Outdoor Recreation
Blue Ridge Parkway
This state park is a National Parkway and All-American Road noted for its scenic beauty. This drive provides spectacular views of the surrounding landscape, as well as access to hiking trails and picnic areas.
Elk Knob State Park
Elk Knob State Park is one of the newest additions to the North Carolina State Parks System. Currently, it is in an interim development stage with a park office/contact station, a maintenance facility, picnic area, parking areas, a trail to the summit of Elk Knob, and backcountry camping areas.
Mount Jefferson State Natural Area
This state natural area provides spectacular views of the surrounding landscape. Enjoy a morning hike and then picnic near the summit with the chipmunks and squirrels. The area also offers special events for families of all ages to enjoy.
Mount Jefferson State Natural Area
New River State Park
Enjoy the natural beauty available in the New River State Park, with hiking, facilities for camping and picnics, and events, you can spend an entire day here.
Canoeing, Tubing, Kayaking
The New River provides some of the best waters for canoeing, tubing and kayaking. Rent equipment or get guided tours at Zaloo’s Canoes. Receive discounts at Zaloo’s with your Nation’s Inn key card!
Zaloo’s Canoes, Kayaks and Tubes
Fly Fishing
There are many opportunities for fishing in the High Country. Whitetop Laurel Fly Shop offers year-round guided trips of Ashe County’s best streams and the New River. Whitetop also offers float and wade trips for your enjoyment – it’s a great way to see the natural beauty of the High Country.
Golfing
Mountain Aire Golf Course provides a newly remodeled 18 hole public course in the heart of the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains. Save money on greens fees when you stay at Nation’s Inn!
Hiking
You will find numerous opportunities for hiking in the High Country of North Carolina – so many in fact you just might spend as much time trying to decide which trail you want to hike as you do actually hiking it! Below we’ve narrowed down some of your choices for your convenience.
