BLUE RIDGE DIGEST - FALL 2021 ISSUE

The Doupnik family

photo by Mike Koenig

Some say the family road trip is experiencing a resurgence. In Haywood County, we don’t think it ever went away. For as long as we can remember, we’ve been serving up family-friendly adventures that are as sweet and delicious as a stack of pancakes or a plate of North Carolina barbecue.

Here, your whole family will discover the kinds of authentic experiences we’ve spent decades perfecting. From waterfall hikes to wildlife encounters, stunning overlooks to fishing trips, a Smoky Mountain adventure is one that stays with you.

And once you’ve got a taste, you’ll want to come back again and again.

MEET THE LOCALS.

We admit it: some of our residents can seem a little…wild. Take the Cataloochee Elk, for example. Their population has been growing since their re-introduction to the area in 2001. Spring and early summer are the perfect time to head to Cataloochee Valley and spy on the season’s new calves.

For a more up-close-and-personal experience, book Breakfast with the Bison at Buffalo Creek in Clyde. Munch on local pastries before you head out to the fields with the rancher to watch the bison feeding, then enjoy some quality time with the farm’s llamas, goats, bunnies, and other furry critters.

You can also stay the night on the property in a cabin or train

caboose. Yes, you read that right: a train caboose. That’s just one example of the unique accommodations you’ll find throughout our five mountain towns of Maggie Valley, Waynesville, Lake Junaluska, Canton, and Clyde

REEL IN OUR HERITAGE

Trout fishing has long been an important part of the culture here—and it just so happens to be a perfect family activity for sunny spring afternoons. Anglers of all ages can catch up to seven fish a day in the Mountain Heritage Trout Waters located throughout Maggie Valley and Waynesville. No gear? No problem. We’ll provide the reels for a refundable rental fee of only $5. Stop by our Visitor Center in Maggie Valley once you've purchased a three-day fishing license.

Artists in the Smokies

For proof of the Smoky Mountains’ inspirational power, look no further than the exquisite Smoky Mountain paintings created by local Smoky Mountains artists. Shop for their imaginative works and take home perspectives of the Smoky Mountains region that no photograph can capture.

The eight-mile Great Smoky Arts and Crafts Loop is a scenic drive you can take for some of the area’s finest art Smoky Mountains paintings.

The Robert Tino Gallery is located in a historic old farmhouse just north of Sevierville, just off Highway 66 812 Old Douglas Dam Rd, Sevierville, TN 37876 www.robertatinogallery.com • 865-453-6315

Terri Waters Gallery is located on the Great Smoky Arts and Crafts Loop 438 Bebb Road, Gatlinburg, TN 37738 (865) 436-5647 • www.terriwaters.gallery/

Vern Hippensteal Gallery is located on the Great Smoky Arts and Crafts Loop 480 Buckhorn Road, Gatlinburg, TN 37738 (865) 436-4328 • www.vernhippensteal.com

Smoky Spirits

Smokies Skyline

Lookout Point

Pictured above are the works of three “can’t miss galleries” for you to visit when you come to the Smokies.

Discover EXPLORE:

PEAKS OF OTTER

This gateway to mountain adventures is a hub for lounging and exploring.

This long-beloved lodge is much more than a simple hotel. It’s a place where adventurers, families, couples and large groups can explore by day, and recharge at night.

From here, you can hike majestic Sharp Top Mountain, “leaf peep” along Blue Ridge Parkway, cruise a shuttle to nearby wineries, and encounter rare wildlife. Enjoy a springtime getaway or a long winter weekend in the perfect setting for year-round adventure and relaxation.

RELAX:

Majestic scenery abounds in Peaks of Otter, a historic landmark and haven of natural beauty. Three towering mountain peaks and the serene Abbott Lake are the cradle of this

YOUR

Peaks of Otter Area Visitor Center and Park Store - 5,000 acres. Three Peaks: Sharp Top [El 3,875], Flat Top [El. 4,004], and Harkening Hill [El. 3,364]. Self-guided trail, historic farm interpretive programs. Picnic area, campground, restrooms. gorgeous Blue Ridge destination — offering 360 degrees of breathtaking wilderness. And here, sheltered among the ancient peaks and cooled by mountain streams, you’ll discover Peaks of Otter Lodge.

STAY:

With more than 60 rooms, meeting facilities, wedding facilities, a full-service restaurant, a lounge, and a gift shop, Peaks of Otter Lodge is a perfect basecamp for exploring the mountains, lake and surrounding forests. No matter the season, guests can explore the Blue Ridge Parkway’s splendor, then enjoy warm hospitality at Peaks of Otter Lodge.

For more information on packages and deals, visit PeaksOfOtter.com or call 888.454.7711

If you love fall foliage, you have to see the Blue Ridge Mountains this autumn. At Peaks of Otter Lodge, you can enjoy real Southern cuisine in the shadow of Sharp Top Mountain. Cruise along on one of America’s best road trips when the leaf peeping is at its best – now this is relaxation.

Book your fall moment today at PeaksOfOtter.com

Founded in 1772 the story of Shenandoah County

Nicknamed “the Breadbasket of the South” Shenandoah County has strong agricultural roots. Drive through the back roads along the rolling hills and pastoral farmland to see the many “Century Farms’’. These are farms that have been part of families for over a hundred years. Many have diversified and found ways to honor agricultural traditions while answering the needs of modern life. Restaurants throughout the region call on our local farms to supply produce, meats and beverages. Here, the phrase Farm-to-Table dining isn’t just a trendy buzzword, it’s a way of life!

It begins with around the time of the birth of our new Nation. Visit museums and cultural sites, immerse yourself in stories, artifacts and buildings that connect

us with our past, and the experiences that have shaped this region. In 2022, Shenandoah County will commemorate its 250th anniversary with a year-long celebration.

It will be a time to reflect on the people, places, and events that crafted a community. For a full list of events in 2022 Visit SC250.org.

Six unique and charming small towns are strung like pearls along US Route 11. In each town you’ll find shops, galleries, restaurants, and coffee shops with unique styles. Within the towns and surrounding areas, you’ll find places to stay from rustic camping to upscale “glamping”, rental cottages and cabins to historic B&B’s. You could even rent a slope-side condo or book a lake side retreat at Bryce Resort.

It’s a Chase or Be Chased Event

Dogs love to chase squirrels, rabbits, cars, cats, birds, even their own tails. But on Saturday, October 9 in Bryson City, NC, dogs will be chasing one thing — bacon! — at the second annual Great Bacon Chase Fun Run.

The .05K fun run/walk/stroll beside the Tuckasegee River is a little more than a block long, starting on Island Street at the Appalachian Rivers Aquarium and finishing near Mountain Layers Brewery. Participants can either be a slice of bacon (bacon costume included in race registration)

or they can chase the bacon with their dog (leashed). All adult participants receive a souvenir pint glass with 2 tickets for tastings at Mountain Layers. A donation will be made from proceeds to PAWS, a local no-kill animal shelter. Registration starts at 5:00 pm with the ‘chase’ beginning at 6:00 pm. Spectators are welcome and encouraged!

For more information, along with Registration Form and Bacon Chase t-shirts pre-orders, visit GreatSmokies.com/bacon/.

Lexington & Rockbridge County’s FALL MAJESTY

Harvested by hand the moment they’re ready, these pears are among the best you’ll ever enjoy. Since we’re talking fruit, it’s apple season in Virginia and great apples lead to excellent hard cider. Walk amongst the apple trees – in a labyrinth, no less – at Halcyon Days Cider Co., then indulge in a flight to choose your favorite cider. Looking for great views and great beverages with room for the kids to play?

Northern Rockbridge

finds, like historic Wade’s Mill and Rockbridge Vineyard & Brewery, home to a Virginia Governor’s Cup-winning wine. Continue on to take in another mill, that of Cyrus McComick Farm. The watermill and buildings there date to the farm’s founding of 1822.

The air cools and the hues of foliage warm as summer shifts to fall in the Shenandoah Valley. Travel U.S. Route 11, the historic path winding between the rising Allegheny and Blue Ridge Mountains, to encounter tasty treats, inspiring views, and whimsical attractions.

Southern Rockbridge

Fall’s flavors are worth the wait, and we know just where to find them. Sink your teeth into an Asian pear at Virginia Gold Orchard.

Great Valley Farm Brewery & Winery boasts wide open spaces and award-winning wine and beer with an unbeatable view of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

Any visit to this part of Rockbridge must include a stop at Natural Bridge State Park to soak in the shadow of the amazing 215-foot natural limestone arch. The paved Cedar Creek Trail ushers you beneath the rock bridge to learn about Monacan Indian history as well as that of Salt Peter Cave. Trek all the way to the end of the out-and-back trail to find Lace Falls.

Antiquing is all the rage. Wander through Duke’s Antiques before making your way to the Village of Fairfield for 3 Seasons Antiques & Unique Treasures. Nearby, The Quiltery has plethora fabric, patterns, and needful things for the talented quilt maker in your life. Wind your way into Brownsburg for a stop at the Brownsburg Museum. The countryside is beautiful and the road leads on to more great

Circle back to Lexington to toast your travels at Devils Backbone Outpost Tap Room & Kitchen. They, too, have a great view of the mountains from their deck and their menu is super tasty. Hull’s Drive-In is just a mile down the road. A movie under the stars is the perfect way to end your Lexington and Rockbridge County adventure.

To plan your trip or request an Inspiration Guide, visit LexingtonVirginia.com.

P.O. Box 1758

Asheville, NC 28802

Phone: (828) 691-5437

www.blueridgedigest.com

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.

Publisher: Thomas Hardy tomhardy@blueridgedigest.com

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Aim for the Stars this Fall in Burnsville, NC

Welcome to the Mountains!

Thank you for making your vacation an 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 & 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.

Enjoy your stay!

Peer into distance galaxies and view close-ups of the moon and constellations at the Bare Dark Sky Observatory in the NC mountain town of Burnsville.

The observatory, located at Mayland Community College’s Earth to Sky Park, houses the largest public access telescope in North Carolina. Folks are invited out for weekend viewing nights, when the roof of the observatory rolls back to reveal a custom-built StarStructure Newtonian telescope.

