Legacy: Leaf Season by Community Newspapers

Fall 2014

Leaf Season A publication of The Highlander and the Crossroads Chronicle

200347

Bear Mountain Outfitters

An interesting mix of clothing and footwear to fit your lifestyle

Casual • Resortwear • Activewear • Accessories Stroll • Jog • Hike • Train Mon-Thurs 10-6 • Fri-Sat 10-8 • Sun 11-5 302 Main St, Highlands, NC 28741 Open Year Around • 828-526-5784

Leaf Season • 2014

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The 19th century poet and journalist

Have you hugged your mug today?

William Cullen Bryant called autumn “the year’s last, loveliest smile.” As the days grow cooler and the shadows longer, there is much to celebrate this season on the Highlands-Cashiers Plateau. Around nearly every corner lies a breathtaking vista of the region’s deciduous trees putting on their annual hue-changing extravaganza. Brilliant yellows, oranges Carolyn M orris and reds emblazon the hilleditor roe, sides as our mountain communities enjoy the riches of nature and gather together to enjoy each other’s company, as well. In this Leaf Season issue of Legacy, you will find information on upcoming events, favorite hiking trails and the stars of the season — the trees themselves. You’ll read about adventures such as zip lining through the treetops at Highlands Aerial Park and seeking out salamanders on a foray with the Highlands Biological Station. You’ll learn about the mystical bear shadow on Whiteside Mountain, peruse mouth-watering pumpkin recipes and hear an expert’s prognostication for this year’s fall colors. Whether you call this area home or are passing through, you’ll find that autumn in Highlands and Cashiers gives you plenty of reasons to smile.

Handwarmer mugs exclusively at Peak Experience.

“Keep Your Toes Toasty”

Contents Foliage Forecast

What weather factors play into the vibrant colors of the leaf season. Page 8

Colorful World of Trees This basic field guide can help you identify trees by their leaf color and shape. Page 14

Searching for Salamanders Go on a walk to learn about and find salamanders in the riverbanks at Standing Indian. Page 36

Whiteside Cove Discover the many adventures awaiting at the bottom of the mountain. Page 46

Take a Hike Find your favorite path with this area trail guide. Page 16

From among the trees p.50

Go for the Greenway Escape from Highlands’ busy downtown on the in-town nature trail. Page 25

To be included in the pages of Legacy Magazine, contact: The Highlander (828) 526-4114 or news@highlandsnews.com or the Crossroads Chronicle at (828) 743-5101

Editors Carolyn Morrisroe, Justin Caudell

GALLERY OF FINE HANDCRAFTS & ANTIQUES

The Largest Selection of Fine American Handcrafts in the Area.

Graphic Designers Katherine Brown, Peter Morlock 209861

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Staff Writers Meredith Burns, Davis Moore

Account Executives Tyler Shook Brandy McElroy Mike Henry

An Amazing Array of American Craft including Jewelry, Pottery, Glass, Fiber Art and more accented by Estate Jewelry and Select Antiques.

2820 Dillard Road, Hwy 106 2 Miles past Highlands Country Club on left 828-526-0229

Interim Publisher Rachel Hoskins

Cover Photo Carolyn Morrisroe

Leaf Season • 2014

Panthertown p.28 Leaf Season • 2014

Also inside: • Bear’s Shadow: A trip to the plateau wouldn’t be complete without an evening view of the mysterious bear shadow. Page 57 • Mountain Flavors: Spice it up with pumpkins in these seasonal dishes. Page 60 • Best Bets: 10 things to do in Highlands and Cashiers this season. Page 70 • Seasonal Calendar: A comprehensive list of activities scheduled so far for fall. Page 72 • Index of Advertisers: Page 78 3•

Ce l ebr a ti ng O ur 2 0 th Se as o n

FALL SALE!! Large Selection of Beautiful Perennials, Hearty Trees, & Shrubs

Kiln-Dried Fire Wood (Call for Details)

October Monday - Saturday 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. Closed Sunday November - March Monday - Saturday 8 a.m. - 4 p.m. Closed Saturday and Sunday

This view property on Wildcat Ridge is priced to sell at $1,495,000. 4 Brms-4.5 Bths and an elevator. Blair Realty is located on US64 at the entrance to Wildcat Cliffs Country Club. Specializing in property in the Highlands & Cashiers area since 1980. Blair & Margaret Heinlein are the Brokers and owners and invite you to visit for a tour of listed properties.

Past Highlands Falls on the left 2460 Cashiers Road • Highlands, N.C. 28741

(828) 526-2395 Visit our Flat Mountain location for landscape rock, boulders, sand, decorative gravels, mulch, straws, fertilizers, soils, and much more.

David Sims, Owner

OPEN YEAR ROUND

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Leaf Season

November thru April Hours: Mon.-Fri. 9 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. Sat. 9 a.m. - 2 p.m. Closed Sundays

View of downtown Highlands from Sunset Rock Leaf Season • 2014

Leaf Season • 2014

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Visit us at www.blair-realty.com or call us today at

May thru October Hours: Mon.-Fri. 9 a.m. - 6 p.m. Sat. 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. Closed Sundays

828-526-2366

Sherry H. Sims, R. Ph./Owner 5•

THE SUMMER HOUSE

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Foliage Forecast Fall color may be muted but last longer By Justin Caudell

he combination of a wet spring and forecasts for above-average temperatures this fall could produce a long-lasting leaf display in the mountains, but with spotty color development. That’s the word from Kathy Mathews, Western Carolina University’s fall foliage forecaster, in her annual prediction of how foliage around the region will perform as the sunlight of summer wanes and days become crisp. Mathews, an associate professor of biology at WCU, specializes in plant systematics and bases her color forecast in part on weather conditions. She believes that the formation of higher levels of pigments in the leaves correlates with dry weather throughout the year, especially in the spring and September. “The science of forecasting color change timing involves day length changes, which is very predictable, and temperature changes, which involves weather forecasts several months in advance, which isn’t very precise or accurate,” Mathews said. “As for color change quality, there are correlations between rainfall and color change, which is why I look at spring rain and fall rain forecasts. In droughty years, I predict good quality color. In years with average to above-average rainfall, I predict spotty color.” Rainfall measurements for the Asheville area indicate that April was a very wet month, with about two inches above normal precipitation, and rainfall amounts slightly above normal fell in May and June, Mathews said. “The rainy spring months this year portend somewhat muted pigments on the leaves in the fall,” she said. “On the bright side, our abundant tulip poplars, which are typically among the first trees to change color in the fall, perform well in wetter conditions, developing a golden hue that persists longer before browning. Overall, however,

Fall fishing along Hazel Creek/Photo by Eric NeSmith • 8

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trees that produce red leaves, including sourwood, red maple and dogwood, perform best in dry conditions. Therefore, we may see fewer brilliant reds during the peak of fall color change.” Still, the development of dry condi-

tions in September could improve the overall outlook and produce the best bursts of color, she said. On the other side of the weather coin, the seasonal forecast from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administra-

Photo courtesy of WCU

Above: Kathy Mathews, an associate professor of biology at WCU, specializes in plant systematics and bases her fall color forecast in part on weather conditions.

e Th IGe

BOn

tion calls for slightly above-average temperatures this fall in the Southeast, and if that prediction pans out, the color season could be longer than normal, extending well into November, Mathews said. The timing to see the best color change on the Highlands-Cashiers Plateau will be dependent on the decreasing amount of sunlight that comes with the passing days and the elevation of a particular location, she said. “At the higher elevations, the peak usually happens in the second week of October,” Mathews said. “In the lower elevations, the third week.” However, the timing of the first frost is important as well, because freezing temperatures quickly degrade the green chlorophyll in leaves. “If the area gets a frost during that time, most of the trees will come into peak color at once,” Mathews said. “But if the frost is later in the month, which is a frequent occurrence, the trees change color more gradually and give us a more extended color season.”

Into the Woods HOME INTERIORS

28 NO & V. 29

possible in the mountains. Check weather forecasts before you leave.  Take your camera. The warm light of the early morning or late afternoon can create especially dramatic images.  Enhance fall colors by wearing polarized sunglasses.  Carry along binoculars for bird watching and to bring distant picturesque views a bit closer.  In addition to the HighlandsCashiers Plateau, the Blue Ridge Parkway offers great vantages of color in the fall. Before making the trip, call the parkway information line at 828-2980398 for color, weather and road condition reports. 219091

›Small Plates & Specialty Cocktails at the bar nightly from 4:00 pm.

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Mon-Sat 10-5, Sun 12-5 after Thanksgiving Mon-Tues & Fri-Sat 10-5

 Fill up the gas tank before taking a scenic drive. Gas stations can be few and far between in rural areas.  Don’t rely entirely on your GPS to navigate mountain roads. Take a good old-fashioned map along also, as satellite service can be spotty.  Make a day out of your adventure. Take a lunch or snacks and find a cozy spot or picnic area to rest and take in the view.  Bring a sweater or jacket. While it might be 70 degrees where you live, it could be 10 to 20 degrees cooler at higher elevations. In mid- to late October, snow or ice is also

›Dinner nightly from 5:30 pm featuring steaks, fresh local seafood & seasonallyinspired cuisine.

976 US 64E CASHIERS NC 28717 • Full Service • Lighting (828) 743-1473

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Leaf Looking Tips

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›Traditional Sunday Brunch served from 11:00 am to 2:00 pm featuring specials and the Signature Bloody Mary Bar. ›Enjoy breathtaking views of Lake Sequoyah.

Dinner. Wine. Cocktails. Views. Reservations: 828-526-2338

www.ontheverandah.com 1536 Franklin Road, Highlands, NC 28741

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Go for a drive The U.S. Forest Service offers recommendations for a variety of high and mid-elevation drives to view fall colors, ranging from 2,500 feet to more than 4,500 feet. Among the high-elevation suggestions are the Cherohala Skyway in Graham County, Wayah Bald and Wine Spring Creek areas of Macon County and Roan Mountain in Mitchell County. Mid-elevation suggestions include Chunky Gal Mountains from Standing Indian to Shooting Creek along U.S. 64 in Macon and Clay counties, along NC 28 and 143 in Graham County from Fontana Village to Stecoah Gap and along U.S. 19E in the Poplar area of Yancey County from the Cane River to Spivey Gap. For more information about these and other locations, visit bit. ly/ncfallfoliage

H o m e s • Lot s • Ac r e Ag e • c o m m e rc i A L

8 7 0 H w y 6 4 w • cA s H i e r s , N c 2 8 7 1 7 8 2 8 . 7 4 3 . 0 8 8 0

v i e w o u r v i rt uA L to u r s At b e t s y pAu L p ro p e rt i e s . c o m

47.69+/- a cres

First time on market in 30years! Located 1 mile from Cashiers Crossroads on the Highlands Road. Hwy. 64 W frontage. Office building on lower plateau. Large level sites for family estate, in-town townhomes, or gentleman’s farm. Spectacular long-range views.

