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When Was the Last Time You Went on an Adventure?

Are you adventurous? Or, do you secretly wish you were? So, when was the last time you were…was it last week or last month or two years ago? AND we’re not talking about an adventure to the beach or to the local winery…we’re talking about a REAL adventure. One that creates memories you will never forget. One where you are surrounded in a canopy of trees without cell service. We know losing cell service could be an adventure in itself.

The literal meaning of adventure is “an unusual and exciting, typically hazardous experience or activity.” An adventure is seeking out a spot that no one else really knows about. One that starts at the top of a mountain and ends at one of the most beautiful lodges you have ever seen. This place is a spot where the whole family can come and enjoy endless fresh mountain air – including the grandparents – we know they will love it!

Chetola Sporting Reserve 5-Stand

This spot, where your adventure takes place, is down at the Chetola Sporting Reserve, where there are exhilarating experiences like shooting and archery. Not too many people know about this spot. Your adventure to the Sporting Reserve starts at the gatehouse at Blue Ridge Mountain Club. Make sure to say hi to our friends at the gatehouse. Wind your way down through the twists and turns until you spot our RED arrow and sign. So, you turn down that road that looks like it’s a road to nowhere. At your first turn, make sure to take in that view. Roll down the windows and catch a sniff of the bark from the trees and hear the sound of the water flowing through the creek. Then, count the number of deer you see on your journey down and check out all the different colors of wild mushrooms. You might forget this, but don’t - take lots of pictures because you know you are going to want to show your friends this adventure!!! Just take your time and soak it all in.

Once you have made it to the bottom of the canyon, you will see the green roof, which means you are an official adventurer- congratulations! Way to go! Now, park the car, take a deep breath, fill your lungs with that mountain air, and clear your mind to get ready to shoot. BECAUSE today is your adventure…and one that you will never forget!

- Christina Dean, Office Manager at Chetola Sporting Reserve

 

Looking for more epic adventures during your stay at Chetola? Check out some of our other favorite activities in the area:

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Although every season in the Blue Ridge Mountains has its own feel of magic, there’s something extra special about autumn. The changing of the leaves, the cooler air, the cozy evenings, and the fun activities like picking your own apples, always make this season memorable.

One of our guests’ favorite fall traditions is gathering with family or loved ones to pick apples at a local orchard. And this year, we’ve compiled a list of a few of our favorite U-Pick Orchards within an hour of the Resort!

Photo courtesy of The Orchard at Altapass

The Orchard at Altapass (Spruce Pine, NC)

The Orchard at Altapass is located about an hour from Chetola Resort along the Blue Ridge Parkway- mile marker 328.3. In addition to offering U-Pick apples or apple bundles, The Orchard at Altapass offers birding on the deck, walking trails, music + dancing, and a general store that serves warm apple pie along with other fun items! Fill up your basket with apples and memories this fall at The Orchard at Altapass.

Photo Courtesy of Perry Lowe Orchards

Perry Lowe Orchards (Moravian Falls, NC)

Perry Lowe Orchards is a sixth-generation apple orchard located about an hour from Chetola Resort in Moravian Falls, North Carolina. On their 100-acre orchard, they grow 30 different varieties of delicious apples for eating, cooking, and preserving. Perry Lowe Orchards offers U-pick tours on weekends, apples, apple cider (including special variety blends), local produce, and more!

To make a reservation to pick your own apples at Perry Lowe Orchards visit https://www.perryloweorchards.com/u-pick/

Photo Courtesy of Apple Hill Orchard

Apple Hill Orchard & Cider Mill (Morganton, NC)

Apple Hill Orchard & Cider Mill is a fifth-generation apple orchard located about an hour from Chetola Resort in Morganton, North Carolina. At Apple Hill Orchard they offer 20 varieties of apples (18 of which are U-pick), a flower field (you can pay to pick flowers as well), and a market with a bakery that sells honey, jams, fruit butters, and a variety of baked goods like scratch-made apple donuts, fried pies, apple bread, apple cakes, and more! Enjoy a day of freshly picked apples and home-made baked goods that will make your mouth water with a visit to Apple Hill Orchard.

