As the leaves change and we enter the holiday season, many Charlotteans traditionally hit the road for long weekends or day trips to the mountains. This year looks different, as communities in Western North Carolina and Virginia are still recovering from Hurricane Helene.

One year later, many of these towns are open + ready for visitors. Here’s a chance to enjoy the fall scenery while supporting these mountain communities.

South Mountains State Park

Drive time: ~1 hour 20 minutes from Uptown
Avg. high in October: 68º

Hikers are welcome to enjoy the views from the Clear Creek and Jacob Fork access trails. Keep in mind: The High Shoals Falls Loop trail, including the waterfall viewing point, is closed for debris removal.

If you're looking for a hike and a swim, consider visiting Otter Falls — a 30-minute drive west of Blowing Rock. | Photo by Cat Gillihan

Blowing Rock, NC

Drive time: ~2 hours from Uptown
Est. population: ~1,400 year-round
Avg. high in December: ~60º

Things to do:
Hike Grandfather Mountain | Enjoy scenic views of the changing leaves along the Blue Ridge Parkway while hiking any of the open trails. Plus, get a birds-eye view from the park's Mile High Swinging Bridge. Pro tip: Advanced tickets are recommended.

Visit Blowing Rock Art & History Museum | Learn about Southern Appalachian heritage and history through more than 600 objects in BRAHM's collection — it's free to visit.

Carve up Appalachian Ski Mountain | App Ski is scheduled to open Saturday, Nov. 22 — get memberships for the season before grabbing a board, skis, or an inner tube for wintry fun on the slopes.

Mount up for a Blowing Rock Trail Ride | Bring your friends and family for a private horseback ride through the High Country — tickets are $120 per person.

Fuel up:
The Speckled Trout | This lunch and dinner fave boasts a seasonal menu with community vibes + a bottle shop. Bonus: The restaurant is accepting donations for Helene relief efforts through The Build for Good Foundation.

Bistro Roca | Operating since 2005, this bistro serves breakfast favorites, pizza, burgers, and comfort food using ingredients from local farms.

Social on Main | Sit inside or on the patio while savoring fluffy pancakes, sandwiches, or happy hour cocktails at this breakfast and lunch spot.

Where to stay:
Blowing Rock Ale House & Inn | Stay in one of five guest rooms attached to the small-batch brewer.

Alpine Village Inn | Stay within walking distance to local shops or sit back and enjoy the fresh mountain air next to a roaring fire.

Azalea Garden Inn | This destination is known for its flower-lined paths and landscaped grounds + the log cabin gives rustic vibes for a relaxed mountain retreat.

Bonus: Check out Boone's accommodations for a side quest.

Inhale the mountain air along the Virginia Creeper Trail — a 34.3-mile trail. | Photo by Julie Kroll via Yellow Duck Marketing

Damascus, VA

Drive time: ~3 hours from Uptown
Est. population: ~800
Avg. high in December: ~66º

Things to do:
Hike the Virginia Creeper Trail | The 17-mile Abingdon to Damascus segment, also known as the “Start to the Heart,” of the trail is fully open, along with Grayson Highlands State Park, and northern and southern sections of the Appalachian Trail. Pro tip: Bikes and shuttles can be rented for your adventure.

Visit the historic downtown | Wander the shops along Main Street of the "Friendliest Town on the Trail."

Tour through history | The 2.4-mile history tour takes visitors to several spots through the town, teaching about its history on the Appalachian Trail.

Fuel up:
Appalachian Heritage Distillery & Brewery | Sip locally-made spirits while enjoying live music in a relaxed lounge.

Damascus Diner | This charming diner within The Dragonfly Inn serves comfort food like eggs and bacon, grits, hamburgers, meatloaf, and more.

Wicked Chicken Winghouse and Tavern | Nothing says "satisfying" more than a plate full of wings and a slice of cheesecake after a long hike.
Where to stay:
Damascus Old Mill Inn | This historic hotel features waterfall views + breakfast is included.

The Speckled Trout Outpost | Pick one of four different layouts for a weekend away — some rooms even have an elevated loft for the kids.

The Millsap-Baker Estate | This Victorian-style home operates as a bed-and-breakfast, with remodeled rooms, furnishings, and views of the expansive horizon.

Fun fact: In 2024, Charlotteans made up 5,100 overnight stays and 7,800 visits to Damascus.