The observatory sits at 2,736 feet in elevation and offers a 360degree view. In 2014, the Mayland

Earth to Sky Park received a designation from the International Dark-Sky Association for its stewardship of the natural night sky.

“Our location, roughly halfway between Asheville and Boone, is an ideal spot for stargazing,” says Christy Jones, director of the Burnsville-Yancey Chamber of Commerce. “We’re close enough to make it an easy trip, yet remote enough to have the dark skies needed for optimal viewing.”

In September there are six weekend viewing sessions, with Jupiter, Saturn, and the Milky Way making their 2021 early evening appearances.

Another six sessions in October focus on the Milky Way, Saturn, Venus, Uranus, Neptune, galaxies, nebulae, star clusters and meteors.

October Moon Madness is two nights – Oct. 15 and 16 – while November Moon Madness is slated for the nights of Nov. 12 and 13.

Tickets must be purchased in advance. To make a reservation, go to www.Mayland.edu/Observatory. Burnsville visitor info is available at www.ExploreBurnsville.com.

Plan Your Authentic Autumn Adventure in Haywood County, NC

Looking for more than just a great scenic view this fall? Look no further than Haywood County, NC.

Valley, Canton, Clyde and Lake Junaluska. But the fun doesn’t stop there. The area boasts an abundance of fall time adventure that is sure to satisfy the entire family. You can enjoy Arts & Crafts Festivals, Car Shows, a Bluegrass Festival, one of the oldest Labor Day Celebrations in the Southeast and of course, the fall colors.

With the arrival of Labor Day signaling summer is quickly fading to fall, it’s time to start planning your autumn escape to Haywood County,

NC. If crisp, cool temperatures and a scenic “leaf-peeping” spot are what you crave, then there is no better place to be than the towns of Waynesville, Maggie

So where are the best viewing spots? The 46 miles of the Blue Ridge Parkway running through Haywood County is a good place to start. Within those 46 miles, you will find 74 pristine vistas and overlooks. Popular leaf-viewing spots in this area include Graveyard Fields, Devil’s Courthouse, Water

Rock Knob, and Richland Balsam, but almost any overlook will provide you with spectacular views. For motor-touring enthusiasts who prefer the challenge of a twisting mountain road, the NC Smokies Motor Touring Guide will lead the way with numerous rides throughout the county and region. For more information visit www.visitncsmokies.com or request a Visitor Guide and a Motor Touring Guide by calling 1-800-334-9036. Now all you need is a place to stay! You will find a little something for everyone, including a wide range of accommodations from moderate convenience to luxurious refinement. Take your pick - from hotels and motels in the middle of the action to cozy inns and quiet B&Bs to luxury vacation rentals and cabins with panoramic views.

To learn more about lodging options and other local adventures visit www.visitncsmokies.com

See you this fall in Haywood County!

» 200+ Overland travel classes & activities

» Expert driving instruction for 4WD & ADV moto

» 300+ Exhibitors of adventure travel equipment

» Overland film festival & stories of world travels

» Ride & Drive experiences on off-road courses

Day passes, camping, & premium education packages available. Go to OverlandExpo.com for more info & to buy tickets.

OCTOBER 8-10, 2021 | ARRINGTON, VA

Photos © Camden Littleton

Celebrate fall in Pigeon Forge

Nestled in the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains, Pigeon Forge offers families and friends an autumn retreat perfect for all ages. Whether it’s a quiet cabin stay in the mountains or enjoying the fun along the Pigeon Forge Parkway, including award-winning shows, more than 80 attractions, and delicious regionally-inspired restaurants, travelers can create their ideal fall getaway this year.

Located only six miles from the entrance of Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Pigeon Forge provides easy access to one of the country’s free national parks with hundreds of trails and scenic drives to enjoy the Smokies’ brilliant fall foliage.

Here are a few more ways to celebrate the fall season during your trip to Pigeon Forge. With nearly 200 years of Pigeon Forge history, the Old Mill Historic District offers guests the chance to learn about the city’s heritage, enjoy classic Southern fare, as well as observe traditional Appalachian crafters at work. Visitors can even get a head start on holiday shopping with a bag of the Old Mill’s famous cornmeal or a handmade piece of pottery from Pigeon River Pottery.

Dollywood ushers in autumn with its Harvest Festival beginning Sept. 24. The festival features the authentic craftsmanship of renowned artisans, creative seasonal food and

beverages, and Dollywood’s Great Pumpkin LumiNights. During the festival, larger-than-life pumpkin displays and extended nighttime hours help guests celebrate all that fall has to offer in a family-friendly environment. Dollywood’s Harvest Festival ends Oct. 31 Decked out for the season, The Island in Pigeon Forge is a festive stop for food, family fun, shopping and spotting fall foliage from 200 feet above the ground. Visitors can take in a 360-degree view of the colorful Smokies from atop the Great Smoky Mountain Observation Wheel in all-glass gondolas.

Farm Stays of Patrick County

Patrick County, VA is rooted in agricultural history which shows in the many farms that have opened their operations to share their southern hospitality with travelers. If you’re looking for a unique place to get away and be a fly on the wall to the busy animals and farmers around you, these farm stays are for you!

Rest your head at the Old Oak Farm B&B, a beautiful 1920’s farmhouse. On their small farm are friendly, free range chickens, ducks, geese, goats,

turkeys and even a peacock as well as their friendly dogs.

Experience a true free-range black angus cattle operation at Wolf Creek Farm B&B, a beautiful 100-acre farm. Guests at Wolf Creek Farm will be able to see cattle from Spring through Fall and haymaking approximately in May.

The Meadows of Dan River Walk Cabins sit on a 135-acre working lavender farm named High Country Lavender. Without leaving the property guests can enjoy the 2.5-mile hiking trails, picnicking or

fishing beside the waterfalls, wildlife-watching and beautiful views from the deck of the cabins.

The Cottage at Martin’s Blueberry Hill hosts over 300 blueberry bushes in their pick-your-own orchard. July - September the berries are ripe for picking with a backdrop of Bull Mountain! Just walk out the front door, grab a bucket, and pick blueberries to your heart’s content.

For more information and to plan your trip to Pigeon Forge, please visit www.MyPigeonForge.com.

At The Nests at Chapman Knoll, they offer two country-chic, private guesthouses and provide a farm fresh breakfast to your door each morning to enjoy in the comfort of your guesthouse or balcony while you watch their beloved dairy cows roam the pastures.

Pick Hendersonville for shopping, hiking and sightseeing

the town experiences all four seasons. This time of year nature reveals its full color palette along scenic backroads. Hendersonville is located 15 miles from the famed Blue Ridge Parkway, making it a popular stopover for leaf peepers.

peer into four states — North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee and Georgia. The sunset view is one of the best in Western North Carolina.

The Blue Ridge Mountain town of Hendersonville strikes an unusual balance. It’s big enough to offer year-round activities, yet small enough to feel warm, welcoming and personable. It’s mountainous enough

to provide sweeping views, yet it’s easily accessible via an interstate drive. Hendersonville’s elevation is high enough to allow for less-humid summers and several winter snowfalls, but moderate enough that

Downtown Hendersonville’s curvilinear Main Street encourages pedestrians. Meander along an eightblock stretch of sidewalk dotted with trees and flowering planters. Window shop as you pass boutiques and galleries. Enjoy sidewalk dining at one of 25 independently owned restaurants.

Only 15 minutes from downtown, Jump Off Rock provides panoramic views of the Blue Ridge and Great Smoky mountains. On a clear day,

With more than 10,000 acres, DuPont State Recreational Forest provides a seemingly endless playground for hiking, biking, fishing and horseback riding. The gems of the forest are its numerous waterfalls. Holmes Educational State Forest has a mission to teach visitors about the trees, wildflowers and critters around them. Families enjoy an easy walk along the Talking Trees Trail where different species of trees explain their characteristics and uses.

Whether you’re looking for a convenient hotel, romantic bed-and-breakfast or familyfriendly property, Hendersonville has a variety of lodging options. For more info: www.VisitHendersonvilleNC.org or (800) 828-4244.

A Beautiful Fall Destination

Scenic backroads offer an escape from the hustle-bustle of the interstates and a glimpse at unique attractions along the way. Fall is a gorgeous time to explore the beauty of an area. Wytheville, Virginia offers that charming small-town destination you’ve been looking for as a location for your fall getaway. It’s one of the most beautiful times of the year. Local farms offer the beauty of harvest time as fields become blanketed with the orange of pumpkins. Festivals and events are frequent this time of year and focus on music and crafts. Fans of spooky activities will love the area with its seasonal haunted attractions, as well as a weekend devoted to zombies in Downtown Wytheville.

Your “off the Parkway” adventure could include a wealth of outdoor recreation followed by a night of entertainment enjoying the latest musical on the stage of Wohlfahrt

Haus Dinner Theatre. “Country Roads” runs September 3-October 24 followed by “Christmas in the Mountains” from November 11-December 31. A beautiful setting

to enjoy the authentic sounds of the region is the stage at Big Walker Lookout. Every weekend is

75 Years of Big Walker Lookout

Named for pioneer explorer Dr. Thomas Walker, Big Walker Mountain is a beautiful portion of the mountain ranges that surround Wytheville, Virginia. Celebrating 75 years of business, Big Walker Lookout & BW Country Store sits atop the mountain at an elevation of over 3,400 feet. “Only the Birds See More” after a climb up the 100-foot lookout tower that offers panoramic views of multiple states. The BW Country Store features handmade artisan wares from Southwest Virginia, delicious Virginia-made ice cream, and a variety of unique gift items. Weekends, May through October, the attraction is host to local talented musicians that perform mountain top music for visitors to enjoy! Local authors are on hand to sign their latest books and you might see a local artist demonstrating their craft.

Big Walker Lookout is the oldest private attraction and has been owned and operated by the Kime family for over 75 years. Learn more about the business at scenicbeauty-va.com

Stroll the streets of Dillsboro in the holiday spirit for the annual Lights and Luminaries Festival

The Festival of Lights and Luminaries returns the first and second Fridays and Saturdays of December, which are Dec. 3 & 4 and 10 & 11 from 5-9 p.m.

