THE BLUE RIDGE DIGEST Fall, 2012

2012

FALL/WINTER the most widely distributed travel publication in the mountains

Blue Ridge & Great Smoky Mountains

FALL SPLENDOR OF THE MOUNTAINS MUSIC | FUN | FOOD | FESTIVALS

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9:30AM

Hit the Appalachian Trail to McAfee Knob.

1:00PM

Downtown shopping was a big hit.

10:00PM

Hit a comfortable pillow for a good nights rest.

It’s a Blue Ridge Day!

The Hotel Roanoke & Conference Center

Historic Roanoke City Market

Holiday Inn Tanglewood

540.985.5900 www.hotelroanoke.com

540.342.2028 ext 15 www.DowntownRoanoke.org/City-Market

540.774.4400 www.holidayinn.com/roa-tanglewood

Virginia Museum of Transportation

Sheraton Roanoke Hotel & Conference Center

Taubman Museum of Art

540.342.5670 www.vmt.org

540.563.9300 www.sheraton.com/roanoke

540.342.5760 www.taubmanmuseum.org

Smith Mountain Lake

540.721.1203 www.visitsmithmountainlake.com

Dixie Caverns

540.380.2085 www.dixiecaverns.com

From a mountain top hike to a downtown shopping spree, the Roanoke Valley in Virginia’s Blue Ridge has the ideal mix of adventure, fun and relaxation.

www.visitvablueridge.com | 800.635.5535

Register online to win a Blue Ridge Mountains Getaway.

FALL/WINTER 2012

CRPad1e_2010_4.47x9.75:4.47x9.25 The Blue Ridge Digest

It's time to visit

GALAX

Virginia

4/8/10

11:46 AM

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Up Here, The World Is e B a y utifu l p m Si l

Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, and just 7 miles from the Blue Ridge Parkway, via Rt. 89 exit at MP 215, Galax is close enough for a leisurely drive from several metropolitan areas, but far enough to escape the toil and turmoil of urban living.

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nce a furniture and textile town, Galax has evolved into an eclectic blend of small businesses offering unique shopping, enticing dining, and a musical heritage unlike any other. This hamlet is a preeminent destination on the Crooked Road, Virginia’s Heritage Music Trail, dubbed one of the 10 Best Driving Vacations by USA Today. Be it Bluegrass and Old Time music

in the Spring, BBQ and Beach Music in July, or the World’s Oldest and Largest Old Fiddler’s Convention in August, you’ll have a toe tappin’ knee slappin’ good time during our special events. Whether a day trip for a fun adventure or a weekend stay to explore all that Galax has to offer, visitors find themselves enchanted with the area and wanting to return again and again!

Galax Visitor’s Center: 110 East Grayson St. • Galax, VA 24333 www.visitgalax.com • 888-217-8823 • 276-238-8130

46th Anniversary Autumn Leaves Festival™ 2012 October 12-14 In Mount Airy, NC, the Autumn Leaves Festival™ is one of North Carolina's longest running and most successful events. Roster of artisans and craftspeople cover such media as pottery, paintings, textiles and jewelry. The unique arts and crafts of more than 200 craftsmen line the streets with many demonstrating their talents and skills passed down through the generations.

It's a walker's paradise with visual delights and mouthwatering treats at every stop.The festival showcases rich musical heritage, such as Old-time, Bluegrass and Gospel performed by local musicians on the downtown stage.

It's a toe tapping, foot stomping, hand-clapping kind of weekend.

No pets allowed during the festival (Admission is FREE).

Discover Mother Nature at her best.

Human nature, too. Re-charge.

Re-connect. Expand your horizons.

Enjoy a new perspective on life.

And prepare to be elevated.

25 mi. SE of Asheville in Chimney Rock, NC chimneyrockpark.com • 800-277-9611

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FALL/WINTER 2012 spinning and the traditional craft of using natural plant dyes to color yarn outside the US Cellular Center.

Celebrate the Art of Craft at the Blue Ridge Digest

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

65th Annual Craft Fair of the Southern Highlands US Cellular Center, Asheville, NC Oct 18-21 Demonstrations

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.

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

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

FROM THE PUBLISHER

Welcome to the Mountains!

Thank you for making your vacation

raft demonstrations are a highlight at the Craft Fair of the Southern Highlands.

Watching and interacting with highly skilled craftspeople as they create is entertaining and educational. Throughout the show, visitors will have the opportunity to observe works by over 200 members of the Southern Highland Craft

C

Collene Karcher: stonecarving.

Collene will demonstrate the nearly lost art of hand-carved letters in stone. The demonstration will consist of a storyboard showing October Schedule the process of Demonstrations beginning with the stone quarry, Cassie Dickson: flax to linen. sketches, the Cassie will lead Fair visitors through painting of slate the process of transforming flax and the carving of slate. Collene into linen. She will also have will be cutting letters into slate an overshot coverlet display as with her hammer and chisel. part of her demonstration.

Guild and to learn about their inspiration and methods. There are also scheduled demonstrations to enhance the experience.

Dede Styles: natural dyeing and spinning. Dede will demonstrate

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 and exchange rates.

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

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

Enjoy your stay!

Thanks for picking up this issue of THE DIGEST!

Enjoy a delicious homemade breakfast

Chuck Robertson: bird carving from wood. Chuck will share with visitors the various stages of bird carving, beginning with a block of wood through feather detailing.

Sue Grier: wheel-thrown pottery. Sue will demonstrate throwing pottery on the wheel.

She will show examples of her completed objects including a variety of whimsical teapots.

Beautiful scenic views

800-538-3508

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

Rustic cabin also available

Greg Schaffer: blacksmithing.

Greg Schaffer of Bristol, VA, will be outside the US Cellular Center with his forge, greeting Fair goers while demonstrating the craft of using heat to transform metal into art.

Don't miss the entertainment starting Oct. 19 - 21. Check the entertainment schedule as well as more information at: 828-298-7928 or at www.craftguild.org.

FALL/WINTER 2012

The Blue Ridge Digest

Forget your cares...

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

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

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

Events like the Blue Ridge Mountain Fair (coolsparta.com/brmfair) and Mountain Heritage Festival (coolsparta.com/heritage) highlight the area’s craft heritage. Enjoy down-home fun at distinctively local pastimes, such as lawn mower racing, the demolition derby, and mud slings .

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

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

Alleghany Chamer & Visitors Center

Harmony Hill with a 360 degree view

Bed & Breakfast

20 minutes from the Parkway Exit at Mileposts 247, 229, 215

Bed & Breakfast

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

Whether you are looking for a quiet stay in one of our quaint rooms, or a storybook outdoor wedding with a backdrop of trees and green hills, Harmony Hill is your perfect getaway. We are close to many area attractions, including wineries, golf courses, and New River State Park.

20 minutes from the Parkway Exit at Mileposts 247, 229, 215

336-209-0475

Sparta, NC harmonyhillbnb.com

Harmony Hill with a 360 degree view

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Whether you are looking for a quiet stay in one of our quaint rooms, or a storybook outdoor wedding with a backdrop of trees and green hills, Harmony Hill is your perfect getaway.

We are close to many area attractions, including wineries, golf courses, and New River State Park.

336-209-0475

Sparta, NC harmonyhillbnb.com

Mountain Inspired Creations!

Oil •Watercolor • Photography Wire Wrapped Jewelry • Candle Holders • Stained Glass • Pottery

Of Fine Art 103 Gallery Lane • Sparta, NC at Mile marker 234 at Mahogany Rock Road

336-372-1711 | 336-372-4321 | blueridgefineart.com

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HIGH COUNTRY

SCENIC DRIVES I n North Carolina, you often hear the expression “from Manteo to Murphy” expressing the mountains to the sea character of our State. Before the dawn of interstate highways, this journey was often undertaken on historic US 64. Here in the High Country, you can still go from Altapass to Zionville and not encounter a four-lane highway. You can drive the Blue Ridge Parkway for scenic vistas, hiking, waterfalls, and interpretive exhibits, but you can also explore the back roads!

See

the (almost) unchanged 19th century communities of Todd, Bethel, Buladean, Valle Crucis, and Lansing. Stop at the general stores, get a soda and swap stories with the regulars. Pull off at the vistas and hark back to the times before settlement, when the High Country was home to the eastern woodland bison and elk, and let go of your cares. To quote a local historian “when you look off over there, you can see the 18th century!”

Fall is also harvest festival time in the High Country. Come enjoy such events as the Apple Festival, the Valle Fair, and the Woolly Worm Festival (that’s right, the Woolly Worm Festival) pro-

FALL/WINTER 2012

vide opportunities to meet and purchase from outstanding local and national artisans and crafters. Don’t miss the apple butter!

Much of the High Country is occupied by the Pisgah National Forest, with numerous outdoor recreational and sight-seeing opportunities. Camping, fishing, and hunting abound in your national forest, as does the extensive network of forest roads which can carry you far from the beaten path.

With the change of the leaves, fall is spectacular in the High Country! Get out and see the sights, enjoy the leaves, drive the back roads, and come to the High Country! Visit them on line at www.mountainsofnc.com.

Harrisonburg International Festival September 29, 2012

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rendy, locally-owned restaurants, museums, and art galleries connect historic downtown Harrisonburg to James Madison University, creating one of Virginia’s first designated Arts & Cultural Districts. The Harrisonburg International Festival is a free day of family fun that celebrates the town’s varied cultural heritage. Activities include music, dance, a multi-language area, and a World Bazaar featuring traditional folk art. Visitors can also enjoy many varieties of international food during this event!

For info call 540-433-6228 www.harrisonburg-international-festival.org

Radford’s Visitors Center

540-267-3153

(located inside Glencoe Musuem)

600 Unruh Drive Radford, VA 24141

www.VisitRadford.com

Ingles Farm October 6-7

Haunted St. Albans Sanatorium, Haunted Halloween Tours, Sept 28-Nov 3

Highlanders Festival, October 13

Best Pick in Virginia for…

heatre he Rex T s Market t t a d a oked Ro • Galax Farmer ue Shopping, g the f the Cro Music o Trail State Park ime Jams • Uniq l Events includin r T ia e New Riv egrass and Old s • Annual Spec n Blu io t ly a k ! d e n o e io W mm ent nd Acco r’s Conv Dining a ous Old Fiddle am World F

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

FALL/WINTER 2012

The Blue Ridge Digest

INSIDER TIPS

FOR VISITING GRANDFATHER MOUNTAIN IN AUTUMN

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randfather Mountain is considered one of the best fall color destinations in the Southern Appalachians because of Grandfather’s amazing diversity of plant life. As autumn approaches and the chlorophyll begins to fade from the leaves, the yellow and red pigments that lay beneath the green chlorophyll begin to show through.

And because each different species of plant reveals a little bit different hue and shade, the abundant variety of plant species at Grandfather reveal an abundant variety of autumn colors. Even when “peak” has passed on the Mountain, its lofty heights provide an amazing vantage point for seeing the color work its way to the valleys below.

