BLUE RIDGE DIGEST - SUMMER 2017

SUMMER

the most widely distributed travel publication in the mountains

2017

Blue Ridge & Great Smoky Mountains

Taking the Summer Plunge Explore sliding rock PAGE 7 MUSIC | FUN | FOOD | FESTIVALS

RISE & SHINE

in Virginia’s Blue Ridge.

Discover the many ways to fill your days with fun and adventure in the Roanoke Valley in Virginia’s Blue Ridge, like hiking on the famous Appalachian Trail and mountain biking on the renowned trails at Carvin’s Cove. Head over to Smith Mountain Lake for fun on the water. Be surrounded by beauty, from the stunning scenery along the famous Blue Ridge Parkway to the splendor of arts and culture in the region’s many museums, galleries and performance venues.

Or, try all of the above.

PLAN YOUR BLUE RIDGE DAY AT

VisitVBR.com #BlueRidgeDay 800.635.5535

Mill Mountain Zoo 540-343-3241 MMZoo.org

The National D-Day Memorial 800-351-DDAY DDay.org

Smith Mountain Lake

540-721-1203 VisitSmithMountainLake.com

Virginia Transportation Museum

REGISTER ONLINE TO WIN A BLUE RIDGE MOUNTAINS GETAWAY

540-342-5670 VMT.org

Where do you want to be?

Don’t take the same old journey.

Be somewhere genuine.

Be somewhere amazing.

Be changed.

800.828.4244 ¡ visithendersonvillenc.org Call for your complimentary Getaway Guide

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P.O. Box 1758 Asheville, NC 28802 Phone: (828) 667-1607

40th Annual Sourwood Festival

www.blueridgedigest.com

THANKS TO THE BLUE RIDGE PARKWAY ASSOCIATION FOR THE USE OF THEIR CENTER-SPREAD MAP

Publisher: Thomas Hardy

tomhardy@blueridgedigest.com

FREE

Design: Imagewerks Productions Need good design? Call (828) 681-8029

FROM THE PUBLISHER

All-American experience in the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountain area. Your vacation dollars go further on U.S. soil and by spending time in the mountains, you not only benefit communities and businesses in your own back yard, but avoid flight delays and exchange rates.

Now more than ever, Americans are looking for ways to stretch their dollars, spend time with family and friends, reconnect to the wonders of the natural world, and, if only for a moment, take a breath of fresh air.

The time you spend in the Blue Ridge Mountain area will provide all of this and more: go whitewater rafting, experience historic and cultural sites, find unique shopping areas, take a hike, taste delicious local foods, and just breathe the clean mountain air. Hopefully this issue of the Blue Ridge Digest will be an aid in planning your trip and a keepsake to remember your vacation in the mountains.

Enjoy your stay!

COVER PHOTO CREDIT TO WWW.ROMANTICASHEVILLE.COM

Performers are regional artist who donate their talents for the pleasure of festival attendees.

With 200 vendor booths there is sure to be something • About 200 Vendors for everyone. This years • Arts & Crafts festival items include: gourd art, • Children’s Area plants including iris, orchids • Specialty Items and carnivorous, pet treats and • Great Food accessories, jewelry of all types • Wonderful Music mostly handmade in America, • Dancing art, photography, pottery and glass, hand turned wood bowls and birdhouses. Children’s items include toys, books, clothes, hair bows, and novelty items.

There is food and drink to Admission satisfy every taste: home churned ice cream, funnel cakes, fudge, nuts, kettle corn, all types of vendor food, and BBQ at the activities. Children’s free fun park famous Owen High School Band includes a variety of activities, Boosters BBQ smoke pit. games and face painting.

Friday - August 11th 7pmCarnival rides for all ages.

10pm Sourwood Idol Contest at Free entertainment in the big the Big Tent next to Depot music tent includes toe tapping Saturday - August 12th music: blue grass, country, folk, Festival Hours 9am-8pm square dancers, gospel, and rock Sourwood5K.com 8am & roll – several acts on the hour!

Sunday August 13th Festival Hours 9am-5pm

Over 200 Vendor Booths!

All articles and information supplied are printed accurately to the best knowledge of the management. The Blue Ridge Digest is not responsible for errors beyond its control.

Welcome to the Mountains!

Thank you for making your vacation an

August 12 & 13, 2017

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he Sourwood Festival, presented annually by the Black Mountain Swannanoa Chamber of Commerce, is a family fun festival which draws 30,000+ people from all over the Southeast. Free to the public, this non – alcohol, pet friendly, downtown street festival can be the highlight of your summertime

For more information:Black Mountain Swannanoa Chamber of Commerce at 800-669-2301 or www.sourwoodfestival.com

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HIDDE

GEMS

RV SERVICES

ASHEVILLE, NC Located just off I-40 exit #44 at 120 Highland Center Blvd.

30+ years RV repair experience.

Contact: markcoyne@ rocketmail.com or (828) 553-7111

Best Pick in Virginia for…

tre ex Thea at the R ers Market d a o R Farm oked pping, f the Cro ate Park • Galax s • Unique Sho including the o ic s u M t m ts Time Ja ial Even er Trail S New Riv egrass and Old s • Annual Spec lu n B tio Weekly mmoda Convention! nd Acco r’s Dining a ous Old Fiddle am F d rl o W

888-217-8823 or 276-238-8130 www.visitgalax.com

Forget your cares...

… and return to a place and time you thought had passed. Alleghany County and Sparta NC are home to the Blue Ridge Mountain community where Parkway construction began. And it is still home to a relaxed, rural pace of life that retains much of the unspoiled beauty that it shares with the famous scenic byway.

With two state parks, New River and Stone Mountain, plus Doughton Park, the Parkway’s largest developed recreation area, camping, picnicking, hiking, fishing and bicycling opportunities abound. The New River offers canoeing, tubing, kayaking and fishing and is a welcome respite from summer heat.

Get schooled in mountain music at the Alleghany Jubilee’s weekly barn dance (alleghanyjubilee.com), the Monday jam at Crouse Park and at the big Fiddlers Convention (alleghanyfiddlersconvention.com).

Events like the Blue Ridge Mountain Fair and Mountain Heritage Festival (Sparta-NC.com/heritage) highlight the area’s craft heritage. Enjoy down-home fun at distinctively local pastimes, such as the demolition derby, and mud slings. Look for other upcoming events at CoolSparta.com.

Sparta, NC / Alleghany County

The community offers motels, bed and breakfast inns and vacation cabins to make your stay special. And there’s no better sleeping than snuggled under covers during cool mountain nights.

When you visit, stop by the Visitors Center, 58 S. Main St., just 7 miles south of the US 21/ Parkway intersection at Mile Post 229.6. Our welcome mat is always out and we’ll make sure you don’t miss a thing.

MP 229.6 - 58 S. Main St. • Sparta, NC • 800-372-5473 • Cool Sparta.com

Enjoy a delicious homemade breakfast

Our guests are number one - from check-in to check-out.

Our staff is always ready to be at your service in friendly mountain style. You’ll really enjoy the spacious rooms.

Conference Room Guest Laundry Restaurant on Site Free Wireless Internet 24-Hour Staff Open all year long

Beautiful scenic views

800-538-3508

Toll Free Reservations: 1-888-372-2501

contact@gladevalley.com Close to the Blue Ridge Parkway, mp 229 330 Shaw Lane Glade Valley, NC 28627

Rustic cabin also available

341 N. Main St. Sparta, NC

www.AlleghanyInn.com

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SUMMER 2017

Nelson County, VA

On the Sunrise Side of the Blue Ridge

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xperience a scenic getaway to Nelson County from MP 0-27 of the Blue Ridge Parkway. Nelson County is home to 10 wineries, 5 breweries, 2 cideries and 3 distilleries along The Brew Ridge Trail and the Nelson 151 and Jefferson Heritage Trails.

Visit the Waltons Mountain Museum in Schuyler with photos and memorabilia from the popular tv show created by Earl Hamner, Jr. Visit orchards for peaches, pick your own strawberries, blueberries and fresh produce in summer, and apples in the fall along the Blue Ridge Fruit Loop Trail. The Nelson Farmers Market is also open May-October on Saturdays in Nellysford. Discover history at the Oakland Museum or Rockfish Foundation Natural History Center, or visit a local

artisan studios on the Monticello Artisan Trail.

Crabtree Falls is the highest cascading waterfall east of the Missisippi, located just off the Blue Ridge Parkway (MP 27), with an optional hike to the top. Other activities include hiking along the Appalachian Trail, biking scenic byways, or paddling or fishing on the Tye or James Rivers. Local food and restaurants abound. At the end of the day, relax at a bed & breakfast, or a cozy cabin with Blue Ridge mountain views.

Contact:

Nelson County Tourism 8519 Thomas Nelson Hwy. Lovingston, VA 22949 434-263-7015 www.nelsoncounty.com

Your Base Camp for Mountain Adventures

on the Blue Ridge Parkway Spruce Pine, N.C. Voted "BEST OF THE BLUE RIDGE�

www.bear-den.com • 828-765-2888

SUMMER 2017

Taking the Summer Plunge Story & photo by: Lindsey Coyne

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L

ooking for a spot to cool off after hiking in the Blue Ridge Mountains? Sliding Rock of Pisgah National Forest located near Brevard, NC provides the perfect place for adventure and enjoyment of the forest’s pristine beauty. The recreational area features two places to view the falls, one above the rock and one below. A short walk brings you to the base of the falls where the real action begins! Cascading water descends over the face of the 60-foot rock creating the perfect slide for those craving an adrenaline rush. Thrill seekers of every age form a single file line awaiting their turn to slide feet-first down the waterfall. Sliders will plummet into a chilling yet refreshing 8-foot deep pool then swim a short distance back to shore. Although Sliding Rock is open for visitation year-round, lifeguards are only present during the summer season (May 27-September 4) from 10 AM- 6 PM. Restrooms are located on-sight but are only available for use during the summer season as well. There is a fee of $2.00 per person to visit Sliding Rock allowing you to observe the falls or take the plunge- if you dare! Sliding Rock is located just a few miles from the Davidson River Campground and the Blue Ridge Parkway, making it an ideal and convenient destination to add to anyone’s summer bucket list.

Make Make the the most most of of your your Blue Blue Ridge Ridge experience experience with with us… us…

Hemlock Inn A Blowing Rock Tradition

828-295-7987 • HemlockInn.net 134 Morris Street, Blowing Rock, NC 28605

Our historic inn offers gracious dining, rocker-filled porches, fifty cheerful rooms and a warm library.

Come read, rest, ramble and romp in our mountains!

1/2 mile from Parkway milepost 443 Balsam Gap exit 828.456.9498 • 800.224.9498 www.balsammountaininn.net

www.blueridgedigest.com

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Southwest Virginia’s Premiere Motorcycle Trail The Claw of the Dragon

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t would be a challenge for motorcycle riders to find a more beautiful driving trail than the scenic back roads of Southwest Virginia. Looping through the Blue Ridge Mountain range, The Claw of the Dragon is one of the most popular destinations in the South for motorcycle enthusiasts.

With the charming town of Wytheville, Virginia, as the trail’s center or hub, the trail features loops totaling over 350 miles as it ventures over to the community of Marion to the west and Galax to the east. The drive meanders through parts of seven

Virginia counties but is easily accessible from Interstates 77 or 81 as a starting part.

