I have been going to this place since the mid 1980's as a young boy and we've brought the kids here…read moreseveral times over the past few years. They have both a Gem mine and the trout fishing and in the old days had a mini golf course but that is long gone now. The main guy who operates it, Heath, is super nice and helpful. He got us setup and helped my kids learn to cast the poles and get the hook out once the fish were caught. They charge by the pound and the trout are pretty big so plan a big meal ahead. There's a little extra for cleaning the fish but that's worth it. If you are looking for a fun kid activity this is also a kid friendly place as long as they can hold the pole and reel with your help. The poles, bait, and buckets are supplied so you don't have to bring anything with you. They'll pack it in ice for you also when you leave so you'll be able to keep your fresh catch cold. ----TL;DR----- PROS: plenty of parking, friendly folks, usually it's pretty easy to catch a fish, family run, family oriented and kids will likely enjoy it CONS: none, it's lots of fun BOTTOM LINE: if you like fishing and want to spend a fun few hours, check them out. We've been many times and still love to go back!

They supply everything. Three ponds. The man who works there was very friendly and informative…read more Very nice guy. You don't pay if you don't catch. They even have collapsible chairs. Clean spot. Great time!

On our way to the top for leaf peeping, we stopped here for a bit and enjoyed the scenery. Located…read moreat milepost 297 of the Blue Ridge Parkway, the part encompasses over 4200 acres of rolling mountainous terrain that include campgrounds, hiking trails, picnic sites and Price Lake. The highlight is the Tanawha Trail that runs 13.5 miles and includes Grandfather Mountain. There are canoes available for rental and the lake is stocked with fish. This time of year with the leaves turning, it was a beautiful spot and we enjoyed our time here. Five stars. [Review 15917 overall - 3132 in North Carolina - 1422 of 2021.]

The trail around Price Lake is an easy walk, ducking in and out of the tickets along the shore…read more If it's rained or snowed recently, make sure to bring footwear that can tolerate a little mud. While trail improvements have eliminated some of the messier areas, the reality is that well worn walking trails also make for welcoming drainage paths. Parking is readily available in a lot adjacent to the dam, or in a larger lot just down from the amputheater (near the boat rentals).

Blowing Rock really has a lot going for it, from the busy downtown scene with restaurants, shops,…read moreboutiques, sweets, breweries, fine dining, you name it. And then just a 15min walk (or 2 minute car ride) from downtown, Bass Lake is right there for your hiking pleasure. The lake itself is serene with great views from the circumferential hiking path around it. But it doesn't end there. Miles and miles of trails break off from the main lake for a longer outdoor experience. Plenty of parking with clean bathrooms at the main parking area. This is perfect for a shorter stroll around the lake, or a day's adventure across the many trails leading from here.

Loved running on these beautiful trails! Beautiful park with a lot of trail options. Go check it…read moreout you will not be disappointed

This is such a lovely park. Definitely worth a visit if you're a tourist, and worth being part of…read moreyour weekly fun outdoors if you're a local.

We love walking here. The walkway is paved, but lots of roots make it uneven. They have them all…read moremarked for your safety though. Come for a walk, picnic or a pickup game of soccer.

The falls are closed as of late April 2026. Road is blocked about 2 miles out from town.read more

Elk River Falls is an open recreation area. As such it is not developed and the path is not…read moremaintained. Nevertheless the road into the parking lot is safe and easily passable by typical cars SUVs cans or trucks with either two or four wheel drive. There are no rest rooms or food so you must bring your own food and water. The path is firm and slopes upward gently becoming rocky with prominent tree roots. The 65 foot high big falls is spectacular. It is not a straight fall down. Many deaths have occurred as visitors attempt to dive from the top of the falls. Elk falls ranks in the top 3 waterfall related deaths. The rocks surrounding the first pool are beautiful but have a slippery surface. This park recently reopened after extensive restoration following Hurricane Helene. On the first day it opened there was a fatality of a falls jumper. Despite these challenges this park is a great example of the outdoors in nearly natural and breathtaking state.

Awesome state park with plenty of parking, pull offs to play in the creek, and tons of hiking…read moretrails. Dog and kid friendly, no bathrooms available. Lots of wildflower blooms and creekside hiking. Great spot for a picnic and sunning by the water.

Great park to take kids for easy access to wade and swim in a mountain stream. Has trails. Picnic…read morearea is very limited and located too close to porta-potties. Just go for the water!

This area recently opened. It has a gravel parking area (handicapped spot is paved), with concrete…read moresteps leading down to the Ararat river. Two wooden beams down the middle of the steps for boat access.

One of my new favorite places in the Boone area when I go. There is no shortage of coffee shops in…read morethe Boone/ Blowing Rock area but Mountain Dog offers a little more than average - a dog park and much more. There are small freezers with Sheppard's pie's and other pies as well as cakes and biscuits. The food is a little pricey but they are all hefty meals. The coffee selection is a honest selection of a typical coffee shop but there is a special menu that is separate from the main "traditional" menu. The special menu is a compilation of special drinks (dog inspired). We tried the goldendoodle which was golden milk with chai and it was really good. The staff was quick and helpful and fun to talk with. This place is highly recommended!

Cute little corner place down the road from our cabin. They have a convenient drive thru as well…read more Good coffee. Love the variations of flavors. Their cinnamon roll is absolutely divine!

Tyler took us out for a full day float trip on the Watauga River. We had a wonderful day landing 34…read moretrout in the boat. Tyler provided expert fly fishing guidance, was quick to tie on the best suited flies, and quickly untied air knots and tangles for us with a positive attitude. His Sage rods and reels and hand tied flies performed perfectly. Tyler worked hard in the wind to put us in advantageous spots to catch fish. We had a fantastic day on the river.

Awesome day wade fishing with Paco and Owen. Both guys were great with the 10 and 14 year old boys…read morewe had with us. Super patient and knowledgeable. Went out of their way to coach up the young boys and work with them all day. Nice guys and a great experience. Will definitely be back. Caught about 20 fish. Browns, rainbows and brook trout.