There will be over 2,500 white lights adorning the historic buildings, and the flickering flames of luminaries softening the shadows of the streets. Excitement will abound as the merchants of Dillsboro open their doors to visitors.

Each night shops will stay open late providing free refreshments like hot chocolate and cider. Visitors will enjoy

musicians and singers performing holiday carols in individual shops. Enjoy old-fashioned horse and buggy rides (weather permitting). Children can share their wishes with Santa and Mrs. Claus at Santa’s Workshop or snap a picture with Rudolph and Santa’s elves, who are walking throughout the town. With retail shops offering

a variety of arts and crafts, antiques, jewelry and specialty Christmas items, the festival provides a unique holiday shopping experience.

Friday, Dec. 6, is Western Carolina University and Southwestern Community College Night. Students and faculty are invited to enjoy special discounts (with ID) Free parking and shuttle transportation for the event will be available at Monteith Park each night of the festival. While at Monteith Park, take time to tour the Appalachian Women’s Museum

before or after your shuttle ride. All Dillsboro restaurants will be open, so come for an early family meal. Jarrett Memorial Church will be open to the public and will serve as a drop off point for canned items that will be given to local charitable organizations. Dillsboro is located in the Smoky Mountains of Western North Carolina at the intersection of US Hwys. 19/74 and 441.

For more information, visit www.visitdillsboro.org.

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

www.grandfather.com

GRANDFATHER

WONDERS NEVER CEASE

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

Photo by Kelly Donaldson/ Jackson County Chamber of Commerce

“ColorFest,” Dillsboro’s Fine Arts & Crafts Fair

Celebrates Dillsboro’s 135th Year as a Tourist Town

fine craft and one best of show winner sponsored by the Dillsboro Merchants Association!

12 pm—Anna Victoria—Anna

“ColorFest,” the thirteenth annual Dillsboro’s Fine Arts & Crafts Fair, will hit the streets on October 2, 2021 from 10am until 4pm in the historic town of Dillsboro, NC. Located just a few miles off the Blue Ridge Parkway and the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the walkabout mountain town of Dillsboro has been a popular tourist location since 1886 when visitors arrived by train and spent several weeks. 135 years later, the railroad tracks on Railroad Street are still in use by the Great Smoky Mountain Railroad, and to the enjoyment of today’s tourists. The town hosts daylong festivals to showcase the abundance of local handcrafts and musical talents. The image of the historic town of Dillsboro has evolved into the place to come for appreciation of the arts. Featured in this year’s festival are some of the best fine artists and fine crafters in Western North Carolina. Most of the artisans will be demonstrating their work and striving for the prizes awarded for 1st and 2nd place in fine art and

A visit to this small town is like stepping back in time. Its five square blocks of century-old stores, restaurants, galleries and inns are a nostalgic reminder of small town America the way our grandparents knew it. Dillsboro has an interesting array of momand-pop businesses specializing in delightful merchandise.

Fine Arts & Crafts:

David Ammons, renown chair caner, will demonstrate the historic fine art of Herringbone chair caning. Jean Littlejohn will share her antique jewelry made from old china and silver; Mary Smith will again offer her handmade hats, knitted and felted just in time for winter; Jason Rizzo will have photography from the area, framed and ready for your walls; Lisa Kolk’s silk scarves would complete any outfit; James Mills will be there with his handmade fishing fly rods (demonstrations available); with an array of jewelry and soap makers.

Entertainment:

11am—The J. Creek Cloggers—a high-energy dance team based out of Haywood County NC, will dance on the street.

Victoria is a country singer and songwriter from Sylva. She plays a range of music from Dolly Parton and Loretta Lynn to Miranda Lambert and Chris Stapleton.

1 pm—Twelfth Fret—Twelfth Fret performs original as well as pop and classic rock covers of music by John Prine, America, The Beatles, David Bowie, The Eagles,  Elton John, Tom Petty and more.

2 pm—Anna Victoria—Once again Anna Victoria will take the stage.

Within the vivid colors of autumn, you are invited to come and enjoy Dillsboro on Saturday, October 2, 2021, from 10am until 4pm at ColorFest! Come, stroll through the colorful fine arts and crafts, dance and sing to the music, feel the breeze of mountains and taste the foods of this welcoming town! For more information: 828-506-8331.

A Blowing Rock Tradition

Holiday Happenings in Wilkes County

Plan Your VISIT

The holiday season kicks off in Wilkes County the weekend of December 4, with a small-town parade full of wonderfully decorated floats, all four county marching

bands, and local businesses, scout troops, homecoming queens, dance troops and classic cars putting on their best show for the crowds lining the streets. This year’s

theme, “A Patriotic Christmas,” is sure to enthrall spectators with bright colors and great music celebrating our country and the Christmas season. The parade starts in North Wilkesboro and makes its way over to downtown Wilkesboro, where it passes by the Wilkes Heritage Museum square, the site of the Christmas in the Commons celebration immediately following the parade. Stick around for food trucks, activities for kids, visits with Santa, and the official lighting of the Heritage Square Christmas Tree.

43rd Brushy Mountain Apple Festival

October 2, 2021, 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Downtown North Wilkesboro

Pre-Festival Apple Jam featuring Sassafrass

October 1, 2021, 6 p.m.

Wilkes County

Christmas Parade

December 4, 2021, 3-5 p.m.

Christmas in the Commons

December 4, 4:30-8:30

Carolina West Wireless Community Commons and Wilkes

Heritage Museum Square

The World’s Premier Overland And Adventure Travel Event Returns

Nelson County, Virginia • October 8-10

Overlanding is a way to describe exploring by your own self-contained means, usually by 4-wheel drive vehicle or adventure motorcycle. For overlanders, the journey is as important as the destination. It’s the journey

— and the activities that overlanders do when they get to their destination: hiking, nature watching, kayaking, mountain biking, etc. — that make it an adventure.  Overland Expo East is held October 8-10, 2021 at Oak Ridge

Estates in Nelson County, Virginia. Overland Expo is the premier overlanding and adventure travel event series in the world. The weekend event is designed to bring passionate adventurers together to get trained, get outfitted and

Downtown Lexington

before they ever get out of the car. Sharp church steeples, brick walks, and intricate window displays are a feast for the eyes. Park the car and soak it all in on foot or aboard a narrated, horse-drawn carriage ride with Lexington Carriage Company.

and beautifully presented are the norm in downtown Lexington. Choose from mainstays like Southern Inn or Bistro on Main. For lighter fare, try The Red Hen, Juniper Lounge, or Tonic. Cool and quirky, the wafflewich is a sandwich you won’t soon forget, and it’s available at Brew Ridge Taps.

Most folks immediately fall in love with the architecture and charm of Lexington

Score a handmade donut or breakfast sandwich from Pure Eats and a specialty coffee from Lexington Coffee Shop to start a day of great shopping. There are several galleries filled with the works of local artisans, plus clothing boutiques, niche retailers, and gift shops aplenty. Fresh foods expertly prepared

Pizza slingin’ has gone up a notch or two with wood-fired pies crafted and served alongside great beer at Salerno Wood Fired Pizza & Taphouse and Heliotrope Brewery. Outdoor dining in downtown is the way to go and both offer space for just that.

To plan your trip: LexingtonVirginia.com

get inspired to explore the world. Overland Expo brings together the 200 outdoor lifestyle, camping, and overland gear and equipment vendors.  The event also hosts hundreds of session hours of classes, demonstrations, films and presentations all curated in an effort to teach and train attendees in outdoor and overland lifestyle and techniques and inspire them to get going on their next journey. Classes range from hands-on driving/riding skills and navigation to campfire cooking skills, nature photography, overlanding with kids, overlanding essentials classes and inspiring stories of world travels from travelers and adventurers from all over the world.

Attendees can stop by for the day or the entire weekend with a daypass or a three-day pass. Camping packages are also available.

For more information or to purchase tickets, visit www.overlandexpo.com.

Photos by Camden Littleton

Creativity Calls in the Blue Ridge Mountains

cians and craft artisans have found inspiration in the natural beauty of the area. This autumn, meet the artists who live here and experience their creativity firsthand on the new Blue Ridge Craft Trails and the Blue Ridge Music Trails of North Carolina.

Explore the New Blue Ridge Craft Trails

throughout Western North Carolina. In addition to artists, galleries and arts events, travelers will get tips on rounding out their journey with nearby craft foods, breweries, music, outdoor activities, and scenic views.

Discover the Melodies of Western North Carolina

Treasures await on your exploration of the foothills and mountains of Western North Carolina. It’s here where generations of musi-

For centuries, this region has been known as an epicenter for handmade craft, reaching back to the living arts of the Cherokee. Now, it’s easy to craft your adventure with ready-made itineraries or a Plan Your Trip tool at BlueRidgeCraftTrails. com. Discover more than 100 artist studios, galleries and hands-on craft experiences on this drivable trail

Wine Country

Western North Carolina’s distinct natural and cultural treasures have cultivated a rich musical heritage, which is now showcased through the Blue Ridge Music Trails. Internationally renowned music traditions like old-time string bands, ballad singing, and bluegrass are highlighted in the Blue Ridge Music Trails that expand across 29 counties. Come and explore for a few hours or a few days

to immerse yourself in authentic mountain melodies and traditions. Visit BlueRidgeMusicNC.com

The Blue Ridge Music Trails and the Blue Ridge Craft Trails are initiatives of the Blue Ridge National Heritage Area. This nonprofit works to preserve and protect the rich cultural and natural heritage of Western North Carolina. Learn more at BlueRidgeHeritage.com

Johnson C. Campbell Folk School/Weaving

Meghan Bernard, potter, Hendersonville, NC

Make the Blue Ridge Parkway Detour around Roanoke an Excursion

A section of the Blue Ridge Parkway will be closed around the Roanoke area in Virginia’s Blue Ridge through spring 2022.