While in the Wytheville area, riders will enjoy a challenging ride up Big Walker Mountain.

As the 16-mile scenic byway makes it way to the top, the rider is immersed in breathtaking flora and fauna of each season. At the top, take a rest at Big Walker Lookout, climb the 100-foot tower, and enjoy a snack in the country store. Wytheville’s downtown historic district allows visitors to leisurely walk the streets and discover the history that has made this a town of hospitality for over

Visit Doughton Park On the Blue Ridge Parkway, between Mileposts 238.5 and 248 New for 2017 is the Doughton Park Visitor Center located at Milepost 241. It is closed Tuesdays/Wednesdays.

The Park contains 6,000 acres and more than 30 miles of hiking trails meander through the park’s pastures and along its streams. Hikers may encounter 25 stream crossings through ankle to knee-deep water.

Visitors can stretch their legs on modest strolls or embark on more ambitious, day-long outings. Some trails may be strenuous.

200 hundred years. Interesting shopping, museums, and the historic flavor of the 1776 Log House Restaurant are just a few of the must-see stops along the way. An evening of music can be enjoyed at the Wohlfahrt Haus Dinner Theatre or one of several music venues nearby. Wytheville has a variety of lodging accommodations from all-suite hotels to bed & breakfasts and cabins.

A historic boutique hotel will open soon in the downtown district.

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ust a few miles from the center of Galax, Virginia, visitors can access the 57-mile New River Trail (NRT). Part of a state park by the same name, NRT follows an abandoned railroad right-of-way. A variety of recreational opportunities are available from hiking and biking to horseback riding and camping. The waters of the New River provide premiere fishing and boating experiences.

Contrary to its name, the New

SUMMER 2017 For more information about the entire trail, visit www.

ClawoftheDragon.com.

To learn about all that Wytheville offers, call tollfree at 1-877-347-8307 or visit http://www.

VisitWytheville.com.

Wytheville, Virginia…

There’s Only One.

River is believed to be the second oldest river in the world and one of the few that flows north. It parallels 39 miles of the New River Trail. For more information visit: www.dcr. virginia.gov/state-parks/newriver-trail or (276) 699-6778.

The Galax Visitor Center at 110 E Grayson St or the Wytheville Visitor Center at 975 Tazewell St can also provide you with trail planning information and tips

SUMMER 2017

www.blueridgedigest.com

Music is in the Air I

f you stand in center of Galax, Virginia, and listen closely, past the sounds of a busy downtown, you can hear it. The notes play on the breeze, no matter the season. It’s the sound of decades of music ingrained into the soul of the community.

Why is this small Southwest Virginia city proclaimed the “World Capital of Old-Time Music”? Perhaps, it is the fact that generations have insured this important part of their Appalachian heritage is handed down from old to young.

Since 1935, Galax has been the home to the Old Fiddler’s

Convention, one of the most prominent traditional music contests in the United States.

Each August, hundreds come to play in Felts Park, and thousands come to listen. Musicians as old as the convention itself or barely old enough to hold an instrument sit side-by-side and play and sing and learn. The number of steps made by those who get up and flatfoot or tap their feet along with the melodies would

surely circumference the globe.

This year’s 82nd anniversary on August 7-12, 2017 will be as rich in tradition as it was the very first year.

Music is not the only thing that makes a trip to Galax worth the drive, there are an abundance of events throughout the spring and summer for relaxing familyfriendly activities.

This June 9-10, 2017,

9 HoustonFest honors the legacy of one young man, Houston Caldwell, who had a passion for the growth of musical heritage and a commitment to community service. This year’s schedule of performers includes The Earls of Leicester, Jerry Douglas, John Berry, EmiShunshine, Flat Lonesome, Carson Peters & Iron Mountain, Jeff Brown & Still Lonesome,The Church Sisters, and many more. The music is the best and brightest of the time. The proceeds give back by benefiting a local fire department.

For more information: www.visitgalax.com or (276) 238-8130.

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Visit Two of Virginia’s Top Attractions in Bedford!

N ow in Bedford County you can visit two of Virginia’s top historic attractions for less than $20 per person. Thomas Jefferson’s Poplar Forest and the National D-Day Memorial have teamed together to offer a special $19 combo admission ticket for visitors planning to tour both properties.

Poplar Forest, one of only two homes that Thomas Jefferson designed for his personal use,

served as the founding father’s personal, and very private, retirement retreat. Awarded the National Trust for Historic Preservation’s Honor Award, the meticulous and ongoing restoration of the house and landscape is considered one of the most important projects in the country.

Located in the town suffering the highest per capita D-Day losses in the nation, the National

STEP AWAY FROM THE BACKYARD AND STEP OUTSIDE YOURSELF

Start your adventure today.

800.852.9506

ExploreBoone.com

D-Day Memorial honors the Allied forces that participated in the invasion of Normandy on June 6, 1944 during World War II. The Memorial’s English Garden, haunting invasion plaza, and striking Victory Arch are powerful permanent tributes to the valor, fidelity, and sacrifice of D-Day participants.

The combo ticket represents a savings of 27% off the combined admission fees to the two historic sites, and is valid for one admission per site for up to one

year after date of purchase. The ticket can be purchased in person at the Bedford Area Welcome Center or Poplar Forest, and online at www.poplarforest.org/ tickets.

For more information on visiting Bedford, call 540-587-5681, or go to www.visitbedford.com.

The Welcome Center is located at 816 Burks Hill Road, Bedford, and is open daily 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.

61st Mt. Mitchell Crafts Fair Aug. 4-5 The Mt. Mitchell Crafts Fair, is one of the largest and longest running crafts fairs in the Blue Ridge Mountains.

More than 200 artists and crafters will set up around the historic Burnsville Town Square.

Shoppers select from custom furniture made with local materials, colorful quilts, blacksmith creations varying from utilitarian to whimsical, and various styles of pottery and jewelry. The area is particularly known for its collection of glass artists.

Artists and crafters will demonstrate their talents as visitors admire their work. Music, dancing and performances take place on the stage both days.

Southern fair staples, such as kettle corn, homemade ice cream, barbecue and sweet tea, will be served.

9am to 5pm Friday & Saturday. Admission is free.

For more information visit www.ExploreBurnsville.com or call (828) 682-7413.

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2017 VILLAGE SQUARE ART AND CRAFT SHOWS JUNE 24 & 25 & AUGUST 26 & 27

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See Inside A MOUNTAIN!

Don’t Miss!

North Carolina's Only Caverns!

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hen planning a summer trip to the mountains, think about scheduling it for the weekends of June 24th & 25th or August 26th & 27th so you can attend the popular Highlands Village Square Art & Craft Shows. Cool off at 4118’ while browsing 75+ booths filled with high quality local and regionally made fine art and crafts.

Rustic furniture, leather purses, blacksmithing, chili sauces, and pottery are just a few of the items you will find there.

Kelsey-Hutchinson “Founders” Park on Pine Street (at N. 5th St.) is a beautiful venue for the show. The pavilion will feature musicians to enliven the atmosphere. You will find good food to eat in the park and the Highlands Village Square next door. Bring the kids for fun in the interactive water fountain.

While in Highlands, be sure to visit some of the excellent restaurants and shops in town. The charm of Highlands, NC is sure to capture your heart.

Rotary of Highlands Mountaintop sponsors the show. Part of the proceeds will benefit the park. For more info call coordinator Cynthia Strain at (828) 787-2021 or follow us on Facebook.

EVENTS INFO Highlands Village Square Art & Craft Show;10 to 5 in KH Founders Park at Pine and N. 5th St. Features local and regional artisans with fine art, pottery, rustic furniture, metal, leather, etc. Live music, food. Free admission. Sponsored by Rotary of Highlands Mountaintop. For info call (828) 787-2021.

LINVILLE CAVERNS 19929 US 221 North Marion, NC 800-419-0540 828-756-4171

Located on U.S. 221 between Linville & Marion, NC. - Just 3 1/2 miles south of the Blue Ridge Parkway, Exit Milepost 317.4, turn left on U.S. 221 toward Linville Falls Village & Marion, NC

linvillecaverns.com

Best for last?

Don’t miss the Parkway’s grand finale in Haywood County, North Carolina

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tunning vistas, wildlife encounters, ambling by-ways, Appalachian heritage, outdoor adventure, quaint downtowns, culinary arts: the best hits of the Blue Ridge Parkway converge as the scenic road makes its final crescendo through the Smoky Mountains of Haywood County, North Carolina.

Have your camera at the ready as you course along the Parkway near Maggie Valley, home to the Great Smoky Mountain elk herd. The stately elk roam the Parkway as a wildlife corridor and sightings are common.

SWT-12007 BRPD_ad.indd 1

The Parkway makes a sweeping arc around Haywood County with four entrances at convenient intervals — so it’s easy to slide on and off to experience our authentic Appalachian destinations of Maggie Valley, Waynesville, Lake Junaluska, Canton and Clyde.

Homegrown in Haywood is more than just a motto here.

Farm-to-table restaurants and artisan foods abound, along with pick-your-own farms. Toast to the spirit of the Smokies at Elevated Mountain Distilling Co. in Maggie Valley or sample the craft brewery scene and wine bars of downtown Waynesville.

Pay homage to American motorcycle history at the renown Wheels Through Time Museum in Maggie Valley or play a scenic round of golf at one of our five signature courses. Save time to explore the fine arts and handicrafts along the tree-lined brick sidewalks of Waynesville and the curiosity shops lining the mountain-rimmed boulevard of Maggie Valley.

The musical legacy of the N.C. Smokies fills the air in Haywood County. Kick up your heels at a downhome mountain street dance in Waynesville, spread a blanket under the stars at the Maggie Valley Festival grounds or lounge by the river at Canton’s Pickin’ in the Park.

For more info: visitncsmokies.com

3/26/12 1:46 PM

Mountain Tubing Can Be an Easy Float or a Wild, Whitewater Ride

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ant to have a full day of outdoor fun for just $6 a person?

That’s the average cost of a tube rental at Deep Creek, the scenic recreation area in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, just outside Bryson City, NC. The Deep Creek ride consists of two sections. The upper "whitewater" section flows

from Indian Creek through the narrow Deep Creek gorge. It’s a wild, bouncy ride that often separates the rider from the tube, especially when the water is swift after a rain.

At the end of the rapids section, there's a wide, deep swimming hole that provides a relaxing break before getting back on the tube. The lower

section, which is wider, easier going and more appropriate for smaller kids, begins at the swimming hole and passes a beautiful waterfall.

Tube rental companies are located just outside the Park.

After renting your tube, load it on your car and drive to the parking area at the Deep Creek trailhead. Then carry your tube

up the wide trail to the put-in spot.

While well known for tubing, Deep Creek is also a great spot to enjoy trout fishing, picnicking, hiking, mountain biking, camping and three sparkling waterfalls.

GreatSmokies.com/tubing 828-488-3681

PEACE AND QUIET ISN’T ALWAYS QUIET. In Shenandoah National Park, it’s easy to find solace in the secrecy of a mountain forest. Where the leafy rustle of heavy breezes and the bright cascade of tucked-away waterfalls orchestrate the perfect soundtrack of nature’s silence. Hear it, and see it all, with a stay at Skyland and Big Meadows Lodge. Book your room today at goshenandoah.com or call 877-313-2586.