MLS# 80158 n $2,100,000

H igH H ill F arm

See the Leaf Color from a new perspective • Zip Line Tours • Family Challenge Courses • Ground To Air Nature Trail • Adventure For All Ages • Designed For Family Fun 9625 Dillard Rd Scaly Mountain, NC 28775

Picturesque 40.67+/- acres, 20+/acres is pasture land.Yellow Mtn. & Shortoff Mtn. views all around. Charming 1900 ‘s restored Farm home. 3 BR, 2BA & Den. Root cellar, shed & barn. Only minutes to town. MLS# 79223 n $795,000

F arm , H ome &g uest c ottage

828-526-8773 www.highlandscanopytour.com

Wow! 3.5+/- acres. 2 acres is pasture. Wonderful Mtn. views. 3BR, 3BA & Loft. Lower Lvl: 1BR, 1BA, coffee bar & FP. 1 car garage. Cozy guest cottage. 3 stall barn w/tack room. RV carport. Spring & well w/2500 gal retention tank. Adjoins National Forest Trails.

MLS# 79153 n $535,000

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Leaf Season • 2014

c Hattooga c liFFs

Fabulous 4.5 +/- acres with breathtaking views. 4BR, 4.5BA. Private floor for Master suite. Elevator, Chef’s kitchen, Butler pantry, fireplaces, double carport. Deck with pergola, built in grill, extensive rock work. MLS# 72644 n $1,799,000

t rillium

AWESOME! What more can you say about this 3BR, 3BA on 1.62+/- acres w/ Mountain & Lake views. Recently renovated. Huge unfinished basement. Double carport & 3 decks.Walk to fitness center. Buyer has option of joining Country Club. MLS# 76856 n $579,000

c ustom H ome

Whisper Lake large 4BR, 3.5BA, loft. 2BR’s upstairs each with own baths. Lower level family room. Superb detail. Room for expansion. Fenced yard. Only a few homes to Lake.Whisper Lake & Sapphire Valley Amenities. MLS# 77126 n $495,000

H ickory r idge

Private Estate close to town. 4+/acres. 5 Bedroom Suites, 6 Baths, 2 Half Baths. Perfect for a large family. Open floor plan w/great room, family room w/ kitchen, bonus room, 3 fireplaces, 3 car garage.To top it off a Whiteside Mountain view! MLS# 78194 n $1,500,000

B ig s HeepcliFF

Amazing Whiteside Mtn. & Cashiers Lake views from this 3BR, 3BA home. Master on main with stone fireplace. Lower Level family room and guest bedrooms each with their own bathrooms. Single carport with circular paved driveway. Southern exposure & 2.67+/- acres.

MLS# 77490 n $575,000

2 H omes W itH a creage

2BR, 2BA main & 1BR, 1BA log cabin cottage. 7.20 +/- acres, 3 streams & 2 ponds. 1 side borders Nat’l Forest. Mountain view. Fenced garden & shed. 18 fruit trees, 30 blueberry bushes & nut trees. 1000 gal. water tank. MLS# 79264 n $399,900 REDUCED

d eep W ater l ake g lenville H ome

Awesome home on 332 +/- ft. of Lake frontage w/dock. 3BR, 4BA, Office, Sun rm. Lake view from 3 sides.Wet bar, jetted tub. 2 car garage, screened porch w/fireplace. Indoor endless pool, workshop. MLS# 74118 n $1,350,000 Owner/Broker

B ig s HeepcliFF

Wonderful light & bright home w/ large windows throughout. 3BR, 3BA all on one floor. Dining room & eat in kitchen. His & hers baths. 2 car garage. Expansive Mountain views to the north of the Blue Ridge Mtns. 2.2+/- acres w/fenced yard. Gated access.

MLS# 79061 n $550,000

H olly F orest 11

Wonderful 3BR, 2BA cedar home, 1+/acres near level. All -on-one floor except bonus room over attached 2 car garage. New sun room. FP, soaring cathedral ceiling & hardwood floors. Lovely path to stream. Sapphire Valley Amenities. MLS# 78572 n $399,000 REDUCED

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Trees

Colorful world of

“

Tulip Poplar This tree, known as the “yellow poplar” for its fall color is common in the area. The leaf has a four-pointed “tulip” shape that is diamond-like in appearance from a distance. Tulip poplars turn yellow from mid-September through early October, peaking in the first and second weeks of October. Black gum trees, which have a scrubby appearance, are also among the early turners. This tree splashes a vivid orange-red to mix with the tulip poplar’s yellow.

Autumn is a second spring when every leaf is a flower.” -Albert Camus

While it can be soothing to simply gaze at a sea of multicolored leaves and appreciate their overall impact, it’s also rewarding to learn to recognize which trees are which. Tree identification can be an enlightening experience, as you deepen your knowledge of the natural world around you. It is also easy and fun! Many trees in this region stand out for the color and shape of their leaves. Use this guide to spot different types of trees as you behold their cavalcade of changing hues throughout the season.

Oak Oaks have a long oval-shaped leaf. Red and scarlet oak leaves have jagged, angular edges, though this is most pronounced in scarlet oaks. White oaks (pictured above) are less dramatic when the colors change, turning a brownish hue. Scarlet oaks turn a rusty but bright red-brown, and red oaks turn a deep blood red. Oaks and hickories follow maples and sourwoods in October.

Dogwood

Hickory Hickory trees turn a brownish-yellow. These large trees are irregularly shaped from a distance and have compound leaves with a brownish edge. Also chang-

Also in the red family is the dogwood. This small tree is seen in many areas throughout the South. The leaves are oval shaped and come to a point at the tip. The leaves turn a red to reddish-purple in the fall. The tree is commonly identified in the spring by its “flowers,” which are actually bracts — modified leaves that look like petals that appear in pink, white or yellow.

ing colors around the middle of October are the dogwoods, with an oval-shaped leaf. These small trees add a splash of red to the landscape.

Red Maple The red maple is common in the area and has a sprawling silhouette when seen from a distance. The leaves have a scribbled edge around the classic shape and are

striking for their brilliant red coloring in fall. This tree typically changes color in early to mid-October.

Family Program The Highlands Nature Center will host a family program from 2 p.m. - 4 p.m. Oct. 4 with activities on how leaves change color, including a walk through the Botanical Garden to identify trees by leaf shape and color. For all ages. Cost is $5. Sign up by calling 828-526-2623.

Photos by Emily Dorsey • 14

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Plays Well Do d ne” oo G “

Hike

Take A

ighlands-area vistas, waterfalls and (mostly) easy walkabouts for the novice hiker:

October 2-12

An Evening with David Ives

Feb. 19-Mar. 1 TBA

May 21-31

Welcome to Mitford

Show times: Evenings at 7:30 pm Sundays at 2:30 pm For Tickets contact: PO Box 1416 Highlands, NC 28741

(828) 526-8084 507 Chestnut St., Highlands www.highlandscashiersplayers.org • 16

Bridal Veil Falls

Level of difficulty: Extremely easy. This waterfall is visible from the road. Parking: Adequate Driving distance/directions from downtown: 2.7 miles. Follow Hwy. 64 (Franklin Road). Waterfall is on the right. Description: An alternate road curves under this waterfall allowing drivers to pass underneath. A large gravel parking area is adjacent. Footnote: The road under the waterfall was closed for several years after a boulder fell and blocked it. The boulder was blasted away, and the road was reopened in 2007.

Cullasaja Falls

Level of difficulty: N/A Driving distance/directions from downtown: About 9 miles. Follow Hwy. 64 (Franklin Road). Fall is on the left. Pull-off is on the left. Parking: Extremely limited Description: This waterfall is visible from the road, but it is strongly advisable to pull off to view it. It is more easily accessible when traveling east on Hwy. 64 up the mountain. Several small pull-offs are available there. Footnote: The area to view this fall is in an extremely narrow area of the Cullasaja Gorge Road. Use extreme caution and be aware of the traffic through the narrow pass.

Leaf Season • 2014

Cullasaja Falls

Seamless Gutters

Six Inch Seamless Available in 30 Colors Snow & Gutter Guards Gutter Maintenance & Cleaning Insured Leaf Season • 2014

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2014 Season

Yellow Mountain

Level of difficulty: Strenuous, with 2,000-plus-foot elevation gain Driving distance/directions from downtown: 4.9 miles. Follow Hwy. 64 East to Buck Creek Road on left, proceed 2.2 miles on Buck Creek to trailhead on right. Parking: Adequate, across the road from trailhead Hiking distance: 9.6 miles round-trip Description: This longish hike up Cole Mountain, Shortoff Mountain, around Goat Knob and up Yellow Mountain is worth the trip for the view to be had from the old fire tower at the summit. Trail is well-marked and maintained, but it will test the mettle of the weekend walker. Footnote: Bring adequate water. Nice collection of wildflowers along the trail, in season.

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Dry Falls

Chinquapin Mountain

Level of difficulty: Easy to moderate Driving directions/distance from downtown: About 3.5 miles. Follow Hwy. 64 (Franklin Road). Waterfall is on the left. Parking: Improved Description: This relatively accessible hike includes a series of steps to a very short trail that leads behind the waterfall. Footnote: Recent upgrades include a more level trail, improved drainage, new railings and improvements underneath the waterfall.

Level of difficulty: Moderate, 700-foot elevation gain. Driving distance/directions from downtown: 2.9 miles. Follow Hwy. 106 (Dillard Road) to graveled Glen Falls Road on left, proceed to trailhead. Parking: Adequate Hiking distance: 3 miles round-trip Description: Take the trail that bears to the right from Glen Falls trailhead and bulletin board. Be ready to rock-hop over several small streams on the way to the summit, which has a number of rocky overlooks into Blue Valley. Footnote: Remember how to get back to your vehicle. (Avoid side trail leading to Hwy. 106.)

Sunset Rock

Level of difficulty: Moderate (less than 300-foot elevation gain) Driving distance/direction from downtown: 0.5 miles out Horse Cove Road Parking: Limited free parking adjacent to trailhead, across the road from Highlands Nature Center Hiking distance: 1.2 miles round-trip Description: Walk up Sunset Park Road from trailhead to turnaround at the top of this graveled road. Overlook with wonderful view of Highlands village is immediately to the right. Footnote: A narrow trail heading east from the turnaround leads to Sunrise Rock and a good view of Horse Cove. Do not block the road, which is a private roadway.

Whiteside Mountain

Level of difficulty: Moderate-to-strenuous, depending on what kind of shape you’re in. Driving distance/directions from downtown: 6.6 miles. Take Hwy. 64 East toward Cashiers, right on Whiteside Mountain Road to trailhead and parking lot on left. Parking: Adequate. U.S. Forest Service charges a parking fee of $2 per vehicle. Hiking distance: 2-mile loop Description: Like Satulah, this is an old-time favorite for visitors and Highlands residents alike. Take the loop trail clockwise or counter-clockwise – you still end up at the park-

View from Sunset Rock

828.743.3510 448 US 64 West #5 Cashiers NC 28717

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Leaf Season • 2014

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Ranger Falls

Level of difficulty: Moderate Driving distance/direction from downtown to Flat Mountain Road: Follow U.S. 64 east toward Cashiers for 2.5 miles. Turn left on Flat Mountain Road. Arrive at old Forest Service building after about 2 miles. Parking: At former ranger station Hiking distance: 2-mile loop Description: This relatively new interpretive trail can be started from either the Cliffside Lake Recreation Area on Hwy. 64 W toward Franklin or at the former Highlands ranger station on Flat Mountain Road. The trail follows Skitty Creek and leads to its namesake Ranger Falls, approximately 25 feet high. At Flat Mountain, trail begins on west side of parking lot.

