2018
AUTUMN TIMES
PAGE 3
• Custom Room Planning • Creative Interior Designs
BERNHARDT FACTORY OUTLET 4916 Hickory Blvd, Granite Falls, NC 28630 828.313.0795 · outlet@bernhardt.com · Hours: Tues – Sat 9 a.m. – 6 p.m.
KINCAID FACTORY OUTLET 4930 Hickory Blvd, Granite Falls, NC 28630 828.496.2262 · kfdo@la-z-boy.com · Hours: Mon – Sat 9 a.m. – 6 p.m. · Sun 1 p.m. – 5 p.m.
PAGE 4
AUTUMN TIMES
2018
Table of Contents Numbers of Note ......................................................................................... 6 High Country Host ....................................................................................... 7 High Country Chambers of Commerce ...................................................... 8 Our Towns ................................................................................................. 13 High Country General Stores ................................................................... 20 Autumn Colors ......................................................................................... 21 Camping ................................................................................................... 22 Fishing ....................................................................................................... 28 Outdoor Climbing ..................................................................................... 33 Indoor Climbing ....................................................................................... 33 Hiking ....................................................................................................... 35 Hunting ..................................................................................................... 36 Water Adventures .................................................................................... 43 Cycling ..................................................................................................... 46 Mountain Biking ....................................................................................... 46 Motorcycling ............................................................................................ 47 Blue Ridge Parkway ................................................................................ 49 Grandfather Mountain ............................................................................. 54 Autumn Planting ....................................................................................... 56 Tweetsie .................................................................................................... 57 Mystery Hill .............................................................................................. 60 Halloween ................................................................................................ 61 Fall Festivals ............................................................................................ 62 Canine Camping ....................................................................................... 67 Christmas Tree Industry .......................................................................... 70 Ziplining ................................................................................................... 75 Pickleball ................................................................................................. 76 Hang Gliding ............................................................................................ 76 Parks and Recreation .............................................................................. 81 Disc Golfing .............................................................................................. 82 APP State Football ................................................................................... 83 Tailgating ................................................................................................. 83 Art Galleries ............................................................................................. 88 Schaefer Center ....................................................................................... 89 Antiquing ................................................................................................... 90 High Country Golfing ............................................................................... 97 Beer & Wine ........................................................................................... 102 Horseback Riding .................................................................................. 104 Advertising Index ................................................................................... 119
PHOTO BY ROB MOORE | MTNSNAPSHOTS.COM Around every turn on the Blue Ridge Parkway during the autumn months, you can find a landscape popping with a palette of color.
AUTUMN TIMES
2018
PAGE 5
LET US BE YOUR
Offering: Full Service Pharmacy • Durable Medical Equipment • CPap Supplies Oxygen • Respiratory Services • Immunization Clinic (including Flu Shots) Gift Shop • Soda Fountain & Grill (located in Boone Drug King St)
Visit One of Our Locations Today! Watauga: Boone Drug and Healthcare at Deerfield Boone Drug at Greenway • Boone Drug at King St Boone Drug at New Market • Village Pharmacy
Avery: Avery Pharmacy • Crossnore Drug
Check us out online at
www.boonedrug.com
Ashe: Warrensville Drug
AUTUMN TIMES
PAGE 6
2018
2018 Autumn Times Staff Gene Fowler Jr. Publisher Charlie Price Advertising Director Tom Mayer Editor Johnny Hayes Production Chief Rob Moore and Jason Balduf Layout Artists
Numbers of Note Law Enforcement Watauga County Watauga County Sheriff’s Office: (828) 264-3761 Boone Police Department: (828) 268-6900 Blowing Rock Police: (828) 295-5210 Appalachian Regional Healthcare System Police: (828) 262-4168 Appalachian State Police: (828) 262-8000
Ashe County Ashe County Sheriff’s Office: (336) 846-5633 Jefferson Police: (336) 846-5529 West Jefferson Police: (336) 246-9410
Avery County Avery County Sheriff’s Office: (828) 733-3858 Banner Elk Police: (828) 898-4300 Elk Park Police Department: (828) 733-9573 Newland Police Department:
(828) 733-2024 Seven Devils Police Department: (828) 963-6760 Sugar Mountain Police Department: (828) 898-4349 Beech Mountain Police Department: (828) 387-2342
Health Care Watauga Medical Center (Boone): (828) 262-4100 Cannon Memorial Hospital (Linville): (828) 737-7000 Ashe Memorial Hospital (Jefferson): (336) 846-7101 FastMed Urgent Care (Boone): (828) 265-7146 AppUrgentCare (Boone): (828) 265-5505 Blowing Rock Hospital: (828) 295-3136
Animal Control Watauga County Animal Control: (828) 262-1672 Watauga Humane Society (Boone): (828) 264-7865 Animal Emergency & Pet Care Clinic of the High Country (Boone): (828) 268-2833 Avery County Humane Society (Newland): (828) 733-2333
Emily Jones Prepress Production Meleah Bryan Creative Services Director Andy Gainey Circulation Manager Anna Oakes, Jamie Shell, Steve Behr, Kayla Lasure, Colin Tate, Carl Blankenship, Thomas Sherrill, Luke Weir, Ian Taylor, Sydney Wolford and Derek Halsey Writers Mark Mitchell, Teresa Laws and Ron Brown Sales Kristin Obiso and Brandon Carini Creative Services
2018
AUTUMN TIMES
PHOTO BY KAYLA LASURE High Country Host staff are ready to assist with planning needs when visiting the High Country. Front: Candice Cook and Diane Hill. Back: Sarah Tscherpel, Mollie Shanly, J.P. Greene and Deborah Walden.
High Country Host helps relieve stress of planning a trip BY KAYLA LASURE
S
ometimes the most stressful part of a vacation or a trip is planning the details. High Country Host is the regional welcome center that serves as a one-stop shop for those planning a trip to the High Country — including Allegheny, Ashe, Avery, Wilkes and Watauga counties. Candice Cook, High Country Host’s marketing director, said that the Host has a multitude of materials on information in the area. This includes brochures on area attractions and information on lodging, area restaurants, local art galleries and live music schedules. She said High Country Host also provides a handout of all of the upcoming events for the two weeks from when visitors come in. High Country Host also has free state maps and travel guides as well as lots of hiking information. These printed materials can come in handy when dealing with the geography of the mountains. “It is important up here because a lot of places you will not be able to get cell phone signal because of the mountains,” Cook said. “I would highly suggest
HIGH COUNTRY HOST Hours of operation: Mon. — Saturday: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday: 9 am. to 3 p.m. Location: 6370 U.S. 321, Blowing Rock everyone stop by and pick up some maps so that they don’t get lost if they do lose signal.” The organization’s nine employees are of various ages and backgrounds, Cook said. Some employees are born-andraised locals while others have relocated or retired to the area. For this reason, Cook said High Country Host employees SEE HCH ON PAGE 8
PAGE 7
AUTUMN TIMES
PAGE 8
2018
High Country Chambers of Commerce ASHE COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE 1 N Jefferson Ave Suite C, West Jefferson, NC 28694 (888) 343-2743 www.ashechamber.com/contact.php Info@AsheChamber.com
BANNER ELK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE 100 Main St W, Banner Elk, NC 28604 (828) 898-8395 www.bannerelk.org/ bannerelkchamber@gmail.com
The Ashe County Chamber of Commerce 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. AVERY COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE 4501 Tynecastle Hwy # 2, Banner Elk, NC 28604 (828) 898-5605 www.averycounty.com/ chamber@averycounty.com
BEECH MOUNTAIN CHAMBER OF COMMERCE 403A Beech Mountain Pkwy, Beech Mountain, NC 28604 (828) 387-9283 www.beechmtnchamber.com/ chamber@beechmtn.com
The Avery County Chamber of Commerce Visitor Center is convieniently located in the Shopped at Tynecastle at the intersection of N.C. 105 and N.C. 184. The center offers information on lodging, dining, attractions, shopping and other businesses in Avery County.
HCH CONTINUED FROM PAGE 7
can offer information for just about everyone that comes to them for assistance. Most of the High Country Host employees have hiked a majority of the trails on the Blue Ridge Parkway and are familiar of what travelers will see on those trails and how long it would take to finish those trails. “With the High Country having so
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 Monday through Saturday, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., and all the time by visiting www.bannerelk.org.
Beech Mountain, at an elevation of 5,506 feet, 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, open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday, is here to help.
many trails, we can really help you narrow down what trails you decide to hike on,” Cook said. Cook also mentioned that staff members can help visitors plan their time to make the most of it. “A lot of people don’t understand that even if something might be 10 miles from where you’re currently located, you might have to go down a mountain road to get there. So it might take you a little longer to get there than what you would’ve planned for,” Cook said. “We
BLOWING ROCK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE 132 Park Ave, Blowing Rock, NC 28605 (800) 295-7851 www.blowingrockncchamber.com/home info@blowingrock.com Blowing Rock is considered one of the crown jewels of the Blue Ridge. Aside from general information, lists of camping and fishing sites and brochures, the Blowing Rock Chamber of Commerce also has a generous stock of menus from the town’s many eateries. BOONE AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE 870 W King St, Boone, NC 28607 (828) 264-2225 www.boonechamber.com/ info@boonechamber.com 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. The chamber is an ideal place to stop for information on area activities, brochures and maps of the community.
can help you plan how long it’ll take you to get from one location to the next.” High Country Host receives a lot of phone calls in the fall months to ask about lodging and for updates on the changing leaf colors, Cook said. She said hotels and cabins tend to fill up quickly in the fall because of Appalachian State University football games or festivals/ events such as the Wooly Worm Festival in Avery County. Cook said if people have difficulty finding lodging, they can call the Host
and staff should know where has availability. Cook also recommended booking accommodations early, visiting during the week if possible when places are less crowded and looking at the High Country Host event calendar to see when the area could have an influx of visitors. High Country Host also has a list of places where people can tailgate for ASU football games. For more information, call (828) 2641299, email info@highcountryhost.com or visit highcountryhost.com.
AUTUMN TIMES
2018
PAGE 9
Southern Charm in the High Country
HOME · GARDEN · GIFTS
215 Boone Heights Dr., Boone
·
bbandminteriors@gmail.com
·
www.thebeeandtheboxwood.com
·
828.386.6212
PAGE 10
AUTUMN TIMES
2018
2018
AUTUMN TIMES
PAGE 11
AUTUMN TIMES
PAGE 12
2018
Classic Surroundings, Modern Amenities
Let Us Host Your Next Special Event! Patio Dining Available 828.414.9230
|
Chestnut Grille
Divide Tavern
9239 Valley Blvd Blowing Rock, NC 28605
|
ESTD. 1882
www.greenparkinn.com www.greenparkinn.co
AUTUMN TIMES
2018
N
PAGE 13
Our Towns
o matter who you are, when you’re in the High Country, autumn has something in store for you. Whether it’s the college town atmosphere that Boone provides, the shops in Blowing Rock, the sights of Beech Mountain, or nearly everybody’s favorite autumnal activity — leaf looking — or any of the other unique experiences provided by Watauga, Avery and Ashe counties, the High Country can be your getaway for a month or an afternoon. Here’s a brief guide to enjoying the entirety of the diverse mountain community that locals are fortunate enough to call home.
WATAUGA COUNTY BOONE No matter which activity draws you to the High Country, it’s likely that you’ll end up in Boone at some point during your visit. Boone is the hub of Watauga County, the gathering place for people of all walks of life, whether resident or visitor, student or retiree, socialite or seeker of peace and quiet. The town is home to Appalachian State University, one of the 17 colleges and universities that makes up the University of North Carolina system and draws
more than 18,000 students. Interest in the school boomed after the Mountaineers’ football team won three consecutive NCAA Division I national championships in 2005, 2006 and 2007. The university’s presence helps create a young and friendly vibe throughout the town. Just make sure not to cross anyone by mispronouncing the name: It’s “App-uhlatch-un.” Adjacent to the university is King Street and the surrounding area, one of the town’s best shopping destinations. One-of-a-kind stores and eclectic boutiques dot the landscape, interspersed with art and craft galleries and a diversity of restaurants to suit almost any taste. Departing from downtown, other shopping areas ensure that residents and visitors lack nothing in the way of modern conveniences. But Boone has an eye on its past, too. Named for the pioneer and explorer Daniel Boone, the town dates back to about 1800, when Jordan Councill opened a store on what is now King Street. In 1820, he opened a post office, and other homes and stores began to spring up nearby. When Watauga County was created in 1849, Boone was picked as the county seat. It remained a typical small town until the university began to grow in the 1960s.
AMANDA LUGENBELL A crowd gathers for Bowing Rock’s lighting of the town.
The historic Jones House Community Center, a relic of Boone’s storied past, is located right on King Street. The house was built in 1908 and was given to the town in the early 1980s. Today, the home is a go-to source for art and community functions. Boone is a town where old and new mix, and visitors are made to feel like part of the family. For more information, visit www. townofboone.net.
of beauty and fun into just three square miles. The town’s name comes from an immense cliff overlooking Johns River Gorge, where the winds whip in such a way that light objects thrown over the rock float back to their owners. Anyone wishing to experience the phenomenon firsthand can visit The Blowing Rock attraction, which is open certain dates in autumn and winter, weather permitting, to showcase the town’s namesake and the Native American
BLOWING ROCK Blowing Rock manages to cram a ton
SEE TOWNS ON PAGE 14
AUTUMN TIMES
PAGE 14
TOWNS CONTINUED FROM PAGE 13
legend that surrounds it. For another dose of history, visit the renovated and restored Green Park Inn, a site on the National Register of Historic Places that has been a hotel since 1882. While clinging to the small-town charm and Southern graciousness of its past, Blowing Rock also includes about 20 hotels and inns and more than 100 shops. Find a place to park and spend the day on foot, exploring the shops and parks of downtown. Clothing, antiques, home furnishings, mementos and delicious treats will fill your shopping bags and your stomach as you examine the town’s treasures. Make sure to visit Tanger Shoppes on the Parkway on U.S. 321 to find namebrand items at outlet prices. The benches in Memorial Park at the center of Main Street make the perfect spot to settle down with coffee or hot chocolate and watch the world go by. The less-traveled Broyhill Park down Laurel Lane paints the perfect seasonal scene, complete with a gazebo and glistening pond. The trails surrounding
Moses Cone Memorial Park and Bass Lake offer another scenic stroll. The picturesque town of Blowing Rock is the perfect place to have an active vacation — or to relax and do nothing at all. For more information, visit www. blowingrock.com.
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, art galleries, 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
2018
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. Dining highlights include Simplicity at the Mast Farm Inn and the 1861 Farmhouse Market, formerly the Ham Shoppe, which boasts some of the best sandwiches in the High Country. For more information, visit www. vallecrucis.com.
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 rivers in the world that flow north. Todd was the last stop of the Norfolk
WINE & BEER
and Western “Virginia Creeper” railroad and got much of its supplies from the train. The Todd Mercantile features the work of local artists and crafters, as well as mountain honey and other local goods, while also hosting monthly square and contra dances, with traditional mountain music by local performers. The ever-crafty Elkland Art Center, known for its colorful parades and environmentally conscious puppet shows, offers summer workshops and programs for those with a flair for creativity. The river itself provides plenty to do, from canoeing and kayaking to excellent fishing for all four seasons. Several companies, including RiverGirl Fishing Company and Wahoo’s Adventures, have outposts near Todd to provide gear and instruction for anyone interested in hitting the river. For more information, visit www. toddnc.org.
FOSCOE Nestled between Boone and Banner Elk is the unincorporated community of Foscoe.
GIFT BASKETS
WARE
WEDDING
& PARTY PLANNING
GOURMET
MIXERS
GLASS-
SEE TOWNS ON PAGE 15
FOOD
CIGARS
CELLAR
DESIGN & CONSULTING
828.264.9476 • 1104 HWY 105, Boone • www.PeabodysWineandBeer.com
Follow us on
2018
AUTUMN TIMES
TOWNS CONTINUED FROM PAGE 14
But don’t let its size fool you. The community is brimming with shopping, art, dining and outdoor fun. Shopping includes mementos and more at Bear Creek Traders, treats, snacks and other tail-wagging goodies for your furry friends at Mountain Dog & Friends and the luxurious linens of Dewoolfson Downs. If you’re shopping for outdoor fun, cast a line with Foscoe Fishing Company, or pan for gold with the Greater Foscoe Mining Company. Hungry? Sample some home-cooked Southern goodness at the Foscoe Country Corner and Deli. Some of the High Country’s finest gourmet sandwiches and baked goods await at Eat Crow, while burgers, billiards and family fun are on cue at Country Retreat Family Billiards. Foscoe’s also home to one of the views that made Grandfather Mountain famous — the ridgeline’s iconic appearance of an old man reclining.
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. One of the smaller towns in the region, Seven Devils began life in the 1960s as the Seven Devils Resort, and, in 1979, the resort became incorporated as the town. 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
FILE PHOTO Banner Elk is home to Lees-McRae College, a small, private, four-year coeducational liberal arts college affiliated with Presbyterian Church U.S.A. with more than 900 students from more than 20 states and countries.
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.’” In the 1960s, the town grew with a golf course, ski slope, lake, riding ground and camping area. After the resort venture experienced 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) are zip lining and snow tubing. For more information and events at Seven Devils, visit www.townofsevendevils.org.
AVERY COUNTY BANNER ELK The mountain valley town of Banner Elk has grown from a tiny hamlet to a town offering year-round amenities and memorable vacations for the entire family. Banner Elk is home to Lees-McRae College, a small, private, four-year coeducational liberal arts college affiliated with Presbyterian Church U.S.A. with more than 900 students from more than 20 states and countries. The old stone buildings nestled across campus make for a photographer’s delight. The town hosts numerous shops and
restaurants and stays abuzz with activities and events. Visitors can picnic or walk in the town park, hear live music, enjoy exquisite shopping or simply relax by the mill pond and stay in one of the inns after dinner in a fine restaurant. Banner Elk is in the heart of the High Country’s many attractions, and just a short drive will take you to numerous natural settings where you can relax and revel in nature’s beauty. Banner Elk also offers many cultural happenings, with a celebrated summer theater program by Lees-McRae and art festivals by some of the area’s many galleries and artisans. Visitors are encouraged to return to Banner Elk each yeah for its Woolly Worm Festival, which attracts close to 20,000 people annually. Cutting between the peaks of Sugar Mountain, Beech Mountain and Grandfather Mountain, the topography of the town provides natural definition and gentle undulation through the town’s boundaries. For more information or a calendar of events, call Banner Elk Chamber of Commerce at (828) 898-8395, or visit www. bannerelk.org.
BEECH MOUNTAIN At 5,506 feet, Beech Mountain is the highest town in Eastern North America. That means two things: When winter comes, it’s a great place to ski, and, even on the hottest day of the summer, it’s cool on top of Beech Mountain.
PAGE 15
Even when it’s steamy in the “lowlands” of 3,000-plus feet, the temperature stays comfortable. 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. 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. Nightlife is alive and well on the mountain. Whatever your musical taste, you can find a spot to enjoy an after-hours 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, visit www. beechmtn.com.
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. Mary Martin Sloop eventually put these tales to paper in her autobiography “Miracle in the Hills,” which has since SEE TOWNS ON PAGE 18
AUTUMN TIMES
PAGE 16
2018
BLOWING ROCK’S FINEST
FULL SERVICE REAL ESTATE COMPANY QUALITY SERVICE SINCE 1976
SALES RENTALS
Plan an escape to Westglow Resort & Spa! Consistently ranked among the Top Destination Spas by Travel + Leisure, Westglow offers luxurious Day Spa Packages, Private Guided Hikes, and elegant fine dining at Rowland’s Restaurant. Visit www.westglow.com for more information or call 828.295.4463.
PROPERTY MANAGEMENT 828.295.9886 www.JenkinsRealtors.com 452 Sunset Drive Blowing Rock, NC
WESTGLOW RESORT & SPA 224 WESTGLOW CIRCLE | BLOWING ROCK, NC 28605 | 800.562.0807
www.westglow.com
AUTUMN TIMES
PAGE 17
© 2006-2018 DEWOOLFSON Down Int’l., Inc.
2018
Photo courtesy of YVES DELORME
Photo courtesy of SCHLOSSBERG
Photo courtesy of MATOUK
Photo courtesy of PEACOCK ALLEY
PAGE 18
AUTUMN TIMES
traction housed in Linville is Grandfather Mountain. The Grandfather Mountain attraction offers picturesque views during all four seasons, animal habitats and the famous Mile High Swinging Bridge. Grandfather Mountain State Park offers hiking trails and backcountry camping opportunities.
TOWNS CONTINUED FROM PAGE 15
been used as the basis for a drama of the same name that takes place each summer in present-day Crossnore. 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 Sloopses’ 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 only the special needs of Crossnore residents, but also the needs of area students who live at home and whose educational needs are best met at Crossnore. The school is also home to Miracle Grounds Coffee Cafe & Creamery, a working vocational classroom, featuring specialty coffee drinks, homemade snacks, sandwiches, milkshakes, ice cream, Wi-Fi and more. Crossnore is famous for its Independence Day parade and celebration, and the town’s Meeting House is home to the Crossnore Jam, a series of gatherings and concerts by local musicians on the first Friday night through the summer and fall months. For more information, visit www. crossnorenc.com.
NEWLAND
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 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, better known as Tweetsie. Elk Park thrived due to the industry and remained vibrant after the trains stopped running through town. For more information, call Elk Park Town Hall at (828) 733-9573.
LINVILLE The community of Linville is located just south of the intersection of U.S. 221 and N.C. 105 in Avery County. The com-
2018
PHOTO BY ROB MOORE | MTNSNAPSHOTS.COM Linville is home to the spectacular Linville Falls just off the Blue Ridge Parkway at Milepost 316.4. There are both easy trails and harder trails to view this waterfall.
munity 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 Carolina Railroad 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: Eseeola, Grandfather Golf and Country Club and Linville Ridge, all open late spring to early fall. 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 the Linville Gorge wilderness area. For visitors considering making Linville a part- or full-time home, they can visit Linville Land Harbor, where units are available for sale or rent in a cozy community featuring its own golf course and amenities. A number of residents reside at Land Harbor part time, while others stay yearround to enjoy the beauty of the area’s four seasons. During the winter months, Linville is only a short drive to nearby ski slopes at Sugar Mountain and Beech Mountain, popular skiing and snow-tubing destinations. Perhaps the most popular tourist at-
The highest county seat east of the Mississippi River at 3,589 feet, the town of Newland was incorporated in 1913 as the county seat of the newly formed Avery County. Its original name was “Old Fields of Toe,” because it is located in a broad flat valley and is at the headwaters of the Toe River. Newland was a mustering place for Civil War troops. Toe is short for “Estatoe,” an Indian chief’s daughter who drowned herself in the river in despair because she could not marry a brave from another tribe. A town of about 700 residents, Newland succeeded over three other areas for the honor of county seat. The recently renovated courthouse, originally constructed in 1913, overlooks a classic town square, bordered by shops and churches and complete with a memorial to Avery County veterans. Adjacent to the courthouse building is the original jail, which has been converted into the Avery County Historical Museum. Exhibits in the museum, which is free to visit, include the original jail cells, numerous artifacts and information about the history of Avery County. During the autumn and fall months, visitors can check out the farmers’ market that meets on Saturday mornings outside of Newland Elementary School, and visitors traveling out of town can picnic or hike at Waterfalls Park, a unique recreation spot sponsored by Newland Volunteer Fire Department. Heritage Park hosts rodeo events on weekends during the summer and is the permanent home for the county’s annual Agriculture and Heritage Fair each September. Newland hosts an annual Christmas parade through downtown, with decorations adorning the town reflecting the area’s rich Christmas tree industry. With a number of restaurants and boutiques downtown, Newland is a prime destination for dining and shopping, or just to stop in on a visit to nearby Roan Mountain, Tenn., or Grandfather SEE TOWNS ON PAGE 19
AUTUMN TIMES
2018
PAGE 19
TOWNS CONTINUED FROM PAGE 18
Mountain. For more information, visit www. townofnewland.com.
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 enjoy the beauty of the High Country. One attraction in particular is the summer lift rides on Sugar Mountain. On weekends, weather permitting, visitors can ride the ski lift to the 5,300-foot peak of Sugar Mountain. The 40-minute round-trip ride features a spectacular view of the High Country and runs from Independence Day weekend to Labor Day weekend. If heights aren’t what you’re looking for, Sugar Mountain can also be seen on foot. With numerous trails that wind throughout the village of Sugar Mountain, you can see both the brilliant greens of the summer, the vibrant reds and yellows of fall, and the white of winter. The trails of Sugar Mountain are not just for those on foot. Many cyclists choose the village of Sugar Mountain for its variety of challenging and picturesque terrain. The village of Sugar Mountain also gives tennis and golf lovers an opportunity to enjoy their favorite sports in the beautiful mountain setting. With Sugar Mountain’s golf course, six fast-dry clay courts and full-service tennis pro shop, 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 great outdoor fun. For more information, visit www. seesugar.com.
ASHE COUNTY CRESTON Located in the northwestern corner of Ashe County, Creston lies 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
PHOTO BY ROB MOORE | MTNSNAPSHOTS.COM West Jefferson was built around the Virginia-Carolina Railroad depot during the early 1900s.
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 about 1902. The interior of the chapel is finished, in part, with American chestnut wood, harvested before the blight reached the northwestern mountains of North Carolina.
FLEETWOOD Located just off of U.S. 221 between West Jefferson and Deep Gap, Fleetwood is home to great community gatherings at the Fleetwood Community Center and the local volunteer fire department. On your way to and from the busy towns of Boone and West Jefferson, stop by to look at local crafts, antiques and civic pride in Fleetwood.
GLENDALE SPRINGS Home of the breathtaking and awe-aspiring fresco painting by Ben Long at Holy Trinity Episcopalian Church, Glendale Springs has become revered for its budding arts scene. The community has become a must for anyone visiting Ashe County. Proximity to the Blue Ridge Parkway is an added bonus as summer sets in and fall colors begin to explode.
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 na-
tionally renowned New River, where you will also find the River House Country Inn and Restaurant for delectable dinners.
JEFFERSON A rich history, dating from 1799, lies in the picturesque town of Jefferson. Jefferson was founded prior to its counterpart, West Jefferson, and stood at the base of Mount Jefferson. The town was first known as Jeffersonton, but then became Jefferson, and was one of the first towns in the nation to bear the name of U.S. founding father Thomas Jefferson. The town is the county seat of Ashe and is home to the new courthouse, as well as the historic 1904 Courthouse. The Museum of Ashe County History is located in Jefferson and can be found in the 1904 Courthouse. The museum, through items collected and on display, offers a look at who the citizens of the county are, where they came from, how they got to the town, what did they do on the way and where do they go next? Ashe County Park and Foster Tyson Park are also located in Jefferson, the former of which hosts a nationally celebrated disc golf course.
LANSING Whether you’re looking for a town reminiscent of the past or a town that offers whispers of tomorrow, the small, friendly town of Lansing beckons to travelers from near and far to visit and relax, while browsing its shops, trying some home cooking and tasting some locally made wine.
The town, in the northwestern section of Ashe County, is 20 minutes from Jefferson and West Jefferson and only 45 minutes from Boone. Travelers can arrive in the town in less than an hour from Abingdon, Va., or Mountain City, Tenn. The town has one stoplight, and several businesses line the street. Home-cooked meals can be found at Country House Restaurant, while pizza, sandwiches and salads, along with specialty teas and fresh roasted coffee, are available at Pie on the Mountain. The first post office in the town was established in 1882 and served a rural community, made up of a village and outlying farms until the railroad made its appearance, according to www.lansingnc.com. The economy and population began to take off by 1914 as the Norfolk and Western Railroad, better known as the Virginia Creeper, came to town. A big commodity for area residents was iron ore mined from the mountains. The railroad served as an avenue to transport the ore to markets in Richmond, Va., and Pittsburgh, Pa. During its history, Lansing had a cheese plant, clothing store, coffin shop, doctor’s office, bank and a restaurant, according to the town’s website. The cheese plant allowed area farmers to bring their goods to sell instead of having to travel into West Jefferson. The town was chartered and incorporated in 1928. Lansing faced two devastating fires in the 1930s and ’40s and faced Hurricane Hugo later that century. Despite these SEE TOWNS ON PAGE 20
AUTUMN TIMES
PAGE 20
2018
A blast from the past Mast General Store
High Country general stores BY CARTER NORTH
O
ften, the general store acts as the nucleus for small towns in America. Prior to the days of big box stores, the general store was a necessary staple, usually found on Main Street, for the local community members. These stores held a wide array of supplies and often acted as non-official community centers for the town. Locals and visitors alike would stroll Main Street, end up at the general store for important food staples and myriad household supplies used for any and all projects. While doing this, customers often spent time conversing at the counter or, more commonly, on the porch, which can be found outside almost every general store. Loaded with rocking chairs and set in the shade the porch acted as a welcome mat of sorts, general stores beckon to passersby offering an air of friendship and of a tight-knit community. The High Country has made an effort
TOWNS CONTINUED FROM PAGE 19
setbacks, the town continued to flourish and expand. The Works Progress Administration built the Lansing High School in 1941, using local granite stone. The school still stands today. The scenic Virginia Creeper biking trail is available to visitors, as is the town’s park. For more information about Lansing, visit www.explorelansingnc.com.
