Visit Highlands, NC Destination Guide

highlands experience guide

A publication of the Highlands Chamber of Commerce/Visit Highlands, NC

Publisher: Kaye McHan, Executive Director

Editor-in-chief: Kara Addy, Communications Manager

Art Director: Ansley Tolleson

Photo Editors

Greg Newington

Graphic Design

Jillian Nickell

Contributing Writers

Kara Addy, Anna Dayton, Luke Osteen, Randolph P. Shaffner

Contributing Photographers

Marty Boone, Chelsea Cronkrite, Molly Harris, Colleen Kerrigan, Stephan Pruitt, Brian O’Shea, Greg Newington

Advertising

Colleen Kerrigan, Business Services Manager

Circulation

Anna Dayton

Copyright © 2022. All rights reserved. No portion of this magazine may be reprinted without prior consent of the publisher.

Highlands Experience Guide has made every effort to ensure information is accurate and assumes no liability for errors or omissions. The views and opinions that appear in this publication are not necessarily those of the staff or organizations.

Highlands Experience Guide: is owned and published once each year by Highlands Chamber of Commerce/Visit Highlands, NC, 108 Main Street/P.O. Box 62, Highlands, NC 28741. 828-526-5841. Periodical postage paid at Asheville, NC and additional mailing offices.

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THE HEIGHT OF HAPPINESS, ALL YEAR LONG

MESSAGE

FROM THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

WE’RE REGULARLY ASKED THE QUESTION, “WHAT IS your favorite time of year in Highlands?” The truth is, it’s difficult to answer.

Is it winter, with occasional snowfalls that blanket our mountaintops and meadows? Winter’s holiday season brings our community together to light up Kelsey-Hutchinson Founders Park and again to wave to our friends and neighbors as the Christmas Parade passes by. We can long recall the laughter and happy faces of children spinning, skating and sliding during Snow Fest @ 4118, a weekend celebration in which the white stuff is guaranteed.

Maybe, it’s spring. The fresh, green buds dress the trees, starting in the valleys and making their way up the peaks, cradling our rivers and waterfalls along the way. Our town prepares to welcome more friendly and familiar faces, some of whom will remain throughout the warm season. Spring brings our immersive, outdoor arts celebration, Meander in May, to Main Street and the surrounding downtown area.

Summer is especially joyous, with live music under the stars each Friday and Saturday night. Our all-day July 4th celebration is punctuated by fireworks that explode over the mountaintops. Our cool summer temperatures are a key draw for those seeking refuge from warmer locales. Indoors, our theatre stages come alive with performances that enchant and entertain. Our restaurants take advantage of the opportunities to create delectable cuisine featuring farm-to-table dishes from the season’s bounty.

KAYE MCHAN Executive Director Highlands Chamber of Commerce/Visit Highlands, NC

And then, there’s fall. We can almost smell the smoky comfort of a fire pit gathering new and old friends for the lost art of conversation over a favorite libation. Crisp blue skies accent the spectrum of colors as the leaves perform their final act –grand displays that steal our breath and remind us how grateful we are to call this special plateau home. Exciting fall festivals abound, from our Highlands Heritage Jamboree to Halloween on Main to Food & Wine.

Yes, it’s difficult to select a favorite season in Highlands. That’s why we encourage you to spend time with each and discover your own special, seasonal joys at The Height of Happiness.

to the Outdoors

Fly Guy the

As owner/general manager of Brookings Anglers, Matt Canter’s life is “where trout and happiness collide.

BY KARA ADDY

Matt Canter’s description of the sport he loves comes amid a career that has taken him wading and floating along countless waterways in N.C. but also to other parts of the U.S. and far beyond.

Some of his favorite stories have happened close to home. There was the time he helped pull, push and carry 350 pounds of gear five miles into the Great Smoky Mountains National Park wilderness. The April weather presented a thunderstorm and snow. But the fishing was “downright amazing.” The High Point, N.C. native grew up fishing the waterways from the state’s mountains to its coast. He began fly fishing for bluegills and largemouth bass at age 11 and caught his first brown trout in a Western N.C. creek when he was 12, starting what would become a lifelong “addiction.”

Canter migrated from High Point to attend Western Carolina University in Cullowhee (about 30 miles from Highlands) – and the journey proved to be life changing. Not only did he meet his future wife Natalie there, but he also spent as much time as he could on the area’s rivers. When he wasn’t in a classroom or on the water, he was tying flies.

After earning a Bachelor of Science degree in parks and recreation with a focus on outdoor leadership, Canter began working for Brookings Anglers as a full-time guide. He and Natalie had settled in nearby Brevard when a dream opportunity for Canter surfaced: to manage the Brookings shop. A decade or so later, Canter became majority owner in the business.

“My wife deserves a lot of credit for supporting my dreams in the fly-fishing industry and putting up with the ongoing holiday and weekend workdays that the career requires,” he says. Today, the couple enjoy spending time in the outdoors with their children Emery, 12, and Tripp, 8. The family camps, hunts, hikes and – of course – fishes together.

TWO AREA LOCATIONS

When working, Canter travels between Brookings Anglers’ two locations as well as to fishing destinations throughout the mountain region. “The Cashiers shop was founded first, in 1988,” Canter explains. The charming cottage on Highlands’ Spring Street has been in operation for about seven years.

With the tagline, “Where trout and happiness collide,” Brookings is a premier outfitter and fly shop with a wellknown reputation for expertise and excellence within the industry. “Their guide staff is second to none,” Trout Unlimited published in a 2020 profile. “Fish with the folks from Brookings Anglers, and not only will you catch fish, but you’ll walk away a better fly angler and have stomach cramps from laughing all day.”

Brookings offers fishing gear and two types of local, guided excursions: wade and float trips. Prices for wade trips range from $250 for a half day/one person to $500 for a full day/two or more people. Float trips for trout begin at $550 for a full day hosting one or two anglers.

For those who want maximum solitude (and usually above average-sized fish), Brookings offers experiences on private waterways, thanks to agreements it has established with landowners. Fishing the private waters will cost from $300 (one person, half day) and $700 (two people, full day) and up.

Want to go to school? Full-day fly-fishing schools held year round for private parties, are a wonderful way to learn the basics. “Fall to spring is the best time to learn,” Canter says. “Just get on a river and you’ll have room. And you don’t have to worry about the trees.”

“Fly Fishing is an interactive game with nature that will take you to beautiful destinations you would otherwise not see.”

The bins of colorful flies in the tidy Highlands shop display like art. For a novice, the options could seem overwhelming, but Canter offers assurance with a slight smile: “You can make it as simple or as complicated as you’d like.”

FISH... AND PEOPLE

Fly fishing is a niche market, Canter says, making up less than one percent of the fishing industry. Canter not only loves the complexity of the sport but also the challenge, the learning, the destinations and the people.

Traditionally, most fly-fishing activity on the plateau has been enjoyed by second homeowners during the summer who bring along their sons, daughters and grandkids for a multi-generational experience. “We know of families that have passed the sport down to three generations and are ready to watch a fourth,” Canter says.

But things are changing. Unexpected interest in the sport rose during the pandemic, as people searched for new ways to enjoy themselves while staying safe under quarantine. Fishing equipment manufacturers, outfitters and guides experienced challenges in meeting demand. “I saw a lot of younger interest, a lot of women take new interest,” Canter says. “Now, our job is to maintain that interest, to bring them along.”

LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION

Canter’s enthusiasm for the area is contagious. Surrounded by Nantahala National Forest, Highlands sits on one of the tallest plateaus east of the Mississippi with layered mountain views cut by winding rivers. “We can get to 30 fishing locations within 30 minutes,” he says. “And there are things to do all year here.”

What sets the area apart from others, Canter believes, is the diverse types of water and even the species. “To me, it’s the variety. What I like is having the ability to give two guys five to seven different experiences in one week.” Controlled by Duke Energy, the Tuckaseegee is a “big, tailwater river,” while the Chattooga “is a totally different type of trout stream,” Canter explains. And then there’s fishing for smallmouth bass, which is a different experience altogether.

Perhaps a best-kept secret in Western N.C., smallmouth bass fishing in the region is exceptional, especially in mid-summer when the water is slow-moving, warm and clear. Trout have their own optimal conditions, and Canter knows what they are. “Trout need between 45 and 65 degrees to thrive, so in the summer, it’s best to fish the little streams,” abundant in the higher elevations, he explained. As winter comes around, the bolder and wider waters of the French Broad and Tuckaseegee become ideal.

Does he have a favorite type of waterway? Canter is

particularly fond of mid-sized rivers such as the Chattooga, North and East Fork of the French Broad, the Upper Nantahala and the Oconaluftee.

PROTECTION IS PARAMOUNT

That his livelihood depends upon healthy and plentiful natural spaces is only one reason Canter is a conservationist. When he’s not working or with his family, Canter can be found along the rivers and trails, often enjoying his latest hobby – mountain biking. He envisions Brookings embracing even more of a conservation mission in the future, partnering with Trout Unlimited, American Rivers, and the Nantahala National Forest to push for more protection.

“The conservation topic is something I could discuss for days,” he says. “It’s my livelihood, and the great outdoors and public lands are my playground and passion in life.”

He does not want history to repeat itself. In the early 1900s, the logging industry severely disrupted the canopies essential for brook trout to survive. As a result, the counts dipped. Trees help filter pollutants, prevent bank erosion, normalize temperatures and provide food to the aquatic bugs, including the flies that nourish the brook trout.

These days, logging practices are drastically different, Canter says, and are, in fact, helpful to produce younger, denser forests that offer biodiversity to wildlife.

Today, a different threat is on the horizon. Warming climates and increased development, combined with a trout population that cannot tolerate warm water or silted streams, mean good stewardship of our backyards is critical, Canter says.

“Leaving your stream banks shaded, putting cold-water releases on ponds and impoundments, and installing proper silt fences any time you disturb the ground on your property are all vital measures to take in ensuring the longevity of healthy, wild trout populations here on the plateau,” he says. “Water runs downhill, and it begins on top of the mountain.”

FLY-FISHING AND THE FUTURE

Brookings has partners all over the world ready to serve those who desire destinations other than the Appalachian Mountain rivers. During 2023, guides and guests will travel to the Bahamas, Montana, British Columbia, Argentina and Brazil.

In 2024, Brookings will occupy a brandnew facility built by Canter’s business partner, Stephen Zoukis, on the banks of Cashiers Lake, about 20 minutes from Highlands.

“The whole idea is to offer beer and wine and create a hangout spot,” he explains. Live music and fishing demonstrations are on the table. Within five years, he hopes to expand the Highlands location.

Whether at a shop or on the water, the goal is to create connections and lasting relationships. “A lot of what we share is to set you up on your two feet. We want to make sure people who have a thirst for the sport have a good time, with current information and equipment to experience the latest in the industry.”

On the other hand, Canter adds, Brookings can provide a turnkey, easy experience.

“They can show up with a pair of sunglasses, and we’ll take care of the rest.” 

“WE WANT TO MAKE SURE PEOPLE WHO HAVE A THIRST FOR THE SPORT HAVE A GOOD TIME, WITH CURRENT INFORMATION & EQUIPMENT TO EXPERIENCE THE LATEST IN THE INDUSTRY.”

PROTECTING AND PRESERVING THE

Wild Places

BY LUKE OSTEEN

If it’s true that the Cherokee people called the Blue Ridge Mountains, “the Great Blue Hills of God,” and that our national parks are thought of as America’s Cathedrals, then Highlands surely is one of our country’s high churches. Positioned on a plateau at the southern end of the Appalachian Mountain range, in one of only two temperate rainforests in the continental U.S. (the other is in the Pacific Northwest), Highlands is blessed by nature’s bounty. Layered mountain backdrops, dense woodlands, scenic vistas and spectacular waterfalls have enthralled visitors to Highlands for generations.

From vistas to flora to wildlife, Highlands’ natural spaces offer distinct, unsurpassed experiences. That’s just one reason why preserving them is important.

Highlands is a place where one can occasionally see black bears crossing Main Street, spot Blue Warblers in the forests, watch snapping turtles and frogs along the rivers, see salamanders swimming below miniature waterfalls and admire the flowering of rare Piedmont rhododendrons. A special note about our salamanders: Highlands’ diverse population of these beguiling amphibians has earned our area the moniker “Salamander Capital of the World.” We take pride in the moniker, as their presence certifies the purity of our air, water and soil.

All of this – the extraordinarily diverse wildlife and plant population, lush forests, a suite of rare habitats found at 4,118 feet – are hallmarks of what is one of the most biodiverse places on the continent. Stewardship of these sacred spaces is taken seriously. Conservationists, residents and community leaders alike have long recognized the threat of biodiversity loss. Understanding that the future for Highlands was contingent on preservation, town founders forged a belief in the

possibility of humans living in harmony with nature and underscored the dangers of overgrowth. From the start, grassroots efforts have helped protect the fragile ecosystem.

Much of the land around Highlands is protected by the Highlands-Cashiers Land Trust (HCLT), the country’s oldest such organization. HCLT owns approximately 300 acres associated with the town and is its largest landowner. With 3,800 acres in 130 places under its stewardship, HCLT has played a pivotal role In the community, the Highlands-Cashiers Land Trust (HCLT) has played a pivotal role in the creation of Kelsey-Hutchinson Founders Park and as active partners in the development of the Highlands Plateau Greenway.

Its local history is significant. In 1909, the Highlands Improvement Society purchased the top of Satulah Mountain, making its descendant HCLT. For more than a century, it has paved the way for conservation, protection, and restoration of wildlife and rare species habitat, public recreation opportunities, and water

quality. Additionally, it has been instrumental in protecting some of the area’s most iconic views, with nine properties open to the public: Brushy Face Preserve, Dixon Woods Park, Kelsey Trail Preserves, McKinney Meadow, Pinky Falls, Ravenel Park, Rhodes Big View, Rhododendron Park, and Satulah Mountain.

Conserving Highlands’ unique, wild places has been the goal of the Highlands Biological Station since its founding in 1927. Now an education and research facility with a multi-campus complex centered at Western Carolina University, it includes the Highlands Nature Center and the Highlands Botanical Garden – a 12-acre refuge for the botanical diversity of the plateau.

Associate Director Jason Love is a passionate advocate for the restoration of the indigenous botanical bounty that has been lost under interstates and replaced by generic hothouse blooms. “Planting native plants ensures the survival of the songbirds and salamanders that live only here, along with the continuation of insects that pollinate our crops,” says Love. “If bees and other pollinators disappear, so too will many species of plants. Without bees, the whole food chain would collapse.”

Recognizing the dire need for preservation, Highlands became a certified Bee City USA in March 2018. Since then, it has become a better place for pollinators –committing to increasing the abundance of native

plants, providing nest sites, and advocating for the reduction of pesticides. To realize these goals, community partners have removed non-native species on the Highlands Plateau Greenway, helped the Highlands-Cashiers Land Trust create two new habitats, and enhanced the pollinator garden at the Highlands Biological Station.

As Highlands’ population soared and residents increasingly crossed paths with bears, the need to develop a strategy for educating the public on how to coexist with bears and avoid humanbear conflicts became paramount. In response, local photographer Cynthia Strain spearheaded a campaign that resulted in Highlands becoming the first town in the nation to receive BearWise

community recognition. In 2021, two ordinances were enacted aimed at reducing confrontation, by reducing the availability of food and installing bear-proof cans to prevent bears from wandering Main Street. “The whole community feels safer, and the bears are no longer being acclimated to human forces,” Strain says.

This human commitment results in nature’s survival. And, as Highlanders understand, that benefits all living things .

Fly Fisherman’s Paradise A FRESHWATER

To truly understand the allure of Highlands, you need only ask a fly fisherman. What every angler understands after wading in its cool waters cradled by mountains, is the magic of Highlands is the sum of all its parts. Which is to say, the natural bounty is intoxicating: clear lakes, glistening rivers, black bear and brown trout. It draws anglers who’s hearts quicken at the thought of rivers filled with trout jumping between fern-covered rock and blossoming mountain laurel.

BY LUKE OSTEEN

Raleigh residents Scharles Cox and Amanda Heckel had been coming to Highlands for more than a decade, but they truly fell in love with the area when they discovered fly fishing five years ago.

“We’d see people fly fishing or hear them talking about it at Highland Hiker, and think, ‘Why are we not fly fishing in a place we love?’” said Heckel.

On their first outing, local guide Leland Shockley took them casting

on the Chattooga River and then, unexpectedly on a hike down to Secret Falls – a gorgeous 50-foot waterfall. Barefoot (they had yet to buy waders), they fished the serene pool at the bottom of the falls. As the waters rushed around them and the mist floated above, they discovered what so many had before; that there’s a peace and tranquillity on the river that places fishing into a world perfect and apart. “I never felt more connected to nature,” Cox sighed.

They were hooked. And they now admit to being at their happiest when they are fishing. “It’s what we think about the most outside of our daily activities,” Heckel said.

Every April and November – to coincide with the Bear Shadow and Highlands Food & Wine festivals –they work the area’s river, hoping to land one of the brown trout that Heckel calls a river monster.

Cox and Heckel are part of a population fueling a fly-fishing resurgence.

Highland Hiker was one of the first fly-fishing schools outside of Vermont when the company started sending people on guide trips in 1984.

Proprietor Chris Wilkes explained why the sport is gaining renewed popularity. “We are in a boom period for fly fishing. During the pandemic, people realized they could fish in non-populated areas and didn’t need a lot of spare time to do it. It used to be a lot of guys in their 40s and 50s. But these days, everybody from 10-year-olds to 70-year-old couples are fly fishing. And trout don’t live in ugly places. Even on days when you’re not catching fish, you’re standing in a beautiful spot.”

“Highlands is a freshwater flyfisherman’s paradise,” said Shockley.

Shockley knows what he’s talking about. He’s been guiding folks on the waterways around Highlands for more than 14 years.

“There are 2,200 miles of impressive, fishable trout water within an hour’s drive,” he said.

“Though prime months are May and October, we can trout fish in Western North Carolina 12 months of the year–and you can’t beat the scenery.”

Col. Robert Sanders of Salem, S.C. heard the call of the plateau’s wild waters. When he retired from the U.S. Army, he set his sights on a home close to the Cullasaja and Chattooga rivers.

“Some people retire and have no idea what to do with their time. For me, it’s fly fishing and hiking, and for decades I’ve been coming to Highlands; it’s why I bought a lifetime North Carolina fishing license,” he explained. “Fly fishing is a funny mix of science and intuition, and it’s always a learning experience.”

Accompanying Sanders are his son, Chris (who grew up casting lines all over America), and Chris’ sons Jack, 11, Wade, 8, and Sam, 4.

“All of the grandkids have learned the basics on Harris Lake,” Sanders explained. “Once they’ve mastered the essentials, we usually head out to the Cullasaja – although Sam has a Snoopy fishing rod and likes looking for salamanders. It’s a great activity that’s exciting, yet it also teaches patience. I think everyone could use a lesson in patience.”

With 107 miles of waters within five miles of town, abundant with a variety of wild and stocked trout, it’s not hard to find that perfect spot to cast your line.

Close to Highlands, the Cullasaja River flows through spectacular waterfalls and is filled with wild rainbow and brown trout. About a 15-minute drive away is the Chattooga, which earned designation as a National Wild and Scenic River in 1974. The N.C. portion is exclusively wild brown trout country.

Home to the highest trout count per mile of river in the U.S. is the Tuckaseegee or “Tuck”, the largest in the area. Loaded with rainbow, brown and brook trout, along with smallmouth bass and walleye, it’s a dam-controlled river.

Forty-five minutes away in the Pisgah National Forest is N.C.’s most wellknown river, the Davidson. Near Franklin is the Little Tennessee, a favorite smallmouth bass destination.

With rainbow and brown trout aplenty, the Whitewater River, is about an hour away, at the S.C. border. The current state record brown trout was caught 52 miles from Highlands in the Nantahala, or “Land of the Noonday Sun” river, as the Cherokee language translates.

The rivers all beckon equally with a chance to leave the world behind, to escape to a serene place where there’s only water, the mountains and the sky above. And, of course, the fish. 

“TROUT DON’T LIVE IN UGLY PLACES”

CHRIS WILKES, HIGHLAND HIKER

2023 IS THE NORTH CAROLINA YEAR OF THE TRAIL

As designated by the NC General Assembly and signed into law by Governor Cooper during the 2021 Long Session, this is the NC Year of the Trail. 2023 NC Year of the Trail celebrates North Carolina’s vast network of trails, greenways, and blueways which showcase our diverse landscapes - grand mountain vistas, quiet rivers, vibrant urban greenways, coastal forests, and the rolling hills of the piedmont.

NC Year of the Trail is the largest statewide celebration of trails and outdoor recreation in North Carolina history. North Carolina is the Great Trails State, where each of North Carolina’s 100 counties should be able to enjoy the proven benefits of trails, including health, safety, economic development, tourism, transportation, and environment. Trails are the backbone of our state’s growing $28 billion outdoor recreation economy.

The effort to secure designation for NC Year of the Trail was led by the North Carolina Great Trails State Coalition, a broad-based group of diverse organizations, agencies, and supporters advocating for increased state investment in all types of trails statewide: hiking, paddling, mountain biking, equestrian, and paved.

With sponsorship support from Visit NC, NC State Parks, and others, the Coalition is leading planning efforts for NC Year of the Trail at the state level, with goals to:

• Inspire people of all ages, abilities, and backgrounds to try trails

• Demonstrate the importance of trails to elected officials

• Boost outdoor recreation tourism across the state

• Encourage Year of the Trail events in all 100 counties

• Promote safe and responsible use of trails

• Advance diversity and inclusion on trails

For more information about NC Year of the Trail, visit greattrailsnc.com or @greattrailnc.

In North Carolina, there is a trail for each of us. An open invitation for bikers, hikers, paddlers, and riders. For amblers, explorers, and commuters. These paths are a place of refuge and recreation, connecting us to the very essence of this state. To its storied, winding history. And - with our active use and care - to its future. Because we blaze and sustain trails together: those born and bred here, and those beckoned by its promise as the Great Trail State. Along these trails, we lead and we follow. We march on our own and we build community. We find new purpose, generation after generation. Because North Carolina’s trails are for all of us. To enjoy, to sustain, and to champion. This is our year. The Year of the Trail.

Woods into the

Highlands is perfect for those looking to lose--or find--themselves amidst forests, meadows and hills. Generations of naturalists, artists and dreamers have discovered paradise on the trails that wind through our wilderness.