Autumn at Grandfather is one of the busiest times of the year and these tips will give you a leaf-looking advantage.

Travel on weekdays in mid-October if you can. Your experience will be more relaxed.

Arrive at Grandfather Mountain before 10:00 a.m. or after 3:00 p.m. on peak weekends to avoid the largest crowds.

On weekend mornings, go to the Swinging Bridge first.

If there are traffic delays, they will be toward the top of the mountain where there are fewer places to park. These usually do not develop before 11 a.m. If you are looking for a fun excursion, park at the Trails Parking area just below the summit and take the Bridge Trail to the top. This 15-minute walk leads visitors to a viewpoint at which the bridge seems to float high above, making the experience of crossing the span minutes later all that more of an adventure.

October events at Grandfather Mountain:

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10% Off!

Creatures of the Night and Bonfire Delight - October 6 - Stories told by firelight and rare afterdark tours of the Mountain that include a nocturnal animal prowl. Reservations required: 828-733-8715.

The Colors of Grandfather October 13, 14, 20, 21 - A guided walk led by interpretive rangers to discuss the reasons trees change color in the fall and to identify what trees turn what colors. At 1 p.m. daily and included in park admission.

Beary Scary Halloween - October 27 Celebrate Halloween at Grandfather with crafts, nature

Stay in Style and SAVE!

Choose from well-appointed rooms, suites or cottages, and enjoy complimentary breakfast, afternoon snack reception and central locations.

800-821-4908

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RADFORD

Highlanders Festival Oct.13 Celtic Games, Clans and Music

Featuring The Fighting Jamesons

Children’s Activities, Food and Crafts www.radford.edu/festival (540) 831-6255 A partnership between Radford University and the City of Radford, Va.

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FALL/WINTER 2012

Find Treasures in Virginia's Blue Ridge:

A Shopper’s

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he hidden treasures of the Roanoke Valley go far beyond the outdoor splendor of our Blue Ridge Mountains. Whether you’re on the hunt for fine antiques or fine wines, fashionable trends or inspiring artwork, let our bounty of boutiques and specialty shops lure you inside for an array of one-of-a-kind finds.

Begin your tour at the Historic Roanoke City Market where you’ll

Delight

find a shopper’s paradise of locally grown produce, enticing homemade goods, hand-crafted jewelry and other artistic treasures. The market is a local favorite that boasts a storied tradition as the heart and soul of downtown Roanoke, and a coveted recognition as a “Great American Public Place” by the Lyndhurst Foundation. The market is open year-round.

While you’re downtown, journey into the Binaba Shop to peruse one-of-a-kind finds from throughout Africa. You’ll find fabrics, masks, carvings and statues celebrating the continent’s ancient

North Carolina's Only Caverns!

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

cultures, in addition to signature items from area artisans. Grab a colorful, handcrafted handbag at Claire V., also located on Market Street, or choose a tote to fill with the goodies you’ve collected.

But save room for a few sweet treats from chocolatepaper, which sells a selection of tempting chocolates and other candied creations. Take home a Roanoke basket complete with a sampling of Star City treats, including a chocolate Roanoke Star and Stardust – a peanut butter and powdered sugar perfection. For the outdoor fan, Orvis has you covered with a variety of clothing and gear to have you prepared when nature calls.

If you seek antiques, delve into Southwest Virginia’s architectural past at Black Dog Salvage in Roanoke’s Grandin Village neighborhood.

The store specializes in a variety of elements and fixtures including salvaged mantles, doors, stained glass, wrought iron, period lighting, art tile and much more. Venture outside of downtown to the Roanoke Antique Mall where 120 dealers showcase plenty of pottery, furniture, vintage clothing, toys and other unique wares.

Come discover what makes the Roanoke Valley a shopper’s delight. With so many options, you may just need to pack an extra bag. For more information about shopping in the Roanoke Valley, visit www.visitrvablueridge.com, call (800) 635-5535 or stop by the Roanoke Valley Visitor Information Center located in Downtown Roanoke open 9am – 5pm daily.

Your vacation hideaway in the North Carolina Mountains!

FALL/WINTER 2012

The Blue Ridge Digest

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Don't Miss the

Fall Color, Winterfest Kickoff The Mistletoe Market Highlight Autumn in Pigeon Forge

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and, of course, millers at work grinding flour and cornmeal.

For the very active set, the inaugural Smokies Half-Marathon, 5K and Fun Run are Sept. 30, with action starting and ending at Old Mill Square – and Ray Stevens will sing about a different kind of streaker at two shows on Oct. 26.

November is a time of big changes in Pigeon Forge. While autumn color usually hangs on in the mountains through much of November, the city dresses up for Pigeon Forge Winterfest.

Five million colorful Winterfest lights pop on Nov. 6 and will light up each night through February 2013.

The 2nd Annual Salute to Veterans Parade precedes the Winterfest Kickoff event on Nov. 6 in Patriot Park. Pigeon Forge invites everyone to join this salute to the men and women of America’s military.

Dollywood, of course, is a big part of Pigeon Forge Winterfest, and it adds millions of lights of its own when Dollywood’s Smoky Mountain Christmas launches.

It continues through Dec. 30.

Go to MyPigeonForge.com for information to help plan a visit, call 1-800-251-9100 for a chat or visit with the staff of the Pigeon Forge Welcome Center while in town. It’s at Traffic Light #0.

Join us for the Prevue Gala on Thursday, November 1 at 7 p.m. for a first look at the extravagant shopping opportunities. The Mistletoe Market is open to the public on Friday and Saturday, November 2 and 3, from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Sunday, November 4 is family day from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., featuring pictures with Santa and holiday crafts.

Daily admission is $6 for adults and $4 for children (ages 6-12).

For more info, visit www.williamkingmuseum.org or on Facebook at www.facebook. com/WKMmistletoemarket.

BOONE, NC It’s Cooler Up Here! photo by Hugh Morton

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utumn is a time of a colorful transition in the Great Smoky Mountains, but the level of fun and entertainment in Pigeon Forge, Tenn., remains constant. If anything, Pigeon Forge kicks things up a notch.

September special events include two weekends of car shows (the Shades of the Past Rod Run on Sept. 7-8 and the Grand Rod Run on Sept. 14-16), two concerts

by Country Music Hall of Fame member Don Williams on Sept.

21-22 and the Sept. 29 start of the Pigeon Forge Rotary Club Craft Show, which attracts artists and craftsmen from throughout the region. It runs through Oct. 31.

You’ll see harvest displays of pumpkins, gourds, hay bales and scarecrows decorating many businesses in September and October, and Dollywood’s National Southern Gospel & Harvest Celebration spices things up Sept. 1-Oct. 27.

Old Mill Heritage Day at Old Mill Square on Sept. 22 harkens back to the pioneer era with demonstrations by quilters and basket makers, a farmers’ market

KM presents the Pinnacle award winning Mistletoe Market. Now in its fourteenth year, Mistletoe Market is a holiday shopping fundraising event featuring retail merchants from across the Southeast. The season’s premier event is held annually the first weekend in November in the Grand Hall of the Southwest Virginia Higher Education Center in Abingdon (Interstate 81 at Exit 14). Choose from jewelry, children’s gifts, books, decorative items, gourmet foods, and much more displayed across rows and rows of vendors! In 2011, over 5500 shoppers were in attendance.

You won’t want to miss this year!

Discover the “coolest” part of the Blue Ridge Parkway. From family attractions including Grandfather Mountain to hiking, biking, leaf-looking and so much more, the Boone area is the perfect destination for fall adventure. Explore Boone this fall. It’s just cooler here.

800-852-9506

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FALL/WINTER 2012

October 13, 2012 9AM-4PM

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eautiful 35-acre Daniel Boone Park is the setting of the Boone Heritage Festival, a celebration of Appalachian history and heritage through traditional music, dance and

storytelling, plus crafts, food and kids’ hands-on activities at Hickory Ridge Living History Museum.

Always the 2nd Saturday of October, Boone Heritage Festival is on October 13th this year, from 9AM to 4PM. Festival-goers can choose from a variety of activities which feature dozens of vendors, kids’ make-and-take crafts, a mock archaeological dig, a Liar’s Bench (got any yarns to spin?), music jam sessions (bring your instruments!), a flatfoot dance showcase and workshop, 18th century living history demonstrations, and live music and storytelling performances by some of the most talented in the southern Appalachian region.

Hickory Ridge Living History Museum Daniel Boone Park 591 Horn in the West Drive, Boone, NC The festival is also an opportunity to learn more about preserving the heritage of our beautiful Appalachians: land and water conservation, birds of the High Country, gardening with native plants and documenting your ancestors of the Revolutionary War. In addition, author Randell Jones will be available to discuss his research and books about Daniel Boone.

The Boone Heritage Festival offers fall festival-goers a fun day to enjoy all facets of the Daniel

Boone Park, including Hickory Ridge Living History Museum, Daniel Boone Native Gardens, the Farmers’ Market, the Boone Jaycees playground and picnic area, and the Strawberry Hill Arboretum.

Admission is free. Children’s crafts require a small fee. For vendor applications and further information, visit www. booneheritagefestival.com, or call Southern Appalachian Historical Association at 828-264-2120.

For lodging and area information, call Explore Boone Area at 800-852-9506 or visit www.exploreboonearea.com.

Open Studio Tour of Henderson County Saturday and Sunday, September 22-23, 2012 10am to 5pm, daily

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his free self-guided tour features fine art and craft studios throughout Henderson County. Artist’s studios will be open for visits with plenty of new artwork to view and purchase; several studios and galleries will have guest artists as well. Original works in paintings, sculpture, pottery, jewelry, fiber arts, metal arts, woodworking, and glass will be offered by 40 participating artists.

A special Preview Party will be held on Friday, September 21

from 5-7pm at Hubba Hubba Smokehouse, Little Rainbow Row in Flat Rock, featuring examples of Tour art, music, complimentary wine, an art raffle benefitting the community, and food available for purchase. A special Tour coupon will be available, at this event only, good for 10% discount on all Tour purchases.

Open Studio Tour guide booklets will be available one month ahead of the Tour dates at Henderson County Travel and Tourism and many locations throughout Henderson County. Printable maps will be available online at: www.openstudiotourhc.com

FALL/WINTER 2012

The Blue Ridge Digest

Hands-on Fun at the Natural History Center But I didn’t realize the whole place would be crawling with wildlife.

by Marlin Potter

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hen I showed up at the The exhibits make use of all Rockfish Valley Foundakinds of natural tion’s brandobjects. I checked new Natural History out birds’ nests, Center in Nellysford, snakeskins and VA, I knew there turtle shells. would be a bear. But I practiced I didn’t realize the identifying the skulls of whole place would beaver, turkey and be crawling with wildlife. squirrel. I looked at prehistoric The Center—housed in the tools like grinding stones, pipes, historical Wintergreen Country jewelry and arrowheads.

