Located in North Carolina, the High Country region is known for its stunning mountain views, charming small towns, and rich Appalachian heritage. This beautiful area comes alive every fall when the leaves change color, creating the perfect setting for families looking for adventure and bonding time. Whether you’re traveling with young kids or teenagers, the High Country has a wide range of family-friendly fall activities that are sure to bring everyone closer.
Exploring the Top 10 Family-Friendly Fall Activities in High Country means more than just enjoying seasonal events — it’s about creating moments your family will remember long after the leaves have fallen.
1. Tweetsie Railroad
Tweetsie Railroad is one of Blowing Rock’s most iconic attractions, offering families a vibrant blend of history and entertainment. At the heart of the experience is the 3-mile steam locomotive ride, where you board an authentic narrow-gauge train and set off on a journey through scenic mountain landscapes. The ride features lively Wild West reenactments with cowboy hosts and outlaws, providing interactive fun that captivates all ages.
Highlights for families at Tweetsie Railroad include:
- Live shows: Western-themed performances with comedy, music, and stunt action.
- Amusement rides: Classic favorites like the Ferris wheel and tilt-a-whirl.
- Petting zoo: Kids can meet goats, llamas, and miniature horses up close.
- Seasonal events: Fall brings “Ghost Train” evenings, autumn decorations, and themed crafts.
The attraction delivers a unique combination of nostalgia and adventure, making it easy to see why it’s a High Country tradition for generations of families.
2. Oktoberfest at Sugar Mountain Resort
The Oktoberfest at Sugar Mountain Resort is a lively celebration held in early October, bringing a taste of Bavaria to the High Country. This German folk festival is designed with families in mind, offering a wide range of activities that ensure everyone has a memorable time.
Family-Friendly Activities
- Live Music and Dance: Enjoy traditional Bavarian tunes and folk dances that will get the whole family moving.
- Costume Contests: Participate in or simply appreciate the creative and festive costume displays.
- Local Artisans: Browse through stalls featuring local artists and their handcrafted goods.
- Bavarian Food and Drink: Savor authentic German cuisine, including pretzels, sausages, and a variety of beverages.
- Chairlift Rides: Take scenic chairlift rides to enjoy panoramic views of the autumn landscape.
- Hayrides and Inflatables: Perfect for kids, these activities offer endless fun and excitement.
Cultural Experiences and Entertainment
The festival immerses you in German culture with its rich traditions and lively atmosphere. From delectable food to engaging performances, every aspect is carefully curated to provide an authentic experience. The combination of cultural enrichment and family-oriented activities makes Oktoberfest at Sugar Mountain Resort a must-visit event during the fall season.
3. Woolly Worm Festival in Banner Elk
The Woolly Worm Festival in Banner Elk is one of the quirkiest and most beloved entries on the list of top 10 family-friendly fall activities in the High Country. Every October, families come together to watch the main event: woolly worm races. Children and adults cheer as these fuzzy caterpillars climb up a string, with winners earning the honor of predicting the winter weather for the region — a tradition deeply rooted in local folklore.
More than just races
There’s more to the festival than just the races. The festival grounds are alive with:
- Live mountain music performances
- Dozens of craft and food vendors
- Face painting and games for kids
- Local artisans showcasing their creations
Legend has it that the color bands of the woolly worm forecast how harsh or mild the winter will be. This delightful combination of science, superstition, and good-natured fun creates an atmosphere you won’t find anywhere else in the High Country during fall. The Woolly Worm Festival offers a memorable mix of laughter, community spirit, and hands-on experiences for people of all ages.
4. High Country Wine Trail (Family-Friendly Edition)
The High Country Wine Trail is perfect for families looking to enjoy scenic vineyards and local wineries. The trail connects five charming wineries, each offering unique experiences with a family-friendly twist.
- Outdoor Spaces: Many of these wineries provide beautiful outdoor areas where children can play while parents indulge in wine tasting.
- Non-Alcoholic Options: Look out for non-alcoholic beverages like fresh grape juice or sparkling water to keep the little ones happy.
- Scenic Views: These vineyards boast breathtaking mountain views, making them ideal spots for picnics and family photos.
Explore the High Country Wine Trail and discover how it caters to both adults and children, ensuring everyone in the family has an enjoyable experience amidst stunning surroundings.
5. Valle Country Fair in Valle Crucis
The Valle Country Fair in Valle Crucis is a perfect celebration for October, attracting families with its lively combination of mountain music, crafts, and fall foods. Every year on the third Saturday of October, the fair turns a wide meadow into a bustling gathering place where tradition and community spirit shine.
Attractions for all ages include:
- Games like pumpkin bowling and ring toss keep kids entertained.
- Face painting stations for creative fun and colorful memories.
- Pony rides offer gentle excitement for young children.
