Welcome to Boone, north carolina
Watauga County • High Country • Western North Carolina
Boone, North Carolina
A vibrant High Country college town known for Appalachian State University, four-season outdoor life, a lively downtown, and easy access to the Blue Ridge Parkway, Grandfather Mountain, and ski resorts.
Why people choose Boone
- College-town energy: Appalachian State + arts, music, and events
- Outdoor access: Trails, rivers, and Parkway overlooks minutes away
- Cool summers: High elevation climate and four-season living
- High Country hub: Best mix of amenities + mountain lifestyle
What it’s like living here
- Year-round community: More full-time residents than resort towns nearby
- Food + coffee scene: Local spots, breweries, and farmers markets
- Easy day trips: Blowing Rock, Banner Elk, Valle Crucis, Linville
- Winter options: Quick drive to ski slopes and snow tubing
The Boone signature
Boone blends real-town livability with true mountain access—an outdoorsy, energetic High Country hub where Appalachian State keeps the community active and the calendar full.
Where is Boone, NC?
Located in Watauga County in North Carolina’s High Country.
Boone at a glance
Key numbers people ask about when relocating.
Top areas to live in & around Boone
Click any area to open Google Maps.
Downtown Boone
Food, coffee, shops, App State energy, walkable core.
App State / Campus Area
Closest to campus, stadium, and college-town activity.
New Market / 105 Extension
Convenient retail, groceries, and newer neighborhoods nearby.
Howard Knob Area
Elevation, views, and quick access back to town.
Boone Golf Club Area
Golf-forward pockets, flatter valley living, easy roads.
Poplar Grove Connector
Great for commuters—quick routes around town.
Valle Crucis
River life, rural charm, and iconic Mast General Store.
Foscoe
Central High Country base between Boone and Banner Elk.
Vilas
More land, quieter roads, and space—still close to Boone.
Meat Camp
Rural feel, creek/forest settings, and privacy north of town.
Deep Gap
Great access toward Wilkesboro + Parkway routes.
Todd
New River living, kayaking, and a relaxed community vibe.
Fleetwood / 221 South
Commuter-friendly corridor toward West Jefferson.
West Jefferson
Arts-forward town nearby with a strong Main Street.
Blowing Rock
Upscale village, Parkway access, boutiques and dining.
Ski Mountain Area
Quick winter access + rentals/second homes nearby.
Grandfather Mountain Area
Iconic hikes and high elevation day trips nearby.
Banner Elk
Ski resorts, dining, and four-season “getaway” energy.
Sugar Mountain
Condos + ski access and summer lift rides.
Beech Mountain
Highest town in the East—summer cool + winter sports.
Linville
Gorge access, peaceful roads, and scenic drives.
Top things to do in & around Boone
Click any card to visit the official website.
Appalachian State University
College-town heartbeat: campus, sports, events, culture.
Explore Boone
Official travel guide for events, trails, and local highlights.
Blue Ridge Parkway
Scenic overlooks, hikes, and unforgettable drives.
Grandfather Mountain
Mile High Swinging Bridge, trails, and wildlife habitats.
Tweetsie Railroad
Family favorite theme park with a classic steam train.
The Blowing Rock
Iconic cliffside attraction just south of Boone.
Mast General Store (Valle Crucis)
Iconic High Country stop with history + provisions.
Hebron Falls
Quick waterfall hike near Boone (short, rewarding).
Watauga County Parks
Greenways, parks, and recreation programs.
Appalachian Ski Mountain
Skiing + snowboarding close to town.
Hawksnest Snow Tubing
Big tubing runs and winter fun nearby.
Boone Events
Community calendar, festivals, and seasonal happenings.
Town of Boone
Local resources, parks, and community info.
Watauga County Public Library
Programs, events, and a great community anchor.
App State Football (Visit)
Game-day energy and a major part of fall in Boone.
Thinking about living in Boone, NC?
Boone has a few very different “feels”—from walkable downtown and App State-adjacent neighborhoods to High Country views and quiet valley pockets. If you want help comparing areas (and keeping an eye on the right listings), I can help you narrow it down based on your lifestyle, commute, and four-season priorities.