I moved to the High Country last year and figured I would let you in on a few things I’ve learned since moving to the mountains. Here are 15 things you need to know if you’re going to be a mountaineer:
1. Chacos are Your Friend- They can be name-brand, off-brand or whatever brand. They are a necessity, especially when chasing waterfalls or exploring the Blue Ridge Parkway.
2. Coffee Roasting- Nothing is better in the early hours of the morning than smelling the aroma of coffee on a cold day. There are so many independent roasters in the area. Try them all.
3. Be Prepared for Rain- This is the understatement of the year. Rain in the high country is something that I was not prepared for. Invest in rainboots. Better yet, invest in duck boots. You’ll thank me later.
4. Festivals are a Must- There are so many great festivals in and around our area. Whether you choose anything from the Brushy Mountain Apple Festival to the Wooly Worm Festival, get out and mingle. The events allow you to meet other people and explore the region you live in.
5. Fall is the Best- I am biased on this one. There is nothing better than sipping fresh apple cider on a chilly day. The mountains truly shine when the leaves change. 6. Snow- Snow is something that I didn’t have to deal with when I lived on the coast. That being said, I love every moment that it’s covering the ground. The first snow is magical and the whole town slows down. Invest in a good ice scraper and take it easy when driving.
7. Parking- It’s pretty awful to say the least. Tickets will be handed out. If you are parked in a spot with a tow warning, take it seriously. They will tow you!
8. Get Involved in the Community- This means talking with people in the community. When you’re in a college setting, it’s easy to turn inward and isolate yourself. There are so many interesting people in our community. Put yourself out there. You’ll be happy you did.
9. Sit on the Parkway- Go to Price Lake, Rough Ridge or the Linn Cove Viaduct. When school gets stressful, or you want to get away from it all, there is no place better than the Blue Ridge Parkway.
10. Look at the Stars- Meteor showers on the parkway are magical, of course. However, simply looking at the night sky and seeing the Milky Way is just as beautiful. Treasure your ability to view this at any time and don’t take it for granted.
11. Chipmunks- Okay, this may be a personal one, but I had never encountered a chipmunk before moving to the mountains. I love them and they must be protected at all costs.
12. McAlister’s Sweet Tea- It is the best and will get you through the long days of class. Have you seen their cups? Huge. Get it with fresh lemon and you’ll be set for the rest of the day.
13. Utilize the University’s Resources- This is an important one. There are so many resources at Appalachian. Use them. From Photography to 3D Printing, it is available. What else is our tuition for?
14. Football Games- I am not the biggest football fan, but game days in Boone are so much fun! The whole town gets involved. From the Homecoming Parade to the tailgates, it is an experience you should take advantage of every year.
15. Make Memories- This is what you are here for. This is your time. Make it count.