Last updated: November 5, 2026

Banner Elk is a small High Country mountain town about 2.5 hours from Greensboro (a bit less from Winston-Salem) that packs in skiing and snow tubing at Sugar Mountain and Beech Mountain, the year-round Wilderness Run Alpine Coaster, Grandfather Mountain, an alpaca farm, waterfalls and cozy places to eat. Winter (ski season plus the early December holiday weekend) is peak season, so book lodging, coaster rides, farm tours and Grandfather Mountain tickets ahead.

Banner Elk Choose-and-Cut Christmas Tree Lodging Packages (Nov. 14 to Dec. 6, 2026)

Make this the year your family cuts its own Christmas tree in the mountains! From Nov. 14 through Dec. 6, 2026, Banner Elk’s Choose-and-Cut Christmas Tree Lodging Packages bundle a cozy overnight stay with a fresh-cut tree from Elk River Evergreens. Packages are also available during A Small Town Christmas weekend, the first weekend in December. We did this package last year and can’t wait to experience it again.

What’s Included

One night’s lodging for two to six people at the property you choose
A voucher for one 7-foot choose-and-cut Christmas tree at Elk River Evergreens, given to you at check-in. Elk River Evergreens has two large tree farms and offers complimentary popcorn, hot chocolate, and hot cider.
10% off dining at Banner Elk Cafe with a coupon given to you at check-in

Price: Packages start at $185 on weekdays and $205 on weekends, plus tax, depending on where you stay.

See all package details at BannerElk.com

Make it a full holiday weekend: Pair your package with the Wilderness Run Alpine Coaster, an Apple Hill Alpaca Farm tour, and A Small Town Christmas downtown. You’ll find all of them in the guide below.

Why Choose Banner Elk for a Family Trip?

Banner Elk is a mountain town in North Carolina’s High Country that offers so much compared to its size when it comes to family fun. It sits at more than 3,700 feet and offers a perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, scenic views and local charm. Whether you are exploring the outdoors, discovering adorable alpacas or sipping coffee in a cozy cafe, Banner Elk offers memorable moments for every age.

For Triad families, it is one of the easiest true mountain getaways: close enough for a long day trip, but with so much to do that a weekend (or a four-day trip like ours) fills up fast.

Getting There from the Triad

From Greensboro: Roughly 2 hours 30 minutes in normal traffic.
From Winston-Salem: a little closer, usually around 2 hours depending on your route.
Hurricane Helene recovery: Avery County took a hard hit from Hurricane Helene in September 2024, and the town has been welcoming visitors back as recovery continues. Some trails and roads in the region have reopened in phases, so check each attraction’s website before you go.

Ski and Snow Season 2026-27

Winter is the peak season in Banner Elk, and it is a great home base for a family ski trip. Between them, Sugar Mountain and Beech Mountain have 38 slopes, 17 lifts, 16 tubing lanes, two terrain parks, two ski schools and an ice skating rink, and both resorts teach beginners and rent apparel. Read our full guide to Skiing and Snowboarding for more options around North Carolina.

Sugar Mountain Resort

Sugar Mountain is just outside Banner Elk and is the closest ski area to the Wilderness Run Alpine Coaster. Along with skiing and snowboarding, it has a snow tubing park and a 10,000-square-foot outdoor ice skating rink. The resort opens mid November, with the rink opening around Thanksgiving and tubing in early December.

Beech Mountain Resort

Beech Mountain Resort sits above Banner Elk in the Town of Beech Mountain and is a great second option for skiing, snowboarding and lessons.

Hawksnest Snow Tubing in Seven Devils

If your crew wants snow fun without ski lessons, Hawksnest in nearby Seven Devils (2058 Skyland Drive) is a dedicated snow tubing park.

Tubing is for ages 3 and up.
The 2026-27 season is tentatively set to open Thanksgiving weekend, depending on weather and snowmaking.
It is closed Christmas Day and on non-holiday Wednesdays.
Book sessions online ahead of time; weekends and holidays fill up.

Ski Rentals at Sugar Creek Gem Mine

Sugar Creek Gem Mine (3045 Tynecastle Hwy) rents out ski equipment in the winter, which is handy if you would rather pick up gear in town.

Year-Round Family Attractions

Wilderness Run Mountain Coaster track in banner elk North Carolina — Photo credit: VisitNC.com

Wilderness Run Alpine Coaster

Address: 3265 Tynecastle Highway

Our trip began with the Wilderness Run Alpine Coaster, and what a way to start! This exhilarating mountain ride had our kids screaming with joy and asking to return the next day. Even in light rain, we stayed dry thanks to the provided plastic covers. Hands down, this was the family favorite.

