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YOUR 2014 AUTUMN GUIDE TO THE HIGH COUNTRY • HighCountryNC.com
Autumn in the
BLUE RIDGE MOUNTAINS
Leaf Looking, Fall Festivals and Art Galleries BOONE BANNER ELK BLOWING ROCK WEST JEFFERSON and all of the High Country
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Y Y Y Y Y Y Y TABLE OF CONTENTS Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Appalachian State University Performing Arts ... 76 Art Crawls ............................................................. 84 Art Galleries .......................................................... 91 Ashe Arts Council ................................................. 94 Autumn at Oz ........................................................ 60 Banner Elk ............................................................ 67 Blowing Rock ........................................................ 38 Blowing Rock Art & History Museum .................. 72 Blowing Rock, The ................................................. 17 Blue Ridge Parkway .............................................. 34 Calendar ................................................................ 94 Camping ................................................................ 29 Caving ................................................................... 41 Chambers of Commerce ......................................... 8 Climbing ............................................................... 43 Cycling .................................................................. 52 Disc Golf ............................................................... 42 Discovery Course .................................................. 33 Downtown Boone ................................................. 20 Emergency Numbers .............................................. 5 Farmers’ Markets ................................................. 62 Festivals ................................................................ 54 Fishing .................................................................. 28 Football ................................................................. 78 Frescoes ................................................................ 85 Gem Mining .......................................................... 36 General Stores ...................................................... 83 Golf ....................................................................... 40 Grandfather Mountain ......................................... 22 Halloween ............................................................. 64 Hickory Ridge Living History Museum ............... 58 High Country Host ................................................. 8 HighCountryNC.com .............................................. 6 Horses ................................................................... 37 Leaf-looking .......................................................... 45 Linville Caverns .................................................... 24 Live Music ............................................................. 73 Mountain Biking ................................................... 53 Mystery Hill .......................................................... 18 Pet-friendly Places ................................................ 46 Restaurants ........................................................... 87 Shopping ............................................................... 81 Sugar Mountain Oktoberfest ................................ 59 Theater .................................................................. 74 Towns of the High Country .................................. 10 Tweetsie Railroad Ghost Train ............................ 68 Valle Crucis ........................................................... 49 Valle Country Fair ................................................ 56 Walking Trails ...................................................... 48 Watersports .......................................................... 31 Wineries ................................................................ 70 Woolly Worm Festival .......................................... 61 Ziplines ................................................................. 25
Scary Times Fall brings in the colors and the scary creatures of the night. The High Country has plenty of opportunities to get your goblin face on. Visit the Ghost Train at Tweetsie for the best fright night in the mountains. PHOTO BY ROB MOORE
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l l a F
in the High Country 2014 Autumn Times Staff
A
utumn Times is here to catch you. Autumn brings to the mountains a vibrant kaleidoscope of color, unmatched by anything you’ll find elsewhere. And then there are the leaves. Although the fall tableau is nothing short of picturesque, the High Country teems with color year-round. Art, music, shopping and scenic surroundings contribute to our own cultural color, and while the palette changes with each season, the High Country’s distinctive sense of self remains in tact. In this year’s Autumn Times, you’ll find features on
everything that makes our area a boon for visitors and residents alike – outdoor activities, popular attractions, the arts, nightlife and more. And since new events and things-to-do are always cropping up, visit HighCountryNC.com for up-to-date information on what’s happening in the High Country. Till next time, Frank Ruggiero Editor Autumn Times
Law Enforcement Watauga County Watauga County Sheriff’s Office (828) 264-3761
Avery County Sheriff’s Office (828) 733-2071 Banner Elk Police (828) 898-4300 Elk Park Police Department (828) 733-9573
Rob Moore Production Chief
Cannon Memorial Hospital (Linville) (828) 737-7000 Ashe Memorial Hospital (Jefferson) (336) 846-7101
Boone Police Department (828) 268-6900
Newland Police Department (828) 733-2024
FastMed Urgent Care (Boone) (828) 265-7146
Blowing Rock Police (828) 295-5210
Seven Devils Police Department (828) 963-6760
AppUrgent Care (Boone) (828) 265-5505
Appalachian Regional Healthcare System Police (828) 262-4168 Appalachian State Police (828) 262-2150
Sugar Mountain Police (828) 898-4349 Beech Mountain Police (828) 387-2342
Ashe County Ashe County Sheriff’s Office (336) 846-5633
Health Care
Jefferson Police (336) 846-5529
Watauga Medical Center (Boone) (828) 262-4100
West Jefferson Police (336) 246-9410
Blowing Rock Hospital (828) 295-3136
Frank Ruggiero Editor Charlie Price Advertising Director
NUMBERS OF NOTE Avery County
Gene Fowler Jr. Publisher
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
Johnny Hayes Layout Artist Emily Robb Pre-Production Specialist Meleah Bryan Creative Services Director Andy Gainey Circulation Manager Sam Calhoun, Jesse Campbell, Jeff Eason, Erika Giovanetti, Caroline Harris, James Howell, Anna Oakes, Jamie Shell and Sandra Shook Writers Rex Goss and Mark Mitchell Sales Marianne Koch, Kristin Powers Creative Services On the front: Visitors to the High Country can find this view just before Price Park on the Blue Ridge Parkway. Off in the distance is Calloway Peak, part of Grandfather mountain. PHOTO BY ROB MOORE
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This area of the Blue Ridge Parkway looking off to Table Rock is one of the prettiest and most visited in North Carolina. The complete system spans 469 miles connecting the Great Smoky Mountains National Park in North Carolina to the Shenandoah National Park in Virginia. PHOTO BY ROB MOORE
YOUR VACATION’S IN SITE HighCountryNC.com raises the bar on tourism in Western North Carolina
G
etting it right in the High Country has never been easier. You’ve reached the peak of Western North Carolina tourism with the new HighCountryNC.com. “With more than a dozen professional journalists on staff and more than 125 years of continually serving the High Country, we are in the unique position of providing unparalleled regional tourism content to both our locals and to our out-of-area visitors,” Mountain Times Publications publisher Gene Fowler said. “We are investing in digital infrastructure that will keep us at the forefront, providing the amassed content our team of outstanding staff has created.” Established in May 2014, HighCountryNC.com incorporates the efforts of the largest media group serving the North Carolina High Country. Drawing on more than a century of local tourism promotion and press, HighCountryNC.com is the ultimate, all-inclusive resource for High Country tourism traditions, events and happenings. We’re here to help you get it right with the High Country’s authoritative source for all things recreation
and tourism in our area. From hiking, bed and breakfasts, golf, snowsports, outdoor adventure, fine and casual dining to everyday living, HighCountryNC.com is the definitive resource for these activities and more for visitors, tourists and guests. Whether it’s your first visit to our mountain home, or you’ve decided to make our home yours, HighCountryNC.com brings together the inside scoop on the best places to see and things to do the next time you
explore North Carolina’s High Country. “HighCountryNC.com is a valuable clearinghouse for content and context that you can’t find anywhere else,” Mountain Times Publications executive editor Tom Mayer said. “No one has covered our area from a seasonal-publication perspective with more content in the past 20 years than Mountain Times Publications, and this endeavor will serve only to enhance that awardwinning coverage that our readers have come to expect.” Mountain Times Publications has been at the forefront in showcasing the best of the best in the region for more than a century. That mission, expanded with the launch of the Summer Times print publication in the late 1990s, was followed by the introduction of the Autumn Times and Winter Times publications. Together, these publications have won multiple awards for content and design. Now, Mountain Times Publications is taking the lessons learned along the way to get it right with the launch of HighCountryNC.com. We invite you — locals and visitors, alike — to start your journey by clicking to www.HighCountryNC.com. Welcome to your website. We hope you love it, too.
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MEET YOUR HOST High Country Host Visitor’s Center
S E L A S L A I C SPE
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he staff at the High Country Host Visitor’s Center has heard a fair amount of questions about this area, including everything from, “Where’s the purple house on the parkway with the pottery?” to “I’m lost! Where am I?” The Visitor’s Center is a nonprofit organization for those visiting Wilkes, Mitchell, Alleghany, Watauga, Avery and Ashe counties. Located at 1700 Blowing Rock Road in Boone, it is easy to find and is open seven days a week. The center was started in 1980, when local businesses and area tourist attractions were invited to meet and work on problems with the tourist industry. The damaging effects of inflation and the energy crisis were discussed, leading to negotiations that would allow organizations that were already a part of their local chamber of commerce to join a new area organization, the High Country Host.
HIGH COUNTRY CHAMBERS OF COMMERCE ASHE COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
BEECH MOUNTAIN CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
AVERY COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
BLOWING ROCK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
BANNER ELK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
BOONE AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
1 N. Jefferson Ave. West Jefferson, N.C. 28694 (336) 846-9550 ashechamber@skybest.com www.ashechamber.com
Now 2 Store Locations• HWY 321 Open Hwy 321 • Granite Falls Sunday 1-5 p.m. 828-396-2900 4.5 Miles North of Hickory
coffeyfurniturenc.com
Mon-Sat 8:30am-5pm Sun 1-5pm
The Visitor’s Center is full of brochures for member organizations and information on what to do, where to stay and what to eat in the area. There is even a book of local menus that visitors can peruse before visiting one of the area’s eateries. The organization is also a resource for locals; in addition to information about specific attractions, the Host promotes the businesses of the area through everything from co-op projects to advertisements in local media, including magazines, newspapers and radio. The Visitor’s Center is also a call center, fielding questions on driving directions, upcoming weather information, and even where the best mattress in town is. As the customer service representatives like to say, “We don’t just answer questions; we help people make a memory.” For more information, call (828) 2641299.
4501 Tynecastle Highway, No. 2 Banner Elk, N.C. 28604 (828) 898-5605 chamber@averycounty.com www.averycounty.com
100 W. Main St. Banner Elk, N.C. 28604 (828) 898-8395 bechamber@skybest.com www.bannerelk.org
403-A Beech Mountain Parkway Beech Mountain, N.C. 28604 (828) 387-9283 chamber@beechmtn.com www.beechmountainchamber.com
132 Park Ave. Blowing Rock, N.C. 28605 (828) 295-7851 info@blowingrock.com www.blowingrockncchamber.com
870 W. King St., Suite A Boone, N.C. 28607 (828) 264-2225 info@boonechamber.com www.boonechamber.com
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OUR TOWNS
Watauga County
Boone is a town where old and new mix, and visitors are made to feel like part of the family. PHOTO BY FRANK RUGGIERO
Boone
The town of Boone provides the heartbeat of Watauga County, the bustling and animated spot where residents, students and visitors intermingle. The town is home to Appalachian State University,
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THE HIGH COUNTRY’S BEST KEPT SECRETS
originally a teachers’ college that now attracts about 17,000 students for all types of studies. Make sure to wear your black and gold apparel to cheer on the ASU football team in the fall. The Mountaineers are best known for their three consecutive Division I national championships and a stunning upset of Michigan at Ann Arbor in 2007, but they provide a great show each and every year. Adjacent to the university, downtown Boone has dozens of restaurants, shops and galleries located near King Street. You can browse for antiques, explore the history of Boone Drug or grab a handful of sweets from the Candy Barrel inside Mast General Store. A life-size sculpture of legendary bluegrass picker Doc Watson was unveiled this summer at the corner of King and Depot streets. The sculpture honors one of Boone’s prized gems who, despite nearly lifelong blindness, has become one of the most talented and prolific musicians the genre can offer. Follow the brilliant color of the changing leaves to the front steps of the Jones House, built in 1908. The house was donated to the town in the early 1980s and today houses art galleries and community functions. Boone is a town where old and new meet, and visitors are made to feel like part of the family.
