Autumn Times 2013

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YOUR 2013 AUTUMN GUIDE TO NORTH CAROLINA’S HIGH COUNTRY

Autumn in the

BLUE RIDGE MOUNTAINS Art Galleries, Leaf Looking and Fall Festivals

Boone Banner Elk Blowing Rock West Jefferson and all of the High Country

www.mountaintimes.com

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THE MOUNTAIN TIMES AUTUMN GUIDE

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THE MOUNTAIN TIMES AUTUMN GUIDE

Advertising index .........................105 Appalachian State University Performing Arts Series ..................82 Art galleries ....................................72 Ashe County ..................................48 Ashe County Arts Council .............77 Autumn at Oz .................................65 Banner Elk......................................42 Barter Theatre ................................86 Blowing Rock.................................31 Blowing Rock Art & History Museum .........................76 Blowing Rock, The ....................... 55 Blue Ridge Parkway ......................36 Calendar.......................................102 Camping.........................................44 Chambers of commerce..................6 Climbing .........................................32 Cycling ...........................................40

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TABLE OF CONTENTS Disc golf .........................................53 Emergency services ........................4 Farmers’ markets ..........................93 Festivals .........................................60 Fish.................................................20 Football ........................................100 Gem mining....................................52 Golf .................................................51 Grandfather Mountain ...................59 Halloween ......................................67 Hickory Ridge Living History Museum..................35 High Country Host ...........................7 Hiking .............................................30 Horseback riding ...........................22 Leaf looking ...................................26 Linville Caverns .............................56 Mountain biking .............................41 Music..............................................87

Mystery Hill ....................................58 Numbers of note ..............................5 Oktoberfest ....................................63 Pet page.........................................39 Pet-friendly places ........................47 Restaurants ...................................90 Staff ..................................................5 Tailgating......................................100 Theater ...........................................84 Towns ...............................................8 Tweetsie Railroad ..........................70 Valle Crucis ....................................34 Walker Center at Wilkes Community College .......89 Watauga County Arts Council.......80 Water sports ..................................18 Wineries .........................................98 Woolly Worm Festival ....................64 Ziplines...........................................28

The High Country welcomes you with autumn foliage and festivities.

PHOTO BY KELLEN SHORT

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THE MOUNTAIN TIMES AUTUMN GUIDE

Fall in the High Country

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utumn brings to the mountains a vibrant kaleidoscope of color, unmatched by anything you’ll find elsewhere. And then there are the leaves.

Although the fall tableau is nothing short of picturesque, the High Country teems with color year-round. Art, music, shopping and scenery contribute to our cultural color, and, while the palette changes with each season, the High Country’s distinctive sense of self remains intact.

In this year’s Autumn Times, you’ll find features on everything

that makes our area a boon for visitors and residents alike — outdoor activities, popular attractions, the arts and more.

And, since new events and things-to-do are always cropping up, visit a local newsstand and pick up a copy of The Mountain Times for up-to-date information on what’s happening in the High Country.

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2013 Autumn Times Staff Gene Fowler Jr. Publisher Frank Ruggiero Editor Charlie Price Advertising Director

Till next time,

Johnny Hayes Layout Editor

Frank Ruggiero Editor The Mountain Times

NUMBERS OF NOTE

Jennifer Canosa Graphics Manager Emily Robb Preproduction Specialist

LAW ENFORCEMENT

West Jefferson Police Department (336) 246-9410

Blowing Rock Hospital (Blowing Rock) (828) 295-3136

WATAUGA COUNTY AVERY COUNTY Watauga County Sheriff’s Office (828) 264-3761 Boone Police Department (828) 268-6900 Blowing Rock Police Department (828) 295-5210 Appalachian Regional Healthcare System Police (828) 262-4168 Appalachian State University Police Department (828) 262-2150

Avery County Sheriff’s Office (828) 733-2071 Banner Elk Police Department (828) 898-4300

Newland Police Department (828) 733-2024 Seven Devils Police Department (828) 963-6760

ASHE COUNTY

Jefferson Police Department (336) 846-5529

Ashe Memorial Hospital (Jefferson) (336) 846-7101 FastMed Urgent Care (Boone) (828) 265-7146

Elk Park Police Department (828) 733-9573

Sugar Mountain Police Department (828) 898-4349

Ashe County Sheriff’s Office (336) 846-5633

Cannon Memorial Hospital (Linville) (828) 737-7000

Beech Mountain Police Department (828) 387-2342

ANIMAL CONTROL Watauga County Animal Control (828) 262-1672 Watauga Humane Society (828) 264-7865

Watauga Medical Center (Boone) (828) 262-4100

Steve Behr, Sam Calhoun, Jesse Campbell, Jeff Eason, Caroline Harris, Anna Oakes, Adam Orr, Heather Samudio, Jamie Shell, Sandy Shook and Kellen Short Writers Rex Goss, Mark Mitchell, Deck Moser, Amanda Phillips, Lisa Randolph, Anna Roseman and Rick Tobin Sales Sarah Becky Hutchins, Meleah Bryan Graphics 474 Industrial Park Drive, Boone, N.C. 28607

Ashe County Animal Control (336) 982-4060 Avery County Humane Society (828) 733-2333

HEALTH CARE

Andy Gainey Circulation Manager

Animal Emergency & Pet Care Clinic of the High Country (828) 268-2833

(828) 264-6397 • mtfrontdesk@mountaintimes.com

www.mountaintimes.com A publication of Mountain Times Publications and Jones Media Inc., Greeneville, Tenn.

On the front: A woman observes the view of fallcolored Hawksbill Mountain from the Wiseman’s View overlook of the Linville Gorge.

PHOTO BY TODD BUSH | (828) 898-8088 | WWW.BUSHPHOTO.COM

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Downtown West Jefferson.

PHOTO BY ROB MOORE

High Country Chambers of Commerce ASHE COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE Ashe County, home to the Jeffersons (West Jefferson and Jefferson, that is), is just about as far as you can go in the High Country before entering Southwestern Virginia. The chamber can direct travelers through the scenic and sparsely populated area of Christmas tree farms and rugged mountain landscapes, while offering a wide selection of brochures and maps.

1 N. Jefferson Ave., Suite C P.O. Box 31 West Jefferson, N.C. 28694 (336) 846-9550 ashechamber@skybest.com www.ashechamber.com

BANNER ELK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE Located in the heart of town, the Banner Elk Chamber of Commerce promotes the area as a unique place to live in, work and visit. Information on area lodging, dining, shopping and more is available on location or by visiting www.bannerelk.org.

100 W. Main St. Banner Elk, N.C. 28604 (828) 898-8395 bechamber@skybest.com www.bannerelk.org

BLOWING ROCK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE Blowing Rock is considered one of the crown jewels of the Blue Ridge. Its chamber of commerce knows this tight-knit community as no one else, and its representatives are always willing to share this knowledge with visitors. Aside from general information, lists of camping and fishing sites, and brochures.

132 Park Ave. Blowing Rock, N.C. 28605 (800) 295-7851 info@blowingrock.com www.blowingrockncchamber.com

BEECH MOUNTAIN CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AVERY COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE The Avery County Chamber of Commerce Visitor Center is conveniently located in the Shoppes at Tynecastle at the intersection of N.C. 105 and 184. The center offers information on lodging, dining, attractions, shopping and other businesses in Avery County.

4501 Tynecastle Highway, No. 2 Banner Elk, N.C. 28604 (828) 898-5605 chamber@averycounty.com www.averycounty.com

Beech Mountain – at an elevation of 5,506 – will give your soul something to smile about. The area offers plenty of activities and attractions for the whole family to enjoy, but also plenty of peace and quiet for a relaxing and rejuvenating time. The Beech Mountain Chamber of Commerce is here to help.

403-A Beech Mountain Parkway, Beech Mountain, N.C. 28604 (828) 387-9283 or (800) 468-5506 chamber@beechmtn.com www.beechmountainchamber.com

BOONE AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE The Boone Area Chamber of Commerce is one of the High Country’s most active, with both a dedicated membership and an overall commitment to the betterment of the area as both a vacation destination and business hub. Now at a new location in downtown Boone on King Street, the chamber is an ideal place to stop for information.

870 W. King St., Suite A, Boone, N.C. 28607 (828) 264-2225 info@boonechamber.com www.boonechamber.com

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The High Country Host Visitor Center is located on Blowing Rock Road in Boone.

PHOTO BY KELLEN MOORE

The Host with the Most High Country Host makes mountain getaways easy Last year, more than 20,000 visitors stepped through the doors of the High Country Host’s Visitor Information Center in Boone.

The bricks-and-mortar building is just one component of the tourism organization’s outreach efforts, efforts that are valuable to both visitors and locals in a region where tourism generated $445.71 million and 4,660 jobs in 2011.

High Country Host is a membership organization comprised of businesses in Alleghany, Ashe, Avery, Mitchell, Watauga and Wilkes counties. Founded in 1980, the organization is a hub of regional information.

“When people come up here, they don’t recognize county lines,” said High Country Host marketing director Candice Cook.

Instead of searching for visitor information at a number of separate county and town offices, prospective travelers can visit the Host’s expansive website, request a vacation guide or stop by the visitor center to get information about recreation opportunities in all six High Country coun-

ties. International tourists often find out about the High Country region through the Host’s website, which sees more than 600,000 unique visitors in a year.

But a robust online presence can’t replace a friendly ambassador with a physical map.

“A lot of folks just prefer looking someone in the eyeballs as opposed to on the computer,” said J.P. Greene, who greets visitors to center.

Most people are looking for directions or news about the week’s festivals or arts events, he said, although questions about children’s activities, suggested hikes and favorite local restaurants are quick to follow.

Greene also finds that a number of guests are interested Boone’s famous namesake. Those inquiring minds have come to the right place — Greene is proud to be Daniel Boone’s sixth-great-grand-nephew and readily shares his knowledge of his adventurous ancestor with curious visitors.

In addition to being a thorough resource for tourists, High Country Host’s cooperative model benefits

the region’s independent businesses.

“Because we’re all working together, we can promote ourselves better,” Cook said.

It’s unlikely that a family-run bed-and-breakfast could purchase advertising space in a magazine, such as Southern Living, Cook said, but the Host is able to showcase the region’s recreation value to larger audiences.

“Every day, I learn something new about this area,” Cook said.

Although she grew up in Valle Crucis, working with High Country Host constantly exposes her to creative businesses and cultural events that she was previously unaware of. Her goal? To share those discoveries with the world.

Get personal assistance, maps and weather reports at the Visitor Information Center, located at 1700 Blowing Rock Road in Boone. Hours of operations are 9 to a.m. to 5 p.m.

Monday through Saturday and 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Sundays.

For more information, call (828) 264-1299, or visit High Country Host online at www.highcountryhost.com.

At the High Country Host Visitor Information Center in Boone, J.P. Greene thoughtfully answers visitors’ questions and helps direct guests toward their destinations.

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Boone is the heart of Watauga County and also home of Appalachian State University. Take a walk downtown and enjoy the shopping and restaurants.

Our

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Watauga County Boone The town of Boone provides the heartbeat of Watauga County, the bustling and animated spot where residents, students and visitors intermingle.

The town is home to Appalachian State University, originally a teachers’ college that now attracts nearly 18,000 students for all types of studies.

Make sure to wear your black and gold apparel to cheer on the ASU football team in the fall. The Mountaineers are best known for their three consecutive Division I national championships and a stunning upset of Michigan at Ann Arbor in 2007, but they provide a great show each and every year.

Adjacent to the university, downtown Boone has dozens of restaurants, shops and galleries located near King Street.

You can browse for antiques, explore the

history of Boone Drug or grab a handful of sweets from the Candy Barrel inside Mast General Store.

A life-size sculpture of the late Doc Watson, legendary bluegrass picker, sits at the corner of King and Depot streets.

The sculpture honors one of Boone’s prized gems who, despite nearly lifelong blindness, has become one of the most talented and prolific musicians the genre can offer. Watson died May 29, 2012.

Follow the brilliant color of the changing leaves to the front steps of the Jones House, built in 1908. The house was donated to the town in the early 1980s and today houses art galleries and community functions.

Boone is a town where old and new meet, and visitors are made to feel like part of the family.

Blowing Rock Stepping into Blowing Rock is like

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The Todd community straddles the Watauga and Ashe county line.

PHOTOS BY FRANK RUGGIERO

stepping into a storybook village.

The small town has a population of about 1,241 that expands exponentially as tourists flock to the area, especially in summer and fall.

Downtown Blowing Rock is the primary gathering space, where local government, independent businesses, churches and an elementary school come together to give the town its charm.

Despite the town’s luxury and sophistication, it’s an inherently family-friendly place. Memorial Park sits prominently in the heart of town, offering playgrounds, tennis and basketball courts, a gazebo and benches the entire family can enjoy.

Also on the Main Street scene this autumn is the Blowing Rock Art & History Museum, which opened Oct. 1, 2011. The gorgeous new building, located at the end of the street next to Rumple Memorial Presbyterian Church, offers exhibits, classes, music and activities for both youth and adults.

As you walk through town, see if you can pick out facets that resemble Jan Karon’s “Mitford” series; the fictional books were based on the people and places of Blowing Rock.

The town’s namesake is located off U.S. 321 near the border of Caldwell County.

The Blowing Rock attraction overlooks John’s River Gorge and explains the Native American legend that provided its name.

When the family is exhausted from all the walking, talking, shopping and eating Blowing Rock can provide, view the changing leaves during a leisurely stroll

along the carriage trails of Moses H. Cone Memorial Park.

Todd Todd is a town so nice it’s claimed by both Watauga and Ashe counties.

The community’s main drag, Railroad Grade Road, is popular with bicyclists and walking tours as it winds along with the New River, one of the few in the world that flows north.

The Todd General Store is an oldfashioned mercantile that dates back to 1914 and was built in anticipation of the Norfolk and Western “Virginia Creeper” railroad. Todd was the last stop of the route and got much of its supplies from the train.

Today, the store offers dinner, bluegrass, book signings and demonstrations several evenings each week.

The Todd Mercantile features the work of local artists and crafters, as well as mountain honey and other local goods.

The “Todd Mahal Bakery” serves fresh delights to satisfy the sweet tooth, and the mercantile also hosts monthly square and contra dances, with traditional mountain music by local performers.

The annual Todd New River Festival, set for October, will provide about eight musical performances, children’s activities and food.

The river itself provides plenty to do, from canoeing and kayaking to excellent fishing. Several companies, including

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Come home to luxury mountain living.

Breathtaking mountain vistas surround this exquisite five-bedroom house in the exclusive Hound Ears community.

Conveniently located in the Hound Ears community – close to Boone, Blowing Rock and Banner Elk, this astounding home brings together world-class amenities with artisan craftsmanship to form the perfect space for a permanent or vacation house or even a corporate retreat.

• Furniture and fixtures are included.

• Updated design includes stunning hardwood floors and rich wood ceilings • Views of Grandfather Mountain abound!

• Master suite includes cedar closet.

• Smart-wired for the latest techno logical advances

For details, log on to

148Hemlock.com To arrange a showing, contact John Morris, Hound Ears Real Estate at 828-963-4301.

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Banner Elk

RiverGirl Fishing Company and Wahoo’s Adventures, have outposts near Todd to provide gear and instruction for anyone interested in hitting the river.

Valle Crucis

Just off N.C. 105 south of Boone, Valle Crucis offers simplicity and serenity in a pastoral riverside community.

The valley contains the site of the only known Native American village in the immediate area. The first European settler of Watauga County, Samuel Hicks, also built a fort in the area during the American Revolution.

Today, the community offers several historic inns, farms and churches that provide service and comfort to all who enter.

The Episcopal church has played a role throughout the community’s history. An Episcopal bishop entered the community in 1842 and provided its name, which is Latin for the “Vale of the Cross.”

The Valle Crucis Conference Center, on the National Register of Historic Places, stays busy with retreats for numerous groups, and Crab Orchard Falls is a short hike from the conference center.

The original Mast General Store provides a central gathering space in the community, as it has since 1883.

Residents appreciate the store for its post office, morning news and coffee, while visitors can also find gifts, apparel and souvenirs.

Just down the road is the Mast Store Annex, which opened about 25 years later. Behind the annex is a gravel road to the Valle Crucis Park, a recreational area with walking paths, riverfront, picnic areas and sports fields.

Seven Devils

From elevations of some 5,200 feet, the town of Seven Devils straddles both Watauga and Avery counties.

From many areas in the town, one has views of Grandfather Mountain, as well as Beech Mountain, Sugar Mountain, Rich Mountain and Mount Rogers in Virginia.

Seven Devils is just a few minutes from Boone, Blowing Rock, Banner Elk and Valle Crucis and can be found off N.C. 105.

Banner Elk has attracted visitors since the 1840s, when it was called Banner’s Elk. PHOTO BY FRANK RUGGIERO

How did it get its name? According to the Seven Devils website,“The L.A. Reynolds Industrial District of Winston-Salem, N.C., formed the resort in 1965 and the founders were met with the challenge of naming the resort. At this time there was a rumor about an old man on the mountain who had seven sons ‘as mean as the devil.’

People were heard commenting that in the winter the mountain was ‘as cold as the devils’ or ‘as windy as the devil.’”

“The founders wanted a catchy, unique name that would bring attention to the mountain. They noticed the repeated appearance of the number seven, including the seven predominant rocky peaks surrounding Valley Creek, as well as the many coincidental references to ‘devils.’ ‘Seven Devils’ seemed to suggest a

frivolous, mischievous resort where people could ‘experience the temptation of Seven Devils,’” according to the website.

In the 1960s, the town grew with a golf course, ski slope, lake, riding ground and camping area. After the resort venture experience financial trouble, the town was incorporated.

While the golf course and ski slope have been closed for a number of years, Hawksnest has become one of the town’s centerpieces.

Among the attractions at Hawksnest (www.hawksnest-resort.com), a private entity, is snow tubing in the winter and ziplines at other times.

For more information and events at Seven Devils, visit www.townofsevendevils.org.

Nestled in a spectacular mountain valley, Banner Elk has attracted visitors since the 1840s.

A college town, Banner Elk is home to Lees-McRae College, and a visit there is well worth the time. The old stone buildings are picturesque, as is the campus itself. Lees-McRae’s Hayes Auditorium hosts a wide variety of entertainment programs throughout the year.

Banner Elk is a town of wonderful shops and restaurants, all run by some of the nicest people you’ll meet anywhere. You will discover a unique blend of high-class and rustic existing happily side-by-side.

Spectacular is hardly adequate to describe the setting of the town. The early settlers didn’t believe in living on mountainsides; they looked for valleys. Banner Elk’s valley cuts through lofty peaks on every side: Beech Mountain, Sugar Mountain and Grandfather Mountain essentially define the boundaries.

Autumn in Banner Elk means the annual Woolly Worm Festival, held every third weekend in October downtown. Tens of thousands visit the festival as woolly worms race and one lucky worm owner can win $1,000, plus have his or her worm used to predict the coming winter weather.

The town is conveniently located between two of the area’s three ski resorts, Ski Beech and Sugar Mountain, which offer numerous activities during summer and fall. Even if you don’t ski, the mountains are often snow-covered during wintertime, providing a beautiful natural element adding to Banner Elk’s beauty.

Finally, Banner Elk makes an excellent base for folks who want to explore the natural wonders of Avery County. It’s not far to Roan Mountain, Grandfather Mountain or Linville Falls.

For more information, call the Banner Elk Chamber of Commerce at (828) 8988395, or the Avery County Chamber of Commerce at (828) 898-5605.

Beech Mountain Beech Mountain is the highest town in eastern North America.

With an elevation boasting 5,506 feet, that means two things: When winter comes it’s a haven for ski enthusiasts, and during the autumn season it means

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cooler temperatures and some of the most beautiful views to see the wonderful colors of fall across the High Country.

The rest of the world seems distant when you settle down on the front porch of a rental condominium and survey the magnificent view that is one of Beech Mountain’s trademarks. As the heat of summer transforms into cool autumn nights, it sends you looking for a sweater and perhaps firewood to enjoy a warm evening by the fireplace.

Beech Mountain is a four-season resort. There are more than 5,000 beds available on top of the mountain. These range from rustic cabins to mountain chalets to luxury condominiums. When it’s time to eat, you can enjoy anything from a deli sandwich to pizza to a gourmet meal by candlelight.

During the days, there are many specialty stores for shopping, a golf course, horseback riding, tennis, swimming and hiking. There are nearby canoe and raft runs that are among the best offered in the eastern United States.

THE MOUNTAIN TIMES AUTUMN GUIDE Nightlife is alive and well on the mountain. Whatever your musical taste, you can find a spot to enjoy an afterhours scene.

There’s another good thing about Beech Mountain. The mountain is so huge that much of it remains in a natural state, with rich forests dotted by rolling farmland. And it’s only a short drive from the “downtown” to the country or resorts. Take your pick.

Our guess is if you spend some time in Beech Mountain, you’ll want to come back to do some real estate shopping. Or at least book a slopeside condo for the ski season.

For more information, call the Beech Mountain Chamber of Commerce at (828) 387-9283.

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Chestnut Grille Real Food for Real People Casual Mountain Dining

Sugar Mountain If outdoor activity is your thing, look no further than the village of Sugar Mountain.

Offering more than just great skiing, Sugar Mountain also provides its visitors with an array of ways to get outside and CONTINUED ON PAGE 12

Visit our website for nightly dinner specials.

9239 Valley Blvd Blowing Rock, NC 28605 | 828.414.9230

www.greenparkinn.com

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enjoy the beauty of the High Country any time of year.

If a drive to the top of the mountain’s 5,300-foot peak isn’t what you’re looking for, Sugar Mountain can also be seen on foot. With numerous trails that wind throughout the village, you can see the vibrant reds and yellows of fall.

The trails of Sugar Mountain are not just for those on foot. Many bikers choose the village of Sugar Mountain for its variety of challenging and picturesque terrain.

Sugar Mountain also gives tennis and golf lovers an opportunity to enjoy their favorite sports in the beautiful mountain setting. The changing of colors on the golf course at Sugar is truly a sight to behold. The course, in addition to six fast-dry clay courts and full service tennis pro shop, ensures that visitors will never be faced with the problem of finding something to do.

Whether you come for a day or stay in one of the many comfortable lodgings the village has to offer, Sugar Mountain will soon become your destination for

A couple takes in the sights of Sugar Mountain from a chairlift ride to Sugar Mountain Resort’s peak.

PHOTO BY FRANK RUGGIERO

The Avery County Courthouse sits in Newland.

FILE PHOTO

great outdoor fun.

Autumn’s colors signal that the snow and excellent skiing at Sugar are just around the corner, with a plethora of slopes and accommodations for visitors during ski season and year-round.

For more information, call the Avery County Chamber of Commerce at (828) 898-5605.

Avery County was formed in 1911, beating out three other areas for the honor.

Newland has the distinction of being the highest county seat east of the Mississippi River.

The traditional courthouse, recently renovated, was constructed in 1913 and overlooks an equally classic town square,

ENJOY THE AMAZING COLORS INSIDE A MOUNTAIN

LINVILLE CAVERNS 800-419-0540 19929 US 221, Marion Just 4 mi. south of Blue Ridge Parkway www.linvillecaverns.com

Newland Surrounded by renowned attractions and resorts, the town of Newland also attracts visitors, but in an unassuming fashion.

This small municipality of about 700 residents has been the county seat since

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Carolina Railroad (ET&WNC) passed through the community from 1916 through 1940, when a major flood washed away the tracks. The old rail route later became N.C. 105 in 1956.

Linville has three country clubs in the area: Linville Golf Course, Grandfather Golf and Country Club and Linville Ridge; all open late spring to early fall.

Eseeola Lodge is also a popular destination for golf and lodging during the summer months.

A number of local tourist areas within a short drive share the Linville name, including the Linville River and majestic Linville Falls, Linville Caverns on U.S. 221 and Linville Gorge wilderness area.

Perhaps the most popular tourist attraction housed in Linville is Grandfather Mountain. One of the newest among North Carolina’s state parks, Grandfather Mountain offers hiking trails, picturesque views during all four seasons, animal habitats and attractions and the famous Mile-High Swinging Bridge.

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bordered by shops and churches and complete with a memorial to Avery County residents who served our country.

Next to the courthouse, and also built in 1913, is the original jail, now the site of the Avery Historical Museum. Permanent exhibits at the museum include the original jail cells, numerous artifacts and information about the history of North Carolina’s youngest county.

Going west out of town toward Tennessee, plan a Saturday stop at the farmers’ market and picnic or hike across the road at Waterfalls Park, a unique recreation area sponsored by the Newland Volunteer Fire Department.

So, when you’re driving through town on your way to Roan or Grandfather mountains, don’t forget to stop by Newland on your tour.

For more information, call the Avery County Chamber of Commerce at (828) 898-5605.

Crossnore Crossnore is a town steeped in educational history. The town is home to Crossnore Academy, founded by Drs. Eustace and Mary Martin Sloop.

The Sloops traveled the steep dirt trails in isolated mountain valleys to bring medicine to the people and convince farmers to let their children come to school. Because of poverty and distance, the Sloop school in Crossnore eventually took in boarders and built dormitories to accommodate them.

It gained a national reputation for effectiveness in changing lives and in breaking the cycle of poverty, moonshine and child marriages of mountain families.

The Sloops built a school, hospital, dental clinic and eventually, a boarding school to give children the basis for an improved life. They brought to Avery County the first electricity, telephone, paved road and boarding school. Through the Sloops’ advocacy, public schools flourished in Avery County.

Today, Crossnore Academy carries on the work of the original school and has reclaimed the educational foundation beneath its commitment to give hurting children a chance for a better life. The school’s teachers enable it to meet not

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Ashe County Crossnore is home to The Crossnore School, which operates the Miracle Grounds Coffee Café & Creamery as a working vocational classroom.

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only the special needs of Crossnore residents, but also the needs of area students that live at home and whose educational needs are best met at Crossnore.

The school is also home to Miracle Grounds Coffee Café & Creamery, a working vocational classroom, featuring specialty coffee drinks, homemade snacks, sandwiches, milkshakes, ice cream, WiFi and more.

Crossnore’s Meeting House is home to the Crossnore Jam, a series of gatherings and concerts by local musicians on the first and third Friday night through the summer and fall months.

For more information, visit www.crossnorenc.com.

The town’s original thoroughfare, Lower Street, and many businesses originated when Elk Park hosted a train depot for the old East Tennessee and Western North Carolina Railroad and Tweetsie Railroad. Elk Park thrived due to the industry and remained vibrant after the trains stopped running through town.

Elk Park is home to several chooseand-cut Christmas tree farms and hosts an annual Christmas home decoration contest for its residents.

For more information, call Elk Park Town Hall at (828) 733-9573.

Linville Elk Park The town of Elk Park borders the state of Tennessee and offers a unique visiting experience. From the old-time feel of Brinkley’s Hardware Store to the additional Lower Street antique shops and classic barbershop, Elk Park takes visitors back to a simpler time.

The community of Linville is located just south of the intersection of U.S. 221 and N.C. 105 in Avery County. The community was founded in 1883, designed

by Samuel T. Kelsey of Kansas and named for William and John Linville, who were reportedly killed by Cherokees in 1766.

East Tennessee and Western North

Laurel Springs Another border community, Laurel Springs prides itself with small town charm and beauty that entices motorists from the Blue Ridge Parkway for a quick bite to eat before they continue their adventure on the scenic byway.

Although it is located at the top of the mountain and touches Wilkes, Alleghany and Ashe counties, Laurel Springs is never more than a 30-minute drive from the listed county seats.

Grassy Creek Just south of the North Carolina/Virginia border, Grassy Creek is a tightly knit community that is dotted with smiling faces and countless rows of Fraser fir Christmas trees.

Check out the sights around the nationally renowned New River, where you will also find the River House Country Inn and Restaurant for exquisite dinners.

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• Bird Abodes • Caché Pots • Climbing Vines • Cloches • Compost • Container Gardens • English Antiques • English Hayracks • Fairy Gardens • Flying Pigs • Garden Benches • Hedgehogs • Heirloom Seeds • Iron Baskets • Iron Gates • Italian Pottery • Landscape Design • Mulch • Native Trees & Shrubs • Organic Herbs & Soil Amendments • Own Root Roses • Roosters & Pigs • Staddle Stones • Succulents • Terrariums • Tools and Labels • Unusual Perennials & Herbs • Urns • Watering Cans

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Visit the High Country’s Favorite Destination Garden Shop

5589 US Hwy 321 • Blowing Rock 828 295 4585 • Mon-Sat 9-6

www.