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 continuing their adventure on the scenic byway. Although it touches Wilkes, Alleghany and Ashe counties, Laurel Springs is never more than a 30-minute drive from
PHOTO COURTESY MAST GENERAL Downtown Boone’s Mast General Store.
to save its many general stores as they are as useful today as they were long ago. But today, these general stores are packed with nostalgia as well as supplies, clothes and food. These stores practice the philosophy of carrying the basic ne-
cessities for members of the community. They have also been revamped to act as low-key tourist attractions, selling High Country essentials to those that find themselves in the mountains.
the listed county seats. Also, be sure to stop by the Thistle Meadow Winery for individualized tours of a family-owned wine business.
was chartered in 1915. The town’s initial growth came through the railroad, but early development was also spurred by the opening of the First National Bank of West Jefferson in 1915. The bank’s branch office, built in 1962, is now home to West Jefferson Town Hall. The town continues to thrive today and has a little something for everyone. Those visiting the town can browse one of the many art galleries, gift shops and retail stores. West Jefferson is home to many varieties of artwork, from paintings and photographs to sculptures and quilted items. More information about the area’s art district can be found at the Ashe Arts Center, located at 303 School Ave., just off of East Main Street. The center is home to the Ashe County Arts Council, which sponsors a variety of community programming and exhibits throughout the year.
WEST JEFFERSON With a thriving arts district and Christmas trees galore, West Jefferson makes its mark on the High Country as a destination for locals, as well as visitors. The town was built around the Virginia-Carolina Railroad depot during the early 1900s. According to the town’s history, the first ownership of the valley now known as West Jefferson began in 1779 when N.C. Gov. Richard Caswell granted 320 acres to Col. Ben Cleveland, who battled the British at King’s Mountain. More than a century later, the West Jefferson Land Company surveyed the new town and fixed its limits as a square one-half mile north, south, east and west of the Virginia-Carolina Depot. The town
The Mast General Store has served the needs of the community for a staggering 135 years. Opening in 1883 and run by the Mast family, the store has provided everything from plow points to cloth and cradles to caskets, which led to the popular saying “if you can’t buy it here, you don’t need it.” The original Mast General Store acted as a community center, the wide porch provided space to play checkers, talk politics, gossip, or maybe all at once. Today the store famously offers five-cent cups of coffee, acts as the areas post office, while containing a massive selection of clothing, hiking gear, maps, home décor, candy and more. Today, the old Mast General Mercantile in downtown Boone and Valle Crucis Annex are quite famous in the High Country, with a steady flow of customers and owned by John and Faye Cooper. The Mast General Store, because of its popularity, holds events to keep things fresh. From visits from Smokey the Bear to “Chacos and Tacos,” Mast has made a continuous effort to remain indispensable in the High Country. SEE STORES ON PAGE 21
A popular spot in the town is the Ashe County Cheese Plant where visitors can see cheese made and go across the street to the Ashe County Cheese Store to purchase a variety of cheeses, from cheddar to pepper jack and the celebrated cheese curds. Old-fashioned snacks and candies and locally made wines can also be purchased at the store. The cheese plant is open year-round and located at 106 E. Main St. in West Jefferson. Just outside West Jefferson, in the Beaver Creek community, St. Mary’s Episcopal Church can be found. The church is the location for a fresco of Jesus on the cross by renowned artist Ben Long. A painting of Madonna with child also hangs on the sanctuary wall. Local eateries and cafes offer all sorts of tasty treats, coffee, spirits and more, from one end of the town to the other. For more information, visit www. visitwestjefferson.org.
2018
AUTUMN TIMES
PAGE 21
Autumn’s eruption of color PRIME LEAFLOOKING LOCATIONS
BY CARTER NORTH carter.north@averyjournal.com
T
he High Country is famous for its challenging winters and beautifully climate summers. Just as many residents leave the High Country at the end of summer, so do many visitors traverse up the mountains to enjoy a time of natural splendor on the grandest scale, when the mountain trees shed their summer coat of green for a brief glimpse of the crisp reds and vibrant yellows that surge free for just a few weeks each year. There are few places that Mother Nature is as resplendent as she is in the mountains of North Carolina. Before giving way to the steady white of winter, the mountains put on a languid display of hues. Starting with a few clumps of color in a sea of dark green, soon the mono-hued curtain is drawn back to reveal a living, breathing stage of nature’s most intense colors. So when is the best time to view this natural kaleidoscopic tapestry? The answer varies year to year based on different varying factors. For example, the amount of moisture
PHOTO BY CARTER NORTH The famous profile of Grandfather Mountain during autumn’s leaf-changing period.
in the air could play heavily on the colors shown. Too much rain in a given year can dampen the leaves, simply knocking them off or turning those crisp reds into soggy shades of maroon. For seasonal updates, visit www.highcountrync.com. The wind, an enemy of colorful leaves, is also a key factor as to how long the fall leaves stay on their branches. A single
STORES CONTINUED FROM PAGE 20
The original Mast General Store in Valle Crucis is located on Hwy. 194 at Broadstone Road in Valle Crucis, and is open from 7 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. Monday through Saturday, and from noon to 6 p.m. on Sunday. For more information call (828) 963-6511. The Mast Downtown Boone store hours are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Saturday, and noon to 6 p.m. on Sunday. For more information call (828) 262-0000.
Fred’s General Mercantile Fred and Margie Pfohl have operated their general store on the top of high-reaching Beech Mountain since 1979. Uniquely, this general store acts as a full grocery, keeping fresh fruits and vegetables in stock, as well as a wide variety stretching from gourmet food items to cans, boxes, beer and wine and a deliciously wide spread selection of
PHOTO COURTESY FRED’S GENERAL MERCANTILE A curbside view of Fred’s General Mercantile atop Beech Mountain.
powerful storm has the potential to strip large portions of leaves from their foundations. Autumn is a time of wonder in the High Country. The green mountainous backdrops that have been rendered invisible by daily viewings suddenly burst, as if aflame, with shades seemingly too bright to belong in nature.
we don’t have it, you don’t need it.” The Backside Deli is open from 7:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. daily. As if that wasn’t enough, Fred’s also contains a full ski and snowboard shop that features heavy traffic during the winter season. The ski and snowboard shop offers the very latest in boarding gear, everything from boards, boots and bindings to goggles, gloves and snow gear. The ski and snowboard shop is open from 7:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.
The Old Hampton Store candy. The store also serves as a location to buy hardware supplies, tools, clothes, amenities and more. The Pfohls have lived above their store for many years solidifying the atmosphere of a family business. Fred’s General Mercantile is open from 7:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily. Attached to this store is The Backside Deli, a sandwich and soup shop also offering ice cream, cookies, alcoholic beverages and even pizza, a true general store holding fast to its mantra of “if
Linville’s Old Hampton Store has grown in popularity from its Summer Concert Series and constant musical events. The concerts, occurring every Thursday night during the summer season, are free to the public and great examples of family fun events. This general store also features an operation tavern, art gallery and on-site grist mill that grinds fresh cornmeal. The store transacts food, antiques and assorted supplies. The Old Hampton Store is located at 77
Anyone set on visiting the High Country in the fall to view the area’s beautiful colors wants to get the inside scoop on where the best spots are to see the most glorious of the bright shades that spell the arrival of Autumn. Look no further, as we have a listing of the best locations in the High Country where the colors will splash and entertain. Elk Knob State Park, just north of Boone. A two mile hike to the top provides some of the best fall color in the area of the north-facing overlook. Roan Mountain, at Carver’s Gap, west of Avery County on the Tennessee/North Carolina border. It is located on the Appalachian Trail, and has balds at the top, as well as good views of color below the peaks. Doughton Park, (Traphill, N.C.). Many people don’t head that direction on the Blue Ridge Parkway, so it won’t be as crowded. The park has a nice hiking trail also. Laurel Falls is also along the way. Chesota Overlook, south of Linville Falls. It is located on the Blue Ridge Parkway, and could be crowded, but it’s still worth the traffic and a nice stop.
Ruffin Street in Linville and is open daily from 10 a.m. to 11 p.m., with its restaurant open from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. and tavern open from 11 a.m. to 11 pm. For more information, call (828) 733-5213 or click to www.oldhamptonstorenc.com.
Todd General Store The Todd General Store is the oldest operating store in Ashe County and remains a gathering place for locals where tales are still traded and relationships are built. The Todd General Store, which was originally named Cook Brothers General Store, was built by Walter and Monroe Cook in 1914. The Todd General Store was the end of the line for the railroad, the last of 13 stops for the train which traveled from Abingdon, Va., to Todd’s Elkland Station. A unique facet of this general store is that it features local and regional authors for book signings on Saturdays. Today, Todd General Store offers business in lunch and dinner as well as selling antiques, supplies and clothes. For more information call (336) 877-1067.
AUTUMN TIMES
PAGE 22
Camping: BY LUKE WEIR luke.weir@mountaintimes.com
P
erhaps above all else, the High Country is revered by seasoned backpackers and novice families alike as an ideal place to get carefully “lost” in the wondrous scenic beauty of the Blue Ridge and Southern Appalachian Mountains for a night or a week of camping. Listed below are several camping options to consider throughout the High Country:
New River State Park Campground Named one of the United States National Wild and Scenic Rivers in 1976, the New River is a fantastic location for recreational water sports, and along its banks are several ideal campsites. For camping and water activities combined in the same weekend, New River State Park Campground satis-
2018
where to spend a night under the stars in the High Country
fies both those itches. Kayaks and canoes can be rented from a number of local river outfitters. Those travelling by boat can paddle to three different campgrounds on state park land. The main campground is located at 358 New River State Park Road in Laurel Springs. Call (336) 982-2587 for more information.
Linville Gorge Wilderness Located on some 30,000 acres of Pisgah National Forest wilderness, the Linville Gorge is considered by many to be the Grand Canyon of the East. The glacially-formed Linville Gorge drops around 2,000 feet towards the Linville River, providing heady panoramic views, accessible by an extensive network of trails ranging in difficulty from easy, SEE CAMPING ON PAGE 27
FILE PHOTO The Grandfather Campground is just one of many great places in the High Country to get connected with the great outdoors this autumn.
Appalachian Furniture Mattress Gallery Largest Inventory in the High Country
2550 HWY 421 NORTH, BOONE • 828-297-5055 WWW.APPALACHIANFURNITURESTORE.COM
Voted Best Furniture Store 7 Years in a Row!
AUTUMN TIMES
2018
Visit Our Showroom Today
PAGE 23
Celebrating 36Years
Wood & Gas Stoves • Fireplaces
MID-SUMMER GROUP EXHIBITION
Spectrum – Beyond Color & Abstraction by Andrew Braitman & Lisa Boardwine
Continues thru September 23 AUTUMN GROUP EXHIBITION
We also carry Kitchen Appliances!
Harmony of Spirit - 3 Artist Friends Amy Sullivan, Dottie Leatherwood & Paul Hastings
October 6–November 15 Opening Reception October 6, 2-5pm HOLIDAY OPEN HOUSE
November 23 and 24
Winter and Small Works Exhibition November 23–April 30 TOUR DE ART
4th Saturdays June–November (828) 262-0051 | 4912 US HWY 421 S. | BOONE, NC
Located 10 Miles South of Boone on Highway 105 in Grandfather Community 828-963-4288 | www.carltongallery.com | carltongallery@carltongallery.com
WWW.MOUNTAINHOMEANDHEARTH.COM
PAINTINGS • CLAY • GLASS • WOOD • FIBER ART • JEWELRY
PAGE 24
AUTUMN TIMES
2018
AUTUMN TIMES
2018
PAGE 25
New Lifestyles Carpet One Floor & Home 2862 Tynecastle Highway ♦ Banner Elk, NC 28604 828-898-8586 ♦ www.newlifestylescarpet1bannerelk.com
For more than 21 years New Lifestyles Carpet One Floor & Home has been providing flooring of every kind in homes throughout the High Country. Remodeling or building new, our guarantee is you will love your new floor or we will replace it free! Hardwood ♦ Carpet ♦ Luxury ♦ Vinyl Plank Area Rugs ♦ Vinyl ♦ Window ♦ Treatments
All the brands you love and trust
RE/MAX Realty Group is one of the top producing High Country real estate companies in Western North Carolina with only the most experienced and educated agents available to assist you.
Realty Group Conveniently located at The Shops at Shadowline in Boone 240 Shadowline Drive, Boone, NC www.NCBooneRealEstate.com (828) 262-1990 (Office) • (866) 652-1990 (Toll Free) Each office independently owned and operated
PAGE 26
AUTUMN TIMES
2018
2018
AUTUMN TIMES
PAGE 27
CAMPING CONTINUED FROM PAGE 22
such as the Linville Falls trail, to very strenuous. Free camping permits, obtained at the district ranger’s office, are required weekends and holidays May 1 to Oct. 31, and are limited to 50 per night. Walk-in permits for the current week must be obtained at the Linville Gorge Information Cabin on Kistler Memorial Highway, open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. every day.
Grandfather Mountain State Park The friendly profile of Grandfather Mountain is a popular location for those willing to climb some of Watauga County’s highest peak before they set up camp. The Grandfather Mountain trail system offers 13 no-cost primitive camping sites, but vehicles must be left at either the Profile Trail or Boone Fork/Daniel Boone Scout trailheads, because the privately-owned attraction housing the Swinging Bridge closes at dark. The only site along the trail that is available for advanced reservations is a campsite on Daniel Boone Scout Trail, available for groups of 7 to 12 campers. To make reservations, visit northcarolinastateparks. com, or call (828) 963-9522. Blue Bear Mountain Campground 196 Blue Bear Mountain Road Todd (828) 406-4226 Just eight miles from Boone, this facility offers primitive tent camping, as well as less remote RV and cabin sites on over 150 acres of natural land. The campground also offers “glamping,” for those who wish to stay outdoors while retaining all the necessities of modern life, as well as the unique experience of tepee camping — fully furnished with a queen-size bed and fine linens. Buck Hill Campground 6401 U.S. 19-E South Plumtree (828) 766-6162 Buck Hill Campground offers family-friendly RV sites equipped with picnic tables, fire pits and full hookups along 1,600 feet of the North Toe River. The campground also provides hiking trails along 144 acres of wilderness, a lazy river and trout-filled waters. Down by the River Campground 292 River Campground Road Pineola (828) 733-5057 Down by the River Campground in Avery County offers RV and tent camping, as well as paved roads for bike rides and an indoor recreation area. The site is located on the Linville River, and is a nice spot to fish for mountain trout. Flintlock Campground 171 Flintlock Campground Drive, N.C. 105 Boone (828) 963-5325 Conveniently located in Boone, Flintlock Campground offers quaint cabins, tent sites and full RV hookups to suit
PHOTO BY ROB MOORE | MTNSNAPSHOTS.COM There are plenty of opportunities to spend a wild time outdoors at the many campgrounds, or even out in the wilderness.
every kind of camper. The campground is also located beside a mountain stream. The site offers free Wi-Fi and cable TV. Grandfather Campground 125 Profile View Road Banner Elk (828) 355-4535 Grandfather Campground is located just off N.C. 105, not far from Boone, Blowing Rock, Banner Elk or Beech Mountain. The campground has tent sites and cabins available for rental, and also includes a playground, deluxe bathhouses, picnic tables and fishing. Fisherman can enjoy a stocked trout pond next door, or try their luck in the Watauga River. Helton Creek Campground 2145 Helton Road Grassy Creek (336) 384-2320 Located minutes from attractions such as the New River, Virginia Creeper Trail and Downtown West Jefferson in Ashe County, Helton Creek Campground is nestled on the banks of a creek and offers tent camping, as well as full RV hookups. Honey Bear Campground 229 Honey Bear Campground Road Boone (828) 963-4586 Travelers on the Blue Ridge Parkway or N.C. 105 can easily access the Honey Bear Campground in Boone, which offers tent and RV camping, as well as recreation, including fishing and hiking. Julian Price Park Campground Blue Ridge Parkway, milepost 297
(828) 963-5911 For a beautiful view by the water, this campsite is located on the Blue Ridge Parkway beside Price Lake. It offers non-electric RV sites and tent sites with access to hiking, fishing, boat rentals and picnic facilities. Because of its location, this site fills up quickly, especially on holidays. It is wise to call ahead and schedule a reservation. Boone KOA 123 Harmony Mountain Lane Boone (828) 264-7250 Located just outside of the Boone town limits off of N.C. 194 towards Meat Camp, the Boone location of the national chain of KOA Campgrounds has tent sites, cabins and full RV hookups. Raccoon Holler Campground 493 Raccoon Holler Road Jefferson (336) 982-2706 Just outside of Glendale Springs in Ashe County and adjacent to the Blue Ridge Parkway, Raccoon Holler Campground is perfect for RV and tent campers who want to enjoy swimming, hiking, canoeing, fishing and community events. Vanderpool Campground 120 Campground Road Vilas (828) 297-3486 Vanderpool is a family-oriented campground for RV and tent campers located only about seven miles outside of Boone. The campground offers Wi-Fi, horseshoes, a beanbag toss, volleyball and other outdoor games amid beautiful scenery.
AUTUMN TIMES
PAGE 28
2018
Anglıng for adventure BY CARL BLANKENSHIP
W
ater is everywhere in the High Country. It is difficult to travel any distance in the region without encountering some of the natural water features that dot the mountain landscape. The creeks, rivers, waterfalls ponds and lakes that you will inevitably encounter trekking through the hills are not stagnant. Many of them are teeming with life, including fish ripe for catching.
PUBLIC ACCESS AREAS North Carolina Wildlife Resource Commission in partnership with federal and local governments, and private landowners, maintains a database of public access fishing areas. some are riverbank access, but others have handicap-accessible piers and canoe access. For a full map of access points, including which have the features you are looking for and if a waterway falls in Public Mountain Trout Waters, which have additional regulations and require trout privilege on a license, click to www.ncpaws.org/ wrcmapbook/FishingAreas.aspx.
FAMILY OUTINGS There are a number of accessible ponds
in Avery, Ashe and Watauga that are popular family fishing destinations. Some popular locations include the following: Trout Lake, Lansing Park and Ashe Park Pond in Ashe County, Blowing Rock’s Broyhill Park, Price Lake, Coffey Lake in Watauga, and Wildcat Lake and Newland’s Shoemaker Park in Avery.
PISGAH NATIONAL FOREST The Pisgah National Forest is filled with waterways rich with aquatic life and is home to the popular trout fishing destination Wilson Creek area. The Wilson Creek area is home to brook trout, brown trout, rainbow trout, redbrest sunfish and small mouth bass. The area offers those willing delve far enough into the back country canoe access, a handicap-accessible pier and bank fishing access. Important Note: Pisgah National Forest waters are designated as Public Mountain Trout Waters. Wilson Creek is a Delayed Harvest Trout Water, and additional restrictions apply. Trout-seekers should regard signage and comply with regulations.
LINVILLE GORGE With multiple access points along Old NC 105, the Hatchery Supported Trout Waters of the Linville River require Pub-
FILE PHOTO The waters of the High Country are teeming with trout, though a number of special regulations apply to Public Mountain Trout Waters. Ensure you have appropriate privileges and comply with regulations wherever you fish.
lic Mountain Trout Waters privileges. Because of the remote and rugged nature of the terrain, hikers are encouraged to contact the U.S. Forest Service before embarking into the area. The Linville Gorge is also accessible from US 221, NC 181 and NC 183. Call the U.S. Forest Service at (828) 652-4841 for more information.
REGULATIONS For complete listings of all regulations regarding licenses, hunting, fishing and trapping, see the 2017-18 North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission Regulations Digest, available online by clicking to www.ncwildlife.org/Hunting/ Laws-Safety, or attached to the online SEE ANGLING ON PAGE 32
PUBLIC MOUTAIN TROUT WATERS
IMAGES COURTESY N.C. WILDLIFE RESOURCES COMMISSION When fishing in the High Country, you may encounter signs such as these posted along waterways, designating the area as Public Mountain Trout Waters. Additional regulations apply in these areas, and one must possess trout privileges on his or her fishing license to fish in these waters.
Those wishing to try their hand at trout fishing may encounter streams, creeks and rivers designated as Public Mountain Trout Waters. In order to fish in these areas, one must have Public Mountain Trout Water privileges on their fishing license. Here are some regulations for this year: Wild Trout Waters — Open Year round. Daily creel limit of 4 fish, must be 7 inches long. Restricted to artificial lures with a single hook. Hachery Supported Trout Waters — Open Aug. 1, 2018 – Feb. 28, 2019. Daily creel limit of 7, no size limit or bait and lure restrictions. No Closed season in Linville River and Linville Gorge Wilderness Area. Delayed Harvest Trout Waters — Different regulations based on time of year. Through Sept. 30 — Daily creel limit of 7, no restrictions on size or lures. Oct. 1 to May 31, 2019 — No trout may be possessed. Restricted to artificial lures with a single hook. Natural bait may not be possessed. Catch and Release/Artificial Lures Only Trout Waters — No closed season, no trout or natural bait may be possessed. Restricted to artificial lures with a single hook. Catch and Release/Artificial Flies Only Trout Waters — No closed season, no trout or natural bait may be possessed. Restricted to artificial flies with a single hook.
2018
AUTUMN TIMES
We operate a full service fly shop in Boone, North Carolina and offer high quality fly fishing on the Watauga, Linville, Toe, Elk, New River & More If you would like to schedule a fly fishing trip, ask a question, or come shop at our Orvis store, contact us and we will be glad to serve you
We offer great products and services with local knowledge.
PAGE 29
AUTUMN TIMES
PAGE 30
Watauga River Fly Shop is a full service fly shop and guide service.
Fly Shop & Guide Service
We offer guided wade and float trips. Come by, call or email to book your trip today!
2018
MITCHELL COUNTY north carolina
Bakersville, Spruce Pine, Little Switzerland
Outdoor adventure possibilities? They are endless! Hike, bike, walk, paddle, cycle, camp, fish, climb, ride or just take in the breathtaking mountain beauty. From state parks to national forests, you’ll find thousands of acres of possiblities for adventure including the Blue Ridge Parkway, Appalachian Trail, Roan Mountain, Linville Falls and Grandfather Mountain to name a few! Mitchell County is right in the middle of the “three peaks” of Roan, Grandfather and Mt. Mitchell so you know you will find lots of outdoor adventure!
Hike the Roan Mountain Trails of North Carolina!
GO OUTSIDE AND PLAY
5712 NC HWY 105 S VILAS, NC 28692 (828) 963-5463 www.wrflyshop.com BOONE
Come explore the Three Peaks of North Carolina! Centered right in the middle of the three famous peaks of Roan, Grandfather and Mt. Mitchell, Mitchell County is a hub for hiking, climbing, and adventure camping. From your base camp in Mitchell County, you can be at either of the peaks in 30 minutes or less. Spend the day, a weekend or a week exploring the trails, and also take in the hundreds of artist studios, unique food finds, and a whole list of other outdoor adventure. Canoe or kayak the waters of the Toe River and the Nolichucky.
CRAFTYOURADVENTURE.COM 828-765-9483
NC
ExploreMitchell
Seek_FindMC
2018
AUTUMN TIMES
JUST SAY CHEESE The High Country’s largest selection of foreign and domestic cheeses, hand cut
Saturday Wine Tastings 1:00 - 5:00 pm Avery County Humane Society
Grandfather Center NC 105 & NC 184, next to the ABC store Banner Elk, NC / 828.898.9424 erickscheeseandwine.com
PAGE 31
AUTUMN TIMES
PAGE 32
ANGLING CONTINUED FROM PAGE 28
version of this article at www.highcountrync.com.
GETTING THE GEAR Before setting out, the first step is ensuring that you and your party have the proper equipment. Throughout the high country, a number of outfitters will be able to help you determine the best tools for the job. For those hoping to test the waters of trout fishing for the first time, or who simply want to let someone else handle the logistics of their fishing expedition, a number of companies offer guided trips to locations throughout the area. Watauga River Fly Shop 5712 N.C. 105 South, Boone (828) 963-5463 www.wrflyshop.com Elk Creek Outfitters 1560 N.C. 105, Boone (828) 264-6497 www.ecoflyfishing.com Due South Outfitters 1082 East King St Suite 6, Boone (828) 355-9109 www.duesouthoutfitters.com Wildlife Unlimited 1864 Old Hwy. 421 South, Boone (828) 386-4241 www.wildlifeunlimitedhunting.com Mountains to Coast Fishing and Hunting Guide Service (828) 355-3474 www.mountainstocoast.com Appalachian Angler Fly Shop 174 Old Shulls Mill Rd., Boone (828) 963-5050 www.appangler.com Foscoe Fishing Company and Outfitters 8857 N.C. 105, Foscoe (828) 963-6556 www.foscoefishing.com Hikemore Adventures 9245 N.C. 181, Jonas Ridge (828) 595-4453 www.hikemoreadventures.com Highland Outfitters 4210 Mitchell Ave, Linville (828) 733-2181 www.highlandoutfittersnc.com RiverGirl Fishing Company 4041 Todd Railroad Grade Rd, Todd 336-877-3099 www.rivergirlfishing.com
HIGH COUNTRY FISHING ACCESS ASHE COUNTY Ashe Park Pond (2 acres) 527 Ashe Park Rd, Jefferson Bluegill, Brook trout (stocked), Brown trout (stocked), Channel catfish (stocked), Largemouth bass, Rainbow trout (stocked) Bank access, fishing pier, handicap accessible Lansing Park/Lansing Greenway 114 S Big Horse Creek Rd, Lansing Brook trout (stocked), Brown trout (stocked), Rainbow trout (stocked) Fishing Pier, handicap accessible Delayed Harvest Trout Waters Crumpler Public Fishing Area 7966 N.C. 16, Crumpler Brook trout (stocked), Brown trout (stocked), Rainbow trout (stocked), Redbreast sunfish, Rock bass, Smallmouth bass Bank access, canoe access Riverview Community Center 11719 N.C. 88 West, Creston Rainbow trout (stocked), Brown trout (stocked, wild), Brook trout (stocked) Bank Access, canoe access Hatchery Supported Trout Waters Highway 16/88 166 Bill Bledsoe Rd, Jefferson Redbreast sunfish, Rock bass, Smallmouth bass Bank access, canoe access Wagoner Access 1477 Wagoner Access Rd, Jefferson Redbreast sunfish, Rock bass, Smallmouth bass Bank access, canoe access Trout Lake (2 acres) Brook trout (stocked), Brown trout (stocked), Rainbow trout (stocked) Bank access, fishing pier, handicap accessible Delayed Harvest Trout Waters 221 Access New River State Park Road, Laurel Springs Redbreast sunfish, Rock bass, Smallmouth bass Bank access, canoe access Todd Public Fishing Access 3499 Todd Railroad Grade Road, Todd Brook trout (stocked), Brown trout (stocked), Rainbow trout (stocked), Redbreast sunfish, Rock bass, Smallmouth bass Canoe access
Todd Island Public Access 1273 Railroad Grade Road, Todd Brook trout (stocked), Brown trout (stocked), Rainbow trout (stocked), Redbreast sunfish, Rock bass, Smallmouth bass Bank access, canoe access Delayed Harvest Trout Waters
WATAUGA COUNTY Green Valley Community Park 3896 Big Hill Rd, Todd Brown trout, Redbreast sunfish, Rock bass, Smallmouth bass Bank access, canoe access Pine Run Access 1806 Pine Run Rd, Boone Brown trout, Redbreast sunfish, Rock bass, Smallmouth bass Bank access, canoe access Powder Horn Mountain Access Near intersection Elk Creek Rd. and Powder Horn Mountain Road Brown trout, Redbreast sunfish, Smallmouth bass Bank Access Catch and release, artificial lures only Brookshire Park 250 Brookshire Rd, Boone Brook trout (stocked), Brown trout (stocked), Rainbow trout (stocked), Redbreast sunfish, Rock bass Bank access Hatchery Supported Trout Waters Hwy. 421 Canoe Access 166 New River Hills, Boone Brook trout (stocked), Brown trout (stocked), Rainbow trout (stocked), Redbreast sunfish, Rock bass Bank Access, Canoe Access Hatchery Supported Trout Waters Boone Greenway 200 Casey Lane, 607 Deerfield Rd, Boone Brown trout, Rainbow trout, Redbreast sunfish, Rock bass Bank Access Mountain Trout Waters regulations apply along certain portions of the Greenway Bass Lake (21 acres) 1 Bass Lake Drive, Blowing Rock Bluegill, Largemouth bass, Redbreast sunfish Bank access Price Lake (45 acres) Blue Ridge Parkway mile marker 296 Brook trout (stocked), Brown trout (stocked), Bullhead sp., Rainbow trout (stocked), Red-
2018
breast sunfish Trout Lake (15 acres) 4777 Shulls Mill Rd, Blowing Rock Bluegill, Largemouth bass, Redbreast sunfish Bank access Broyhill Park (3 acres) 243 Laurel Ln, Blowing Rock Bluegill, Largemouth bass, Redbreast sunfish Bank Access, fishing pier Buckeye Creek Reservoir (7 acres) 1330 Pine Ridge Rd, Beech Mountain Bluegill, Brook trout (stocked), Brown trout (stocked), Channel catfish (stocked), Rainbow trout (stocked) Bank Access, rental boats Hachery Supported Trout Waters Coffey Lake (2 Acres) 111 Lakeledge Rd, Beech Mountain Brook trout (stocked), Brown trout (stocked), Rainbow trout (stocked), Redbreast sunfish Bank access, fishing pier, handicap accessible Pond Creek Trail 117 Lakeledge Rd, Beech Mountain Brook trout Bank access Catch and release, artificial lures only Valle Crucis Park 2892 Broadstone Rd, Valle Crucis Brook trout (stocked), Brown trout (stocked), Rainbow trout (stocked) Bank access Delayed Harvest Trout Waters Watauga Gorge 2531 Old Watauga River Rd, Sugar Grove Brook trout (stocked), Brown trout (stocked), Rainbow trout (stocked), Redbreast sunfish, Rock bass, Smallmouth bass Bank access
AVERY COUNTY Roby Shomaker Park 419 Pharmacy Street, Newland Brook trout (stocked), Brown trout (stocked), Rainbow trout (stocked) Bank access, fishing pier, handicap accessible Hatchery Supported Trout Waters Wildcat Lake (13 acres) 4588 Hickory Nut Gap Rd, Banner Elk Bluegill, Brook trout (stocked), Brown trout (stocked), Largemouth bass, Rainbow trout (stocked) Hatchery Supported Trout Waters
LICENSE INFORMATION Annual Sportsman — Combination hunting/fishing license. Allows hunting of all game, access to public game lands and public mountain trout waters. ($50) Senior Sportsman — Same as above, but for senior citizens ($15) 10 day Inland Fishing (basic) — Does not allow access to Public Mountain Trout Waters. ($7) Annual State Inland Fishing (basic) — Does not allow access to Public Mountain Trout Waters. ($20) Trout fishing privileges — May be added on to any basic license. ($13) Mountain Heritage Trout Communities — The towns of Lansing, Todd, Beech Mountain and Newland are designated as Mountain Heritage Trout Communities. Residents and non-residents can purchase a 3-day license to fish in trout waters flowing through these communities for $5. These licenses can be purchased by phone at (888) 248-6834, or online at www.ncwildlife.org. Anglers age 16 and older must purchase a fishing license. Licenses can be purchased online or at authorized retail stores. For a full listing of licenses available, and purchasing information, click to www.ncwildlife.org/Licensing. All rates listed are for North Carolina residents. Different rates may apply for out-of-state visitors.
