Issue 070 January the Destination Magazine™ by the Destination Magazine

the Issue 70 Local & Regional Events & Destinations

“Winter Hikes, Excellent Views” Campaign Kicks Off Page 16

Third Annual Winterfest Beer Festival Old Town Cornelius: Greater Than The Sum Of Its Parts

Rumble In The Concrete Jungle New Year’s Eve With Blind Squirrel Brewery 8th Annual Yadkin Winter Reds Lexington BBQ – Sliced, Chopped, Never Pulled Cornelius Drafthouse Take Your Winter Getaway To New Heights At The Pinnacle A Guide To Climbing And Bouldering Near Gaston Take One Trail 1,000 Miles From The Mountains To The Sea

We Tell You Where To Go! theDestinationMag com .

Regional Events & Destinations

Go climb Crowders Mountain just west of Charlotte

Towering cliffs, expansive views and eleven trail hikes ranging from pastoral to strenuous. Let us help you plan your next weekend getaway and connect you with the numerous natural assets Gaston County has to offer. Stop by our Visitors Center at 620 North Main Street in Belmont or call us today for a FREE Visitors Guide.

Go Gaston. Get Outside.

January 2017 Issue 70

the

e Tell you where to go! Whether you are a long time resident or new to the area, you’ll find local & regional events and destinations in the Destination Magazine™ that will have you saying “I never knew that was there.” The Destination Magazine™ is not a historical document, we will not write about spectacular events you’ve missed. If you are seeking new destinations to explore on your own, or ideas for things to do with friends and family you will find a new experience every month in the Destination Magazine™ .

We know we are on to something! Lisa & Andy Jay Publishers Published by: Photodude.net Business Development: Lisa Jay Contributing Writers: Lisa Jay, Craig Distl, Kara Werts, Project 543, Erica Madden, Ed Phillips Contributing Photographers: Bill Russ, Andrew Zachary Digital Imagery, Olivia Binstead, Madison Hedrick, Ed Phillips The list of events in this publication is compiled from various sources dates & times are tentative & subject to change. the Destination Magazine™ is published by Photodude.net LLC 369 Dovefield Drive Summerfield, NC 27358 (704) 706-2365 www.theDestinationMag. com ©2017 All rights reserved. Photodude.net LLC Publisher, Agents & Advertisers do not necessarily condone any activities or advertisement listed in this magazine. The Publisher and its officers, employees, agents, volunteers, and sponsors are not responsible for any loss or damage which might be associated with patronage of any party named in this publication, and is not responsible for any Act of God such as inclement weather, fire, flood, natural or man-made disaster, etc., that are out of the control of the Publisher, which affect the publishing of this magazine.

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Contents DayTrip Destinations 6 Third Annual Winterfest Beer Festival 13 Old Town Cornelius: Greater Than The Sum Of Its Parts 14 “Winter Hikes, Excellent Views” Campaign Kicks Off 16 Rumble In The Concrete Jungle 19 New Year’s Eve With Blind Squirrel Brewery 20 8th Annual Yadkin Winter Reds 21 Lexington BBQ – Sliced, Chopped, Never Pulled 22 Cornelius Drafthouse 23 Take Your Winter Getaway To New Heights At The Pinnacle 25 A Guide To Climbing And Bouldering Near Gaston 26 Take One Trail 1,000 Miles From The Mountains To The Sea 28 Regional Events & Destinations

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Destinations

DayTrip Destinations 18th Annual Mt. Olive’s New Year Pickle Drop December 31st 5:30pm–7:30pm One Cucumber Blvd & Vine St, Mt Olive, NC 28365. The New Year’s Eve Pickle descends the flagpole at the stroke of 7pm “midnight”–that’s 7 o’clock EST, which also happens to be midnight Greenwich Mean Time. (That way, we are official, we shout Happy New Year!–and we don’t have to stay up until midnight!) Great family fun with live music and free refreshments, including Mt. Olive pickles! www.mtolivepickles.com Hair of the Dog Hike 2017 January 1st 11am–12pm 6400 S New Hope Rd, Belmont, NC 28012. Kick off the New Year with a refreshing guided Garden hike on New Year’s Day! A specialty Bloody Mary bar will be available at noon for an additional cost. www.dsbg.org First Footin’ At Rural Hill 2017 January 1st 10am–2pm Rural Hill, 4431 Neck Rd, Huntersville, NC 28078. Enjoy t he holiday ’s pleasures a little too much? Stuffed to the gills from all those parties?