The National Park Service will be completing repairs on the Roanoke River Bridge at Milepost 114 and also repairing a road hazard at Milepost 127.9 that was caused by heavy rains and landslides. As a result, the Blue Ridge Parkway will be closed from Milepost

112.2 (Route 24 near Vinton, VA) to Milepost 136 (Route 221 on Bent Mountain, VA) for thru-travelers.

The region’s popular outdoor destination, Explore Park (milepost 115), offering cabins, yurts and campsites, multi-use trails, ziplining, and more is still accessible along the Parkway North from US220 at Milepost 121 or by the Alternate Entrance at 3900 Rutrough Road.

There are many charming small towns to explore off of the Blue Ridge Parkway while these

popular sections are closed: In the Town of Vinton, enjoy the outdoors with a relaxing walk along the Wolf Creek Greenway, get on the water at the Tinker Creek Canoe Launch, snap a picture in front of the Vinton War Memorial LOVE sign and refuel at a fun local spot like farmto-table burgers at FarmBurguesa, craft beer at Twin Creeks Brewing Company, and classic comfort food at Dogwood Restaurant.

Downtown Roanoke, the largest metropolitan area in Virginia’s Blue Ridge offers an exciting assort-

For step by step directions:

ment of local shops, restaurants and attractions like the Historic City Market, Center in the Square’s seven-story museum and cultural hub, Taubman Museum of Art, Virginia Museum of Transportation and Mast General Store. The nearby progressive Neighborhood of Wasena is full of flavor. Savor a craft coffee from Roasters Next Door Coffee, hit the Roanoke River Greenway then relax over sensational flavors at Bloom Restaurant & Wine Bar.

Find sweet treats sprinkled along Roanoke’s Brambleton Avenue at Our Daily Bread, Deb’s Frozen Lemonade and Brambleton Deli. Bent Mountain has excellent hiking at Bottom Creek Gorge (home to the 2nd highest waterfall in VA) and locally-grown Virginia wine at AmRhein’s Wine Cellars.

Enjoy a metro mountain adventure to Virginia’s Blue Ridge! Head to VisitVBR.com/ parkwaydetour for step by step detour directions to each of these charming small towns. **Explore Park is also accessible via Mill Mountain Spur Road.

Woolly Worm Festival

For more than 40 years, the town of Banner Elk, NC, has invited both old and new friends to the annual Woolly Worm Festival. This world-renowned, family-friendly event is co-hosted by the Avery County Chamber of Commerce and the Kiwanis Club of Banner Elk, and in recent years has drawn crowds of nearly 20,000 folks! This year, the 44th annual Woolly Worm Festival will take place on Saturday,

October 16 and Sunday, October 17.

During the festival, woolly worms are raced in a series of heats, with the champion given the honor of delivering the winter forecast. The woolly worm has long been famous in the High Country, primarily because of its uncanny ability to predict the weather—or so the legend goes… Old-timers say that the number of black and orange colored bands,

Blue Ridge Parkway Road Trip

Blue Ridge Parkway Road Trip Guide has flexible itineraries and practical tips you’re ready to fill up and hit the road.

From the sprawling green countryside of Shenandoah to the mists rising over the Great Smoky Mountains, endless adventure and beauty await along America’s most scenic highway.

Inside Moon Blue Ridge Parkway Road Trip you’ll find:

Multiple Itineraries: Choose from flexible getaways along the Blue Ridge Parkway, including the ultimate two-week route, a four-day loop from D.C., and more

Eat, sleep, stop and explore: With lists of the best hikes, views, restaurants, and more, you can listen to live bluegrass, find the best barbecue around, or sip local moonshine. Explore a labyrinthine cave system, hike a leg of the famous Appalachian Trail, and spot black bears and elk in Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Maps and driving tools: Easy-to-use maps keep you oriented on and off the highway, along with site-to-site mileage, driving times, detailed directions, and full-color photos throughout Planning your trip: Know when and where to get gas, how to avoid traffic, tips for driving in different road and weather conditions, and suggestions for LBGTQ+ travelers, seniors, and road trippers with children. Get your copy today at: www.moon.com

or segments, on a worm in early fall can determine the severity of the coming winter. That’s good information when you’re preparing for 13 weeks of frigid temps, ice, and snow here in the mountains. What else can your family do at this famous fall festival? There’s something for everyone! The Woolly Worm Festival features crafts, food vendors, children’s

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.

activities, and live entertainment. It’s a great place to get a head start on your Christmas shopping at the more than 140 vendor booths! All festival proceeds are given back to the community to enhance schools, fund children’s programs, and to promote businesses and tourism in Avery County. Learn more at www.WoollyWorm.com.

5 Fall Favorites in Virginia’s Blue Ridge

This fall, find the perfect combination of outdoor adventure and scenic views paired with rich local flavors and live entertainment, right off the Parkway in Virginia’s Blue Ridge. Take milepost 120 towards Roanoke to stretch your legs, refuel and enjoy fall in the mountains.

Mountain bike the crisp trails of Mill Mountain Park to Roanoke’s highest point (1703 ft.) then stand beneath the Roanoke Star, the world’s largest man-made illuminated star, for a breathtaking view as the leaves change into their fall wardrobes.

Find more stunning foliage and soak in Blue Ridge Mountain vistas at the scenic wineries of Botetourt County. Virginia Mountain Vineyards, Blue Ridge Vineyard, and Stoney Brook Vineyards all pair exceptional views and award-winning wines.

Refuel with farm-to-table burgers at Vinton’s FarmBurguesa, where the menu boasts locally-sourced ingredients and Colombian-inspired twists. Snap a selfie at the Vinton War Memorial LOVEworks art before getting back on the road!

Get started on holiday shopping in Downtown Salem. Find seasonal vegetables, sweet treats and beautiful work of talented artists and craftspeople at the Salem

Farmers Market while weaving in and out of local antique shops and boutiques that line Main Street. Enjoy live entertainment with a theatre performance at Mill Mountain Theatre located inside Downtown Roanoke’s seven-story Center in the Square or catch a concert at the Harvester Performance Center in downtown Rocky Mount, Virginia.

Plan a complete metro mountain getaway to Virginia’s Blue Ridge this fall. Find more information on these attractions and others at www.visitvbr.com.

Vinton War Memorial LOVEworks: Jenny Marie Photography

Visit VBR Roanoke Star fall colors – Creative Dog Media

With unlimited things to do, be sure not to miss out on these five favorites while visiting Virginia’s Blue Ridge

SHENANDOAH NATIONAL PARK

Shenandoah National Park lies astride a beautiful section of the Blue Ridge Mountains, which form the eastern rampart of the Appalachian Mountains between Pennsylvania and Georgia. The Shenandoah River flows through the valley to the west, with Massanutten Mountain, 40 miles long, standing between the river’s north and south forks. The rolling Piedmont country lies to the east of the Park. Skyline Drive, a 105-mile road that winds along the crest of the mountains through the length of the Park, provides vistas of the spectacular landscape to east and west. Many animals, including deer, black bears, and wild turkeys, flourish among the rich growth of an oak-hickory forest. In season, bushes and wildflowers bloom along the Drive and trails and fill the open spaces. Apple trees, stone foundations, and cemeteries are reminders of the families who once called this place home. Shenandoah National Park has many stories waiting to be told, and a world of beauty that can renew and bring peace to the spirit.

ACTIVITIES AND EVENTS

Visitors can enjoy the panoramic views from overlooks, hike to peaks and waterfalls, fish or just plain relax in the peaceful surroundings. Check their website at www.nps.gov/shen for a current list of programs as programming starts returning this summer.

Continuing a tradition set by George Freeman Pollock, who found a resort at Skyland long before

Shenandoah National Park was established, Skyland and Big Meadows Lodge offer a variety of activities for visitors in spring, summer, and fall. From guided horseback rides from the Skyland stables, to night skies presentations and star gazing in the big meadows, there are great ways to have fun and learn more about the park and it’s wonderful assets. For a calendar of events, visit www.goshenandoah.com

Facilities and Services

Includes visitor centers, bookstores, campgrounds, showers and laundries, picnic areas, gift shops, lodges, cabins, restaurants, gas station, ATMs, waysides, campstores, a stable, & restrooms.

• Most facilities and services are available April through November

• Plan to obtain all food, gas, and lodging outside of the Park in December, January, February, and March.

Check the Park’s website or call (540) 999-3500 for current information.

www.nps.gov/shen

TAKE FALL RELAXATION HIGHER

COLOR YOUR ESCAPE

The perfect time to experience Shenandoah National Park is when it’s tinged in shades of red and gold. Here in the Blue Ridge Mountains, fall shines. And you can stay right inside the park at Skyland, Big Meadows Lodge or the Lewis Mountain Cabins. Fall is a season to unwind, and there’s no better place to do that than high up in Shenandoah.

