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If you're wondering if Burnsville, NC is the perfect fall destination for you, you're in the right spot! Here you'll find our curated list of autumn-inspired activities, places to hike, and cuisine to experience. Settle in and enjoy reading our recommendations below for the perfect fall getaway.
Find Fall Colors on These Hiking Trails
Yancey County is home to more than 100 miles of public trails. While there's a trail for every type of hiker, here's a list of our favorite hikes for awe-inspiring fall views.
Big Butt
Length: 4.8 miles round-trip
Difficulty: Difficult
For spectacular views of the Black Mountain Range from Little Butt (elevation 5,620), begin at the Walker Knob Overlook at mile marker 358.9 on the Blue Ridge Parkway. Park your vehicle and look for the "Big Butt Trail" sign to your left.
Green Knob Lookout Tower
Length: 1 mile round-trip
Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult
The Green Knob Lookout Tower is atop 5,080-ft Green Knob Mountain near Milepost 350.5 on the Blue Ridge Parkway.
Mount Mitchell Observation Tower
Length: 0.2 miles round-trip
Difficulty: Easy
Mt. Mitchell’s dramatic summit at the observation tower is the highest point east of the Mississippi River at 6,684 feet and offers unmatched, ever-expansive views.
Indulge in Fall-Inspired Food and Drinks
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Nothing says 'autumn' like fall-inspired treats. Burnsville eateries embrace the season with menus created for warm conversations and crisp air.
Grab a Seasonal Brew at Homeplace Beer Co.
There's nowhere quite as homey as Homeplace Beer Co., located in downtown Burnsville. The venue features indoor and outdoor seating, complete with a live music stage. The brewery is releasing its seasonal Smashed Pumpkin Harvest Ale and Oktoberfest, each scheduled to be released the last week in September. Be sure to check their food menu, served up by Hog Hollow Wood-Fired Pizza, as they release their seasonal menu to compliment the beer.
Cozy Up with a Latte from Appalachian Java
You'll find locals and visitors alike getting breakfast or an afternoon snack at Appalachian Java, located on Main Street. During the fall season you can indulge in seasonal flavored coffee and treats. Grab a maple latte, caramel apple butter latte, toasted marshmallow latte, or a piece of pumpkin bread. If you're lucky, there are certain days the baker brings out pumpkin cream cheese rolls; a literal slice of heaven.
Savor the Season at Carriage House Sundries
Steeped in local history and flavor, Carriage House Sundries pays homage to the Nu Wray Hotel, North Carolina's oldest continually operating hotel. You can also start the evening at Roland's Bar; an outdoor venue adjacent to Carriage House Sundries. Roland's offers drinks and light fare, all while sitting around a fire. Step inside Carriage House Sundries for a delightful menu with seasonal offerings.
Enjoy Fall Events and Happenings
Every autumn Burnsville is filled with events to mark the season. From family-friendly festivals to quaint pumpkin patches, our little mountain town is ready to celebrate.
Spend a Saturday Morning at the Yancey Co. Farmers Market
It's hard to find a farmers market as picturesque as the Saturday market in downtown Burnsville. From seasonal produce to baked goods and flowers, the market is filled with folks, tote bags in hand. Visit the Yancey County Farmers Market website to find out more information.
Attend One or More Fall Festivals
While there are several fall festivals in Burnsville during the autumn months, each one is a unique experience. Whether you're looking for music, hands-on demonstrations, or arts and crafts, there's a festival for you. Visit our home page for more information on upcoming events to enjoy this fall.
Choose a Quilt Block Trail to Explore
Burnsville is home to approximately 150 quilt blocks for viewing. Each quilt block has a story to tell, all while contributing to the beauty of Yancey County. Visit the quilt block trail page on our website to find trail maps and begin your journey.
While this list includes some of our favorite ways to celebrate the season, Burnsville has even more to offer. Below you'll find more places to eat, places to stay, and a variety of activities. Get ready to make memories this fall as you explore Burnsville.
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