Blowing Rock
Stepping into Blowing Rock is like stepping into a storybook village. The small town has a population of about 1,241 that expands exponentially as tourists flock to the area, especially in summer and fall. Downtown Blowing Rock is the primary gathering space, where local government, independent businesses, churches and an elementary school come together to give the town its charm. Despite the town’s luxury and sophistication, it’s an inherently family-friendly place. Memorial Park sits prominently in the heart of town, offering playgrounds, tennis and basketball courts, a gazebo and benches the entire family can enjoy. As you walk through town, see if you can pick out facets that resemble Jan Karon’s “Mitford” series; the fictional books were based on the people and places of Blowing Rock. The town’s namesake is located off U.S. 321 near the border of Caldwell County. The Blowing Rock attraction overlooks John’s River Gorge and explains the Native American legend that provided its name. When the family is exhausted from all the walking, SEE OUR TOWNS, PAGE 11
Classic Surroundings, Modern Amenities
Music on the Veranda Sundays at 5pm ESTD. 1882
Chestnut Grille
Divide Tavern
Patio Dining Available
www.greenparkinn.com 828.414.9230 | 9239 Valley Blvd Blowing Rock, NC 28605
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all who enter. The Episcopal church has played a role throughout the community’s history. An Episcopal bishop entered the community in 1842 and provided its name, which is Latin for the “Vale of the Cross.” The Valle Crucis Conference Center, on the National Register of Historic Places, stays busy with retreats for numerous groups, and Crab Orchard Falls is a short hike from the conference center. The original Mast General Store provides a central gathering space in the community, as it has since 1883. Residents appreciate the store for its post office, morning news and coffee, while visitors can also find gifts, apparel and souvenirs. Just down the road is the Mast Store Annex, which opened about 25 years later. Behind the annex is a gravel road to the Valle Crucis Park, a recreational area with walking paths, riverfront, picnic areas and sports fields.
The town of Blowing Rock is named after 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. FILE PHOTO
talking, shopping and eating Blowing Rock can provide, view the changing leaves during a leisurely stroll along the carriage trails of Moses H. Cone Memorial Park.
Nestled between Boone and Banner Elk is the unincorporated community of Foscoe. But don’t let it’s size fool you. The community is brimming with shopping, art, dining and outdoor fun. Shopping includes mementos and more, including the luxurious linens of Dewoolfson Down. For your furry friends, grab some treats, snacks and other tail-wagging goodies at Mountain Dog & Friends. If you’re shopping for outdoor fun, cast a line with Foscoe Fishing Company. Hungry? Sample some gourmet sandwiches and baked goods at Eat Crow. Meanwhile, burgers, billiards and family fun are on cue at Country Retreat Family Billiards. Vacation rentals and more await at Echota, along with one of the views that made Grandfather Mountain famous — the ridgeline’s iconic profile of an old man reclining.
Just off N.C. 105 south of Boone, Valle Crucis offers simplicity and serenity in a pastoral riverside community. The valley contains the site of the only known Native American village in the immediate area. The first European settler of Watauga County, Samuel Hicks, also built a fort in the area during the American Revolution. Today, the community offers several historic inns, farms and churches that provide service and comfort to
that flows north. The Todd General Store is an old-fashioned mercantile that dates back to 1914 and was built in anticipation of the Norfolk and Western “Virginia Creeper” railroad. Todd was the last stop of the route and got much of its supplies from the train. Today, the store offers dinner, bluegrass, book signings and demonstrations several evenings each week. The Todd Mercantile features the work of local artists and crafters, as well as mountain honey and other local goods. The “Todd Mahal Bakery” serves fresh delights to satisfy the sweet tooth, and the mercantile also hosts monthly square and contra dances, with traditional mountain music by local performers. The 18th annual Todd New River Festival, set for Oct. 11, will provide about eight musical performances, children’s activities and food. The river itself provides plenty to do, from canoeing and kayaking to excellent fishing. Several companies, including RiverGirl Fishing Company and Wahoo’s Adventures, have outposts near Todd to provide gear and instruction for anyone interested in hitting the river.
Seven Devils
Foscoe
Valle Crucis
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Todd’s main drag, Railroad Grade Road, is popular with bicyclists and walking tours, as it winds along with the New River, one of the few in the world that flows north. FILE PHOTO
Todd
Todd is a town so nice it’s claimed by both Watauga and Ashe counties. The community’s main drag, Railroad Grade Road, is popular with bicyclists and walking tours as it winds along with the New River, one of the few in the world
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. 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 peaks surrounding Valley Creek, as well as the many coincidental references to ‘devils.’ ‘Seven Devils’ seemed to suggest a frivolous, mischievous resort where people could ‘experience the temptation of Seven Devils,’” according to the website. In the 1960s, the town grew with a golf course, ski slope, lake, riding ground and camping area. After the resort venture experience financial trouble, the town was incorporated. SEE OUR TOWNS, PAGE 12
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While the golf course and ski slope have been closed for a number of years, Hawksnest has become one of the town’s centerpieces. Among the attractions at Hawksnest (www.hawksnest-resort.com), a private entity, is snow tubing in the winter and ziplines at other times. Hawksnest is recognized as the largest snow tubing park on the East Coast, and the company boasts the longest zipline tour as well, featuring 10 cables, two of which are known in the zipline industry as super or mega zips. For more information on snow tubing and the zipline, contact Hawksnest at (828) 963-6561. 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
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. PHOTO BY FRANK RUGGIERO
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 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 autumn for its annual 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
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of events, call Banner Elk Chamber of Commerce at (828) 898-8395, or visit www.bannerelk.org.
Beech Mountain
Beech Mountain is the highest town in eastern North America. With an elevation boasting 5,506 feet, that means two things: When winter comes it’s a haven for ski enthusiasts, and during the autumn season, it means cooler temperatures and some of the most beautiful views to see the wonderful colors of fall across the High Country. As the heat of summer transforms into cool autumn nights, it sends you looking for a sweater and perhaps firewood to enjoy a warm evening by the fireplace. Beech Mountain is a four-season resort. There are more than 5,000 beds available on top of the mountain. These range from rustic cabins to mountain chalets to luxury condominiums. When it’s time to eat, you can enjoy anything from a deli sandwich to pizza to a gourmet meal by candlelight. During the days, there are many specialty stores for shopping, a golf course, horseback riding, tennis, swimming and hiking. There are nearby canoe and raft runs that are among the best offered in the eastern United States. Nightlife is alive and well on the mountain. Whatever your musical taste, SEE OUR TOWNS, PAGE 13
Call to book yours today.
800.438.7803 828.295.9886 www.jenkinsrentals.com
Beech Mountain is home to some of the best mountain biking in the High Country, which also complements the seasonal skiing everyone loves. PHOTO BY ROB MOORE
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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, call the Beech Mountain Chamber of Commerce at (828) 387-9283.
Crossnore
Crossnore is a town steeped in educational history. Reportedly named after George Crossnore, one of the first settlers of the area in the late 18th century, the community has grown famous for its other namesake ‚ÄThe Crossnore School. According to the school’s website, “In 1913, before electricity and paved roods, Dr. Mary Martin Sloop founded a boarding school ‘in the middle of nowhere’ for impoverished mountain children.” More than 100 years later, the school has come full circle, providing residential education for children in need. The Crossnore School also serves the community, housing the Crossnore Weavers working museum, a fine arts gallery, a thrift store and the Miracle Grounds coffee shop. For more information, including hours, visit www.crossnoreschool.org.
Linville
The community of Linville is located just south of the intersection of U.S. 221 and N.C. 105 in Avery County. The community was founded in 1883, designed by Samuel T. Kelsey of Kansas and named for William and John Linville. 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
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the area: Eseeola, Grandfather Golf and Country Club and Linville Ridge; all open late spring to early fall. Eseeola Lodge is also a popular destination for golf and lodging. 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 N.C. 221 and Linville Gorge wilderness area. For visitors considering making Linville a part-time 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 year-round 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 attraction housed in Linville is Grandfather Mountain, which offers hiking trails, picturesque views during all four seasons, animal habitats and Linville is home to Grandfather Mountain, which is home to the Mile High Swingattractions and the famous Mile-High ing Bridge. Swinging Bridge.
FILE PHOTO
Newland
Surrounded by renowned attractions and resorts, the town of Newland also attracts visitors, but in an unassuming fashion. This small municipality of about 700 residents has been the county seat since Avery County was formed in 1911, beating out three other areas for the honor. Newland has the distinction of being the highest county seat east of the Mississippi River. The traditional courthouse, recently renovated, was constructed in 1913 and overlooks an equally classic town square, bordered by shops and churches and complete with a memorial to Avery County residents who served our country. Next to the courthouse, and also built in 1913, is the original jail, now the site of the Avery Historical Museum. Permanent exhibits at the museum include the original jail cells, numerous artifacts and information about the history of North Carolina’s youngest county. Going west out of town toward Tennessee, plan a Saturday stop at the SEE OUR TOWNS, PAGE 14
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OUR TOWNS FROM PAGE 13 farmers’ market and picnic or hike across the road at Waterfalls Park, a unique recreation area sponsored by the Newland Volunteer Fire Department. So, when you’re driving through town on your way to Roan or Grandfather mountains, don’t forget to stop by Newland on your tour. For more information, call the Avery County Chamber of Commerce at (828) 898-5605.
Sugar Mountain
If outdoor activity is your thing, look no further than the village of Sugar Mountain. Offering more than just great skiing during winter, Sugar Mountain also provides its visitors with an array of ways to get outside and enjoy the beauty of the High Country in any season. If a drive to the top of the mountain’s 5,300-foot peak isn’t what you’re looking for, Sugar Mountain can also be seen on foot. With numerous trails that wind SEE OUR TOWNS, PAGE 15
Grandfather Mountain is a state park preserve that is home to numerous rehabilitated animals and some born to captivity meaning they can’t be returned to the wild. It is located just outside of Linville off of U.S. 221. You can see Grandfather from the Blue Ridge Parkway. PHOTO BY ROB MOORE
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2014
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West Jefferson is home to numerous murals throughout its downtown area.
PHOTO BY ANNA OAKES
OUR TOWNS FROM PAGE 14
throughout the village, you can see the vibrant reds and yellows of fall. The trails of Sugar Mountain are not just for those on foot. Many bikers choose Sugar for its variety of challenging and picturesque terrain. The village also gives tennis and golf lovers an opportunity to enjoy their favorite sports in the beautiful mountain setting. The changing of colors on the golf course at Sugar is truly a sight to behold. The course, in addition to six fast-dry clay courts and full service tennis pro shop, ensures that visitors will never be faced with the problem of finding something to do. Whether you come for a day or stay in one of the many comfortable lodgings the village has to offer, Sugar Mountain will soon become your destination for great outdoor fun. Autumn’s colors signal that the snow and excellent skiing at Sugar are just around the corner, with a plethora of slopes and accommodations for visitors during ski season and year-round. For more information, call the Avery County Chamber of Commerce at (828) 898-5605.
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 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.
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
Steeped in generations of mountain history and culture, Lansing is known for far more than just being the only township in the county to have a single traffic light. Although the pace of life in the town of 150 has slowed down with the departure of the Norfolk and Western Railroad companies, Lansing has resurged with a new revitalization effort geared to energize the local arts and business scenes. Along with a few quaint and charming shops, the town also offers the scenic Virginia Creeper biking trail and leisurely strolls in the town’s park.
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 is located at the top mountain and touches Wilkes, Alleghany and Ashe counties, Laurel Springs is never more than a 30-minute drive from the listed county seats. Also, be sure to stop by the Thistle Meadow Winery for individualized tours of a family owned wine business.
West Jefferson
With a thriving arts district, downtown shopping and scenery galore, West Jefferson makes its mark on the High Country as a destination for locals, as well as SEE OUR TOWNS, PAGE 16
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OUR TOWNS FROM PAGE 15
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 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
Downtown West Jefferson is home to the Ashe County Cheese Plant, where visitors can see cheese being made. A factory store across the street offers a variety of Ashe cheeses, souvenirs and other goodies. FILE PHOTO
Arts Council which sponsors a variety of community programming and exhibits throughout the year. 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 (aka “squeaky cheese”). 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. 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.
The small town of West Jefferson is home to many types of artwork with opportunities to view in the galleries, gift shops and retail stores.
