Banner Elk, Escape, Unwind, Indulge

Banner Elk's tourism motto is “Escape. Unwind. Indulge.”
This can be accomplished in a variety of ways.

Hiking

The Banner Elk area offers miles of hiking trails, ranging from easy walks to challenging hikes. The town is situated near the Blue Ridge Parkway, which offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The Grandfather Mountain Trail is a popular hiking destination, offering breathtaking views of the mountain's summit and the surrounding scenery.
Other popular hikes in the area include the Linville Falls Trail, Elk River Falls, and the Roan Mountain State Park Trail.

Ridge Mountains, Banner Elk, North Carolina is a charming town known for its natural beauty, outdoor adventures, and family-friendly activities. The town is situated at an elevation of 3,740 feet, providing breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. With its mild climate, Banner Elk is the perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city.

Outdoor Events

Banner Elk hosts a variety of outdoor events throughout the year, making it an exciting destination for adventure seekers. The town is home to the annual Woolly Worm Festival, which celebrates the arrival of fall and features woolly worm races, live music, and local vendors. The town also hosts the Grandfather Mountain Highland Games, one of the largest Scottish games in the country, featuring traditional Scottish sports, music, and dance.

Beauty of the Town

Banner Elk is a small town with a population of around 1,000 people, making it a peaceful and serene place to visit.
The town is surrounded by lush greenery, and in the fall, the changing leaves provide a stunning display of colors.
The downtown area is lined with quaint shops, cafes, and restaurants, and the streets are decorated with flowers and hanging baskets during the summer months.

Family Activities

Banner Elk is a family-friendly destination, offering a variety of activities for kids of all ages. The town is home to the
Banner Elk Stables, where families can enjoy horseback riding and trail rides through the scenic mountains.
The town also features the Lees-McRae Summer Theatre, which showcases family-friendly productions throughout the summer months. Additionally, the town is home to the Banner Elk Winery and Villa, where families can enjoy wine tastings, vineyard tours, and picnics on the grounds.

Things to Do in the Area

In addition to the activities in Banner Elk, there are plenty of things to do in the surrounding area.
The nearby town of Boone features a variety of shops, galleries, and restaurants, as well as the Appalachian State University campus. The town of Blowing Rock is also nearby, offering scenic views  and the historic Blowing Rock attraction. The town of Linville is home to the famous Linville Caverns, a natural wonder that features underground caves and stunning rock formations.

Places to Visit

Banner Elk is surrounded by a variety of stunning natural attractions, making it a perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The Grandfather Mountain attraction features a mile-high swinging bridge, hiking trails, and wildlife exhibits. The Linville Gorge Wilderness Area is also nearby, offering stunning views of the Linville River and rugged mountain scenery. Additionally, the Blue Ridge Parkway is a scenic drive that winds through the mountains, offering breathtaking views and access to a variety of hiking trails and picnic areas.

Banner Elk, North Carolina has so mucht to offer!  From the natural beauty of the town to the variety of outdoor activities and family-friendly attractions, Banner Elk is a destination that should not be missed. Whether you are looking to relax and unwind or seeking adventure and excitement, Banner Elk has something to offer. So pack your bags and head to Banner Elk, North Carolina!

WNCtimes by Marjorie Farrington