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!
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.
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!
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
Getting the Most Out of Your Condo Stay at Chetola
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
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:
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.
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.
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.
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.
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!
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
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.
Take Some Pressure Off and Learn Why it's Cooler in the Mountains
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 😊
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!
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.
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 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 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!
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.
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!
Top 10 Walks from Chetola Lodge to Maintain Your Wellness While Visiting Blowing Rock
Top 10 Walks from Chetola Lodge to Maintain Your Wellness While Visiting Blowing Rock
For many of us, we dread the idea of exercising while on vacation, however, it is easy to find a balance between a total “haven of rest” and an epic, heart-pounding adventure to the mountains. Because there are so many places to explore within walking distance of Chetola Resort, we have come up with a top 10 list of enjoyable walks to get outside, breathe in some fresh mountain air, and feel good about yourself. We have even included a range for the number of steps (since we all have different strides) from the lobby in the Lodge to the destination. So, for those looking to walk 5,000, 10,000, or even 20,000 steps to earn that extra dessert from Timberlake’s, we have you covered. The following are in no particular order, however, we hope these will encourage you to get outside!
Chetola Guard House/ Welcome Gate(1750-1800 steps)
This will take you around a large area of Chetola Lake, past ducks, swans, and geese, as well as through the grounds of Chetola Resort. If you are looking for a nice, leisurely walk after dinner or first thing in the morning, this is a great option. While passing by the lake, you will likely see other guests fishing, relaxing in the Adirondack chairs, and during the warm season, guests enjoy paddleboats, canoeing, or stand-up boards. For those looking for a little more action, continue past the gate and turn right to go into the downtown village of Blowing Rock.
Bass Lake Loop in Moses Cone National Memorial Park(4000-5000 steps)
Kids In Parks and Chetola Resort have partnered to create the Chetola Resort Bass Lake Track Trail to encourage kids to get outside. This 2-mile hike is slightly uphill until you reach the Moses Cone Park boundary and then is a fairly easy and flat stroll through the woods and around beautiful Bass Lake. There are picnic benches to stop along the way. Also, the Cone Manor is visible from several areas around the Lake. If you have 45 minutes to an hour (longer with the kiddos, as they enjoy finding bugs and sticks along the way), this is a great option to reach that 5,000 step goal!
Broyhill Park in Blowing Rock (5400-5800 steps)
If you feel like combining a trip to downtown Blowing Rock with a visit to a beautiful park, then Broyhill offers that experience. You can easily spend 2-3 hours between walking around downtown and making your way over to Broyhill Park. There are walking trails, Mayview Lake, and even a pool in the summer for kids! Regardless of the season, if you are looking for some real steps, while enjoying all that Blowing Rock has to offer, this is a fantastic option. We recommend either stopping for lunch at Hellbender, a coffee at Bald Guy, or a sweet treat at Blue Deer Cookies along the way! *Note that the steps on this can vary, as there are so many ways to enjoy this walk!
Tanger Outlets (1400-1500 steps)
Whether you are checking out the shops or dining at one of the fun eateries, Tanger is the perfect hop, skip, and a jump away from Chetola. There is a private entrance through the northeast side of the property, just past the dam and waterfall. During the summer, there is live music, as well as an artisan market the first Friday of each month. Columbia Sportswear is coming June 2021, which may also be the perfect place to upgrade your fitness workout attire.
Photo by: The Wanderlust Couple
Camp Coffee in downtown Blowing Rock (2400-2650 steps)
If you wake up one morning and have a desire for exercise and your favorite coffee drink, walk around Chetola Lake and out of the property towards Camp Coffee (turn right towards downtown Blowing Rock). This fairly short walk takes you to one of Blowing Rock’s exquisite coffee shops and soon-to-be donut places! The people are friendly, there is a fun outdoorsy vibe, outdoor seating, great coffee drinks and treats. We like their Nitro on tap for a smooth, creamy cold coffee beverage with a boost to start your day! For additional steps, keep walking along Main Street, as there are several boutique shops, restaurants, and a couple of Parks (Blowing Rock City Park and Broyhill Park).
Walk a Round of Frisbee Golf(2000-2500 steps)
Did you know that Chetola has its own private disc golf course? All guests of Chetola have access to this course throughout their stay. Simply walk to our Rec center for maps, discs, and a score card. Don’t forget to visit the new Chetola Retail shop for grab & go snacks and drinks. This 9-hole course winds throughout the property, along creeks, across grassy fields, and into the woods for beginner to intermediate play. There are a few picnic areas around to enjoy lunch or stop to enjoy nature. This is certainly one of the more exciting ways to get your steps in while visiting!
Chetola Dam/ Greenway Entrance (700-800 steps)
For a short, leisurely stroll, head out of the Lodge and turn left towards Tanger Outlets. Once you come to the bottom of a small hill, you will see the bridge to your right. There is a new viewing deck below, along with a nice picnic spot. The view from the bridge (top of dam) is beautiful, looking back towards the lake and resort. This is one of the original entrances to Chetola Resort, built by Luther Snyder in the 1920’s.
Photo by: Blue Ridge Parkway Association
Apple Barn in Moses Cone (via the Maze trail back to Bass Lake and to Chetola (6500 to 6750 steps))
If you are looking for a quiet trail to stretch your legs, the path up to the Historic Apple Barn is perfect. From Chetola Resort, head up towards the tennis courts and then follow the Chetola Resort Bass Lake Track Trail until you reach the Maze Trail. From there, go right (left goes to Bass Lake) and follow until you reach the Apple Barn. After enjoying a picnic or snack on the porch, follow signs back to Bass Lake (for a longer trip, just head back the way you came) and you will come to the Lake. If you are feeling ambitious, feel free to mosey around the entire lake, or head back to the Resort. This is a great option for those looking for a trail in the woods and some options to venture around the Moses Cone Trail System.
BRAHM- Blowing Rock Art & History Museum(5750-5900 steps)
Celebrating 10 years in 2021, BRAHM provides cultural offerings for the local community. There are ongoing exhibits on history & art, as well as a variety of programs throughout the year. Admission is free for everyone. There are also seasonal events for all ages, a special BRAHM Kids Program, art classes, fundraising, and a gift shop. For guests of Chetola, we have BRAHM backpacks for the kiddos in our retail shop with art and nature themes, offering a fun, learning activity set for ages 6 and up. All proceeds from the backpacks support BRAHM.
Photo by: Rhoddie Bicycle Outfitters
Rhoddie Bicycle Outfitters(3550-3650 steps- via Ransom Street) Rhoddie is named after one of the most iconic plants of the Appalachians, the Rhododendron (from www.rhoddiebicycleoutfitters.com). Owners, Brian and Allison Sain, started the bike shop to be able to share their passion with locals and guests by connecting people to the many cycling opportunities in the area. They offer bike sales and service, as well as a plethora of information and guidance on where to bike in the High Country. For those looking for some inspiration in spending time outdoors, look no further than Rhoddie Bicycle!