Chattooga River Old Iron Bridge at the Chattooga River

ing lot. Summit is a ridge with many overlooks to the south (with a spectacular view of the Blue Ridge escarpment) and to the north and east (view of ridges and mountains overlooking more developed Cashiers area and Whiteside Cove). Footnote: Various twisting side trails lead to and from an adjacent rock outcrop known as the Devil’s Courthouse, but the novice hiker might best do this tangent hike with experienced hikers who have been there previously. For wonderful details about this mountain, consult The Mountain at the End of the Trail: A History of Whiteside Mountain, by Robert Zahner, 1994, available at the Hudson Library and Highlands Chamber of Commerce and Visitor Center.

Granite City

Level of difficulty: Moderate Driving distance/directions from downtown: 6 miles. Follow the many twists, turns and hairpin switchbacks of Horse Cove Road down to T-intersection of Bull Pen and Whiteside Cove roads. Bear left on Whiteside 1.2 miles to steep trail on left. Parking: Limited, on road shoulders Hiking distance: Minimal

Old Iron Bridge and Chattooga River Loop

Level of difficulty: Moderate Driving distance/directions from downtown: 7.9 miles. Follow the many twists, turns and hairpin switchbacks of Horse Cove Road down to T-intersection of Bull Pen and Whiteside Cove roads. Bear right on Bull Pen (very rough graveled Forest Service road) to bridge. Bull Pen is partially paved, but drive cautiously on this single-track Forest Service road. Parking: Adequate Hiking distance: 2-mile loop round-trip Description: Trail proceeds upriver for some distance before switching back to the left and returning through hemlock forest to a camp site slightly higher up than the parking lot on Bull Pen Road. Hemlocks here display evidence of much damage from hemlock woolly adelgid infestation. Many forgo the hike and just picnic along the river above the bridge. Footnote: The more aggressive hiker may wish to follow the Chattooga River Trail upriver. This is a more strenuous hike, with many water crossings, 6.25 miles total, ending at a parking lot for the Chattooga River Trail on Whiteside Cove Road. It is best done with experienced fellow hikers.

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Description: Trail leads to a jumble of large granite outcrops and boulders with many caverns and ledges, a favorite of the young set. Footnote: Best wear boots and long pants for this one.

“The Narrows”

Level of difficulty: Moderate Driving distance/directions from downtown: 5.6 miles. Follow the many twists, turns and hairpin switchbacks of Horse Cove Road down to T-intersection of Bull Pen and Whiteside Cove roads. Bear left on Whiteside 0.8 miles to old logging road, second on right. Parking: Two spaces on the side of the road Hiking distance: About 4 miles round-trip Description: Follow this county line road dividing Jackson and Macon counties to intersection with Chattooga River Trail. Bear left another 0.2 miles, approximately, to

picnic spots along Chattooga River, at confluence with Norton Mill Creek. Look for iron bridge over creek, repaired by Forest Service after the 2004 hurricanes. The Chattooga at this location squeezes into a natural rock sluice, “The Narrows,” before widening out. Footnote: This is a favorite swimming hole in summer. Do not expect skinny-dipping solitude here.

Satulah Mountain

Level of difficulty: Moderate (700-foot elevation gain) Driving distance/direction from downtown: None Parking: None Hiking distance: About 3.5 miles Description: As there is no dedicated, public parking on the mountain, walk from downtown. Follow Satulah Road to the cul-de-sac at the top of the road. Several nice views from granite outcrops and remnant of old cabin. On re-

Glen Falls turn, loop back to top of Worley Road for return trip to Highlands. Footnote: About half of this hike is on paved road, skirting multiple private properties, but public hiking access to the top is guaranteed under covenants with the Highlands-Cashiers Land Trust.

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Level of difficulty: Difficult, 700-foot elevation drop in one mile. Driving distance/directions from downtown: 2.9 miles. Fol-

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low Hwy. 106 (Dillard Road) to graveled Glen Falls Road on left, proceed to trailhead. Parking: Adequate Hiking distance: 2 miles round-trip Description: The trail leads to three cascades and starts at the top of the first falls. The trail down is easy, but the trail back up can be quite steep. However, hikers may choose to visit only one or two of the cascades. Footnote: The Chinquapin Mountain trail also is located in this area, so pay attention to signs. Hike descriptions adapted from the Highland Hiker’s guide to day hikes.

Leaf Season • 2014

VOlunTeer

DOnATe

www.chhumanesociety.org | (828) 743-5752 | Hwy 64 East, 2 miles from the Crossroads behind Reid Real Estate

Leaf Season • 2014

23 •

Go for the

Greenway An outdoor trek is just steps away from downtown Highlands

he Highlands Plateau Greenway, with more than five miles of sidewalks and natural trails, offers a great way to get out and see the town. Most of the trail is recognized as a North Carolina Birding Trail. It also weaves through downtown Highlands and offers a great way to see many historical sites like Joe Webb cabins. In 2010, the trail was named a National Recreation Trail. Distances listed in the trail descriptions are one way.

Sunset Rock

595 Franklin Rd Highlands, NC

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Sunset Rock offers a stunning view of Highlands from above. Access Sunset Rock Road from Horse Cove Road across from the Highlands Nature Center. The hike leads through a mixed oak forest to a high elevation granite dome community at the summit. A trail to the left leads to Sunrise Rock with a view of Horse Cove. Sunset Rock is a public park and a recognized “Important Bird Area” by the Audubon Society. Distance: 0.6 mile.

Botanical Garden Trails

The Highlands Botanical Garden at the Highlands Biological Station is a great way to see native plant species. Take Lower Lake and Upper

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Lake Trails around Lindenwood Lake to connect with Rhododendron Trail or explore the trails at the garden. All trails range from 0.1-0.2 mile.

Rhododendron Trail

The Coker Rhododendron Trail is a part of the Highlands Botanical Garden at the Highlands Biological Station. The trail begins on Lower Lake Road and leads through a grove of oldgrowth hemlocks, hardwoods and rhododendron. Distance 0.2 mile.

Photo by Emily Dorsey

Big Bear Pen Trail

oak-dominated forest. Access to the trail is at the end of North Fifth Street. Distance 0.5 mile.

Kelsey Trail

Walk the trail from the Recreation Park down to the Mill Creek Bridge, including a new loop trail, and enjoy a beautiful open view of the water. The trail continues across the creek and joins with Oak Lane, which leads through the charming neighborhood of Mirror Lake. Distance 1.1 miles.

The Big Bear Pen Trail passes through Rhododendron Park with a panoramic view of the mountains near Highlands. It connects the second switchback of Big Bear Pen Road with Upper Lake Road and includes a 0.1 mile spur to a point below the switchback near a connector to Kelsey Trail. Distance 0.3 mile.

At the turn of the 20th century, the Kelsey Trail connected downtown Highlands to Whiteside Mountain through five miles of old-growth primeval forest. Today, the trail winds through Eastern hemlock and

Mill Creek Trail

Bascom Trail

Enjoy the native flora, brook and waterfall on the sculpture trail from Oak Lane to the historic covered bridge at the Bascom. Distance: 0.1 mile.

25 •

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The Yosemite of the East By Chip Sherill When it was announced in 1989 that Panthertown Valley (still referred to by many in the area as “Painter Town”) had become public property, outdoor enthusiasts from across the region welcomed the news. Those looking for a seemingly endless supply of areas to explore found it within the borders of Panthertown. Even among those who have been visiting this area for many years, you would be hard-pressed to find a single one who has grown tired

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of exploring its beauty. Although Panthertown was exploited by loggers, has endured multiple fires and has been vastly eroded by rainfall, it has made a remarkable recovery. “Spectacular” can only begin to describe the beauty you will find here.

History

First explored by Native Americans, the area now known as Panthertown Valley saw few permanent settlers throughout the 1800s. Then, in the 1920s, the property rights were acquired by a lum-

ber company, which began logging operations throughout the vast valley. Rail lines were placed within Panthertown in order to serve the logging camps set up there, and the destruction of the valley’s natural timber continued until the late 1930s. Even today you can find traces of the old rail line used along Panthertown Creek. Fed by logging debris, forest fires were also a major component in the devastation of the valley over time, which, combined with logging, is the reason you will find few old-growth trees. Although the land changed hands after

29 •

the rare southern Appalachian bog, and numerous species of rare plants such as the marsh bellflower, climbing fern and Cuthbert’s turtlehead. The 200- to 300-foot exposed rock granite domes that flank the valley floor are uncommon in the southern Appalachians and are some of Panthertown’s most distinguishing features. These numerous rock outcroppings offer a variety of routes and levels of difficulty for rock climbing and rappelling enthusiasts. Always keep in mind, however, the fragility of the mosses and lichens growing here, many of which are rare. As with many forms of vegetation in Panthertown, their habitat deserves extreme consideration and protection. Beyond the valley’s overall natural beauty, its countless waterfalls offer an added incentive to visit. Some of the most popular include Schoolhouse, Granny Burrell, Raven Rock, Warden’s, Frolictown and Greenland Creek Falls. Some of these falls are much easier to reach than others, but all are worth viewing. When visiting any falls, always keep in mind that the Forest Service encourages visitors to view waterfalls from below. Safety is of the utmost importance around any of the region’s waterfalls. Panthertown also encompasses over 20 miles of native brook streams, including Panthertown, Greenland and Flat creeks. If fishing is your recreation of choice, understand that fishing in Panthertown is on a catch-and-release basis and a North

that time, and several development possibilities were considered, none of the ideas for its current use materialized until 1988 when Duke Power became interested in the land. It wanted to purchase Panthertown in order to run a substantial transmission line from its facility in Jocassee, S.C., to a substation on the Tuckaseigee River. In the end, only about 800 acres were needed to run the line, and the remaining land was sold to the N.C. Nature Conservancy for $7,875,000, which then deeded the land to the U.S. Forest Service. Panthertown Valley is currently managed by the Highlands Ranger District of the Nantahala National Forest, and Friends of Panthertown provides volunteers and raises funds for conservation projects in the valley.

Today

Referred to by many as the “Yosemite of the East,” Panthertown is an amazing treat for outdoor enthusiasts in the area. Its broad, flat valley floor is home to nearly a dozen natural habitats, including 219141

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Carolina fishing license is required at all times. Although there are many trails already throughout the valley, ranging from old logging roads to narrow footpaths, the Forest Service is in the process of developing the Panthertown Trail Project. The project is designed “to protect sensitive habitat area and provide a quality backcountry recreation experience for forest users.” The Forest Service’s plan includes identifying “optimum trail locations and designation of appropriate uses and level of acceptable use for trails.” Uses being considered include hiking, camping, horseback riding, rock climbing, llama trekking, mountain biking, viewing wildlife, photography, hunting and fishing. In order to protect this remarkable area, now and in the future, visitors to Panthertown should keep in mind the principles of the “Leave No Trace” ethic (www. lnt.org), which include the following: • Plan ahead and prepare. • Dispose of waste properly. • Travel and camp on durable surfaces. • Respect wildlife. • Minimize campfire impact. • Be considerate of other visitors. This ethic has been adopted by the U.S. Forest Service and the National Park Service, and visitors to Panthertown, as with any wilderness area, need to understand the impact of their recreational activities as well as techniques to minimize such impacts.

