Banner Elk, North Carolina, Is the Excellent Fall Getaway

North Carolina’s Excessive Nation is greatest recognized for its rolling Blue Ridge landscapes, crisp mountain air, and small cities that ooze appeal, particularly when autumn rolls round. Whereas Boone and Blowing Rock typically appeal to a lot of the fall season crowds, simply down the highway lies Banner Elk, a hidden gem within the North Carolina mountains.

This city of about 1,200 residents comes alive in autumn with quirky traditions, breathtaking foliage, and family-friendly actions that showcase one of the best of the season. From the well-known Woolly Worm Competition, the place locals cheer on fuzzy caterpillars in tiny races, to cozy afternoons at apple orchards and scenic drives as much as Grandfather Mountain, fall right here feels festive.

Having grown up close to the Blue Ridge Mountains, I’ve visited loads of mountain cities alongside the East Coast, however Banner Elk stands out. Here is how one can profit from a fall getaway to this mountain hideaway.

Finest Issues to Do

Attend the Woolly Worm Competition.

Each October, hundreds flock to Banner Elk for its most unusual custom: the Woolly Worm Competition. “It is the one pageant in North Carolina the place you’ll be able to race a worm up a string for an opportunity to foretell the winter climate,” mentioned Nancy Owen, tourism director for Banner Elk. In keeping with Owen, greater than 20,000 folks attend the two-day pageant. “It is a great household ambiance with one thing for all ages. Whether or not you need to race a worm, eat some funnel cake, store the native artwork and craft distributors, or hearken to stay music, you are assured a enjoyable time,” she added. After being canceled final yr as a consequence of Hurricane Helene, locals are particularly desirous to deliver the celebration again on Oct. 18 and 19, welcoming guests because the city continues its restoration.

Discover Grandfather Mountain.

One in every of North Carolina’s most iconic peaks, Grandfather Mountain isn’t removed from Banner Elk and presents among the greatest fall views within the state. Hike certainly one of its rugged trails, snap photographs from the Mile Excessive Swinging Bridge, or go to the wildlife habitats alongside the best way, that are dwelling to black bears, elk, and eagles. In autumn, the mountainside is blanketed in reds, golds, and oranges, making it a leaf peeper’s dream.

Go to Apple Hill Farm.

This working alpaca farm is an enthralling cease that is particularly widespread within the fall. Company can take guided excursions to satisfy the alpacas, donkeys, and different animals, whereas studying about sustainable farming practices. Notice, though the property does have apple bushes, it isn’t a pick-your-own orchard, so do not anticipate to go apple selecting right here.

Go apple selecting at a close-by orchard.

Nothing says fall fairly like apple selecting. The Orchard at Altapass, proper off the Blue Ridge Parkway, is a neighborhood favourite the place you’ll be able to wander by the rows, choose your individual apples, and luxuriate in stay music and selfmade treats. It is a traditional autumn outing that pairs completely with the views.

Take a scenic drive.

Banner Elk is ideally positioned close to among the most beautiful stretches of the Blue Ridge Parkway. Only a quick drive away, you will discover overlooks bursting with coloration in October, making it one of the crucial photographed areas within the southeast through the fall.

Finest Locations to Keep

The Perry Home Mattress & Breakfast

This historic inn, located on a hill overlooking the mountains, is a favourite amongst fall vacationers. 5 visitor rooms supply a heat, homey atmosphere that makes you’re feeling extra like a visiting pal than a lodge visitor. In autumn, the expansive porch is good for sipping espresso within the morning and winding down with a glass of wine within the night.

The Lodge at Banner Elk

For those who’re touring with children or favor the comfort of recent facilities, The Lodge at Banner Elk is a good selection. Positioned simply minutes from downtown, this property has 100 spacious rooms, a pool, and a family-friendly ambiance. Its location makes it straightforward to go out for a day of journey and return to consolation at night time.

Finest Locations to Eat

Mountain Grounds Espresso & Tea Co.

Begin your morning with a go to to this cozy espresso store. From wealthy lattes and mochas to recent cinnamon rolls, bagels, and breakfast burritos, they’ve all of the necessities.

Banner Elk Cafe

An area staple, the Banner Elk Cafe combines consolation meals with a laid-back vibe. The menu is intensive, with all the pieces from burgers to mahi, and stay music typically provides to the ambiance. It is the form of place the place you’ll be able to present up in mountaineering boots after a day on the paths and nonetheless really feel proper at dwelling.

Stonewalls Restaurant

For those who’re in search of one thing a bit extra upscale, however nonetheless welcoming, Stonewalls is the place to go. Identified for its steaks and recent seafood, the restaurant has been a convention in Banner Elk for greater than 40 years. The nice and cozy wooden interiors and attentive service make it superb for a flowery dinner.

Finest Time to Go to

Fall is the shining star in Banner Elk. October is my favourite time to go to as a result of it is peak pageant season and usually one of the best time for vibrant foliage. The Woolly Worm Competition takes place in mid-October, drawing crowds for its races, parades, and stay music.

September is quieter, however nonetheless presents cooler climate, whereas November brings late-season coloration and fewer guests, making it a perfect time for a extra peaceable getaway.

Owen agrees fall is an exquisite time to go to Banner Elk. “One factor that makes Banner Elk so stunning through the fall is the altering colours. Banner Elk is located in a valley surrounded by Beech Mountain and Sugar Mountain, which have mile-high peaks. It is enjoyable to observe the colours change from the highest of the peaks all the way down to the valley.”

She added, “Our small companies actually get into the autumn season with festive shows of pumpkins and mums.”

The way to Get There

Banner Elk is tucked into the Excessive Nation of western North Carolina, about 1.5 hours from Asheville and a pair of.5 hours from Charlotte. The closest airport is Asheville Regional (AVL), though many guests fly into Charlotte Douglas Worldwide (CLT) and take the scenic drive.

The way to Get Round

A automotive is the easiest way to discover Banner Elk and its surrounding mountains. Downtown is walkable, however most points of interest, together with Grandfather Mountain, orchards, and the Blue Ridge Parkway, require a brief drive. Moreover, parking is usually straightforward, though pageant weekends might be significantly busy.

Know Earlier than You Go

Banner Elk is a small, intimate, and community-oriented city. Fall weekends can get busy, particularly through the Woolly Worm Competition, so e book lodging early.

One other useful tip: Pack layers. Mountain mornings and evenings might be chilly, whereas afternoons typically heat up sufficient that you’re going to need to shed a jacket or sweater. Lastly, in case you’re planning a leaf-peeping journey within the fall, verify native foliage studies, as peak coloration timing varies yr to yr.