.com

Lansing offers Southern charm, shopping and access to the Virginia Creeper trail.

PHOTO SUBMITTED

OUR TOWNS CONTINUED FROM PAGE 13

Lansing

Glendale Springs

Steeped in generations of mountain history and culture, Lansing is known for far more than just being the only township in the county to have a single traffic light.

Although the pace of life in the town of 150 has slowed down with the departure of the Norfolk and Western Railroad companies, Lansing has resurged with a new revitalization effort geared to energize the local arts and business scenes.

Along with a few quaint and charming shops, the town also offers the scenic Virginia Creeper biking trail and leisurely strolls in the town’s park.

Home of the breath-taking and aweinspiring fresco paintings by Ben Long at Holy Trinity Episcopal Church, Glendale Springs has become revered for its budding arts scene. For more information, visit www.ashechamber.com.

Fleetwood

www.WataugaChristmasTrees.org

towns of Boone and West Jefferson, stop by to look at local crafts, antiques and civic pride in Fleetwood.

Located just off of U.S. 221 between West Jefferson and Deep Gap, Fleetwood is home of great community gatherings at the Fleetwood Community Center and the local volunteer fire department.

On your way to and from the busy

Creston Located in the northwestern corner of Ashe County, Creston sits on the border of Tennessee. The curvy winding roads can offer travelers some of the most beautiful scenic byways in the area.

The Riverview Community Center is located off of N.C. 88 West in Creston and is home to festivals and other events all year long.

Worth’s Chapel at Creston United Methodist Church is located in Creston, and was listed as a National Historic Building in 2005. The chapel was built around 1902.

The interior of the chapel is finished, in part, with American chestnut

CONTINUED ON PAGE 15

2013

THE MOUNTAIN TIMES AUTUMN GUIDE

PAGE 15

Downtown West Jefferson offers shops, galleries and restaurants aplenty — and don’t forget the Ashe County Cheese factory.

PHOTO BY ADAM ORR

OUR TOWNS CONTINUED FROM PAGE 14

wood, harvested before the blight reached the northwestern mountains of North Carolina.

Jefferson and West Jefferson The cities of Jefferson and West Jefferson can be found in Ashe County, both of them classic small towns with warm, friendly people.

Jefferson was the first to be founded and is the oldest incorporated town in the High Country. It started in 1800 as the county seat for Ashe, which the N.C. General Assembly established the year before. The new town stood near the base of Mount Jefferson, both bearing the name of U.S. founding father Thomas Jefferson.

Even as the population of Ashe County grew, Jefferson remained a

quiet place, with relatively few homes and a courthouse.

Then the railroad came. Overnight, boom towns like Lansing and Todd blossomed. Logging meant work, and money was relatively plentiful. All that, however, bypassed the town of Jefferson. In 1917, a group of investors founded West Jefferson, located southwest of Jefferson, and attracted the railroad.

Jefferson fell into immediate decline, with West Jefferson becoming the economic center of the county, although Todd, a major railroad hub, was larger.

Eventually, the railroad left, and Lansing, Todd and all other rail towns shrank considerably. Fortunately, roads came to the Jeffersons, allowing both towns to prosper.

Today, the towns have differences and similarities. The old courthouse and surrounding buildings in Jefferson are the center of county government, and a shopping center is located there, offering retail stories and services. The idyllic Ashe County Park and Foster-

Tyson Park are perfect for an in-town picnic.

West Jefferson’s downtown district is busy and active, with old stores still standing and packed with unique and dynamic shopping, offering everything from real estate to art to coffee to clothing. The visitor center, operated by the Ashe Chamber of Commerce, offers answers and a wide selection of literature.

West Jefferson is home to the Ashe County Cheese factory and store, where visitors can see cheese made and purchase butter, a variety of cheeses and other goodies.

The Jeffersons are also the gateway to two state parks. Mount Jefferson State Park is located just off U.S. 221. To the north of Jefferson are access areas for New River State Park.

Just south of West Jefferson, near the Beaver Creek community, is St. Mary’s Episcopal Church. This is the home of the famous fresco of Jesus on the cross by renowned artist Ben Long. A painting of the Madonna with child hangs on the sanctuary wall.

Wilkes County Wilkes County celebrated its 208th birthday this year.

The county was created in 1777, effective Feb. 12, 1778, and its history dates from pre-revolutionary times. It was named in honor of John Wilkes, who was a member of the British Parliament and at one time lord mayor of London.

The first man to settle in Wilkes County was Christopher Gist, who settled in the Yadkin Valley in 1750. Daniel Boone also made his home in Wilkes for many years.

Col. Benjamin Cleveland and other Revolutionary War heroes also lived in Wilkes. It was the “mountain men” of Wilkes who arrived at the Battle of Kings Mountain and in so doing helped turn the tide of the Revolutionary War, according to the Wilkes County Historical Association.

Also of historical note, Wilkes was once known as the “Moonshine Capital of the World” and was a leading producer CONTINUED ON PAGE 16

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OUR TOWNS CONTINUED FROM PAGE 15

of illegal homemade liquor. The county also claims to be the birthplace of NASCAR, as many would make a living delivering, or running, moonshine, thus producing some racing legends.

One such driver of note is Junior Johnson, and Benny Parsons also had his start in Wilkes before gaining notoriety on the circuit.

The county is also the site of the North Wilkesboro Speedway, built in 1946. It was among the first tracks recognized

by NASCAR during its inaugural year in 1949. The short track closed in 1996, but has since has briefly reopened for special events.

Today, Wilkes draws those who love the outdoors, with such sites as the W. Kerr Scott Dam and Reservoir, and those who love music, with such festivals as the world-renowned MerleFest held on the campus of Wilkes Community College each April. MerleFest has been the stage for artists, such as Willie Nelson, Dolly Parton, Nickel Creek and the founder of the festival, the late Doc Watson.

Today, Wilkes has a projected popula-

2013

tion of 69,340, according to the U.S. Census. Its county seat is Wilkesboro, and its largest town is North Wilkesboro.

Abingdon, Va. Nearby Abingdon, Va., offers visitors a vacation during their vacation. Only 80 minutes from Boone‚ and a remarkably scenic drive, at that — historic Abingdon offers a rich variety of mountain entertainment.

“Whether it’s the sights of our historic buildings, the sounds from a musical showing in town, the tastes from our many restaurants or the smells of the crisp mountain air along the Virginia Creeper Trail, Abingdon has something to entertain your senses,” according to the Abingdon Chamber of Commerce.

“Abingdon, a gem city of legends, wars and culture, maintains its rich historical integrity with an eye on the future.”

Founded in 1778, the town is, perhaps, best known for the historic Barter Theatre, which attracts visitors from the world over. Tree-lined streets and brick sidewalks accentuate a thriving art scene, abundant lodgings, ample shopping and dining aplenty.

Barter Theatre is resplendent in the fall.

PHOTO SUBMITTED

Whether it’s taking a stroll down the Virginia Creeper Trail, checking in to the historic, four-diamond Martha Washington Hotel or sampling the

tasty wares of the Abingdon Olive Oil Company, Abingdon is a mountain town that celebrates the old while embracing the new.

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THE MOUNTAIN TIMES AUTUMN GUIDE

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THE MOUNTAIN TIMES AUTUMN GUIDE

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The New River in Ashe County is one of the oldest rivers in the world and is open to canoers, kayakers and fishermen.

PHOTOS BY HEATHER SAMUDIO

Make a splash in the High Country Local waters ready for exploration

BY HEATHER SAMUDIO heather.samudio@mountaintimes.com

Whether you’re visiting the High Country or you live here, the rivers and lakes in the area offer a variety of water sports activities into the fall.

Boating, canoeing, kayaking and fishing are available throughout the area, with numerous outfitters and guides prepared to lead adventurers on full-day or hourly trips.

The New River winds its way

through Ashe County. It is believed to be one of the oldest rivers in North America, according to the N.C. Division of Parks and Recreation.

Many families and friends have enjoyed the scenic beauty of the New, while canoeing and kayaking. During the fall, some of the best views of the changing seasons can be found along the banks of the river. The river’s age also allows visitors who travel on the river to see a reminder of what the

land looked like during earlier times when the river was used by Native Americans and early settlers.

Individuals interested in activities on the river in Ashe County can visit Zaloo’s Canoes in Jefferson for a guided trip. Camping with river access is available at RiverCamp USA in Piney Creek, as well as New River State Park in Laurel Springs.

New River State Park hours are 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 19

2013

SPLASH CONTINUED FROM PAGE 18

September through October and 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. November through February.

For more information about the park and river access, call (336) 982-2587 The Watauga River flows out of Western North Carolina into Northeast Tennessee, as it leaves Watauga County. A multitude of outfitters coordinate trips on the river, as well as its first stop, the Watauga Dam. Individuals can float down the river or rent boats and cruise around Watauga Lake. Trips can also be taken, combining camping and watersports.

Boasted as one of the cleanest lakes in

River Outfitters

THE MOUNTAIN TIMES AUTUMN GUIDE

PAGE 19

America, Watauga Lake is surrounded by the Cherokee National Forest. It features 106 miles of shoreline and is known as the highest lake in Tennessee.

Fishing is popular at the lake, with fishermen reeling in rainbow, brown trout, walleye and bass.

In addition to boat rentals, pontoons and jet skis are available at the marinas along the lake.

Lake visitors have caught glimpses of wildlife, from deer to waterfowl and even bears.

Whatever river or lake activity you are looking for in Watauga County and the surrounding area, numerous river outfitters and marinas are ready to show you what the waters in the area offer.

(423) 542-6777 www.wataugakayak.com

EDGE OF THE WORLD 394 Shawneehaw Ave. Banner Elk, N.C. 28604 (828) 898-9550 www.edgeoworld.com

HIGH MOUNTAIN EXPEDITIONS 1380 N.C. 105 Boone, N.C. 28607 (828) 264-7368 www.highmountainexpeditions.com

ZALOO’S CANOES 3874 N.C. 16 South Jefferson, N.C. 28640 (800) 535-4027 zaloos@skybest.com www.zaloos.com

Watauga Lake Marinas

RIVER AND EARTH ADVENTURES 1655 N.C. 105 South Boone, N.C. 28692 (828) 963-5491 www.raftcavehike.com

RIVERCAMP USA 2221 Kings Creek Road Piney Creek, N.C. 28663 (336) 359-2267 www.rivercampusa.com

RIVERGIRL FISHING COMPANY 4041 Todd Railroad Grade Road Todd, N.C. 28684 (336) 877-3099 www.rivergirlfishing.com

WAHOO’S ADVENTURES 3385 South U.S. 321 Boone, N.C. 28607 (828) 262-5774 or (800) 444-RAFT www.wahoosadventures.com

WATAUGA KAYAK 1409 Broad St. Elizabethton, Tenn. 37643

COVE RIDGE MARINA 947 Piercetown Road Butler, Tenn. 37640 (423) 768-3741 info@coveridgemarina.com www.coveridgemarina.com

FISH SPRINGS MARINA 191 Fish Springs Road Hampton, Tenn. 37658 (423) 768-2336 www.fishspringsmarina.com

LAKESHORE MARINA 2285 U.S. 321 Hampton, Tenn. 37658 (423) 725-2201 lakeshore-resort@earthlink.net

PIONEER LANDING MARINA AND CAMPGROUND 105 Cowan Town Road Butler, Tenn. 37640 (423) 768-3164 info@pioneerlanding.com www.pioneerlanding.com

Visitors to the area lakes and rivers may have to share the water with some local wildlife, such as this mallard duck at Watauga Lake.

THE MOUNTAIN TIMES AUTUMN GUIDE

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2013

We carry locally handcrafted items:

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Grandfather Trout Farm TROUT FISHING AT ITS BEST! EQUIPMENT SUPPLIED You may bring your own or use our equipment. All bait and tackle are furnished at no charge. We will supply you with a bucket, before, we’ll be happy to help you get started.

CLEANING • PACKING For some people, cleaning their catch is part of will clean them for you. We can whole, then double bag and ice down your catch.

HWY. 105, 10 MILES SOUTH OF BOONE (across from entrance to Town of Seven Devils)

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www.GrandfatherTroutFarm.com

Dean Church of Boone shows an unconventional way of battling a huge channel catfish using a light spinning rod at Buckeye Lake in Beech Mountain, which is often stocked with trout and large blue channel catfish.

PHOTOS SUBMITTED

Get Hooked!

Fishing up fun in the High Country

BY JAMIE SHELL

Most seasoned fishermen will rattle off a story or two about “the one that got away.”

For fishermen in the waters of the High Country, however, those stories are few and far between.

Fishing opportunities abound in the natural waters and streams that flow throughout Ashe, Watauga and Avery counties. Trout is the big bite teeming in the water along the cool water passages of the Blue Ridge in the fall, but that isn’t to say that smallmouth bass are not also plentiful.

The New and Watauga rivers both flow through the High Country, and the area has an abundance of prime streams to catch a whopper. While

smallmouth bass are abundant in the New River, wild brook trout thrive in smaller creeks and streams. Many streams are also stocked with rainbow and brown trout. An autumn day on a mountain waterway is the perfect opportunity to reel in a trout.

Visitors to the area may hesitate when it comes to baiting the hook and taking to a riverbank or wading a stream for several reasons: where to go, what the regulations are or what the fish are biting. For answers to those and other questions, there are a number of locations across the High Country that can point anglers in the right direction and help them catch their limit of fish.

Outfitters throughout the area

specialize in fishing services, supplies, apparel, lessons and offer guided fishing excursions to help visitors make the most of their time near the water.

In order to fish North Carolina waters, a state fishing license is required, which can be purchased at many of the local fishing outfitters. A 10-day license to fish High Country waters for North Carolina residents is only $5 and just $10 for out-of-state visitors.

For an additional $10, a trout stamp can be added to the license. For outof-towners making frequent fishing trips to the High Country, the annual fishing license for out-of-state visitors is only $30 and just $15 per year for North Carolina residents.

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THE MOUNTAIN TIMES AUTUMN GUIDE

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PAGE 21

HOOKED CONTINUED FROM PAGE 20

Alleghany, Ashe, Avery and Watauga counties all offer anglers miles of state-hatchery supported waters to try their luck, though anglers should be respectful, as many streams open for public trout fishing are located on private lands.

According to the N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission, “Fishing is allowed on these streams because landowners have generously provided access to the public for fishing. Show your appreciation to these landowners by removing your trash and being respectful of their property.”

For those too young to angle the waters, local farm ponds provide an enjoyable opportunity for kids to appreciate the accomplishment of hooking a fish without a lengthy wait or complicated technique.

Grandfather Trout Farm, located in Banner Elk, is one of select ponds that offers free equipment, tackle and bait, and is geared toward families with children.

Before hitting the water, pay close attention to regulations concerning trout streams, as they can be complex and vary from stream to stream. Violations can result in fines in excess of $200.

Brown trout are among the most sought-after fish in the High Country.

PHOTO COURTESY OF N.C. WILDLIFE RESOURCES COMMISSION

Fishing Outfitters APPALACHIAN ANGLER 174 Old Shulls Mill Road, Boone (828) 963-5050 www.appangler.com

GRANDFATHER TROUT FARM 10767 N.C. 105, Banner Elk (828) 963-5098 www.grandfathertroutfarm.com

RICK’S SMALLMOUTH ADVENTURES 1757 Pleasant Home Road, Sparta (336) 372-8321

ELK CREEK OUTFITTERS 1560 N.C. 105, Boone (828) 264-6497 www.ecoflyfishing.com

RIVERGIRL FISHING CO. 4041 Todd Railroad Grade Road, Todd (336) 877-3099 www.rivergirlfishing.com

FOSCOE FISHING COMPANY & OUTFITTERS

WATAUGA RIVER ANGLERS

8857 N.C. 105, Boone (828) 963-6556 www.foscoefishing.com

5712 N.C. 105, Vilas (828) 963-5463 www.wataugariveranglers.com

Fishing opportunities abound in the natural waters and streams that flow throughout Ashe, Watauga and Avery counties.

PHOTO BY KELLEN MOORE

The finest collection of locally-made pottery in the High Country since ‘ 78!

Octoberfest! Autumn Leaf Festival!

Olde Towne Market! Cruise Inn! It's an End of the Season Olde Towne Jefferson Celebration!

Sat. October 26th 8:00 am - 6:00 pm

Downtown Jefferson around the Museum of Ashe County History located in the historic 1904 Courthouse

Gallery

10:30 - 2:30 Live traditional German Bavarian music by the Harbour Towne Fest Band Traditional dance lessons while they perform!

• Other music throughout the day • Traditional German food and other food vendors plus BEER GARDEN • Crafts, antiques, artisans, non profit vendors

Visit the Museum of Ashe County History & see heritage skills such as: Quilting, cider making, spinning, weaving, and MORE. Civil War exhibits, living history, talks, and book signings.

Traditional mountain music. Two stages of music.

The Museum will be open all day for visitors Cruise In starts at 3:00. Bring your antique autos for all to see.

Wedding Registries Commissioned Works Dinnerware Interior Decor

585 West King Street Suite D • Boone, NC doeridgepottery.com 828-264-1127

Original pottery by Bob Meier and 17 other local potters

PAGE 22

THE MOUNTAIN TIMES AUTUMN GUIDE

2013

Hit the Dusty Trail

Horseback riding in the High Country offers new look on fall per person per hour. An added $15 is charged for younger children who ride with their parents. Banner Elk Stables is open seven days a week with rides beginning at 4 p.m. Those interested should call (828) 898-5424 in advance for reservations. For more information, visit www.bannerelkstables.com.

BY JESSE CAMPBELL

Saddle up for the High Country.

When it comes to exploring the pristine Blue Ridge Mountains and witnessing nature’s beautiful transformation to the bright orange, red and yellow splendor of fall, the seat atop a broadshouldered stallion is a breath of fresh air in a world that is geared for rushed and hurried family vacations.

From scenic romps at Moses Cone and along the High Country’s world renowned New River to other private trails that have been kept a secret by tightlipped trail blazers, horseback riding is a way to savor and take in the natural beauty of the Appalachian Mountains.

At Appalachians by Horseback, Dyan and Cliff Watkins want each excursion to be a memorable and enriching experience as you explore the unsurpassed tranquility these idyllic rides offer.

“We cater to children and family and really to people who have never ridden before,” Dyan said. “No experience is necessary because the horses come with personal assistance. What makes us special is that it is very private, and each trip comes with a complementary lunch and photos.”

Children as young as 5 are encouraged to take on a ready charger. “We are glad to be a part of their first time,” Dyan said.

Riders can expect a four-hour long trip from start to finish — weather permitting —and are allowed to brush their horse and spend time with the steed upon the conclusion of each ride. “Riders tend to really bond with their horses,” Dyan said.

For birthday parties and other special events, the horses come decked out with frilly and festive costumes to accentuate the occasion.

No one horse is ridden more than three days a week, and their trail rides are seen as a form of exercise for the horses before they hit the show arenas.

“We go all year, and some of our most beautiful rides are in the winter,” Dyan said. “They love snow. We don’t go in the rain, though. They will pout, actually.”

For more information on Appalachians

by Horseback or to schedule a ride, call (828) 297-1289 or visit www.appala-

CONE MANOR AND BASS LAKE Located on the Blue Ridge Parkway, Moses Cone Memorial Park and Bass Lake both provide well-maintained riding trails that are perfect for horse lovers.

Blowing Rock is home to both Moses Cone Memorial Park and Bass Lake, both of which are parts of the Blue Ridge Parkway. These attractions feature wellmaintained riding trails.

For access to the Moses Cone Park trails, horse owners should drive their trailers to milepost 294 of the Blue Ridge Parkway and pull off at the Cone Manor and Parkway Craft Center. The stables are just past the manor.

For access to Bass Lake trails, horse owners should pull off of U.S. 221 just west of Blowing Rock into a large parking area next to the Bass Lake vehicle entrance. For more information, call the National Park Service information desk at Cone Manor at (828) 295-3782.

THE SADDLE CLUB AT YONAHLOSSEE

Horseback riding is a way to savor and take in the natural beauty of the Appalachian Mountains.

PHOTO BY ROB MOORE

chainsbyhorseback.com.

If you want a more laid back and quicker ride on horseback, check out Banner Elk Stables, which is located at 796 Shomaker Road and south of Boone.

“We offer a one-hour scenic mountain

ride,” stable owner Susie Parkinson said.

“It’s pretty usual in a way. It’s a very laid back ride, nothing fast and mostly families.”

Children 6 and older are allowed their own horse with younger ages required to ride with parents. The cost is $40

The Saddle Club at Yonahlossee is located between Boone, Blowing Rock and Hound Ears. This club is just what the discriminating rider ordered. It features a large indoor arena, outdoor arena, a cross-country course and miles of beautiful riding trails with views of Grandfather Mountain and Sugar Mountain.

Yonahlossee Saddle Club services include boarding, grooming and exercise for horses with owners who are out of town. The Saddle Club sells high-end horses and currently has quarter horses, quarter ponies, thoroughbreds and Dutch warmbloods for sale.

The Yonahlossee Saddle Club is located at 223 Pine Hill Road. For more information, call (828) 387-0390.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 23

THE MOUNTAIN TIMES AUTUMN GUIDE

2013

PAGE 23

RIDING

mountains.com.

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 22

BURNT HILL STABLES Located in Laurel Springs in Ashe County, Burnt Hill Stables offers visitors the chance to explore miles of trails that showcase the Blue Ridge Mountains and their bountiful scenery. Burnt Hill also offers riding lessons, carriage wedding services and horse boarding.

Burnt Hill Stables is located at 1102 Burnt Hill Road in Laurel Springs. For more information, call (336) 982-2008 or visit www.burnthillstables.com.

DUTCH CREEK TRAILS Located in Vilas, Dutch Creek Trails is open year-round for everyone ages 6 and older. Trail rides last a little more than an hour and cost $50 each, payable by cash or check.

Participants will enjoy beautiful mountain scenery, while riding through both wooded trails and fields. Dutch Creek Trails also has its own in-house “cowboy poet,” Keith Ward, who will endlessly entertain guests.

Rides start for riders 6 years and older It is best to call a week ahead for reservations to ensure you are able to ride on the dates you choose.

To make reservations, call (828) 2977117. For more information, visit www. dutchcreektrails.com.

LEATHERWOOD MOUNTAINS Leatherwood Mountains Riding Stables is a “Horse Lovers paradise” that is open to visitors seven days a week.

Leatherwood offers full-service boarding accommodations and riding lessons.

The hour-long riding lessons are taught rain or shine and require reservations.

2013 36TH ANNUAL

GRANDFATHER STABLES Located at 602 Church Hollow Road in Foscoe, Grandfather Stables offers indoor and outdoor riding arenas, riding lessons, trail rides, horse boarding and more.

Grandfather’s is a family-friendly stable, where visitors can interact with Enjoy the High Country’s autumnal weather from the vantage point atop a steed at all the animals. As for trails, the stable stables throughout the region.

PHOTO SUBMITTED offers five gentle horses that newcomers can ride around the whole farm, as well Leatherwood Mountains even offers as on side roads with sparse traffic. Trail Leatherwood has more than 75 miles of horseback riding birthday parties. rides cost $40 per horse and can take riding trails, which range from beginner Leatherwood Mountains is located one to two hours. Special group rates to more advanced levels. Lead Line rides at 512 Meadow Road in Ferguson, near are available. For more information, call are available for younger children ages 2 Boone. For more information, call (800) (828) 963-1812 or visit www.grandfaand older and timid adult riders. Reser462-6867 or visit www.leatherwoodtherstables.com. vations are required for the riding trails.

Woolly Worm festival

Beautiful Downtown Saturday, October 19, 9am-5pm · Sunday, October 20, 9am-4pm Banner Elk, NC

, S WINNING Y A SATURD S $1000 WORM W, IN NING SUNDAY S WINS $500 WORM WIN

Performances by Dance Teams & Local Entertainment

WORM RACES (CASH PRIZES) CRAFTS, FOOD, RIDES FUN FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY!

All proceeds are given back to our community to enhance our schools, children’s programs, and to promote businesses and tourism in Avery County.

For more information contact the Avery County Chamber of Commerce (828)898-5605 · (800)972-2183 · events@averycounty.com

www.WoollyWorm.com · www.AveryCounty.com

Please, no pets – except woolly worms, of course!

THE MOUNTAIN TIMES AUTUMN GUIDE

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2013

DOWNTOWN

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Serving Breakfast and Lunch ALL DAY Check out our 2nd location on Hwy 105 Now Offering Gluten Free Bagels

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828.268.7525 • 783 W. KING STREET • BOONE, NC

THE MOUNTAIN TIMES AUTUMN GUIDE

2013

ART CRAWL

Visit downtown Boone the FIRST FRIDAY of every month for refreshments, entertainment and local art.

OCTOBER 4TH, NOVEMBER 1ST AND DECEMBER 6TH 5:30 - 8:30 P.M. Questions about parking? Call or visit our website.

828.262.4532 • downtownboonenc.com 13

OFFERING

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JONES HOUSE

GALLERIES open Tuesday - Friday 12 - 5 pm Art openings and reception every First Friday 5:30 - 8:30 pm Rent the beautiful and historic Jones House for your next SPECIAL EVENT! Weddings, bridal showers, private parties and more.

OLD-TIME JAM SESSIONS 7:30 pm every Thursday throughout the fall.

12

Downtown Boone DEVELOPMENT ASSOCIATION

604 W. KING ST. BOONE, NC 28607 828.262.4576 JONESHOUSECOMMUNITYCENTER.ORG

16

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THE MOUNTAIN TIMES AUTUMN GUIDE

2013

The Linn Cove Viaduct, one of the Blue Ridge Parkway’s most popular spots, is located near Milepost 304.4.

FILE PHOTO

The science behind the season

BY KELLEN SHORT kellen.short@wataugademocrat.com

The leaves, they are a-changin’.

One of the primary reasons visitors flock to the High Country in autumn has nothing to do with the man-made attractions, the restaurants or the festivals — although all are wonderful. Instead, Mother Nature is the star.

But she’s also a fickle performer. Will she take the stage early or late? Shine bright this year or fall flat?

To answer these most pressing leaflooking questions, the locals consult Howard Neufeld, a biology professor at Appalachian State University, better known this time of year as the “Fall Color Guy.”

Neufeld’s fascination with fall color started with investigations into the native plant, galax, a leathery-leafed plant that turns burgundy in late fall and winter when the leaves fall from the trees.

His study of anthocyanins, the pigments that causes the reddish change, made for a logical step into the mechanics of fall leaf color. He created a couple of websites that now get more than 5,000 hits a week during the peak of fall.

So what situations create the most memorable fall vistas?

“I think people like fall color the most when there’s brilliant red colors interspersed with the yellow and the orange,” Neufeld said. “You’re always going to have yellow or orange. Sometimes the reds are real brilliant, and sometimes

they aren’t.”

The key, Neufeld said, is clear, crisp and sunny days paired with cool nights starting in August and September.

When those conditions exist, the sunlight causes more photosynthesis to occur, resulting in the creation of more sugars within the leaves, which, in turn, stimulate the production of the red pigments.

The result is an array of changing trees that tend to peak in mid-October in the High Country.

Every thousand-foot drop in elevation leads to a week to 10-day delay in the peak, Neufeld said, so the Asheville area typically sees its best conditions later than Boone.

Of course, no year is the same. Neufeld

said he’s already receiving numerous questions about how the record-setting rains this summer might affect the quality of the leaf season.

“We absolutely don’t know,” Neufeld said in mid-August. “ … There could be enough time to set the conditions up to get red color. We still have really two months until fall really begins in earnest.

I think the next two months are crucial.”

Visitors always ask for recommendations on the best week to travel or to plan a fall wedding, he said.

“I always tell them it’s dependent on the weather, and no one can predict the weather,” Neufeld said.

The High Country’s diversity of trees create a hodgepodge effect on mountain

CONTINUED ON PAGE 27

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THE MOUNTAIN TIMES AUTUMN GUIDE

COLORS slopes.

Neufeld said he’s partial to the large, brilliant sugar maples, which turn orange, and the sourwood, which turns a deep red.

Birches also create a nice yellow hue, he said.

Visitors to Boone who don’t have time for a scenic drive must see the large maples that shade the front lawn of the Jones House Community Center on King Street, he said.

hillsides punctuated by split-rail fences.

— Elk Knob State Park: Elk Knob State Park, one of the state’s newest parks, includes a 1.9-mile trail to the summit, which offers stunning views from both sides at an elevation of about 5,520 feet.

