Sabrina L. Baker Author/Photographer
Nestled in the heart of downtown Elkin, River & Trails Emporium and Creamy Dayz offers a unique combination of adventure-themed retail and delicious treats. Founded by a local family-owned business, this thriving business has quickly become a favorite destination for both residents and visitors. Gina Haynes-Buchanan is the owner of both River and Trails and Creamy Dayz, while her son, Ryan Grider manages Creamy Dayz. Gina’s husband, father, other son, and Ryan’s fiancé also play a big part in running the business.
Creamy Dayz first opened its doors in April 2019 on North Bridge Street, bringing high quality ice cream to the community. By the end of 2022, an opportunity arose to move into a more central location downtown, and the decision was made to expand. With this move came the creation of River & Trails Emporium, a retail store dedicated to outdoor-inspired goods and locally made products. This expansion allowed Creamy Dayz to remain open year-round, offering its delicious ice cream and coffee selections even in the colder months. Today, the combined store offers a variety of indulgent treats, including rolled ice cream, premium hand-dipped ice cream, frozen dipped cheesecake slices, and a specialty dessert called the “Doffle,” a mouthwatering mix between a donut and a Belgian waffle with customizable toppings. The store also features a full latte bar using locally sourced coffee from Hatchet Coffee in Boone, NC. Recently, they introduced giant cookie sundaes, an irresistible addition to their growing menu.
The decision to establish and expand in downtown Elkin was driven by a deep appreciation for the town’s charm and sense of community. The new building was restored with great care, preserving as much of its original character as possible. Any elements that could not be retained were repurposed, ensuring a harmonious blend of historic charm and modern convenience. The original floors remain, grounding the space in its rich history while welcoming new generations of visitors.
River & Trails Emporium and Creamy Dayz stands out in the local landscape by offering something uniquely different. Unlike many seasonal ice cream shops, Creamy Dayz serves its frozen treats year-round. This, combined with the high-quality ingredients used in every dish, sets it apart from other establishments.
But the uniqueness does not stop at food. “The store is an adventurous experience,” says owner Gina. The blend of retail and food creates an inviting atmosphere where customers can shop for lifestyle clothing, outdoor gear, and gifts while enjoying a coffee or ice cream. This multifaceted approach makes it a must-visit destination in Elkin.
River & Trails Emporium and Creamy Dayz carries a thoughtfully curated selection of products, from graphic tees to hiking and camping essentials. The store is committed to supporting local artisans and offering handmade goods. Many of their vendors are local from across North Carolina, including Charlotte, Mount Airy, and Asheville. Popular items include stickers, Birkenstocks, and stylish, comfortable apparel.
A powerful sense of community is at the heart of River & Trails Emporium and Creamy Dayz. The business actively supports local initiatives by selling locally made products and donating to important causes. One notable effort was the creation of a custom Hurricane Helene sticker, with all proceeds benefiting victims of the flood. Every holiday season, the store participates in the Angel Tree program, selecting a child in need to support with Christmas gifts. These acts of kindness reinforce the store’s mission to give back to the community that has embraced it so warmly.
Like any business, River & Trails Emporium and Creamy Dayz has faced its share of challenges. The key to overcoming obstacles, according to Gina, is to “start slow and don’t overdo it.” Growing the business steadily, year after year, has proven to be a sustainable approach. She advises new entrepreneurs to take their time, be patient, and allow their vision to unfold naturally. “Slow and steady gets it,” she says, emphasizing the importance of pacing oneself in business.
For Gina and her team, the most fulfilling aspect of running River & Trails Emporium and Creamy Dayz is the overwhelming support and appreciation from the community. Compliments from customers, recognition from the town and even the state, and the joy of seeing locals embrace the store have made all the challenging work worthwhile.
“It feels good to contribute to the downtown area,” Gina shares. “One of the best moments was when a customer came in and praised the updates to the building. Everyone here is so friendly—it feels like a scene from a Hallmark movie.”
Hearing customers say they want to support local businesses is one of the biggest rewards. It reinforces the store’s mission and reminds the team why they started in the first place.
River & Trails Emporium and Creamy Dayz continues to grow and evolve. Customers can look forward to new spring inventory, a completely renovated Creamy Dayz with an updated menu, and exciting new treats like giant cookie sundaes.
Beyond daily operations, the store actively participates in Elkin’s annual events, bringing the community together for special celebrations. Notable upcoming events include:
• Trail Days (June 5-8) – A celebration of outdoor adventure, fitting perfectly with River Trails Emporium’s mission.
• Pumpkin Festival (September) – A town-wide celebration of fall, filled with festive activities and seasonal treats.
• Polar Express Christmas Event (December) – A magical holiday event where kids dress up, staff members become elves, and the beloved Christmas movie is brought to life.
River & Trails Emporium and Creamy Dayz is more than just a store—it is an experience, a community hub, and a testament to the power of local business. With high-quality products, a deep commitment to giving back, and a welcoming atmosphere, this Elkin gem continues to make a lasting impact. Whether you are craving premium ice cream, looking for the perfect outdoor gear, or simply wanting to support a thriving local business, River & Trails Emporium and Creamy Dayz is the place to be.
