Blog Contributor: Mary Lindsay Clark
The Vastness of the Blue Ridge Mountains never ceases to take my breath away. When you live in Boone, the parkway and all it has to offer seems as if it should be for tourists only.
For those who haven’t had the opportunity to soak up the inconceivable views, sleep among the North Carolina trees, or feel the cool evening breeze all around them.
Reality is, those privileged enough to call the mountains home, love the surroundings just as much as the visitors of the Blue Ridge Parkway. Read more »
After following signs to Price Park Campground I pulled off the Parkway. To my right sat a small reservation office where I discovered there were multiple ways to reserve a camp site.
Since it was around 8:30pm when I arrived, the office window was shut. Leaving two options- the self-registration drop box, or reservation by telephone.
Curious about the grounds, I went to the camp host house located directly behind the reservation office. During my trip to Price Park Campground I asked several questions to different people sitting on the porch of the Host house. Each time I was graciously welcomed and all of my questions were answered.
The campsites in particular were laid out nicely with not too little space in between your site and your neighbors. Read more »
Price Park Campground and the Boone Fork Trail
On Monday I took a friend and set out to hike the Boone Fork Trail! This trail conveniently loops around Price Park Campground allowing campers to hike through many different environments during their stay.
More than half of the trail runs beside Bee Tree Creek, which includes many interesting sections of moderate to slow moving rapids.
It would be a good idea to wear appropriate hiking sandals so you can get your feet wet. Chacos or Tevas are among sandals that were made for the type of terrain Boone Fork Trail entails.
I dipped my feet in the cold mountain water at every creek crossing. It was very refreshing on this warm summer day. If you enjoy being alone, plan your hike for a weekday and you won’t be disappointed! Read more »
The Grandfather Mountain Highland Games are one of the areas greatest traditions. Having everything from caber tossing to sheep herding. This Scottish festival is located every year at Grandfather Mountain in Linville. Canada, and of course Scotland, were among the countries represented.
Camping is available for those that are competing in the games, or those who desire to soak in the full experience. This year, the games began with the opening ceremonies on Thursday evening following a foot race. The winner of the race ran a victory lap around the track with the torch in hand.
For anyone curious about the Highland Games and not sure which days to attend events, I would suggest a weekend pass. With my weekend pass wrapped around my arm, I journeyed towards the fog-covered Grandfather Mountain.
Scottish apparel was the first thing that greeted me, and it felt as if I had gotten off a plane in Scotland. Young and old had adorned their bodies with plaid for the events. Read more »
