Blue Ridge Digest Spring 2015

the most widely distributed travel publication in the mountains

SPRING/SUMMER

2015

Blue Ridge & Great Smoky Mountains

Chautauqua Festival 3 Top Things to mark off your “bucket list” this year in the Smokies Who Were The Scots-Irish?

MUSIC | FUN | FOOD | FESTIVALS

The first one to close the generation gap wins.

There are many ways for kids and parents to enjoy every day in the Roanoke Valley. Climb on antique trains at the Virginia Museum of Transportation or cheer for the home team at a Salem Red Sox ball game. Don’t be surprised if the world-class mountain bike trails bring out dad’s competitive side. The young and the young at heart will love Virginia’s Blue Ridge.

visitvablueridge.com | 800.635.5535 #BlueRidgeDay

How will you enjoy your Blue Ridge Day? Virginia’s Blue Ridge region is filled with beautiful scenery, outdoor fun, inspiring arts & culture and, of course, great hospitality and delicious food.

The National D-Day Memorial 800-351-DDAY | www.dday.org

The Hotel Roanoke & Conference Center 540-985-5900 | www.HotelRoanoke.com

Smith Mountain Lake 540-721-1203 | www.visitsmithmountainlake.com

RegisteR online to win a Blue Ridge Mountains getaway – visitvaBlueRidge.coM

Virginia Transportation Museum 540-342-5670 | www.vmt.org

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Enjoy the Yadkin Valley with Custom ‘Winetineraries’

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orth Carolina’s Yadkin Valley wine region has more than 40 wineries, and there’s no better place within the valley to experience wine country than Surry County.

Surry is home to some 17 wineries scattered among the friendly towns of Elkin, Mount Airy, Pilot Mountain and Dobson.

There are many places to stay countywide, and it’s now easier than ever to plan a wine getaway thanks to a series of itineraries created by local tourism officials.

These “winetineraries,” as they’re called, provide a road map to enjoyable visits by eliminating the guesswork of where to go & what to do.

There are six winetineraries, and each has a specific theme.

Visitors can choose from these options: romantic, gourmet, retail therapy, vineyards, spa & relaxation, and golf.

Elkin, with 20 tasting rooms within 20 minutes of downtown, provides an ideal base camp for exploring the Yadkin Valley.

A revitalized main street is populated with shops, boutiques and eateries. There’s even an urban winery – Brushy Mountain Winery on South Main.

Mount Airy also has a Main Street winery – Old North State Winery – as well as several vineyards within 20 minutes of downtown. Mount Airy is known

as the birthplace of Andy Griffith.

There are several Mayberry attractions in downtown Mount Airy, including the Andy Griffith Museum and Mayberry Squad Car Tours.

Dobson is home to the largest family-owned estate winery in North Carolina. Shelton Vineyards features award-winning

wines, a gourmet restaurant and its own Hampton Inn & Suites.

Pilot Mountain features one of the nicest wineries in the valley – the upscale boutique winery JOLO Vineyards. JOLO has great wines, a 24-seat fine dining restaurant, amazing tasting room with open kitchen, and a romantic honeymoon suite.

To learn more about exploring these unique towns, visit www.winetineraries.com.

2 0 TA S T I N G R O O M S W I T H I N 2 0 M I N U T E S

WWW. WHATSUP IN E L K I NNC. COM • W W W.VERYSURRY.CO M /ELKIN

E X I T AT M I L E P O S T M A R K E R 2 2 9 A LO N G U S H W Y 2 1 TO E L K I N

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Mountain Artisans presents : The 26th Annual Blue Ridge Digest

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

SPRING/SUMMER 2015

June 27-28 2015

‘Summertime’ Art and Crafts Show quilting, goat milk soap, handcrafted wood toys and blacksmithing. There will be a demonstration of corn shuck dolls and strumming on the dulcimer .

There are several folk doll makers for the collector and a pressed flower artist.

Look for some of the most talented artisans in glass, fiber , ocated inside the climate and fine wood crafting. controlled Ramsey Center on The fine artists will have the campus of Western Carolina originals and prints of their work.

University in Cullowhee, NC. Master jewelers will offer a This event features authentic wide selection of one of a kind crafts from the hands of 100 heirlooms and fun trinkets. regional artisans.

Take home some delicious Many of the craftsmen are treats from Grandma’s recipes preserving heritage skills handed and organic bread. down from the older generation:

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100th anniversary 2016 marks the 100th anniversary of the National Park Service and while America has changed dramatically since the 1916 birth of the Park Service, the core mission remains the same to provide exemplary stewardship of and to provide for the public enjoyment of the special places the NPS manages.

The roots of the National Park Service lie in the parks’ majestic, and sometimes isolated natural wonders and in places that reflect our nation’s history and cultural heritage. Today, the reach of the agency extends beyond the traditional parks and into urban centers, across rural landscapes, deep within oceans, and across night skies.

In 2016, the Service will recommit to its core mission and celebrate the expanded contributions that national parks and the agency’s community assistance programs make to create jobs, strengthen local economies, and support ecosystem services and will look to strategically leverage resources to further our contributions to society.

www.nps.gov/subjects/centennial/index.htm

Ronnie Evans will be playing favorite tunes on his guitar and selling his cds. Free, convenient parking and concessions.

Hours are 10-5 each day.

Admission is $4.00 for adults ,children under 12 free.

For more info: www.mountainartisans.net or Doris Hunter,828 524 3405

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

Scan this QR code to download this app:

IT’S HERE! “AmericA’s FAvorite Drive” At your Fingertips...

469 miles of scenic places, historic sites, lodging, outdoor recommendations and more delivered directly to your smartphone. planned and developed in cooperation with the Blue ridge parkway & national park service. the Blue ridge parkway is designated an All American road by the national scenic Byways program.

DoWnLoAD Here!

Forget your cares...

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

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

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

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

Sparta, NC / Alleghany County

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

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

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

Enjoy a delicious homemade breakfast

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

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

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

Beautiful scenic views

800-538-3508

Toll Free Reservations: 1-888-372-2501

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

Rustic cabin also available

341 N. Main St. Sparta, NC

www.AlleghanyInn.com

It’s

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at Grandfather Mountain

Photo: Skip Sickler, Grandfather Mountain Stewardship Foundation

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he season of renewal has arrived at Grandfather Mountain in Linville, and with it the emergence of seasonal wildflowers and the promise of blooms soon to come.

The stunning and rare pinkshell azalea, native to only a few parts of Western North Carolina, blossoms in late April through early

May, providing a burst of rosy color to the hillsides even before leaves have fully developed on the trees.

Following in its footsteps is the awe-inspiring Catawba rhododendron, whose bright pink blooms signal the true arrival of summer in the mountains. Guests to Grandfather Mountain can learn

more about this fantastic flowering shrub through the guided walk series “The Remarkable Rhododendron Ramble,” offered at 1 p.m. daily June 1-14. Staff naturalists unravel the mystique behind the alluring plant that’s a favorite of photographers and gardeners.

Those who prefer fauna to flora will delight in seeing Grandfather Mountain’s two young river otters, Nova and Oscar. The active duo debuted in the Animal Habitats last fall and has quickly become a

favorite of guests because of their playfulness and charm.

Visitors can see the otters — as well as black bears, cougar, deer and bald eagles — frolicking this season during the daily Animal Encounters offered between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m. During these sessions, staff members provide more information about the impressive animals and give each an enrichment: a treat, toy or unique scent that helps break up the animal’s day and keep their minds and bodies active.

To learn more about Grandfather Mountain, visit www.grandfather.com or call (828) 733-2013.

SPRING/SUMMER 2015

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Blue Ridge Running on Floyd time…

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

May 30-31 L

Salem Football Stadium Salem, VA Superstars Brad Paisley and Florida Georgia Line will headline the Blue Ridge Music Festival on May 30 -31 as the event expands to two actionpacked days.

Saturday headliner Brad Paisley and Sunday headliner Florida Georgia Line will be joined by Jerrod Niemann, the Charlie Daniels Band, Dustin Lynch, The Swon Brothers, Colt Ford, Clare Dunn, Chris Lane and other guests to be announced.

Tickets: All Ticketmaster locations and charge by phone at 1-800-745-3000. Two-day general admission field tickets start at $99 plus additional fees.

The one-day Blue Ridge Music Festival has attracted more than 22,000 fans over the past two years at Salem Stadium. The new weekend format will give even more fans the opportunity to experience twice as many of their favorite performers in one place.

ocated atop the magnificent Explore an eclectic blend of Blue Ridge Plateau in restaurants, downtown Farmers southwestern Virginia, Floyd Markets, and local farms for is a haven of natural beauty scrumptious locally-sourced foods renowned for and spirits. hospitality and for Local wineries a vibrant culture include the of music, arts, picturesque local foods and Chateau wines, and outdoor Morrisette, recreation. Floyd Virginia’s is a key stop on largest winery.

The Crooked Road, Floyd history Virginia’s heritage will take you music trail – with back to a the famous Friday simpler time of Night Jamboree at old mills and the Floyd Country stone churches.

Store and County Step back in Sales, Jackson home of the world’s largest time and stroll around town County Visitors Center (800) 962-1911 collection of traditional bluegrass on the Historic Walking Tour, www.MountainLovers.com. and old-time music. Sway to an visit the Floyd County Historical array of live music at diverse indoor and outdoor venues, as well as year-round events such as Floydfest, the Chantilly Bluegrass Festival, The Black Dog Music Festivals and Floyd YogaJam. Outdoor enthusiasts can hike to the panoramic view atop Buffalo Mountain Natural Area Preserve, kayak and fish along the Little River, hike or cycle along 40-miles of the Blue Ridge Parkway, all in Floyd County.