Store—is a collaboration of the The centerpiece of the exhibit RVF with the Virginia Museum of is a display of taxidermied Natural History in Martinsville. native creatures: a black bear, “Living off the Land” focuses of course, plus turkey, bobcats, Jeffersonbobwhite Wine Festival on how natural resources in Thomascoyote, and others.

November 19, 2011 Virginia’s environment—from Conservation—the human part rocks to fish—have supported of the story—is a key element. human culture for centuries.

I learned about the “punt guns”

one thing for sure

you will...

PURR-FECTLY

F

DELIGHTFUL

or over a decade, the Wohlfahrt Haus Dinner Theatre in Wytheville has been delighting guests of all ages with colorful musical productions. This fall’s production will be extra special.

Beginning September 6 (through October 28), Andrew Lloyd Webber's most purr-fect musical comes to life on the Wohlfahrt Haus stage. CATS is based on T.S. El-

liot's collection of poems all about felines and features dynamic dancing, fantastical costumes and makeup and a beautiful score by one of the masters of Broadway.

This production is followed by Country Christmas Celebration which will run throughout November and December. For more information, call 888-950-3382 or visit www.wohlfahrthaus.com.

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that decimated waterfowl populations in the 19th and early 20th centuries, and checked out duck decoys and a display about the history of trapping.

It’s all designed to be highly interactive, especially for kids.

“The kids like to touch things,” explained volunteer docent Deb Markham. “It’s self-explanatory, so as a parent or grandparent, you can interpret for your child.”

If your kids climb into the dugout canoe, you can talk about how rivers provided transportation for Native Americans. If they start stamping animal tracks into the sand containers outside, you can help them learn to tell raccoon from bobcat.

And anyone would enjoy getting their hands on the animal pelts that James Bibb, another docent, showed me. He pulled out drawer after drawer of soft furs, from river otter to red fox.

The Center also offers geological and watershed information about the Rockfish Valley, as well as local resources for visitors and residents.

I can’t wait to come back with my daughter and let her get inside the duck blind, or maybe try on a hunter’s camouflage hat. We won’t be alone.

For more info: 434-361-1296 or visit www.rockfishvalley.org.

you will...

one thing for sure

Thomas Jefferson Wine Festival November 17, 2012

Discover Bedford’s extraordinary National D-Day Memorial, which overlooks the American community that lost the most citizens at D-Day. Visit Thomas Jefferson’s architectural gem, Poplar Forest, built while he was President as his private retreat. The legendary “Peaks of Otter” along the Blue Ridge Parkway, Smith Mountain Lake and five wineries all call Bedford home.

www.VisitBedford.com or call 1-877-447-3257

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WNC Pottery Festival

Wytheville, Virginia Offers New Attractions

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ytheville, Virginia’s newest attraction takes you back in time with a traveling frame of mind! The Great Lakes to Florida Highway Museum honors what was once the main route from Ohio to Florida (Route 21). Located in a former gas station built in 1926, visitors will see memorabilia and restored gas

FALL/WINTER 2012

Features Array of Artistic Talent

pumps from that era.

A hands-on children’s area is just the right size for the littlest visitor.

This is the latest addition to the Historic Wytheville experience that also includes the Haller-Gibboney Rock House and Thomas J. Boyd Museums and the birthplace of a remarkable First Lady, Edith Bolling Wilson.

Wytheville is located at the intersections of I-81 and I-77 in the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains of Southwest Virginia.

For more information, visit www.VisitWytheville.com or call 877-347-8307

A

talented lineup of potters will display their wares Nov. 3 in Dillsboro at the eighth annual Western North Carolina Pottery Festival.

This juried festival showcases 45 master potters from more than a dozen states.

“What started as a local pottery event has blossomed into a national show featuring some of the best potters in America,” said festival organizer Joe Frank McKee of Dillsboro’s Tree House Pottery. “These artists love our show because of the fall scenery, the great customers who come year after year, and the hospitality of everybody in Western North Carolina.”

Hemlock Inn

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Nov. 3

The main portion of the festival is Saturday, with potters manning their booths along Front Street and demonstrating throughout the day. All festival attendees receive a ticket for a day-long raffle.

Festival insiders have learned to arrive a day early for the WNC Clay Olympics. This neat event takes place Nov. 2 from 1-5 p.m. outside Tree House Pottery. It features 20 potters from the festival in timed competitions to see who can make the largest pot, tallest cylinder, etc.

Also Friday is the firing of the wood-fired kiln, plus the opportunity to buy pottery tools and equipment from leading industry suppliers.

Saturday’s festival hours are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., rain or shine. Admission is $3 per person, with children under the age of 12 admitted free.

“Festival attendees get to buy incredible works and see wonderful demonstrations all day long,” McKee said. “And they’re surrounded by the fall foliage of the Great Smoky Mountains.”

For festival info: (828) 631-5100 www.wncpotteryfestival.com.

For lodging info, call the Jackson County Visitors Center at (800) 962-1911.

FALL/WINTER 2012

The Blue Ridge Digest Page 9

Page 13

29th Annual Reasons to visit R Mountain Oct Glory Festival 13Virginia’s Blue Rid

Radford Highlanders Festival Celebrates

Virginia’s Scots- Irish Ancestry The Fighting Highlanders Jamesons will Festival be making a perfect their debut destination appearance at for families. the festival as The campus the featured is 10 minutes musical from Exit 109 performer. off I-81.

Day-long events include traditional heavyweight games, parade, a gathering of Scottish clans, herding demonstrations, all travelers winding their way children’s activities, pipe and down Virginia’s scenic roads in drum band mid-October will want to make performances, a stop in Radford and visit Radford and concerts University and the downtown histhroughout toric district. On Saturday, Octothe afternoon. ber 13, more than 8,000 people More than are expected to converge on the 60 and craft 177-acre campus to honor the rich and food Scots-Irish traditions of Southwest vendors are Virginia at the 17th annual Radford expected to set up shop. The Highlanders Festival. The Fightkick-off parade is 10:30 a.m. ing Jamesons will be making their debut appearance at the festival as the featured musical performer.

People of all ethnicities – not just those of Scots-Irish heritage – enjoy the diversity of events and vendors.

Much of the festival’s success and popularity can be attributed to the fact that the festival is free and is located in one of the most beautiful Motorcyclists can hug the curves areas on the East Coast, the foothills or soak up the scenery in Lexington, of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

Virginia where nine customized Nearby attractions such as Ingles rides, on or near the Parkway, Cabin, Glencoe Museum, The New await. Some popular routes include: River, Claytor Lake, the Huckleberry

F

The Fighting Jamesons deliver 1.

Trains, trains, trains! a1traditional style of music with an Railroad Heritage aggressive and energetic modern2. approach.

Historic Farmers’ day Formed Market in 2010, 2 District - Buy local – produce, The Fighting Jamesons have quickly and presence specialty on items gainedplants a strong the East Coast.

They’ve shared the 3.3 Multi-cultural Cuisine stage with legendary Irish rock acts 4. as Over 45 lodging such Dropkick Murphys, The establishments to choose 4 Doctors, and Young Saw Dubliners. fromreleased includingtheir the self-titled Holiday The band Tanglewood debut Inn album in November 2011. learn from more, to 5. To View thegoRoanoke Star 5 - Checkout the Star Cam – www.radford.edu/festival, call Radford Highlanders Festival www.roanokeva.gov/starcam Co-Chair 6.6 Visit Mill Mountain Zoo Karen and ride the ZooChoo Casteele at (540) 7.

Virginia Museum 7 of Transportation 831-6255 – steam engines or e-mail kcasteel@ 8.

Recently opened - Taubman radford.edu.

8 Museum of Art You may also “Radford Highlanders 9.9 find Shopping – antiques, Festival” on Facebook. boutiques and more 10 Salem Sox baseball game 10.

Motorcycle Rides

and Appalachian trails, and the Blue Ridge Parkway make the

www.bluerid

11. History Museum of Western 11 Virginia exhibits • THE SPORT LOOP offers over 12.

Go down under at 12 turns 240 along just one 14 mile Dixie Caverns stretch. In other words, it’s a blast!

Hands-on activities at •13.

LITTLE NORTH MOUNTAIN 13 the Science Museum RIDE includes a drive through a of river Western Virginia stunning gorge - Goshen Pass.

14 •14.

ROUTE 11 RIDELink offers the O. Winston Museum splendor of unspoiled farmland and 15. Southern style breakfast – 15charm of small-town Americana. the The Roanoker Restaurant MORE INFO: 877-453-9822 16.

16 Cheesy western and a bowl with at the Texas Tavern Contact us for your free brochure. www.lexingtonvirginia.com

October 13, 2012,

17. Chocolate treat at 17 Chocolatepaper 9:30am-5pm

18.

Center at the Discovery 18 Nature Main –Street, Marion, Center Milepost 120 North Carolina 19. Their natural water park 19 at Smith Lake Small Town Mountain Celebration of Fall

and the Glory of the Mountains 20.

Blue Ridge Parkway Visitor with 20 arts, crafts, food, children’s Center Milepost 115 events and–local entertainment.

21. A hot dog all the way at the 21 For information visit Roanoke Wiener Stand www.mtngloryfestival.com 22. Take in a movie at their locally 22 owned and operated Grandin 828-652-2215 or 828-652-3551 Theatre in Grandin Village FREE ADMISSION

Sequoyah (1776-1843)

Father, Soldier, Silversmith, Statesman and Creator of the Cherokee writing system

Handmade Cherokee Baskets • CDs • Jewelry Handmade Native American Pottery Prints by Cherokee Artist Donald Vann ...and more unique gifts from which to choose!

OPEN YEAR ROUNd

Mon - Sat 9am - 5pm • Sun Noon - 5pm (closed Thanksgiving and Christmas Day)

Nominal Admission Fee • Group discounts Operated by the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians - Tennessee’s ONLY Tribally-Operated Historical Attraction.

SEQUOYAH BIRTHPLACE MUSEUM Hwy 360 - P.O. Box 69 Vonore, Tennessee 37885 423-884-6246

www.sequoyahmuseum.org

Located in the Great Smoky Mountains of East Tennessee on the shores of beautiful Tellico Lake, 37 miles south of downtown Knoxville.

LEGEND

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

Blue Ridge Parkway Facilities

01 Designates Milepost

The Blue Ridge Parkway is open 365 days a year, weather permitting. Sometimes road repair is undertaken in the winter months and detours are posted. The Parkway is not plowed or salted in the winter, so after snow or ice events, portions may be closed until the weather warms and makes the roadway safe for travel again. So as not to be disappointed when planning a winter drive, call the Blue Ridge Parkway’s 24-hour information line at 828 298-0398 for the latest road conditions.