So, check the weather, grab your gear and a camera, and prepare to create memories in these magical places. (Just don’t wander off the marked trails.)

BARTRAM TRAIL –OSAGE OVERLOOK

Named after the distinguished naturalist, Bartram Trail runs more than 100 miles from Oconee State Park in South Carolina through Georgia and North Carolina to the Great Smoky Mountains. This long-distance trail is marked with yellow blazes. The twomile segment from the Osage Mountain trail head is a difficult hike, due to an elevation gain of 1,100 feet. The reward is views of Blue Valley and Tessentee Valley from the top of Scaly Mountain.

To get there: From downtown Highlands take N.C. 106/ Dillard Road. Travel 5.5 miles to a paved overlook area and trail head to the left. Park on the same side as the overlook but access the northbound Bartram Trail to Scaly Mountain on the opposite side of the road via the stairs. Look for the sign reading “Bartram Trail to Hickory.”

CHATTOOGA LOOP TRAIL & CHATTOOGA RIVER TRAIL TO WHITESIDE COVE

Chattooga Loop Trail is almost two miles and begins to the left of the notable Iron Bridge. Moderate in difficulty, it is a great hike for the entire family. Chattooga River Trail – a 6.25- mile, one-way hike – be-

gins at the same place but ends at Whiteside Church on Whiteside Cove Road, so two vehicles are required.

To get there: From Highlands, travel east on Main Street for 4.5 miles. Main Street will become Horse Cove Road. Look for its intersection with Bull Pen and Whiteside Cove roads. Turn right onto Bull Pen Road (#1178/#1180). Proceed for 5.4 miles to the Iron Bridge. The trailhead is on the left, just before the bridge.

CHINQUAPIN MOUNTAIN

The trail head for this 3.2-mile round trip is at the Glen Falls parking area near downtown Highlands. It is a moderate walk, and the trail crosses streams several times. A mile-long series of switchbacks leads to the top.

To get there: Head west on U.S. 64 and turn left on N.C. 106. Drive 1.7 miles and look for the sign to Glen Falls Scenic Area on the left. Turn left, then immediately bear right onto Glen Falls Road. Travel on this gravel road for one mile to the parking area.

CLIFFSIDE LAKE RECREATIONAL AREA

This is a delightful plunge into nature’s glorious bounty! Enjoy several hiking trails – some of which lead to waterfalls – as well as picnic tables

with grills and a lake for swimming and fishing (with a N.C. fishing license). A day-use fee is required, and picnic shelters must be reserved. Its Cliffside Loop Trail is an easy 0.75mile walk around the lake.

To get there: Follow U.S. 64 West for 4.5 miles, turn right at the Cliffside Lake sign and continue for 1.5 miles.

ELLICOTT’S ROCK & BAD CREEK TRAILS

This area boasts Ellicott’s Rock, an enormous boulder embedded in the Chattooga riverbank, bearing the letters “NC” as carved by surveyor Andrew Ellicott who thought this was the intersection of North Carolina, Georgia and South Carolina. (Spoiler Alert: It wasn’t. That’s Commissioner’s Rock, bearing the symbol NC/SC 1813.) Choose from two trails: Bad Creek Trail to Ellicott’s Rock is a moderate trail that stretches three miles, one way. Ellicott’s Rock Trail is 3.5 miles and more difficult. Prepare for a good workout!

To get there: From downtown Highlands, head northwest on Main Street, which will become Horse Cove Road. Turn onto Bull Pen Road and pass the Iron Bridge. Ellicott’s Rock trail starts at six miles; the Bad Creek trail starts at 10 miles. Both drop steeply down from opposite sides of the river near Ellicott’s Rock (on the left bank looking down stream) and continue down river.

HICKORY KNUT GAP

You’ll feel like you’re far away from civilization! This moderate, 3.5-mile, out-and-back trail is great for birding. From the trail head, walk for approximately 0.3 mile to where the trail splits to the right. Follow the blue blazes through the rhododendron canopy to the junction with Bartram Trail at approximately one mile. Turn right onto the yellow-blazed Bartram and continue to the Scaly Mountain summit. Side trails to the left and right also offer amazing views. Be cautious of the bare rock sections, which can be slick when wet or icy.

To get there: From Highlands, take N.C. 106 four miles to Turtle Pond Road and turn right. Turn left onto Hickory Knut Gap Road and drive 0.9 mile to the trail, which is a Forest Service Road on the left. Park on the right.

HIGHLANDS BOTANICAL GARDEN & HIGHLANDS BIOLOGICAL STATION

Just a half mile from downtown Highlands awaits this is lovely, little jewel with several gardens to explore. The gardens are free and open to the public year-round, from sunrise to sunset.

To get there: From Main Street, head northwest as it becomes Horse Cove Road. Look for Highlands Nature Center and park in the gravel area across from it. The garden paths begin to the left of the Nature Center, with maps posted along the trails.

HIGHLANDS PLATEAU GREENWAY

“Connecting the heart of Highlands” is this system of walking and hiking trails that protect and connect the natural settings and historic sites of the area. More than 10 miles of

natural trails and sidewalks are open daily, from sunrise to sunset.

To get there: The trail head is on Oak Street between the intersection of S. 3rd St. and S. 2nd St. It is the nexus to any trail on the Greenway.

JONES KNOB

This portion of the Bartram Trail features spectacular views, with Jones Knob and Whiterock Mountain being the highlights. An old roadbed leads right to a wildlife management field. After the trailhead, at the far end of the field, yellow blazes mark Bartram to the right and blue blazes mark the Jones Knob spur trail to left. Follow the blue-blazed trail for .03 mile to a delightful mountaintop view.

To get there: Take U.S. 64 West to Turtle Pond Road. Turn left and travel 1.1 miles to SR1678. Turn right on the road (which may be marked Dendy Orchard Road) for 1.4 miles to the top of a hill. Turn left on Jones Gap Road (FR4522) and continue two miles to the parking area. The trail leaves the parking area on the right.

THE NARROWS

This is an easy, four-mile round trip hike off Whiteside Cove Road. It features spectacular views of the Chattooga River forced into a narrow channel, exploding over boulders, and revealing an unexpected swimming hole.

To get there: From downtown Highlands, take N. 4th St./Horse Cove Road and turn left onto Whiteside Cove Road. Travel 0.9 mile. The trail is on a logging road on the right and descends two miles to The Narrows. You’ll pass a trail to the right, which continues to Bull Pen Bridge on Horse Cove Road. Be sure to return the way you came.

RABUN BALD

This steep hike offers 360-degree views of the Georgia and North Carolina mountains from the second highest point in Georgia.

To get here: From Highlands, take NC 106 East (Dillard Rd.) for about 7 miles, then turn left onto Hale Ridge Road. After five or six miles, look for trail marker no. 211 on the left.

SATULAH MOUNTAIN

The payoff of this hike that begins in downtown Highlands is a peak of 4,543 feet with a 270-degree view to the south, east and west.

To get there: Park downtown and walk south, up the hill on 4th St. At the curve, walk straight onto Satulah Road. Continue to the end of the road; then, follow the old roadbed an additional 0.5-mile to the clearing at the top of the mountain.

SLICK ROCK TRAIL

This is a simple, 0.2-mile round trip. The hike may be short, but the summit offers an impressive view of the mountains.

To get there: From downtown Highlands, take E. Main/Horse Cove Rd. to the end of the pavement. Take the right fork onto Bull Pen Road and continue one mile. On a sharp left curve, look for a pull-off and a steep, unmarked path on the right.

SUNSET ROCK

This astonishing site is just a few hundred yards from downtown Highlands. Sunset Rock is an ideal choice for a late afternoon stroll. It’s a short, 0.5-mile walk to the top. Beautiful sunsets and views of Brushy Face Mountain unfold over the town, while you sit on a natural amphitheater on slabs of granite.

To get there: Take Main Street for 0.5-mile east to the Highlands Nature Center on the left. Park and follow the sign to a gravel road to Sunset Rock and Ravenel Park. Note: The trail is a private drive, so do not block it when you park.

WHITESIDE MOUNTAIN

This jaw-dropping spectacle is only six miles from town on U.S. 64 East. The moderate trail, crowned by a panoramic vista, is a two-mile loop that climbs above sheer cliffs.

To get there: Take U.S. 64 East from downtown Highlands and turn right at the sign onto Whiteside Mountain Road. Travel one mile to a wellmarked parking area on the left. This is a fee area, and a restroom is at the end of the parking lot.

WHITEWATER FALLS TRAIL

This easy, 0.6 mile-round trip trail will reward you with a spectacular view of the highest waterfall in the Eastern United States.

To get there: Take U.S. 64 East to Cashiers and turn right onto N.C. 107 South. Turn left onto Wigington Rd., then left at the stop sign onto S.C. 130, which turns slightly left and becomes N.C. 281. Look for the Whitewater Falls sign and turn right. The trail descends steeply into the river. An overlook is located along the trail. To the left, the trail continues and fords the river. There are numerous spots for picnicking and shallow pools for wading and quick dips.

YELLOW / SHORTOFF MOUNTAIN

This strenuous hike with amazing views is 4.8 miles one way, so allow for a full day of adventure. The reward is a spectacular, panoramic vista from the top of Yellow Mountain.

To get there: Take U.S. 64 East from Highlands three miles and turn left onto Buck Creek Road. Follow Buck Creek Road for 2.3 miles. The trail will be on the right.

For more information on these and other favorite hikes, stop by The Highlands Welcome Center at 108 Main Street, call 828-526-2112 or visit highlandschamber.org. 

THE

FALLING WATERS

High atop a mountain plateau and nestled by a unique rainforest, Highlands’ waterfalls draw visitors from around the world. Some are quiet and diminutive, just more than a rivulet. Others call with raging waters that tumble over granite cliff faces with commanding force. All are beguiling.

No trip to Highlands is complete without a trip along U.S. 64 West, the Mountain Waters Scenic Byway, which offers four sequential waterfalls just outside of town: Bridal Veil, Dry, Bust Your Butt and Cullasaja. As much as their beauty beckons, all waterfalls should be approached with great caution. Keep in mind:

• The best way to enjoy a waterfall is from a safe distance.

• Heed posted warning signs and stay on established trails. Avoid “shortcuts.”

• Never climb on or around waterfalls. Stay behind guard rails and fences.

• Never wade or play in water feeding a waterfall. Rocks can be slippery and currents swift; it is easy to lose your balance.

• Keep children and pets close.

Here are a few of our most beloved waterfalls.

Bridal Veil Falls

This small, picturesque fall – one of three main waterfalls in the Cullasaja Gorge – is one of the most unusual and popular in the South. Its 120-foot cascade is seen from U.S. 64 West, and visitors may walk behind its gentle “veil.” According to Cherokee lore, a woman who walks behind the falls in the spring will be married by the first snow. Look for its rainbow in the afternoon sun.

To get there: From downtown Highlands, travel less than three miles on U.S. 64 and look for it on the right.

Bust Your Butt Falls

A series of stair-step falls on the Cullasaja River, this is a highly popular spot. Park, stretch your legs, soak in the view and dangle your toes in the water. (But be aware of swift currents and slippery or hidden rocks!)

To get there: From downtown Highlands, drive about six miles on U.S. 64 West and pull over on the right or left.

Cullasaja Falls

This is a powerful series of rushing waterfalls along the Cullasaja River – 250 feet high and framed with a dramatic cliff face. While the gorge is breathtaking in the spring and fall, winter is when its rock formations can be seen. The falls are easily viewed from the road; it is not safe to try and hike down to the base.

To get there: From Highlands, drive less than nine miles on U.S. 64 West and notice the pull over on the left side of the road. Drive further, turn around at a safe place and retrace your route to park in the pullover. Be sure to park your vehicle completely off the road, as passing trucks need two lanes to navigate the curve. Stay safe!

Dry Falls

Thundering over a cliff, this 75-foot fall allows visitors to walk underneath while staying relatively dry. From the parking area, a pleasant walk down stone steps leads to a path that goes behind the waterfall fed by the Cullasaja River.

To get there: From Highlands, drive just more than three miles on US 64 West to the parking area on the left. A nominal parking fee is required.

Glen Falls

Comprised of three, 80-foot falls dropping 640 feet, the entire Glen Falls’ trail descends some 700 feet in one mile. So, the hike down is easy, but back up is steep.

To get there: From Highlands, take N.C. 106 towards Dillard, GA. After driving about two miles, look for the sign to the falls. Turn left, then immediately right onto a dirt road. Drive just more than one mile to the parking area.

Kalakaleskies Falls (Lake Sequoyah Dam Falls)

Though less popular than other falls along the Cullasaja Gorge, Kalakaleskies offers a series of smaller falls below the Lake Sequoyah Dam. Great caution should be taken when hiking the trail, as the riverbanks are steep. Taking young children and pets below the dam is not recommended.

To get there: Take U.S. 64 West from Highlands. About two miles after this highway intersects with N.C. 28, pull off into the parking area on the left.

Pinky Falls

A short walk will lead to a local favorite, Pinky Falls. A small cascading waterfall with a sandy beach, Pinky is perfect for a picnic and wading in the water.

To get there: Take U.S. 64 East from Highlands. Take a left on Flat Mountain Road. Find a parking pull-off just past the bridge on the right.

Rainbow Falls

Hiking this moderately difficult trail brings great reward. Hike alongside the rushing Horse pasture River until you reach the 150-foot waterfall. In the mornings, the mist from the waterfall creates rainbows, hence its name.

To get there: From Highlands, take U.S. 64 East through Cashiers for about 20 miles, then turn right on NC 281 South. In 0.9 miles the park entrance road is on the left. Continue for 1 mile, pass the visitors center and the turn off for the loop road, then find the Rainbow Falls Parking area straight ahead.

Secret Falls

Once a long-held secret, this fall is now accessible via a trail constructed across public lands. Enjoy the seclusion and undeniable sense of mystery that shrouds this charmer.

To get there: Travel south (towards Walhalla) on N.C. 28 from Highlands’ Main Street. Follow this road for just more than four miles and turn left onto Rich Gap Road. After 0.6 mile, make a right on Forest Service Road (FR45670), a gravel road that may be marked as Big Creek Road. Drive approximately 1.75 miles on this unpaved road to the Upper Trail Head parking area on the right. The old road turns into a footpath which leads to the falls.

Sliding Rock Falls

Created by the Chattooga River, this natural waterslide glides over a 10-foot-high rock face with a few large potholes. The water is cool, making it a popular spot during the summer. Visitors can slide down the rock, or just wade in the pool below the rock. This quiet spot has delighted guests for generations. Stop along the way to see the World’s Smallest Post Office.

To get there: From Highlands, take Horse Cove Road to the end of the pavement. Turn left onto Whiteside Cove Road and travel approximately five miles. Look for a small parking area off the road.

Whitewater Falls

This is the highest waterfall east of the Rocky Mountains, with the upper portion falling 411 feet. Fed by the Whitewater River, it cascades over massive rock pillars.

To get there: Take U.S. 64 East from Highlands to Cashiers and turn right onto N.C. 107 South. Travel about nine miles, crossing into South Carolina, and turn left onto S.C. 130 South. Follow signs to Whitewater Falls.

For more information on these and other favorite waterfalls, stop by The Highlands Welcome Center at 108 Main Street, call 828-526-2112 or visit highlandschamber.org. 

Get Outside

The Mountain Retreat & Learning Center Offers Outdoor Education and More

Located on Dillard Road, four miles south of Highlands, the Mountain Retreat & Learning Center offers year-round programming for youth and adults. Additionally, it offers retreats for individuals, corporations, and other organizations. Private event usage is available as its schedule permits. Please check its website for event additions and updates. Its 2023 schedule includes:

APRIL 23 – 28: MUSIC WEEKIndividual and group Instruction in voice and various instruments

MAY 7 – 12: CLIMATE JUSTICE CONFERENCEExploring issues related to climate change and implications for justice

MAY 20: FORAGING TOUR

MAY 25: HERBALISM WORKSHOP

MAY 28: FARM TOUR AND DINNER

JUNE AND JULY: YOUTH CAMPS

Age six through high school, traditional camps, outdoor adventure camp, farm camps, youth leadership camps

JUNE 3: FORAGING TOURMushrooms or edible and medicinal plants

JUNE 8: HERBALISM WORKSHOP

June 11 – 17: Intermediate Farm Camp

JUNE 22: HERBALISM WORKSHOP

JUNE 24: INTRODUCTION TO WILD MUSHROOMS

JUNE 25 – JULY 8: HIGH SCHOOL FARM CAMP

JULY 15: FORAGING TOURMushrooms or edible and medicinal plants

JULY 16 – 22: INTERMEDIATE FARM CAMP

JULY 29: INTRODUCTION TO WILD MUSHROOMS

JULY 30: FARM DINNER

JULY 23 – 28: INTERGENERATIONAL CAMPCamp experience for all ages - adventures, workshops, connections with people and nature

AUGUST 3: HERBALISM WORKSHOP

AUGUST 5: FORAGING TOUR

AUGUST 26: INTRODUCTION TO WILD MUSHROOMS

AUGUST 27: FARM DINNER

AUGUST 27 – SEPT 1: ADULT FARM CAMP

SEPTEMBER 10: FARM DINNER

SEPTEMBER 14: HERBALISM WORKSHOP

SEPTEMBER 24: FARM DINNER

OCTOBER 8: FARM DINNER

Additional summer programming (with dates to be determined) includes the John McCutcheon Songwriting Workshop and Aaron Shearer Classical Guitar Institute.

The Mountain Retreat & Learning Center is located at 3872 Dillard Road via Hwy. 106. For more information, call 828-526-5838 or visit themountainrlc.org.

Immerse

in Arts, Shopping and Festivities

Peter Millar - Brax - Faherty - Roberto Coin - Eton

THE CURTAIN RISES ON HIGHLANDS’ NEW

Performing Arts Center

THE SCENE

It’s 2015. A Board of Director’s meeting –specifically, a yearly planning retreat – is in progress. Members of the Highlands Performing Arts Center’s board are seated, engaging in lively chatter about the organization’s bright future. Ideas, goals and needs are being shared. The conversation pauses after a bold suggestion is made...

BOARD MEMBER

“Let’s build a theater.”

And so it began.

BY KARA ADDY

Mary Adair Trumbly was five years into her role as executive director of the Highlands Performing Arts Center – or PAC as it’s often called. Her ears delighted in the four words spoken at that now-historic board meeting.

“I was thrilled they said it,” she recalls. “They got there on their own. I completely agreed but I didn’t have to say a word.”

To say a lot has happened in the seven years since that retreat would be a grand understatement. An intense fundraising campaign, decisions on budget, site and timeline, architectural planning -- the background scenery was ever-changing. And then, in a dramatic entry from stage left, the story’s villain appeared: the pandemic.

It would have been easy for the staff, board and volunteers to step back and halt their efforts in 2020. But being fully committed, they locked into the vision of having all the community’s performing arts groups under one roof, embraced the momentum and pushed through.

In the fall of last year, the curtain rose on the gorgeous, new facility on Chestnut Street, adjacent to the PAC’s former home. Its mountain modern style sends a clear message: The future of performing arts in the mountain town of Highlands has arrived.

Taking center stage through the entire production was Cindy Trevathan whose husband, Rick, served as the PAC’s board chair.

“We wouldn’t be here without her,” Trumbly says.

A committed volunteer, Trevathan says she “felt compelled to continue,” even when the pandemic hit, and costs rose. She remembers well that fateful 2015 board retreat, as it marked the beginning of her journey. The project “just made sense.”

“The town was growing and our performing arts venues – an old school auditorium and church – needed to grow with it. From the early screening to deciding what and where to build to navigating the pandemic and associated cost increases, I just felt compelled to continue.”

Receiving top billing along with Trevathan, according to Trumbly, are Jane Webb and Geri Coleman, both of whom served on the PAC board.

Except for $60,000 from Macon County, the $14.8 million raised all came from private sources. (As of this writing, the PAC still needed $1.1 million to completely close the books on the construction campaign. An operating endowment is another need.)

“The community built this for the community,” Trumbly reflects.

The result of the generosity from volunteers and donors will impact several arts organizations and programs who call the PAC home, including Highlands-Cashiers Chamber Music Festival, Highlands Cashiers Players and PAC Youth, a program for young thespians.

This year, another major shift within the community’s performing arts scene will occur when Mountain Theatre Company moves from The Highlands Playhouse on Oak Street and makes the PAC its new home.

Among the many new features Mountain Theatre Company will inherit is a fly system (or theatrical rigging), used to quickly hoist curtains, lights, scenery and stage effects, opening a much broader range of production possibilities.

As partner Choate Construction put it, the result is “a premier entertainment space that reflects the high-caliber talent of the local community.” Working with them was architecture and design firm Lord Aeck Sargent, whose portfolio includes The Bascom, projects for Atlanta’s High Museum and renovations of Duke University’s Page Auditorium and Augusta’s Miller Theater. Jones Lasalle & Long (JLL) handled project management.

Trumbly easily rattles off the new PAC’s impressive features: seating for 298, state-of-the-art acoustics and lighting technology, comfortable and well-appointed dressing

rooms for the cast and lead performers, a lobby with a bar. The new facility can be used for small conferences, too; USB capability is built in, and screens are available. And then there are the unique, special touches throughout, such as a graphic wall mural that set the design tone for the interiors, aesthetics that mimic N.C. basketweave, a unique and flexible display of donor’s names in the lobby and a backstage wall featuring the signatures of donors as well as artists who have performed there. The visuals were important to Trumbly, who previously owned a local art gallery for a decade. She describes the space as “contemporary, yet mountainesque.”

The PAC still owns its former home, the adjacent Martin Lipscomb Theatre, as well as the land between the buildings and U.S. Highway 64. It has not abandoned the original vision of adding a black box theater and an outdoor amphitheater somewhere on the property. But for now, they’re enjoying the rewards of hard work and dedication.

Trevathan took a moment to reflect on how she feels when she steps inside the new PAC.

“I must confess I had a tear in my eye on opening night. I thought of all the sleepless nights worrying about finding donors, accelerating costs and other issues, and felt very proud of what we did with essentially 100 percent private funds in our little town. I also see the next steps to take the facility even further.” 

THE ARTS ARE ALIVE

Highlands’ arts scene flourishes with visual inspiration and community support.

BY LUKE OSTEEN

For a town with just more than 1,000 year-round residents, Highlands maintains an astonishingly rich arts scene.