Plan your fall moment now at GoShenandoah.com

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

Fannin CoUnty ChamBer oF CommerCe

152 Orvin Lance Dr • 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.alleghanycountychamber.com

andreWs rest stop

50 Cover St / US 19 • Andrews, NC 28902 www.visitcherokeecounty.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

BlaCk moUntain ChamBer oF CommerCe

201 E. State St. • Black Mountain, NC 28711 (828) 669-2300

BloWing roCk ChamBer oF CommerCe

132 Park Ave • Blowing Rock NC 28605

(800) 295-7851

www.blowingrockncchamber.com

BlUe ridge parkWay visitor Center

195 Hemphill Knob Rd • Asheville, NC 28803 828-298-5330

Boone area ChamBer oF CommerCe

870 W King St. Suite A • Boone, NC 28607

(828) 264-2225 • www.VisitBooneNC.com

Bryson City ChamBer oF CommerCe

210 Main Street • Bryson City, NC 28713

(828) 488-3681 • www.greatsmokies.com

BUrke CoUnty travel & toUrism

110 E. Meeting Street Morganton, NC 28655 (828) 433-6793

CaldWell CoUnty visitor Center

1909 Hickory Blvd. SE Lenoir, NC 28645

(828) 726-0616

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 WelCome Center

P.O. Box 460 • 498 Tsalis Rd. Cherokee, NC 28719

(800) 438-1601 • www.cherokee-nc.com

Clay CoUnty ChamBer oF CommerCe 96 Sanderson St • Hayesville, NC 28904; (828) 389-3704

www.claycounty-nc-chamber.com

Franklin area ChamBer oF CommerCe 98 Hyatt Rd. Franklin • NC 28734 (888) 439-park • www.franklin-chamber.com

gaston CoUnty visitor Center 620 N. Main Street • Belmont, NC 28012 704-825-4044. www.visitgaston.org

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

hayWood ChamBer oF CommerCe

28 Walnut St. • Waynesville, NC 28786 (828) 456-3021

hendersonville visitor Center 201 S. Main St • Hendersonville, NC 28792 (800) 828-4244

www.historichendersonville.org

hiCkory metro CvB

1960 13th Ave Dr. SE • Hickory, NC 28602 (828) 322-1335 • www.hickorymetro.com

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 828-765-2761

www.mitchell-county.com

moUnt airy visitor Center 200 N. Main St. • Mt. Airy, NC 27030 (800) 948-0949 • www.visitmayberry.com

moUnt mitChell state park 2388 State Hwy. 128 • Burnsville, NC 28714 (828) 675-4611

nW nC visitor Center 2121 East US Hwy 421 North WIlkesboro, NC 28659 (336) 667-1259

nC high CoUntry host visitor Center 6370 US HWY 321 South, Blowing Rock, NC 28605 (800) 438-7500 • www.mountainsofnc.com

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

piedmont triad visitor Center

700 NC Hwy 700 • Pelham, NC 27311 (800) 388-9830

polk CoUnty visitor Center 20 E. Mills St. • Columbus, NC 28722 (800) 440-7848

smoky moUntain host oF nC, inC 4437 Georgia Rd. • 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

yanCey CoUnty ChamBer oF CommerCe 106 W. Main St. • Burnsville, NC 28714 (800) 948-1632 • www.yanceychamber.com

yadkin valley heritage & trails visitor Center – 257 Standard St, Elkin, NC 28621 (336) 526-1111 – www.exploreelkin.com

TENNESSEE

ClairBorne Co. ChamBer oF CommerCe 1732 Main St., Suite 1 • Tazewell, TN 37879 (423) 626-4149 • www.clairbornecounty.com

elizaBethton visitor Center 615 East Elk Ave., Elizabethton, TN 37643 (423) 547-3850 • tourcartercounty.com

greene Co partnership/CoB 115 Academy St. • Greeneville, TN 37743 (423) 638-4111 www.GreeneCountyPartnership.com

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

loUdon CoUnty visitor BUreaU 1075 US Hwy 321 • Lenoir City, TN 37771 (865) 968-3662 • www.visitloudoncounty.com

pigeon Forge visitor Center 1950 N. Parkway, POB 1390 BRD Pigeon Forge, TN 37868 (800) 251-9100 • mypigeonforge.com

toWnsend visitor Center 7609 E. Lamar Alexander Parkway, Townsend, TN 37882.

800-525-6834 • www.smokymountains.org

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 St. • Independence VA 24348 (276) 773-2471

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

aBingdon visitor Center

300 Green Spring Rd. • Abingdon, VA 24210

(800) 435-3440 • www.abingdon.com

aFton visitor Center

130 Afton Circle • Afton, VA 22920

(540) 943-5187 • www.visitwaynesboro.net

alBemarle toUrism & adventUre Center

5791 Three Notched Rd • Crozet, VA 22932

(434) 906-2713

appomattox visitor Center

214 Main Street. PO Box 246

Appomattox, VA 24522

(434) 352-8999 • historicappomattox.com

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

BUena vista visitor Center

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

Carroll CoUnty visitor Center

231 Farmers Market Rd, Hillsville • VA 24343

(888) 785-2782 • (276) 730-3100

www.visittheBlueRidge.com

Charlottesville visitor Center

610 East Main St • Charlottesville, VA 22902

(434) 293-6789 • (434) 970-3641 www.visitcharlottesville.org

danville visitor Center

645 River Park Dr • Danville, VA 24540

(434) 793-4636 • www.visitdanville.com

disCovery Center at mill moUntain roanoke’s mill moUntain

2000 J P Fishburn Parkway Roanoke, VA 24013 • (540) 853-1236

Floyd visitors Center

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

Franklin CoUnty visitor Center

1255 Franklin St, suite 112, Rocky Mount, VA 24151.

(540) 483-3030 • www.visitfranklincountyva.com

Front royal visitor Center

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

City oF galax toUrism department

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

greene CoUnty eConomiC development & toUrism

9157 Seminole Trail, Suite 2 Ruckersville, VA 22968 434-985-6663

hardesty-higgins hoUse visitor Center

212 S. Main St • Harrisonburg, VA 22801

VisitHarrisonburgVA.com

(540) 432-8935

lexington visitor Center

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

loUdoUn visitor Center

112G South St. SE • Leesburg, VA 20175 (703) 771-3237 • www.visitloudon.org

lUray/page CoUnty ChamBer

18 Campbell St. • Luray, VA 22835 (540) 743-3915 • www.luraypage.com

lynChBUrg regional inFormation Center

901 Court St. • Lynchburg, Virginia 24504 (434) 485-7290 • www.discoverlynchburg.org

madison CoUnty visitor Center

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

martinsville-henry CoUnty visitor Center

191 Fayette St. • Martinsville, VA 24112 (888) 722-3498 • www.visitmartinsville.com

orange Co. visitor’s Center

122 East Main St. • Orange, VA 22960 (877) 222-8072 • www.visitorangevirginia.com

patriCk CoUnty ChamBer oF CommerCe

334 Patrick Avenue • PO Box 577 Stuart, VA 24171 (276) 694-6012 • www.patrickchamber.com

patriCk CoUnty visitor Center

126 N. Main St Stuart, VA 24171 www.visitpatrickcounty.org

pUlaski CoUnty visitor Center

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

radFord visitor Center

710A Main St. • Radford, VA 24141 (866) 605-6442 • www.visitradford.com

roanoke visitor inFormation Center

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

roCkFish gap-WaynesBoro visitor Center

130 Afton Circle • Afton, VA 22920 (540) 943-5187 • www.visitwaynesboro.net

salem visitor Center

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

shenandoah CoUnty toUrism

600 N. Main St, Ste 101 Woodstock, VA 22664 888-367-3965 • visitshenandoahcounty.com

gateWay to shenandoah visitor Center at hUpp’s hill Civil War park and mUseUm 33229 Old Valley Pike • Strasburg, VA 22657 540-465-9197 • strasburgva.com

soUthWest virginia CUltUral Center & marketplaCe

1 Heartwood Cir, Abington, VA 24210 (276) 492-2400 • swvaculturalcenter.com

staUnton travel inFormation Center 1290 Richmond Rd. (I-81 Exit 222)

Staunton, VA 24401 • (540) 332-3972 www.VisitStaunton.com

staUnton visitor’s Center 35 South New St. • Staunton,VA 24401 540-332-3971 • www.VisitStaunton.com

virginia’s explore park visitor Center 59 Roanoke River Parkway, Blue Ridge Parkway Milepost 115 Roanoke, VA 24014 • (540) 427-1800

Western highlands visitor Center 241 W. Main St. • Covington, VA 24426 (540) 962-2178

www.alleghanyhighlands.com

WinChester-FrederiCk CoUnty CvB 1400 S. Pleasant Valley Rd. Winchester, VA 22601 (877) 871-1326 • www.visitwinchesterva.com

Wytheville CvB 975 Tazewell St. • 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

nelson CoUnty visitor Center

8519 Thomas Nelson Hwy., Lovingston, VA 22949 (800) 282-8223 • www.Nelsoncounty.com

Blue Ridge Institute & Museum

Ferrum, Va

Frontier Culture Museum

Staunton, VA

Grandfather Mountain

Linville, NC

Linville Caverns

Linville Falls, NC

Mabry Mill Restaurant & Gift Shop

Meadows of Dan, VA

Mast General Store

Waynesville, NC

Mystery Hill

Blowing Rock, NC

Northwest Trading Post

Glendale Springs, NC

smith moUntain lake visitor Center 16430 Booker T. Washington Hwy. #2 Moneta. VA 24121 540-721-1203

www.visitsmithmountainlake.com

HIDDEN GEMS

CUmBerland gap nhp visitor Center 91 Bartlett Rd • Middlesboro, KY 40965 (606) 248-2817 Attractions

centers

Peaks of Otter Lodge

Blue Ridge Parkway Bedford, VA

Pisgah Inn

Blue Ridge Parkway Waynesville, NC

Skyland & Big Meadows Lodges

Shenandoah National Park

VA Transportation Museum

Roanoke, VA

VA Museum of the Civil War New Market, VA

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

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) 6863121. 2708 Hwy 70E, Swannanoa, NC 28778. www.ashevilleeastkoa.com

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

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.

Grovewood Village

Discover a hidden gem rich with art and history. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, this 11acre property is home to Grovewood Gallery, 8 working artist studios, the Estes-Winn Antique Car Museum, and the Biltmore Industries Homespun Museum. Adjacent to Omni Grove Park Inn. www.grovewood.com (828) 214-7768

Mast Store – 15 Biltmore Ave., Downtown Asheville. Dating to the 1940s, find home décor, camping gear, shoes, clothing, and hundreds of favorite candies. www.MastStore.com 828-232-1883

Rug & Home - Over 20,000 oriental rugs & home accessories. Finest rugs from India, China, Pakistan, Persia, Turkey, Egypt, Karastan, Milliken. Tapestries, needlepoints, oil paintings, antique furniture, brass, crystal, & Tiffany lamps, mirrors. Local & national artists. Sculptures and fine porcelain. Located at I-26, exit 33 behind Ethan Allen. Open 7 days. (828) 667-4585.

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

Alpine Village Inn - 297 Sunset Dr. Quaint cozy rooms & suites in the heart of town. AC, CCTV, & phones, WiFi complimentary. Some fireplaces & Jacuzzi. Pet friendly rooms. www.alpine-village-inn.com (828) 295-7206.