PHOTO BY ROB MOORE
2014
AUTUMN TIMES
THE BLOWING ROCK:
PAGE 17
‘The only place in the world where snow falls upside down’
V
isitors at the Blowing Rock have the opportunity to view the High Country at 4,000 feet above sea
level. Dating back to 1933, the Blowing Rock is North Carolina’s oldest tourist attraction. It is a massive cliff 4,000 feet above sea level, overhanging Johns River Gorge 3,000 feet below. During the formation of the Blue Ridge Mountains, strong pressure in the rocks of the earth’s crust produced many features, which we now see at the Blowing Rock. It received its name because the rocky walls of the gorge form a force that enables the northwest wind to sweep through with such energy that it returns light objects thrown over the void. The current of air flowing upward from the rock prompted the “Ripley’s BelieveIt-Or-Not” cartoon about “the only place in the world where snow falls upside down.” Visible from the Blowing Rock are Hawksbill Mountain, Table Rock, Grandfather Mountain (the highest peak in the Blue Ridge chain) and Mount Mitchell (the highest peak east of the Mississippi). The legend of the Blowing Rock says that a Chickasaw chieftain, fearful of a white man’s admiration for his lovely daughter, journeyed far from the plains to bring her to the Blowing Rock. One day, the girl, daydreaming on the cliff, saw a Cherokee brave wandering in the wilderness far below and playfully shot an arrow in his direction. The flirtation worked, because soon he appeared before her hut, courting her with songs of his land, and they became lovers. One day, a strange reddening of the sky brought the brave and the girl to the Blowing Rock. To him, it was a sign of trouble, commanding his return to his tribe in the plains. With the girl’s requests not to leave her, the brave, torn by conflict of duty and heart, leapt from the rock into the wilderness far below. The heartbroken girl prayed daily to the Great Spirit until one evening with a reddening sky, a gust of wind blew her lover back onto the rock and into her
Dating back to 1933, the Blowing Rock is North Carolina’s oldest tourist attraction. It is a massive cliff 4,000 feet above sea level, overhanging Johns River Gorge 3,000 feet below. PHOTO SUBMITTED
arms. From that day, an everlasting wind has blown up onto the rock from the valley below. For people of the past, this was explanation enough for the Blowing Rock’s mysterious winds that cause even the snow to fall upside down. The Blowing Rock is open all year, weather permitting, in Blowing Rock.
Hours are 8:30 to 7 p.m. in October and 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. November and December. General admission is $7 for adults and $2 for children ages 4 to 11. The Blowing Rock also features a snack shop, along with a gift shop that offers a wide variety of souvenirs, including tees and sweatshirts, spoons, thimbles,
magnets, pens and pencils, plates, mugs, puzzles, hats, pocket knives, stuffed animals, postcards and much more. The Blowing Rock is located on U.S. 321, near the Green Park Inn in Blowing Rock. For more information, call (828) 295-7111, or visit www.theblowingrock. com.
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2014
INTRIGUE AWAITS AT MYSTERY HILL M
Mystery Hill is a family-oriented entertainment complex between Boone and Blowing Rock that seems to defy the laws of physics. PHOTO SUBMITTED
Your Great Escape...
ystery Hill is a family-oriented entertainment complex, which is dedicated to enriching the lives of young and old alike. Mystery Hill has four main attractions that allow time for fun and games, offer a historical view of life throughout the Appalachian Mountains from the 19th century and give the chance for visitors to see Native American artifacts. Former owner of the land William Hudson operated a cider mill on an old wooden platform. Identical twins worked the mill, and no matter how they stood, the twin on the north end always looked taller. The Mystery Platform was discovered, and visitors can experience this same illusion today. The second phenomenon was Hudson’s apple trees. The trees in the orchard grew towards the north, directly into the prevailing winds. Hudson had a path through the apple orchard, which was crooked for no apparent reason. He had rebuilt the path, but to his surprise found himself being pulled onto the old path time and time again. Even the apples fell and collected on the old, crooked path, but not on the new, straighter path. In 1948, while reading a LIFE Magazine, Hudson found an article about
a strange place in California, which had similar idiosyncrasies. The Hudsons visited the site and built the first Mystery House when they returned to Boone. In 1957, Buford Stamey and Rondia J. Underwood were looking to build a restaurant and took a tour of Mystery Hill. Throughout the tour, Hudson explained about the phenomenon that existed throughout the mountainside. It seemed that the gravitational pull on the side of the mountain caused unusual things to happen. Underwood purchased the entire operation in 1958. Today, more than 65 years old, Mystery Hill is still open and growing. The current facility includes the original Mystery Platform, the Mystery House, Hall of Mystery, the Native American Artifacts Museum and the Appalachian Heritage Museum, providing hours of fun for visitors. Admission for children ages 5 to 12 is $7, $9 for ages 13 to 59 and $8 for senior citizens. Mystery Hill is located at 129 Mystery Hill Lane, just off U.S. 321 between Boone and Blowing Rock. For more information, call (828) 264-2792, or visit www.mysteryhill-nc.com.
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Mystery Hill is located at 129 Mystery Hill Lane, just off U.S. 321 between Boone and Blowing Rock. FILE PHOTO
2014
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GOLF | FISH | TENNIS | RELAX HOMES STARTING AT $85,000
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AUTUMN TIMES
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2014
Downtown Boone ART
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2014
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ART CRAWL
JONES HOUSE
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Visit Downtown Boone the FIRST FRIDAY of every month for gallery receptions, live entertainment, and complementary refreshments. Oct. 3rd, Nov. 7th, and Dec. 5th 6:00 – 8:30 pm Questions? More Info? Call 828.268.6280 or visit www.downtownboonenc.com
ART GALLERIES open Tues. - Fri. 12:00 - 5:00 pm Art openings and reception every First Friday 6:00 - 8:30 pm
Friday October 31st 4:30 - 6:00 pm Downtown Boone’s annual family friendly Halloween event held at the Watauga Co. Library & the Jones House. Come out and enjoy the fun and festivities this Halloween!
OLD-TIME JAM SESSIONS 7:30 pm every Thursday through the fall. 11
Downtown Boone DEVELOPMENT ASSOCIATION
604 W. King St., Boone, NC 828.268.6280 joneshousecommunitycenter.org downtownboonenc.com 13
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DOWNTOWN BOONE
Walking Map
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1
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12 11
HOWARD STR
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HOWARD STREET
COLLEGE STREET
7
3
APPALACHIAN ST.
4
T
E W. KING STRE
W. KING STREET
DEPOT STREET
421
WATER STREET
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GRAND BLVD.
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421
321
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2014
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. FILE PHOTO
KALEIDOSCOPE OF COLORS Autumn at Grandfather Mountain means breathtaking views, great adventures BY JAMIE SHELL
A
cross the state of North Carolina, explaining where one lives locally in proximity to Grandfather Mountain is a surefire way for inquirers to pinpoint what part of the world you are from. Over 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, joined with the chance to come face to face with the fascinating native animals of the Blue Ridge region, is 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 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 moun-
tain. 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, pumpkincolored beeches, orange sugar maples,
red sourwoods, rusty red oaks, crimson huckleberries, wine-colored sweetgums and purple dogwoods all 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. In some areas, getting inside information is a tactic frowned upon. But here, SEE COLORS, PAGE 23
2014
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PAGE 23
COLORS FROM PAGE 22 however, it’s a good thing, as what follows are some inside tips on how to make the most out of fall leaf watching:
• Travel on weekdays in midOctober 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 of Charlotte, a distance away of 80 miles. In addition, Grandfather’s animal inhabitants are more energetic, alert and playful in the early hours.
• 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. • Programs throughout autumn To help ensure that all of their guests
During the fall season, the staff 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. FILE PHOTO
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. • ‘Creatures of the Night and Bonfire Delight’ event through Oct. 1 Join Grandfather Mountain staff for stories told by firelight and rare afterdark tours of the mountain that include a visit to the bear habitat, an owl prowl, interesting historical facts about Grandfather and the opportunity to meet Grandfather Mountain’s nocturnal educational animals. After joining for hot chocolate and apple cider by the bonfire, guests will join the animal habitats staff for a nighttime trek on the mountain. Participants can visit the black bear habitat and embark on an owl prowl to search for the noisy nocturnal natives. They also have the opportunity to meet several of Grandfather Mountain’s educational animals: Eastern screech owls Zoey and Herbie and barred owl Shakespeare. “Seeing the animals that roam after dark is a real treat,” habitats curator Christie Tipton said. “There’s nothing better than getting outside in the crisp autumn air.” Participants must be at least 8 years old to attend. Registration is required, and the cost is $20 per person. Guests should dress warmly and bring blankets,
flashlights and s’mores ingredients to enjoy around the fire. • And more Grandfather Mountain offers myriad
opportunities for hiking and enjoying the splendor of autumn. For more information on programs throughout autumn on Grandfather, visit www.grandfather. com.
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2014
LINVILLE CAVERNS: An exploration, 200 Years and Counting BY SAM CALHOUN
A In a jam-packed half-hour, visitors to Linville Caverns see hundreds of stalagmites and stalactites; a bottomless crystal-blue pool that reaches more than 250 feet below the cave; rock formations that look like bowling pins, a wedding party, a polar bear and a mother-in-law; and a sandbar that once was home to Civil War deserters. PHOTO SUBMITTED
• Cloches • Compost • Container Gardens • English Antiques
Visit the High Country’s Favorite Destination Garden Shop
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re you afraid of the dark? Twenty-five hundred feet below the pinnacle of Linville’s Humpback Mountain, North Carolina’s only “show caverns” lie waiting for you to take a plunge into total darkness. Two places exist in the entire world where people can experience total darkness — at the bottom of the ocean in a deep abyss and inside a fathomless cavern, such as Linville Caverns. According to Linville Caverns tour guides, humans go completely blind from total darkness in three to six months — they go crazy in a few weeks, and imaginary voices become present in just a few minutes. For centuries, the beauty and intrigue that lies deep inside Humpback Mountain was unknown to most people. In 1822, the mysterious appearance of trout swimming in and out of the crack in the rocks that is now the entrance led fisherman to explore the passageways within. What they found was a total of 1,300 feet of subterranean environment, containing millions of years of geological activity. Today, the more than 100,000 annual visitors to the caverns explore 600feet of the cave. The deepest 700 feet is too dangerous for human traffic, but contains a rock baring the signature of William Hidden, an explorer sent by Thomas Edison in the late 1800s to search for minerals necessary for the creation of the light bulb. Today’s cave explorers are led in small, 15-person groups along a level concrete path assisted by one of the caverns’ knowledgeable tour guides for a 30-minute expedition deep within the earth. A small stream hugs the corner of the path and is filled with rainbow and brook trout, which are blind because of their environment, swimming along the way. The path is wide and flat enough for wheelchairs, creating a unique
adventure for those physically handicapped. In the jam-packed half-hour, visitors see hundreds of stalagmites and stalactites — “Remember stalactites hang tight to the ceiling, and stalagmites might reach the ceiling,” offered a tour guide — a bottomless crystal-blue pool that reaches more than 250 feet below the cave; rock formations that look like bowling pins, a wedding party, a polar bear and a mother-in-law; and a sandbar that once was home to Civil War deserters. On the sandbar, which is no more than five-feet-by-four-feet, Union and Confederate soldiers escaped the horrors of battle in the 1860s, building a continuous fire to cook, for light and to stay warm. Old tools and a cobbler’s bench were found at the site, leading locals to believe that the soldiers made or repaired shoes in exchange for food and supplies from local farmers. Toward the end of the war, search parties spotted the soldiers’ smoke from their fire, and the hideout was busted and the soldiers arrested. This story and an experiment in total darkness where tour guides shut down all lights and let visitors see for themselves — or rather not see — what total darkness is all about, are all part of the tour that boasts 40 percent repeat business. People from all over the world come to Linville Caverns — they realize that a trip to the mountains isn’t complete without a trip inside a mountain. Linville Caverns is located at 19929 U.S. 221 between Linville and Marion, four miles south of the Blue Ridge Parkway. Admission is $8 for adults, $7 for seniors (age 62 and older), $6 for children (ages 5 to 12) and free for children younger than 5, with adult supervision; group rates available. Linville Caverns is open year-round. For more information, call (828) 756-4171 or (800) 4190540, or click to www.linvillecaverns. com.