There’s a gallery displaying a precisely curated collection of paintings, sculpture and other works, an expansive new performing arts facility, an art museum that has earned a regional reputation, and musical performances that range from local bluegrass staged at pubs to live performances downtown to a chamber music festival that’s recognized internationally. And it’s all supported by a vibrant community of artists and artisans and their patrons.

Most are members of the Art League of Highlands-Cashiers, who meet monthly at The Bascom: Center for Visual Arts.

“We gather for a presentation by a well-known artist and to exchange ideas and encourage one another,” says the league’s Zach Claxton. “We also stage two shows – the Summer Colors Art Show and Fall Colors Art Show – that allow us to showcase our work.”

The Bascom also serves as a gallery for those artists and offers workshops and classes to help them refine their talents. Artists’ works are represented in The Bascom Shop and opportunities for residencies and exhibitions abound.

“Through the generous support of our donors and partner organizations, The Bascom strives to keep the visual arts a vibrant and vital part of our community,” says Executive Director Karin Peterson. “Our commitment to quality and access means that everyone has free admission to 10 exhibitions annually, in addition to public programs like Community Day, set for July 1.”

Each year, The Bascom selects an artistic theme to guide their work. The 2023 theme is “Origins,” which will focus in part on artistic inspiration.

Additionally, local artists’ works are displayed at The Gallery at Highlands within Cabin Couture. Owner Cherry Bittick’s gallery has

long showcased artists such as Diane McPhail or Dawne Raulet, almost unconsciously.

“It took my friend Suzanne Camarata, the owner of The Gallery at Flat Rock, to point out how many local artists we represent,” she explains. “I looked around Cabin Couture and, sure enough, they were already in so many of our displays. I didn’t realize how I was naturally attracted to their creations, but I certainly knew how our clients were attracted to them.”

That ready clientele is the reason Tiho Trichkov opened his HOP Gallery on Main Street.

Trichkov, whose gorgeous fine art photography has been featured in publications such as “National Geographic” and “Smithsonian Magazine,” chose to open his gallery to get to know his public.

“I wanted a space with the actual artist inside to present art on a daily basis,” he says. “In 2022, I finally decided I was ready. My portfolio with various images was built already. I found a cute space in the heart of Highlands, and that’s how HOP Gallery was born.”

Trichkov is in his gallery every day and works on his images for an international clientele. But he relishes the chance for people strolling Main

Street to stop in for a chat and browse through his portfolio.

The centerpiece of Highlands’ dramatic arts is the Highlands Performing Arts Center, or PAC, located three blocks from Main Street on Chestnut Street.

The new PAC, upgraded in 2022, boasts a 298-seat theater, with a catwalk, lighting, screens, upscale dressing rooms for performers, a gathering area and concession area, lots of parking and access to the inviting lobby from the back or the front of the property. It represents a tremendous advancement in the performance possibilities and the generosity of a deep-pocketed and engaged community.

“It’s been a huge group effort, not only from our volunteers, but from our board members who have been fabulous, from the communication that has gone back and forth with the other organizations that we will be sharing the facility with and the people who have spent so many hours helping this came to pass,” says PAC Board President Rick Trevathan.

With its expanded facilities and capabilities, Highlands PAC is now home to another Highlands institution – Mountain Theatre Company.

“Mountain Theatre Company is one of North Carolina’s oldest regional theatre companies and is the legacy of Highlands’ early forwardthinking families,” says Executive Artistic Director Scott Daniel. “Over the years, the troupe grew from a community theatre to a professional summer stock company. The 2023 Mainstage Season, our 85th, will run from June through December. We bring in professional performers, technicians, and designers from across the country each season to present high quality productions.”

Highlands Performing Arts Center also hosts the Highlands-Cashiers Chamber Music Festival (HCCMF), now enjoying its 42nd year.

“Generosity and a remarkable community spirit allowed us to stage performances at surprising venues across the plateau – Martinis & Mozart at Old Edwards Inn; concerts at First Presbyterian Church of Highlands and The Episcopal Church of the Incarnation; and gala

celebrations at Chattooga Club and Highlands Falls Country Club,” says Executive Director Nancy GouldAaron. “One of the hallmarks of HCCMF is the aura of playfulness that imbues its entire seasons.”

This year’s chamber music concerts include Bach & Bluegrass, Winds in the Mountains, The Three Graces, Musical Fireworks, Festival All Stars and much more.

While we’re talking about music, we can’t help but note that the Highlands Chamber of Commerce/ Visit Highlands, NC, stages free concerts every Friday and Saturday night from May through October.

Everyone is invited to Friday Night Live and Saturdays on Pine at Kelsey-Hutchinson Founders Park.

Whether you like classic rock, blues, bluegrass, soul, bee-bop, country, hard rock, gospel, jazz, Broadway, Motown, Top 40, Americana, and almost anything else that can be played, sung, or percussed, you’ll love weekend nights in downtown Highlands.

Of course, all the performances and exhibits are enhanced by the visual beauty that surrounds the town and inspires both the artists and the audiences.

As Peterson says, “We are fortunate to be situated in Highlands, where we share with our visitors a love for the beauty of the natural world and the artistic creations of those in our region.” 

a writer’s Haven

Highlands has long drawn those with a pen (or keypad) wanting to tell a story. The area’s beauty and seclusion provide the perfect place to dig deep and let imaginations soar.

By Luke Osteen

There’s something about Highlands that’s irresistible to storytellers.

The Cherokee had a wealth of stories about the landscape and creatures that lived here. According to Cherokee legend, Whiteside Mountain, with its 750-foot-tall cliffs (the highest shear cliffs in the eastern U.S.), was home to the monster Spearfinger; its exposed cliffs were created when a large rock bridge to her dwelling sheared off.

Balancing out the terror found in some Cherokee tales were the clever raccoons, fearless ravens and dogs –lots of dogs. Cherokee dogs were always getting into mischief; yet, by the end of the tale, they’d ultimately do the right thing.

When Highlands founders Samuel Truman Kelsey and Clinton Carter Hutchinson drew lines from Chicago to Savannah and from New Orleans to New York City, they called upon their talents as storytellers and marketers to produce an eight-page pamphlet extolling the virtues of this tiny corner of Western North Carolina. Though they envisioned a vast commercial hub, they were exuberant in painting a picture of a landscape blessed with abundant pure water and clear air that would prove a bounty for enterprising farmers and a tonic for those suffering from emphysema and consumption.

Kelsey and Hutchinson even included a note in their pamphlet to assure wary New Englanders that the inhabitants of the area were good, honest folk who would welcome everyone and who bore no ill-will in the wake of the Civil War.

While they missed the mark on Highlands becoming a great trading center and commercial crossroads, they were on the money about the welcoming nature of the population and the rich environment.

In fact, writers responded to the clarion call and began to visit and live in this little town, discovering events, experiences and people that fueled their writing.

Consider Margaret Morley, whose 1913 account, “The Carolina Mountains” spotlights Highlands. She wrote,

“Nowhere in the mountains does one find more beautiful natural growths than at Highlands, where the laurel and rhododendron grow to trees, and flaming azaleas set whole mountain-sides ablaze.”

From their perch on Holt Knob, poets Bess Hines Harkins and Butler Sterling Hawkins won national acclaim for their concise observations.

Consider the wisdom embedded in Bess’ “Not Beary Funny:”

A bit of advice, my friend:

PLEASE DON’T FEED THE BEARS but if you do, I’m telling you you’d better say your prayers

For when you run out of food the bear won’t understand he’ll think you’re holding out on him and go her a piece of hand!

So PLEASE DON’T FEED THE BEARS

Observe this without fail

Or you may know how old Jonah felt

When he woke inside the whale!

Pat Conroy, considered one of the preeminent figures in contemporary Southern literature, spent time in Highlands during Word, Wine & Friends Weekends, held several years ago at Old Edwards Inn. Accompanying Conroy was

his wife, writer Cassandra King, who also attended a private event hosted by the Center for Life Enrichment this past August,

Revered Appalachian writer Ron Rash, whose 2008 best seller “Serena” became a film, was also part of this weekend retreat.

Writers’ camaraderie continues in Highlands, as evidenced by the members of The Highlands Writers Group. These artists – seasoned pros, battle-tested amateurs and novices tentatively tapping out tales – gather each week at The Bascom: A Center for the Visual Arts.

The gregarious group is the natural flowering of a movement that has developed for decades.

In the 1980s and 1990s, writers and poets used to gather at Fireside Books for gabfests about the pitfalls and possibilities of their latest projects. (Although, admittedly, a lot just came for the generous pours and the pastries created by Krysti Henderson.)

Flocks of writers would also gather at Hudson Library for spirited discussions and workshopping manuscripts.

The current iteration of Highlands Writing Group is open to everyone, regardless of skill level.

Facilitator Bud Katz extends that invitation to those who live on the plateau year-round, seasonal residents and even those just passing through town.

And here’s the astonishing thing –this is a friendly bunch! For some writers’ groups, meetings can become uncomfortable arenas where members are encouraged to deconstruct others’ works with barely-concealed malice and baffling zero-sum game strategies.

Not these guys. An effervescent spirit of collegiality and encouragement prevails, and meetings are laced with laughter.

Local artist Diane McPhail released her second best-selling novel, “The

Seamstress of New Orleans,” last year. You may have heard her talking about her craft on National Public Radio’s “The Writing Life.” Diane is easy to spot around town, and (assuming she has the time) is happy to talk about her experiences. You can find her recent release and her debut novel, “The Abolitionist’s Daughter,” at Shakespeare & Company or online.

Highlands is the setting of author Christopher Swann’s latest novel, “A Fire in the Night,” in which a retired professor and his estranged niece are on the run across Highlands and Cashiers as a killer closes in. It’s easy to spot the locales that the characters bob and weave through during the story. There’s even an extended scene within Hudson Library that’s wrought with tension.

(Hudson Librarian Carlyn Morenus reminds everyone that murder is prohibited at the library and harrowing situations normally are kept to a minimum.)

To learn more about the town’s rich tradition of writers finding their inspiration here, visit Stuart Ferguson at Shakespeare & Company. Stuart’s a local historian and natural raconteur who is skilled at the art of conversation.

If you’re not a writer, and you’d like to sample Highlands’ tradition of storytelling, well, that’s pretty easy, too. Just speak and share your story and add to the community’s ongoing conversation. It’s the best kind of storytelling! 

For more information about Highlands Writing Group, call The Bascom at 828-526-4949. At the time of this writing, the group met on Tuesdays from 3 – 5 p.m. When the weather is nice, they like to meet outdoors in The Bascom’s Pavilion.

THE PRINCE OF TIDES AND HIGHLANDS

BY KARA ADDY

By many accounts, the prolific, best-selling author, who passed away from cancer in 2016, spent considerable time in Highlands. Take this excerpt from Conroy’s acknowledgements at the end of the 1986 novel, later turned into an acclaimed film starring Nick Nolte and Barbara Streisand.

“Turner and Mary Ball let me have the use of their mountain home for long stretches of time during the writing of this book. James Landon and Al Campbell also gave me the key to their mountain home in Highlands, North Carolina.”

According to Luke Osteen, contributing writer to the Highlands Experience Guide and Laurel magazine, Conroy was known to mix and mingle with residents and frequented The Mountaineer, a former diner on Main Street that offered three meals a day, a sympathetic ear and the latest gossip.

“I always enjoyed our conversations,” Osteen says. “He was especially kind to my son Alex, who was a little guy at the time.”

Michael Weisenburg is the associate director of the Irvin Department of Rare Books and Special Collections at University of South Carolina’s Hollings Library, where Conroy’s original work and papers are preserved. He found additional information in comments and interviews from Cassandra King Conroy, the author’s wife, that mentions Highlands.

“It appears that Pat and Cassandra rented a house in Highlands for a brief period, probably in the early 2000s,” says Weisenburg. “While there, Cassandra was inspired to write her novel, ‘Moonrise.’ It also seems that Pat may have been working on a young adult novel called ‘The Cave of the Midnight Owl,’ which takes place in Highlands; but this has not been published.”

Cassandra King Conroy once described the unpublished novel to a writer with the Atlanta Journal-Constitution as “a Harry Potter-esque fantasy that includes time travel, talking animals and magic.” It was originally planned as a children’s book with illustrations by his daughter, Melissa Conroy. But it grew to 400 pages and may eventually be published as more than one book.

Also an accomplished author who has visited Highlands in recent years, Cassandra King Conroy wrote of “Moonrise:”

“A few years ago, my husband and I rented a dark old house in Highlands, North Carolina, a place of summer retreats and historic old homes hidden away in the beautifully misty mountains, where close bonds are forged and remain for generations.”

It seems Highlands served not only as a place of inspiration for the couple, but also as a locale to gather and share with other writers.

The two were attendees at a literary weekend, “Words, Wines and Friends,” held at Highlands’ Old Edwards Inn and Spa. Appalachian poet, short story author and novelist Ron Rash, whose acclaimed work, “Serena” was made into a film starring Bradley Cooper and Jennifer Lawrence, also attended. 

Did Pat Conroy write at least part of “The Prince of Tides” and other works in Highlands? Indeed, he may have.

HIGHLANDS EVENTS

From concerts to benefit galas to a world-class motoring festival, Highlands offers exceptional special events throughout the year.

WINTER –

EARLY 2023

JANUARY 28 – 29, 2023 SNOW FEST @ 4118

This outdoor winter festival features snow (courtesy of machines, if needed) and activities for all ages.

This free event is organized and hosted by the Highlands Chamber of Commerce/Visit Highlands, NC.

For more information, email events@highlandschamber. org, call 828-526-5841 or go to visithighlandsnc.com.

See related article.

FEBRUARY 21 MARDI GRAS EVENT

A Mardi Gras-themed celebration that raises money to support the efforts of REACH Macon County.

For more information, contact REACH of Macon County at 828369-5544. March 25

Bowl for Kids’ Sake

A fundraising event for Big Brothers Big Sisters of Western North Carolina, this bowling tournament will be held at Galaxy Lanes in Sylva.

For more information, call 828-3999133 or email cashiers@bbbswnc.org.

SPRING

APRIL 8 HIGHLANDS DOG SHOW

An event of fun celebrating the dogs of Highlands where awards are given out to the best in each category.

Hosted by Landmark Realty and Park on Main Hotel

For more information, contact Betsy Harrell at 828-526-4663 or betsy@landmarkrg.com.

APRIL 15 PLATEAU PICKUP

Gather with friends and neighbors for a bit of spring cleaning in and around Highlands.

This free event is organized and hosted by the Highlands Chamber of Commerce/Visit Highlands, NC.

For more information, email events@highlandschamber. org, call 828-526-5841 or go to visithighlandsnc.com.

APRIL 28 – 30 BEAR SHADOW

A springtime music festival that brings world-class musical talent to Highlands and the mountains of Western North Carolina.

Organized by Highlands Festivals, Inc and Eleven Events

For more information, email info@ highlandsfestivalsinc.org; or visit bearshadownc.com

MAY 5 – 7

3 RIVERS FLY-FISHING FESTIVAL

A three-day tournament/ festival that brings together fly-fishing enthusiasts to raise money for the Town of Highlands Scholarship Fund.

Organized by the Highland Hiker For more information, email threeriverfest@gmail.com or call 828-526-0441.

SUMMER

JUNE 1 VOLUNTEER FAIR

Stop by to hear about opportunities to give time and talent to Highlands-area nonprofit organizations.

This free event is organized and hosted by the Highlands Chamber of Commerce/Visit Highlands, NC.

JUNE 23 AND 24

MOUNTAINTOP ARTS & CRAFTS FESTIVAL

A two day, two weekend event that brings over 80 artisans from the region to Highlands for demonstrations, fine art, crafts, entertainment.

Organized by Mountaintop Rotary Club of Highlands

For more information, email highlandsartshow@gmail.com or visit highlandsartshow.com.

MAY 20 MEANDER IN MAY

This immersive and interactive downtown arts festival helps usher in the spring season.

This free event is organized and hosted by the Highlands Chamber of Commerce/Visit Highlands, NC.

For more information, email events@highlandschamber. org, call 828-526-5841 or go to visithighlandsnc.com.

See related article.

MAY 29

MOUNTAIN GARDEN CLUB ANNUAL PLANT SALE

An annual event where mountain hardy plants are potted and sold by members of the Mountain Garden Club to raise money for scholarships, conservation and more.

Organized by the Mountain Garden Club

For more information, email highlandsmountaingardenclub@ gmail.com.

For more information, email events@highlandschamber. org, call 828-526-5841 or go to visithighlandsnc.com.

JUNE 8 – 11 HIGHLANDS MOTORING FESTIVAL

A four-day automotive festival that brings together car enthusiasts from all over the south to raise money for local human needs charities.

Organized by Highlands Motoring Festival, Highlands Rotary Club and Mountaintop Rotary Club of Highlands

For more information, email info@ highlandsmotoringfestival.com or visit highlandsmotoringfestival.com.

JUNE 20 BASCOM GALA

Its signature fundraising event, the gala provides key support for The Bascom’s programming and operating expenses each year.

Organized by The Bascom

For more information and pricing, call 828-526-4949.

JULY 1

COMMUNITY DAY AT THE BASCOM

Each year, The Bascom thanks the community by offering a day filled with free art activities for the whole family.

Organized by The Bascom

For more information call 828-5264949 or visit TheBascom.org.

JULY 1 – AUGUST 6

HIGHLANDS CASHIERS CHAMBER MUSIC FESTIVAL

An annual music festival that spans over six weeks and brings world class talent from singers to musicians to the Highlands Plateau.

Organized by the Highlands Chamber Musical Festival

For more information, email hccmfnc@gmail.com or visit hcmusicfestival.org.

*JULY 4

DUCK DERBY

The Highlands Rotary Club’s annual rubber duck race brings excitement and raises money for Rotary Club charities on the Fourth of July. The event will take place at 2 p.m.

Organized by the Highlands Rotary Club

For more information, visit highlandsduckrace.com or email ejmoorejr@yahoo.com.

*See related article for a full look at Independence Day activities.

*JULY 4 OUTDOOR CONCERT & FIREWORKS

Highlands’ Independence Day activities culminate with live music in Kelsey-Hutchinson Founders Park, followed by a thrilling fireworks display.

This free event is organized and hosted by the Highlands Chamber of Commerce/Visit Highlands, NC.

For more information, email events@highlandschamber. org, call 828-526-5841 or go to visithighlandsnc.com.

*See related article for a full look at Independence Day activities.

JULY 21 – 22

THE BASCOM’S SUMMER POTTERY STUDIO SHOW

The Bascom’s 12th annual pottery shows will be held in the historic Dave Drake Barn, formerly known as Crane’s riding stable. Enjoy wonderful and beautiful handmade pottery including both functional wares and sculpture. All work is created onsite by studio members.

Organized by The Bascom

For more information, contact Frank Vickery at fvickery@thebascom.org

FALL AUGUST 17

THE BASCOM’S BARN DANCE

The Bascom is bringing back a beloved tradition - an evening of square dancing on the terrace.

Organized by The Bascom

For more information, call 828526-4949 or visit TheBascom.org.

SEPTEMBER 7 (TENTATIVE)

BIG BROTHERS

BIG SISTERS GALA (FORMERLY A BIG DINNER)

A gala-style, roaring 20s-themed night of eating, drinking and a silent auction at The Village Green in Cashiers that raises money and awareness for the Big Brothers Big Sisters of Western North Carolina.

Organized by Big Brothers Big Sisters of Western North Carolina

AUGUST 19

HIGHLANDS TWILIGHT 5K

An annual race held by the Rotary Club of Highlands raises money for a good cause while bringing the community together for a run or walk.

Organized by The Highlands Rotary Club

For more information, visit highlandstwilightrun.com or call Derek Taylor at 828-200-9226.

AUGUST 25 & 26

MOUNTAINTOP ARTS & CRAFTS FESTIVAL

A two day, two weekend event that brings over 80 artisans from the region to Highlands for demonstrations, fine art, crafts, entertainment.

Organized by Mountaintop Rotary Club of Highlands

For more information, email highlandsartshow@gmail.com or visit highlandsartshow.com.

For more information, email cashiers@bbbswnc.org or visit bbbswnc.org.

SEPTEMBER 9 – 10 DAHLIA FESTIVAL

An annual festival celebrating the dazzling dahlias of the plateau while also raising money for the Highlands Historical Society. The Single Bloom Competition will be held on The Bascom’s terrace.

Organized by Highlands Historical Society

For more information, email Kim Daughtery at gatorsinparadise@gmail.com or visit highlandshistory.com.

SEPTEMBER 17 PORCHFEST

An event that brings visitors and community together for music and entertainment all over town.

Organized by Center for Life Enrichment

For more information, visit clehighlands.com/highlandsporchfest or call 828-526-8811.

SEPTEMBER 30 THREE POTTERS SYMPOSIUM

Celebrating the 13th anniversary of the Three Potters Symposium, “Elements: Form and Fire” will highlight the Asheville, NC area. The Bascom will present Eric Knoche, Joey Sheehan and Will Dickert as this year’s Three Potters. Each artist will share their stories, inspirations and techniques learned through the years.

For more information, visit thebascom.org.

OCTOBER 9 PUTTS FORE PAWS

A golf tournament held during the beautiful peak leaf season that raises money for animals at CHHS.

Organized by Cashiers Highlands Humane Society

For more information, visit www. chhumanesociety.org or call 828-743-5752.

OCTOBER 13 – 14 THE BASCOM’S FALL POTTERY STUDIO SHOW

The Bascom’s 12th annual pottery shows will be held in the historic Dave Drake Barn, formerly known as Crane’s riding stable. Enjoy wonderful and beautiful handmade pottery including both functional wares and sculpture. All work is created onsite by studio members. Hosted by The Bascom

For more information, contact Frank Vickery at fvickery@thebascom.org.

OCTOBER 14 HIGHLANDS HERITAGE JAMBOREE

Celebrate Highlands’ history and traditions during this event in Kelsey-Hutchinson Founders Park.

This event is organized and hosted by the Highlands Chamber of Commerce/Visit Highlands, NC.

For more information, email events@highlandschamber. org, call 828-526-5841 or go to visithighlandsnc.com.

See related article.

OCTOBER 21 – 23 FALL COLORS FINE ART SHOW

Organized by Art League Highlands

–

Cashiers

For more information, visit www. artleaguehighlands-cashiers.com.