Alpine Village Townhomes Vacation Rentals

2+ Bedroom, special offers.Great Views, heated pool/summer, clubhouse and amenities, cable TV, special golf fees. 3 miles west of Parkway, exit Hwy 80. No pets. 727-389-3404

www.alpinevillagetownhomes.com

Blowing Rock Art & History Museum - Free admission, open year round. Must-see destination for visual art & Appalachian heritage. www.BlowingRockMuseum.org. 159 Ginny Stevens Ln (828) 295-9099.

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.

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 – 630 W King St., Downtown Boone. Built in the 1920s, this charming store is filled with most everything you need for life: clothing, trail & travel gear, 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) 4387500 www.mountainsofnc.com

BURNSVILLE, NC

Alpine Village Townhomes Vacation Rentals

2+ Bedroom, special offers. Great Views, heated pool/summer, clubhouseand amenities, cable TV, special golf fees. 3 miles west of Parkway, exit Hwy 80. No pets. www.alpinevillagetownhomes.com 727-389-3404

CHIMNEY ROCK, NC

Chimney Rock at Chimney Rock State Park - More than a Rock, it’s a Mountain of Possibilities. Six unique hiking trails. 404-foot waterfall. 26-story elevator inside mountain. Woodland animal programs and exhibits. Pet friendly. Old Rock Café overlooking the river. Open all year. 40 min SE of Asheville. 828-625-9611. ChimneyRockPark.com

HENDERSONVILLE, NC

Mast Store – 527 N Main St., Downtown Hendersonville. Built in 1905 and embodying the essence of the era, this store is packed with clothing, gift ideas, country gourmet foods, & more!

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

LINVILLE, NC

Grandfather Mountain - Grandfather’s lofty heights offer guests opportunities for rejuvenation, excitement and family memories in a natural haven that

Be

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 th Linville exit at Milepost 305 to U.S. 221 South. Open daily, weather permitting, 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. $22 adult, $20 senior 60+, $9 child 4-12, under 4 freewww.grandfather.com

(828) 733-4337 or (800) 468-7325.

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

Linville Falls Lodge & Cottages - BRP Milepost 317.4, US 221S, 1 mile to walk to falls & gorge. www.linvillefallslodge.com (828) 765-2658.

LITTLE SWITZERLAND, NC

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

Switzerland Cafe & General Store - MP 334 1/4 mile of the Parkway. Lunch and weekend dinners. Souvenirs and picnic items. 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) 6544026. www.switzerlandinn.com

MAGGIE VALLEY, NC

Boyd Mountain Log Cabins7 Authentic cabins, fireplaces, AC, cable, WIFI. Choose n cut Christmas tree farm, trout fishing, hiking. (828) 926-1575. www.boydmountain.com

sure to tell them you saw it in THE DIGEST!

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 CO., 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

SPRUCE PINE, NC

Gem Mountain - 13780 Hwy 226. 1 mile from Parkway. Gem mine. Rain or shine. Mine trips available. People’s choice for Gem mining. www.gemmountain.com

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. 828-765-9559. www.peakmountaincottages.com

VALLE CRUCIS, NC

Mast General Store & Annex Highway 194. Est. 1883 & listed on the National Register of Historic Places, this authentic general store is filled with the best of yesterday and today including camping gear, shoes & boots, housewares, candies, and an impressive collection of knives. www.MastStore.com 828-963-6511

WAYNESVILLE, NC

Mast Store – 63, N Main St., Downtown Waynesville. Serving the area since 1935, this store is brimming with clothing, shoes, cast iron cookware, candy, & camping gear. www.MastStore.com 828-452-2101

TENNESSEE GATLINBURG, TN

Ski Mountain Chalet & Condo Rentals - 1-4 bedrooms , 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. 540-586-3707. www.iwineu.com or www.elmosrest.com

Gross’ Orchard & Apple Valley Homeplace - Vacation Home Rental. Open year round. $75 per couple per night. Mountain grown fruit & produce. Bedford, VA. Rt. 43 in Apple Valley. Open Year round. U-pick or U-select. Apple Festival 3rd Sat. in Oct. (540) 586-2436.

CHARLOTTESVILLE, VA

Montfair Resort Farm - Pet friendly cabins by lake. 30 min from Parkway. Wi-fi, linens & cookware provided. Canoe, hike, fish. (434) 8235202. 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.

FLOYD, VA

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 Visitors Center

109 E. Main St., Floyd, VA 24091

Mountain town with unique music, arts, outdoor fun! 540-745-4407

www.VisitFloydVA.com

GALAX, VA

Cool Breeze Campground

2330 Edmonds Rd.Galax,VA

MP215 off BRP, Full Hookups

Bathhouse,Laundry,Big Rig Friendly,Free WIFI,Rally Center,276-236-0300

www.coolbreezecampground.com

GROTTOES, VA

Grand Caverns - 5 Grand Caverns Dr, Grottoes, VA, America’s oldest continuously operated show cave. Nature’s handiwork & gifts. 888-430-CAVE.

www.grandcaverns.com

HARRISONBURG, VA

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

NATURAL BRIDGE, VA

Natural Bridge Zoo - 5784 S. Lee Hwy I-81 exit 180A Natural Bridge 24578. 540-291-2420, naturalbridgezoo. com. Largest collection of birds and animals in Virginia. Elephant rides, giraffe, tigers, bears, monkeys, birds and more! Petting zoo, gift shop, picnic area. Open mid March to November.

PATRICK COUNTY, VA

Blue Ridge Real Estate Cabin Rentals-- Residential, land and commercial properties as well as Log Cabin Sales and Vacation Rentals. www.blueridgerealestate.net or 276-694-2001.

Buffalo Mountain Getaway-Perfect location for your getaway in Virginia. Get away from it all. Cottage or Cabin near the Buffalo Mountain in Floyd. 540.789.8335 buffalomountaingetaway.com/home

Laurel Point Villa - Breathtaking views of the Blue Ridge Mountains! Large vacation rental is a mix of modern conveniences and charm & is a great place for family gatherings. (850) 712-1139. www.laurelpointvillage.com

Pond View GuesthouseGuesthouse is conveniently located just off the Blue Ridge Parkway near Meadows of Dan, VA. www.pondviewguesthouse.com or (276) 952-2624.

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

Willville Motorcycle Campground26 acre wooded park located less than one mile from the Blue Ridge Parkway in the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia. www.willvillebikecamp.com or (276) 952-CAMP.

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.

ROANOKE, VA

Mast General Store - In downtown at 401 S. Jefferson St. Our newest old location dates to 1915 and is filled with old favorites and new ones too! www.MastStore.com 540-566-5661.

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.

In this apple capital, harvest season begins in early August and continues into November.

Henderson County leads North Carolina in apple production and consistently ranks among the nation’s top producers. Hendersonville apples show up in supermarkets and restaurants throughout the

region, but the best way to eat one is straight from the tree. The Crest of the Blue Ridge Orchard Trail outlines 21 orchards, roadside stands and markets throughout Henderson County. The self-guided trail encourages

An Apple a Day?

Head to Hendersonville, NC, for a Double Dose

visitors to create their own apple-country itineraries. Brochures are available online at www. VisitHendersonvilleNC.org and at the Hendersonville Visitor Center.

Many orchards embrace agritourism, offering apple picking, as well as corn mazes, pumpkin patches, hayrides, barnyard animals and even apple cannons.

More than 20 different varieties of apples grow in Hendersonville orchards. Each variety has its own ripening timeline. Honey-

Find Historic National Treasures in Bedford, VA

Bedford, Virginia is located along the Blue Ridge Parkway in the mountain region of Virginia. About ten miles off the Parkway is the Town of Bedford. In Bedford you will find outdoor adventure, historic attractions, locally-owned restaurants and shops, wineries, breweries, and a variety of overnight lodging accommodations. Come see why Smithsonian Magazine named it one of the “15 Best Small Towns to Visit” and why it was named a “Top Small Adventure Town” by readers of Blue Ridge Outdoors!

Businesses and attractions are open and practicing safety guidelines. Daily tours are offered at the National D-Day Memorial (dday. org) and Thomas Jefferson’s Poplar Forest (poplarforest.org). It’s recommended to purchase advance tickets online for a discounted price.

Purchase a Combo Ticket for a cost savings off admission if planning to visit both attractions.

While in Bedford, be sure to stop by the Bedford Area Welcome Center at 816 Burks Hill Road, across from the entrance to the National D-Day Memorial. The Center is open daily 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. offering free Wi-Fi, a firefighter exhibit, gift shop, RV hook-ups, electric car charging station, LOVE sign, and more.

If you are planning to visit and would like information emailed or mailed ahead of time, give us a call at (540) 587-5681 or go to DestinationBedfordVA.com and click on Contact Us. We look forward to seeing you this fall!

crisp and McIntosh are some of the early birds, while Rome and pink lady come later. Early in the season, you can also find peaches and blueberries, with pears and grapes following shortly after. Fresh apple cider, as well as apple-cider doughnuts, apple fritters and apple butter are all made on-site.

For more apple season info: www.VisitHendersonvilleNC.org or (800) 828-4244.

Photo by Jack Calhoun

FALL INTO ART

50th Virginia Fall Foliage Art Show in Waynesboro

Valley region participate in this crowd-pleasing festival that is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year. First time visitors can expect a juried art show for two and three dimensional works, led by locals who will decide the winner of Best in Show and give out $10,000 in awards. While some of the festival’s best-loved artists have now retired, a wave of newcomers have joined the scene, and will be featured in the “Emerging & Local Artists” exhibit. Art stalls line Waynesboro’s historic downtown, where people have the opportunity to meet the artists and purchase their works directly.

By Rebecca Laflam

Held outdoors annually in downtown Waynesboro, the Virginia Fall Foliage Art Show is one of the finest in the region. The juried art show includes paintings, photography, sculpture, pottery, metalwork,

glasswork, jewelry, and other media.

The 2021 festival will take place the second weekend in October, on Saturday, October 9 (10 am-5pm) and Sunday, October 10 (12 pm-5pm).

