Whenever people ask about kid-friendly activities or a place where their children can run around near downtown Burnsville, Kid Mountain always tops the list. As much as I have recommended it, I realized I had never actually visited it myself.

To start the year, Blue Ridge Outoors asked readers to cast ballots for their favorites: top trails, scenic destinations, exciting races, and local businesses boosting the region’s vibrant outdoor culture. And with the results in, we present our annual Best of the Blue Ridge Awards, a superlative snapshot of what’s shaping the adventure scene in the Southeast and Mid-Atlantic. Read on to learn more about this year’s big winners.

No one imagined a furnace and a vision would transform a quiet, rural Western North Carolina mountain community into a world-renowned mecca for studio glass. All it took was an initial spark and a community, eager to fan the flame.

Whenever I lead outdoor writing programs, whether with children or adults, I start off with a mindful breathing exercise. I see it as an opportunity to hit the reset button, to help people forget whatever it is they may have been focused on and move into the present moment.

I have long believed wonder is an inside job. Of course, nothing inspires a strong sense of wonder like Mother Nature. If you ask me, she works overtime in Burnsville, surrounding us with eye-popping gloriousness daily. Here, there’s no such thing as an ordinary walk.

The last time I visited the observation tower at Mt. Mitchell was August 3, 2024, three days after hip replacement surgery. I questioned whether it was sensible, but a friend who knew me well believed the challenge, combined with fresh air and a view, would do me good.  

Burnsville lies amid the highest peaks east of the Rockies, a hidden treasure of western North Carolina that radiates warmth and mountain hospitality.

The town boasts a walkable main street area, anchored by the hotel on one end and the farmers' market on the other. In between, there is a host of eateries and shops with antiques, artisan goods, books, and clothing. If you prefer exploring outdoors, head to the recently reopened Mount Mitchell State Park or see constellations at Bare Dark Sky Observatory.

BURNSVILLE — Why you should visit: Go to Mount Mitchell, the highest peak east of the Mississippi, or tackle the rolling hills in town as you stop by murals, art galleries, and charming shops.

Despite being the fourth generation in a renowned family of glass artists, it was dance, not glassblowing, that fired Keikichi Littleton's assion as a teenager growing up in the mountains of Western North Carolina.

Mount Mitchell State Park reopened Sept. 15, 2025, for the first time since Hurricane Helene.

While cities like Asheville are the darlings of western North Carolina, the small towns that dot the mountains serve as the heartbeat.

Bring your best friend for a well-deserved meal and a refreshing view on the patio at Snap Dragon

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