Emerald Outback Takes Outdoor Adventure to New Heights

Western North Carolina's newest trail park is the Emerald Outback at Beech Mountain.

The Emerald Outback opened in 2011 with nearly 10 miles of trails ranging in elevation from 4,700-5,400 feet. It is considered the highest trail park on the East Coast.

The trails feature a nice combination of single track, double track and gravel roads traversing the mountaintop, all accessible from a trail head in the town of Beech Mountain.

The trail system was designed by mountain bikers, hikers and trail runners to meet the recreational demands of serious outdoor enthusiasts.

Along the Emerald Outback, folks encounter lush forests, small waterfalls and creeks, and phenomenal mountain vistas of the High Country of North Carolina. The terrain is rolling and changes well. 

The Emerald Outback is free and open to the public seven days a week.

For additional trail park information, call (828) 387-3003, or visit: www.EmeraldOutback.com.

Beech Race Weekend Features 5-Mile Run at 5,000 Feet in Elevation

Cool temperatures and a warm welcome await runners June 8-10 as Beech Mountain hosts its fifth annual "A Cool 5" race weekend.

The weekend's centerpiece is a 5-mile race on Sat., June 9. The race is run at elevations above 5,000 feet, traversing the highest points on Beech Mountain.

Other activities during the weekend:
> 1.5-mile fun run/walk
> Post-race beverages provided by Boone Brewing Co.
> Saturday pub crawl (transportation provided) from 4-10 p.m.
> Friday evening pasta dinner featuring guest speaker Lee Zohlman
> Sunday morning recovery yoga session at 10 a.m.
> Sunday morning recovery hike at 11 a.m.
> Special lodging rates available
> Fun run is pet-friendly
> Supervised children's play village during race

Entry fee for adults is $25 through May 6; and $30 from May 7 until race day. Race day registration is $35. Children 13 and under may register at any time for $20.

For info, call (828) 387-3003 or click here for the event website.