— Mount Jefferson: Mount Jefferson State Natural Area rises to more than 1,600 feet above the town of West Jefferson, and sightseers can spot farms, pastures and forests on a clear autumn day.

SEE THE SIGHTS

KEEP TRACK

— Blue Ridge Parkway: It goes without saying that the parkway is a leaf-looker’s paradise.

Try driving south from Blowing Rock for grand gorges and vistas, or head north from Boone into Ashe County for rolling

Visit biology.appstate. edu/fall-colors, fallcolorguy.blogspot.com or www.facebook.com/ FallColorGuy to learn more about the science of leaf change and updates on conditions in the High Country.

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 26

During autumn, High Country roads are a leaf-looker’s paradise.

PHOTO BY KELLEN SHORT

Grandfather Mountain is a prime location for leaf-looking.

PHOTO SUBMITTED

PAGE 27

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THE MOUNTAIN TIMES AUTUMN GUIDE

PAGE 28

2013

Find something for everyone at the...

Exhibits, workshops, programs, and events for all ages.

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PHOTO COURTESY OF SKY VALLEY ZIP TOURS

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A zipline is simple in principle: Give guests the opportunities to fly above the ground, soaring through the mountains, speeding through the trees and open air and gaining a bird’s-eye view of the vistas that make the High Country famous.

Many people grew up with a backyard zipline. For these modern attractions, the principle is the same, but the scale is vastly greater.

Naturally, safety is a prime concern, so all participants wear harnesses and head protection while flying through the air.

tours to single participants, so get the family and friends together.

Two different canopy tours are available, the Hawk Tour, which costs $75 per person, and the Eagle Tour, which costs $85 per person. Once your reservations are made, try to arrive at least 30 minutes before you are scheduled to begin your tour, and plan to stay for at least the two hours each tour usually requires. For more information about Hawksnest’s zipline canopy tours, visit www.hawksnestzipline.com or call (800) 822-4295.

HAWKSNEST ZIPLINES

SKY VALLEY ZIP TOURS

Hawksnest Ziplines has continued to expand, now featuring more than four miles of cables ready to thrill adventuresome visitors. The 40 miles are broken up across 20 different ziplines, including two that stretch more than 2,000 feet and two that stretch more than 1,500 feet.

Hawksnest is located in Seven Devils, just off N.C. 105 between Boone and Banner Elk. It is important to call ahead to reserve your trip. Hawksnest cannot offer

Sky Valley Zip Tours is the area’s newest zipline experience, opening in May 2012, just three miles from Boone.

“Canopy rangers” guide guests on nine zips, totaling more than on mile in length, and the two longest lines are about 300 feet off the ground, according to Sky Valley staff.

Sky Valley also offers two “skyjumps,” in which guests jump from a 35-foot rock

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A zipline rider flies at a considerable height at the Sky Valley Zip Tours outside Boone.

PHOTO COURTESY OF SKY VALLEY ZIP TOURS

ZIPLINES CONTINUED FROM PAGE 28

face and 55-foot platform, offering a few seconds of freefall before the belay feature kicks in.

Call (855) 4-SKY-ZIP or visit www. skyvalleyziptours.com for more information. To get to Sky Valley, turn left off U.S. 321 in Boone onto Winkler’s Creek Road.

Turn right shortly after the Boone Mall to continue on Winkler’s Creek Road. Travel about 2.5 miles until you see Camp Sky Ranch on the left.

than just a zipline. Described as a “lifesize Ewok Village,” the attraction includes canopy-top ziplines, ropes courses and bridges that connect “islands” tucked away into the foliage.

The facility is extremely safe, accommodating large groups, birthday parties and participants as young as four years of age.

For more information about the safety precautions in place at The Beanstalk Journey, visit www.beanstalkjourneys. com. To make reservations or for more information, call (828) 430-3440 or visit www.thebeanstalkjourney.com.

PLUMTREE CANOPY TOURS THE BEANSTALK JOURNEY Located in Catawba Meadows in Morganton, The Beanstalk Journey is more

Visitors at Plumtree Canopy Tours will have the opportunity to experience a canopy tour and zipline adventure that

will take them across nine ziplines and four sky bridges, all while learning about the trees, wildlife and community of Plumtree.

Visitors can also learn about the history of Plumtree, including its vast mines.

Included with all Plumtree Canopy tours is lunch or Sunday Brunch at the Vance Toe River Lodge.

Plumtree Canopy Tours is located on N.C. 19 East, mere miles from a wealth of hiking, camping and fishing opportunities.

Plumtree Canopy Tours cost $80 per person and require reservations. To make a reservation or for more information, call (828) 765-9696 between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. To learn more, visit www.vancetoeriverlodge.com.

ROCK DIMENSIONS’ DISCOVERY COURSE

Rock Dimensions, which provides the climbing wall at Footsloggers in downtown Boone, also features an extensive, multileveled ropes course ending in an exit via zipline from the highest level.

Rock Dimensions’ Discovery Course is located in Blowing Rock and only features a zipline as a finale. The entire course works in the same vein of high altitude adrenaline, while adding the bonus of an engaging physical challenge.

To learn more about Rock Dimensions’ Discovery Course and other outdoor adventure opportunities, including rock climbing and caving, call (828) 265-3544 or visit info@rockdimensions. com.

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THE MOUNTAIN TIMES AUTUMN GUIDE

2013

Hike the High Country

BY CAROLINE HARRIS

Whether out for a stroll or on a backcountry expedition, it’s hard to run out of trail in the High Country, no matter the kind of hike you like.

The famous fall foliage, nature’s fireworks display this time of the year, adds to already spectacular mountain views.

Explore the mountains at your own pace with one of these hikes this season.

Beginning in Springer Mountain, Ga., and ending at Mount Katahdin in Maine, the Appalachian Trail is the granddaddy of all trails on the East Coats. This “super trail” is about 2,200 miles long and a short stretch of that distance is in the High Country.

For more than 200 miles, it crisscrosses the line between Tennessee and North Carolina, from Roan Mountain, Tenn., into Mitchell, Avery and Yancey counties. To experience the Appalachian Trail in a day trip, head down N.C. 19 East to Carver’s Gap on the Tennessee-North Carolina border. A 2.6-mile round-trip, you’ll hike through field and forest and see the oldest rock formations on the Appalachian Trail.

The Linville Falls Trail is familyfriendly hike located on the Blue Ridge Parkway between the intersection of U.S. 221 and N.C. 181. This is an easily accessible trail to the largest waterfalls in the region. There is plenty of parking at the Linville Falls Visitor Center at the base of the trail, which leads to views of the upper and lower falls. The Erwin’s View Trail is a moderately difficult hike that is 1.6 miles round-trip and passes four different overlooks of the falls.

The Profile Trail on Grandfather Mountain is so named because it passes by the part of the mountain that resembles an old man’s face lying down, the “grandfather.” This trail begins as an easy stroll, crosses the Watauga River and then leads through shady rhododendron thickets. The view of the profile is at the 2.3 mile mark, after which the trail becomes more difficult.

The town of Boone’s Greenway Trail is paved and stroller-friendly. Running from one end of Boone to the other, it crosses several bridges that allow for some good views. An easy, alternative way to see Boone, this paved trail is less

Grandfather Mountain offers hiking options aplenty, from guided hikes through the park’s trail system to the popular Profile Trail.

PHOTO COURTESY OF GRANDFATHER MOUNTAIN

than four miles. Access to the greenway can be found in many locations throughout town. A good place to start is at the Watauga Swim Complex on Hunting Hills Lane in Boone.

The Mountains to Sea Trail will eventually connect Clingman’s Dome in Tennessee to Jockey’s Ridge State Park on the outer banks of North Carolina with a walkable trail. The Beacon Heights overlook on the Blue Ridge Parkway is one of the entry points for this trail.

Named Section 14 of the Mountains to Sea, it is a challenging and scenic 16.2mile hike to Deep Gap. Moses H. Cone Memorial Park near Blowing Rock is another easy hike. Just off the Blue Ridge Parkway, it preserves the country estate of Moses Cone, including a 13,000-square foot historic mansion that now houses the Parkway Craft Center. The 25 miles of carriage trails throughout the 3,500-acre estate are open to horseback riding and hiking. The park is open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

through November.

Always use caution when hiking in rugged areas. Be prepared with extra layers of clothing, water, food, a flashlight and basic first aid supplies. Heed instructions and warnings from trail markings and park information.

For more hiking options, refer to the

Take a Hike!

The Appalachian Trail Georgia, North Carolina and Tennessee Regional Office 160A Zillicoa Street Asheville, N.C. 28801 (828) 254-3708 www.appalachiantrail.org Grandfather Mountain 2050 Blowing Rock Highway Linville, N.C. 28646 (800) 468-7325 www.grandfather.com

Blue Ridge Parkway for information on dozens of trails all along the parkway.

A free application for iPhone and Android smart phones is now available through the North Carolina State Parks.

This app allows you to find activities and points of interest near your location.

Friends of the Mountains to Sea Trail (919) 698-9024 www.ncmst.org Blue Ridge Parkway (828) 298-0398 www.blueridgeparkway.org Blue Ridge Natural Heritage Area (828) 298-5330 www.blueridgeheritage.com North Carolina State Parks (877) 722-6762 www.ncparks.gov

THE MOUNTAIN TIMES AUTUMN GUIDE

2013

PAGE 31

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THE MOUNTAIN TIMES AUTUMN GUIDE

2013

Nine-year-old Kyle Scannell of Greensboro carefully makes his way across a rope on the Discovery Course tour with Rock Dimensions.

PHOTOS BY KELLEN SHORT

Climb Time

BY KELLEN SHORT

A natural jungle gym awaits in the High Country for those seeking the thrill and rush of rock climbing.

Whether a first-timer or an old-timer, climbers will find a safe and challenging adventure that requires as much mental strength as it does physical.

But climbers beware — you may find the hobby addictive.

That’s what happened to Jim Horton, who got his start as a student at Appalachian State University about 25 years ago. The number of easily accessible sites in the area for bouldering — a rope-free method of climbing — and traditional

rock climbing is remarkable, he said.

“The main thing is just the rock quality itself,” Horton said, noting that many of the rock faces lack the brittle quality found in other parts of the country. “It’s hard to find good quality rock, and there’s a good variety of rock. The rock quality is well beyond anything out West, that’s for sure.”

His appreciation for the unique sites available in Western North Carolina led Horton to seek special permission to create a climbing competition at Hound Ears 19 years ago. The event gradually morphed into one of three events in the Triple Crown, a competition that features

Hang around and learn the ropes in the High Country

roughly 400 elite climbers from around the world.

While the Hound Ears competition’s fate is up in the air for this fall, the area’s reputation will no doubt remain dear to local climbing enthusiasts.

Well-known “problems,” or climbing routes, in the area include memorable names, such as Hot Rod, Roof of Death, Thresh Weasel, West Texas and Fatback.

“There’s always more to conquer,” Horton said. “I think it’s just a release from the stresses of life. When you’re climbing, you’re only pretty much thinking about what you’re doing. You’re kind of just competing against yourself in a way.”

Those who want to experience the fierce inner competition can start their careers at the Footsloggers climbing tower in downtown Boone.

Rock Dimensions manages climbs on the 40-foot outdoor tower, as well as excursions to real rock cliffs, providing all the equipment and guidance needed.

Owner Ryan Beasley said many families prefer the convenience of climbing the tower, where they can show up without advance reservations.

Others prefer to call ahead and plan a half-day session or full-day session at an area site, including the challenging multi-

CONTINUED ON PAGE 33

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THE MOUNTAIN TIMES AUTUMN GUIDE

CLIMB TIME CONTINUED FROM PAGE 32

pitch climbs on larger rock faces, such as Linville Gorge or Table Rock.

“The neat thing about that is there’s climbs there that are real low-angle that are appropriate for beginners,” Beasley said.

Rock Dimensions also leads tours of a high ropes course and zipline at the Blowing Rock Conference Center. The threelevel Discovery Course allows individuals or families to test their skills on ever more challenging obstacles before experiencing the rush of a zipline descent.

The course also includes the “giant swing,” which allows harnessed participants to hop off a platform and free-fall for seconds before the rope catches and they swing high above the earth.

“It takes people a while to build up their courage, because you are just sliding off

Lucy Rapfogel, 10, of Boone swings from rope to rope, while suspended 40 feet above the ground on the Discovery Course in Blowing Rock with Rock Dimensions. Rapfogel said she has been climbing since she was 5 after also trying horseback riding, gymnastics, kung fu and ballet. ‘It’s fun, and it kind of makes my dad nervous because he’s afraid of heights,’ Rapfogel said.

PAGE 33

the platform,” Beasley said.

Rock Dimensions also offers summer day camps, caving trips and professional trainings and certifications through the Professional Climbing Instructors’ Association.

Beasley said the High Country’s climbing community is strong, and Rock Dimensions is ready to open its arms to those who want to learn the craft.

“We get a lot of people here that say, ‘Hey, I’m not in the best physical shape. I can’t rock climb,’” Beasley said. “ … Somebody might think, my 5- or 6-year-old kid, they’re too little, they can’t climb.”

But he stressed the organization works with all ages and abilities.

“We want people to be successful and feel good about climbing,” Beasley said.

ROCK DIMENSIONS Visit RockDimensions.com or call (828) 265-3544 for more information about local climbing options.

Climbing guide Jacob Crigler of Rock Dimensions soars through the air on the ‘giant swing,’ a part of the Discovery Course in Blowing Rock.

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THE MOUNTAIN TIMES AUTUMN GUIDE

2013

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THE MOUNTAIN TIMES AUTUMN GUIDE

Pioneer for a Day

BY ANNA OAKES

Take a moment to immerse yourself in the history of the Appalachian region with a visit to Boone’s Hickory Ridge Living History Museum.

Located on Horn in the West Drive, the museum’s wooded campus features eight log cabins and outbuildings — including the Tatum Cabin, built in 1785 — as well as many historic artifacts. Visitors to Hickory Ridge will learn about elements of pioneer living in the 1700s, including building styles, furnishings and domestic skills.

“The museum draws its knowledge from transcribed diaries written by colonists — particularly those of the Carolina backcountry — and from qualified publications on documented clothing and tool artifacts,” said Michelle Ligon, chairwoman of the Southern Appalachian Historical Association.

Museum docents will demonstrate a few pioneer ways of life, such as

cooking over an open fire, making cornhusk dolls, colonial clothing and dress, hand sewing, flintlock rifle firing, blacksmithing and weapons and tools of the 18th century.

Optional craft workshops are available for pre-arranged groups who are interested in stepping into the past.

“For large groups with reservations, Hickory Ridge Living History Museum offers a choice of one, two or three hands-on activities, such as candle-dipping, cornhusk doll making, militia drills and children’s games,” Ligon said.

Fall hours are Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. through Oct. 12. A donation of $3 per person is the recommended admission fee. Hickory Ridge Homestead is located at 591 Horn in the West Drive in Boone.

For more information or to schedule a group visit, call (828) 264-2120.

The museum website is www.hickoryridgemuseum.com.

PAGE 35

Visit the Hickory Ridge Living History Museum

Live music and dancing is a regular sight at Hickory Ridge Living History Museum’s annual Boone Heritage Festival, returning to Horn in the West Oct. 12.

PHOTO BY FRANK RUGGIERO

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THE MOUNTAIN TIMES AUTUMN GUIDE

2013

The Blue Ridge Parkway

The Linn Cove Viaduct is an architectural marvel.

PHOTO BY ROB MOORE

2013

THE MOUNTAIN TIMES AUTUMN GUIDE

PAGE 37

Parkway offers ride of a lifetime

BY JAMIE SHELL

The Blue Ridge Parkway in North Carolina weaves through vibrant and engaging communities. Many visitors to the parkway include visits to unique destinations in their journey.

Extending for 469 miles along the spine of the Appalachian Mountains through North Carolina into Virginia, the Blue Ridge Parkway was commissioned during the Franklin Roosevelt presidency in the mid1930s and was not fully completed until the construction and opening of the Linn Cove Viaduct, located near Grandfather Mountain in Avery County, in 1987.

The parkway features many natural wonders and sights that make the journey unforgettable. In addition to the destinations and overlooks along the parkway itself, the road meanders through historic towns, offering fascinating exploration of the heritage and culture of the region along the way.

A popular stop along the parkway path is Moses H. Cone Park, located at milepost 294. In addition to adjacent Julian Price Lake (named for an insurance executive who made his fortune in the first part of the 20th century, as well as the only lake

Linville Falls can be found near Milepost 316.3 on the Blue Ridge Parkway, featuring a campground, picnic area and trails aplenty.

FILE PHOTO

on the Blue Ridge Parkway where paddling is allowed), the majestic 4,200-acre area comprises the largest developed area set aside for public recreation on the Blue Ridge Parkway.

While at the Moses Cone Estate, visitors

can check out the parkway’s official craft center at Flat Top Manor and watch mountain handcraft demonstrations. The estate includes a family cemetery to explore, as well as carriage and apple barn, in addition to a system of carriage trails for a unique

parkway experience. Cone Park provides opportunities to walk along a nature trail or picnic in one of more than 100 picnic sites on the property. Visitors can camp under the stars at the parkway’s largest campground and, on a seasonal basis, enjoy interpretive programs in a 300-seat amphitheater or an evening campfire program.

Visitors can view the majestic Blue Ridge Mountains from Flat Rock, located near Grandfather Mountain at milepost 308. A short distance to the south will take visitors to milepost 316 and Linville Falls Recreation Area, where trails and overlooks to Linville Falls and Linville Gorge are available.

Visitors are allowed to drive the parkway free of charge, but commercial vehicles are prohibited without approval from Park Service Headquarters.

In all, Blue Ridge Parkway offers nine campgrounds, as well as fishing opportunities in one of 13 lakes for those possessing the appropriate Virginia or North Carolina fishing license.

Weather conditions, particularly in the late fall and through the winter months, have a major effect on travel across the

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Ridge Parkway. The parkway is not maintained by road crews in the winter, and sections pass over especially high elevations and through tunnels that are often impassable and closed from late

Mileposts of Note 216.9: NC - VA State Line. Alt. 2,547.

217.5: Cumberland Knob. 1,000 acres, picnic area, comfort stations, drinking water. 15-minute loop trail to Cumberland Knob. (Elev. 2,855). Loop trail into Gully Creek Gorge. 2 hours.

218.6: Fox Hunters Paradise. Overlook and parking area. 10 minutes by trail to the Paradise, where old-time hunters listened to their hounds. Alt. 2,805.

229: US 21 Crossover. West 7 mi. to Sparta, NC., 17 miles to Independence, VA. East 4 Mi. to Roaring Gap, NC. 238.5: Doughton Park, 7,000 acres Picnic area (Milepost 241), campground (Milepost 239), trailer sites, comfort stations, drinking water, 30 miles of trail.

At Milepost 238.5 is the picturesque Brinegar Cabin. Be sure to visit Wildcat Rocks (Milepost 241.1), to view the Caudill House, a survivor from a community largely destroyed by an early 20th century flood.

248.1: NC 18 Crossover 2 Mi. west of Laurel Springs. 24 mi. east to North Wilkesboro, NC. 261: NC 16 Crossover. West 12 mi. to Jefferson, 14 mi. to West Jefferson, 26 mi to Grassey Creek. East 20 mi. to North Wilkesboro.

268: Benge Gap. 272: E.B. Jeffress Park. Picnic area, Comfort station, trail to Cascades.

276.4: Deep Gap. US 421 Crossover.

W. 11 mi. to Boone. E 26 miles to North Wilkesboro.

291.9: US 221/321 Crossover. 7 mi. north to Boone, 2 mi. south to Blowing Rock.

292.7: Moses H. Cone Memorial Park, 3,600 acres. Many miles of horse and carriage trails, hiking, fishing.

294: Historic Flat Top Manor House; Parkway Craft Center; comfort station; visitor information, publications.

295: Julian Price Memorial Park. 4,344 acres. Campground, picnic area, lake,

2013

fall through early spring. Conditions can change quickly in the higher elevations of the High Country where the Parkway passes, so drivers are encouraged to check ahead to see if the parkway is open to traffic.

For more information about the Blue Ridge Parkway, visit www.blueridgeparkway.org.

boating, fishing, trails. Alt. 3,400. Reservations for camping www.recreation.gov.

304.4: Linn Cove Viaduct Information Center. Visitor information, comfort station, publications. Trail access viaduct.

Alt. 4,000.

305.2: Junction Parkway and US 221.

3 mi. west to Linville.

308.2: Flat Rock Parking Area. Selfguiding nature trail to superb view of Linville Valley and Grandfather Mountain.

312: NC 181 Crossover, 32 miles southeast to Morganton, 2 mi. north to Pineola.

316.3: Linville Falls. Visitor Center.

Campground and picnic area. Trail to overlooks of falls and gorge. For more information on Linville Falls, click here.

For camping reservations www.recreation.gov.

316.4: Linville River Parking Area.

One of the Parkway’s largest stone arch bridges. Three spans of 80 feet each. Fish in Linville River. Picnic area. Comfort Station. Alt. 3,250. Take Spur Rd. to Linville Falls, campground and visitor center.

317.4: South 1 mi. to Linville Falls community. 24 mi. to Marion.

320.7: Chestoa View offers an unusually fine view from one of the many vertical cliffs on Humpback Mountain.

331: NC 226 Crossover. 6 mi. north to Spruce Pine. 14 mi. south to Marion.

331: Museum of North Carolina Minerals. Junction of Parkway & NC 226. Features minerals found in North Carolina and regional geology. County Chamber of Commerce Office. Restrooms. Open daily year around.

331: Overmountain Victory National Historic Trail - Commemorates the campaign leading up to the American victory at Kings Mountain in 1780. Route crosses the Blue Ridge Parkway at Gillespie Gap, near the Mineral Museum. Administered by the National Park Service. www.nps. gov/ovvi.

334: NC 226A Crossover to Little Switzerland.

COURTESY OF THE BLUE RIDGE PARKWAY ASSOCIATION WWW.BLUERIDGEPARKWAY.ORG

THE MOUNTAIN TIMES AUTUMN GUIDE

2013

PAGE 39

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PAGE 40

THE MOUNTAIN TIMES AUTUMN GUIDE

2013

The High Country’s scenic byways are a major draw for area and visiting cyclists.

PHOTO BY ROB MOORE

Behind the Bars: Cycling in the High Country

BY JESSE CAMPBELL

The twisting and winding — and at times unforgiving — High Country byways and highways have made the region a destination for cyclists of all endurance and skill levels.

On any given road, on any given day, cyclists can find themselves on a peaceful ride on a straightaway or gentle sloping course, before having to switch to lower gears to battle a steep, grueling hill.

The unique topography of the High Country has made for the perfect proving ground for cyclists training for their next big race or for the vacationing family wanting a perfect weekend get away on two wheels.

There are several local group ride options that are free of charge and are held during fair and warm weather days.

On Monday nights, road cyclists take to a 15- or 30-mile loop that begins in Blowing Rock at 5:30 p.m. If you are not riding to the starting point, Boone Bike and Touring recommend that you park at the parking deck around the corner.

For more of a group race experience, pedal up to Boone Bike’s Tuesday Night

Ride that meets at the shop around 6 p.m. The shop is located at 899 Blowing Rock Road. This ride is geared toward experienced riders and varies week to week. On most treks, however, riders can expect a typical Blowing Rock orientation via Winkler’s Creek Road or U.S. 321. Once in Blowing Rock, riders follow the Blue Ridge Parkway or U.S. 221 to Holloway Mountain.

Wednesday’s Magic Night Ride is geared toward riders of all levels of experience, regrouping at three spots along the route. The ride begins at Magic Cycles, located at 140 S. Depot St. in downtown Boone, at 6 p.m.

For west-bound riders, the Westside Rambler’s Thursday Night Ride leaves from Valle Crucis Elementary School at 5:30 p.m. The shortest route usually rides 20 miles, climbing Mast Gap to the Sugar Grove community.

“We ride as long as the light permits us to,” Rambler rider Earl McMahon said. “We really need light till 7:15 p.m.

As long as we think we have enough light, we will ride.”

Everyone, regardless of skill level is invited to ride.

“We have a basic route,” McMahon said. “We also have a second route, so we gear it toward everyone’s riding ability. The basic is a 24-mile loop that goes to state line via Old U.S. 0421.

It has just one climb (Mast Gap). For those who aren’t ready to make that climb, what we suggest is for them to park at Old Cove Creek School, and we pick them up from there. It’s a pretty level from there, and they get a 16-mile run.”

For novice cyclists, the Watauga Leisure Biking experience might be your speed. This group of cyclists meets two to three times a week and welcomes new riders of any age or ability level. For more information, visit www.wataugaleisurebiking.com.

If you are looking for the trail less traveled, head down to Sugar Mountain near Banner Elk, which is located in picturesque Avery County, for biking trails that intertwine throughout the village and are accessible from many points throughout the resort until Oct. 20. Visit www.skisugar.com for more information and to download a map of the trails.

High Country Cycling Shops Beyond Category Cycling 8100 Valley Blvd., Blowing Rock, N.C. (828) 295-8600 www.facebook.com/BeyondCategoryCycling

Biking Buddies 137 Blevins Express Road, West Jefferson, N.C. 28694 (336) 246-7603 Boone Bike and Touring 899 Blowing Rock Road, Boone, N.C. 28607 (828) 262-5750 www.boonebike.com

Creeper Trail Bike Rentals 16153 Highlands Parkway, Whitetop, Va. 24292 (276) 388-3056 www.creepertrailbikerental-shuttle.com

Magic Cycles 140 S. Depot St. Boone, N.C. 28607 (828) 265-2211 www.magiccycles.com

2013

THE MOUNTAIN TIMES AUTUMN GUIDE

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Rocky Knob Mountain Bike Park

BY JAMIE SHELL

Rocky Branch Trail is one of several trails at Rocky Knob Mountain Bike Park.

PHOTO BY KRISTIAN JACKSON, COURTESY OF ROCKY KNOB MOUNTAIN BIKE PARK

a very rocky mountain, which did not lend itself to truly beginner trails. What we’ve created is a kind of playground for intermediate riders, maybe advanced beginners, all the way up to more advanced trails.”

Rocky Knob consists of five primary trails: 1.6-mile Rocky Branch trail loop, the one-mile Middle Earth trail, nearly fourmile Boat Rock Loop, the downhill PBJ

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parks are scattered throughout the trail layout, with a “modern-rustic” playground popular with parents and youngsters alike.

“When we were thinking about designing this park, we really wanted a place where anybody who could ride a mountain bike could enjoy themselves on a bike,” Jackson said. “When we actually started developing the trails, we realized we were dealing with

For the advanced beginning rider through intermediate and expert cyclists, perhaps no park offers the variety of challenges and excitement that is found at Rock Knob Mountain Bike Park, located off U.S. 421, just east of Boone.

Although hard to believe, there was no legal mountain biking in Watauga County until Rocky Knob was constructed.

“Several folks got together and started planning this idea to create a mountain bike park in Boone,” Rocky Knob Mountain Bike Park trail boss Kristian Jackson said.

Watauga County Tourism Development Authority and Boone Area Cyclists partnered in 2010 to make the dream of a quality bike park in the Boone area a reality, securing North Carolina Parks and Recreation Trust Fund monies and other grant funding to help pay for construction.

Rocky Knob boasts 4,000-foot elevations at its highest peaks and spreads across 185 rugged acres. The park includes six- to eight-miles of mountain bike trails for all skill levels, multiple shelters, an adventure playground and picnic areas. In addition, sophisticated and fun skills-development

Trail and Ol’ Hoss.

“Rocky Knob is pretty close to as good as trails can get,” Watauga TDA executive director Wright Tilley said. “Rocky Knob shows that we’re serious about enhancing outdoor recreation infrastructure for visitors and locals. My son’s reaction was, ‘Can we come here every day?’”

Rocky Knob is open and accessible to both cyclists and hikers, so visitors are asked to be sure to abide by the recommended direction of travel for each, so the two user groups can have easy visual access and make safe passage. The main trail splits momentarily in a number of locations to provide technical features for more advanced riders.

Rocky Knob Mountain Bike Park is located east of Boone toward Wilkesboro on U.S. 421. The entrance is on the right, two miles from the N.C. 194 junction in Boone.

Coming from the east, pass the light at the crossing of Old U.S. 421, and 1.4 miles later, make a U-turn beyond the median and turn right into the park after 0.2 miles.

