Blowing Rock Live Cam

See a live look at the slopes and terrain parks in real time



Hosted by:
  • Appalachian Ski Mtn.
  • 940 Ski Mountain Rd - Blowing Rock
  • North Carolina 28605 - United States
  • (828) 295-7828
  • [email protected]
  • https://appskimtn.com/

Blowing Rock History

Blowing Rock is a small town located in the western part of North Carolina, in the United States. It is named after a large rock formation, known as the Blowing Rock, which is located on the edge of a cliff overlooking the Johns River Gorge. The town is known for its scenic beauty, its cool summer climate, and its rich history.

The area that is now Blowing Rock was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Cherokee and Catawba people. European settlers arrived in the area in the late 1700s, and the town of Blowing Rock was officially founded in 1889.

In the late 1800s and early 1900s, Blowing Rock became a popular summer resort destination for wealthy families from the East Coast. They were drawn to the town's cool summer climate, fresh mountain air, and stunning natural scenery. Many of these families built large summer homes in the area, some of which still stand today.

In the early 1900s, the town also became a hub for the development of the tourism industry in the region. A number of hotels and resorts were built to accommodate the growing number of visitors, and the town began to offer a wide range of recreational activities, including hiking, fishing, hunting, and horseback riding.

Throughout the 20th century, Blowing Rock continued to grow and develop as a popular tourist destination. Today, the town remains a popular vacation spot, offering visitors a unique blend of natural beauty, history, and modern amenities.

Blowing Rock Top Tourist Attractions

Blowing Rock, North Carolina, is a charming town in the Appalachian Mountains that offers a wide range of activities and attractions for visitors of all ages. Some of the top tourist attractions in Blowing Rock include:

  • The Blowing Rock: This natural rock formation is the town's namesake and one of its most iconic attractions. Visitors can take in stunning views of the surrounding landscape from the cliff's edge and watch as gusts of wind cause the valley below to "blow" upwards.
  • Moses H. Cone Memorial Park: This 3,500-acre park features miles of hiking and biking trails, horseback riding, fishing, and picnicking areas. Visitors can also tour the historic Cone family mansion, which has been converted into a museum.
  • Tweetsie Railroad: This Wild West-themed amusement park offers family-friendly rides, live entertainment, and a historic steam locomotive that takes visitors on a scenic tour of the area.
  • Grandfather Mountain: This nearby attraction offers visitors the chance to hike trails with stunning views, visit the wildlife habitats, and cross the famous Mile High Swinging Bridge.
  • Julian Price Memorial Park: Located on the scenic Blue Ridge Parkway, this park features a beautiful lake with canoe and kayak rentals, as well as hiking and camping opportunities.
  • The Greenway Trail: A 3.2-mile paved trail that winds through the town, offering beautiful views of the surrounding mountains, a playground for children, and picnic areas.
  • Art in the Park: This annual event brings together local and regional artists to showcase their work in a beautiful outdoor setting.
  • Blowing Rock Art and History Museum: This museum showcases the work of local artists, as well as exhibits on the history of the region.
  • Mystery Hill: This attraction features a range of optical illusions, puzzles, and interactive exhibits that challenge visitors' perceptions of the laws of physics.
  • Appalachian Ski Mountain: During the winter months, visitors can enjoy skiing and snowboarding on the slopes of this family-friendly resort.

Blowing Rock Climate

Blowing Rock, North Carolina, has a humid subtropical climate with four distinct seasons. The town is located in the Appalachian Mountains, which can influence its weather patterns.

In the summer months, temperatures in Blowing Rock are generally mild, with highs averaging in the low to mid-70s °F (low 20s °C) and lows in the upper 50s to low 60s °F (mid to upper 10s °C). There can be occasional heat waves, but the town's high elevation helps to moderate the temperatures.

Fall is a popular time to visit Blowing Rock, as the foliage in the surrounding mountains turns to brilliant shades of red, orange, and yellow. Temperatures start to drop in October, with highs averaging in the 60s °F (upper teens °C) and lows in the 40s °F (low to mid-10s °C).

Winter in Blowing Rock can be cold, with temperatures often dropping below freezing at night. Highs during the day usually range from the upper 30s to low 40s °F (3 to 5 °C), and lows can dip into the teens and 20s °F (around -7 to -2 °C). The town usually receives some snowfall during the winter months, with an average of around 20 inches (50 cm) per year.

Spring in Blowing Rock brings warmer temperatures, with highs in the 60s and 70s °F (around 15 to 25 °C) and lows in the 40s to 50s °F (around 5 to 15 °C). It can be a rainy season, with occasional thunderstorms. Overall, Blowing Rock's climate is characterized by mild summers, cool autumns, cold winters, and mild springs, making it a popular destination year-round for outdoor activities and scenic beauty.

Blowing Rock Geography

It is situated in the Appalachian Mountains, at an elevation of approximately 4,000 feet (1,219 meters) above sea level. The town is located in Watauga County and is part of the High Country region of North Carolina.

The town is situated near the Blue Ridge Parkway, a scenic drive that runs through the Appalachian Mountains and connects the Great Smoky Mountains National Park in Tennessee to Shenandoah National Park in Virginia. Blowing Rock is also located near several other natural attractions, including Grandfather Mountain, Linville Gorge, and Pisgah National Forest.

The town is named after the Blowing Rock, a natural rock formation located on the edge of a cliff overlooking the Johns River Gorge. The rock formation is a popular tourist attraction and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

The climate in Blowing Rock is influenced by its location in the Appalachian Mountains, with cool temperatures and occasional snowfall in the winter months. The town's high elevation also helps to moderate temperatures in the summer months, making it a popular destination for outdoor recreation year-round.

Blowing Rock Culture

Blowing Rock, North Carolina, has a rich culture that reflects its Appalachian heritage and its history as a popular tourist destination. Here are a few aspects of Blowing Rock's culture:

  • Music: Blowing Rock has a thriving music scene that celebrates traditional Appalachian music, as well as other genres. The town hosts several music festivals throughout the year, including the Blowing Rock Music Festival and the Blowing Rock WinterFest.
  • Arts and Crafts: Blowing Rock is home to many artists and craftsmen who create unique works in a variety of mediums, including pottery, weaving, and woodworking. The town hosts several art shows and craft fairs throughout the year, including the Blowing Rock Art and Antiques Show and the Blowing Rock Plein Air Festival.
  • History: Blowing Rock has a rich history that dates back to the Cherokee Native Americans who once inhabited the area. The town has several historic sites, including the Green Park Inn, which dates back to the late 1800s, and the Moses H. Cone Memorial Park, which was once the estate of a wealthy textile magnate.
  • Outdoor Recreation: Blowing Rock's culture is deeply rooted in its beautiful natural surroundings. The town has a wide range of outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, fishing, and skiing, which attract visitors from all over the world.