Or you could spend your day shopping at numerous galleries and shops where local and regional artists exhibit worldrenowned pottery, fine art, photography, furniture, and handcrafted, one-of-a-kind treasures.

Shape hot steel at blacksmithing classes at the Jacksonville Center for the Arts or wander on the Floyd Artisan Trail.

Society Museum or Mabry Mill, the most photographed site along the Blue Ridge Parkway.

You just may need to stay awhile… Floyd lodging is as diverse as its culture – with a downtown, green-certified Hotel Floyd, historic Bed and Breakfast Inns, modern yurts, quaint mountain cabins or rustic camping. It is the richness and complexity of Floyd culture makes it a very desirable and superb visitor destination.

So, bring your dancing shoes, appetite and desire to experience a diverse and true hometown community!

For More info: (540) 745-9300 or www.visitfloydva.com/floyd

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2015

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Garden Jubilee May 23 & 24

9am-5pm Historic Downtown Hendersonville, NC

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arden Jubilee is Historic Hendersonville’s premier lawn & garden show, and one of the largest gardening shows in the Western North Carolina. The Garden Jubilee is a spectacular two day festival, held on Saturday, May 24 & Sunday, May 25 of Memorial

Day weekend. Gardening is one of America’s favorite pastimes and the Blue Ridge Mountains provide a healthy environment for growing a vast variety of flowers and plants. Bring wagon or cart to make transporting your plants easier.

The Garden Jubilee Festival showcases more than 200 vendors lining

SPRING/SUMMER 2015

Main Street and the centerpiece of the Festival is the Lowe’s Expo, located at the Visitors Information Center, 201 South Main Street.

Local and regional nurseries will be selling 1000’s of annuals, perennials, vegetables, herbs and hard to find plants on every block of the festival. A great way to enhance the beauty of a garden is to add ornamentation.

There will be handmade lawn furniture, jewelry, garden tools, yard art, planters, wind chimes, birdhouses, as well as soaps, and pottery. Garden related vendors will be located on Main

Street in Historic Downtown Hendersonville from Sixth Avenue to Caswell Street and Main Street will be closed to traffic, with vendors lining both sides of the street. A variety of food vendors will be located in the food court, between Barnwell & Caswell Streets.

Please leave your pets comfortably at home, Hendersonville City ordinance prohibits animals in the event area.

Memorial Day weekend is the kick-off to the summer season; spend it in Historic Hendersonville, for lodging or area information visit www.historichendersonville.org.

This event will be conducted between Main Street from Sixth Avenue to Caswell Street.

For info: Henderson County Tourism Development Authority at (828) 693-9708 / 800-828-4244

Fabulous Fun-Filled Festivals in Galax, VA! Galax, Virginia, a small city on edge of the Blue Ridge Parkway, showcases its musical heritage in several distinct festivals, two this summer are:

Galax Leaf & String Festival

Southwest Virginia is rich in a diversity of creative talent and there’s no better place to see that in action than the Galax Leaf & String Festival on June 13 & 14, 2015. Musicians, authors, and a variety of other artisans fill the streets. Culinary delights complete the experience as visitors listen to each afternoon’s outdoor musical concerts. The event moves into the Historic Rex Theater to continue the nightly entertainment.

Smoke on the Mountain

It’s the South, there’s got to be barbecue. Authentic southern barbecue with “altitude” fills Downtown Galax on July 17 & 18, 2015. Smoke on the Mountain is the official annual Virginia state barbecue championship.

Teams from across the country vie for the bragging rights that winning this event brings including a spot in The Memphis BBQ Network World Championship Barbecue Cooking Contest. For spectators, it’s a chance to sample some of the best food of the South while enjoying music, crafters, and children’s activities.

For more information about all the area has to offer, call 276-238-8130 or visit www.VisitGalax.com.

SPRING/SUMMER 2015

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Just Desserts: Surry Sonker Trail Showcases Tasty Treat

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orth Carolina’s newest culinary trail showcases a heritage food passed down from generation to generation. The Surry County Sonker Trail leads visitors to eight places serving sonker – a dessert unique to the county.

So, what exactly is this authentic Southern delicacy?

Sonker is similar to a pot pie or cobbler. It comes about by blending fruit and unshaped dough sweetened with sugar, molasses, and other secret ingredients.

Sonker is also similar to snowflakes in that no two are exactly alike.

“Everyone has their own recipe,” says Carolyn Carter of the

Rockford General Store, “and I’ve never had a bad one.”

Sonker’s origins in the county date to the early 1800s. A common belief is it was made to stretch usage of fruit in tough times.

A lot of places on the trail, including Rockford General Store, feature sonker that’s baked; however, Loretta Flack of Roxxi & Lulu’s Bakery in Elkin has a different philosophy. Her grandmother taught her to cook dumpling-style sonkers in a pot on the stove. “The dumplings sit on top of the fruit,” says Flack. “When

The free brochure map is available by calling (800) 948-0949, or request one online at: www.SonkerTrail.org.

2015 North Carolina June 19-21 Mountain Arts Adventure

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you cut into the dumplings they are like a biscuit inside – fluffy and soft with the flavor of the fruit.”

The most unusual sonker belongs to Miss Angel’s Heavenly Pies in Mount Airy.

Owner Angela Shur has bestowed her own flavor on this tasty treat by featuring a crumb-based crust drizzled with moonshine glaze.

A brochure map created by the Tourism Partnership of Surry County guides folks to all the stops and includes info to enjoy a few days along the trail.

he artists and craftspeople living in Alleghany County will gather to offer an adventurous art journey June 19-21 and again October 16-18, hours are 10-5 Friday through Saturday. This year sixteen studios and galleries will host the celebration of creativity. Get to know the artists and craftspeople, watch them at work, and shop in their unique studio and gallery settings. As you follow the tour map, you will navigate your way through an area rich in natural beauty, an area that is home to the NC Mountain Arts Adventure. visit www.ncmountainartsadventure.com or call 336-372-1776 or for a list of participating artisans. Drop by the Visitors Center (58 Main Street in Sparta) for a brochure with directions to each studio. Brochures are also located in the foyer which is open 24/7.

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

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FAMILY FUN MONTH: 30 Days of Togetherness in Beech Mtn.

When was the last time your family hiked a trail, learned a hobby, walked a yellow brick road, rode mountain bikes or watched movies under the stars?

All these things – and more – await this June in Beech Mountain, North Carolina. or the second straight year, Beech has designated June as “Family Fun Month.”

Family Fun Month brings out the best in your crew with 30 days of organized activities and lodging specials.

Enjoy quality family time via guided hikes, Land of Oz tours, pickleball games, mountain bike lessons, scenic chairlift rides, a youth golf tourney, and other group activities.

Two great lodging specials make it even more enticing. All families receive a third night free with any two-night stay, or they can opt for 25% off a stay of five or more nights.

“Modern life often pulls families in multiple directions.

This is a great opportunity to

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gather everyone together and be a family again,” says Brian Barnes, chairperson of the Beech Mountain Tourism Authority.

Fitness-oriented families should circle two weekends on their calendars. The grand re-opening of the Emerald Outback adventure trail system is June 5-7, while the Cool 5 Weekend features a challenging fivemile run, a shorter fun run, popsicle relay race and other active pursuits the weekend of June 19-21.

Located at an elevation of 5,506 feet, Beech Mountain is the highest town in Eastern America and the perfect place to refocus on together time in today’s hectic world.

For info on Family Fun Month and lodging discounts, call: (800) 468-5506, or visit: www.FamilyFunMonth.com.

Radford’s Visitors Center

540-267-3153

(located inside Glencoe Musuem)

600 Unruh Drive Radford, VA 24141

www.VisitRadford.com

Chimney Rock at Chimney Rock State Park

Prepare to be Elevated at Chimney Rock days playing the dulcimer and entertaining guests with his stories at the base of Chimney Rock.

This spring, the portion of the Outcroppings trail that leads to the Subway, Grotto and Pulpit Rock is reopening after being closed for several years. If you’ve never visited these long-time Park destination favorites, now is your chance!

In addition to enjoying kid-friendly trails and Grady’s nown for its 75-mile Animal Discovery Den, kids panoramic views of all ages can learn about overlooking Lake Lure, our ecosystem and what we Chimney Rock was recently named can do to protect wildlife and in Redbook’s March issue as a the environment during Family family-friendly vacation option Discovery Programs, offered in the article “Plan an Awesome Memorial Day weekend and Family Vacation.” Ancient daily from June through August. geological features like Devil’s Celebrate National Get Head and the Opera Box, scenic Outdoors Day on June 13 with hiking trails, wildlife programs guided hikes and family-friendly and guided rock climbing activities throughout the day and attract visitors from around the a screening of Dr. Seuss’ “The world. The 535-million-year-old Lorax” on a giant outdoor screen rock monolith is accessed via that evening. a 26-story elevator inside the Located 25 miles SE of mountain or by climbing the 491- Asheville, NC. Open 8:30step Outcroppings trail known 7pm daily. Leashed dogs as the “Ultimate Stairmaster.” are welcome. For rates John Mason, an award-winning and upcoming events, visit hammered dulcimer player of chimneyrockpark.com or call 30+ years can be found most (800) 277-9611.

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HIDDEN The Boxcars June 16

The Java Brothers June 20

Jimmy Fortune July 4th Celebration

Zaloo's S M GE Canoes

3874 NC HWY. 16 South, Jefferson, NC. (800) 535-4027

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2015 AMERICA THE BEAUTIFUL QUARTERS PROGRAM

Blue Ridge Traveler

Wine Trail Inside this region of the Blue Ridge Mountains, just east of “Old Fort Mountain” in McDowell County, you’ll find varying styles, terroir and personalities reflected in the winemaking of each boutique vineyard. These winemakers are passionate about what they do, working together and creating the very best wines to share with their loyal followers.