Remote and rugged, wild and untamed, Panthertown Valley rewards adventurous hikers and mountain bikers with its vast hidden treasures. With consideration and respect, it will continue to do so long into the future.

Considerations for hiking in Panthertown

By employing good judgment and knowledge about safety during your hike into Panthertown, enjoyment can become your greatest concern. As always, if you are not accustomed to hiking in mountainous terrain, start with short, easier hikes. With regular hiking, you will soon find yourself on the more difficult trails. If at any point during your hike you find yourself in over your head due to difficulty of the terrain, immediately turn back, if able to do so safely. No hiking experience is worth risking your safety!

Carry essential hiking gear

A flashlight is always a good idea because you may be delayed in getting off the trail, and negotiating terrain as darkness falls will be much easier with a light source. Bring along plenty of food and water — at least a quart of water for a fivemile trip, and more based on the length

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ertown and have to be located by local rescue personnel, so be well prepared. Others may choose to hire a guide for their trip. Especially in areas as vast as Panthertown, an experienced guide could be the key to your adventure, providing an exciting and safe journey into this beautiful area. There are guides in the Cashiers area providing almost any kind of adventure you could imagine, including hiking, mountain biking, rappelling, rock climbing and llama trekking. No matter what approach you decide to take into Panthertown, it is sure to be an amazing experience that you will not soon forget!

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Directions to trailheads

Salt Rock Gap Trailhead: From the crossroads in Cashiers, take Hwy. 64 East for two miles and turn left onto Cedar Creek Road. Continue 2.3 miles to Breedlove Road on the right. Continue on Breedlove Road for approximately 3.5 miles to the Forest Service gate. Cold Mountain Gap Trailhead: From the crossroads in Cashiers, take Hwy. 64 East for 13 miles and turn left onto 281 North. Continue .8 miles to Cold Mountain Road on the left. Take Cold Mountain Road 5.8 miles to a sharp left turn. Follow this turn and go .1 miles to a gravel road on the right. Continue. 1 miles to the Forest Service gate.

Fast Facts

Travel time: 20-40 minutes (depending on choice of trailhead) Outing length: 3+ hours (short valley floor tour) Difficulty rating: Novice 3, Experienced 1 Wow factor (1-5): 5 Danger rating (1-5): Novice 2, Experienced 1 High point: Incredible views and waterfalls; the experience of exploring a rare, beautiful wilderness. Low point: Yet to find one!

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of the hike. Bring a first-aid kit containing items for the treatment of common trail injuries such as cuts, scrapes and blisters. Bring some type of fire source in case you are forced to be out overnight for some reason. If taking children into Panthertown, be sure to keep their abilities in mind when planning your hike and let them know what to expect.

Considerations for mountain biking in Panthertown

Always wear a helmet! Stay on existing trails and practice low-impact cycling. Do not ride trails during freeze-thaw or wet conditions, as this will contribute to erosion. Control your bike and ride within your ability to help prevent erosion by not skidding on the trails. Plan ahead, keep your equipment in

good repair and prepare for the possibility of mechanical failure and changes in weather conditions. Always anticipate other trail users around corners and at blind spots. Be considerate and practice common courtesy toward other trail users. Show your regard for them by slowing down and thanking them for letting you pass. Remember, most other trail users would prefer that their encounter with mountain bikers be as brief as possible. Remember that your mountain biking experience in Panthertown Valley is a privilege, not a right, and that your behavior can make a difference in preserving the amazing riding opportunities available. Some choose to take on the exploration of Panthertown on their own; in this case, be sure you are equipped with a map and a compass and are well skilled in the use of each. (Maps may be ob tained at the Highlands Ranger Station, Highland Hiker or Brookings Outfitters in Cashiers.) Inevitably, each year there are people who get lost within Panth-

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Notes from the salamander capital of the world By Meredith Burns

“

That one wants to get out,” said 5-year-old Aidan Kelley as he watched a salamander struggle to escape from a shallow plastic container. Aidan, his twin brother, Liam, and eight others were spending a sunny afternoon turning over rocks and logs in search of salamanders at Standing Indian Campground. Herpetologist Kyle Pursel led the foray, which was sponsored by the Highlands

Biological Station. Pursel informed the group that the animal in the container was a black-bellied salamander — a lungless salamander characterized by its bulky neck and back legs. “Some ecologists call them the football players of salamanders,” he said. As Aidan plunged his hand into the container to presumably rescue the slippery animal, Sonya Carpenter, director of the Highlands Biological Foundation, proposed a better idea. “Let’s go put him back where we found

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him,” she suggested. After two hours of casual searching, the group’s tally came to one fish, a couple of crawfish and eight salamanders. Not too shabby, considering that the best time to find salamanders is at night after a storm. “If you go out then with a headlamp, you almost have to watch where you step, there’re so many salamanders,” Pursel said. The southern Appalachian Mountains are a global hotspot of salamander diversity. Lori Williams, a wildlife biologist with

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the state, said the southern Appalachians have more salamander species than anywhere else in the world, with North Carolina arguably containing the most species out of any of the neighboring states. The most abundant type of salamander in the region is the lungless salamander, which makes up about 90 percent of salamanders in North Carolina. As their name suggests, these animals lack lungs and bring in oxygen via tiny blood vessels in their skin and linings of their mouths. “It’s a really basic form of respiration,” Pursel said.

37 •

Catching critters Many scientists advise against picking up salamanders. If you do decide to catch a salamander, keep handling to a minimum and make sure your hands are wet to minimize damage to the animal’s mucus coating.

Joseph Pechmann, a biology professor at Western Carolina University and an instructor at the biological station’s Biology of Pethodontid Salamanders course, said the diversity among lungless salamanders in the region results from a variety of factors. During the last ice age, frozen land in the north pushed some animals — including different types of salamanders — south, where they found refuge in the southern Appalachian Mountains. But the climate and topography of the area are perhaps more relevant factors

contributing to the impressive array of salamanders, Pechmann said. Not only are different salamanders found on different mountains, but the species can also vary on the same mountain. To illustrate this, Pechmann pointed out that most mountain ranges in the southern Appalachians have their own high-elevation species of lungless salamanders that differ from ones found at the bottoms of the mountains. The southern gray-cheeked salamander is primarily found at the tops of the

Cowee, Balsam and Blue Ridge mountains, including the Highlands plateau, while the Jordan’s salamander is only found at the high elevation of the Great Smoky Mountains. If you’re trying to catch a glimpse of a red-legged salamander, you’ll have to travel to the tops of the Unicoi and Nantahala mountains. “The topography helps, and the fact that it’s a great place to be a salamander,” Pechmann said, referring to the abundance of cool, damp environments in which salamanders thrive. Salamanders’ diversity is also exhibited in their life cycles — one of Pechmann’s favorite parts of studying salamanders. “What I find most interesting is the complex life cycles exhibited by some of them, and that some of them have lost some of that life cycle,” he said. Some species of lungless salamanders hatch directly as miniature adults and spend their lives entirely on land. Other species within the same family hatch in the water and go through a larvae stage before metamorphosing into adults. The abundant examples of diversity

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the Land Trust for Little Tennessee, which plans to improve and re-establish habitats for the eastern hellbender salamander. The eastern hellbender, or “snot otter,” can be found in streams and rivers across the eastern United States that empty into the Mississippi River. With adults ranging from 12 inches to 29 inches, hellbenders hold the title of North America’s largest salamander. Jason Meador, the LTLT’s citizen science manager, said that as part of a larger effort to restore streams with unstable banks, the land trust team plans to remove some sediment and add large rocks to encourage hel lb e nd ers to o c c upy streams. Because hellbenders hide, lay eggs and generally spend most of their time under large, flat rocks, sedimentation in streams can be especially detrimental to their survival. “You’re filling up their homes with sand and then they don’t go home and they can’t reproduce,” Meador said. Meador said the LTLT is just getting the project off the ground. “The theory behind it’s neat and we’re excited to get behind this project and see if it works,” he said. The North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission also spearheads research and conservation efforts for salamanders in the state’s mountains. Williams said the commission is always learning more about the amphibians. “Currently, we have about 50 salamander species just in Western N.C., with over 65 for the whole state,” Williams said in an email. “That number continues to rise as more research is done.” In addition to enforcing the state regulations that protect many of the moun-

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within a single region have made the area a mecca for salamander researchers. The Highlands Biological Station provides grants-in-aid to graduate students and researchers each summer to study a variety of topics. This summer the station awarded 11 grants for research projects, four of which involved studying salamanders. One of those projects belonged to Eric Riddell, a Ph.D. student at Clemson University. For the past two summers, Riddell has conducted research in Highlands to find out if and how the greycheeked salamander adapts to rising temperatures. “My real question is, can salamanders change t h e w ay t h e i r bodies function in response climate change?” he said. More specifically, Riddell is looking at how temperature affects the animal’s metabolism and water loss rates. While his results are still preliminary, Riddell said he found evidence that certain populations of grey-cheeked salamanders can reduce their water loss rates in response to changing temperatures. “I need to do more genetic flow testing and then I can find out more about the mechanism,” he said. While research like Riddell’s adds to a growing pool of salamander information, his analysis could also provide clues about how climate change can affect other animals. “They’re a great indicator species for how climate change influences organisms throughout the world,” he said. Scientists aren’t only studying the salamanders in the region — they are also trying to protect them. One example of salamander conservation efforts in the area comes from

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”

Further reading Want to find out more about the salamanders in our area? Western Carolina University Professor Joseph Pechmann suggests checking out these guides: Beane, Jeffrey C. et al. “Amphibians and Reptiles of the Carolinas and Virginia,” second edition. The University of North Carolina Press, 2010. Tilley, Stephen G. and Huheey, James E. “Reptiles & Amphibians of the Smokies.” Great Smoky Mountains Association, 2001; second edition, 2004. Amphibians and Reptiles of North Carolina, Davidson College Herpetology Lab: www.herpsofnc.org

Is it a salamander? “Salamander” refers to amphibians that have legs and tails. This includes newts, which are typically rougher than slippery salamanders. Sirens, which resemble eels and have external gills, also fall under the salamander category. Salamanders are amphibians, while lizards are reptiles. A simple way to differentiate the two is to check for scales and claws, which are characteristics of a lizard. 43 •

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George Kaye, an active member of the Highlands Plateau Audubon Society, said outings like the salamander foray allowed him to learn more about the diverse, majestic environment of the southern Appalachians. “I’ve always loved the woods, but I

didn’t really know what I was looking at,” he said. “So I have a lot of studying to do.” The Highlands Biological Station hosts an array of educational nature programs such as the salamander foray. For more information, see highlandsbiological.org.

Photos by Meredith Burns/staff

Herpetologist Kyle Pursel leads a group on a foray in search of salamanders at Standing Indian Campground. Sonya Carpenter, director of the Highlands Biological Foundation, which sponsored the outing, explains to children about the proper observation techniques of these fascinating amphibians.