To pick your own apples at Apple Hill Orchard visit https://applehillorchard.ticketspice.com/picking-pass

No matter what orchard you pick during your stay, you’re guaranteed to come home with a basket full of delicious apples and fun times that will be cherished forever. We can’t wait to be a part of your family’s traditions and help you make new memories this autumn at Chetola Resort!

 

Sierras 2 - $649,000

Sierras 2 – $649,000

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Three bedrooms three baths, approximately 2200 square feet. Two bedrooms, two baths, kitchen, Dining, Living room all on the first floor. The downstairs offers another large bedroom, bath and a den with a second fireplace. Beautiful location on "The Ponds".  Fully furnished, excellent condition, move-in ready.
$649,000

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Many of Chetola’s guests feel like Blowing Rock is a “home away from home.” If you are looking for lodging that offers privacy, room to spread out, enough bathrooms for the entire family, along with all of the resort’s amenities, then one of Chetola’s condos might be the perfect option. We have put together some helpful information that will allow you to get the most out of your visit.

Quail 5

1. Each condo has a fully equipped kitchen
Start a vacation tradition with each family member cooking their favorite meal for the whole crew or order take-out from Timberlake’s and enjoy on your patio overlooking the mountains. The condos have a fully equipped kitchen with stove, microwave, full fridge, dishwasher, and plenty of cabinets. Don’t forget to bring your own food, or feel free to stock up once you get to Blowing Rock. There is the Blowing Rock Market in downtown Blowing Rock or Food Lion, both less than a mile away. In Boone, there is Lowe’s Foods, Publix, Earth Fare, and Be Natural Market, among others. Boone is 10-15 minutes from Chetola.

Tip: there are starter packets of dish detergent, but if you are staying for more than a couple of nights, it is recommended to bring your own. Also, for cooking, please bring whatever yummy herbs and spices you desire. If you forget your favorite spice, stop by The Spice & Tea Exchange in Downtown Blowing Rock.

2. Every unit has its own washer and dryer
No need to find a public laundry or use the ones in Chetola Lodge, as each condo has its own washer and dryer, along with a starter pack for your first load. If you have a busy family or plan to stay for extended period of time, it is recommended that you pack some detergent and dryer sheets. With so much to do around the resort, you will likely want to get outside as much as possible. And, with changing weather conditions, it is recommended that you pack layers, as temperatures can vary 20-30 degrees throughout the day. In late September, highs are generally in the mid-60’s to mid-70’s with lows in the 40’s and 50’s.

Oak 4

3. We deep clean the condo prior to arrival
We receive a lot of questions about the cleaning of the condos, so here are the details. Our team thoroughly deep cleans each unit prior to your arrival. Then, we allow you to enjoy your “home away from home.” We don’t show up unexpectedly to clean or interrupt your experience. There are basic cleaning items in there if you would like to tidy up. Otherwise, we will clean it again upon your departure.

Pine 6

4. Every condo unit is unique
The condos are individually owned, so each unit has a different décor, style, and setup. We work with our homeowners to ensure that everything is up to date and in working order for you. Some guests stay in the same unit every visit and others like to try new ones out. Regardless, you will find plenty of space, a full kitchen, and privacy in a beautiful location.

Smokies 4

5. Final Tips and Packing Suggestions
We have shared some helpful information to allow you to make the most of your Chetola Escape. Now, here is a list of some suggestions to help you pack. They are in no particular order:
-Toiletries and personal care items
-Laundry and dishwasher detergent
-Food for any meals at “home”
-Beverages, including coffee and teas
-Spices, herbs, cooking oils, coffee creamer, etc.
-Cell phone and electronic chargers
-A variety of clothing and jackets (layer up!)
-Boots for hiking Moses Cone Memorial Park or other trails
-Hats and sunscreen
-Books, digital e-reader for enjoying some quiet time
-Your favorite board games, cards, or other traditional game (some units have these too!)

