How to Stay Cool All Summer Long in Boone and the High Country
Summer in Boone and the North Carolina High Country is nothing short of magical. With vibrant green mountains, cool breezes, and endless outdoor adventures, it’s the perfect destination for a summer getaway. But even in the higher elevations, summer sun can be strong—especially during long days of hiking, sightseeing, and relaxing with your favorite people. The good news? Staying cool is easy if you know where to go and how to plan ahead.
Whether you’re escaping the city heat, the southern humidity, or just craving crisp mountain air, here’s your guide to staying cool all summer long while vacationing in Boone and the High Country with your friends or family.
1. Take Advantage of the Summer Mountain Breezes (and High Elevation)
One of the best things about the High Country is the natural air conditioning—thanks to elevation. Boone sits at around 3,300 feet, and nearby spots like Beech Mountain and Blowing Rock climb even higher. That means temperatures tend to run 10–15 degrees cooler than lowland cities like Charlotte or Raleigh.
Stay in a cozy White Fence Farm rental with wide porches and shady trees along the property line, and you’ll enjoy the mountain breeze all day long. Morning coffee and evening cocktails on the porch? Yes, please!
Summer Cocktail Recipe you must try on your next summer getaway:
WATERMELON SIPPER:
A cool glass of this Watermelon Sipper is everything you want on summer days. When it’s blistering hot outside, this hydrating juice is a good way to cool off.
3 basic ingredients: watermelon, lime juice, and ginger ale.
Blend 8 cups of cubed watermelon (fresh) in a blender until smooth
Pour blended watermelon into a pitcher, stir in 5 Tablespoons of lime juice, and slowly pour in 1-2 cans of ginger ale (sugar-free ginger ale is optional)
Pour over ice and add a lime wedge for garnish! and Sip!
2. Splash into some Cool Summer Mountain Water
Nothing says summer like a refreshing dip. From rivers to waterfalls and swimming holes, the High Country is full of natural water features that offer the perfect way to beat the heat.
Check out:
- Trash Can Falls – a local summer favorite for cliff-jumping and cooling off.
- Price Lake – rent a canoe or kayak and paddle through serene waters with gorgeous views.
- Watauga River – ideal for tubing with family or fly-fishing in cooler summer currents.
Prefer to stay close to home-base? Dip your toes into the pond at White Fence Farm, watch the fish swim and play, and roast some marshmallows fireside on the property at night.
3. Seek Summer Shade in the Forest
Hiking in the High Country isn’t just about views—it’s also a way to stay cool under thick forest canopies. Trails like Boone Fork, Glen Burney Falls, and Rough Ridge provide stunning scenery and plenty of shaded paths.
Early morning hikes are especially refreshing, and you’ll often see mist rising off the mountains. Pack a picnic and rest by a stream to cool off mid-day, then head back for an afternoon nap in your cozy vacation rental. According to the National Park Service, there are many health benefits that come with summer hiking; they include mental clarity, increased physical activity and cardiovascular health, and relationship building and strengthening, when you hike with a partner.
4. Chill Out with Local Summer Treats
Boone has no shortage of cool refreshments available all summer long. Whether it’s homemade ice cream, iced coffee, or a crisp local cider, there’s something for every taste.
Try:
- Blue Deer on King in Boone for their ice cream sandwiches
- Mast General Store for old-fashioned soda and candy selections
- Stick Boy Bread Company for iced lattes
And for the 21+ crowd, there are plenty of craft breweries and cideries with cool outdoor summer seating and live music on summer evenings. Find specialty summer cocktails at local bars and lounges: The Horton Hotel and Rooftop Lounge and The Social (a local joint).
5. Plan for Cool Summer Evenings
One of the best-kept secrets about summer in the mountains? The evenings. Once the sun dips behind the ridges, the air turns deliciously cool. Bring a sweater or light jacket—you might be surprised how chilly it gets after dark in the High Country – below 50s at times.
Check out Ray’s Weather website for the most up to date High Country forecasts! Even see his full list of local webcams in the area to see what it’s like wherever you’re headed.
Light a fire pit at the farm vacation rental, roast s’mores, and stargaze with family and friends. The peaceful quiet and crisp air make the perfect ending to a summer day.
Stay with White Fence Farm and Enjoy the Best of Summer
At White Fence Farm Vacation Rentals, we know how to help you make the most of your summer escape. Our historic homes and cottages are designed with comfort in mind—from shady porches to breezy windows to relaxing outdoor spaces.
Whether you’re looking for a peaceful retreat or a fun-filled family adventure, Boone and the High Country are waiting. So pack your bags, bring your favorite people, and let the mountains keep you cool all summer long.
Book your stay today and come enjoy summer the High Country way. White Fence Farm vacation rentals has summertime availability: Check out the calendar and available bookings here!
Written by Andrea Morton, Creative Blogging + Marketing Strategies
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