Mountain Bike Racing - Triple Crown on Beech Mountain NC

Downhill Mountain Bike Racing Returns to Beech Mountain Resort with reintroduction of Triple Crown Series!

Beech Mountain Resort has teamed up with local mountain bike aficionado and professional downhill racer Ryan Taylor to offer three gravity-fed mountain bike racing events in 2009. Together, the team will reintroduce the Beech Mountain Triple Crown Series to attract professional and amateur riders across the Southeast.

Three race dates are set for the 2009 Triple Crown: June 27-28; August 8-9; September 5-6, so mark your calendar now! Competitors will earn points at each event, culminating in series champions in September. Amateur and professional categories will be offered. All racers will compete on a single course descending the full elevation of Beech Mountain. Race entry fees will be $55 for all classes.

According to Taylor , during the 1990’s Beech Mountain was the premier downhill mountain bike racing venue in the Southeast. “Beech was always a classic downhill race venue because of its elevation, turbulent weather and rough terrain. I do not think I can remember a race where weather was not a factor, or where my palms were not sweating at registration.” Now, nearly a decade later, downhill racing returns!

Helmets are mandatory for all competitors. Recommended safety equipment for competitors includes, gloves, long pants, long sleeve shirt, leg armour, arm armour and solid running or bike specific shoes.

To find out more information about the 2009 Triple Crown Series contact Ryan Taylor via email at mbrp07@yahoo.com.

2 Beech Mountain, Banner Elk, NC High Country August 2009 Events

Beech Mountain, Banner Elk, NC High Country August 2009 Events


Beech Mountain - August 1, 2009

The Beech Mountain Chamber of Commerce is preparing for their 28th Annual Crafts on the Green festival. The festival will be held on Saturday, August 1, 2009 on the top of Beech Mountain. Approximately 70 craftspeople are expected to be there with a variety of items ranging from fine jewelry, woodturnings, photography, and other craft items. Live music, a magic show, and food will all be on hand at Beech Mountain’s 28th Annual Crafts on the Green. The festival will run from 9:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m.

Sunday Concerts at Fred’s Gazebo - Beech Mountain August 2 & 9, 2009Summer Sunday concerts are featured at Fred’s Gazebo with lots of fun for the whole family. Each Sunday starting at 6:30pm. For more information contact the Chamber of Commerce at (828) 387-9283 or (800) 468-5506.

Summer Guided Hikes Beech Moutain - August 4, 2009Take the Beech Creek Bog Trail - 1.8 miles. Check in at the Beech Mountain Chamber and enjoy nature at it's best. For more information contact the Beech Mountain Chamber of Commerce at (828) 387-9283 or (800) 468-5506. http://www.hikebeechmountain.com/Ski Beech - Beech Mountain - August 8-9. 2009Downhill Mountain Bike Racing Returns to Beech Mountain Resort with reintroduction of Triple Crown Series! Bike race dates are set for the 2009 Triple Crown Bike Race: August 8-9; September 5-6. For more info - see the websitehttp://www.skibeech.com/news/26.html

Banner Elk - Lees McRae - August 11, 2009Lees McRae presents "Everything is Rosie" starring Wendy Hayes, is a one woman show that pays tribute to the life and musical contributions of one of America's favorite girl singers . . . Rosemary Clooney! Tuesday, Aug 11 at 7:30 pm Hayes Auditorium - Lees McRae Tickets: $ 20.00 - General Admission Buy tickets at the box office or at the dooror check online http://www.lmc.edu/web/SummerTheatre/ All shows will be held in Hayes Auditorium. Box office hours: Noon - 5 pm, Monday - FridayBox office phone: 828-898-8709
Beech Mountain Club - August 14, 2009Frogmore Stew - Good lo country shrimp boil at the Beech Mountain Club Pavilion. Everyone welcome. Reservation recommended. Price TBD 6pm-9pm Music by Jesse Smith (singing Jimmy Buffet tunes)
Street Dance at Town Hall - Beech Mountain - August 15, 2009August 15, 2009 Our D.J., Mac Mast, is a master at reading the crowd and playing music that will get your heart pumping and your feet moving. Music starts at 7 pm, weather permitting. This is a free event, brought to you by the members of the Beech Mountain Chamber of Commerce. For additional information, call the Beech Mountain Chamber of Commerce at (828) 387-9283 or
(800) 468-5506.
Blowing Rock NC - 47th Annual Art in the Park August 15, 2009Art in the Park 10 am - 5 pmDowntown Blowing Rock, American Legion GroundsThis series of juried art and fine handcraft shows has garnered numerous awards through the years and showcases 100 exhibitors at each show. Call 800-295-7851
Grandfather Mountain - August 15-16,2009Daily Naturalist ProgramsGrandfather Mountain naturalists present a special nature program each day during the summer(August). The one-hour programs are scheduled for 1:00 p.m. and are included in the price of admission. 800-468-7325Grandfather Mountain Amateur & Professional Camera ClinicAug. 15-16Top photographers gather to share on the nuts & bolts of making good photographs. 2009 speakers include Bill Fortney, John Chastain, Duane Hall and Melissa Southern. Free to working press, additional cost for non-professionals. Seating is limited, so pre-registration is required. Online registration begins July 15. 800-468-7325

