Celebrate the Fourth of July in Banner Elk

Celebrate the Star-Spangled Banner Elk Fourth of July!
MerleFest 2026

April 23-26, 2026: A Celebration of American Music and Heritage
Appalachian Mountain Brewery

Appalachian Mountain Brewery aims to serve the community in more ways than just pouring a pint.
Blowing Rock WinterFest 2026

January 22-25, 2026: This four-day extravaganza promises a delightful blend of winter fun for all ages.
Welcome to North Carolina’s High Country

Refresh in North Carolina’s High Country
Moving Forward After the Storm

The High Country community has banded together and reopened for business since the havoc Hurricane Helene wreaked in September 2024.
High Country Hiking Trails

The High Country has hundreds of miles of hiking trails to explore with varying lengths, terrain and difficulties.
Music in the Mountains 2025

The music scene in North Carolina’s High Country is hot all year long, even when the temperatures outside are at their lowest.
High Thrills in the High Country

A lot of people look to the High Country as a place to relax and unwind, and it’s certainly an ideal location for kicking back. By Arielle Patterson, with updates by Julie Matthews However, others are born with a yearning for adventure, and it’s these people who look to the High Country as a place to […]
Gem Mining in the High Country

A Modern Day Treasure Hunt
Destination: Blowing Rock

Blowing Rock has been a tourist destination for more than 130 years.
Destination: Boone

Recognized as an Ultimate Outdoor Adventure Destination in the Southeast
Get to Know APP State

Appalachian State University, also known as App State, is a top-ranking public university located in downtown Boone
Sips and Trips of the High Country

Wineries, Distilleries and Breweries in North Carolina’s High Country Give You a Taste of Mountain Character
Destination: Banner Elk

Artsy Summers, Colorful Autumns & Snowy Winters