Season and hours: Open daily from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., year-round, including ski season.
Pro tip: Grab the 3-ride pack so you can ride back-to-back without rejoining the line.
Riders: Two-person carts pair an adult with a child who is at least 38 inches tall. To ride alone, riders must be at least 16 years old and 54 inches tall.
Reservations: Advance online reservations are highly recommended and required most days. Walk-ins are accepted on slower days.

Grandfather Mountain

Address: 2050 Blowing Rock Highway, Linville

A must-do for families, Grandfather Mountain is home to the famous Mile High Swinging Bridge, beautiful hiking trails and the Wilson Center for Nature Discovery. The kids loved the wildlife habitats and the views were unforgettable.

The Wilson Center for Nature Discovery

Located right inside the park, this newly expanded nature discovery center is a must for curious kids (and grownups, too). With immersive exhibits, hands-on displays, classrooms, and an auditorium, it’s a great place to learn about the unique ecosystems of the Southern Appalachians. The kid-focused nature activities helped our children understand the local wildlife and geology in a fun and engaging way.

Winter visits are quieter and beautiful, with a few things to know:

Winter hours (November to March): 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily, weather permitting. Ticket sales end at 3:30 p.m. and trails close at 4 p.m. Closed Thanksgiving and Christmas Day.
Tickets: Advance reservations are required to guarantee admission; book online before you go.
Weather closures: Severe weather can close the whole mountain or just the top (which means no Swinging Bridge). Icy or snowy conditions can also close trails. Call the Entrance Gate the morning of your visit if the forecast looks iffy.

Apple Hill Alpaca Farm Tour

Address: 400 Apple Hill Rd

This was not just a petting zoo. It was a scenic, educational and peaceful experience. The kids loved learning about alpacas, llamas, goats and more. And the mountain views from the farm? Absolutely stunning, and a beautiful backdrop to a memorable morning.

Tours last about 45 minutes, start at the barn and run rain or shine. Arrive 10 minutes early.
Reservations are required.
The farm is open year-round, weather permitting. It sits at about 4,300 feet, so it often has snow when lower elevations do not.
Tours end at the farm store, a fun stop for alpaca fiber gifts.

Elk River Falls

Address: Elk Park, NC

Elk River Falls is a stunning 50-foot waterfall just outside Banner Elk, with amazing photo ops and a peaceful atmosphere. It is a short walk from the parking area, and the kids loved watching the rushing water and skipping stones by the stream.

Good news: Elk River Falls closed after Hurricane Helene and reopened on July 11, 2025, with a repaired and resurfaced entry road and parking area.
Safety: The water above and below the falls has a strong undercurrent. Stay out of the water, do not climb the rocks and follow all posted signs.
FYI: It does not have a straight, easy path, so it is not great for anyone with mobility challenges. We brought our 4- and 5-year-old and it was not too much trouble, but with small children you will want one adult per small child to help them.

Waterfalls Park in Newland

Address: 871 Cranberry St, Newland

On our way to dinner, we made a quick detour to Waterfalls Park (also called Bobby McLean Memorial Park), just a short drive from Banner Elk. It is a peaceful, easy-access spot where the kids loved watching the water tumble over the rocks, with picnic tables and a footbridge in front of the lower cascades. A great hidden gem for stretching your legs! Water flow depends on recent rain. NOT VERIFIED: current post-Helene conditions at the park; we could not find a recent update.

Sugar Creek Gem Mine

Address: 3045 Tynecastle Hwy

We ended one day gem mining at Sugar Creek Gem Mine. The kids had a blast sifting for treasures and learning about their finds from the staff.

Mountain Emporium

Address: Next to Uncle Lee’s

This is not your average furniture store. It is packed with oversized seasonal decorations and quirky finds. We had a great time exploring the creative displays and snapping a few fun photos.

Downtown Shops to Explore

Banner Elk Book Exchange: This cozy spot is run by volunteers and operates as a true book swap. Bring a book and exchange it for some new ones. It is a pretty good size with a lot to choose from. Since it is staffed by volunteers, it may not be open if the weather is not great. When we visited, it was open Tuesday to Friday (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.) and Saturdays from May to October (1 to 4 p.m.).
BE Artists Gallery: Stunning crafts and fine art made by local artisans.
BE Scooped Ice Cream and Coffee: Great for an afternoon sweet treat for the kids and a coffee for the adults.
Arcade: Right next to BE Scooped is a fun arcade where the kids loved to stop in, play games and win prizes.
Apple Hill Farm Outpost: Browse alpaca fiber gifts, craft kits and yarns.

