Seven Devils, North Carolina – Hawksnest Adventures, a property formerly recognized as a prominent ski resort in North Carolina, has been acquired by Bound for Adventure, a company specializing in the expansion of multi-state adventure recreation operations. The transaction marks a significant shift for the 70-acre property, transitioning from its historical roots in winter sports to a broader portfolio of outdoor activities. The sale, finalized recently, was reported by the High Country Press and signifies Bound for Adventure’s strategic move to integrate Hawksnest into its growing network, which already includes well-established brands like River Riders and Wilderness Voyageurs.
This acquisition represents Bound for Adventure’s third multi-state presence, underscoring their ambition to diversify and enhance their offerings in the outdoor recreation sector. While the specifics of future developments remain to be detailed by the new ownership, the company’s existing expertise in activities such as whitewater rafting and ziplining suggests a potential trajectory for the Seven Devils location. The new owners have indicated they will be sharing their comprehensive vision for the site in the coming months, a prospect that has generated considerable interest within the regional outdoor enthusiast community.
A Legacy of Winter and Summer Pursuits
Hawksnest has long been a fixture in the High Country, renowned for its expansive snow tubing park, which stands as one of the largest on the East Coast during the winter months. In warmer seasons, the property has also offered ziplining and rafting excursions, capitalizing on the natural beauty and adventurous spirit of the region. The resort’s history is deeply intertwined with winter sports, a legacy that predates its current adventure recreation focus.
The property’s past as a ski resort is a significant part of its identity. Opened in 1964 as Seven Devils, it was a popular destination for skiers for many years. Under the ownership of Leonard Cottom, who purchased the resort in 1993, Hawksnest ski area reached its zenith. At its peak, the resort boasted 12 ski trails and a formidable vertical drop of 673 feet, making it a competitive destination in the Southeast. Skiers were drawn to its reputation for affordable lift tickets and reliable snowmaking capabilities, which ensured a consistent skiing experience even when natural snowfall was scarce.
However, the era of skiing at Hawksnest concluded in 2008. According to reports from Skisoutheast.com, the decision to cease ski operations was attributed to the town’s resistance to proposed terrain expansion. This pivot marked a fundamental shift in the resort’s operational strategy, leading to a concentrated focus on its burgeoning snow tubing and ziplining attractions. The transition from a traditional ski resort to an adventure park reflects a broader trend in the outdoor recreation industry, adapting to changing consumer preferences and market demands.
The Transition to New Ownership
The sale of Hawksnest Adventures to Bound for Adventure signifies a new chapter for the property and its long-standing connection to the Cottom family. Lenny Cottom, representing the family, expressed profound gratitude to the community and former employees for their support over the decades. "On behalf of the Cottom Family, I would like to express deep gratitude for the community’s support over the decades," Cottom stated in remarks to WatugaOnline.com. "I would also like to thank all the employees past and present who made Hawksnest what it is today. We could not have done it without their support and efforts."
Cottom also conveyed optimism about the future under the new ownership. "The new owners bring fresh energy and a shared passion for outdoor recreation," he added. "We’re excited to see the business evolve in their hands and look forward to our next adventure in the Boone area." This sentiment highlights a collaborative spirit and a shared vision for the continued success of the property as a destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
Matt Knott, CEO of Bound for Adventure, articulated his enthusiasm for the acquisition. "We could not be more excited to welcome Hawksnest Adventures into our family of brands," Knott remarked. "Hawksnest has built an incredible reputation for delivering high-quality, memorable outdoor experiences, and their team shares our passion for adventure, guest service, and innovation. Together, we are expanding our ability to connect more people with the outdoors in meaningful ways." His statement underscores the alignment of values and operational philosophies between the acquiring company and the established reputation of Hawksnest.
Community Reactions and Future Prospects
The news of the sale has elicited a range of reactions from the local community, particularly from long-time patrons and those who remember Hawksnest’s days as a ski resort. Online commentary on platforms like Facebook has indicated a palpable excitement among some individuals regarding the potential for a return of skiing and snowboarding to the property. This sentiment reflects the deep-seated nostalgia and enduring appeal of winter sports in the region.
However, the current operational focus of Bound for Adventure, which centers on activities like whitewater rafting, ziplining, and adventure park operations, does not directly include skiing or snowboarding. This distinction has led to a degree of speculation about whether the new ownership might eventually explore the feasibility of reinstating winter sports. The company’s background and stated expertise lie in other forms of adventure recreation, suggesting that any potential revival of skiing would require significant investment and strategic planning, distinct from their current operational model.
The property has also faced recent challenges that may influence future development. In 2025, local residents filed a lawsuit concerning the proposed construction of a mountain coaster at Hawksnest. This legal action, reported by the Watauga Democrat, cast uncertainty over the status of that specific project. The resolution of such local disputes and the integration of community concerns will likely play a role in the new ownership’s approach to development and expansion at the site.
A Look Back at the Property’s Evolution
The transformation of Hawksnest from a ski resort to a multi-faceted adventure park is a narrative of adaptation within the dynamic outdoor recreation industry. The initial vision for Seven Devils in the 1960s was rooted in the burgeoning popularity of skiing in the Appalachian Mountains. Its establishment marked a significant contribution to the region’s winter tourism landscape.
The acquisition by Leonard Cottom in 1993 represented a period of renewed investment and operational focus. Under his stewardship, the ski resort continued to be a popular destination. However, the challenges posed by the town’s stance on expansion in 2008 necessitated a strategic re-evaluation, leading to the impactful shift towards snow tubing and ziplining. This pivot allowed Hawksnest to leverage its existing infrastructure and natural assets in different, yet equally appealing, ways, ensuring its continued relevance in the adventure tourism market.
The current sale to Bound for Adventure represents another evolutionary step. The company’s established track record in managing and growing adventure recreation businesses across multiple states suggests a commitment to enhancing and potentially expanding the existing offerings at Hawksnest. Their expertise in operational efficiency, guest experience, and innovative adventure programming is expected to contribute to the property’s ongoing development.
Broader Implications for Regional Tourism
The acquisition of Hawksnest Adventures by Bound for Adventure carries broader implications for the High Country region and its tourism economy. The integration of Hawksnest into a larger, multi-state adventure network could lead to increased marketing reach, attracting a wider demographic of visitors. The company’s established brands and operational expertise may introduce new efficiencies and potentially innovative attractions, further solidifying the region’s reputation as a premier destination for outdoor recreation.
The expansion of adventure recreation opportunities can also contribute to economic development by creating jobs, supporting local businesses, and diversifying the tourism offerings beyond traditional attractions. As Bound for Adventure articulates its strategic plans, the community will be looking for insights into how the new ownership intends to balance the preservation of the site’s natural beauty with the development of new recreational experiences.
The future of Hawksnest, under its new ownership, remains a subject of keen interest. While the return of skiing is a sentiment expressed by some, the company’s current focus and expertise lie in other adventurous pursuits. The coming months will undoubtedly reveal more about Bound for Adventure’s vision, offering a clearer picture of how this historic North Carolina property will continue to evolve as a vibrant hub for outdoor adventure. The legacy of Hawksnest, from its days as a beloved ski resort to its current role as an adventure park, is a testament to its enduring appeal and its capacity for adaptation in the ever-changing landscape of outdoor recreation.
