US Airways - July 2013 - (Page 128)

Clockwise from top left: white-water rafting; Rocky Knob Mountain Bike Park; fly-fishing at Chetola; map of the High Country (see legend below map); Linn Cove Viaduct on the Blue Ridge Parkway The High Country’s diverse landscape is a paradise for hikers, bikers, and equestrians. to the Blue Ridge Parkway. And Beech Mountain Resort is the new kid on the biking block. It opened its downhill bike trails — accessible by state-of-the-art lifts — in June. Help them celebrate with live music and a cold one at the Bikes, Brews, ’n’ Views Festival (July 19–21). The lifts also grant access to the Emerald Out- 128 july 2013 usairwaysmag.com back on Beech Mountain, offering more than eight miles of trails and panoramic views. If a bike just isn’t fast enough, try zip-lining down the side of the mountain. The High Country offers several zip-line courses, including some extra-long “mega zips.” For example, Hawksnest Zipline is home to the longest zipline course on the East Coast. Take Me to the River Chetola Resort is one of only two Orvis Endorsed Fly Fishing Lodges in North Carolina, offering float trips and unparalleled fly-fishing for brook, brown, rainbow, and golden trout at a secluded catch-and-release stream. If there’s any one place in the High Country to take to the water, it’s at New River State Park in Ashe County. You wouldn’t guess from its name that the New River is believed to be the second-oldest river in the world (behind the Nile). Its slowmoving current meanders by farms, churches, and small towns, making it ideal for fishing, birding, canoeing, and kayaking. For even more adventure on the water, try white-water rafting. The High Country boasts many adventure companies that offer guided trips on tame rapids or up to class IV. Eats and Treats The High Country is home to one of North Carolina’s oldest culinary destinations, Ashe phOtOs cOurtesy Of the high cOuNtry hOst, map illustratiON By Zara pickeN in a behind-the-scenes tour of the mountain’s natural wildlife habitats. For a rundown of other hikes in the region, visit exploreboonearea.com, featuring the newest playground for outdoor enthusiasts, Rocky Knob Mountain Bike Park. Sure, you can hike Rocky Knob’s eight stacked loops, which increase in difficulty as you ascend. But the best way to enjoy the 185acre park is atop a bike, pushing your limits as you climb the Middle Earth Trail or fly down the bumpy PBJ Skills Trail. But Rocky Knob has stiff competition: In Wilkes County, biking is practically a religion. The Wilkesboro Cyclocross Festival rates among Cyclocross Magazine’s top 14 races you shouldn’t miss. Not to be outdone, Ashe County each June boasts the Black and Blue, a one-of-a-kind relay in which teams of riders cover 200 miles of scenic terrain. At the Blue Ridge Brutal (August 10) riders choose between 57-, 75-, and 100-mile trails, all leading http://www.exploreboonearea.com http://www.usairwaysmag.com

Table of Contents for the Digital Edition of US Airways - July 2013

US Airways - July 2013
Table of Contents
CEO Letter
From the Editor
Did You Know?
Making It Happen
Hot Spots: Family-Friendly Vacations
Wine & Dine: The Other Portland
Great Tastes: Benjamin Steakhouse
Wine & Dine: A Crafty Measure
Diversions: Fresh as You Please
Great Tastes: Savor
Great Escapes: Now Resorts & Spas
Adventure: Climbing Mt. Rainier
Travel Feature: Grand Cayman, the Epicure's Island
US Airways: Top Dogs
Special Section: Northwest Arkansas
Golf: Primland, a Course Apart
Special Section: North Carolina High Country
Puzzles
Readers Resource Index
Your US Airways Guide
Video Entertainment
Audio Entertainment
U.S. and Caribbean Service Map
International Service Map
Airport Terminal Maps
US Airways Fleet/Customs & Immigration
Passenger Info/Contact US Airways
US Airways MarketPlace®
Window or Aisle?

US Airways - July 2013