High Country bracing for massive holiday weekend crowds

BOONE, N.C. — Boone is one of the many spots in the high country expected to see tons of visitors this holiday weekend.

Channel 9 spoke with several business owners in Blowing Rock Friday morning who said that during the pandemic, people flocked to the high country -- and they’re expecting more of the same this holiday weekend, which they said is by far their biggest weekend during the summer months.

It’s easy to see why so many people visit the North Carolina mountains during the summer months. Not only are there incredible views, but visitors also get to enjoy much cooler weather.

>> In the video at the top of this page, reporter Dave Faherty takes a closer look at the tourism boost that kept many people employed over the past year.

Channel 9 stopped by one of the campgrounds near Price Park on Friday. There are more than 190 campsites there, and they are all expected to be filled this weekend.

The National Park Service said that in 2020, more than 14 million people visited the Blue Ridge Parkway, spending over $1 billion in communities along the route.

“Obviously, we couldn’t do anything during the pandemic so this is a great get together for the family,” said Don Yang, who was traveling along the Blue Ridge Parkway Friday.

According to the study from the National Park Service, the spending along the Blue Ridge Parkway supported more than 15,000 mountain jobs.

(WATCH BELOW: U.S. Park Service to reopen several campgrounds along Blue Ridge Parkway)

U.S. Park Service to reopen several campgrounds along Blue Ridge Parkway U.S. Park Service to reopen several campgrounds along Blue Ridge Parkway

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