New River Gorge National River WV VA

N Bluefield Pennington Gap

Morristown

40 75

Sevierville

Maryville 411 To Chattanooga Townsend

165 Fontana Village

Cherohala Skyway

143

Robbinsville

68

Murphy 129 Blue Ridge

19 76

129

Blairsville

Bryson City

74

19

Andrews

Hayesville

Chatuge Lake

Cherokee

28

Franklin 64

Hiwassee 76

NC GA

Mile 469

Valley

Balsam

Sylva

Topton

NC

107

63

Asheville

410

Cashiers

Craggy Craggy Gardens Gardens Marion

26

Mount Pisgah

Morganton

Valdese

40 221

Saluda 9

321

To Greenville

18

16

90

Columbus

Shelby

NC SC

Gastonia 85

150

8

311

421 WinstonSalem Clemmons

Statesville 70

Mooresville 77

85

Lexington

311

Kannapolis

52

Concord

High Point

52

Salisbury

22

Kerner

8

40

16

58

52

601

Union Grove

To Charlotte

Pilot Mountain

74

Elkin

Hickory

321

VA Mount Airy N C

77

Doughton Park E.B. Jeffress Park

150

108

11

Cumberland Knob

21

Newton

74

Tryon

e Blu

64 18

221

Hillsville Mabry Mill Sma Laurel Fancy 58 Fork Rocky Knob Gap Meadows Galax 180 of Dan Sparta 220 Stuart y

270

Lenoir

Chimney Lake Lure Rock 74A

Clayton

To Atlanta

320

Parkway Parkway Visitor Center

440

8

Floyd

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

Crabtree Falls

Christiansburg

Mouth of Wilson Independence

Blowing Rock 421

Spruce Pine

Black Mtn.

Waynesville

Hendersonville Brevard Highlands Sapphire Lake Toxaway

441

Burnsville

Little Switzerland Weaverville

Marshall

Boone

Pulaski

Wytheville

Laurel Springs 221 West Parkwa Jefferson Ridge

Sugar Mountain

Mars Hill

Hartford

441

19E

Erwin

TN

Hot Springs

Great Smoky Mountains 40 National Park Maggie

Tapoco

70

Newport

Cosby Gatlinburg

Pigeon Forge

129

411

26

Greeneville

Farragut

Elizabethton

S Blacksbur

Radford

21

58

City

Johnson City Jonesborough

92

81

Damascus

421 Mountain

81

Knoxville

To Nashville

Bristol

Dublin

77

Marion

Abingdon

11E

75

16

20 km

Kingsport

33

Norris

19

20 mi

0

VA TN

To Lexington

0

460

100

19

85

109

64 49

220

To Gettysburg, PA

IT’S HERE!

Martinsburg Charles Town Harpers Ferry 340

Winchester

“AmericA’s FAvorite Drive” At your Fingertips...

469 miles of scenic places, historic sites, lodging, outdoor recommendations and more delivered directly to your smartphone.

Leesburg

Harrisonburg

250

220

11

340

Staunton

39

Elkton

42

50

66

To Washington, DC

340

Luray

D Na rive tio na l P a

New Market

33

Monterey

81

VA

W

V

Front Royal

l in e a h Sk y o nd na She

211

rk 522

Warrenton

229 29

231

Culpeper

29

planned and developed in cooperation with the Blue ridge parkway & national park service.

33

Waynesboro

64 220

Lexington

30

Natural Bridge Buchanan 311

Salem rg Roanoke

60

Glasgow

Otter Creek

70

Lynchburg

Bedford

Roanoke Mountain

64

the Blue ridge parkway is designated an All American road by the national scenic Byways program.

20

DoWnLoAD Here!

To Richmond

24

Appomattox

Farmville

Altavista

40

Gretna

220

57

501

Burnt Chimney 43

art View

b

15

29

Amherst

460

Rocky Mount

522

Peaks of Otter

460

Vinton

120

0

Lovingston

Buena Vista

90

Charlottesville

Mile 0 64

Humpback Rocks

40

Chatham

Martinsville 29

8

58

Danville 360

Eden

20

Reidsville

158

rsville

29

Greensboro

t

40 85 421

0

Asheboro

Snow Camp

501

158

87

58

Roxboro 49

Burlington

To Durham

With this 6” X 4“ Pocket Guide identify the most colorful trees in the fall forests (Learn more, enjoy more!)

$5.95

At stores, shops, and lodging along your route.

Laurel Hill Press

www.laurelhillpress.com

Page 16

www.blueridgedigest.com

Kids In Parks program to open TRACK Trail at the Orchard at Altapass on the Blue Ridge Parkway

O

ver the past few years, the Blue Ridge Parkway Foundation’s Kids in Parks program has been installing a network of kid friendly hiking trails, called TRACK Trails, on and in communities along the Blue Ridge Parkway. To date, the program has installed more than 15 trails in several regions surrounding the Parkway; and now, through

a partnership formed with the Altapass Foundation, the Kids in Parks program has just installed a TRACK Trail at the Historic Orchard at Altapass on the Blue Ridge Parkway at Milepost 328 in Spruce Pine, NC. The Orchard at Altapass TRACK Trail is located along a series of newly opened trails at the Historic

Wythe History…

…Comes Adventure!

Stroll through history, hike a trail bursting with wildlife, experience an evening of musical entertainment, sample a locally crafted wine.

A visit to this small town offers authentic adventures Wythe a historical touch.

e l l i v e h t y W

Come discover it.

virginia

Intersection I-81/I-77 in Southwest Virginia

Toll Free 1-877-347-8307 www.VisitWytheville.com

Apple Orchard.

The trails will lead visitors along groves of apple trees, through a cove of woods, near the historic Clinchfield Railroad Line and past the gravesite of the famous Charlie McKinney – a local legend.

The Orchard at Altapass TRACK Trail has four self-guided brochures that visitors to the trail will be able to use to connect with the natural, cultural and historical resources found at the Orchard. Whether learning about the Birds of the Blue Ridge Mountains, looking for natural things hiding along the trail, discovering the Over Mountain Victory Trail, or connecting with some of the key features at the Orchard, the self-guided brochureled adventures are sure to turn your hike through the Orchard into a fun-filled adventure.

Address to trailhead: 1025 Orchard Road. Spruce Pine, NC 28777 (Note: Not all GPS units work properly in the mountains) The Orchard can be accessed from the Blue Ridge Parkway at Milepost 328. For more information call (828) 765-9531.

FALL/WINTER 2012

The National D-Day Memorial

L

ocated in Bedford, Virginia— the town suffering the highest per capita D-Day losses in the nation. The National D-Day Memorial honors the Allied forces that participated in the invasion of Normandy on June 6, 1944 during World War II. With its stylized English Garden, haunting invasion tableau, and striking Victory Plaza, the Memorial stands as a powerful permanent tribute to the valor, fidelity, and sacrifice of D-Day participants. Surrounded by the beautiful majestic Blue Ridge mountains, this makes for a solemn and respectful tribute for our fallen heroes. The Memorial is open daily between 10AM and 5PM except for New Year’s Day, Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, and Monday closings Dec. – Feb. Visit the website for more information at www.dday.org.

FALL/WINTER 2012

The Blue Ridge Digest

TALENTED TRIO FEATURED AT BLOWING ROCK ART & HISTORY MUSEUM

L

North Carolina Treasures, Blowing Rock Art & History Museum’s third major exhibit, will feature three of the state’s most beloved artists.

exington’s Bob Timberlake is NC’s most recognized and successful living artist. Since his first exhibition in Winston-Salem in 1970, he has been featured in galleries in New York, Washington, D.C., Seattle, and Tokyo.

He has received critical acclaim, accumulated a number of state and national honors, and developed a following of devoted fans.

BRAHM’s exhibit will feature a selection of his original works that represent his long career along with memorabilia and personal items that illustrate his interests.

The multi-talented Glenn Bolick is a walking monument to traditional mountain arts. He is an accomplished old-time musician, storyteller, and potter.

Glenn’s wife, Lula, is the daughter of legendary master potter M.L. Owen of Seagrove, who taught Glenn how to work clay. Today, the Bolick family continues to preserve traditions on the family farm with annual Heritage Days in June and November kiln openings.

North Carolina Treasures will display Bolick pottery and some of Glenn’s musical instruments.

A celebration of mountain music during the exhibit will also feature members of the Bolick family band.

McDowell County native Max Woody – also known as “The Chair Man” – has been making chairs for more than 60 years. Max continues a long family tradition of quality handmade products with his fine rocking chairs. BRAHM is honored to have a set of Max Woody chairs on its porch. The exhibit will include other examples of Max’s fine work, along with traditional tools used in woodworking and other items from his long career.

Max is also a musician and will join the musical celebration.

The exhibit runs AugustNovember 2012. BRAHM is in downtown Blowing Rock at 159 Chestnut Street.

For more info, call 828-295-9099 or visit www.BlowingRockMuseum.org.

Page 17

2012 Western North Carolina Fall Foliage & Apple Harvest

B

ask in the bounty of the fall apple harvest amidst the scenic beauty of the Historic Hendersonville, NC. The peak leaf color season lasts from early October to mid-November depending on your location.

North Carolina is the 7th largest apple-producing state in the nation and Henderson County is the largest apple-producing county in North Carolina. The apple harvest season runs from late August through October. The most widely grown apples are Red Delicious, Golden

Delicious, Rome Beauty, Granny Smith, Stayman, Fuji and Galas.

Fresh apples, cider and many other items may be purchased at the many roadside apple markets or produce stands located throughout Henderson County.

Some orchards offer tours and allow you to pick your own apples.

For information or to track the fall colors call 800-828-4244 or visit www.historichendersonville.org

Oct. 18 - 21

U.S. Cellular Center Downtown Asheville, NC Thu.-Sat.: 10am-6pm Sun.: 10am-5pm

John Geci Glass

www.craftguild.org 828-298-7928

Page 18

www.blueridgedigest.com

Carolina Craft Day

Saturday, September 22

T

raditions of the Southern Appalachians will be celebrated as The North Carolina Arboretum hosts Carolina Craft Day on Saturday, September 22 from 11 a.m. until 4 p.m. The event, now in its seventh year, features artists and crafters whose work reflects the heritage of western North Carolina. Vitally important to the

Oktoberfest Returns to its Gatlinburg

O

ber Gatlinburg is celebrating October with a fantastic festival featuring Bavarian-style food, drink and music, but you don’t have to don your finest lederhosen or dirndls to be a part of the fun as the resort commemorates the 202nd anniversary of the popular festival held in Munich, Germany with merrymaking daily September 28, 2012 - November 4, 2012.

The Bavarian Fun Makers Band, in authentic costumes, will perform traditional Bavarian folk dances, schuhplattling, oompah music, sing-a-longs, yodels and

more with shows at noon, 2, 4 and 6 p.m. every Friday, Saturday and Sunday as well as at 1 and 5 p.m. Monday through Thursday.

Special Oktoberfest Biers will be served along with traditional German wurst, schnitzel, sauerkraut, strudel, pretzels and more.

Oktoberfest was a popular event when the Heidelberg Castle operated its restaurant at Ober Gatlinburg in the 1980s, and for some of the Bavarian Fun Makers Band, it will be like coming home as they are part of the original band.