Skyland and Big Meadows Lodge are managed by Delaware North at Shenandoah National Park. ©2016 DNC Parks & Resorts at Shenandoah, Inc.

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www.blueridgedigest.com

The Wythe County Genealogical and Historical Association

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re you looking for ancestors in Southwest Virginia? Please visit the Wythe County Genealogical and Historical Association (GHA), Regional Research Center in Wytheville.

The office is open five days a week with volunteers to assist in your search. This award-winning organization

is noted for outstanding service in the promotion of genealogy in Virginia. The Association’s library has more than 1,850 publications on the shelf to help the visitor find their ancestral connection to Southwest Virginia.

Hundreds of visitors travel to this Virginia location every year to search for information about their ancestors; few go away without information. There is no fee to use the resources at the center.

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The Association has published nineteen reference books including records of births, deaths, marriages, obituaries, and women voters’ lists, court orders, among others. The archives have about 5,000 photographs of people and places of the area. Copies of marriage records from the courthouse number about 35,000, and a list of burials in the county where tombstone

August 5, 12, 19, 26 August 17, 18, 19 September 23

records are available number more than 18,000.

The office is located at 165 S. 11th Street in Wytheville, Virginia. Our hours and details of all of our programs are listed on line at our web site: www. wcgha.org. We can be reached at 276-228-2445 and by E-mail at wythecogha@gmail.com. We look forward to helping you find your ancestors.

Little Switzerland Square Dances 43rd Annual NC Bluegrass Festival Old Fort Railroad Day

October 13

Little Switzerland’s Fall Craft Market

October 14

Mountain Glory Festival

Details and other events are online.

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www.blueridgetravelers.com

SUMMER 2017

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Experience Craft Brews and Mountain Views in Hendersonville, NC As the weather warms and spring bursts into bloom, Henderson County farmers markets come alive with fresh product, homemade goods, and unique crafts. To make exploring Henderson County markets easier for visitors and locals alike, Henderson County has produced a handy guide to the Farm Market Trail.

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he Farm Market Trail includes destinations from Flat Rock, Hendersonville, Mills River, and Tuxedo.

Depending on the season markets offer an incredible variety of fresh, locally grown fruits and vegetables, herbs, flowers and native plants, cheeses, meats, jams and jellies, and traditional arts and crafts. The guide includes a map and information on the hours and produce available

each of the markets. Guides are available in the Visitor Center at 201 S. Main Street in Hendersonville, or online at www.visithendersonvillenc.org/ farm-market-trail.pdf.

Henderson County has been an agricultural center for well over two centuries, and produces more apples than anywhere else in North Carolina (the 7th biggest apple producer in the nation.) Fresh, locally grown produce is an integral part of the history and character of the region, and the Farm Market Trail provides a taste of Henderson County’s agricultural heritage.

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The Blue Ridge Music Trails of North Carolina are nestled within the mountains and foothills of the state, a region known for its spectacular beauty, moderate climate, Cherokee heritage, handmade crafts, small family farms, and, of course, its rich musical traditions. The geographic footprint of the Blue Ridge Music Trails NC comprises twenty-nine counties in the western third of the state.

This region has been home to musicians whose artistry has shaped many forms of American music. Today young people in the region are learning these traditions and transforming them into new forms of roots music.

BlueRidgeMusicNC.com • #BlueRidgeMusicNC

NEW

The City that Country Music Built

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ust a few hours west of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, visitors from around the globe flock to Music City to immerse themselves in its rich history and unique culture.

Whether exploring the honkytonks on Broadway or enjoying a pop-up show at a local music venue, one place in Nashville is not to be missed – the Country

Music Hall of Fame® and Museum. Celebrating 50 years in 2017 and situated in the heart of downtown, the “Smithsonian of Country Music” offers visitors a comprehensive, vibrant telling of the country music story, dating back 150 years and leading up to the present day.

The non-profit’s mission is to identify, collect, preserve

and educate. Housing over 2.5 million items in its archives, the museum showcases only a fraction of those items in its galleries. In addition to the museum’s core exhibition Sing Me Back Home, which features a chronological telling of the evolving history of country music, the museum hosts a wide array of limited-engagement exhibits, including Dylan, Cash, and the Nashville Cats: A New Music City presented by Citi (closing December 31, 2017 Charlie Daniels: Million Mile Reflections (closing Sept. 5, 2017); and more.

No visit to Nashville would be complete without stops at the museum’s other properties: celebrating 60 years in 2017,

Historic RCA Studio B, located on Music Row, is the site of landmark recordings from legends such as Elvis Presley, Dolly Parton and Waylon Jennings. Visitors can also tour Hatch Show Print, one of the oldest working letterpress shops in America, located at the museum.

Whether you are a country music fan or not, the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum is a cultural touchstone offering one-of-a-kind experiences that will deepen the visitors’ appreciation for the city that country music built. For the latest information, visit www. countrymusichalloffame.org

1150 Motel Drive Woodstock, VA 22664 540-459-7111

www.hamptoninnwoodstock.com

Hampton Inn & Suites Woodstock, VA      

The Best Place to Stay & Play in the Shenandoah Valley!

Complimentary Full Hot Breakfast Indoor Pool & Whirlpool Complimentary Wi-Fi State of the Art Fitness Center Business Center

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Art in the Park

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ow in its 55th year, Art in the Park has become a signature summer feature in Blowing Rock, showcasing exemplary work in mediums from pottery to fiber, glass to metalwork. Each free, outdoor show presents between

80 and 97 regional artists with a single highlighted artisan. 2017 Saturday dates and featured artists are May 20: Tim Turner, clay; June 10: Courtney Tomchik, sculpture; July 15: Joanna White, fiber; August 12: Julie Simon, jewelry; September 9: Andy Costine, wood; October 7: Kue King, metal. Prices for objects at Art in the Park, from a handmade postcard to a large piece of furniture, range from $5 to $10,000. Free parking is available nearby, along with frequent free trolley service from the nearby Tanger Outlets and Food Lion. Park once and enjoy the day! The atmosphere is lively yet relaxing, offering a stroll among beautiful and interesting works in the vibrant village of Blowing Rock. There’s so much more to add to your Blue Ridge Summer and Art in the Park itinerary! Catch a performance at Music on the Lawn on Friday

BLUE RIDGE PARKWAY INFO: BRPweather.com Your source for Parkway weather. Don’t get caught in the rain, fog, or snow! Know what lies ahead on all 469 miles. Accurate forecasts and local weather stations plus live Parkway weather cameras at

POSSIBLE ROAD CLOSURES ON THE BLUE RIDGE PARKWAY

A real-time road closure map for the entire Parkway is available at: www.nps.gov/blri/planyourvisit/ roadclosures.htm

Need Travel Help?

Visit www.blueridgeparkway.org and start planning your Parkway journey today! Discover activities and points of interest for the entire Blue Ridge Parkway region - including lodging and camping, top-rated attractions, arts, history and more.

evenings, or a Concert in the Park on Sunday afternoons following the May through September shows. Enjoy the local shops & restaurants, hiking trails, and

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nearby attractions like The Blowing Rock, Blue Ridge Parkway, and Grandfather Mountain.

See details at BlowingRock.com

LEGEND

The wondrous profusion of mountain flowers in spring and early summer, the high altitude coolness of the forest-clad mountains in summer, and the glorious coloring of these mountains in autumn provide an everchanging appeal.

The Blue Ridge Parkway is open 365 days a year, weather permitting. Sometimes road repair is undertaken in the winter months and detours are posted. The Parkway is not plowed or salted in the winter, so after snow or ice events, portions may be closed until the weather warms and makes the roadway safe for travel again. So as not to be disappointed when planning a winter drive, visit: http://go.nps.gov/ parkway-realtime-map

Blue Ridge Parkway Facilities 01 Designates Milepost

New River G National Riv

N Bluefield Pennington Gap

Morristown

40

92

Pigeon Forge

129

Townsend

Tapoco

143

Murphy 129 Blue Ridge

19 76

129

441

19

Andrews

74

Bryson City

Topton

Hot Springs

455

Asheville

Waynesville

Waterrock 443 Knob Graveyard Fields Sylva

Franklin

384

Parkway Visitor Visitor Center Center

26

Mount Pisgah

Hendersonville 64 Cashiers 441 Brevard N Hiwassee C Highlands Sapphire Lake Toxaway GA 76

Crabtree Falls

221

Saluda 9

Blowing Rock 421

Morganton 321 Valdese

18

To Greenville

Columbus

Shelby

NC SC

Gastonia 85

8

Statesville 70

16

To Charlotte

WinstonSalem Clemmons 421

40

Hickory

321

52

601

North Wilkesboro 16 Union Grove

150

108

11

Elkin

Newton

74

Tryon

90

64

Chimney Lake Lure Rock 74A

Flo Hillsville Laurel 58 Fork Fancy Gap

Galax 199 Laurel Springs 221 Sparta 215 Stua West Cumberland Knob way VA ge Park 229 d Jefferson i R Mount 248 Airy N C lue 21 Boone B 261 77 18 Doughton Park Pilot E.B. Jeffress Park 74 291 Mount

Lenoir

40

Black Mtn.

Chr

Wytheville 21

Moses H. Cone Mem. Park Julian Price Mem. Park Linville Falls 18

330

382

Clayton

To Atlanta

312

Spruce Pine

Craggy Gardens Marion

388 393

411

107

Burnsville

Little Switzerland Weaverville

63

Maggie Valley

Sugar Mountain

Mars Hill

Marshall

40

469

Hayesville

Chatuge Lake Blairsville

NC

Hartford

Cherokee

28

Robbinsville

68

Cosby Gatlinburg

19E

Erwin

TN

70

Newport

Great Smoky Mountains National Park

165 Fontana Village

Cherohala Skyway

Sevierville

Maryville 411

To Chattanooga 411

26

Greeneville

Farragut

75

Elizabethton

Radfor

Pulaski

Mouth of Wilson Independence

58

City

Johnson City Jonesborough

81

Damascus

421 Mountain

81

Knoxville

To Nashville

Bristol

Dublin

77

Marion

Abingdon

11E

75

16

20 km

Kingsport

33

Norris

19

20 mi

0

VA TN

To Lexington

0

4

100

19

Mooresville 77

85

Lexington

52

Salisbury

Kannapolis

52

Concord

To Gettysburg, PA

Martinsburg Charles Town Harpers Ferry 340

Winchester

Leesburg

81

VA

W

V

Front Royal

New Market

33

66

340

Luray

Harrisonburg

250

220

42 11

Waynesboro

64

Gorge ver

220

WV

Buchanan 311

460

Salem Blacksburg Roanoke

rd

121 120

ristiansburg 8

Rocky Mount

Meadows of Dan art

C

501

FREE DOWNLOAD!

Charlottesville

15

Find attractions, history, nearby communities, lodging, hiking trails and more with or without connectivity.

Cell service/internet conductivity is not 100% in or even near the mountains in many places.

522

64

This is a very comprehensive app with lots of information, and best downloaded on a wireless connection.

20

To Richmond

24

Appomattox

Farmville

Altavista Gretna

40

Chatham 29

DOWNLOAD HERE!

