Snow has a way of transforming the High Country into another world. Of course the slopes of App Ski Mountain, Beech Mountain and Sugar Mountain are natural destinations when the flurries begin, but there are less domesticated areas of the mountains worth a snow hike exploration. Photos by JC Garcia
1. In-Town: The Boone United Trail
Part of the beauty of this trail system is just how quickly you’re able to forget that you’re climbing above a university town, especially with the addition of the upper loop. EXPLORE THE BOONE UNITED TRAIL!
2. Snow Hike the Balds: Roan Mountain
A trek across the Roan Highlands is the stuff hiking dreams are made of. Sometimes it literally feels like a dream, when the wind is blowing across the balds and the sun is getting low on the horizon. EXPLORE ROAN MOUNTAIN!
3. Virginia: Grayson Highlands
Grayson Highlands is a High Country gem an hour from Boone just over the Virginia line. It’s also an Appalachian Trail wonderland, complete with fire eating cows, wild ponies, and beautiful hiking adventures. EXPLORE GRAYSON HIGHLANDS!
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4. Snow Hike the Amphibolites: Elk Knob State Park
The nearly 2 mile summit trail is the main attraction, but there’s plenty else there to make it worth your trip–including trails for young kids, cross-country skiing trails, and a backcountry trail and camping area near the headwaters of the North Fork of the New River. If you’re into cross country skiing, this is one of few state parks to encourage it. EXPLORE ELK KNOB!
5. Mountains to Sea Trail at Goshen Creek
The Mountains to Sea Trail at Goshen Creek is a rolling, out-and-back stream-side jaunt that at points becomes quite a workout and hill climb. It’s another of those in-town wonders that transports you quickly into a wilderness excursion not far from the car. And of course you could walk all the way to the coast if you wanted to. HIKE THE MST AT GOSHEN CREEK