For more information, visit www.rockyknob.wordpress.com or www.booneareacyclists.com.

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THE MOUNTAIN TIMES AUTUMN GUIDE

PAGE 42

2013

Celebrating

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THE MOUNTAIN TIMES AUTUMN GUIDE

2013

PAGE 43

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PAGE 44

THE MOUNTAIN TIMES AUTUMN GUIDE

2013

Camping is permitted in national forests and in designated campsites on the Blue Ridge Parkway.

PHOTO SUBMITTED

Camping in the High Country

BY CAROLINE HARRIS

Nothing says “autumn” like going camping.

Campfires, flannel, s’mores, Swiss Army gadgets, fall colors and a chill in the air. What could be better?

If you prefer camping out under the stars in the woods of a national park or lounging comfortably in your RV with a lakefront view, the High Country has many scenic camping options to choose from.

High Country campgrounds feature a host of activities — kayaking, rock climbing, biking, hiking, tubing, sports, fishing and more — as well as playgrounds and family activities for the kids. Up here,

it’s easy to find the camping experience you’re looking for.

Camping is permitted in national forests and in designated campsites on the Blue Ridge Parkway. Camp (with the exception of certain Blue Ridge Parkway sites) must be at least 1,000 feet from vehicular roads, as well as parking and recreation areas. National forests in the High Country include Pisgah National Forest, Linville Gorge and Grandfather Mountain.

THE LINVILLE GORGE WILDERNESS The “Grand Canyon of North Carolina” is part of the Pisgah National Forest.

The gorge is formed by the Jonas Ridge on the east and Linville Mountain on the west and is bisected by the Linville River, which drops 2,000 feet into the valleys below. Recreation opportunities include hiking, backpacking, rock climbing, fishing and hunting.

Camping is permitted in the Linville Gorge Wilderness, but permits are required on weekends and holidays May 1 to Oct. 31.

Free permits may be obtained at the District Ranger’s Office in Marion, between 8 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. Walk-in permits, for the current week only, are available at the Linville Gorge Information Cabin,

located on Kistler Memorial Highway.

The cabin is open April through October, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., seven days a week.

GRANDFATHER MOUNTAIN STATE PARK Backpack camping is allowed with a permit at 13 backpack camping sites along the trail system. Though camping is free, campers must self-register at the trailheads. Campers must leave vehicles at either the Profile Trail or Blue Ridge Parkway trailheads; no vehicles can be left overnight in the Grandfather CONTINUED ON PAGE 45

2013

THE MOUNTAIN TIMES AUTUMN GUIDE

Julian Price Memorial Park features a campground with non-electric RV and tent sites, as well as bathroom and drinking water facilities. Campers have convenient access to hiking trails, fishing and boat rentals and picnic facilities; open early May through the fall leaf season.

CAMPING CONTINUED FROM PAGE 44

Mountain attraction. For cooking, a gaspowered backpacking stove is recommended. Water is available only from intermittent streams. The park office is open from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday.

KOA 123 Harmony Mountain Lane Boone, N.C. 28607 (828) 264-7250 www.koa.com/campgrounds/boone/

BLUE BEAR MOUNTAIN CAMP 196 Blue Bear Mountain Road Todd, N.C. 28684 (828) 406-4226 www.bluebearmountain.com Blue Bear Mountain is a brand new facility, offering private, remote, rustic, leave-no-trace tent camping on 150 acres of pristine, natural land. RV camping, while not remote, still offers the beauty of a natural setting. Blue Bear Mountain offers spacious, low-density RV Camping, private rustic car-accessible tent camping, and remote tent camping. It is located eight miles from Boone.

Located just outside of the Boone town limits off of N.C. 194, the Boone KOA Campground has tent sites, cabins and full RV hookups and is open until Nov. 1.

Pitch your tent and let nature take care of the rest (except for the marshmallows) during your camping trip in the High Country.

PHOTO SUBMITTED

FLINTLOCK CAMPGROUND 171 Flintlock Campground Drive, N.C. 105 Boone, N.C. 28607 (828) 963-5325 www.flintlockcampground.com

BUCK HILL CAMPGROUND 6401 N.C. 19-E South Plumtree, N.C. 28664 (828) 766-6162 www.buckhillrvcampground.com Located 10 miles north of Spruce Pine in the Blue Ridge Mountains along 1,600 feet of the North Toe River, Buck Hill Campground is the perfect place for families to relax and play. Offering 60 large, shady RV sites, each equipped with picnic tables, fire pits and full hookups, the campground also features 144 acres of hiking trails. Enjoy a lazy ride down the river on your inner tube or spend the day fishing from our trout filled waters stocked by the state hatchery. Primitive tent campers will enjoy our open grassy fields overlooking a pond.

DOWN BY THE RIVER CAMPGROUND 292 River Campground Road Pineola, N.C. 28662 (828) 733-5057 www.downbytherivercampground.com At an elevation of 3,350 feet, Down by the River Campground offers full hook-ups and spacious RV and tent camping by the Linville River. It is open through October.

PAGE 45

Enjoy camping in the center of North Carolina’s High Country. Flintlock Campground features all the camping amenities, including cabins, tent sites and full hookups. Located on a mountainside stream at 3,500 feet in elevation, Flintlock is open April through October.

HELTON CREEK CAMPGROUND 2145 Helton Road Grassy Creek, N.C. 28631 (336) 384-3474 A family campground nestled in the banks of Helton Creek in Ashe County, five miles from N.C. 16 North and minutes away from the New River, Virginia Creeper Trail, Shatley Springs and Mount Rogers. The campground offers shady and peaceful sites for tents and full RV hookups.

HONEY BEAR CAMPGROUND GRANDFATHER CAMPGROUND 125 Profile View Road Banner Elk, N.C. 28604 (828) 355-4535 www.grandfatherrv.com Located just off N.C. 105 about 10 miles south of Boone, Grandfather Campground covers acres of breathtaking scenic views. More than 100 acres are kept by nature herself and are ideal for light to moderate hiking. Or go a little further to Grandfather Mountain where you can choose your hiking by level of difficulty and distance. See the Mile-High Swinging Bridge, natural wildlife habitat and more. Full RV hookups and tent sites available at Grandfather Campground, which is open year round.

229 Honey Bear Campground Road Boone, N.C. 28607 (828) 963-4586 www.honeybearcampground.com Conveniently located off the Blue Ridge Parkway milepost 294 or just one mile off N.C. 105, Honey Bear Campground features 26 acres of seclusion three miles from downtown Boone. This campground features fishing, hiking, tent sites, full RV hookups and cabins.

JULIAN PRICE PARK CAMPGROUND Blue Ridge Parkway, Milepost 297 (828) 963-5911 www.nps.gov Located a few minutes south of Blowing Rock on the Blue Ridge Parkway,

RACCOON HOLLER CAMPGROUND 493 Raccoon Holler Road Jefferson, N.C. 28640 (336) 982-2706 www.raccoonholler.com Raccoon Holler is adjacent to the Blue Ridge Parkway between mileposts 257 and 258 at an elevation of 3,200 feet.

Raccoon Holler features 150 sites with full hook-ups, a stocked lake, hiking, swimming and canoeing. It is open from April 20 through Oct. 31.

RIVERCAMP USA 2221 Kings Creek Road, Piney Creek, N.C. 28663 (336) 359-2267 www.rivercampusa.com Rivercamp USA features riverfront, full-hookup campsites for RVs, tents and pop-ups. Rent canoes, kayaks and inner tubes for a leisurely float down the wild and scenic New River. The camp is located conveniently near the Blue Ridge Parkway, I-77 and I-81 and is open through October.

VANDERPOOL CAMPGROUND 120 Campground Road, Vilas, N.C. 28692 (828) 297-3486 www.vanderpoolcampground.com Located in Vilas, just seven miles north of Boone on U.S. 421, Vanderpool Campground in Boone offers year-round RV camping and tent camping.

PAGE 46

THE MOUNTAIN TIMES AUTUMN GUIDE

2013

Adventure awaits in Worley’s Cave, located just down the highway in Bluff City, Tenn.

FILE PHOTO

Caving in the High Country

BY CAROLINE HARRIS

The beauty of the mountains draws thousands to the High Country every year. With some peaks reaching elevations of 5,000 feet or more, the Blue Ridge Mountains are a sight to behold and offer incredible views from the summits. There are also sights worth seeing beneath all the elevation.

Worley’s Cave, also called Morrell’s Cave, is an underground attraction in Bluff City, Tenn. In use since around the time of the Civil War and privately owned, the cave is one of the longest in the High Country, with more than seven miles of caverns. It is still in its natural state and is not outfitted with indoor walkways or lighting. Worley’s Cave is always 55 degrees inside, so you can visit any day of the year.

An expedition to Worley’s Cave begins with one of several local adven-

Caving Outfitters HIGH MOUNTAIN EXPEDITIONS 1380 N.C. 105 Boone, N.C. 28607 (828) 264-7368 www.highmountainexpeditions.com

RIVER AND EARTH ADVENTURES 1655 N.C. 105 South Boone, N.C. 28692 (828) 963-5491 www.raftcavehike.com

ture guide companies, like River and Earth Adventures. Caving trips begin at guide headquarters in Banner Elk, Boone, Elizabethton, Tenn., or another location, depending on the guide you

WAHOO’S ADVENTURES 3385 U.S. 321 South oone, NC 28607 (828) 262-5774 www.wahoosadventures.com

ROCK DIMENSIONS 139 S. Depot St. Boone, N.C. 28607 (828) 265-3544 www.rockdimensions.com

WORLEY’S CAVE ADVENTURE TRIPS worleyscaveinfo@gmail.com www.worleyscave.com choose. Headlamps or another type of lighting is provided.

Trained spelunkers will guide you through breathtaking, massive rooms, narrow passageways and underground

rivers. Expect to see cave-dwelling wildlife, like bats and salamanders.

Participate in an optional “cave roll,” rolling for 50 feet inside a three-foot wide crack in the rock. Learn about stalactites, stalagmites and the cave’s 60-foot tall speleothems that take 100 years to grow one cubic inch. Trips can be tailored for the beginning, intermediate or advanced spelunker and kids of all ages.

Expect to spend three to four hours in the cave on an average trip. For the extreme spelunker, choose an expedition that explores all seven miles into the cave and seven miles back, through deep water and challenging climbs.

Adventure guides advise that you bring a change of clothes because you will get muddy! Worley’s Cave is an ideal choice if you want an authentic and fun caving experience.

2013

THE MOUNTAIN TIMES AUTUMN GUIDE

PAGE 47

Pet-friendly options aplenty this fall

BY ADAM ORR

If you just can’t leave home without your furry best friend, don’t worry — the High Country offers plenty of pet-friendly options that cater to you and your canine companion.

“The High Country is definitely a pet-friendly vacation destination,” High Country Host marketing director Candice Cook said. “That always tops the lists of questions we get about this area. ‘Is there anything I can do with my dog?’ Absolutely, there is.”

Cook said a number of outdoor festivals are pet-friendly, while Melanie’s Food Fantasy, Hob Nob Farm Café and Café Portofino in Boone, and Quizno’s in Banner Elk, all welcome your furry friends. Beech Mountain’s The Alpen Restaurant and Bistro Roca in Blowing Rock also allow pets on the porch with diners in the fall.

Petside.com has even named the Blue Ridge Parkway, according to Cook, as No. 3 on its list of Top 10 Best PetFriendly Vacations.

“Just be sure to obey the leash laws where applicable,” Cook said. “But most importantly, remember how much the High Country has to offer you and your pet.”

Hidden dangers may also lurk closer to ground level, including poisonous mushrooms and snakes that call the High Country’s lush greenery home, so be sure to keep an eye out for your pet when venturing off the beaten path.

Favorite Places to Walk THE BOONE GREENWAY With nearly five miles of paved trails, complete with creeks, river access points and plenty of greenery, Boone’s most popular dog walking destination is the Boone Greenway. Be sure to take advantage of the dog litter stations and obey the leash law. Softball fields do not allow dogs, but you can watch Watauga County kids round the bases as you sit by the fence. Clawson-Burnley Park offers a shorter trek next to the Deerfield Road greenway access and is full of pretty views and benches.

Lola takes in the lay of the land during a hike on the Blue Ridge Parkway.

PHOTO BY FRANK RUGGIERO

WATAUGA HUMANE SOCIETY DOG PARK Feel like ripping off that leash? The Watauga Humane Society’s Dog Park is the place to go. The park is located on Don Hayes Road between Rutherwood Baptist Church and the Boone Stockyard and consists of 3.5 acres of fenced land, with a section reserved just for smaller dogs. You do have to be member to play in the park, so visit www.wataugahumanesociety.org for more information.

GRANDFATHER MOUNTAIN STATE PARK GMSP offers 11 trails that have something for both experienced and inexperienced trail dogs — just be sure to bring plenty of water. Home to more than a dozen distinct ecosystems, including more than 73 rare and endangered species, and with easily accessible trailheads on U.S. 221 and N.C. 105, Grandfather is the perfect place for nature lovers.

VALLE CRUCIS COMMUNITY PARK With picnic shelters, playground equipment and the perfect walking trail for your pet, the family-friendly Valle

Crucis Community Park even offers a fishpond. The park is located behind the Mast General Store at 3657 N.C. 194.

Leash laws are enforced.

Tyson Park offers a peaceful place for individuals and families to walk along paved trails next to a beautiful stream and includes a picnic area.

DOWNTOWN BLOWING ROCK

NEW RIVER, TODD

The benches at the front of Memorial Park on Main Street allow dogs, although the remainder of the park does not.

Remember to leash your pet as you visit Broyhill Park and Davant Field, which are all within easy walking distance of Blowing Rock’s quaint window shopping.

For those who love relaxing riverfront walks, check out Big Hill Road or Railroad Grade Road in Todd. You’ll see kayaks, canoes and tubers full of folks enjoying the fall sunshine, and both stretches offer plenty of access points for you and your pooch to take a dip. You might also try a picnic at Cook Memorial Park across from the Todd General Store or relax at the Riverside Restaurant at Brownwood.

ELK KNOB STATE PARK Home to more than 3,400 acres at 5,500-feet elevation, Elk Knob State Park is one of the state’s newest state parks, opening in 2003. Visitors can expect gorgeous views of Long Hope Valley, Mount Jefferson, Grandfather Mountain and Mount Mitchell from the summit of Elk Knob Watauga County’s second highest peak. Located on Meat Camp Road off N.C. 194, EKSP is 9.5 miles north of Boone.

FOSTER TYSON PARK Nestled in downtown Jefferson, Foster

MOSES CONE MEMORIAL PARK With 25-miles of carriage trails, Moses Cone Memorial Park is ideal for both you and your four-legged friends. Named in honor of textile entrepreneur and philanthropist, MCMP sits on the Blue Ridge Parkway on Cone’s 3,500 acre estate. Check out the 20-minute loop walk around the Cone Manor, which is said to have been walked by the Cones each morning.

THE MOUNTAIN TIMES AUTUMN GUIDE

PAGE 48

2013

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THE MOUNTAIN TIMES AUTUMN GUIDE

2013

PAGE 49

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Tues-Sat 9-5 Locally Owned & Operated

Brian “Doc” Adams, Innkeeper buffalotavernbnb@aol.com

6 N. Third Ave In Historic Downtown West Jefferson (336) 846-BEES (855) 213-8800

www.the-honey-hole.com

Cooperative Gallery Dedicated to the Art of Photography

118 N Jefferson Ave, West Jefferson www.catchlightgallery.net 336-846-1551 Wednesday - Sat 10-5.

Sunday 12-5, or by Appointment

Tis The Season For All Seasons Seasonal Gift Shop

Our inventory is always changing!

Unique Toys & baby items MUD PIE JIM SHORE DEPT 56 GREEN LEAF Seasonal Decorations for all major holidays

Downtown West Jefferson 336-846-9488 TisTheSeasonNC.com

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Tee It Up

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Golf opportunities abound in the High Country

BY JAMIE SHELL

Nothing quite captures the essence of a great sports vacation than a day on a picturesque golf course nestled in the heart of the Appalachian Mountains.

Fortunately for visitors, North Carolina’s High Country is teeming with a number of quality golf courses at reasonable rates.

Among the public courses to take a foursome and play a round is Mountain Glen Golf Course in Newland and Village of Sugar Mountain Golf Course in Sugar Mountain.

A Golf Digest four-star-rated course and one of the most pristine and wellmaintained golf courses in Western North Carolina, Mountain Glen beckons both skilled and novice golfers to try its terrain on for size.

Each of Mountain Glen’s 6,723 yards offers a unique experience to every golfer skill set. MGGC’s front nine holes are more of a links-style course with small, bent-grass greens and relatively flat and open fairways. The back nine holes work their way up to what was once referred to as Cranberry Draw. The 11th hole, an uphill dog-leg left, was rated as one of the best par-four holes in Western North Carolina. Holes 14 through 18 work their way back down Cranberry Draw, returning to the clubhouse.

MGGC is known for more than its great golf. The clubhouse’s grill is a popular stop for local residents looking for great food at lunch for a great price. Famous for its award-winning hamburgers and fries, the grill has become a destination meeting spot. A full breakfast and lunch menu is served from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. daily.

The clubhouse also holds a well-stocked and full-service golf shop, offering balls, footwear and golf apparel. Experienced personnel are available to help with clubfitting needs, with re-gripping also done in-house. Mountain Glen carries all the top-name brands, including Taylor Made, Ping, Titleist, Cutter and Buck, FootJoy, Adidas and more. The shop is open from 8 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. seven days a week.

Hidden among the numerous private golf courses dotting the High Country landscape is a test for seasoned and novice golfer alike: Village of Sugar Mountain Golf Course.

Designed by Frank Duane in 1974,

The High Country is teeming with a number of quality golf courses at reasonable rates.

PHOTO BY GLEN E. SANTY

Village of Sugar Mountain Golf Course features nine challenging par-three holes, eight par fours and a lone par five stretching across more than 60 acres of pristine Sugar Mountain property. At an elevation of 4,000 feet, the course is known for its immaculate putting greens, laurel boundaries, many streams and panoramic views.

Sugar Mountain Golf Course recently

Public Courses BOONE GOLF CLUB 18 holes over 6,680 yards with a par of 71 433 Fairway Drive Boone, N.C. 28607 (828) 264-8760

RED TAIL MOUNTAIN 18 holes over 6,884 yards with a par of 72 300 Clubhouse Lane Mountain City, Tenn.

(423) 727-7931

completed a new clubhouse, as well as an irrigation system across the property, replacing the original system that had been in place since the 1974 original construction.

The 4,560-yard, par-64 course is a challenge for novice and skilled golfer alike, as each hole offers fantastic views and often allows for player creativity.

MOUNTAIN AIRE GOLF CLUB 18 holes over 6,404 yards with a par of 72 1104 Golf Course Road West Jefferson, N.C. 28694 (336) 877-4716

MOUNTAIN GLEN GOLF CLUB 18 holes over 6,723 yards with a par of 72 1 Club House Drive Newland, N.C. 28657 (828) 733-5804

SUGAR MOUNTAIN GOLF COURSE 18 holes over 4,560 yards with a par of 64

“As a par-64 course, Sugar is a little different from so-called championship layouts, and, to some degree, is more attractive to retirees and up-and-coming recreational golfers,” Sugar Mountain golf director Tom McAuliffe said. “Ask around, and good players will tell you that Sugar Mountain is a valid test where par is a good measure of your abilities.”

1054 Sugar Mountain Drive Sugar Mountain, N.C. 28604 (828) 898-6464

WILLOW CREEK GOLF COURSE 9 holes over 1,663 yards with a par of 27 354 Bairds Creek Road Vilas, N.C. 28692 (828) 963-6865

MOUNTAINEER GOLF CENTER (DRIVING RANGE) 115 Beverly Heights Ave. Boone, N.C. 28607 (828) 264-6830

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Gem mining is fun for the entire family at Foggy Mountain, just south of Boone.

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What Will You Find?

Search for stones and minerals at area gem mines

BY ANNA OAKES

Enjoy the thrill of searching for nature’s surprises and, with help from the High Country’s gem mining locations, you could even design your own piece of jewelry.

The area features a number of gem mining operations that allow you to pan for gold, rubies, emeralds, sapphires, amethyst and other specimens.

“You can do it in the rain or shine,” said Justin Critcher, general manager of Foggy Mountain Gem Mine, located just south of Boone on N.C. 105.

The flume areas are covered, and when the weather is cold, the facility opens its indoor flume, he said.

Foggy Mountain prides itself on a greater quantity and variety of high-end mineral specimens, as well as a graduate gemologist, who can provide full appraisals of any gems discovered.

In addition, the mine offers a fully stocked jewelry case and gem-cutting services.

“We do have a quite a few North Carolina specimens for sale,” Critcher said.

The gem mine is a top-rated attraction in Boone, based on TripAdvisor reviews, and in 2013 received a TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence award.

The mine is open seven days a week from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. each day.

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High Country Disc Golf

BY JESSE CAMPBELL

When most people think of the High Country and cool, crisp fall afternoons, they typically think of football.

While the region is renowned for premier college and high school gridiron action, there is a new sport that is capturing the attention of athletes and spectators alike.

With the emergence of disc golf courses in Ashe and Avery counties, the non-traditional sport is beginning to expand its tiny foothold in the High Country.

Disc golf is what the name implies. The sport includes a golf-like format in play and scoring, but instead of using balls and clubs, players instead opt for beveled discs that they try land in chained baskets throughout a course.

Currently, there are two public courses, although novice players can purchase baskets at area sporting goods stores and practice in their backyard.

ASHE COUNTY PARK The disc golf course at Ashe County Park in Jefferson features a professional course with natural hazards, including wooded tree lines, the wind — a constant variable in the sport, especially in the High Country — and a fish pond that has swallowed its fair share of discs. The course is free of

GEM MINES CONTINUED FROM PAGE 52

For more information about Foggy Mountain Gem Mine, visit www.foggymountaingems.com or call (828) 963-4367.

Other gem mines in the area include: Doc’s Rocks 129 Mystery Hill Lane Blowing Rock, N.C. 28605 (828) 264-4499 www.docsrocks.net Greater Foscoe Mining Company 8998 N.C. 105 South Foscoe, N.C. 28604 (828) 963-5928 www.foscoeminingco.com

Pat Farrell of DisConcepts, the course’s designer, lines up a shot at the newly implemented disc golf course at Beech Mountain.

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charge to play.

The course features concrete and/or platform rubber deck tee pads on every hole.

In addition to the 18 holes, there are also two alternate holes — a short loop and a practice basket.

To find Ashe County Park, take U.S. 221 North toward Jefferson for 15 miles. Turn left on Long Street, which dead-ends quickly into Main Street (without a sign). Turn right on Main Street, and travel about one mile, and turn left onto Ashe Park Road (by the Ashe County Park sign on the left).

For more information, call Ashe County Parks and Recreation at (336) 982-6185.

BEECH MOUNTAIN RESORT Beech Mountain Resort in Banner Elk launched its first disc golf course this summer. The course will remain open prior to the ski season, when it will be packed up to make room for skiers and snowboarders.

The course is sprawled over the resort’s ski slopes. Players actually have to ride the ski lift multiple times to play a full 18-holes, making it one of the more unique courses in the entire Southeast.

“We wanted to add different items that would be of interest to different people,” Beech Mountain Resort general manager Ryan Costin said. “A lot of people at the resort have an interest in disc golf, and we

thought this would be an easy transition because of the land and the clientele of people looking for things to do. Disc golf seemed to fit that natural progression.”

Course designer Pat Farrell, of DiscConcepts Disc Golf in Greenville, S.C., said the concept of incorporating disc golf play into ski resorts began about 10 years ago.

“When I started doing this in Oregon, it was pretty revolutionary at the time,” Farrell said. “Some of the resorts had a couple of bad continuous snow seasons and started turning to their summer activities, like mountain biking and disc golf.”

While the concept of is not exactly revolutionary, the course at Beech Mountain is unrivaled, Farrell said.

“The course at Beech is really spectacular,” he said. “It sets it all off when players get to ride a ski lift up the mountain, so you are getting to review the whole course as you ride up. You’re seeing all of this incredible landscape, and it’s much like in mountain biking. Everyone likes to go downhill.”

Costs to play vary on player participation. Nine holes, or one lift ride, cost $10, while 18 holes, or three lift rides, cost $15.

Beech Mountain Resort is located at 1007 Beech Mountain Parkway in Beech Mountain. For more information, visit www.skibeech.com or call (800) 4382093.

www.foggymountaingems.com River and Earth Adventures 1655 N.C. 105 South Boone, N.C. 28607 (866) 411-RAFT www.raftcavehike.com/gem-mining Gem Valley 2489 Little Peak Creek Road Jefferson, N.C. 28640 (336) 982-5177 www.gemvalleync.com Sugar Creek Mining Company 3405 Tynecastle Highway Banner Elk, N.C. 28604 (828) 898-GEMS Foggy Mountain Gem Mine 4416 N.C. 105 South Boone, N.C. 28607 (828) 263-4367

Foggy Mountain Gem Mine includes a fully stocked gem and jewelry case with many North Carolina specimens.

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Lovers’ legend rides on the winds of The Blowing Rock

BY HEATHER SAMUDIO

Breathtaking views and a story of love lead many travelers to visit The Blowing Rock and others to return to the area more than once.

The Blowing Rock stands 4,000 feet above sea level and is North Carolina’s oldest travel attraction since 1933. Johns River Gorge lies 3,000 feet below the cliffs of the mountain.

The Blowing Rock’s name came from the area’s formation. “The phenomenon is so called because the rocky walls of the gorge form a flume through which the northwest wind sweeps with such force that it returns light objects cast over the void,” according to the attraction’s website.

The flow of air coming up toward the ridge lends credence to the legend of the area. The legend recalls the love story between a Chickasaw chieftain’s daughter and a Cherokee brave. The Chickasaw chieftain was afraid of the admiration a white man had for his lovely daughter, so he traveled from the plains to the Blowing Rock along with a squaw mother.

The legend tells of the maiden, daydreaming on the cliffs when she saw a Cherokee brave wandering below in the gorge and playfully shot an arrow in his direction. The brave was mesmerized by the maiden and began courting her with songs of his land, and the two became lovers, wandering the pathless woodlands and the crystal clear streams.

One day the lovers saw a strange reddening of the sky. The brave felt it was a sign of trouble and a warning for him to return to his tribe in the plains, but the maiden asked him not to leave her. The brave was torn by a conflict between his love for the maiden and his duty to his tribe. He couldn’t choose between the two, so he jumped from the rock into the wilderness below.

The maiden, devastated with grief, prayed daily to the Great Spirit. One day, a reddening sky appeared, and the gusts of wind coming from the gorge blew her lover back onto the rock and into her arms.

The legend concludes that from that day, a perpetual wind has blown up onto the rock from the valley below.

The unusual flow of wind coming up the cliffs was the reason for Ripley’s Believe It or Not’s cartoon about “the only place in the world where snow falls upside down.”

The amazing views and the wind flow

from the rock can be seen and experienced along the self-guided trail, which leads around the attraction. The trail is approximately 1,200 feet long and takes an average of 15 to 25 minutes to walk.

The trail features a gazebo area, observation tower, trout pond, miniature waterfall, gardens, overlook and picnic area, as well as a snack and gift shop.

Visitors can pack a lunch to enjoy at the picnic area or pick up something at The Blowing Rock Snack Shop.

The attraction can be found off U.S. 321 South, on the edge of the mountain in Blowing Rock. Admission is $6 for adults, $1 for children four to 11 years old and free for children 3 and younger For more information about The Blowing Rock, call (828) 295-7111 or visit www. theblowingrock.com.

The Blowing Rock AUGUST THROUGH SEPTEMBER 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., Sunday through Thursday 8:30 a.m. to 7 p.m., Friday and Saturday

OCTOBER 8:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily

NOVEMBER, DECEMBER AND JANUARY (FIRST WEEK) 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily (Call ahead to make sure of operations during inclement weather.)

The Blowing Rock can be found off U.S. 321 in the town of Blowing Rock.

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2013

Dive deep into Linville Caverns this fall

BY ADAM ORR

The best part of fall might be when the lights go out.

Just ask president of Linville Caverns Sarah Davis, who said the most memorable portion of a trip inside the mountain, for many, comes when guides throw the lights within the deepest portions of the cavern for just a moment, plunging visitors into total darkness.

“That kind of darkness is hard to recreate outside something like a cavern,” Davis said with a laugh. “People do enjoy turning out the lights.”

