Planning a mountain getaway? Look no further than Blowing Rock, North Carolina, a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. This charming town nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains boasts stunning scenery, diverse hiking trails, and unique attractions, making it the perfect destination for an unforgettable escape.
Why Blowing Rock? Well while watching a TV show I had urged Kevin that it would be a good idea to go to the mountains for my birthday... so off to the mountains of Boone and Blowing Rock, NC off we go.. Why does Kevin look like he doesn't wanna be in the picture though? Like meet Kevin our Uber driver..
The car ride was a little rough with Georgia whining and the roads are winding. I took some Dramamine and put on my fashionable Sea-Band Anti Nausea bands but nothing worked. There were a lot of overlooks though and the views are worth it!
Cozy Cabin Retreat:
Indulge in the tranquility of a secluded cabin rental like the Sleepy Creek Cabin in Boone. Immerse yourself in the natural beauty with minimal distractions, allowing you to truly connect with nature.
Blue Ridge Mountain Hiking Day 1
Blue Ridge hiking trails cater to all skill levels, offering unforgettable experiences. Here are some highlights from my week-long trip:
Blue Ridge Encampment: This moderate 5-mile trek encompasses Lower Cascades Falls Trail and Tompkins Knob Trail, showcasing stunning vistas and diverse landscapes.
Glen Burney Falls Trail: This dog-friendly 2.5-mile trail leads you through scenic woodlands, culminating in the cascading beauty of Glen Burney Falls.
The trail had very interesting sites in a clearing. It was overall a relatively easy hike. We had to jerry rig a tripod to get a decent group picture
Eat in Blowing Rock:
After a well deserved breakfast at Sunny Rock - Eggs and Things . The food was delicious and not to mention they are pet friendly. We were able to bring Georgia in the patio while we ate
Oldest Attraction in Blowing Rock:
Next on our agenda, we visited NC's oldest tourist attraction Blowing Rock
Craving more adventure after a refreshing breakfast? Take a scenic 10-15 mile drive from Blowing Rock's city center and embark on the Glen Burney Falls Trail. This dog-friendly 2.5-mile trek winds through picturesque woodlands, culminating in the cascading beauty of Glen Burney Falls. Whether you're seeking a moderate challenge or a family-friendly outing, this Blowing Rock favorite is sure to leave you feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.
It was a Georgia approved trail!
Overall it was a good "official" hood rat day for the 3 of us and I think we got one tired pup at the end of the day
Things to do in Blue Ridge Mountains Day 2
Conquer Hebron Falls on a 3-mile dog-friendly hike! This relatively easy trail near Boone, NC, offers scenic views and refreshing water features along the way. Let your furry companion explore freely on empty stretches of the trail and enjoy a splash in the cool waters of Hebron Falls. Remember to keep your pup leashed in crowded areas for everyone's safety.
Let Georgia off leash if the trail is empty so she can live her best life
Let Georgia splash around
Where to Eat:
Start your day with a delicious and hearty breakfast at the Famous Toastery, located in Blowing Rock, NC. This popular restaurant offers a variety of breakfast and brunch options, perfect for satisfying your cravings before hitting the trails. They also boast a pet-friendly patio, allowing you to enjoy your meal with your furry companion by your side.
Georgia patiently waited while we ate our breakfast
Alternatively:
If you're looking for more options, Blowing Rock offers a diverse selection of restaurants catering to different tastes and budgets. You can easily find a pet-friendly establishment with a patio to enjoy a relaxing brunch outdoors with your four-legged friend.
Side note: We really like this foldable dog bed for Georgia, we bring it anywhere even when camping because it is very convenient to fold up when not in use instead of taking up too much space. Folding Outdoor Raised Elevated Dog Bed
After Meal Hiking
Spurred by a captivating postcard, we embarked on a quest to discover the majestic Linville Falls. Nestled within the Blue Ridge Parkway System, this North Carolina icon is easily accessible via a scenic drive. As you navigate the parkway, breathtaking vistas will unfold before you, leading you to the cascading wonder of Linville Falls. Remember to leash your dog for everyone's safety and enjoy the beauty of this iconic landmark responsibly.
Go to North Carolina's most popular water Linville Falls
Trail highlights:
POSITIVE: Someone was nice enough to take our picture
NEGATIVE: Georgia blew up at another dog shortly after the picture was taken
Be a traffic hazard at Blue Ridge Parkway
Spectacular View at Blue Ridge Mountain
Not wanting to miss out on things, we embark on an unforgettable adventure on Jumpinoff Rocks and Summit Trails, located just a short drive from Blowing Rock, NC. This moderately challenging hike offers the perfect blend of adventure and reward. As you ascend the trail, you'll be greeted by stunning panoramic views that stretch for miles across the Blue Ridge Mountains. Additionally, during the blooming season, witness the vibrant colors of rhododendrons painting the landscape in shades of pink and purple. This scenic hike is sure to leave you breathless and wanting to come back for more.
These trails are about a 40 minute drive from Blowing Rock which is definitely worth the drive because of the spectacular views
Last on the agenda:
Fake watch movies at the cabin while we actually catch up on the internet because cell reception does not exist in the mountains
I hope our ultimate Blue Ridge Mountain adventure travel guide inspires you to give this marvel a visit.
TTYL