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tain salamander species, the commission also gathers data about salamanders’ distribution range. “We have a lot on our plate when it comes to understanding where certain salamander species are, assessing how their populations are doing, and trying to conserve and manage their habitats for the long-term,” Williams said. Williams and other state biologists sometimes call upon volunteers to assist with field surveys. The task involves going to a field location, physically searching for amphibians and keeping track of which species are found. The public can also help state biologists learn more about salamanders by documenting the times they come across the animals. Amateur naturalists can enter their findings online at the Carolina Herp Atlas (www.carolinaherpatlas. org), provided they can identify the salamander’s species. Williams said that while the state encourages such participation, it’s important to remember how the sensitive habitats are. “Just by flipping over a rock or log, we can significantly alter the microhabitat (temperature, moisture, space) underneath those cover objects,” she said. Walking back from the salamander foray, the group agreed the search was an overall success. While the twins’ interest waned after releasing the animals, other participants’ curiosity about salamanders was piqued.

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Autumn

Excursion

The secrets of Whiteside Cove

Story and Photos by William McKee

een looking for a three- or fourhour road trip that gives a good feel for the region? Whiteside Cove is one of the best options available. If you visit every place on the list, the whole loop will take you about four hours, and you will have experienced many of the treasures of the area, some of which are a bit off the beaten path but certainly worth the effort to get there. Don’t skip something just because it’s a little effort. You really need to do the whole trip, especially if you have some young people along. It will be an outing they will not soon forget. First of all, have everyone rendezvous at the Zachary Tolbert House on Hwy.

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107 South in Cashiers. After a brief tour of the oldest house in the area, now a museum, load everybody up in a carpool and head down Whiteside Cove Road. This leads directly into the headwaters area of the east fork of the Chattooga River. After a few miles, you will cross the river and immediately pull off to the right. A short hike leads you to Cashiers’ version of Sliding Rock. While the weather’s still warm, Sliding Rock is the quintessential cool-off spot for kids, pets and everyone else — a beautiful little waterfall perfect for sliding. Wear an old cutoff or bring an extra towel, or your new Speedo will be shot on the third slide. After regrouping, load back up and head on down the cove to the next stop, Grimshawe’s. Pull over and have a look

at the world’s smallest post office. This little wooden building served the local community from 1903 to 1953. It was begun by Thomas Grimshawe Sr., in 1878 and was originally called Whiteside Cove Post Office. The name was changed to Grimshawe’s in 1907 since everyone called it that, anyway. While at Grimshawe’s, be sure to bring a pair of binoculars and check out the south face of Whiteside Mountain. Whiteside Mountain is thought to be one of the oldest geological formations still in existence and is, without a doubt, the most recognized mountain in the Cashiers-Highlands area. The south face is the highest sheer rock cliff in the Eastern United States. The summit reaches 4,930 feet and looks deep into the Piedmont of South Carolina and Georgia. Load back up and head on down the road just a little farther and you’ll come to the Chattooga River Trail parking lot. Here you have two options: hike the Chattooga River Trail (up to a fourhour hike along the Chattooga down to the Iron Bridge at Bull Pen Road and back) or skip the trail for another great excursion. Assuming you’re saving the trail for another day, keep on going down the road until you get to the Summer Chapel, originally built as a schoolhouse in the early part of the last century with lumber from the Pickelsimer land behind it. The chapel is actually called the Whiteside Cove Community Building, but Sunday services are sponsored by the Church of the Incarnation in Highlands and the Church of the Good Shepherd in Cashiers. Everyone is welcome. After getting revitalized at both the river and the church, and inspired by

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Whiteside Mountain, it is time for one of the most unique hikes anywhere: Granite City. This little-known piece of Forest Service property is exactly half a mile from the end of the pavement as you proceed down Whiteside Cove Road. You’ll see a small pull-off on the right and an inconspicuous trail. As you get up the trail about a hundred yards, take a left, and you will begin to enter Granite City. The best way I can describe it is that it looks like a rock the size of two city blocks was dropped on the ground from the sky and it shattered, creating a maze of caves, canyons and alleyways. Cherokee legend says that this place of the “Sticking Up Rocks” was formed during the birth of the planet. I wouldn’t venture too deep into any

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of the darker passages, because a variety of local reptiles and arachnids probably wouldn’t be that happy to see you. Outside of the darker passages, however, Granite City is a fascinating exploration. Now, back in the car, keep proceeding down Whiteside Cove until you intersect with Horse Cove. At this point, if you turn left, you will head into a venture for another time: the treasures of Bull Pen and Glade Road. In this case, however, turn right and proceed up beautiful Horse Cove. After a mile or so, on the right, you will see the face of Black Rock Mountain, one of the largest sheer cliffs in the region. Slightly farther up, you will see the cliffs of Sagee Mountain on the right and the Fodderstacks on the left. These

two mountains make up the escarpment from Horse Cove up to Highlands. At the foot of Black Rock, surrounded by green pastures and grazing horses, is the historic and picturesque Hill House, built in 1880 and once operated as Hill’s Inn. As you proceed up Horse Cove, on the left, you will pass the Little Church in the Wildwood, a tiny and charming nondenominational church that was built around 1945 by residents using the leftovers from a Civilian Conservation Corps camp. Its popular seasonal Sunday evening services are announced by an old dinner bell. There is no preacher but lots of singing, usually ending up with “God Bless America.” Shortly after the church, you will come to Rich Gap Road. Turn left there and go

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Page 38: The Summer Chapel, originally built as a schoolhouse in the early part of the last century with lumber from the Pickelsimer land behind it. Page 39: Sliding Rock is the quintessential cool-off spot for kids, pets and everyone else: a beautiful little waterfall perfect for sliding. Page 40: The world’s smallest post office, this little wooden building served the local community from 1903 to 1953.

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a few hundred yards, park and take the trail on the right just a hundred yards or so to one of the world’s largest poplar trees. This tree is one of the last virgin first-growth timber trees in the region and is quite spectacular. It takes four people to reach all the way around it. Back in the car, heading up Horse Cove, you will see spectacular vistas back into the cove and to the southwest. Now that you are up in Highlands, if you still have any time to spare, on your left about a mile out of town, just across from the Highlands Nature Center, you will see the trail to Sunset Rock, which is a great place to finish the outing. Sunset Rock is a beautiful vista that looks down to Main Street in Highlands, with a postcard view of church steeples and shops with mountains in the background. Now back down from Sunset Rock, perhaps you would care to head on into Highlands and do a little urban exploring before turning toward home.

Fast Facts

Travel time: 1 hour Overall length: 4 hours Difficulty rating (1-5): 1 Wow factor (1-5): 3 Danger level (1-5): 1 High point: Abundant historical sites and natural beauty. Low point: Hitting breathtakingly cold waters at the bottom of Sliding Rock on your first plunge!

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Leaf Peeping from among the trees By Davis Moore

he fall season brings many visitors to the Highlands Plateau who are eager to see the legendary mountain views ablaze in a collage of dramatic colors. The changing autumn leaves are universally enjoyed. Drivers admire them from roadside pull-offs, enamored viewers pick them off the ground and examine them, and youthful spirits of all ages jump into piles of them. With Highlands Aerial Park, the leaves can now also be enjoyed by zipping through the treetops themselves. The story goes that many years ago, a family of early settlers attempted to establish a farm on what is present-day High Holly Mountain, located between Dillard and Highlands. The settlers tried to grow various crops on the steep embankments of the mountain and clearcut several plots of land. The farm never did succeed and they headed back down

the mountain to flatter land. Now, the land is being used in a drastically different way. The steep mountain ridges and numerous trees are no longer fought; instead, they are embraced as they form an otherworldly pathway through the forest canopy. Connected by swinging bridges and zip lines flowing from tree to tree, the land is now known as Highlands Aerial Park. The park is designed to provide the ultimate outdoor experience to visitors through hiking and zip lining. With its prime location on the edge of the Highlands Plateau, the nature trails offer a brilliant display of beauty and biodiversity, and the zip-line courses offer awe-inspiring views previously only seen from the air. With fall soon on its way, I headed down the mountain from Highlands to the Aerial Park to experience this new form of leaf season enjoyment. After checking in at the Tree House, the park’s main building, I was greeted by my

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guides, Steve and Taylor. Also accompanying us was the owner of the park, George Powell. While gearing up outside, I was informed of the various types of equipment we would be using and the numerous safety precautions we would be taking. Upon the conclusion of my introduction to zip lining, we headed up one of the trails to a zip line located roughly five feet off the ground. Here, my guides showed the proper zip-lining form, how to brake and other nuances of the sport. We started the course with several shorter zips designed to dispel one’s fears and give a better idea of what zip lining entails. Even these zip lines proved exciting — flying through the trees at any height or distance is exhilarating. As we came to the Squealing Mare, the longest of the park’s zip lines, my adrenaline and excitement reached its peak. The Squealing Mare zip line goes for a quarter of a mile and reaches a height of 210 feet as it takes you above the forest canopy into a world usually only frequented by birds. As I stood on the platform of the Squealing Mare zip line, my feet dangled precariously over the ledge as my har-

ness tightened around me. I leaned forward and felt a sudden surge of gravity as I began my downward descent. Zipping through the trees I went, hundreds of feet above the ground. Then suddenly I burst through the forest canopy and was above it, out in the open mountain sky. The vibrant green of the Nantahala National Forest sprawled out before me! As I zipped back into the forest canopy and landed on the platform, I was humbled by the raw beauty of the mountains. I had experienced them in a way people a hundred years ago would never have thought possible. Perhaps Highlands Aerial Park employee Hannah Oliver described it best when she said, “When you drive through the mountains, you get to see them, but when you fly through them, you are a part of them.” Throughout my tour, Powell pointed out different forest plants and trees. This facet of the park is very important to him, in that it separates the “amusement park” zip lines from the ones that provide a true outdoor experience and adventure. When building the zip-line courses, Powell went to great extents to preserve the forest and leave it in its original state. To experience the preserved forest, the Aerial Park offers approximately an hour and a half’s worth of nature trails, depending on one’s pace. The nature trails are marked with more than 100 small signs identifying plants, trees and wildflowers. Powell said the park is designed as a family attraction, and the nature trails clearly support this

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concept. As my tour came to a close, it was with much regret that I returned to earth. We walked the remainder of the way back to the Tree House through the forest, passing the Brave Indian family course. This course is designed for the younger zipliner, but is also a perfect option for the hesitant adult. Upon reaching the Tree House, we removed our gear and sat on the porch. The experience proved thrilling and rewarding. It was my first time zip lining and probably not my last. The sport of zip lining was first begun

by scientists studying the canopies of rainforests and has now grown into an activity enjoyed by people all over the world. In the past two years, Highlands Aerial Park has had more than 20,000 visitors. According to the Atlanta Journal Constitution, over 18 million people ride zip lines annually. This fall, enjoy the leaves in new way. Rather than simply observe them, why not fly through them? According to Powell, June, July and August is the peak season at Highlands Aerial Park; however, this is due mainly to the sheer volume of

people present in the mountains during the summer. Fall offers a completely different experience, with its bright and ever-changing colors. The Aerial Park is home to many large poplars, a tree Powell says creates beautiful leaves in the fall months. The Aerial Park also hosts several events and specials during the autumn. In the month of September, local residents enjoy a 50 percent discount Sunday through Thursday on the full canopy tour. This is something Powell does as a way to thank the locals and community for their support. The Aerial Park will also be having a Halloween Children’s Festival, featuring an enchanted forest. All in all, Highlands Aerial Park is a must-see for everyone this fall, from the small child to the adventurous adult. As I drove home from the park and back up to Highlands, the clear mountain views were still green, the leaves still on the trees and the weather still warm. Yet the impending cycle of the seasons was present, as always. The weather will soon change, the warm summer air will be replaced by the cool, brisk air of fall. The leaves will turn from green to orange to brown, finally falling and returning to earth. But for now, the leaves remain patiently waiting — waiting for fall, waiting to turn orange, red, and yellow, waiting for colder weather, waiting for you. For more information, see highlandscanopytour.com

All photos by Highlands Aerial Park.

