The Surrounding Cities of Linville Land Harbor
There’s no place like home, but a drive to nearby cities of the beautiful High Country is well worth a Saturday afternoon. If you’re looking for a scenic hike, low-key spot to relax on the weekend, or just a change of pace, here’s what some of the surrounding cities of Linville Land Harbor have to offer.
Linville
Linville is home to the beautiful scenery of the Blue Ridge Mountains with many trails to chose from, no matter your experience level. Grandfather Mountain is one of the biggest attractions in the High Country because of its panoramic views, exposure to wildlife, and famous Mile-High Swinging Bridge. It’s easy to spend a whole day there – so pack a picnic and enjoy the park. Other trails to check out (especially if you’re no stranger to hiking) are Table Rock, Hawksbill, and Linville Gorge Wilderness.
Love the views, but not too keen on the hikes? Spend a leisurely day golfing 18 holes at the Linville Land Harbor Golf Course for scenic views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. (Hint: keep your eye out on Hole 7).
Boone
21 Miles
Boone (named after pioneer Daniel Boone) lives up to its name as the outdoor destination of the Southeast proudly, with year-round activities such as ziplining, fly fishing, hiking, apple picking, tubing, etc. Several guided outdoor tours of the area are available to assist you in finding all of Boone’s hidden gems.
If you’re new to North Carolina, you’ll get the full food and beer experience as there are many local eats and breweries in town. (We suggest Appalachian Mountain Brewery.) If you’re a live music fan, Boone summers are filled with bluegrass festivals, and if you’re a sports fan, Appalachian State University welcomes you to their tailgates and football games.
Blowing Rock
19 Miles
Blowing Rock is the name of the city in the High Country and its biggest attraction alike. The unusual shaped cliff 4,000 feet above sea level is named “Blowing Rock” for the constant upward wind that comes from the valley below. The unusual phenomenon attracts tourists and locals alike all year round, and is easily accessible by a short hike.
Tweetsie Railroad is another Blowing Rock stop to make if you’re with the family. North Carolina’s first theme park is a Wild West adventure kids of all ages will love and enjoy.
Banner Elk
11 Miles
If you want wine or adventure (or adventure, then wine), Banner Elk has plenty of both. Take a tour of the top-rated wineries in town, because nothing goes together quite like cheese, wine, and mountain views. If you’re more up for adventure, Banner Elk has guided hiking, caving, and whitewater rafting tours for the warmer seasons, and skiing at Sugar Mountain Resort in the winter. More experienced? Unleash your inner dare devil by testing out the Class 4 rapids or the black diamond slopes.
Johnson City
41 Miles
Johnson City, Tennessee is further out from Linville Land Harbor, but worth the drive. If you’re not quite ready for the rigorous hikes along the Blue Ridge Mountains, Tweetsie Trail is a great start. The mostly flat trail is full of views of quarries and mountains in the distance and is ideal for beginners. Enjoy a Tennessee beer at one of the Johnson City breweries post hike.
While breweries and parks are popular attractions in Johnson City, there are several specialty museums in town – the kids interactive Hands On! Museum, the George L. Carter Railroad Museum, Museum of Ancient Brick, and a selection of art galleries as well. To learn a little local history, you don’t want to miss the Tipton-Haynes Historic Site on how Johnson City came to be.
Planning on taking a day trip to any of these places? Check out our latest blog on Where to Eat in the High Country for some good spots to get your grub on.