Summer Guided Hikes - Beech Mountain August 18 , 2009August 18, 2009 Take the Westerly HillsTrail - 4.5 miles. Check in at the Beech Mountain Chamber and enjoy nature at it's best. For more information contact the Beech Mountain Chamber of Commerce at (828) 387-9283 or (800) 468-5506. http://hikebeechmountain.com/Banner Elk - Lees McRae August 22, 2009Marvin Hamlisch in Concert at the Hayes Auditorium - Lees McRae College Banner Elk NC - Saturday August 22, 2009 7:30pmCall 828-898-8719 or click the link to buy tickets online..http://www.lmc.edu/web/specialevents/marvin_hamlisch.htmValle Crucis Park - Valle Crucis NC August Dates See website at ValleCrucisPark.org or call the Park Office at 828-963-9239.Music in the Park 2009 ScheduleAll performances begin at 7 p.m. unless otherwise noted.•August 7 - The Neighbors - Bluegrass•August 14 - The Blue Notes Dixieland Jazz Band•August 21 - Family Ties - Bluegrass•August 28 - The Forget-Me-Nots - Celtic, ClassicalSee the website at ValleCrucisPark.org or call the Park Office at 828-963-9239During the month of AUGUST - Banner ELk NCThe Tate Evans Park in Banner Elk is located behind the Bank of America building off Highway 194 and features a play area, doggy area, a ¼ mile walking path, a stream, gardens, pavilions, picnic tables, grills and playground equipment. During the summer months, you can bring blankets and chairs to enjoy the summer concerts in the park sponsored by the Banner Elk Chamber of Commerce. These free summer concerts take place on Thursday evenings throughout the months of July & August and usually start around 6:30 p.m. You will find food vendors there or bring your own picnic.

Beech Mountain, Banner Elk, NC High Country - August 2009 Events

Beech Mountain - August 1, 2009
The Beech Mountain Chamber of Commerce is preparing for their 28th Annual Crafts on the Green festival. The festival will be held on Saturday, August 1, 2009 on the top of Beech Mountain. Approximately 70 craftspeople are expected to be there with a variety of items ranging from fine jewelry, woodturnings, photography, and other craft items. Live music, a magic show, and food will all be on hand at Beech Mountain’s 28th Annual Crafts on the Green. The festival will run from 9:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m.

Sunday Concerts at Fred’s - Beech Mountain August 2 & 9, 2009
Summer Sunday concerts are featured at Fred’s Gazebo with lots of fun for the whole family. Each Sunday starting at 6:30pm. For more information contact the Chamber of Commerce at (828) 387-9283 or (800) 468-5506.