OCTOBER 31 HALLOWEEN ON MAIN

Main Street is visited by ghosts and goblins of all ages during this popular event. Enjoy tricks and treats, along with live music.

This event is organized and hosted by the Highlands Chamber of Commerce/Visit Highlands, NC.

For more information, email events@highlandschamber.org, call 828-526-5841 or go to visithighlandsnc.com. See related article.

NOVEMBER 25 LIGHT UP THE PARK & MAIN

Santa leads this celebration as the sparkling holiday lights turn on for the first time in KelseyHutchinson Founders Park and along Main St.

This event is organized and hosted by the Highlands Chamber of Commerce/Visit Highlands, NC.

For more information, email events@highlandschamber. org, call 828-526-5841 or go to visithighlandsnc.com.

See related article.

NOVEMBER 26 –DECEMBER 24 TRIM OUR TOWN

Vote for your favorite holiday storefront display as part of this annual decorating contest.

This event is organized and hosted by the Highlands Chamber of Commerce/Visit Highlands, NC.

For more information, email events@highlandschamber. org, call 828-526-5841 or go to visithighlandsnc.com.

See related article.

WINTER –Late 2023

DECEMBER 2 HIGHLANDS OLDE MOUNTAIN CHRISTMAS PARADE

What better way to kick off the holiday season than by an oldfashioned, small-town parade?

This free event is organized and hosted by the Highlands Chamber of Commerce/Visit Highlands, NC.

For more information, email events@highlandschamber. org, call 828-526-5841 or go to visithighlandsnc.com.

See related article.

SANTA IN THE PARK SATURDAYS IN DECEMBER

Santa will take his place at KelseyHutchinson Founders Park each Saturday during December. Come share your wish list!

This free event is organized and hosted by the Highlands Chamber of Commerce/Visit Highlands, NC.

For more information, email events@highlandschamber. org, call 828-526-5841 or go to visithighlandsnc.com.

See related article.

DECEMBER 15 CHRISTMAS BIRD COUNT

Organized by the Highlands Audubon Society, this annual event is part of a national effort to document bird life nationwide. Participants will divide into teams for the day, record the number of species and the number of birds seen. This will be the 25th anniversary of the Christmas Bird Count.

For more information, contact Highlands Audubon Society or visit highlandsaudubonsociety.org.

April 28 - 30 2023

3 Days of Music, MountainS and REVElry

AND MUSIC SERIES TO

Stir the Soul

The visual and performing arts are abundant in Highlands throughout the year. From fine art to chamber music to professional theatre to intimate, salon-style concerts, here are a few series guaranteed to stir your soul. Reserve your seat today!

THE BASCOM: A CENTER FOR THE VISUAL ARTS

The Bascom creates visual art experiences that inspire and empower individuals and communities through seeing, thinking and doing. This year’s theme is “origins” and exhibits include:

 January 7 – April 15: Selections from our Permanent Collection: Origins

 January 21 – April 8: The Ravel & The Rest

 January 21 – April 29: Emergence: A Survey of Southeastern Studio Programs

 April: Annual Outdoor Sculpture Program

 April 22 – July 15: Green Energy Park: Building Art & Community with Renewable Energy

 April 22 – August 5: Photography Artist in Residence

 May 13 – August 26: Into the Wood: Ed, Philip and Matt Moulthrop

 July 29 – September 16: Member Challenge: Origins

 August 19 – January 20: River Nest – Community Partnership

 September 9 – January 6: Listening to the Land: Reimagining the Bartram Trail

 September 30 – December 30: In.Visible

 For more information about events, programs and exhibits at The Bascom, call 828-526-4949 or visit thebascom.org.

ART LEAGUE OF HIGHLANDS-CASHIERS

The Art League of Highlands-Cashiers will sponsor two fine art shows next year:

 July 22 – 23: The Summer Colors Fine Art Show, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Sapphire Valley Community Center, Sapphire, NC

 October 21 – 22: The Fall Colors Fine Art Show, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Highlands Recreation Center, Highlands, NC

 For more information, call 828-526-8429 or visit artleaguehighlands-cashiers.com

ARTS

HIGHLANDS-CASHIERS CHAMBER MUSIC FESTIVAL

This annual music festival spans over six summer weeks and brings world-class musicians and repertoire to the plateau. The 2023 festival will be held July 1 through August 6. Unless otherwise indicated, the live concerts take place at 5 p.m. at the Performing Arts Center – Martin Lipscomb Theatre. Tickets are $40. The festival schedule includes:

 July 1: Eternal Love Triangle, Timothy Miller, Vega Quartet

 July 3: Bach & Bluegrass, Maggie & Mark O’Connor, Vega Quartet

 July 5: The King of Instruments Meets the Instruments of Kings, Interlude Concert in partnership with First Presbyterian Church, 2 p.m. Free

 July 6: Bach in a Sacred Space, Special event in the chapel of Episcopal Church of the Incarnation, 5 p.m., $80

 July 8: Winds in the Mountains

 July 10: Gryphon Trio & Friends

 July 13: Babar The Elephant and Ferdinand the Bull, Julie Coucheron, Alice Hong, Lois Reitzes, A family concert and ice cream social at First Presbyterian Church, 3 p.m., Free

 July 15: The Three Graces, Julie Coucheron, Alice Hong, Charae Krueger

 July 17: American String Quartet

 July 20: Martinis & Mozart, Viano Quartet featuring Ted Gurch on the organ, Orchard House at The Farm at Old Edwards, $100, 5:30 p.m.

 July 22: Viano Quartet – Debut

 July 24: Jazz Meets Classics, Matt Hershowitz

 July 29: The French Connection, Michael Gurt, Zuill Bailey

 July 31: Musical Fireworks, Zuill Bailey, Chee-Yun

 August 6: Festival All Stars – Final Gala, $200 ($100 concert only), Dinner at Highlands Falls Country Club

Additionally, the organization hosts special programs, salon performances and fundraising events during the spring and summer.

For more information, email hccmfnc@gmail.com or visit h-cmusicfestival.org.

HIGHLANDER MOUNTAIN HOUSE SALON SERIES

Highlander Mountain House’s Salon Series is a celebration of transformative narratives, compelling voices and avantgarde artistry. HMH has created a communal space for natives and travelers alike to coalesce and jointly admire the artistic talent of the region. Past guests have included Langhorne Slim, Kevn Kinney, Hiss Golden Messenger and multi-Grammy-winner Sarah Jarosz.

Find the monthly recurring show schedule at highlandermountainhouse.com or by following @highlandermountainhouse.

HIGHLANDS PERFORMING ARTS CENTER

The mission of the Highlands Performing Arts Center, known as “The PAC,” is to provide quality venues and performing arts for the Highlands and Cashiers communities. In addition to providing a full season of programming, the PAC is also the physical home of three performing arts organizations – Highlands-Cashiers Chamber Music Festival, Highlands Cashiers Players and Mountain Theatre Company – and the PAC Youth Theatre program.

Concert Season

 March 24: Rhythm of the Dance – The National Dance Company of Ireland

 May 14: Steep Canyon Rangers

 June 11: Empire Trio

 July 16: Jenene

 August 26: Who Hijacked My Fairytale with Kelly Swanson

 September 2: The Hit Men

 September 22: Artrageous

 November 24: Fortunate Sons –The Ultimate CCR Tribute

Great Art on Screen –A documentary series presented in collaboration The Bascom

 Feb. 4: Portrait of the Queen

The MET Opera – Performances by the Metropolitan Opera, presented live in high definition

 Jan. 14: Fedora

 March 18: Lohengrin

 April 1: Falstaff

 April 15: Der Rosenkavlier

 April 29: The Champion

 May 20: Don Giovanni

 June 3: Die Zauberflote

NATIONAL THEATRE LIVE – BRINGING BRITISH THEATRE TO HIGHLANDS, FILMED LIVE FROM ITS FAMOUS STAGES

 Jan. 7: Jack Absolute Flies Again

 Jan. 28: Much Ado About Nothing

 Feb. 11: The Seagull

 Feb. 25: Othello

 May 6: The Crucible

 June 17: Good

 August 12: The Best of Enemies

 PAC Youth Theatre

 March 14: Madagascar

Tickets to Highlands PAC events are sold exclusively through its box office and online at highlandperformingarts.com. For more information, call 828-526-9047 or write highlandspacnc@gmail.com. The Highlands PAC is located at 507 Chestnut St.

 June 23 – July 9: Jersey Boys

INTERLUDE CONCERT SERIES

First Presbyterian Church of Highlands is host to the Interlude Concert Series. All concerts take place at 2 p.m. on Wednesdays. The 2023 series includes:

 July 5: The King of Instruments Meets the Instrument of Kings featuring Alan Morrison on the organ. This concert is cosponsored by Highlands-Cashiers Chamber Music Festival.

 July 19: Trey Clegg Chamber Singers

 August 2: TBA

 August 16: Astralis Chamber Ensemble

 Additionally, the church will host a family/children’s concert on July 13 at 3 p.m.

 First Presbyterian Church is located at 471 Main Street. For more information, contact fpchchurchoffice@gmail.com.

MOUNTAIN THEATRE COMPANY

Mountain Theatre Company, Western North Carolina’s premier professional theatre company, is celebrating its Sapphire Anniversary with the launch of its 85th season! Mountain Theatre Company brings in professional performers, technicians and designers from across the country each season to present high-quality productions. Its Theatre for Young Audiences (TYA) production will premiere in Spring of 2023, and MTC’s annual holiday show has become a Highlands entertainment tradition in December that is not to be missed!

Mountain Theatre Company is one of North Carolina’s oldest regional theatre companies and is the legacy of Highlands’ early forward-thinking families. The first troupe, all amateurs, began using the Highlands School auditorium in the mid-1930s. They formally organized by the late 1930s as the Highlands Little Theatre. Over the years, the troupe grew from a community theatre to a professional summer stock company, performing in The Highlands Playhouse. Today, audiences will be enchanted by a full season of professional live theatre at the Highlands Performing Arts Center. Its 2023 Mainstage Season includes:

Back by popular demand after a soldout run last season, Highlands’ favorite Jersey Boys are back for a special limited run engagement! Go behind the music and inside the story of Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons in the Tony Award-winning musical phenomenon, Jersey Boys. From the streets of New Jersey to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, this is the musical that’s just too good to be true. Featuring legendary Top Ten hits including “Sherry,” “Big Girls Don’t Cry,” “Walk Like a Man,” and “Can’t Take My Eyes Off You.” You’ll leave the theatre exclaiming, “Oh, What a Night!”

 July 28 – August 20: Rock of Ages

This Tony Award-nominated Broadway musical tells the story of a small-town girl, a city boy, and a rock ‘n’ roll romance on the Sunset Strip. But when the bar where rock reigns supreme is set to be demolished, it’s up to these wannabe rockers and their band of friends to save the day - and the music! The feel-good, rock ‘n’ roll score features all your favorite ‘80s rock anthems and power ballads, including “Every Rose Has Its Thorn,” “Here I Go Again,” “I Want to Know What Love Is,” “Don’t Stop Believin’,” and many more.

 October 6 – 29: The Rocky Horror Show

Let’s do the Time Warp again! In this cult classic, newlyweds Brad and Janet are stranded with a flat tire during a storm. They discover the eerie mansion of mad scientist Dr. Frank-N-Furter, where they meet a houseful of wild characters, including a rocking biker, a creepy butler, and an assortment of other crazy creatures. This deliberately kitschy rock ‘n’ roll sci-fi gothic musical is a humorous tribute to the science fiction and horror B movies of the late 1940s through early 1970s. Live on stage, and presented as only MTC can, it is more fun than ever!

 December 8 – 24: Home for the Holidays

Celebrate the most wonderful time of the year with Mountain Theatre Company as they present their annual holiday spectacular! Fun for all ages, this festive seasonal music revue promises dazzling costumes, high energy choreography, and is sure to fill audiences with plenty of good, old-fashioned holiday cheer! For tickets and more information,

visit mountaintheatre.com.

ORCHARD SESSIONS AT THE FARM AT OLD EDWARDS

The Orchard Sessions concert series brings a stellar lineup of well-known musicians to The Farm at Old Edwards. Tickets are open to the public beginning May 9.

The live concert series returns for the season on Thursday, May 23. Settle into a musical evening under heirloom apple trees with the incredibly talented duo of Jilly Martin and Ryan Brooks Kelly. Standouts in today’s crossover country

music scene, Jilly and Ryan’s songs bridge the boundary between traditional and new country. They’ve made their mark with highly-acclaimed original music and are winning over audiences every time they perform. Jilly and Ryan’s compelling songwriting, dynamic vocal harmonies and stunning musicianship have them poised for a breakthrough in the music industry. Enjoy their music for yourself! The $40 ticket includes light bites, and a cash bar is available.

The Farm at Old Edwards is located at 336 Arnold Road in Highlands. To book online and

VISIT HIGHLANDS

Events

Highlands Chamber of Commerce/Visit Highlands, NC brings the community together throughout the year with a full calendar of free events. Mark your calendar for these favorite celebrations!

JULY 4TH FUN AT 4,118 FEET

Summertime in Highlands is a blast (literally!), especially on the Fourth of July when local traditions abound.

The holiday usually begins with a soda bottle water rocket launch at Town Ball Field, followed by field day-style contests at the same location. Kids love it. Watch old-fashioned competition such as the tug-o’war, three-legged sack race and water balloon toss.

What is a July 4th celebration without hot dogs? The Highlands Rotary Club provides this free lunch (and accepts donations for charity) before hosting their annual Duck Derby, when dozens of the plastic toys take to Mill Creek near the bridge and someone wins a cash prize.

Lively medical rescue and safety demonstrations take center stage with two mid-day activities: a visit from Mission Health’s Mountain Area Medical Airlift – that’s MAMA to locals – and a ladder truck “spray down” of the crowd courtesy of Highlands Fire Department. The young, and young at heart, truly soak in the moment.

Most restaurants and shops stay open on the holiday, so you can stroll along and around Main Street in-between activities.

When dusk falls, more fun begins. Gather your blanket or lawn chairs and dinner to-go and enjoy a picnic in Kelsey-Hutchinson Founders Park. Your background music will be provided by a band that is part of our free Outdoor Concert Series of performances that run from May through October.

The day will end with a thrilling display of fireworks that light up the mountain sky after sunset, usually around 9 p.m. The music and fireworks are provided by the Highlands Chamber of Commerce/Visit Highlands, NC.

Make plans now to spend your Independence Day at the Height of Happiness!

HIGHLANDS CHRISTMAS PARADE

Usher in the holiday season on Saturday, December 2, with the 2023 Olde Mountain Christmas Parade, a more than 40-year tradition in Highlands.

The parade will begin at the end of Main Street near the Hudson Library and will proceed for a few blocks, ending near Reeve’s Ace Hardware. Everyone is invited to line the sidewalks and balconies along the route from 10 a.m. to Noon for a magical display of creative floats, live music and entertainment.

The parade boasts more than 60 participants, consisting of businesses, non-profit organizations, churches, fire departments and other local groups, some of which will hand out candy and goodies to bring joy to Highlands. Spectators may see dogs, llamas, camels and other furry friends. Highlands School’s Homecoming Court, Smoky the Bear, classic cars, local politicians, bagpipes and -- of course -- Santa and Mrs. Claus are a few of the favorites expected to return.

The parade will also feature local school bands and, for the second year, Western Carolina University’s award-winning Pride of the Mountains Marching band will wrap up the parade, so make sure to stay until the end!

HALLOWEEN ON MAIN

Celebrate spooky season in Highlands this year at Halloween on Main!

Each October 31, three blocks of Main Street close for a scary-fun night of trick-or-treating for all ages. The excitement usually begins around 6 p.m. and continues for two hours as merchants on and near Main Street welcome and distribute candy to all.

Organized by the Highlands Chamber of Commerce/Visit Highlands, NC, Halloween on Main is a safe, fun and free event for everyone to enjoy. All are welcome and encouraged to show up in their best costume, whether spooky or silly, cute or creepy. Even furry friends are welcome (just make sure to keep them on a leash).

Hot dogs, hot chocolate, popcorn and -- of course -- candy is plentiful. The treats are served by Highlands community organizations in Highlands; donations are encouraged. Candy, drinks and food provided by the Highlands Chamber of Commerce/Visit Highlands, NC. Live music, including two bands and a DJ, add to the lively scene so come ready to bust out your most monstrous moves!

Bring your little ghosts and goblins for fun at the kid’s zone which includes an inflatable slide and obstacle course.

Halloween on Main is the perfect place to trick-or-treat and celebrate the spookiest time of year with the community, friends and family. Don’t miss it!

HIGHLANDS HERITAGE JAMBOREE

Highlands Heritage Jamboree celebrates and honors the town’s rich and storied history with traditional music, dancing and more!

Join the fun October 14 in Highlands’ Kelsey-Hutchinson Founders Park. Longtime residents, newcomers and visitors will come together to enjoy traditional bluegrass by some of the genre’s most acclaimed musicians, clogging by the award-winning Bailey Mountain Cloggers and a bagpipe performance by the beloved Highlands Bagpipers.

In between performances, head over to the food and beverage tents for a taste of traditional mountain fare. It’s an afternoon celebration you won’t want to miss!

This event is organized and hosted by the Highlands Chamber of Commerce/Visit Highlands, NC.

LIGHT UP THE PARK & MAIN

Each year in November, Highlands comes alive with the spirit of the holiday season and thousands of sparkling Christmas lights.

Light up the Park & Main kicks off the holidays in Highlands. Join the excitement Saturday, November 25, at KelseyHutchinson Founders Park and watch the park and Main Street light up against the mountain sky.

The fun begins at 6 p.m. with cookies, hot chocolate, a band and a display of art contest submissions from local students. The Christmas story will be read, and carols will be sung as anticipation builds. Finally, the moment everyone is waiting for happens when Santa arrives atop a fire truck, greets the crowd, and counts down to the lighting of the park and Main Street.

Come early or stay later to ice skate, spend time with friends and family and get in a personal visit with Santa. You won’t want to miss the event guaranteed to light up your holiday season!

COME MEANDER IN MAY!

In May, Highlands’ weather gets warmer, flowers bloom and everything comes alive after winter’s slumber, making it the perfect time for a stroll to awaken the senses.

That’s the thinking behind Meander in May, Highlands’ immersive and interactive arts festival. On May 20, spend the day in our picturesque downtown, leisurely walking and pausing to absorb the sounds of talented musicians and sights of regional artisans demonstrating their craft.

Whether it’s your first or fiftieth time exploring Highlands, you’ll enjoy this free, self- guided arts festival provided by the Highlands Chamber of Commerce and Visit Highlands, NC. Use our event map to plan your day or take a more relaxed approach as you wander upon the sights and sounds. Woodworkers, painters, jewelry makers, photographers and musicians will dot downtown, waiting to share their talents with you.

Along the way, our restaurants and shops will be open to welcome you for a change of pace and refreshment. Schedule some shopping or dining in-between your favorite performers. Remember to end your day at the Kelsey-Hutchinson Founders Park for a final performance, part of the “Saturdays on Pine” Outdoor Concert Series.

What better way to celebrate the wakening season?

SANTA IN THE PARK

Saturdays are for Santa. That’s the idea behind Santa in the Park, a series of visits by the jolly man in red during Highlands’ holiday season.

Each Saturday (weather permitting) Santa – and maybe even Mrs. Claus – will be at their “holiday hut” in KelseyHutchinson Founders Park, waiting for children of all ages to share their wishes. Does your family’s “child” have four legs and fur? Pets are welcome, too!

Closer to Christmas, a specific schedule will be shared, so everyone may mark their calendar and plan to visit. In between dates, Santa will sneak into the park to gather letters and lists placed inside his special mailbox posted in the park.

Stop by the park to see Santa, drop off mail for him or to just take in the holiday décor and trimmings, including Santa’s sleigh! It makes a perfect backdrop for your holiday photo. And when night falls, the twinkling lights come on.

See you in the park this holiday season!

SNOW FEST @ 4118

Guaranteed winter fun awaits at Snow Fest @ 4118! Bring friends and family to play in the snow (courtesy of machines, if needed) at an elevation of 4,118 feet. Make memories against the sparkling backdrop of a winter wonderland in our small mountain town.

A snowball toss, a snow tube merry-go-round, a snow slide, an ice-skating rink and more will be found at KelseyHutchinson Founders Park.

S’mores will be available for purchase and roasting. In between the activities, warm up with a cup of hot chocolate. Enjoy a unique “snowga” (a twist on yoga) session and music provided by a DJ.

You’ll have Snow Much Fun - don’t miss it!

TRIM OUR TOWN

The spirit of the season is easily found along the charming streets of downtown Highlands. Excited shoppers couriering their unique gifts bustle along the sidewalks. Lights sparkle from above. Shops beckon with whimsical and sophisticated trimmings that spark joy.

Will you be able to choose a favorite storefront? That’s the question behind Trim Our Town, Highlands’ annual holiday decorating contest which inspires creative entries from the shops along and near Main Street.

Vote online for your favorite display and your chance to win a gift card. The stores that earn the most votes win a People’s Choice Award.

Highlands’ holiday season will remind you of a simpler time, and your loved ones surely will delight in the special gifts you present. So, make plans to cross off your list this year at the Height of Happiness. And don’t forget to vote in the Trim Our Town contest! 

FRIDAY NIGHT

Live

Highlands offers free, live, outdoor concerts each Friday and Saturday night, from May until October. Bring your favorite lawn chair and picnic basket of goods from a local grocer or restaurant and get into the groove! Featuring a variety of popular, regional bands and musicians. Showcasing traditional mountain music and local talent.

Kelsey-Hutchinson Founders Park Pine St. 6 – 8:30 p.m.

MAY 19 - JAY DRUMMONDS

Jay Drummonds recently reappeared on the music scene with his album “Sweet.” Drummonds collaborated with artist such as Grammy-nominated Shawn Mullins and Atlanta favorite Kurt Thomas. He also has an impressive resume of opening acts such as Grammy-winning artist Zac Brown and Georgia Hall of Fame inductee Jan Smith. While in Nashville in the late 90s, he collaborated with singer/songwriter Karyn Rochelle who has written songs for Trisha Yearwood

and Reba McIntyre. After leaving Nashville in 2000, he redirected his focus on raising his family on the HighlandsCashiers Plateau. His latest album was inspired by many of those artists who’d encouraged him to get back to his love of writing and performing. His country, blues, folk and rock influences lend to a variety of styles, making for a unique blend of songwriting entertainment.