Belle Nicho, Silver Fork, South Creek and Lake James Cellars are located close to the Lake James region. Linville Winery is a short detour from the Blue Ridge Parkway, at Milepost 316.4/Hwy. 221 North. If you’re passionate about wine, appreciate the finesse and qualities found in smaller vineyards, we know you’ll enjoy the time spent exploring these award winning wineries.

Belle Nicho Winery 525 Patton Valley Road, Nebo, NC 828-659-3168

DeMariano Vineyards 29 Pierce Road, Nebo, NC Opening in spring of 2015, update coming soon.

Lake James Cellars

204 East Main Street/Hwy. 70, Glen Alpine, NC 828-584-4551 www.lakejamescellars.com

Linville Winery

THE DESIGNS

The reverse (tails) design depicts the grace and curvature of the road hugging the side of a mountain with the North Carolina state flower in the foreground. Inscriptions are “BLUE RIDGE PARKWAY,” “NORTH CAROLINA,” “2015” and “E PLURIBUS UNUM.”

9557 Linville Falls Highway (Highway 221 North), Newland NC 828-765-1400 www.linvillefallswinery.com

Silver Fork Vineyards -

5000 Patton Road, Nebo, NC 828-391-8783 www.silverforkwinery.com

South Creek Vineyards - 2240 South Creek Road,

Nebo, NC 828-652-5729 www.southcreekwinery.com

Consider combining an extended back roads tour with your vineyard trail by accessing the Lake James Loop. The Loop joins the Lake James region with the Blue Ridge Parkway.

Use the link to download the map. http://www. blueridgemotorcycling.com/ ride-maps/blue-ridge-parkwaylake-james-loop/ Suggested beginning is a tour of Silver Fork, Belle Nicho ending with South Creek before joining the Lake James Loop via Highway 126. The curves, countryside and mountain views from the Lake James Loop are simply breathtaking!

For more information on McDowell County: www. mcdowellnc.org or toll free 877-337-6754.

The Blue Ridge Parkway quarter is the third of 2015 and the 28th overall in the United States Mint America the Beautiful Quarters® Program and will be issued in late June of this year.

The obverse (heads) of the Blue Ridge Parkway quarter, as well as all those issued through the program, features the familiar 1932 portrait of George Washington by John Flanagan, restored to bring out subtle details and the beauty of the original model. Inscriptions are “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA,” “LIBERTY,” “IN GOD WE TRUST” and “QUARTER DOLLAR.”

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Come see what three hundred million years of landscaping looks like.

Folks have been coming to Grandfather Mountain for generations. For the views, the hiking, the animals — and to see what happens when you let nature take its course.

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Museum Brings History of Jewelry Making to Harrisonburg

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he Museum of American Jewelry Design & Manufacturing opened its doors in earlier this year in downtown Harrisonburg. The museum is the only one of its kind in the United States, and was created to help people make a connection to the vintage jewelry that can be made and purchased there.

For more than 20 years, Harrisonburg jewelry maker and founder of the museum, Hugo Kohl has been collecting and preserving antique hand engraved hubs, dies and rolls that were originally used to die strike jewelry during the industrial age. The museum will display over 7,000 pieces, the largest collection of jewelry hubs in the U.S. In addition, visitors will discover artifacts from many well known companies such as Tiffany & Co. and large manufacturing machines and tools they will be able to interact with in a controlled setting.

While vintage jewelry is the heart of the museum, Hugo realizes that his customers may wish for something more contemporary.

Visitors will be able to create a custom piece of jewelry at a unique station dubbed the create bar. The system allows customers to build a piece of custom jewelry using the materials they select at the price point they want. Less than 10 days later, the custom piece of jewelry will be delivered to their door.

The manufacturing equipment and ability for visitors to have an interactive experience is also key

SPRING/SUMMER 2015 to the museum’s mission. “I believe that people are becoming more separated from where things come from,” says Kohl. “But, when you put tools and materials in someone’s hand, you can almost watch as their brains light up and they’re able to actualize their imaginations with their own hands.” A made-by-me station is in the plans for phase II of the museum. Visitors will be able to create pieces of art using the machines on display.

The Museum is located in the Ice House at 217 South Liberty Street in downtown Harrisonburg. The showroom will be open from 11am to 7pm Monday through Saturday.

Hours: 8am to 4pm Monday through Friday. For more info, visit hugokohl.com or call 540.574.4306.

PEACE AND QUIET ISN’T ALWAYS QUIET. In Shenandoah National Park, it’s easy to fi nd solace in the secrecy of a mountain forest. Where the leafy rustle of heavy breezes and the bright cascade of tucked-away waterfalls orchestrate the perfect soundtrack of nature’s silence. Hear it, and see it all, with a stay at Skyland Resort and Big Meadows Lodge. goshenandoah.com Skyland Resort and Big Meadows Lodge are managed by Delaware North at Shenandoah National Park.

P.O. Box 727, Luray, Virginia 22835 | 877-313-2586 ©2015 DNC Parks & Resorts at Shenandoah, Inc.

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WHO WERE THE

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J. P. Greene, High Country Host

SCOTS-IRISH? When the discussion turns to the ancestry of the peoples of the High Country and the Blue Ridge, one often hears the term “Scots-Irish,” but few understand who these early pioneers really were.

populations from New England along the mountain chain to the Carolinas and Georgia. This went on for over of American democracy itself.” one hundred years, resulting in n brief, they were originally The first European settlers Three signers of the Declaration the Scots-Irish becoming one of Protestant Lowland Scots of the English colonies in the of Independence were Ulsterthe major groups to settle in the who were relocated to King seventeenth century took up born, and many participants in Southern mountains, and one of James VI’s Ulster Plantation in residence along the Atlantic the Revolution were of Scots-Irish the major sources of tradition, Northern Ireland. It was hoped coast, and spread into the origins. A large proportion of culture, and folkways in the that this would both provide labor piedmont, generally stopping in region. It is estimated that during the “Overmountain Men” who for the Plantation and reduce the foothills of the Alleghenies won victory in 1780 at the Battle lawlessness and warfare in the and Blue Ridge. The Scots-Irish (or this period over 300,000 people of Kings Mountain, and forced found their way to America.

English-Scottish border region. A Scotch-Irish, if you prefer) began Cornwallis to abandon the South While the majority of the generation or two later, they then arriving around 1710 and, were Scots-Irish. Many notable fled exploitation, sectarian strife, finding the lands of the piedmont Scots-Irish immigrants were politicians, military figures, and Presbyterian or Calvinist, a and poverty in Ulster to settle in and coastal plain occupied and cultural icons are shortage of Presbyterian the New World. too expensive, settled along the A hardy people, descendents; Andrew mountainous frontier, establishing ministers resulted accustomed to Jackson, U. S. Grant, in many joining life with limited George C. Patton, Baptist or Methodist Ronald Regan, and Bill congregations, resulting resources Clinton, to name just in those denominations and almost a few. Webb claims becoming dominant continuous that there are over in most of the High warfare, the 27 million people in Country.

Scots-Irish the US today who A hardy people, can claim Scots-Irish thrived on accustomed to life the American ancestry. with limited resources The Scots-Irish have and almost continuous frontier. left their imprint on warfare, the Scots-Irish much of the traditional thrived on the American frontier. music of the Blue Ridge, some of In his book Born Fighting author which is obviously transported (and former US Senator) James from the Scottish Lowlands.

Webb makes the case that Likewise some original mountain “their cultural identity reflected speech patterns were derived acute individualism, dislike from Scottish traditions. Even of aristocracy, and a military STEP AWAY FROM THE EXERCYCLE some quilt patterns reflect both the tradition; and, over time, the AND STEP OUTSIDE YOURSELF Scots and Ulster traditions.

Scots-Irish defined the attitudes Start your adventure today.

So, in answer to the question and values of the military, of 800.852.9506 ExploreBoone.com “Who Were the Scots-Irish?” they working-class America, and even were (are) us! of the peculiarly populist form

I

www.blueridgedigest.com

14

3 Top Things To Mark Off Your “Bucket List” This Year In The Smokies 2015 is a great time to build your confidence by challenge yourself. Sevierville and the Smoky Mountains area are a great place to try something different. Something scary! Something fun!

Try out a Ropes Course -

The wonderful guides at Adventure Tree Tops Ropes Course will get you suited up and trained before guiding you through a two-hour ropes challenge course that involves tight ropes, climbing, Ziplining and more. AdventureWorks Climb Zip Swing also offers a fun course.

Get some perspective with a mountain Helicopter Tour - offers more FAA & National Park

Service approved flights of the Smokies than any other tour company in the area. Choose from twelve different tours ranging from a flight over the French Broad River to the Smoky Mountain Spectacular tour which flies over Greenbrier Valley, Newfound Gap, Clingman’s Dome, Cades Cove and more.

MABRY MILL Parkway Icon

Feel the wind in your hair on Zipline - There are more than 14 zipline

companies to choose from in the Smoky Mountain area. But with all the natural beauty and mountainous landscapes our area provides, there’s no surprise the activity is so popular.

Mild

– If you’re a little nervous about completing a long Zipline course (some can take up to 3 hours to complete), try Adrenaline Park. Their four single Ziplines cross the French Broad River side-by-side allowing you to enjoy more of the experience with your friends and family.

The comfortable “swing-like” harnesses provide an extra sense of security for many first-time zippers as well.

Wild

We Invite You T O L E A V E

T

his is Bedford. Ruggedly beautiful. Teeming with history.