Summer Guided Hikes Beech Moutain - August 4, 2009
Take the Beech Creek Bog Trail - 1.8 miles. Check in at the Beech Mountain Chamber and enjoy nature at it's best. For more information contact the Beech Mountain Chamber of Commerce at (828) 387-9283 or (800) 468-5506. www.hikebeechmountain.com



Ski Beech - Beech Mountain - August 8-9. 2009
Downhill Mountain Bike Racing Returns to Beech Mountain Resort with reintroduction of Triple Crown Series! Bike race dates are set for the 2009 Triple Crown Bike Race: August 8-9; September 5-6. For more info - see the website
http://www.skibeech.com/news/26.html


Street Dance at Town Hall - Beech Mountain - August 15, 2009
August 15, 2009 Our D.J., Mac Mast, is a master at reading the crowd and playing music that will get your heart pumping and your feet moving. Music starts at 7 pm, weather permitting. This is a free event, brought to you by the members of the Beech Mountain Chamber of Commerce. For additional information, call the Beech Mountain Chamber of Commerce at (828) 387-9283 or (800) 468-5506.
Frogmore Stew

Beech Mountain Club - August 14, 2009
Good lo country shrimp boil at the Beech Mountain Club Pavilion. Everyone welcome. Reservation recommended. Price TBD 6pm-9pm Music by Jesse Smith (singing Jimmy Buffet tunes)

Banner Elk - Lees McRae - August 11, 2009
Lees McRae presents "Everything is Rosie" starring Wendy Hayes, is a one woman show that pays tribute to the life and musical contributions of one of America's favorite girl singers . . . Rosemary Clooney! Tuesday, Aug 11 at 7:30 pm Hayes Auditorium - Lees McRae Tickets: $ 20.00 - General Admission Buy tickets at the box office or at the dooror check online http://www.lmc.edu/web/SummerTheatre/All shows will be held in Hayes Auditorium. Box office hours: Noon - 5 pm, Monday - FridayBox office phone: 828-898-8709

Summer Guided Hikes - Beech Mountain August 18 , 2009
August 18, 2009 Take the Westerly HillsTrail - 4.5 miles. Check in at the Beech Mountain Chamber and enjoy nature at it's best. For more information contact the Beech Mountain Chamber of Commerce at (828) 387-9283 or (800) 468-5506. www.hikebeechmountain.com



Grandfather Mountain - August 15-16,2009
Daily Naturalist Programs
Grandfather Mountain naturalists present a special nature program each day during the summer(August). The one-hour programs are scheduled for 1:00 p.m. and are included in the price of admission. 800-468-7325
Grandfather Mountain Amateur & Professional Camera Clinic
Aug. 15-16
Top photographers gather to share on the nuts & bolts of making good photographs. 2009 speakers include Bill Fortney, John Chastain, Duane Hall and Melissa Southern. Free to working press, additional cost for non-professionals. Seating is limited, so pre-registration is required. Online registration begins July 15. 800-468-7325



Banner Elk - Lees McRae August 22, 2009

Marvin Hamlisch in Concert at the Hayes Auditorium - Lees McRae College Banner Elk NC - Saturday August 22, 2009 7:30pm
Call 828-898-8719 or click the link to buy tickets online..
http://www.lmc.edu/web/specialevents/marvin_hamlisch.htm



Valle Crucis Park - Valle Crucis NC August Dates

See website at ValleCrucisPark.org or call the Park Office at 828-963-9239.
Music in the Park 2009 Schedule

All performances begin at 7 p.m. unless otherwise noted.
•August 7 - The Neighbors - Bluegrass

•August 14 - The Blue Notes Dixieland Jazz Band

•August 21 - Family Ties - Bluegrass

•August 28 - The Forget-Me-Nots - Celtic, Classical

See the website at ValleCrucisPark.org or call the Park Office at 828-963-9239



During the month of AUGUST - Banner ELk NC

The Tate Evans Park in Banner Elk is located behind the Bank of America building off Highway 194 and features a play area, doggy area, a ¼ mile walking path, a stream, gardens, pavilions, picnic tables, grills and playground equipment. During the summer months, you can bring blankets and chairs to enjoy the summer concerts in the park sponsored by the Banner Elk Chamber of Commerce. These free summer concerts take place on Thursday evenings throughout the months of July & August and usually start around 6:30 p.m. You will find food vendors there or bring your own picnic.

Hawksnest - The Newest Zipline in NC's High Country

Hawksnest Resort in Seven Devils, NC has always been known as a skiing destination until last year... They switched over entirely to Snow Tubing.....now they have added the longest Zipline on the East Coast.... over 2 miles of zipping!!

