Things to Do Near Chestnut Mountain Farms

Peaceful mountain living does not mean being far from everything.

Chestnut Mountain Farms is a private, gated mountain community in Wilkes County, North Carolina, near Wilkesboro and the Blue Ridge Mountains. It was created for people who value privacy, natural surroundings and room to enjoy the outdoors while still remaining within reach of cities, services and destinations throughout northwestern North Carolina.

Properties within the community range from approximately two to 20 acres, providing space for full-time residences, retirement homes and mountain retreats. Residents include families, retirees, remote workers and others drawn to a quieter setting surrounded by wooded land, streams, trails and mountain views.

Explore at Your Own Pace

One of the pleasures of living at Chestnut Mountain Farms is choosing how much — or how little — you want to do. Spend the day exploring the High Country, discover a favorite trail or restaurant, attend a seasonal event or simply return home to the quiet of the mountains. With so much of northwestern North Carolina within reach, residents can enjoy the best of both worlds: privacy at home and adventure just down the road.

Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Destinations

Blue Ridge Parkway
One of the defining experiences of the region, the Blue Ridge Parkway offers scenic overlooks, hiking, picnicking, historic sites and access to many of the High Country’s best-known natural attractions. Because road conditions and seasonal closures can change, visitors should check current conditions before heading out. 
Explore the Blue Ridge Parkway

Doughton Park
Located along the Blue Ridge Parkway near Milepost 241, Doughton Park offers miles of hiking through meadows, streams and wooded mountain terrain. The area also includes picnic facilities, seasonal camping and nearby Brinegar Cabin, which provides a glimpse into historic Appalachian mountain life. 
Visit Doughton Park

Stone Mountain State Park
This expansive state park is centered around a dramatic 600-foot granite dome and offers hiking, fishing, picnicking, rock climbing, camping and historic sites including the Hutchinson Homestead. It is an especially good destination for people who want a full day outdoors without traveling far from the McGrady area. Some trails are currently affected by construction, so checking the park website before visiting is worthwhile. 
Visit Stone Mountain State Park

W. Kerr Scott Dam & Reservoir
Near Wilkesboro, W. Kerr Scott Reservoir offers boating, fishing, swimming, hiking, mountain biking, picnicking and camping. With multiple recreation areas surrounding the lake, it is an easy choice for a day on the water or a relaxed picnic. 
Explore W. Kerr Scott Reservoir

Moses H. Cone Memorial Park
This historic Blue Ridge Parkway estate near Blowing Rock combines mountain scenery with history. Visitors can explore Flat Top Manor, wander the grounds and enjoy roughly 25 miles of gently winding carriage trails through the former estate of textile entrepreneur Moses H. Cone and his wife, Bertha. 
Visit Moses H. Cone Memorial Park

Julian Price Memorial Park and Price Lake
Just south of Blowing Rock on the Parkway, Julian Price Memorial Park surrounds picturesque Price Lake. Visitors can hike, picnic, paddle and simply enjoy one of the High Country’s loveliest waterside settings. 
Explore Julian Price Memorial Park

Linn Cove Viaduct
One of the most recognizable landmarks on the Blue Ridge Parkway, the Linn Cove Viaduct curves around the slopes of Grandfather Mountain. Scenic overlooks and nearby trails provide excellent views of this National Civil Engineering Landmark and the surrounding mountains.
Visit Linn Cove Viaduct

Linville Falls
The Linville River tumbles through a rugged gorge at one of the Parkway’s best-known waterfall destinations. Several overlooks can be reached by hiking trails of varying difficulty. Some trail sections remain affected by Hurricane Helene damage, making the National Park Service website the best place to check current access before visiting. 
Visit Linville Falls

Orchards and Wine Country

Perry Lowe Orchards
This sixth-generation family orchard in Moravian Falls grows more than 30 varieties of apples along with peaches, pears and pumpkins. Seasonal U-pick opportunities, fresh cider and the orchard store make it an especially appealing fall outing.
Visit Perry Lowe Orchards

Jones von Drehle Vineyards

Located in Thurmond near Stone Mountain, this estate vineyard offers seated wine tastings, Blue Ridge views and periodic live music and events. It would pair nicely with a scenic drive or a visit to Stone Mountain State Park. 
Visit Jones von Drehle

Raffaldini Vineyards & Winery

In the Yadkin Valley near Ronda, Raffaldini is known for its Italian-inspired setting and wines. Visitors can choose from tastings and other winery experiences while enjoying views across the surrounding foothills. 
Visit Raffaldini Vineyards

Located in Thurmond near Stone Mountain, this estate vineyard offers seated wine tastings, Blue Ridge views and periodic live music and events. It would pair nicely with a scenic drive or a visit to Stone Mountain State Park.
Visit Jones von Drehle