Located just north of Marion on U.S. 221 North, what is today known as Linville Caverns began with a chance discovery during a fishing expedition in the early 19th century.

Working his way down a rugged stretch of stream near the Linville Gorge in the early 1800s, Henry Colton was astonished to see trout swimming in and out of what appeared to be solid rock.

Armed with nothing more than torches and curiosity, Colton and his companions squeezed through a small opening in the mountainside near the stream and found themselves standing in a giant passage he later called “a grand old cathedral.”

“I’ve been inside so many times,” Davis said, “but it would have been neat to be the first to step foot inside this place.”

Surviving essentially untouched until 1937, the massive cave complex was opened by a group of area businessmen, Davis said, a tour which consisted at the time of little more than a cold slog through 42-degree water that helped carve the caverns from the side of Humpback Mountain.

That first commercialization attempt was swept away by the waters of the massive 1940 flood, according to Davis, but grew into the unique “journey inside a mountain” experience after being reopened by her grandfather in 1941.

“We’ve been a family-run enterprise ever since,” Davis said.

In the more than seven decades since, the caverns have been made highly accessible with the inclusion of wheelchair-ready paths that keep visitors well clear of the frigid stream water, freeing them to enjoy a unique example of nature’s artistry, the result of a broad vein

Delicate flowstone formations, combined with Linville Cavern’s unique history and fascinating creatures, offer something special for everyone.

of soft limestone meeting mildly acidic mountain spring water.

Given hundreds of thousands of years, the acidic water will slowly break down the limestone before depositing it, in microscopic increments, in the water’s current, creating elaborate formations called flowstone, a process that is still underway today.

“We’re unique in that we’re one of the few remaining active caverns in the United States today,” Davis said. “The fissures in the ceiling are still open, so groundwater makes its way through and seeps into the cavern, and you get dripping water throughout the entire cavern. That groundwater picks up minerals and deposits those minerals, and they harden and cause the formations to grow.”

And all those different mineral deposits are responsible for the explosion of different colors throughout the cavern.

While the intricate flowstone formations are the highlight of the tour, history buffs can transport themselves back in time along the way — the caverns were used as a hideout by deserters from both sides during the Civil War — and nature lovers get a chance to encounter the caverns’ famous blind trout and Eastern pipistrelle bats.

Maybe best of all, visitors can trade the outdoor heat for the caverns’ cool year-round temperatures, which never exceed 52-degrees.

“It’s just amazing what nature has going on under the ground,” Davis said.

“Normally, you see a rock and think, CONTINUED ON PAGE 57

Linville Caverns offers visitors a chance to step inside one of the country’s few active cavern systems.

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CAVERNS CONTINUED FROM PAGE 56

Visitors can trade the outdoor heat for the caverns’ cool year-round temperatures, which never exceed 52 degrees.

‘Well, that’s nothing,’ but that’s not always the case.”

Davis said any kind of sturdy footwear is acceptable for the 35-minute tour, but visitors may want to bring a light jacket.

“The cavern is cool, and the ceiling does drip, so visitors may want to cover up a little bit,” Davis said. “It depends on the amount of rain we’ve had, but even in the driest of times, the cave can be a little wet.”

Cameras and video cameras are acceptable, according to Davis, with the exception of tripods and external flash devices.

Admission costs $7.50 for adults, $6.50 for senior citizens 62 and older, $5.50 for children 5 to 12 and free for children younger than 5. Hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily September and October and 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. daily November and December.

Linville Caverns is located at 19929 U.S. 221 North, Marion, N.C. 28752.

For more information, call (828) 7564171 or visit www.linvillecaverns.com.

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Mysterious Ways

2013

Mystery Hill offers illusions, puzzles and family fun

BY KELLEN SHORT

For decades, Mystery Hill between Boone and Blowing Rock has been one of the High Country’s enduring traditions.

No other place in the area offers an opportunity to feel the unusual sensation of the Mystery House, to enclose a person in a massive bubble or to explore dozens of optical illusions and mysterious happenings.

“People come here because it’s fun,” said Wayne Underwood, who, with wife Sharon, owns and runs Mystery Hill. “Families can come, and they can laugh and try to figure out puzzles and illusions and all the mysteries together.”

Some of those puzzler include the Mystery Platform, where a person standing on the north side always appears taller than one on the south side.

The main draw is the Mystery House, which offers a phenomenon like no other.

Walking can be difficult in the unusual pull of the house, and water appears to flow upward.

“The Mystery House itself, it’s the most unusual part of the tour,” Underwood said.

Visitors return again and again to experience the bizarre feeling and share the moment with friends and family.

Debbie Hall of Hickory visited Mystery Hill with her grandchildren, 9-year-old Johanna and 4-year-old Mica.

“She had been before, and she wanted her brother to come,” Hall explained.

The excitement continued for the family as they entered the Hall of Mystery, a museum full of optical illusions and atypical sights. There, visitors can enclose themselves in a huge bubble or try to figure out why their shadows stay on the wall long after the people have moved.

Nothing is computerized, so children and families can enjoy old-fashioned fun together, Underwood said.

Adjacent to the main building, the Appalachian Heritage Museum and Native American Artifacts Museum provide more ways to expand a day at Mystery Hill.

The museums are housed in what was once the Dougherty House, originally built at the Appalachian State University campus in 1903. The Dougherty family was instrumental in the creation of the school, and the house has been restored and filled with antiques to show what life was like a century ago.

The artifact museum contains more

Nothing is quite as it seems at Mystery Hill, located on U.S. 321 between Boone and Blowing Rock.

FILE PHOTOS

than 50,000 Native American items collected by R.E. “Moon” Mullins and his wife, Irene, including arrowheads, pottery, pipes and knives from about 23 states.

History is important at Mystery Hill, which originated in 1948 with William Hudson. As legend goes, Hudson and his wife were the first to notice peculiarities at the site, which they sold to Underwood’s parents in 1958 for construction of a fish camp restaurant.

The restaurant later closed, as the at-

traction grew and expanded, eventually surviving two major fires in 1963 and 1989.

The constant throughout the decades has been Underwood, who has worked at Mystery Hill since age 10. “For years, I was the only tour guide,” he said.

Today, he’s still looking at ways to expand and grow, and hopes the next three to four years will hold some exciting changes for the attraction.

“Families don’t spend time together like

they used to, and Mystery Hill is a place that families can come and enjoy themselves,” Underwood said. “It’s good, clean entertainment.”

To get there, take U.S. 321 approximately four miles from either Boone or Blowing Rock and look for signs. Mystery Hill is located at 129 Mystery Hill Lane between the Daniel Boone gas station and Tweetsie Railroad.

For more information, visit www.mysteryhill-nc.com or call (828) 263-0507.

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Grandfather Mountan offers mile-high views of the High Country during its autumn splendor.

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Our Patriarch — Grandfather Mountain

BY SAM CALHOUN

If the High Country is a family of towns, mountains and attractions, then Grandfather Mountain is our patriarch.

Towering skyward as the backdrop to many of our vistas and acting as our regional gravity, pulling locals and national and international visitors to its peaks, Grandfather Mountain is the force of our nature, and the old man looks his best in fall colors.

Grandfather Mountain has ideal conditions for autumn leaf looking, due to a wide range in elevation, which allows visitors to see the changing leaves over a greater number of weeks. Guests can view myriad vistas from the mountain’s extensive backcountry trail system, serpentine roads or Mile-High Swinging Bridge.

Grandfather is a great destination for leaf looking, not only because its high peaks are a good vantage point for looking out across the color on the hillsides below, but because the mountain hosts such a tremendous variety of plant life.

Among that plant life, guests will

likely spot a variety of wildlife, such as squirrels, songbirds and other forest animals. But what about the more elusive wildlife? Grandfather features seven environmental habitats inside its 800-acre attraction, where guests can come face to face with cougars, whitetailed deer, black bears, eagles and river otters. And if you want to get even closer to the animals, Grandfather now offers unique Behind-the-Scenes Tours.

Fall at Grandfather Mountain offers an extraordinary chance to view the migration of some incredible birds. Visitors have an ideal vantage point to catch a glimpse of everything from hawks, falcons and other birds of prey to Monarch butterflies and more than 11 different species of warblers. Naturalist programs on the mountain focus on hawk migration and Monarch watching, and are ideal for avid bird-watchers and families alike. Participants will learn about the winged animals and their fascinating migratory habits.

The mountain’s higher overlooks afford the perfect perspective for visitors

keeping an eye to the sky.

“Linville Peak is a great bird-watching location this time of year,” said Jesse Pope, director of education. “Visitors of all ages will be able to appreciate this spectacle.”

Many special events are planned for this fall, including a sunset-viewing opportunity at the Mile-High Swinging Bridge on Sept. 28, the “Creatures of the Night and Bonfire Delight” on Oct. 5, a sunrise-viewing opportunity on Oct. 5, “The Colors of Grandfather” programs on Oct. 12 and 19 and the “Beary Scary Halloween” on Oct. 26.

But all the fun at Grandfather isn’t just reserved for the outdoors. The Grandfather Mountain Nature Museum houses more than two dozen exhibits designed to elucidate guests about the natural history of Grandfather Mountain and the High Country, and is flanked by the 140-seat Mildred’s Grill, which serves up homemade burgers, unique sandwiches, salads, snacks and desserts. And if guests want a sweet treat to go along with their trip to

Grandfather, the mountain features The Fudge Shop that carries hand-scooped Hershey’s ice cream and multiple flavors of delicious fudge — be sure to taste the seasonal flavor of pumpkin pie!

Grandfather Mountain is open yearround (weather permitting) except for Thanksgiving and Christmas days.

Ticket sales end one hour before the park closes. Mountain management recommends arriving before 11 a.m. or after 3 p.m. on holidays and fall color weekends to avoid large groups or lines at the front gate. Ticket sales are offered from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., and the park is open from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. in the fall and winter.

Admission to Grandfather Mountain costs $18 for adults age 13 to 59, $15 for seniors age 60 and older, $8 for children age 4 to 12 and free for children younger than 4. For more information, call the front gate at (828) 733-4337, the front office at (800) 468-7325, (828) 733-2013 or visit www.grandfather. com. For more information on naturalist programs, call (828) 733-4326.

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Magic Cycles celebrates its 20th anniversary this year.

Fall into Festivals

BY KELLEN SHORT

The trees are shedding their coats and the squirrels are storing their acorns — but the High Country’s human inhabitants aren’t ready to tuck in for the winter just yet.

The area is abuzz throughout autumn with special events and festivals sure to please any age and interest.

Peruse the list below to see which festival strikes your family’s fancy.

HARVEST BOONE Be sure to visit our downtown location for various specials to be running thru out the summer.

Visit our Rental Shop located at the Village of Ski Beech. Mountain bike rentals and lift passes will be available Fri., Sat. and Sun. from June 7th to Sept 30th.

2013

Sept. 27 to 29 A showcase of local talent awaits at the third annual Harvest Boone festival.

Musicians, dancers, performance artists, poets, workshop leaders, yoga teachers and vendors converge upon the High Country Fairgrounds during the last weekend in September.

A companion event to the Boone in Blossom festival held each spring, the festival has raised more than four tons of food and contributed more than 200 community service hours to the com-

munity since its inception, organizer Jeremiah Brown said.

Entry to the festival is unique. Participants may bring 20 cans of food for donation to the Hunger and Health Coalition, work on a community service project or pay $20 for a ticket. Parking and camping at the site is free.

The event begins around 4 p.m. Friday and continues until midday Sunday, with the bulk of the activities on Saturday at the fairgrounds off Roby Greene Road in Boone.

Visit http://bit.ly/HarvestBoone for more information.

OLDE TIME ANTIQUES AND COLLECTIBLES FAIR Sept. 27 and 28 After a successful first year in 2012, the Olde Time Antiques and Collectibles Fair returns to West Jefferson Sept. 27 to 28.

A celebration of history and heritage, the event features booths selling antiques and collectibles.

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lodging

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in Blowing Rock

The fair runs from 5 to 9 p.m. Friday and 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday on Jefferson Avenue and extending into the back streets of beautiful West Jefferson.

The farmers’ market also will be open on Saturday on the Back Street, along with the Ashe County Arts Council’s Art on the Mountain craft and arts show one block away.

‘ON THE SAME PAGE’ LITERARY FESTIVAL Sept. 17 to 21 Ashe County’s annual celebration of reading and writing returns in 2013, with the theme of “secrets.” The festival is set to include informative and fun readings, workshops, film screenings and question-and-answer sessions with the authors designed for readers of all ages and interests.

One of the festival’s most popular segments, An Hour with an Author, will again take place in various restaurants in the area.

Visit www.onthesamepagefestival.org or call Ashe County Public Library at (336) 846-2021 for more information.

AUTUMN AT OZ Oct. 5 to 6 The Autumn at Oz festival celebrates its 20th year in 2013 with the same nostalgia, plus expanded hours.

The Land of Oz theme park opened atop Beech Mountain in 1970 to celebrate the beloved book and movie.

Children and adults can step into Dorothy’s ruby slippers to experience her trip down the Yellow Brick Road, meeting a full cast of characters along the way. Stick around to experience live music, dancing, food and beverages, crafts, merchandise, hay rides, a petting zoo and bonfire at “The Village” at Beech Mountain Resort.

The park opens at 9:30 a.m., and tickets are available for entrance to the park every hour until 5:30 p.m.

Tickets are $20 per person in advance or $25 per person at the gate, if still available. Transportation to the park is provided, and children 2 and younger are admitted free.

Visit autumnatoz.com for more information.

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The alpacas from Boone’s Apple Hill Farm are a favorite at area fall festivals.

PHOTO BY FRANK RUGGIERO

BRUSHY MOUNTAIN APPLE FESTIVAL

or directions.

Oct. 5 Just off the mountain in North Wilkesboro, the massive Brushy Mountain Apple Festival is among the largest arts and crafts festivals in the Southeast.

The free event, which runs from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Oct. 5, is coordinated by the Brushy Mountain Ruritan Club and typically includes more than 400 arts and crafts vendors, 100 food concessions and four stages showcasing bluegrass, country, folk, gospel and Appalachian heritage entertainment.

Apples in every form — raw, dried, jam and cider — are the stars of the show. Pre-festival activities begin at 6 p.m. Oct. 4 with the “Apple Jam,” featuring live entertainment at the corner of Main and 10th streets in North Wilkesboro.

Visit www.applefestival.net or call (336) 921-3499 for more information.

BOONE HERITAGE FESTIVAL

THISTLE MEADOW WINERY WINE FESTIVAL Oct. 6 Wine fans will gather for the 15th year at the Thistle Meadow Winery in Laurel Springs for a wine festival, featuring food, craft vendors, music and, of course, wine. Five dollars gets you a tasting glass and the chance to sample wines not only from Thistle Meadow but from three or four local wineries. The festival comes one day only from noon to 5 p.m. Visit www. thistlemeadowwinery.com or call (800) 233-1505 for more information

THE VILLAGE INNS OF BLOWING ROCK

Oct. 12 Celebrate Appalachian heritage from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Oct. 12 at the Boone Heritage Festival. Held outdoors at the scenic Hickory Ridge Living History Museum in Boone, the event showcases demonstrations of 18th-century life, craft vendors, music jam sessions, children’s activities, live music and storytelling. The eight original log cabins and outbuildings transport visitors to another time as they learn about the traditions and heritage of our mountain ancestors.

Admission is free.

Visit www.booneheritagefestival. com or call (828) 264-2120 for more information.

FESTIVAL OF THE FRESCOES Oct. 12 See firsthand the beautiful Ben Long frescoes during a festival at the Holy Trinity Church in Glendale Springs. The artist crafted his works at two small Ashe County churches in the 1970s. The first, depicting “Mary Great with Child,” “John the Baptist” and “The Mystery of Faith,” were installed at Saint Mary’s Episcopal Church in West Jefferson. Those were followed later with a life-sized image of “The Last Supper” at the Glendale Springs church.

The festival runs from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. For more information, visit www.ashefrescoes.org.

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FESTIVALS CONTINUED FROM PAGE 61

TODD NEW RIVER FESTIVAL

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Oct. 12 The Todd New River festival offers roughly 30 craft vendors, food, music and great barbecue in the historic riverside community of Todd. The event also offers face painting and special events for children throughout the day.

The Todd Ruritan Club sponsors the annual festival, which celebrates its 20th year in 2013.

Admission is free, but expect to pay for parking nearby. The festival is planned for 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Walter and Annie Cook Park in beautiful Todd.

Visit toddruritan.com or call (828) 964-1362 for more information.

OKTOBERFEST AT SUGAR MOUNTAIN Oct. 12 and 13 Grab a beer stein and squeeze into your lederhosen — Sugar Mountain’s annual Oktoberfest celebration returns for its 23rd year Oct. 12 to 13. The Harbour Towne Fest Band will bring the Bavarian atmosphere to the celebration, which includes performances from the Avery Smooth Dancers and the Mountain Laurel Cloggers. Tasty cuisine, including bratwurst, knockwurst, sauerkraut, strudel and pretzels, will be available, as well as an ample supply of Spaten beer.

Children can participate in hay rides, inflatable units and meet-ups with Sugar Bear and Sweetie Bear at the children’s activity center.

Admission, parking and shuttle are free. For more information, visit oktoberfest.skisugar.com or call (828) 898-4521.

VALLE COUNTRY FAIR Oct. 19 Valle Crucis comes alive the third Saturday in October for the 35th annual Valle Country Fair. Sponsored by the Holy Cross Episcopal Church, the event features 150 fine art and crafts booths and raises money for High Country organizations that assist those in need. More than 10,000 people attended last year to sample the fresh-pressed apple cider, hot apple butter, homemade jams and jellies, and an array of Brunswick strew, chili and barbecue plates.

The fair runs from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Oct. 19 at the Valle Crucis Conference

2013

Center off N.C. 194. Admission is free, and parking is available adjacent to the venue for $5 per vehicle.

Visit www.vallecountryfair.org or call (828) 963-4609 for more information.

WOOLLY WORM FESTIVAL Oct. 19 to 20 Woolly worms star in the 36th annual Woolly Worm Festival, returning to downtown Banner Elk Oct. 19 to 20.

An estimated 23,000 fans, 140 vendors and 1,000 worm racers enjoyed the festival last year, during which a woolly worm named Lickety Split and “trainer” Tammy Watson of Belmont were crowned champions. Aside from watching worms race up strings in hopes of earning the right to make the winter forecast, guests can browse booths of local vendors and enjoy music, dance and food.

The festival is sponsored by the Avery County Chamber of Commerce and the Banner Elk Kiwanis Club, and a portion of the proceeds support children’s charities in the county and small business and tourism efforts. Admission is $5 per day for adults, $2 for children 5 to 12 and free for ages birth through 4. Tickets can be purchased online or at the gate.

Visit www.woollyworm.com or call (828) 898-5605 for more information.

JEFFERSON OKTOBERFEST Oct. 26 A new festival joins the lineup this year in downtown Jefferson near the Museum of Ashe County History.

From 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Oct. 26, visitors can explore vendors offering crafts, art, antiques and souvenirs. An authentic German meal will be available, as well as a beer garden beginning at 11 a.m.

The free museum also will be open to guests, and the green space adjacent to the building will showcase traditional skills, such as quilting, blacksmithing, apple cider-making and other demonstrations.

The Harbour Town Fest Band will perform from 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. and offer visitors a chance to join in traditional dance. Other performers also are scheduled throughout the day.

The event also includes a cruise-in from 3 to 6 p.m., allowing visitors to bring their favorite rides and park, while they enjoy the festival.

The inaugural event is sponsored by the Olde Towne Business Association in Jefferson.

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Traditional German tunes will fill the air at Sugar Mountain during Oktoberfest on Saturday and Sunday, Oct. 12 and 13.

PHOTO SUBMITTED

Bavaria abounds at Oktoberfest

BY SAM CALHOUN

A celebration of Bavarian food, drink and heritage will be on display when Sugar Mountain Resort hosts its annual Oktoberfest event (rain or shine) from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday, Oct. 12 and 13.

“Oktoberfest will hopefully be a weekend of beautiful weather to go with the mountain foliage and a great celebration of Bavarian food and culture,” said Kim Jochl with Sugar Mountain Resort. “Our parking lots will be absolutely full with visitors, with a weekend as busy as perhaps our Martin Luther King Jr. holiday weekend during ski season. We’re ready for the event, and it’s a great warm-up for the winter season and a time of great activity on the mountain.”

Harbour Town Fest Band will provide a festive Bavarian atmosphere to Sugar’s 23rd annual festival from noon to 4 p.m. each day. Also, national award-winning Avery Smooth Dancers and Mountain Laurel Cloggers will get your feet stomping. Both dance groups are comprised of

local Avery high school, middle school and elementary school students. They will perform Big Circle Appalachian smooth dancing, the oldest form of square dancing in the United States. The steps and patterns are derived from Scottish and English country dancing and are the forerunner of American clogging steps today.

Admission, parking and shuttle service are free, and the festival will take place rain or shine.

More than 40 artisans, craftspeople and festival food vendors open their booths at 10 a.m. each day with items, including pottery, wooden toys, oil paintings, stained glass, handmade furniture, dolls, copper art, ceramics, honey, beeswax candles, birdhouses, jewelry, books, hats, soaps and much more. For more information on reserving a spot as a vendor, call (828) 898-4521, extension 262, or visit www.oktoberfest.skisugar. com.

Visitors to Oktoberfest can get a unique view of the High Country, Southern

Virginia and Eastern Tennessee’s foliage from the 1.5-mile long scenic chairlift ride to Sugar’s 5,300-foot peak.

A children’s activity area, located in the Ski School Play Yard, will keep the young ones entertained each day from noon to 4 p.m. The children’s area — available for a $10 fee per child/per day — includes bounce and play stations, hayrides and a chance to meet Sugar Bear and Sweetie Bear. Cotton candy, popcorn, candy apples and drinks are also available in the children’s activity area.

Bavarian cuisine, including bratwurst, knockwurst, sauerkraut, strudel and pretzels will be available starting at 11 a.m. both Saturday and Sunday. An ample supply of Spaten beer, created in 1872 in Munich, Germany, and the world first’s Oktoberfest beer, will be available until 5 p.m. each day. Those who prefer other than Bavarian cuisine can enjoy hot dogs, hamburgers, soda and other festive foods on hand.

Shop for the upcoming fall and winter seasons at Sugar Mountain Resort’s

Sport Shop, located on the first level of the main lodge. The ski shop will offer 30- percent off all 2013 and older winter apparel and footwear plus all Spyder Sample items will be 50- to 70-percent off. Sale prices are available only during Oktoberfest hours. All accessories, including — but not limited to — goggles, gloves and hats, will be excluded from the 30-percent off sale.

New 2014 winter merchandise will also be available at regular retail. Commemorative Oktoberfest T-shirts and souvenir items can also be bought in the sports shop or under the tent on the main celebration deck.

Visitors planning to spend the weekend at Sugar can take advantage of 25- percent discounts for on-mountain lodging. Lodging details and contact information can be found by visiting www. oktoberfest.skisugar.com.

For more information or to volunteer, call Sugar Mountain Resort’s administrative office at (828) 898-4521 or visit www.oktoberfest.skisugar.com.

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Worm Crawl Wild and woolly times at Woolly Worm Festival

BY JAMIE SHELL

Roy ‘Mr. Woolly Worm’ Krege is the emcee of Banner Elk’s annual Woolly Worm Festival.

A popular mountain tradition returns to downtown Banner Elk every third weekend in October with the annual Banner Elk Woolly Worm Festival.

Returning for its 36th edition in 2013, thousands of visitors will converge upon Banner Elk for a two-day festival of races, food and fun.

Every year, the young and young at heart bring their woolly worms to compete at the festival in heats, as the worms are raced up a 42-inch vertical string.

Each heat winner of the races that take place from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday earns a $20 prize and advances to the semifinal round. Victory in that matchup earns the winner a prize of $100. The winner of Saturday’s final race takes home the grand prize sum of $1,000.

On Saturday race day, more than 1,200 woolly worm caterpillars compete for the top prize, as well as the chance to determine the official weather forecast for the coming winter.

During Sunday’s Woolly Worm Festival activities, worm races continue for bragging rights and the opportunity for a lucky worm owner to pocket $500 in first-prize earnings. Generally, statistics show that there are fewer heats that occur on Sunday, which naturally increases a competitor’s opportunity to haul in the extra spending cash with the help of a furry friend.

The Banner Elk Woolly Worm Festival features unusual and unpredictable woolly worm races, in addition to live music, children’s activities and dozens of craft and food vendors.

Mountain folklore contends that a woolly worm with mostly brown coloration indicates that the coming winter weather will be mild, while a worm that is mostly black portends that a cold season approaches.

The bands of fur on the worm that vary in shading and color between brown and black determine the weather forecast.

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Follow the Yellow Brick Road to Autumn at Oz

BY CAROLINE HARRIS

On Beech Mountain, over the rainbow, lies the Land of Oz. The Land of Oz theme park was a main attraction to the High Country from 1970 to 1980. Based on the beloved books by L. Frank Baum, Oz was completely unique in its design. Park-goers would experience the story of the Wonderful Wizard of Oz, including following the iconic Yellow Brick Road and meeting Dorothy and her friends, all to an original score written especially for the park. Known around the world, the Land of Oz once matched Disney World for its number of visitors.

Although Oz closed as a theme park, you could still find Dorothy’s upsidedown house, the Wizard’s hot air balloon and the Yellow Brick Road if you knew where to look. With no regular upkeep and sustaining damage from nostalgic visitors taking their own pieces of Oz home with them, Oz fell into disrepair.

Cynthia Keller, Oz enthusiast and owner of Emerald Realty, led restoration efforts, which culminate in an annual two-day celebration of the past and present of the Land of Oz. The 1939 film “The Wizard of Oz,” came at a time when America was in a Great Depression. It was an escape from daily life, and also the promise of a better one, to see Dorothy’s world go from gray to Technicolor. “The Wizard of Oz” became integrated into American culture, is one

Beech Mountain’s annual Autumn at Oz festival offers fun — and familiar faces — to fans of all ages.

PHOTO SUBMITTED

Follow the Yellow Brick Road to Autumn at Oz, returning Oct. 5 and 6.

FILE PHOTO

of the most enduring films of all time and is still enjoyed by younger generations today. The Land of Oz captures that magic and brings it to life in an experience exclusive to the High Country.

The 20th annual celebration of Autumn at Oz will take place on Oct. 5 and 6.

Tickets are $20 in advance and $25 at the door.

Guests will take a tour of Aunty Em and

Uncle Henry’s farm and meet Dorothy, the Tin Man, Scarecrow and the Cowardly Lion down the Yellow Brick Road. A full cast will portray the characters similar to those in the 1939 film. Tour sessions are Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m. to noon, noon to 2 p.m. and 2 to 4 p.m.

The celebration will also feature face painting, a bluegrass band and Oz-themed concessions available for

purchase. When purchased online, tickets include dining and lodging discounts from participating Beech Mountain businesses.

Visitors can park in the meadows across from Beech Mountain Town Hall and catch the hayride or bus to Oz. Oz is not stroller- or wheelchair-accessible. For tickets and more information, visit www. autumnatoz.com.

WOOLLY

predicting weather.”

Worm owners pay $5 for each worm that they enter in the woolly worm races. Worms are normally available for purchase from one of the enterprising elementary-age entrepreneurs selling worms outside the festival gates for those who come to the festival without a worm but eager to compete.

The Banner Elk Woolly Worm Festival is a nonprofit event co-sponsored by Kiwanis of Banner Elk and Avery County Chamber of Commerce, with proceeds benefiting education and service organizations in Avery County. For more information, call Avery County Chamber at (828) 898-5605 or visit www.woollyworm.com.

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Woolly Worm emcee Roy Krege, left, and judge Tommy Burleson, right, name the winner at a previous Woolly Worm Festival.

PHOTO SUBMITTED

The 13 segments on the woolly worm’s back correspond to the 13 weeks of winter, progressing from the head to the tail.

The darker the band, the more severe the weather forecast for that week.

According to “Mr. Woolly Worm,” festival emcee Roy Krege, the predictions rendered by winning worms stack up with the best meteorological forecasting with today’s technology.

“Bring on any official forecaster,” Krege said. “You can’t beat nature when it comes to

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Halloween in the High Country

BY KELLEN SHORT

Whether you’re seeking the sinister or looking for family-friendly fun this Halloween, the High Country aims to please.

From corn mazes and haunted houses to trick-ortreating and costuming, these favorites are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth and send shivers down your spine.