MAY 26 - SILLY RIDGE

Popular Highlands-based bluegrass band Silly Ridge incorporates an eclectic blend of Americana and folk into their music.

JUNE 2 - EZRA & KATIE

Husband-and-wife duo Ezra and Katie have played acoustic music together for more than 10 years. The Highlands natives spent seven years in Los Angeles pursuing their creative endeavors before returning to the area.

JUNE 9 - JOHNNY WEBB BAND

Offering laid-back, yet seasoned, country music, the Johnny Webb Band performs selections spanning more than 50 years with a down-home flavor.

JUNE 16

- STEADY HAND STRING BAND

Steady Hand String Band is an old-time string band based out of Long Creek, South Carolina. Steady Hand performs tunes that originated mostly before the 1930s with a handful of old country tunes thrown in, as well. Their modern renditions of these traditional tunes come from a desire to preserve the oral tradition of folk music in Appalachia.

JUNE 23 - SOUTHERN HIGHLAND BAND

Lifelong friends Tom Nixon and Dean English are also the owners of Blue Ridge Music Academy in Clayton, Ga. Their music has an emphasis on their bluegrass roots.

JUNE 30 - BYRDS & CROWS

Transylvania County-based Byrds & Crows play songs deeply rooted in the Appalachian Mountains, with styles ranging from bluegrass to folk to early country.

JULY 4 - SOUTHERN HIGHLAND BAND

See June 23

JULY 7 - THE FOXFIRE BOYS

Formed in the early 1980s, The Foxfire Boys grew out of its members’ participation in The Foxfire Fund’s Appalachian culture and music program in northeast Georgia. Performing bluegrass blends, the band has since graced the stage at the Grand Ole Opry.

JULY 14 - CURTIS BLACKWELL BAND

Since forming the band with Sam Cobb and others in 1960, Curtis Blackwell has led Bill Monroe’s Bluegrass Boys and been honored in the Atlanta Country Music Hall of Fame.

JULY 21 - CARTER GIEGERICH AND FRIENDS

Carter Giegerich is a graduate of the East Tennessee State University’s Bluegrass, Old-Time and Roots Music program, where he developed a love for the blending of musical tradition and innovation. That passion evolved into a unique musical style that blends contemporary and traditional sounds, drawing inspiration from bluegrass, old-time and Celtic music as well as funk, hip-hop and electronic artists. Carter has performed and recorded extensively as a guest artist with groups such as the Dirty Grass Players and the Jackson Grimm Band as well as in his own bands, Ol’ Dirty Bathtub and the High Mountain Pals.

JULY 28 - WE THREE SWING

We Three Swing is a jazz collective based in Sylva, North Carolina.

AUGUST 4 - THE WELL DRINKERS

The Well Drinkers are a progressive, original bluegrass and Americana band based out of Western North Carolina who have performed at festivals and venues across the Southeast. Since the band’s creation in 2019, the group has striven to combine traditional roots of their Appalachian region with progressive instrumentation, songwriting and subject matter. The group doesn’t shy away from the opportunity to bring experimental jams, jazz, Cajun, classical and reggae into their live performances.

AUGUST 11 - NITROGRASS

In a world void of any real superheroes, NITROGRASS sprung to life from the heart of the rural Appalachians like unsightly mutants emerging from a hazardous chemical spill, with one singular mission: to take the bluegrass world by storm, and with a deadly force. Nitrograss, both sonically unique and visually appealing in their performances, provides a carefree and exciting atmosphere of pure acoustic ear-fodder.

AUGUST 18 - SILLY RIDGE

See May 26.

AUGUST 25 SOUTHERN HIGHLAND BAND

See June 23.

SEPTEMBER 1 BYRDS & CROWS

See June 30.

SEPTEMBER 8 - THE WELL DRINKERS

See August 4.

SEPTEMBER 15CURTIS BLACKWELL BAND

Since forming the band with Sam Cobb and others in 1960, Curtis Blackwell has led Bill Monroe’s Bluegrass Boys and been honored in the Atlanta Country Music Hall of Fame.

SEPTEMBER 22 - CRISP BROWN AULISIO

With more than 60 years of combined live music experience, Crisp Brown Aulisio brings a cornucopia of styles to the table. Guitarist David Crisp, an advanced jazzperformance music major, has played all genres of music, from polka to trap-rap to spoken word accompaniment. Drummer Caleb Brown has his roots in 1990s-style alternative rock and funk music. Multi-instrumentalist Brian Aulisio has spent most of his musical career immersed in the rhythms of classic Jamaican ska and reggae. Crisp Brown Aulisio mixes flavors and nuances of all genres to create a multi-course meal of skilled improvisation for your aural enjoyment.

SEPTEMBER 29 - THE GATOR BOYS

Formed in 2019, The Gator Boys -- comprised of Brenan Woody (vocals, mandolin), Jacob Graffrath (vocals, banjo), Dylan Williams (vocals, guitar), and Leila Hobbs (fiddle) -- embarked on a journey to deliver a musical one-two punch at the intersection of bluegrass and jam-band.”

OCTOBER 6 - OL’ DIRTY BATHTUB

Five-member bluegrass band Ol’ Dirty Bathtub is a regional favorite. Mixing in Americana, folk and good energy, the Sylva-based group is a premier acoustic party band.

OCTOBER 13 THE FOXFIRE BOYS

See July 7. 

SATURDAYS ON

Pine

Highlands offers free, live, outdoor concerts each Friday and Saturday night, from May until October. Bring your favorite lawn chair and picnic basket of goods from a local grocer or restaurant and get into the groove! Featuring a variety of popular, regional bands and musicians.

Kelsey-Hutchinson Founders Park Pine St. 6 – 8:30 p.m.

MAY 27 - THE SWINGIN’ RICHARDS

The mission statement is simple: Rock the House! The Swingin’ Richards made their debut on Feb 2, 2001 in the Nations Bank Center Plaza in Charlotte, opening for James Brown, and they have remained one of the Southeast’s most beloved, reveled party bands ever since.

JUNE 3 - NU-BLU

As the hosts of TV’s hit series Bluegrass Ridge, Nu-Blu brings their unique sound to audiences around the world. A former Carolina Music Awards Country Band of the Year, they tour more than 200 days each year, with national TV appearances, five albums on the Top 10 Billboard Charts and a no. 1 most played song on Sirius/XM radio.

JUNE 10 - FIRECRACKER JAZZ BAND

MAY 20 - THE BOOMERS

The Boomers are back by popular demand! Their performances have ranged from the ‘97 President Clinton Inaugural Ball to the 2012 NFL Owners Meeting, with hundreds of wedding receptions in between. Having shared the stage with Hootie and the Blowfish, Melissa Etheridge, Alison Krauss, Edwin McCain, Emmylou Harris, Chynna Phillips and Huey Lewis and the News, The Boomers are no strangers to the stage and know exactly what it takes to entertain a crowd.

In hundreds of performances since 2003, Firecracker Jazz Band from Asheville has played everywhere from street corners, secret speakeasies, jazz festivals nationwide, swing-and-swill dance halls, Bonnaroo and the Kennedy Center. Speak easy and dance hard!

JUNE 17 - THE TROUPERS

The Troupers are seasoned professional entertainers, collectively appearing on more than 100 CDs and albums and performing in 12 countries. The Troupers will prove to you why they get rave reviews. Stellar vocals, musicianship and delightful entertainment energy qualify The Troupers as a must-see.

JULY 1 - BLAZE THE CITY

With incredible vocal harmonies, funky dance rhythms and scorching guitar, Blaze the City captures audiences and “sets the room on fire.” From pop, funk, Top 40 dance, rock, country, blues, Motown and everything in between, Blaze the City combines decades of experience with the ability and passion to provide the best entertainment possible.

JULY 15 - LAZRLUVR

Break out your 3D shades, fingerless gloves, popped collars and teased hair, and get ready for and the best tributes to timeless favorites, straight from a page in your 1980s yearbook.

JULY 22 - BACK PORCH ORCHESTRA

While Back Porch Orchestra began their journey as a modern band, there’s no doubt they’re shaped by their homegrown, traditional roots. Since releasing their first album in 2009, BPO has made strides in both the local and regional music scenes for more than 11 years. Capable of performing both originals rooted in blues, bluegrass, country, and classic rock, and covering your favorite hits from the 1950s to present day, BPO’s extensive experience guarantees they will be the talk of the town.

JULY 4 - DIAMOND RIVER BAND

Diamond River Band is a young, versatile and hip party band. Spanning the decades with a special emphasis on classic rock, Motown, country and current hits, Diamond River is for folks looking for something less-traditional while still appealing to a vast range of ages. Their goal is to keep you and your guests on the dance floor and entertained all night long!

JULY 8 - BILL MATTOCKS

Bill Mattocks is a true blues legend. Hailing from the Pacific Northwest, Bill packed up his harmonica and headed to Western North Carolina where he brings his authentic delivery of Chicago-style blues to mountain stages.

JULY 29 - SHANE MEADE & THE SOUND

Shane Meade is a gifted singer songwriter and the catalyst behind the Tampa-based, soul-infused folk rock project Shane Meade & the Sound. Hailing from Elkins, West Virginia, Shane is a self-taught late bloomer who borrowed an old guitar from his father and began playing and writing songs in the summer of 2000 before relocating to the sunshine state. From a diamond in the rough to an artist on the rise, Meade remains simple and honest in his approach to songwriting. His music captivates the imagination, and audiences connect to his inspirational lyrics and universal subject matter. His unique and soulful style helps deliver an engaging live performance that is both powerful and uplifting.

AUGUST 5 - SOULUTION

Soulution was founded by a group of musicians with an impressive resume of experience and accolades. Coming from humble beginnings, the band’s hard work and dedication has earned Grammy nominations, tours across the country and internationally with Grammy winners, and the trust of some of pop music’s biggest names. Soulution’s members have honed their skills at the highest levels and their musicianship is second to none.

SEPTEMBER 9 - STEEL TOE STILETTO

Based in Greenville, S.C., Steel Toe Stiletto was formed from friendships between some of the southeast’s most impressive vocalists and musicians. They knew collectively they had a lot to offer anyone looking for a modern, professional entertainment environment. You can find them playing your favorite music all over the Southeast at charity galas, corporate parties, wedding receptions and other celebratory events.

SEPTEMBER 16 - MCINTOSH & THE LIONHEARTS

Founded in 2019 by front man Spalding McIntosh, the LionHearts are a versatile ensemble of established pros, all devoted to presenting its founder’s complex compositions on home, love and the challenges of manhood, all in a tight, rolling groove. On bass is Mike Green. On drums is Conrad Mercure.

SEPTEMBER 23 - THE HOLIDAY BAND

Established in 1991 in Burlington, N.C., The Holiday Band was inducted into the Carolina Beach Music Awards Hall of Fame in 2015.

AUGUST 12 - FULL CIRCLE

Formed in 2003, Full Circle refers to those songs you used to love with great vocals, tight harmonies and jammin’ solos. Their range is wide, from the 60s to modern country. You may hear songs by The Beatles, Chicago, Stevie Wonder, Al Green, Heart, Santana, Queen, The Pretenders, Carole King, James Taylor and many more.

SEPTEMBER 2 - CONTINENTAL DIVIDE

For more than three decades, Continental Divide has performed across the southeast. Their reputation is one of quality, professionalism and, above all, entertainment. A CD or video will not reproduce the energy they deliver at a live performance. From the silky-smooth voice of Gene Pharr (a 2016 Carolina Beach Music Hall of Fame inductee), to the tightness of the rhythm section, to the flowing lines of the horn section, they put on a performance everyone will remember.

SEPTEMBER 30 - CLAY PAGE

With a guitar as big as he was at age nine, Clay Page began his musical journey. After winning his hometown talent competition at 15, he was on his way with throwbacks to traditional country, southern rock, soul and blues. With influences ranging from Hank Williams, Sr. to The Allman Brothers, Page’s music is a “sound of the deep south.” The Georgia native stays relevant while touring from the coasts of Carolina to the big skies of Texas. Come hear Page’s New Old School sound.

OCTOBER 7 - OUTLAW WHISKEY

Western N.C.-based and award-winning Outlaw Whiskey offers a high-energy show featuring classic country and Southern/classic rock.

OCTOBER 14 JAY DRUMMONDS

Residents of the Highlands-Cashiers Plateau area might think of Jay Drummonds as a family man, a church musician or “the concrete guy” (as he operates a thriving concrete business, Highlands Foundations, Inc.). They may know him from shows at The Ugly Dog Pub or other local venues. But he’s also one of Nashville’s best yarn-spinning, story-tellin’ singer/songwriters. His sweet Southern and twang-tinged baritone weaves lyric and melody together, knitting them indelibly into the listener’s memory. 

mountain chic by old edwards

Indulge

in Spas, Resorts, Inns and Lodges

Where Napa

Valley Lifestyle

Meets Blue Ridge Mountains Magic

HALF-MILE FARM

Luxury Country Inn by Old Edwards

HALF-MILE F

HALF-MILE FARM

A Luxury Country Inn by Old Edwards

A Luxury Country Inn by Old Edwards

A Luxury Country Inn

Highlands, NC

Arrive to a lakeside inn surrounded by lush fields, gardens and forests, just a five-minute drive from downtown Highlands.

Settle in with delicious inclusions like a champagne arrival, afternoon hors d’oeuvres and a hot chef-made breakfast to start each day.

Relax in sumptuous style with spacious guestrooms, cozy fireplaces and terraces that look out into the forest.

Delight in the embrace of home-grown hospitality, handcrafted cocktails and live music on weekend evenings.

Escape to serenity and bliss in luxury farmhouse style or a rustic-luxe cabin. Open year-round for guests 18 and older.

HIGHLANDS, NC

Accomodations

Highlands has always been the perfect destination for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of their everyday lives and allow themselves to relax. Highlands’ accommodations range from boutique hotels in luxurious inns, yet each offers its own brand of escape. Allow yourself to be swept into the hospitality of Highlands by the dedicated staff, unique places and welcoming environments that our accommodations have to offer.

200 Main

200 Main by Old Edwards offers tranquil rooms and suites with close access to Highlands’ downtown shops and restaurants at a casual lodging rate. Guests can enjoy outdoor amenities such as the outdoor fire pit, heated mineral pool and access to Old Edwards Club for golf.

200 Main Street, Highlands, NC 28741 www.oldedwardshospitality. com/200-main

828-526-2790

Half-Mile Farm

Half-Mile Farm by Old Edwards offers a peaceful escape for visitors 18 and older with guestrooms and cabins surrounded by lush forest and a lake. Amenities include a heated pool, a courtyard, patios, a forest trail and access to Old Edwards Club for golf. The serene property is in the outskirts of Highlands.

214 Half-Mile Drive, Highlands, NC 28741 www.oldedwardshospitality. com/half-mile-farm

828-526-8170

Hampton Inn and Suites

Cashiers Sapphire Valley

If you’re looking for a recognizable name, Hampton Inn by Hilton – about 13 miles away in Cashiers -- offers the traditional hotel experience with free breakfast, friendly service, clean rooms and amenities.

3245 Highway 64 East, Sapphire, NC 28774 www.hilton.com/en/hampton/ 828-743-4545

Highlander Mountain House

Located on Highlands’ Main Street, The Highlander Mountain House offers cozy rooms and warm, relaxing common areas. Guests can stay in the Mountain House or the Bunk House, which is pet friendly, and has access to the main house amenities. Onsite you’ll find The Ruffed Grouse Tavern, offering a seasonal menu with ingredients sourced from farmers in the Blue Ridge Mountains.

270 Main Street, Highlands, NC 28741 highlandermountainhouse.com

828-526-2590

Highlands Inn

Highlands Inn is full of history, with it being the oldest accommodation in town. The inn has 31 charming rooms and is in downtown Highlands, making it perfect for guests wanting to explore Main Street.

420 Main Street, Highlands, NC 28741 highlandsinn-nc.com

828-526-9380

Highlands Inn Lodge

Highlands Inn Lodge provides a comfortable experience with several room options to fit your needs. The lodge provides access to greenspaces that include an outdoor firepit, outdoor fireplace and a seasonal whirlpool. Guests can enjoy other accommodations such as a complimentary breakfast, meeting rooms and a spacious lobby.

96 Log Cabin Lane, Highlands, NC, 28741 highlandsinnlodge.com

828-526-5899

The Inn at Mill Creek

Guests of the Inn at Mill Creek enjoy large patios and decks to gaze out at the clear mountain creek below. This Inn offers a serene and peaceful stay but still has access to downtown Highlands’ excitement, located only three blocks away.

420 Carolina Way, Highlands, NC 28741 www.millcreekhighlandsnc. com/rooms/

828-526-9999

Old Edwards Inn and Spa

Though conveniently located on a bustling corner in downtown Highlands, you’ll feel worlds away at Old Edwards Inn, a renowned luxury European style resort with premium amenities, a world class spa, a fitness center and tennis courts, onsite shopping, mountain golf and farm-fed restaurants.

445 Main Street, Highlands, NC 28741 www.oldedwardshospitality. com/old-edwards-inn-spa

828-526-8008

The Park on Main Hotel

This charming hotel on Main Street provides an experience for pets and their owners to relax and indulge. Complimentary breakfast, a dog park and room amenities such as heated floors and Italian linen make The Park on Main the ultimate stay for visitors and their pet.

205 Main Street, Highlands, NC 28741

www.theparkonmain.com/en/ 828-526-4502

800-221-5078

Skyline Lodge

Located on a mountain top in Highlands, Skyline Lodge offers a five-star lodging experience with views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Skyline offers the perfect place to relax and enjoy amazing meals at its Oak Steakhouse. The on-site restaurant offers innovative dining with locally inspired dishes.

470 Skyline Lodge Road, Highlands, NC 28741 www.skyline-lodge.com

828-526-4008

The Wells Hotel

An updated version of one of Highlands’ oldest inns, the Wells Hotel offers a boutique mountain retreat experience, with comfortable rooms and common areas just a few blocks from Main Street.

790 N 4th Street, Highlands, NC 28741

www.thewellshotel.com

828-482-7736 

Unfurl Unwind Unfold

LIKE

A

LOT

OF HIGHLANDERS

, Betty Chrestman, the owner of Unfurl Massage and Bodywork, once felt the pull between the mountains and the sea.

She was 12 when her family relocated from the coasts of Georgia and South Carolina to Cashiers, where she began attending Blue Ridge School. After graduation, she immediately headed to New York, then to Heritage College in Oklahoma City, but she “always had a home base in Savannah and Hilton Head.”

BY KARA ADDY

She extended her education and satisfied her interest in bodywork at Connecticut Center for Massage Therapy in Westport before settling back onto Hilton Head. On the island, she was the lead massage therapist at the no. 1 spa in the Marriott family of properties – Spa Soleil. While the experience and rewards were welcome, the 14- to 16-hour days eventually took their toll. Soon, her eyes turned back towards the mountains and, once again, she came full circle.

“Whenever I got older and the quiet was more appealing, I came back home,” Chrestman says.

A decade has passed since she made the move, joining her brother and mother on the plateau. “Everybody is here now,” she says.

Within those 10 years lies a journey of rediscovery, as she “worked her way back into the community.” Serving as a barista at Buck’s (now Calder’s Coffee Café) and running a house cleaning company allowed her to regroup, build relationships and settle back into the mountains.

“It was a very humbling experience and I met so many people,” she reflects with gratefulness.

In early 2020, Chrestman learned she was pregnant. Her daughter, Edith “Edie” LaRue Chrestman-Brown, was born in October at the height of the pandemic, the timing of which was a bit “terrifying.”

She took a year off after Edie was born. Then, she began cleaning houses and offering private, in-home massage.

Today, she and Edie enjoy spending time outside, exploring their Scaly Mountain backyard. “She’s having an experience I didn’t have here. She’ll grow up in this town along with other little ones, and there’s something special about that.”

So, how did Unfurl, her cozy massage studio next to Blue Bike on Fourth St., come about?

“I was doing out-clients,” she says. “This space had come available. I was nervous to take the plunge. But I came in here and they said yes. So, in September 2021, I started opening it.”

Word of mouth quickly spread and soon, she was fully open, booked and busy. This past fall, she hosted an open house and a ribbon-cutting ceremony with the Highlands Chamber of Commerce.

She felt there was a need for massage therapy for locals in a comfortable and healing environment. Ninety percent of her clients have a home in the area, she estimates, and the others are visitors. Highlands’ resident Charlotte Muir is one of them.

“Sixty or 90 minutes with Betty at Unfurl is transformative. Stepping into her studio is a retreat every single time.”

The experience begins the moment one enters Unfurl. Soothing sounds, dim lighting and aromatic scents surround you. Healthy plants are everywhere; her company symbol is even a fern. It’s impossible not to relax.

With signature wavy locks that frame her friendly face and warm smile, Chrestman is part of the embracing experience.

“I wanted it to be calm, nourishing, nature themed,” she explains. “Cozy, yet therapeutic.”

Unfurl’s services range from all types of massage – Swedish, deep tissue, neuromuscular, trigger point therapy – to cupping and reflexology. Craniosacral therapy, a gentle, handson technique that manipulates the muscles and tissues surrounding the skull, spinal column and sacrum, will be added to the menu this spring. Every session is customized to the person, and sessions range from 30

to 120 minutes. Body scrubs, wraps and gift certificates are available for purchase at the studio.

Having been licensed for almost 17 years, Chrestman has found her true calling – but she hasn’t stopped dreaming. She definitely wants a larger space, and maybe even a fullservice wellness center, with “tons of practitioners and modalities and a chef” for the nutrition piece.

For now, she’s enjoying her studio, daughter and community of family, friends and clients.

“This is what I love to do. It’s almost overwhelming but in a really good way. I feel fortunate.”

For more information about Unfurl, visit them on Facebook @UnfurlMassageNC. Or call 828-482-2219.

“SHE’LL GROW UP IN THIS TOWN ALONG WITH OTHER LITTLE ONES, AND THERE’S SOMETHING SPECIAL ABOUT THAT”

GATHER

BY LUKE OSTEEN

With sidewalks to stroll and plenty of fine dining, Highlands is a wonderful place for a romantic getaway. But groups enjoy our area, too. Whether for a family reunion, girls’ weekend, planning retreat or folks who share a common hobby or interest, Highlands is a perfect spot for groups to gather.

