3 Reasons to Head to Ashe County

Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Ashe County, NC offers residents and tourists, alike, a chance to surround themselves with fresh country air while taking in the natural and cultural attractions Ashe County has so much to offer—and you can experience most of it without breaking the bank. Whether you have a vacation or permanent relocation in mind, here are three reasons why Ashe County, NC is an ideal destination.

Native Tourism

For its relatively small population of 26,992 people, Ashe County still employs a higher percentage of people in the fishing, farming, and forestry industries than is typical. Nature is important to local residents, tourists, and the area’s economy, offering many activities for residents and tourists to enjoy in a pristine, unspoiled setting that will appeal to anyone who wants to get away from urban areas and take in the fresh country air for miles of wilderness.

Fishing is a popular activity that draws people to the local rivers and streams. Other water sports include tubing, canoeing, and kayaking. Local companies often provide equipment rentals, so it’s easy to spend a fun afternoon out on the water.

Those who like to enjoy nature on land can rent bikes, head out on one of the hiking trails in the area, or enjoy a leisurely horseback ride. Hunting and camping are also popular activities and—if being on the ground isn’t high enough for you—you can soar above the Blue Ridge Mountains on a paraglider.

A little piece of Ashe County, NC makes its way into hundreds of thousands of locations across America annually because each year the county produces the most Christmas trees in the United States. A fun fact: There’s no region in the US that has sent more trees to be displayed at the White House, which speaks to the caliber of the region’s tree production. There are also flower farms and markets to visit, and in the fall, you can tackle a local corn maze and pick pumpkins from the field.

Food and Culture

Local farms that produce cheese and goat’s milk welcome visitors to learn about the production process. Those who want a hands-on experience may opt to go blueberry picking or head to the farmer’s market to pick up some local produce. Adults can sample local beer at the brewery restaurant year-round, and those with a more refined palette may prefer to take a wine tasting tour.

Ashe County has a thriving local art scene, with a variety of performances offered by the Ashe County Arts Council. Listen to spoken word, take in storytelling through dance, or tap your toes to a bluegrass band, the Arts Council has something for everyone. Those who prefer artwork can check out local barn quilt painters and even try their hand at the craft by taking a class with local artisans.

In addition to all of these attractions, there are also art galleries, local museums, performing arts, and art classes, as well as annual literary and music festivals.

Appealing and Affordable

There are plenty of homes for sale in West Jefferson, NC at a price that will meet your budget while still offering scenic views and easy access to the forests and streams that draw people to the region. Individuals looking to buy will find a range of options to choose from. There are also cabins for sale, allowing those who aren’t ready to relocate the chance to invest in a property they can enjoy on weekend getaways and vacations.

There are also many options for those who want to visit the area. Cabins can be rented by the night or week, and many options even accommodate pets. If you’re planning to travel with friends or extended family, you can opt for a cabin with as many as six bedrooms.

Although Ashe County’s population may have dipped in recent years, the average household income has risen. Many local industries remain stable. For example, Christmas tree production in Ashe County generates over $85 million in revenue each year and provides jobs for hundreds of area residents. With growing incomes and a median home value of just $136,900—which is well below the national median home value average for the US—residing in Ashe County is extremely affordable. Home prices are projected to rise, making this an ideal time to buy into a market where your real estate investment will appreciate in the years to come.