AUTUMN TIMES
2018
PAGE 33
Outdoo r clımbing
Adventures in the High Country BY IAN TAYLOR ian.taylor@ashepostandtimes.com
R
ock climbing is a great way to get outside and enjoy the fresh air in the High Country. Despite the picturesque views and natural beauty of climbing in the High Country, climbing itself can be an intimidating endeavor for newcomers to the activity. Luckily, Boone is home to Rock Dimensions, a climbing and guide company that excels at introducing people to rock climbing. Anyone who has spent time in downtown Boone has noticed the large climbing wall next to Footsloggers. That would be Rock Dimension’s 40-foot climbing tower, which is the focal point of its “Tower to Rock” instructional program. The “Tower to Rock” program is a great introduction to the world of climbing, combining a two-to two-and-a-half-hour course on the tower the first day and a half-day climb on real rock the next day. All required equipment is provided, and the course is designed to be a full dive into the world of climbing. Something special about climbing is that there is no wrong age to start. Climbing is something that young people can be introduced to in a safe environment. Rock Dimensions also holds camps for children ages 8-16 to begin their life in the climbing world, with a five-day camp that takes participants through the ins and outs of climbing. A related activity to climbing is caving, which is the exploration of some of the
FILE PHOTO Campers get the real climbing experience at Rock Dimensions Climbing and Outdoor Adventure Camp.
High Country’s beautiful natural caves. Rock Dimensions offers caving experiences, but those are mainly for larger groups and can be more expensive than their climbing counterparts. Another company offering a caving experience is River & Earth Adventures. River & Earth Adventures features access to one of the largest caves in the region, Worley’s Cave. The cave has more than seven miles of passages and open areas to explore. Caving allows you to search through natural caves, narrow corridors and shallow ceilings lit only by the light you bring in there. It can be pretty claustrophobic at certain times, but if that’s not a problem then it can be a fascinating trip into a new world.
Indoor climbing in the High Country BY IAN TAYLOR ian.taylor@ashepostandtimes.com
S
ometimes, it’s nice when you get surprised by a light shower on a hot day, but it can ruin plans to go climbing. The High Country’s habit of unpredictable weather can force you to change your outfit,
or it can completely change your day. Since rock climbing in bad weather can be dangerous, a place such as Center 45 is needed. Center 45, an indoor climbing facility with 2,000 square feet of bouldering space, has helped change the climbing SEE CLIMBING ON PAGE 34
Rock Dimensions can be found at www.rockdimensions.com, and contacted at (828) 265-3544 or (888) 595-6009.
PHOTO BY LYNN WILIS/ ROCK DIMENSIONS The climbing tower at Rock Dimensions can be used by several people at a time.
HighCountryNC.com
live the adventure Elevate Your Vacation Plans!
AUTUMN TIMES
PAGE 34
2018
CLIMBING CONTINUED FROM PAGE 33
culture of the High Country. Center 45 started in 2015, when the local climbing community lacked a high-quality indoor climbing area. Three students at Appalachian State University decided to change that, and now Center 45 has become the go-to indoor climbing facility in the High Country. Center 45 is open seven days per week from noon-9 p.m. Sunday-Friday, and noon-8 p.m. on Saturday. Every week, the route setters at Center 45 re-work the 14-foot climbing walls, making every experience a new and fun adventure for visitors. A workout area that includes all kinds of free weights, aerobic machines and core exercise spaces is also provided. Aerial fitness classes are also available, where highly-trained instructors teach the acrobatics of aerial silks. A day pass costs $14 for adults and $12 for kids 12 and younger, veterans, police, firefighters and teachers. Center 45 also offers memberships, with the standard packages at $69 per month
PHOTO SUBMITTED The climbing wall at Center 45 has become a popular destination for those interested in improving their bouldering skills.
and $529 per year. For those without the proper shoes and people who would like a little extra grip, the climbing center has shoe and climbing chalk rentals for $4 and $2 a
day respectively, and a $5 deal for both. Daily deals include $10 passes on Tuesdays, $10 passes on Fridays for college students, and a Ladies Night deal for $10 passes after 5 p.m. on Wednesdays.
Center 45 is located at 200 Den Mac Drive, Boone; and can be found online at www.center45.com, emailed at center45climbing@gmail.com or called at (828) 386-1550.
EXPLORE A REFRESHING PERSPECTIVE IN CREATIVITY Camille and R.T. Morgan Work in Over 8 Media and Have a Combined 60+ Years of Experience! Stop in and See for Yourself
ART GALLERY AND GLASS BY CAMILLE 120 N. Jefferson Avenue in Downtown West Jefferson • 336.246.3328
Looking for Something Special......Let Us Create it for You! SCULPTURE • ACRYLIC • OIL • ABSTRACT • REALISTIC • STAINED GLASS • COPPER
AUTUMN TIMES
2018
PAGE 35
Hiking: Just a splash of color Fall Color Top 10 in Watauga and surrounding counties BY ROB MOORE
A
utumn in the mountains of North Carolina draws people from all over the country. During peak season, the surrounding area is flooded with leaf lookers searching for some spectacular color combinations. This year peak color will be around Oct. 12-28, 2018. The usual places will be teeming with the vibrant yellow, red, orange colors. The colors vary due to the soil composition and elevation. The trees mostly observed in the mountains around Ashe, Watauga and Avery counties are Beech, Ash, Maple, Elm, Hemlock, Oak, Birch and Beechwood. There are many more, but your color will come by a combination of these beauties. Those who ride in the car can travel the back roads and the Blue Ridge Parkway for the easy views. Off the beaten path is Elk Knob which is located out NC 194 and up Meat Camp Road. This is a state park that boasts a beautiful mountain with views to Tennessee and Virginia. Many opt to hike in and capture their favorite panoramic shots on the many trails available in the High Country. Below are some of the trails selected that produce the best color for those who seek the beauty and the adventure in one package.
Blowing Rock, or at the Linn Cove Viaduct’s parking lot, at Grandfather Mountain (Milepost 305.5). The Rough Ridge section is at Milepost 302 if you want to access it off the Blue Ridge Parkway. This scene in the fall is a long range view that produces plenty of color. You will not be disappointed. Check with Grandfather Mountain for a map of the trail.
Third Price Lake Trail: An easy trail leading around scenic Price Lake for 2.7 miles. If you are lucky the beavers will be working or the Kingfishers searching for a small fish. Trailhead is at Price Lake parking area, Milepost 297.0. and when at peak for leaf lookers, this is a beautiful array of scenes.
Fourth Grandfather Trail: This is the big one! It begins at Grandfather Mountain’s Mile High Swinging Bridge and eventually hits all of Grandfather’s three highest peaks. This 2.4 mile trail requires approximately 5 hours of hiking time to travel the entire length. It’s extremely rugged, with only wooden ladders making some sheer cliff faces accessible. It intersects with several other trails at its northern terminus. In the fall there is scenery of the changing leaves on both sides. You will not be short of colorful views.
Top Choice Cragway Trail: Rocky and strenuous trail that links Nuwati and Daniel Boone Scout Trails. It is approximately one mile long and heads up a Ridgeline that has several rocky outcroppings looking into the Boone bowl. Beautiful views from this trail and the Boone bowl opens up in the fall with plenty of autumn color. It is a bit of a hike but one you will remember. This section lets you view down to Price Lake on top of Flatrock.
Second Tanawha Trail/Rough Ridge: This trail, 13 miles in length, can be started at either the Price Park Campground, in
Fifth Hawksbill Trail: This 1.5 mile moderate roundtrip starts on Forest Service road 210. The short steep hike goes to the top of Hawksbill Mountain. The top provides beautiful views of the gorge and back to Table Rock. The color heading down and up the Linville Gorge adds a different feel to the rugged area, but make no mistake, it is still a wilderness for the outdoorsman in you.
Sixth Moses Cone Carriage Trails: Easy to moderate. The Moses Cone Park includes 25 miles of gently sloping car-
PHOTO BY ROB MOORE Rough Ridge is one of the most visited fall scenery locations and is No. 2 on that list. Cragway Trail tops the list.
riage trails of varying lengths, available to hikers, joggers, horseback riders and cross-country skiers. Most trails begin near the Moses Cone Manor, Milepost 294.0. This trail has some great fall scenery viewpoints and the family can enjoy the trek. The payoff is the Flat top tower at the end which provides a 360 degree view to Boone, Blowing Rock and Grandfather Mountain.
Seventh Harper Creek Trail: Strenuous 6.3 mile trail, connects to nine other area trails, leading to gorgeous waterfalls, aspiring views, and excellent backpacking opportunities. Get lost in the fall foliage and enjoy a crisp fall morning in the Wilson Creek Proposed Wilderness Area. The waterfalls add to colorful autumn composition for photographers and artists alike, as they meander along in search of their next best seller.
Eighth Rock Jock Trail: This is a rocky, well maintained trail that is 4 miles in length. You will see plenty of spur trails off of this one, especially from the Conley Cove access side, that give you plenty of views up and down the Gorge for some beautiful fall shots. There are some nice campsites on this route so an overnight
stay and an early morning rise might add to the fall feeling and just being in a wilderness.
Ninth Southern Ridge: The most strenuous of the trails of the Beech Mountain Emerald Outback, 1.3 miles, in this system with some cool rock formations. Elk River Valley, Awesome Oz and Pride Rock overlooks are on this trail for some excellent fall viewing. You might even come across the many deer that frequent this “Hobbit” type terrain.
Tenth Plunge Basin Trail: This is a moderate hike with some rugged spots but by far the best vantage point to view the Linville Falls. There is a pool of water at the bottom that is home to river otters if you can catch them out fishing. Length is .72 with a great payoff. This is spectacular if you catch the fall color and the waterfall together with a blue sky. The leaves of the trees looking down the river reflected in the pools and currents create a colorful image to paint or photograph. This is beauty in the eye of the beholder. For more trails go to www.mtnsnapshots.com or www.highcountrync.com/ play/hike/ for more information.
AUTUMN TIMES
PAGE 36
2018
Hunting in the Blue Ridge An Appalachian Tradition
LICENSE INFORMATION
BY CARL BLANKENSHIP carl.blankenship@averyjournal.com
T
he High Country is home to tens of thousands of acres of public game lands in the region’s national forest lands. That includes portions of Avery, Burke, Caldwell, McDowell, Mitchell and Watauga counties. Prospective hunters need game land privileges on their licenses to hunt on areas outside public land where they have permission to do so. While those who lack game land privileges on their license will find themselves restricted to hunting with permission on private land, those who foot the extra $15 for the privilege will be able to enjoy hunting in some of the best forests in the state.
Pisgah National Forest Game Lands Within the Grandfather and Appalachian Districts of the Pisgah National Forest, outdoorsmen will find a wide variety of wildlife. Maintained by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, these forests are some of the area’s greatest natural treasures. Aside from developed recreation areas, these government-owned lands are fair game for those with the proper licenses. Important: While these great tracts of public land are a bountiful resource, hunters should pay close attention to maps and signage when hunting near the Blue Ridge Parkway to avoid straying onto land that is maintained by the National Park Service, where hunting is not permitted.
WRC Game Lands In addition to the huge tracts of land open to the public within the Pisgah, the High Country is also home to six easily accessible, state-owned game lands which are maintained by the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission. These include the scenic Pond Mountain Game Land in Northwest Ashe County, the Elk Knob Game Land in Watauga, Lutz Tract in Caldwell Coun-
MAP COURTESY N.C. WILDLIFE RESOURCES COMMISSION With tens of thousands of acres of public game lands within the Grandfather District of the Pisgah National Forest, the greater High Country area has much to offer the avid sportsman.
FILE PHOTO White-tailed deer are among the most commonly hunted animals in North Carolina. During the 2017-2018 hunting season, 161,854 white-tailed deer were harvested in the state.
ty’s Wilson Creek Wilderness Area, the Little Table Rock Mountain tract, which straddles the borders of Avery, Mitchell and McDowell counties, the Rose Creek Tract in eastern Mitchell County and the Roaring Creek Tract in western Avery.
Elk Knob Game Lands Located adjacent to Elk Knob State Park, The Elk Knob Gamelands can be accessed by Rich Mountain Road in Watauga County. Situated on on the
Annual Sportsman — Combination hunting/fishing license. Allows hunting of all game, access to public game lands and public mountain trout waters. ($50) Senior Sportsman — Same as above, but for senior citizens ($15) Annual State Hunting — Allows hunting of small game, does not allow access to game lands. ($20) Annual Comprehensive Hunting — Allows hunting of all game, as well as access to game lands ($36) Combination Hunting and Inland Fishing — Offers statewide small game hunting and inland fishing for residents during a license term. Does not include big game (deer, bear or turkey), access to public game lands or public mountain trout waters ($25) Additional Hunting Privileges (Can be added to any of the above) Big game — Allows hunting of deer, bear and turkey. ($13) Game lands — Allows access to North Carolina game lands. ($15) Bear Management E-Stamp — Required to hunt bear. ($10) Hunters 16 and older must purchase a license. Licenses can be purchased online or at authorized retail stores. For a full listing of licenses available, and purchasing information, click to www.ncwildlife. org/Licensing. All rates listed are for North Carolina residents. Different rates may apply for out-of-state visitors.
headwaters of Meat Camp Creek, this 721-acre game land is home to deer, turkey, raccoon and grouse. Elk Knob Game Lands are a 20-minute drive from Boone. From Hwy. 194, turn onto Meat Camp Road, traveling until Rich Mountain Road forks to the left. The game lands are less than a mile from there.
part of this game land. Hunters should avoid hunting in areas where farming operations are taking place.
Pond Mountain Game Lands
Lutz Tract
Located in the extreme northwestern corner of Ashe County, the pristine Pond Mountain Game Lands offer gorgeous views of North Carolina’s Blue Ridge Mountains to the south, Tennessee’s Cherokee National Forest to the west and Virginia’s Grayson Highlands to the North. At 2,900 acres, Pond Mountain is one of the largest public-access game lands in the state, and can be accessed via Rock Fence Road, approximately a 45-minute drive from West Jefferson. In addition to parking areas, there are a also campsites on the property. Deer, bear, rabbit, raccoons, squirrel and grouse can be found here. Important: It should be noted that there is also a Christmas Tree farm on
Located along the pristine waters of the Wilson Creek, the Lutz Tract is most easily accessible by NC Hwy. 90, which can be reached by following Globe Road out of Blowing Rock, or via Roseboro Road from Linville. The 422-acre tract of land has multiple parking areas along NC 90 and Brown Mountain Beach Road. The area is also known for its fly fishing and camping. Hunters should exercise caution in the area. Important: Those hunting bear in the area should be aware that the area on the west side of N.C. 90 and Brown Mountain Beach Road is part of the Daniel Boone Bear Sanctuary, where hunting is SEE HUNTING ON PAGE 41
AUTUMN TIMES
2018
PAGE 37
Solid Wood Furniture Full Line of Outdoor Furniture
Interior Design Service Over 30 Years Experience Home Accessories Impeccable Service
11 miles from Boone on Highway 105 South 5320 Highway 105 South • Banner Elk, NC Mon-Sat 10am - 5pm • OPEN ALL YEAR • 828.963.6466
Liv e M us ic
Visit Our Tasting Room Monday-Saturday 12-6, Sunday 1-5 225 Vineyard Lane, Banner Elk, NC • 828.963.2400 visit our new website for more info www.grandfathervineyard.com
AUTUMN TIMES
PAGE 38
ART
•
DINING
•
SHOPPING
2018
•
ANTIQUES 2
1
Gallery & Working Studio on Premises
A Boone Original Since 1988
Representing Work from 18 Local Potters BOB MEIER artist/owner 585 W. King St., Boone, NC 28607 meier@doeridgepottery.com (828) 264-1127 doeridgepottery.com 3
Appalachian Antique Mall
Serving Breakfast and Lunch ALL DAY
4
Omelettes Homemade Salads Flavored Cream Cheese Sandwiches Burgers Vegetarian Menu Gluten Free Bagels
Largest Antique Mall in the High Country Military to Majolica, Pottery to Pocket Watches
262-5585 516 W. King St.
631 W. King Street • Historic Downtown Boone (828) 268-9988 • Open 7 Days A Week
5
6
Now Offering Fresh Squeezed Orange Juice, Espressos, Cappuccinos & Locally Roasted Coffee
MON-SAT 6am-5pm, SUN 7am-3pm Major Credit Cards Accepted • 5% Cash Discount
7
BE UNIQUE, SHOP LP.
693 W. King St. 828.264.0302 luckypennyboone.com
8
PROPER P
SOUTHERN FOOD SOU
Join us on Wednesdays for
14 S. Water St. 142 Boo Boone, NC 28607 82 828-865-5000 www.propermeal.com www Mon Mon-Sat 11:30-9:00 Sunday 11:30-3:00
WINE TASTINGS & SMALL PLATE PAIRINGS
9
A
one-of-a-kind
Dining Experience fun-loving, casual, yet elegant atmosphere that welcomes everyone
VINTAGE COLLECTIBLES USED FURNITURE CLOTHES • BOOKS GREAT SELECTION FRIENDLY FACES!
Ram’s Rack THRIFT SHOP 161 HOWARD ST. SUITE B • 828.386.1201
Monday-Saturday 9:00am - 5:00pm 877 West King St. • 828-262-5029
A 501-(3)C Organization • Donations Accepted SPONSORED BY RESORT AREA MINISTRIES
AUTUMN TIMES
2018
10
OPEN 6 DAYS A WEEK
PAGE 39
11
Exquisite Authentic Thai Cuisine LUNCH: M,W-Sat 11-3, Sun 11:30-3 DINNER: 5-10 PM (except Tues) CLOSED TUESDAY 173 Howard Street 828.268.0434 828.268.0439 fax
www.chadathai-nc.com 12
13
WALKING MAP
jewelry pottery furniture glassware primitives
4
7
199 howard st • 828-262-1957 • open 7 days a week
KING 421
11 6
13
1 N
D
2
ACHIA
HOWAR
10 12
3
BODEN
HEIME
R
RIVER
A P PA L
W AT E R
9
DEPOT
8
5
AUTUMN TIMES
PAGE 40
DINNER Daily starting at 5pm BRUNCH Sunday 10-2
2018
Looking for that perfect piece? Need to furnish a whole room? Stop by!
Downtown Banner Elk Next to Edge of the World Outfitters consign@skybest.com 828.898.5733
Banner Elk
Full Bar Private Room Available
Like us on
828-898-5550
YOU’LL BE SURPRISED AT WHAT YOU’LL FIND...
344 Shawneehaw Ave S. • Banner Elk, NC 28604
Apparel, Accessories, Collars & Leashes Frozen Raw & Freeze Dried Foods
BASE CAMP B.E. Outdoor Lifestyle Consignment
High Quality Dog & Cat Food
Clothing • Equipment • Accessories Sking • Snowboarding
Homemade Dog Treats & USA Sourced Treats
441 Shawneehaw Ave., Banner Elk, NC 28604 basecampbe@gmail.com
176 Shawneehaw Ave. 828-898-5625 mybestfriendsbarkery.com
Toys for Training & Play Holistic Supplements
Tasting Room Now Open Wed-Sat 10am-5pm, Sun 12pm- 4pm 155 Banner Rd., Banner Elk 828-898-4441 | www.beoliveoil.com
Unique Art Gallery in the Heart of Banner Elk.
Tuesday-Saturday, 10am-5pm SPORTS & CIGAR BAR LOUNGE
Dining & Entertainment Complex
Outdoor Patio Dining 828-898-5214
Barra Sports & Cigar Lounge 828-898-7727
In
Downtown Banner Elk
Chef’s Table ~ Fine Dining 828-898-1940
Sorrento’s Dining & Entertainment Complex 140 Azalea Circle • Banner Elk, NC 28604
Special Events & Catering
828-898-5214 • SorrentoBistro.com
828.528.1558 • SorrentosBistroCatering@Gmail.com
151 Shawneehaw Ave S | Banner Elk, NC 828.898.4477 | www.mountainbluegallery.com
Visit Us!
AUTUMN TIMES
2018
HUNTING CONTINUED FROM PAGE 36
only allowed by permit.
Little Table Rock Mountain and Rose Creek Tracts The Little Table Rock Mountain Tract is composed of 544 acres in Avery, Mitchell and McDowell counties. Snaking
alongside the Blue Ridge Parkway, this land is accessible from the Parkway via Jacksontown Road, which turns into Humpback Mountain Road. Humpback Mountain Road can also be accessed via Altapass Highway from Spruce Pine. Approximately one mile south of the Little Table Rock Tract, The Rose Creek Tract is accessible via Jacksontown Road and the Altapass Highway. Important: Hikers may be encoun-
PAGE 41
tered in these areas. Exercise caution.
More Information Roaring Creek Tract The Roaring Creek Tract, named for the loud stream that gives the area its name, is located less than a mile from the Tennessee state line in Avery County. The 136-acre tract is accessible via Roaring Creek Road, off of U.S. Hwy. 19E in Avery County between the communities of Frank and Plumtree.
For outdoorsmen hoping to enjoy hunting in the High Country this fall, the N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission has a wealth of information available on its website, www.ncwildlife.org. From information and regulations regarding hunting and fishing to educational tools and wildlife facts, this is the best place to start for any aspiring hunter.
HUNTING REGULATIONS
QUAIL Nov. 17 to Feb. 28. Six per day, 12 possession, no season limit
DEER
GROUSE
Watauga, Ashe, Wilkes, Alleghany Archery — Sept. 8 to Nov. 2 Blackpowder — Nov. 3 to Nov. 16 Gun — Nov. 17, 2017 to Jan. 1, 2018 Avery, Mitchell, Caldwell, Burke, McDowell, Yancey Archery: Sept. 8 – Sept. 30; Oct. 14 – Nov. 18; Dec. 9, 2018 – January 1, 2019 (antlered deer only) Black powder: Oct. 1 – Oct. 13, 2018 Gun: Nov. 19 – Dec. 8, 2018 Limits — No daily limit, six per season. Limit of two antlered deer per season. All six deer can be antlerless for all areas of the state. Restrictions — Deer hunting with dogs is prohibited. It is illegal to intentionally shine a light between the hours of 30 minutes after sunset and 30 minutes before sunrise.
Oct. 15 to Feb. 28. Three per day, six possession, 30 per season
BOBCAT Oct. 15 to Feb. 28, No limits
GROUNDHOG, COYOTE, SKUNK, FERAL SWINE Open Season, No limits. Feral Swine may be hunted at night with lights. Coyotes may be hunted at night.
PHEASANT Nov. 17 to Feb 1 (Males only), three per day, six possession, 30 per season.
FOX May be taken with dogs year round, no limits. For detailed information on fox hunting in each county, click to www. ncwildlife.org/foxseasons.
MIGRATORY GAME BIRDS
BEAR Oct. 15 to Nov. 17 and Dec. 10 to Jan. 1, 2019 Limits — One per day, one per season Restrictions — It is unlawful to take a cub (less than 75 pounds) or a female bear with cub(s). It is also illegal to hunt bear on a designated bear sanctuary. (See the information below on bear sanctuaries.) Bear Sanctuaries — Bear may not be taken in those parts of counties included in the following sanctuaries, except by permit: Daniel Boone Bear Sanctuary in
MAP COURTESY N.C. WILDLIFE RESOURCES COMMISSION Spanning 2,900 acres, Pond Mountain Game Land is one of the largest state-maintained game lands in North Carolina.
Avery, Burke and Caldwell Mt. Mitchell Bear Sanctuary in McDowell and Yancey For information on hunting dates and permit information within the sanctuaries, click to www.ncwildlife. org.
TURKEY Not in season until spring.
HUNTER SAFETY Take time to review hunter education training and equipment instructions. Be aware of your surroundings for the safety of yourself and others. Wear articles of blaze orange to stand out to other hunters.
RACCOON AND OPOSSUM Oct. 15 to Feb. 28 Three raccoons per day, no season limit Restrictions — Axes and saws may not be carried while hunting these animals It is unlawful to shoot a raccoon during the daytime west of U.S. 1
SQUIRREL
Eight per day, no season limit. Fox squirrel (Ashe, Alleghany, Watauga, Wilkes) — Oct. 15 to Dec. 31. One per day, two in possession, ten per season
RABBIT Nov. 17 to Feb. 28. Five per day, no season limit
The regulations for hunting migratory game birds and waterfowl are extensive and vary throughout the state. For more information, click to www.ncwildlife.org. Further Details For complete listings of all regulations regarding licenses, hunting, fishing and trapping, see the 2017-18 North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission Regluations Digest, available online by clicking to www. ncwildlife.org/Hunting/Laws-Safety, or attached to the online version of this article at www.highcountrync.com.
Gray and Red — Oct. 15 to Feb. 28 Always keep the muzzle pointed in a safe direction. Treat your firearm as if it is loaded at all times. Be certain of your target and what is beyond. Keep your finger off the trigger until ready to shoot. Take care not to trespass on private property. In addition to signs, property owners may mark their land with a purple line at least eight inches long to indicate posted
property. Beginning at age 16, individuals are required to successfully complete a hunter education course prior to obtaining a hunting license in North Carolina. For information on where to take a course, or how to access the course online, click to www.ncwildlife.org/Hunting/Before-theHunt/Becoming-a-Hunter.
AUTUMN TIMES
PAGE 42
2018
www.ValleCrucis.com
Dutch Creek Trails 828-297-7117
St. John’s Church ca. 1858
A haven for travelers since the 1800s, Valle Crucis, a National Rural Historic District, offers shops, beautiful bed and breakfast inns, delicious cuisine, wine tasting, rustic cabins, horseback riding, adventure and more.
Little Red School House ca. 1907
Original Mast General Store Est. 1883 828-963-6511
Over Yonder Restaurant & Bar 828-963-6301
Valle Crucis Conference Center Est. 1842 828-963-4453
Taylor House Inn Bed & Breakfast ca. 1911 800-963-5581
Valle Crucis Community Web Directory Dutch Creek Trails - dutchcreektrails.com Mast Farm Inn - themastfarminn.com Mast General Store - mastgeneralstore.com Mountainside Lodge B&B - mountainsidelodgebb.com Over Yonder - overyondernc.com Rivercross Made in USA - rivercrossmadeinusa.com Taylor House Inn - taylorhouseinn.com Valle Crucis Conference Center - vcconferences.org
Mast Store Annex Outfitters & Candy Barrel ca. 1909 828-963-6511
Rivercross Made in USA 828-963-8623
Mountainside Lodge Bed & Breakfasat 877-687-4333
Mast Farm Inn Lodging & Restaurant ca. 1812 828-963-5857
AUTUMN TIMES
2018
PAGE 43
High Country Water Adventures BY LUKE WEIR luke.weir@mountaintimes.com
T
aking the path of least resistance between the High Country’s many mountain peaks are networks of rivers, streams and tributaries connecting the region. Many of these waterways provide beautiful scenic views, while some have worn through rock for millennia to form stunning natural waterfalls. Still others offer opportunities for water adventures like fishing, rafting, canoeing and kayaking. There are a number of businesses in the region offering campgrounds close to High Country lakes and rivers. Other companies, known as outfitters, equip their patrons with the canoes, kayaks, floats and fishing poles needed for an afternoon floating or fishing the cool waters of the Blue Ridge. While the autumn season does imply a dip in temperatures trending towards colder weather, the first few weeks of the season are oftentimes still cool enough for those wishing to squeeze in one last river adventure before the leaves have
Bayview Campground and Marina 167 Bayview Lane Butler, Tenn. (423) 768-0434 www.bayviewcampgroundandmarina.com
PHOTO BY LUKE WEIR Andy Elliott (back) and Ray Phipps (front) paddle down the New River just past Zaloo’s Canoes in Ashe County.
all fallen. Among the region’s river outfitters are Wahoo’s Adventures, Edge of the World, High Mountain Expeditions, River and Earth Adventures, Watauga Kayak, New River Outfitters, River-
www.fishspringsmarina.com High Mountain Expeditions 3149 Tynecastle Highway Banner Elk (828) 898-9786, (828) 266-RAFT www.highmountainexpeditions.com
Cove Ridge Marina 947 Piercetown Road Butler, Tenn. (423) 768-3760, (423) 768-3741 info@coveridgemarina.com www.coveridgemarnia.com
Lakeshore Marina 2285 Highway 321 Hampton, Tenn. (423) 725-2223, (888) 423-3785 info@lakeshore-resort.com www.lakeshore-resort.com
Edge of the World 394 Shawneehaw Ave. Banner Elk (800) 789-3343 www.edgeofworld.com/summer/
Mallard Cove Marina 200 mallard Cove Drive Butler, Tenn. (423) 768-3440 www.mallardcovemarina.com
Fish Springs Marina 191 Fish Springs Road Hampton, Tenn. (423) 768-2336
Pioneer Landing at Cherokee Overlook 105 Cowan Town Road Butler, Tenn.
