Welcome to The Alpine Cottage - Guest guidebook
Hiking
This moderately strenuous hike starts from a trailhead parking area at 825 Skyland Drive and descends about 230 feet to scenic Otter Falls on Valley Creek. The 0.6-mile hike to the falls creates a round trip of about 1.2 miles. Remember as you descend to the waterfall that you will have an identical climb back to your car. Sturdy hiking boots or shoes are recommended. Don't forget to dress properly and bring plenty of water when going on a hike!
The trail leaves the parking area on Skyland Drive (elevation 3,840') and descends onto four colored trails, consisting of two loops, and two dead end trails. Each trail is marked with red, blue, yellow, or orange markers on wooden posts. Benches are provided at each intersection, and also at viewpoints. Additionally, there is an observation deck located adjacent to Otter Falls at an elevation of 3,620'. In spring, summer, and fall, the hike to Otter Falls waterfall leads through the cool mountain forest. In winter, snow and ice are common. The Park may be closed in extreme weather, so check the Town website Alerts page for updates.
53 locals recommend
Otter Falls Trail
825 Skyland DrThis moderately strenuous hike starts from a trailhead parking area at 825 Skyland Drive and descends about 230 feet to scenic Otter Falls on Valley Creek. The 0.6-mile hike to the falls creates a round trip of about 1.2 miles. Remember as you descend to the waterfall that you will have an identical climb back to your car. Sturdy hiking boots or shoes are recommended. Don't forget to dress properly and bring plenty of water when going on a hike!
The trail leaves the parking area on Skyland Drive (elevation 3,840') and descends onto four colored trails, consisting of two loops, and two dead end trails. Each trail is marked with red, blue, yellow, or orange markers on wooden posts. Benches are provided at each intersection, and also at viewpoints. Additionally, there is an observation deck located adjacent to Otter Falls at an elevation of 3,620'. In spring, summer, and fall, the hike to Otter Falls waterfall leads through the cool mountain forest. In winter, snow and ice are common. The Park may be closed in extreme weather, so check the Town website Alerts page for updates.
Activity
Hawksnest Tubing Park is the largest snow tubing park on the East Coast with over 30 lanes of snow tubing that span from 400 to 1,000 feet long. The four different snow tubing areas provide an array of terrain. Located just 5 minutes from The Alpine Cottage, this super fun activity is convenience at it's best!
But wait, there's more....ziplining! there’s no better way to adventure in the NC Mountains than an aerial view at speeds of up to 40 miles per hour! There are 2 full tour options, stretching over 4 miles, featuring 20 ziplines in total. Fly over the treetops, through the canopy, and over lakes and creeks. All while taking in the spectacular panoramic views of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
6 locals recommend
Ski Hawksnest
Ski HawksnestHawksnest Tubing Park is the largest snow tubing park on the East Coast with over 30 lanes of snow tubing that span from 400 to 1,000 feet long. The four different snow tubing areas provide an array of terrain. Located just 5 minutes from The Alpine Cottage, this super fun activity is convenience at it's best!
But wait, there's more....ziplining! there’s no better way to adventure in the NC Mountains than an aerial view at speeds of up to 40 miles per hour! There are 2 full tour options, stretching over 4 miles, featuring 20 ziplines in total. Fly over the treetops, through the canopy, and over lakes and creeks. All while taking in the spectacular panoramic views of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
Sightseeing
Grandfather Mountain is a fabulous place to spend the day. Whether it's the Mile High Swinging Bridge, hiking, visiting the wildlife habitat, nature museum, birding, or picnicking, this adventure is for the family or solo time. The view are breathtakingly majestic!
716 locals recommend
Grandfather Mountain
2050 Blowing Rock HwyGrandfather Mountain is a fabulous place to spend the day. Whether it's the Mile High Swinging Bridge, hiking, visiting the wildlife habitat, nature museum, birding, or picnicking, this adventure is for the family or solo time. The view are breathtakingly majestic!