We look forward to helping you plan your visit to Blowing Rock and Chetola Resort!
-PJ Wirchansky, Director of Marketing

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Experiencing a fly-fishing adventure with our Orvis® Endorsed Fly Fishing Guides is one of our guests’ favorite ways to add a special experience to their trip. Part of what makes those trips so special is the moment when you can net your perfect Trophy Trout.

Netting a fish can be easy and safe for both you and your fish with proper etiquette. Here are a few tips from our Orvis® Endorsed Fly Fishing Guides on the best methods for safely netting a fish and taking that epic fish photo:

  1. Let your fish breathe.

The most helpful suggestion that we can offer is to let your fish breathe for a few minutes in the net prior to taking them out of the water for a photo or for measuring. Imagine doing a 30-minute uphill hike to Moses Cone Manor and as soon as you get there, and are huffing and puffing from all that exertion, someone holds your head underwater for a minute so they can take your picture! This is exactly what the fish goes through when you do not allow proper oxygenation after the big fight. You both deserve a little break for doing such a great job! This allows you both to catch your breath and it also increases the fish’s survival rate more than anything else you can do, besides leaving them in the water.

  1. Wear a fishing glove. And remember the 7-second rule.

A fishing glove is very helpful for first-timers or those who are nervous about touching the fish... it gives you a little extra grip when holding your wet fish and keeps you from squishing them when they naturally try to wiggle away. If you need a few tries to take your perfect fish photo, take your time. Remember the 7-second rule- 7 seconds out of the water and then back in to let them breathe. You can do this multiple times to get your photo and it is better for the fish. This method also produces much better fish pictures since everyone is more relaxed.

  1. Control your catch by the base of the tail.

The base of the tail is the best place to control your fish. Please keep in mind that your fish’s heart is right between those little front fins, so squeezing there to hold the fish may end up stopping its heart. We heavily encourage patience and practicing being a professional every time so that you and the fish are both safe.

  1. Make sure your hands are wet before touching the fish.

Make sure that you wet your hands in the water before touching any part of your beautiful fish. All fish have a natural protective coating over their entire body that acts like a shield against bacteria, viruses, bugs, and people! When you touch any fish with dry hands, it rubs their coating away leaving your fish damaged and in danger when you release them back into the water.

  1. Use a Ghost Net.

We recommend using a 'Ghost Net', which are composed of a clear, rubber-like material that helps your fish keep safe and happy.

By using a soft net, wetting your hands, using a fishing glove, practice proper handling, and letting your fish breathe, you will give your catch the best chances of recuperating from your battle and living to fight again another day! Nothing makes us feel like better environmental stewards than catching the same fat and healthy Trophy Trout year after year.

– Morgan Tarbutton, Fly Fishing and Outdoor Programs Manager

 

To book a trip with us, please call 828-295-5509! We can't wait to see you out on the water!

 

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On warm summer days in the mountains, the best way to cool off is an adventure to a beautiful waterfall! Luckily, being in Blowing Rock, you are never too far from waterfall adventures all around the High Country.

If you’re looking to cool off this summer on your next visit to Chetola Resort, here are our favorite falls in the area:

Glen Burney Falls

Located just 3 minutes from Chetola Resort, these beautiful falls are right in the heart of Downtown Blowing Rock. On this 3.2 mile out and back trail, enjoy views of Glen Marie Falls and Glen Burney Falls at the end of the trail. In addition to viewing the falls, at the beginning of the trail you can find remains of an old structure.

This trail is a favorite of Chetola guests and visitors because its location makes it a great adventure to experience before or after exploring Downtown Blowing Rock. You can even walk from downtown to the trailhead for the falls! It’s the perfect hidden gem, right in town!

This trail is rated as moderate but does have a few steep spots and rocks/roots can be slick so hiking shoes or sturdy shoes are recommended.

Otter Falls

Otter Falls is located in the adorable town of Seven Devils, North Carolina, a short 30-minute drive from Chetola Resort. At the trailhead, you have the option to enjoy 4 different short trails. The hike to the falls is a short 1 mile out and back trail that allows adventurers to enjoy the unique flora of the High Country as well as the beautiful Otter Falls.