At the Hawksnest Zipline, you can ride 13 different cables taking you through the trees, over creeks and even over snow tubers during the winter months. Make sure you try the SuperZip cable that is over 2500 feet in length and over 200 feet high.

The zipline course is set in the middle of some of the best views in the High Country. Zipline riding is an exciting and safe experience for the entire family; children must be 5 years old to ride. In addition to being the largest zipline course on the east coast they are a great value.

The course progresses in length and speed. Professional guides accompany each group of riders, providing advice and safety tips along the way. According to the guides, the first-timer’s tentative step off tower number one into nothingness is soon replaced with their exclamations of “whoopee.” The learning curve is quick, the guides said.

Check the great rates at Hawksnest Zipline. Please call ahead for updates and reservations. Tour TimesTours start at 10am, 12pm, 2pm, 4pm and 6pm. Reservations are required. No single person tours, must be 2 zipliners for tour. You can buy your tickets online at the Hawksnest website or call us at 828-963-6561 or 800-822-4295.

Tour Rates

Ride the first 6 cables and SuperZip cable
$65

Ride 12 cables
$65

Ride 14 cables and SuperZip cable
$90

Hawksnest is located just off Hwy 105 between Boone and Banner Elk NC..

2058 Skyland Drive Seven Devils NC 28604

1.800.822.4295 828-963-6561

From Interstate 40 take Hwy 321 North or Hwy 221 North to Highway 105. You'll see the sign at the entrance to Seven Devils. Just follow the signs up the mountain.

Info and Photos from HighCountryPress.com and http://www.hawksnest-resort.com/

Also check out our trip to ScreamTime Zipline near Boone NC

Grandfather Mountain NC

I feel so very blessed to be a native North Carolinian !! I have lived at the foot of the Blue Rige Mountains most of my life and Grandfather Mountain has been kind of a "fixture" to me..

When traveling to Beech Mountain from Hickory NC via "curvy" NC 181 or up Hwy 321 ~ ~ ~ through Blowing Rock, I am able to view "Grandfather" on opposite sides of his profile....

Over the years, I have witnessed Grandfather clothed in frozen snow capped splendor, arrayed in beautiful golden fall foilage or ablaze with rhododendrum's purple majesty.. Grandfather Mountain is like an old friend....

It's been many, many years since I have walked across Grandfather's Mile High Swinging Bridge or visited the Black Bear Habitat but maybe....... this summer. I hope you will visit this glorious natural wonder ... Check out all these great Grandfather Mtn Events...

Daily Naturalist Programs

June - Aug
Grandfather Mountain naturalists present a special nature program each day during the summer. The one-hour programs are scheduled for 1:00 p.m. and are included in the price of admission.
800-468-7325

The Remarkable Rhododendron Ramble
June 1-14
Our staff naturalists can't wait to share their excitement for the showy rose-lavender Catawba Rhododendron that blooms its way up Grandfather’s slopes throughout the month of June. Join us for special activities designed to help you get the most out of this memorable sight.
800-468-7325

National Trails Day Volunteer Project
June 6
Come help us maintain Grandfather's trails and let the backcountry rangers share their knowledge of and passion for Grandfather Mountain. Free admission for volunteers.
828-737-0833

85th Annual Singing On The Mountain
June 28Alwaysthe fourth Sunday in June
All-day gospel sing and fellowship held in MacRae Meadows. Host group The Greenes welcome The Primitive, The Cockman Family, The Melodyaires, Jubilee, Four Anointed, The Gospel Enforcers, Michael Combs, Naomi & The Segos, and George Hamilton IV with George Hamilton V and Tim & Roddy Smith. The Rev. Freida Hartley Hobson will bring the message. Free admission. Camping (without hookups) available on the field.
800-468-7325

54th Annual Grandfather Mountain Highland Games
July 9-12
Brawny athletes, delicate dancers, noisy bagpipe band parades, rocking Celtic music and a spectacular highland setting makes this colorful celebration of Scottish culture the best highland games in America. Admission charged.
828-733-1333

The Bear: Assault on Grandfather
July 9
A five-mile road race that climbs 1,568 feet in elevation from Linville to the summit of Grandfather Mountain. Part of Highland Games. Admission charged.
828-263-5207

