Beech Mountain Gears Up For Fall Events

BEECH MOUNTAIN, NC — Autumn will be here soon and if you’re looking for a quick weekend getaway, Beech Mountain has a calendar of events aimed at celebrating the best of autumn in the North Carolina mountains.

Beech Mountain’s claim to fame is that at 5,505 feet, it is the highest town in Eastern America. It is also home to a ski resort, and the Land of Oz theme park. And at less than a three-hour drive from Charlotte, it’s a prime spot for a weekend getaway once the leaves start to put on their show.

According to Blue Ridge Mountain Life, the peak time for leaf peeping in North Carolina at elevations above 5,000 feet will be the first 10 days of October.

Here’s what’s happening this fall in Beech Mountain:

Autumn at Oz
With ruby red slippers in tow, join fans of the classic Wizard of Oz film from all over the world at the Land of Oz for the annual Autumn at Oz festival. For one weekend only, September 7-9, 2018, visitors can follow along with Dorothy, Scarecrow, Tin Man and the Cowardly Lion as they travel down the yellow brick road to the Land of Oz. While here, watch out for the pesky flying monkeys and be on the lookout for Toto, too.

A list of event times and pricing can be found by visiting Land Of Oz.. Due to immense popularity, limited number of tickets are available. Those interested in attending are encouraged to purchase tickets in advance.

Fall-OH! The Senses - Bike, Hike and Taste
Adventure seekers, Beech Mountain is calling. Take in the breathtaking fall foliage by bike or by foot and discover all the hidden wonders Beech Mountain has to offer. Visitors can choose between the 12 trails spread throughout the town of Beech Mountain, each showcasing the true beauty of this captivating town. Some trails are located in the town’s Emerald Outback, an area of the mountain comprised of double track, single track, grassy areas and gravel roads, ranging from 4,700 to 5,400 feet in elevation, making it one of the highest mountain biking trail systems on the East Coast. Other trails are a part of a trail system that eloquently weave in and out of town making for a truly thrilling ride amongst the fall foliage. More experienced riders can also test out their downhill skills on nine moderate to advanced trails serviced by a chairlift at Beech Mountain Resort.

For those interested in a more leisurely bike ride down the mountain followed by a delicious wine tasting, look no further than the White Wolf Lodge where guests can rent bikes and head down an exclusive trial to the Banner Elk Winery. Along the way, stop and snap a photo of the mountain scenery and friendly wildlife. Adding to this unique excursion, once guests are ready to return back to Beech, the White Wolf Lodge will transport patrons back up the mountain.

Visitors can also check out the Buckeye Recreation Center home to more than 50 acres of developed parkland, nearly 10 acres of lakes and roughly 28 miles of designated hiking and biking trails. At this expansive 23,000 square foot state-of-the-art recreation center, enjoy guided bike tours, free outdoor activities such as canoeing on the nearby lake, October hay rides and much more. For more information visit, Beech Recreation.

Beech Mountain Resort
There is always something worthwhile stirring at Beech Mountain Resort. The resort offers a long list of events and activities from live music and rooftop yoga at 5506’, Beech Mountain Resort’s one-of-a-kind sky bar situated at the top of the mountain to disc golf, hiking and mountain biking through the wide-ranging slopes. Those interested in experiencing the resort like a local are invited to attend locals’ night at Beech Mountain Brewing Co., the town’s very own brewery tucked away in the village of the resort or experience one of the inaugural events such as the Oyster Roast. No matter the age or adventure style, there is always fun to be had at this whimsical resort in the sky.

For an up-to-date calendar of fall events visit Beech Mountain Resort.

Relax and Stay Awhile
A day simply isn’t enough time to take in all the beauty that Beech Mountain offers visitors in the fall. Guests who wish to extend the stay look no further than one of the towns’ many overnight accommodations including, Pinnacle Inn Resort, White Wolf Lodge, Beech Alpen Inn, 4 Seasons at Beech, Top of Beech. For rates, booking information and various other accommodations visit this website.

Upcoming Events
Mile High Kite Festival — Saturday, Sept. 1 - Sunday Sept 2. Spend this Labor Day Weekend a mile high at the Beech Mountain Mile High Kite Festival. The annual family favorite festival takes place the Saturday and Sunday of Labor Day weekend in the kite field at the base of Beech Mountain, located at more than 5,000 feet in elevation.

• Tickets: Festival admission is free with a $5 fee for parking.
• Location & Hours: 10 a.m. - 4 p.m., Kite Field at Brick Oven Pizzeria, 402 Beech Mountain Parkway, Beech Mountain, NC 28604

3rd Annual Oz Ball — Saturday, Sept. 8. Extend the Autumn at Oz experience at the 3rd Annual Oz Ball, a fun-filled evening of food, fellowship & dancing alongside the beloved characters of Oz. Ticket price includes a catered barbeque meal, party favors, photo opportunities with characters and LIVE Music. All attendees are encouraged but not obligated to dress as their favorite character for the Parade of Costumes at the end of the night!

• Location & Hours: Beech Mtn Club's Pavilion, 103 Lakeledge Rd, Beech Mountain, NC 28607; 6 p.m. - 8 p.m.
• Tickets: Tickets are currently on sale and are available for purchase here.

Photo credit: Amy Morrison