Tucked into the High Country of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Banner Elk is a small village with big mountain charm, and The Farmhouse puts you right in the middle of it.
Winters bring two ski resorts within minutes of the door; summers bring cool mountain air, waterfalls, and wildflower-lined trails; fall paints the ridges in some of the best color in the Southeast.
Here are our favorite ways to spend your stay:
Banner Elk Travel Guide
Grandfather Mountain
Enjoy sweeping views, explore wildlife habitats (bears, cougars, otters, eagles, & more), hike some of the most dramatic trails in the Blue Ridge, and cross the Mile High Swinging Bridge.
NC’s first theme park. Climb aboard a historic steam train for a three mile ride through the mountains, then explore the Wild West town, amusement rides, and petting zoo. This is a kid favorite.
Tweetsie Railroad
Beech Mountain Resort
The highest ski area in eastern North America at 5,506 feet. Skiing, snowboarding, tubing, and ice skating in winter. On the off season, slopes become a downhill bike park served by a chairlift.
North Carolina’s largest ski resort, just minutes from downtown Banner Elk. Skiing, snowboarding, night skiing, snow tubing, ice skating, and snowshoe tours. Ski school for all ages.
Sugar Mountain Resort
Riders control their own speed with hand brakes on a 3,160-foot track with three circular loops, waves, and twists, reaching up to 27 mph. Open year round.
Alpine Rollercoaster
Hawksnest Zipline
20 zip lines and over four miles of cable, including four mega zips over 1,500 feet long. Heights over 200 feet and speeds up to 50 mph, with views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Open year round.
Elk Mountain Riding Co.
Family owned stable offering guided horseback tours with scenic mountain views. Rides are tailored to each rider’s skill level, from beginners to experienced riders, and private tours are available for families and groups.
Family friendly adventure outfitter providing guided whitewater rafting and kayaking tours on the Watauga River. Edge O World also offers rock climbing and repelling.
Whitewater Rafting
Linville Caverns
NC’s only show caverns, open to the public since 1937. Guided tours run about 30 minutes through passages with stalactites, stalagmites, and an underground stream with blind trout.
Banner Elk Winery
This winery makes award winning wines from locally grown grapes, including its popular Blueberry and Ice Wines. Tastings are offered year round, along with seasonal vineyard tours.
Wildcat Lake
A 13-acre lake with a white sand beach, playground, designated swimming area, and fishing dock. Canoes, kayaks and paddle boards available to rent on site.
Elk River Falls
A dramatic 65 foot plunging waterfall reachable after a short, easy hike to the base. Swimmers cool off in the river on summer days and big boulders make a perfect picnic spot.