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HIGH-FLYING TIMES
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Zipline attractions gives visitors gravity-defying experience
BY JAMIE SHELL
M
ost people contend that it is unpleasant to be taken for a ride, but local zipline businesses and enthusiasts beg to differ. Nowhere but the North Carolina High Country can offer the scenic views and breathtaking experience of ziplining through some of the most picturesque terrain in the entire country. Hiking, camping, rock climbing, rafting, fishing and many other activities are all available within a few minutes’ drive of most locations in the area. For many visitors, however, one of the area’s most exciting and fastestgrowing activities may not be so familiar. Throughout the mountains, adventuresome souls are finding their thrills from one of the area’s most exciting attractions, ziplines. Many people may remember a zipline from their childhood as a wooden handle attached to a pulley that rolled along a length of cable, carrying giggling children across creeks or backyards. For the modern attractions, the principle is the same, but the scale is vastly greater. Rather than a short ride across the backyard, these ziplines carry visitors high above the forest, crossing rivers, hills and entire valleys. Naturally, safety is a prime concern, so all participants wear safety harnesses and head protection while flying through the air. Multiple ziplines now serve the High Country and surrounding area, including Hawksnest in Seven Devils and Sky Valley Zip Tours in Blowing Rock.
HAWKSNEST ZIPLINES
Hawksnest offers the largest ziplining facility on the East Coast, as Hawksnest currently boasts 20 ziplines, including four mega-zips, with two lines more than 2,000-feet long and two more than 1,500-feet long. With four miles of zipline riding with heights more than 200 feet and speeds up to 50 mph, ziplines race over trees, through trees and over lakes and creeks with panoramic views on almost every ride, offering the biggest and best with the spectacular views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Riders won’t find a better zip line
canopy tour in Western North Carolina or anywhere else on the East Coast. Hawksnest even boasts an observation deck off from its mountaintop lodge for after-zipping sessions. Tours start at 10 a.m. daily at twohour intervals through the 4 p.m. tour. Reservations are required, and participants need to arrive 30 minutes before a scheduled tour start. Tours take approximately 1.5 to two hours to complete, with no single-person tours. Visitors participating in the zipline tours are asked to wear closed-toes shoes, long shorts or long pants, rain gear (in wet weather), long hair tied back and no dangling jewelry. Hawksnest ziplining tours are available year round. Ziplining tours are available weather permitting. For more information about Hawksnest Resort, or group reservations, call (828) 963-6561, or click to www.hawksnestzipline.com.
SKY VALLEY ZIP TOURS Located in the heart of Camp Sky Ranch in Blowing Rock, Sky Valley Zip Tours boasts more than 140 acres of pristine wilderness. Whether you’re an outdoor maverick or a weekend adventurer, you’ll leave Sky Valley Zip Tours with an unforgettable experience. A canopy tour and zipline adventure takes riders in and above the trees. With more than a mile of cable and elevations of up to 300 feet, the course features a variety of activities, including nine ziplines, cliff jumping, a swinging bridge, waterfalls and more. The course is professionally designed and constructed, as well as operated by the group that brought you Plumtree Canopy Tours. All equipment is provided, including the added security of a full-body harness, helmet, gloves and two trained canopy rangers per group. For a cost of $79 per person, the tour lasts approximately three hours. All flyers must be in good physical condition, and participants must be at least 10 years old and between 70 and 250 pounds. Closed-toe shoes are required. For more information on Sky Valley Zip Tours, call (828) 264-8600, or visit www.skyvalleyziptours.com.
Sky Valley Zip Tours includes 10 zip lines, a cliff jump, a swinging bridge and a series of countless views. The course is located on 140 acres, including a beautiful waterfall. PHOTO SUBMITTED
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2014
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PAGE 28
THROW A LINE BY ERIKA GIOVANETTI
T
he natural beauty of the High Country during autumn sets a serene scene for the avid fisherman, but that’s not the only great perk to fishing in the mountains during the fall. As any experienced fisherman knows, fall fishing is ideal because many of the delayed harvest streams are restocked in the fall, ensuring an abundance of a variety of mountain trout, according to a spokesperson from the Foscoe Fishing and Outfitting Company. In fact, the Watauga River is stocked with 2,530 trout of three different varieties between October and November, according to the North Carolina Wildlife Resource Commission (NCWRC). The fishing also improves as the weather gets colder, because trout flourish in colder water. “Brook, brown and rainbow trout require cold, clean water and are therefore generally restricted to mountain streams and lakes,” according to the NCWRC. Although trout is among the most abundant mountain fish, it is not the only kind fishermen are likely to stumble upon. Other fish species in the area include small-mouth bass, whitefish, catfish, pike and bluegills. These fish are more likely to be found in still water. Many mountain waters that support trout are open to the public and are designated as Public Mountain Trout Waters by the Wildlife Resource Commission. However, a number of fishing opportunities in our area are located on private property. Some of these landowners allow for public access for fishing, and the commission asks that patrons please respect their property. When it comes to fishing in Public Mountain Trout Waters,
there are a few rules and regulations that fishermen must follow. For example, it is unlawful to take fish from the waters, and fishermen must use artificial bait in such waters, unless specifically classified for use of natural bait. When fishing in undesignated waters, there is no size limit or bait restriction, but there is still a creel limit of seven trout — meaning that individual anglers may only take seven trout per day. In these waters, a trout-fishing license is not required, according to the NCWRC, and there is no closed season for fishing. For more information on regulations in public and private waters, visit www.ncwildlife.org. There are prime fishing waters in Ashe, Avery and Watauga counties, but fishermen must be aware of what type of water they are fishing in order to keep consistent with state laws. For example, state-hatchery supported waters may fall under different regulations than delayed harvest trout waters. Violations of regulations concerning trout streams can result in fines excess of $200. Fishing licensing is an important aspect to consider before throwing a line in one of the High Country’s many river and lake systems. A 10-day license to fish in High Country waters is $5 for North Carolina residents, and $10 for out-of-state visitors. For an extra $10, fishermen can buy a trout stamp, which is all but required in these mountain waters. An annual fishing license is $15 for N.C. residents and $30 for out-of-state visitors. Local farm ponds are a great option for children who are too young to fish regulated waters. Grandfather Trout Farm of Banner Elk is an example of these, offering free equipment, tackle and bait geared toward families with children.
2014
Hooking a Winner in the High Country
Hot spots for landing a catch locally are along the Watauga and New Rivers, some portions of which are stocked. FILE PHOTO
Fishing Outfitters APPALACHIAN ANGLER 174 Old Shulls Mill Road, Boone (828) 963-5050 www.appangler.com
ELK CREEK OUTFITTERS 1560 N.C. 105, Boone (828) 264-6497 www.ecoflyfishing.com
FOSCOE FISHING COMPANY & OUTFITTERS 8857 N.C. 105, Boone (828) 963-6556 www.foscoefishing.com
RIVERGIRL FISHING CO. 4041 Todd Railroad Grade Road, Todd (336) 877-3099 www.rivergirlfishing.com
GRANDFATHER TROUT FARM 10767 N.C. 105, Banner Elk (828) 963-5098 www.grandfathertroutfarm.com
RICK’S SMALLMOUTH ADVENTURES 1757 Pleasant Home Road, Sparta (336) 372-8321 www.fishthenew.com
ROCK ON CHARTERS 7449 Fernway Drive Roanoke, Va. 24018 (540) 520-9629 www.rockoncharters.net
WATAUGA RIVER ANGLERS 5712 N.C. 105, Vilas (828) 963-5463 www.wataugariveranglers.com
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Backcountry camping, like in the the Linville Gorge shown above, is for the serious adventurer visiting the High Country. Come embrace nature in its raw form. PHOTO BY ROB MOORE
CAMPING IN THE HIGH COUNTRY BY ANNA OAKES
N
othing beats a night under the stars in the cool mountain air. If a camping adventure is part of your High Country itinerary, the information about backcountry camping and vehicular camping below will help guide you to the perfect camping spot.
Backcountry Camping
Backcountry camping is permitted in national forests; you must be at least 1,000 feet from vehicular roads and parking and recreation areas. Pack light and use maps and a compass to avoid getting lost. Fires are prohibited in many areas, and using a camp stove is recommended. Note that backcountry camping is prohibited on the Blue Ridge Parkway.
Linville Gorge
Camping is permitted in the Linville Gorge Wilderness, but permits are required on weekends and holidays May 1 to Oct. 31. Permits are available at the Linville Gorge Information Cabin on Kistler Memorial Highway from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. seven days a week April through October.
Grandfather Mountain Thirteen backcountry campsites are available. No
fee is required, but campers are asked to self-register at trailheads either at the Profile Trail or Blue Ridge Parkway parking areas.
Campgrounds
For those who prefer the convenience of vehicular access but still crave the thrill of camping outdoors, the High Country offers numerous campgrounds. Several are listed below. Rates vary; call for more information.
tent sites, as well as bathroom and drinking water facilities. Campers have convenient access to hiking trails, fishing and boat rentals on Price Lake and picnic facilities. Park rangers offer regular interpretative programs at the campground’s amphitheater. The campground is open from early May through the fall leaf season.
Grandfather Campground KOA 123 Harmony Mountain Lane Boone, N.C. 28607 (828) 264-7250 Located just outside of the Boone town limits off of N.C. 194, the Boone KOA Campground has tent sites, cabins and full RV hookups, as well as a pool, mini golf, arcade games and a farm animal mini zoo.
Julian Price Park Campground Blue Ridge Parkway Milepost 297 (828) 963-5911 Located a few minutes south of Blowing Rock on the Blue Ridge Parkway, Julian Price Memorial Park features a campground with non-electric RV and
125 Profile View Road Banner Elk, N.C. (828) 355-4535 Located just off of N.C. 105 about 10 miles south of Boone, Grandfather Campground offers full RV hookups, primitive tent sites and fully furnished cabin rentals. Features and amenities include three bathhouses with hot showers; a camp store with firewood, ice and laundry machines; free WiFi access; and a hiking trail and playground. The campground borders the Watauga River. Pets are allowed on a leash in the campground but not in the cabins.
SEE CAMPING, PAGE 30
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CAMPING
2014
off of the Blue Ridge Parkway between mileposts 257 and 258. The campground offers 150 sites with full hookups and 35 sites with water and electricity. Modern bathhouses, laundry facilities and cable access are available. The site features a recreation building, playground and activity field.
FROM PAGE 29
Honey Bear Campground 229 Honey Bear Campground Road Boone, N.C. 28607 (828) 963-4586 Honey Bear Campground features wooded camping sites, a small pond and a hiking trail. Pets Marshmallows — don’t go camping without them. are allowed, and a guest laundry PHOTO SUBMITTED service is available.
Down by the River Campground 292 River Campground Road Pineola, N.C. 28662 (828) 733-5057
outdoor games.
Flintlock Campground 171 Flintlock Campground Drive Boone, N.C. 28607 (828) 963-5325 Conveniently located off of N.C. 105 between Boone and Linville, Flintlock Campground offers tent sites, cabin rentals and full RV hookups. Also featured are hot showers, free WiFi, picnic tables, laundry services, a camp store and a covered pavilion.
Blue Bear Mountain Camp 196 Blue Bear Mountain Road Todd, N.C. 28684 (828) 406-4226 Blue Bear Mountain Campground is located eight miles from Boone in the beautiful community of Todd. The number of campsites is limited to provide spacious, private, low-density camping for RVs and tents. The new campground offers full hookups, hot showers, a laundry room, camping supplies and trout fishing.
Vanderpool Campground 120 Campground Road Vilas, N.C. 28692 (828) 297-3486
3411 Hwy. 321 S Blowing Rock 828-264-1422 Mon-Sat 10 am-6 pm • Sun 1-5 5 pm, through Christmas
www.incredibletoycompany.com
Vanderpool Campground in Vilas offers RV and tent camping. No alcohol, firearms or foul language is allowed. The campground features a camp store that sells ice, firewood, snacks and RV supplies. The facility also offers WiFi access and
Helton Creek Campground 2047 Helton Road Grassy Creek, N.C. 28631 (336) 384-2320 Helton Creek Campground is nestled in the banks of Helton Creek in Ashe County. The campground is minutes away from the New River, Virginia Creeper Trail, Shatley Springs and Mount Rogers. Shady and peaceful sites are available for tents and RV hookups.
RiverCamp USA/RV Park and Campground 2221 Kings Creek Road Piney Creek, N.C. 28663 (336) 982-2267 Located on the New River, RiverCamp USA provides sites for tents, pop-ups and RVs with full hookups. Enjoy many outdoor activities, including fishing, hiking and biking. Canoes, kayaks and tubes are available for rent. The country store has snacks, beverages, beer and wine, ice, firewood, fishing supplies, bait and limited groceries. Picnic tables, fire rings, playground, laundry and hot showers are also available to all campers.