Visitors love this spot because the trek is less strenuous than some other waterfall hikes in the area, but Otter Falls is just as stunning as some of the bigger falls.

The trek to Otter Falls is rated as moderate and does descend about 230 feet towards the falls. Hiking boots or sturdy shoes are recommended.

Elk River Falls

Located just past Banner Elk in the town of Elk Park, the Elk River Falls trail provides a spectacular view of a 50 ft waterfall after a short hike. Follow the trail sign for “Big Falls” for an easy ¼ of a mile walk and you will find yourself at the top of the falls. Take in the views of the water tumbling down and then continue down the trail for another ¼ mile (this last part is a little steeper) and you’ll find yourself at the base of the falls. At the base, there is a big, flat rock where many sit to enjoy the views or take a picnic (we highly recommend a to-go meal from Timberlake’s). Many people also take the opportunity to swim in this spot, but please read the notes below about safety precautions at Elk River Falls.

Hiking boots or sturdy shoes are recommended.

*Important Note: Although swimming is allowed at the pools below the falls, you should NOT swim near the base of the falls or at the top of the falls. The currents are too strong for wading in these spots and can be deadly. You should also not jump from the top of the falls.

Linville Falls

Linville Falls is one of the most popular waterfalls in the area. Known for its accessibility via the Blue Ridge Parkway (milepost 316) and the gorgeous, plunging falls that lead into the Linville Gorge, the Linville Falls trails are a must-see for waterfall enthusiasts.

The Linville Falls area offers 3 different trails for those seeking a view of the falls. The Erwins View Trail is a 1.6-mile round trip hike that is rated as moderate and takes hikers to various overlooks viewing the falls. The Linville Gorge Trail is 1.4 miles round trip and is rated as strenuous. The Plunge Basin Trail is a strenuous 1-mile round trip down to the base of the falls and back up.

You will be mesmerized by the views from any of these trails and your trip to Linville Falls will be an adventure you cherish forever.

Hiking boots and sturdy shoes are recommended especially for the Plunge Basin Trail and Linville Gorge Trail which are strenuous and can be slippery if rocks are wet.

*Important Note: Swimming in this area is extremely dangerous and not allowed. Please stay behind all signs and follow all rules. They are there to keep you safe from the falls.

The Cascades

The Cascades Trail is another wonderful waterfall hike just off the Blue Ridge Parkway in E.B. Jeffress Park (milepost 272.5). The beautiful Cascades are located along a 1.1-mile loop that is rated as moderate.

Follow the trail until you get to a steep set of steps that takes you down to the overlooks. The first set of steps to the overlook are not too bad, but the second set is considered very steep. Both overlooks provide a gorgeous view of the falls cascading down the rocks and into the lower mountains below.

Hiking boots and sturdy shoes are recommended for this trail.

*Important Note: People have gotten severely injured on this trail. Please do not climb on the falls or sit/stand on top of the stone walls.

After a fun day full of adventures and beautiful waterfalls, end your day with a mouth-watering meal from Timberlake’s Restaurant! Whatever waterfall you choose to explore on your next visit to Chetola Resort we hope you have a splashin’ good time!

*Please be sure that when exploring you leave the waterfalls and the areas surrounding them better than you found them. Please pick up all trash, leave only footprints, take nothing but photos and follow OutdoorNC’s seven principles for recreating in North Carolina. Find the seven principles by visiting https://www.visitnc.com/outdoornc

Pine 2

Pine 2

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Pine 2

$499,000 | Furnished with a few exceptions

3 bedrooms |  2 baths | This unit was originally a Chetola model built in 1993. Seller is the original owner; unit has never been rented. It has not been updated, however, it has been meticulously maintained and lovingly cared for!! Updating would be mostly cosmetic, as the unit is well-built and in great condition. Wonderful closet space, side by side washer/ dryer, and is centrally located near all amenities.

