New River Gorge National Park is just up the Appalachian Mountains from Banner Elk. This beautiful gorge was carved out over eons by the ancient New River. Outdoor adventures include hiking, biking, rock climbing, and white water rafting. There are plenty of opportunities to see the local wildlife and to see the breathtaking autumn leaves. Take a hike on the Canyon Rim Overlook Boardwalk for fantastic views of the gorge, river, and 900-foot bridge.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park lies on the western escarpment of the Appalachian Mountains in Tennessee. These beautiful mountains are filled with wildflowers, lightning bugs, and black bears during the summer. In the winter, light blankets of snow cap the mountaintops and dust the valleys. Take the Rainbow Falls Trail for views of the falls on your way to the top of Mount Le Conte.
Congaree National Park is in the heart of South Carolina. The state's only national park, Congaree, features a diverse ecosystem. There are forests, fertile valleys, and a winding river that lead into swamps and floodplains. Take the Fork Swamp trail for opportunities to see local wildlife, or hop in a canoe and follow the river. Afterward, explore the small ghost towns around the park for a glimpse into history.
Roan Mountain State Park straddles the border of North Carolina and Tennessee. This massive mountain range tops out at 6,285 feet, which makes it one of the tallest mountains on the East Coast. High-elevation bluffs provide gorgeous views of the Doe River. In the summer, head over to Watauga Lake for swimming and boating in one of the most pristine lakes in the country.
South Mountains State Park is located just down the mountain from Banner Elk. This park is a transition from the foothills to the Appalachian Mountains. Miles of trails wind through the beautiful forests for hikers, bikers, and horseback riders. Take a trip to High Shoals Falls for an up-close view of the towering falls. Lake James is a beautiful place for fishing, swimming, and boating. Finally, the town of Morganton is next door, with fantastic restaurants, shopping, and local breweries.
Grayson Highlands State Park sits beside Mount Rogers, the tallest mountain in Virginia, and features high-elevation grasslands and meadows. The park is famous for its wild ponies that roam the grounds. Hiking trails wind through the park and lead to excellent picnic and camping areas.
Horn in The West is an open-air theater and historic recreation of frontier life in the heart of Boone, North Carolina. Annual reenactments of the Battle of Horn in The West bring visitors back to the triumphs of the Revolutionary War. The grounds also have multiple frontier-era cabins that were relocated from nearby locations.
Tweetsie Railroad is a family-friendly amusement park with a deep history in Blowing Rock, North Carolina. The train ran from Winston-Salem, North Carolina to Johnson City, Tennessee before a great flood destroyed the tracks in the 1940s. Stranded in Blowing Rock, the train became a destination for tourists and locals. Now it features multiple rides, live theater, and a ropes course.
Linville Falls is a short drive from Banner Elk, North Carolina. These majestic falls drop over 100 feet as they lead into the Linville Gorge. Visitors can access the top, middle, and bottom of the falls through the many hiking trails.
Flintlock Campground is conveniently located on the edge of Boone, North Carolina. Within five minutes, you can be walking the streets of Downtown Boone or, in the other direction, heading out on an epic hike.
As its name suggests, Grandfather Campground is located on Grandfather Mountain. This one-of-a-kind RV campground features open meadows, deep forests, and hiking trails that lead to the summit.
Julian Price Campground features multiple RV sites and sits on the banks of Price Lake. The lake offers a launch ramp for canoeing and has a hiking trail that loops around the lake. Best of all, the campground is on the Blue Ridge Parkway.
Do I maintain or service the motorhome rental during my rental period?
No, it is the responsibility of the RVshare owner to ensure the motorhome is properly maintained and serviced before your rental period. Just take good care of your rental and keep it clean.
Are there any special driving considerations or techniques I should know when operating a motorhome rental in Banner Elk, NC?
Yes, motorhomes are larger and heavier than most passenger vehicles, so it is important to allow for more time and space when turning, merging, or stopping. Additionally, it is recommended to drive slower than the posted speed limit and to use caution when driving in windy or wet conditions.
How do I properly level and stabilize a motorhome at my campsite or RV park?
Motorhomes typically have built-in leveling jacks or blocks that can be adjusted to ensure the RV is level and stable. Some RV parks may also provide leveling pads or blocks if needed. Discuss your campsite with the RV owner ahead of time and they can provide you guidance on stabilizing.
What kind of maintenance or upkeep do I need to perform on the interior and exterior during my rental period?
You should keep the interior clean and tidy, empty waste tanks as needed, and report any damages or malfunctions to the RVshare owner. Exterior maintenance such as checking tire pressure is also recommended.
Does my motorhome rental come with bedding, linens, or other items I would consider to be personal?
This varies by RVshare owner. Some owners may include bedding and linens, while others may require renters to bring their own. It is best to check with the owner prior to renting.
Should I bring entertainment equipment or appliances for the motorhome rental?
While some motorhomes may come equipped with entertainment options or appliances, it is always a good idea to bring your own if desired. However, be mindful of any limitations on power usage or space restrictions. Check the RV listing or ask the RV owner what kind of entertainment is included.
Are there any limitations on where I can park or store a motorhome rental in Banner Elk, NC, such as zoning laws or homeowners' association regulations?
There may be restrictions on where motorhomes can be parked or stored in certain areas. It is best to research local laws and regulations or to ask the RVshare owner for guidance.
What fuel efficiency considerations do I need to consider when operating a motorhome rental?
Motorhomes are not typically known for their fuel efficiency, but there are steps you can take to improve gas mileage such as driving at a lower speed, avoiding excessive idling, and keeping tires properly inflated.
How do I properly operate and maintain the various systems in a motorhome rental?
The RVshare owner should provide you with detailed instructions and manuals for operating and maintaining the various systems in the motorhome. It is important to follow these instructions carefully to ensure proper use and prevent damage.
Are any unique features or amenities available in motorhome rentals that may not be found in other RVs in Banner Elk, NC?
This varies by RV owner and motorhome class, but some motorhomes may have unique features such as slide-outs, outdoor kitchens, or luxury finishes that may not be found in other types of RVs.