58

Danville 360

Eden 220

Reidsville

158

Kernersville

29

High Point 85

40 85 421

Snow Camp

Roxboro 49

Burlington

58

501

158

87

Greensboro

311

49

Culpeper

29 33

64

Amherst

460

8

64

29

231

29

Lynchburg

Bedford

Martinsville

tain

109

Vinton

112

40

57

0

229

“America’s To Washington, DC Favorite Drive” at your Warrenton fingertips

Peaks of Otter

Burnt Chimney 43

58

311

Otter Creek

63

220

Rocky Knob

A

60

Glasgow

460

Smart View

177

n na

Lovingston

Roanoke Mountain

221

oyd

106

e Sh

Afton

45

Buena Vista

90

e lin Sky doah

522

Humpback Rocks

Lexington

Natural Bridge

VA

340

Staunton

39

Elkton

D

Monterey

riv Na e tio na lP ar k

211

50

Gas Availability near the Blue Ridge Parkway

No gasoline is available on the Parkway. Gas is available not far off the Parkway at any of these US or State Highway intersections:

To Durham

220

Asheboro

US 441

MP 469.1

less than 5 miles south

20

www.blueridgedigest.com

SUMMER 2017

Running on Floyd time…

Floyd is as much a state of mind as it is a destination.

Located atop the magnificent Blue Ridge Plateau in southwestern Virginia, Floyd is a haven of natural beauty renowned for their hospitality and for a vibrant culture of music, arts, local foods and wines, and outdoor recreation.

This summer so many great happenings and new events to check out in Floyd!

Jump in at Smith Mountain Lake.

Located just off the Blue Ridge Parkway! Also be sure to check out the Bedford Wine Trail, Historic Centertown, and the Bedford Artisan Trail.

877-HI-PEAKS • VisitBedford.com

Stay in the mountains, by the water, or somewhere in between!

Follow in the footsteps of Thomas Jefferson at Poplar Forest. @VisitBedfordVA

Discover 360-degree views at Sharp Top, Peaks of Otter.

Honor heroes at the National D-Day Memorial.

Bedford Area Welcome Center & Tourism 816 Burks Hill Road, Bedford, VA 24523

The Town of Floyd is introducing “A Small Town Summer”. A series of free events taking place in The Warren G Lineberry Park (downtown Floyd) throughout the summer on Thursday evenings.

The Floyd Plein Air Festival, August 14-19 is a new and exciting event where artists are invite to join fellow national and regional painters for a WEEK of plein air painting in sites across beautiful Floyd County, Virginia!

Cirque Du Floyd @ Chantilly Farms - August 19, 4:00 pm 10:00 pm The event will feature an evening performance from New York City based acrobatic aerial cirque performers, ‘ImaginAerial’. Performing to international acclaim and sold out audiences around the globe, the group’s dynamic style of storytelling and distinctive acrobatics in the air and on the ground have made ImaginAerial one of the most sought after performance companies of

its kind. StoryUp, an aerial storytelling troop based in North Carolina, will be presenting aweinspiring tales with a unique twist that will capture the imagination of children and adults alike!

Leading up to the evening’s spectacular aerial cirque performances, the event will feature captivating performance artists, roaming performers, live music, great food, beer/wine garden, activities for all ages and lots more excitement!

Other samplings of summer events: FloydFest Wednesday – Sunday, July 26 - 30 Chateau’s Black Dog Beach Festival Saturday, August 12 Floyd County Tractor Fun Run, Saturday, August 19 Floyd Chamber Rubber Duck Race! & Renew the New River Clean up in Floyd Saturday, August 26 Floyd Yoga Jam August 31- September 3

For more information about Floyd happenings, go to www.VisitFloydVA.com or stop by or call the Floyd Visitor Center, 109 East Main St. (across from the courthouse), 540-745-4407

SUMMER 2017

www.blueridgedigest.com

21

Pigeon Forge is Waiting for you!

It’s summertime and that means it’s prime time to visit Pigeon Forge and the Great Smoky Mountains in East Tennessee. Whether you’re staying a week or weekend, this family-friendly vacation destination offers a wide variety of attractions and events to suit all ages.

Master storyteller Dolly Parton recently opened Dolly Parton’s Smoky Mountain Adventures Dinner & Show, a personal story featuring the romantic tale of her parents’ meeting and the rousing rivalry between the Owenes and the Partons. Spiced with Parton’s

songs and storytelling, the show is a Smoky Mountain story that is receiving rave reviews. Guests enjoy a four-course feast as they watch amazing acrobatic performers display their abilities on trampoline, Chinese poles, aerial silks suspended three stories above the stage and in the amazing Electro-wheel.

Visitors to Pigeon Forge have a variety of lodging options to choose from, including two new properties. The 98-room Summit at Country Cascades, which includes a waterpark exclusively for resort guests, is open now. Later this summer,

the laidback, tropically-inspired Margaritaville Island Inn will welcome guests at The Island in Pigeon Forge. Amenities include

a complimentary Island Breakfast Bar, hot tub, fire pits and more.

For more information, please visit www.MyPigeonForge.com.

STAY AT THE LODGE.

It’s easy to see what matters most from these heights. Ancient peaks. Breathtaking views. And memories to last a lifetime. Peaks of Otter Lodge guests will find it all, from the majestic Sharp Top Mountain, to scenic Abbott Lake and the Blue Ridge Parkway – America’s favorite drive.

Book your reservation at PeaksOfOtter.com or call 888-454-7711.

Hospitality by Delaware North, Inc. ©2017. DNC Parks & Resorts at Peaks of Otter Lodge.

22

www.blueridgedigest.com

SUMMER 2017

A PLACE OF BEAUTY – A PLACE OF SONG… This is The Crooked Road.

T

he Crooked Road is a 330 mile driving route through the scenic mountains of Southwest Virginia that connects nine major heritage music venues and a thriving network of over 60 traditional music jams, festivals, and concerts in gracious communities all along the way. On The Crooked Road you will discover that the roots of American music run deep and wide. And those roots feed a living, breathing music scene as thriving and vibrant today as it has ever been. Settlers to the region brought the European fiddle and the African banjo, which blended together to create a unique sound that’s been echoing across these mountains for generations. Along The Crooked Road you can experience authentic musical traditions that have been shaped by some of the greatest names in American music, including the Carter Family, the Stonemans, and the Stanley Brothers. Be sure to pick up a copy of The Crooked Road Visitor Guide to help you get the most out of your heritage music experience.

And join them for nine magical days every June during the annual Mountains of Music Homecoming when Crooked Road concerts and community cultural events take place all across Southwest Virginia.

For more information: (276) 492-2409 www.thecrookedroad.org | www.mtnsofmusic.com

SUMMER 2017

www.blueridgedigest.com

23

The Perfect Blue Ridge Day in Virginia’s Blue Ridge

L

Store offers vary.

ShopAshevilleOutlets.com

ocated in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Roanoke in Virginia’s Blue Ridge awaits as your next metro-mountain getaway destination. This former railroad town has blossomed into a vibrant center of arts, culture, culinary creativity, craft beer, and one of the best destinations on the East Coast for outdoor recreation. You’ll be only minutes away from over 600 miles of a variety of incredible trails for hiking, worldclass mountain biking, and blueways for paddling, all within easy access of the Blue Ridge Parkway, “America’s Favorite Drive.”

Come discover a paradise of epic mountain adventures paired with unforgettable live performing arts offerings and start planning your Blue Ridge Day at visitvbr.com!

Save up to 70% AT OVER 70 STORES!

Ann Taylor Factory Store • Brooks Brothers Factory Store Coach • Cole Haan • Field & Stream • J.Crew Factory RH Outlet • Vineyard Vines and more!

FREE Shopping Shuttle available for area hotels, convention locations and local attractions.

Call 828.620.1803 to learn more.

I-26 Exit 33 Brevard Road, Asheville, NC

24

The Blue Ridge Digest can be found at these regional visitor’s centers!

GEORGIA Blairsville/Union County Chamber 129 Union County Rec Rd. • Blairsville, GA 30512; (706) 745-5789 www.blairsvillechamber.com Ellijay Visitor Center 205 Craig St.; PO Box 505 Ellijay, GA 30540; (706) 635-7400 www.gilmerchamber.com Fannin County Chamber of Commerce 152 Orvin Lance Drive • Blue Ridge, GA 30513 • (706) 632-5680 www.blueridgemountains.com Rabun County Welcome Center 232 Hwy 441 North, POB 750 Clayton, Georgia 30525; (706) 782-4812 www.gamountains.com/rabun Towns County Visitor Center 1411 Jack Dayton Circle Young Harris, GA 30582 (706) 896-4966 • www.mountaintopga.com

NORTH CAROLINA Alleghany Co. Chamber of Commerce 58 S. Main, POB 1237 BRD Sparta, NC 28675; (800) 372-5473 www.sparta-nc.com Andrews Chamber of Commerce 345 Locust St. • P.O. Box 800 Andrews, NC 28902 • (877) 558-0005 www.andrewschambercommerce.com Ashe County Chamber & Visitor Center 1 N. Jefferson Ave, P.O. Box 31 West Jefferson, NC 28694 (336) 846-9550 • www.ashechamber.com Avery County Chamber of Commerce 4501 Tynecastle Hwy • Unit 2 Banner Elk, NC 28604; (800) 972-2183 www.averycounty.com Banner Elk Visitor Center 100 Main Street West, Banner Elk, NC 28604 (828) 898-8395 www.bannerelk.org Beech Mountain Chamber of Commerce 403A Beech Mountain Parkway Beech Mtn, NC 28604; (800) 468-5506 www.beechmtn.com

Blue Ridge Mtn Stop Visitor Center 4220 Blowing Rock Blvd • Lenoir, NC 28645 • (828) 754-5400

Franklin Area Chamber of Commerce 425 Porter St. Franklin, NC 28734; (888) 439-park • www.franklin-chamber.com

NW NC Visitor Center 2121 East US Hwy 421 • North WIlkesboro, NC 28659 • (336) 667-1259

Blue Ridge Parkway Visitor Center 195 Hemphill Knob Rd Asheville, NC 28803 • 828-298-5330

Gaston County Visitor Center 620 Main Street • Belmont, NC 28012

NC High Country Host Visitor Center 6370 US HWY 321 South, Blowing Rock, NC 28605; (800) 438-7500 www.mountainsofnc.com

Boone Area Chamber of Commerce 870 W King St. Suite A, Boone, NC 28607; (828) 264-2225 • www.VisitBooneNC.com

Greensboro Visitor Center 2411 West Gate City Blvd Greensboro, NC 27403; (800) 344-2282 www.VisitGreensboroNC.com

Old Fort Visitor Center 91 S. Catawba Ave • Old Fort, NC 28762 (888) 233-6111 • www.visitmcdowell.com

Bryson City Chamber of Commerce 210 Main Street • Bryson City, NC 28713; (800) 867-9246 • www.greatsmokies.com

Haywood Chamber of Commerce 28 Walnut St. • Waynesville, NC 28786 (828) 456-3021

Piedmont Triad Visitor Center 700 NC Hwy 700 Pelham, NC 27311; (800) 388-9830

Burke County Travel & Tourism 110 E. Meeting Street Morganton, NC 28655; (828) 433-6793

