Return to WNC (Ashe County) with a Hike at Paddy Mountain

Last year, the first segment of the nascent 40-mile Northern Peaks State Trail opened in West Jefferson. It was promptly closed by Hurricane Helene. But thanks to volunteer-led efforts, the trail has reopened, and we'll get to hike it as part of our Return to Western NC weekend in Ashe County.

Aquisition of the 152-acre tract upon which this trail sits was a 7-year effort led by the Blue Ridge Conservancy, a regional land trust. The land adjoins 445 acres of protected land managed by the NC Plant Conservation Program, further advancing BRC's mission of protecting the viewshed of West Jefferson in perpetuity. It also provides great recreational opportunities for hiking and mountain biking.

Jordan Sellers with the BRC will lead this 3.6-mile loop hike, which utilizes long switchbacks to ease its way up Paddy Mountain, gaining nearly 350 feet in its first 1.3 miles. Passage is through a Rich Cove Forest in the Amphibolite Mountains. What's that mean? Join us to find out.

This hike is considered moderately difficult. Hikers should bring water and snacks, and wear clothing appropriate for a mountain hike: breathable shirts and pants, and shoes with good grip. More information about appropriate dress will be emailed the week of the event.

This part of a hiking weekend that includes the following hikes:

• Paddy Mountain Park, Friday, June 27, 2:30 p.m. Go here for details.
• Elk Knob State Park, Saturday, June 28, 9 a.m. Go here for details.
• Pond Mountain, Saturday, June 28, 2 p.m. Go here for details.

In addition, on Friday afternoon in West Jefferson:

Backstreet Park Summer Concert Series, 5:30 - 7 p.m., featuring the Whitetop Mountain Band. Enjoy the music of the mountains during this free outdoor concert in Downtown West Jefferson on the backstreet. Bring a chair and enjoy the evening with the Whitetop Mountain Band, a family-based band from the highest mountains of Virginia. Whitetop, Virginia, is an area rich in the old time music tradition; this band has deep roots in mountain music. The members have done much to preserve the Whitetop region's style of old time fiddling and banjo picking, and are legendary musicians and teachers of the style. The band is currently led by Emily Spencer, who was a founding member of the group in the 1970s. Learn more here.

Lodging, attractions

For more information on lodging and other reasons to visit, click the following links:

• (Greater Lansing Area Development)

Above photo by Lynn Willis

Also check out other Entertainment events in West Jefferson, Music events in West Jefferson, Trips & Adventurous Activities in West Jefferson.