From its majestic mountains, wineries, and vast highland lake, to the bluegrass concerts, historic memorials, and walking tours, this is the perfect place to leave everything else behind.

Perfect for all ages, Bedford is centrally located right off U.S. 460 with nearby Interstate 81 as a main route. Bedford, a visit to remember...

Bedford Area Welcome Center • 1-877-HiPeaks • www.visitbedford.com

SPRING/SUMMER 2015

– If you’re ready to go big or go home, try The Goliath at Foxfire Mountain Adventures.

The five lines on this course take approximately 2 and ½ hours to complete and are some of the highest (475 feet above the valley floor) and longest (2,230 feet long) lines east of the Mississippi River.

For more information

www.visitsevierville.com or 888-738-4378 - (865) 453-6411

M

abry Mill is seen uniquely ‘Blue Ridge Parkway’ to many visitors. The early designers came across this structure in place and knew it had to be part of the Parkway experience. Travelers today see the daily patterns of life and the settled landscape here on the high plateau at places like Mabry Mill.

Ed and Lizzy Mabry’s nearly century old gristmill is arguably the Parkway’s most picturesque spot. Ed built this mill and the Mabry’s ground corn for their neighbors for three decades, creating a community gathering place for the folks who called Meadows of Dan home.

Cultural history demonstrations are offered in summer and early fall at the nearby blacksmith shop and Matthews Cabin. The sights and sounds of rural life in Appalachia, community, mountain industry, and the change from an agricultural to an industrial society resonate from this place on a regular basis during the summer season.

For more info on the Mill Restaurant & Gift shop, open May-October, visit www.mabrymillrestaurant.com or (276) 952-2947.

15

Chautauqua Hot Air Balloon Rally June 19 thru June 21, 2015

H

ot air balloons have been a part of Wytheville’s Chautauqua since the first Festival in 1984 when dozens of balloons filled the sky much to the delight and amazement of citizenry. That tradition has continued each year, not just inspiring a new landmark on the I-81 corridor, but also making the Chautauqua Festival a regular stop on the ballooning calendar. Several of the balloonists scheduled to appear this year were here for

Step Onboard for

• Premium open air cars • First Class dining cars • Special Event trains Sample mountain moonshine on our new all-adult First Class car.

RV SERVICES

Watching this spectacle on the Wytheville Community College grounds will be a wonder to enjoy for all in attendance.

During this event, spectators are encouraged to approach the balloons and their pilots to ask questions about their craft and the ballooning experience.

Saturday June 20 there will be flights at 6AM and 6PM and again Sunday morning at 6AM. Once again, the flights will begin at the WCC front lawn and end ... somewhere?!!! They just sail to wherever the winds send us.

All of this is, of course, weather permitting 2015 Schedule Balloon Glow: at Dusk Friday, June 19 Flights: Saturday, June 20 at 6AM & 6PM Sunday, June 21 at 6AM For information on visiting Wytheville call 877-347-8307 or www.VisitWytheville.com

Best Pick in Virginia for…

>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> FOR DETAILS: 800.872.4681 GSMR.com

that first gathering and have returned year after year. The Wytheville Community College provides a safe and beautiful setting for the event.

“Can I get a ride in a balloon?” We hear that a lot.

And why not?! Who hasn’t dreamed about soaring above the treetops looking down on the world from the magic of a hot air balloon? The balloonists own, operate, and insure their own balloons. Each rig costs from about $20,000 and up (pun intended). Chautauqua just gives them a fun place to gather every year with other enthusiasts and share the experience. Rides given, if any, will be at each individual pilot’s discretion.

June 19 will be the balloon glow at the WCC front lawn. The event will start at Dusk (about 8 PMish) and last into the early evening. Several balloonists will inflate their balloons and make them glow in the evening light using the large propane burners.

Theatre the Rex rs Market t a d a o oked R • Galax Farme ue Shopping, g the f the Cro Music o Trail State Park ime Jams • Uniq l Events includin r T ia e c ld iv e O R New nual Sp ss and Bluegra modations • An ion!

Weekly nt m e o v c c n nd A r’s Co Dining a ous Old Fiddle am World F

888-217-8823 or 276-238-8130 www.visitgalax.com ASHEVILLE, NC Located just off I-40 exit #44 at 120 Highland Center Blvd.

30+ years RV repair experience.

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

HIDDEN

GEMS

LEGEND

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

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

Blue Ridge Parkway Facilities

01 Designates Milepost

New River Gorg National River

N Bluefield Pennington Gap

Morristown

40

92

Sevierville

Maryville 411 To Chattanooga 129

Townsend

Tapoco

Cherohala Skyway

143

Robbinsville

8

Murphy 129

e dge

19 76

129

Blairsville

Andrews

Hayesville

Sylva

Topton Franklin 64

Hiwassee 76

Balsam

GA

Waynesville

440 Graveyard 410

26

Mount Pisgah

Cashiers

Saluda 9

Lenoir

Valdese

40 221

To Greenville

Hillsville Laurel 58 Fork Fancy Gap

Elkin

16

90

18

Shelby

NC SC

To Charlotte Gastonia

85

8

Statesville 70

16

150

Columbus

WinstonSalem Clemmons 421

40

Hickory

321

52

601

Union Grove

Newton

108

11

Mouth of Wilson Independence

64

74

Tryon

8

M Galax 180 of Laurel Springs 221 Sparta 220 Stuart West Cumberland Knob rkway a P VA e g d Jefferson Ri Mount e N C u Airy l 21 Boone B 77 18 Doughton Park Pilot 270 E.B. Jeffress Park 74 Mountain

Morganton 321

Chimney Lake Lure Rock 74A

Clayton

To Atlanta

Crabtree Falls

Christi

Floyd

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

320

Black Mtn.

Pulaski

Wytheville

Blowing Rock 421

Spruce Pine

Craggy Gardens Marion

Parkway Visitor Visitor Center Center

Hendersonville Brevard Highlands Sapphire Lake Toxaway

441

NC

Asheville

Fields

107

Burnsville

Little Switzerland Weaverville

63

Valley

Bryson City

Sugar Mountain

Mars Hill

Marshall

40

Knob Maggie

Cherokee

74

19

Chatuge Lake

441

469

28

NC

Hartford

19E

Erwin

TN

Hot Springs

Great Smoky Mountains National ParkMile Waterrock

165 Fontana Village

70

Newport

Cosby Gatlinburg

Pigeon Forge

411

26

Greeneville

Farragut

75

Elizabethton

Radford

21

58

City

Johnson City Jonesborough

81

Damascus

421 Mountain

81

Knoxville

To Nashville

Bristol

Dublin

77

Marion

Abingdon

11E

75

16

20 km

Kingsport

33

Norris

19

20 mi

0

VA TN

To Lexington

0

460

100

19

Mooresville 77

85

Lexington

52

Salisbury

Kannapolis

52

Concord

109

To Gettysburg, PA

Winchester

Leesburg

Harrisonburg

250

220

42

Sk

11

340

Staunton

39

Elkton

e ylin

n na She

50

66

To Washington, DC

340

Luray

D Na rive tio na l P a

Monterey

81

VA

W

V

Front Royal

New Market

33

211

rk

229

522

29

231

ah do

Warrenton

Culpeper

29 33

Waynesboro

64

ge

220

WV VA

Buchanan 311

Salem Blacksburg Roanoke

221

d

30

150

Vinton

Lynchburg

Bedford

501

Burnt Chimney 43

20

To Richmond

24

Appomattox

Farmville

Altavista

40

Gretna

220

57

64

15

29

Amherst

460

Rocky Mount

522

Peaks of Otter

Roanoke Mountain

Rocky Knob

way Blue Ridge Park

2014-2015

The Blue Ridge Parkway Outdoor

40

Guide can be picked up at any Blue

Chatham

Martinsville

RIdge Parkway visitor center or Blue

29

58

Ridge Parkway campground during

58

Danville

8

360

Eden 220

Reidsville

158

Kernersville

29

High Point 85

40 85 421

220

Asheboro

Snow Camp

TRAIL GUIDES

RESOURCES

FACILITIES

E

PLANTS AND WILDLIF

the visitor season. To have park information mailed to you, call the information line at (828) 298 0398.

POSSIBLE ROAD CLOSURES ON THE BLUE RIDGE PARKWAY

Roxboro 49

Burlington

To Durham

58

Photo by Mike Booher

501

158

87

Greensboro

311

49

Otter Creek

70

120

Meadows f Dan

64

60

Glasgow

460

Smart View

311

Lovingston

Buena Vista

90

Charlottesville

Mile 0 64

Humpback Rocks

Lexington

Natural Bridge

iansburg

9

Martinsburg Charles Town Harpers Ferry 340

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

Need Travel Help?

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

18

to look for in Virginia’s 6 p o T Things

Blue Ridge for 2015

No matter what visitors decide to do, every day in the Roanoke Valley in Virginia’s Blue Ridge Mountains is filled with friendship and old-fashioned southern hospitality. Take a drive on the Blue Ridge Parkway. Shop at the markets and boutiques in Downtown Roanoke and Salem. Hike on a trail in the Blue Ridge Mountains. Discover wildlife while kayaking on the Upper James River Water Trail. Dine at a local restaurant and enjoy fresh, local ingredients. Watch the sunset aboard a cruise at Smith Mountain Lake. All these things to do and more can be part of a Blue Ridge Day. 2015 welcomes new events, attraction and providers that make visiting Virginia’s Blue Ridge even more fulfilling and fun for the whole family.

1

New Outfitter brings the Outdoors to everyone

4

Roanoke Mountain Adventures is a full service outfitter offering guided and self-guided outdoor adventures for mountain biking, road cycling, hiking, kayaking, paddle boarding, and birding.