Highlands Aerial Park allows visitors to get up close and personal with this season’s colorful leaves while zip lining through the treetops. The Tree House (above) acts as home base for exploring the park’s nature trails and forest adventures.

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A trip to the Highlands-Cashiers Plateau in the fall isn’t complete without viewing a natural wonder at Whiteside Mountain. On clear, sunny days for about three weeks each fall, the eagerly anticipated and somewhat mystical shadow of a bear emerges slowly from behind Whiteside Mountain. Beginning at about 5:30 p.m., a small shadow grows and morphs into various shapes, eventually appearing as a giant bear shadow across the treetops of the valley. The entire event takes about 30 minutes. This phenomenon attracts visitors and local residents alike, many hoping to capture a good photograph. Finding the ideal conditions for photography can

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be hit or miss, however. Mountain haze, cloudy conditions and other little tricks of Mother Nature sometimes obscure the shadow, making good photographic results difficult or impossible to achieve. The bear shadow appears in the evenings from mid-October into early November. It reappears in the winter, from mid-February into early March; however, fall, when the foliage creates a colorful canvas, is by far the better time for viewing. The best place to see the bear shadow is Rhodes Big View Overlook, located along Hwy. 64 West between Cashiers and Highlands. There is a wide pull-off area across the road from the overlook. Remember to be cautious when park-

ing, crossing the road, viewing and exiting the area. To get to the overlook from Cashiers: Beginning at the traffic light at the crossroads of Hwys. 64 and 107, travel west on Hwy. 64 toward Highlands for about 4.3 miles. The overlook, which is not marked, will be on the left. If you reach the sign for the entrance to the Whiteside Mountain Trail, you have gone a tad too far. From Highlands: Travel east on Hwy. 64 for just over five miles, shortly past the sign to the Whiteside Mountain Trail and just over the Jackson County line. The overlook will be on the right.

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Fairfield Lake in Sapphire /Photo by Mike Henry Leaf Season • 2014

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Spice up your autumn By Marilyn Underhill With the approaching cool weather, pumpkins will soon be everywhere. Pumpkins are not only useful in everything from pasta sauce to cookies, but fall’s famous fruit is loaded with nutrients. Pumpkins can be so much more than pumpkin pie. What’s not to like about pumpkin milkshakes? Native Americans relied on pumpkins as a food source long before the arrival of European explorers. Pumpkin flesh was roasted, baked, boiled and dried and the pumpkin seeds were eaten. It was the northeastern Native Americans who introduced pumpkin to the Pilgrims. It is documented that pumpkins were served at the second Thanksgiving celebration. We now know that pumpkins are full of antioxidants, vitamins and minerals. Pumpkin is one of nature’s richest sources of alpha-carotene. This vitamin promotes healthy vision and immune system health. Vitamins C and E are also found in pumpkins. Canned pumpkin is the recipe ingredient most often called for, but once you have cooked down or roasted fresh pumpkin, you will not want to return to the canned version. (That being said, I must confess that I keep canned pumpkin in my pantry. Sorry, Martha.) The following recipes are tried and true and are sure to become keepers in your recipe file. Bon appétit.

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Pumpkin Spice Bars From Sealark B&B, Avalon, N.J. Ingredients: 4 large eggs 2 cups sugar 1 cup vegetable oil 16 oz. pumpkin 2 cups flour 2 tsp. baking powder 2 tsp. cinnamon 1 tsp. baking soda 1/2 tsp. salt 1/2 tsp. ginger 1/4 tsp. cloves 1/2 cup raisins Directions: Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Coat 15-inch-by-10-inch jellyroll pan with vegetable spray. Beat eggs, sugar, oil and pumpkin in a large bowl. Stir in flour, baking powder, cinnamon, baking soda, ginger and cloves. Mix in raisins. Pour batter into prepared pan. Bake 25 to 30 minutes or until light brown. Cool. Frost with cream cheese frosting. Cut into 48 bars.

Crock-pot Pumpkin Risotto From CrockpotLadies.com Ingredients: 3 Tbs. extra virgin olive oil, divided 1/2 medium onion, finely diced 1 clove garlic, finely diced 1-2/3 cup Arborio rice 1 (15 oz.) can pumpkin purée (not pumpkin pie filling!) 2 sage leaves, minced 2 small rosemary branches, leaves removed, minced 1 (32 oz.) carton chicken broth 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese Directions: In a small pan, sauté the diced onion and garlic in two tablespoons of the olive oil until translucent and just slightly starting to turn golden. Set aside. Use the remaining tablespoon of olive oil to oil the inside of a three-quart crock-pot. Add sautéed onion mixture, canned pumpkin, Arborio rice, herbs and chicken broth and stir to combine. Cover and cook on low for four hours, stirring once at the two-hour mark. After cooking, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and enjoy! You could easily turn this in to a vegetarian side dish by replacing the chicken broth with a good-quality vegetable broth.

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Pumpkin Flan Adapted from Bon Appétit Ingredients: 6 large eggs 6 large egg yolks 1-3/4 cups sugar 1 tsp. orange zest 2-1/3 cups heavy cream 1 cup milk 5 whole cloves 3 whole star anise 1 cardamom pod, cracked 2 cinnamon sticks 1 tsp. vanilla extract 1 (15 oz.) can pumpkin purée Directions: Whisk eggs, egg yolks, 3/4 cups sugar and orange zest in a large heatproof bowl. Bring two cups heavy cream, milk, cloves, star anise, cinnamon sticks and cardamom pod to a simmer in a large saucepan over medium heat. Slowly whisk into egg mixture. Steep 30 minutes. Strain. Whisk in vanilla extract and pumpkin purée. Chill three hours.

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Stir one cup sugar and 1/4 cup water in a small heavy saucepan over low heat until sugar dissolves. Increase heat; boil without stirring until syrup is deep amber, brushing down sides of pan with a wet pastry brush and swirling pan occasionally, about 10 minutes. Stir in 1/3 cup heavy cream (caramel will bubble vigorously). Divide caramel among ramekins. Chill until set. Divide custard among ramekins. Place in a large pan. Add hot water to pan to come halfway up sides of ramekins. Cover pan with foil. Bake at 350° until center is just set, 20–25 minutes. Chill until cold. Invert onto plates.

Pumpkin Pie Ingredients: 1 (15 oz.) can pumpkin 1 (14 oz.) can sweetened condensed milk 2 large eggs 1/2 tsp. ground ginger 1/2 tsp. ground nutmeg

1/2 tsp. salt 1 (9 inch) unbaked pie crust 1 tsp. ground cinnamon

pumpkin) 3/4 tsp. pumpkin pie spice Garnish: Canned whipped cream 2 maraschino cherries

Directions: Preheat oven to 425 degrees F. Whisk pumpkin, sweetened condensed milk, eggs, spices and salt in medium bowl until smooth. Pour into crust. Bake 15 minutes. Reduce oven temperature to 350 degrees F and continue baking 35 to 40 minutes or until knife inserted one inch from crust comes out clean. Cool. Garnish as desired. Store leftovers covered in refrigerator.

Directions: Dissolve the sugar in the milk in a measuring cup or small bowl. Combine the milk and sugar mixture with the ice cream, pumpkin and pumpkin pie spice in a blender on high speed. Blend until smooth, stir if necessary and then pour the shake into two 16ounce glasses. Garnish each with whipped cream and a cherry on top.

Pumpkin Milkshake From “Top Secret Recipes Unlocked” by Todd Wilbur

Pumpkin Pound Cake with Buttermilk Glaze Adapted from myrecipes.com

Ingredients: 3/4 cup whole milk 3 Tbs. granulated sugar 3 cups vanilla ice cream 3/4 cup canned pumpkin (pure

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Cake Ingredients: 1 Tbs. all-purpose flour 1 (15-ounce) can pumpkin

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63 •

3/4 cup granulated sugar 3/4 cup packed dark brown sugar 1/2 cup butter, softened 4 large eggs 1 tsp. vanilla extract 3 cups all-purpose flour (about 13-1/2 ounces) 1-1/2 tsp. pumpkin pie spice 1 tsp. baking powder 1/2 tsp. baking soda 1/2 tsp. salt 3/4 cup fat-free buttermilk Glaze Ingredients: 1/3 cup fat-free buttermilk 1/4 cup granulated sugar 2 Tbs. butter 2 tsp. cornstarch 1/8 tsp. baking soda

Remove from pan and cool completely on wire rack. To prepare glaze, combine ingredients in a small saucepan over medium heat. Bring to a boil. Cook one minute or until thick, stirring constantly. Remove from heat. Drizzle cake with glaze.

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Directions: Preheat oven to 350°. To prepare the cake, lightly coat a 10inch tube pan with cooking spray; dust with 1 tablespoon flour. Spread pumpkin over two layers of paper towels; cover with two additional layers of paper tow-

els. Let stand about 10 minutes. Scrape drained pumpkin into a bowl. Place granulated sugar, brown sugar and butter in a large bowl. Beat with a mixer at me d iu m sp e e d three minutes or until well blended. Add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Beat in pumpkin and vanilla. Lightly spoon three cups flour into dry measuring cups, and level with a knife. Combine flour and next four ingredients (through salt) in a bowl, stirring well with a whisk. Add flour mixture and buttermilk alternately to sugar mixture, beginning and ending with flour mixture. Spoon batter into prepared pan. Bake at 350° for 55 minutes or until a wooden pick inserted in center comes out clean. Cool in pan 10 minutes on a wire rack.

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cornucopia of music, food and arts will be overflowing at the Village Green and Commons in Cashiers on Oct. 10 –12 at the sixth annual Leaf Festival. Held each year as the leaves begin to change in this mountain village nestled at 3,487 feet in elevation, this free event has grown tremendously since its inception in 2009. This year, festival organizers expect to welcome more than 100 artisans and merchants scattered throughout the Village Green and Commons park, located in the center of Cashiers adjacent to the crossroads of Highways 64 and 107. Visitors will find unique handcrafted wood, pottery, jewelry and much more on display and available for purchase throughout the weekend. There will be plenty of food and drinks available in both parking lots behind the two stages of the park, which will be filled with live music. Highlighting this year’s musical lineup is a special dance party from 7 p.m. to

10 p.m. on Oct. 10 with Cashiers’ own Hurricane Creek Band. This will be the only event of the weekend requesting admission. Donations of $5 or more will be appreciated. Food and drink will be available for purchase, but coolers are also welcome. Guests are encouraged to bring chairs. Live music is also scheduled from 11 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on Oct. 11 and 12:30 p.m. to 2 p.m. on Oct 12 on two different stages. All these shows are free and open to the public. Most of the performers are local singer-songwriter and regional acts, in genres as diverse as jazz, blues, Americana, bluegrass, rock, soul and funk. The arts and crafts show will be held from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. For more information about the sixth annual Leaf Festival put on by the Greater Cashiers Area Merchants Association, visit www.visitcashiersvalley.com, email info@visitcashiersvalley.com or call 828-743-8428.

