Q&A WITH ROB SALES & DANI MINER

Q&A with Rob Sales

In this issue of Mountain Time in the Smokys, we are highlighting ways to Renew & Restore in ’24. Let’s hear from Rob and Dani to see how they find ways to rejuvenate!

What are your top 3 favorite outdoor recreation activities? Golf, Atlanta Braves, Western Carolina football games

If someone is new to the area, what are 3 hiking trails you recommend they try first? Pisgah National Forest, Pink Beds (Cradle of Forestry), Sliding Rock

When it's time to rest and restore, do you have a favorite local spa or wellness center you like to go to? Orchard Inn, Saluda, NC

How do you sneak in a bit of exercise or healthy habits into your daily routine, even on your busiest days? Walking 1.5-3.0 miles a day. We currently live in Savannah, GA and directly across the street from us is Daffin Park, one lap is 1.5 miles.

If you could only eat one type of fruit for the rest of your life, what would it be and why? Nice firm and juicy apple

What's your guilty pleasure food? Chicken Divan (a baked casserole prepared by my wife)

If you were a superhero with a health-related power, what would it be and how would you use it? Superman (leap buildings in a single bound)

What's the weirdest fitness trend or workout you've ever tried? Water Polo – I am a very good swimmer, but I nearly drowned!

If you could trade lives with a fitness or wellness celebrity for a day, who would it be and why? Jane Fonda -- she lives her life for herself

Q&A With Dani Miner

What are your top 3 favorite outdoor recreation activities?

Hiking is probably my favorite. Most trails are available year-round and there are endless options here in Western NC. 2 and 3 are a toss-up. I’m drawn to any activities involving water, particularly swimming, paddling my SUP or boating on Fontana Lake. The water is a most relaxing escape!

If someone is new to the area, what are 3 hiking trails you recommend they try first? Deep Creek in Bryson City is ideal for folks that prefer an easy and leisurely hike. There are several loop trails with beautiful streams and waterfalls.

Soco Gap to Waterrock Knob Trail off the Blue Ridge Parkway is a moderate 9 miler up and back. It’s a less traveled, scenic trail with a slow ascent until the last mile up to Waterrock Knob. Treat yourself to a nice lunch break at the top and head down. Dogs are welcome.

A more challenging and difficult trail is Shining Creek - Old Butt Knob Trail in Canton. It’s steep with an elevation gain just under 3,000 ft so expect a slower hike. This gorgeous trail is woody and quiet. Be sure to begin early enough for daylight hours. Dogs are welcome on this trail too.

How do you sneak in a bit of exercise or healthy habits into your daily routine, even on your busiest days? My morning begins with taking Barley for a walk or hike in the community where I live. There are 7 miles of mountainous roads, a few are very steep. I’ll wear a weighted vest if I want to really work up a sweat.

If you could only eat one type of fruit for the rest of your life, what would it be and why? Mango! It’s sweet and tangy just as it ripens.

If you could trade lives with a fitness or wellness celebrity for a day, who would it be and why? This may sound strange, but I recently watched the docuseries “Limitless” with Chris Hemsworth. The adventures! He’s an incredible athlete not to mention the obvious! I’d like to be the female version.