From its earliest days, Highlands has attracted diverse groups of people looking to escape from the pressures of the outside world.

Decades ago, it might have been emphysema patients lured by the promise of brisk mountain air and cold, pure water.

In the 1920s and 30s, practically the entire executive suite of CocaCola made Highlands their seasonal home, following the lead of Chairman Robert Woodruff and the almost mystical presence of golf legend Bobby Jones.

That golfer’s siren call remains powerful today. Witness the number of courses that ring Highlands or stop by Bobby Grace’s workshop and learn why he chose to set up his internationally recognized putter studio here in town. (Bobby is a natural storyteller and he loves to chat.)

No matter the reason they are drawn to Highlands, the area’s natural beauty, fine dining and extraordinary accommodations are the fixed assets that visitors enjoy.

These days, groups intentionally choose Highlands as the place to meet up and spend time. Family reunions, corporate meetings, bachelorette parties and hobbyist retreats are a few of the types of calling cards that bring folks together to the rural utopia.

There’s simply something magical about gathering with co-workers and loved ones around a fire pit and talking

-- really talking -- about truly important things. The Cherokee who lived here understood this principle; they maintained undying ceremonial fires where everyone was welcomed to speak.

Consider the groups who trek together up to Sunset Rock or Whiteside Mountain. There’s something transcendent about the journey and the destination, and for those open to the experience, the transformation can be profound.

Groups can find a new energized spirit around a large dinner table, enjoying an unforgettable meal prepared by the finest chefs. Or, by attending Highlands’ free weekend concerts -- Friday Night Live and Saturdays on Pine -- an irrefutable way to loosen boundaries.

Melissa Delany, Old Edwards Inn & Spa’s director of sales, attributes the rise in group travel to the area to the pandemic. “A lot of people discovered Highlands because they were looking for somewhere safe, remote and not highly populated. Whether you’re a foodie, or chasing waterfalls, it’s a magical perfect place for a stay.”

Atlanta businessman and retreat leader Woody Faulk cites the area’s spectacular topography, altitude, accessibility to the south’s major population areas, and its remoteness as powerful lures.

“Though the approach and content of our workshops are portable, I only want to host our retreats in

Highlands. It meets and exceeds our location criteria. Highlands is just far enough that it feels like an adventure.”

That Highlands has become a mecca for groups is also attributed to the unique allure of its accommodations.

ROCKWOOD LODGE

Covering 350 acres and only 17 minutes from town, Rockwood Lodge sits atop one of the highest peaks in the area. Panoramic, unobstructed views of the mountains abound, along with eight bedrooms, multiple gathering areas – indoors and out – luxurious furnishings, stunning accommodations and grounds that include a pond and a lake with canoes. It’s ideal for group getaways and a favorite spot for weddings.

Faulk started visiting Highlands in the late 1990s. In 2020 he bought a 1940s cottage in town, and the following year he and his wife began hosting marriage enrichment weekends at Rockwood Lodge.

In search of a place where the group could be sequestered with privacy guaranteed, Faulk discovered Rockwood. “The lodge is unique enough that you feel far away from life. It provides a serene quietness that you need when focusing on topics that require spiritual energy. It is a remarkable setting for a gathering of people to have intentional conversations, free of interruptions.”

FAIRVIEW HOME

The size and layout of Fairview Home make it an ideal spot for family reunions, yoga retreats and small business groups. One of the few exclusive private estates with a group capacity, it’s part of the guest residence collection at Old Edwards Inn & Spa.

Surrounded by the Nantahala National Forest, Fairview Home sits among the pines and hemlocks, just minutes from downtown, combining a history that dates to 1910 with topof-the-line modern amenities.

With 10 bedrooms and 12 bathrooms, the property can sleep up to 25. Here, guests have the blessed conundrum of having too many options at hand. The house boasts a big, sprawling lawn with plenty of space for children, a media room with a large sectional sofa, an amazing kitchen with open dining and lounge space, and outdoor seating with a wood-burning fireplace.

Specially designed local tours, wine tastings, private chefs and golf outings can be arranged for guests by the knowledgeable management team at Old Edwards.

THE MOUNTAIN RETREAT AND LEARNING CENTER

At 4,200 feet, The Mountain Retreat and Learning Center sits on the continental divide in an old growth forest, with views of four states on land that contains four eco-systems. Once owned by the Cherokee Nation, it has been recognized by USA Today as “one of the Top 10 Inspirational Retreats in the U.S.”

The non-profit facility is billed as “an exemplary retreat, camp and learning center that celebrates Unitarian Universalist principles, inspires people of all ages, transforms lives, and builds a more compassionate world.”

Beverly Cree, director of advancement at the center, says they host about 30 groups a year who come for art, educational events, family reunions and inspiration. A typical stay at The Mountain might include engaging in water sports in the lake, bird watching, hiking or mushroom foraging. A variety of classes and instruction are offered on topics from farming to beekeeping.

With accommodations for up to 120 guests, The Mountain manages large groups with ease. A full-service dining room serves fresh produce and eggs from the on-site farm. Distinctive indoor and outdoor meeting spaces range from an intimate library to an amphitheater to a fire pit.

So, gather your group and plan your retreat to the Height of Happiness. You’ll be glad you did. 

HIGH CAMP. Escape to

Surrounded by mountains, waterfalls and trails—yet minutes from the heart of downtown Highlands—High Camp offers the perfect respite for families and friends. This is what a mountain escape should be.

Social, yet secluded. Rustic, yet modern. Minimalistic, yet memorable. There’s nothing like this on The Plateau.

HighCampNC.com

PLAY. STAY. EAT. REPEAT.

The 18-room inn features well appointed rooms and a full service farm-to-table restaurant and country pub.

Visit highlandermountainhouse.com for reservations & check out our sister property, The Highlander Outpost, coming 2023.

270 Main Street, Highlands, NC 28741

our Inspired Cuisine and Beverages

SMALL TOWN,

Big Appetites

For a quaint mountain town, Highlands’ restaurants have earned an exceptionally long list of accolades, drawing foodies from around the world.

An uninformed traveler, driving the curvy mountain roads through the Blue Ridge Mountains, might be astonished to come upon Highlands and discover a compelling, awardwinning restaurant community. In a place with as many vistas as visitors, many of the dining establishments have prospered for more than a generation.

To mention a few:

Andrew Figel has had a pulse on what Highlanders want to eat since opening On the Veranda in 1981, and his delicious dishes still resonate.

It’s difficult to imagine a place with more heartfelt hospitality than Ristorante Paoletti, where for 38 years Arthur Paoletti has been at the helm, serving up irresistible Northern Italian fare.

At Lakeside Restaurant, established in 1987, owner Laura Huerta has created the quintessential seafood restaurant, consisting of a partially

BY LUKE OSTEEN

covered deck and an intimate dining room overlooking Harris Lake.

In 1994, Wolfgang Green opened Wolfgang’s Restaurant & Wine Bistro, brightening the lives of guests ever since with his New Orleans specialties.

From its start in 1995, Asian influenced American cuisine has been the mainstay at Dindu Lama’s Wild Thyme Gourmet restaurant.

In the last couple of decades, a bevy of new places have elevated the food scene: Locals’ favorites such as Ugly Dog Pub and The High Dive, where casual food and live music is the

draw; 4118 Kitchen + Bar, known for its Southern-flavored specialties; the picturesque Bridge at Mill Creek; and Four65 Woodfire Bistro + Bar, a lively, pizza-centric restaurant opened by the folks at Old Edwards Inn & Spa.

High-toned and highly-acclaimed fine dining establishments launched in elite hotels, where chefs of the highest pedigree invented swoon-worthy dishes: Madison’s Restaurant and Wine Garden at Old Edwards Inn & Spa, Oak Steakhouse at Skyline Lodge and The Ruffed Grouse Tavern at the Highlander Mountain House.

The foods of Asia, Mexico, and the Southern U.S. pour from local kitchens in astonishing abundance. It’s a feast for all the senses, from the dumplings at Asia House to the fresh and fat burritos at Highlands Burritos to succulent ribs from the Highlands Smokehouse.

“We love dining out in Highlands because so many of the restaurants are committed to the farm-to-table experience,” says Lauren Green of Griffin, Georgia, during a languid evening at Midpoint’s second-story patio overlooking Main Street. “My husband TJ and I have a large garden and we grow most of the vegetables and herbs that end up in our meals. Naturally, we look for that quality and purity when we’re special-occasion dining. Although, I must admit, my kitchen could never produce desserts like these,” she says, in a hat tip to Midpoint’s extraordinary Pastry Chef Oksana Shchelgachova.

Like many of the customers, several of today’s restaurants are newcomers.

Ryan Aydelotte of 4118 Kitchen + Bar opened Highlands Tavern in collaboration with associate and Executive Chef Kimmy Vos. [See our profile of Kimmy Vos in this issue.] Taking over vacated space on 4th Street, Aydelotte and Vos have shown folks what can happen when a savvy restaurateur and skilled chef join forces.

Candied bacon, tuna tataki and a twist on curried chicken are just a few of the many offerings from a menu described as farm-to-table ethnic fusion. Word about the new spot spread early on. A unique hybrid among the town’s restaurants – it's both the new hot scene and a food-lover’s destination.

With the opening of the buzzy, new Primary Restaurant + Bar, Curtis Higgins of Colorado has brought adventurous dining to the former Tug’s Proper, and it appears to be exactly what Highlanders wanted. Though the menu is not extensive, it is endlessly interesting, and there is much to praise. There are dazzling starters of ahi tuna, colossal shrimp and sandwiches, succulent, juicy burgers of Wagyu beef and NY Strip steaks mounded onto a bun. As delicious are the entrees, and though impossible to choose among, hungry customer favorites are the shrimp polenta, beef tenderloin and double-cut Berkshire pork chop. With food this appealing, it is no surprise the restaurant has surpassed initial forecasts.

“We don’t advertise, and yet business has been incredible,” Higgins says.

And the media has taken note. Accolades have poured in. Garden & Gun magazine commended Old Edwards for a “masterful culinary program facet that sets it apart,” and brandished a mouth-watering photo of Oak Steakhouse’s Beef Wellington. Highlands and its restaurants are frequent features in the pages of Southern Living magazine which also named Wolfgang’s as “the best place for dinner in Highlands.”

Wine Spectator magazine recognized Highlands for its extraordinary wine lists: Wild Thyme received the Award of Excellence, Madison’s and Paoletti’s achieved the Best of Award of Excellence, an honor given to restaurants that offer thoughtfully chosen lists containing both quality and diverse selections.

These lists, typically with 350 selections or more, offer an array of wines from top producers across a breadth of regions.

Highlands has long been known for its generous pours and special vintages, even when serving alcohol was prohibited. Just ask a local about the peach bounce and applejack that could be found in the parking lot of Helen’s Barn, where music and dancing was offered from the 1940s through the 70s.

Speaking of asking, it’s fun to question the servers at On the Verandah about their restaurant’s wine selection. You’ll discover that they have an almost encyclopedic knowledge of their labels.

This writer did a deeper dive into that wine program and discovered why the staff was so warm and attentive.

It all comes down to the fact that owner/chef Figel treats everyone in the place like family. Every year, during the fallow winter months, he takes everyone on wine trips across the country – places such as Sonoma, Napa and the Willamette Valley. They visit vineyards and explore the operations of dozens of labels.

And they’re little vintners, not the major corporations that are wrestling control of the market in unprecedented numbers. Figel and his crew built relationships with these operators, and he has stocked his restaurant with their vintages.

From this vibrant and burgeoning restaurant scene emerged Highlands Food & Wine in 2015. In a three-day fete worthy of the city from which it was born, the festival attracts renowned Southern chefs, while celebrating the Appalachian-based cuisine of local culinarians. 

Relaxed Elegance at Old Edwards Inn, 445 Main Street, Highlands

A CONVERSTION WITH KIMMY

BY KARA ADDY

It’s mid-day at Highlands Tavern, the cozy restaurant on 4th St. that opened in 2022. Executive Chef Kimmy Vos, dressed in her whites with a hint of periwinkle hair peeking from her cap, is alone when she greets her visitor. Instantly, one can sense her vibe; this is a creative, smart and authentic person.

She holds immense respect for her business partner, Ryan Aydelotte (“one of the nicest people, ever”), who also owns 4118 Kitchen + Bar. (That’s Ryan with “Foxy Roxy,” his dog, in an altered, oversized photo that hangs at the end of the Tavern’s bar.)

During the conversation, she politely steps away to check on the aromatic bread baking in the oven.

Kimmy lights up when pointing to the special touches in the tavern: the 7,500 pennies in the copper backsplash behind the bar, the whimsical collection of plates in the restroom, the antique dresser – a family piece – that she converted to wall art and a sink, the muskie reeled in by her father that welcomes guests. “There’s just a lot of love in here. I wanted everybody to feel happy.”

We sat down with Kimmy to get to know her better.

Share the short version of your background.

My parents moved to Highlands when I was 12. Back then there were almost no restaurants. I went to Rabun Gap School and, afterwards, to Johnson & Wales University in Charlotte, where I was part of the first graduating class. I was recruited by Compass Group [a British multinational contract foodservice company] to serve as an executive chef and oversee two of their major accounts. From Charlotte, I moved to Florida and worked for Sysco [an American multinational corporation involved in marketing and tributing food products] as a marketing rep. So, I learned every side of the business. I came back to Highlands five years ago. My brothers were having kids and my parents were here.

What inspired you to open Highlands Tavern? How did that come about?

I wanted to bring something fresh to the community. Ryan [Aydelotte, her business partner] asked me to join him when he got the opportunity to rent the space. I wouldn’t have been able to make any of this happen without him! The space did not have a kitchen; everything had to be ripped apart and installed. I had to get all the permits. But we did all of it.

What makes the menu unique?

We work with local farms and the menu changes every two or three days. My specialty is ethnic food and farmto-table. I like to keep it fresh and new.

One thing people might be surprised to learn is I’ve been a vegetarian for 12 years. But I am not here to change anyone. When I’m preparing a meat dish, I make sure to add extra flavor and love.

What is your favorite thing on the menu?

Probably my curries. I drive to Asheville each week to get the spices to make it as authentic as I can.

What are your cat’s names and what would you like to share about them?

I have three hairless cats. Gyoza looks like a fat pot sticker or dumpling. Then, there’s Mochi because he’s a Japanese marshmallow. And Dahlia. My Mom used to farm dahlias. She grew thousands of them.

Do you have a favorite or most meaningful tattoo?

I tattooed professionally for a few years. I don’t count them anymore, but I have more than 500 hours in tattoos. If I had to choose a favorite, it’s one on my ankle that my Dad tattooed. [It reads “Daddy.”] And then I have an entire ankle dedicated to displaying the tattoos by friends who are novices; there are eight.

Highlands Tavern will celebrate its first birthday this year. What is its birth date, and do you have anything special planned?

Yes, we opened August 6. We’ll probably do a nice, big grand opening/one-year anniversary thing.

Do you have a favorite song or one that you consider “perfect?”

Hmm… I’d have to think about that. I listen to a lot of Frank Sinatra and 50s old rock-and-roll. I’m an old soul.

When you’re not in the kitchen or in the front of the house, what are you doing?

I do a lot of gardening, a lot of artwork – whatever I can get my hands on, painting and sculpting. I work on cars with my Dad [Tim Vos, whose cars regularly show at the Highlands Motoring Festival]. He can take a pitted-out pile of rust and make it amazing.

Who makes up your family?

In addition to my Dad, I have two brothers and three nephews. People here [at Highlands Tavern] are family, the staff. It is filled with energy and teamwork. And my friends in Florida are also family. 

Elevated Cuisine

INSPIRED BY THE REGION

Highlands fills your senses with the rich tastes and sights of the Appalachian Mountains. Downtown and beyond brims with excellent eateries, many featuring patio dining and views that are quintessentially Highlands. Our food and beverage scene is anchored by several Wine Spectator award-winning restaurants.

Whether you are looking for a white-tablecloth experience, farm-to-table tastes or just a casual vibe, you’ll find it here.

4118 Kitchen + Bar

64 Highlands Plaza 828.526.5002 Lunch & Dinner

Asia House

151 Helen’s Barn Ave. 828.787.1680

Lunch & Dinner

Azteca Rainforest

Bar & Grill

72 Highlands Plaza 828.322.1080

Lunch & Dinner

Black Bear Cafe 137 Main St. - Wright Square 828.482.7020

Breakfast & Lunch

The Blue Bike Cafe

423 N. 4th St. 828.526.9922

Breakfast & Lunch

Blue Hound Barbecue at Highlands Outpost 7420 Dillard Rd., Scaly Mountain 828.526.1663

Breakfast, Lunch & Early Dinner

Bridge at Mill Creek 445 N. 4th St. 828.526.5500

Lunch & Dinner

Bryson's Food Store & Deli 103 Highlands Plaza 828.526.3775

Breakfast, Lunch & Prepared Food

Cake Bar/Chocolate Heaven Co. 2254 Dillard Rd. 828.421.2042

Grab & Go Dessert

Calders Coffee Cafe 384 Main St. 828.200.9308

Breakfast & Lunch

Don Leon’s 462 Dillard Road

Dusty Rhodes Superette 493 Dillard Rd. 828.526.2762

Take-Out

Four65 Woodfire Bistro + Bar at Old Edwards Inn 465 Main St. 828.787.2990

Lunch & Dinner

Fressers Courtyard Cafe & Catering 470 Oak St. 828.526.8847

Lunch & Dinner

High Dive & The Dancing Bear 476 Carolina Way 828.526.2200

Lunch, Dinner & Late Night

Highlands Burritos 226 S. 4th St. 828.526.9313

Lunch & Dinner

Highlands Pizza Place 365 Main St. 828.305.7700

Lunch & Dinner

Highlands Smokehouse 595 Franklin Rd. 828.526.3554

Lunch & Dinner

Highlands Tavern 205 S. 4th St. 828.526.9002

Dinner & Late Night

Highlands Wine Shoppe 269 Oak St. 828.526.4080

Beverages & Charcuterie

Hummingbird Lounge at Old Edwards Inn 445 Main St. 828.787.2525 Lunch Small Plate Dinner & Beverages

Kilwins Chocolate & Ice Cream 341 Main St. 828.526.3788

Dessert

The Kitchen Carry Away and Catering 348 S. 5th St. 828.526.2110

Take-Out

Lakeside Restaurant 531 Smallwood Ave. 828.526.9419

Dinner

Los Vaqueros

30 Dillard Rd. 828.482.7040

Lunch & Dinner

Madison's Restaurant & Wine Garden at Old Edwards Inn 445 Main St. 828.787.2525

Lunch & Dinner

Midpoint Highlands 332 Main St. 828.526.2277

Lunch & Dinner

Mountain Fresh Grocery 521 E. Main St. 828.526.2400

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner & Prepared Food

Oak Steakhouse at Skyline Lodge 470 Skyline Lodge Rd. 828.526.4008

Saturday & Sunday Brunch, Lunch & Dinner

On the Verandah 1536 Franklin Rd. 828.526.2338

Sunday Brunch, Dinner

Primary Restaurant & Bar 310 Main St. 828.526.3555

Lunch & Dinner

Prime Highlands NC 490 Carolina Way

Dinner

Ristorante Paoletti 440 Main St. 828.526.4906

Dinner

Rosewood Market 117 Franklin Rd. 828.526.0383

Take-Out

The Ruffed Grouse Tavern at Highlander Mountain House 270 Main St. 828.526.2590

Breakfast, Sunday Brunch, Lunch & Dinner

Satulah Brewery 454 Carolina Way 828.482.9794

Beverages

The Secret Garden 208 N. 5th St. 828.305.7509

Lunch & Dinner

Spinx 545 N. 4th St. 828.526.4191

Prepared Food

Subway of Highlands 73 Highlands Plaza 828.526.1706

Lunch & Dinner

SweeTreats Deli & Ice Cream 115 S. 4th St. 828.526.9632

Lunch & Dessert

Whole Life Market & Nectar Juice Bar 680 N. 4th St. 828.526.5999

Take-Out

Wild Thyme Gourmet 343-D Main St. 828.526.4035

Lunch & Dinner

Wolfgang's Restaurant & Wine Bistro 474 Main St. 828.526.3807

Dinner

The Ugly Dog Public House 294 S. 4th St. 828.526.8364

Lunch, Dinner & Occasional Late Night 

The Soul

June 24

Wags, Whiskers and Whiskey

A fundraiser for residents of the Cashiers-Highlands Humane Society featuring a silent auction, dinner, drinks and live music.

Organized by the CashiersHighlands Humane Society

For more information, call 828-7435752 or visit chhumanesociety.org.

July 15

Low Country Shrimp Boi l

A community event that celebrates a southern tradition while raising money to benefit the Kelsey Hutchinson Founders Park.

Organized by Friends of Founders Park

For more information, visit foundersparkhighlands.com or call 828-526-9594.

September 24

Empty Bowls

Highlands is a haven for foodies. These special events and festivals will feed your senses – and your soul.

October 1

An event that raises money for the Highlands Food Pantry. Soup is donated from local restaurants and is provided in bowls from The Bascom.

Organized by International Friendship Center

For more information, call 828-526-0890.

September 24

Oyster Fest

An annual Old Edwards tradition with creative cocktails, oysters, live music and lawn games.

Organized by Old Edwards Inn

For more information, visit oldedwardsospitality.com.

Highlands on the Half Shell

An annual fundraiser event supporting highlands biological station where guests can enjoy a Cajunstyle event with oysters, jambalaya and gumbo.

Organized by Highlands Biological Foundation

For more information, visit highlandsbiolobical.org or call 828-526-2623.

November 9 – 12

Highlands Food and Wine

A four-day annual event full of food, fun, music, drinks and more.

Organized by Highlands Festivals, Inc. and Eleven Events

For more information, visit highlandsfoodandwine.com or email info@ highlandsfestivalsinc.org. 

INSIDER’S GUIDE

HIGHLANDS HISTORY

BY RANDOLPH P. SHAFFNER

The village of Highlands was founded in 1875 by two developers who, according to legend, tooka map and drew a line from New York to New Orleans. They drew another line between Chicago and Savannah, creating an “X.” These lines, they predicted, would be the great traderoutes of the future, and where they crossed would someday be a great population center.

What evolved was a health and summer resort on the highest crest of the Western North Carolina plateau in the Southern Appalachian Mountains. This paradisiacal settlement provided common ground for both northern and southern pioneers.