Camp USA and Zaloo’s Canoes, all of which offer opportunities for those who wish to travel the rivers in the cooling months of fall. For those who want to do some fishing, Watauga Lake, which is located just
(423) 768-3164 dan@pioneerlanding.com www.pioneerlanding.com Price Lake at Julian Price Memorial Park milepost 297, Blue Ridge Parkway (828) 963-5911, park campground kiosk River and Earth Adventures 1655 Highway 105 South Boone (828) 355-9797, (866) 411-7238 www.raftcavehike.com RiverCamp USA 2221 Kings Creek Road Piney Creek (336) 359-2267 info@rivercampusa.com www.rivercampusa.com Wahoo’s Adventures 3385 U.S. 321
over the state line in Tennessee, has boat rentals including Bayview Cove Ridge, Fish Springs, Lakeshore, Mallard Cove and Pioneer Landing. Below, are different ways to get involved in High Country water activities.
Boone (828) 262-5774, (800) 444-RAFT www.wahoosadventures.com Watauga Lake Watauga Kayak 1409 Broad St. Elizabethton, Tenn. (423) 542-6777 wataugakayak@charter.net www.wataugakayak.com Zaloo’s Canoes 3874 N.C. 16 South Jefferson (336) 246-3066, (800) 535-4027 zaloos@skybest.com www.zaloos.com New River Outfitters 10725 U.S. Hwy 221 N Crumpler (336) 982-9192 www.canoethenew.com
AUTUMN TIMES
PAGE 44
2018
and
Relax enjoy... 1
2
3
4
Unique accents for your home & patio Open 7 days a week • 828.295.3330 1151 Main Street • Blowing Rock
Unique Gifts & Home Furnishings
www.gregoryalans.com
(One half block off Main Street across from school)
828.264.1422
AUTUMN TIMES
2018
...the
Blowing Rock
Village of Come In and Smell the Spices!®
PAGE 45
5
6
Spices, Herbs, Hand-Mixed Spice Blends Gourmet Sea Salts, Naturally-Flavored Sugars Exotic Teas, Gifts & Accessories
The Spice & Tea Exchange 1087 Main Street | Blowing Rock, NC 828-372-7070
7
1 2
7
5 3
LOCATED FURTHER DOWN
4
6
LOCATED FURTHER DOWN
PAGE 46
AUTUMN TIMES
g n ı l c y C
BY STEVE BEHR sports@wataugademocrat.com
R
iding a bike can be a spectacular thing to do when it is done in the High Country. Thousands of cyclists flock to the High Country each year looking to ride both competitively and for fun. The competitive events are available usually from spring to fall. Riding for fun is available year-round. The crown jewel of bike riding is the area is the annual Blood, Sweat and Gears bike run, which is usually held in late June. Approximately 1,200 riders help the BS&G committee raise thousands of dollars for local charities. The CowBelle Classic is in its third year and runs Aug. 25. The events, which is available to women only, has four mileage options available, including 15 miles, 20 miles, 35 miles on 65 miles. Cycle North Carolina’s Mountains to the Coast ride is tentatively set from Sept. 29 to Oct. 6. Another event that is in the works, although the details are still being worked out, is the Boone-Town Throw-Down at the High Country Fair Grounds. The event features cyclocross, which the boonebike web site calls “the steeplechase of bike racing.”
Cyclocross riding is a demanding sport that requires riders to ride up and down a steep hill, sometimes carrying their bikes in the process, and riding laps through a course that has jumps and several turns. The event is in its 22nd year. There are some cycling paths in the area that are not competitive races, but are available just to enjoy a warm autumn evening. A good place to start is Rocky Knob Mountain Bike Park. The park is located just east of Boone off U.S. Highway 421. There are four trails available in the park, including the 1.6-mile Rocky Branch Loop, which is classified as a moderate loop. The Middle Earth Trail is one mile in length and the Boat Rock Loop is 3.6 miles long. Both are considered advanced trails. The Ol’ Hoss Trail, which is .75 miles, is considered to be for experts. Sugar Mountain has a bike path that has been expanded. Sugar Mountain is a ski resort in the winter, but has a bike path that is open into September. Beech Mountain also has bike trails called the Emerald Outback. It includes the Westerly Hills section, one of the more challenging trails in the Outback, the Wild Iris Loop, one of the more gen-
2018
in the High Country is popular with tourists, natives
PHOTO BY STEVE BEHR The start of the 2018 Blood, Sweat and Gears bike ride.
tle trails, and the West Bowl Loop. There are cycling clubs in the are that can assist in where to ride in the High Country. Boone Area Cyclists has been in existence since 2009. It’s website booneareacyclists.org/ states “We are the club cyclists of all ages, abilities, and styles of riding — commuters, mountain bikers, road cyclists, leisure riders, and anyone else who just likes to ride bikes.”
Another cycling club is Magic Cycles, located in downtown Boone states on its website magiccycles.com that “From recreational to racers, from century rides to cyclocross, use our calendar to find bike events, cycling tips and much more happening in the High Country of Western North Carolina.” There are other events that cyclists can ride. Visit www.boonebike.com.
Mountain biking through the High Country
T
hose in the High Country looking to explore more of what the mountains have the offer can travel (safely) at high speeds through the many challenging and exciting mountain biking trails in the area. Terrain is the difference between cycling and mountain biking, and mountain trails that abound in the High Country offer a variety of fun experiences. According to Boone Area Cyclists trail boss Kristian Jackson, road bikes are built more for speed, the thicker tires and shock systems on a mountain bike are meant to handle rocky, mountainous trails.
PARK WEBSITES Visit each mountain biking park website for trail maps as well as additional information on the trails. Rocky Knob Park in Boone: rockyknob. wordpress.com Kerr Scott Trail System in Wilkesboro: brushymtncyclists.com/mountain-biking/ Beech Mountain Emerald Outback Trails in Beech Mountain: emeraldoutback.com If you are a local or looking to move to the area, Boone Area Cyclists hosts community events to bring cyclists with
common goals and interests together. “Were trying to make the cycling community very inclusive no matter what type of cycling you practice,” said Melissa Weddell, president of Boone Area Cyclists. There are many trails around the area for tourists and locals to enjoy. The Lower Tindo Loop is located in the Paddy’s Creek Area, and the trail is appropriate for mountain bikers of beginner or intermediate skill levels, according to North Carolina Parks. The Overmountain Victory Trail follows the shoreline of Lake James and Paddy’s Creek through rolling
terrain. Almost all of the trail is shaded under mature forest canopy. For more information on trails in the High Country, visit ncparks.gov. Weddell added that, before going mountain biking, it is important to bring water, a helmet and other gear needed for the tough terrain. She advised that it is often much safer to ride with another person or group. Cell phone service in the mountains can also be hit-or-miss, so maps and communication should be planned ahead as well. For more information Boone Area Cyclists, visit booneareacyclists.org.
AUTUMN TIMES
2018
PAGE 47
FILE PHOTO A biker rides on the Blue Ridge Parkway during fall.
: g n ı l c y c or Mot Riding through the High Country BY IAN TAYLOR ian.taylor@ashepostandtimes.com
O
ne of the beauties of riding a motorcycle is that you are much more connected with the nature around you than if you’re in a car. Riding a motorcycle through the High County in the Fall, you’re close to the magnificent colors of the changed leaves, and you can smell the crisp air that’s high up in the mountains. The High Country is full of routes that can give you everything you want out of an open-air ride. With the unblocked views of scenic mountains and the vibrant nature, just make sure you keep an eye on the road. Of course, there is no conversation about where to ride without the Blue Ridge Parkway. Between the beautiful backdrop of the changing leaves and the vast views of mountains and nature, there’s nowhere like it in the world. Dotting the Parkway are overlooks, which are great places to stop and see the views,
POPULAR RIDES IN THE HIGH COUNTRY Wild Dam Waterfall Loop Ride Distance: 87.7 Miles Ride Time: 2 Hours, 30 Minutes minimum, at least 1 day to see it right
Cold Mountain Loop — US 276 / NC 215 / Blue Ridge Parkway Ride Distance: 44.1 miles Ride Time: 1 hour 15 mins
The Dragon and Cherohala Skyway Plus Ride Distance: 109 miles Ride Time: 3 hours, plus time for gas and photos at the overlooks
Land of the Waterfalls Loop Ride Ride Distance: 175 miles Ride Time: 5 hours riding time, make a day of it
The Rattler — NC 209 Ride Distance: 32.7 miles Ride Time: 45 minutes — 1 hour
The Blue Ridge Parkway and Lake James Loop Ride Distance: 89.7 miles Ride Time: 2.75 hours plus time for gas, food, photos, views and attractions
Murder Mountain Run Ride Distance: 114 Miles Ride Time: 3 1/2 hours, plus time for gas, food, photos, etc
The Diamondback — NC 226A Ride Distance: 12 miles Ride Time: 30 minutes BY IAN TAYLOR/IAN.TAYLOR@ASHEPOSTANDTIMES.COM The Riders of Faith are an Ashe County-based riding group.
as well as stretch your legs if the ride’s getting long. For more information on motorcycling
in the High Country and the routes that are offered around here, visit www. blueridgemotorcycling.com.
Roan Mountain — The Fast Way Ride Distance: 42.6 miles Ride Time: 1 hour 30 minutes, time for views and photos For maps of these rides and more, visit www.blueridgemotorcycling.com.
PAGE 48
AUTUMN TIMES
2018
AUTUMN TIMES
2018
PAGE 49
AUTUMN
along the
Blue Ridge Parkway
BY DEREK HALSEY
T
he beautiful Blue Ridge Parkway is one the most scenic and traveled roads in all of America, and during the fall foliage months it becomes a color-filled wonderland. Beginning on top of the beautiful Shenandoah Valley in Virginia, the 469mile long drive truly hits its peak when it meanders through western North Carolina and the highest mountains east of the Rockies. While the Rocky Mountains are taller and majestic in their own way, much of what you see above a certain height is all rock. The Appalachian Mountains found here, however, are millions of years older and because they have been eroded by nature to a lower elevation, they are covered by some of the most diverse forests in North America. When fall foliage season hits, those mountain forests found on our part of the Blue Ridge Parkway come alive with leaves that glow with all kinds of dazzling pigmentation. As a result, visitors from all over the world come to the High Country to watch the turning of the leaves and to experience the many activities, unique businesses, live music, breweries, wineries and festivals that take place here this time of year. Some of the autumn festivals to look for include the 41st annual Woolly Worm Festival on the third weekend in October (woollyworm.com), the highly anticipated Valle Country Fair and its arts and crafts, food and music, which happens on the same weekend (vallecountryfair.org), the Boone Heritage Festival taking place on the second Sunday in October (booneheritagefestival.com) and more. As for the Blue Ridge Parkway itself, below is the primer you will need to explore all that this scenic byway and its surroundings have to offer, no matter your level for adventure. As it winds its way from Virginia to the Great Smoky Mountains of Western North
PHOTO BY FRANK RUGGIERO | GRANDFATHER MOUNTAIN STEWARDSHIP FOUNDATION From this vantage point on the Blue Ridge Parkway, featuring the Linn Cove Viaduct and Grandfather Mountain’s Mile High Swinging Bridge and Top Shop, viewers can observe the stratifying effect elevation has on fall color.
Carolina, the Blue Ridge Parkway (BRP) is marked by mileposts which come in the form of white blocks seen on the roadside as you travel. Built during the Great Depression and sanctioned by President Roosevelt, the roadway has a historic aspect to it as the beautiful stone archway bridges found throughout the length of the road were built by the WPA workers during that period. Ultimately, however, it is the incredible vistas and views that make the BRP a destination for tourists from all over the United States as well as the world. The section of the BRP that runs through the Boone, Blowing Rock and Banner Elk regions of Western North Carolina is considered one of the more picturesque of the journey and there will be much to do along the way in the cool autumn days of 2018. As the attractions found on various sections of the BRP are highlighted below, we will travel from north to south. There will be things to do and sights to see that
will be suggested for the normal every-day tourist as well as some ideas given for the more adventurous among us who want to hike the trails, mountains and gorges of the area. The northern end of our journey starts with the Deep Gap exit of the BRP that is located at the 276 milepost. That turnoff will put you onto Hwy. 421. This is the exit to use to get to the lovely mountain college town of Boone, where there is much to do as far as food, music, shopping and more. Other BRP exits that lead to other notable towns in the High Country region include the Hwy. 221 exit to the town of Blowing Rock that is found at milepost 291, and the exit located at milepost 305 that puts you onto Hwy. 221 again and leads to the entrance of Grandfather Mountain and the resort town of Banner Elk. Now, let’s dig deeper into the more nature-oriented side of the BRP. For those seeking a more challenging adventure, look for the HIKERS key as
you read below. The rest of the attractions mentioned are for visitors of all walks of life and abilities. Let’s begin at the Deep Gap section of the BRP. This begins an amazing slice of the scenic roadway that passes by the tallest mountains east of the Mississippi River and multiple gorges including the John’s River Gorge, Wilson Creek Gorge and Linville Gorge. The latter is considered the steepest gorge in eastern America, which is why it is called “The Grand Canyon of the East.” At milepost 294 on the BRP you will find the Moses Cone Manor. The manor house and 1,000-plus acres of wonderful land was turned into a park many years ago. There you will find a gift shop as well as a 2.5-mile trail to the fire tower that overlooks Boone. Continue driving about a half of a mile further south and you will find the aforementioned Hwy. 221 exit to Blowing Rock. There, you will also see a sign for Shulls Mill Road. If you stay on Shulls Mill Road for about 7/10 of a mile, just past the one-way exit road for Trout Lake, you will come across a metal fence with a wooden gate beside it by a small parking lot. This is the awesome Rich Mountain Carriage Trail. About three miles in length, this moderate hike/running trail takes you through a Wizard of Oz-type of forest to the left, then up top to more prairie-type of landscape and eventually to a wonderful view before you head back down to where the local cows are hanging out trailside. The lower, downhill section of the trail leads to Trout Lake and an easy walk at the end that goes back up to your vehicle. At milepost 296 you will find Price Lake, campground, amphitheater, a picnic area and a boat ramp with plenty of fall activities in store for the family until the end of October. At milepost 299 of the BRP, you will find the beginning of a run of more advenSEE PARKWAY ON PAGE 50
PAGE 50
PARKWAY CONTINUED FROM PAGE 49
turous hiking trails including the Boone Fork Trail on the right. Exploring the northern side of Grandfather Mountain, it is moderate, mostly level trail that is a beautiful five-mile roundtrip. For those not wanting to hike, on the left at milepost 301 is a pull-over known as the Wilson Creek Valley View. Whether you stay in your vehicle or walk along the edge, the view is magnificent, especially if the sun is shining on Wilson Creek Gorge below before sunset. At milepost 300, you will come across one of the more popular mountain trails on this section of the BRP called the Rough Ridge Trail. The parking lot is usually filled with vehicles, especially on a warm, sunny day, because this moderately difficult trail takes you to some stunning overlooks on Grandfather Mountain. The path can get crowded on the weekends. When that happens, there is an even sweeter route to take for the more daring hiker. Hikers: If you park in the Rough Ridge parking lot and walk along the side of the BRP for a quarter-of-a-mile to the south, you will find the 301 milepost right before you cross a short section of viaduct. At the end of the viaduct you will see a rock wall on the right. At the end of the rock wall there will be a trail to the right that follows the cliff wall up the mountainside to the Ship Rock geological formation. You do not need ropes to make this trek. Once at the top of the trail you turn right and eventually connect with the Rough Ridge trail, which will return you to the parking lot. The views are fantastic and this route will be a lot less crowded for those willing to get off the easier trail. Get back on the BRP and travel a little further south and you will experience one of the more famous sections of the road called the Linn Cove Viaduct. The last section of the BRP to be built, it is a curvy engineering marvel that shoots out over Wilson Creek Gorge. Before the main part of the viaduct begins, there will be a parking lot to the left called the Yonahlossee Overlook that provides a trail that runs alongside and underneath the viaduct and that walkway also provides some great views. At milepost 305, just past the aforementioned turn off that turns onto Hwy. 221 and on to Grandfather Mountain and Banner Elk, you will find what many regard as the “Coolest Short Trail in the East,” the Beacon Heights Cliff Trail. Only a quarter
AUTUMN TIMES of a mile walk to the top, you will see signs for two other trails once you are on the trail, so just pay attention and stay on the Beacon Heights Trail. Once near the peak, you will find a stone bench. Go straight at the bench for a cool and easy view, but the better view happens when you take a left at the bench. After turning left, you will hike up a short set of natural rock stairs that will lead to a flat cliff where the view is spectacular. From there you can see Grandfather Mountain to the left, Wilson Creek Gorge in the middle and the dual elbow-shaped mountains to the right known as Hawksbill Mountain and Table Rock Mountains, both of which overlook Linville Gorge. For those with families, take that Hwy. 221 exit and veer right and that will take you to Grandfather Mountain State Park. There you will find many sights and activities. For an entrance fee, the trip to the top of Grandfather Mountain will feature a wild animal zoo, trails to hike, a gift shop, restaurant and the famous Mile High Bridge to walk across. The views are stunning and on a rare, crystal-clear day you can see the skyline of Charlotte, NC, 90 miles away on the horizon. More information on entrance fees and opening and closing times of Grandfather Mountain State Park can be found at grandfather.com. At milepost 308, there is an easy 30-minute hike on the right known as the Flat Rock Trail. Once you leave the parking lot, the fairly flat trail leads through some wonderfully thick woods and ends up at a view that looks over the valley below. This is also known as the “Sunset Trail” as it is a superb place to watch a sunset, especially if nature is putting on a good show as the sun fades under the horizon. Hikers: At milepost 311 on the BRP you will take a left turn onto Old Jonas Ridge road, which will take you further into the Wilson Creek Gorge and onto some challenging yet rewarding trails. Once you turn left onto Old Jonas Ridge road, go two miles until you see a white church on your left at a big curve in the road. Beside the church is a gravel road that goes straight at the turn. That is Forest Road
464, aka Pineola Road. Once on the gravel road you will see the trailhead for Big Lost Cove Cliffs on the left a couple of miles in, and three miles farther you will see a small parking lot on the right for the Little Lost Cove Cliffs trail. The latter is a shorter hike, but both of these moderately difficult trails lead to outstanding clifftop vistas. Do some research online and you will find many other trails, waterfalls and more on this same Forest Road 464 road as it goes deeper into the Wilson Creek Gorge area. Back on the Blue Ridge Parkway going south, you will find a series of three exits leading to the Linville Falls and Linville Gorge attractions. For those wanting an easy trip, the milepost 316 exit will take you to the Linville Falls Visitors Center, campground and picnic area. For an easy and amazing view of Linville Gorge, go to the Hwy. 221 exit at the 317 milepost on the BRP. Once exited, turn left onto Hwy. 221 and then take another left onto Rt. 183 less than a mile ahead. About .7 tenths of a mile on Rt. 183, you will find a gravel road on the right with signs that will lead you to Wiseman’s View and Linville Falls. This will be Rt. 1238, aka Old Route 105. The first parking lot you will see on the left are for two trails that show you different views of Linville Falls. If you take Rt. 1238 for almost exactly four miles further, however, you will see the sign for the Wiseman’s View parking lot on the left. Turn left there and you will find a short, wheelchair accessible paved walkway that leads to a very special a view of Linville Gorge. The vistas seen there will simply take your breath away. But, a quick warning — please remember that Rt, 1238 to Wiseman’s View is a gravel mountain road, so if you have four-wheel drive or all-wheel drive vehicle, you should be fine. If you are in a vehicle that is only two-wheel drive, only go on the gravel road if it is dry. Watch out for the occasional ruts as you venture forth, otherwise the heart-stopping sights at Wiseman’s View are very much worth the effoRt. Here is a more adventurous way to experience Linville Gorge. Hikers: At milepost 312 you will see the
2018
exit for Rt. 181. Once there, turn south onto Rt. 181 and look for the second right turn onto Ginger Cake Road, which will be across from a big wooden “Ginger Cake Acres” sign on the left. Once on Ginger Cake Road you will quickly turn left onto Table Rock Road, which eventually becomes a gravel road that will lead you to fantastic trails on the east side of Linville Gorge. As you travel along, you will see a parking lot about four miles in for the trail that leads to the summit of Hawksbill Mountain, which is one of the better hikes in the region. Look for the “Hawksbill Trail” sign on the right at the trailhead. If you travel four more miles on Table Rock Road, you will find the right turn for Table Rock Mountain Trail, which continues up the mountain. Once you are at the Table Rock parking lot on top, the trail to the right of the parking lot takes you to the summit of Table Rock Mountain overlooking Linville Gorge. The trail on the left side of the parking lot leads to what many consider to be a favorite hike in the area known as the Chimneys Trail. A much easier rim trail than the summit trail, the first mile of the Chimneys Trail finds you hiking through exquisite rock formations on the edge of Linville Gorge that are simply sublime. Instead of looking down at Linville Gorge from the Hawksbill Mountain and Table Rock Mountain peaks, on this trail you literally become a part of the Gorge as you walk along. About a mile into the Chimneys Trail, when the rock formations stop and the path turns into woods; simply retrace your steps back to the parking lot. Once you are back on Hwy. 221, you can turn left and find the entrance to the popular Linville Caverns a short drive away. When you return to the Blue Ridge Parkway and continue southward, it will lead you to even more great views and fun stops along the way with places to explore such as Crabtree Falls, the town of Little Switzerland, the Museum of North Carolina Minerals, the live music venue known as the Orchard at Altapass and more until you arrive at the city of Asheville and the Great Smoky Mountains further west. And, you will eventually come across the turn off to Mount Mitchell at milepost 355. At 6,683 feet in elevation, Mount Mitchell is the highest mountain east of the Mississippi River and the good news is that you can drive virtually all of the way to the top. There is much to take in on this truly special section of the Blue Ridge Parkway in the autumn of 2018. Have fun, be safe and go explore!
AUTUMN TIMES
2018
PAGE 51
A Complete Hardware & Building Supply Store With Good Old Fashioned Customer Service.
Every Saturday • 8am-1pm Mid-April through October Special Holiday Markets
Ashe County
FARMERS MARKET On the Backstreet in Downtown West Jefferson
ashefarmersmarket.com
4 Seasons
Style and service with North America’s #1 choice.
Sherrie Bare
Broker, Property Manager
Call now for your free in-home consultation!
828-964-0141
Floral Curtains
#1 provider of Exterior Shades, Shutters and Blinds.
Budgetblinds.com/boone
SERVING ALL OF THE HIGH COUNTRY Blinds • Shutters Shades • Drapes Home Automation
Vacation 336-246-2700 Rentals & Sales 4seasonsvacations.com
PAGE 52
AUTUMN TIMES
2018
Saturday-Sunday October 20-21 Saturday - 9-5pm & Sunday - 9-4pm NO PETS Allowed-Except Woolly Worms of course
www.woollyworm.com
Platinum Partners
Avery Chamber of Commerce, 4501 Tynecastle Hwy., Unit 2, Banner Elk, NC 28604 • 828-898-5605 • www.averycounty.com
AUTUMN TIMES
2018
PAGE 53
W indwood Home & Home Décor Fabulous Furniture at Fantastic Prices Huge Selection
9,000 Square Feet
Large Selection of
Lamps, Chandeliers, Mirrors & Wall Art
of Furniture from Traditional to Eclectic
Stone Top Bathroom Vanities
Open Mon. - Sat. 10:00-5:30 | 828.295.9600 7531 Valley Blvd, BLOWING ROCK | Located in the Food Lion Shopping Center Visit BRASS EXCHANGE HOME located in Charlotte at the Arboretum Shopping Center
AUTUMN TIMES
PAGE 54
2018
The splendor of autumn on
Grandfather Mountain BY JAMIE SHELL editor@averyjournal.com
A
one-of-a-kind experience. Although Grandfather Mountain is always a great four-season destination for families or outdoor enthusiasts, the mountain always seems to beckon greatest with its splendor of color during autumn. During the fall season, the staff
cross the state of North Carolina, explaining where one lives locally in proximity to Grandfather Mountain is a surefire way for inquirers to pinpoint SEE GRANDFATHER ON PAGE 55 what part of the world you are from. Throughout the years, Grandfather has always been a point of reference and one of the state and region’s most precious and sought-after attractions. The great spectacle of Grandfather’s landscape, We have factory trained service technicians joined with the chance to www.peoples-furniture.com come face to face with the fascinating native animals 274 OAK AVENUE • SPRUCE PINE, NORTH CAROLINA of the Blue Ridge region, is a PHONE (828) 765-5557 • peoplesfurniture@bellsouth.net
Ready to reach new heights? VISIT US TODAY WWW.LMC.EDU
Visit us year round 8:30am to 5:30pm ◆ Mon. - Sat Your Future Elevated | Banner Elk, NC | 828.898.5241
ashecountycheese.com 106 E. Main St. West Jefferson NC | 336-246-2501
2018
AUTUMN TIMES
GRANDFATHER
AUTUMN PROGRAMS AT GRANDFATHER MOUNTAIN
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 54
of Grandfather Mountain offers special programming and events that highlight the mountain’s fall features, including its dynamic palate of reds, oranges, yellows and browns that signal the changing of seasons and cooling of climate. Grandfather Mountain is considered one of the greatest destinations from which to view fall colors due to its amazing diversity of plant life on the mountain. As the climate cools, chlorophyll starts to fade from the leaves, allowing the yellow and red pigments that lay beneath the chlorophyll to start showing through. Each of the various species of trees has a subtly different shade of pigment beneath the green, resulting in the range of colors that paints the landscape. One of the reasons that Grandfather’s colors are so magnificent is the diversity of hardwood trees, which tend to produce the most vibrant colors. Yellow cottonwoods, golden poplar, pumpkin-colored beeches, orange sugar maples, red sourwoods, rusty red oaks, crimson huckleberries, wine-colored sweetgums and purple dogwoods all
PAGE 55
PHOTO BY HUGH MORTON | GRANDFATHER MOUNTAIN STEWARDSHIP FOUNDATION Looking up at Grandfather’s Attic Window Peak from the Blue Ridge Parkway is especially colorful because of the profusion of maple trees in that area. The bright foliage of the hardwoods stands out against the gray cliffs and is punctuated by the deep greens of the Spruce Firs.
create vivid contrast against the stark, stony face of the mountain. While the fall leaf season lasts only a few weeks throughout the majority of the region, Grandfather’s elevation relative to the surrounding terrain makes it an ideal vantage point to view
the changing leaves throughout the entire season. Throughout the season, the view from Grandfather’s peak will reveal the fall colors’ gradual descent from the mountaintops down the slopes and into the valleys and out into the lower elevations to the east.
TIPS FOR YOUR GRANDFATHER AUTUMN VISIT In some areas, getting inside information is a tactic frowned upon. But here, however, it’s a good thing, as what follows are some inside tips on how to make the most out of fall leaf watching when venturing to Grandfather Mountain and the High Country: • Travel on weekdays in mid-October. Visit the High Country on weekdays during October if you can. Attractions, restaurants and hotels are generally close to capacity on peak October weekends, which means that visiting during the week should make for less crowded and hectic and more relaxed trip. • Arrive before 10 a.m. or after 3 p.m. on peak weekends. For many people, weekends are the only option. If that is the case, the best times to arrive on Grandfather are before 10 a.m. or after 3 p.m. This will help you avoid long waits and lines. There are other advantages to arriving early. Cool mornings clear the air, making the view across the surrounding mountains the most spectacular early in the day. In fact, early-morning visitors in October have been known to see the skyline PHOTO BY JIM MORTON | GRANDFATHER MOUNTAIN STEWARDSHIP FOUNDATION of Charlotte, a distance away of 80 miles. In addition, The Linn Cove Viaduct carries the Blue Ridge Parkway gently Grandfather’s animal inhabitants are more energetic, across the slopes of Grandfather Mountain, allowing visitors to alert and playful in the early hours. witness the beauty of the changing colors of fall up close. • On weekend mornings, go to the Mile-High Swinging Bridge first. When traffic delays occur, they usually occur near the top of the mountain, where there are fewer places to park. These traffic problems usually do not develop before 11 a.m. Another way to avoid traffic at the top is to park at the parking area just below the summit and take the Bridge Trail to the top. This 15-minute walk leads visitors to a viewpoint under the swinging bridge before leading them up to the bridge itself. • If spending a few days, make reservations. For assistance in locating lodging and making reservations, the staff at Grandfather recommends that you call North Carolina High Country Host at (800) 438-7500. Direct links to area chambers of commerce are also available by clicking to www.grandfather.com.