The Grizzly Bike Ride
July 10
The Grizzly is a beautiful and challenging route with 7000 feet of climbing in 65 miles. Part of Highland Games. Admission charged.
828-263-5207

The Grandfather Mountain Marathon
July 11
Billed as "America's Toughest" marathon. Part of Highland Games. Admission charged.
828-263-5207

Grandfather Mountain Amateur & Professional Camera Clinic
Aug. 15-16
Top photographers gather to share on the nuts & bolts of making good photographs. 2009 speakers include Bill Fortney, John Chastain, Duane Hall and Melissa Southern. Free to working press, additional cost for non-professionals. Seating is limited, so pre-registration is required. Online registration begins July 15.
800-468-7325
Rods in the Park Classic Car, Truck & Vintage Bike Show
Aug. 2009
Over 45 classes from Antique pre-30's through 1989 cars, trucks, vintage bikes and road tractors. MacRae Meadows. Admission charged. Call 828-963-2723 with questions or to register.
828-963-2723 Email for more information.

Kidfest Sept. 12
Guided hikes, games, storytellers, music and fun. Included with park admission.
800-468-7325

39th Annual American Girl Scout Day
Sept. 19
All Girl Scouts and troop leaders are admitted free with proof of membership. Discount admission for other family members. Staff naturalists provide free nature programs throughout the day.
800-468-7325

Bridge-To-Bridge Incredible Challenge Bike Ride
Sept. 20
This 102-mile bike ride departs the Lenoir Mall and makes its way uphill to the Mile High Swinging Bridge. Registration fee.
828-726-0616

Find out more info on Grandfather Mountain

Linville Caverns NC

Linville Caverns is located in Western NC outside of Marion ---- just a short drive from Beech Mountain NC. While visiting the Blue Ridge Mountains of NC, take a little time to visit this spectacular display of God's handiwork....

For centuries, the marvels of Linville Caverns were unknown to man. In the early 1800's a fishing expedition headed by Henry E. Colton, of eastern NC, were astounded to see fish swimming in and out of what appeared to be rather solid rock. A small opening in the mountainous terrain allowed them to enter the subterranean recess that is still home to native trout in an underground stream.

The cost for a visit to Linville Caverns is really a bargain...... Just $7.oo for Adults, $5.50 for Seniors(62 & older) and $5.00 for Children (Ages 5-12) Children under 12 are F*r*e*e

The Caverns are open daily in June, July and August from 9am - 6pm.

Find more info - Linville Caverns ~ 19929 US 221 North ~ Marion, NC ~ 28752 800~419~0540 828~756~4171 info@linvillecaverns.com

Linville Caverns photo by Salem Elizabeth on Flickr

Visit Beech Mountain's "Buckeye Recreation Center" For Lots of Fun !

When you visit Beech Mountain NC, you will have lots of activities to choose from, golf, hiking, fishing, skiing, snowboarding, snow tubing or sledding.... but you might just want a little something extra to do.....

IF so, check out the beautiful new "Buckeye Recreation Center" on Grassy Gap Creek Rd in Beech Mountain NC.

The Buckeye Recreation facility is top notch with friendly staff to help if needed.. With over 22,000 square foot, there is certainly something for everyone..

1. Indoor Basketball or Volleyball


2. Fitness Room with state of the art Nautilus equipment


3. Indoor Tennis-Call for reservations 828-387-3003 $5/per hr-Residents $7/hr -NonResidents


4. Living Room to relax or check email on the Wireless Internet Connection


5. Kid's Playroom


6. Tennis Ball Machine

Hours of operation at Buckeye Recreation Center are

Mon - Sat 8:30am till 8:30pm Sunday 12-6pm

Click here to find the fees for resident and non-residents..

Directions: Buckeye Recreation is located at Buckeye Lake on Grassy Gap Creek Rd. Follow Beech Mountain Parkway(main road into town by Fred's Store, etc) to Pine Ridge Rd and follow it until it becomes Grassy Gap Creek Rd. Buckeye will be on the right.

For more information contact

Buckeye Recreation at

206 Grassy Gap Creek Rd.
Beech Mountain, NC 28604
Phone: (828) 387-3003
Fax: (828) 387-4103
Email: buckeyerec@townofbeechmountain.com