NEW RIVER CORN MAZE Through Oct. 31 The New River Corn Maze returns this fall with about two miles of maze through a five-acre cornfield, according to co-owner David Tucker.

The maze is located just outside Boone on Laurel Gap Ridge Road with beautiful mountain views — although all you’ll be seeing is corn.

The maze is open from Labor Day weekend through Oct. 31, from 10 a.m. to dark on Fridays and Saturdays and from 1 p.m. to dark on Sundays.

The farm also offers a pumpkin patch and tractor rides — plus train rides if the weather permits.

Visit www.facebook.com/NewRiverCornMaze for more information.

A young Captain America and Smurfette go trick-or-treating at the Boone Mall.

PHOTO BY FRANK RUGGIERO

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The Spice Ghouls entertain with a spooktacular number at Tweetsie Railroad’s annual Ghost Train Halloween Festival.

PHOTO BY FRANK RUGGIERO

HALLOWEEN CONTINUED FROM PAGE 67

ASHE COUNTY CORN MAZE

Sept. 21 to Oct. 27 An acre and a half of corn is beckoning at the Ashe County Corn Maze. Located in Crumpler, the maze takes anywhere from 25 minutes to hours to complete.

After finishing the maze, stick around for horse shoes, wagon rides, inflatable fun and more. Little ones will enjoy the playground and hay bale maze.

The maze opens Sept. 21 and remains open each Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday through Oct. 27. Hours are 5 to 9 p.m. Thursday and Friday, 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Saturday and 2 to 7 p.m. Sunday.

Admission is $7 per person, and children 3 and younger are admitted free. Groups of 20 or more can receive a $1 discount on each ticket.

Visit www.ashecountycornmaze.com or call (336) 982-6285 for ticket information and directions.

LANSING HAUNTED HOUSE Sept. 27 to Oct. 26 The Old Lansing School will play host for the fifth year to one of the High Country’s best haunted houses. More than 20 rooms and hallways will be filled with ghastly sights, including a “claustrophobic room” new for this year. Live actors provide real scares.

“We just keep adding new stuff each year,” co-creator Steve Farrington said.

“We just try to make it better than ever.”

The haunted house is open from 7 p.m. until the crowds depart every Friday and Saturday night from Sept. 27 through the end of October. Admission is $5.

Visit www.lansinghauntedhouse.info or search “Lansing NC Haunted House” on Facebook for more information.

GHOST TRAIN AT TWEETSIE RAILROAD Sept. 27 to Nov. 2 The Ghost Train chugs back into Tweetsie Junction for six weekends this fall.

Every Friday and Saturday night from Sept. 27 through Nov. 2, Tweetsie Rail-

road will transform into a land of spooks and surprises. Gates open at 7:30 p.m., inviting guests to experience the haunted house, Tweetsie Palace Spooktacular, rides in the creepy carnival and attractions in “The Boneyard,” including the Black Hole, 3-D Maze and the Freaky Forest. The main attraction is the Ghost Train, which runs roughly every 30 minutes throughout the night.

Tickets are $28 per person, and children 2 and younger enter free. The Ghost Train often sells out, so advance tickets are recommended.

Visit www.tweetsie.com or call (800) 526-5740 for more information.

HAUNTED HORN GHOST TRAIL AT HORN IN THE WEST Oct. 21 to 31 The Horn in the West grounds get significantly spookier during the Haunted Horn Ghost Trail, open each evening except Sundays during the last two weeks in October.

Spooky sights and heart-pumping scares await behind each turn through

the woods. The event is coordinated by education students at Appalachian State University.

Visit www.horninthewest.com or call (828) 264-2120 for more information.

BEARY SCARY HALLOWEEN AT GRANDFATHER Oct. 26 Grandfather Mountain gets into the Halloween spirit with a “Beary Scary Halloween” on Oct. 26.

From 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., visitors can participate in crafts, storytelling by Maggie Christenbury, a costume contest and trick-or-treating in the animal habitats.

Guests also can participate in an interactive program, titled “Going Batty for Bats,” at 11 a.m. Continue the fun by helping the keepers decorate pumpkins and other treats to give to the animals.

The events are included with park admission, and children in costume get in for half price.

Visit www.grandfather.com or call (828) 733-2013 for more information.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 69

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A bear enjoys a pumpkin enrichment during Grandfather Mountain’s annual Beary Scary Halloween.

PHOTO COURTESY OF GRANDFATHER MOUNTAIN

HALLOWEEN CONTINUED FROM PAGE 68

BLOWING ROCK HALLOWEEN FESTIVAL Oct. 26 Blowing Rock’s annual Halloween Festival will return from 3 to 9 p.m. Oct. 26 in downtown Blowing Rock.

The fun begins from 3 to 5:30 p.m., with kids’ games and a fun house in the recreation center next to the tennis courts, while inflatables will be set up outside until 8 p.m.

Families can enjoy hay rides through town from 4 to 8 p.m., before the Monster March parade at 5:45 p.m.

Downtown businesses will open their doors to trick-or-treaters, starting at 6 p.m.

A bonfire will be lit in Memorial Park at 6:30 p.m., and a costume contest is planned for 7 p.m. at the recreation center.

Older kids will enjoy a moonlight scavenger hunt at Broyhill Lake, which begins after the costume contest. Children ages 6 to 13 can team up in groups of up to three for the hunt. Don’t forget a flashlight!

Call (828) 295-5222 for more information.

BOONE BOO! Oct. 31 The annual Boone Boo celebration returns from 4 to 6 p.m. Oct. 31.

The activities start at the Watauga County Public Library, where children can join in arts and crafts, sing-alongs and storytelling. Participants will then parade to the Jones House in costume. Downtown businesses will open their doors to trickor-treaters, as the activities wind down.

Visit www.downtownboonenc.com for more information.

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HAUNTED HONEY BEAR October Honey Bear Campground in Boone will host a Fall Festival every Saturday in October, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Admission costs $5 and includes haye rides, concessions, vendors, games, crafts and a pumpkin patch (pumpkins sold separately). Children younger than 2 are admitted free.

Honey Bear also presents Honey Scare Fright Nights every Friday and Saturday in October, from 8 to 11 p.m. Admission costs $10 per person and includes a haunted trail and scary movie.

Honey Bear Campground is located at 229 Honey Bear Campground Road in Boone. For more information, call (828) 963-4586.

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The Ghost Train pulls into Tweetsie Railroad Sept. 27 to Nov. 2.

PHOTOS BY FRANK RUGGIERO

All Aboard the Ghost Train!

Tweetsie’s Halloween festival runs Sept. 27 to Nov. 2 For a family-friendly, yet frighteningly good time, climb aboard Tweetsie Railroad’s 24th annual Ghost Train Halloween Festival.

One of the High Country’s most popular Halloween celebrations, the festival begins Sept. 27 and continues every Friday and Saturday night through Nov. 2. Guests of all ages will enjoy spooktacular family fun at the park, and brave Ghost Train riders will experience frights and delights around every corner, as the train howls its way through the Blue Ridge Mountains.

Daytime visitors can still enjoy all of Tweetsie’s Wild West adventures, rides and attractions; but when the sun goes down, a horde of fun and creepy Halloween characters emerge.

Ghost Train riders will travel back in time to the Great Train Wreck of 1913, reliving the history and terror that came with a trip down Tweetsie’s tracks a century ago.

Guests will experience chills and thrills as ghosts and spirits from the old railways pursue the Ghost Train’s passengers around every bend.

Visit The Boneyard and venture into the 3-D Maze and the disorienting Black Hole.

Enjoy a spooky stroll through the Freaky

Join conductor Casey Bones for Tweetsie Railroad’s annual Ghost Train Festival.

Forest, and encounter scream-worthy surprises along a dark and desolate woodland pathway of terror. Brave visitors can also tour the spine-chilling Haunted House and discover 13 spooky rooms that will startle and challenge the imagination.

While some attractions are recommended for adults and older children, there are plenty of shows and activities for Tweetsie’s youngest guests, too.

Children will enjoy traditional trick-ortreating throughout the park, and visitors

of all ages will be enchanted by the exciting black light show at The Haunted Palace Saloon. Families can take a spin on a variety of amusement rides at the Creepy Carnival or boogie down at the Tweetsie Main Street Halloween celebration, where The Spice Ghouls and emcee Darkus Knight will keep your toes tappin’.

The Ghost Train Halloween Festival is safe, scary fun for all ages.

Gates open at 7:30 p.m. for what has been named one of the Top 20 Events in the Southeast by the Southeast Tourism Society. Due to the popularity of this annual event, a limited number of tickets are available for each evening. Many nights often sell out, so ordering advance tickets online is strongly recommended. Admission is $28 for adults and children, while kids ages 2 and younger are admitted free.

Tickets are available at www.tweetsie. com.

Tweetsie Railroad is open Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays through Nov. 3.

The 2013 season ends Sunday, Nov. 3. The park’s Wild West themed hours are 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. The Ghost Train Halloween Festival runs from 7:30 to 11:30 p.m. For more information, visit www.tweetsie.com.

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THE MOUNTAIN TIMES AUTUMN GUIDE

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The High Country’s Art Galleries

Art buyers and enthusiasts will find that the High Country’s art galleries have much to offer. Home to almost countless venues that host a variety of styles and mediums, there’s a gallery for just about every artistic disposition.

Fit for a Museum

When the Blowing Rock Art and History Museum opened its doors to the public on Oct. 1, 2011, it was the culmination of more than a decade of effort put forth by a dedicated group of supporters determined to make the project a success.

The museum was organized in 1999 in response to a local art collector’s desire to find a permanent home for his collection of work by North Carolina native and seasonal Blowing Rock resident Elliot Daingerfield, who was a significant figure in the American art scene at the turn of the 20th century.

Boasting three levels with approximately 21,000 square feet, the museum includes five galleries, a large multi-purpose community meeting room, a conference room, educational and workshop space, a gift shop and a garden.

General admission costs $8, although admission is free to members. Special discounts are also available.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 73

‘Two Hoots’ at Sally Nooney Gallery

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‘Raccoon’ by Derfla at ArtWalk

GALLERIES CONTINUED FROM PAGE 72

For hours and a current list of exhibits, workshops and classes, visit www. blowingrockmuseum.org or call (828) 295-9099.

Seeking Council

The Watauga Arts Council has big plans this fall, including the Second Saturday Gallery Hop series.

Held the second Saturday of every month, the hop sees participants travel to different galleries throughout the county, and then return to the arts council’s home at the Blue Ridge ArtSpace for the chance to win artful prizes.

During Second Saturdays, the ArtSpace, located at 377 Shadowline Drive in Boone, also hosts live music, gallery exhibitions and workshops.

Founded in 1981 to improve the presence of art in Watauga County, the Watauga County Arts Council is a diverse and growing organization heavily involved in economic development and cultural tourism planning in the community.

For more information, including a schedule of autumn events, call (828) 264-1789 or visit www.watauga-arts. org.

The Ashe County Arts Council is a private, non-profit community-based

cultural organization that has diligently worked toward bringing the arts to Ashe since 1977.

Ongoing community concerts, art exhibits, school assembly programs, the Mountain Arts Program, residencies, murals and special events for all ages have given Ashe County residents countless opportunities in which to experience the arts. Partnerships with various local groups and businesses create situations in which the arts are integrated into the community in a myriad of ways.

The continuing goal of the Ashe Arts Council is to enrich the cultural life of Ashe, believing that this will go far in making it a first-class community, which is good for families, the economy, businesses and visitors.

The Ashe County Arts Council, including its gallery space, is located at 303 School Ave. in West Jefferson. For more information, including a schedule of events, call (336) 846-2787 or visit www. ashecountyarts.org.

Continuing Education Appalachian State University’s Turchin Center for the Visual Arts, the largest educational arts facility in the region, presents exhibitions, workshops and visual arts activities. With a focus on new and historically important artwork, CONTINUED ON PAGE 74

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the Turchin Center displays nationally and internationally renowned artists, as well as regional artists.

The Turchin Center for the Visual Arts is located at 423 W. King St. in Boone. For more information, call (828) 262-3170 or visit www.tcva.org.

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CONTINUED ON PAGE 75

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GALLERIES

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BROOMFIELDS GALLERY 414 E. 2nd St. (336) 846-4141 www.broomfieldsgallery.com

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 74

CROSSNORE FINE ARTS GALLERY The Crossnore School 205 Johnson Lane (828) 733-3144 www.crossnoregallery.org

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THE MOUNTAIN TIMES AUTUMN GUIDE

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2013

BRAHM celebrates two years of service

BY JEFF EASON

October 1, 2011 was a big day for art lovers in the High Country. That was the day the Blowing Rock Art and History Museum (BRAHM) opened to the public.

In the two years since its grand opening, BRAHM has hosted numerous art exhibits, films, speakers, book clubs and other events. It also features a community meeting room that has been utilized dozens of times by a variety of organizations.

This fall, as BRAHM celebrates its second birthday, the museum has more activities and exhibits than ever.

Beginning in September, BRAHM will be the site of the Watercolor Society of North Carolina’s 68th annual juried exhibit. From a collection of more than 300 submitted paintings, jurors have selected 70 of the best paintings created by society members in recent years. The exhibit is now on display at the museum’s main gallery.

On Sept. 13, BRAHM will host the “Eat Your Words” luncheon at noon. Dr. Hepsie Roskelly, professor of English at UNC-Greensboro, will lead participants

The Blowing Rock Art and History Museum is located on the corner of Chestnut and Main streets in downtown Blowing Rock.

PHOTO BY JEFF EASON

in a lively discussion of author Barbara Kingsolver’s “Flight Behavior.” The event includes a catered meal and is $40 per person.

A reception for the new exhibit “The Child Before Us” will be held at BRAHM from 3 to 5 p.m. on Sunday, Sept. 15. The

exhibition is created in conjunction with the Grandfather Home for Children’s 100th anniversary. The event is free.

BRAHM’s popular “Third Thursday” lecture series returns on Sept. 19. William (Bill) Mangum, one of the most popular artists in North Carolina, will deliver a lecture, titled “Celebrating Life Through Art.” The event takes place at 4:30 p.m. and is free for BRAHM members and $5 for non-members. Refreshments will be served.

BRAHM hosts “A Musical Feast” at 3 p.m. on Sunday, Sept 22. This concert of chamber music will feature a group of noted High Country musicians and costs $20 per person.

Cork and Canvas is BRAHM’s adult social program where people get together to sample some wines and try their hand at painting. The paints, brushes and wine are provided by BRAHM; you just need to bring your inspiration. Cork and Canvas events take place from 5 to 7 p.m. on Sept. 26 and Oct. 24 this fall. The cost is $35 for BRAHM members, $40 nonmembers.

On Saturday, Sept. 28, BRAHM hosts

an Alexander Arts Lecture, titled “What a Difference a Frame Makes: American Period Frames and the 19th and Early 20th Centuries.” The event will feature a slide lecture on the evolution of American frame design and construction presented

by Suzanne Smeaton of Eli Wilner and Company in New York. The event takes place at 4 p.m. and is $20 per person.

BRAHM will officially celebrate its second birthday from 2 to 4 p.m. on Sunday, Sept. 29. This free event will feature cake, ice cream and family fun.

The Third Thursday speaker for October will be photographer Doug Holstein, who will present his work and stories from around the world. The event takes place at 4:30 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 17 and is free for members and $5 for guests. Refreshments will be served.

In November, BRAHM will unveil two new exhibits: “Changing Landscapes” and “Skiing in the High Country.”

BRAHM is located at 159 Chestnut St. in downtown Blowing Rock. For more information on BRAHM events and exhibits, visit www.blowingrockmuseum. org or call (828) 295-9099.

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From left, Bob Unchester and Joann Mitchell discuss a painting, ‘Sunday Morning,’ on display at BRAHM. PHOTO BY FRANK RUGGIERO

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Ashe County and the Arts The Ashe County Arts Council is falling into autumn with a variety of family-friendly activities.

Barn Quilt Tours The Ashe County Arts Council presents the first van tours highlighting some of the best of Ashe County’s barn quilts.

Ashe County was one of three counties in North Carolina to be invited to participate in a pilot program, creating barn quilts in Western North Carolina.

The project was funded by a Blue Ridge National Heritage Grant through Handmade in America.

The first dozen barn quilts were part of the initial project with the number growing to thirty very quickly.

Individual artists and barn owners have added to the number of quilts, creating more colorful art in the community.

Jane Lonon, executive director of the Ashe County Arts Council said, “The project has taken on a life of its own, with barn quilts springing up everywhere in Ashe County.

There are several businesses that have started in Ashe County to continue this project, with artists creating barn quilts to sale.”

The barn quilt tours will be accompanied by a docent to highlight the barns, highlight points of interest and offer some history of Ashe County. The tours will be approximately two hours, and the “lunch included” tours will be approximately three and half hours.

Tour dates include Friday, Oct. 11, and two tours on Saturday, Oct. 12.

A minimum number of participants are required for each tour. Several of the tours have a lunch option at Shatley Springs Restaurant.

All tours will depart from and return to the Ashe Arts Center, located at 303 School Ave. in West Jefferson. The cost is $15 per person; $10 per child younger than 12.

To make reservations, or for more information, call (336) 846-2787.

Tours will run rain or shine.

West Jefferson features a thriving art scene and is home to numerous downtown murals.

PHOTO BY ROB MOORE

Literary Festival The 2013 On the Same Page Literary Festival, returning Sept. 17 to 21, will provide a complete Ashe County experience, with the mountains as a backdrop and the New River providing the soundtrack.

There will be readings, writing workshops, a writer’s competition, exhibits, performances, book signings and more. The festivals will host a book fair for local and regional writers.

The Ashe County Farmers’ Market

and the Quilt Fair will be involved with coordinating events. The Ashe County Public Library and Ashe Arts Center will be the sites for many of the events. Visitors can enjoy a small, intimate lunch with a particular author and hear readings from the writer competition winners.

All festival events are open to the public, and most are free. There is a nominal charge for lunch events and evening performances. For more information, including a detailed schedule, visit www.onthesamepagefestival.org.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 78

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ASHE ARTS CONTINUED FROM PAGE 77

Art on the Mountain

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The Ashe County Arts Council will sponsor Art on the Mountain on Saturday, Sept. 28, from 9 a.m., to 3 p.m. More than 25 artists and craftspeople will set up their creative wares on the grounds of the Ashe Arts Center in West Jefferson.

Holiday gift ideas, fall theme items, unique art pieces, crafts and more will be for sale. Several artists will be demonstrating their artwork, including basket weaving, quilting and woodworking.

There will be a door prize drawing every hour, and the arts council will hold a bake sale. As part of the festivities, “The Gary Poe Show” will broadcast live from the Ashe Arts Center, starting a little after 11 a.m., with a live traditional music band.

Art on the Mountain provides an opportunity for both new and current working artists from across the county to showcase and sell their latest creations to the public. For more information, call the Ashe County Arts Council at (336) 846-2787.

Folk artist Si Kahn will perform Oct. 12 at the Ashe Civic Center.

PHOTO SUBMITTED

Live Music On Saturday, Oct. 12 folk artist Si Kahn will be joined onstage with traditional musicians the Looping Brothers.

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The Looping Brothers, who perfected their bluegrass sound in Germany, have toured throughout western and eastern Europe and the United States.

Si Kahn’s Americana folk style of music will be blended with the traditional bluegrass of the Looping Brothers, with a touch of European flavor.

The concert will take place at the Ashe Civic Center, located at 962 Mt. Jefferson Road.

Tickets cost $15 for adults and $5 for students and are available by calling (336) 846-2787.

The Western Piedmont Symphony Orchestra will be joined by bluegrass virtuosos The Krüger Brothers to perform “Music from the Spring,” composed by Jens Krüger, on Saturday, Oct. 19, at the Ashe Civic Center.

The piece provides a symphonic setting for songs and instrumentals, some of which are new works to The Krüger Brothers songbook. The Krügers joined forces with the Bangor Symphony Orchestra to premiere the 84-minute piece at the Orono Center in 2007. Since

Barn quilts will be topic of two October tours through Ashe County.

PHOTO SUBMITTED

then, “Music from the Spring” has been presented by symphonies throughout the United States. The Ashe County Arts Council-sponsored concert will be its North Carolina debut. Tickets cost $20 for adults and $5 for students and are available by calling (336) 846-2787.

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2013

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The Watauga County Arts Council’s Artfull Palette fundraiser will take place at Blowing Rock’s historic Green Park Inn. FILE PHOTO

The Artfull Palette

Arts Council fundraiser reinvented and re-energized

The Watauga County Arts Council is once again hosting the Artfull Palette, an arts-filled evening benefitting the work of the Arts Council throughout the community.

“Arts Rock in Blowing Rock” is a new event created to celebrate the arts throughout the community.

Throughout the month of September, the calendar is packed with events, ranging from a major gallery exhibition by the Watercolor Society of North Carolina to musical concerts to theatrical performances. More details on the art-filled festivities can be found at www.blowingrock.com/artsrock.

In order to help celebrate the arts during the month of September, the arts council has decided to move its annual Artfull Palette benefit to the Green Park Inn in Blowing Rock on Saturday, Sept.

21.

The Artfull Palette started in the late 1980s and has continued to be celebrated over the years. This year, because the Green Park Inn is not exactly a theatrical

performance venue like those in which the Artfull Palette has been held in past years, the event is being reinvented and will be unlike any Artfull Palette of the past, WCAC executive director Cherry Johnson said.

So what can you expect?

The tone will be set when the guests begin to arrive, as they are being encouraged to dress “artfully” (and that is to be interpreted as the wearer sees fit).

“We are looking forward to seeing how many different approaches to dressing ‘artfully’ can be dreamed up by patrons,” Johnson said.

Scattered throughout the event will be five diverse performances, featuring artists performing on such artful instruments as piano, flute, violin and guitar, with some dance to round things out.

“There is even an excellent chance of watching a work of art created right before your very eyes,” Johnson said. “In between performances, you will want to browse the silent auction tables to find

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CLARK GALLERY

MARIAM CANNON HAYES

Area bluegrass band Amantha Mill performs at a previous Artfull Palette fundraiser.

PHOTO BY FRANK RUGGIERO

ARTFULL PALETTE CONTINUED FROM PAGE 80

treasures and bargains you simply can’t live without.”

All the while, guest can enjoy hors d’oeuvres and a cash bar.

“And then, when you thought the evening was nearly over, the Swing Set will crank up, and there will be dancing into the night to swingin’ tunes from the Rat Pack to now,” Johnson said.

HOW CAN YOU BE PART OF THE FUN? Tickets to the Artfull Palette are now on sale for $50 per person. Tickets are available online at www.watauga-arts. org, at the Blue Ridge ArtSpace (377 Shadowline Drive in Boone), at the Blowing Rock Chamber of Commerce or from a board member or volunteer for the Watauga County Arts Council.

WHAT DOES THE ARTFULL PALETTE BENEFIT? The Watauga County Arts Council

works throughout the county toward “making the arts a presence in our community,” Johnson said.

Besides offering grants to assist other organizations and schools in presenting arts-related programming, grants for artists, residencies in the schools, artwork displayed throughout the community and community events and programs, the WCAC recently opened the Blue Ridge ArtSpace. This community-wide center for the arts is located on 377 Shadowline Drive in Boone and contains four galleries, featuring the work of local artists of all ages, a gift shop filled with treasures created by local artists, and six classrooms that offer musical instruction and arts and crafts classes for all ages.

The funds raised through the Artfull Palette are used to make these programs and services possible, and $25 from each ticket is considered a taxdeductible donation.

For more information, contact the Watauga County Arts Council at wcac@watauga-arts.org, (828) 2641789 or on Facebook.

Mariam Cannon Hayes’ contributions to the wellbeing of our local area are numerous. Hayes was heir to the Cannon textile fortune and used her money to support music, health services, education and arts programs throughout the state. She died in 2007, with her legacy living on in the high country through Mariam Cannon Hayes School of Music at Appalachian State University and Charles A. Cannon, Jr. Memorial Hospital (named for her father). She was president of the board of directors of the Cannon Foundation which supported health care, education and religious organizations in the community. She never missed a meeting in her twenty-two years as President. She and her husband, Robert Griffith Hayes of Charlotte, also created the Mariam and Robert Hayes Performing Arts Center in Blowing Rock. She also gave her time to LeesMcRae, and Grandfather Home for Children. She once told a journalist that she had 95 children – one at home, and 94 at Grandfather. Her husband was the chair of the Edgar Tufts Memorial Association, which managed the facility. She and her husband loved Grandfather Home for Children and gave generously of their personal time to the children there.

Mariam Hayes lived in Concord and Blowing Rock and was a member of the Rumple Memorial Presbyterian Church of Blowing Rock. Her husband preceeded her in death in 1998. Her son is Congressman Robert “Robin” Cannon Hayes.

MARJORIE JAY DAINGERFIELD Elliot Daingerfield, the well-known painter and illustrator, encouraged his daughter in art from a very young age. At only 12, Marjorie Jay Daingerfield, had her first bronze sculpture cast. She spent her life honing this extraordinary talent of creating busts, heads and small figure portraits. She attended Solon Borglum’s School of American Sculpture and the Grand Central School of Art. She received many commissions over her lifetime from society leaders, businessmen, educators, and actors. Her pieces of opera and stage performers include a bronze of the well-known dancer and choreographer, Martha Graham, and a porcelein piece of actress Dorothy Stickney, as well as Norman Cordon of the Metropolotian Opera. Her most recognized piece is the bronze statuette for the National Girl Scout emblem.

Daingerfield divided her time between New York and Blowing Rock – where her father had built a home and studio. Daingerfield taught at the School of American Sculpture and the Grand Central School of Art and lectured in North Carolina many times. She also wrote the book, “The Fun and Fundamentals of Sculpture.”

Clark Gallery is pleased to have one of Marjorie Daingerfield’s marble busts.

The portrait is of the beloved Mariam Cannon Hayes, as a young girl. This beautiful work belongs on display in the high country, where Hayes gave so much of her time, energy and support, and where Daingerfield created so much of her work.

Please come to Clark Gallery to view this lovely portrait. Clark Gallery is located at 393 Shawneehaw Lane, in Banner Elk, NC. Hours are Tuesday though Saturday 10-5pm, or call for appointment.

HOURS: TUESDAY - SUNDAY, 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM WWW.CLARKGALLERYNC.COM 393 SHAWNEEHAW AVE. PO BOX 263 BANNER ELK, NC 28604 828.898.2095

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‘STOMP!’ comes to ASU March 4, 2014, as part of the 2013-14 Performing Arts Series.

PHOTOS SUBMITTED

Performing Arts at ASU ‘Savion Glover’s STePz’ comes to ASU Nov. 15.

Appalachian State University’s 2013-14 Performing Arts Series season has been announced, and all the events will take place in the newly renovated Schaefer Center for the Performing Arts (formerly Farthing Auditorium).

Events span from September 2013 through April 2014 and include a mixture of music, dance, theater and film. The full series schedule is below, and more information can be found at http://pas.appstate.edu.

APPLAUSE! K-12 PERFORMING ARTS SERIES This season, the Office of Arts and Cultural Programs is introducing the APPlause! K-12 Performing Arts Series, which is an education and outreach program that allows the university to connect its artistic resources to a diverse audience and deepen the arts experience for audiences of all ages. To learn more information about APPlause!, visit www.theschaefercenter.org/applause.

2013-14 PERFORMING ARTS SERIES SCHEDULE For videos, images and detailed

information about each performance, visit http://pas.appstate. edu.

Banff Mountain Film Festival Friday and Saturday, Sept. 20 to 21 Cirque Zuma Zuma Thursday, Sept. 26 Frank Warren: PostSecret Tuesday, Oct. 8 Tedeschi Trucks Band Friday, Nov. 1 Savion Glover’s STePz Friday, Nov. 15 River North Dance Chicago Friday, Jan. 31, 2014 Orpheus Chamber Orchestra Tuesday, Feb. 25, 2014 STOMP! Tuesday, March 4, 2014 Montana Repertory Theatre’s ‘The Miracle Worker’ Thursday, April 3, 2014

ASU Theatre’s ‘Kiss Me, Kate’ Friday to Sunday, April 11 to 13, 2014

TICKETS Tickets for these events went on sale at 9 a.m. Aug. 20 at the Schaefer Center for the Performing Arts box office and online at http://pas. appstate.edu.

Ticket prices range from $8 to $38. The series will also be offering a “Pick 5” ticket discount, which offers a break on the ticket price for various series events when the tickets are purchased in multiples of five. To purchase tickets, call or visit the Schaefer Center for the Performing Arts box office at (828) 262-4046 or http://pas.appstate. edu.