Grandfather Mountain boasts a number of programs to keep individuals and families both well-entertained and well-informed through the autumn season. To help ensure that all of their guests get the most out of their visit, Grandfather Mountain’s staff has prepared a range of programs for all ages. These programs are all in addition to the typical programs that are available year-round. Some programs require a registration fee, and it is advised to check with the mountain for price and availability. Celebrate Migration on Grandfather Mountain — Sept. 15. Join Jesse Pope, executive director of the Grandfather Mountain Stewardship Foundation, for this six-hour course on raptor migration. In 2015, more than 11,000 raptors were observed in September as they soared over Grandfather Mountain on their annual migration south. Learn why they do this — and become an official “watcher” yourself. To register, or for more information, email judi@grandfather.com, or call (828) 733-2013. ‘Creatures of the Night and Bonfire Delight’ event — Sept. 29. Enjoy rare after-dark tours of Grandfather Mountain’s Animal Habitats, fireside tales and a chance to meet the park’s nocturnal residents. Limited to 48 participants. Registration opens Sept. 1. The Fantastic Fall Color Ramble — Oct. 1 to 13. The flora diversity on Grandfather Mountain makes it a spectacular location for fall color display. Learn more about the great deciduous forest and the science behind the color with a series of guided walks, held daily Oct. 1 to 12 at various locations on the mountain, depending on where fall color is most vibrant. Call ahead or stop by the Nature Museum to see where the day’s walk will start. The Ramble culminates on Oct. 13 with a day full of fall-colorful programs and activities. A Beary Scary Halloween — Oct. 27. Join the mountain from 10:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. for a full day of nature programs about animals considered creepy and crawly! This fun-filled day includes an opportunity to create animal enrichments, trick-or-treating through the animal habitats and a costume contest. Plus, children in costume are admitted at half-price. All About Elk workshop — Nov. 5. This workshop, led by N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission educators Kevin Hining and Tanya Poole, will focus on elk in North Carolina. A majority of the workshop will be spent learning about the life history and current research on elk, as well as activities that can be incorporated into educational programs. Information on how to coexist with elk will be provided. Participants will also tour the wildlife habitats at Grandfather Mountain with Grandfather Mountain staff and observe elk up close. The workshop provides 6 hours Criteria II or III credit towards the NC Environmental Education Certification, or 0.6 CEU credit. Grandfather Mountain offers myriad opportunities for hiking and enjoying the splendor of autumn. For more information on programs throughout autumn on Grandfather, click to www. grandfather.com.
PAGE 56
AUTUMN TIMES
2018
Fall is time to plant garlic in the High Country BY THE ABSENTEE GARDENERS Kit Flynn and Lise Jenkins
I
got it into my head that I should grow garlic. One trip to the San Raphael, Calif., farmers market so amazed me with the varieties of garlic offerings that I turned up my nose in distaste when I observed the pitiful offerings at my local supermarket. There are two separate types of garlic: Allium sativum var. sativum, softneck garlic, and Allium sativum var. ohioscorodon, hardneck garlic. “Elephant garlic” is a misnomer, as it’s not a garlic at all, but belongs in the leek family. Softneck garlic is often referred to as “common garlic” because that is the garlic found in your local market — it keeps well and its soft neck is appropriate for plaiting. Hardnecks have a stiff neck with the cloves distributed around this hard neck. It rapidly became apparent that I wanted to grow hardneck garlic — after all, why grow a variety that is readily obtainable at the supermarket? Now I was on a roll. I turned to the internet as I didn’t know anyone who grew their own garlic. I had no idea what type of
hardneck garlic would grow well in North Carolina — truthfully I was a babe in the woods when it came to garlic growing. As I was about to place my online order from an out of state vendor, I saw that if I ordered $50 worth of garlic cloves, I would receive a free gift. Readers, money was no object: I was going to go for that free offer. I can only say that $50 worth of garlic cloves is a lot of garlic. Like so many plants we grow, garlic wants a fertile, well-draining soil with a pH hovering around 6.0. Place the cloves one inch beneath the soil in the fall, four inches apart, in full sun. Use a 10-10-10 fertilizer and mulch heavily because while garlic needs moisture, it doesn’t relish a soggy terrain. So far, I was happily keeping up with my adventures in garlic farming. However, I was faced with the daunting question: When should I harvest my crop? Some advise the proper time is in the spring when the lower leaves have turned brown but the upper leaves are still green. Others insist that all the leaves should be brown. Another expert recommended harvesting when there were four green leaves remaining.
This harvesting deadline became imperative because overripe bulbs will split, leading to d-e-c-a-y. When harvesting, use a pitchfork as pulling on the scapes will cause them to break. Fresh garlic is surprisingly mild; to bring out the garlic flavor you need to cure it, which involves hanging them in an area where the temperature remains a constant 70°-75°. I’d like to tell you that I did all this, but instead … I lost interest. Not only did I have $50 worth of garlic, the free gift consisted of more garlic cloves, something I didn’t need. I was swimming in garlic, enough for a small army, and I didn’t feel like preparing beds for more garlic. I half-heartedly put some of the cloves in the soil — and promptly forgot about them. My pioneering spirit had come and gone. What I really needed was some local expert advice on how to grow garlic. I needed someone to tell me what varieties did well in North Carolina, and for my first venture, I needed a handful of cloves — not $50 worth. Fortunately, here in the High Country, we have Otus Branch Farm (toddncfarm.com). Their website is a blessing because it gives you five varieties that grow well in North Carolina. It also tells you
definitely when to harvest — not a small detail. With the promise of a taste unique to the High Country, I find myself thinking about planting some cloves this fall. Hopefully, eventually, I shall have at least one head of garlic of decent size to roast and slather on a piece of homemade bread. Fall is a great time to add garlic to your High Country garden. Plant bulbs in October-December for a spring harvest; earlier and the green growth above ground will be too tender to survive winter’s cold; later and the roots won’t have enough time to develop. Your soil needs to drain well as cloves will rot in waterlogged soil. Add organic material to your planting beds to improve the soil structure and nutrient levels. Garlic thrives in soil with a pH between 6 and 7. You can have your soil tested through your county extension office and get recommendations for improving your site. Richard Boylan of Otus Branch Farm says our cool nights help garlic develop bigger, more flavorful bulbs. Lately he’s been experimenting with caramelized garlic which has opened up an entirely new realm of culinary possibilities.
Dis isco cover ver Timel imeless ss Treasur sures
Visit the Largest Antique Mall in the High Country! Over one million items • 23,000 square feet! You have to see it to believe it! The High Country’s Best Selection, Rock Bottom Prices!
When you’re in
Blowing Rock • Beech Mt. Sunday Sunset Concerts
Check our website for details: fredsgeneral.com
Come visit us at Eastern America’s Highest Town
A West Jefferson Destination! 109 Aho Road Blowing Rock, NC 336-877-7106
842 S. Jefferson Ave. West Jefferson 336-846-1231 or 336-977-9165
OPEN: Monday-Saturday 10 a.m. - 5 p.m., Sunday 1-5 p.m.
AUTUMN TIMES
2018
PAGE 57
Scares and Santa: Tweetsie presents Ghost Train and Tweetsie Christmas
BY THOMAS SHERRILL thomas.sherrill@wataugademocrat.com
W
hen the sun goes down on Fridays and Saturdays in September and October, the ghouls, witches and spirits come out to play at Tweetsie Railroad. The annual Ghost Train returns to Tweetsie on Friday and Saturday nights from Friday, Sept. 21 through Saturday, Oct. 27 this year. Gates open each evening at 7:30 p.m. Tweetsie’s Ghost Train and Halloween Festival transforms the vibrant and colorful Wild West theme park into a dark and spook-tacular park, complete with a ghost train ride, haunted house, Spice Ghouls dance troupe, Creepy Carnival, 3-D Maze, disorienting Black Hole, Freaky Forest, trick-or-treating on Main Street and much more. The stars of the Ghost Train are the macabre locomotive leading passengers into scary adventures and its conductor, Casey Bones. They are joined by ringmaster Darkus Knight and his host of horrible henchmen (and henchwomen!). Ghost Train takes the spirit of Halloween and adds tons of funs, carnival rides and unique look at the High Country during our “peak season.” Tickets for Tweetsie Railroad’s Ghost Train and Halloween Festival are $38 per person. To ensure guests can make the most out of their Ghost Train ride, tickets are sold in advance for a designated night with a scheduled ride time. For more information, visit tweetsie. com or call (828) 295-9061.
TWEETSIE CHRISTMAS Back for a second year, Tweetsie Christmas will bring joy and happiness to all ages. Celebrate the magic of the season when Tweetsie transforms into a winter wonderland on Friday and Saturday evenings from Friday, Nov. 23 through Saturday, Dec. 29, with gates
FILE PHOTO Every year, one of Tweetsie Railroad’s locomotives is transformed into a hellish engine of the night for Ghost Train.
GHOST TRAIN DATES
TWEETSIE CHRISTMAS DATES
September 21-22 September 28-29 October 5-6 October 12-13 October 19-20 October 26-27 opening at 5 p.m. and the first train leaving at 5:30 p.m. At Tweetsie Christmas, visitors will experience an evening full of holiday festivities for the entire family. Santa Claus will arrive on the first train of the night and head to his workshop at the Tweetsie Pavilion, where children can
November 23-24 November 30 — December 1 December 7-8 December 14-15 December 21-22 December 28-29 share their Christmas wishlists and have their photos taken. Engine No. 12, fondly known as “Tweetsie,” will take guests on a train ride through the blustery Blue Ridge Mountains, along a special route decorated with a spectacular display of twinkling lights.
Tweetsie Christmas will also include carolers, a live Christmas show, an actual snow globe, s’mores by the fire pit and a chance to pick out the perfect Christmas tree. Tickets for Tweetsie Christmas are $38 per person and are sold in advance for specific nights and times.
PAGE 58
AUTUMN TIMES
2018
2018
AUTUMN TIMES
PAGE 59
PAGE 60
AUTUMN TIMES
Mystery Hill:
S
ince 1948, visitors and High Country residents have been amazed and bewildered at the gravitational phenomenons at Mystery Hill. A family-friendly indoor activity that is perfect for bad weather days, visitors can enjoy optical illusions while learning about Native American and mountain heritage, all located at 129 Mystery Hill Lane, right off U.S. 321 between Boone and Blowing Rock. “This place is so special because people come here to have fun,” said Wayne Underwood, owner and operator of Mystery Hill. “Families need to be able to do more together. It seems that through all of the hustle and bustle, folks seem to forget that. We have activities for families to learn and have fun together.” Mystery Hill includes optical illusions, Mystery House, Mystery Platform, Hall of Mystery, Appalachian Heritage Museum and Native American Artifacts Museum,
2018
A destination of illusion and history
HISTORY
FILE PHOTO A guide at Mystery Hill demonstrates the gravitational oddities associated with the attraction.
containing one of the largest collections of artifacts in the Southeast.
Mystery Hill and the strange phenomena that occur date back to the early part of the 20th century when William Hundson, the original owner of the land first discovered oddities about the place. Hudson operated an old cider mill on one end of the plot of land where an old wooden platform stood. A pair of identical twins worked at the cider mill, and Hudson noticed that despite being the same height, the twin who stood on the north end of the platform always looked taller. Visitors can still experience the Mystery Platform today. Hudson also noticed that the trees in his apple orchard grew toward the north, directly into the prevailing winds. And the apples the fell from the trees appeared to roll uphill on the old walking path! In 1957, Buford Stamey and Rondia J. Underwood where looking to building a restaurant in the High Country and considered Mystery Hill as a prime location.
Throughout their tour of the property Hudson explained the strange phenomena associated with the unique location. It appeared that the gravitational pull on the side of the mountain caused unusual things to happen. Underwood purchased the entire operation in 1958 and it has been a source of wonder and amazement to visitors ever since.
CABINS Your trip to the High Country can be made even more special and comfortable by staying at Riverside Log Cabins at Mystery Hill. The cabins are conveniently located between Boone and Blowing Rock and are near the Middle Fork Greenway Trail and Sterling Creek Park. Grab a fishing pole and you are just a short walk to the Middle Fork of the New River. Cabins are available for nightly and weekly rentals. For more information, call (828) 2642792.
BLUE RIDGE THEATER & EVENTS Good Times in the Mountains Music & Entertainment nt Legends in Concert Wedding Events Corporate Events Car Shows
C COMING SOON... S Major Nashville N Headliners He
Wine & Cheese Festivals als
CHECK OUR WEBSITE FOR EVENTS BRDT.NET 9331 Hwy 16 South • West Jefferson, NC • 336-982-4888
AUTUMN TIMES
2018
PAGE 61
HALLOWEEN
ks oo Sp
BY SYDNEY WOLFORD sydney.wolford@mountaintimes.com
C
andy, spooks and haunts are just around the corner. To get into the season’s spirit, embrace some Halloween activities for all ages around the High Country. The Ashe County Corn Maze and Pumpkin Festival in West Jefferson will open Friday, Sept. 21, with Friday hours from afternoon to dusk. Saturday hours will be from 10 a.m. to dusk and Sunday hours are from 1 to 7 p.m. For more information about the five-acre corn maze, visit ashecountycornmaze.com. Beary Scary Halloween at Grandfather Mountain will be held on Saturday, Oct. 27, from 11 a.m. to 2:45 p.m. The cost of the program is included with admission to the park. Trick or treat through animal habitats and join the costume contest. For more information, call (800) 468-7325 or visit www.grandfather.com. Blowing Rock Halloween Festival in downtown Blowing Rock will be an activity-packed day. On Saturday, Oct. 27, Blowing Rock Art and History Museum will provide Halloween crafts from 2 to 3 p.m. for families, the recreation center will host games and a fun house from 3 to 5:30 p.m. and there will be air walks in Memorial Park from 3 to 8 p.m. To join in on Monster March, line up at 5:30 p.m. at the American Legion with a parade beginning at 5:45 p.m. If candy is your focus on Halloween, trick or treating in downtown will begin at 6 p.m. To partake in the costume contest, sign up at the recreation center by 6:45 p.m., with the march starting at 7 p.m. After the costume contest, children from ages 6-13 can join in on the Moonlight Scavenger Hunt at Broyhill Lake. Participants can be in teams of a maximum of three people. Don’t forget
to bring a flashlight. For more information about the day’s festivities, visit blowingrock.com/halloween/. Boone Boo! in downtown Boone on Oct. 31 will feature a family-friendly spooky Jones House tour, trick or treating through downtown from 5 to 6 p.m. and games and arts and crafts at the Watauga County Library. For more information, visit www.joneshouse. org/booneboo/. The Harvest Farm Corn Maze and Pumpkin Patch opens on Sept. 15 and will be open until Oct. 28. The seven-acre corn maze and you-pickpumpkin farm’s hours are Fridays and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sundays from 1 to 6 p.m. The night maze will only be Oct. 6, Oct. 13 and Oct. 20 and ticket sales for the night maze stop at 9 p.m. Visit @WNCFallFun for more information. Halloween festivities continue at New River Corn Maze Fridays and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to dark and on Sundays from 1 p.m. to dark. Students and children get in for $5 and adult tickets are $7. Children 5 and younger enter for free. Purchase a maze and ride combo ticket for $10. The combo ticket cannot be used with other discounted tickets. For more information, visit www. newrivercornmaze.com. Tweetsie Railroad’s Ghost Train returns for a spooky and fun family adventure. The Ghost Train runs on Saturdays and Sundays from Sept. 2122 through Oct. 26-27. Advance tickets at $38 for children and adults are required. Children 2 years and younger are admitted for free. Tweetsie will also offer a haunted house, Halloween shows on Main Street in Blowing Rock, a 3-D maze, Black Hole, trick or treating, Freaky Forest, Warp Tunnel and Tweetsie Palace Spooktacular Black Light Show. For more information, visit tweetsie.com.
PHOTO BY THOMAS SHERRIL Luke and Logan McLaughlin, both 1 year old, dressed as pumpkins for the Monster March at the Halloween Spooktacular at Tanger Outlet of Blowing Rock.
MONTY COMBS | GRANDFATHER MOUNTAIN STEWARDSHIP FOUNDATION Children and families can participate in making Halloween treats for animals at Grandfather Mountain’s Beary Scary.
PAGE 62
AUTUMN TIMES
2018
A fall full of festivals BY THOMAS SHERRILL
I
f you want to enjoy a piece of the Appalachian culture while the leaves fall, there’s so shortage of festivals across the region. The High Country autumn sees festivals of all different sorts. From one centered on books and reading in Ashe County, and from numerous events celebrating local craft, music and culture, to stepping into the land of the Wicked Witch of the West in Allegheny, Watauga, Wilkes and Avery counties, there’s a different type of festival for everyone. “The Avery County Chamber of Commerce is proud to organize and implement festivals that attract visitors, tourism and a unique variety of arts and crafts in the High Country,” said Melynda Martin Pepple, executive director of the Avery County Chamber of Commerce. Most events benefit different charitable causes, so whatever decision you make, chances are you’ll have a good time while helping those less fortunate.
BEECH MOUNTAIN KITE FESTIVAL Sept. 1-2 The Beech Mountain Chamber of Commerce will hold its annual Mile High Kite Festival as part of the town’s Labor Day Weekend festivities on Sept. 1-2. The party starts Friday, Aug. 31, with a street dance outside the Beech Mountain Town Hall. Why “Mile High?” Because Beech Mountain is 5,506 feet above sea level. It is the highest incorporated town east of the Mississippi which makes it the perfect place to fly a kite. The elevation almost guarantees great breezes and when the temperatures are still in the mid to high 90’s in most of the Carolinas and Virginia, Beech Mountain remains cool with temperatures rarely exceeding 80 degrees. Two recognized kite clubs, one from Charlotte and one from Richmond, Va., will be on hand to demonstrate flying techniques, staff kite clinics and help folks build their own kites. Free kites will be given to the first 150 children under the age of 13. Beech Mountain Chamber of Commerce Prizes are given to novice flyers for the biggest kite flown, the most original
FILE PHOTO Autumn at Oz has guests go down the yellow-brick road with Dorothy and her friends.
handmade kite flown, the kite to fly the highest, and whatever other categories the organizers can dream up. For more information, visit www. averycounty.com/events/mile-high-kitefestival or call the Beech Mountain Town Hall at (828) 387-4236.
THE MUSIC FEST AT BLUE BEAR MOUNTAIN Sept. 6-8 Covering 155 acres on mountaintop heaven, the Music Fest at Blue Bear Mountain will have a private and inclusive event for 300 lucky guests that will have a number of bands over three days right near Boone. Bands and singers scheduled for the festival include Yarn, Mountain Heart, Songs From The Road, South Hill Banks, Tim Carter Band, Dr. Bacon, Turpentine Shine, Handle Bar Betty, Lost Ridge, Melissa Reaves, Alexa Rose and more. The all-inclusive $300 ticket includes four nights camping from Wednesday through Saturday, three days and nights of music, five meals (three dinners and two brunches with vegetarian options), late night snacks of grilled cheese and pizza, a festival T-shirt, custom beverage cup with festival logo, beverages included for the entire event and coffee and tea in the mornings. Ticket prices run from $10 for a Thurs-
day day pass to $45 for a Saturday day pass. Camping packages start at $100, which includes a pass. For more information, visit www.musicfestatbluebearmountain.com.
WILKES COUNTY QUILTERS INC. QUILT SHOW Sept. 7-8 Turning 20 this year, the Wilkes County Quilters, Inc. quilt show takes place Sept. 7 from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sept. 8 frin 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at The Stone Center, 613 Cherry Street, North Wilkesboro. Admission is $3 with children under 12 free. On display will be over 100 quilts made by members, plus raffle quilts, a guild challenge, bed turning of past quilt show ribbon winners, boutique of dolls, baskets, crafts made by members and seven vendors with sewing/quilting supplies. For more information, visit www. wilkesquilters.org.
AUTUMN AT OZ Sept. 7-9 Join Dorothy, the Scarecrow, the TinMan, and the Cowardly Lion at the Land of Oz on Beech Mountain for the annual Autumn at Oz Festival. Guests are invited to visit, re-live, and celebrate one of North Carolina’s hidden gems nestled among the Appalachian Mountains for
this three-day event. Based on the novel by L. Frank Baum, Oz is complete with the Gale’s Kansas farm, twister, and an actual Yellow Brick Road. Along the way the Munchkins, Flying Monkeys and even Toto. The young and young at heart will surely be delighted when they travel over the rainbow and down the yellow brick road at the world’s largest Wizard of Oz event. Tours are $40 per person, limit 12 per order, and take place every hour from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on all three days. Children younger than 2 are free with a paying adult. Parking is located in the meadow next to Brick Oven Pizza at 402 Beech Mountain Parkway, Beech Mountain, N.C., 28604. For more information and the link for tickets, visit www.landofoznc.com/autumnatoz.
ON THE SAME PAGE FESTIVAL Sept. 11-15 Ashe County’s celebration of reading and writing returns for a week of events, the On The Same Page Festival gives authors and writers a chance to share their work and themselves with readers. Featuring authors Darnell Arnoult, Bryn Chancellor, Abigail DeWitt, Georgann Eubanks, Phillip Lewis, Jim Minick, Tracy K. Smith, Tommy Tomlinson and Frank X Walker, the festival will have readings, workshops and various other events throughout the week. This year’s festival read is “Ordinary Light” by Tracy K. Smith. Please call (336) 846-2787 for tickets and for more information on the festival, times and locations of the various events, visit www.onthesamepagefestival.org.
THE BLOWING ROCK MUSIC FESTIVAL Sept. 15 At the historic Blowing Rock, the one-day music festival with a little bit for everyone will take place Saturday, Sept. 15 starting at 12 p.m. The event will feature The Harris Brothers, Shelby Rae Moore, Soul Benefactor, Wayne Euliss as Elvis as the main performers. Also on hand will be the Fly by Night Rounders with Abby the Spoon Lady, The Neighbors, Carolina Ray with SEE FESTIVALS ON PAGE 68
AUTUMN TIMES
2018
PAGE 63
View NC from 4K above sea level
“Enjoy the Legend” Planning a Wedding or Special Event? Make it a breathtaking event for your special day.
NORTH CAROLINA’S OLDEST TRAVEL ATTRACTION, SINCE 1933 432 The Rock Road | Blowing Rock, NC 28605 | 828.295.7111 | TheBlowingRock.com
PAGE 64
AUTUMN TIMES
Echota’s Onsite Real Estate Team
2018
AUTUMN TIMES
2018
Echota’s Onsite Real Estate Team
PAGE 65
PAGE 66
AUTUMN TIMES
PROVIDING 24/7 EMERGENCY VETERINARY CARE Preventative Services • Acupuncture
Laser Therapy • Canine Rehabilitation Stem Cell Regenerative Therapy • Exotic Pet Care 1710 NC Hwy 105, Boone, NC 28607 • (828) 268-2833 • www.boonevet.net
2018
• Full service general practice • Complete medical and preventative health care • Spacious, comfortable dog and cat housing • 1+ Acre fenced, wooded dog park 1614 NC Hwy 105 • Boone, NC 28607 • (828)268-1419
AUTUMN TIMES
2018
PAGE 67
Canine Camping:
Bring your pup to the campground BY COLIN TATE
C
amping in the High Country is fun for the whole family, and not just the humans in your pack. Bringing along a canine pal is encouraged. However, before taking a dog to the campground, it’s best to understand a few important notes. First, food and supplies are a must, and don’t forget a leash and doggie bags. Other medicines and materials that are individually important to your pet are also a must-have. Next, be aware of where your furry friend is at all
times. Some bodies of water may be harmful to dogs, so keep an eye on where and what they drink. Keep canines close. That’s where the leash comes in handy. Another question to ask yourself is, how welltrained is my pet? An obedient pup is certainly an advantage at any campground. Try exposing your pet to similar situations in controlled settings beforehand to get them accustomed to the camping atmosphere. This also helps lower the chances of your pet bothering other campers.
Also, make sure your furry friend has all the proper vaccinations before venturing out into mother nature. Health is a top priority, and being up-to-date medically is a strong start. Ticks are another health concern, so make sure to groom your pup’s afterward to prevent long-term risks. Whichever campground you and your group decide to attend, make sure to read the rules and regulations regarding pet life. Each campground is different, with some being more accepting of pets than others. By reading
Your complete guide to everything tourism in the High Country!
up ahead of time, you’ll be able to decide which location is best for you and your pup. Be prepared for rain and more, as weather conditions tend to change frequently in the High Country. Before leaving, be sure to pack alternatives to keep your pet warm, dry, clean, cool and happy. Most importantly, enjoy being in the great outdoors with man’s (and woman’s) best friend. Bring a toy, ball, snack or all of the above to show your pet what a treat it is to experience the all the High Country has to offer.
PHOTO COURTESY OF DARIN CONRAD Sidney Anderson, right, and her dog, Moo, enjoy the Linville Gorge wilderness.
LOCALLY-OWNED AWARD-WINNING· TRUSTWORTHY
Est. 2000 The High Country’s Premier Locally-Owned, Holistic Pet Store· Expert Nutrition and Care Advice Self-Service Pet Wash· Nail Trimmings and Ear Cleanings 100% Guaranteed Dog and Cat Food
HighCountryNC.com
live the adventure
The Pet Place Shops at Shadowline Boone, NC 28607 828.268.1510
TRUST THE BEST
Mon-Fri 9am-7pm· Sat 9am-6pm· Sun 12pm-5pm
PAGE 68
AUTUMN TIMES mountain_heritage_festival.php.
FESTIVALS
CAROLINA IN THE FALL
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 62
Cecil Palmer, Carolina Gator Gumbo, Charlie Carpenter, Carolina Blue, Mitch and Masten and The Midnight Plowboys. Tickets are $30 in advance, then $45 the week of the festival. Children 12 and under are $10. Tickets can be purchased at The Blowing Rock at 432 The Rock Road, Blowing Rock, N.C., 28605, by phone at (828) 295-4812 and (828) 295-7111, or at the Blowing Rock Chamber of Commerce at (828) 295-7851.
MOUNTAIN HERITAGE FESTIVAL Sept. 15 The annual Mountain Heritage Festival in downtown Sparta will take place Saturday, Sept. 15 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. A celebration of craft and music, the festival will feature entertainment from the Jubilee Dancers, the Craig Vaughn Experience, Changing Lanes, Good Fellers, the Rise and Shine Band and conclude with the Possum Queen Contest. More than a dozen food vendors, 22 restaurants and 50 craft vendors will line N. Main Street in Sparta for the day. For more information, contact the Al-
PHOTO BY JIM MORTON The champion woolly worm in races at the 39th Annual Woolly Worm Festival in Banner Elk was Hans Solo, who was handled by owner Reyn Beekman of Boone. Hans Solo was examined by official festival forecaster Tommy Burleson.
leghany Chamber of Commerce at (336) 372-5473 or visit www.sparta-nc.com/
Sept. 21-22 The fourth annual Carolina in the Fall Music and Food Festival takes place Sept. 21-22 in downtown North Wilkesboro. The fesitval has expanded its powerful lineup of entertainment to include The Secret Sisters, Jim Lauderdale, Front Country, Humming House and more. These artists will join festival hosts The Kruger Brothers and The Steel Wheels, The Roosevelts, Fireside Collective, The Contenders, Snyder Family Band, The Arcadian Wild, Nikki Talley and more than 100 other musicians, chefs, vintners and craft beer brewers from the region. General admission tickets are $30 for one day or $55 for both days. VIP tickets are $130 and children are free. For more information, visit www.carolinainthefall.org.
ART ON THE MOUNTAIN Sept. 22 Ashe County Arts Council will sponsor Art on the Mountain on Saturday, Sept. 22 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. More than 30 artists and craft persons will set up their creative wares on the grounds of the
2018
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 wood-working. For more information, call (336) 846ARTS.
AUTUMN LEAF FESTIVAL Oct. 6 Join the Ashe County History Museum at 301 E. Main St. in Jefferson from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. for a fun-filled festival featuring vendors, historic demonstrations, children’s activities, food, and more. Celebrate Autumn Ashe County Style! For more information, contact the Ashe County History Museum at (336) 846-1904 or visit ashehistory.org.
BRUSHY MOUNTAIN APPLE FESTIVAL Oct. 6 One of the largest one-day arts and crafts festivals in the southeast, the 23rd annual Brushy Mountain Apple Festival takes places in the streets of North Wilkesboro on Saturday, Oct. 6, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Paying tribute to the fruit grown and SEE FESTIVALS ON PAGE 69
2018
AUTUMN TIMES
PAGE 69
PHOTO SUBMITTED The Valle Country Fair takes place in a large hay field across NC Hwy. 194 from the Valle Crucis Conference Center. The setting is made all the more quaint by the fact that the tents are set up between an old red barn and a field of sorghum.
FESTIVALS CONTINUED FROM PAGE 68
harvested each fall in the apple orchards of Northwestern North Carolina, the event will have over 400 arts and crafts exhibits, 100 food concessions and four different music stages consisting of blue grass, country, folk, gospel, and Appalachian heritage, as well as cloggers, folk dancers, rope skippers, and square dancers. Appalachian Heritage crafts are highlighted such as woodcarving, chair making, soap making, pottery throwing, and quilting. Local apple growers set up throughout the festival selling their apples, apple cider, and dried apples. Pre-festival activities begin with an “Apple Jam” on Friday, Oct. 5 from 6-9 p.m. with live entertainment at the Brushy Mountain Club’s Apple Festival Park at the corner of 10th Street and Main Street. The festival is free to attend. For more information, visit www.applefestival.net.
TODD NEW RIVER FESTIVAL Oct. 13 The 23rd annual Todd New River Festival will take place Saturday, Oct. 8 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Walter and Annie Cook Park in beautiful downtown Todd. The event will have crafts, food, music and fun all day. Eight different bans will perform for the duration of the event and over 30 craft and food vendors will be on hand. The event is free with parking costing $5 per vehicle.
The event is hosted by the Todd Ruritan Club, which provides community services for the town of Todd. For more information, visit www.toddruritan.org or cal the Todd Ruritan Club at (828) 964-1362.
BOONE HERITAGE FESTIVAL Oct. 14 With history demonstrations, craft vendors, music jam sessions, children’s activities, live music and storytelling, the Boone Heritage Festival at the Hickory Ridge Living History Museum will take visitors back in time to the 1700s on Saturday, Oct. 14. Visitors can try their hand at scarecrow building, pumpkin bowling, hand-sewing, basketweaving, flintlock rifle firing, campfire cooking, blacksmithing, spinning wool and much more in a village of antique wood cabins while listening to musicians from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Admission is free. For more information, visit www. booneheritagefestival.com or call (828) 264-2120.
