People think of the mountains as a summer and fall trip, but Ashe County has its own kind of pretty in winter. The leaves are down, so you can see the ridges for miles, and on a snowy morning it looks like a Christmas card. Here’s what I’d tell a friend coming up this winter.
Cut your own Christmas tree
Ashe County grows Fraser firs, and a lot of them. In late November and December, the choose-and-cut farms open up so you can walk the rows and pick your own. It’s a fine family outing, and the tree will smell like the mountains all season.
The Churches of the Frescoes
Holy Trinity in Glendale Springs and St. Mary’s in West Jefferson hold frescoes painted by artist Ben Long. They’re worth the drive any time of year, and they’re quiet and peaceful in winter.
Downtown West Jefferson
Walk the murals, browse the little shops and galleries, and stop at the Ashe County Cheese store. Downtown is all lit up for the holidays.
Mount Jefferson
Mount Jefferson State Natural Area sits right between Jefferson and West Jefferson. On a clear winter day the views from the top go a long way. Check before you go, since the road can close in bad weather.
The New River
The New River winds through the county and is one of the oldest rivers in the world. In winter it’s too cold for tubing, but a walk along the bank on a frosty morning is something else.
A few winter tips
- Parts of the Blue Ridge Parkway close in ice and snow, so check the road status before you plan a drive.
- Hours change in winter. Call ahead to shops, farms and restaurants.
- Mountain roads ice over early and stay icy in the shade. Take it slow.
Want the whole list? My printable Ashe County Sightseeing Guide covers West Jefferson, the frescoes, Mount Jefferson, the New River, the Parkway and the old river towns, with a bucket list and trip planner. And if you can’t make the trip, my Ashe County wallpapers bring the views to your phone.
Leave a Reply