Local artisans display handmade crafts ranging from pottery to textiles, providing a chance to shop for unique souvenirs. The aroma of apple butter simmering and homemade baked goods fills the air, inviting families to sample classic fall treats. Performances by local musicians carry the sounds of mountain music across the grounds, reinforcing the authentic cultural atmosphere. The fair also hosts storytelling sessions and folk demonstrations, connecting visitors with Appalachian heritage in a hands-on way.
6. Pumpkin Farms Galore! (Family-Friendly Edition)
Pumpkin Farms Galore! (Family-Friendly Edition) brings the spirit of autumn alive across the High Country with hands-on fun for every age. Each farm offers a unique take on classic fall activities, creating perfect weekends for families.
- Pumpkin picking: Fields stretch out under mountain skies, inviting kids to hunt for their ideal jack-o’-lantern.
- Corn mazes: Twist through tall stalks, offering adventure and laughter as families race to find the exit.
- Petting zoos: Introduce little ones to goats, sheep, and bunnies — always a favorite stop after a hayride around the property.
- Onsite playgrounds: Provide space for energetic play while parents sip hot apple cider made fresh from local orchards.
Many farms set up photo stations among pumpkins and sunflowers, ensuring you’ll capture memories of your “Top 10 Family-Friendly Fall Activities in High Country” adventure.
From cheerful wagon rides to the scent of cider donuts in the air, these pumpkin farms create an atmosphere that’s equal parts festive and relaxing.
7. Apple Picking Adventures (Family-Friendly Edition)
Apple picking adventures bring families face-to-face with the vibrant flavors of the High Country’s harvest season. Local apple orchards like The Orchard at Altapass in Spruce Pine and Justus Orchard in Hendersonville cater to families by offering spacious picnic areas, scenic walking paths, and rustic farm stores stocked with jams, ciders, and fresh baked goods. Apple Hill Farm near Banner Elk adds a unique twist with barnyard animals and guided tours.
Expect a bounty of fall fruits ripe for the picking — classic varieties such as Winesap, Granny Smith, Gala, and Fuji line row after row of trees. Many orchards encourage tasting as you pick, letting kids discover their new favorite apple right off the branch. After gathering a basketful, families often settle in for snacks under the trees or visit onsite bakeries for warm apple turnovers and fresh-pressed cider — a sweet reward after a day spent among the orchards.
8. Hiking Trails with a Twist! (Family-Friendly Edition)
High Country hiking trails offer more than just a walk in the woods. Families discover something special on almost every path. Here are some kid-friendly favorites:
- The Blue Ridge Parkway’s Cascades Trail: A gentle loop with dramatic waterfalls and interpretive signs.
- Price Lake Loop: Flat terrain circles a sparkling mountain lake, perfect for young explorers eager to spot ducks or throw pebbles.
- Elk Knob State Park’s Summit Trail: Wide paths and panoramic summit views reward families willing to climb a little higher.
Many trails have wooden bridges, hidden fairy houses, or scavenger hunts organized by local parks — making every hike an adventure.
9. Exploring Nature Centers (Family-Friendly Edition)
Exploring nature centers is a great way for families to learn about the environment while enjoying interactive exhibits and educational programs. Here are some of the best places to visit in the High Country region:
- Grandfather Mountain Nature Museum: Offers hands-on exhibits, native wildlife habitats, and guided nature walks.
- Blue Ridge Parkway Visitor Center: Features educational displays, a kids’ activity area, and seasonal ranger-led programs.
- Elk Knob State Park: Hosts interpretive programs for children, including guided hikes and wildlife spotting.
These nature centers are perfect for sparking curiosity and fostering a love for the outdoors in young explorers.
10. Scenic Drives through Fall Foliage Hotspots (Family-Friendly Edition)
Experience the stunning autumn colors of the High Country by embarking on one of these family-friendly scenic drives:
- Blue Ridge Parkway: Known as “America’s Favorite Drive,” this route offers spectacular views of the Blue Ridge Mountains, with multiple overlooks perfect for family photo ops.
- New River Valley: A serene drive along the New River, showcasing vibrant foliage and opportunities for leisurely picnics by the water.
- Roan Mountain Road: Travel through this picturesque area to witness breathtaking vistas, especially during peak leaf season in mid-October.
These drives provide a perfect backdrop for enjoying High Country’s natural beauty from the comfort of your car.
Conclusion
Experiencing the fall season in the High Country through these family-friendly activities creates lasting memories and strengthens family bonds. The blend of outdoor adventures, cultural festivities, and scenic beauty ensures there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Plan your trip to High Country this autumn and immerse your family in the vibrant colors and unique traditions that make this region special. Embrace the opportunity to create unforgettable memories with your loved ones amidst the breathtaking backdrop of the High Country.