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Left: Live music will be a key feature at the leaf festival with two stages with live bands on Oct. 11 and 12. Above: Tents fill the Village Green offering a variety of activities and music for all ages.

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Oct. 11 at Village Commons • 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. – Tino Eno • 1 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. – George Reeves and Jay Drummond • 3 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. – Shawn James

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Ten activities to enjoy this fall in Highlands & Cashiers

HomeTown Day and Highlands Own Arts & Crafts Show

The Town of Highlands will host HomeTown Day, a community celebration, from 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. on Oct. 11 at Kelsey-Hutchinson Park. The event will feature vendors, cloggers, bluegrass music, Civil War reenactment, food and activities for the kids. Admission is free. The same day, the 32nd Annual Highlands Own Arts & Crafts Show takes place at the Highlands Civic Center, where you can check out wonderful crafts from local artisans. For more information on both events, call 828-526-2118.

Friday Night Live Town Square on Highlands’ Main Street comes alive every Friday night with the sounds of local bands. From 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. until Oct. 24, enjoy toe-tappin’ tunes with your friends … or come make new ones! See www.highlandschamber.org for a full schedule.

Cashiers Leaf Festival

Held each year as the leaves begin to change, the Cashiers Leaf Festival has grown tremendously since its inception in 2009. This year’s festival from Oct. 10 – 12 expects to welcome more than 100 artisans and merchants scattered throughout the Village Green and Commons park, and two concert stages will pump out live music all weekend. Admission to the arts and crafts show and concerts, sponsored by the Greater Cashiers Area Merchants Association, are free. The festival will be held from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. The Village Green is located in the center of Cashiers, adjacent to the crossroads of Highways 64 and 107. For more information about the festival, visit www.visitcashiersvalley.com, email info@visitcashiersvalley.com or call 828-743-8428.

Goblins in the Green

Goblins in the Green is a free, frightfully fun, family-friendly Halloween event in Cashiers. Dress up in your most creative costume and join fellow residents at 6 p.m. on Oct. 24 at the Village Green Commons for a haunting hayride with spooky stories on a trick-or-treat trail lit with jack-o’-lanterns. A hot-dog dinner will follow. The event is presented by the Village Green in partnership with the Jackson County Parks and Recreation Department and S’More Kids Klothes in Cashiers. For more information, call the Village Green at 828-7433434 or email info@villagegreencashiersnc.com.

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Leaf Season • 2014

Highlands Culinary Weekend

Get all dressed up in your spooky or sparkly best and stroll downtown Highlands on Oct. 31. Main Street is closed to traffic starting at 5:30 p.m. and merchants will pass out goodies to trick-or-treaters from 6 p.m. – 8 p.m. A safe and exciting evening for the whole family. The event is free. For more information, call 828-526-2112.

The Eighth Annual Highlands Culinary weekend runs Nov. 6 – 9 and is packed full of delicious events — cooking demonstrations, food and wine tastings, dances, and special restaurant dinners. Opening night takes place at the Highlands Country Club and features the music of the WellStrung Band. On Nov. 7 and 8 from 11 a.m. – 5 p.m., cruise downtown Highlands at the Sip & Stroll and check out the wares of local shops. For more information, see www.highlandsculinaryweekend.com.

7. 8. 9. 10.

Santa on the Green

Children of all ages are invited to tell Santa Claus their Christmas wishes from 2 p.m. – 5 p.m. on Nov. 28 at the Village Green in Cashiers. Photographs and holidays treats will be offered. The event is free. For more information, call the Village Green at 828-743-3434 or email info@ villagegreencashiersnc.com.

Cashiers Christmas Parade

The annual Cashiers Christmas Parade will start at 11 a.m. on Dec. 13. The parade route starts at Cornucopia restaurant on Hwy. 107 South in Cashiers and proceeds north to the crossroads, where judging for best float and other awards occur. The parade then turns left and proceeds on Hwy. 64 West, ending at Frank Allen Road. For more information, contact the Cashiers Area Chamber of Commerce at 828-743-5191.

Leaf Season • 2014

5. 6.

Highlands Halloween

Christmas Happenings in Highlands

The winter holidays are a magical time in Highlands, and the Christmas season kicks off Nov. 29 at the annual downtown Christmas tree lighting. This festive event includes a visit from Santa, tasty refreshments and caroling, starting at 6:30 p.m. in front of the United Methodist Church on Main Street. The event is free. For more information, call 828-526-2112. More merriment can be found at the Highlands Olde Mountain Christmas Parade, which begins at 11 a.m. on Dec. 6 on Main Street in downtown Highlands. The event is free. For more information, call 828-526-2112.

Cashiers Christmas Tree Lighting

Visitors to the Village Green Gazebo at 6 p.m. on Nov. 28 can be a part of turning the park into the Winter Wonderland. The twinkling light displays and festive decorations that greet motorists from Thanksgiving weekend until New Year’s Day will be turned on, with the highlight of the lighting being the Cashiers Christmas Tree. There will also be holiday music, s’mores and more. The event is free. For more information, call the Village Green at 828743-3434 or email info@villagegreencashiersnc.com.

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Fall & Winter events Autumn abounds with events in Highlands and Cashiers, with performances, outdoor activities and community festivals to suit any interest. This calendar highlights events scheduled through Dec. 31. Because plans may change closer to event dates, it is wise to call before attending. For additional, up-to-date event listings, please see current issues of the Crossroads Chronicle and The Highlander. Founders Day: The Cashiers Historical Society will hold its annual educational program for small beginning learners on Sept. 25. Call the Society at 828-743-7710 for a complete lineup of events. Friday Night Live: Macon Grass Band will perform from 6 p.m. – 8 p.m. Sept. 26 in Town Square in Highlands. Admission is free. Call 828-526-5841 for information. Motown Dance: The Bascom will host “Celebration! A Motown Party” on Sept. 26. For tickets or information, call 828-526-4949 or

visit www.thebascom.org. Pancake Breakfast: The Scaly Mountain Women’s Club will host a pancake breakfast at the Scaly Mountain Community Center from 7:30 a.m. – 10:30 a.m. Sept. 27. Adults $5.50, children $ 3.50. Proceeds benefit scholarships for area students and human services agencies. Performance: The bluegrass band Seldom Scene will perform at 8 p.m. Sept. 27 at the Performing Arts Center in Highlands. Tickets are $25$40. Call 828-526-9047. NHC Hike: The Nantahala Hiking Club will take a moderate-to-strenuous 6.5-mile hike with elevation change of 1,200 feet to Little Cataloochee in the Smokies, a rarely visited part of the park with old home

sites, barns, churches and cemeteries, as well as wildlife. Meet at Waynesville Ingles at 9 a.m. on Sept. 27, drive 50 miles round-trip. Call leader Keith Patton at 828-456-8895 for reservations. Limit 15 hikers. Please share driving costs. Visitors welcome; no dogs please. Art Exhibit: The Bascom will feature the exhibition “Tom Turner:

Seldom Sce

ne perform

s Sept. 27

A Passion in Porcelain” through Sept. 28 in the Bunzl Gallery. The exhibition is a 50-year retrospective of Turner’s work, including his techniques in copper red salt glazes. The Bascom is open from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday and noon – 5 p.m. Sunday. Admission to all exhibitions is free. Village Nature Series: The North Carolina Wildlife Resource Commission will make a presentation on “The Scoop on Poop and Facts on Tracks” as part of the Highlands-Cashiers Land Trust’s Village Nature Series at 5:30 p.m. Sept. 30 at the Village Green Commons in Cashiers. Admission is free. Call 828-526-1111 for more information. Quilt Show: The Smoky Mountain Quilters Guild Quilt Show takes place Oct. 2 – 4 at Western Carolina University in Cullowhee. It will feature: 300 beautiful quilts plus 40 wall hangings from this year’s contest, a boutique with locally made items, a merchant’s mall with 20 vendors, a library table, a silent auction and more. Information can be found on the guild’s website: www.smokymtnquilters.org or by calling 828-508-7916. Tickets are $5. Performance: The Lady and the Old Timers will perform a free concert at 1:30 p.m. Oct. 3

at Hudson Library in Highlands. Admission is free. Friday Night Live: The Mountain High Dulcimer Group will perform from 6 p.m. – 8 p.m. Oct. 3 in Town Square in Highlands. Admission is free. Call 828-526-5841 for information. Performance: Broadway artist Liz Callaway will perform at 8 p.m. Oct. 4 at the Performing Arts Center in Highlands. Tickets are $30-$50. Call 828-526-9047. Art Exhibit: The Bascom will host the 2014 Appalachian Pastel Society Juried National Exhibition from Oct. 4 – Jan. 4 in the Bunzl Gallery. Stan Sperlak will be the show’s juror. An opening reception and curator talk will be held from 5 p.m. – 7 p.m. Oct. 4. The Bascom is open from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday and noon – 5 p.m. Sunday. Admission to all exhibitions is free. NHC Hike: The Nantahala Hiking Club will take a moderate six-mile hike through pleasant forest to Bee Cove Falls in South Carolina, an 80-feet-high multilayered falls. Meet at Cashiers Rec Center parking lot at 10 a.m. on Oct. 4, drive 22 miles round-trip. Call leaders Mike and Susan

Cashiers Farmers Market

Fresh local produce, jams and jellies, baked goods, gourmet cheese and wine, frozen appetizers and entrees, hostess gifts, meats and seafood, take-out BBQ and sandwiches served daily. Hwy 64 East • PO Box 2111 Cashiers, NC 28717

828-743-4334

www.CashiersFarmersMarket.com

214030

South 4th St. Highlands, NC 828.526.8364

The Ugly Dog Public House and Dog House are located on “the hill” in Highlands, NC. We are a casual pub with a relaxed atmosphere in which people can come and enjoy craft beer selections on tap and by the bottle, well-designed cocktails, great wines, wonderful food and good friends. There is always something to enjoy at the pub or Dog House, with weekly drink/menu specials and live music. Every Wednesday and Saturday night we play host to a different band that will get you off the streets and out of your seat! On Sunday we offer brunch and a fresh Bloody Mary Bar with many different ingredients, such as bacon infused vodka, so you can create your own unique and favorite ﬂavor. We love to host wedding parties and have special menu options for your events. So come sit and stay a while at The Ugly Dog Pub and Dog House!

