[at-l] Sugar Mtn area, NC

[TRich@FDIC.gov (Rich, Timothy D.)]

Teresa,

I didn't see an answer to your request, so I'll take a stab at it.  The AT
is not far from the Boone/Banner Elk/Sugar/Beech area, and could provide
some day hike opportunities.  Specifically, the AT at Roan Mountain State
Park isn't too far and, depending on the roads and your equipment, could
provide some nice day hike opportunities.  Hampton, TN isn't too far either,
and you could access the AT for a hike near Watauga Lake or Laurel Falls.
Both Roan and Hampton are less than 30 miles from Banner Elk.  If you want
to venture a bit further, Erwin is about 55 miles from Banner Elk (any
listers in Erwin? :)).  Finally, Mapquest says you're just a circuitous 87
mile pilgrimage away from Hot Springs, if you're so inclined.

The shops around Banner Elk are interesting, the hardware/general store at
the top of Beech is fun.

According to the Roan Mountain website, the park is closed on Mondays and
Tuesdays due to TN budget woes.  Directions at:
http://www.state.tn.us/environment/parks/roanmtn/direct.htm and their home
page at http://www.state.tn.us/environment/parks/roanmtn/index.html .  

Enjoy your trip.  I'm leaving later today for Beech Mountain.  It's going to
cool down a bit for tomorrow's skiing - a predicted high on Beech of 32 -
with maybe a tad of new snow (but probably from a nozzle).

Take Care,

Tim

Teresa said-

It's that time again.  Time for me to get out of Florida and head for the
mountains.  Okay, so the purpose is to go skiing, and this year it's the
"cheaper" alternative, drive to NC.  We're going to be staying on Sugar Mtn.
I wouldn't mind incorporating some hiking into the trip.  I know the AT
isn't far away so I'd like to take a morning and go there at least once.
I'd like to ask you for any other recommended places to go, trails to visit,
etc, AND are there any outfitters in the area.  In Boone maybe? Or anywhere
else...say...<1 hr drive?  I'm looking for 1/2 day trips mostly.

Thanks in advance, for the helpful information I KNOW you're going to give!
:-)

Teresa 

P.S.  Anyone in the area that wants stop by and say "hey" let me know...