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The higher elevations of Western North Carolina have been a refreshing respite for those living in the “lowlands” of the state for years. There are stunning views, big mountain peaks, endless recreation, lush forests, cascading rivers, exciting wildlife, room to roam, and plenty of fresh air. As you go up in elevation, the temperatures are also noticeably cooler. On a summer day, temperatures can range from the mid-’70s in the Western Mountains above 4000 feet to the mid-90’s in the Inner Coastal Plain area. When you add the humidity to the coastal areas, it can literally feel over 25 degrees hotter than the mountaintops (especially with those pleasant breezes).

From a meteorological perspective, air at higher altitude is under less pressure than air at lower altitude because there is less weight of the air above it, so it expands (and cools), while air at lower altitude is under more pressure so it contracts (and heats up). So, scientifically, you can rely on the temperatures almost always being cooler in the higher elevations or on top of a mountain. For planning purposes, if you are looking for an escape from the heat throughout the summer, you can bet on approximately 3 degrees cooler per 1000 feet in elevation gained. If you enjoy spending time in the great outdoors and the heat and humidity make it less desirable, we invite you to come visit our beautiful mountains.


The town of Blowing Rock is just over 3500 feet in elevation (3566’), with some of the surrounding areas climbing above 5,000’ (Grandfather Mountain and Beech Mountain). This equates to average summer temperatures are generally in the upper 70’s during the day and in the upper 50’s at night. In addition to the cooler temperatures, it is also easy to find shade or a cool mountain breeze, especially along the Blue Ridge Parkway. With the cooler temperatures due to the reduction in pressure from the air above, the higher elevations allow us to immerse ourselves in the endless opportunities to enjoy the great outdoors. Now, you have to decide what to do! Here are some of our favorite activities to enjoy under less pressure:

Summer
Hiking, horseback riding, rafting, tubing, ziplining, fishing, mountain biking, wildlife viewing, clay shooting, reading a book by the lake, driving the Blue Ridge Parkway (with the windows down!), picnicking, bonfire with s’mores, jogging, and exploring a new park.

Winter
Downhill skiing, cross country skiing, snowshoeing, hiking, fly-fishing, reading a book by a cozy fire, biking (fat bikes over snow), and many of the summer activities with warmer clothing 😊

Rough Ridge

Elevations of Nearby Towns
Boone                        3,333’
Blowing Rock           3,566’
Banner Elk                3,701’
West Jefferson         3,000’
Newland                    3,606’
Linville                      3,665’

Elevations of Nearby Mountain Peaks
Beech Mountain                  5,506’
Sugar Mountain                   5,300’
Grandfather Mountain       5,946’
Elk Knob                               5,566’
Mount Jefferson                  4,616’
Howard’s Knob                    4,420’
Roan Mountain                    6,285’

 

Take some pressure off of yourself and go enjoy some time in the great outdoors!

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Looking for adventure and to explore all the beauty that Western North Carolina has to offer? One of the best ways to experience the outdoors in the High Country is to visit one of the four North Carolina State Parks located within an hour of Chetola! All 4 of these beautiful state parks boast hiking trails for all skill levels, breathtaking views, and unique plant and animal life. Your visit to Blowing Rock won’t be complete without a visit to one of these spots.

Grandfather Mountain State Park (Banner Elk, NC – 26 min)

Not to be confused with Grandfather Mountain Stewardship Foundation (which is also awesome but requires an entry fee) Grandfather Mountain State Park is one of the most spectacular areas in all of North Carolina. The mountain is considered as one of the East’s most significant peaks and has over 70 species of rare, threatened, or endangered species that can be found in the park. Some of which are similar to those found in higher elevations of Canada. With over 13 miles of hiking trails and lots of adventure, Grandfather Mountain State Park is a must see on your visit to the High Country.

Elk Knob State Park (Todd, NC – 33 min)

Elk Knob State Park features one of the highest peaks in North Carolina’s high country at 5,520 feet and offers spectacular North and South views at the summit of Elk Knob. Known for its winter weather, Elk Knob State Park is the only NC State Park that allows visitors to cross country ski. Elk Knob is unique, not only for its gorgeous views, but it is also an amphibolite mountain which makes it so the mountain is able to provide habitat for unique and rare plants. With unparalleled mountain views, incredible plants, and 4 amazing trails for all abilities, Elk Knob should be on your adventure list.