By 1883, nearly 300 immigrants

from the eastern states were calling Highlands home. Little changed in the town until the late 1920s, when the Cullasaja River was dammed to form Lake Sequoyah, providing hydroelectric power. By the time the Chamber of Commerce was established in 1931, the town’s population had increased to 500, with 2,500 to 3,000 summer guests.

Once again, little changed from the 1930s through the 1960s. Highlands missed the Great Depression because most of its residents were accustomed to surviving hard times, growing their own meat and vegetables, so no one went hungry. The mid1970s saw the sudden influx of multi-family homes and shopping centers that spawned land-use plans and zoning

laws intended to protect Highlands’ natural assets.

Since its creation in 1875, the demographics of Highlands have been unique. Founded by pioneers, industrious tradesman from the north, Scotch-Irish laborers and craftsmen from the surrounding area and wealthy aristocratic planters and professionals from the south, the town has served as a cultural center for well-known artists, musicians, actors, authors, photographers, scholars and scientists who have thrived in its natural setting.

For more information about Highlands’ history, please visit highlandshistory.com or stop by Highlands Historic Village, 524 N. 4th St. 

HIGHLANDS,

NC 1890, MAIN STREET, POPULATION

INSIDER’S GUIDE

WE PAUSE FOR PAWS

BY KARA ADDY

It’s difficult not to smile as you see them strolling along Main Street. The furry family members parade in all colors and sizes, purebreds and mutts, puppies and aged. Others serve as faithful companions hiking on the lush trails. No matter where we take or encounter them, one thing is certain: Highlands loves dogs.

Take, for example, the number of restaurant patios and courtyards that keep water bowls filled, or the Town of Highlands’ Dog Park at Foreman Rd. and 4th St., where some play dates have been scheduled in advance while others happen in the moment. Highlands Mountain Paws on Main St. is a boutique just for pets and pet lovers.

Perhaps the greatest proof of just how much Highlands loves dogs

is found in the hotel that caters to them. Park on Main is a 24-suite, dog-friendly hotel with an upscale, rustic theme. Balconies overlook the downtown streets and walking everywhere is easy. Fine Italian linen, marble bathroom floors, and electric vehicle charging stations are available. But what really sets it apart is décor and amenities: Framed canine portraiture in the lobby, and a designer dog bowl and Orvis ToughChew ComfortFill-Eco Platform Dog Bed and a doggie mat in each suite. All-natural treats are available at the front desk, close to the hotel’s resident black Scottish Terrier, Mr. Pickles, who exemplifies Highlands’ hospitality with his warm greetings.

So, bring Fido along and experience the Height of Happiness with your furry friend. 

With more than 20 experienced agents, Pat Allen Realty Group has been a formidable force in real estate for many years. Providing our clients with exceptional service and world-class connections, the firm’s recent partnership with the No.1 real estate company in the Carolinas, Allen Tate Realtors®, has only strengthened our ability to serve our clients.

Allen Tate Realtors® is a founding member of Leading Real Estate Companies of the World® and Luxury Portfolio International (LPI)®. This network provides global exposure to high net-worth individuals, attracting buyers to some of the world’s most remarkable homes on luxuryportfolio.com and in publications such as the Wall Street Journal.

Centrally located in Highlands, NC, our agents can help you find that small mountain cabin, luxury home with a grand view, golf course or gated community, or a lot to build your dream home.

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Highlands for kids

Happy Hiking

Stop by Highland Hiker to pick up a book of good day hikes. You’ll find several trails that are child-friendly!

The Highlands Biological Station/ Nature Center is a great place for young ones. With easy walking trails that offer views of the lake and creeks, it is also a wonderful place to learn about and see native plants, vegetation and wildlife.

Kids love their Kids Hike Highlands Challenge which awards the collection of all four stamps along the trails with a prize!

After your visit to the Nature Center, carefully walk across the street and up a short trail

to experience Ravenel Park and Sunset Rock. Though it’s a favorite spot for sunsets, it’s spectacular any time of day. The Highlands Plateau Greenway offers easy, in-town access to a system of walking and hiking trails that connect historic sites and natural settings.

Looking to experience a familyfriendly waterfall? Dry Falls and Glen Falls fit the bill. One of the area’s most popular destinations, Dry Falls offers the unique experience of walking behind its rushing, 75-foot cascade. An outand-back hike, Glen Falls offers multiple viewing points along its 700-foot, one-mile descension. But be sure to conserve energy for the hike back!

Kid-Friendly Excursions

Located between Highlands and Scaly Mountain, Highlands Aerial Park is a thrilling way to spend the day. Kid-friendly activities abound, including ziplines, nature trails, a challenge course and a giant swing.

Highland Excursion offers eco-tours in the Highlands area, and all are kid friendly. A great one to check out is their Private Gem Mine Tour, which showcases sites along the Cullasaja Gorge and Jackson Hole Gem Mine.

Camps & Classes

A Highlands summer camp experience will create memories your child will likely have forever.

The Highlands Biological Station offers highly-popular Nature Center Day Camps where kids ages four to 13 learn about plants and animals while having fun. Be sure to call or check the website for dates, as these camps fill up quickly!

The Bascom offers visual arts programming for youth and their families throughout the year, including workshops, classes, private lessons, field trips and demonstrations.

The Boys and Girls Club of the Plateau offers a summer day camp from early June through late July for ages six and older. Some local churches offer Vacation Bible School in the summer; be sure to contact them directly for schedules.

The Performing Arts Center has programs to get kids involved in the performing arts, so be sure to check those out if you have a young thespian.

For a sleep-away wilderness camp experience close to Highlands, Camp Merrie-Woode in Sapphire offers summer sessions for girls and young women.

Winter Sports & Activities

On sunny winter days, Highlands has plenty of activities to keep kids entertained.

Be a part of a picture-perfect winter scene while ice skating in Kelsey-Hutchinson Founders Park. The $5 fee includes rental skates, and you can warm up with a cup of coffee or hot chocolate.

Just a short drive from downtown is the Highlands Outpost which offers snow tubing and the Scaly Mountain Screamer coaster (the longest in N.C.!), as well as a convenient barbecue restaurant on the premises. (In the summer, enjoy the roller coaster, trout fishing and the tubing--without the snow, of course.)

Ski Sapphire Valley also offers snow tubing, skiing for beginning and intermediate levels, and snowboarding. Swim year-round at the Highlands Pool Complex!

Enjoy a covered pool with dedicated times for adult, lap, and allages swimming as well as water aerobics. It’s great for rainy weather, too!

For Rainy Days

Highlands is in a temperate rainforest and receives more than 80 inches of wet stuff each year, but don’t worry! Highlands offers plenty of experiences for rainy days.

Head to The Bascom to enjoy art exhibits, classes and an indoor play area. They even have “Take& Make” art lessons on their website that kids can do from home

Hudson Library is a wonderful place for little ones to play or learn. The library offers a children’s playroom, educational computers and tablets. On certain days, the library offers Family Storytime and other engaging events.

Spend a rainy day exploring Highlands Historic Village and the town’s oldest home, the Elizabeth Wright Prince House. Enjoy learning about Highlands’ history through its exhibits and archives!

A hardware store may seem an unlikely destination for kids, but Reeves can keep kids entertained. Set them on a mission to find “Ace,” its feline resident, as you do some shopping.

Mountain Theatre Company, home to Highlands Playhouse, offers a year-round season, including “Theatre for Young Audiences” and show guides to assist students, parents, and teachers with the production experience.

Visit the Jackson Hole Trading Post & Gem Mine, a unique experience where kids can find treasures to brighten any rainy day.

Playgrounds & Green Spaces

Enjoying a beautiful day in Highlands is easy!

Highlands Recreation Park is home to a playground and an outdoor skatepark, so bring your wheels. Kelsey-Hutchinson Founders Park is a beautiful place to enjoy a togo meal from a nearby restaurant. Picnic tables dot the green space, and public restrooms are available. During the warmer months, spend your Saturday checking out the Highlands Market in the morning and return in the evening to take in an Outdoor Concert Series show. Located in the heart of town, there’s usually something happening in this park.

Close to town, Harris Lake Park is a lovely spot for a picnic, fishing, and to watch its resident ducks play. Highlands School’s playground is close to town and accessible to the public when school is not in session.

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Family-Friendly Dining

Check out some of these delicious kidfriendly spots to eat in Highlands!

Four 65 has wood-fired pizzas and a kid-friendly menu. Highlands Burritos is quick and offers fantastic options for little ones. The Secret Garden Market and Fressers Courtyard Café & Catering have kid-friendly options and are located adjacent to Kelsey-Hutchinson Founders Park, making it easy to enjoy your meal outside. Mountain Fresh Grocery has indoor and outdoor seating for its breakfast, grill, and Neapolitan pizza options. You can also order a dinner to go or pick up a take-and-bake pizza. Highlands Pizza Place is just what it says it is and more; they also offer sandwiches and salads. Offering “elevated pub food,” The Ugly Dog Public House is fun for the whole family. The kids will surely like the pictures of pups on its walls – or the real deal on its patio. On Wednesday nights stop in to enjoy live bluegrass!

Looking for a healthy snack? Whole Life Market and Nectar Juice Bar offers delicious smoothies, juices, and other healthy options. Good luck trying to walk past Kilwin’s chocolates or SweeTreats’ ice cream without going inside! The intoxicating wafts are too tempting to resist. SweeTreats also has a deli–great for one-stop dining!

Shopping

Shopping along and near Main Street in Highlands is a must-do. Check out these stores when shopping with or for the family:

Highlands Kids- offering baby and children’s clothing and toys, Highland Hiker-for outdoor attire, or S’MORE Kids Klothes–with designer children’s clothing, accessories and gifts. 

Future–Proofing Highlands

As one of the nation’s largest Fiber-to-the-Home providers, Hotwire Communications was thrilled to announce the partnership with the Town of Highlands in 2022 to bring the power of 100% fiber to residents and businesses in the area. While expanding presence in the Carolinas, the industry leader offers a full suite of telecommunications services and customized fiber optic solutions – Fision Fiber Optics powered by Hotwire Communications.

Fision Internet

Always on, dedicated connection and speeds not affected by how many residents are using the Internet, or what time of the day they connect

Fision TV+

Live TV, On Demand, DVR, and all the popular streaming services on one device. No more switching inputs or remotes.

Fision Voice

A modern touch to landline functionality with crystal clear quality powered by Hotwire’s 100% fiber network.

Beyond the advanced technology and impressive fiber optic network, our commitment to concierge-level service for all customers is nothing new. For over 20 years we’ve been providing a seamless, best-in-class service experience which includes project managers, technicians and account managers who guide the process of in-home installation, quality assurance, surveying, education and training, as well as committed organizational support. All calls are answered in less than 60 seconds by our local US-based agents available 24/7/365.

Magical Facts at the Height of Happiness

Highlands’

How high is high? At 4,118 feet above sea level, Highlands is one of the highest towns east of the Mississippi River. Established in 1920, we are perched on the highest crest of the Western North Carolina plateau in the Southern Appalachian Mountains.

This landscape is old. Really old. The Appalachian Mountains are some of the oldest in the entire world, the remnants of a geological sequence of events that began 480 million years ago during the formation of the supercontinent of Pangaea.

A gem of a location - literally. Millions of years of volcanic activity and tectonic pressure resulted in a jeweler’s dream of gold and gemstones, such as sapphire. Until the California Gold Rush of 1849, this part of N.C. was the largest goldproducing territory in the country.

When it rains, it pours. Highlands is at the center of one of two temperate rainforests in the continental U.S. (The other is the rich woodlands of Oregon and

Washington). This means, we enjoy four distinct seasons and get lots of rain - typically more than 120 inches each year. The rainfall contributes to our spectacular waterfalls and biologically rich flora and fauna.

A tale of two seas. The rain that falls here either makes its way to the Gulf of Mexico (via the Cullasaja River) or to the Atlantic Ocean, depending on where it is located. That’s because the Highlands area straddles the Continental Divide. Look for signs that mark its path along U.S. Hwy. 28 and on U.S. Hwy. 107.

Based on a biblical tale. Located along the right side of Horse Cove Road, Moses Rock’s name harkens to the Old Testament story of the prominent figure who smote a rock and provided water for the traveling children of Israel. The local spring appeared in the late 19th century after a crew member working to transform the once-Cherokee trail into the road stuck his mattock against an outcrop of granite. The spring has comforted the thirsty for at least 150 years. We’re for the birds. Highlands is home

to a thriving population of avifauna - about 47 species at the last Christmas Bird Count (a nationwide event) in which the Highlands Plateau Audubon Society participated. The endangered Peregrine Falcon was reintroduced to the area, and they are now nesting on the cliffs of iconic Whiteside Mountain.

Salamanders are a specialty. In fact, biologists travel from all over the world to study our rich pool of these shy amphibians, thus the nickname, “Salamander Capital of the World.” Their presence indicates the purity of our air, water, and soil, so we’re delighted to live among them.

Don’t forget the otters. For a couple of years, small populations of North American River Otters have made their home at Lake Ravenel, the Highlands Botanical Garden, and perhaps other sites. This is worth noting because they were missing from our region since the 1930s - victims of trapping for their fur. These frolicking creatures who love to fish, swim, and play are a joy to watch. We’re glad they’re back!

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Flora and forest. Highlands is surrounded by the Nantahala National Forest, home to ancient rhododendron thickets. Our mountains also have wet meadows and bogs, home to rare plants such as Gray’s Lily, Cuthbert’s Turtlehead, and Swamp Pink. The fruit-bearing American Chestnut tree, once decimated by a fungal disease, and the Red Spruce, currently threatened but being revived, are also found here. “Ruby,” the almost-80-foot Christmas tree adorned at the U.S. Capitol in 2022, was a Red Spruce from North Carolina. 

six square miles hold the secrets and magic of millions of years. To help you appreciate and get to know our special part of the world, we compiled a list of Top 10 impressive nature-based facts.

Journey

to the Height of Happiness

Driving Directions

GETTING HERE

Our most popular airports are Asheville (AVL), Atlanta (ATL), GreenvilleSpartanburg (GSP) and Knoxville (TYS). From there, the drive to Highlands is easy and scenic. We can’t wait to greet you at The Height of Happiness!

FROM ATLANTA

Driving time is approximately 2.5 hours.

From Atlanta, take I-85 North towards Greenville, then continue to I-985 North towards Gainesville. The road will then become GA 365. Continue on GA 365 as it changes to 441 North. You will go through Tallulah Falls, Clayton, and Mountain City to Dillard, GA. At the traffic light in Dillard, take a right onto GA 246 that becomes NC 106 (Dillard Rd.). At this point, you have a beautiful 20-minute drive to Highlands. Proceed up GA 246/NC 106 until you enter Highlands. At the intersection of Main Street, you will see a traffic light by the Exxon Station where you can take a right to downtown.

FROM GREENVILLE

Driving time is approximately 2 hours.

From Greenville, you will take 276 North to Scenic Highway 11. About four miles from the bridge over Lake Keowee, turn right onto Route 130 towards Cashiers and Whitewater Falls. Follow Route 130 to Route 107 North. Turn right on Route 107 North and proceed to the traffic light at the intersection of highways 107 and 64 in Cashiers. Turn left onto 64 West and travel about 12 miles on Highway 64 into downtown

If you are comfortable with reading maps and taking back roads, there is a shorter way from downtown Greenville. Travel to Pickens on Route

183. Then, from Route 183, turn right on Highway 133 past Pickens and proceed to Scenic Highway 11. Take the left-hand turn to cross Lake Keowee bridge. Then, proceed to Route 130 which is about four miles ahead on your right. Follow Route 130 toward Cashiers to NC 107. Take a right on NC 107 and travel to the intersection at the crossroads in Cashiers. Finally, take a left onto 64 West to Highlands.

FROM ASHEVILLE

Driving time is approximately 1.5-2 hours, depending on traffic.

From Asheville, take the Scenic Route via Brevard and Cashiers on Highway 64. Take I-26 toward Greenville, then get off at the Airport Exit. At the Airport Exit take a right turn onto 280 South where you will pass the airport on the right. Continue to 280 South to Brevard, then continue to 64 West through Brevard. Follow 64 West through Cashiers to Highlands.

FASTER ROUTE FROM ASHEVILLE

Driving time is approximately 1.5 hours.

From Asheville, take I-40 West to Route 23/74 West towards Waynesville. Take Route 23/74 West to 23/441 towards Dillsboro, Sylva, and Franklin. At Franklin, you will stay on the bypass, and look for the exit to Highlands/64 East. Turn left and follow 64 East

through the Cullasaja Gorge, a very curvy but beautiful road through the mountains.

SCENIC ROUTE FROM KNOXVILLE

Driving time is approximately 3.5 hours via route 411.

To arrive from Knoxville through the Smoky Mountain National Park and Gatlinburg, take I-40 East to 66 South. 66 South will turn into 321/441. In Gatlinburg, take 441 South toward and through Cherokee to 74 East. From 74 East, take 23/441 towards Dillsboro and into Franklin where you will stay on the bypass. Just past the Holly Springs Shopping Center on the left, look for the exit ramp to 64 East/Highlands. Turn left and follow the curvy road through the Cullasaja Gorge and to Highlands.

QUICKEST ROUTE FROM KNOXVILLE

Driving time is approximately 2.5 hours. From Knoxville, take I-40 East into North Carolina towards Waynesville. Take 23/441 towards Dillsboro, Sylva and Franklin. Stay on the bypass in Franklin. Just past the Holly Springs Shopping Center on the left, look for the right-hand side exit ramp to 64 East/Highlands. Take a left on 64 East and follow the curvy road through the beautiful Cullasaja Gorge and to Highlands. 

Whether you’re a certified foodie looking for bright new flavors in a small town or you have a “stick-with-what-I-like” palate, Jackson County, NC’s culinary scene has you covered.

With organic farm-to-table and locally grown options to bold, belly-filling dishes, the only thing you’ll have to do is come hungry.

HIKING TRAIL MAP

ACCOMMODATIONS & SPAS

200 Main Highlands, NC 28741 200main.com

Gifted Hands Highlands, NC 28741 gifted-hands.com

Half-Mile Farm at Old Edwards Highlands, NC 28741 halfmilefarm.com

Hampton Inn and Suites Sapphire, NC 28774 hamptoninn3.hilton.com

The Park on Main Hotel Highlands, NC 28741 theparkonmain.com

CAMPGROUNDS

Cliffside Lake Recreation Area & VanHook Glade Highlands, NC 28741 cfaia.org

Highlands Hidden Creek RV Resort Highlands, NC 28741 highlandshiddencreek.com

CHURCHES

Highlands Falls Country Club Highlands, NC 28741 clubhfcc.com

Mountain Laurel Tennis Club Highlands, NC 28741 mountainlaureltennisclub.com

Old Edwards Club Highlands, NC 28741 oldedwardsclub.com/golf

Shelby Place Highlands, NC 28741 shelbyplacehighlands.com

The Spa at Old Edwards Inn Highlands, NC 28741 oldedwardsinn.com/spa

The Wells Hotel Highlands, NC 28741 thewellshotel.com

Tranquility Cove Massage Highlands, NC 28741 tranquilitycovemassage.com

Zen Spa Highlands, NC 28741 zenspabyangeljoy.com

Highlander Mountain House Highlands, NC 28741 highlandermountainhouse.com

Highlands Inn Highlands, NC 28741 highlandsinn-nc.com

Highlands Inn Lodge Highlands, NC 28741 highlandsinnlodge.com

Inn at Mill Creek Highlands, NC 28741 millcreekhighlandsnc.com

Rockwood Lodge Highlands NC 28741 rockwoodlodgenc.com

Skyline Lodge Highlands, NC 28741 skyline-lodge.com

Taylor Barnes Spa and Salon Highlands, NC 28741 taylorspa.com

The Lofts on Main Highlands, NC 28741 theloftsonmain.com

Old Edwards Inn and Spa Highlands, NC 28741 oldedwardsinn.com

AUTOMATIVE, TRANSPORATION & MOVING SERVICES

Car Spa of Highlands Highlands, NC 28741 thecarspaofhighlands.com

Long Transfer, Inc Highlands, NC 28741

Highlands Automotive Highlands, NC 28741 highlandsautomotive.com

Highlands Transportation Company Highlands, NC 28741 specialoccasionslimo.com

Men on the Move Franklin, NC 28741 menonthemove@windstream.net

Rhodes Auto Repair Highlands, NC 28741

Community Bible Church Highlands, NC 28741 cbchighlands.com

Episcopal Church of the Incarnation Highlands, NC 28741 incarnationwnc.org

First Baptist Church of Highlands Highlands, NC 28741 fbchighlands.org

First Presbyterian Church Highlands, NC 28741 fpchighlands.com

Highlands United Methodist Church Highlands, NC 28741 highlandsmethodist.org

Lutheran Church of the Holy Family Highlands, NC 28741 lutheranchurchoftheholyfamily.yolasite.com

Our Lady of the Mountains Catholic Church Highlands, NC 28741 olmhighlands.com

COMMUNITIES & COUNTRY CLUBS

Chestnut Hill of Highlands Highlands, NC 28741 chestnuthillofhighlands.com

Cullasaja Club Highlands, NC 28741 cullasajaclub.org

Glen Co ve by Old Edward s Glen Cove Highlands, NC 28741 glencovelifestyle.com

Highlands Country Club Highlands, NC 28741 highlandscountryclub.com

Sky Valley Country Club Sky Valley,GA 30537 skyvalleycountryclub.com

Wildcat Cliffs Country Club Highlands, NC 28741 wildcatcliffscountryclub.com

CULTURAL ARTS

Art League of Highlands Highlands, NC 28741 artleagueofhighlands.com

Center for Life Enrichment Highlands, NC 28741 clehighlands.com

Corey James Gallery Highlands, NC 28741

Highlands Cashiers Chamber Music Festival Highlands, NC 28741 h-cmusicfestival.org

Highlands Community Players Highlands, NC 28741 highlandscashiersplayers.org

Highlands Performing Arts Center Highlands,NC 28741 highlandspac.org

HOP Gallery

Highlands, NC 28741

Invocative Fine Art Highlands, NC 28741

Jeanie Edwards Fine Art Highlands, NC 28741 jedwardsfineart.com

Green Mountain Builders Highlands, NC 28741 Henkelman Highlands, NC 28741

Highlands Decorating Center Highlands, NC 28741 highlandsdecorating.com

EVENTS

Altaterra Events Highlands, NC 28741 altaterraevents.com

Archbishop John Stuart Erbelding Dillard, GA 30537 skyvalleychapel.com

Mountain Theatre Company Highlands, NC 28741 highlandsplayhouse.org

Smoky Mountain Center for the Performing Arts Franklin, NC 28734 greatmountainmusic.com

