Things to Do in Ashe County
There are many things to do in Ashe County, North Carolina and neighboring Grayson County, Virginia, including recreation and outdoor activities, music, festivals, shopping, antiquing, wineries, art, theater, etc. The Ashe County Chamber of Commerce is the best source for information about visiting Ashe County. Their website has a lot of information about things to do.
Highlights include:
The New River: Whether it’s canoeing, kayaking, tubing, or fishing, there is so much to do on one of the world’s oldest rivers. The depth of the water ranges from 2 feet to as deep as 8 feet making the New River a fun and memorable trip for all members of the family. You can find a list of outfitters on the Ashe County Chamber of Commerce Member Directory.
Ashe County Arts Center: The Ashe Arts Center in downtown West Jefferson features the work of local artists, hosting visual arts exhibits and a variety of concerts. Local work is also available in the Gallery Shop. The arts center houses the offices of the Ashe County Arts Council. For more information, visit ashecountyarts.org.
Ashe County Cheese: Ashe County Cheese is Carolina’s oldest cheese plant, producing quality cheese since 1930. They are located in downtown West Jefferson. Look for the cows! For more information, visit ashecountycheese.com.
Sunday Salon at the River House: Just about every Sunday beginning in April, Sunday Salons at River House feature musical and theatrical performances, poetry readings, book signings, art displays and literary and historical discussions, followed by dinner. For more information, visit riverhousenc.com.
The Barn Quilt Tour: The Ashe County Arts Council has brought together members of the community to design, paint and mount quilt block paintings on barns throughout the County. The treasure hunt begins with the help of a brochure pinpointing the locations of over 31 barn quilts. Stop by the Arts Council in West Jefferson for a brochure on visit the Arts Council web site at ashecountyarts.org/barn-quilts. This is a self-guided, driving tour.
The Blue Ridge Parkway: For more than 30 miles, the Blue Ridge Parkway traverses the ridges of Ashe County, showcasing spectacular long range views, picturesque log cabins and truly breathtaking pastoral settings. For more information, visit blueridgeparkway.org.
The Churches of the Frescoes: During the 1970s, internationally renowned fresco artist Ben Long created magnificent enduring works in two small antique churches in Ashe County. Thousands of people visit the frescoes each year – both for their religious significance and because they are unique works of art. For more information, visit: ashefrescoes.org.
Virginia Creeper Trail: For a one-day outing, consider the short drive from Ashe County to Damascus, VA for a 17-mile bicycle ride – all down hill! The Virginia Creeper Bicycle trail is considered one of the most spectacular bicycle trails in the world. For more information, visit vacreepertrail.com.
West Jefferson Arts District: In the space of a few city blocks, the West Jefferson Arts District features nearly a dozen artist studios, galleries and co-ops, as well as fifteen community murals depicting the musical heritage, colorful landscape, and diverse culture of the region. Gift shops, antiques, and some of the best restaurants you could hope to find are here as well. For more information, visit visitwestjefferson.org/west-jefferson-arts.
Grayson Highlands State Park: Near Mount Rogers and Whitetop Mountain, Virginia's two highest mountains, Grayson Highlands offers scenic views of alpine-like peaks more than 5,000 feet high. Facilities include a visitor center, campgrounds, and hiking trails leading to waterfalls and overlooks. You can see wild ponies and hike parts of the Appalachian Trail in Grayson Highlands. For more information, visit dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/grayson-highlands.
Things to Do in the High Country
There is also a lot more to see and do in the surrounding area. More hiking, biking, and scenic drives, but also zip lining, gem mining, shopping, and alpine slides. For more information on the High County and things to do in nearby Boone, Blowing Rock, Banner Elk, and Linville, visit the High Country Visitors Guide, Explore Boone, and Visit NC High Country.