VALLE COUNTRY FAIR Oct. 20 With more than 160 top quality crafts from the southeast and a variety of food an entertainment, the 39th annual Valle Country Fair will take place on Saturday, Oct. 20 at the Valle Crucis Conference Center Grounds at 122 Skiles Way, Banner Elk, N.C., 28604 The event will feature two stages set up for mountain music from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., games, pumpkin carvings, arts and crafts and other diversions including live ani-
mals, face painting and old-time mountain storytellers. The fair is free admission, with $10 parking per personal vehicle, $25 for a small bus or van or $50 for a large bus or motor coach. Funds raised go to various nonprofits. For more information, visit www.vallecountryfair. org or call (828) 963-4609.
BANNER ELK WOOLLY WORM FESTIVAL Oct. 20-21 Now the official woolly worm festival of North Carolina, the 41st annual Woolly Worm Festival returns to the grounds of the Cultural Arts Center at the Historic Banner Elk School on Saturday, Oct. 20, and Sunday, Oct. 21. With 20,000 anticipated guests and more than 150 vendors, the Woolly Worm Festival sees arts, crafts, inflatables, rides, live music dance teams and much more. “The Woolly Worm Festival recently has been named the Official Woolly Worm Festival for the State of North Carolina,” Pepple said. “Banner Elk Kiwanis and the Avery County Chamber partner to establish this exciting festival and proceeds return back to the community.” The highlight is the Woolly Worm race ($5 entry) where the worms for the honor of predicting the upcoming winter in the High Country, as well as a $1,000 cash prize. Tickets can be purchased online through www. woollyworm.com or on the day of the event at the gate. Adult tickets are $6 and kids aged 6 to 12 are $4. Call (828) 898-5605 for more information.
AUTUMN TIMES
PAGE 70
2018
Fraser fir Christmas tree industry A cut of the High Country all over the world BY LUKE WEIR luke.weir@mountaintimes.com
A
common sight on any drive through Ashe, Watauga or Avery counties is sprawling acreage of Christmas tree farms lining the Blue Ridge’s hillsides and mountaintops, often stretching across entire ridge lines. Christmas trees are a cherished commodity in the High Country. According to the North Carolina Christmas Tree Association, the state has more than 1,300 growers producing Christmas trees on an estimated 40,000 acres, and 98 percent of these trees are of the Fraser fir species, endemic to the Blue Ridge Mountains of Southern Appalachia and named after John Fraser, a botanist from Scotland who explored the High Country in the late 1700s. The North Carolina Christmas tree industry is ranked second in the nation
FILE PHOTO A tractor pulls a hayride of Christmas tree buyers at Clawson’s Choose & Cut in Meat Camp. The Fraser fir Christmas tree is often referred to as the Cadillac of Christmas trees.
in number of trees harvested and cash receipts, according to the NCCTA, following only Oregon in terms of sheer volume of trees.
It is a difficult and time consuming process, yet Christmas tree growers agree it is worth it when their trees become the decorative centerpiece of people’s homes
during the holiday season, the NCCTA says. Fraser firs can reach a maximum height of 80 feet if left to grow, but on average it takes between 7 and 10 years for a tree to hit the ideal Christmas tree height of 6 to 7 feet, stretching as long as 12 to 15 years depending on growing conditions, according to the NCCTA. A contest sponsored by the National Christmas Tree Association judged the North Carolina Fraser fir as the nation’s best Christmas tree, and a North Carolina Fraser fir has been chosen as the official White House Christmas Tree 12 times — more than any other species, according to the NCCTA. In Ashe County, where agriculture is the county’s top industry, the trees, roping and wreaths industry harvests more than 700,000 trees annually, valued at more than $12 million per year, according to the Ashe County Christmas Tree SEE FRASER ON PAGE 71
G
R
randfathe
CAMPGROUND & CABINS
Tent Sites $16-$25
Cabin Rentals $49-$119
RV Sites $31-$35
hotspot • cable tv • centrally located • big rig friendly
OPEN ALL YEAR 1-800-788-2582
le View Road, Banner Elk, NC 28604 www.grandfatherrv.com
2018
FRASER CONTINUED FROM PAGE 70
Association. Christmas tree season lasts all year long in the High
NORTH CAROLINA CHRISTMAS TREE ASSOCIATION CHOOSE & CUT FARMS Boyd Mountain Christmas Tree Farm Email: trees@boydmountain.com Phone: (828)926-8888 445 Boyd Farm Rd Waynesville, NC 28785 Brown Family Farm Email: masonfiresmith@gmail.com Phone: (828)674-1067 740 Odoms Chapel Road Buladean, undefined 28705 Buck Knob Farm Email: tomwaller55@gmail.com Phone: (828)743-0248 1051 Wolf Knob Road Cullowhee, NC 28723 C & J Christmas Trees Email: candjchristmastrees@nccta.com Phone: (828)264-6694 1999 Brookshire Rd Boone, NC 28607 Cartner Christmas Tree Farm Email: cartner@carolinafraserfir.com Phone: (828)733-1641 901 Balsam Drive PO Box 247 Newland, NC 28657 Circle C Tree Farms Email: circlectrees@gmail.com Phone: (828)265-7504 372 Will Cook Road Boone, NC 28607 Clawson’s Christmas Tree Farm Email: clawsons@ncchristmastrees.com Phone: (828)719-6395 4805 194 N Boone, NC 28607 Cornett Deal Christmas Tree Farm Email: cdtreefarm@skybest.com Phone: (828)964-6322 142 Tannenbaum Lane Vilas, NC 28692 Douglas R. Clark Nursery dba C&G Nursery Email: drcn1@live.com Phone: (828)733-4850 204 White Pine Rd Newland, NC 28657 Dutch Cove Christmas Tree Farm Email: dctreefarm@aol.com Phone: (828)400-0806 280 Setzer Drive Canton, NC 28716 Fir Heaven Sake Christmas Tree Farm Email: ricktrees@yahoo.com Phone: (828)361-4350 40 Fir Heaven Sake Lane Topton, NC 28781 Frosty Mountain Christmas Trees Email: frostymountainchristmastrees@gmail.com
AUTUMN TIMES Country, and events such as the Christmas in July Festival in West Jefferson are a proud celebration of the Fraser fir Christmas tree industry, a point of pride for the entire region — bringing a cut of the High Country to homes in each of the 50 United States, all over North Phone: (828)656-8100 13623 Hwy 212 Marshall, NC 28753 Frosty’s Choose & Cut Email: sextonfarms@skybest.com Phone: (800)238-8733 2152 Beaver Creek School Rd West Jefferson, NC 28694 Helms Christmas Tree Farm Email: henryhelms@bellsouth.net Phone: (704)276-1835 6345 Christmas Tree Lane Vale, NC 28168 Jonas Ridge Tree Farm Email: shelltrio@att.net Phone: (828)733-4654 8050 Joe Poore Rd Jonas Ridge, NC 28641 Lil’ Grandfather Choose and Cut Email: info@lilgrand.com Phone: (336)372-9613 15371 NC Hwy 18 South Laurel Springs, NC 28644 McInnis Tree Farm/Wishon Evergreens Email: Wishontrees@skybest.com Phone: (336)372-7086 468 Presnell Road Glade Valley, NC 28627 Mehaffey Tree Farm Email: mmehaffe@gmail.com Phone: (828)476-8505 24 Corner Drive Waynesville, NC 28785 Mistletoe Meadows Email: mistletoem@skybest.com Phone: (336)465-9754 583 Burnt Hill Road Laurel Springs, NC 28644 Panoramic View Christmas Tree Farm Email: Panoramictreefarm@yahoo.com Phone: (828)719-6395 368 Panoramic Lane Boone, NC 28607 Pressley Tree Farm LLC Email: scottpressley1946@gmail.com Phone: (828)743-2275 770 Shirley Pressley Rd. Glenville, NC 28736 Reece Farm & Nursery Email: rbreece@skybest.com Phone: (828)898-5642 241 John Jones Rd Elk Park, NC 28622 Reeves Tree Farm Email: reeveslandscaping96@gmail.com Phone: (828)779-0115 9507 NC 63 Hwy Leicester, NC 28748 Roan Valley Tree Farm Email: waynetree@charter.net Phone: (828)688-2675 1030 Green Creek Road Bakersville, NC 28705 Roberts Tree Farm
PAGE 71
America, to the Caribbean Islands, Japan and all across the world. For a list of choose-n-cut Christmas tree farms according to the NCCTA, visit http://www.ncchristmastrees.com/choose-cut. Email: alleghanytrees@hotmail.com Phone: (336)657-8587 223 Wilson Rd Ennice, NC 28623 Sandy Hollar Farms Email: sandyholfm@aol.com Phone: (828)683-3645 63 Sandy Hollar Lane Leicester, NC 28748 Shady Rest Tree Farm Email: srtreefarm@skybest.com Phone: (336)977-1659 287 Trading Post Road Glendale Springs, NC 28629 Smoky Mountain Christmas Tree Farm Email: r115angel@aol.com Phone: (828)400-2933 756 Hemphill Road Waynesville, NC 28785 Snow Creek Christmas Trees Email: jlwilson513@gmail.com Phone: (828)385-2388 447 Wilson Rd Bakersville, NC 28705 Snowy Mountain Christmas Tree Farm Email: snowymtn@yahoo.com Phone: (828)733-9589 4699 Linville Falls Why 221 S Newland, NC 28657 Spillman’s Christmas Tree Farm Email: spillmanschristmastrees@gmail.com Phone: (336)495-1090 1576 Will Coltrane Rd Sophia, NC 27350 Stone Mountain Farms Email: staylor239@gmail.com Phone: (828)773-7651 301 Sherry Reece Lane Trade, TN 37691 Stonewall Christmas Trees Email: cmwilson1510@gmail.com Phone: (828)467-0628 1510 Mckinney Cove RD. Bakersville, NC 28705 Sugar Plum Farm Email: sugarplumfarm@att.net Phone: (828)765-0019 1263 Isaacs Branch Rd Newland, NC 28657 Two D’s Nursery Email: johnd@twodsnursery.com Phone: (828)733-6686 7849 Linville Falls Highway Newland, NC 28657 Wintergreen Farm Email: wintergreenfarm@gmail.com Phone: (423)727-2593 223 Waddell Rd. Mountain City, TN 37683 Yeater’s Christmas Trees Email: dsyeater@gmail.com Phone: (828)674-3884 489 River Walk Dr Burnsville, NC 28714
PAGE 72
AUTUMN TIMES
2018
2018
AUTUMN TIMES
PAGE 73
PAGE 74
AUTUMN TIMES
2018
AUTUMN TIMES
2018
PAGE 75
Zip to it PHOTO BY ALICIA GREEN High Gravity Adventure’s Zip Line Tour will take riders through its Blue Ridge Course to experience high-flying fun.
Ziplining in the High Country BY SYDNEY WOLFORD sydney.wolford@mountaintimes.com
N
ature lovers and thrill seekers alike can experience the changing leaves and autumn breeze with a different perspective this season — ziplining. Hawksnest Zipline in Seven Devils offers two courses for different ziplining experiences, and even caters to those who may be apprehensive about the high-flying ride. Co-owner and general manager Lenny Cottam said that ziplining isn’t only for the adrenaline junkies. “Ziplining’s not as scary as they think it might be,” Cottam said. “It’s a fun way to spend a couple hours. I hope they get a little feel for nature while they’re out here.” The Hawk Tour is an 11-cable tour with two
cables side-by-side for $80 per person. The course spans one and one-half miles, glides to up to 1,500 feet and gains speeds up to 35 mph. Two swinging bridge tours are a part of the Hawk Tour. Riders must be at least 5 years old and weigh no more than 250 pounds or have a waist larger than 40 inches. The Eagle Tour at Hawksnest amps the zipline experience up a bit. This threemile tour travels more than 2,000 feet and can reach speeds of 50 mph. Riders must be at least 8 years old and weigh no more than 220 pounds or less than 80 pounds, or have a waist larger than 40 inches. Both tours can last from one and one-half hours to two hours. Hawksnest Zipline is open seven days a week with tours at 10 a.m., noon, 2 and 4 p.m. Reservations are required, and riders must arrive 30 minutes
HIGH COUNTRY ZIP LINES Hawks Nest 2058 Skyland Dr. Seven Devils (828) 963-6561 hawksnestzipline.com
High Gravity PHOTO BY KAYLA LASURE Richard Happel zips over a creek as Sky Valley staff member Adam Newman prepares for his landing.
before the scheduled tour. High Gravity Adventures in Blowing Rock offers three different ways to travel through its zipline tour. A zipline tour with an optional 70-foot freefall can last up to two hours on the course. Tickets are $69. If a zipline tour is not enough, High Gravity offers a zipline tour and a ride on the giant swing for $79. Zipliners must be at least 48 inches tall. This course can take up to two and one-half hours with an optional 70-foot freefall or an optional slower ride back down. Finally, the giant swing ride offers a 45-foot
drop. An Ultimate Adventure at High Gravity will cost $89 and can take up to 6 hours, with an option to shorten the adventure. The first part of the adventure consists of a two-hour zipline ride with an optional 70-foot freefall, For all High Gravity Adventure tour options, zipliners must be 7 years and older, and 7-10 year olds must be accompanied by an adult. Zipliners will be shuttled from the basecamp to the treehouse. Once riders reach the zipline course, tour guides handle all of the braking along the way. While you’re on the
215 Tweetsie Railroad Rd. Blowing Rock (828) 266-0176 Highgravityadventures.com
Sky Valley Tours 634 Sky Ranch Rd. Blowing Rock (828) 372-0384 www.skyvalleyziptours.com/ course, keep your eyes peeled for 12 hidden garden gnomes. High Gravity’s builder hid the gnomes all through the trees, but only nine have been found. Can you find the final three? Sky Valley Tours in Blowing Rock offers rides for children and adults through three zip line tour options. A three-hour Zip Tour will take riders starting off on an ATV ride up to the mountain, through 10 platforms, over a cliff jump
and onto a swinging bridge 50 feet above ground. Adults 18 years and older can purchase tickets for $85 and tickets for children ages 10-18 are $75. The Whistle Pig Kid Zip for children ages 4-18 lasts up to two hours and offers seven zip lines, a bridge and a 20-foot slide. Children must be shorter than 5 feet 6 inches and weigh less than 180 pounds. Tickets are $40 for regular admission and $30 for Watauga, Avery and Ashe county residents. Whistle Pig Packs for five visits cost $125. Adults 21 years and older can participate in Zip and Sip, a three-hour zipline ride and beer and appetizers from Lost Province Brewing Co. in Boone. Tickets are $91 per person. All tours are rain or shine, so Sky Valley Tours suggests bringing layers and packing a rain jacket. Leave jewelry, camera, cell phones and other valuables in the car, and wear shirts, shorts and pants that cover modestly.
AUTUMN TIMES
PAGE 76
2018
Pickle What? Pickleball Asia and Europe. The High Country has several places to play pickleball:
BY CARL BLANKENSHIP carl.blankenship@averyjournal.com
A
game for everyone, pickleball is a sport that has seen a growing fan base during the past couple of decades. It combines elements of racquet sports including tennis, badminton and ping-pong. Players use paddles made of wood to hit a perforated polymer ball back and forth over a net, which is shorter than those used for tennis. The game is like a scaled-down version of tennis and can be played on indoor or outdoor courts. With a slower moving ball and a smaller court, the game is easy to get into and great for all ages. Two to four players can play at once, and the game is usually played in doubles. The game was invented in the mid-1960s as a children’s backyard pastime and has grown in popularity with children and adults. According to the USA Pickleball
H
PHOTO SUBMITTED Pickleball is a popular sport within the senior community.
Association website, the sport was invented in 1965 on Bainbridge Island, which is a short ferry ride from Seattle. There, three dads, Joel Pritchard, Bill Bell and Barney McCallum were credited for creating the game while finding a summer activity for their children. The sport has grown and evolved since then throughout the United States and Canada and courts have also been popping up in
Ashe County Parks and Recreation 626 Ashe Central School Road, Jefferson, NC (336) 982-6185 www.asheparks.com Avery County Parks and Recreation 185 Shady St., Newland, NC (828) 733-8266 www.averycountync.gov Blowing Rock Parks and Recreation 145 Park Ave, Blowing Rock, NC (828) 295-5222 townofblowingrocknc.gov Linville Land Harbor 20 Land Harbor Pkwy., Newland, NC (828) 733-5161
www.linvillelandharbor.com Watauga County Parks and Recreation 231 Complex Drive, Boone, NC (828) 264-9511 www.wataugacounty.org The Williams YMCA of Avery County 436 Hospital Drive, Linville, NC (828) 735-5500 www.ymcaavery.org Buckeye Recreation Center 1330 Pine Ridge Road, Beech Mountain, NC (828) 387-3003 beechrecreation.org You can learn more about pickleball and where to play at the USA Pickleball Association website by clicking to www. usapa.org. You can also find a list of places to play the game both in the High Country and across the nation at www.usapa.org/ places-to-play-pickleball.
Fly like an Eagle
ave you ever wanted to experience what a hawk or eagle experiences when it is flying on the wind currents? Have you ever seen a flock of birds circling lazily overhead and wondered what it would feel like to do that? Now you can. Visit www.thermalvalley.net and learn more about how you can soar like a bird and experience free flight. Thermal Valley operates from Foothill’s Regional Airport located off Highway 18 between Lenoir and Morganton, just a short drive down the mountain. Owners, Laura and Craig, will facilitate your free flight experience. “When you fly with us, you will be immersed in the atmosphere and experience the most bird like flight man has invented,” Craig Pearson said. “While flying, your USHPA certified tandem aero tow instructor will teach you basic hang-gliding flying skills and actually let you fly!”
Who can fly? Pearson said that anyone weighing between 95 and 235 pounds can fly. “My
PHOTO SUBMITTED BY THERMAL VALLEY INC. Craig Pearson takes a client on a hang gliding experience.
youngest flyer was 8 and my oldest was 83 so far,” Craig said. Anyone under 18 takes a simple “Maturity Test,” which tests abilities to follow directions. Parents or guardians will have to sign for them.
What to expect? Participants come to the airfield, receive orientation and ground school where they are briefed on their flight and told what to expect. “Our ground crew have all flown and strive to make our
students as knowledgeable about hang gliding as time allows before their flight,” Laura said. After the orientation, students are helped into the harness attached to the tandem hang glider. The glider is rigged with landing gear just like a regular aircraft. After a series of safety checks the tow pilot is signaled to take off then the glider is towed to a pre-determined altitude above the ground. Thermal Valley’s lowest flights are to 1500 feet and go up to a mile high. Once the tow plane and glider reach their release altitude, the glider releases from the plane and free flight begins. Your instructor will begin teaching you basic flying skills and let you fly when you are ready. While you are in the air, you can see Grandfather, Table Rock and Hawks bill mountains. Witness the Catawba river meandering its way towards Charlotte. On a clear day, you will be able to see into Virginia and even see the Charlotte skyline (more than 100 miles away). Students experience a peaceful and tranquil flight and the instructor can
spice it up for them if they want to experience “the roller coaster ride.” The glider glides back to the grass airstrip where your instructor touches down gently and rolls to a stop. When the flight is over, the ground crew assists with getting the student out of the harness and return them to the hang shack.
How do students react? “My wife says I live for glider eyes,” Craig said. Student’s eyes get really big and they have a huge grin. “Man, woman and child have all hugged me after their flight and some even tell us we have changed their lives,” Pearson said. Thermal Valley has a five-star rating and have been featured twice in North Carolina’s “Our State” magazine. Thermal Valley is family owned and operated: “Our family flying yours” is their motto.
How to reserve a flight? Thermal Valley operates by appointment only and participants can reserve their flight online at www.thermalvalley.net. Click on the “book now” button or call (828) 292-7473.
2018
AUTUMN TIMES
PAGE 77
•B Beautiful ea tif l views ie s of NC mo mountains ntains • Marvel at the joy of free flight • Learn flight controls with a certified Tandem Instructor • A rare experience best shared and remembered with friends Schedule your discovery tandem flight online today!
ThermalValley.net
828-292-7473 By appointment only
PAGE 78
AUTUMN TIMES
2018
AUTUMN TIMES
2018
PAGE 79
BUILT, BACKED, AND SERVICED LIKE NO OTHER WINDOWS.
From new homes and renovations to weekend do-it-yourself projects, New River Building Supply has everything you need. Stop in today to see the unbeatable quality of Andersen® products!
3148 NC Hwy 105 South Boone, NC 28607 (828) 264-5650 (800) 445-9732
NEW RIVER 2016
2017
At Sashco®, we know that logs ain’t wood. So whether you’re finally building your dream home, looking to do some routine maintenance to keep your weekend log cabin looking beautiful, of a complete log cabin renovation and restoration, Sashco® is here to help with a full line of special log home finishing products. Come in New River Building Supply anytime to get free color cards, samples, and expert advice!
2018
2340 Tynecastle Highway Banner Elk, NC 28604 (828)898-5660 nrbs@newriverbuilding.com
PAGE 80
AUTUMN TIMES
2018
AUTUMN TIMES
2018
PAGE 81
Where you go to play Parks and recreation in the High Country COMPILED BY ANNA OAKES
T
hroughout the Southeast and even across the nation, the High Country is known for its year-round outdoor recreation opportunities.
PARKS The High Country region of North Carolina is home to many parks and dedicated green space areas, from national parks to privately run community parks. Passing just south of Boone is the Blue Ridge Parkway — the most-visited national park in the country, providing access to 469 miles of scenic beauty, overlooks, trails, campgrounds and other facilities across the mountains of North Carolina and Virginia. Two parks that are part of the Parkway system include the beautiful Moses Cone estate and Price Park, offering miles of trails, horseback riding, a campground, canoe and boat rentals, picnic areas and more. In addition, just south of Boone and Blowing Rock, citizens can access the federal lands of the Pisgah National Forest, providing opportunities for hiking, camping, backpacking, fishing, hunting, climbing and swimming. The Pisgah National Forest includes the Linville Gorge Wilderness Area — affectionately known as the “Grand Canyon of the East.” State parks in the region include Grandfather Mountain State Park, Elk Knob State Park, New River State Park, Mount Jefferson State Natural Area and Roan Mountain State Park. These parks offer opportunities for hiking, picnicking, camping, backpacking, canoeing, kayaking, tubing, ranger-led programs and special events. Community and local government-operated parks in the Boone area include Brookshire Park, Jaycees Park, Junaluska Park, Howard Knob Park, Durham Park, Valle Crucis Park, Memorial Park in Blowing Rock, Green Valley Park and many others. The parks’ amenities vary, including green space, picnic areas, covered shelters, playing fields, playground equipment, walking trails, stream access and more. In Ashe County, Ashe County Park
PHOTO BY ANNA OAKES Valle Crucis Park is beloved by locals and visitors for its expansive fields, access to the Watauga River, birding opportunities, walking path, picnic shelters, and plenty of kids’ activities.
offers an 18-hole public disc golf course, a skate park, a nature trail, horseshoe pits and other amenities. A gym and ball fields are available at the Family Central property. Other parks in Ashe County include the Creeper Trail Park in Lansing and West Jefferson Park. In Avery County and areas bordering other counties, there are Waterfalls Park and Riverwalk Park in Newland, Riverside Park in Spruce Pine, Tate-Evans Park in Banner Elk and Buckeye Recreation Center in Beech Mountain.
WALKING AND BIKING TRAILS In addition to walking paths at the aforementioned parks, the Boone Greenway Trail offers several miles of paved trail in town limits for transportation, leisure and exercise. Access points include the Watauga County Recreation Complex and Clawson-Burnley Park off of State Farm Road, beside the Moose Lodge on Deerfield Road and the former Watauga Humane Society parking lot on Casey Lane. From there, the trail can connect with Brookshire Park north of U.S. 421 via New River Hills Road and a highway underpass. The Middle Fork Greenway is a paved hiking and biking trail that will eventu-
ally link Boone to Blowing Rock along the Middle Fork tributary of the South Fork New River, providing connections to downtown Blowing Rock, the Blue Ridge Parkway, the Mountains-to-Sea Trail and the Boone Greenway Trail. The Parkway’s Moses Cone Memorial Park also offers an extensive gravel trail system that is beloved by the area’s many running and horseback riding enthusiasts.
CYCLING & MOUNTAIN BIKING The Boone area provides varied terrain and scenic views for amateur and competitive cyclists and is home to several major road events, including the Blood, Sweat and Gears Bike Ride in June, a fundraiser. Rocky Knob Park is a destination mountain biking park located on the east side of Boone, with several miles of intermediate to difficult trails. Beech Mountain offers additional mountain biking opportunities at the Emerald Outback trail system as well as at Beech Mountain Resort. Just across the state line in Mountain City, Tenn., is the Doe Mountain Recreation Area, which offers trails for all-terrain vehicles and mountain biking, with more trails under development.
FIND OUT MORE Blue Ridge Parkway (National Park Service) www.nps.gov/blri/index.htm
Moses H. Cone Memorial Park www.nps.gov/blri/planyourvisit/moses-h-conememorial-park-mp-294.htm
Julian Price Park www.nps.gov/blri/planyourvisit/julian-pricepark-mp-297.htm
Pisgah National Forest (USDA Forest Service) www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/nfsnc/recarea/?recid=48114
North Carolina State Parks www.ncparks.gov
Ashe County Parks and Recreation www.asheparks.com (336) 982-6185
Avery County Parks and Recreation www.averycountync.gov/residents/parks_and_ recreation/index.php (828) 733-8266
Watauga County Parks and Recreation www.wataugacounty.org/App_Pages/Dept/ ParksRec/home.aspx (828) 264-9511
Valle Crucis Community Park www.vallecrucispark.org
AUTUMN TIMES
PAGE 82
Disc Golfing: BY IAN TAYLOR ian.taylor@ashepostandtimes.com
G
olf has remained relatively unchanged in the past century. The clothes, clubs, balls and technology have exponentially progressed in that time, but the sport itself remains the same. What started as a fun idea has turned into an entirely different sport that has grown in popularity through the nation. It’s called Disc Golf, and it’s foothold in the High Country is here to stay. Played with specialized flying discs instead of clubs and a ball, disc golf is very similar to golf when it comes down to the idea of the game. You have three different types of discs, a long-range driver, a midrange wood or iron, and a short-range putter. They have different weights and sizes to make them do different things, and are fairly cheap. A set of discs will cost around $50, and courses can be found throughout the High Country. It doesn’t take long to get the hang of it, and can be fun for the whole family.
FILE PHOTO The nationally recognized High Country Disc Golf Course is located in Ashe County Park at Ashe Park Road in Jefferson.
For more information on Disc Golf, visit the Professional Disc Golf Association website at www.pdga.com.
High Country Disc Golf Course The preeminent disc golf course in the High Country, the High Country Disc Golf Course is a must-visit for anyone interested in getting into the sport, or an enthusiast visiting the area.
120 Campground Rd. Vilas, NC 28692 828-297-3486 • vanderpoolcampground.com • 321-271-8068
2018
A trend that’s here to stay in the High Country
Located in Ashe County Park in Jefferson, the two-mile course is designed to let the players be one with the nature around them. It naturally contours with the land’s hills, pond and trees. The back nine is located deep in the woodland while the front is closer to the park. Each of the 18 holes has an amateur and a pro tee-off pad, allowing people to choose how tough the course is. Some of the holes have alternate baskets, and the constant tweaks done to the course by park officials means there’s limitless opportunities for fun. The home of the High Country Disc Golf Championship, the course is an ideal place to learn the sport, or master it. For more information about High Country Disc Golf Course, call (336) 982-6185.
Wahoo’s Adventures Another course that’s great for players learning the sport is located at Wahoo’s Adventures at the New River Outpost at 3380 Big Hill Road in Todd. The course’s nine holes each feature both
long and short starting tees, and a warmup hole is provided for people to prep their throwing arm. The course itself is a nice hike for disc golf players, which features a catwalk bridge over the creek. The course is $5 to use per player and is free for anybody tubing at Wahoo’s, with all costs going to maintain the course. For more information on the course at Wahoo’s Adventures, call (828) 262-5774 or visit www.wahoosadentures.com.
Beech Mountain Resort Featuring 18 holes over thousands of feet of land, Beech Mountain Resort’s disc golf course is designed into the mountain landscape. The course offers scenic views and hikes for players as the make their way through the course’s unique design. Players can take a chairlift ride to get an ever better view of the Blue Ridge Mountains, or hike their way for more of a hardfought victory. For more information, call (800) 4382093 or visit the resort website at www. beechmountainresort.com.
AUTUMN TIMES
2018
PAGE 83
App State opens 2018 grid season at Penn State BY STEVE BEHR
T
here are some sportscasters or other “experts” in college football who still think of Appalachian State’s football team as not being a Division I program. Those people would be wrong. Football fans in the High Country are wild about their Appalachian State Mountaineers, a Division I program that plays in the Sun Belt Conference. The Sun Belt Conference is a Division I conference that is part of a group of other Division I football conferences known at the “Group of Five,” which are smaller than bigger leagues, but still play Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS) football. In 2014, Appalachian State moved up to the Sun Belt Conference. Now fully funded with the FBS limit of 85 scholarships, Appalachian State provides the High Country will quality football that is the envy of football programs in the Carolinas and in the FBS. Appalachian State has won a co-championship of the Sun Belt Conference the last two seasons. The Mountaineers have
won a bowl game in their three years of bowl eligibility and are favored to win the Eastern Division of the Sun Belt Conference. The goals are simple for the Mountaineers: Win the Eastern Division, host the inaugural Sun Belt Conference championship game at Kidd Brewer Stadium and win their bowl game. All three goals are possible, but won’t be easy. The Mountaineers are replacing several players from last season, three — right guard Colby Gossett, right tackle Beau Nunn and safety A.J. Howard — who reached NFL camps this fall. Appalachian State also must replace a four-year starter at quarterback in Taylor Lamb, who is a graduate assistant coach at South Carolina. App State head coach Scott Satterfield, who ushered the Mountaineers into their FBS era, leads the Mountaineers into another tough season-opening game Sept. 1 at No. 9 Penn State. Playing nationally ranked teams is nothing new for the Mountaineers, who shocked the sports world in 2007 with a 34-32 victory at then No. 5 Michigan.