Where to Eat and Grab Coffee

High Country Pie Company

Address: 3277 Tynecastle Hwy

Right next to the alpine coaster, grab dinner to go at this beloved spot for New Zealand-style savory pies. Flaky crusts, hearty fillings and warm service make this a go-to Banner Elk dining experience. Our favorite was the Steak and Cheese!

Uncle Lee’s Asian Bistro and Sushi Bar

After the alpaca farm, we headed to Uncle Lee’s, a cozy spot with delicious sushi, Asian entrees and warm hospitality. Everything we tried was flavorful and satisfying.

Banner Elk Cafe and Tavern

Address: 324 Shawneehaw Ave S #184, Banner Elk, NC 28604

The perfect spot for families, foodies and anyone exploring the High Country. From cozy cafe vibes to a lively tavern atmosphere, this local gem serves up comfort food, great drinks and plenty of small-town charm. Whether visitors are warming up after hitting the slopes or grabbing brunch before a day of fun, Banner Elk Cafe and Tavern delivers consistently delicious meals and fast, friendly service. The menu is so big it is one of those rare “something-for-everyone” restaurants. We especially love the live music on Saturday night!

Stonewalls Restaurant

Address: 344 Shawneehaw Ave. South

Finish your day with a hearty and delicious meal at Stonewalls. This upscale-yet-comfortable restaurant is perfect for families and offers a great mix of meat, seafood and veggie options.

Mildred’s Grill at Grandfather Mountain

Mildred’s Grill is located inside the Wilson Center. Casual and convenient, this family-friendly grill served fresh food in a timely fashion. In winter, look for soups, sandwiches, fudge, pie and hot cocoa, with windows that overlook the bird feeders.

Coffee Stops

Mountain Grounds Coffee & Tea Co (3990 NC-105 #10): Start your morning with handcrafted coffee at Mountain Grounds, a local favorite that serves great espresso drinks and cozy mountain vibes.
Fred and Larry’s Coffee (3591 Tynecastle Hwy): We made a midday stop here for a fall drink fix. Their seasonal menu was huge and the cozy ambiance was perfect for a little recharge.

Banner Elk Winery

Address: 60 Deer Run

Parents, rejoice! Banner Elk Winery is kid-friendly, gorgeous and open year-round. The kids played by the pond and rocks and sipped hot cocoa while we relaxed with a refreshing sangria flight. A laid-back, family-welcoming wine tasting experience.

Where to Stay

Little Main Street Inn and Suites

Address: 607 Main Street East

This inn felt like a mix of Airbnb comfort and mountain-lodge hospitality, minus the checkout chores. We had the “Tweetsie” Suite, which had a full kitchen, bedroom and jacuzzi tub. Its location near downtown made exploring easy. The antiques and the holiday decorations made it feel like a visit to Grandma’s house, and we could not believe the amount of decorations in the hallways and our room.

Nearby Towns and Easy Side Trips

Linville: Home to Grandfather Mountain, an easy drive from Banner Elk.
Newland: Waterfalls Park makes a quick, easy waterfall stop.
Elk Park: Elk River Falls, reopened after Helene repairs.
Seven Devils: Hawksnest Snow Tubing in winter.
Beech Mountain: Beech Mountain Resort for skiing in winter and the Land of Oz during its fall Autumn at Oz weekends.

Looking for more mountain ideas? Browse our Family Day Trip Directory.

Annual Events and Holiday Fun

A Small Town Christmas in Banner Elk (First Weekend of December)

If you time your visit right, your trip could coincide with one of the most magical weekends of the year: A Small Town Christmas in Banner Elk, held the first weekend of December. Find out the full details here!

What to expect:

Town Tree Lighting and Caroling: Friday evening kicks off the weekend with the town’s official Christmas tree lighting, hot cocoa and caroling downtown.
Festive Events All Weekend: On Saturday, past years have included Breakfast with Santa, holiday markets, ornament making, cookie decorating and a Parade of Lights down Main Street. Evenings have brought mini-train rides under luminaries, visits with Santa, holiday music and more in a cozy, small-town atmosphere.
Choose-and-Cut Christmas Trees and Farm Tours: On Sunday, families can visit nearby tree farms and take home a real mountain-fresh tree. Tours at Apple Hill Alpaca Farm also tie into the festive weekend.