Determined that this is the year to make a change for the better? Why not come out to Rural Hill and start 2016 off right with First Footin’ our annual walk and celebration of Hogmanay, or Scottish New Years? This event is FREE and open all, but we do encourage everyone to bring something for the luncheon. (Remember, its bad luck to show up empty handed) www.ruralhill.net Zootastic Park’s 7th Annual Christmas Wonderland of L i g h t s. N o v e m b e r 2 4 , 2 0 1 6 – January 1, 2017 Park–448 Pilch Rd, Troutman, NC 28166. The Christmas Wonderland of Lights features over 3.5 Million Lights over a 2 mile drivethrough and ends with a light show set to music in our Western Town. We also have Santa Claus joining us every evening, pony rides, petting zoos, concessions, roasting pits for marshmallows, and much much more. www.zootasticpark.com National Gingerbread House Competition™ Display No vember 27, 2016–January 5, 2017 The Omni Grove Park Inn–290

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Destinations Macon Ave, Asheville, NC 28804. Gingerbread House Competition™ has grown in more than just entries; it has become a true family holiday tradition. From the ver y young to the ver y young at heart, the reaction to this magical experience is the same–one of wonder, awe and delight. The time has finally arrived for the 24th Annual National Gingerbread House Competition™. As a means to preserve the overall guest experience, The Omni Grove Park Inn will open its doors to the public to view the Gingerbread display and holiday splendor Sundays at 3pm through Thursdays, based on availability, excluding holidays. www.groveparkinn.com

Festival of Lights at Chetola R e s o r t N o v e m b e r 2 5 , 2 016 – January 31, 2017 Chetola Resort–500 Main St, Blowing Rock, NC 28605. A holiday tradition in Blowing Rock, Chetola’s Festival of Lights features a dazzling display of illuminations attracting thousands of visitors each year. A drive around Chetola Lake lets visitors see glittering ice skaters, a nativity scene, Rudolph catching a “big fish” in Chetola Lake, and much more. As visitors enter the resort they are given a guide that details displays and activities taking place throughout the holiday season. www.chetola.com/calendar.html

Continued On Page 8

The Bayne Brewing Company is a family-owned nano brewery based out of Cornelius, NC. Our ﬂavors range from the traditional to the unique, and each beer is brewed with only the highest quality ingredients.

Taproom Hours Thu & Fri: 4-10 Sat: 2-10 Sun: 12-8 Delivery Hours Fri & Sat: 6-10

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Destinations Continued From Page 8

New Year’s Eve with Blind Squirrel Brewer y December 31, 2016 @ 8pm–January 1, 2017 @ 12am S US Hwy 19E, Newland, NC 28657. No one brings in the New Years like Earl the Squirrel a nd his Brew Crew! Join us at Blind Squirrel Brewery. We will be welcoming in 2017 in style in our Burnsville location until 9pm and our Plumtree location all the way till Midnight! We will also be open on New Years Day serving a traditional southern New Years meal! CHEERS! www.blindsquirrelbrewery.com

highest ski area in Eastern America. www.beechmtn.com Four Seasons Winter Wine Ta st ing Dinner Ja nua r y 14, 2017 @ 6pm–10pm Raffaldini 450 Groce Rd Ronda, NC 28670. We have created the perfect menu to feature four seasonal food courses alongside four specially-chosen Raffaldini wines to embody the winter months. Delight in a bountiful antipasti display while mingling with new friends by a roaring fire upstairs on the second floor of Villa Raffaldini. All remaining courses will be served downstairs to create an intimate dining experience, with a relaxed and casual atmosphere so you can focus on meeting new friends and enjoying La Dolce Vita. Your host Jay Raffaldini will provide culinar y and wine descriptions fo r e a c h c o u r s e to m a ke t h i s dinner truly unique and special. www.raffaldini.com

