
Boone, North Carolina, has been widely crowned as America's Best Small Mountain Town. Tucked away in the Blue Ridge Mountains at a cool elevation of 3,333 feet, it perfectly blends a vibrant college-town energy (Appalachian State University), a rich culinary scene, and top-tier outdoor adventures.
Hikes & Trails
Cascade Falls
Cascade falls (Access directly from Sky retreat- the mountains to sea trail or start at Jeffress Park Trailhead for closer access)
Mystic Hiking Trail
(40 min drive)
Mount Jefferson State Natural Area
(17 mile drive)
Boone Fork Trail
(30 minute drive)
Places to eat
Third Day Kitchen
(closest to venue)
Restaurant at Gideon Ridge
(Fancier with mountain views, blowing rock)
Cinder Bistro
Southern On Main
(Further with classic southern fare)
The Lost Wombat
Activities
Tweetsie Railroad
Land of Oz
New River Outfitters
River tubing and kayaking near the New River (New River outfitters- paragliding available for the adrenaline seekers)
Mountain biking at W. Kerr Sott Dam & Reservoir trails
Rentals available at certain companies