Why it is a bonus for your trip: If your family loves holiday traditions, this weekend turns a simple mountain getaway into a full-on winter celebration. With cozy lodging, a tree farm visit, alpaca farm time and mountain scenery, syncing your trip with A Small Town Christmas adds holiday magic, local charm and community spirit without much extra effort.

Choose-and-Cut Christmas Tree at Elk River Evergreens

Address: 121 Brooks Shell Road

There is no better way to end a holiday trip than choosing your own Christmas tree. Enjoy hot cocoa, cider and holiday shopping while picking out the perfect tree. Even if you are not taking one home, the festive vibe is magical.

Woolly Worm Festival (Third Weekend of October)

If you are planning an October trip, do not miss Banner Elk’s biggest event of the year. You can celebrate the coming of the snow season at the Woolly Worm Festival. Experience woolly worm races (to determine which worm will have the honor of predicting the snow severity this season), craft and food vendors, live entertainment, children’s activities and so much more.

The 2026 festival took place October 17 and 18. The official festival site lists the 2027 dates as October 16 and 17, 2027 (Saturday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Sunday 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.).

Autumn at Oz on Beech Mountain (September)

The Land of Oz theme park on Beech Mountain opens for Autumn at Oz on select September weekends; in 2026 it ran three weekends in September. Tickets typically go on sale in early summer.

EV Travel Tip: Charging in Banner Elk

Banner Elk is EV-friendly, with several public charging locations in town.

ChargePoint station at Lees-McRae College
Free EV charging at Banner Elk Marketplace (488 Main St W), perfect while dining or shopping in the Marketplace.

Top Tips for Traveling to Banner Elk with Kids

Best time to visit: Winter for skiing, tubing and the holiday weekend; late fall for foliage and the Woolly Worm Festival; summer for outdoor activities and cooler mountain weather.
Book ahead: Reserve the alpine coaster, Apple Hill farm tours, Grandfather Mountain tickets and Hawksnest tubing sessions in advance, especially on winter weekends and holidays.
What to pack: Layers, waterproof footwear, gloves and hats in winter, snacks, a camera and festive spirit!
Watch the weather: Mountain conditions change quickly. Check road conditions and attraction closures the morning of each outing.
Waterfall safety: Stay out of the water at Elk River Falls and keep little ones close on uneven paths.
Ski-trip swap: On a winter weekend, give one full day to skiing at Sugar Mountain or Beech Mountain, or a tubing session at Hawksnest, and fill the other with the coaster, the alpaca farm and Grandfather Mountain.

Banner Elk Frequently asked questions

How far is Banner Elk from Greensboro and Winston-Salem?
Banner Elk is about 129 miles from Greensboro, roughly 2.5 hours in normal traffic, and a little closer from Winston-Salem. Allow extra time in winter weather.

What is the best time of year to visit Banner Elk with kids?
Winter is great for Skiing and Snowboarding at Beech Mountain and Sugar Mountain nearby, plus snow tubing and ice skating. Summer brings outdoor fun and perfect weather, and October brings fall color and the Woolly Worm Festival.

Do you need reservations for the Wilderness Run Alpine Coaster?
Yes, plan on it. Advance online reservations are highly recommended and required most days, with walk-ins only on slower days. Get the 3-ride pack to enjoy back-to-back rides.

Is Grandfather Mountain open in the winter?
Yes. From November to March it is open daily 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., weather permitting, except Thanksgiving and Christmas Day. Advance tickets are required, and severe weather can close the top of the mountain and the Swinging Bridge.

Where can we eat in Banner Elk with kids?
Try High Country Pie Company, Banner Elk Cafe and Tavern, Uncle Lee’s and Stonewalls for easy, tasty meals with something for everyone. Mildred’s Grill inside Grandfather Mountain is a convenient lunch stop.

Can you bring kids to Banner Elk Winery?
Absolutely! The winery has indoor and outdoor areas for the whole family, and our kids loved the pond and rocks while we enjoyed a sangria flight.

Are there family-friendly hikes near Banner Elk?
Yes! Grandfather Mountain and surrounding trails offer safe, scenic hikes suitable for children.

Ready for Your Family Adventure in Banner Elk?

From ski slopes and thrilling coasters to scenic mountain farms, cozy coffee shops and festive tree farms, Banner Elk is a gem for family getaways. The balance of adventure and relaxation makes it a destination you will want to return to year after year.

Find more easy getaways in our Family Day Trip Directory, and get the best Triad events and trip ideas in your inbox every week with our free weekly newsletter.

Blog Post is sponsored by Banner Elk Tourism.