Raccoon Holler Campground 493 Raccoon Holler Road Glendale Springs, N.C. 28629 (336) 982-2706 Raccoon Holler is located just
Down by the River Campground offers RV and tent sites, an indoor activity center, a small outdoor pavilion and laundry services. Pets are allowed.
Buck Hill Campground 6401 South U.S. 19E Plumtree, N.C. 28664 (828) 766-6162 Located along 1,600 feet of the North Toe River, Buck Hill Campground offers 60 large shady RV sites, each equipped with picnic tables, fire pits and full hookups. Enjoy a lazy ride down the river on your inner tube or spend the day fishing from our trout filled waters.
Camping Tips • Bring warm clothes and linens. High Country autumns bring delightful weather during the day, but the mercury can dip into cool temperatures at night. Be prepared. • Lather on sunscreen and bug spray. Contrary to some beliefs, mosquitos and other bugs do thrive in the mountains. And while it may not be as muggy here as in the lower elevations, you’ll get sunburned just as easily. • Leave the firewood at home. Firewood from locations outside of the High Country can transfer non-native, invasive species that can disturb the local ecosystem. Many camping facilities sell firewood on site.
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REFLECTIONS OF FALL Water — it’s not just for summer anymore BY SAM CALHOUN
S
ure, you’ve witnessed our High Country’s cornucopia of fall colors on drives down the Blue Ridge Parkway, observed jaw-dropping autumn vistas from a hiking trail and whizzed past the red, auburn, orange and yellow hues on a local bike trail, but have you marveled at our mountains’ fall splendor from the water? While many visiting leaf lookers tend to stick to our roads and trails, a new take on autumn beauty awaits the intrepid traveler on the High Country’s Watauga and New rivers, Wilson Creek and Watauga and Price lakes. Although whitewater rafting and tubing start to slow in the fall, other aquatic adventures float on, including canoeing, kayaking, boating and fishing. And as an added bonus, the summertime rush of tourists slows
after Labor Day, offering autumn aquatic activity seekers more alone time with Mother Nature — quite possibly the reason you sought out a vacation in the High Country in the first place. Find your fall reflections with a canoeing or kayaking adventure at Price Lake, located within Julian Price Memorial Park near Milepost 297 on the Blue Ridge Parkway, or take a jaunt downstream with a trip provided by a host of purveyors — such as Wahoo’s, Edge of the World, High Mountain Expeditions, River and Earth Adventures, Watauga Kayak, RiverCamp USA or Zaloo’s — on Wilson Creek or the Watauga or New rivers. For those desiring multi-day trips, New River State Park is a popular, low-cost option for camping out beside the river — you can even arrive and depart by boat, if you wish. For those who prefer motor to manpower, Watauga
Lake in east Tennessee — a short hop over the border from the High Country — offers myriad marinas for pontoon and ski boat rentals, such as Bayview, Cove Ridge, Fish Springs, Lakeshore, Mallard Cove and Pioneer Landing. With 106 miles of shoreline, scarce development and the third cleanest waters in the nation, Watauga Lake serves as an ideal template to witness the changing from summer to winter. And if leaf looking isn’t your only planned catch of the day, Watauga Lake’s 16 miles of water is home to 13 species of game fish, a tantalizing bonus for fishermen from all over the country. So, give your car and hiking boots a rest and plan an aquatic adventure this year to find your reflection in the High Country fall. SEE REFLECTIONS, PAGE 32
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REFLECTIONS
2014
RIVER AND EARTH ADVENTURES 1655 Highway 105 South, Boone (828) 355-9797, (866) 411-7238 www.raftcavehike.com
FROM PAGE 31
Get on the Water BAYVIEW CAMPGROUND AND MARINA
RIVERCAMP USA
167 Bayview Lane, Butler, Tenn. (423) 768-0434 www.bayviewcampgroundandmarina.com
2221 Kings Creek Road, Piney Creek (336) 359-2267 info@rivercampusa.com www.rivercampusa.com
COVE RIDGE MARINA
LAKESHORE MARINA
947 Piercetown Road, Butler, Tenn. (423) 768-3760, (423) 768-3741 info@coveridgemarina.com www.coveridgemarina.com
2285 Highway 321, Hampton, Tenn. (423) 725-2223, (888) 423-3785 info@lakeshore-resort.com www.lakeshore-resort.com
WAHOO’S ADVENTURES
EDGE OF THE WORLD
MALLARD COVE MARINA
WATAUGA LAKE
394 Shawneehaw Ave., Banner Elk (828) 898-9550 www.edgeoworld.com
200 Mallard Cove Drive, Butler, Tenn. (423) 768-3440 www.mallardcovemarina.com
www.wataugalakeexperience.com
FISH SPRINGS MARINA
PIONEER LANDING AT CHEROKEE OVERLOOK
191 Fish Springs Road, Hampton, Tenn. (423) 768-2336 www.fishspringsmarina.com
105 Cowan Town Road, Butler, Tenn. (423) 768-3164 dan@pioneerlanding.com www.pioneerlanding.com
HIGH MOUNTAIN EXPEDITIONS 3149 Tynecastle Highway, Banner Elk (828) 898-9786, (828) 266-RAFT www.highmountainexpeditions.com
PRICE LAKE AT JULIAN PRICE MEMORIAL PARK Milepost 297, Blue Ridge Parkway (828) 963-5911, Park Campground Kiosk
3385 U.S. 321, Boone (828) 262-5774, (800) 444-RAFT www.wahoosadventures.com
WATAUGA KAYAK 1409 Broad Street, Elizabethton, Tenn. (423) 542-6777 wataugakayak@charter.net www.wataugakayak.com
ZALOO’S CANOE’S KAYAKS AND TUBES 3874 N.C. 16 South, Jefferson (336) 246-3066, (800) 535-4027 zaloos@skybest.com www.zaloos.com
Name Brand Furniture
40% OFF EVERYDAY in the High Country
BLOWING ROCK FURNITURE GALLERY Hours: Monday - Saturday 10-6; Sunday 1-5 8486 Valley Blvd. (Hwy 321) • Blowing Rock, NC (828) 295-7755
Paula Deen, Kincaid, Craftmaster, Broyhill, Hooker, Spring Air, Vaughan-Bassett, Canadel, Pulaski, Classic Leather, Riverside, Bassett Mirror, and Much More LOWEST PRICE GUARANTEE • WE SHIP NATIONWIDE SHOP AND BUY LOCAL • DESIGN SERVICE AVAILABLE
2014
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Celebrating 32Years
Art Songs of the Heart TToni on ni Carlton Caarlton rlton
Autumn Group Exhibition September 27 thru November 15th Opening Reception September 27, 2-5pm
Winter & Small Works Group Exhibition November 28th thru April 30 Kyle Scannell of Greensboro carefully makes his way across a rope on the Discovery Course tour with Rock Dimensions. FILE PHOTO
LEARN THE ROPES
at the Discovery Course
R
ock Dimensions manages climbs on the 40-foot outdoor tower at its downtown Boone location, as well as excursions to real rock cliffs, providing all the equipment and guidance needed. Owner Ryan Beasley said many families prefer the convenience of climbing the tower, where they can show up without advance reservations. Others prefer to call ahead and plan a half-day session or full-day session at an area site, including the challenging multi-pitch climbs on larger rock faces such as Linville Gorge or Table Rock. “The neat thing about that is there’s climbs there that are real low-angle that are appropriate for beginners,” Beasley said. Rock Dimensions also leads tours of a high ropes course and zipline at the Blowing Rock Conference Center. The three-level Discovery Course allows individuals or families to test their skills on ever more challenging obstacles before experiencing the rush of a zip line descent.
The course also includes the “giant swing,” which allows harnessed participants to hop off a platform and free-fall for seconds before the rope catches and they swing high above the earth. “It takes people a while to build up their courage, because you are just sliding off the platform,” Rock Dimensions owner Ryan Beasley said. Beasley said the High Country’s climbing community is strong, and Rock Dimensions is ready to open its arms to those who want to learn the craft. “We get a lot of people here that say, ‘Hey, I’m not in the best physical shape. I can’t rock climb,’” Beasley said. “ … Somebody might think, my 5or 6-year-old kid, they’re too little, they can’t climb.” But he stressed the organization works with all ages and abilities. “We want people to be successful and feel good about climbing,” he said. Visit rockdimensions.com, or call (828) 265-3544 for more information about local climbing options.
Holiday Open House November 28th and 29th CARLTON GALLERY Located 10 Miles South of Boone on Highway 105 in Grandfather Community 828-963-4288 | www.carltongallery.com | carltongallery@carltongallery.com
PAINTINGS • CLAY • GLASS • WOOD • FIBER ART • JEWELRY
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2014
The Blue Ridge Parkway in North Carolina, especially through Ashe, Watauga and Avery counties, is one of the best for beautiful scenery and long distance shots. It is very popular when the leaves change, so pick your time wisely and watch for the peak times for the leaves to change. PHOTO BY ROB MOORE
RIDING THE BLUE RIDGE Parkway offers 469 miles of scenic history
T
he most-visited national park has had quite a few miles on it. The 469-mile roadway runs through Western North Carolina to Virginia, following mountaintops and featuring spectacular, all-season scenic views, educational programs and recreational resources. Within the boundaries of the Blue Ridge Parkway are 47 Natural Heritage Areas set aside as national, regional or state examples of exemplary natural communities. The parkway was started in 1935 as the “Appalachian Scenic Highway” and is noted locally for its lookouts like
Thunder Hill and the Linn Cove Viaduct, which skirts Grandfather Mountain and was the last connecting piece to the roadway. It also features the 3,000-acre Moses Cone Memorial Park and Julian Price Memorial Park near Blowing Rock. The Cone park and Flat Top Manor offers a gift and craft shop, as well as parkway information, with numerous hiking, jogging and equestrian trails. Price Park features walking trails, water access, and picnic sites, and camping is available nearby. Bridges are perhaps the most noticeable stonework to the passing motorist.
The parkway’s bridges were built faced with native stone obtained from quarries near the road work. Rock common to the region consisted of: Granites, gneisses, diorites, schist, and slates. Italian and Spanish master stonemasons were brought into the work force to assist in the construction of these long lasting, functional structures. More than half a century later, these bridges still display the engineers’ utilitarian design coupled with the pleasing beauty of arched stonework. Visitors planning a parkway getaway should call the Blue Ridge Parkway information line at (828) 298-0398 for
up-to-date road closures and conditions.
PARKWAY READY FOR FALL TRAVEL SEASON The Blue Ridge Parkway is expecting a robust fall visitor season. October is historically one of the parkway’s highest visitation months, and park managers anticipate that tradition to continue. Visitors can find helpful information as they plan for their parkway experience from a variety of sources. The park website provides a real-time road closure SEE RIDING, PAGE 35
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Mileposts of Interest
Each turn on the parkway unveils a view that inspires the artistic imagination of anyone. PHOTO BY ROB MOORE
RIDING FROM PAGE 34
map, facility schedules, safety information, suggested itineraries, visitor center locations and much more at www.nps.gov/blri. Recorded late season wildflower blooming and fall foliage information is available at (828) 2980398 and is updated regularly. Visitors can follow park updates on social media at www.facebook. com/BlueRidgeNPS. Park visitors are encouraged to plan visits carefully to avoid unexpected road or weather conditions. Considering its unique design and changes in
elevation, the Parkway drive is different than most and visitors are encouraged to pay extra attention when driving. The safest way to enjoy fall color is by parking at overlooks available along the motor road at regular intervals. In addition, park staff remind visitors that the parkway is a living and fragile resource. Visitors can help protect it by following park regulations while in the park. Parkway staff has begun making preparations for seasonal facility closures. The full listing of facilities, with 2014 closing dates if applicable, is available on the park’s website at www.nps.gov/blri/ planyourvisit/hours.htm.