Surrounded by the Blue Ridge Mountains, National Forests and scenic rivers, the greater Roanoke area offers world-class outdoor recreation opportunities for all ages and abilities.

RMA's experienced team will offer guided trips, rentals and shuttles for groups. www. roanokemountainadventures.com for more information.

civil-war for more information), commemorating "Hunter's Raid" of 1864, which took place where Peter's Creek empties into the Roanoke River. It was an important prelude to the Battle of Hanging Rock, a Confederate victory. Union General David Hunter was driven to retreat by the Confederate forces. www.greenways.org for more information.

6

world have clamored to see 150th year Virginia's Blue Ridge her restored to operate under anniversary of the Beerway "Explore-a1865 emancipation of her own steam power once Pour" again. That time is now - the Booker T. Washington 611 is undergoing its longThe Roanoke awaited restoration at the North During the Valley in Carolina Transportation Museum weekend Virginia's in Spencer, North Carolina. of June 20, Blue Ridge This spring, the 611 will steam 2015, Booker Mountains home to Roanoke, Virginia.

T. Washington is quickly www.fireup611.org for more National developing information.

Monument will into a popular location for craft commemorate breweries. The plentiful supply DIY Network's the 150th anniversary of the of top-quality water combined "Salvage Dawgs" 1865 emancipation of Booker T. with the beautiful landscape and continues for fourth Washington and the nearly four unique culture that exists in the Roanoke River season million people released from the region makes Virginia's Blue Greenway connects bondage of slavery at the end of Ridge a natural choice for many to Civil War Trail Season 3 of the DIY Network's the Civil War. beer companies. This self-guided "Salvage Dawgs," featuring A new bridge has loop tour includes eight local Roanoke's Black Dog Salvage, Restoration of the been completed connecting the breweries and is the perfect launched in October 2014 Norfolk & Western Hanging Rock north parking lot way to experience the flavors of with episodes for Season 4 Class J 611 Steam to the rest of the Hanging Rock Virginia's Blue Ridge and meet currently in production for 2015. Battlefield Trail. This is the only Passenger Locomotive the people who are bringing www.blackdogsalvage.com/ Civil War Trail in the Roanoke these great beers to life. www.

Since the 611 section.aspx?pid=127 for more Valley (www.visitroanokeva. visitroanokeva.com/things-to-do/ information. was retired com/visitors/history/roanokebreweries for more information. from excursion service in Come discover what makes Virginia’s Blue Ridge the perfect getaway. For more information about 1994, people Virginia’s Blue Ridge, visit www.visitvablueridge.com, call (800) 635-5535 or stop by the Roanoke Valley around the Visitor Information Center, conveniently located in Downtown Roanoke.

3

2

5

www.blueridgedigest.com

SPRING/SUMMER 2015

19

THE CROOKED ROAD SETS STAGE FOR

FIRST EVER MOUNTAINS OF MUSIC HOMECOMING

Known internationally as a mecca of old time, bluegrass and gospel music, The Crooked Road connects the home places of some of the most cherished figures in American music – the Carter Family, the Stoneman Family, the Stanley Brothers and bluegrass pioneers, Jim and Jesse McReynolds, among others – and spans across a region celebrated for its beautiful landscape, storied culture, and seminal contributions to the nation’s art and music.

Festival events will be as wide-ranging as the Southwest Virginia region they cover, including concerts at the legendary Carter Family Fold at the foot of Clinch Mountain,

Live Music!

26th Annual Mountain Artisans

“Summertime” Folk Art & Craft Show

Folk Figure

by Elly Davey

ons!

Demonstrati

June 27 & 28, 2015 (WCU) Ramsey Center Cullowhee, NC

Travelers seduced by the sweet sound of all that music will also discover first-rate wineries, excellent cycling opportunities, fly-fishing, hiking, theatre, world class galleries and museums, community picnics, pancake breakfasts, and a wealth of unforgettable experiences and activities to wile away the hours between the ancient tunes and encores.

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

JIM SAMS WOODART

T

he Crooked Road, Virginia’s Heritage Music Trail, is pleased to announce the Mountains of Music Homecoming, a nine-day celebration of the communities in Southwest Virginia – their heritage music, cultural assets and outdoor amenities. This inaugural event, covering 19 counties, four cities, and over 50 communities, will be held June 12 - 20, 2015 and features Crooked Road concerts in more than 30 communities, dozens of community cultural experiences, and over 70 existing traditional music-related concerts, jam sessions and festivals.

exhibits at the Ralph Stanley and Birthplace of Country Music museums, classes in flatfoot dance, seminars on traditional music, and long-running community jam sessions at places like the Floyd Country Store where visitors are encouraged to bring their own instruments and join in. Each evening, festivalgoers can choose from two to four Crooked Road concerts in different communities in the region.

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

Campfire Lodgings - 7 mi. from dwtn Asheville, Mtn. top camping, full service RV sites, yurts & cliff house.

Open year-round. (828) 658-8012. www.campfirelodgings.com.

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

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

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

Rutledge Lake RV Park.

Exit 40 off I-26. 2 mi from Asheville airport. (828) 654-7873. 170 Rutledge Rd.www.rutledgelake.com.

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

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

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

The Pines Cottages - 346 Weaverville Hwy, Asheville, NC. Cottages & cabins at hotel prices. A unique Asheville experience. 828-645-9661. Free WiFi. www.ashevillepines.com

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

BEECH MOUNTAIN, NC Condominium And Chalet Rentals - By the day, week or month - kitchens, full linens, fireplaces, whirlpools, country club access (golf, tennis, heat. Pools, family activities) Coolest locations in south. Call 1-800-692-2061 or 828/387-4251. 503 Beech Mtn. Pkwy. (next to Fred’s General Mercantile) Beechwood Realty.

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

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

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.

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. (800) 438-7803. www.jenkinsrentals.com.

Mystery Hill. - 129 Mystery Hill Ln, Blowing Rock, NC 28605. Family fun center. Feel the strange pull. Hall of Mystery artifacts. Museum open all year. 828-263-0507. info@mysteryhill-NC.com Riverside Log Cabins - 129 Mystery Hill Ln, Blowing Rock, NC 28605.

828-263-0507. One and two bedroom units. Riversidelogcabins.com. Open all year. Close to attractions.

Village Inns of Blowing RockNo Smoking, Wi-Fi/Breakfast.

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

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

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

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

SPRING/SUMMER 2015

Be sure to tell them you saw it in THE DIGEST! Mast Store – Located 630 W King St, Downtown Boone. Built in 1913/1917, you’ll find most everything you need for life: clothing, footwear, trail & travel gear, housewares, gifts, & old-fashioned candy. www.MastStore.com. 828-262-0000 NC High Country Host Visitor Center- 1700 Blowing Rock Rd., Boone, NC 28607. (800) 438-7500. www.mountainsofnc.com

BREVARD, NC Inn at Brevard - Lodging, dining, cocktails. B and B. European cuisine. 15 antique furnished rooms.

Breakfast. 315 E. Main St., Brevard, NC 28712. www.theinnatbrevard. com (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

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.

CHEROKEE, NC Oconaluftee Indian Village - Share the rich history & traditions of the Cherokee at this replica of a Cherokee community of the 1750s. May thru Oct.

Horn in the West- Revolutionary War drama & Hickory Ridge - A living history museum. Open mid-June to mid August 2015. www.horninthewest.com

POSSIBLE ROAD CLOSURES ON THE BLUE RIDGE PARKWAY

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.

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

SPRING/SUMMER 2015

www.blueridgedigest.com

Mountain Lodging Food Fun

21

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

CHIMNEY ROCK, NC

HENDERSONVILLE, NC

LINVILLE FALLS, NC

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

Come for the views. Discover infinite possibilities. Spectacular wildflowers, hiking, rock climbing instruction, special events, workshops and more!

26-story elevator inside mountain. Pet friendly. Admission rates: $15 Adults, $7 Youth ages 5-15, 4 and under free.

Open all year. Open daily 8:30am 5:30pm. Live it up! 800-277-9611 chimneyrockpark.com

Mast Store – Located 527 N Main St, Downtown Hendersonville. Built in 1905, this store embodies the essence of the era and is packed with clothing, shoes & boots, camping gear, country gourmet foods, & candy. www.MastStore.com.

828-696-1883

Linville Caverns - 19929 US 221 N. Marion. 4 miles South of Parkway, MP 317. NC’s ONLY show cavern. 800419-0540. www.linvillecaverns.com.

FLETCHER, NC Blue Ridge Cabins - Fletcher MP388.8. South. Rustic cabins with modern amenitites. 9 miles from downtown Asheville. 828-654-0539 or 877-902-2246. www.mybrcabin.com

FONTANA DAM, NC Fontana Village Resort & Lake Cabins - Lodge, camping, marina, boat rentals & guides. Fishing, dining, lounges, pools, disk golf, hiking & mtn biking. 800-849-2258. www.fontanavillage.com

GLENDALE SPRINGS, NC Mountain View Lodge - MP 256, Eight new cabins & one beautiful lodge, perfect for both small and large groups. Cabin amenities include kitchens, bedroom with king and queen size bed, large loft, cable TV, VCR/DVD, Jacuzzi tubs, fireplace, and decks with rockers and swings. www.mtnviewlodge.com (336) 207-7677.

HAYWOOD COUNTY, NC Haywood County Hotel & Motel Assoc. – Maggie Valley, Waynesville, lake Junaluska, Quality lodging & dining within minutes of 4 BRP exits, MP 420-450. All accommodations adhere to Qualaity standards.

See us @ www.maggievalley.travel

Discover Hendersonville!

