The Branches is located in Banner Elk, North Carolina. This Sugar Mountain resort complex is one of North Carolina`s leading vacation centers. Located in the Blue Ridge Mountains in the western corner of the state, Sugar Mountain offers facilities for four seasons of recreation. In spring, summer, and fall, the mountains serve as a scenic stage for golf, tennis, horseback riding, white-water rafting, fishing, and hiking. Winter offers downhill skiing November through March. Sightseeing possibilities in the area include Grandfather Mountain, Blowing Rock, Tweetsie Railroad Amusement Park, and Linville Caverns. Resort amenities include cross-country skiing, downhill skiing, sauna, and hot tub.