ABOUT THE PERFORMING ARTS SERIES The Performing Arts Series supports the teaching mission of Appalachian State University by presenting a diverse array of music, dance and theater events designed to enrich the cultural landscape of the campus and surrounding region.

2013

THE MOUNTAIN TIMES AUTUMN GUIDE

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‘Annie’ was presented by the Ashe County Little Theatre, featuring Kelly Halsey as Annie, Jeff Dreyer as Daddy Warbucks and Rachel Nave as Miss Hannigan.

PHOTO SUBMITTED

Setting the Stage for Fall Theatrical shows set for fall in the High Country

BY HEATHER SAMUDIO

Celebrating 31Years Seasonal Group Exhibitions 2013 MID-SUMMER: July 27 – September 24 AUTUMN: September 28 - November 22 WINTER: November 29th - April 30th Opening Reception Saturday, September 28 - 2-5 Holiday Open House - November 29, 30 – 10-5 Featured Artists Receptions 4th Saturdays, 2-5, May - November

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Various venues across the area host theatrical productions from the area’s best stage companies and theater groups.

Blowing Rock’s Ensemble Stage will present “Isabella Propeller and the Magic Beanie” at 11 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 14. The show is part of the Summer Kids Saturday Theatre Series, and admission is $5.

This will be a world premiere of the stage play, which was adapted from the children’s book. The story follows Isabella as she plays in her grandpa’s attic.

She finds a beanie with a propeller on top. Isabella gets help from a mysterious mountain woman and a magical hawk’s feather as she finds herself on an adventure in the skies.

The company’s fall and winter main stage season will feature “Vincent” by Leonard Nimoy on Sept. 28 and 29. The production will focus on excerpts from more than 500 letters Vincent Van Gogh wrote to his brother, Theo, with topics ranging from God to love and art.

Tickets may be purchased by calling (828) 414-1844 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Monday through Saturday or 10 a.m. to noon on Sunday. More information can be found online at www.ensemblestage. com.

The Department of Theatre and Dance at Appalachian State University will present “First Year Showcase,” set for 7:30 p.m. Thursday through Saturday, Sept.

26 to 28, at I.G. Greer Studio Theatre on campus. The cost is $10 for adults and $5 for students.

In October, audiences will have an opportunity to view the production of an original work by ASU theater faculty member Joel Williams, entitled “Promises.”

The story follows 67-year-old Joseph on a journey to fulfill his mother’s dying request. During his journey, he discovers some truths about his own personal history.

The show will be presented at Valborg

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STAGE CONTINUED FROM PAGE 84

Ben Watson, from left, as Hugo Peabody and Taylor McPherson as Kim MacAfee were part of Ashe County Little Theatre’s production of ‘Bye, Bye, Birdie.’

PHOTO SUBMITTED

Theatre at 7:30 p.m. nightly, from Wednesday, Oct. 2, through Saturday, Oct. 5, and at 2 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 6.

Admission is $15 for adults and $8 for students.

Rounding out the fall semester will be the production of “Trojan Women” Nov. 6 to 10 and the New Play Festival Nov. 14 to 16. Tickets may be purchased by calling the box office at (828) 262-3063.

In Ashe County, the Ashe Civic Center hosts theatrical productions, including shows by the Ashe County Little Theatre.

ACLT will present a comedy, “Elvis Has Left the Building,” Oct. 4 to 6, at the civic center. The story is set in 1970, when Elvis Presley went missing. The Colonel scrambles to find him for a performance, and he involves his secretary, his office boy and a very nosy reporter.

The center is located at 962 Mt. Jefferson Road in West Jefferson. For more information or to purchase tickets, call (336) 846-2787.

Lees-McRae College’s Performing Arts Department will present “Anything Goes” at 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 3 through Saturday, Oct. 5, and at 2 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 6, in Hayes Auditorium.

The story is about an evangelist-turned-nightclub singer, a lovelorn stockbroker wooing a lovely debutante, her fiancée and a gangster disguised as a minister.

“The Ash Girl” will hit the stage at 7:30 p.m. Nov. 21

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to 23 and at 2 p.m. Nov. 24.

Tickets for performances in the Hayes Auditorium or Broyhill Theatre are only sold at the door. Sales begin one hour before show time, and all seating is general admission. Ticket prices are $12 for adults and $5 for students and children. For more information, call (828) 898-8709.

Theaters of the High Country Ensemble Stage Company Blowing Rock (828) 414-1844 www.ensemblestage.com Appalachian State University Boone (828) 262-3063 theatre.appstate.edu Ashe Civic Center West Jefferson (336) 846-2787 www.ashecivic.com Lees-McRae College Banner Elk (828) 898-8709 www.lmc.edu/calendar/index.htm

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Stage a trip to Barter Theatre

BY DEREK HALSEY

In Abingdon, Va., a little more than an hour’s drive from Boone, is the historic Barter Theatre, which has been producing quality plays and musicals for 80 years.

The origins of Barter Theatre can be found in the Great Depression. During that economically trying era in American history, actor Robert Porterfield decided to create a theater where the audience could pay for their tickets in the form of locally grown produce or livestock, hence the name.

Now, eight decades later, Barter Theatre is made up of two stages on which multiple plays are performed throughout the week from February to December.

During the months of September and October, for instance, the productions will include “Kiss Me, Kate,” “The Ghost in the Meadow,” “Dial ‘M’ for Murder,” “Thicker Than Water, “Little House on the Prairie” and “A Visit from Scarface.”

In November and December, the venue will also host the popular stage version of the movie, “A Christmas Story.”

Plays are usually performed every day of the week except Monday, with four different performances offered on Saturday and often on Thursday, as well.

“We have two venues here in downtown Abingdon, including our main stage, which holds a little over 500 people in a beautiful historic building that is about 200 years old,” said Amanda Leslie, Barter’s director of marketing. “Our second stage is called Barter Stage II, and it is right across the street.

It is a smaller space that holds about 167 people, and it is what they call a ‘thrust stage,’ which is a non-traditional theater.

Instead of looking up at a stage like in most theaters, you are in amphitheaterstyle seating on three sides of the stage, so you really feel like you are a fly on the wall in the room with the actors.”

The actors who perform at the Barter Theatre are not amateurs or students, but instead are part of a year-round professional repertoire company. Famous actors who have been featured at Barter over the decades include Academy Award winners Gregory Peck, Ernest Borgnine, Patricia Neal and Ned Beatty, along with Tony Award winner Hume Cronyn.

“Being a repertoire company, at any

The historic Barter Theatre has been producing plays and musicals for 80 years.

PHOTO SUBMITTED

given time we are presenting four or five shows,” Leslie said. “So, if you came to visit Barter Theatre on a Thursday, you might see one show Thursday night, and then they will clear off the stage and bring in another set, and you might see a different show on Friday night, and then a different show on Saturday afternoon.

“It means that we are able to offer a lot of variety for folks who are coming to visit. We also have a lot of matinees.

Sometimes, folks will see two shows in a single day and have dinner in-between.

“The other thing that makes us unique is that we have a resident acting company. Traditionally, most actors are itinerant. They audition for a show, get the job, they do the show, and six weeks to a couple of months go by, and the show closes, and they are out of work.

The Barter Theatre actually hires actors on a year-by-year contract, so they are guaranteed employment for 11 months.”

While “Kiss Me, Kate,” “Dial ‘M’ for

Murder” and other plays tend to interest older audiences, Barter Theatre also offers productions geared toward younger audiences.

“Somebody wrote a play based on the book, ‘Little House on the Prairie,’ with permission from (author Laura Ingalls Wilder’s) estate,” Leslie said. “We have a

Lineup

company that specifically does theater for young audiences, called the Barter Players. It is a professional company of young actors who also go on tour in the winter and spring and perform in schools.”

More information can be found at www.bartertheatre.com and by calling (276) 628-3991.

‘Dial ‘M’ for Murder’ Sept. 26 to Nov. 16

‘Thicker Than Water’ Sept. 3 to Oct. 6

‘A Visit from Scarface’ Oct. 8 to Nov. 16

‘The Ghost in the Meadow’ Sept. 10 to Nov. 16

‘A Christmas Story’ Nov. 22 to Dec. 29

‘Kiss Me, Kate’ Sept. 14 to Nov. 17

‘Another Night Before Christmas’ Nov. 26 to Dec. 22

‘Little House on the Prairie’ Sept. 25 to Nov. 20

‘’Twas the Night Before Christmas’ Dec. 3 to 22

THE MOUNTAIN TIMES AUTUMN GUIDE

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Tune into the High Country

When it comes to local music, The Lazybirds are a perennial favorite.

PHOTO SUBMITTED

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THE MOUNTAIN TIMES AUTUMN GUIDE

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The Worthless Son-in-Laws, a Boone-based band, performs regularly throughout the High Country.

PHOTO SUBMITTED

Live music abounds in autumn

BY JESSE CAMPBELL

In the mountains of western North Carolina, music is an intricate part in the patch-made quilt that is Appalachian tradition.

And if you are all familiar with the High Country, you know its people look for any excuse to enjoy live, folk music that reflects their values and way of life.

If you are out for a quiet dinner one evening this fall, check out several of the region’s quaint downtown-centric venues. You might be surprised by the caliber of talent you will find there.

If your ear buds are often filled with an eclectic wide range of music, Boone Saloon might be more than a typical run-of-the-mill water hole for you this autumn.

The trendy bar and impromptu music hall, located on King Street, usually holds live music on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays, with show times varying weekly.

While checking out the downtown area, you will likely catch tunes from prominent acts The Lazybirds, Dirty Bourbon River Show, Overmountain Men and Space Capone. The cover charge is typically $5 for music lovers 21 and older.

Just up the road at Galileo’s, check one of many live weekend acts, and try your vocal chords out at Friday karaoke. Call (828) 865-9591 for a complete listing of shows.

Looking for a smoother fleshed out sound with a baritone horn? Check out Jazz Brunch Sundays from 11 a.m. to 2

p.m. at Canyon’s in Blowing Rock. Join Todd Wright and Friends a morning of sizzling food and music. Canyon’s is located at 8960 U.S. 321 in Blowing Rock.

Call (828) 295-7661 for more information.

The Todd General Store, located just off Old N.C. 194 on the Ashe-Watauga County border, is step in to a simpler time of life. While locals regale you with stories from the good old days when Todd was the largest town in the High Country, enjoy live bluegrass music every Thursday from 6:30 to 9:15 p.m.

Ashe County High School’s annual marching band invitational, held Oct. 5 at Husky Stadium in West Jefferson, highlights the pageantry, color and musical flair of high school bands across the

region. This year, the Marching Huskies will perform “Legends,” a pop music style tribute to The Beatles, Michael Jackson, Frank Sinatra and many others.

The High Country is steeped in bluegrass music and little changes in the fall.

If you are strolling through Daniel Boone Native Gardens this autumn, stop by for live music at the Boone Heritage Festival Oct. 12.

Celebrate the region’s heritage with living history demonstrations, craft vendors and old-timey music jam sessions at Hickory Ridge Living History Museum from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 12. The museum is located at 591 Horn in the West Drive in downtown Boone. For more information call (828) 264-2120.

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CONTINUED FROM PAGE 88

Walker Center delivers music, laughs and more Whether you like big country, big band, comedy or a trip down Memory Lane, Wilkes Community College invites you to take a trip down U.S. 421 to The Walker Center.

The center’s 2013-14 season opens Friday, Sept. 13, with one of the most recognizable sounds in the music industry – The Oak Ridge Boys. The four-part harmonies and upbeat songs of the Oaks have spawned dozens of country hits and a No. 1 pop smash, earned them Grammy, Dove, CMA and ACM awards and garnered a host of other accolades.

The Oaks bring four decades of charted singles and 50 years of tradition to a stage show widely acknowledged as among the most exciting anywhere.

The hands of time turn backwards Friday, Oct. 11, with The Hit Men. This super-group features musicians, vocalists, arrangers and composers who were Frankie Valli’s Four Seasons. They’ve played with The Critters, Carly Simon, Jim Croce, Cat Stevens, Barry Manilow and Elton John, and their legacy includes hundreds of hit records from the ’60s, ’70s and ’80s.

On Saturday, Nov. 16, the Walker Center welcomes one of country music’s brightest stars, the legendary Clint Black. To date, Black has written, recorded and released more than 100 songs. One-third of these songs achieved hit song status, while more than 20 million of his albums have been sold worldwide. CMT lists Black’s 1989

critically acclaimed debut album, the triple platinum “Killin’ Time,” as one of the 100 Greatest Albums in Country Music.

The Walker Center’s ever-popular holiday show on Thursday, Dec. 5, brings American Big Band, a show-stopping synthesis of big band and Broadway.

American Big Band will perform alltime holiday hits, “from Bing to Bublé.”

According to event organizers, the cast of eight performers, accompanied by a 12-piece big band, “delivers excitement from the dawn of the big band era through the decades into the 21st century.”

Audience members should come prepared for a laugh or dozen Friday, March 28, with Etta May & the Southern Fried Chicks. What’s the best way to describe Etta May? According to her bio, “Minnie Pearl with a migraine.

To put it simply, when Etta May takes the stage, she is the reigning Queen of Southern Sass.”

Etta May won the prestigious American Comedy Awards, “Stand-Up Comic of the Year” and has appeared on “Oprah,” “Comic Strip Live,” MTV and as a guest commentator on “CBS Sunday Morning.”

“1964 … The Tribute” wraps up the 2013-14 Walker Center season. Since the early ’80s, “1964” has been taking The Beatles experience around the globe. Audience members can join in the journey Friday, May 9, and sing along to

The Hit Men, composed of musicians who’ve played with The Critters, Carly Simon, Jim Croce, Cat Stevens, Barry Manilow and Elton John, will perform Oct. 11 at Wilkes Community College’s Walker Center.

PHOTO SUBMITTED

their favorite Beatles hits, like “Yellow Submarine,” “Let It Be,” “Hey Jude,” “Help!” “Day Tripper” and “I Want to Hold Your Hand.” Rolling Stone calls this show the “best Beatles tribute on Earth.”

“Having a performing arts center on the campus of Wilkes Community College creates a foundation of entertainment for our community and surrounding areas,” said Tabitha Hudler, lead events specialist at Wilkes Community College. “We hope that you will join us for a season to remember.”

Season tickets, which include all six performances, range in price from $150 to $225. For more information, contact the Walker Center box office at (336) 838-6260 or send an email to walker. boxoffice@wilkescc.edu. The box office is open Monday through Thursday, from noon to 5 p.m., and on Fridays, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Wilkes Community College and the Walker Center are located at 1328 S. Collegiate Drive in Wilkesboro. For more information, including directions, call (336) 838-6260

Celebrated country artist Clint Black will perform Nov. 16 in Wilkesboro.

PHOTO SUBMITTED

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THE MOUNTAIN TIMES AUTUMN GUIDE

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Serving the High Country for 32 Years!

Catering of all sizes Make reservations online at

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PAGE 92

THE MOUNTAIN TIMES AUTUMN GUIDE

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Chinese and Japanese Cuisine 100% No M.S.G.

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THE MOUNTAIN TIMES AUTUMN GUIDE

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Stock up at farmers’ markets Ashe County Farmers’ Market Saturdays through Oct. 26, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Wednesdays through Sept. 25, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Holiday markets: Nov. 23, 29 & 30; Dec. 7, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Backstreet West Jefferson, N.C. 28694 (910) 309-1932 ashe.farmers.market@gmail.com www.ashefarmersmarket.com

BY ANNA OAKES

While enjoying the sights and sounds of our area, sample the High Country’s harvests, as well, with a visit to local farmers’ markets.

Area growers and producers have plenty to offer this fall, including butternut, acorn and spaghetti squashes; pumpkins; leafy greens; and more. You’ll also find locally raised, grass-fed beef, chicken and pork; pastas, pastries and bread; jams, jellies and cheeses; and arts and crafts from local artisans.

Plus, mark your calendars for special holiday-themed markets held in late November and early December, with special holiday treats, décor, prepared foods, Christmas trees and greenery, crafts and other gift items.

Watauga County Farmers’ Market Saturdays through Nov. 30, 8 a.m. to noon 591 Horn in the West Drive Boone, N.C. 28607 (828) 355-4918 www.wataugacountyfarmersmarket.org

Avery County Farmers’ Market • at Lees-McRae College Tate Lawn, Banner Elk: Thursdays through Sept. 19, 5-7 p.m.

Fall market, Oct. 19 and 20 • at Newland Town Park: Fridays through Sept. 20, 5-7 p.m. info@averycountyfarmersmarket.org www.averycountyfarmersmarket.org Local growers have plenty to offer this fall, including butternut, acorn and spaghetti squashes, pumpkins, leafy greens and more.

PHOTO COURTESY WATAUGA COUNTY FARMERS’ MARKET

Blowing Rock Farmers’ Market Thursdays through Oct. 10, 4 to 6 p.m.

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Johnson County Farmers’ Market Saturdays through Oct. 26, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Holiday market date to be announced 110 Court St.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 99

THE MOUNTAIN TIMES AUTUMN GUIDE

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Ashe County’s Only Locally Owned and Operated Upscale Restaurant If you liked us before, you are going to love us now VOTED BEST STEAKS IN ASHE COUNTY • Daily Lunch Specials including Drink - $7.00 • Check out our Dinner Specials • Mouth Watering Seafood • New and Improved Menu Our staff is trained to provide the best customer service possible.

Tuesday-Thursday 11:30-9:30 Friday & Saturday 11:30-11:00 Sunday Brunch 11:30-2:30 Extended Summer Hours

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Dine like a local this fall in the High Country!

2013

THE MOUNTAIN TIMES AUTUMN GUIDE

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PAGE 95

The High Country’s Premiere Steak & Seafood House SINCE 1985

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THE MOUNTAIN TIMES AUTUMN GUIDE

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HUNAN

CHINESE RESTAURANT Hunan/Szechuan/ Mandarin Cuisine Now offering Thai and Sushi Menus Voted 2009 & 2008 National Top 100 Chinese Restaurants Voted Best of the Best 2011, 2012 & 2013

214 Southgate Dr., Boone (Across from Walmart) • Dine In or Take Out Open 7 Days a Week • (828) 262-0555 • www.hunanboone.com

130 Hardin St., Boone, NC 28607 • (828) 264-8657 www.danlbooneinn.com

THE MOUNTAIN TIMES AUTUMN GUIDE

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“A Twist on the Ordinary” 15 Beers on Tap, including numerous N.C. Beers Hours are Sunday 11:00 A.M. - 9:30 P.M. Monday-Saturday 11:30 A.M. - 9:30 P.M.

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THE MOUNTAIN TIMES AUTUMN GUIDE

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2013

Uncork the High Country Wineries in the Blue Ridge

Grandfather Vineyard and Winery’s grapevines wind along the grassy knolls, all with a view of Grandather Mountain.

PHOTO COURTESY OF GRANDFATHER VINEYARD WINERY

BY KELLEN SHORT

Pop the corks and plan the toasts — the High Country is wine country.

North Carolina is home to more than 100 wineries and vineyards and ranks ninth in wine production nationwide, according to the N.C. Department of Commerce.

In fact, the state is one of the only regions on earth that supports every major type of grape grown in the world.

But while North Carolina wine-making is big business, the owners of Grandfather Vineyard and Winery in Foscoe consider it a homegrown hobby.

Owners Steve and Sally Tatum planted grapevines in the backyard in 2003, a

pastime that eventually led to the opening of Watauga County’s first producing winery in May 2011.

What started as a hobby morphed into a family business with the help of their son, Dylan Tatum, who studied viticulture and enology at Surry Community College.

The family now produces a range of wines from grapes raised on-site and off.

There’s one classic, though, that they are particularly proud of.

“Our claim to fame is really our ice wine,” Dylan Tatum said. “We make it in a true ice wine style, where we let the CONTINUED ON PAGE 99

Area Wineries 1861 FARMHOUSE 3608 N.C. 194 South Valle Crucis, N.C. 28691 (828) 963-6301 1861farmhouse.com

BANNER ELK WINERY & VILLA 60 Deer Run Banner Elk, N.C. 28604 (828) 898-9090 bannerelkwinery.com

GRANDFATHER WINERY Vineyard Lane

Banner Elk, N.C. 28604 (282) 963-2400 grandfathervineyard.com

LINVILLE FALLS WINERY 9557 Linville Falls Highway Newland, N.C. 28657 (828) 765-1400 linvillefallswinery.com

THISTLE MEADOW WINERY 102 Thistle Meadow Laurel Springs, N.C. 28644 (800) 233-1505 thistlemeadowwinery.com

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THE MOUNTAIN TIMES AUTUMN GUIDE

WINERIES CONTINUED FROM PAGE 98

grapes freeze on the vine, and then we harvest them while they’re frozen.”

Squeeze those grapes, and the result is a sweet wine, ideal for dessert, that offers the pure essence of the fruit.

Other favorites grown and produced on-site include the Terraced Gold, described as a clean and crisp white wine with layers of refreshing fruit and a light touch of oak and butter. The third estate-grown option is the Profile Red, a medium-bodied wine with flavors of toasted oak, cocoa, apple and cherry with a light smoky finish.

Tatum said the winery is always trying new things. “We’ve just released five new wines in the last week,” he said in late May. Of course, the appeal of a winery is not limited to enjoying the reds and whites.

The tranquil atmosphere of the vineyards, tucked at the base of Grandfather

From left, Steve, Dylan and Sally Tatum run the award-winning Grandfather Vineyard and Winery — with some help from Zoe the dog.

PHOTOS BY FRANK RUGGIERO

MARKETS CONTINUED FROM PAGE 93

Mountain City, Tenn. 37683 (423) 895-9980 johnsoncountyfm@gmail.com Valle Crucis Farmers’ Market Wednesdays through Sept. 25, 2 to 6 p.m.

Original Mast General Store N.C. 194 Valle Crucis, N.C. 28691 (828) 963-6511

Market Tips These tips will help make the most out of your farmers’ market shopping experience.

• Arrive early for the best selection.

• No pets, except service animals.

• Carry small bills. It’s easier for vendors to make change.

• Ask. Learn about unfamiliar varieties and even how to prepare them.

• Use large, reusable bags or baskets.

Eliminate the need for plastic or paper bags.

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Mountain along the Watauga River, beckons visitors to relax, refill the glass and stay a while.

Visitors can request a tour of the grounds and production space or bring a picnic and spend the afternoon, Tatum said. Live music will be offered once or twice a month on Sundays during the summer, he added.

To really get the full impression, the tasting room offers a variety of dry white and red wines, and guests can keep their wine glass as a memento.

Of course, Grandfather Vineyard Winery isn’t the only High Country hotspot for wine production.

Several other award-winning wineries offer visitors and residents alike a unique local option. Some visitors create their own Tour de Wineries, sampling from all of the nearby sites. It’s an action Tatum said he encourages.

“We don’t really see each other as competitors; we see each other as synergy,” Tatum said.

Vintner Dick Wolfe, right, hosts a tasting at the award-winning Banner Elk Winery.

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Always Attack

BY STEVE BEHR

Appalachian State closes out its final chapter as a member of the Southern Conference this fall.

The Mountaineers, winners of three Football Championship Subdivision national championships from 2005-07, move on from the FCS into the Football Bowl Subdivision Sun Belt Conference in 2014.

The Mountaineers get one more run through the SoCon in 2013, with a new head coach in Scott Satterfield, but with the same expectations — win games.

“Going back in years past, we never even talked about the playoffs,” Satterfield said. “We were always focused on the Southern Conference. If we got through the Southern Conference and we could win it, or finish close to the top of it, we were going to have a good chance at the playoffs. That’s not changed for us.”

Appalachian State cannot officially be named SoCon champion, because the Mountaineers are in the middle of their transition to the FBS, which requires teams to have 85 scholarships. Since

App State quarterback Jamal Londry-Jackson leads the Mountaineers into the 2013 season.

PHOTO BY STEVE BEHR

Appalachian State University Mountaineer Football

Appalachian State Football Schedule Aug. 31 at Montana Sept. 7 NORTH CAROLINA A&T Sept. 21 at Elon* Sept. 28 CHARLESTON SOUTHERN Oct. 5 at The Citadel* Oct. 12 SAMFORD*& Oct. 19 AT FURMAN* Oct. 26 Georgia Southern* Nov. 2 CHATTANOOGA* Nov. 9 at Georgia Nov. 16 at Wofford* Nov. 23 WESTERN CAROLINA* * Denotes Southern Conference game & Denotes homecoming Appalachian State must add scholarships this season to get to the required average of 76 scholarships per its two-season transition time, the Mountaineers are not allowed to either be the official league champ or participate in the FCS playoffs.

It doesn’t mean that the Mountaineers are going to simply go through the motions this fall. Instead, the goal is

2013

9 p.m. (ET) 6 p.m.

6 p.m.

3:30 p.m.

2 p.m.

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TBA 1:30 p.m.

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to be the unofficial SoCon champs and possibly go undefeated.

“First and foremost, I’m playing for the team,” App State senior quarterback Jamal Londry-Jackson said. “On a personal note, it’s an opportunity to play on the next level on a team aspect. I want to lead these guys into battle. Our goal every year is to go undefeated. We may not be crowned SoCon champs by the

media or in the record books, but that’s what we’re trying to go for. We want to be SoCon champs, and we’re going to try to win every game.”

The Mountaineers will play at home six times in 2013, beginning with their Sept. 7 game against North Carolina A&T. That game begins at 6 p.m., the only home game App State plays at night.

Appalachian State also hosts Charleston Southern on Sept. 28. They’ll take on SoCon opponents Samford on Oct. 12, Georgia Southern on Oct. 26, Chattanooga on Nov. 2 and archrival Western Carolina for the Old Mountain Jug on Nov. 23.

All of those games begin at 3:30 p.m.

Appalachian State, which returns 10 starters on offense and eight on defense, plays its first game of the season on Aug. 31 at Montana. The Mountaineers also play at Elon on Sept. 21, at The Citadel on Oct. 5, at Furman on Oct. 19 and at Wofford on Nov. 16.

Appalachian State also plays at Southeastern Conference power Georgia on Nov. 9.

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Delicious burgers, brats, steaks and even seafood find their way onto grills on game day Saturdays at Appalachian State University.

PHOTO BY ANNA OAKES

Game Day in the High Country Enjoy the Mountaineer tailgating experience

BY ANNA OAKES

Become a Mountaineer for a day or a lifetime with a visit to the Appalachian State tailgating scene before Mountaineer football games.

Get up early and rent a parking spot in downtown Boone to set up your own tailgate, or simply stroll through the lots and take in the atmosphere. Sample some game day food, enjoy the fresh air and yard games and, most importantly, cheer for the Mountainteers!

WHERE TO PARK…

… to tailgate: Free public parking is available along Rivers Street on a first-come, first-served basis. Parking becomes available after 5 p.m. on the

Fridays before game days and often fills up overnight.

Parking is also available for a fee at several business parking lots downtown. … not to tailgate: Parking is available at several public parking lots in the downtown area. To access maps of the lots, visit www.downtownboonenc.com.

GET YOUR GEAR You may not need a grill, canopy tent or similar equipment if you’re only visiting the High Country, but you can look the part. You’ll find T-shirts, hats, blankets, drink koozies, flags and more at a number of stores in town, including Sports Fanatic at the Boone Mall on U.S. 321/Blowing Rock Road and Mountaineer Mania, M-

Prints, Appalachian Tees and Appalachian Sportswear on King Street near campus.

lage has to offer.

MOUNTAINEER VILLAGE

THE RULES

Just outside of Kidd Brewer Stadium’s west gate is where you’ll find Mountaineer Village, ASU’s family-friendly pre-game hospitality area. This area features fun activities for young Mountaineers, including bounce houses, and offers a wide-open space for all fans to enjoy the game day experience.

Each game will feature events sponsored by ASU’s corporate partners, as well as inflatables to keep the kids entertained prior to kickoff. Yosef and his fellow cheerleaders will drop by before each game to check out what Mountaineer Vil-

Some tailgates will have alcohol, and some will choose not to participate in those activities. Malt beverages and unfortified wine may be consumed in these locations by fans of legal drinking age.

Those that choose to consume alcohol must be able to present a valid driver license or photo ID to reflect their age upon request. Spirituous liquor, kegs, common containers and glass containers are not permitted in any location. Consumption of alcoholic beverages in designated lots may begin no earlier than 3.5 hours prior to kickoff.