For more information: 1-800- MUCH FUN or fun@obergatlinburg.com

region’s craft heritage is the close relationship between the crafts and plants used in their production.

Much of the artistic expression of mountain crafts originates from the character and nature of plants.

Fine crafts made from local and natural materials will be highlighted, as will art created from recycled and sustainable sources. Past shows have featured woodcarving, basket making, weaving, and spinning, as well as native and medicinal plant sales, music and garden education classes.

Carolina Craft Day is hosted

by The North Carolina Arboretum.

Each year more than 370,000 visitors experience the Arboretum’s gardens, trails, exhibits, shows and expos, educational programs, demonstrations and lectures.

The Arboretum’s ability to meet its mission and enrich the visitor experience is made possible by community support—from members, volunteers and staff to state and local funds, tribute gifts, grants, and community partners.

The shows are free for Arboretum Society members or with the standard parking fee ($8 per personal motor vehicle). For more information, call (828) 665-2492 or visit www.ncarboretum.org.

The central mission of The North Carolina Arboretum, an affiliate institution of the 17-campus University of North Carolina system, is to cultivate connections between people and plants.

Did You Know?

Large Rvs can travel and enjoy the Blue Ridge Parkway and that there is adequate parking at Parkway scenic views and attractions?

FALL/WINTER 2012

Don't Miss the WOOLLY WORM FESTIVAL! Oct 20 & 21

F

or 34 year the town of Banner Elk has welcomed both old and new friends to the annual Woolly Worm Festival. This family event co-hosted by the Avery County Chamber of Commerce and the Kiwanis Organization of Banner Elk welcomes more than 23,000 people to the community to make family memories and also to win the prestigious title of predicting the High Country weather and the chance to win the $1000 bounty! Get there early because the fun begins at 9:00 a.m. on both Saturday and Sunday, with entertainment all day. Bring your dance shoes because you never know when a line dance will begin. Great music by local groups and check out the wace stage for impromptu guests.

The added time at the festival will give festival goers more time to take in the over 140 food and craft vendors with their handcrafted items, plus rides, musicians and dance teams.

Enjoy the camaraderie of the day and cheer on your favorite Woolly.

For more info, contact the chamber at 800-972-2183 or visit their website at www.averycounty.com

FALL/WINTER 2012

The Blue Ridge Digest

Page 19

Pumpkin Festival

S Fun, free and budget-friendly activities provide a lifetime of magical memories for families near and far after just one weekend on the Qualla Boundary, the homeland of the Cherokee Indians for more than 11,000 years.

M

ake one last splash before cooler temperatures set in as they float away on the Oconaluftee River, the cherished waterway of the Cherokee Indians. It’s a guaranteed, family-fun, laughter-filled afternoon complete with rushing rapids, lazy ripples and swimming holes. Crystal clear and cool, the locals call the Oconaluftee the best tubing river in the southeast. Local retailers and outfitters provide tubes and transportation for $10 or less per person through September.

A combined carnival, art exhibit and agriculture show, the 100th annual Cherokee Indian Fair features artwork, traditional Cherokee food and sports, nightly entertainment, rides and games. From the

top of the Ferris wheel, visitors can take in the gorgeous fall foliage that blankets the Great Smoky Mountains this time of year. Held at the Cherokee Indian Fair Grounds on Hwy. 441 Oct. 2-6, it opens at 10 a.m. daily with nightly shows.

Admission and entertainment are FREE for all ages.

Hundreds of pre-1985 classic cars and thousands of car enthusiasts and custom parts vendors turn out for the Southeast’s premier car show, the 12th annual Fall “Cruise the Smokies” Cherokee Rod Run at the Acquoni Expo Center Nov. 2-4. Participants in this fall tradition compete for cash prizes, feast on local BBQ and cruise the Blue Ridge Parkway and country roads surrounding Cherokee. Gates are open 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. Friday and Saturday, 9 a.m. till noon Sunday.

Spectator admission is $5 each day and free for children six and younger. Vehicle registration is $35.

www.visitcherokeenc.com or call 800-438-1601.

aturday, September 22, 2012 marks the date for the 15th Annual Pumpkin Festival to be held in Historic Downtown Elkin. The festival brings more than 15,000 visitors to downtown Elkin to enjoy live entertainment, shopping, great food and gigantic pumpkins galore.

The festivities begin Saturday morning with the 6th Annual Great Pumpkin Weigh-Off on Main Street near the Elkin Tribune of-

{

fice. There will be pumpkins from growers located all over the East Coast. Some will weigh-in at an excess of 1,000 lbs with hopes of placing in the Great Pumpkin Commonwealth top ten.

The Main Street of Elkin will be lined with vendors of every description featuring everything from funnel cakes to functional pottery, canned green beans to gourmet coffees, wood furnishings to wine racks, BBQ to baked goods, sand art to sunrooms, pumpkin butter to polish sausages, plus a variety of live entertainment and the ever-popular pie-eating contest sponsored by Yadkin Valley General Store. More info call the Yadkin Valley Chamber of Commerce at 336.526.1111

}

Here, even the most serious visitor

ends up with their head in the clouds.

You won’t find it in our gift shop. It’s not on the map. And photographs don’t do it justice. It’s a sense of wonder, and everyone who comes here takes a little home.

GRANDFATHER® MOUNTAIN WONDERS NEVER CEASE

www.grandfather.com

Page 20

www.blueridgedigest.com

Mountain Lodging | Food | Fun NORTH CAROLINA

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

800-562-5907 or (828) 686-3121 2708 Hwy 70E, Swannanoa, NC 28778. www.ashevilleeastkoa.com.

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

BALSAM, NC Moonshine Creek Campground Cool, Shady Sites on Mountain Stream in the Heart of the Smoky Mountains. RV's, Tents, Cabins, 5 minutes from the BRP with Fishing, Campfires, Hot Showers, and Campstore. 828-586-6666 moonshinecreekcampground.com

BANNER ELK, NC Smoke Tree Lodge - 12 miles south of Boone on Hwy 105. Nestled at the foot of Grandfather Mtn. Condo-apts, heated indoor pool, ESPN, Jacuzzi, saunas. (800) 422-1880. www.smoketree_lodge.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 Beech Mountain Chalet Rentals year round. www.ashevillebearcreek.

Chalet & condo rentals. Fully com (800) 833-0798. equipped kitchens,FP, TV, linens, pet friendly. www.gobeech.com.

Carolina Foam, Fabric & Home Decor (800) 368-7404. M/C, Visa & Discover.

- Largest selection of dress fabric and upholstery in North Carolina. Exit #64 Condominium And Chalet Rentals - By I-40. Black Mountain. 828-669-2400. the day, week or month - kitchens, full linens, fireplaces, whirlpools, country club Mast General Store - located downaccess (golf, tennis, heat. Pools, family town Asheville at 15 Biltmore Avenue. activities) Coolest locations in south. Call Restored to its 1940s heyday, this store 1-800-692-2061 or 828/387-4251. 503 features old-time housewares, jellies, Beech Mtn. Pkwy. (next to Fred’s General clothing, shoes, travel gear, over 500 Mercantile) Beechwood Realty. old-fashioned candies and an expansive outfitters shop. 828-232-1883 www.mastgeneralstore.com Alpine Village Inn - 297 Sunset Dr. Rutledge Lake RV Park. Exit 40 off Quaint cozy rooms & suites in the I-26. 2 mi from Asheville airport. heart of town. AC, CCTV, & phones, (828) 654-7873. 170 Rutledge Rd. Wi-Fi complimentary. Some firewww.rutledgelake.com. places & Jacuzzi. Pet friendly rooms. www.alpine-village-inn.com Shoji Spa & Lodge - Relax at (828) 295-7206.

Asheville's only outdoor hot tub spa.

Chetola Resort - Magnificent views, Reap the benefits of the cold plunge, 87 acres, Lodge, Condos, Bob Timberunwind in our sauna and rest in the lake Inn. Fitness Center, Restaurants, Lodge. Specializing in couples masOrvis Endorsed. N. Main St., Blowing sage. 2500 ft. above stress level.

Rock, NC 28605. www.chetola.com www.shojiretreats.com.

(828) 295-5500 or (800) 243-8652.

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

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.

BEECH MOUNTAIN, NC

BLOWING ROCK, NC

Homestead Inn - 153 Morris St. Downtown. Open all year. Affordable rates. Immaculate rooms. Fire/jacuzzis/efficiencies. Wi-Fi. (828) 295-9559. www.homestead-inn.com.

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

Mystery Hill. - 129 Mystery Hill Ln, Blowing Rock, NC 28605. Family fun center. Feel the strange pull. Hall of Mystery artifacts. Museum open all year.

828-263-0507. info@mysteryhill-NC.com Riverside Log Cabins - 129 Mystery Hill Ln, Blowing Rock, NC 28605. 828263-0507. One and two bedroom units.

Riversidelogcabins.com. Open all year.

Close to attractions.

Village Inns of Blowing Rock-No Smoking, Wi-Fi/Breakfast. Suites/ Cottages/Rooms. Some Pet Friendly Rooms. (828) 295-3001

BOONE, NC An Appalachian Summer Festival, July, 2013 – Annual worldclass,multiarts festival at Appalachian State University. Call 1-800-841-ARTS or visit appsummer.org.

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.

Horn in the West- Revolutionary War drama & Hickory Ridge - A living history museum. Open mid-June to mid August 2013. www.horninthewest.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 General Store - located downtown Boone on King Street. Built in 1913 and 1917, Old Boone Mercantile O features old-time housewares, jellies, t clothing, shoes, travel gear, over 500 C old-fashioned candies and an expan- c sive outfitters shop. 828-262-0000 www.mastgeneralstore.com

Mountain Villa Motor Lodge - Hwy C 321 South, Boone NC. Quiet location S with excellent view. Jacuzzi, cable, o pool & many other amenities. Rates C $70 and down. (800) 525-5861. p

h NC High Country Host Visitor Cen- e ter- 1700 Blowing Rock Rd., Boone, e NC 28607. (800) 438-7500.

O www.mountainsofnc.com c

BREVARD, NC

Inn at Brevard - Lodging, dining, cocktails. B and B. European cuisine. B 15 antique furnished rooms. Break- M m fast. 315 E. Main St., Brevard, NC d 28712. www.theinnatbrevard.com 8 (828) 884-2105. brevard@theinnatbrevard.com.

BRYSON CITY, NC Historic Fryemont Inn Lodging & Dining - From $62.50 PP incl. breakfast & dinner. Great Food, Full Bar, Big Pool!

800-845- 4879 www.fryemontinn.com

F C b l r 2

BURNSVILLE, NC Alpine Village Resort - 1 & 2 bedroom condos. Great views. Tennis, heated pool/summer, cable TV, special golf fees. 3 miles west of Parkway, exit Buck Creek Gap Hwy. 80. No pets. 828/675-4103.