Check out our Stay & Play Packages & Room Availability!

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

LAKE TOXAWAY, NC Greystone Inn: Four Diamond Country Inn on shore of NC’s largest private lake. Incredible cuisine, golf, spa & more. 800-8245766. www.greystoneinn.com

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

3 miles to winery on NC 18.

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

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

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

Linville Falls Lodge & Cottages BRP Milepost 317.4, US 221S 1 mile to Rt. 183, left. Restaurant (ABC permit), Walk to falls & gorge. 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 Alpine Inn - Authentic mountain inn with unsurpassed views. Breakfast optional. All rooms with spectacular views and private baths. WiFi. Open April-Nov. Reasonable rates! Exit MP 334, Little Switzerland. Right on 226A, 1 mi. www.alpineinnnc.com (828) 765-5380.

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

MAGGIE VALLEY, NC Boyd Mountain Log Cabins - Secluded 130 acres near Maggie Valley, 7 Authentic cabins, fireplaces, AC, cable, WIFI. Choose n cut Christmas tree farm, trout fishing, hiking. (828) 926-1575. www.boydmountain.com Haywood County Hotel & Motel Assoc.-Maggie Valley,Waynesville,Lake Junaluska. Quality lodging & dining within minutes of 4 BRP exits, MP 420-450. All accommodations adhere to Quality Standards. See us @www.maggievalley.travel.

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.

Rock- n-Robins - Maggie Valley’s largest ice cream shop. 32 flavors, burgers, dogs, steak subs, nachos. Located in Market Square at 3445 Soco Road in Maggie Valley

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

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

www.blueridgedigest.com

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SPRING/SUMMER 2015

Mountain Lodging Food Fun Mountain Lodging Food Fun

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

MITCHELL COUNTY, NC

SPRUCE PINE, NC

TENNESSEE

Mitchell County, NC - Exit milepost 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.

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

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

GATLINBURG, TN

MOUNT AIRY, NC 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 - 8 miles North Spruce Pine on 19E. 5 miles from Blue Ridge Parkway.

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

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 3 Glade Valley B&B – Near MP 229.

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

800-538-3508. www.gladevalley.com See our ad on page 3.

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

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

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

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

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

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

WAYNESVILLE, NC Mast Store – Located 63 N Main St, Downtown Waynesville. Built in 1930s and filled with everything you’d expect in a general store – clothing, shoes, cast iron, candy, and camping gear. www.MastStore. com. 828-452-2101 The Waynesville Inn Golf Resort & Spa - MP 445. Surrounded by majestic mountains and the Blue Ridge Parkway, this resort has been welcoming visitors to a casual and relaxed mountain lifestyle since the 1920s and features stunning views from all of the 115 rooms, 27-holes of Donald Ross golf and two upscale restaurants. 800627-6250. www.thewaynesvilleinn.com

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

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. October 10-12, 2014 and May 9-10, 2015. 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 Floyd County Tourism - Village Green Ste.7, 201 E. Main St. Floyd, VA 24091 Mountain town with unique music, arts, outdoor fun! www.VisitFloydVA.com 540-239-8509

Floyd Country Store: Famous venue for Heritage Appalachian music every weekend. Store and cafe open all week. www.floydcountrystore.com Hotel Floyd - 120 Wilson St, Floyd, VA. (540) 745-6080. www.hotelFloyd.com. Unique lodging off MP165 with themed rooms and located downtown Floyd. Don’t miss visiting this unique town and hotel!

GROTTOES, VA

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

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

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

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. 540-943-7625.

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

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

SPRING/SUMMER 2015

www.blueridgedigest.com

Mountain Lodging Food Fun NATURAL BRIDGE, VA Layne’s Country Store Since 1954 Amish jams, country cured hams, Virginia apples, hoop cheese and more.

Located on US 11 between Natural Bridge and 6.5 miles south of Lexington. 2 miles north of I-81 exits 180 & 108B. (540) 463-7170 www.thebestcountrystore.com 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 - I - 81 exits 175 and 180 - Natural Bridge Hotel and Conference Center offers the charm of a bygone era with modern amenities for today’s travelers. 140 tastefully appointed guest rooms features views of the Blue Ridge Mountains, on site restaurant and lounge as well as 10,000 square feet of conference/ banquet space. On site the Historic Natural Bridge as well as the Caverns at Natural Bridge, Monacan Indian Village, walking/hiking trails and Virginia’s unspoiled beauty. For reservations and packages call 540 291-2121 or 800 533-1410 or 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 540-267-3153 www.visitradford.com.

ROANOKE, VA Bent Mountain Lodge B & B 9039 Mtn View Dr, Copper Hill, VA 24079. MP 136. 10 sts, pri baths, wedding venue. (540) 651-2500. www.bentmountainlodgeandbreakfast.com

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

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

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Shenandoah County, VA Scenic Civil War Tour

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. Follow signs to Visitor Center with Free Travel Guides.(800) 635-5535.

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

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

SHENANDOAH CAVERNS, VA Shenandoah Caverns - 4 great attractions for one price. Only Va. cavern with elevator & closest to I-81 (exit 269). Also see spectacular floats in America’s Parade Float Hall of Fame and experience the new Yellow Barn, a whimsical agricultural experience.

Open all year. 888-4CAVERN www.shenandoahcaverns.com

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

S

low down while traveling through Shenandoah County. Exit bustling Interstate I-81 for a scenic drive along U.S. Route 11, the Old Valley Pike. Traveling Route 11 is best way to enjoy picturesque views of mountains, forests, farms, pastures and historic sites. Savor the charm of our small towns, with plenty of great local shops, restaurants and antique marts.

One popular tour is the Civil War Tour. Start your trip at the Cedar Creek Battlefield and head south along Route 11 to Hupp’s Hill Civil War Park and Visitor Center in Strasburg. Enjoy an outside picnic here or travel just a little further for a delicious meal in one of the many restaurants located in historic downtown Strasburg. Continue

south on Route 11 and turn right onto Battlefield Rd to see the Fisher’s Hill Battlefield.

Next, travel through Toms Brook along Route 11 and stop at the Shenandoah County Park to view a portion of the Toms Brook Battlefield. Continue south along Route 11 making stops at the Shenandoah County Historic Courthouse in Woodstock to view Civil War era graffiti, the historic Edinburg Mill, Our Soldier’s Cemetery in Mount Jackson and the Virginia Museum of the Civil War in New Market.

For more information: www.shenandoahcountyva.us/tourism/ or 888-367-3965.

www.blueridgedigest.com

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SPRING/SUMMER 2015

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

GEORGIA Blairsville/Union County Chamber 129 Union County Rec Rd. • Blairsville, GA 30512; (706) 745-5789 www.blairsvillechamber.com Ellijay Visitor Center 205 Craig St.; PO Box 505 Ellijay, GA 30540; (706) 635-7400 www.gilmerchamber.com Fannin County Chamber of Commerce 152 Orvin Lance Drive • Blue Ridge, GA 30513 • (706) 632-5680 www.blueridgemountains.com Rabun County Welcome Center 232 Hwy 441 North, POB 750 Clayton, Georgia 30525; (706) 782-4812 www.gamountains.com/rabun Toccoa Welcome Center 901 E. Currahee St. P.O. Box 577 Toccoa, GA 30577; (706) 866-2132 Towns County Visitor Center 1411 Jack Dayton Circle Young Harris, GA 30582 (706) 896-4966 • www.mountaintopga.com

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Boone Area Chamber of Commerce 870 W King St. Suite A, Boone, NC 28607; (828) 264-2225 • www.VisitBooneNC.com Bryson City Chamber of Commerce 210 Main Street • Bryson City, NC 28713; (800) 867-9246 • www.greatsmokies.com Burke County Travel & Tourism 102 E. Union St., Courthouse Square Morganton, NC 28655; (828) 433-6793 Caldwell County Visitor Center 1909 Hickory Blvd. SE Lenoir, NC 28645; (828) 726-0616 Cashiers Area Chamber of Commerce 202 U.S. 64, POB 238 BRD Cashiers, NC 28717; (828) 743-5191 www.cashiers-nc.com Cherokee County Visitor Center 20 Tennessee Street Murphy, NC 28906 828-557-2583 www.visitcherokeecountync.com Cherokee County Welcome Center 805 W. US 64 Murphy, NC 28906; (828) 837-2242 www.cherokeecountychamber.com

Hickory Visitor Center 1055 Southgate Parkway SW Hickory, NC 28602 (828) 328-6111 www.hickorymetro.com Lake Lure Welcome 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 Jackson County Chamber of Commerce 773 W. Main Street • Sylva, NC 28779; (800) 962-1911 • www.nc-mountains.com Jonesville Welcome Center 1503 NC Hwy 67W Jonesville, NC 28642 • (336) 526-1111 Madison County Visitor Center 56 S. Main Street • Mars Hill, NC 28754; (828) 680-9031 www.visitmadisoncounty.com

Smoky Mountain Host of NC, Inc 4437 Georgia Road, Franklin, NC 28734 (800) 432-4678 • www.visitsmokies.org Statesville Convention & Visitors Bureau 118 W Broad St, Statesville, NC 28687; (704) 878-3480 or (877) 531-1819 www.visitstatesville.org Waynesville/Haywood County Visitor Center 44 N. Main St. • Waynesville NC 28786 (800) 334-9036 www.visitncsmokies.com Wilkes County Chamber of Commerce 717 Main St., PO Box 727 BRD N. Wilkesboro, NC 28659; (336) 838-8662 • www.wilkesnc.org Yadkin Valley Visitor Center 116 East Market St. • Elkin, NC 28621; (336) 526-1111 • www.yadkinvalley.org Yancey County Chamber of Commerce 106 W. Main St. • Burnsville, NC 28714; (800) 948-1632 • www.yanceychamber.com

