High Country NC

As fall settles over North Carolina’s High Country, climbers flock to the region for the cool, dry air, which creates ideal conditions that make autumn a prime climbing season. From world-class outdoor routes to well-equipped indoor gyms, the High C…

Autumn climbing in the High Country As fall settles over North Carolina’s High Country, climbers flock to the region for the cool, dry air, which creates ideal conditions that make autumn a prime climbing season. From

For those who live to ride, there’s nothing quite like hitting the open road in the High Country during fall. With crisp air, vibrant foliage, and winding mountain stretches, this region is a magnet for motorcycle enthusiasts seeking both challenge …

Riding the High Country For those who live to ride, there’s nothing quite like hitting the open road in the High Country during fall. With crisp air, vibrant foliage, and winding mountain stretches, this

The North Carolina High Country offers a lot of adventures for mountain bikers.

Mountain Biking options in the High Country

As autumn sweeps across the Tar Heel State in a blaze of crimson and gold, the Mountains-to-Sea Trail (MST) becomes a living canvas — stretching 1,175 miles from the high peaks of the Great Smoky Mountains to the rolling dunes of the Outer Banks. Th…

Mountains-to-Sea Trail showcases North Carolina’s natural beauty and heritage As autumn sweeps across the Tar Heel State in a blaze of crimson and gold, the Mountains-to-Sea Trail (MST) becomes a living canvas — stretching 1,175 miles from the high

For more than 75 years, Mystery Hill has been a High Country staple, blending illusions, hands-on activities and local history into a destination families return to generation after generation. This fall, Manager Jordan Justice said visitors can exp…

Autumn fun at Mystery Hill For more than 75 years, Mystery Hill has been a High Country staple, blending illusions, hands-on activities and local history into a destination families return to generation after generation. This

Oktoberfest is best known for its German beer. The celebration officially begins each year when the Lord Mayor of the city taps the first keg — tapping of the first keg symbolizes the celebration of the season’s first brew.

German culture celebrated during local Oktoberfest events Oktoberfest is best known for its German beer. The celebration officially begins each year when the Lord Mayor of the city taps the first keg — tapping of the first

When the mountains leave their summer greens for reds, golds and oranges, the High Country of North Carolina becomes a destination for outdoor enthusiasts in search of the best views and drives.

High Country scenic drives stun in the fall When the mountains leave their summer greens for reds, golds and oranges, the High Country of North Carolina becomes a destination for outdoor enthusiasts in search of the best views

The Appalachian Arts Performing Arts Series, presented by Appalachian State University’s Office of Arts Engagement and Cultural Resources, has a vibrant lineup that celebrates artistic excellence and rich cultural legacies for its 2025-26 season.

Appalachian Arts hosting a star-studded 2025-26 lineup The Appalachian Arts Performing Arts Series, presented by Appalachian State University’s Office of Arts Engagement and Cultural Resources, has a vibrant lineup that celebrates artistic excellence and rich cultural legacies

After an unexpected cancellation in 2024 due to Hurricane Helene, the annual Banner Elk Woolly Worm Festival will make a major return in 2025. Under the leadership of Victoria Bowman, organizers are not only preparing for the comeback but also moder…

Banner Elk Woolly Worm Festival anticipating triumphant return for 2025 After an unexpected cancellation in 2024 due to Hurricane Helene, the annual Banner Elk Woolly Worm Festival will make a major return in 2025. Under the leadership of Victoria Bowman,

Stargazing in the High County is peering into infinity.

Stargazing from the Blue Ridge into the Dark Sky

Getting to a higher plain in the High Country isn’t about a higher price point because there’s no admission for feeling free above 3,000 feet.

High Country State Parks entice guests with scenic views, recreational activities

Tailgating at Appalachian State has become a fixture over the years and with the gorgeous backdrop of the Blue Mountains, it’s certainly special.

App State Football tailgating: Something special in the fall air