Highlands Doors and Windows Highlands, NC 28741 highlandsdoorsandwindows.com

Double R Wedding Vows and Events Franklin, NC 28734 eventective.com

Eleven Events Greenville, SC 29601 eleven.events

Lupoli Construction & Real Estate Highlands, NC 28741 lupoliconstruction.com

Flat Mountain Farm Highlands, NC 28741 flatmountainfarm.com

Highlands Festivals Highlands, NC 28741

Bryson’s Food Store Highlands, NC 28741 brysonsfoodstore.com

Cake Bar & Chocolate Heaven Highlands, NC 28741 cakebarhighlands.com

Calders Coffee Café Highlands, NC 28741 calderscoffeecafe.com

Colonel Mustards Highlands, NC 28741 colonelmustardshighlands.com

Dusty Rhodes Superette Highlands, NC 28741

El Azteca Rainforest Cafe Highlands, NC 28741 aztecahighlands.com

The Bascom: A Center for the Visual Arts Highlands, NC 28741 thebascom.org

The Gallery at Highlands Highlands, NC 28741

DESIGN & CONSTRUCTION

Barbara Desmond Décor Inc Highlands, NC 28741

Bertone Tile Design and Flooring Highlands, NC 28741

Bespoke Design & Consulting Highlands, NC 28741 behance.net/Bespoke_Design

Black Rock Granite & Cabinetry Highlands, NC 28741 blackrockgraniteandcabinetry.com

David Bock Builders Highlands, NC 28741 bockbuilders.com

Dornbush Design Studio Highlands, NC 28741

Edgens Herzog Architects Highlands, NC 28741 edgensherzog.com

Futral Enterprises Highlands, NC 28741 futralconstruction.com

MHK Architecture Highlands, NC 28741 thecarolinasarchitect.com

Mountain Construction Engineering Sapphire, NC 28741 hesslingthomas@gmail.com

Palillos Stone Masonry Highlands, NC 28741 palillosstonemasonry.net

Romans Roofing Highlands, NC 28741 romansroofingnc.com

Ross Landscape Architecture, PLLC Highlands, NC 28741 rosslandarch.com

Sadlon & Associates Franklin, NC 28734 sadlonandassociates.com

Sanctuary Developers Cashiers, NC 28717 sanctuarydevelopers.com

Spruce Interiors Highlands, NC 28741 spruceinteriors.com

Stratton Construction Highlands, NC 28741

Summit Architecture Highlands, NC 28741 summitarchitecturepa.com

Warth Construction Highlands, NC 28741 warthconstruction.com

Hott Acts Highlands, NC 28741 hottacts.com

Silly Ridge Trio Highlands, NC 28741 sillyridge.com

Four 65 Woodfire Bistro + Bar Highlands, NC 28741 four65.com

Fresser’s Courtyard Café & Catering Highlands, NC 28741 wecaterHighlands.com

The Farm at Old Edwards Inn Highlands, NC 28741 oldedwardsinn.com/weddings

Weddings at Old Edwards Inn & Spa Highlands, NC 28741 oldedwardsinn.com/weddings

FOOD, BEVERAGES & CATERING

4118 Kitchen & Bar, LLC Highlands, NC 28741 4118kitchen-bar.com

Asia House Highlands, NC 28741 asiahouse-highlands.letseat.at

August Produce Highlands, NC 28741 augustproduce.com

Bridge at Mill Creek Highlands, NC 28741 thebridgeatmillcreek.com

Highlands ABC Store Highlands, NC 28741 abc.nc.gov/ Districts/Board/101 Highlands Burrito Highlands, NC 28741 highlandsburriotos.com

Highlands Smokehouse Highlands, NC 28741 highlandssmokehouse.com

Highlands Tavern Highlands, NC 28741

Highlands Wine Shoppe Highlands, NC 28741 highlandswineshoppe.com

Kelsey Place Restaurant Highlands, NC 28741 highlandsinn-nc.com/kelsey-place

Kilwins of Highlands Highlands, NC 28741 kilwins.com/stores/ kilwins-highlands

Lakeside Restaurant

Highlands, NC 28741 lakesiderestaurant.info

Los Vaqueros Restaurant Highlands, NC 28741

Madison’s Restaurant & Wine Garden Highlands, NC 28741 oldedwardsinn.com/dining/madisons

Midpoint Restaurant Highlands, NC 28741 midpointhighlandsnc.com

Mountain Fresh Grocery Highlands, NC 28741 mfgro.com

On the Veranda Restaurant Highlands, NC 28741 ontheveranda.com

Pizza Place of Highlands Highlands, NC 28741 facebook.com/thepizzaplaceofhighlands

Primary Restaurant & Bar Highlands, NC 28741 primaryhnc.com

Prime Steakhouse Highlands, NC 28741

Ristorante Paoletti Highlands, NC 28741 paolettis.com

Root 64 Fresh Market Sapphire, NC 28774 sales@64freshmarket.com

Rosewood Market Highlands, NC 28741 rosewoodmarket.com

Ruffed Grouse Highlands, NC 28741 highlandermountainhouse.com

Satulah Mountain Brewery Co. Highlands, NC 28741 satulahmountainbrewing.weebly.com

Spinx Highlands, NC 28741 facebook.com/4thStMarket

Subway Highlands, NC 28741 order.subway.com

SweeTreats Highlands, NC 28741 sweetreatshighlands.com

The Blue Bike Highlands, NC 28741

The Blue Hound Scaly Mountain, NC 28775

The High Dive Highlands, NC 28741 facebook.com/highlandsdive

The Kitchen Carry Away & Catering Highlands, NC 28741 thekitchenofhighlands.com

The Secret Garden Market Highlands, NC 28741 thesecretgardenmarket.com

The Ugly Dog Public House Highlands, NC 28741 theuglydogpub.com

Whole Life Market & Nectar Juice Bar Highlands, NC 28741 wholelifehighlands.com

Wild Thyme Gourmet Highlands, NC 28741 wildthymegourmet.com

Wolfgang’s Restaurant & Wine Bistro Highlands, NC 28741 wolfgangs.net

INSURANCE

McAllister Family Insurance Highlands, NC 28741 mcallisterfamilyinsurance.com

Stanberry Insurance Highlands, NC 28741 stanberry-ins.com

Wayah Insurance Highlands, NC 28741 wayah.com

NON-PROFIT & COMMUNITY SERVICES

Big Brothers Big Sisters Highlands, NC 28741 bbbswnc.org

Carpe Diem Farms Highlands, NC 28741 carpediemfarms.org

Highlands Community Child Development Center Highlands, NC 28741 highlandscommunitychildcare.org

Highlands Plateau Greenway Highlands, NC 28741 highlandsgreenway.com

Highlands Cashiers Health Foundation Highlands, NC 28741 highlandscashiershealthfoundation.org

Highlands Cashiers Land Trust Highlands, NC 28741 hicashlt.org

Highlands Chamber of Commerce Highlands, NC 28741 highlandschamber.org

Highlands Plateau Audubon Society Highlands, NC 28741 highlandsaudubonsociety.org

Highlands Welcome Center Highlands, NC 28741 highlandschamber.org

Hudson Library Highlands, NC 28741 fontanalib.org/highlands

International Friendship Center/ Food Pantry Highlands, NC 28741 internationalfriendshipcenter.org

Literacy Council of Highlands Highlands, NC 28741 highlandsliteracy.com

Mountaintop Rotary Highlands, NC 28741 mountaintoprotaryclubhighlands.org

Peggy Crosby Community Service Center, Inc. Highlands, NC 28741 peggycrosbycenter.org

Rotary Club of Highlands Highlands, NC 28741 highlandsrotary.org

Highlands Historical Society Highlands, NC 28741 highlandshistory.com

Mountain Retreat & Learning Center Highlands, NC 28741 mountaincenters.org

PET CARE

Animal Wellness Hospital Highlands, NC 28741 awhhighlands.com

Cashiers-Highlands Humane Society Sapphire, NC 28774 chhumanesociety.org

Posh Paws Highlands, NC 28741

PRINTING & MEDIA

Dauntless Printing Highlands, NC 28741 dauntlessprinting.com

Highlander Newspaper Highlands, NC 28741 highlandsnews.com

Highlands Newspaper Highlands, NC 28741 highlandsinfo.com

Laurel Magazine Highlands, NC 28741 thelaurelmagazine.com

Macon Printing Franklin, NC 28734 maconprinting.com

The Business Spot Highlands, NC 28741 biz-spot.net

WHLC FM 104.5 Highlands, NC 28741 whlc.com

REAL ESTATE

Allen Tate/Pat Allen Realty Group Highlands, NC 28741 highlandsncrealestatepatallen.com

Betty Holt, Realtor Highlands, NC 28741 berkshirehathawayhs.com/ betty-holt-real-estate-agent

Cleaveland Realty Highlands, NC 28741 jcrealty.info

Highlands Cove Realty at Old Edwards Club Highlands, NC 28741 highlandscoverealty.com

Highlands Properties Highlands, NC 28741 highlandsproperties.com

Katy Postell-Dearth, Realtor Highlands, NC 28741 katypostell@gmail.com

Silver Creek Real Estate Group Cashiers, NC 28717 ncliving.com

The Real Estate Buyers Guide Franklin, NC 28734 therebg.com

REAL ESTATE & VACATION RENTALS

Preferred Properties of Highlands Highlands, NC 28741 ppoh.com

RECREATION

Sapphire Valley Resort Sapphire, NC 28774 sapphirevalley.com

Signal Ridge Marina Glenville, NC 28736 signalridgemarina.com

Brookings Anglers Highlands, NC 28741 brookingsonline.com

Fun Factory in the Smokies Franklin, NC 28734 franklinfun.com

Berkshire Hathaway Home Services Meadows Mountain Realty Highlands, NC 28741 meadowsmtnrealty.com

Bowery Road Chateau, LLC Highlands, NC 28741 highlandsncchateau.com

Chambers Agency & Vacation Rentals Highlands, NC 28741 highlandsiscalling.com

Country Club Properties Highlands, NC 28741 ccphighlands.com

Elevated Properties Highlands, NC 28741 palmerhouseproperties.com

Highlands Cashiers Board of Realtors Cashiers, NC 28717 hcbor.net

Highlands Concierge & Management Highlands, NC 28741 highlandsconcierge.com

Highlands Cove Realty Highlands, NC 28741 highlandscoverealty.com

Highlands Sotheby’s International Realty Highlands, NC 28741 highlandssir.com

Highlands Aerial Park Scaly Mountain, NC 28775 highlandsaerialpark.com

Highlands Biological Station & Garden Highlands, NC 28741 highlandsbiological.org

Highland Excursion Highlands, NC 28741 highlandexcursion.com

Highlands Motoring Festival Highlands, NC 28741 highlandsmotoringfestival.com

Whitewater Equestrian Center Sapphire, NC 28774 funhorsebackriding.com

Wildwater Long Creek, SC 29658 wildwaterrafting.com

SERVICES

#1 Nails Highlands, NC 28741 nailsalonbeauty.com

American Pest Control Clayton, GA 30525 ampest.com

Appalachian Animal Rescue Center Franklin, NC 28734 appalachiananimalrescue.com

Balsom West FiberNET Sylva, NC 28779 balsamwest.net

Bartlett Tree Expert Highlands, NC 28741 jbrown@bartlett.com

Beautifully Tidy Highlands, NC 28741 beautifullytidy.com

Creation Music and Arts Highlands, NC 28741 creationcbc.com

Creative Concepts Salon Highlands, NC 28741 facebook.com/ creativeconceptssalon

Curtis Matthews, CPA Highlands, NC 28741 curtis-mathews.com

Dogwood Health Trust Asheville, NC 28813 dogwoodhealthtrust.org

Duke Energy Franklin, NC 28734 duke-energy.com

Edward Jones Investments Highlands, NC 28741 edwardjones.com

Edwards Electrical Service Highlands, NC 28741 edwardselectricalservice.com

Farmer’s Markket Exxon Highlands, NC 28741 exxon.com/en/ find-station/200311928

First Bank Highlands, NC 28741 localfirstbank.com

Freeman Gas Highlands, NC 28741 freemangas.com

Highlands Outpost Scaly Mountain, NC 28775 highlandsoutpost.com

Highlands Recreation Park & Civic Center Highlands, NC 28741 highlandsnc.org/recreation

Jackson Hole Gem Mine Highlands, NC 28741 jacksonholegemmine.com

Highlands Vacation Rentals Highlands, NC 28741 highlandsmountainrentals.com

Landmark Realty Group Highlands, NC 28741 landmarkrg.com

Killer Bees Honey Lake Toxaway, NC 28747 killerbeeshoney.com

Benjamin F. Edwards & Company Highlands, NC 28741 benjaminfedwardsco.com

Bryson’s Enterprises, Inc Highlands, NC 28741 brysonsgrading.com

C.A. Wilson Electric & Gas Highlands, NC 28741 wilsongas.com

Computer Biz Highlands, NC 28741

Computer Man Electronics Highlands, NC 28741 thecomputerman.org

Covenant Investment Solutions Highlands, NC 28741

Growing Studio Highlands, NC 28741

Happy Family Cleaners Highlands, NC 28741

Head Innovations Highlands, NC 28741 facebook.com/ Head-Innovations-Inc

Highlands Barber Shop Highlands, NC 28741

Highlands Express Mobil Highlands, NC 28741 exxon.com/en/find-station/200323669 Highlands Fire Department Highlands, NC 28741 highlandsfire.com

Highlands Hair Studio Highlands, NC 28741

Highlands Police Department Highlands, NC 28741 highlandsnc.org

Swift Accounting Highlands, NC 28741 swiftaccounting.io

Tate Landscaping Services Highlands, NC 28741 tatelandscapingservices.com

HotWire Communications Highlands, NC 28741

JMR Weddings and Events Highlands, NC 28741 jmrwedding.com

K Anderson Salon Highlands, NC 28741

Macon County Humane Society Franklin, NC 28734

Main Street Payments Highlands, NC 28741 mainstreetpayments.org

Mountain Magic Beauty Highlands, NC 28741 mountain-magic-beauty.business.site

Mountain Springs Spas and Pools Franklin, NC 28734 mountainhotspring.com

Neumann Law Office Highlands, NC 28741 neumannlawoffice.com

Peak Home Management Highlands, NC 28741 peakhomemgmt.com

Pisgah Legal Services Highlands, NC 28741 pisgahlegal.org

Planters, Inc.

Scaly Mountain, NC 28775 plantersgarden.com

Pro Nails Highlands, NC 28741

Regions Bank Highlands,NC 28741 regions.com

Renovation Options Highlands, NC 28741 renovationoptions@gmail.com

Shear Elevations Highlands, NC 28741 facebook.com/ Shear-Elevations-Salon\

TNT Recycle Highlands, NC 28741 facebook.com/pages/category/ Waste-Management-Company/ TNT-Recycle

Town of Highlands Highlands, NC 28741 highlandsnc.org

Unfurl Massage & Bodyworks Highlands,NC 28741 unfurlmassagenc@gmail.com

United States Post Office Highlands, NC 28741 usps.com

Wilcox Travel Henderson, NC 28791 wilcoxtravel.com

First Citizens Bank Highlands, NC 28741 firstcitizens.com

Stephen Lucas CPA Highlands, NC 28741 lucascpa.com

SHOPPING & RETAIL

Annawear Highlands, NC 28741 annawearnc.com

Appalachian Harvest Highlands, NC 28741 jamsnjelly.com

Art Glass Creations Highlands, NC 28741

Bardo Highlands, NC 28741 bardo49nc.mycloveronline.com

Elena’s Women Golf & Activewear Highlands, NC 28741

Elevation: High Fashion for Women Highlands, NC 28741 facebook.com/ElevationofHighlands

Estate Jewelers of Highlands Highlands, NC 28741

Fibber Magee’s Closet Thrift Shop Highlands, NC 28741

Acorn’s Designer Fashions & Home Interiors Highlands, NC 28741 acornshighlandsnc.com

Bear Mountain Outfitters Highlands, NC 28741 facebook.com/bmo97

Bijou Highlands, NC 28741

Blue Elephant Consignment Highlands, NC 28741 facebook.com/ TheBlueElephantConsignmentStudio/

Bobby Grace Putters Highlands, NC 28741 bobbygraceputters.com

Bookworm Highlands, NC 28741 facebook.com/bookwormhighlands

C. Orrico Highlands, NC 28741 corrico.com

Cabin Couture Highlands, NC 28741 cabincouturehighlands.com

Celebrity Collections Highlands, NC 28741 celebritycollectionsjewelry.com

Charleston Shoe Company Highlands, NC 28741 charlestonshoeco.com

Citizen Wilder Highlands, NC 28741 stickcandles.com

ckSWAN Highlands, NC 28741 ckswan.com

Full House Gallery Highlands, NC 28741 fullhousegallery.com

Gold-n-Clipper Highlands, NC 28741

Highland Hiker Highlands,NC 28741 highlandhiker.com

Highland Hiker Shoes Highlands, NC 28741 highlandhiker.com

Highlands Fine Art & Estate Jewelry & Wine Shop Highlands, NC 28741 highlandsfineart.com

Highlands Gem Shop Highlands, NC 28741 highlandsgemshop.com

Highlands Hatter Highlands, NC 28741

Highlands Kids Highlands, NC 28741 highlandskids.com

Highlands Mercantile Highlands, NC 28741

Highlands Mountain Paws Highlands,NC 28741 facebook.com/mountainpawsnc/

ACP Home Interiors Highlands, NC 28741 acphomeinteriors.com

All About Bagzzz Highlands, NC 28741 potpourrihighlands.com

Allison Diane Clothing Highlands,NC 28741 allisondianeclothing.com

Crown Heritage Flowers Highlands, NC 28741 crownheritageflowers.com

Dutchmans Designs Highlands, NC 28741 dutchmansdesigns.com

J. Elliott Style Highlands, NC 28741 jelliottstyle.com

J. McLaughlin Clothing Store Highlands, NC 28741 jmclaughlin.com/stores/index/store/ id/68

Jannie Bean Fine Custom Jewelry Highlands, NC 28741 JannieBeandesigns.com

Lulu Blue Highlands, NC 28741 facebook.com/LuluBleuNC

Main Street Gifts Highlands, NC 28741 366mainstreet.com

Main Street Nursery Highlands, NC 28741 mainstreetnursery.com

Martha Anne’s on the Hill Highlands, NC 28741 marthaannes.com

McCulley’s Cashmere Highlands, NC 28741 mcculleys.com

Milli 446 Highlands, NC 28741

Mirror Lake Antiques Highlands, NC 28741 mirrorlakeantiques.com

Mountain Findings Thrift Shop Highlands, NC 28741 mountain-findings.edan.io

Mountain Heritage Highlands, NC 28741 heritagehighlands.com

Nancy’s Fancys and the Exchange Highlands, NC 28741

Oakleaf Flower & Garden Highlands, NC 28741 oakleafstyle.com

Potpourri (Town Square) Highlands, NC 28741 potpourrihighlands.com

Potpourri Eyewear Highlands, NC 28741 potpourrihighlands.com

Reclamations Highlands, NC 28741 globalreclamations.com

Reeves Hardware Highlands, NC 28741 reevesacehardware.com

Rosenthals Boutique Highlands, NC 28741 rosenthalsboutique.com

Scaly Mountain Crafters Scaly Mountain, NC 28775 scalymountaincrafters.com

Shakespeare & Co. Books Highlands, NC 28741 facebook.com/ShakespeareAnd CompanyBookseller

Shiraz Oriental Rug Gallery Highlands, NC 28741 shirazrugs.com

Silver Eagle Highlands, NC 28741 silvereaglegallery.com

Smitten Highlands, NC 28741 smittenofhighlands.com

S’more Kids Klothes Highlands, NC 28741 smorekidsklothes.biz

Spartina 449 Highlands, NC 28741 spartina449.com/highlands

Spoiled Rotten Highlands, NC 28741 spoiledrottenhighlands.com

Summer House Highlands, NC 28741 summerhousehighlands.com

T.A. Anderson Goldsmith Highlands, NC 28741 taagold.com

The Christmas Tree Highlands, NC 28741 christmastreeshops.com

The Molly Grace Highlands, NC 28741 themollygracecorp.com

The Southern Way Highlands, NC 28741 facebook.com/ TheSouthernWayofHighlands

The Spice & Tea Exchange Highlands, NC 28741 spiceandtea.com

WELLNESS

Acupuncture & Healing Arts Highlands, NC 28741 acupunturehighlands.com

Aery Chiropractic & Acupuncture Highlands, NC 28741 aerychiropractic.com

Blue Ridge Medical Highlands, NC 28741 brchs.com/directory/blue-ridge-healthhighlands-cashiers/

Center for Plastic Surgery Highlands, NC 28741 plasticsurgerytoday.com

Counseling Center Highlands, NC 28741 counseling-center.org Dyer & Ricke, PLLC Highlands, NC 28741

Four Seasons Compassion For Life Highlands, NC 28741

Highlands Cashiers Hospital Highlands, NC 28741 mission-health.org/ about-highlands-cashiers-hospital.php

Highlands Pharmacy Highlands, NC 28741 highlandspharmacy.com

Innovation & Creativity Institute Highlands,NC 28741 innovationandcreativityinstitute.com

TJ Bailey For Men Highlands, NC 28741 tjbmens.com

John Scott Baker, MD Highlands, NC 28741

My Choice Home Care Highlands, NC 28741 mychoicehome.care

Skin Lab Highlands, NC 28741facebook.com/ theskinlabnc/

Town and Country General Store Cashiers, NC 28717 facebook.com/tandcgeneralstore

Unique Elegance II Highlands, NC 28741 uniqueelegance.net

Vivace Highlands, NC 28741 vivacenc.com Wish & Shoes Highlands, NC 28741 wishandshoes.com

Wits End Highlands, NC 28741 facebook.com/pages/wits-end

Smoky Mountain Pregnancy Care Center Franklin, NC 28734 SMPCC.org

Yoga Highlands & Structural Integration Highlands, NC 28741 yogahighlands.coms

Highlands Cashiers Glenville Cullowhee Sapphire Lake Toxaway