TENNESSEE

Maggie Valley Chamber of Commerce 2791 Soco Road, POB 279 Maggie Valley, NC 28751 (800) MAGGIE-1 • www.maggievalley.org

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

Cherokee Welcome Center P.O. Box 460 • 498 Tsalis Rd. Cherokee, NC 28719; (800) 438-1601 www.cherokee-nc.com

McDowell County Visitor Center 1170 W. Tate St. • Marion, NC 28752; (828) 652-4240 • www.McDowellNC.org

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

Clay County Chamber of Commerce 388 Business Hwy 64 Hayesville, NC 28904; (828) 389-3704 www.claycounty-nc-chamber.com

Mitchell Co. Chamber of Commerce 79 Parkway Rd • Spruce Pine, NC 28777; (800) 227-3912 www.mitchell-county.com

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

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

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

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

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

Erwin Visitor Center - 106 Unicoi Village Place PO Box 39 • Erwin, TN 37692 www.unicoitn.net 423-735-0426

NC High Country Host Visitor Center 1700 Blowing Rock Rd. • Boone, NC 28607; (800) 438-7500 www.mountainsofnc.com

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

Old Fort Visitor Center 25 W. Main Street • Old Fort, NC 28762 (888) 233-6111 • www.visitmcdowell.com

Historic Jonesborough 117 Boone St. Jonesborough, TN 37659; (423) 423-753-1010 • Toll Free: 866-401-4223 www.historicjonesborough.com

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 Visitor Center 2411 High Point Rd. Greensboro, NC 27403; (800) 344-2282 www.VisitGreensboroNC.com

www.blueridgedigest.com

SPRING/SUMMER 2015

25

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

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 (865) 568-3662 • www.visitloudoncounty.com

Blue Ridge Visitor Center 2577 JEB Stuart Highway Meadows of Dan, VA 24120 276-694-6012 Buena Vista Visitor Center 595 E. 19th St. • Buena Vista, VA 24417 (540) 261-2880 • buena-vista.va.us.com Carroll County Visitor Center 231 Farmers Market Rd Hillsville, VA 24343 (888) 785-2782 • (276) 730-3100 www.visittheBlueRidge.com Charlottesville Visitor Center 610 East Main St Charlottesville, VA 22902 (434) 293-6789 • (434) 970-3641 www.pursueCharlottesville.com

Loudoun County Tourism 112 South Street • Leesburg, VA 20175 (800) 752-6118 • www.visitloudon.org Luray/Page County Chamber 18 Campbell Street. Luray, VA 22835; (540) 743-3915 - www.luraypage.com Lynchburg Regional Information Center 216 12th St. at Church St. Lynchburg, VA 24505; (800) 732-5821 www.discoverlynchburg.org Madison County Visitor Center 110A N. Main St., Madison, VA 22727 (540) 948-4455 • www.madison-va.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 Staunton Travel Information Center 1290 Richmond Rd. (I-81 Exit 222) Staunton, VA 24401 • (540) 332-3972 www.VisitStaunton.com Staunton Visitor’s Center 35 South New Street, Staunton,VA 24401 540-332-3971 • www.VisitStaunton.com

Floyd County Chamber of Commerce Village Green Suite 7 201 East Main Street Floyd, VA 24091 540-745-4407

Martinsville-Henry County Visitor Center 191 Fayette Street Strasburg Chamber of Commerce Martinsville, VA 24112 157 N. Holiday St. Strasburg, VA 22657; (888) 722-3498 www.visitmartinsville.com (540) 465-3187 www.strasburgchamber.com Nelson County Visitor Center 8519 Thomas Nelson Hwy., Virginia Tech Visitor Info Ctr. Lovingston, VA 22949; (800) 282-8223 965 Prices Fork Rd. • Blacksburg, VA www.Nelsoncounty.com 24061;(540) 231-3548 www.vt.edu/whereweare/visitor-center.com Orange Co. Visitor’s Center 122 East Main St. • Orange, VA 22960 Western Highlands Visitor Center (877) 222-8072 • www.visitorangevirginia.com 241 W. Main St. • Covington, VA 24426; (540) 962-2178 • www.alleghanyhighlands.com Patrick County Chamber of Commerce 20475 JEB Stuart Hwy • PO Box 577 Winchester-Frederick County CVB Stuart, VA 24171; (276) 694-6012 1400 S. Pleasant Valley Rd. www.patrickchamber.com Winchester, VA 22601 • (877) 871-1326 www.visitwinchesterva.com Piedmont Crossroads Visitors Ctr 135A Wood Ridge Terrace Wytheville CVB Gordonsville, VA 22942 975 Tazewell Street Wytheville, VA 24382; (276) 223-3355 Toll free (877) 347-8307 Prince William Visitor Center www.visitWytheville.com 200 Mill St. • Occoquan, VA 22125 703-491-4045 • ticctr@aol.com

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

(540) 432-8935

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

Oak Ridge Visitor Center 102 Robertsville Rd • Suite C Oak Ridge, TN 37830; (800) 482-7821, www.visit-or.org Pigeon Forge Visitor Center 1950 N. Parkway, POB 1390 BRD Pigeon Forge, TN 37868; (800) 251-9100 mypigeonforge.com Rogersville/Hawkins County C of C 107 E. Main St., Ste.100 Rogersville, TN 37857; (423) 272-2186 Scott County Visitor Center 12025 Scott Highway Helenwood, TN 37755 • (800) 645-6905 Smoky Mtn Visitor Center 3540 Line Drive • Kodak, TN 37764 (865) 932-3696

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

Afton Visitor Center 130 Afton Circle • Afton, VA 22920 (540) 943-5187 www.visitwaynesboro.net Bedford Visitor Center 816 Burks Hill Rd • Bedford, VA 24523; (877)-HiPeaks • VisitBedford.com

Culpeper Visitor Center 111 S. Commerce St. • Culpeper, VA 22701 Phone: (540) 727-0611 Toll Free: 844-490-2577. www.visitculpeperva.com Danville Visitor Center 645 River Park Dr • Danville, VA 24540; (434) 793-4636 • www.visitdanville.com Discovery Center at Mill Mountain Roanoke’s Mill Mountain 215 Church Ave., Room 303 Roanoke, VA 24016 • (540) 853-1236 Explore Park Visitor Center Blue Ridge Parkway Milepost 115 Roanoke, VA 24014 • (540) 427-1800

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

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

BRPweather.com

Your source for Parkway weather.

Don’t get caught in the rain, fog, or snow! Know what lies ahead on all 469 miles. Accurate forecasts and local weather stations plus live Parkway weather cameras at www.BRPwebcams.org.

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Music On Main Street Concert Series

SPRING/SUMMER 2015

68th Annual Craft Fair of the Southern Highlands

July 16 – 19 and October 15 - 18, 2015 U.S. Cellular Center downtown Asheville, NC

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T

he Music On Main Street concert series has become a favorite summertime event with families of all ages. Music On Main Street features some of the best regional artists performing live on the permanent stage located on the corner of Main and Barnwell Streets.

The concerts are held every Friday evening from June 5 through August 14 at the Visitor Information Center, 201 South Main Street. Music On Main Street showcases a diverse lineup of musical talents, from pop, oldies, classic rock, to beach music.

Bring a chair and sit back, relax and enjoy the music from 7:00-9:00pm. Parking lot seating area opens after 5:30, early admission is prohibited. Please leave your

pets comfortably at home, Hendersonville City ordinance prohibits animals in the event area. Admission is free. No alcoholic beverages, backpacks or coolers allowed.

In case of inclement weather the concert will be postponed until 8pm; if the weather does not cooperate by 8pm the performance will be canceled.

Antique Car Show The Hendersonville Antique Car Club host six classic car shows in conjunction with Music On Main Street during the concert season. The classic cars shows are sponsored and coordinated by the Hendersonville Antique Car Club. For more information about the classic car shows or the Hendersonville Antique Car Club call (828) 697-8344. www.hendersonvilleantiquecarclub.com

June 5 - August 14, 2015 Every Friday Night 7:00pm 9:00pm

early 200 juried artists of the Southern Highland Craft Guild will be selling works of clay, metal, wood, jewelry, fiber, paper, natural materials, leather and mixed media. With styles ranging from traditional to contemporary, the Fairs showcase the rich talent, diversity and craft mastery of Guild members.

The Craft Fairs have a proud tradition and history of excellence by representing the Southern Highland Craft Guild, a nonprofit organization formed in 1930. The Fairs began in 1948 as a way to provide a regional market for the mountain craftspeople. Since that time, the Craft Fairs have set the standard for fine craft shows across the country. Each year in July and October craft collectors and gallery owners from across the country come to Asheville to see the show. They are joined by western North Carolina residents and tourists who appreciate the quality and history of the show, knowing it is an ideal destination for shopping and inspiration. Nearly

20,000 visitors to the Fairs each year invest in the regional and local economies while supporting artists working in the Appalachian mountains, and by spending a summer or fall weekend in beautiful Asheville, NC. In addition to providing a retail market for juried members, the Guild hosts craft demonstrations during the Fairs. A strong part of the Guild’s mission is to educate the public about the history of crafts in this region, various craft techniques, and an appreciation for fine crafts. The July show features blacksmithing, natural dyeing, basket making and woodcarving.

Visit www.craftguild. org for a complete list of scheduled craft demonstrations.

Beginning on Friday during each Craft Fair, mountain musicians perform live on the arena stage.

Since the first fair in Gatlinburg in 1948, the music of the area has been woven into the fabric of the Craft Fair experience. From old time to bluegrass, this tradition is kept alive today.

