kayaking/stand up paddle boarding
LAKE JAMES STATE PARK, y located about 55 miles
from Boone near Morganton, offers a scenic, approximately
6,800-acre lake with a number of boat/kayak launches, great
fishing, hiking and mountain bike trails, campsites and
picnic tables. Water level fluctuations associated with the
production of hydroelectric power keep vegetation levels
at a minimum, so the water is typically clear. Though kayak/
canoe rentals are not currently available, it is still a great
place to explore with your own watercraft. Kayakers can also
head to KERR SCOTT RESERVOIR, between Boone and
Wilkesboro, and numerous outdoor outfitters offer paddle
trips on local rivers.
mountain biking
There are many options for mountain biking near Boone, with trails ranging from beginner,
intermediate and expert to the certifiably insane. There are a number of free places to ride,
including z ROCKY KNOB MOUNTAIN BIKE PARK in Boone and the EMERALD
OUTBACK at the top of Beech Mountain. Be advised: what is rated as intermediate on the
coastal plain can sometimes be vastly different in the mountains.
golf
Though golfing almost always offers scenic area views and
relaxation, the experience is upped substantially in the
mountains. The region is home to some of the most beautiful
courses in the Carolinas. Significant elevation changes allow
for endless views, while challenging even the most seasoned
golfer’s shot control and placement. Empty, pristine courses
also can offer numerous opportunities to spot local wildlife.
AtoTurVs
A guided tour on an
all-terrain vehicle
(ATV) or utility vehi-cle
(UTV) could be a
fun, unique way to
see the backcountry.
Two operators
of ATV and UTV
tours serve the
Boone area,
APPALACHIANS
OUTDOOR
ADVENTURES
and OFF THE
GRID MOUNTAIN
ADVENTURES,
which offers a three-wheeled
electric
scooter for the
eco-minded.
Whether looking for
adventure, relaxation
or just a break from the
everyday, the High Country
of North Carolina has a lot
to offer. On a quick week-end
trip, it is worthwhile
to splurge on a room or a
vacation rental with a view,
as watching the clouds
move across the moun-tains
is the perfect way to
cap off a long day spent
exploring or getting exer-cise
outdoors.
y
23 www.wrightsvillebeachmagazine.com
WBM