Hendersonville Visitor Center 201 S. Main St • Hendersonville, NC 28792 (800) 828-4244 www.historichendersonville.org

Polk County Visitor Center 20 E. Mills Street Columbus, NC 28722; (800) 440-7848

Caldwell County Visitor Center 1909 Hickory Blvd. SE Lenoir, NC 28645; (828) 726-0616

Hickory Metro CVB 1680 13th Ave Dr. SE Hickory, NC 28602 www.hickorymetro.com

Cashiers Area Chamber of Commerce 202 U.S. 64, POB 238 BRD Cashiers, NC 28717; (828) 743-5191 www.cashiers-nc.com Catawba County Visitor Center 1055 Southgate Parkway SW Hickory, NC 28602 (828) 328-6111 Cherokee County Visitor Center 20 Tennessee Street Murphy, NC 28906 828-557-2583 www.visitcherokeecountync.com Cherokee County Welcome Center 805 W. US 64 Murphy, NC 28906; (828) 837-2242 www.cherokeecountychamber.com Cherokee Smokies Chamber of Commerce 516 Tsali Blvd Cherokee, NC 28719 www.cherokeesmokies.com or 828-788-0034 Cherokee Welcome Center P.O. Box 460 • 498 Tsalis Rd. Cherokee, NC 28719; (800) 438-1601 www.cherokee-nc.com Clay County Chamber of Commerce 388 Business Hwy 64 Hayesville, NC 28904; (828) 389-3704 www.claycounty-nc-chamber.com

Black Mountain Chamber of Commerce 201 E. State St., Black Mountain, NC 28711; (828) 669-2300

Davie County Chamber of Commerce 135 S. Salisbury St., Mocksville, NC 27028-2337; (336) 751-3304 - www.mocksville.org

Blowing Rock Chamber of Commerce 132 Park Ave • Blowing Rock NC 28605 (800) 295-7851 www.blowingrockncchamber.com

Floyd Visitors Center & Chamber of Commerce 109 E. Main St. • Floyd, VA 24091 540-745-4407

Lake Lure Welcome Center 2926 Memorial Hwy. Lake Lure, NC 28746 Highlands Chamber of Commerce 108 Main St., P. O. Box 404 Highlands, NC 28741 (828) 526-2112 www.highlandschamber.org Jackson County Chamber of Commerce 773 W. Main Street • Sylva, NC 28779; (800) 962-1911 • www.mountainlovers.com Jonesville Welcome Center 1503 NC Hwy 67W Jonesville, NC 28642 • (336) 526-1111 Madison County Visitor Center 56 S. Main Street • Mars Hill, NC 28754; (828) 680-9031 www.visitmadisoncounty.com Maggie Valley Chamber of Commerce 2791 Soco Road, POB 279 Maggie Valley, NC 28751 (800) MAGGIE-1 • www.maggievalley.org McDowell County Visitor Center 1170 W. Tate St. • Marion, NC 28752; (828) 652-4240 • www.McDowellNC.org Mitchell Co. Chamber of Commerce 79 Parkway Rd • Spruce Pine, NC 28777; (800) 227-3912 www.mitchell-county.com

Shenandoah County Tourism 600 N. Main St, Ste 101 Woodstock, VA 22664 Smoky Mountain Host of NC, Inc 4437 Georgia Road, Franklin, NC 28734 (800) 432-4678 • www.visitsmokies.org Spruce Pine Visitor Center 165 Locust St. Spruce Pine, NC 28777 (828) 765-7008 Statesville Convention & Visitors Bureau 118 W Broad St, Statesville, NC 28687; (704) 878-3480 or (877) 531-1819 www.visitstatesville.org Waynesville/Haywood County Visitor Center 1110 Soco Rd Maggie Valley, NC 28751 (800) 334-9036 www.visitncsmokies.com Wilkes County Chamber of Commerce 717 Main St., PO Box 727 BRD N. Wilkesboro, NC 28659; (336) 838-8662 • www.wilkesnc.org Winston-Salem Visitor Center 200 Brookstown Ave, Winston-Salem, NC 27101 336-728-4205 • VisitWinstonSalem.com Yadkin Valley Visitor Center 116 East Market St. • Elkin, NC 28621; (336) 526-1111 • www.yadkinvalley.org Yancey County Chamber of Commerce 106 W. Main St. • Burnsville, NC 28714; (800) 948-1632 • www.yanceychamber.com

TENNESSEE

Mount Airy Visitor Center 200 N. Main St. • Mt. Airy, NC 27030; (800) 948-0949 • www.visitmayberry.com

Anderson County Visitor Center 115 Welcome Lane • Clinton, TN 37716; (800) 524-3602 • www.yallcome.com

Mount Mitchell State Park 2388 State Hwy. 128 Burnsville, NC 28714 (828) 675-4611

Clairborne Co. Chamber of Commerce 1732 Main St., Suite 1 Tazewell, TN 37879; (423) 626-4149 www.clairbornecounty.com

25

The Blue Ridge Digest can be found at these regional visitor’s centers!

Coker Creek Visitor Center 12197 Hwy. 68 • Tellico Plains, TN 37385 (423) 261-2286

Albemarle Tourism & Adventure Center 5791 Three Notched Rd • Crozet, VA 22932 (434) 906-2713

Greene County Economic Development & Tourism 8315 Seminole Trail, Suite 2 Ruckersville, VA 22968

Rockfish Gap Visitor Center 130 Afton Circle Afton, VA 22920; (540) 943-5187 www.augustabusiness.org

Elizabethton Visitor Center 500 19E Bypass; POB 190 Elizabethton, TN 37644; (423) 547-3850 www.tourelizabethton.com

Appomattox Visitor Center 214 Main Street. PO Box 246 Appomattox, VA 24522; (434) 352-8999 historicappomattox.com

Hardesty-Higgins House Visitor Center 212 S. Main St Harrisonburg, Virginia, 22801 VisitHarrisonburgVA.com.

(540) 432-8935

Salem Visitor Center 1001 Boulevard @ Civic Center Salem, VA 24153; (888) 827-2536 www.visitsalem.com

Greene Co. Partnership/COB 115 Academy St. Greeneville, TN 37743; (423) 638-4111 www.GreeneCountyPartnership.com

Abingdon Visitor Center 335 Cummings St. • Abingdon, VA 24210 (800) 435-3440 • www.abingdon.com

Lexington Visitor Center 106 E. Washington St. Lexington, VA 24450; (540) 463-3777 www.lexingtonvirginia.com

Smith Mountain Lake Visitor Center 16430 Booker T. Washington Hwy. #2 Moneta. VA 24121 • 540-721-1203 www.visitsmithmountainlake.com

Loudoun County Tourism 112 South Street • Leesburg, VA 20175 (800) 752-6118 • www.visitloudon.org

Smyth County Visitor Center 408 Whitetop Rd., Chilhowie, VA 24319 (276) 646-3306 • VisitVirginiaMountains.com

Luray/Page County Chamber 18 Campbell Street. Luray, VA 22835; (540) 743-3915 - www.luraypage.com

Staunton Travel Information Center 1290 Richmond Rd. (I-81 Exit 222) Staunton, VA 24401 • (540) 332-3972 www.VisitStaunton.com

Buena Vista Visitor Center 595 E. 19th St. • Buena Vista, VA 24417 (540) 261-2880 • buena-vista.va.us.com

Lynchburg Regional Information Center 216 12th St. at Church St. Lynchburg, VA 24505; (800) 732-5821 www.discoverlynchburg.org

Staunton Visitor’s Center 35 South New Street, Staunton,VA 24401 540-332-3971 • www.VisitStaunton.com

Kingsport Visitor Center 151 E. Main St., POB 1403 BRD Kingsport, TN 37662; (423) 392-8820 www.kingsportchamber.org

Carroll County Visitor Center 231 Farmers Market Rd, Hillsville, VA 24343 (888) 785-2782 • (276) 730-3100 www.visittheBlueRidge.com

Madison County Visitor Center 110A N. Main St., Madison, VA 22727 (540) 948-4455 • www.madison-va.com

Loudon County Visitor Bureau 1075 US Hwy 321 • Lenoir City, TN 37771 (865) 568-3662 • www.visitloudoncounty.com

Charlottesville Visitor Center 610 East Main St Charlottesville, VA 22902 (434) 293-6789 • (434) 970-3641 www.visitcharlottesville.org

Gateway to Shenandoah Visitor Center at Hupp’s Hill Civil War Park and Museum 33229 Old Valley Pike Strasburg, Virginia 22657 540-465-5884

Historic Jonesborough 117 Boone St. Jonesborough, TN 37659; (423) 423-753-1010 • Toll Free: 866-401-4223 www.historicjonesborough.com Johnson City Visitor Center 603 E. Main St. Johnson City, TN 37605; (423) 926-2141, www.johnsoncitytn.com Johnson County Welcome Center 716 S. Shady St. (Hwy. 421S) Mountain City, TN 37683; (423) 727-5800 jcwc@preferred.com

Oak Ridge Visitor Center 1400 Oak Ridge Turnpike Oak Ridge, TN 37830 (865) 483-1321 www.ExploreOakRidge.com Pigeon Forge Visitor Center 1950 N. Parkway, POB 1390 BRD Pigeon Forge, TN 37868; (800) 251-9100 mypigeonforge.com Rogersville/Hawkins County C of C 107 E. Main St., Ste.100 Rogersville, TN 37857; (423) 272-2186 Scott County Visitor Center 12025 Scott Highway Helenwood, TN 37755 • (800) 645-6905 Smoky Mtn Visitor Center 3540 Line Drive • Kodak, TN 37764 (865) 932-3696 Unicoi Visitor Center - 106 Unicoi Village Place PO Box 39 • Erwin, TN 37692 www.unicoitn.net 423-735-0426

VIRGINIA 1908 Courthouse Visitor Center 107 E Main Street Independence VA 24348 (276) 773-2471

Afton Visitor Center 130 Afton Circle • Afton, VA 22920 (540) 943-5187 • www.visitwaynesboro.net Bedford Visitor Center 816 Burks Hill Rd • Bedford, VA 24523; (877)-HiPeaks • VisitBedford.com Blue Ridge Visitor Center 2577 JEB Stuart Highway Meadows of Dan, VA 24120 • 276-694-6012

Culpeper Visitor Center 111 S. Commerce St. • Culpeper, VA 22701 Phone: (540) 727-0611 Toll Free: 844-490-2577. www.visitculpeperva.com

Martinsville-Henry County Visitor Center 191 Fayette Street Virginia Tech Visitor Info Ctr. Martinsville, VA 24112 965 Prices Fork Rd. • Blacksburg, VA (888) 722-3498 www.visitmartinsville.com 24061;(540) 231-3548 welcome@vt.edu Nelson County Visitor Center 8519 Thomas Nelson Hwy., Western Highlands Visitor Center Lovingston, VA 22949; (800) 282-8223 241 W. Main St. • Covington, VA 24426; www.Nelsoncounty.com (540) 962-2178 • www.alleghanyhighlands.com

Danville Visitor Center 645 River Park Dr • Danville, VA 24540; (434) 793-4636 • www.visitdanville.com

Orange Co. Visitor’s Center 122 East Main St. • Orange, VA 22960 (877) 222-8072 • www.visitorangevirginia.com