Rumble In The Concrete Jungle January 7, 2017 @ 11am–4pm Whitewater Center Calendar–5000 Whitewater Center Pkwy, Charlotte, NC 28214. Out with the boats and in with the bikes. The fourth annual Rumble in the Concrete Jungle kicks off the 2017 Whitewater Race Series, as bikes of all shapes and sizes take to the world’s largest manmade whitewater river for this one of a kind cycling race. www.usnwc.org “Second Look: Recycled for the Sake of Art” Januar y 19, Snow Much Fun! Winterfest 2017–April 1, 2017 all-day Theatre Beer Festival January 7, 2017 @ A r t Ga lleries–220 E Commerce 4pm–8pm 1007 Beech Mountain Ave, High Point, NC 27260. The Pkwy Beech Mountain, NC 28604. Main Gallery hosts a “Second Look: This annual event fills both levels of Recycled for the Sake of Art,” a the Beech Tree Bar and Grille with group show featuring the work more than 50 ales and ciders from of Kirkland Smith, Miles Pur vis, North Carolina craft breweries and Bryant Holsenbeck, and Catherine cideries, accompanied by live music Edgerton. www.tagart.org by Zach Deputy and Super Reggae Man. It’s a fun and festive way to Oyster Roast “For the Birds” celebrate winter in NC’s coolest Ja nua r y 28, 2017 @ 6pm – 9pm town! Make a weekend out of it as Sylvan Heights Bird Park–500 Sylvan there are tons of lodging options Heights Park Way, Scotland Neck, close to the resort. Beech Mountain NC 27874. Cooler weather means Resort offers skiing, snowboarding, oyster season in Eastern North snowtubing, skating and more at the Carolina! Tickets include shrimp,

Regional Events & Destinations

Destinations oysters, slaw, hush puppies, beer, wine and entertainment. We will also have a non-seafood option as well as a vegetarian option. www.shwpark.com Blow in g Rock W interFest January 26, 2017–January 29, 2017 Main St Blowing Rock, NC 28605. Don’t hibernate… celebrate! Enjoy the fun side of winter with events t ha t i n c lude t he Pola r Plu n ge i n C he tol a L a ke , W i nte r B e e r Garden, WinterFeast, WinterPaws Dog Show, Winter Fashion Show, Ice Car ving Demonstration, kids’ activities and more! www.blowingrockwinterfest.com

8th A nnual Yadkin Winter Reds January 28, 2017–January 2 9 , 2 0 17 A l l Ya d k i n C o u n t y Wineries. Looking for a day trip or a weekend getaway? Then come visit Yadkin County and enjoy the annual Yadkin Winter Reds event. All Yadkin County wineries will feature their “Winter Red” (2oz. pour) paired with a 3oz. serving of a tasty food item. Each ticket holder will be assigned to a starting winery where you will receive your souvenir glass and a map. Ticket is good for both days on the selected weekend you choose–one visit per winery. Limited ticket event for both weekends. Purchase tickets online www.visityadkin.com. Continued On Page 10

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Destinations Continued From Page 9

New this year–Winter Reds Wine Dinner & Per for ma nce s at t he Cultural Arts Center. Wine Dinners will be held at Flint Hill Vineyards on Friday nights for both Winter Reds weekends. www.visityadkin.com Wine About Winter Februar y 3, 2017 Downtown Salisbury Wine About Winter tickets include: one (1) souvenir wine glass one (1) Sommelier Corkscrew walking map wristband. Combine ‘ Wine About Winter ’ tickets with your Salisbur y-Rowan County hotel or B&B stay and save! Book an overnight stay during WAW 2017 in Salisbury-Rowan County and get two (2) FREE tickets ($45 value). Visit www.visitsalisburync.com for more information Hearts-A-Bustin’ 5K February 11, 2017 @ 8am–11am Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden–6500 S New Hope Rd, Belmont, NC 28012. Celebrate Valentine’s Day weekend with a festive 5K trail run at the Garden. The race will start at 9am at the Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden’s Persimmon Trail and continue through the Carolina Thread Trail’s Seven Oak’s Preserve Trail. (Trail run is a loop). Proceeds benefit the Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden. Registration is being held until February 9, 2017 or until the race is full. Race is limited to the first 250 participants. There are individual registration prices as well as couple registration prices available. Couples can be friends, spouses, significant others, best friends, co-workers, siblings, etc. Run with a buddy or challenge yourself! Hearts-a-Bustin’