PUB: M ONDAY - T HURSDAY 4 PM | F RIDAY - S UNDAY 12PM DOG HOUSE: T UESDAY - S UNDAY OPEN AT 11:30 A M follow us on facebook/twitter/instagram

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Leaf Season • 2014

73 •

Kettles at 828-743-1079 for reservations. Visitors welcome; no dogs please. Blessing of the Animals: Cashiers Church of the Good Shepherd will hold its annual blessing of the animals at 10:30 a.m. on Oct. 5 at the Village Green in Cashiers, weather permitting. Bring your pets for the special blessing and enjoy Eucharist. Eco Tour: Highlands-Cashiers Land Trust will host an elk excursion Eco Tour to Cataloochee Valley on Oct. 9. Cost is $35 for new friends and includes an HCLT membership or $10 for current members. Call 828-5261111 for reservations. Friday Night Live: The Johnny Webb Band will perform from 6 p.m. – 8 p.m. Oct.

Cashiers’ Only Children’s Clothing Store!

is relocating in the spring of 2015 to our permanent home in the Ryan Antiques building across from Cornucopia. Come visit us through January 2015 at 17 Chestnut Square Cashiers, NC 28717

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Green, O Goblins in the

Art Instruction • Art Supplies Along with Cashiers Art Center Featuring more than 30 local artists

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45 Slabtown, Cashiers Open Year Round: 10a-6p Monday-Saturday • 10a-3p Sunday

}

Cashiers Leaf Festival, Oct. 10-12

}

10 in Town Square in Highlands. Admission is free. Call 828-526-5841 for information. Cashiers Leaf Festival: The Greater Cashiers Area Merchants Association’s sixth annual Leaf Festival will be held from Oct. 10 – 12 at the Village Green and Commons in Cashiers. There will be food, music, arts and crafts and much more. Visit www.visitcashiersvalley.com for more information. HomeTown Day: The Town of Highlands will host HomeTown Day, a community celebration, from 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. on Oct. 11 at Kelsey-Hutchinson Park. The event will feature vendors, cloggers, bluegrass music, Civil War reenactment, food and activities for the kids. Admission is free. For more information, call 828-526-2118. Arts & Crafts Show: On Oct. 11, the 32nd Annual Highlands Own Arts & Crafts Show takes place at the Highlands Civic Center, where you can check out wonderful crafts from local artisans. For more information, call 828-526-2118. Friday Night Live: Southern Highlands will perform from 6 p.m. – 8 p.m. Oct. 17 in Town Square in Highlands. Admission is free. Call 828-526-5841 for information. Theater: The Highlands Cashiers Players present “An Evening with David Ives” Oct. 16 –

219138

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Fall Festiva l,

Oct. 29

26. For more information, see www.highlandscashiersplayers.org. Met Live in HD: The Metropolitan Opera will stage “Le Nozze di Figaro” via live video feed Oct. 18 at the Performing Arts Center in Highlands. Call 828-526-9047 for tickets or information. Goblins in the Green: A free, frightfully fun family-friendly Halloween event. Dress up in your most creative costume and join fellow residents at 6 p.m. on Oct. 24 at the Village Green Commons in Cashiers for a haunting hayride with spooky stories on a trick-or-treat trail lit by jack-o’-lanterns. A hot-dog dinner will follow. Free. Friday Night Live: Macon Grass Band will perform from 6 p.m. – 8 p.m. Oct. 24 in Town Square in Highlands. Admission is free. Call 828-526-5841 for information. Pancake Breakfast: The Scaly Mountain Women’s Club will host a pancake breakfast at the Scaly Mountain Community Center from

Prescriptions filled with personal attention.

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• 74

Leaf Season • 2014

Wishing Everyone a Beautiful and Glorious Fall! 16 Holly Tree Lane, PO Box 1357 Highlands, NC 28741 Ph 828-526-2399 Fx 828-526-8027

Leaf Season • 2014

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Santa on the Green: Children of all ages are invited to tell Santa Claus their Christmas wishes from 2 p.m. – 5 p.m. on Nov. 28 at the Village Green in Cashiers. Free. Cashiers Christmas Tree Lighting: Visitors to The Village Green Gazebo in Cashiers at 6 p.m. on Nov. 28 can be a part of turning the park into the Winter Wonderland. The twinkling light displays and festive decorations that greet motorists from Thanksgiving weekend until New Year’s Day will be turned on at different times, with the highlight of the lighting being the Cashiers Christmas Tree. There will also be holiday music, s’mores and more. Free. Performance: Jason D. Williams will perform at 8 p.m. Nov. 28 at the Performing Arts

Ye Olde Mountain

Christmas Parade,

159791

7:30 a.m. – 10:30 a.m. Oct. 25. Adults $5.50, children $3.50. Proceeds benefit scholarships for area students and human services agencies. Fall Festival: The Highlands-Cashiers Hospital is hosting its Second Annual Fall Festival on Oct. 29 from 11 p.m. to 1 p.m. Costume contest, cake walk, hayrides, trickor-treating, pumpkin decorating contest, face painting, music and food. Free and open to the public. Lunch is $5 a plate. Halloween: Highlands Chamber of Commerce will sponsor a downtown trick-ortreat event on Oct. 31. Main Street will close to traffic and merchants will pass out candy. Free. Call 828-526-5841.

(828) 743-9575 Since 1991

A shoppers destination in Alexander Gardens Cashiers, NC for Fine Ladies and Mens Consignments.

Dec. 6

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On the corner of Foreman Rd & Hwy 64 Mon-Sat 10:00-5:30 200409

• 76

Met Live in HD: The Metropolitan Opera will stage “Carmen” via live video feed Nov. 1 at the Performing Arts Center in Highlands. Call 828-526-9047 for tickets or information. Culinary Weekend: The annual Highlands Culinary Weekend will be held Nov. 6 – 10. It features dinners, demonstrations, two sipand-strolls and an opening night gala. Prices vary. Call 828-526-5841. Met Live in HD: The Metropolitan Opera will stage “The Death of Klighoffer” via live video feed Nov. 15 at the Performing Arts Center in Highlands. Call 828-526-9047 for tickets or information. www.highlandspac.org Art Exhibit: The Bascom will present the exhibition “In These Mountains,” featuring works submitted by artists living in North Carolina. The exhibition will be on display from Nov. 15 to March 1, 2015, in the Loft Gallery. An opening reception and artist talk will be held from 5 p.m. – 7 p.m. Nov. 15. The Bascom is open from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday and noon – 5 p.m. Sunday. Admission to all exhibitions is free.

Shoes and Purses Center in Highlands. Tickets are $30-$50. Call 828-526-9047. Highlands Christmas Tree Lighting: The annual downtown Christmas tree lighting will be Nov. 29. The event includes a visit from Santa, refreshments and a carol sing-along. Free. Call 828-526-2112. Ye Olde Mountain Christmas Parade: Highlands’ Christmas parade will begin at 11 a.m. on Dec. 6. Free. Call 828-526-2112. Cashiers Christmas Parade: The annual Cashiers Christmas Parade will start at 11 a.m. Dec. 13. For more information, contact the Cashiers Area Chamber of Commerce at 828743-5191. Met Live in HD: The Metropolitan Opera will stage “Die Meistersinger” via live video feed Dec. 13 at the Performing Arts Center in Highlands. Call 828-526-9047 for tickets. Holiday Reading: Highlands Cashiers Players will present their annual holiday reading on Dec. 18 at the Performing Arts Center in Highlands. The performance is free. Leaf Season • 2014

Also Visit our Men’s Store

Leaf Season • 2014

77 •

Index of Advertisers Accommodations Inn at Half Mile Farm .............................. 45 Old Edwards Inn ..................................... 68 Park on Main........................................... 63 Pebble Creek Village ............................... 28 Skyline Lodge ......................................... 42

Clothing & Shoes TJ Bailey For Men .....................................22 Victoria’s Closet ...................................... 77 VC for Men .............................................. 77 Wit’s End ................................................ 61

Entertainment Accounting Cashiers Historical Society .......................53 Stephen L. Lucas, CPA, PA ....................... 75 Highlands Aerial Park ............................. 12 Highlands Cashiers Players ..................... 16 Animals Performing Arts Center ........................... 21 Cashiers-Highlands Humane Society ...... 23 Highlands Culinary Weekend .................. 62 Fall Colors Art Show ................................ 69 Antiques & Auctions CK Swan ................................................. 48 Flowers, Lawn & Garden Scudder’s Galleries ................................. 18 Highlands Lawn & Garden ........................ 5 The Little Flower Shoppe ........................ 58 Art Galleries, Photography & Framing Oakleaf Flower & Garden ........................ 73 Art League of Highlands ......................... 69 Blue Valley Gallery & Studio ................... 74 Food Retail Bascom .................................................. 60 Cashiers Farmers Market ........................ 73 Chivaree ................................................. 39 The Kitchen Carry Away & Catering ........ 69 Mountain Mist Gallery ............................ 26 Nectar Juice Bar ...................................... 76 Whole Life Market .................................. 76 Business Services Business Spot ......................................... 59 Furniture & Home Accessories Stork’s Wrap, Pack & Ship ....................... 40 Bound’s Cave .......................................... 42 Bumpkins ............................................... 54 Clothing & Shoes The Dry Sink ........................................... 37 Annawear ............................................... 36 Into the Woods Home Interiors ............... 10 Jolie’s ...................................................... 41 Rusticks Furniture & Accessories ............. 34 S’more Kids Klothes ................................ 74 Shiraz Oriental Rug Gallery ..................... 51 Spoiled Rotten ....................................... 35 The Summer House .................................. 6

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Leaf Season • 2014

Fuel, Heating & Air Outdoor Clothing & Gear Wilson Gas Service ................................... 7 Bear Mountain Outfitters ........ Inside Front Cover Golf Sapphire National Golf Club ..................... 5 Personal Services Head Innovations ................................... 40 Health Care Cashiers Valley Pharmacy ....................... 75 Real Estate & Property Management Highlands Pharmacy ................................ 5 Betsy Paul Properties ............................. 13 Blair Realty ................................................4 Homebuilders & Remodeling Country Club Properties ........................... 1 Black Rock Granite & Marble .................. 52 Landmark Realty Group ........ 44, back cover Cashiers Color Center .............................. 19 Lonesome Valley .................................... 66 DP Seamless Gutters ............................... 17 Preserve at Rock Creek ............................ 65 Highlands Decorating Center .................. 19 Ridgeline .................................................55 Keystone Kitchen & Bath ........................ 56 Macon Appliance Mart ........................... 67 Restaurants Mountainworks Custom Home Design ... 49 Asia House .............................................. 61 Palilos .............................. Inside Back Cover Altitudes Restaurant .............................. 42 Cork & Barrel........................................... 32 Insurance Cyprus .................................................... 64 Cashiers Insurance Agency ..................... 64 Highlands Smokehouse .......................... 24 Wayah Insurance Group .......................... 56 On The Verandah .................................... 11 Ruka’s Table ............................................ 40 Jewelry Sapphire National Brewing Co. ............... 50 Highlands Fine Art & Estate Jewelry ....... 33 Satulah Brewing Company ......................74 TLJ Estate Jewelers of Highlands ............ 31 Table 64 .................................................. 32 The Ugly Dog .......................................... 72 Landscaping Stoneyard 28 .......................................... 61 Retail Peak Experience ....................................... 2 Media Silver Eagle ............................................. 80 WHLC FM 104.5 ...................................... 27

Leaf Season • 2014

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-John Muir

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Legacy Leaf Season 2014

“The mountains are calling and I must go.”