Discovery Center at Mill Mountain Roanoke’s Mill Mountain 215 Church Ave., Room 303 Roanoke, VA 24016 • (540) 853-1236

Patrick County Chamber of Commerce 20475 JEB Stuart Hwy • PO Box 577 Stuart, VA 24171; (276) 694-6012 www.patrickchamber.com

Explore Park Visitor Center Blue Ridge Parkway Milepost 115 Roanoke, VA 24014 • (540) 427-1800

Prince William Visitor Center 200 Mill St. • Occoquan, VA 22125 703-491-4045 • ticctr@aol.com

Floyd Visitors Center 109 E. Main St. Floyd, VA 24091 www.VisitFloydVA.com 540-745-4407

Pulaski County Visitor Center 4440 Cleburne Blvd • Dublin, VA 24084 540-674-4161. www.pulaskicounty.org

Front Royal Visitor Center 414 E. Main St. • Front Royal, VA 22630; (800) 338-3576 • www.discoverfrontroyal.com

Radford Visitor Center 600 Unruh Dr. • Radford, VA 24141 (866) 605-6442 • www.visitradford.com

City of Galax Tourism Department 110 East Grayson St. • Galax, VA 24333 276-238-8130 www.visitgalax.com

Roanoke Visitor Information Center 101 Shenandoah Ave., NE Roanoke VA 24016 • (800) 635-5535 www.visitvablueridge.com

Winchester-Frederick County CVB 1400 S. Pleasant Valley Rd. Winchester, VA 22601 • (877) 871-1326 www.visitwinchesterva.com Wytheville CVB 975 Tazewell Street Wytheville, VA 24382; (276) 223-3355 Toll free (877) 347-8307 www.visitWytheville.com

WEST VIRGINIA West Virginia Welcome Center 37 Washington Court at US 340 Harpers Ferry, WV 25435; (866) -HELLO-WV • www.hello-wv.com

KENTUCKY Cumberland Gap Nhp Visitor Center US 25E South • Middlesboro, KY 40965 (606) 248-2817

26

Mountain Lodging Food Fun NORTH CAROLINA ASHEVILLE, NC Asheville East KOA-Exit 59 off I-40 big rigs & tenters welcome. Wooded sites, with pool, lake & river fishing.

800-562-5907 or (828) 686-3121.

2708 Hwy 70E, Swannanoa, NC 28778. www.ashevilleeastkoa.com.

BANNER ELK, NC Smoke Tree Lodge - 12 miles south of Boone on Hwy 105. Nestled at the foot of Grandfather Mtn. Condo-apts, heated indoor pool, ESPN, Jacuzzi, saunas. (800) 422-1880. www.smoketreelodge.com

BLOWING ROCK, NC

Asheville West KOA-Exit 37 off I-40 Something for everyone, RV’s, tenters, cabins. In foothills, wooded sites, hiking trails, pool. (800) 5629015. 309 Wiggins Rd., Candler, NC 28715. www.ashevillekoa.com

Chetola Resort - Magnificent views, 87 acres, Lodge, Condos, Bob Timberlake Inn. Fitness Center, Restaurants, Orvis Endorsed. N. Main St., Blowing Rock, NC 28605. www.chetola.com (828) 295-5500 or (800) 243-8652.

Bear Creek RV Park - Exit Rt. 191 from Parkway; I-40 Exit 47; or I-26 Exit 2. 3 miles north of Parkway off Rt. 191. 5 mins. Biltmore House. 90 full hookups, paved sites, pool, laundry. Open year round. (800) 833-0798 www.ashevillebearcreek.com.

Hemlock Inn & Suites - 134 Morris St. Downtown Blowing Rock. 1/2 mile to Parkway. Open year round.

Walk to shops and restaurants.

(828) 295-7987. www.hemlockinn.net.

Carolina Foam, Fabric & Home Decor - Dress fabric, upholstery fabric & large selection of quilters fabric. I-40 Exit 64 in Black Mountain. (828) 669-2400.

Mast Store – Located at 15 Biltmore Ave., Downtown Asheville.

Restored to its 1940s heyday, this store features housewares, jams & jellies, camping gear, shoes & boots, clothing, and over 500 old-fashioned candy favorites. www.MastStore.com. 828-232-1883.

Shoji Spa & Lodge - Relax at Asheville’s only outdoor hot tub spa.

Reap the benefits of the cold plunge, unwind in our sauna and rest in the Lodge. Specializing in couples massage. 2500 ft. above stress level. www.shojiretreats.com.

By appt. only. (828) 299-0999.

BALSAM, NC Balsam Mountain Inn .5 mi. from pkwy mp 443 at Balsam Gap. Historic inn, gracious dining, porches, 50 rms. www.balsaminn.net 800-224-9498

Jenkins Rentals - The finest rental homes, cabins and condos in the Blowing Rock area. Hot tubs & Mtn vews available. (800) 438-7803. www.jenkinsrentals.com.

Mystery Hill. - 129 Mystery Hill Ln, Blowing Rock, NC 28605. Family fun center. Feel the strange pull. Hall of Mystery artifacts. Museum open all year. 828-263-0507. info@mysteryhill-NC.com Village Inns of Blowing RockNo Smoking, Wi-Fi/Breakfast.

Suites/Cottages/Rooms. Some Pet Friendly Rooms. (828) 295-3001

BOONE, NC Foscoe Rentals - Cabins, Condos and Vacation homes centrally located to Boone, Banner Elk and Blowing Rock.

(800) 723-7341. www.foscoerentals.com Hidden Valley Motel- Birds, blooms and butterflies in the Foscoe Valley.

Hwy 105 south between Boone and Banner Elk. Call 828/963-4372. www.hiddenvalleymotel.com or email: jim@hiddenvalleymotel.com.

KOA Kampground - From Boone, 194N 3 miles. Left on Ray Brown Rd. 1 mile. Beautiful view. Rec room, mini golf, laundry. 123 Harmony Mtn. Lane, Boone, NC 28607. 828-264-7250.

Mast Store – Located 630 W King St, Downtown Boone. Built in 1913/1917, you’ll find most everything you need for life: clothing, footwear, trail & travel gear, housewares, gifts, & old-fashioned candy. www.MastStore.com. 828-262-0000 NC High Country Host Visitor Center- 6370 US HWY 321 South Blowing Rock, NC 28605; (800) 438-7500 www.mountainsofnc.com

BURNSVILLE, NC Alpine Village Resort - 1 & 2 bedroom condos. Great views.

Tennis, heated pool/summer, cable TV, special golf fees. 3 miles west of Parkway, exit Buck Creek Gap Hwy. 80. No pets. 828/675-4103.

Be sure to tell them you saw it in THE DIGEST! HENDERSONVILLE, NC Mast Store – Located 527 N Main St, Downtown Hendersonville. Built in 1905, this store embodies the essence of the era and is packed with clothing, shoes & boots, camping gear, country gourmet foods, & candy. www.MastStore.com.

828-696-1883 Discover Hendersonville!

Check out our Stay & Play Packages & Room Availability!

Hendersonville Visitors Center, 201 S Main Street, Hendersonville, NC. 1-800-828-4244. Open 7 days a week. www.visithendersonvillenc.org

LAUREL SPRINGS, NC Thistle Meadow Winery - Stop for wine tasting - Exit at Blue Ridge Parkway Milepost 248.

3 miles to winery on NC 18.

800-233-1505. Gas nearby. www.thistlemeadowwinery.com

CHEROKEE, NC

LINVILLE, NC

Oconaluftee Indian Village - Share the rich history & traditions of the Cherokee at this replica of a Cherokee community of the 1750s.

May thru Oct. www.cherokeehistorical.org/village.html

Grandfather Mountain - Grandfather’s lofty heights offer guests opportunities for rejuvenation, excitement and family memories in a natural haven that will endure forever. Marvel at 360-degree views from the Mile High Swinging Bridge, stand eye-to-eye with native wildlife in natural habitats and interact with our friendly, knowledgeable staff. One mile from Blue Ridge Parkway; take the Linville exit at Milepost 305 to U.S. 221 South.

Open daily, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. $20 adult; $18 senior 60+; $9 child 4-12; under 4 free. www.grandfather.com | (828) 733-4337 or (800) 468-7325

CHIMNEY ROCK, NC Chimney Rock at Chimney Rock State Park – 40 min. SE of Asheville, exit milepost 384.7.

Come for the views. Discover infinite possibilities. Spectacular wildflowers, hiking, rock climbing instruction, special events, workshops and more! 26-story elevator inside mountain. Pet friendly. Admission rates: $15 Adults, $7 Youth ages 5-15, 4 and under free.Open all year.

Open daily 8:30am - 5:30pm.

Live it up! 800-277-9611 chimneyrockpark.com

LINVILLE FALLS, NC Linville Caverns - 19929 US 221 N. Marion. 4 miles South of Parkway, MP 317. NC’s ONLY show cavern. 800-419-0540. www.linvillecaverns.com.

Be sure to tell them you saw it in THE DIGEST!

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Mountain Lodging Food Fun LITTLE SWITZERLAND, NC

NEWLAND, NC

Emerald Village - Real mines, mine tours, & gem mining. Other free displays: railroad, music museum, wildlife. MP334. 828-765-6463. www.emeraldvillage.com

Secluded Valley RV Campground - 8 miles North Spruce Pine on 19E. 5 miles from Blue Ridge Parkway.

30 & 50 amp full hookups, children & pets welcome, level & spacious sites. (828) 765-4810. www.secludedvalleyrvcampground.com.

Switzerland Cafe & General Store MP 334 1/4 mile of the Parkway. Lunch and weekend dinners. Souvenirs and picnic items. Call 828-765-5289. www.switzerlandcafe.com Switzerland Inn And Chalet Restaurant - A little bit of Switzerland in NC. Fantastic mountain views, rooms, suites, cottages, dining, shopping, tennis.

Located directly on the Blue Ridge Parkway at the Little Switzerland exit near Parkway Milepost 334.

Little Switzerland, NC 28749.

(828) 765-2153 or (800) 654-4026. www.switzerlandinn.com

MAGGIE VALLEY, NC Boyd Mountain Log Cabins Secluded 130 acres near Maggie Valley, 7 Authentic cabins, fireplaces, AC, cable, WIFI. Choose n cut Christmas tree farm, trout fishing, hiking. (828) 926-1575. www.boydmountain.com Maggie Valley Area Chamber of Commerce - US 19, Eastern entrance to the Great Smokies. Escape. Explore.

Exhale. Maggie Valley Area Chamber of Commerce, PO Box 279, Maggie Valley, 28751. .

Jonathan Creek Inn & Maggie Valley Villas - MP 455.7 AAA 3 Diamond Rated. Creekside and Hot Tub Rooms, Creekside & Mountain View Villas, Indoor Heated Pool, Children’s Play Area. 1-800-577-7812. www.jonathancreekinn.com

McDOWELL COUNTY, NC McDowell Chamber of Commerce and Visitor Center - Shopping & food near center. Free coffee & area info.

Clean restrooms. From Parkway MP 317, 24 mi. S on US 221. From MP331: 15 mi S on NC226. (828) 652-4240.

SPARTA & GLADE VALLEY, NC Alleghany Inn - 341 N. Main St., Sparta, NC 28675. 64 Rooms - Free Wireless Internet - Cable TV 60+ Chan, Guest Laundry - Restaurant on site.

