GRANDFATHER’S TROUT FARM & GEM MINING
POND FISHING & GEM MINING IN BANNER ELK, NC
Grandfather Trout Farm and Gem Mining sits on a scenic stretch of mountain property with bubbling springs, shaded ponds, and gorgeous views of the surrounding Banner Elk ridgelines. The peaceful atmosphere is perfect for unwinding, whether you’re casting a line or watching the water from one of the shaded picnic spots. The layout is thoughtfully designed for families — safe, open, and easy to walk — making it an inviting place for visitors of all ages.
In addition to fishing, the property features a gem mining area where kids and adults can sift through mining buckets to uncover colorful stones, crystals, and keepsake treasures. This makes the farm a two-in-one adventure: catch your dinner at the ponds, then discover your own gems in the flume. The combination of mountain scenery, simple outdoor fun, and hands-on activities gives the location a warm, welcoming, and memorable High Country charm.
ACTIVITIES AT THIS LOCATION
Pond Fishing Grandfather Trout Farm NC
Fishing at Grandfather Trout Farm and Gem Mining offers a simple, no-license-needed experience where families catch-and-keep rainbow trout from well-stocked ponds using gear provided onsite. With friendly staff and beautiful mountain surroundings, it’s an easy and memorable way to enjoy Banner Elk’s outdoors.
Gem Mining Grandfathers Trout Farm NC
Gem mining at Grandfather Trout Farm and Gem Mining offers a full outdoor sluice setup with shovels, sifters, and flowing water where visitors can uncover gems from small ($15), medium ($25), or large ($50) mining buckets. With plenty of colorful stones to discover and a scenic mountain setting, it’s a fun, hands-on activity for families, kids, and anyone who enjoys finding treasures in the High Country.
BOOK YOUR EXPERIENCE
Click the link to visit the official website.
BOOK YOUR EXPERIENCE
Click the link to visit the official website.
RELATED LOCATIONS
Zen Tubing
Zen Tubing’s South Asheville location in Arden, NC offers a scenic French Broad River float close to downtown Asheville, the Blue Ridge Parkway, and the North Carolina Arboretum. With free parking, shuttle service, a riverside picnic area, and comfortable tubes, it’s a convenient and laid-back place to enjoy a summer day on the water.
HIGH MOUNTAIN EXPEDITIONS BOONE NC
High Mountain Expeditions’ Boone outpost offers relaxing New River tubing along with canoe and kayak rentals in a beautiful and family-friendly mountain setting. Visitors appreciate the friendly staff, clean facilities, dependable shuttle service, quality equipment and easy way the company handles the details of a day on the river.
Barrett Farm Ponds NC
Barrett Farm Ponds in Bunn, NC is a peaceful, family-friendly sport fishing destination with multiple well-stocked ponds and wide shoreline access. Its rural farm setting and relaxed vibe make it a popular choice for anglers of all ages wanting a simple, enjoyable day outdoors.
Hawksnest Snowtubing and Zipline
Hawksnest Snow Tubing and Zipline, located in Seven Devils, North Carolina, is renowned for being the largest snow tubing park on the East Coast. The park boasts up to 30 lanes, each ranging from 400 to 1,000 feet in length, spread across four distinct tubing areas to cater to various thrill levels.
Jellystone Park Golden Valley
Visit a place where family fun is the main attraction and memories are waiting to be made. Enjoy Blue Ridge Mountain camping at one of the best campgrounds in North Carolina for families! Jellystone Park™ Golden Valley also offers the best camping near Charlotte and Asheville, NC.
Hollyday Farms
HollyDay Farms in Monroe, NC is a private outdoor recreation property centered around a peaceful 2-acre fishing pond with reservation-only access. Its quiet setting, affordable pricing, and family-friendly atmosphere make it a standout local fishing destination.
Moonshine Mountain NC
Moonshine Mountain Snow Tubing Park is a cozy, rustic winter hangout set right in the wooded hills of Hendersonville, NC. With a warm lodge area, fire pits, and a laid-back mountain vibe, it’s a perfect place to spend a snowy afternoon with family or friends.
Tube World NC
Tube World in Maggie Valley, NC is a welcoming Smoky Mountain winter destination conveniently located along Soco Road near local shops and attractions. With easy on-site parking, a central lodge for warming up, and a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere, it offers a classic Western North Carolina mountain experience.
Robinson Catfish Lake NC
Robinson Catfish Lake in Dallas, NC is a peaceful, country-style pay lake known for big catfish, friendly regulars, and a relaxed atmosphere. With open banks, night-fishing opportunities, and a true down-home feel, it’s a great spot for anglers looking to enjoy simple, quiet time outdoors.
Highlands Outpost
Highlands Outpost, located in the breathtaking Blue Ridge Mountains of Scaly Mountain, NC, is a premier outdoor adventure park offering year-round fun for all ages. Conveniently situated near Clemson, SC, Greenville, SC, and Asheville, NC, it’s the perfect getaway for families, outdoor enthusiasts, and thrill-seekers looking for a unique mountain experience. With a wide variety of activities, from high-speed thrills to relaxing outdoor fun, Highlands Outpost stands out as a must-visit destination in the region.
Lowrys Fishing Farm and Sadies Channel Cats NC
Lowrey’s Fish Farm & Sadie’s Channel Cats in Rowland, NC is a relaxed, family-friendly outdoor destination with scenic fishing ponds, boat access, tournament opportunities, and overnight camping. With wide open spaces, shaded picnic spots, and plenty of room to spread out, it’s one of southeastern North Carolina’s most welcoming spots for anglers and outdoor lovers alike.
Black Bear Snowtubing
A smaller, family owned, snowtubing location that offers a more low-key experience along with other, more unusual on-site activities.


