248.1: NC 18 Crossover 2 Mi. west of Laurel Springs. 24 mi. east to North Wilkesboro, NC. 261: NC 16 Crossover. West 12 mi. to Jefferson, 14 mi. to West Jefferson, 26 mi to Grassey Creek. East 20 mi. to North Wilkesboro. 268: Benge Gap. 272: E.B. Jeffress Park. Picnic area, Comfort station, trail to Cascades. 276.4: Deep Gap. US 421 Crossover. W. 11 mi. to Boone. E 26 miles to North Wilkesboro. 291.9: US 221/321 Crossover. 7 mi. north to Boone, 2 mi. south to Blowing Rock. 292.7: Moses H. Cone Memorial Park, 3,600 acres. Many miles of horse and carriage trails, hiking, fishing. 294: Historic Flat Top Manor House; Parkway Craft Center; comfort station; visitor information, publications. 295: Julian Price Memorial Park. 4,344 acres. Campground, picnic area, lake, boating, fishing, trails. Alt. 3,400. Reservations for camping www.recreation. gov. 304.4: Linn Cove Viaduct Information Center. Visitor information, comfort station, publications. Trail access viaduct. Alt. 4,000. 305.2: Junction Parkway and US 221. 3 mi. west to Linville. 308.2: Flat Rock Parking Area. Self-guiding nature trail to superb view of Linville Valley and Grandfather Mountain. 312: NC 181 Crossover, 32 miles southeast to Morganton, 2 mi. north to Pineola. 316.3: Linville Falls. Visitor Center. Campground and picnic area. Trail to overlooks of falls and gorge. For more information on Linville Falls, click here. For camping reservations www.recreation.gov. 316.4: Linville River Parking Area. One of the Parkway’s largest stone arch bridges. Three spans of 80 feet each. Fish in Linville River. Picnic area. Comfort Station. Alt. 3,250. Take Spur Rd. to Linville Falls, campground and visitor center. 317.4: South 1 mi. to Linville Falls community. 24 mi. To Marion. 320.7: Chestoa View offers an unusually fine view from one of the many vertical cliffs on Humpback Mountain. 331: NC 226 Crossover. 6 mi. north to Spruce Pine. 14 mi. south to Marion. 331: Museum of North Carolina Minerals. Junction of Parkway & NC 226. Features minerals found in North Carolina and regional geology. County Chamber of Commerce Office. Restrooms. Open daily year around. 331: Overmountain Victory National Historic Trail - Commemorates the campaign leading up to the American victory at Kings Mountain in 1780. Route crosses the Blue Ridge Parkway at Gillespie Gap, near the Mineral Museum. Administered by the National Park Service. www.nps.gov/ovvi. 334: NC 226A Crossover to Little Switzerland. 339.5: Crabtree Falls. 250 acres. Hiking, picnic area, camping, comfort station, drinking water. 40-minute walk to Crabtree Falls.
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2014
BEAUTY BENEATH THE SURFACE Gem mining in the High Country BY CAROLINE HARRIS
O
nce upon a time, there was a vast treasure buried underneath a mountain. It may sound like a fairytale, but gem mining is one of the High Country’s most fun (and rewarding) activities it has to offer. Gem mining in North Carolina is a centuries-old practice. Mining in the High Country is historically one of its earliest enterprises and continues to this day. North Carolina was the site of the first gold rush in the U.S., causing as much interest in what’s under the mountain as what’s on top it. Native Americans mined mica for trade and decoration and Spanish explorers mined for silver and gold. Now, visitors to the High Country can do the same.
Old-fashioned panning and sifting through a bucket of dirt could yield one of more than 40 different minerals. Emeralds, sapphires, rubies, aquamarine, tourmaline, garnet, amethyst, citrine, quartz and topaz are a few of the possibilities. Many gem mines guarantee a find. Playing in the dirt has never been this exciting. Gem mining is fun and easy for kids and adults alike. Get your hands dirty as you sift through the soil, but keep an eye out for the 3 Cs – clarity, color and crystals, signs of pay dirt. If you find a remarkable rock, some gem mines have on-site cutting, polishing and appraisal to get it jewelry-ready. Mines also offer finished stones and SEE GEM, PAGE 37
Find something for everyone at the...
Caleb Wells, front, and his brother, Benjamin Wells, search for gems during a trip to Boone. FILE PHOTO
The High Country’s Complete Mountain Adventure Store
Exhibits, workshops, programs, and events for all ages. Conveniently located on the corner of Chestnut and Main Street in downtown Blowing Rock.
159 Chestnut Street 828-295-9099 blowingrockmuseum.org
102 South Jefferson Ave West Jefferson, NC
336.246.9133 mtnoutfittersnc.com
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The trails around Trout Lake are some of the most visited in the High Country.
PHOTO BY ROB MOORE
SADDLIN’ UP FOR MOUNTAIN RIDERS
GEM FROM PAGE 36 jewelry in the gift shop. Become a prospector for the day at one of several gem mines in the area.
DOC’S ROCKS GEM MINE 129 Mystery Hill Lane, Blowing Rock (828) 264-4499 www.docsrocks.net
FOGGY MOUNTAIN GEM MINE 4416 N.C. 105 South, Boone (828) 963-4367 www.foggymountaingems.com
GRANDFATHER GEM MINING 10767 N.C. 105 South, Banner Elk (828) 963-5098
THE GREATER FOSCOE MINING CO. 8998 N.C. 105 South, Foscoe (828) 963-5928 www.foscoeminingco.com
BY JAMES HOWELL
W
ith its high peaks and low valleys, the High Country offers plenty of excellent opportunities for horseback riding. With the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains as a backdrop, the scenery during horseback rides in the High Country should be unmatched. According to Lesley Wooten, owner of Grandfather Stables, the front row seat to the great outdoors is one of many benefits to riding in the High Country. “I think the scenery is beautiful,” Wooten said. “People love visiting the mountains and riding on our trails. They love the views, they love
RIVER AND EARTH ADVENTURES
APPALACHIANS BY HORSEBACK
1655 N.C. 105 South, Boone (828) 963-5491 www.raftcavehike.com
1095 E. King St. Boone, N.C. (828) 297-1289 www.appalachiansbyhorseback.com
GEM VALLEY 2489 Little Peak Creek Road, Jefferson (336) 982-5177 www.gemvalleync.com
SUGAR CREEK MINING COMPANY 3405 Tynecastle Highway, Banner Elk (828) 898-GEMS
the woods, they just love being out in nature.” Another benefit to riding in the mountains is the cool weather. “I think it’s wonderful riding here in the mountains, mainly because it’s cooler than downstate,” “You can ride all day because of the nice weather.” According to Wooten, a large portion of business for horseback riding in the High Country comes from tourists, and when tourist season ends in the fall, horseback riding slows down. “Thankfully, I have an indoor arena, so if it gets cold, people can still ride,” Wooten said. Wooten doesn’t just own Grandfather 1102 Burnt Hill Road Laurel Springs, N.C. (336) 982-2008 www.burnthillstables.com
DUTCH CREEK TRAILS BLOWING ROCK EQUESTRIAN PRESERVE 1500 Laurel Lane Blowing Rock, N.C. (828) 295-4700 www.blowingrockhorses.com
BURNT HILL STABLES
793 Rubin Walker Road Vilas, N.C. (828) 297-7117 www.dutchcreektrails.com
GRANDFATHER STABLES 534 Church Hollow Road Boone, N.C.
Stables, she’s also the manager, a horse trainer, guide and instructor. As much as she does day-to-day, Wooten still feels passionate about horseback riding. “I ride on a regular basis,” Wooten said. “It takes you back to the old days; you get to be a cowboy or cowgirl for the day and ride through mountain trails into the sunset.” Grandfather Stables is located at the base of Grandfather Mountain in Blowing Rock. There are several other options for horseback riding in the area. They include Appalachians by Horseback, Blowing Rock Equestrian Preserve, Burnt Hill Stables, Dutch Creek Trails, Leatherwood Stables and VC Farms. (828) 260-7938 www.grandfatherstables.com
LEATHERWOOD STABLES 512 Meadow Road Ferguson, N.C. (336) 973-5044 www.leatherwoodmountains.com
VC FARMS 4365 N.C. 194 South Valley Crucis, N.C. (828) 963-5399 www.vcfarm.com
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g n i p Shop FALL 2014 CALENDAR SEPT Thurs. thru Blowing Rock Farmers Market Oct 16 800.295.7851 20 Stick Boy Mayview Madness 5K & 1 Mile Fun Run 828.264.2511 26 thru Tweetsie Railroad Ghost Train Nov 1 800.526.5740 OCT 4 Art in the Park 800.295.7851 12 Blowing Rock Jazz Society Concert, Meadowbrook Inn 828.295.4300 18-19 Woolly Worm Festival 800.972.2183 25 Blowing Rock Halloween Festival 828.295.5222 NOV 21 Area Ski Resorts Open (Projected) 27 Choose & Cut Christmas Tree Season Begins 28 Christmas in the Park & Lighting of the Town 828.295.5222 29 Christmas Parade 828.295.5222
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Fall is in the Air! Bring in this ad to receive
$25 Off Tanner Your Purchase of $150 or More Not valid on prior purchases or in conjunction with any other offer. Not valid on merchandise discounted more than 70% off the original price. Valid through November 20, 2014.
Tanner-Doncaster Outlet Across from the Chetola Resort
537 North Main Street • Blowing Rock 828.295.4200 • Mon-Sat 10 - 5:30 & Sun 1 - 5
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g n i w o l B k c o R
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Unique Gifts & Home Furnishings
Unique accents for your home & patio
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2014
Public Courses BOONE GOLF CLUB
Golfing in the High Country offers something special for visitors — namely, beautiful scenery and prime weather. PHOTOS SUBMITTED
GRAB A CADDIE Golfing in the Mountains
BY ERIKA GIOVANETTI
T
he High Country’s mountainous terrain sets both a charming and challenging setting for golf courses. In autumn, the leaves can be so vibrant that they almost make for a good excuse as a “distraction.” Golfers from near and far soak in the rolling scenery, and luckily for them, there are plenty of opportunities to sink a hole-in-one in the High Country. The area offers both private and public courses for golfers of any experience level. Perhaps the most decorated public golf course in the area belongs to the Linville Golf Club at the Eseeola Lodge, which has been featured in Golf-
week, GOLF Magazine and Golf Digest. In 2010, it made the “Top 100 Courses You Can Play” in GOLF Magazine, ranking in at No. 63. This golf course has been open since 1924, according to its website. Boone Golf Club, which is the home course to the Appalachian State University golf teams, is a mustsee when it comes to High Country golfing opportunities. Nestled in the heart of the mountains, this course is easily accessible to Boone locals and visitors alike. The club offers private and group instruction conducted by a PGA professional, according to www.boonegolfclub.com. Visitors can also treat themselves to the Fairway Café, which features catering from
Pepper’s, a popular Boone restaurant. Mountain Glen Golf Club, nestled in the scenic greenery of Avery County, was born out of the idea that an affordable golf course was needed in the area, according to its website. Since its completion in May 1965, the course has been regarded as one of the area’s most wellmaintained courses and was given a four-star rating by Golf Digest. In fact, the course is so scenic that it is often the host of weddings, as well as other special events. While you’re there, don’t miss the opportunity to grab a bite from the clubhouse — the hamburgers and fries are as award-winning as the course itself. Sugar Mountain isn’t known only for its prime
winter sports, but also as a great place to tee it up. The self-dubbed “Everyman’s Golf Course” is set in scenic Banner Elk, and is perhaps one of the most affordable public golf courses in the area. From Sept. 16 through Oct. 31, the course is in its low season, so rates are lower. To check availability, visit www.seesugar.com. For those who are looking to practice their drive, the Mountaineer Golf Center is an ideal driving range for everyone, from beginners who are just learning to hit to connoisseurs who are simply wanting to perfect their swing. With video analysis and a radar gun, this is an ideal place to track individual performance, according to the center’s website.
18 holes over 6,680 yards with a par of 71 433 Fairway Drive Boone, N.C. 28607 (828) 264-8760
MOUNTAIN AIRE GOLF CLUB 18 holes over 6,404 yards with a par of 72 1104 Golf Course Road West Jefferson, N.C. 28694 (336) 877-4716
MOUNTAIN GLEN GOLF CLUB 18 holes over 6,723 yards with a par of 72 1 Club House Drive Newland, N.C. 28657 (828) 733-5804
MOUNTAINEER GOLF CENTER (DRIVING RANGE) 115 Beverly Heights Ave. Boone, N.C. 28607 (828) 264-6830
RED TAIL MOUNTAIN 18 holes over 6,884 yards with a par of 72 300 Clubhouse Lane Mountain City, Tenn. (423) 727-7931
SUGAR MOUNTAIN GOLF COURSE 18 holes over 4,560 yards with a par of 64 1054 Sugar Mountain Drive Sugar Mountain, N.C. 28604 (828) 898-6464
WILLOW CREEK GOLF COURSE 9 holes over 1,663 yards with a par of 27 354 Bairds Creek Road Vilas, N.C. 28692 (828) 963-6865
2014
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CAVING: An Adventure for All Seasons BY ANNA OAKES
O
n those days you think it may be too chilly or rainy for an outdoor activity, think again. Caving, also known as spelunking, is a year-round activity facilitated by a number of High Country outfitters. Sheltered from the elements, caves retain a comfortable temperature around 55 degrees throughout the year. Explore caves and caverns formed millions and millions of years ago as water hollowed out limestone rock underneath the Southern Appalachian Mountains. Below are a number of local outfitters who can safely guide you and your friends or family through the subterranean. Call for rates.