is the common name for the Euonymusamericanusa plant native to the Southeastern US and we think that makes the perfect plant mascot for this race! www.dsbg.org 13th Annual Krispy Kreme Cha l len ge Febr uar y 4, 2017 @ 8am–1pm North Carolina State University Belltower–2011 Hillsborough St, Raleigh, NC 27607. The mantra of the Krispy Kreme Challenge epitomizes the test of physical fitness and gastrointestinal fortitude. What started as a challenge among ten friends has transformed into a nationally publicized charity race, and the number one tradition to complete before graduating from North Carolina State University (NCSU). All proceeds from the Krispy Kreme Challenge are donated to the N.C. Children’s Hospital so that its staff can continue to provide the best care and facilities for their patients. Participants begin the Challenge at the Memorial Belltower on the NCSU campus. Runners then travel 2.5 miles through historic downtown Raleigh to the Krispy Kreme located at the intersection of Peace and Person St., where they attempt to consume one dozen original glazed doughnuts. The hardest part of the Challenge awaits them as they run 2.5 miles back to the Memorial Belltower. www.krispykremechallenge.com Sapphire Valley Outhouse Race February 11, 2017 @ 11am– 4pm 217 Sapphire Rd Sapphire, NC 28774. Toward the end of each ski season we all get a little restless and look for a bit of excitement, Continued On Page 12

Regional Events & Destinations

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Destinations Continued From Page 10

so we decided to do what comes naturally…race outhouses on ski’s down a hill! Crazy? Maybe. Dangerous? Perhaps. Fun? Without a doubt! For a good cause? Definitely! This is an event to raise funds to sponsor ski scholarships for children that don’t have the opportunity to attend our after school ski programs. www.skisapphirevalley.com Totally 80s Retro Ski Weekend Februar y 23, 2017–Februar y 26, 2017 Beech Mountain Resort–1007 B e e c h M o u n t a i n P k w y, B e e c h Mountain, NC 28604. Each February, the town of Beech Mountain and Beech Mountain Resort come together to create a righteously rad celebration of all things 1980s. This

unparalleled experience includes live 80s music nightly, retro skiing daily, and plenty of throwback activities in between. Hop in our “ski slope time machine” to revisit the New Wave era of big hair, leg warmers, bandanas and Members Only jackets. Oh yeah – don’t forget ski suits with shoulder pads! Now in its sixth year, the weekend has become so epic we added a day. You can now bend the space-time continuum for four days: Thurs., Feb. 23, through Sun., Feb. 26, 2017. www.beechmountainresort.com

ThankWTTyouopensforagainat Great 2016! April 2017

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Wheels Through Time Museum 62 Vintage Lane, Maggie Valley North Carolina 28751

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Regional Events & Destinations

A place where neighbors can EAT, MEET & DRINK Full Menu to 2am Fri • Sat • Sun

Third Annual Winterfest Beer Festival

ead to the ski lodge at Beech Mountain Resort for the third annual Winterfest Beer Festival on Saturday, January 7. This annual event fills both levels of the Beech Tree Bar and Grille with more than 50 ales and ciders from North Carolina craft breweries and cideries, accompanied by live music by Zach Deputy and Super Regae Man. It’s a fun and festive way to celebrate winter in NC’s coolest town! Hours for the Winterfest Beer Festival are 4-8pm. and Beech Mountain Resort operates a free shuttle bus to provide safe transportation to and from the event. Make a weekend out of it as there are tons of lodging options close to the resort. Beech Mountain Resort offers skiing, snowboarding, snowtubing, skating and more at the highest ski area in Eastern America. For more info, visit: www.beechmountainresort.com or call (800) 438-2093.

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“The historic Oak St Mill in OTC is a hub for community. KadiFit offers group fitness classes by day and is the venue for special events such as ‘Tawba Walk, with a craft beer bar and gallery.”

Old Town Cornelius: Greater Than The Sum Of Its Parts

here really are no “top destinations” in Old Town Cornelius, because OTC is, itself, a destination. With diverse offerings for all people, each “piece” of the “OTC pie” adds to its identity as a hub for arts, culture, and cuisine, and the community bond is strong to boot – like a well-oiled machine, Old Town’s artists, shop owners, event planners, and community members support each other in uncommon ways.

music five night a week, rotating art exhibits, open mic nights, food trucks and trivia. OTPH has a loyal local following of everyone from artists and musicians to town commissioners.

Local Breweries: There is no shortage of local brews and topnotch brewers in Old Town. Home to Ass Clown and D9 brewing companies, with more on the way, OTC is the perfect destination to enjoy the craft and skill of some very The Old Town part of Cornelius committed brewers. lies east of I-77 and has fantastic Warehouse Per for ming Arts places for visual and performing arts, live music, artisan food and Center: Bringing innovative theatre beverages, night life, retail and and exceptional films to its intimate wellness. Here are just a few of the space in Old Town, The Warehouse parts that make the OTC whole so selects its seasons with input from great. theatre artists who are experts on both theater history and contempoOld Town Public House: What’s rary works. Their choices are bold, a downtown without a favorite unexpected, and engaging, combinwatering hole? This historic building ing works many may know, and in the heart of Old Town has become works many not know - but should. one of the area’s most vibrant hubs for entertainment, with live