888) 372-2501 Reserve online: www.AlleghanyInn.com . see ad page 5 Glade Valley B&B – Near MP 229.

Our modern, beautiful log home is surrounded with all the beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains. All rooms have private baths, some with jacuzzi tubs. Our breakfasts are all homemade and plentiful.

800-538-3508. www.gladevalley.com See our ad on page 5.

Thistle Meadow Winery - Stop for wine tasting - exit at Blue Ridge Parkway Milepost 248. 3 miles to winery on NC18.(800) 233-1505. gas nearby. www.thistlemeadowwinery.com

DUPONT

State Recreational Forest

D

uPont State Recreational Forest contains 10,400 spectacularly beautiful acres in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Western North Carolina. Elevations range from 2,240 feet at Cascade Lake to 3,620 feet at the peak of Stone Mountain. Little River runs through the forest, with four major waterfalls along its course.

The forest also contains five lakes. The largest is 99-acre Lake Julia. The forest has more than 80 miles of roads and trails that are shared by hikers, mountain bikers and equestrians.

Habitats within the forest include Upland oak forests, cove forests, granite domes, riparian areas, small wildlife openings, lakes, streams and the Little River.

The DuPont State Recreational Forest is located in Henderson and Transylvania Counties between the towns of Hendersonville and Brevard. The forest is open from 5 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily.

SPRUCE PINE, NC Bear Den Creekside Cabins On the Blue Ridge Parkway at MP 324.8. All amenities, jacuzzis, decks, fireplaces. For 2 to 10.

(828) 765-2888.www.bear-den.com Res. recmd.

Bear Den Campground - On the Blue Ridge Parkway at MP 324.8.

Complete facilities, serving the south for over 41 years. www.bear-den.com (828) 765-2888. Scenic beauty.

Peak Mountain Cottages & Retreat Center--On 300 acres, 7 miles N of Pkwy. Room to play or relax. Hiking trails, clear mtn streams. 460 Rabbit Hop Rd near Penland. Individuals, families or groups up to 25. 828-7659559. www.peakmountaincottages.com

Waterfall safety information available

www.ncforestservice.gov/contacts/dsf.htm

Contact:

www.ncforestservice.gov/contacts/dsf.htm Phone: 828-877-6527.

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Mountain Lodging Food Fun VALLE CRUCIS, NC

FISHERSVILLE, VA

HARRISONBURG, VA

Mast General Store & Annex – Est. 1883 & listed on the National Register of Historic Places, this authentic general store in rural Valle Crucis features clothing, camping gear, shoes & boots, housewares, unique gifts, and over 500 old-fashioned candies. Visit our other historic locations in NC, SC, & TN. www.MastStore.com.

Antique Expo - 400 dealers exhibiting in halls, barns, tents & outside twice yearly. Oct. 13-15, 2017. May 18-20, 2018. Augusta Expoland.

I-64, exit 91. (434) 847-8242. www.heritagepromotions.net

The Village Inn - 1 mile south of I-81, Exit 243, on US 11. American Automobile Association Three Diamond Award. (540) 434-7355, toll free reservations-1-800-736-7355. www.shenandoah.org/villageinn

FLOYD, VA

LOVE, VA.

WAYNESVILLE, NC Mast Store – Located 63 N Main St, Downtown Waynesville. Built in 1930s and filled with everything you’d expect in a general store – clothing, shoes, cast iron, candy, and camping gear. 828-452-2101 www.MastStore.com.

TENNESSEE GATLINBURG, TN Ski Mountain Chalet & Condo Rentals - 1-6 bedroom units, hot tubs, jacuzzis, pool tables, kitchens, fireplaces, privacy. (800) 824-4077. www.skimtnchalets.com

VIRGINIA BEDFORD, VA Peaks of Otter Winery & Orchards - 2122 Sheep Creek Rd, 24523. MP 86. Fruit wine, fruit, jams, jellies, free tastings. Vacation rentl house. 540586-3707. www.iwineu.com or www.elmosrest.com

CHARLOTTESVILLE, VA Montfair Resort Farm - Pet friendly cabins by lake. 30 min from Parkway.

Wi-fi, linens & cookware provided.

Canoe, hike, fish. (434) 823-5202. www.montfairresortfarm.com.

FANCY GAP, VA

Skyland Lakes Golf Club - Right on Parkway at milepost 202.2. New 18 hole public course. Beautiful scenery.

Motel & golf packages available.

(276) 728-4923.

Blue Ridge Restaurant, Inc. - E. Main St., Floyd, VA (540) 745-2147.

For good home-style cooking try our daily specials. We are open early with gravy biscuits, hot cakes, country ham, and eggs every day.

Chantilly Farm Campground.

2697 Franklin Pike SE. RV sites: electric, water, sewer, tent camping w/amenities. WiFi, ice, ATM. chantillyfarm.com. 540-808 -4984 Floyd County Tourism - Village Green Ste.7, 201 E. Main St. Floyd, VA 24091 Mountain town with unique music, arts, outdoor fun! www.VisitFloydVA.com 540-239-8509 Floyd Country Store: Famous venue for Heritage Appalachian music every weekend. Store and cafe open all week. www.floydcountrystore.com Floyd Lodging Association A community of local lodging facilities working together to accommodate your unique needs. www.floydvirginialodging.com Floyd Visitors Center 109 E. Main St., Floyd, VA 24091 Mountain town with unique music, arts, outdoor fun! 540-745-4407 www.VisitFloydVA.com Hotel Floyd - 120 Wilson St, Floyd, VA. (540) 745-6080. www.hotelFloyd.com. Unique lodging off MP165 with themed rooms and located downtown Floyd. Don’t miss visiting this unique town and hotel!

GROTTOES, VA

Grand Caverns - 5 Grand Caverns Dr, Grottoes, VA, America’s oldest continuously operated show cave.

Nature’s handiwork & gifts. 888430-CAVE. www.grandcaverns.com

Royal Oaks - Cabins, chalets, store, gifts, deli, weddings. Near MP16 on parkway. Upscale lodging, hot tubs, fireplaces, equipped kit, bedding/linens. Beautiful views atop the BR Mtns. www.vacabins.com. 540-943-7625.

LURAY, VA. Allstar Lodging - Unique Cabins and Vacation rentals. Pools, Hot tubs, frplc, kitch, riverfront/mountains, hiking, canoeing, fishing in Shenandoah Valley. 866-780-7827. www.allstarlodging.com.

MEADOWS OF DAN, VA Primland Resort - 2000 Busted Rock Road. Resort Lodge, Fairway Cottages, Mountain Homes. Spectacular views. Golf. Spa. Dining, Outdoor activities. 276.222.3800 www.primland.com

MONTEBELLO, VA Montebello Resort – Exit Milepost 27, Rt 56E, 3 miles. Cabins, Campground, Country Store & Trout Ponds. 540-377-2650 www.MontebelloVA.com.

RADFORD, VA Radford Visitor’s Center-Rt 8 to I-81 Exit 109 “Find It in Radford”-surrounded on 3 sides by the New River & overflowing with history 540-267-3153 www.visitradford.com.

Be sure to tell them you saw it in

THE DIGEST!

ROANOKE, VA Colony House Motor Lodge 3560 Franklin Rd. Roanoke. 2 mi off Parkway on US 220. Suites available. HBO, ESPN, pool, Free Continental breakfast. Meeting Room available. Shopping and good restaurants nearby.

(540) 345-0411 or (866) 203-5850.

Virginia’s Blue Ridge. Take a drive on the Blue Ridge Parkway.

Shop at the markets and boutiques in Downtown Roanoke and Salem.

Hike on a trail in the Blue Ridge Mountains. Discover wildlife while kayaking on the Upper James River Water Trail. Dine at a local restaurant and enjoy fresh, amazingly prepared ingredients. Watch the sunset aboard a cruise at Smith Mountain Lake. All these things to do and more can be part of your Blue Ridge Day. No matter what you decide to do, every day in the Roanoke Valley in Virginia’s Blue Ridge Mountains is filled with friendship and old-fashioned hospitality. Discover what makes visiting Virginia’s Blue Ridge unique! (800) 635-5535. visitvablueridge.com

SALEM, VA Come and visit Salem, Virginia that is only twenty minutes from the parkway. Take the walking tour of our historic downtown featuring quaint antique shops and restaurants. Stay for a while in one of our hotels or B&B’s and attend one of our many athletic events including NCAA National Championships in football, basketball and softball.

Salem is also the home of the Salem Red Sox, advanced Class “A” affiliate of the Boston Red Sox playing their games in spacious and comfy Lewis Gale Field.

WAYNESBORO, VA Cabin Creekwood- 2 miles from Parkway MP 13.6. Year-round, quiet, secluded.Fully furnished affordable mtn cabins (888) 942-2246. www.cabincreekwood.com.

29

Two Wheel Travel: The Shenandoah Valley Is A Bicycling Nirvana

Virginia’s Shenandoah Valley offers bucolic pastures, rolling green hills, and charming small towns all nestled between the Blue Ridge and Allegheny Mountains.

W

ith both flat and rolling hill topography in the lowlands, and significant vertical challenge in the mountains, the Shenandoah Valley offers opportunities for every age and ability level.

Harrisonburg was recently named “One of America’s Top Ten Mountain Biking Towns” by National Geographic magazine.

With plenty of roads, trails, and open space Harrisonburg is the perfect destination for road and mountain bikers alike. A little further south, Staunton has an established seat in the cycling world, too. It is part of the long-running Bike Virginia Tour, which goes from Buena Vista to Staunton. Staunton is also the hub of the Shenandoah Fall Foliage Bike Festival, normally held in October and hailed as “One of America’s Best Fall Rides” by USA Today.

The back roads of Page County, Rockbridge County, Warren County, and Fort Valley offer additional opportunities for cyclists, as do the communities of Martinsburg and Harper’s Ferry in West Virginia.

For those looking for higher altitude biking, bicycling is permitted along Skyline Drive and on paved areas in the Shenandoah National Park and on the Blue Ridge Parkway.

However, bicycling is not permitted on trails, unpaved roads or in grassy areas in the parks. Because both are two-lane roads with steep hills and numerous blind curves, bicyclers are urged to use extreme caution.

If you are ready to gear up for a more active vacation, learn more about what to see and where to stay at VisitShenandoah.org.

Parkway Highlights Traveling the Blue Ridge Parkway or planning to? Here are some must visit places on the Parkway in north to south order:

Humpback Rocks.............................. Mileposts 5-9.3 Peaks of Otter ................................ Mileposts 84-87 Mabry Mill...................................... Milepost 176.1 Doughton Park......................... Mileposts 238.5-248 Northwest Trading Post ................... Milepost 258.6 Linn Cove Viaduct............................. Milepost 304.4 Linville Falls........................................ Milepost 316 Folk Art Center.................................... Milepost 382 Blue Ridge Parkway Visitor Center......... Milepost 384 Mt Pisgah........................................ Milepost 408.6 Waterrock Knob .............................. Milepost 451.2 FYI: Both Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge prominently promote/talk about ‘Parkway’ as the Main Street thru their towns.

