The Boone area's natural, awe-inspiring beauty has moved countless explorers, artists, musicians, scientists, and others throughout its history. The gently rolling mountains are tinted all shades of blue by the chemical isoprene, which is naturally emitted by local tree species. In fact, the area is home to many rare endemic species of flora and fauna, without which these mountains just wouldn't be the same.
Experience the magic of discovering a rare colorful salamander near a clean mountain stream. Spend a day taking in the pleasant scent of spring wildflowers or watching fluffy snowflakes fall from above. Let the bright Milky Way take your breath away along the Blue Ridge Parkway, where light pollution is minimal at night. While you fall in love with awe-inspiring Boone, you'll find plenty of reasons to preserve it.
Learn about parks and attractions before visiting. Pack the appropriate food, water, and layers for the season's weather.
Start PlanningKeep to designated trails and campsites, practice waterfall safety, and always follow posted signage. Be cautious, and always stay within your party's skill level.
Pack it in, pack it out. Place any and all waste in a garbage bag to dispose of properly. Don't forget pet & human waste!
Instead of handling them, take pictures of flowers and insects. Don’t stack river rocks to be sure to protect salamanders and other creatures' habitats.
Check local regulations, gather wood locally, and burn wood completely to ash.
Start PlanningObserve all wildlife from a safe distance. Store food securely and never feed a wild animal.
Be respectful of others so the Boone area’s natural spaces will be welcoming and relaxing for all. In general, those walking uphill have the right of way.
As the area recovers from Hurricane Helene, main roadways in Boone and Blowing Rock have opened. We encourage visitors to stay on primary routes shown on the NC Department of Transportation map and follow posted advisories to ensure a smooth and safe trip. A curfew from 11 pm to 7 am is in effect in Watauga County. LEARN MORE