PHOTO BY STEVE BEHR App State gets ready to play Georgia in its 2017 season opener. The Mountaineers face Penn State on Sept. 1
App State played at national runner-up Georgia last year, losing 31-10, and at 2015 national runner-up Clemson, losing 41-10. App State lost at Tennessee 20-13 in overtime in 2016 in front of 100,074 mostly orange-clad fans. Appalachian State has also hosted ACC opponents Miami of Florida (2016) and Wake Forest (2017), and will host North Carolina in 2022, East Carolina in 2023 and South Carolina in 2025. App State also plays at North Carolina and South Carolina in 2019. This year, after taking on Penn State, Appalachian plays at rival Charlotte on Sept. 8. Then the Mountaineers finally play at home against Southern Miss on Sept. 15 and at home against FCS oppo-
nent Gardner-Webb on Sept. 22. App State also has home games Sept. 29 against South Alabama, Oct. 20 against Louisiana (formerly Louisiana-Lafayette), Nov. 17 against Georgia State and Nov. 24 at Troy. The home of the Mountaineers is Kidd Brewer Stadium, known to Mountaineers fans as “The Rock.” With a capacity of more than 35,000 when the grassy knoll on the south side of the stadium is full, the Mountaineers have a record of 86-17 at Kidd Brewer Stadium since 2003. Plans to remove the running track that surrounds the field, overhauling the south side of the stadium and expansion of the Sofield Family Indoor Facility located to the west of the stadium are in the plans.
Rock the tailgate BY SYDNEY WOLFORD sydney.wolford@mountaintimes.com
HOME GAMES
M
ountaineers can break out their black and gold T-shirts and favorite chili recipes once again when Appalachian State football returns for its first home game on Sept. 15 against Southern Miss. Before you gear up for the game, plan out your tailgate with ASU tailgating rules in mind. Duck Pond Field is allocated for student clubs and organizations only. To tailgate on Duck Pond Field, visit the Student Government Association and fill out a registration form. Broyhill Music Building Lot, Champions Lot, Chemistry and Physics Lot, Durham Field, Durham Park, Edwin Duncan Hall
FILE PHOTO Show off your grilling skills this football season.
Lot, Greenwood Lot, Holmes Center Lot, John Thomas Hall Lot, Justice/Coltrane Hall Lot, Katherine Harper Hall Lot, Legends Lot, Library Parking Deck, Peacock Lot, Rivers Street Parking Deck, South Lot, Stadium Lot, Student Recreation Center Lot, Schaefer Center for the Performing Arts Lot and University Drive Parking Spaces are all up for grabs for tailgating
Sept. 15: vs. Southern Miss, 3:30 p.m. — Hall of Fame Celebration Sept. 22: vs. Gardner-Webb, TBA — Heroes Day Sept. 29: vs. South Alabama, TBA — Homecoming Oct. 20: vs. Louisiana, TBA — Family Weekend Nov. 17: vs. Georgia State, TBA — Black Saturday Nov. 24: vs. Troy, TBA — Senior Day spaces. These lots and Duck Pond Field are the only locations that the university has approved for tailgating with alcohol, for adults 21 and older with a valid driver’s license or photo ID. Glass containers, kegs, spirituous liquor and mixed drinks are not permitted. Only malt beverages and unfortified wine are acceptable to consume during a tailgate. Alcoholic beverages are
not permitted during the game and cannot begin before three and one-half hours before kickoff, but can resume for an hour after the game ends. Game day ribs, juicy burgers and other tailgating fare are only allowed to be cooked with propane and charcoal grills. Burned coals and cooking residue cannot make contact with pavement and the coals must be extinguished before leaving the tailgating spot. Tailgating must be limited to the space directly behind your vehicle, and it cannot block roadways or more than one parking spot. Designated tailgate site opening times will be determined based on each home game’s kickoff time. Kickoff time is set no earlier than 12 days prior to the game day. For more information about tailgating rules and guidelines, visit policy.appstate. edu/Tailgating.
AUTUMN TIMES
PAGE 84
CORRIHER TRACTOR, INC. Our Friendly Staff Is Here to Help! Joe Whittington Sales Representative
Nell Taylor
Sales Representative
Rusty Meyer Parts Manager
Darla Clarke Service Manager
The bitterness of poor quality lingers long after the sweetness of a cheap price is forgotten!
555 Wilkesboro Blvd. NE | Lenoir, NC 28645 | (828) 758-5506 WWW.CORRIHERTRACTOR.COM
2018
2018
AUTUMN TIMES
PAGE 85
AUTUMN TIMES
PAGE 86
2018
Not Resting Well?
WE CAN HELP! Largest and Best
SELECTION OF MATTRESSES IN THE HIGH COUNTRY
Locally
OWNED AND OPERATED
TWO CONVENIENT LOCATIONS in the Boone Mall and in Foscoe
Rest Well Live Better
2015
2016
2017
2018
828-528-4161 | BLACKBERRYCREEKMATTRESS.COM
GO TO BLACKBERRYCREEKMATTRESS.COM/MOUNTAINTIMES TO DOWNLOAD A SPECIAL COUPON
2018
AUTUMN TIMES
PAGE 87
AUTUMN TIMES
PAGE 88
2018
Bold and bright
Art galleries shift to autumn hues BY SYDNEY WOLFORD sydney.wolford@mountaintimes.com
A
s leaves change colors every fall, art galleries in the High Country follow suit. Autumn artwork on display in galleries will showcase bright, bold colors and beautiful landscapes this season. The Carlton Gallery in Banner Elk has an upcoming show, “Harmony of Spirit — Three Artist Friends,” that will feature mixed media artist Amy Sullivan, oil painter Dottie Leatherwood and oil painter Paul Hastings from Oct. 6 through Nov. 15. The gallery will host an opening reception for the show on Saturday, Oct. 6, from 2 to 5 p.m. “It’ll be exciting to see how their work relates to each other and how it works
in the gallery,” Art Cellar owner Toni Carlton said. “They’re all totally different styles.” Carlton said the artists range from Impressionistic style to Surrealism to contemporary, abstract barns in their art. For a chance to try your hand at an art workshop, join the gallery every week until October on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays. Participants can sign up to be on the workshop list by calling the gallery at (828) 963-4288. Guests can purchase from an array of paintings, jewelry, pottery and gifts while at the gallery. Carlton Gallery is showing its mid-summer group exhibition from now through Sept. 15 featuring Andrew Braitman and Lisa Boardwine in “Spectrum — Beyond Color and Abstraction.” The show consists of engaging shapes, lines, forms and colors in Braitman’s abstract landscapes and Boardwine’s abstract paintings. The Art Cellar Gallery in Banner Elk is sticking with the autumn theme as well
WE ARE HIRING NOW ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS
CDL Dump Truck Drivers
FILE PHOTO Potter Tim Turner’s work will be on display at the Art Cellar Gallery as part of their Thanksgiving pottery showcase open house on Nov. 23 and 24.
with its “Bold Scapes” exhibition from now through Oct. 6. The show, by Joseph
SEE GALLERIES ON PAGE 89
NEW, FINE & ESTATE JEWELRY 40 to 70% Savings One of a Kind Treasures
(Minimum of 5 years experience preferred) and laborers. Please apply in person at 1608 Highway 221 North, Jefferson, NC 28640.
Pre-employment drug test required. Equal Opportunity Employer Buy • Sell • Consign • Layaways Available UPTOWN WEST JEFFERSON Open Thursday - Saturday 10:00 a.m.
4 North Jefferson Ave. 336 - 846 - 2274 • www.perrysgoldmine.com
AUTUMN TIMES
2018
PAGE 89
The Schaefer Center Presents
— a season of world-class entertainment
T
he 2018-19 season of “The Schaefer Center Presents …” performance series, presented by Appalachian State University’s Office of Arts and Cultural Programs, offers students, faculty, staff and the community a diverse array of music, theatre and dance designed to enrich the cultural landscape of the campus and surrounding area. The series promotes the power and excitement of the live performance by creating memorable performance experiences and related educational and outreach activities.
Shovels & Rope Oct. 5, 7 p.m., Schaefer Center for the Performing Arts Shovels & Rope are an American folk duo from Charleston, S.C., composed of husband and wife Michael Trent and Cary Ann Hearst. Combining threads from their individual solo careers, Shovels & Rope blends traditional folk, rock and roll and country rock.
North Carolina Symphony Oct. 19, 7 p.m., Schaefer Center for the Performing Arts The North Carolina Symphony was
GALLERY LISTINGS BANNER ELK
PHOTO SUBMITTED ‘Approaching Rain’ by David Birmingham will be featured at Art Cellar Gallery until late August and will remain in the gallery afterward.
GALLERIES CONTINUED FROM PAGE 88
Cave, will feature landscape oil paintings. “The bold brushwork and the and the bright colors and his subject matter is pretty close to home,” gallery director Sarah Meyers said. In addition to the “Bold Scapes” show, the Art Cellar Gallery will also host a Thanksgiving show with an open house on Friday, Nov. 23, and Saturday, Nov. 24 from 3 to 5 p.m. The show will be a pottery showcase featuring Tim Turner. The gallery will later host a Christmas open house on Saturday, Dec. 15 from 3 to 5 p.m. The Art Cellar Gallery displays work from all over the Southeast, ranging from large scale canvases to smaller works on paper as well as sculpture, glass and clay pieces.
Carlton Gallery 10360 N.C. Hwy 105 (828) 963-4288 www.carltongallery.com Clark Gallery 393 Shawneehaw Ave S. (828) 898-2095 chrisclarkgallery.com Maggie Black Pottery 112 Clubhouse Dr. #1 (828) 963-2565 maggieblackpottery.com Mountain Blue Gallery 151 Shawneehaw Ave. (828) 898-4477 www.mountainbluegallery.com Sally Nooney Gallery 7137 N.C. Hwy 194 (828) 963-7347 www.sallynooney.com Studio 140 at Sorrento’s 140 Azalea Circle (828) 352-8853 www.studio140art.com
BLOWING ROCK Blowing Rock Art and History Museum 159 Chestnut St. (828) 295-9099 blowingrockmuseum.org Blowing Rock Frameworks & Gallery 7539 Valley Blvd. (828) 295-0041 www.blowingrockgalleries.com Bolick and Traditions Pottery 1155 Main St. (828) 295-6128 www.bolickandtraditionspottery.com
founded in 1932 as America’s first statewide orchestra. Each year, the Symphony performs 175 concerts and events, traveling 18,500 miles throughout the state and engaging 250,000 people. The Symphony’s 66 full-time professional musicians perform under the artistic leadership of Music Director Grant Llewellyn. The North Carolina Symphony is also dedicated to providing music education to build the next generation of musicians and music lovers. On Oct. 17, the Symphony will be performing as part of the APPlause! Series—a matinee per-
BOONE Blue Ridge ArtSpace 377 Shadowline Drive (828) 264-1789 http://watauga-arts.org/wordpress/blue-ridgeartspace/ Doe Ridge Pottery 585 W. King St. (828) 264-1127 doeridgepottery.homestead.com Hands Gallery 543 W. King St. (828) 262-1970 www.handsgallery.org Jones House Community Center 604 W. King St. (828) 262-4576 www.joneshouse.org/galleries Nth° Degree Gallery 683 W. King St. (828) 919-6919 www.nthdegreegallery.com Turchin Center for the Visual Arts 423 W. King St. (828) 262-3017 tcva.appstate.edu
CROSSNORE Crossnore Fine Arts Gallery 205 Johnson Lane (828) 733-3144 www.crossnore.org/fine-arts-gallery/
LINVILLE Anvil Arts Sculpture Garden & Gallery 9600 Linville Falls Hwy (828) 765-6226 www.studiosculpture.com Linville River Pottery 2180 Goose Hollow Road, Pineola (828) 287-1944 www.linvilleriverpottery.com
forming arts series for K-12 students in the surrounding counties sponsored by Appalachian’s Office of Arts and Cultural Programs.
Stephen Stills and Judy Collins Nov. 8, 7 p.m., Schafer Center for the Performing Arts More than 50 years ago, Stephen Stills met Judy Collins and their tumultuous love affair was immortalized by Stills with his composition “Suite: Judy Blue SEE SCHAEFER ON PAGE 90
VALLE CRUCIS Alta Vista Gallery 2839 Broadstone Road (828) 963-5247 www.altavistagallery.com
WEST JEFFERSON Acorn Gallery 103 Long St. (336) 246-3388 www.acorngallery.com Ashe Arts Center Gallery 303 School Ave. (336) 846-2787 www.ashecountyarts.com Ashe Custom Framing & Gallery 105 S. Jefferson Ave. (336) 846-2218 www.ashecustomframing.com Backstreet Beads and Handcrafted Jewelry 111-A N. Jefferson Ave. (336) 877-7686 www.backstreetbeads.com Catchlight Gallery 118 N. Jefferson Ave. (336) 846-1551 www.catchlightgallery.net Florence Thomas Art School 10 S. Jefferson Ave. (336) 846-3827 www.florenceartschool.org Originals Only Gallery 3B N. Jefferson Ave. (336) 846-1636 www.originalsonlygallery.com Quilt Square Girls 5 E. Second St. (336) 385-0196 www.ilovebarnquilts.com R.T. Morgan Art Gallery & Glass by Camille 120 N. Jefferson Ave. (336) 246-3328 www.rtmorganartgallery.com
AUTUMN TIMES
PAGE 90
2018
Find your antique Seventh annual Olde Time Antiques Festival expected to bring thousands to West Jefferson BY COLIN TATE
W
est Jefferson’s seventh annual Olde Time Antiques Fair is Friday, Sept. 14 and Saturday, Sept. 15. Admission to the fair is free, and the event will be held rain or shine. The event will be open from 1-8 p.m. Friday and from 8 a.m. — 5 p.m. Saturday. The fair includes antiques, primitives, collectables, entertainment, food and music. “We do it for the town of West Jefferson,” organizer Keith Woodie said. “(Tourism in) September starts slowing
down. We do it to draw (people) and have a big event in September.” The antiques fair will feature 70 spaces for vendors, and Woodie expects to have 8,000-10,000 people in attendance, which is what he estimated at the 2017 fair. Woodie said the event has been successful for West Jefferson as a whole, not just the vendors that sell antiques. “It’s proven,” Woodie said. “it not only affects the antique life, but all the retail businesses and all the downtown restaurants look out for that weekend.” This year’s show will feature multiple bands, as well as an Elvis Presley per-
PHOTO BY LEE SANDERLIN Jefferson Avenue was blocked off and full of canopies, people and antiques during the West Jefferson Olde Time Antiques Fair.
former Saturday afternoon. Woodie said he brought in the impersonator to give the fair-goers a different form of information. “We are basically a tourist town,” Woodie said. “You have to have these events. People have to want to visit West Jefferson naturally, but they want something to do when they get here.” Woodie added that the fair has grown each year and continues to be a success. He said the event has been beneficial to
the whole area, and he would like to see more events like it in the future. “Not only is it a different group of people (coming to Ashe County) for that time of year, but they come back and visit,” Woodie said. For more information on West Jefferson’s seventh annual Olde Time Antiques Fair, contact (336) 977-9165 or (336) 9770398, or email oldetimeantiquesfair@ gmail.com.
SCHAEFER CONTINUED FROM PAGE 89
LOOKING AHEAD TO 2019
Eyes,” performed by Crosby, Stills & Nash on their landmark debut. Both artists would go on to shape modern music with visionary approaches, but Stills and Collins’ short fiery union remains a transformative era for the two artists. These music icons will pull from their rich catalogs and share warm and intimate stories from their journeys and the 1960s folk and Laurel Canyon scenes they helped build.
Additional concerts in the Schaefer Center Presents series scheduled for winter and spring 2019 include:
Herbie Hancock Feb. 13, 7 p.m., Schafer Center for the Performing Arts Herbie Hancock has defied tradition over the years creating music that expands the possibilities of musical thought. Embracing elements of rock, soul, funk and electronica, Hancock is often described by many as a visionary, an architect in the post-bop sound. With a career spanning more than 50 years, his passion for innovation and creativity remain unparalleled.
Ballet Folkórico de México Nov. 14, 7 p.m., Schafer Center for the Performing Arts This world-renowned, folkloric ballet ensemble from Mexico City is beloved for its artistry and ability to captivate audiences. For six decades, the company has presented dances reflecting the cultural traditions of Mexico, featuring authentic music and costumes, combined with inspired dancing that brings audiences to their feet. With its permanent home at the Palacio de Bellas Artes, one of Mexico City’s most historic venues, the company has developed choreography for 40 ballets, composed of 76 folk dancers who have performed extensively across Mexico and abroad.
Dance Theatre of Harlem
PHOTO SUBMITTED Shovels and Rope performs at Appalachian State on Oct. 5.
Tickets for these events went on sale Aug. 27 at 9 a.m. at the Schaefer Center for the Performing Arts box office and online at theschaefercenter.org. To purchase tickets, call or visit the Schaefer Center for the Performing Arts Box Office at (800) 841-2787, (828) 262-4046 or visit theschaefercenter.org.
Feb. 19, 7 p.m., Schafer Center for the Performing Arts Founded in 1969 by Arthur Mitchell and Karel Shook, Dance Theatre of Harlem is a globally-acclaimed dance institution that has occupied a distinguished place in the New York City’s cultural landscape and brings innovative and bold new forms of artistic expression to audiences across the country and around the world. The 16-member professional dance ensemble has performed in 41 countries on six continents, in 44 states and more than 250 cities across North America.
The World of Musicals April 5, 7 p.m., Schafer Center for the Performing Arts With beautiful and emotional ballads from “Evita,” “Les Miserables” and “Phantom of the Opera” along with great up-beat favourites from “Dirty Dancing,” “Rock of Ages” and “Mamma Mia,” there is something in this show for everyone. Highlights from the newest musicals such as “Sister Act II” will also be featured along with the classics from the Golden Age of American Musical Theatre by Rodgers and Hammerstein, Gilbert and Sullivan, George Gershwin and Stephen Sondheim.
AUTUMN TIMES
2018
PAGE 91
Cabin & Lodge
Farmhouse & Cottage
It’s more than furniture, it’s a lifestyle.
Visit our newly opened Annex in West Jefferson Rustic Industrial & Vintage
West Jefferson, NC • 336.246.5647 • Boone, NC • 828.266.1401 • www.thecarolinacabinstore.com • Find us on
• Outdoor décor & furniture • Unique lighting & artwork • Boho style clothing & bedding
LIKE US ON
Do more of What Makes You Happy!
• T-shirts, hats, jewelry, and handbags
• Fresh NC Seafood 1108 S. JEFFERSON AVE. WEST JEFFERSON, NC • 336.219.0301 (when available)
PAGE 92
AUTUMN TIMES
Save time and money
with the right tools for any job Farmers Rentals and Power has everything you need to make your property the envy of all your neighbors. Lawn and garden hand tools, a huge selection of outdoor power equipment, grass seed and fertilizer, equipment rentals as well as parts and repair.
HOMEOWNERS OR CONTRACTORS | RENTAL OR RETAIL PROFESSIONAL CONTRACTOR SUPPLY HEADQUARTERS
678 HIGHWAY 105 EXTENSION • BOONE, NC • 828.264-6044 • FARMERSRENTALS.COM MONDAY-FRIDAY 7:30-5:30 • SATURDAY 7:30-1:00 • CLOSED SUNDAYS
2018
Come see why Watauga County voted us the Best of the Best Five Years Running!
2018
AUTUMN TIMES
2018
PAGE 93
Ready for adventure? We are!
New Owners. New Direction. Same Friendly Staff. Come see us. Wilkesboro, NC
PAGE 94
AUTUMN TIMES
2018
It’s Old Fashioned Family Fun!
“I saw the perfect tree in Boone, NC”
CHOOSE & CUT Christmas Trees
For details & locations of the 14 choose & cut farms, visit:
www.WataugaChristmasTrees.org or www.ExploreBooneArea.com 800-438-7500 or 828-264-3061
2018
AUTUMN TIMES
PAGE 95
CHOOSE & CUT Christmas Trees
In the High Country, growing the perfect North Carolina Fraser fir is an art. Farmers work throughout the year to cultivate beautiful trees with that signature fragrance. Did you know that each tree is visited more than 100 times from the moment it’s transplanted into the field as a foot-tall seedling until it’s chosen and cut? It can take more than 10 years of care before a tree is all grown up and ready for its holiday debut in your home. Watauga County and the Boone and Blowing Rock area is known as the Choose and Cut Capital. Come enjoy a hayride, a Christmas carol, and some hot chocolate, and create your family memory this season here in the High Country.
For more information and a list of all Tree Farms and locations please visit www.WataugaChristmasTrees.org
AUTUMN TIMES
PAGE 96
2018
High Country frescoes a rare beauty in Ashe and Avery counties BY LUKE WEIR luke.weir@mountaintimes.com
FRESCO LOCATIONS
F
resco paintings have been revered for ages by many different societies as culturally and spiritually significant artworks — from ancient Egypt to Renaissance Europe, and, more contemporarily, in the High Country of North Carolina. The oldest fresco paintings are 3,000 years old or older, a testament to their durability, and the medium has been used by Michelangelo on the ceiling of the Vatican’s Sistine Chapel in Rome. Inside the sanctuaries of Ashe County’s St. Mary’s Episcopal Church in West Jefferson and Holy Trinity Episcopal Church in Glendale Springs, collectively known as the Parish of the Holy Communion, are larger-than-life frescoes by Ben Long, a contemporary artist who has mastered the ancient art of fresco painting. Long grew up in Statesville, and apprenticed in Italy to learn the challenging medium of fresco painting, in which the artist presses pigment into wet plaster. The pigment then becomes chemically bonded with the plaster and hardens to produce a surface that is remarkably resistant to time. In the 1970s, Ben Long blessed Ashe County with awe-inspiring and eternal art treasures, starting with St. Mary’s Episcopal Church in 1974.
Holy Trinity Episcopal Church 120 Glendale School Road, Glendale Springs, N.C. 28629 (336) 982-3076
St. Mary’s Episcopal Church 400 Beaver Creek School Road, West Jefferson, N.C. 28694 (336) 982-3076
Sloop Chapel 100 DAR Drive, Crossnore, N.C. 28616 (828) 733-4305
PHOTO SUBMITTED Fresco artist Ben Long’s creation, ‘The Last Supper,’ is on display at the Holy Trinity Church, on Glendale School Road in West Jefferson.
The first Ashe County fresco, “Mary Great with Child,” was followed by “John the Baptist.” Long then began work on “The Mystery of Faith,” which would become a magnificent image covering the entire sanctuary wall at St. Mary’s Episcopal Church. In 1977, Long, along with his apprentices and assistants, created a fresco called “The Last Supper” at Holy Trinity Episcopal Church. All of Long’s frescoes are still on display in the churches they were painted in, and have been preserved in magnificent fashion for longer than 40 years now.
Long also painted a fresco titled “Suffer the Little Children” in Avery County’s Sloop Chapel, located at the Crossnore School. Frescoes Foundation Member Pat Mitchell said the Long frescoes have a unique and mystical allure to them that has drawn tourists from far and wide to see the artwork. “A successful piece of art is one that you can step into it and you feel something, and I think that’s what these frescoes do,” Mitchell said. “When we look at them and are part of the environment where they
are, I think they speak to us — I think that’s what you feel when you go into those churches and look at them.” Long went on to become a well-decorated artist — some of his many achievements are listed online, along with information about his current artistic endeavors, at BenLongFineArt.com. For more information about the Ashe County frescoes, and the foundation created to preserve them, visit www.ashefrescoes.org. To see the artworks for yourself, visit St. Mary’s Episcopal Church at 400 Beaver Creek School Rd. in West Jefferson, and the Holy Trinity Episcopal Church at 195 J W Luke Rd. in Glendale Springs, or the Sloop Chapel at 100 DAR Drive in Crossnore.
An elevating wine experience BY REAGAN DELLINGER reagan.dellinger@mountaintimes.com
When autumn rolls around and the leaves begin to change, the grape vines are only just beginning to produce the ripest grapes for wine in the High Country. Different from any vineyard in the country, the High Country wineries sit on top of mountains at high elevations, giving the end product of the wine much more of a dry taste and smooth texture. “The grapes we grow and produce here in the mountains are very rare
and different than any other type of grape you will find at other wineries,” said winemaker Nicole Tatum. “Grandfather, Watauga, Linville and Banner Elk all grow hybrid grapes, giving each customer a different wine experience.” Hybrid grapes only grow in higher elevations and make for a beautiful crisp glass of wine. Hybrid grapes are special because they are blending grapes and can be made into dry, sweet, semi-sweet and higher acidic wines. Not only is the taste of the wine positively affected by the mountains
we call home, but the experience at each winery is, also. With miles of land, mountains in the backdrop, blue skies and a cool breeze every now and then, your experience in the High Country will be amplified by views you wouldn’t get anywhere else. Much like Napa Valley, many of the wineries in the High Country are an American Viticultural Area designated for wine growing. Watauga, Grandfather, Banner Elk and Linville are all AVA certified. An SEE WINE ON PAGE 102
PHOTO SUBMITTED Grandfather Vineyard.
AUTUMN TIMES
2018
PAGE 97
High Country, low scores
Mountain Aire Golf Club
BY IAN TAYLOR ian.taylor@ashepostandtimes.com
sugar.com/golf or call (828) 898-6464.
Located in West Jefferson in the heart of Ashe County, Mountain Aire is a course with a public course with an amazingly reputable reputation. Paired with the natural, rugged beauty of the Appalachian Mountains, Mountain Aire features a moderate length course that fits any golfer. For more information, visit www. mountainaire.com or call (336) 8774716.
Mountain Glen Golf Club
Willow Creek
Located at 1 Club House Drive in Newland, the Mountain Glen Golf Club was designed by George W. Cobb in 1964 and has remained unchanged ever since. The flat and open course slowly goes up the mountain, making it a unique challenge for any golfer. For more information, visit www. boone-asheville-nc-mountain-golfcourse.com or call (828) 733-5809.
Willow Creek is something of an oddity in the High Country, with it’s nine holes, all par 3’s, it’s a quick hit course that won’t take up your whole day. With no tee times, you can pop in at any time to get in a quick round. For more information, visit www. willowvalley-resort.com or call (828) 963-6865.
W
hether you’re a PGA pro, an amateur who thinks they can beat Tiger Woods or someone who just wants to enjoy the game, the High Country has the courses and the weather you’ve been looking for. Surrounded by mountains and a beautiful backdrop of the changing leaves, it’s enough to make you forget about your score.
PUBLIC COURSES
PHOTO BY IAN TAYLOR Mickey Burr teeing off at Jefferson Landing Golf Course.
offering club repair, demonstrations and lessons. For more information, visit www.boonegolfclub.com or call (828) 264-8760.
Boone Golf Club
Sugar Mountain Golf Course
Rated four-and-a-half out of five stars by Golf Digest, Boone Golf Club was designed in 1959 by Ellis Maples and has 6,680 yards of par-71 peace, with three par 5 holes and four par 3 holes. Boone Golf Club has a pro shop stocked wit the latest equipment and apparel, as well as
At over 4,000 feet above sea level, the par 64 at Sugar Mountain Golf Course is a unique location in the High Country golf scene. With nine par 3 holes and only one par 5, many have referred to the course as the “Everyman’s GOlf Course.” For more information, visit www.see-
AUTUMN TIMES
PAGE 98
2018
PHOTO COURTESY OF BLOWING ROCK COUNTRY CLUB Blowing Rock Country Club Golf Course was designed by Seth Raynor.
GOLF CONTINUED FROM PAGE 97
SEMI-PRIVATE COURSES
Jefferson Landing Club Designed by US Open and two-time PGA Champion, Larry Nelson, Jefferson Landing’s award-winning 7,110-yard, par 72 Course has a reputation of being challenging yet fair. The spectacular views coupled with the extravagant club house makes it one of the premiere courses in the High Country. For more information, visit www.visitjeffersonlanding.com/golf or call (800) 292-6274. Nonmembers can access the course after 1 p.m.
Linville Land Harbor This member-owned, semi-private course has 18 challenging holes in a beautiful setting. The course follows the natural lay of the land, is lined with trees
and features water hazards that can sink any golfer’s score. The greens are designed and maintained to be fast, making this one of the more challenging courses in the High Country. For more information, visit www. linvillelandharborgolf.com or call (828) 733-8325.
Linville Golf Club Guests of The Eseeola Lodge in Linville gain access to the championship course at Linville Golf Club. Challenging golfers since 1924, this legendary 18-hole course is a golf treasure in the High Country. The traditional style of the course shows through as it follows the contours of the land and finds its way where nature provides. For more information on lodging and golf, click to www.eseeola.com or call 1 (800) 742-6717.
Beech Mountain Club Beech Mountain Club’s course features one of the most stunning views
a golfer can have. Mountain ranges in North Carolina, Tennessee and Virginia can be seen from the 18 holes on top of the ridge. The course recently finished a 10-year renovation, extending the length to 6,250 yards.Access to the course is available for nonmembers through rental of qualified lodging. For more information, visit www. beechmtn.club or call (828) 387-4208.
