Black Mountain

Montreat has several well-marked trails (many of which are fairly strenuous). Old US-70, barricaded for 3 miles just past Ridgecrest, is a hike or bike down a road closed for 50 years. It runs above the railroad tracks, includes great views including some of the railroad tunnels, and is just really interesting to see what Mother Nature has done to reclaim road, pavement, and concrete over half a century. Further in are trails in Pisgah National Forest.

• Lake Tomohawk. Jog or fish. 
• LEAF Golden Arts Festival, Camp Rockmont, ☏ +1 828-686-8742, info@theleaf.com. Twice a year, each May & Oct this non-profit, family-oriented, multi-cultural music & arts festival brings the world to Western NC. 

• Black Mountain Iron Works. 
• Merry Wine Market. 

• My Father's Pizza. 
• The Black Mountain Bistro. 
• The Veranda. 
• Ole's Guacamole's. 
• Thai Basil. 
• Que Sera. 

If you want to buy liquor by the bottle you must do it at state-run ABC (Alcoholic Beverage Commission) stores rather than at a traditional liquor store. Beer and wine are available for purchase at most markets, grocery stores and gas stations. The alcohol laws of North Carolina prohibit the sale of alcohol after 2AM Monday through Saturday, and from 2AM until noon on Sundays.

• Lake Eden Events & Lodging, ☏ +1 828 686-8742, info@lakeedenevents.com. Check-in: 3PM, check-out: noon. The more than 60 acres have a private lake and are surrounded by dramatic mountain views. Both lodgings sit next to streams running through the woods and come with many amenities. Each sleep 2-4. Pet friendly. $135 per night, $700 per week.