Classic ca r show in Bisset P ark June 17

bration July 4 Cele y Fortune with Jimm

ekMary Draper Ingles We ing tur fea 18 17e end, Jun 17 Ingles Farm open, June

Radford’s Visitors Center (located inside Glencoe Musuem)

600 Unruh Drive • Radford, VA

www.VisitRadford.com

Mary D raper In gles pla July 30, y August 27 and Sep t 24

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SUMMER 2017

The Blue Ridge Heritage Trail The Blue Ridge Heritage Trail comprises 70 interpretive wayside signs that tell the stories of the North Carolina Blue Ridge mountains and foothills and the people who shaped the history and culture of the region. You can find these exhibits in towns large and small, from Mount Airy to Brasstown, and in many rural areas. Seven of them are installed at overlooks along the Blue Ridge Parkway.

A

s you travel this historical road, take a moment to stop and read about the unique cultural and natural heritage of the lands you are passing through:

Air Bellows Gap overlook, Milepost 236.9, speaks to the mixed agriculture of the region, including Christmas tree farms.

Moses Cone Memorial Park, Milepost 294, tells the story of the legendary “Denim King”, Lost Cove Cliffs, Milepost Moses Cone, and his Gilded Age 310, describes the isolated forest mansion, Flat Top Manor. inlets called “coves.”

The Summer Season Gets Into Full Swing With Hendersonville’s Unique Outdoor Concerts!

Thousands of people flock to the Music on Main Street to hear some the region’s finest bands. The concerts are held every Friday evening from June 9 through August 18 at 7pm. Music on Main Street features a diverse line-up ranging from pop, oldies, rock, to contemporary music - there’s something for every musical taste! The family friendly event offers concessions such as: hot dogs, ice cream, pretzels, and lemonade for sale.

The Street Dance comes alive with people square dancing and clogging to regional bands playing traditional bluegrass music.

Concerts held at the Visitor Center located in Downtown Hendersonville at 201 South Main Street.

800-828-4244, or go online to visithendersonvillenc.org

The Orchard at Altapass, Milepost 328.6, highlights the history of the 100-year-old apple orchard that is now a hot spot for traditional music and dance.

The Cradle of Forestry, Milepost 411, tells about the Biltmore Forest School, first forestry school in America.

Looking Glass Rock overlook, Milepost 413.2, speaks to the formation of the mountains and impact of erosion over eons.

Qualla Boundary overlook, Milepost 458.9, tells the story of the historical homeland of the Cherokee.

Enhance your visit to the area.

Go to BlueRidgeHeritageTrail. com for more information and locations of all 70 signs. The BRHT is a program of the Blue Ridge National Heritage Area Partnership, an organization that preserves our mountain culture for future generations and promotes the region to visitors. BlueRidgeHeritage.com.

BlueRidgeHeritageTrail.com.

WNC (Western North Carolina) Cheese Trail Explore and spend an afternoon soaking in the mountain beauty and sampling some of the best handmade cheese being made in the South. Connect directly with cheesemakers, seeing where HIDDEN your favorite cheeses are crafted, and buy straight from the producers.

For more information visit: www.romanticasheville.com/cheese_trail.htm

GEMS

SUMMER 2017

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Elkin, NC - Celebrate Fresh Food With Farmers Market And New Businesses

I

n the heart of the Yadkin Valley, Elkin residents and visitors enjoy fresh food grown by neighbors and sold at the local farmers market and area businesses.

Each Saturday morning, the downtown Elkin Farmers Market offers a variety of produce. In the

summertime, tomatoes, sweet corn, peppers, squash and okra overflow from vendors’ baskets.

Hot coffee and fresh-baked pastries provide a sweet start to the weekend ahead. Customers stock up on grass-fed beef, freerange eggs and pastured pork.

and-bake comfort foods, such as chicken pie and lasagna.

One new downtown Elkin business strives to provide fresh food to children who don’t always have access to it. Living Waters The market also features live Farm Store, which opened this past entertainment by local musicians. spring, grows a variety of herbs A couple of veteran vendors using an innovative technique of the farmers market opened called vertical gardening. The Barking Coyote Coffee Shop, Bakery and Farm Store last summer plants grow in soil-free towers filled with nutrient-dense water, a system in downtown Elkin. They serve known as hydroponics. organic Red Rooster coffee and The Farm Store is the prototype fresh-baked scones, cinnamon rolls for a future full-scale vertical farm, and quiche. Cookies, cupcakes which should be able to produce and cheesecakes line the bakery 5,000 pounds of fresh produce case, while pimento cheese, each week. The store is open hummus and chicken salad fill the cooler. The shop often has products to curious visitors and hopes to inspire others to grow their own from the family’s farm, such as fresh blueberries, eggs and honey. food.

For those who’d like a homeTo learn more about what’s cooked meal without the prep growing in Elkin, go to: work, Barking Coyote sells take-

VisitTheYadkinValley.com.

We have a place for you TO SLEEP in Guaranteed Best Rate when you make your reservation at Super8.com.

Super 8 Boone NC 2419 Highway 105, Boone, NC, 28607

866-539-0036

• Free deluxe continental breakfast • Free wireless high-speed Internet access in all rooms • Free local calls • Outdoor heated pool • Game room

After a day of adventure, come back to the hotel and go for a refreshing swim in the heated indoor pool, relax in the soothing whirlpool. Wake up the next morning and enjoy the Free Bright Side BreakfastTM before another day of adventure.

Boone 165 Highway 105 Ext Boone, NC 28607 1-828-262-1234

Complimentary Morning Medley breakfast Outdoor pool Guest Laundry Ample parking

163 Hwy 105 Ext Boone, NC, US, 28607 Phone: (828) 262-0020

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SUMMER 2017 and antique malls throughout town and it’s clear – Sevierville is one awesome city for shopping!

While in Sevierville, be sure and see all things Dolly.

Sevierville is Dolly Parton’s hometown and many visitors like to stop for a photo with the singer’s bronze statue on the Sevier County Courthouse lawn before making the five-minute trip to her nearby Dollywood theme park, which offers awardwinning rides, multiple live shows daily and traditional Appalachian arts, crafts and music.

THIS SUMMER, THE VACATION IS ON IN DOLLY’S HOMETOWN, SEVIERVILLE, TN

N

o more waiting, postponing or being too busy – this year the vacation is on and the Smoky Mountains are waiting to welcome you.

Located in the foothills of Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Sevierville offers plenty of family-friendly fun. Visit one of America’s finest small zoos, Rainforest Adventures,

Historic Barn Tours in Madison County

T

he goal of the Appalachian Barn Alliance is to capture agricultural history through photos, oral histories and architectural details of significant barns in Madison County.

This goal has two tiers: one is simple self-guided driving tours by geographic region targeted for the local residents and tourists.

The other is a very detailed archival version with data sheets, architectural drawings and scores of photographs.

The Appalachian Barn Alliance documents the historically and architecturally significant barns in Madison County, is a project funded in part by a grant from the Blue Ridge National Heritage Area Partnership.

race around at NASCAR SpeedPark and watch history take flight at the Tennessee Museum of Aviation. Then take the kids to the all-new Sevier Air Trampoline and Ninja Warrior Park or to a Tennessee Smokies baseball game – the home team is the AA affiliates of the 2016 World Series Champion Chicago Cubs.

Shopping for great bargains on name brand merchandise is so much fun, especially at malls like Tanger Outlets Sevierville.

With more than 100 high end name brand outlets like Coach, Michael Kors and North Face, you’ll find plenty of great deals.

Add to that a huge selection of specialty boutiques, flea markets

Learn more about vacationing in Sevierville and the Great Smoky Mountains. Request your free Sevierville Vacation Planner online at www.VisitSevierville.com.

Visitortips.com, where F.P.I.S., the east coast’s premier brochure distributor, brings you an online virtual brochure display. This site allows users to access brochures by city or region before leaving home or while traveling. With links to attractions websites & social media platforms we are delivering the power of brochures to the internet.

Scan this QR code to download this app:

SUMMER 2017

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STAUNTON IS YOUR SUMMER CLASSICAL MUSIC CAPITOL available online and guarantee you a seat at every show.

Experience Exceptional Classical Music in the Mountains of Virginia

S

taunton is quickly turning into an East Coast mecca for classical music lovers.

In this charming historic city, music-loving travelers are offered a staggering number of performance options.

Each summer, dozens the world’s most acclaimed musicians and composers converge from around the world, making Staunton Virginia’s undisputed classical music destination. More than 10,000 classical music enthusiasts attend concerts in the city during July and August.

The two organizations largely responsible for putting Staunton on the classical music map are the Heifetz International Music

Institute (in July) and the Staunton Music Festival (in August.)

STAUNTON MUSIC FESTIVAL August 11-20, 2017

Originally conceived as a classical chamber music festival, SMF has emerged as a national destination for artists and audiences alike with its eclectic vision, incredibly diverse programs, and a mission to “rethink classical” for the modern era. 2107 marks the festival’s 20th season, which will be held

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over ten consecutive days in August. Planned activities include 30 public concerts. TICKETS: Free noontime concerts. Evening tickets may be purchased in a subscription (festival pass) or individually. Tickets for ages 18 and under are always free.

Classical music loving visitors are encouraged to book their hotel rooms early. Tip: both the Stonewall Jackson Hotel and the Frederick House Hotel are within walking distance to all performances.

Even the smallest of us can be part of something very big.

}

HEIFETZ INTERNATIONAL MUSIC INSTITUTE June 24-August 4, 2017

The Heifetz Institute’s Festival of Concerts kicks off a summer of music making starting with their Opening Concert and Convocation on June 24, and the music doesn’t stop until August 4. Catch the young stars of tomorrow – as taught by the greatest of living virtuosos – in live performances throughout the six-week season. TICKETS: Free performances every Monday.

Tickets for all other concerts area

The grown-up sense of discovery at every turn around the mountain will only be surpassed by the childlike wonder our natural playground evokes.

GRANDFATHER® MOUNTAIN w w w. g ra n d f a t h e r. c o m

VERY BIG Grandfather Mountain

1/4 pg ad 4.2” x 4.465” Contact: Frank Ruggiero (828) 733-2013

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SUMMER 2017

Wilkes County, NC P

ick a reason to Explore handmade crafts sold at the Wilkes! Located in the downtown farmers’ markets.

Yadkin Valley where outdoor beauty and MerleFest, Blue Ridge recreation thrives.

Music Hall of Fame, Shine to Discover the Mountain streams, Wine, Carolina In the Fall, wonderful recreational rivers, and lakes are Brushy Mountain Apple opportunities featured throughout Festival, all featuring such as W. Kerr the tall trees and the best of Americana, Scott Reservoir’s lush green valleys Gospel, Bluegrass, camping, boating, as visitors enjoy fly Beach, and mountain bird watching, fishing, boating, heritage music. Quiet, hiking and canoing and modern, and private mountain biking kayaking. Wilkes accommodations hosting the seven-mile is a host to multiple Dark Mountain multiple hotel rooms, trails for walking, secluded cabins, and Trail. hiking, biking, and bird picturesque campsites are watching. Visitors will accessible and affordable. Visit relish the harvest of the local www.ExploreWilkes.com – you’ll vineyards, wineries, orchards, like what you see. and fresh vegetables and

336-838-8662 www.ExploreWilkes.com

visitwytheville.com 1-877-347-8307

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Photography by ŠRoadRUNNER Magazine