Visit www.craftguild.org for a complete list of performances.

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SPRING/SUMMER 2015

Downtown Wytheville…

Growing New Places to LOVE

P

erhaps your travels have already brought you to the crossroads of Interstates 77 & 81 in Southwest Virginia. You may have previous stopped in the charming community called Wytheville in the past. But, there are a few interesting things about the downtown that you may not have experienced and want to check out.

Downtown Wytheville is growing and changing with several new spots that travelers will enjoy. Celebrating the legacy of the town’s most famous offspring (Edith Bolling Wilson, second wife of President Woodrow Wilson), a new hotel has recently opened across the street from the First Lady’s birthplace within the historic district. The Bolling Wilson Hotel is a distinctive

upscale boutique property with thirty rooms on three floors.

The restored historic hotel takes its themes from the great loves that were a part of Mrs. Wilson’s life. A restaurant, Graze on Main, and rooftop venue, The Perch, compliment the fullservice property.

Newly expanded Hannah’s Attic is a shopper’s paradise with over 50 vendors showcasing a variety of antique wares. Other quaint shops and boutiques offer gift items, clothing, yarn, and fabrics. All these are within walking distance of the new hotel and the center of downtown.

Classic vehicle cruise-ins, outdoor concerts, and farmer’s market events are just a few of the activities you will find on the streets of the historic district in Downtown Wytheville.

As part of a revitalization effort begun in recent years, the events held on Main Street offer a glimpse into the pure fun that can be had, no matter the season, in this small town atmosphere.

For more info, contact the Wytheville Convention & Visitors Bureau, toll-free at 1-877-347-8307, or visit www.VisitWytheville.com

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SPRING/SUMMER 2015

HIGH ABOVE

Pigeon Forge, TN There are some great places to get spectacular views of Pigeon Forge and Great Smoky Mountains National Park that don’t require a lot of exertion. Consider these:

T

he Great Smoky Mountain Wheel is a 200-foot-tall observation wheel towering above the Island in Pigeon Forge.

Its air-conditioned gondolas hold up to eight passengers, and there’s a straight-ahead look at Mt. LeConte.

It whirls day and night above attractions that include the Paula Deen Family Kitchen, the Margaritaville Island Hotel, a variety of shops and a splashy fountain.

Just down the Parkway is another eye-catching attraction, a helium balloon of massive proportions called the Wonders of Flight.

It’s 72 feet in diameter, and it lifts a 30-passenger gondola 500 feet into the air. It delivers a quiet, gentle ride with the ultimate in 360-degree views. The Smokies are right there, and if the day is really clear, you can see all the way to Cumberland Gap, Kentucky, almost 80 miles away.

The Smoky Mountain Alpine Coaster is along a ridge about a mile off the Parkway. It’s a toboggan on a rail, and you control the speed at which you descend the ridge. The track is a mile long, and the ride through the trees is a blast.

In addition to seeing Marilyn Monroe, Tom Hanks and Michael Jackson at the Hollywood Wax Museum, there’s an observation deck atop the building that puts you beside the Great Ape of Pigeon Forge (don’t call it King Kong). The views of town and the Smokies are quite good.

Clingmans Dome in Great Smoky Mountains National Park provides the ultimate good view.

A drive of less than an hour leads you to a quarter-mile walk to a beautiful observation tower.

When you reach the top, you are at the highest point in Tennessee – 6,643 feet.

Information about all aspects of Pigeon Forge is online at MyPigeonForge.com and by calling 800-251-9100.

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

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

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

Lodging with a View!

Located on secluded, yet easily accessible NC 226A, also known as “The Diamondback” - just 1 mile west of the Blue Ridge Parkway in the quaint mountain village of Little Switzerland...

Every room with panoramic view Reasonably priced rustic lodging Optional breakfast

ALPINE INN

8576 NC 226A Little Switzerland, NC 28752 828-765-5380

www.alpineinnnc.com

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SPRING/SUMMER 2015

29

HIDDEN

GEMS

of winding mountain roads, Carter County is a destination worth exploring.

Get lost in beautiful picturesque landscapes of Roan Mountain State Park or lizabethton/Carter County one of the largest Rhododendron is located in the mountains of Northeast Tennessee, just Gardens located in North a few miles east of Johnson City, America, dare to explore the Watauga River with trophy trout is haven for outdoor enthusiasts fishing, flat water kayaking, or throughout the year. With four white water rafting. Challenge distinct seasons, visitors may yourself to an easy-to moderate select the time of year that best hike on the Appalachian Trail, or fits their interests. Whether one enjoy a family picnic on Watauga enjoys boating, fishing, hiking, camping or taking a leisurely tour Lake with water activities in

E

An invigorating hike to the top

abundance. Discover your new favorite bed& breakfast, or share the stars with nature and take advantage of the many available RV Parks and campgrounds.

Three summer 2015 events that should not be missed are: the 49th Annual Covered Bridge Celebration June 10-13, the Annual Rhododendron Festival June 20-21, and the 37th Annual Liberty-The Saga of Sycamore Shoals on July weekends.

Find the hidden gems that are exclusive to historic Elizabethton/ Carter County. CREATE a memory. DISCOVER something new. EXPLORE the past AND present. Visit, Elizabethton/ Carter County, TN! For more information: www.tourcartercounty.com or 423-547-3850.

Lakemont Cottages & Cabins in historic Flat Rock, NC just minutes from the quaint shops of Flat Rock and Hendersonville’s restored downtown, half hour from Asheville, Biltmore Estate, Brevard, and the Blue Ridge Parkway, and very near DuPont State Forest and Holmes Educational State Forest.

Chimney Rock is only a few more miles away.

Toll Free: 1-800-597-0692 (828) 693-5174 101 Lakemont Dr., Flat Rock, NC 28731 reservations@lakemontcottages.com

BRPweather.com

Your source for Parkway weather.

Don’t get caught in the rain, fog, or snow! Know what lies ahead on all 469 miles. Accurate forecasts and local weather stations plus live Parkway weather cameras at www.BRPwebcams.org.

or a ride that’s completely unexpected.

See Chimney Rock Differently. Tickets, Events and More Views: ChimneyRockPark.com

www.blueridgedigest.com

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SPRING/SUMMER 2015

Carroll County, VA

For 60 consecutive years, burly athletes, dainty dancers, lusty bagpipers and thousands of kilted visitors have converged in Linville for the Grandfather Mountain Highland Games.

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n July 9-12, the nation’s premier Highland Games and gathering of Scottish clans returns to this awe-inspiring site once again.

The Grandfather Games are considered some of America’s best because of the outstanding mountain setting reminiscent of the Scottish moors. The craggy peaks of the 5,946foot Grandfather Mountain overlook the grassy fields where Scottish traditions are fostered and deepened.

The event lineup includes a stirring opening torchlight ceremony, sheep herding exhibitions, “The Bear” footrace, tug-of-war battles and highland wrestling — all set to the sounds of pipes, drums, fiddles and rocking Celtic tunes.

Witness the parade of tartans or learn about your own heritage and genealogy at more than 150 clan tents surrounding the grounds.

For more info: Visit gmhg.org or

National D-Day Memorial

L

Why in Bedford, VA?

ike eleven other Virginia communities, Bedford provided a company of soldiers (Company A) to the 29th Infantry Division when the National Guard’s 116th Infantry Regiment was activated on 3 February 1941. Some thirty Bedford soldiers were still in that company on D-Day; several more from Bedford were in other D-Day companies, including one who, two years earlier, had been reassigned from the 116th Infantry to the First Infantry Division. Thus he had already landed in both Northern Africa

and Sicily before coming ashore on D-Day at Omaha Beach with the Big Red One. Company A of the 116th Infantry assaulted Omaha Beach as part of the First Division’s Task Force O. By day’s end, nineteen of the company’s Bedford soldiers were dead.

Two more Bedford soldiers died later in the Normandy campaign, as did yet another two assigned to other

For more information: www.dday.org or 800-351-DDAY www.visitbedford.com • or toll free 877-447-3257

(828) 733-1333

116th Infantry companies.

Bedford’s population in 1944 was about 3,200.

Proportionally this community suffered the nation’s severest D-Day losses.

Special events are celebrated here each June 6 The Memorial Hours are from 10 AM to 5 PM daily,Openings before or after normal operating hours by special arrangement for additional fees.

The memorial is located on US 460 in Bedford, between Roanoke and Lynchburg.

NEW THIS YEAR! First Annual Scottish Cultural Village Join them this year for another Grandfather Mountain Highland Games original event - the First Annual Scottish Cultural Village.

The Village will feature a close-up look at many facets of Scottish culture. Invited experts from the US and Scotland will be on the Village's Center Stage to discuss or demonstrate skills such as blacksmithing, weaving, spinning, athletics, piping & drumming, dancing, etc. Or, other aspects of Scottish life such as edged weaponry, period firearms, men's & women's ancient dress, clan life & politics, and more! There's something for everyone!

SPRING/SUMMER 2015

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Annual Events Garden Jubilee

Memorial Day weekend NC Apple Festival Labor Day weekend Flat Rock Playhouse mid-April thru late-December Rhythm & Brews Third Thursdays, May - Sept

Check out

North Carolina Mountain State Fair early September

Hike

Music On Main Street June thru late-August, every Friday

Camp

Street Dances July thru mid-August, every Monday

Explore Relax Ask for your Travel Guide today!

SWT-12007 BRPD_ad.indd 1

800.828.4244 historichendersonville.org

Art On Main first Saturday & Sunday in October Farm City Day first Saturday in October

3/26/12 1:46 PM

e l l i v e h t y W

there’s only one.

visitwytheville.com • 1-877-347-8307