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Your Autumn Times Calendar SEPT. 22 RICKY SKAGGS IN CONCERT: Bluegrass musician and Grammy Award-winner Ricky Skaggs with his band, Kentucky Thunder, will perform at 7 p.m.

Sept. 22 at Samaritan’s Purse Training and Conference Center in Blowing Rock (formerly the Hayes Performing Arts Center). Tickets are $20 per person and can be purchased at www.samaritanspurse.org/rickyskaggs.

are closed for lunch at the demonstrator’s discretion.

For more information, call (828) 295-7938. The roster of craftspeople scheduled to appear includes tapestry weaver Sandy Adair (Sept. 27-29).

SEPT. 28 ART FAIR: An art and craft fair will be held from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sept. 28 at the Ashe Arts Center in West Jefferson. For more information, call (336) 846-2787.

SEPT. 24 GOLF TOURNAMENT: The Boone Area Chamber of Commerce will sponsor the 22nd annual Last Chance Golf Tournament Golf Tournament Sept. 24 at the Linville Ridge Country Club in Linville. For more information, call (828) 264-225 or email Ginny Campbell at ginnycampbell@boonechamber.com.

GOSPEL SUMMIT: The Appalachian State University Gospel Choir will present the second annual Boone Gospel Summit Sept. 24-27 at First Baptist Church on King Street in Boone. The summit will feature Grammyand Stellar-award nominated gospel recording artist and director James Bignon, and Terry Baker, drummer, producer and a member of the Kirk Franklin Band. For more information, contact Keith McCutchen at mccutchenkd@appstate.edu or Lynn Beebe in the Hayes School of Music Office at beebems@appstate.edu or (828) 262-3021.

SEPT. 26 DANCE: Cirque Zuma Zuma will be presented at 8 p.m. Sept. 26 at the Schaefer Center for the Performing Arts on the ASU campus. Admission is: $20, $18.40 and $10. For more information, visit pas.appstate.edu.

Described as an African-style Cirque du Soleil, Cirque Zuma Zuma is a blend between traditional and a wide variety of arts and circus skills done in an African-style to a live music score. The high-energy dance act is fast paced and full of acrobatic ingenuity.

CONCERT: A four-piece folk band from Brevard, The Fox Fire brings a traditional bluegrass setup to create a nontraditional energized performance. The band will be in concert at 9 p.m. Sept. 26 at Legends on the ASU campus. Admission is $4 for students in advance, $6 at the door; and $6 for the public.

SEPT. 27 GHOST TRAIN: The Ghost Train and Halloween Festival returns Friday and Saturday nights Sept. 27-Nov. 2 at Tweetsie Railroad. Hours are 7:30 p.m. to 11:30 p.m.

Admission is $28 for adults and children; children 2 and younger admitted free. For more information, visit www.tweetsie.com/special-events/ghost-train.

DEMONSTRATIONS: The Parkway Craft Center at Flat Top Manor at the Moses Cone Estate on the Blue Ridge Parkway near Blowing Rock will offer craft demonstrations on the porch through November. Demonstrations take place from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. and

and bring work gloves, lunch and water. For more information, call (828) 297-7261.

SEPT. 29

PARTY: Blowing Rock Art and History Museum will celebrate its second birthday from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. Sept.

29. There will be family events. Free. For more information, call (828) 295-9099.

SEPT. 30 BUDDY HOLLY: A Blues Brothers and Buddy Holly Tribute Show with George Trullinger and Tim Stamper will be held on Sept. 28 at Blue Ridge Dinner Theater, 9331 N.C. 16 South , West Jefferson. Tickets are $30 pre-ordered, $35 at the door. Buffet opens at 6 p.m., show begins at 7:30 p.m. Call for tickets, (336) 2462900.

DULCIMER CONCERT: Neal Hellman, nationally acclaimed performer and teacher of the mountain dulcimer, will perform from 7:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. Sept. 28 at the Ashe Arts Center in West Jefferson. Tickets are $12 for adults and $5 for students. For more information, call (336) 846-2787.

CONCERT: A Banjo Jubilee with Steve Lewis, Edwin Lacey and Scott Manring will be held at 7:30 p.m. Sept.

28 at St. Luke’s Episcopal Church in Boone. Admission is $5 to $18. For more information, visit www.mountainhomemusic.com.

THEATER: “Vincent” will be presented by Ensemble Stage Sept. 28-29 at the Blowing Rock School Auditorium. The play covers the three facets of Vincent’s life: God, love and art. For more information, call (828) 414-1844.

MUSIC: Mountain Home Music will present a “Banjo Jubilee” at 7:30 p.m. Sept. 28 at St. Luke’s Episcopal Church in Boone. Admission. For more information, call (828) 964-3392.

DEMONSTRATIONS: The Parkway Craft Center at Flat Top Manor at the Moses Cone Estate on the Blue Ridge Parkway near Blowing Rock will offer craft demonstrations on the porch through November. Demonstrations take place from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. and are closed for lunch at the demonstrator’s discretion. For more information, call (828) 295-7938. The roster of craftspeople scheduled to appear includes fiber artist Donata Jones (Sept. 28).

TRAIL BUILDING: Join the staff of Elk Knob State Park in Watauga County to help build the Beech Tree Trail, which will also become the park’s TRACK Trail for Kids when it is completed. Every Saturday from now until the middle of November, staff and volunteers will meet at the Summit Trailhead at 9 a.m. and work until approximately 3:30 p.m., weather permitting. Tools are provided, but volunteers should wear close-toed shoes

DEMONSTRATIONS: The Parkway Craft Center at Flat Top Manor at the Moses Cone Estate on the Blue Ridge Parkway near Blowing Rock will offer craft demonstrations on the porch through November. Demonstrations take place from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. and are closed for lunch at the demonstrator’s discretion. For more information, call (828) 295-7938. The roster of craftspeople scheduled to appear includes woodworker Jeff Neil (Sept. 30-Oct. 2).

OCT. 3 DEMONSTRATIONS: The Parkway Craft Center at Flat Top Manor at the Moses Cone Estate on the Blue Ridge Parkway near Blowing Rock will offer craft demonstrations on the porch through November. Demonstrations take place from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. and are closed for lunch at the demonstrator’s discretion. For more information, call (828) 295-7938. The roster of craftspeople scheduled to appear includes glass blower Jeff McKinley (Oct. 3-6) and kaleidoscope maker Marc Tickle (Oct. 3-6).

OCT. 4 ART FESTIVAL: The 22nd annual Fine Art and Master Craft Festival sponsored by the Avery County Chamber of Commerce will be held from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m.

Oct. 4, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Oct. 5 and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Oct. 6. Admission is free. More than 80 artisans will be featured at Historic Banner Elk Elementary School in downtown Banner Elk. For more information, call the chamber at (828) 898-5605.

THEATER: Ashe County Little Theatre will present “Elvis Has Left the Building” Oct. 4-6 at the Ashe Civic Center. Shows are at 7:30 p.m., with a 2 p.m. matinee on Sunday. Tickets are $15 for adults and $5 for students.

For more information, visit www.ashecountyarts.org.

OCT. 5

ART IN THE PARK: The juried art and craft show featuring 90 artists will be held from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Oct. 5 at the American Legion grounds in Blowing Rock. Free. For more information, call (828) 2957851.

MUSIC: Mountain Home Music will present “The Voice of Time and Seasons” at 7:30 p.m. Oct. 5 at the Blowing Rock School Auditorium. Admission. For more

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Your Autumn Times Calendar information, call (828) 964-3392.

TRAIL BUILDING: Join the staff of Elk Knob State Park in Watauga County to help build the Beech Tree Trail, which will also become the park’s TRACK Trail for Kids when it is completed. Every Saturday from now until the middle of November, staff and volunteers will meet at the Summit Trailhead at 9 a.m. and work until approximately 3:30 p.m., weather permitting. Tools are provided, but volunteers should wear close-toed shoes and bring work gloves, lunch and water. For more information, call (828) 297-7261.

CONCERT: The Jeanne Jolly Band will be in concert at 7:30 p.m. Oct. 5 at the Blowing Rock School Aduitorium. Admission is $5 to $18. For more information, visit www.mountainhomemusic.com.

OZ: An Autumn at Oz Party will be held from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Oct. 5 and Oct. 6 at the former Land of Oz park at Beech Mountain. Hours are 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Tickets are purchased for times within that period. Admission is $20 in advance. VIP passes are available. A limited number of 7,000 tickets will be sold and are available online at www.autumnatoz.com.

from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Oct. 12 at the Daniel Boone Park at Horn in the West Drive, Boone. The event features living history demonstrations, crafts, music, storytelling and children’s activities. For more information, visit http://booneheritagefestival.com.

CONCERT: Banjo Joe Newberry and Mandolin Mike Compton will be in concert at 7:30 p.m. Oct. 12. Admission is $5 to $18. For more information, visit www. mountainhomemusic.com.

MUSIC: Mountain Home Music will present “I Know (Banjo) Joe & (Mandolin) Mike” at 7:30 p.m. Oct. 12 at the Blowing Rock School Auditorium. Admission. For more information, call (828) 964-3392.

TRAIL BUILDING: Join the staff of Elk Knob State Park in Watauga County to help build the Beech Tree Trail, which will also become the park’s TRACK Trail for Kids when it is completed. Every Saturday from now until the middle of November, staff and volunteers will meet at the Summit Trailhead at 9 a.m. and work until approximately 3:30 p.m., weather permitting. Tools are provided, but volunteers should wear close-toed shoes and bring work gloves, lunch and water. For more information, call (828) 297-7261.

OCT. 7 DEMONSTRATIONS: The Parkway Craft Center at Flat Top Manor at the Moses Cone Estate on the Blue Ridge Parkway near Blowing Rock will offer craft demonstrations on the porch through November. Demonstrations take place from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. and are closed for lunch at the demonstrator’s discretion. For more information, call (828) 295-7938. The roster of craftspeople scheduled to appear includes woodworker David Crandall (Oct. 7-9).

5K RUN: Homecoming Run For Hunger, a 5K run and walk to benefit the Hunger and Health Coalition, will be held Oct.12. Registration begins at 8 a.m. at the Greenway Trail next to the National Guard Armory in Boone.

The race starts at 9 a.m. and will finish in time for participants to make it to the 3:30 p.m. ASU football game. Go to http://www.hungerandhealthcoalition.com to preregister before Oct. 1 to get an early registration discount.

The registration fee will feed a family for a week, officials said. Nonperishable food donations will be accepted.

OCT. 8 STAGE: Frank Warren: PostSecret will be presented at 8 p.m. Oct. 8 at the Schaefer Center for the Performing Arts on the ASU campus. Admission is $20, $18.40 and $10. For more information, visit pas.appstate.edu.

CONCERT: Si Kahn and the Looping Brothers will perform Oct. 12 at the Ashe Civic Center. Admission is $15 for adults and $5 for students. For more information, visit www.ashecountyarts.org.

OCT. 10

OCT. 13

DEMONSTRATIONS: The Parkway Craft Center at Flat Top Manor at the Moses Cone Estate on the Blue Ridge Parkway near Blowing Rock will offer craft demonstrations on the porch through November. Demonstrations take place from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. and are closed for lunch at the demonstrator’s discretion. For more information, call (828) 295-7938. The roster of craftspeople scheduled to appear includes woodworker Allen Davis (Oct. 10-13).

JAZZ: The Blowing Rock Jazz Society concert featuring the Page Brothers will be held from 7 p.m to 9 p.m.

Oct 13 at the Meadowbrook Inn in Blowing Rock. Admission. For more information, call (828) 295-4300.

OCT. 11 HOMECOMING: Appalachian State University will hold homecoming Oct. 11-12.

OCT. 12 FESTIVAL: The Boone Heritage Festival will be held

OCT. 14 DEMONSTRATIONS: The Parkway Craft Center at Flat Top Manor at the Moses Cone Estate on the Blue Ridge Parkway near Blowing Rock will offer craft demonstrations on the porch through November. Demonstrations take place from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. and are closed for lunch at the demonstrator’s discretion. For more information, call (828) 295-7938. The roster of craftspeople scheduled to appear includes wood bark carver Tom Gow (Oct. 14-16).

OCT. 16 DEMONSTRATIONS: The Parkway Craft Center at Flat Top Manor at the Moses Cone Estate on the Blue Ridge Parkway near Blowing Rock will offer craft demonstrations on the porch through November. Demonstrations take place from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. and are closed for lunch at the demonstrator’s discretion. For more information, call (828) 295-7938. The roster of craftspeople scheduled to appear this year fiber artist Lin Oglesby (Oct. 16-21).

OCT. 18 DEMONSTRATIONS: The Parkway Craft Center at Flat Top Manor at the Moses Cone Estate on the Blue Ridge Parkway near Blowing Rock will offer craft demonstrations on the porch through November. Demonstrations take place from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. and are closed for lunch at the demonstrator’s discretion. For more information, call (828) 295-7938. The roster of craftspeople scheduled to appear includes woodworkers Bill and Tina Collison (Oct. 18-20).

OCT. 19 CONCERT: The Western Piedmont Western Piedmont Symphony Orchestra and the Kruger Brothers will perform Oct. 19 at the Ashe Civic Center. Tickets are $20 for adults and $5 for students. For more information, visit www.ashecountyarts.org.

WOOLLY WORM FESTIVAL: The 2013 Woolly Worm Festival will be held Oct. 19-20 at the Historic Banner Elk School in Banner Elk.In addition to woolly worm races to predict the weather, the festival features crafts, food vendors, live entertainment and more. Last year’s festival attracted an estimated 23,000 fans, 140 vendors and around 1,000 race entrants. The Woolly Worm Festival is sponsored by the Avery County Chamber of Commerce and the Kiwanis Club of Banner Elk and a portion of the proceeds go to support children’s charities throughout the county and small business and tourism.

COUNTRY FAIR: The Valle Country Fair will be held from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Oct. 19 at the Valle Crucis Conference Center grounds off N.C. 194 in Valle Crucis. Admission is free; parking is $5 per car. For more information, visit http://vallecountryfair.org. The fair features artisans from the Southeast and a variety of food and entertainment.

CONCERT: North Carolina Balladeer Sheila K. Adams will be on stage at 7:30 p.m. Oct. 19 at Blowing Rock School Auditorium. Admission is $5 to $18. For more information, visit www.mountainhomemusic.com.

TRAIL BUILDING: Join the staff of Elk Knob State Park in Watauga County to help build the Beech Tree Trail, which will also become the park’s TRACK Trail for Kids when it is completed. Every Saturday from now until the middle of November, staff and volunteers will

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Your Autumn Times Calendar meet at the Summit Trailhead at 9 a.m. and work until approximately 3:30 p.m., weather permitting. Tools are provided, but volunteers should wear close-toed shoes and bring work gloves, lunch and water.For more information, call (828) 297-7261.

when it is completed. Every Saturday from now until the middle of November, staff and volunteers will meet at the Summit Trailhead at 9 a.m. until 3:30 p.m., weather permitting. For more information, call (828) 297-7261.

NOV. 15 STAGE: Savion Glover’s STePZ takes place at 8 p.m.

Nov. 15 at the Schaefer Center for the Performing Arts on the ASU campus. Admission is $20, $18.40, $16 or $10. For more information, visit pas.appstate.edu.

OCT. 29 TRAIL WORK: Volunteer trail workdays at Grandfather Mountain State Park will be held Oct. 19.Time will be 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Join park rangers and help fix sections of the park. No experience or tools are needed. Wear sturdy closed-toe shoes and bring work gloves (leather preferred), comfortable work clothes, snacks and beverage (nonalcoholic). For more information, call (828) 963-9522. Meeting destinations to be determined.

DEMONSTRATIONS: The Parkway Craft Center at Flat Top Manor at the Moses Cone Estate on the Blue Ridge Parkway near Blowing Rock will offer craft demonstrations on the porch through November. Demonstrations take place from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. and are closed for lunch at the demonstrator’s discretion. For more information, call the Parkway Craft Center at (828) 295-7938. The roster of craftspeople scheduled to appear includes jewelry maker Jim Charneski (Oct. 29-31 and Nov. 22-24).

OCT. 21 DEMONSTRATIONS: The Parkway Craft Center at Flat Top Manor at the Moses Cone Estate on the Blue Ridge Parkway near Blowing Rock will offer craft demonstrations on the porch through November. Demonstrations take place from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. and are closed for lunch at the demonstrator’s discretion. For more information, call (828) 295-7938. The roster of craftspeople scheduled to appear includes woodworker Jack Rogers (Oct. 21-27).

OCT. 25 HALLOWEEN: A Beech Mountain Halloween Party will be held beginning at 6 p.m. Oct. 25 at the Buckeye Recreation Center atop Beech. The free event is family friendly.

There will be a Spell-a-bration, food, games, a bounce house, costume contest and a haunted egg hunt.

OCT. 31 BOONE B0O: The Downtown Boone Development Association, the Watauga County Library and the Jones House Community Center will host the 13th annual Boone BOO! Halloween event from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. Oct. 31.

The fun begins at 4 p.m. at the Watauga County Library, where families can participate in crafts and activities. At 4:30 p.m., the children will walk or “parade” from the library to the Jones House Community Center, which will be decorated for children of all ages to enjoy. Children can then have fun trick-or-treating with the merchants in downtown until 6 p.m. For more information, call (828) 262 – 4532 or visit www.downtownboonenc.com, www. joneshousecommunitycenter.org or www.wataugacountylibrary.com.

HAUNTED HAYRIDE: Beech Mountain and LeesMcRae College Equine Club Haunted Hayride will take place at 8 p.m. Oct. 25-27 at the Buckeye Recreation Center atop Beech Mountain. Cost is $5 per ticket in advance or $7 at the door.

NOV. 1

DEMONSTRATIONS: The Parkway Craft Center at Flat Top Manor at the Moses Cone Estate on the Blue Ridge Parkway near Blowing Rock will offer craft demonstrations on the porch through November. Demonstrations take place from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. and are closed for lunch at the demonstrator’s discretion. For more information, call (828) 295-7938. The roster of craftspeople scheduled to appear includes Native American flute maker Lee Entrekin (Oct. 25-28).

NOV. 2

OCT. 26 HALLOWEEN FESTIVAL: The Blowing Rock Halloween Festival will be held from 3 p.m. to 9 p.m. Oct. 26 in downtown Blowing Rock. For more information, call (828) 295-5222. There will be air walks, games and a fun house for kids, hayrides, Monster March, trick-or-treating, costume contest, bonfire and a Moonlight Scavenger Hunt.

OCT. 28 TRAIL BUILDING: Join the staff of Elk Knob State Park in Watauga County to help build the Beech Tree Trail, which will also become the park’s TRACK Trail for Kids

CONCERT: Tedeschi Trucks Band will be in concert at 8 p.m. Nov. 1 at the Schaefer Center for the Performing Arts on the ASU campus. Admission is $38, $34.96 and $18.

For more information, visit pas.appstate.edu.

TRAIL BUILDING: Join the staff of Elk Knob State Park in Watauga County to help build the Beech Tree Trail, which will also become the park’s TRACK Trail for Kids when it is completed. Every Saturday from now until the middle of November, staff and volunteers will meet at the Summit Trailhead at 9 a.m. and work until approximately 3:30 p.m., weather permitting. Tools are provided, but volunteers should wear close-toed shoes and bring work gloves, lunch and water. For more information, call (828) 297-7261.

NOV. 9 TRAIL BUILDING: Join the staff of Elk Knob State Park in Watauga County to help build the Beech Tree Trail, which will also become the park’s TRACK Trail for Kids when it is completed. Every Saturday from now until the middle of November, staff and volunteers will meet at the Summit Trailhead at 9 a.m. and work until approximately 3:30 p.m., weather permitting. Tools are provided, but volunteers should wear close-toed shoes and bring work gloves, lunch and water. For more information, call (828) 297-7261.

NOV. 16 CONCERT: Michael Combs will be in concert at 6 p.m.

Nov. 16 at the Blue Ridge Dinner Theater in Glendale Springs. Admissison is $30 pre-purchased or $35 at the door. For more information, visit www.BRDT.net.

TRAIL BUILDING: Join the staff of Elk Knob State Park in Watauga County to help build the Beech Tree Trail, which will also become the park’s TRACK Trail for Kids when it is completed. Every Saturday from now until the middle of November, staff and volunteers will meet at the Summit Trailhead at 9 a.m. and work until approximately 3:30 p.m., weather permitting. Tools are provided, but volunteers should wear close-toed shoes and bring work gloves, lunch and water. For more information, call (828) 297-7261.

NOV. 17 PARADE: The annual Holiday Parade will be held at noon Nov. 17 in downtown West Jefferson.

FARMERS’ MARKET: The Ashe Country Farmers’ Holiday Market will be held weekly on Sundays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Nov. 17-Dec. 1 in downtown West Jefferson. Admission is free. For more information, visit www.AsheFarmersMarket.com.

NOV. 22 DEMONSTRATIONS: The Parkway Craft Center at Flat Top Manor at the Moses Cone Estate on the Blue Ridge Parkway near Blowing Rock will offer craft demonstrations on the porch through November. Demonstrations take place from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. and are closed for lunch at the demonstrator’s discretion.

For more information, call (828) 295-7938. The roster of craftspeople scheduled to appear includes jewelry maker Jim Charneski (Nov. 22-24).

NOV. 23 TREE LIGHTING: The sixth annual Hometown Christmas will be held at 5 p.m. Nov. 23 in downtown West Jefferson. Take part in the official lighting of the community Christmas tree with Santa, carolers and hot chocolate. Free. For more information, visit www. visitwestjefferson.org.

NOV. 29 CHRISTMAS EVENTS: Blowing Rock will hold its Christmas in the Park and Lighting of the Town beginning at 2 p.m. on Nov. 29 at Memorial Park. Call (828)295-5222 for more information. There will be visits with Santa, hayrides, air walks, free hot cider and hot chocolate, caroling, lighting of the town and bluegrass music.

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Advertising Index 1861 Deli-Bakery-Market, The – 91 1861 Farmhouse, The – 91 4 Seasons Vacation Rentals & Real Estate Sales – 48 A-1 Mountain Realty – 49 Abingdon Olive Oil Company – 79 Anna Banana’s – 24 Antiques on Howard – 25 Antiques on Main – 48 Appalachian Homebrewing Supply – 25 Appalachian Regional Healthcare System – 52 Appalachian Regional Orthopaedic & Sports Medicine Center – 69 Art of Oil – 25 ArtWalk – 24 Ashe County – 48 Ashe County Arts Council – 48 Ashe County Chamber of Commerce – 49 Ashe County Cheese – 48 Ashe County Farmers Market – 48 Ashe High Country Realty – 87 Avery County Adoption and Humane Education Center – 39 Banner Elk Tourism Development Authority – 42 Barter Theatre – 79 Bear Creek Traders – 20 Bistro Roca & Antlers Bar – 90 Blowing Rock Art & History Museum – 28 Blowing Rock Frameworks & Gallery – 17 Blue Ridge Realty & Investments/Sunalei Preserve – 3 Boone Bagelry – 24 Boone Independent Restaurants – 94 Brushy Mountain Apple Festival – 82 Buffalo Tavern Bed and Breakfast – 49 Cabin Store, The – 72 Capone’s Untouchable Pizza – 24 Carlton Gallery – 84 Carolina Country Wines – 48 Casa Rustica Restaurant – 91 CatchLight Gallery – 49 Cha Da Thai – 25 Char – 25 Char – 97 Chestnut Grille at Green Park Inn – 11 Chick-fil-A – 93 Choose & Cut Christmas Trees – 14 Clark Gallery – 81 CoBo – 25 Country Gourmet, The – 77 Country Retreat Family Billiards – 96 Dan’l Boone Inn Restaurant – 96 Dande Lion, The – 74 Dewoolfson Down – 43 Dianne Davant & Associates – 107 Doe Ridge Pottery – 21 Doncaster – 31 Dos Amigos Restaurante Mexicano – 92 Downtown Boone - 24

Downtown Boone Development Association – 25 Eat Crow – 95 Echota – 108 Erick’s Cheese & Wine – 67 Everything Has a Story – 48 Festiva Hospitality Group/ Blue Ridge Village Resort – 12 Foggy Mountain Gem Mine – 69 Foggy Rock Eatery & Pub – 97 Footsloggers – 60 Foscoe Fishing Company – 55 Fred’s General Mercantile Co. – 75 Gaines Kiker Silversmith & Goldsmith – 31 Gamekeeper Restaurant, Bar & Catered Events – 91 GoSkiNC – 57 Grandfather Campground & Cabins – 75 Grandfather Mountain – 54 Grandfather Trout Farm – 20 Grandfather Vineyard and Winery – 16 Great Train Robbery, The – 66 Greenhouse Crafts – 48 Gregory Alan’s Unique Gifts & Home Furnishings – 31 Hawksnest – 17 Hickory Furniture Mart – 83 High Country Dulcimers Inc. – 28 High Country Souvenirs & Information Center – 24 High Country Stone – 85 Honey Hole, The – 49 Honeybear Campground – 76 Hotel of West Jefferson, The – 106 Hotel Tavern, The – 94 Hound Ears – 9 Hunan Chinese Restaurant – 96 Incredible Toy Company – 27 J&J Chophouse – 94 Jackalope’s The View Restaurant – 97 Jefferson Business Association – 21 Jenkins Rentals – 31 Jim’s Corner Furniture – 49 Kincaid Factory Direct Outlet – 73 Leatherwood Mountains – 27 Lees-McRae College – 77 Lemke’s Lodging – 85 Libby’s – 49 LifeStore Investments – 19 Linville Caverns – 12 Logs America – 80 Los Arcoiris – 94 Lucky Penny – 24 Magic Cycles – 60 Makoto’s – 93 Mark S. Mears CLU – 71 Mast General Store – 2 Mast Mobile Pet Care & Acupuncture – 39 McDonald’s – 92 Melanie’s – 24

Mellow Mushroom – 90 Mo’s Boots – 24 Modern Subaru of Boone – 50 Modern Toyota of Boone – 50 Monkee’s – 11 Mountain Dog and Friends – 64 Mountain Land Company – 83 Mountain Mamma’s Bed & Biscuit – 39 Mountain Sotheby’s International Realty – 66 Mustard Seed Market, The – 14 My Best Friend’s Barkery – 39 Mystery Hill – 64 New Public House & Hotel, The – 90 Nick’s Restaurant & Pub – 96 Old World Galleries – 78 Originals Only Gallery – 49 Our Daily Bread – 24 Paolucci’s Italian Bar & Grill – 24 Parker Tie Company Inc. – 48 Perry’s Gold Mine – 41 Petal Pusher Designs & Gifts – 48 Primo’s Pizza Pasta Subs – 90 Puerto Nuevo Mexican and Seafood Restaurant – 66 Ram’s Rack Thrift Shop – 25 RDR Kennels – 39 Red Onion Café – 97 Restaurant at Gideon Ridge, The – 90 Rivercross Market – 38 Rock Dimensions – 60 Rock Sports Bar & Grill, The – 95 Seven Devils – 78 Shoppes at Farmers Hardware, The – 24 Six Pence Pub – 92 Sky Valley Zip Tours – 52 SkyLine SkyBest – 41 Sobleski – 61 Southern Highland Craft Guild – 67 Stonewall’s – 95 Sugar Mountain – 43 Sugar Mountain Oktoberfest – 57 Sugar Mtn Lodging Inc. – 43 Sugar Ski & Country Club – 43 Sugar Top Resort Sales – 43 TApp Room, The – 95 Taste Grill – 92 Tatum Galleries and Interiors – 16 These Were the Days – 43 Tis the Season for All Seasons – 49 Trolly Stop, The – 25 Tweetsie Railroad Ghost Train – 35 Valle Crucis – 34 Village Inns of Blowing Rock, The – 61 Vistas at Banner Elk, The – 37 Watauga County Farmers’ Market – 80 Woodlands Barbecue & Pickin’ Parlor, The – 89 Woolly Worm Festival – 23 Yosefa AntiquiTEA – 25

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THE MOUNTAIN TIMES AUTUMN GUIDE

Stay with us! Comfortable Rooms!

Guaranteed Satisfaction!

Located in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains and a short drive from the New River, Mount Jefferson State Park, downtown West Jefferson, the Blue Ridge Parkway and some of the most beautiful scenic autumn leaf drives in the mountains!

We are the newest and the hotel of choice in Ashe County!

203 Hampton Place Court West Jefferson, NC 28694 Phone 336.846.4000 Fax 336.846.4045

2013