Approximately 150 artists and artisans from the Shenandoah

Boasting thousands of visitors annually, the Fall Foliage Festival is produced by the Shenandoah Valley Art Center. Just minutes off the Blue Ridge Parkway and Skyline Drive, the Art Show is free, so bring some friends and family to support your favorite artists at

SUNDAY DRIVESeveryday of the week

the largest open air art festival in the Shenandoah Valley!

Local food vendors, craft brewers, and food trucks will gather at Lumos Plaza, where roots music provides the perfect soundscape for relaxing and exploring the maze of artists’ tents. Families can get into the action through the public art program for youth, where kids can decorate the city’s sidewalks with chalk, exploring art while also experiencing it.

While you are in Waynesboro, be sure to explore the city’s ever-growing street art presence. More than a dozen murals of various sizes and subjects decorate the Waynesboro cityscape ~ many from award-winning international artists. Stop by the Visitor Center to get a walking map of the Waynesboro Street Arts Trail.

More information at VisitWaynesboro.com

While you meander our approximately 30 miles of the Blue Ridge Parkway, there are also picnics at a covered bridge, canoe rides, traditional mountain music, artisan studios, camping, hiking, mountain biking, fishing, local wineries, and bed and breakfasts awaiting you. From the rugged outdoors to 5-Star luxury, there is so much to discover in Patrick County. www.visitpatrickcounty.org

Looking for a restaurant with outdoor seating? Downtown Staunton is making it easy to find plenty of delicious choices, all in one charming location.

What started as a way to help its restaurants survive the pandemic has turned into a new favorite way to experience what Travel + Leisure calls one of “America’s

Dine Out On Main Street in Staunton

Favorite Mountain Towns.” COVID has been difficult for everyone, and the restaurant industry has been particularly hard hit. As the pandemic grew, and indoor dining became less feasible, restaurants across the country felt the impact.

Fortunately, downtown Staunton had the perfect solution: open main street to people and restaurants and close it to cars. The program, called Shop & Dine Out, launched in 2020 and was an immediate hit. Now, every weekend through October, Staunton’s Main Street is closed off to vehicular traffic, transforming what Architectural Digest calls one of “America’s Most Beautiful Main Streets” into a charming pedestrian zone full of outdoor tables for dining and cocktails.

Dining out on Staunton’s Main Street is a visual feast as well as a culinary experience. The city’s award-winning historic district

is lined with red brick sidewalks, and features an eclectic array of downtown architecture.

Restaurants participating in the Beverley Street outdoor dining include BLU Point Seafood Co., The By & By, The Green Room, Shenandoah Valley Brewing Co., The Split Banana, Laughing Bird Pho, The Pampered Palate Café, and Zynodoa. Plenty of parking is available in city parking garages and on adjacent side streets.

The Queen City is located in the heart of the Shenandoah Valley, about 20 minutes from the Rockfish Gap entrance to Blue Ridge Parkway and Skyline Drive. Downtown Staunton is a distinctive destination in its own right, and paired with a vibrant outdoor dining experience, it’s a must-do.

Story by Rebecca Laflam • Photo by @kimphillips123

Barns of Madison County

Who doesn’t love a

barn? “Very few people” is what a group of passionate barn and heritage lovers in Madison County, NC, have discovered since they gathered in 2012 to form what was to become the Appalachian Barn Alliance (ABA). This volunteer 501c 3 group of people has worked to preserve the rural heritage of Madison County and surrounding areas through the documentation of the historical barn building traditions and the barns they represent for future generations. In those nine short years, their contracted researcher, Taylor Barnhill, has documented over 100

historic barns with photographs, architectural sketches, and oral histories about both the family and facts about the barn buildings themselves. This work is unique to North Carolina and the whole Southeast.

The information is transformed into several one-hour self-guided driving tours to encourage people to appreciate the heritage represented by these iconic barns. However, the barns are disappearing from the landscape as weather takes its toll. So, the ABA has added a new focus— to create a heritage farmstead with examples of the different types of the Southern Appalachian style barn

and a display of the research collected in the Welcome Center. A partnership with the town of Mars Hill, NC, on the Smith Farm on the Bailey Mountain Preserve will do just that. The group continues to be busy with the documentation and

developing the Heritage Farmstead. Their two biggest fundraisers are an Annual Barn Tour Event (September 11) and an Art Gala Benefit (October 15). For information about the self-guided tours and the events, go to https://appalachianbarns.org

Anderson Farmstead in Mars Hill, NC

PUMPKIN PATCHES, CORN MAZES & APPLE ORCHARDS, OH MY!!

Add to the NC mountain memories you are making with your family this fall with some old-fashioned fun. Choose a pumpkin straight from the patch and get lost in a corn maze! Pick your own apples and enjoy an apple cider slushy or fresh apple pie—all while taking in the beautiful fall leaf color!

PUMPKIN PATCHES & CORN MAZES

Harvest Farm Corn Maze & Pumpkin Patch

Valle Crucis, NC

Harvest farm is located almost next door to the Original Mast General Store. The farm has a 7 acre corn maze and a large pumpkin patch

New River Corn Maze & Pumpkin Patch Deep Gap, NC (5 minutes from Boone)

The Brown Family Farm is located just outside of Boone, NC and offers a pumpkin patch, corn maze, haunted corn maze, tractor-pulled hay rides and train ride.

What Lurks

Beneath the Ripples of Appalachia’s Mountain Streams?

It’s well known that we have Trout in our waters, but have you ever heard of Hellbenders, Creek Chub, Tangerine Darters, Mottled Sculpins or Warpaint Shiners? A visit to Bryson City’s newest attraction - The Appalachian Rivers Aquarium - will quickly enlighten you about what’s beneath your feet as you wade in a mountain stream or river bed.

Ashe County Corn Maze

West Jefferson, NC

The maze features much more than a corn maze!  Make a day of your trip and play horse shoes and corn hole, jump in the bounce house, try the pumpkin cannon, roast a marshmallow and get your face painted on the weekend.

U-PICK APPLE ORCHARDS

The Orchard at Altapass  Blue Ridge Parkway MP 328.3 The orchard offers free live music, apple picking, fresh apple pie and ice cream, and a country store.

The Aquarium may be small, but the diversity of species to view and learn about will surprise you. Not your average-size salamander, two large, protected Eastern Hellbenders can be viewed from the sides and underneath their display tank. Of course there are little salamanders (pictured), as well as tanks with game and nongame fish. The mountain stream is a three-tank exhibit with the many trout species found in our area.

The Aquarium is located at 117 Island Street, on the Tuckasegee River in downtown Bryson City, NC. Free admission, donations welcomed. For more info, visit: FlyFishingMuseum.org/aquarium

Moravian Falls, NC

Take a hayride into the orchard to pick your own apples. When you get back to the barn, enjoy apple cider donuts, drinks, pies— and shoot the apple cannon! For more details, visit NCHighCountryFall.com

Perry Lowe Orchard

Birds of prey are soon headed your way, scheduled to cross through Virginia airspace in their annual migratory flight to South America. No, these are not the reptilian prehistoric dinosaurs Spielberg thrilled viewers with in Jurassic Park, but instead their distant relatives, or as they are commonly “clawed,” raptors!

This species features a multitude of creatures such as eagles, falcons, owls, and most notably the broad-winged hawk. Visitors and locals alike won’t want to miss this

Look Up! Annual Fall Migrations of Raptors Over Skyline Drive

By Rebecca LaFlam

A Closer Look

exciting yearly occurrence. Rockfish Gap is one of 200 hawk watch sites in North America. If you go, look for hawk watch volunteers near the former Inn at Afton (elevation 2,000 ft), just off highway 64 at exit 99 just east of Waynesboro. This site is easy and accessible - simply drive up, park, and hawk watch. You’ll enjoy a 180 degree panoramic view north over Rockfish Gap, west over the Shenandoah Valley, and east over the Piedmont Region. Peak migration typically occurs in the final two weeks of September

and first two weeks of October. Depending on the day, visitors might be able to see as many as 10,000 hawks in one day, with an annual average of 20,000 hawks migrating through this path each year. It’s guaranteed to be “owl” you can talk about!

Natural Beauty

If you place meaningful value on natural beauty, add this region of the Blue Ridge Mountains to your "must-see" list. North Carolina is famous for its fall foliage. For McDowell County, significant elevation changes offer an extended leaf season. Amazing colors begin to appear around the third weekend of October. This is when the Blue Ridge, Parkway between Crabtree Falls and Linville Falls, transforms into an artist's dream. The color palette is rich, varied, and vibrant. When the light is just right, you may see regional artists painting by the overlooks, capturing that perfect moment in time. As we approach the fourth weekend of October, the lower elevations begin to peak with fall colors.

Merge your love of curvy mountain roads with fall color and follow the Lake James Loop. The 89-mile ride meanders through the higher elevations, along the Blue Ridge Parkway, dipping down to a road north of Marion, Lake James Road. The curves and landscapes are breathtaking.

The loop includes a 12-mile section affectionately referred to as the DiamondBackNC, aka NC Highway 226-A. There are 190 curves, sharp switchbacks, and awesome scenery. If car sickness is an issue for you, skip this section of the trail. Otherwise, ride the loop and take a break in Little Switzerland. Shops, restaurants, and lodging are open through October 31st, with some lodging properties extending their season into November.

Birds of Prey ranger-led programs at Shenandoah National Park are available Tuesdays and Saturdays, and there visitors can meet a live raptor while learning about their importance to the environment. Take the trip up Skyline Drive to ensure you don’t miss these avian adventures that are sure to leave you “pere-grinning.” (Note: while the ranger programs are free, there is an entrance fee to access Skyline Drive in Shenandoah National Park.) Luray’s Raptor Hill in Stanley, Virginia provides a unique opportunity to get up close with their feathered team, a select group of eight different raptors. From Mr. Wiggles the Red-Tailed Hawk to Buddy Munchins the male American Kestrel, this is a must-visit location for family and friends.

2-day Itinerary: Weekday Getaway in Blowing Rock

stargazing! Price Lake is an ideal spot for it. When the lake is still, it reflects the sky.

Tip: Autumn mornings are chilly; dress in light layers.