BRP Milepost 342

M M fi b N i c f o 3 w

Ridgetop Cabins- Family vacation hideaway in the NC mountains. Secluded cabin rentals with fireplace on the BR Pky. (Milepost 342 between Mt. Mitchell and Little Switzerland) on trout pond. Kitchen, fireplace, deck, 3800 M feet. Pets welcome. The Hubbards. d For brochure, write 493 Ridgetop Lane, M Burnsville, NC 28714 or call f (828) 675-5511. www.ridgetopnc.com

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Mountain Lodging | Food | Fun CHEROKEE, NC

clothing, shoes, travel gear, over 500 old-fashioned candies and an expansive outfitters shop. 828-696-1883 www.mastgeneralstore.com

Oconaluftee Indian Village - Share the rich history & traditions of the Cherokee at this replica of a Cherokee Make your Lodging, Dining and community of the 1750s. May thru Oct. Theatre RESERVATIONS! www.historichendersonville.org Open 7 days a week, the Visitors Information Center, 1-800-828-4244. 210 S Main Chimney Rock at Chimney Rock Street, Hendersonville, NC. State Park – 40 min. SE of Asheville, exit milepost 384.7.

Come for the views. Discover infinite Greystone Inn: Four Diamond possibilities. Spectacular fall foliage, Country Inn on shore of NC's largest hiking, rock climbing instruction, special private lake. Incredible cuisine, golf, events, workshops and more! 26-story spa & more. 800-824-5766. elevator inside mountain. Pet friendly. www.greystoneinn.com Open all year. Live it up! 800-277-9611 chimneyrockpark.com

CHIMNEY ROCK, NC

LaKE TOXAWAY, NC

LAUREL SPRINGS, NC

Thistle Meadow Winery - Stop for wine tasting - exit at Blue Ridge Parkway Milepost 248.

Blue Ridge Cabins - Fletcher 3 miles to winery on NC18.

MP388.8. South. Rustic cabins with 800-233-1505. gas nearby. modern amenitites. 9 miles from downtown Asheville. 828-654-0539 or www.thistlemeadowwinery.com 877-902-2246. www.mybrcabin.com

FLETCHER, NC

LINVILLE, NC

FONTANA DAM, NC

Grandfather Mountain Grandfather¹s lofty heights offer guests opportunities for rejuvenation, Fontana Village Resort & Lake excitement and family memories in a Cabins - Lodge, camping, marina, boat rentals & guides. Fishing, dining, natural haven that will endure forever.

Marvel at 360-degree views from the lounges, pools, disk golf, horseback Mile High Swinging Bridge, stand riding, hiking & mtn biking. 800-849eye-to-eye with native wildlife in natu2258. www.fontanavillage.com ral habitats and interact with our friendly, knowledgeable staff. Two miles from Viaduct; one mile from Parkway. Take Linville Exit, MP 305 to Mountain View Lodge & Cabins- US 221. Open daily 8 am to dusk MP 256 - Secluded B&B lodge plus (weather permitting in winter). $18/ five duplex cabins w/kitchenettes, full adult; $13/senior 60+; $8 child 4-12; bathrooms, linens furnished. Genuine under 4 free. www.grandfather.com North Carolina hospitality for a relax- Phone 828-733-4337 or 800-468-7325.. ing “get away”. See local wildlife up close! Open all year. Great for large families & group retreats. Smoking Linville Caverns - 19929 US 221 N. outside only. MC/VISA. Pet friendly!

Marion. 4 miles South of Parkway, MP 336-982-2233 or 800-903-6811.

317. NC's ONLY show cavern. www.mtnviewlodge.com 800-419-0540. www.linvillecaverns.com.

Linville Falls Lodge & Cottages BRP Milepost 317.4, US 221S Mast General Store - located 1 mile to Rt. 183, left. Restaurant downtown Hendersonville at 527 N Main Street. Built in 1905, this store (ABC permit), Walk to falls & gorge. features old-time housewares, jellies, www.linvillefallslodge.com (800) 634-4421.

Parkview Lodge - Milepost 317.4 500 ft. south of Parkway on US 221. Private Guest Rooms, one bedroom suite and secluded cabins available. Color TV, Swimming Pool, Crafts, Wine & Beer Shop. Free continental breakfast with guest room. Open All Year.

828-765-4787; 1-800-849-4452.

LITTLE SWITZERLAND, NC Big Lynn Lodge - AAA Historic Country Inn. Scenic views of mountains, valley & Blue Ridge Parkway. One of the few old fashioned places that gives you lodging & meals (evening & breakfast) for one low package price. 3200 ft elev. 1 1/4 mile E of Parkway. Exit at Spruce Pine, on NC 226A near milepost 331. Open April 15 to Nov. 5. 40 units. PO Box 459.

(828) 765-4257; 1-800-654-5232

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. Call 828-765-5289. www.switzerlandcafe.com Switzerland Inn And Chalet Restaurant - A little bit of Switzerland in NC. Fantastic mountain views, rooms, suites, cottages, dining, shopping, tennis. Located directly on the Blue Ridge Parkway at the Little Switzerland exit near Parkway Milepost 334.

Little Switzerland, NC 28749.

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

Fall Foliage Leaf Season Premium Open Air Gondola

New!

✔ Delicious Pork BBQ Sandwich Meal ✔ Souvenir Tumbler ✔ Private Attendant ✔ Panoramic Views

GLENDALE SPRINGS, NC

LINVILLE FALLS, NC

HENDERSONVILLE, NC

BOOK NOW! Book Online or Call BEST IN THE MOUNTAINS!

800-872-4681

Chinese food: Peking Restaurant in Wytheville, VA

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FALL/WINTER 2012

Mountain Lodging | Food | Fun MAGGIE VALLEY, NC

MOUNT AIRY, NC

Abbey Inn Motel - Closest Maggie motel to Pkwy & Cherokee. 5 mi.

Smoky Mtn. views from 4,200' high.

FREE in-room coffee, phone, fridge, HiWi/cable TV/ HBO. Some kitchens.

Picnic area, grills. Quiet & secluded on 2 wooded acres. Near all attractions. Pets possible. V, MC, D. www.abbeyinn.com (800) 545-5853.

Pilot Knob Inn -Tobacco barn cabins & honeymoon suites, whirlpools, fireplaces on 100+ acres, lake with boating & fishing, Pilot Mtn 1 mile off Hwy 52. Full breakfast and sauna. (336) 325-2502 www.pilotknobinn.com

NEWLAND, NC

Secluded Valley RV Campground Boyd Mountain Log Cabins - Seclud- 8 miles North Spruce Pine on 19E. 5 miles from Blue Ridge Parkway. 30 & ed 130 acres near Maggie Valley, Authentic cabins, fireplaces, AC, 50 amp full hookups, children & pets welcome, level & spacious sites. cable, WIFI. Choose n cut Christmas www.secludedvalleyrvcampground.com. tree farm, trout fishing, hiking.

(828) 926-1575. www.boydmountain.com (828) 765-4810.

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 Maggie Valley Area Lodging Association - Affordable motel rooms, cabins, cottages or vacation rentals.

Visit our website www.visitmaggie. com to find your perfect home away from home in the mountains.

SPARTA & GLADE VALLEY, NC

Alleghany Inn - 341 N. Main St., Sparta, NC 28675. 64 Rooms - Free Wireless Internet - Cable TV 60+ Chan, Guest Laundry - Restaurant on site. 888) 372-2501 Reserve online: www.AlleghanyInn.com . see ad page 5

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 - Est. 1883 and listed on the National Register of Historic Places, this authentic general store located in a pastoral setting features clothing, camping gear, shoes & boots, housewares, unique gifts, and over 500 old-fashioned candy favorites. Hwy. 194, 828-963-6511.

Also visit other locations along the Blue Ridge Parkway and in Greenville, SC and Knoxville, TN. www.maststore.com.

WAYNESVILLE, NC Mast General Store - located downtown Waynesville at 63 N Main Street. Built in the 1930s, this store features old-time housewares, jellies, clothing, shoes, travel gear, over 500 old-fashioned candies and an expansive outfitters shop. 828-452-2101 www.mastgeneralstore.com

Glade Valley B&B – Near MP 229.

Our modern, beautiful log home is surrounded with all the beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains. All rooms have private baths, some with jacuzzi The Waynesville Inn Golf Resort tubs. Our breakfasts are all homeMcDowell Chamber of Commerce and made and plentiful. www.gladevalley.com & Spa - MP 445. Surrounded by majestic mountains and the Blue Visitor Center - Shopping & food near 800-538-3508 See our ad on page 4.

Ridge Parkway, this resort has been center. Free coffee & area info. Clean welcoming visitors to a casual and restrooms. From Parkway MP 317, 24 Thistle Meadow Winery - Stop for wine relaxed mountain lifestyle since the mi. S on US 221. From MP331: 15 mi S tasting - exit at Blue Ridge Parkway 1920s and features stunning views on NC226. (828) 652-4240.

Milepost 248. 3 miles to winery on from all of the 115 rooms, 27-holes NC18.(800) 233-1505. gas nearby. of Donald Ross golf and two upscale www.thistlemeadowwinery.com restaurants. 800-627-6250 www.thewaynesvilleinn.com Mitchell County, NC - Exit milepost

McDOWELL COUNTY, NC

.

MITCHELL COUNTY, NC

331. Gem mining, gem & mineral shops, specialty mineral & gem festival, rhododendron festival, indoor ice skating rink, white water rafting, Appalachian Trail. For more information, call 1-800-227-3912 or 828-765-9483.

To report accidents & other emergencies on the Parkway,

Call 1-800-PARKWATCH (1-800-727-5928)

SPRUCE PINE, NC

TENNESSEE

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

All amenities, jacuzzis, decks, fireplaces. For 2 to 10. www.bear-den.

Ski Mountain Chalet & Condo com (828) 765-2888.Res. recmd.

Rentals - 1-6 bedroom units, hot tubs, jacuzzis, pool tables, kitchens, Bear Den Campground - On the fireplaces, privacy. (800) 824-4077.

Blue Ridge Parkway at MP 324.8. www.skimtnchalets.com Complete facilities, serving the south for over 41 years. www.bear-den.com (828) 765-2888. Scenic beauty.

GATLINBURG, TN

VIRGINIA

ABINGDON, VA Abingdon Convention & Visitors Bureau - 355 Cummings St., Abingdon, VA 24210. 276/676-2282; 800-435-3440. I-81, Exit 17 - Barter Theatre, Art, History, and More! www.abingdon.com/tourism.

AMHERST, VA Hardings Clocks & Music Boxes -8 miles north of Lynchburg on Rt 29 Bus. Over 1000 unique clocks and music boxes. We ship, engrave and repair. Call (434) 946-7386.

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

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.

FISHERSVILLE, VA Antique Expo - 400 dealers exhibiting in halls, barns, tents & outside twice yearly. May 18-20 and October 12-14, 2012. Augusta Expoland. I-64, exit 91. (434) 847-8242 . www.heritagepromotions.net.