Regional Events & Destinations

Fo r k ! : T h i s f a r m - t o - t a b l e restaurant offers small plates featuring mainly ingredients from local farmers markets. Chef Tim Groody is a pioneer of – and strong advocate for – the farm-to-table movement. It’s a great spot for lunch and dinner dates, and a must-try for Sunday brunch. Oak St. Mill: A historic cotton mill turned arts hub, this eclectic spot at the heart of Old Town is home to quirky shops and plays host to community events. From the KadiFit fitness studio to the Dry Sink furniture shop, it’s a funky family of diverse personalities and passions. A destination for culture of all kinds: from boutique stores and bottle shops, to farm-to-fork restaurants and live music venues. www.oldtowncornelius.com

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“Winter Hikes, Excellent Views” Campaign Kicks Off

near the Linville Gorge Wilderness, High Shoals Falls Trail in South Mountains State Park, Overmountain Victory Trail in Lake James State Park, and Cross-Country Skiing along The Burke County Tourism the Blue Ridge Parkway. The trails Development Authority is launching range from easy to difficult and offer their first-ever effort to market their something for all skill levels. area as a winter hiking destination. The Blue Ridge Parkway runs “ We have a moderate climate without harsh winters or really hot along the northern edge of Burke summers, so we’re pretty much a County and when it snows and the year-round destination for outdoor Parkway is closed, cross-countr y adventurers,” Phillips says. Their skiers flock to the road. Crossnew “Winter Hikes, Excellent Views” country ski rentals can be found in brochure features 5 unique winter Morganton at CBS Sports on highway hiking trails as well as cross-country 181. skiing information. Most all of these The brochure takes a humorous trails offer incredible views of the countryside and mountains around twist as it promotes winter hikes without the worr y of “snakes.” Burke County. Phillips says “ There are snakes Trails included in the brochure in Burke County, but they are all are: Shortoff Mountain and Hawksbill in hibernation around the first of inter hiking in Burke County can be “spectacular” according to Ed Phillips, Director of Tourism there.

Regional Events & Destinations

November. So, keep your head up, enjoy the views and don’t worry about any snakes.” “Traveling from east of here, Burke County is really the first experience of feeling like you are in the mountains,” Phillips says. “This is where you enter the mountains coming from Raleigh, Greensboro, Charlotte, Winston-Salem, or anywhere east. This really is the ‘trail head’ to Western North Carolina – you get a taste of the mountains, the cultural amenities of Morganton and easy access to the Blue Ridge.”

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Regional Events & Destinations

Photo From Faster Mustache

Rumble In The Concrete Jungle

ut with the boats and in with the bikes. The fourth annual Rumble in the Concrete Jungle kicks off the 2017 Whitewater Race Series, as bikes of all shapes and sizes take to the world’s largest man made whitewater river for this one of a kind cycling race. The Downhill Race will be a time trial from the top of the Competition Channel to the bottom. The course will be designed to maximize the full potential of the banked whitewater channels. While the elevation drop is minimal, the banked channel walls, wooden structures, jumps, and various other obstacles make for a unique and technical course unlike any other. Each participant will be given two timed runs; the best time being used for scoring. The participant with the fastest time will be named the winner in various bike categories. Slopestyle Competition will follow the completion of the Downhill Race. Course markings will be removed from the channel and

participants will be given free rein to interpret the channel and create and gnarliest line they can imagine from top to bottom. *Note: This is a non-traditional bike race and weather will dictate much of the course. The final course layout will be decided on race morning. We encourage participants to come early on race day to practice. The U.S. National Whitewater Center is the world’s premier outdoor center featuring whitewater rafting, biking, zip lines, live music, craft beer and more. The U.S. National Whitewater Center (USNWC) is dedicated to the promotion of the active, outdoor lifestyle. Since 2006, the USNWC has been promoting access to the outdoors for all levels of participants through its all-day pass programs, instruction, leadership school as well as festivals, races and other outdoor events. Whether you visit the Center’s 700 acres on the Catawba River or participate in the offsite programs featured throughout the United States, the USNWC wants you to play, relax and learn outside