Hound Ears Club Designed in 1964 by George Cobb, who also designed the par-three course at Augusta National, the Hound Ears Golf Course has been called one of the top scenic mountain courses in the country. As the holes make their way across the landscape, streams, lakes and waterfalls give golfers both views and challenges. For more information, visit www. houndears.com or call (828) 963-5831.
PRIVATE COURSES
Blowing Rock Country Club Since 1915, true mountain golfers have been making their way to the Blowing Rock Country Club to play the only course in North Carolina designed by golf course design legend Seth Raynor. Changing elevations, narrow fairways and dangerously fast greens makes the course a test worth taking for any golfer. For more information, visit www. blowingrockcountryclub.com or call (828)295-7311.
Diamond Creek Founded in 2003 by then-Miami Dolphins owner Wayne Huizenga nd golf pro John L. McNeely, Diamond Creek is consistently ranked highly by the golf media as one of the best courses in America. Designed by Tom Fazio, the course is combined with sporting clays course, equestrian facilities, a magnificent clubhouse and the award-winning Artisinal Restaurant. For more information on real estate opportunities, visit www.ridgefrontreSEE GOLF ON PAGE 99
AUTUMN TIMES
2018
playing this course and getting out under 90 is enough for bragging rights. For more information on Linville Ridge, visit www.linvilleridge.com or call (828) 898-5151.
GOLF CONTINUED FROM PAGE 98
alty.com/nc-luxury-mountain-living/ diamond-creek.
Linville Ridge The highest course east of the Mississippi River, Linville ridge elevates golf to new heights. With an elevation of 4,945 feet above sea level and rough bunkers,
Grandfather Golf and Country Club This private club has two courses, giving any golfer options for how they want to play that day. Designed by Ellis Maples and considered his architectural masterpiece, Grandfather Golf and
PAGE 99
Country Club offers a renowned Championship Golf Course that has been ranked by the North Carolina Golf Panel as the second best course in North Carolina after Pinehurst #2. The par-59 course offers a challenging game of smart putts and good approaches. For more information, visit www. grandfatherclubnc.com or call (828) 898-4531.
Elk River Club Home to Jack Nicklaus’ first Signature
Golf Course in North Carolina, Elk River Club has been one of N.C.’s Top 10 Golf Courses since 1984. Niklaus’s design of integration between the course and the surrounding landscape make it a mustsee course for any golfer. As it winds around Elk River, the tree-lined fairways give you a road to perfect pictures on beautiful days, or a relaxing place to have a round. For more information, visit www. elkriverclubnc.com or call (888) 3550933.
Tom’s Discount Golf at the
Sugar Mountain Golf Club
AB CLE SOLUTE ARA NCE !
CALL US NOW FOR THE BEST PRICES IN THE HIGH COUNTRY CLUBS
PUTTERS
BALLS
SHOES
REGRIP & REPAIRS ON-SITE #1 Grip on Tour ®
Tom’s Custom Golf
828-898-6464 • tommycustom1@bellsouth.net
PAGE 100
AUTUMN TIMES
OPEN THROUGH THE END OF OCTOBER! If you thought ought the golf and tennis club at Sugar Mountain was for f members only you’re you’r’e forgiven. f rgiven The popular fo public golf course offers the same fabulous putting surfaces and mountain climate shared by our illustrious private neighbors. Our tennis courts feature the same Har-Tru court surfaces found at only the finest racquet clubs. But at Sugar Mountain there’s no guardhouse or initiation fees—just a hearty mountain welcome for everyone. Our café offers great food and alluring outdoor seating with spectacular panoramic views. At Sugar Mountain, you’ll only think you’re at a private club. Make this season our season at Sugar Mountain. Learn all about us at www.seesugar.com
2018
Village of
S e e S u g a r. c o m | G o l f : 8 2 8 . 8 9 8 . 6 4 6 4 | Te n n i s 8 9 8 . 6 7 4 6
2018
AUTUMN TIMES
PAGE 101
AUTUMN TIMES
PAGE 102
2018
High Country serves as destination for microbreweries BY KAYLA LASURE
T
here’s something satisfying in having the chance to taste a locally made beer — even more so when you can learn how it’s made. The High Country prides itself on producing and buying local products. So it won’t come as a shock that the area has a great deal of breweries to visit. Whether in Boone, Blowing Rock or West Jefferson, the High Country has a brewery sure to please every taste bud.
Booneshine Brewing Company Booneshine Brewing Company opened in 2015 is owned and operated by co-owners Tim Herdklotz and Carson Coatney. It’s Tropicpale Ale — with mango, orange and papaya flavors — received first place at the NC Brewers Cup 2016 for American Pale Ale. For more information on Booneshine, visit booneshine.beer.
Appalachian Mountain Brewery With about 100 varieties of beer and ciders to choose from, Appalachian Mountain Brewery has a taste for about every beer lover.
WINE CONTINUED FROM PAGE 96
American Viticultural Area is a designated wine grape-growing region in the United States, providing an official appellation for the benefit of wineries. One of the best things about the vineyards and wineries in the High Country is that they are all family and pet friendly. Many of the wineries have food trucks and live bands on special days and weekends for you and your family to enjoy.
BANNER ELK WINERY This winery nestled in a small mountain town is known as the original High Country winery. With a variety of award-winning white and red wines, as well as sweet villas to stay in, your mountain experience will be full of warm hospitality and beautiful views, a trip you
To see a complete list of AMB beer, visit amb.beer.
Boondocks Brewing
Lost Province Brewing Company A microbrewery and gastropub that opened in 2014, Lost Province took on its namesake after the northwestern counties — Ashe, Alleghany and Watauga — were known as the “lost province” for their geographic seclusion from the rest of the state. For more information about offerings at the brewing company, view the Lost Province events calendar at lostprovince.com.
Blowing Rock Brewing Company The Blowing Rock Brewing Company opened in 2013 as the first brewery in Blowing Rock. Its beer is offered in three series: the legacy, ale house and American honor series. To find out more about Blowing Rock Brewing Company as well as the ale house and inn, visit blowingrockbrewing.com.
Flat Top Brewing Company At 3,715 feet above sea level, Flat Top Brewing Company prides itself on using Banner Elk mountain spring water for all of its brewing. For more information on Flat Top, visit www.flattopbrew.com.
won’t forget. 60 Deer Run, Banner Elk, NC 28604 (828) 898-9090
GRANDFATHER VINEYARD This first producing winery in Watauga County is the place to be in the fall with amazing views and world class wines. Located at an elevation of 3,300 ft. and overlooking the Grandfather Mountain profile, the 58-degree elevation of the grape vines creates a flavor profile unlike any other. 225 Vineyard Lane Banner Elk, NC 28604 (828) 963-2400
LINVILLE FALLS WINERY This family-owned and -operated winery located near the beautiful Linville Falls attraction, combines both the family’s vineyard and Christmas tree farm to
Founded in 2012, Boondocks Brewing is Ashe County’s first commercially licensed craft beer brewery. Boondocks tries to work with local farmers to source some of the ingredients used for its beer and also provides spent grains to local farmers to feed their livestock. Boondocks Brewing offers visitors both it’s taproom and restaurant that’s open seven days a week and its brew haus which houses its brewing operations. The brew has opened in 2014 as an extension of the tap and restaurant. It consists of two floors with a bar on each level as well as a full service kitchen. The space can be used for reserved special events or private parties. For more information on reservations for special events, email events@boondocksbrew.com or call the brew haus. Visit www. boondocksbeer.com for a more extensive look at Boondocks Brewing.
Blind Squirrel Brewery As a microbrewery that also offers a restaurant, lodging, zip lining, tubing and disc golf, Blind Squirrel has an adventure for everyone. Blind Squirrel opened its doors in 2012 and offers visitors a look at the brewing process. For more information on Blind Squirrel, visit www.blindsquirrelbrewery.com.
cultivate your mountain experience when visiting the Appalachians. A love for wine that has brought a family together, making the grapes sweeter than ever. 9557 Linville Falls Hwy. Linville Falls, NC 28647 Blue Ridge Parkway Mile 317 (828) 765-1400
THISTLE MEADOW WINERY Located in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains, this family-owned winery offers a variety of white, red and blush wines, ranging from dry to sweet. Their award-winning wine is hand crafted in small batches to ensure the perfect taste. 102 Thistle Meadow, Laurel Springs, NC 28644 (800) 233-1505
WATAUGA LAKE WINERY With more than 4,000 grape vines and a transformed historic Johnson County
HIGH COUNTRY BREWERIES Appalachian Mountain Brewery 163 Boone Creek Drive, Boone (828) 263-1111 amb.beer Blind Squirrel Brewery 4716 South U.S. Highway 19 E., Plumtree (828) 765-2739 www.blindsquirrelbrewery.com Blowing Rock Brewing Company 152 Sunset Drive, Blowing Rock (828) 414-9600 blowingrockbrewing.com Boondocks Brewing Tap Room & Restaurant 108 S. Jefferson Ave., West Jefferson (336) 246-5222 www.boondocksbeer.com Booneshine Brewing Company Old location: 246 Wilson Drive, Boone Location move planned for late 2018 to 465 Industrial Park Drive, Boone (828) 386-4066 booneshine.beer Flat Top Mountain Brewery 567 Main St. E., Banner Elk (828) 898-8677 www.flattopbrew.com Lost Province Brewing Company 130 N. Depot St., Boone (828) 265-3506 lostprovince.com
Schoolhouse, this Villa Nova Vineyard is one of East Tennessee’s most beautiful sights to see. From wine tastings, to weddings and “Sangria Saturday’s,” this winery goes above and beyond producing fresh tasting wine for their customers. 6952 Big Dry Run Road Butler, Tenn. 37640 (423)768-0345
PLUMTREE VALLEY WINERY Discover the Appalachians in full effect when staying at the Toe River Lodge, offering the Plumtree Valley Winery, the Blind Squirrel Brewery, and miles of trails and rivers to explore. Each and every beverage is made in varying seasons to ensure that each and every drink is as flavorful and seasonal as ever. 4716 S. US Hwy 19E Plumtree, NC 28664
2018
AUTUMN TIMES
PAGE 103
A Favorite of High Coun y Locals • Extensive Wine List • Large Selection of Craft Beers • All ABC Permits • Daily Culinary & Beverage Specials • Large Parties Welcome • Reservations Accepted
• Live Music on Patio - Thursday Evening and Sunday Afternoon • Adjacent Tap Room with Billiards & Games • Patio Dining Available, Non-Smoking Section, Leashed Dogs Welcome • 18 Rotating Taps to Include a Large Selection of Local Beers
• Open Lunch & Dinner, All Day 7 Days a Week
Large Screen TVs See all College games Saturdays and NFL Package on Sundays.
970 Rivers Street, Boone, NC 828-264-7772 • www.CafePortofino.net Follow us on Facebook & stay up to date on special events and daily specials!
Kaye’s Kitchen Café & Catering
Where Good Friends & Great Food Meet
Daily Specials •Wine & Beer FIVE STAR RATED
HOURS: Monday - Friday (closed Wednesdays) Breakfast/Lunch Dinner Sunday Brunch Mon., Tues., Thurs., Call for 9am-2pm Fri. & Sat. Autumn Hours 8am-2pm
Homemade & Locally Sourced
Facebook, Google, Trip Advisor, & Yelp Call for information & reservations (828) 737-0314 503 Pineola Street • Newland, NC 28657
AUTUMN TIMES
PAGE 104
2018
Experiencing the High Country on horseback BY KAYLA LASURE
T
he fall season will offer pleasant weather and beautiful sights as visitors ride through the High Country on horseback — an experience you can’t get anywhere else. Rising Star Equestrian Center — located in Boone — is prides itself on offering great views as visitors take part of their trail rides. Owned by Dennis Muse and his wife and Dawn, Rising Star starts riders off at an elevation of 3,700 feet with trails winding through mountain pastures and woods. “One of the wonderful things about our trails is that as you get out on one of our trails, you come to a clearing that gives you an unobstructed view of Sugar, Grandfather and Beech mountains all at the same vista,” Muse said. “It’s absolutely spectacular.” Rising Star got its start in the fall of 2017 and is open year-round. The center offers 90-minute trail rides, lessons, boarding, horse training and different camps. Trail rides are $65 on a Rising Star horse and $30 if riders provide their own horse. Lessons are provided by the center’s three instructors that are qualified in anything from Western pleasure, English, hunt seat to dosage. Muse said the center sees many clients wanting lessons who live in the area part time that come up from out of state, such as Florida or South Carolina, or in state such as Charlotte. The facility encompasses a total of 34 stalls, two barns, an outdoor riding ring and indoor riding ring. Muse said Rising Star provides a high-quality barn where horses are kept in 12 by 12 stall and given two feedings as well as two cleanings a day. Riding Star Barn Manager Karen Burnett said she oversees operations to make sure daily duties in the barn are completed correctly, conducts lessons and makes sure boarded horses are taken care of properly. Burnett said rising horses or even just brushing a horse is therapeutic to a lot of people. “One of the benefits to (children) is getting out of the house, off the video games
PLACES TO RIDE HORSEBACK IN THE HIGH COUNTRY Banner Elk Stables PHOTO SUBMITTED Riders enjoy time on horseback at Rising Star Equestrian Center.
PHOTO BY KAYLA LASURE Visitors enjoy riding on horseback at Dutch Creek Trails.
and doing physical work that doesn’t seem like work,” Burnett said. “It’s very enjoyable.” For the newer riders, Burnett said Rising Star ensures that everyone feels safe and that safety is a top priority for them. People who may have more experiences with horses and come to Rising Star are “not going to come here and feel stagnant,” Burnett said. She mentioned that her and her husband, Joey, can help provide training for all levels of horse experience. For more information on Rising Star,
visit risingstarequestriancenterboone. com. For those who would like a longer trail ride, Burnett recommended the trails out as Moses Cone. Leatherwood Mountains — located in Ferguson — offers 80 to 100 miles of trail for horseback or mule riders, according to co-owner Trevor Whitson. Whitson compared Leatherwood Mountains a golfing community — except it’s without golf and centered on horses. “You can ride all weekend and don’t have to ride the same loops over and over,” Whitson said. “There’s absolutely not another equestrian gated community like Leatherwood much up and down the East coast.” Leatherwood Mountains — co-owned by Abbie Hanchey — was created in 1985 and is an established residential community and vacation resort. Visitors can experience a 60-stall barn, two-hour trail rides, riding lessons, campgrounds and luxury rental homes. The resort offers guests a swimming pool, tennis courts, places for bouldering, tubing, hiking, softball, volleyball, basketball and fly fishing. Open seven days a week, Leatherwood offers 2-hour trail rides for $90 and 1-hour trail rides for $50. Lead-line rides for younger children or timid adults are offered at $20 for 15 minutes, $40 for 30 minutes, $60 for 45 minutes and $80 for
796 Shomaker Road, Banner Elk (828) 898-5424 www.bannerelkstables.com
Burnthill Stables 1102 Burt Hill Road, Laurel Springs (336) 982-2008 www.burnthillstables.com
Dutch Creek Trails 793 Rubin Walker Road, Vilas (828) 297-7117 www.dutchcreektrails.com
Grandfather Stables 534 Church Hollow Road, Boone (828) 963-5000 www.grandfatherstables.com
Leatherwood Stables 512 Meadow Road, Ferguson (336) 973-5044 www.leatherwoodmountains.com
Rising Star Equestrian Center 223 Pine Hill Rd, Boone (828) 265-6271 risingstarequestriancenterboone.com
VX3 Trail Rides PO Box 1154, Blowing Rock, NC (828) 963-0260 www.vx3trailrides.com 60 minutes. Trail maps, lodging information, equine amenities (such as boarding or lessons), camping details and information on wedding venue rentals can be found on Leatherwood’s website at www.leatherwoodmountains.com.
AUTUMN TIMES
2018
Land starting in the $30s
$378,000
$529,000
$335,500
$679,000
PAGE 105
AUTUMN TIMES
PAGE 106
2018
EAT
EAT SHOP O explore p
MIRACLE GROUNDS COFFEE SHOP
this is no ordinary cup of coffee
Serving hot and cold coffee, specialty drinks, tea, and breakfast and lunch specials daily. OPEN Monday-Saturday 7:30am-5:00pm www.miraclegrounds.org | 8 Fountain Circle | Crossnore, NC 28616 | (828) 733-2247
SHOP BLAIR FRALEY SALES STORE
largest resale shop in the high country
The Blair Fraley Sales Store offers treasures to locals and visitors alike. OPEN Monday-Wednesday & Friday-Saturday 10am-5:00pm, Thursday 10am-6pm 100 DAR Drive | Crossnore, NC 28616 | (828) 733-4228
CROSSNORE WEAVERS
a working museum
colors off hope p
SEE THE AT CROSSNORE SCHOOL & CHILDREN’S HOME.
The Weaving Room was created to keep alive the Appalachian art of hand-weaving. The museum promotes the school through the sale of its beautiful hand-woven goods. OPEN Monday-Friday 9am-5pm & Saturday 10am-5pm | www.crossnoreweavers.org 205 Johnson Lane | Crossnore, NC 28616 | (828) 733-4660
CROSSNORE FINE ARTS GALLERY
helps artists help Crossnore children
Crossnore Fine Arts Gallery represents regional painters, sculptors and fine crafts. All work in the gallery is available for purchase. OPEN Monday-Friday 9am-5pm & Saturday 10am-5pm | www.crossnoregallery.org 205 Johnson Lane | Crossnore, NC 28616 | (828) 733-3144
CROSSNORE school & children’s home
ALL PROCEEDS BENEFIT THE CHILDREN OF CROSSNORE SCHOOL & CHILDREN’S HOME.
EXPLORE
BEN LONG FRESCO
in the Sloop Chapel
Completed in 2006, the fresco at The Crossnore School renders the scripture of Mark 10:14, “suffer the little children to come unto me and forbid them not; for of such is the kingdom of God.” OPEN Daily 8:30am-5:00pm | 100 DAR Drive | Crossnore, NC 28616 | (828) 733-4305
AUTUMN TIMES
2018
PAGE 107
September 15th
September 29th
October 13th
November 3rd
3:00 - 5:00pm
3:00 - 5:00pm
3:00 - 5:00pm
3:00 - 5:00pm
“Views from the Mountain Top” Featuring works in acrylic by Rebecca Williams
“Abstracts from Different Directions” Featuring the works of Sondra Dorn and Carmen Grier
“Gems in Oil and Pencil” Featuring the works of Bethany Jewell
Fyreglass Studios and Sarah Holt Pottery
Join us November 23rd - 24th for our Holiday Market from 10:00am - 5:00pm Local and Regional Artists and Craftsmen • Artist Demonstrations • Holiday Gifts and Cheer
151 Shawneehaw Ave S | Banner Elk, NC 828.898.4477 www.mountainbluegallery.com
PAGE 108
AUTUMN TIMES
red chili pepper
2018
white peppercorn
black peppercorn
tumeric
green peppercorn
black mustard seeds
dried tomato
green cardamom
sumac
dried ginger
ground nutmeg
nutmeg
cassia
pink pepper
cumin seeds
poppy seeds
All taste buds on deck. When you’re this high above sea level, there’s only one thing to do—bring the ocean’s treasures directly to your table. Fresh-caught delights await you every Thursday at our famous seafood buffet. 800-742-6717 Eseeola.com
AUTUMN TIMES
2018
PAGE 109
EXPERIENCE LOCAL!
ENJOY A FRESH MEAL, CRAFTED IN-HOUSE WITH LOCAL INGREDIENTS.
Serving traditional southern favorites, she-crab soup and shrimp & grits, as well as grass-fed beef burgers, specialty sandwiches, unique tacos, wood-fired flatbreads & pizzas, quinoa bowls, steaks, seafood and plenty of gluten-free and vegan choices.
20 TAPS
LIVE MUSIC
with local, regional and national favorites
Friday & Saturday Nights
BILLIARDS TVs
Relax on leather couches, sip on a drink and relax...
LOUNGE
Mon-Sat 11am-2am. Sunday 11am-10pm. Sunday Brunch 11am-4pm
179 Howard Street. Downtown Boone. 828.266.2179. TheLocalBoone.com
WEEKLY SPECIALS IN THE TAVERN: SUN: Watch the game on the big screen $15 Beer Buckets
MON: Night Football
$2 Domestics all day
BECAFE • 828 898-4040 BE
TUES: Trivia 8-10pm $1off Drafts WED: Open Mic Night 8-10pm
& Industry Day $4 Well drinks
THURS: Night Football $1 off Drafts FRI: Live Music 6-10pm SAT: Live Music 6-10pm LOCATED IN DOWNTOWN BANNER ELK. OPEN 7 DAYS BREAKFAST LUNCH AND DINNER AND NOW THE NEW BAR OPEN
AUTUMN TIMES
PAGE 110
2018
FULL ABC PERMITS 10 LOCAL BEERS ON TAP OUTDOOR PATIO SEATING LIVE MUSIC DAILY NIGHTLY ENTERTAINMENT DAILY SPECIALS 22 TVS 1152 MAIN ST. • BLOWING ROCK, NC (828) 295-7500 • TOWNTAVERNBR.COM
S UP ! O GR ME O E RG ELC A L W
Mon-Sat
Grill Hours: Mon - Thurs 11:00am - 8:30pm and Fri - Sat 11:00am - 9:00pm Daily Lunch Specials Mon - Fri Open until 11pm Mon - Thurs and Midnight Fri - Sat
Home Pool Table Repairs, Recovery & Move & Setup Cues, Lights, Covers & Complete Billiards Accessories
BEST PLACE TO WATCH
SPORTS
LARGEST SELECTION OF
DRAFT BEERS IN BOONE DAILY
SPECIALS 957 RIVERS ST (828) 264-8100
AUTUMN TIMES
2018
PAGE 111
Unique and varied menu offerings that you’ll want to experience again and again!
DAILY BEST
BEER & FOOD SPECIALS DRAFT SELECTION IN BOONE
ALL GAMES ALL WEEKEND
FIND US FOR SPECIALS! 421 Blowing Rock Road Across from Convocation Center 828-386-1216 • www.tapproom.com
Enter as strangers. Leave as friends.
Featuring Craft NC Brews and Storie Street Wines
Half Wine Wednesday On Select Bottled Wines. Dine-in only with entrée purchase.
Paella on Friday Nights Open All Day Monday through Saturday Check out our Menu at www.StorieStreetGrille.com
1167 Main Street | Blowing Rock | 828.295.7075
Red Onion
Dine in the cool mountain air, rain or shine, on our covered outdoor patio! 227 Hardin Street, Boone, NC 28607
828.264.5470
www.redonionboone.com
PAGE 112
AUTUMN TIMES
2018
Come watch the fall leaves from our patio!
20 Drafts Import & Micro Brews
Kitchen Always Open Until Midnight BAR OPEN: Sunday - Wednesday Thursday - Saturday Until Midnight Until 2 a.m. Enjoy our Excellence in Courtesy & Customer Service. 1121 Main Street • Blowing Rock · 828-295-3155 • www.sixpencepub.com
Dine-in • Take Out • Delivery and Catering
HOURS: Mon. - Sat. 6am - 5pm Sun. 7am - 3pm
HOURS: Mon. - Sat. 6am - 3pm Sun. 7am - 3pm
Boone's original Bagel Shop since 1988
Featuring Boone Bagelry Bagels
Serving Breakfast and Lunch All Day 14 Varieties of Freshly Baked Bagels Vegetarian and Gluten Free Options Available
Home of the Famous Bagelicious
Coffee Bar with Espresso, Latte and Cappuccino drinks, with locally roasted coffee Gourmet Lunch Menu Featuring: Turkey Apple Grilled Cheese, Fresh Chicken Salad w/Blueberry Balsamic, Lox Hash, Burgers, Deli Sandwiches Breakfast served All Day: Omelettes, Pancakes, French Toast Vegetarian and Gluten Free Options Free Delivery
OLD DOWNTOWN LOCATION
AT THE 105 WATERWHEEL
516 West King Street 262.5585 www.boonebagelry.com
125 Graduate Lane 262.1600 www.bbwaterwheelcafe.com
Featuring: Deli Sandwiches, Fresh Salads, Home made Flavored Cream Cheeses, Omelettes, Pancakes, French Toast, Burgers, Gyro Now Offering Espresso & Cappuccino Free Delivery
AUTUMN TIMES
2018
PAGE 113
Advertisers Index 4 Seasons Vacation Rentals ................................. 51
Dutch Creek Trails ...............................................42
Peabodys .............................................................. 14
Abbey Carpet .......................................................54
Echota .............................................. 48, 64, 65, 116
Pedalin Pig ..........................................................112
Animal Emergency Clinic Of The High Country .66
Ericks Cheese & Wine .......................................... 31
People’s Furniture ...............................................54
Antiques On Howard ...........................................39
Eseeola ..............................................................108
Perry’s Gold Mine ............................................... 88
Antiques On Main ................................................56
Family Billiards ........................................... 48, 110
Premier Sothebys International Realty ...............24
Appalachian Antique Mall ...................................38
Farmers Rentals & Power ....................................92
Proper ..........................................................38, 109
Appalachian Furniture ........................................22
Foscoe Realty Rentals .........................................115
Ram’s Rack ..........................................................38
Appalachian Regional Healthcare System ..........30
Freds General Mercantile ....................................56
Recess .................................................................... 7
Ashe Chamber Of Commerce .............................. 51
Gaines Kiker ........................................................44
Red Onion Cafe ................................................... 111
Ashe County Arts Council .................................... 51
Glendale Springs ................................................ 103
Remax Realty Group ...........................................25
Ashe County Cheese ............................................54
Grandfather Mountain ........................................ 31
Rivercross ......................................................42, 63
Ashe County Farmer’s Market ............................ 51
Grandfather Mountain Campground ..................70
RT Morgan ............................................................34
Ashe County Historical ........................................ 51
Grandfather Vineyard ....................................37, 48
Shoppes At Farmers Hardware ...........................38
App State Schaefer Center....................................30
Green Park Inn .................................................... 12
Six Pence Pub .....................................................112
Avery County Chamber .......................................52
Gregory Alan’s .....................................................44
Skyline Telephone Corp ......................................82
Banner Elk Cafe .................................................109
Hardin Fine Jewelry ........................................... 80
Spice And Tea Exchange .............................45, 108
Banner Elk Consignment Cottage ...................... 40
Hawksnest ...........................................................78
Stonewall’s .................................................. 40, 108
Base Camp .......................................................... 40
Highland Outfitters .............................................29
Storie Street Grille .............................................. 111
Bernhardt ...............................................................3
Incredible Toy Company .....................................44
Sorrentos ............................................................. 40
Bites & Brews ................................................ 45, 103
Jenkins Realtors .................................................. 16
Sugar Mountain Golf .........................................100
Blackberry Creek Mattress Company ........... 48, 86
Juice Boone ........................................................ 110
Sugartop Resort ................................................. 107
Blowing Rock Art/History Museum ................... 31
Kayes Kitchen .................................................... 103
Tapp Room ......................................................... 111
Blowing Rock Attraction .....................................63
Kincaid ...................................................................3
Tatum Galleries .............................................37, 48
Blowing Rock Chamber Of Commerce ................26
Lakeshore Marina ................................................68
Taylor House Inn .................................................42
Blowing Rock Estate Jewelry ..............................44
Leatherwood Mountains ................................... 105
The Art Cellar ...................................................... 80
Blowing Rock Furniture Gallery ......................... 10
Lees-McRae College ............................................54
The Cabin Store ................................................... 91
Blue Ridge Theater ............................................. 60
Linville Land Harbor ......................................... 101
The Gamekeeper Restaurant ....................... 12, 108
Boone Bagelry .............................................. 38, 112
Logs America, LLC. .............................................70
The Jones House .................................................66
Boone Drugs Inc ....................................................5
Lost Province .......................................................38
The Local ......................................................39, 109
Brass Exchange, The ............................................53
Lucky Penny ........................................................38
The Pet Place .......................................................67
Brushy Mountain Powersports ...........................93
Mast Farm Inn .....................................................42
The Woodlands BBQ ......................................... 110
Budget Blinds ...................................................... 51
Mast General Store ..........................................2, 42
Thermal Valley ..................................................... 77
Cafe Portofino .................................................... 103
Mitchell County Chamber ...................................30
Tom’s Custom Golf .............................................. 99
Cardinal, The ...................................................... 111
Molly Northern Interiors .......................................9
Town Of Seven Devils ..........................................87
Carlton Gallery ....................................................23
Mountain Blue Gallery ................................40, 107
Town Tavern ...................................................... 110
Casa Rustica Of Boone Inc .................................112
Mountain Home And Hearth Inc ........................23
Tweetsie Railroad ..............................................100
Cha Da Thai .........................................................39
Mountainside Lodge Bed And Breakfast ............42
Valle Crucis Conference Center ...........................42
Chetola Resort At Blowing Rock .........................59
My Best Friends Barkery .................................... 40
Vanderpool Campground ....................................82
Classic Stone Works ............................................25
Mystery Hill ..........................................................11
Vannoy ................................................................ 88
Cobo .....................................................................38
New Lifestyles Carpet One ..................................25
Village Jewelers ..............................................39, 45
Corriher Tractor Inc DBA Bob Cat Of Lenoir 84, 85
New River Building Supplies............................... 79
Watauga County Christmas Trees .................94, 95
Crossnore ...........................................................106
Over Yonder .........................................................42
Watauga River Fly Shop ......................................30
Dewoolfson Down .......................................... 17, 48
Paramount Motors .............................................114
Waterfront Group .................................... 72, 73, 74
Dianne Davant .............................................. 48, 58
Parker Tie ............................................................ 51
Westglow Spa ....................................................... 16
Doe Ridge Pottery ................................................38
Parkway Craft Center ........................................ 107
PAGE 114
AUTUMN TIMES
2018
MOUNTAIN
LIVING