Boone is an attractive town located in the Blue Ridge Mountains of western North Carolina. It serves as the county seat of Watauga County and has a population of just over 19000.
Nearly 1.85 million tourists visit Boone each year to sample both the historical landmarks and the activities on offer in the area. It's home to Appalachian State University and it is hardly surprising that the setting attracts local and international students.
There is plenty for visitors to enjoy in Boone. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore the Blue Ridge Parkway, hike the Appalachian Trail, or go skiing at nearby resorts.
There’s the Turchin Center for Visual Arts and various festivals throughout the year for those interested in arts and culture. Music lovers can catch live performances at venues like the Appalachian Theatre and Legends.
Boone offers something for everyone – whether you’re into outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, or simply relaxing amidst stunning scenery.
Boone is situated in the western part of North Carolina, United States. It is the county seat of Watauga County. The town is located in the Blue Ridge Mountains, approximately 106 miles northwest of Charlotte and 95 miles northeast of Asheville.
The population of Boone is estimated to be around 19000 permanent residents.
Boone lies at just over 3300ft in elevation (1015 meters).
Boone is named after Daniel Boone, the American pioneer and explorer. He frequently hunted in North Carolina during the late 18th century, and the area that is now known as Boone was part of his hunting grounds. The town was named after him when it was incorporated in 1872.
The nearest major airports are Charlotte Douglas International Airport, situated 95 miles away, and Piedmont Triad International Airport just outside Greensboro, which is about 108 miles from Boone.
Boone is accessible via major highways like U.S. Route 321, U.S. Route 421, and North Carolina Route 194. It's a two-hour drive from Charlotte, a three-hour drive from Raleigh, and a 90-minute drive from Asheville.
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Parkway Cabins offer three cabins at 4000 feet on Turkey Knob near the Blue Ridge Parkway and just over five miles to the east of downtown Boone.
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The Alpine Log Cabin is about 12 miles to the south-west of Boone, near Sugar Mountain and the small town of Banner Elk. The cabin sleeps up to six people in three bedrooms.
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Banner Elk is a popular destination around 19 miles west of Boone in the 'High Country' of western North Carolina. It is right in between the two local ski resorts of Beech Mountain and Sugar Mountain and is only a few miles from the popular summer trip up Grandfather Mountain.
Blowing Rock is around eight miles south of Boone and is named for one of the main tourist attractions in the area. The Blowing Rock is a scenic viewpoint on a cliff just outside the town with stunning views over the Blue Ridge Mountains and the Johns River Gorge below.
One of the most popular outdoor activities in Boone is hiking on the Greenway Trail. This scenic trail is a 3.5-mile paved path that runs along the South Fork New River. It is perfect for walking, jogging, and biking. The trail is also stroller and wheelchair accessible, making it a great option for families with young children or individuals with mobility issues.
Another great hiking option in Boone is the Boone Fork Trail. This 5-mile loop trail is located in the Julian Price Memorial Park and offers stunning views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. The trail is rated as moderate and is suitable for hikers of all skill levels. Along the way, hikers can enjoy the beautiful scenery, including waterfalls, streams, and lush forests.
Grandfather Mountain is just over 20 miles to the west of Boone. The nature park offers plenty of hiking trails suitable for all levels with stunning views down onto Julian Price Lake. Those with a head for heights can cross the Mile High Swinging Bridge, which spans a drop of 80 feet.
Other ski areas are only a little further away in the region nearer to Asheville. More information about these areas can be found here: Ski Resorts in North Carolina