5000 Whitewater Center Pkwy, Charlotte, NC, 28214 www.usnwc.org (704) 391-3900

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New Yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Eve With Blind Squirrel Brewery

o one brings in the New Years like Earl the Squirrel and his Brew Crew! Join us at Blind Squirrel Brewery. We will be welcoming in 2017 in style in our know how! We will also be open on Burnsville location until 9pm and New Years Day serving a traditional our Plumtree location all the way till southern New Years meal! CHEERS! Midnight! Our Plumtree celebration party will include live music, a DJ December 31, 2016 @ 8pm and a free champagne toast as the January 1, 2017 @ 12am clock strikes twelve! Both locations Blind Squirrel Brewery & Lodge will offer a prime rib special the night 4716 South US Hwy 19E, of and Plumtree will offer a limited Plumtree, NC 28664 menu from 9pm until 12am. Come www.blindsquirrelbrewery.com party with us as only the squirrels Phone: 828-765-2739

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LIVE MUSIC Wednesday thru Saturday

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8th Annual Yadkin Winter Reds

ook ing for a day t rip or a weekend getaway? Then come visit Yadkin County and enjoy the annual Yadkin Winter Reds event. All Yadkin County wineries will feature their “Winter Red” (2 oz. pour) paired with a 3 oz. serving of a tasty food item. Each ticket holder will be assigned to a starting winery where you will receive your souvenir glass and a map. Ticket is good for both days on the selected weekend you choose – one visit per winery. Limited ticket event for both weekends. Purchase tickets online at www.visityadkin.com.

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Lexington BBQ – Sliced, Chopped, Never Pulled

he mid-state Piedmont town of L exington has become almost synonymous with North Carolina barbecue at its best. It’s easy to see why, thanks to a long legacy of people and places carrying on the decades-long tradition of ser ving up some of the tastiest barbecue and more – all with a side of Southern hospitality. Lexington is best known for hickor y-smoked pit-cooked barbecued pit shoulders and has been since the early-1900s. The pork is offered up finely or coarsely chopped or as slices – but never “pulled.” It’s typically served with “red” or “white” coleslaw and often as part of a sandwich tray or plate with hushpuppies and more on the side. The famed Lexington-style sauce is generally made of ketchup, vinegar, sugar, salt and pepper. Sid Weaver was a pioneering pit master who originally barbecued on his farm for friends, family and farmhands before moving his operation to a tent at the corner of Greensboro and West Center in downtown Lexington. Next came Will Johnson and Jesse Swicegood in the 1920s, running popular pits near Lexington’s old courthouse. Later, Warner Stamey can be credited with furthering Lexington’s status

as a barbecue center, sharing his expertise with the friendly folks who opened Lexington Barbecue, Henry James, Jimmy ’s, The Barbecue Center, Speedy Lohr’s, Smokey Joe’s and more. To d a y, m o r e t h a n a d o z e n Lexington-area barbecue restaurants can make for a tasty satisfying tour of North Carolina barbecue at its most historic. Of course, the traditional beverage of choice at these popular establishments is oh-so-sweet tea, but you’ll also want to check out several area wineries and wine shops, as well as drinks and live music at always-rockin’ High Rock Outfitters right downtown.

Lexington Tourism Authority & Visitors Center 2 North Main Street Lexington, NC 27292 866-604-2389 www.visitlexingtonnc.com

Regional Events & Destinations

Cornelius Drafthouse

Decompression Destinations

he sentiments of Casey Ashlock and Wes Lucas, co-owners of the Cornelius Drafthouse and Bottle Shop, calls to mind an episode of Cheers, Lake Norman style. Having walked through the doors more than once (or twice!), I can attest this is more than a lofty goal. I’m always greeted by name and, more importantly, with a sample of the latest selection(s) to treat my beer snob palate. I also regularly bring my laptop… work, play, hideaway become more and more diverse. It’s — check! an exciting challenge to keep up.” The Drafthouse, as we locals call it, was a labor of love… of craft beer. Casey and Wes begged, borrowed and occasionally stole (a stor y best told over beer…) to create the current homey space. Big supporters of the drink local movement, the goal is always to have a line of taps with Carolina beers you can’t find everywhere else. “ We thought we knew a lot about beer when we entertained this idea,” Casey reminisced, “but our learning curve was huge! The craft beer industry continues to grow and

A few must-do things when you pop in — be sure to check out the tap handle chandelier (you’ll want one of your own), leave a few choice words on the chalk board walls, and play a round of Balls to the Wall, a Drafthouse original. I promise you will quickly develop a routine as a regular at the shop; if you are like me, you’ll grab your first pint, peruse the three walls lined with bottles and start mixing your next six pack as you sip. Cheers y’all! – Erica Madden

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Take Your Winter Getaway To New Heights At The Pinnacle

tâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s located in the highest town east of the Rockies. It provides wonderful views of the ski slopes. It has more than 100 condos for rent. And it features an indoor pool with hot tub.

of the snow-covered ski runs. Other upgraded amenities at the ski resort include a completely redesigned terrain park, a craft brewery in the ski village, a glass roundhouse skybar at the top of the slopes and a state-ofthe-art snowtubing park.

