If you’re craving fresh air, wide-open views, and a little adrenaline, the North Carolina High Country is calling your name. Boone may be known for its charm and small-town vibe, but just beyond the rooftops and coffee shops lies a playground of mountains, rivers, cliffs, and trails waiting to be explored.

At The Horton Hotel, we love being the stylish, cozy home base for some of the wildest adventures in the Blue Ridge. Whether you’re here for a weekend thrill or a weeklong escape, here’s how to chase adventure—High Country style.

Rock Climbing at Holloway Mountain or Linville Gorge

Craggy cliffs, sweeping views, and epic routes make the Boone area a mecca for rock climbers. Whether you’re top roping with a guide or scaling a trad route, local outfitters like Rock Dimensions and Edge of the World can get you geared up and ready to climb.

Distance from Horton: 25–45 minutes depending on location

Whitewater Rafting & Kayaking

The Watauga River and nearby Nolichucky and French Broad Rivers offer some of the best paddling in the region. Rafting trips range from family-friendly float days to heart-pounding Class IV rapids.

Outfitters like Wahoos Adventures and High Mountain Expeditions run half- and full-day trips with experienced guides.

Trips typically launch 30–60 minutes from The Horton

Mountain Biking at Rocky Knob Park

Just 10 minutes from downtown Boone, Rocky Knob Mountain Bike Park is a hidden gem with flowy trails, technical features, and forested singletrack. Whether you’re a beginner or seasoned rider, it’s a can’t-miss spot for two-wheeled fun.

285 Mountain Bike Way, Boone, NC – 10 minutes from The Horton

Hiking & Waterfall Hunting

Of course, no trip to the High Country is complete without a hike. From the sweeping summit of Elk Knob to the cascading beauty of Glen Burney Falls, Boone is surrounded by trails that challenge and inspire.

Check out our blog on “Summer Trails to Visit” for all the local favorites—with addresses and how far they are from the hotel.

Ziplining Through the Canopy

Ready to fly? Local ziplines like Sky Valley Zip Tours and High Gravity Adventures offer an exhilarating way to see the mountains from above—think sky bridges, treetop platforms, and heart-racing descents.

Sky Valley is just 5 miles from downtown Boone

Fuel Up & Wind Down at The Horton

After a full day of adventure, come back to The Horton to relax in comfort:

• Toast your triumphs on the rooftop lounge with a craft cocktail and sweeping mountain views
  
• Rest your feet in your beautifully designed room, where luxury meets mountain soul
  

Adventure is all around you in the High Country. Whether it’s your first time here or your fiftieth, Boone delivers something bold, beautiful, and unforgettable every time. And The Horton Hotel is ready to be your basecamp.