Welcome to the Perfect Weekend section of the Boone Adventure Guide. Below you will find a two day itinerary that includes the best of the best outdoor adventure and culture in Boone, NC. From biking on the Blue Ridge Parkway, to hiking on Grandfather Mountain, to whitewater rafting on the Watauga River, to exploring Moses Cone-we’ve got your Perfect Weekend covered!

Saturday

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Hike to McRae Peak -At over a mile high, the views from Grandfather Mountain are some of the best in the High Country. We like the scenic, moderate hike from the Visitor Center to McRae Peak for a short, but steep hike that provides stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. From McRae Peak, a steep climb through a gully takes hikers to the Attic Windows, a unique viewpoint that offers fantastic long-range views. Info: See-Family Adventures, pg. 8 for detailed info.

Cool Off at Upper Creek Falls-One of the most unique and popular swimming holes in the area, Upper Creek Falls is a must for all explorers who like the thrill of natural waterslides. A short hike down to Upper Creek offers hikers a chance to get wet on a 40 foot natural waterslide. Info: See-River Adventures, pg. 14 for detailed info.

Experience a Zipline- After experiencing nature on foot, it’s time to get the adrenaline pumping with a zipline experience with a view of the high-elevation valley of Seven Devils. The course offers visitors a chance to zip across 10 different cables through a variety of different settings. Info: Hawksnest 2058 Skyland Dr., Seven Devils / 800-822-4295 / www.hawksnest-resort.com

Sunset on Table Rock-Near dusk the orange glow of the setting sun lights up the Linville Gorge, setting the towering rock walls and high peaks of the Linville Gorge ablaze with a beautiful shade of orange. Head to Table Rock for views of Hawksbill Mountain, Sitting Bear pillar, The Chimney’s, Grandfather Mountain, and Boone. See-Climbing Adventures, pg. 18 for detailed info.

Mountain Boarding on Beech Mountain-One of the latest sports to hit the High Country is mountain boarding- a high-energy thrill ride that combines skateboarding and snowboarding. Beech Mountain offers visitors a chance to strap into some bindings and carve their way down the grassy slopes, or take a spin through the board park with wall rides, table top jumps, and other rad features. Info: Beech Mountain Resort / 1007 Beech Mountain Pkwy., Beech Mountain / 828-387-2011 / www.skibeech.com

Head Downtown-After a long day exploring the High Country, head downtown for some grub, a brew, and live music. We like the scenes at Black Cat Burrito (killer burritos, beer, and music) and The Boone Saloon which is right around the corner on King St. ** Black Cat Burrito / 127 S. Depot St. / 828-263-9511 / www.blackcatburrito.com ** The Boone Saloon / 489 W. King St./ 828-264-1811 / www.boonesaloon.com

Sunday

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Breakfast at Grandview-The Grandview Special (two eggs, hash browns, and toast) is a perfect way to start an adventure in the High Country. Get their early to grab a seat by a window and check out the incredible Profile View of Grandfather Mountain. Info: Grandview Restaurant / 10575 NC105 S, Banner Elk / 828-963-4573

Explore Moses Cone- With over 25 miles of carriage roads to explore, Moses Cone has an adventure for everyone. Check out Bass Lake or head over to the Parkway Craft Center at the Manor to peruse an assortment of High Country crafts from hand-carved wooden pieces to locally-crafted jewelry. Info: See-Running Adventures, pg. 6 for detailed info. Parkway Craft Center / 828-295-7938 / www.southernhighlandguild.org

Check Out Price Lake-Price Lake offers canoe rentals for those who would like to explore the tranquil waters while taking in the great view of Grandfather Mountain. The lake is renowned for being one of the most highly photographed spots in the area, so grab your camera and capture the beauty. For those who prefer to stay on dry land, the 3 mile loop around the lake offers great views in a beautiful forest setting. Info: See-Running Adventures, pg. 6 for detailed info.

Watauga River Raft Trip-For the more experienced boaters who are seeking a thrill, look no further than a trip through the Class V Watauga Gorge. The river also offers gently flowing sections through scenic Valle Crucis that are perfect for beginner kayakers, canoeists, and float trips. Info: See-River Adventures, pg. 14 for detailed info.

Cycling on the Blue Ridge Parkway-The Hwy 221/Blue Ridge Parkway loop is a quintessential High Country ride. The fast corners and lush forest canopy provide cyclists with the inspiration they’ll need to make it up the long climbs that lie ahead. Info: See-Biking Adventures, pg. 4 for detailed info.