With all that going for it, Pinnacle Inn Resort makes an ideal base camp for a winter getaway in the quaint mountaintop town of Beech Mountain right here in North Carolina.

When night falls on Beech Mountain, Pinnacle Inn guests have the option of walking or making a short drive to a number of restaurants and nightspots in town. They can also spend the evening in Guests who stay at Pinnacle the heated pool and enjoy a take-out Inn Resort have a winter sports meal at the kitchen table in their wonderland at their beck and call. condo. It is walking distance to the free youth sledding hill maintained by Over at the ski resort, the newly the Town of Beech Mountain, or remodeled Beech Tree Bar and Grille it is a quick shuttle ride to Beech combines a dinner menu and plenty Mountain Resort, which offers skiing, of spirits in a cozy lodge atmosphere snowboarding, ice skating and surrounded by fireplaces, highsnowtubing at the highest ski area definition TVs and live music on the in Eastern America. weekends. The ski resort has pumped several million dollars into its snowmaking system which quickly becomes obvious to Pinnacle Inn guests as they gaze out from their balconies at the long-range views

Other outdoor pursuits include hiking or snowshoeing on the Emerald Outback Trails at the top of Beech Mountain, hiking and a walk across the Mile High Swinging Bridge at nearby Grandfather Mountain, or a relaxing stroll along the Beech Mountain Greenway. For more info on Pinnacle Inn Resort, including details about stay-and-ski packages, visit: www.PinnacleInn.com.

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A Guide To Climbing And Bouldering Near Gaston

he southeast-facing quartzite walls of Crowders Mountain offer something for ever y level of climber, with route ratings ranging from 5.5 to 5.13. Climbers are required to register at the Sparrow Springs Access Visitor Center. The park advises submitting the required special activity permit request, available online at www.ncparks.gov, at least two weeks prior to your visit. According to Park Office Assistant Rachael Carroll, weekends are jam-packed with large climbing groups so limited permits are available. “ There’s a maximum of three groups of no more than 14 people allowed each day, and that’s ever ybody, including participants, instructors and bystanders,” Car roll says. “Most weekends we’re full with scout troops, churches, local colleges, and guided groups.” A mini-librar y of North Carolina

climbing guidebooks are available at check-in to prep visitors on walls, routes, and difficulty levels, as well as gear and safety tips. There’s no instruction offered at Crowders and climbers must bring their own gear. Helmets are advised as loose rock, especially at the ridgeline, can pose a danger. Firsttimers to the park should note that Crowders is known for jumbled buttresses at the ridge that can be disorienting during initial climbs. To r e a c h t h e p a r k ’ s M a i n Walls, retur n to your car for a short drive to the Linwood Access parking lot and a .9-mile hike via

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the Backside Trail. The trail is an excellent warm-up, a wide gravel road with steep segments ending in a series of stairs to the summit ridge and access to the park’s main climbing area. The Main Walls offer moderate routes, most of which can be top-roped. Variety and accessibility make this area the most crowded on weekends, even in the winter months. More than 110 trad routes and 26 sport routes can be accessed from this point. For more solitude, hike out from the visitor center on the Crowders Trail approximately one mile to Hidden Wall. With 13 trad routes and 20 sport routes, Hidden Wall offers a chance to test your limits and find peace away from the weekend crowds. Continued On Page 30

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Take One Trail 1,000 Miles #171 From The Mountains To The Sea

xplore North Carolina from one end to the other on the Mountains-to-Sea Trail. The trail, which stretches from Jockey’s Ridge on the Outer Banks to Clingman’s Dome in the Great Smoky Mountains, will take you on many adventures, crossing the highest mountain in the East at Mount Mitchell and stopping at many of the state’s beautiful places along the way. With ferry rides and side trails to scenic overlooks, the trail is almost 1,000 miles. Volunteers continue to work to blaze the trail through mountains, far ms and barrier islands, with temporar y routes on back roads and bicycle paths until the handmade trail is complete. You can plan a simple day hike, or tackle multiple trail segments during weeks of travel. Complete the entire trail and have your name added to the exclusive list of hikers.