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

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

Chateau Morrisette. - 287 Winery Rd., SW Floyd, VA 24091. MP 171.5.

Breathtaking vistas, award-winning wines and memorable dining. (540) 593-2865. www.thedogs.com

FALL/WINTER 2012

Hotel Floyd - 120 Wilson St, Floyd, VA. (540) 745-6080. www.hotelFloyd. com. Unique lodging off MP165 with themed rooms and located downtown Floyd. Don't miss visiting this unique town and hotel!

GROTTOES, VA

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

Nature's handiwork & gifts. 888-430CAVE. www.grandcaverns.com

HARRISONBURG, VA Harrisonburg, VA Visitor Center 212 S. Main St (540) 432-8935 www.harrisonburgtourism.com Call for free materials!

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

LEXINGTON, VA Stonewall Jackson House - 8 E. Washington St. Home of the famous Confederate general before the Civil War. Guided tours, garden and museum shop. (540) 463-2552.

LOVE, VA. Royal Oaks - Cabins, chalets, store, gifts, deli, weddings. Near MP16 on parkway. Upscale lodging, hot tubs, fireplaces, equipped kit, bedding/linens. Beautiful views atop the BR Mtns. www.vacabins.com. (800) 410-0627.

The Blue Ridge Digest

NATURAL BRIDGE, VA Natural Bridge Zoological Park I-81 Exit 180A. Rt 11 North. Largest and most complete collection of birds and animals in Virginia. Elephant rides, white tigers, cougars, giraffes, zebras, bears, baboons, monkeys, Flamingos, pet & feed tame deer, Ilamas, goats and mini donkeys. Safari gift shop, modern restrooms, free parking, free picnic pavilion.Open daily 9am-7pm. March-November. Group rates. Fun for the whole family! www. naturalbridgezoo.com. 540-291-2420 .Natural Bridge - US 11 & 130, MP 45.6 & 61; I-8 Exits 175, 180. See the immense natural wonder. Nature park, Indian village, caverns, wax museum, haunted house, dinosaur kingdom. Hotel, great food. 800-5331410. www.naturalbridgeva.com

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

ROANOKE, VA Bent Mountain Lodge B & B - 9039 Mtn View Dr, Copper Hill, VA 24079.

MP 136. 10 sts, pri baths, wedding venue. (540) 651-2525. www.bentmountainlodgeandbreakfast.com

Roanoke Valley - Milepost 120. Experience the largest family destination on the Blue Ridge Parkway featuring outstanding museums and attractions, shopping, restaurants and a wide variety of hotels and B&Bs. FolAllstar Lodging - 100+ unique low signs to Visitor Center with Free cabins or B&B's. Hot tubs, frplc, kitch, Travel Guides.(800) 635-5535. riverfront/mountains, hiking, canoeing, fishing, near Luray, VA. 866-7807827 www.allstarlodging.com.

Come and visit Salem, Virginia that is only twenty minutes from the parkway. Take the walking tour of our hisPrimland Resort - 2000 Busted Rock toric downtown featuring quaint anRoad. Resort Lodge, Fairway Cottages, tique shops and restaurants. Stay for Mountain Homes. Spectacular views. a while in one of our hotels or B&B’s Golf. Spa. Dining, Outdoor activities. and attend one of our many athletic 276.222.3800 • www.primland.com 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

LURAY, VA.

SALEM, VA

MEADOWS OF DAN, VA

SHENANDOAH CAVERNS, VA

Page 23

WAYNESBORO, VA

Cabin Creekwood- 2 miles from Parkway MP 13.6. Year-round, Shenandoah Caverns - 4 great attrac- quiet, secluded.Fully furnished aftions for one price. Only Va. cavern fordable mtn cabins (888) 942-2246. with elevator & closest to I-81 (exit www.cabincreekwood.com.

269). Also see spectacular floats in America's Parade Float Hall of Fame Your Listing and experience the new Yellow Barn, a whimsical agricultural experiCOuld be HERE! ence. Open all year. 888-4CAVERN Call (828) 667-1607 www.shenandoahcaverns.com

a piece ‘Hard Candy Christmas’ ofHave peppermint

Celebrates 25 Years

candy at the ticket table and catch the Christmas spirit.

and ornaments. Each costume is sewn with fine fabrics with pride in every piece.

As a young girl, growing up in the Smoky Mountains, Debra was inspired and instructed by her grand mother, The ‘Hard Candy Christmas’ who taught her the basics of crafting.

Craft Art & Show is celebrating it’s Her one of a kind creations 25th year as a ‘Mountain Christmas have been acclaimed in national Tradition” in Western North Carolina. publications. They are featured This popular event has come a long at the Biltmore House for the holiway from the little show in the Slagle days this year. Welcome Debra!

Memorial Building in Franklin, NC to Other Christmas themed artthe spacious Ramsey Center on the ists will be here with original campus of Western Carolina University painting, clay and glass. New in Cullowhee. The first show had 8 exhibitors who have not been here craftsmen! Today you will see original before are coming in to celebrate work of over 100 regional artisans. with us and bring their best art.

Always the Friday and Saturday Look for heritage crafts like broom after Thanksgiving, this year’s dates making, pine needle baskets, goat are November 23-24. Hours milk soap, bark buckets and hand are 10 -5 each day The show is the loomed cotton rugs. Also, quilting, hard work and ‘dream come true’ wood craft and gourd art. Photografor fellow artist Doris Hunter. She phy, yard art, and too much to tell. visits many craft shows each year to Admission is $4.00 for a week carefully pick blue ribbon artists. end pass for adults, children under This year’s Featured Artist is a 12 free. Free convenient parking.

Tennessee native and sculpture, Debra Concessions in the building.

Parker Romero. She hand sculpures Old Bring your Thanksgiving World Santas, elves, fantasy figures company and Christmas list.

For Information: visit: www.mountainartisans.net or call Doris 828 524 3405 • Email: djhunter@dnet.net

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FALL/WINTER 2012

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

GEORGIA

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

Blairsville/Union County Chamber 129 Union County Rec Rd. • Blairsville, GA Blue Ridge Parkway Visitor Center 30512; (706) 745-5789 195 Hemphill Knob Rd Asheville, NC www.blairsvillechamber.com 28803 • 828-298-5330 Ellijay Visitor Center Boone Area Chamber of Commerce 205 Craig St.; PO Box 505 870 W King St. Suite A, Boone, NC 28607; Ellijay, GA 30540; (706) 635-7400 (800) 852-9506 • www.VisitBooneNC.com www.gilmerchamber.com Fannin County Chamber of Commerce 152 Orvin Lance Drive • Blue Ridge, GA 30513 • (706) 632-5680 www.blueridgemountains.com Rabun County Welcome Center 232 Hwy 441 North, POB 750 Clayton, Georgia 30525; (706) 782-4812 www.gamountains.com/rabun Toccoa Welcome Center 901 E. Currahee St. P.O. Box 577 Toccoa, GA 30577; (706) 866-2132

Bryson City Chamber of Commerce 210 Main Street • Bryson City, NC 28713; (800) 867-9246 • www.greatsmokies.com Burke County Travel & Tourism 102 E. Union St., Courthouse Square Morganton, NC 28655; (828) 433-6793

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.banner-elk.com/ 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 Visitor Center 192 Chestnut St • Blowing Rock Blowing Rock, NC 28605; 877-750-4636 www.visitblowingrock.com

Hickory Visitor Center 1055 Southgate Parkway SW Hickory, NC 28602 (828) 328-6111 www.hickorymetro.com Hickory Nut Gorge Information Center 2926 Memorial Hwy. Lake Lure, NC 28746 Highlands Chamber of Commerce 269 Oak St., POB 404 BRD Highlands, NC 28741; (828) 526-2112 www.highlands-chamber.com

Piedmont Triad Visitor Center 700 NC Hwy 700 Pelham, NC 27311; (800) 388-9830 Polk County Visitor Center 20 E. Mills Street Columbus, NC 28722; (800) 440-7848 Smoky Mountain Host of NC, Inc 4437 Georgia Road, Franklin, NC 28734 (800) 432-4678 • www.visitsmokies.org Statesville Tourism Dev. Authority PO Box 1109, 111 Depot Lane Statesville, NC 28687; (877) 531-1819 www.visitstatesville.org Waynesville/Haywood County Visitor Center 44 N. Main St. • Waynesville NC 28786 (800) 334-9036 www.visitncsmokies.com

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

Jackson County Chamber of Commerce 773 W. Main Street • Sylva, NC 28779; (800) 962-1911 • www.nc-mountains.com

Cashiers Area Chamber of Commerce 202 U.S. 64, POB 238 BRD Cashiers, NC 28717; (828) 743-5191 www.cashiers-nc.com

Jonesville Welcome Center 1503 NC Hwy 67W Jonesville, NC 28642 • (336) 526-1111

Wilkes County Chamber of Commerce 717 Main St., PO Box 727 BRD N. Wilkesboro, NC 28659; (336) 838-8662 • www.wilkesnc.org

Madison County Visitor Center 56 S. Main Street • Mars Hill, NC 28754; (828) 680-9031 www.visitmadisoncounty.com

Yadkin Valley Visitor Center 116 East Market St. • Elkin, NC 28621; (336) 526-1111 • www.yadkinvalley.org

Towns County Visitor Center 1411 Jack Dayton Circle Young Harris, GA 30582 (706) 896-4966 • www.mountaintopga.com Cherokee County Visitor Center 805 W. US 64 N O R T H C A R O L I N A Murphy, NC 28906; (828) 837-2242 www.cherokeecountychamber.com Alleghany Co. Chamber of Commerce 58 S. Main, POB 1237 BRD Cherokee Visitor Center Sparta, NC 28675; (800) 372-5473 P.O. Box 460 • 498 Tsalis Rd. www.sparta-nc.com Cherokee, NC 28719; (800) 438-1601 Andrews Chamber of Commerce 345 Locust St. • P.O. Box 800 Andrews, NC 28902 • (877) 558-0005 www.andrewschambercommerce.com

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

www.cherokee-nc.com

Clay County Chamber of Commerce 388 Business Hwy 64 Hayesville, NC 28904; (828) 389-3704 www.claycounty-nc-chamber.com Davie County Chamber of Commerce 135 S. Salisbury St., Mocksville, NC 27028-2337; (336) 751-3304 - www.mocksville.org Franklin Area Chamber of Commerce 425 Porter St. Franklin, NC 28734; (888) 439-park • www.franklin-chamber.com Gaston County Visitor Center 620 Main Street • Belmont, NC 28012 Greensboro Area Visitor Center 2200 Pinecroft Rd. • Suite 200 Greensboro, NC 27407; (800) 344-2282 www.VisitGreensboroNC.com Haywood Chamber of Commerce 22 Walnut St. • Waynesville, NC 28786 (828) 456-3021

Maggie Valley Chamber of Commerce 2511 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