Mount Jefferson State Natural Area (West Jefferson, NC – 44 min)

Mount Jefferson State Natural Area is amazing not only for its panoramic views at Luther Rock, but for its access to the nearby town of West Jefferson! Mount Jefferson has a wide (and beautiful) variety of diverse trees, shrubs, and wildflowers and if you’re quiet, you may just spot one of the unique critters that call this park home. And, with 6 different trails to venture down, you could spend quite a while exploring everything Mount Jefferson has to offer. If you’ve been wanting to enjoy a beautiful hike and explore another small town in the High Country, a visit to Mount Jefferson State Natural Area is the perfect day trip for you on your Blowing Rock vacation!

New River State Park (Laurel Springs, NC – 59 min)

The New River runs throughout North Carolina and the state park offers multiple access points for visitors to enjoy this iconic and beautiful river. Though paddling the river is the most popular activity at New River State Park, you can also enjoy 11 different trails, fishing, swimming, and riverside picnic areas. Besides boasting lots of fun activities, New River State Park is also home to diverse plant and animal species. If you’re looking for a unique (water-filled) adventure in the High Country, check out all the different activities you can enjoy at New River State Park!

No matter what kind of adventure you’d like to have, there is a North Carolina State Park for you and your family to enjoy.

And after your day full of adventuring, come to Timberlake’s for a delicious dessert – you’ve earned it!

**When you go out venturing to the North Carolina State Parks please be sure to follow Visit North Carolina’s Outdoor NC Leave No Trace Principles and leave our parks looking beautiful 💙 Read more about how you can help preserve the natural beauty of our state by visiting https://www.visitnc.com/outdoornc.

 

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Vacations are meant for sweet treats and delicious foods. And, the best way to start your vacation in Blowing Rock is with sweet, sugary treats from one of our favorite local donut shops.

Here are our favorite spots around the High Country to grab a tasty treat to start your day:

Donut Hole (Located in Downtown Blowing Rock)

Located upstairs at Camp Coffee Roasters, the Donut Hole offers hot mini donuts and a Camp Coffee cold brew bar. Only a short walk from Chetola, flavors like Cha Cha Chai Sugar, Hot Cocoa Sugar, and Mellow Gold Curry Sugar are 100% worth the short walk or drive to Downtown Blowing Rock.

The Donut Hole is only open Fri – Sun.

Hole Lotta Doughnuts (Located in Downtown Boone, Downtown West Jefferson, and Lenior)

If you’re searching for fresh and delicious, glazed yeast doughnuts and fritters that are as big as your head, then Hole Lotta Doughnuts should be your first morning stop. Boasting lots of flavors, fun colors, and sprinkles, your taste buds will do a happy dance after your first bite.

And with locations in Downtown Boone, Downtown West Jefferson, and Lenoir, you’ll never be too far away from a delicious doughnut.

Local Lion (Located off Highway 321 towards Boone)

Local Lion makes their delicious donuts fresh all day, every day! With lots of gluten-free options, fresh fruits, and made-from-scratch dough and glazes, Local Lion will be one of your new favorite stops in Boone. Specializing in Potato Doughnuts (using a traditional 1930’s recipe) and Sour Cream Buttermilk Cake Doughnuts, your mouth will be watering as soon as you pull in the drive-thru.

Photo courtesy of Krispy Kreme

Krispy Kreme (Located off Highway 321 towards Boone)

Although not necessarily a local donut shop, Krispy Kreme got it’s start just a few hours away from Blowing Rock in the town of Winston Salem. So even though the name Krispy Kreme is known around the country, if you’re looking for a classic “Hot Now” original glazed donut, Krispy Kreme is your spot.

 

And if tasty donuts are not really your thing, StickBoy Bakery in Boone offers a variety of delicious breads and pastries. Or, if you are really looking to step up your dessert game, stop by Timberlake’s Restaurant at Chetola Resort and enjoy a heavenly sweet treat from our in-house pastry chef, Abby.

 

However you choose to get your sugar fix during your visit to Blowing Rock, your sweet tooth will be satiated with any of these amazing options!