Hikers Who Have Completed the MST 2016 Michelle Revoir Jack Revoir John Lanman Amy Fiddler Chad Hoskinson Michael Boncek – Yo-Yo Kimberly Brookshire – Yo-Yo Ryan “Candyman” Skrabalak Margie “Canasta” Sarsfield Charlie Martin Debra Palermo Kent Wilson Nancy Wilson

Project 543 tells the story of unique spots across North Carolina we hope will become some of your favorite places. Check in often to find inspiration for your next trip, or start planning today at VisitNC.com.

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LKNBrewersTrail.com

LKNBT

LKNBrewersTrail.com is a single source for what is going on at the breweries in the Lake Norman area.

Whats On Tap Whats Going On How To Get There

Bayne Brewing Company

We make a wide variety of craft beers. We are a micro brewery located in Cornelius, and we use only the highest quality ingredients available to brew the finest beers. Looking for a beer in Cornelius? Come and try a delicious Bayne Brew today! We now deliver! See our web page for details!

19507 West Catawba Ave Cornelius NC 28031 704.897.6426 baynebrewingcompany.com

D9 Brewing Company

A craft microbrewery located north of Charlotte in Cornelius, North Carolina. From homebrew parties in our neighborhoods, to our first location’s humble one-barrel beginnings, intense local thirst for our Fanatical Ales™ propelled us to open our current 10 barrel production brewery. We are re-imagining some of the world’s most unique and trusted styles of beer. 11138-C Treynorth Dr Cornelius NC 28031 704.457.9368 d9brewing.com

Ghostface Brewing

We offer up to 20 beers & ciders on tap, with a selection of rotating styles, some available on nitro. We also have wine. We also offer a selection of tasty flatbread pizzas and other special dishes from Davidson Pizza Company located right in our tasting room. 427 East Statesville Ave. Mooresville, NC 28115 704.799.7433 ghostfacebrewing.com

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Climbing Gaston Continued From Page 27

The Dixon School Road Boulders, also part of Crowders Mountain State Park but accessed off I-85 at exit 5/ Dixon School Road, offers more than 200 bouldering problems. The majority of the Dixon School Road problems are graded V4 with some V8-V10. Permits are required here as well, so stop by the visitor center before making the trip.

Ever y hold tests climbing ability and daring, weighing the desire to reach the top against the impending free-fall into the pool below. Two climbing routes per tower make for a total capacity of ten climbers at one time. Lifeguards make sure water is clear of participants before giving the go-ahead to climb on. Participants must be at least eight years old and know how to swim.

For climbers wanting great food, craft brews, and, on many days, a live concert with their climb, the U.S. National Whitewater Center (USNWC) features 5,700 feet of climbing sur face on a covered 30-foot climbing wall and 46-foot granite-like spire that make for some of the best all-weather climbing in the southeast. Experienced climbers with the proper certifications can climb independently while those new to the sport can tap into the expertise of experienced USNWC staff with private and group instruction in belaying, climbing, rappelling and bouldering. All gear is provided.

On the horizon for 2017, land has been cleared on Hawk Island for a new bouldering area overlooking the lower pond. Climbing competitions will be on the increase as well. Building on the success of November’s Dynomite Bouldering Competition, which had more than 60 competitors in USA Climbing and citizen categories, the center plans to include as many as 10 bouldering and top-rope competitions in 2017. Look for a USA Climbing youth competition at Tuckfest 2017, as well as the possibility of competitions on the new Deep Water Solo.

Free-climbers can challenge themselves with one of the walls over a deep pool. U.S. National Whitewater Center

With amazing climbing opportunities for all levels and abilities so close to Charlotte, winter’s no excuse to stay inside. Instead, go ahead and try climbing in Gaston County.

There’s tremendous buzz around several new attractions either recently opened or on the horizon at the USNWC. Rising above the lower pond is the impressive Deep Water Solo, a five-tower structure surrounding a pool 16 to 20 feet deep. The challenge is to free-climb the towers 25 to 45 feet in the air without ropes or harnesses.

Gaston County is located just west of Charlotte, NC in the Piedmont section of North Carolina and is a terrific place to live, work and visit. Gaston County offers visitors a variety of attractions to enhance your trip including museums, botanical gardens, extreme sports, hiking, dining and entertainment parks, art and history and more. www.go2gaston.org

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