Yancey County Chamber of Commerce 106 W. Main St. • Burnsville, NC 28714; (800) 948-1632 • www.yanceychamber.com

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

Mitchell Co. Chamber of Commerce Clairborne Co. Chamber of Commerce 79 Parkway Rd • Spruce Pine, NC 28777; 1732 Main St., Suite 1 (800) 227-3912 • www.mitchell-county.com Tazewell, TN 37879; (423) 626-4149 www.clairbornecounty.com Mount Airy Visitor Center 200 N. Main St. • Mt. Airy, NC 27030; Coker Creek Visitor Center (800) 948-0949 • www.visitmayberry.com 12197 Hwy. 68 • Tellico Plains, TN 37385 (423) 261-2286 Nantahala Gorge Visitor Center 9405 US 19W Bryson City, NC 28713 Elizabethton Visitor Center 828-488-8585 500 19E Bypass; POB 190 Elizabethton, TN 37644; (423) 547-3850 NW NC Visitor Center www.tourelizabethton.com 2121 East US Hwy 421 • North WIlkesErwin/Unicoi Co. Chamber of Commerce boro, NC 28659 • (336) 667-1259 100 S. Main St., POB 713 BRD NC High Country Host Visitor Center Erwin, TN 37650; (423) 743-3000 1700 Blowing Rock Rd. • Boone, NC 28607; www.valleybeautiful.org (800) 438-7500 • www.mountainsofnc.com Greene Co. Partnership/COB 115 Academy St. Old Fort Visitor Center Greeneville, TN 37743; (423) 638-4111 25 W. Main Street • Old Fort, NC 28762 (888) 233-6111 • www.visitmcdowell.com www.GreeneCountyPartnership.com

FALL/WINTER 2012

The Blue Ridge Digest

Page 25

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

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 Kingsport Visitor Center 151 E. Main St., POB 1403 BRD Kingsport, TN 37662; (423) 392-8820 www.kingsportchamber.org Loudon County Visitor Bureau 1075 US Hwy 321 • Lenoir City, TN 37771 (888) 568-3662 • www.visitloudoncounty.com Oak Ridge Visitor Center 102 Robertsville Rd • Suite C Oak Ridge, TN 37830; (800) 482-7821, www.visit-or.org Pigeon Forge Dept. of Tourism 1159 N. Parkway, POB 1390 BRD Pigeon Forge, TN 37868; (800) 251-9100 mypigeonforge.com

Bedford Visitor Center 816 Burks Hill Rd • Bedford, VA 24523; (877)-HiPeaks • VisitBedford.com

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

Blue Ridge Visitor Center 2577 JEB Stuart Highway Meadows of Dan, VA 24120 276-694-6012

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

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.pursueCharlottesville.com Culpeper Visitor Center 109 S. Commerce St. • Culpeper, VA 22701 • (540) 825-8628 www.visitculpeperva.com Danville Visitor Center 645 River Park Dr • Danville, VA 24540; (434) 793-4636 • www.visitdanville.com

Rogersville/Hawkins County C of C 107 E. Main St., Ste.100 Rogersville, TN 37857; (423) 272-2186

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

Scott County Visitor Center 12025 Scott Highway Helenwood, TN 37755 • (800) 645-6905

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

Smoky Mtn Visitor Center 3540 Line Drive • Kodak, TN 37764 (865) 932-3696

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

VIRGINIA 1908 Courthouse Welcome Center 129 Davis St Suite 204 Independence VA 24348 (276) 773-2471

City of Galax Tourism Department 110 East Grayson St. • Galax, VA 24333 276-238-8130 www.visitgalax.com Greene County Economic Development & Tourism 8315 Seminole Trail, Suite 2 Ruckersville, VA 22968

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

Harrisonburg, VA Visitor Center 212 S. Main St (540) 432-8935 www.harrisonburgtourism.com

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

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

Smith Mountain Lake Visitor Center 16430 Booker T. Washington Hwy. #2 Moneta. VA 24121 • 540-721-1203 www.visitsmithmountainlake.com Smyth County Visitor Center 408 Whitetop Rd., Chilhowie, VA 24319 (276) 646-3306 • VisitVirginiaMountains.com

Lynchburg Regional Information Center 216 12th St. at Church St. Staunton Travel Information Center Lynchburg, VA 24505; (800) 732-5821 1290 Richmond Rd. (I-81 Exit 222) www.discoverlynchburg.org Staunton, VA 24401 • (540) 332-3972 www.VisitStaunton.com Madison County Visitor Center 110A N. Main St., Madison, VA 22727 Staunton Visitor ’s Center (540) 948-4455 • www.madison-va.com 35 South New Street, Staunton,VA 24401 540-332-3971 • www.VisitStaunton.com Martinsville Visitor Center 54 West Church St. • Martinsville, VA 24112 VisitMartinsville.com Strasburg Chamber of Commerce 157 N. Holiday St. Nelson County Visitor Center Strasburg, VA 22657; 8519 Thomas Nelson Hwy., (540) 465-3187 • www.strasburgchamber.com Lovingston, VA 22949; (800) 282-8223 www.Nelsoncounty.com Virginia Tech Visitor Info Ctr. 965 Prices Fork Rd. • Blacksburg, VA Orange Co. Visitor's Center 24061;(540) 231-3548 122 East Main St. • Orange, VA 22960 www.vt.edu/whereweare/visitor-center.com (877) 222-8072 • www.visitorangevirginia.com Western Highlands Visitor Center Patrick County Chamber of Commerce 241 W. Main St. • Covington, VA 24426; 20475 JEB Stuart Hwy • PO Box 577 (540) 962-2178 • www.alleghanyhighlands.com Stuart, VA 24171; (276) 694-6012 www.patrickchamber.com Winchester-Frederick County CVB Piedmont Crossroads Visitors Ctr 135A Wood Ridge Terrace Gordonsville, VA 22942

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

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

Wytheville CVB

Pulaski County Visitor Center 4440 Cleburne Blvd • Dublin, VA 24084 540-674-4161. www.pulaskicounty.org Radford Visitor Center 600 Unruh Dr. • Radford, VA 24141 (866) 605-6442 • www.visitradford.com Roanoke Visitor Information Center 101 Shenandoah Ave., NE Roanoke VA 24016 • (800) 635-5535 www.VisitRoanokeVA.com Rockfish Gap Visitor Center 130 Afton Circle Afton, VA 22920; (540) 943-5187 www.augustabusiness.org Salem Visitor Center 1001 Boulevard @ Civic Center Salem, VA 24153; (888) 827-2536 www.visitsalem.com

975 Tazewell Street Wytheville, VA 24382; (276) 223-3355 Toll free (877) 347-8307 www.visitWytheville.com

WEST VIRGINIA West Virginia Welcome Center

37 Washington Court at US 340 Harpers Ferry, WV 25435; (866) -HELLO-WV • www.hello-wv.com

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

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www.blueridgedigest.com

FALL/WINTER 2012

The National Storytelling Festival Celebrates their 40th Anniversary

T

his fall Jonesborough, Tennessee, the storytelling capital of the world, hosts the 40th anniversary of the National Storytelling Festival. In 1973, just 60 people gathered around a hay wagon in downtown Jonesborough for the first National Storytelling Festival.

Today, audiences that swell into the thousands gather in large, circus-like tents to give voice to oral traditions from around the globe – a world’s worth of stories packed into three days and one historic town.

Called “the leading event of its kind in America”

by USA Today, the renowned outdoor festival showcases two dozen of the world’s

premier storytellers. Concerts take place throughout the town, beginning Friday morning and continuing until Sunday afternoon.

Two popular traditions within the festival – Ghost story and (adults only) Midnight Cabaret concerts – are featured both Friday and Saturday nights.

This year’s celebration includes a first-time Story Slam! and special pre-festival concerts, featuring Donald Davis on Wednesday, October 3rd, and award-winning humorist Jeanne Robertson on Thursday, October 4th.

The 40th annual National Storytelling Festival will take place October 5-7, 2012.

For more information, call the International Storytelling Center at (800) 9528392 or visit www. storytellingcenter.net Andy Offutt Irwin,Storyteller Photo: Thomas N Thurston

25th Annual

“HARD CANDY CHRIS TMAS Art & Craft Show

November 23-24, 2012 WCU Ramsey Center • Cullowee, North Carolina Adults: $4 - Children under 12 FREE

“A Mountain Christmas Tradition”

MountainArtisans.net • (828) 524-3405

Dillsboro Glows with Luminaries the First Two Weekends of December

K

nown year-round for its “The atmosphere on those two quaint charm, Dillsboro special weekends is like something takes it to another level each out of a Christmas storybook,” December with its annual Festival says Julie Spiro, director of the of Lights & Luminaries.

Santa sets up Jackson County TourDuring two special weekshop in the ism Authority. “The brisk ends, town merchants town hall, weather nips at your nose transform Dillsboro into carolers fill and Dillsboro puts you candle-lit mountain verthe streets in the holiday spirit.” sion of Bedford Falls.

The Festival of Lights with music, The streets and sidemerchants and Luminaires takes walks glow with more place the first two Friday offer free than 2,500 white and Saturday evenings in holiday paper bag luminarrefreshments December – Dec. 7-8 and ies, while the town’s and hot cider. Dec. 14-15. This is the buildings, many of them 29th year of Lights and dating to the late 1800s, are Luminaries, and the town’s spetrimmed in tiny white lights. Santa cialty shops, inns and restaurants sets up shop in the town hall, stay open late to participate. carolers fill the streets with music, There is no admission charge merchants offer free holiday refor the Festival of Lights & Lufreshments and hot cider, while mu- minaries. However, visitors are sicians stroll the sidewalks playing encouraged to make a weekend Christmas music on French horns, out of it by staying in a bed-andharps, dulcimers and bagpipes. breakfast inn or local hotel.

For info: (800) 962-1911, or visit online at www.MountainLovers.com.

Plenty of B eauti Places to B ful ike!

wntown Historic Do ville Henderson

Flat Rock Play house State Theatre of NC

o Get Ready t Play, Laugh and Dance!

e burg Hom Carl Sand istoric Site National H

SO MUCH TO DO!

C A R O L I N A

Garden Jubilee

Memorial Day weekend NC Apple Festival Labor Day weekend Flat Rock Playhouse mid-April thru late-December North Carolina Mountain State Fair early September Music On Main Street June thru late-August, every Friday Street Dances July thru mid-August, every Monday Art On Main first Saturday & Sunday in October Farm City Day first Saturday in October

Order a FREE! Travel Planner

historichendersonville.org

N O R T H

Annual Events

800.828.4244

Your

Mountain Adventure Starts Here.

With native festivals, outdoor excursions and nightlyentertainment experience a mountain adventure in the homeland of the Cherokee Indians.

CherokeeAdventure.com | FishCherokee.com | SequoyahNational.com | CherokeeMuseum.org | QuallaArtsandCrafts.com

VisitCherokeeNC.com | 800-438-1601