Beech Mountain is a popular ski resort in North Carolina’s Blue Ridge Mountains, attracting thousands of guests each year. However, this small town also has a robust summer scene with activities for the entire family — think hiking, mountain biking, disc golf, and more. Follow your day’s excursions with a craft beer and a great view, and you’ll be recharged and ready to do it all again.
Photos: Andrea Updyke
Where to Play, Eat, and Stay on a Summer Trip to Beech Mountain, NC
As Western North Carolina rebounds from the effects of Hurricane Helene, a visit to Beech Mountain is the perfect weekend getaway to enjoy scenic views, outdoor activities, good food, and local beer while helping the community rebuild. From mountainside cabins and locally owned restaurants to scenic hiking trails and live music, Beech Mountain is a place to relax and reconnect with nature in an Appalachian Mountain setting that’s definitely worth writing home about.
Things to do in Beech Mountain
Hike the Emerald Outback
Photo: Andrea Updyke
The Emerald Outback trail system has seven miles of trails that range from easy to moderate, weaving throughout the mountainside. Choose from out-and-back trails or a loop to suit your skill level. Alternately, bring your mountain bike for an exhilarating ride through the trees on the mountain-bike-only trails. At the Emerald Outback trailhead, there’s a detailed map and a bike station where you can put air in your tires or make minor repairs if needed. I had a great time hiking an easy loop while admiring the blooming vegetation, hopping over roots, and taking in the beauty of the Roan Mountain overlook.
Emerald Outback Trailhead: 328 N. Pinnacle Ridge Road, Beech Mountain, NC 28604
Ride the chairlift at Beech Mountain Resort
Photos: Andrea Updyke
Beech Mountain Resort isn’t just for skiing. Take the chairlift to the top for a bite to eat or drink, and stay a while as you enjoy one of the most spectacular views in the area. When you’re done, take the chair lift back down, or play a round of disc golf as you make your way to the bottom. A downhill-mountain-biking event was taking place during my visit, and my group watched in awe as each rider demonstrated their skills. A live band kept the crowds happy and energized.
Beech Mountain Resort: 1007 Beech Mountain Parkway, Beech Mountain, NC 28604
Visit Grandfather Mountain
Photos: Andrea Updyke
If you have time, a short drive to nearby Grandfather Mountain is well worth it. See otters, bears, and eagles in the non-profit attraction’s wildlife habitats and tour the Wilson Center for Nature Discovery to learn about these animals. After, head up to the Mile High Swinging Bridge for a breathtaking experience above the trees. If the wind is blowing just right, you can almost hear the bridge singing as you cross. On a clear day, the neighboring mountain views stretch as far as the eye can see. I recommend wearing a windbreaker for the Mile High Swinging Bridge, as the wind is part of the fun.
Grandfather Mountain: 2050 Blowing Rock Highway, Linville, NC 28646
Where to eat and drink in Beech Mountain
Famous Brick Oven Pizzeria
Photo: Andrea Updyke
A visit to Beech Mountain isn’t complete without a pizza from the Famous Brick Oven Pizzeria, family-owned and -operated for more than 35 years. Nosh on brick-oven pizza made with handcrafted dough and fresh toppings, or try a sandwich or salad. Make sure to save room for one of the giant chocolate chunk cookies (or take one to go). While you’re there, you might enjoy a live band as you play a round of mini-golf or try your luck in the arcade. The air hockey table is a must-do for families.
Famous Brick Oven Pizzeria: 402 Beech Mountain Parkway, Beech Mountain, NC 28604
Fred’s Backside Deli
Photo: Andrea Updyke
Fred’s General Mercantile is another Beech Mountain staple. Whether you pop in for a few groceries, shop for souvenirs, or enjoy a meal, Fred’s feels like home away from home. Fred’s Backside Deli serves daily made-to-order breakfast and lunch with a weekend brunch buffet on Saturdays and Sundays. We enjoyed brunch during our stay, which included homemade biscuits and gravy, eggs, bacon, sausage, and a breakfast pizza that I’m still thinking about.
Fred’s General Mercantile: 501 Beech Mountain Parkway, Beech Mountain, NC 28604
Old Hampton Store & Barbeque
Photo: Andrea Updyke
After you visit Grandfather Mountain, stop at the Old Hampton Store & Barbeque for handcrafted cocktails, hand-pulled hickory-smoked pork barbeque, and the dreamiest, creamiest macaroni and cheese. Other menu items include grilled cheese, hot dogs, and hand-scooped ice cream. Shop for handcrafted pottery or artwork and watch a blacksmith demonstration while you’re there. It’s a great stop before heading back up to Beech Mountain.
Old Hampton Store & Barbeque: 77 Ruffin St, Linville, NC 28646
Holy Smokes BBQ
Photo: Andrea Updyke
Holy Smokes BBQ is a locally loved barbecue restaurant. This was the surprise gem of our trip that absolutely lived up to the hype, from the tender cuts of brisket to the pork and turkey burnt ends. The pitmaster even helped us pair the house-made barbeque sauces with each item for the best flavor combinations. Make time for a meal or two at Holy Smokes BBQ and come hungry — you won’t want to leave without a taste of the homemade fudge for dessert.
Holy Smokes BBQ: 3363 S. Beech Mountain Parkway, Beech Mountain, NC 28604
First Chair Coffee Shop
If you’re staying at or near the Beech Mountain Resort, First Chair is a must-stop for excellent coffee and pastries. Take it to go or enjoy on site to fuel up for a day of mountain fun. If you love coffee as much as I do, you’ll be happy to bring home a bag for a taste of the mountains at home. They’ll even grind the beans for you on request.
First Chair Coffee Shop: 1103 Beech Mountain Pkwy #3, Beech Mountain, NC 28604
Where to stay in Beech Mountain and how to get there
Photo: Andrea Updyke
There are a few lodges and resorts around Beech Mountain, but if you ask me, the magic really happens in a vacation rental. We stayed in a beautiful mountain home complete with gas fireplaces (indoors and out), a covered porch with a private mountain view, and a full-size kitchen. It was so beautiful that we could’ve enjoyed our trip to Beech Mountain without ever leaving the cabin. One evening, the rain was pouring down, and my favorite place to sit was on the porch by the fireplace, basking in the sounds of the rain.
To fly into the area, choose Charlotte, NC, or Greensboro, NC, for arrivals and rent a car for the duration of your stay. Beech Mountain is an idyllic destination for families, couples, or friends who share a love of the outdoors. Bring a car for your journey to the Blue Ridge Mountains, and see where the road takes you. 