Beech Mountain North CarolinaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Beech Mountain, North Carolina.
1. Beech Mountain Resort
YEAR-ROUND MOUNTAIN ADVENTURES
Beech Mountain Resort offers the highest ski area in the Eastern United States, making it the premier destination for snow skiing in North Carolina during winter months. During summer and fall, visitors can enjoy scenic lift rides Thursday through Sunday that provide panoramic mountain views. The resort also transforms its slopes into downhill mountain biking trails with lift access in late spring and summer.
2. Emerald Outback Trails
HIGH-ELEVATION HIKING NETWORK
Emerald Outback Trails features 7 miles of trails ranging from 4,700 to 5,400 feet elevation with expansive mountain views. The main trailhead is conveniently located on North Pinnacle Ridge Road, making it easily accessible for visitors. These trails offer a perfect outdoor experience during the late spring through October when temperatures on Beech Mountain rarely exceed 80 degrees.
3. 5,506' Skybar
MOUNTAINTOP DRINKS & VIEWS
The 5,506' Skybar sits at the summit of Beech Mountain, accessible via the resort's scenic lift ride. Visitors can enjoy refreshments while taking in spectacular panoramic views from the highest town in the eastern USA. The unique elevation-named establishment offers a perfect relaxation spot after hiking or biking activities.
4. Bark Park Playground
FAMILY FUN OUTDOOR SPACE
Bark Park Playground, located behind the sledding hill, is a public playground featuring swings, slides, and a climbing fort for children. The playground provides a safe and enjoyable environment for families visiting Beech Mountain. It serves as one of several recreational areas designed specifically for younger visitors to the mountain town.
5. Buckeye Recreation Center
COMPLETE COMMUNITY RECREATION FACILITY
Buckeye Recreation Center features a playground that encourages children to explore rope swings, ladders, huge logs, and slides in a natural wonderland setting. The center serves as a community hub for various recreational activities on Beech Mountain. Visitors can enjoy both indoor and outdoor facilities designed for family-friendly entertainment and exercise.
6. Firemans Park
THEMED PLAY FOR KIDS
Firemans Park is a firefighter-themed playground located next to an actual fire station, designed especially for smaller children. The park allows children's creative minds to run wild with interactive play elements that reflect firefighting themes. Its strategic location and age-appropriate design make it a popular stop for families with young children visiting Beech Mountain.
7. The Sledding Hill
WINTER FUN FOR ALL
The Sledding Hill offers a dedicated space for winter snow fun that's separate from the main ski resort areas. Visitors can enjoy this family-friendly sledding venue during the snowy winter months that Beech Mountain is known for. The hill provides a perfect introduction to winter sports for younger children or those not ready for skiing or snowboarding.
8. Beech Mountain Disc Golf Course
MOUNTAIN DISC GOLF CHALLENGE
Beech Mountain Disc Golf Course is an 18-hole course accessible from the resort's scenic lift, offering a unique downhill playing experience. Players can ride the lift up and enjoy the course while descending the mountain. The course takes advantage of the natural terrain to create a challenging and scenic disc golf adventure.
9. Fred's General Mercantile
BELOVED MOUNTAIN TOWN SHOP
Fred's General Mercantile is a cherished institution in the center of Beech Mountain, offering a wide variety of goods and supplies to visitors and locals alike. The store embodies the charm of a traditional general store while providing modern necessities and mountain souvenirs. Fred's serves as both a practical shopping venue and a cultural landmark that represents the character of Beech Mountain.
10. Beech Mountain History Museum
LOCAL HERITAGE AND CULTURE
Beech Mountain History Museum preserves and showcases the rich cultural heritage and historical development of this unique high-elevation town. Visitors can explore exhibits that document the transformation of Beech Mountain from its early days to becoming a premier mountain destination. The museum offers context for understanding the community's special place as the highest town in eastern America.
11. Land of Oz Theme Park
WIZARD OF OZ EXPERIENCE
Land of Oz Theme Park is a unique attraction based on the beloved Wizard of Oz story, originally opened in the 1970s and now available for special events and seasonal openings. Visitors can follow the yellow brick road through this nostalgic theme park set high in the mountains. The park combines whimsical theming with the natural beauty of Beech Mountain to create a magical experience.
12. Apple Hill Farm
ALPACA FARM WITH VIEWS
Apple Hill Farm, located near Beech Mountain in Banner Elk, offers visitors a chance to interact with alpacas and other farm animals while enjoying breathtaking mountain vistas. The beautiful farm features walking paths and landscaped gardens that complement the animal experiences. Visitors particularly love the opportunity to meet the farm's friendly alpaca residents up close while learning about sustainable farming practices.
13. Grandfather Mountain
ICONIC BLUE RIDGE LANDMARK
Grandfather Mountain, a short drive from Beech Mountain, features the famous Mile High Swinging Bridge and extensive hiking trails through diverse ecosystems. The mountain is home to wildlife habitats where visitors can observe native animals including black bears, otters, eagles, and cougars. Rising 5,946 feet, Grandfather Mountain offers some of the most spectacular panoramic views in the Blue Ridge Mountains.
14. Edge of the World
ADVENTURE OUTFITTER AND TOURS
Edge of the World is an adventure outfitter located near Beech Mountain that offers guided whitewater rafting, rock climbing, and other outdoor excursions. The company provides equipment, instruction, and expert guides for visitors wanting to explore the natural wonders of the High Country. Their tours showcase the region's rivers, cliffs, and wilderness areas for thrill-seekers of various experience levels.
15. Beech Mountain Brewing Co.
SLOPE-SIDE CRAFT BEER
Beech Mountain Brewing Co. offers craft beers in a unique slope-side setting at the Beech Mountain Resort. Visitors can enjoy locally brewed beverages after a day of skiing in winter or mountain biking in summer. The brewery provides a relaxed atmosphere with mountain views and often features seasonal specialties that reflect the character of the High Country.