Ashe County has a total area of 427 square miles and a estimated population of 27,143. The region is located entirely in the Appalachian Mountains. Ashe County is known for the mountain scenery and tourism is an important mainstay for the county. When you visit Ashe County you will find that the county is made up of 3 municipalities; .jpg)
Jefferson: The town of Jefferson is the county seat, established in 1800 and chartered in 1803, is one of the oldest towns in Western North Carolina. Jefferson is home to the 1904 courthouse, which was replaced with a new court house in 2001. The vacated court house has been renovated to provide a space for a visitors center and the Ashe County Museum. Jefferson has several fine restaurants and is also home to the Foster-Tyson Park.
West Jefferson: West Jefferson has the downtown area which is home to more than a dozen galleries, craft shops, and restaurants. The town hosts numerous murals on the sides of many local businesses and provides a "walking tour." The murals are the works of local artists and others in North Carolina that depict the area's history and unique character. One of the Church of the Frescoes is located in West Jefferson, St Mary's Episcopal Church. Christmas in July is the town's annual Independence Day celebration. This festival draws more than 20,000 visitors to the area and has its roots in the local Christmas tree industry.
Lansing: The town of Lansing is located the mountains northwestern section of the county. The first post office was established in Lansing in 1882. The arrival of the Norfolk and Western Railroad triggered a boom in 1914 and was instrumental in the chartering and the incorporation of the town in 1928. After a major fire in 1940 the community started the fire department which hosts many events throughout the year. Lansing is the home to the Ola Belle Reed Festival in August and the Greater LA Festival held in September.
The county is also home to other unincorporated communities:
Todd:
The town of Todd is so special, it is claimed by both Ashe and Watauga. The community is popular with bicyclists and walking tours because of the New River, one of few that flow North. Mountain Music and historic stores are an important part of Todd's heritage and culture. Visit the Todd Inland Park and the Walter and Annie Cook Memorial Park. Shop at the Todd General Store and The Todd Mercantile.
Glendale Springs:
Nestled between the South Fork of the New River and the Blue Ridge Parkway can be found the quaint community of Glendale Springs. It is more than a highlight of visitor trips to Ashe County, it is a place of tranquil enchantment to those who chose to linger in the solitude of its Holy Trinity Church, one of two Churches of the Frescoes within Ashe County. Lending a religious aura to the community is an artistic treasure: Ben Long's "Last Supper" frescoes. Visit, shop, canoe the New River, and dine in Glendale Springs.
Laurel Springs:
Laurel Springs prides itself with the small town charm and beauty that entices motorists from the Blue Ridge Parkway for a quick bit to eat before continuing their adventure on the scenic byway. It is a border community, bordering Wilkes and Allegany counties, and never more than a 30-minute drive from all amenities.
Creston:
Creston is in the northwestern corner of Ashe County and borders Tennessee. The curvy winding roads can offer travelers some of the most beautiful scenic byways in the area. Creston is home to the Riverview Community Center which holds festivals and other events year round. The United Methodist Church is also found in Creston and was listed as a National Historic Building in 2005.
Warrensville:
Warrensville, formerly Buffalo Creek, is located at the intersection of North Carolina Hwy's 88 and 194 in Ashe County, NC. This small community is mid-way between West Jefferson and Lansing and Creston communities. They are also home to the Ashe County Middle School.
Fleetwood:
Fleetwood is located just off of Hwy 221 between West Jefferson and Deep Gap. They are home to Fleetwood Community Center where many great community gatherings are held. You will pass through the Fleetwood community on your trip to and from Boone, NC.
Grassy Creek:
Grassy Creek is a tightly knit community located just south of the North Carolina-Virginia border. When you travel to Grassy Creek you will notice the countless rows of North Carolina Christmas trees. Enjoy the sights and sounds of the nationally renowned New River which flows through Grassy Creek, you will also find the River House Country Inn.
Crumpler:
Crumpler is a community located on Hwy 16 and in the eastern part of Ashe County. The well-known, Shatley Springs Restaurant is located in the Crumpler area just off of Hwy 16. Travelers come to enjoy the country cooking, the famous spring water, and the beautiful NC mountain scenery.
Come to Ashe County and visit all of our towns and communities. You will find some of the friendliest people in the world here in our county. As you travel Ashe County you will also see some of the most beautiful North Carolina Real Estate in the state. A1 Mountain Realty is a North Carolina Real Estate company located on the main street of West Jefferson NC. Click here to meet our knowledgeable and experienced agents. They understand what makes Ashe County special and can help you no matter if you are looking to buy or list your home. Call our office at 336-846-4900 or visit our website www.a1mountainrealty.com to view all of listings. While visiting our website click on the Downtown West Jefferson Webcam tab to view the downtown area and the beautiful Mt. Jefferson mountain.
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