AREA
THE
Minutes from the Lodge
UNDER 30
TOWNS: Jefferson, West Jefferson
We're always looking for fun, seasonal things to do in the area as well as recommendations for the best food, shopping and activities close to the lodge.
MORE TO DO!
Right Here!
Phoenix Mountain Lodge is directly adjacent to a 480 acre nature preserve. It offers great hiking and views.
The Hotel Tavern
Located in an historic hotel about 25 minutes from the Lodge, The Hotel Tavern has 'Wine Down Wednesdays,' with specially priced wine specials.
Mt. Jefferson Natural Area
Featuring five hiking trails, including a child friendly trail, Mount Jefferson can be seen from the Blue Ridge Parkway.
top pick
Blue Ridge Parkway
Under 20 miles from the cabin is the magnificent Blue Ridge Parkway, a 489 mile drive through the Appalachian Highlands. Take the parkway to fun destinations all along the way.
New River State Park
About 20 miles away is New River State Park where visitors can enjoy scenic hiking, paddling, fishing and picnicking.
Boondocks Brewing Tap Room & Restaurant
Right in West Jefferson, this Craft Brewery also offers really good food, especially sandwiches, featuring locally sourced ingredients. Check out the "Boon Deck", an outdoor covered seating area.
Smoky Mountain Barbeque
A no-frills, cafeteria style restaurant, this BBQ joint has good food for very reasonable prices. You have to try the sweet potato casserole and hush puppies!
Choose and Cut Christmas Trees
One of the most charming things about Jefferson is when you come down from the mountain, Christmas Tree farms are sprinkled along the road. Below are a couple resources for finding these opportunities.
Black Jacks Pub and Grill
A bit of a hole-in-the wall, this place has your classic local bar feel and offers the pub grub that tastes so good with a beer.
Helton Creek
Some of the best fly fishing North Carolina has to offer.
Zaloo's Canoes, Kayaks and Tubes
Take an adventurous kayak trip, or chill out on a tube ride down the river. Fun for any level.
Mountain Aire Golf Club
Nestled in the heart of the Blue Ridge, Mountain Aire is an established, public course offering 18 holes of well-maintained fairways, complimented by the natural, rugged beauty of the Appalachians.
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Minutes from the Lodge
30 to 60
TOWNS: Boone, Blowing Rock, Banner Elk
Downtown Blowing Rock, NC
Less than an hour from the Lodge is quaint Blowing Rock, where you can shop in eclectic boutiques, get ice cream or sweets at Kilwins and bring the kids play at the park across the street.
Turtle Island
If you're a Mountain Men fan (like we are), check out Eustice Conway's preserve; you can even book a private horse-drawn carriage ride with the man himself.
Appalachian Ski Mountain
One of three ski mountains in the Watauga County area of western North Carolina- skating rink, skiing and fun.
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top pick
Grayson Highlands State Park
Hike with beautiful mountain views surrounding you until you find the friendly, wild ponies
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Appalachian State Mountaineer Sports
A division 1 school, Appalachian State University has sporting events year round.
Apple Hill Farm
A mountain top Alpaca farm and store, this working farm offers tours and special events (like Alpaca shearing day) throughout the year.
Minutes from the Lodge
60 to 90
TOWNS: Sugar Mountain, Damascus, Abingdon
Sugar Mountain
Voted the Best Ski Mountain by "Best in Boone" in 2015, there's plenty of winter fun to be had here: skiing, ice skating, tubing, snowshoeing and more.
Barter Theatre
One of the nation's longest running Equity theaters in the country. Great place for live theater.
Red Tail Mountain Golf
Designed by Dan and Ellis Maples, RedTail Mountain has some of the Finest Mountain golf in the High Country.
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top pick
Creeper Trail Bike Trail
Ride 17 miles downhill through the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains. Great for all ages.
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Minutes from the Lodge
90 OR MORE
TOWNS: Asheville
The Biltmore
George Biltmore's 8000 square foot estate is something to be seen. With the adjacent Antler Hill Village & Winery, there is plenty for people with different interests and ages to enjoy all day.