Thursday- Downtown

Morning: Blowing Rock Art & History Museum opens three new exhibits open this fall. It’s right on Main Street, alongside downtown boutiques & galleries. After exhibits: shopping!

Autumn weekends can be very busy on the Blue Ridge Parkway; skip peak times with a weekday visit!

Wednesday- Parkway

Morning: Start the day at the Cone Estate. The manor house is being restored to its original beauty! A Southern Highland Craft Guild gallery is inside.

Afternoon:

Blowing Rock has many trails to wander, and crisp fall days are perfect for hiking. For a moderate hike, follow Flat Top trail from the manor to the Tower. 360° views at the top! Want to ride instead of hike? Book a trail ride with Vx3 and enjoy the Cone Carriage Trails from horseback.

Evening: Skies over the Parkway are full of stars at night. Cooler fall temperatures reduce haziness- great for

Afternoon:

Try a wine flight at Sunset & Vine, where they’ll help you pick wines you’ll love. Prefer beer? The Blowing

Blue Ridge Potter’s Guild

Annual Show & Sale October 30-31, 2021

The Blue Ridge Potter’s Guild 22nd annual show and sale featuring many ceramic artists will be held October 30-31, 2021 at North Cross High School, Carter Athletic Center.

The Blue Ridge Potter’s Guild consists of over 125 members and was founded in 1996. Our members range from new emerging potters as well as many award winning seasoned clay artists. We represent more than 1,000 years of pottery making experience and show a large variety of different

types of clay building techniques and processes for making and firing their ceramics. This is one of the largest indoor pottery show and sales in the Southeast. Free admission and free parking. Door prizes of member’s pottery awarded throughout the weekend.

Show times are:

Saturday, October 30 from 10am – 6pm

Sunday, October 31 from 11am – 5pm

Rock Ale House is right next door with locally made brews. In September, don’t miss the Blowing Rock Farmer’s Market, Thursdays 3-6pm.

Evening:

Wrap up the day with live music! Try Speckled Trout or Chetola for Thursday performances.

Tip: Stay at one of the 20+ hotels, inns, & rentals within easy walking distance of downtown, and skip looking for parking spaces.

25+ local restaurants offer many dining options. Most local attractions are open mid-week in September & October; book more fun to extend your trip!

Blowingrock.com

is located at 4254 Colonial Avenue, Roanoke, VA 24018

For additional information visit www.blueridgepotters.com.

Reflective Price Lake, Todd Bush photo.

Ingrid Chase, “Mugs”

Maya Bohler, “Plate with Leaves” North Cross High School

Oct

2021

Enjoy The Fall Season In SEVIERVILLE, TENNESSEE

For those seeking a fall experience they’ve not enjoyed before, Sevierville’s five self-guided fall driving tours offer picturesque views along scenic backroads while highlighting little known points of interest and can be found online at VisitSevierville.com/fall.

Peak season for leaf viewing is typically mid-October through mid-November, but Harvest themed events run from mid-September through the end of October.

Bluegrass music is the soundtrack of fall and the Dumplin Valley Bluegrass Festival (September 16-18, 2021) features original, live bluegrass music from fifteen national and regional acts includ-

ing Rhonda Vincent & The Rage, Lonesome River Band and more. Catch more mountain music (and fine arts) at Robert Tino’s Smoky Mountain Homecoming Festival (October 1-3, 2021).

Sevierville’s newest fall event is History & Haunts in downtown Sevierville. Enjoy guided historical walking tours, fun costume contests, harvest-themed activities and more during this family friendly event (October 21, 2021).

The Bandit

by Otto Wood

Four Dozen Reasons to Uncork a Yadkin Valley Visit

Legions of bluegrass fans know the name Otto Wood (1893–1930) from a ballad made popular by Doc Watson, telling the story of Wood’s crimes and violent death. However, few know the history of this Appalachian figure beyond the larger-than-life version heard in song. Trevor McKenzie reconstructs Wood’s life, tracing how a Wilkes County juvenile delinquent became a celebrated folk hero. An early master of controlling his own narrative in the media, Wood appealed to the North Carolina public as a misunderstood, clever antihero. In 1930, after a final jailbreak, police killed Wood in a shootout. The ballad bearing his name first appeared less than a year later.

www.uncpress.org

A recent project reveals four dozen reasons to visit North Carolina’s Yadkin Valley wine country. An industry survey determined the exact number of wineries in this region has grown to 48.

The Yadkin Valley American Viticultural Area covers approximately 2,000 square miles in all or parts of seven counties of northwestern North Carolina. The Blue Ridge Parkway runs through the northern portion of this region, and the Surry County Wine Trail highlights 20 of the 48 wineries that are in easy proximity to the Parkway. Golden Road Vineyards just outside Elkin became the 48th Yadkin Valley winery (and 20th on the Surry County Wine Trail) when it opened last Thanksgiving.

Golden Road is nestled at the edge of rolling foothills and framed by peaks of the Blue Ridge.

Golden Road’s scenic location with a Blue Ridge Mountains backdrop is typical of many wineries along the Surry County Wine Trail. The beautiful scenery of these vineyards, coupled with easy access from the Parkway, draws an array of visitors.

“We are seeing all types of trips being planned from couples to girlfriend getaways to multi-generational family trips,” says Jessica

Roberts, director of the Tourism Partnership of Surry County. “All of them are excited about what’s available in Yadkin Valley. They love the wineries and vineyards, plus other outdoor things to do, including our proximity to three state parks – Stone Mountain, Pilot Mountain and Hanging Rock.”

To learn more about NC wine country, visit www.YadkinValleyNC.com.

The Freighthopping Thief, Bootlegger, and Convicted Murderer behind the Appalachian Ballads

BOONE NC FALL GUIDE

The town of Boone is a great hub for your NC Mountains fall vacation. Normally, the 3rd Week of October is the best time to view peak leaf color, but color begins in early October!

BEST BOONE NC

FALL WALKS:

Howards Knob

With an elevation of 4,420 feet, Howards Knob offers unparalleled views of Boone and Appalachian State University. The park features picnic tables and several lookout points.

Boone NC

Greenway Trail

A local favorite for walking, biking and letting your dog stretch there legs is the Greenway Trail. The trail is flat, paved and meanders through town, over creeks and through wooded areas.

Rocky Knob Park

Rocky Knob Park has trails for both hiking and mountain biking. The park has 5 trails with the longest being 4 miles. The wooded trails have pleasing views of Boone. You can also visit the natural playground and picnic shelter.

TOP BOONE NC

FALL ACTIVITIES: New River Corn

Maze & Pumpkin Patch

Deep Gap, NC (5 minutes from Boone, NC) mid-September

LOCAL

TIP: A picnic area and restrooms are available nearby so that you can make a day-long outing!

Zipline

Zipline and see the leaf color from inside the canopy!

Eat Too Much Candy

Take

Head over to the Candy Barrel at Mast General Store in Boone or Mast General Store Annex in Valle Crucis. In both locations, you can pick up a basket to fill up from the barrels of old-fashioned candy favorites.

The farm offers a pumpkin patch, corn maze, tractor-pulled tram ride and kids activities.

Spruce  Pine,  NC

OLD COUNTRY STORES

Carolina’s High Country. Seek them out and enjoy them. Shop, have a pop, listen to some music, swap some stories and mountain tales, and “set a spell!”

High Country of North Carolina Country Stores: *For directions and hours, call the High Country Visitor Center at 828-264-1299.

Original Mast General Store, Valle Crucis

Fred’s Mercantile, Beech Mountain

Stone Mountain Grocery, Bethel Old Hampton Store & Mill, Linville

Todd Mercantile, Todd

Old Orchard Creek General Store, Lansing

Alot of North Carolina High Country natives remember the time when a trip to town was conducted only, at the most, once a week. Outside of that, folks were dependent on the stockage of the local country store. In fact, a lot of the rural population, lacking automobiles, were limited to the

shopping trips they could make on foot. Country stores have been, and continue to be, vital institutions for shopping and socializing. In fact, the Town of Boone was originally called Councill’s Store! While many of the old stores have succumbed to fire and economic changes, some are still left to explore in North

Did You Know?

Nantahala is the South’s only lake with freshwater Salmon?

Nantahala Lake is located high above the Nantahala River Gorge at a 3,000-foot elevation - a pristine and serene lake with just 30 miles of shoreline. The lake is regulated and maintained by Duke Power Company. Many anglers enjoy fishing the Nantahala reservoir due to the low number of boaters and the breathtaking scenery. Fish in the lake include Walleye, Crappie, Sunfish, Trout, and Bass. And it’s the only lake in the South with a population of freshwater Kokanee Salmon.

Kokanee Salmon are the landlocked version of the Pacific Sockeye salmon. Stocked in Nantahala Lake in the early 1960’s as forage for the predator population of Walleye, Smallmouth and Largemouth Bass, the salmon have been naturally reproducing ever since. The average Kokanee Salmon across the country is 12” with a few lakes producing larger fish. Nantahala is one of those lakes. The average salmon in Nantahala is 18” with many fish over 20”.

More information: Info@VisitNantahalaNC.com

Celebrating the Seasons in Wilkesboro

Colorful fall leaves, apple harvests, pumpkins in the fields, first snowflakes, Christmas trees on street corners -- fall and winter are a time of celebration and beauty in Wilkesboro.

Harvest-time Fun

If you like apple pie -- and who doesn’t? -- make plans to attend the Brushy Mountain Apple Festival operated by the Brushy Mountain Ruritan Club. The event celebrates the growers who are so much a part of this region, and visitors can get their fill of fried apple pies, apple butter, apple fritters and apple cider. You

can even see apple butter being made right before your eyes.

Don’t let the name fool you, the apple festival is about much more than apples. More than 400 vendors line the streets of North Wilkesboro, offering a large variety of artists and crafts, including handmade jewelry, local pottery, stained glass, and more. When you’re ready for a break from the shopping, grab a bite to eat at one of the many food vendors and check out the entertainment at one of four different stages offering a constant line-up of music and performances throughout the day, from bluegrass and clogging to rock-and-roll.