• WAHOO’S ADVENTURES 3385 U.S. 321, Boone (828) 262-5774 www.wahoosadventures.com Book a trip through Wahoo’s Adventures in Boone and explore a privately owned cave near Johnson City in Eastern Tennessee — the largest in the state. Expert guides will lead your expedition through narrow passages and tight corridors.
• RIVER AND EARTH ADVENTURES 1655 N.C. 105, Boone (866) 411-7298 www.raftcavehike.com River and Earth Adventures will take you to a non-commercial cave and equip you with gloves, helmets and high-powered headlamps to explore the underworld as Mother Nature created it. According to its website, River and Earth Adventures is the only outfitter in the country that has geologists on staff, meaning visitors will be thoroughly entertained and educated by knowledgeable guides who share the historical and geo-
logical significance of the caves and their roles in the ecosystem. Cave trips run seven days a week year-round. Group discounts are available. Trips are provided to three different caves that vary in time, distance and experience, with trips taking between two and four hours. Be prepared to walk over different ground surfaces.
• ROCK DIMENSIONS 131-B S. Depot St., Boone (828) 265-3544 www.rockdimensions.com With trips available to Worley’s Cave in Tennessee, Boone-based Rock Dimensions provides cave trips that are suitable for beginners and groups. The caves feature main passages that are tall enough to walk through, with some narrow corridors and shallow ceilings. Smaller passages branching off from main corridors offer the opportunity for crawling through tight spaces for those who desire additional exploration. Cave guides will discuss cave formations and cave life, as well as “leave no trace” etiquette to protect the fragile cave environment. Rock Dimensions provides helmets, gloves, candles, kneepads, headlamps and trash bags for dirty clothes. Between three and four hours are spent inside the cave.
• LINVILLE CAVERNS 19929 U.S. 221, Marion (828) 756-4171 www.linvillecaverns.com If you’re looking for a more relaxed stroll through underground caverns — and a tour that accommodates wheelchairs — check out Linville Caverns, located off of U.S. 221 about an hour south of Boone. The commercial cavern offers 30-minute tours on Saturdays and Sundays throughout December, January and February. Rain jackets are recommended.
Climb, crawl and explore natural caves through High Country area outfitters this winter. FILE PHOTO
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2014
DISC GOLF IN THE HIGH COUNTRY BY JAMES HOWELL
W
ith rugged peaks and valleys, the High Country offers several impressive disc golf
courses. Disc golf is played much like traditional golf. Instead of a ball and clubs, however, players use a flying disc, or Frisbee. One of the top-ranked disc golf courses in the world is located in Jefferson at Ashe County Park. Nestled on the backside of Phoenix Mountain in the beautiful and scenic Appalachian Mountains, Ashe County Park’s disc golf course provides participants with an experience that offers a little bit of everything. The disc golf course winds through Ashe County Park and offers players 18 holes of enjoyment spanning 6,992 feet. According to Scott Turnmyre, the director of Ashe County Parks and Recreation, Ashe County Park’s course is ranked as the top disc golf course in North Carolina and 19th in the United
Want to Go? Directions: To get to the course, take U.S. 421 South out of Boone to U.S. 221 North at Deep Gap. After travelling roughly 20 minutes and 14 miles, take a left onto Long Street at the second intersection off the highway. Off Long Street, take a right onto Main Street and the follow through downtown for a few miles until taking a left at the sign for Ashe County Park. Hours: Ashe County Park and High Country Disc Golf Course are open from 8 a.m. to dusk every day of the week. Volunteer workdays take place every third Saturday of the month at 10 a.m. Cost: Admission is free, every day of the week. Course map: For a map of the course, visit http://bit.ly/AsheDiscGolf
Ashe County Park’s disk golf course is listed on the websites of the Professional Disc Golf Association and by the High Country Disc Golf Club. Information on the High Country Disc Golf Club’s website says the following about Ashe Park’s disc golf course: “It’s both fun and challenging for all skill levels with hills and thrills, nice views and water hazards.” Ashe County Park is open from 8 a.m. until dusk and is located at 527 Ashe Park Road, Jefferson, N.C., 28640. A couple of other disc golf courses can
be found in the High Country, including Highland Hills Disc Golf Course and Beech Mountain Resort Disc Golf. Located in North Wilkes, the Highland Hills’ course offers players 20 holes spanning 4,200 feet All but two holes are less than 300 feet from the tee. The course is located at 22 South Park Road in North Wilkesboro, N.C., 28659. Beech Mountain Resort Disc Golf offers players 11 holes more than 400 feet from the tee. The course is more than 8,882 feet and is located at 1007 Beech Mountain Parkway.
States. “There are hundreds of people who have gotten joy out of that course,” Turnmyre said. “It’s a very special place.”
Use PROMO CODE: AT2014 to receive $5 off per tour
Ashe County Park’s disc golf course sits suspended high above sea level in the Appalachian Mountains. PHOTO BY JAMES HOWELL
2014
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CONQUER THE MOUNTAIN Rock Climbing in the High Country BY ANNA OAKES
More Climbing Resources
T
Michelle Melton, with her husband, Dean, is all chalked up during a ‘bouldering’ climb day. PHOTOS BY ROB MOORE
he fall season is a favorite for rock climbing enthusiasts; in general, the autumn weather is typically drier, making for ideal climbing conditions. During your visit to the High Country, you can overcome boulders and rock faces with only your fingers, toes and mental fortitude. And thanks to modern equipment and experienced guide services, families — from children to grandparents — can climb very safely. If you’d like to try rock climbing for the first time or improve your climbing skills, stop by Rock Dimensions, located in downtown Boone. Just look for the 40-foot climbing tower on Depot Street, which features varying climbing terrain and opportunities for beginners or seasoned veterans. With guides certified by the Professional Climbing Instructors Association, Rock Dimensions provides half-day or full-day guided climbing trips for beginning or intermediate-level climbers. “We offer guided rock climbing trips to places in the immediate area right around Boone,” said Jenny Allen, co-owner of Rock Dimensions. Destinations include the Linville Gorge Wilderness and the Wilson Creek area.
• BooneBoulders.com: Information about bouldering opportunities in the High Country, including photos, videos and articles. • Footsloggers: In addition to all the gear you’ll need for your climbing adventure, Footsloggers offers books and maps you’ll need to plan your trip. Visit the stores in downtown Boone and Blowing Rock, call (828) 262-5111 or visit www.footsloggers. com. • Edge of the World: The Banner Elk-based outdoor gear store also offers guided rock climbing and rappelling trips. Visit the store at 394 Shawneehaw Ave. in Banner Elk, call (800) 789-EDGE, or visit www.edgeoworld.com/summer/climbing.
“There’s hard stuff for really dedicated, experienced climbing, but then there’s stuff that’s really aesthetic,” SEE CLIMBING, PAGE 44
VILLAGE OF SUGAR MOUNTAIN R E N TA L S A N D S A L E S Caving Christian Camps Fishing
Dennis Lacey Broker
Sugar Area Rentals & Real Estate Sales
www.SugarTop.com • 828-898-5226
Gem Mining
· Sugar Top · Mossy Creek · Skyleaf · Hemlock Knob · The Citadel · Lodges at Elkmont · Ski Country · Sugar Ski & Country · Briarcliff · Cabins
Golfing Hiking Hot Air Balloon Rides Kayaking Rock Climbing
Enjoy Breathtaking Views
Shopping Skiing White Water Kayaking
Hard angles, strength, understanding the rock and skill all play a part in any climber figuring out the puzzle ahead as they climb a cliff.
White Water Rafting
Prices Starting at $99,000 303 Sugartop Drive • Sugar Mountain, NC
828-898-7800 800-858-9663 800-SUGAR TOP 3440-C Tynecastle Hwy Banner Elk, NC 28604
sugarmountainlodging.com
These Were the Days Antiques and Collectibles
Monday-Saturday 10 am to 5 pm 3440 Tynecastle Hwy Banner Elk, NC 28604 828-898-5505 Below Food Lion Shopping Center. Look for signs, drive behind building.
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Magic Cycles celebrates its 21st anniversary this year.
!
Visit our Rental Shop located at the Village of Ski Beech. Mountain bike rentals and lift passes will be available Fri., Sat. and Sun. from June 7th to Sept 30th.
2014
CLIMBING FROM PAGE 43 Allen said. Group sizes are limited to protect the environment and allow for maximum participation. “For the most part people get really private experiences,” Allen said. “They’re not kind of lost in the crowd.” Allen said Rock Dimensions has worked with couples, parents with kids, bachelor parties and other groups. “The half-day trip by far is the most popular,” she noted. Rock Dimensions provides all equipment needed, including harnesses, helmets, ropes, belay and rappel devices, anchoring equipment and climbing shoes. In addition to climbing, Rock Dimensions offers a ropes course, teambuilding activities and caving expeditions to Worley’s Cave in Tennessee and Robert’s Cave in Virginia. For more information, call (828) 265-3544 or visit www.rockdimensions.com.
Dean Melton shows the finer points of ‘bouldering’ as he climbs up the rockface with ease. PHOTO BY ROB MOORE
Located at 131B Depot St. Downtown Boone
Climb the Tower! No experience necessary
Challenge Course and Zipline Blowing Rock
Guided Outdoor Trips
Climbing, rappelling & caving
Climbing guides are certified through the Professional Climbing Instructors Association (PCIA)
828-265-3544
Explore your Vertical World
www.RockDimensions.com
2014
AUTUMN COLOR
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BY ANNA OAKES
igh Country visitor centers receive countless calls each year from out-of-towners hoping to time their visits perfectly with peak fall color conditions. Fortunately, tools are available to help you decide when to embark on your leaf viewing road trips. Appalachian State University biology professor Howie Neufeld for years has compiled fall color reports, incorporating temperature and precipitation data in attempts to forecast peak color at various elevations. He publishes his weekly reports, which began in August, at http://biology.appstate.edu/fallcolors. In addition, you can also find his reports at www.facebook.com/FallColorGuy. Neufeld noted in his reports earlier this year that if “the weather turns sunny and cool in August and September, colors should arrive on time and be vibrant, with bright reds contrasted against oranges and yellows. If it is rainy and warm, peak colors may be delayed and subdued.” In addition, he noted, recent scientific papers
Tools available to time your leaf looking
studying the timing of autumnal colors suggest that temperatures, especially in the fall, are the most correlated with the timing of colors, while rainfall has much less of an effect on timing. “Warm falls delay the colors, cool ones accelerate them,” he said. On. Sept. 9 Neufeld noted on the Fall Color Guy Facebook page that the N.C. Climate Office forecasts a warmer-than-usual fall. “If that turns out to be true, it could delay the onset of fall colors, as well as dull the red colors (cool and sunny make for the best reds),” Neufeld said. The Blue Ridge Parkway offers recorded late season wildflower blooming and fall foliage information at (828) 298-0398. Visitors can follow park updates on social media at www.facebook.com/ BlueRidgeNPS. The U.S. Forest Service also invites national forest visitors to use the new NCtrails.org web application for planning their fall foliage adventures. Unveiled in May 2014, the searchable web application offers details on three popular trail systems in Western North Carolina, as well as state-of-thescience information on the region’s forests.
. PHOTO BY ROB MOORE
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2014
A TAIL-WAGGING VACATION Pet-friendly Places in the High Country BY CAROLINE HARRIS
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ooking for fun things to do in the High Country with your furry best friend? Not to worry, there are several places you can bring Fido along. Dine al fresco at one of several pooch-friendly restaurants in Boone, Blowing Rock or Banner Elk. In addition to municipal parks and hiking trails, let your pet off the leash in one of the High Country’s designated dog parks. Local pet stores offer everything your pet could need. From outdoor activities to patio dining, there are plenty of options that are pet-friendly.
