Do you love to get outside and explore the great outdoors? Is your go-to travel destination one that allows you to camp, hike, whitewater raft, ski, or otherwise take place in adventure activities? Then if so you’ll want to keep reading. One of many people’s favorite North Carolina towns was named one of the best small towns for adventure. This ranking came from  USA Today’s recently released “10 best” campaign. Readers were able to vote for their favorites in a variety of categories. One of those categories was “Best Small Towns For Adventure”. And Boone, North Carolina came in at number 8 on the top 10 list.

Boone was in good company with other towns being ranked including Jackson Hole, WY, Stowe, VT, North Conway, NH, and the surprising (to me) town topping the list- Savanna, IL. The previous three are towns I’m pretty familiar with as either myself or my parents have visited. I’ve never heard of Savanna, IL, however. And Boone, well I’m pretty familiar with Boone as I grew up spending a lot of time in the neighboring town of Blowing Rock. I’m also, self-admittedly not that outdoorsy. So the whole small towns for adventure thing is not my area of expertise. But I know from plenty of friends and just being in the area that Boone fits the description.

The small mountain town’s population is mostly made up of students at Appalachian State University. The college town reflects this with its breweries, restaurants, and shops. But it is also an adventure lover’s paradise. Some of the reasons USA Today noted for Boone’s rankings included hiking and climbing, fishing, and whitewater rafting. It is a North Carolina hot spot for adventure lovers. Keep reading to see some of the best adventure activities you can do in the Boone area.

  • Hiking

    Whether you are a seasoned hiker looking to journey to the summit of a mountain or looking for a more leisurely stroll perhaps to a waterfall hiking in Boone has something for you. The Blue Ridge Parkway alone has about 50 different trails, and there are plenty off the parkway as well. Get a full guide to hiking in Boone here.

  • Linville Caverns

    Journey into the heart of limestone caverns at Linville Caverns. You can take a guided tour that lasts about 30-45 minutes. What could be more adventurous than going inside of a mountain? While this isn’t a particularly challenging adventure it’s one the whole family can and will enjoy. Get more info here.

  • Skiing/Winter Sports

    Boone is home to three ski resorts Appalachian Ski Mountain, Beech Mountain, and Sugar Mountain. These three resorts offer the best skiing you’ll find in the North Carolina mountains. In addition to skiing visitors can participate in ice skating, snow tubing, and snow shoeing,  Get more info here.

  • Whitewater Rafting/Kayaking

    With four companies you’re sure to find a whitewater adventure that fits your needs. There are river excursions for a variety of skill levels from family fun/teambuilding activities to extreme thrills through intense rapids. Get more info on rafting in Boone here.

  • Ziplining

    The Boone area is home to 3 zip line tour courses. Adventurers will love flying high over the mountains and trees whether they are adrenaline junkies or families looking to get outdoors and have some fun! Learn about the different zip line options in Boone here.

  • Grandfather Mountain

    Hiking, animals, a mile-high swinging bridge, and more await visitors to Grandfather Mountain. As a child I always loved getting some dried apple slices to throw down to the bears. That was my speed of “adventure”. Or take a walk over the mile-high swinging bridge. It will make even the bravest of soles think twice! Learn more about Grandfather Mountain here.

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