Parks TATE-EVANS PARK This park, located in the middle of downtown Banner Elk, offers a walking trail and plenty of open space. 210 Park Ave. Banner Elk, N.C. 28604 (828) 898-5398 www.townofbannerelk.org
The Lola enjoys a trip to the Cascades off the Blue Ridge Parkway.
PHOTO BY FRANK RUGGIERO
Trails BEECH MOUNTAIN BARK PARK
The park is a fenced in, off-leash dog park where wellbehaved dogs can exercise in a clean, safe environment. The park is a beautiful, well-maintained space open to all dog lovers and friends who are willing to uphold the park’s rules and restrictions. Features include two play areas, dog watering stations and a picnic shelter. 1330 Pine Ridge Road Beech Mountain, N.C. 28604 (828) 387-3003 www.beechrecreation.org
WATAUGA HUMANE SOCIETY DOG PARK The dog park consists of approximately 3.5 acres of fenced land for dogs to play, and a smaller, half-acre section for smaller dogs. All dogs must have a current rabies certificate, and their owners must submit an application. Day passes are $3.
BOONE GREENWAY TRAIL The Boone Greenway Trail is a beautiful paved walk meandering several miles along the New River, crossing a covered bridge and several other stone and wooden bridges. The trail is landscaped, with flowers, birds, butterflies, picnic tables and park benches. The Greenway Trail is open year-round, free of charge, located off State Farm Road in Boone and can be accessed at the Watauga Parks and Recreation Center and other locations throughout town. For more information, including a map, visit www.townofboone.net/departments/public_works/parks.php. (828) 264-9511 231 Complex Drive Boone, N.C. 28607 www.townofboone.net
Stretching 13.5 miles from Julian Price Park to Beacon Heights, this trail parallels the Blue Ridge Parkway on Grandfather Mountain and offers spectacular views. Tanawha Trail is moderate to easy with some strenuous areas. Access is at Milepost 305.5 on the Blue Ridge Parkway.
SIM’S POND Sim’s Pond is the first stop after you enter Julian Price Park. The pond is a stop along the Green Knob Trail, which originates from the nearby Sim’s Creek Overlook. Hike a few hundred feet north on this trail and you will see the remnants of an old mill pond. Access is at Milepost 295 on the Blue Ridge Parkway.
Restaurants BANNER ELK CAFÉ
PRICE LAKE LOOP TRAIL Open daily from 6 a.m. to sundown. (828) 264-7865 312 Paws Way Boone, N.C. 28607 www.wataugahumanesociety.org
TANAWHA TRAIL
Price Lake is a memorable walk with views of Grandfather Mountain that circles a beautiful mountain lake. The trail is 2.4 miles round trip on mostly flat terrain. Trail access is at the Price Lake Overlook at Milepost 296.7 on the Blue Ridge Parkway.
119 Central Way SW Banner Elk, N.C. 28604 (828) 898-4040
BAYOU SMOKEHOUSE AND GRILL 130 E. Main St. SEE PET-FRIENDLY, PAGE 47
2014
PET-FRIENDLY
Retail Stores
FROM PAGE 46
THE BARKING ROCK
Banner Elk, N.C. 28604 (828) 898-8592 www.bayousmokehouse.com
131-1 Morris St. Blowing Rock, N.C. 28605 (828) 295-8883 www.thebarkingrock.com
CAFÉ PORTOFINO 970 Rivers St. Boone, N.C. 28607 (828) 264-7772 www.cafeportofino.net
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of the high country
MOUNTAIN DOG & FRIENDS 126 Taylor Road Foscoe, N.C. 28607 (828) 963-2470 www.mountaindogandfriends.com
Visit the Most Unique Pet Boutique in The High Country!
COYOTE KITCHEN 200 Southgate Drive Boone, N.C 28607 (828) 265-4041 www.coyotekitchen.com
MY BEST FRIEND’S BARKERY 176 Shawneehaw Ave. Banner Elk, N.C. 28604 (828) 898-5625 www.mybestfriendsbarkery.com
MURPHY’S RESTAURANT & PUB 747 W. King St. Boone, N.C., 28607 (828) 264-5117 www.murphysboone.com
THE PET PLACE 240 Shadowline Drive Boone, N.C. 28607 (828) 268-1510 www.petplaceboone.com
• Apparel, Accessories, Collars & Leashes •Frozen Raw & Freeze Dried Foods • High Quality Dog & Cat Food •Homemade Dog Treats & USA Sourced Treats •Toys for Training & Play •Holistic Supplements
TOWN TAVERN 1182 Main St. Blowing Rock, N.C. 28605 (828) 295-7500 www.towntavernbr.com
PET SUPPLIES PLUS 2575 N.C. 105, Suite 100 (828) 266-2100 www.petsuppliesplus.com
828-898-6525
THE HIGH COUNTRY’S PREMIER DOG AND CAT BOUTIQUE Highest Quality Dog and Cat Foods + Raw ·Organic Treats and Gourmet Bakery Items ·All Foods and Treats USA and Canada Only ·Holistic Nutritional Supplements ·Toys ·Raincoats, Sweaters, Collars, Harnesses ·Outdoor Gear and Travel Goods ·Gifts for People and Pets ·Grooming Supplies ·Quality Beds and Blankets ·World Fair Trade Products
WWW.WOOF-PACK.NET • 828-773-4811
176 Shawneehaw Ave. Downtown Banner Elk, NC (across from the old Banner Elk Elementary School) www.mybestfriendsbarkery.com
•••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••
House Calls
for All Small Animals dogs, cats, rabbits, ferrets, & more Dr. Susan Mast’s services include:
•Routine Veterinary Care •Acupuncture •Laser Therapy
Avery County Adoption and Humane Education Center volunteers are always on hand to greet you and give you a tour of how this state-of-the-art facility operates. Also be sure to visit Paws and Claws animals in our care.
now available
LOCALLY OWNED Specializing in USA Made and Organic Products
Gift Certificates
Can be used for Spay/Neuter, Adoption Fees, Pet Boutique or at Paws and Claws resale store.
Pavers for the front walk way
Mast Mobile PET CARE & ACUPUNCTURE ACUPUNCTURE, PLLC 828-963-2600 Susan Mast, D.V.M. drsamast@yahoo.com
“in memory of ” or “in honor of ” 4x4 or 4x6
Summer Operating Hours Monday-Saturday 10am-4pm; Sunday 12pm-3pm 279 New Vale Road, Newland, NC 28657 828/733-2333 www.averyhumane.org
•••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••
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GOING STROLLING
I
f you don’t feel like spending the afternoon indoors or taking on a strenuous peak in the numerous hiking trails around Western North Carolina, consider these walking trails that offer a less strenuous, but just as beautiful view of local scenery.
BANNER ELK GREENWAY This walk involves 1.1 miles of trail and begins in the park and goes through different paths to The Art Cellar Gallery, boasting a nice view.
LEE AND VIVIAN REYNOLDS GREENWAY TRAIL The greenway is located behind State Farm Road in Boone, with an entrance by the Watauga County Parks and Recreation complex and the National Guard Armory. The paved trail is 3 miles long, but relatively flat, winding back and forth past a creek. Some other hiking trails go off the main path. More information is available at (828) 264-9511.
MOSES H. CONE MEMORIAL PARK Whether you are looking for a strenuous hike up a mountain or a light walk on the paved paths, Cone Memorial Park on the Blue Ridge Parkway has more than 25 miles of trails to suit the level of walking difficulty of your choice. Ask at the Manor House during operating hours for a recommendation of the best trail for your plan — some trails also allow horseback riding.
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Walking Trails of the High Country
Country along the face-silhouette peaks, it also boasts some lower difficulty trails. The gentler paths can be reached via the summit road, creating a lowimpact chance to view the area’s natural landscapes.
GLEN BURNEY TRAIL Within Blowing Rock, this trail is relatively steep, but only 1.5 miles with a turn-around, which goes past three waterfalls. More information is available at the Blowing Rock Chamber of Commerce.
JULIAN PRICE MEMORIAL PARK The Price Lake Loop Trail on the Blue Ridge Parkway is a 2.7-mile trail around the fishing-and-canoeing hot spot Price Lake; the relatively flat trail is ideal for trail runners and walkers alike. The park also has six other trails that range from moderate to strenuous (including the famed 13.5-mile Tanawha Trail).
GRANDFATHER MOUNTAIN Although Grandfather has some of the most strenuous hikes in the High
Boone’s Greenway Trail is a popular destination for walking, jogging, running and more, regardless of the weather. FILE PHOTO
2014
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www.ValleCrucis.com
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.
Rivercross Made in USA 828-963-8623
Taylor House Inn Bed & Breakfast ca. 1911 800-963-5581
Valle Crucis Community Web Directory Apple Hill Farm - applehillfarmnc.com Baird House - bairdhouse.com Dutch Creek Trails - dutchcreektrails.com Lazy Bear Lodge - lazy-bear-lodge.com Mast Farm Inn - themastfarminn.com Mast General Store - mastgeneralstore.com Mountainside Lodge B&B - mountainsidelodgebb.com Rivercross Made in USA - rivercrossmadeinusa.com Taylor House Inn - taylorhouseinn.com Valle Crucis Bed & Breakfast - vallecrucisbandb.com Valle Crucis Log Cabin Rentals & Sales - logcabinrentals.com
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2014
990 Main Street Blowing Rock, NC 28605 P (828) 295-7373 www.blowingrockmarket.com www.b
850 wines
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TRY OUR FRESH HOMEMADE SALADS AND TAKE-HOME DINNERS. DELI OPEN 8-4 7 DAYS A WEEK. OPEN FOR BREAKFAST.
AUTUMN TIMES
2014
REGIONAL ARTISINAL FOODS
|
PAGE 51
GIFTS & GIFT BASKETS
828-414-9546
GLENBURNEYGROCERY.COM
Mountain
“Selling the best addresses in the High Country”
The Barker Team Karen Barker 828.406.2816 David Barker 828.406.1124
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2014
THE CYCLES OF AUTUMN BY JAMES HOWELL
C
ycling in the High Country offers beautiful scenery, fresh air and some pretty intense challenges for riders, causing cyclists to view the region as a chance to test themselves and have fun along the way. Autumn is an especially good time to cycle in the High Country, as riders are greeted with a sea of colors due to the leaves changing. This pristine landscape is on full display on the Blue Ridge Parkway. “We’re really fortunate to have the terrain we have,” said Sam Hutchens, service manager at Boone Bike and Touring. “We have nice road cycling.” The mountains may add a better view for riders, but they also add extra challenges and extra dangers. Due to the tight, winding curves on mountain roads, cyclists need to be aware of motor vehicles that could be coming around every corner. “It’s something to be aware of,” Hutchens said about the added danger. “Fortunately, the majority of drivers tend to be on the lookout for cyclists.” Hutchens also gave a couple tips for road safety. “Just stay as far to the right side of the road as you can, and be aware of what’s around you,” Hutchens said. Even though cycling events are winding down as the weather gets colder, there are still a few events planned for cyclists in the Boone area. One of the largest events left this year is the “BooneIn Boone, the annual Blood, Sweat and Gears race draws major crowds each year — crowds of eager fans Town Throw-Down,” which will be held at the High waiting for cyclists to complete either a 100 or 50-mile ride. Country Fairgrounds on Sunday, Nov. 2. This is the PHOTO BY ROB MOORE fourth race in the N.C. Cyclocross Series. “This is a series of races, and ours is on Sunday, ride across the state of North Carolina. The ride spans Nov. 2,” Hutchens said. “It’s a pretty big deal, there across 450 miles of varied terrain, are going to be hundreds of people in leaving riders to bike 60 to 70 miles attendance.” MAGIC CYCLES each day. Piggy-backing off of this, a series of 140 S. Depot St. The 2014 Mountains to the Coast training runs will occur each Tuesday Boone, N.C. ride will begin in Sparta on Sept. 27 in Boone, called “Countdown to the (828) 262-5750 and end in Hatteras on Oct. 4. For Throwdown.” www.magiccycles.com more information, visit http://cnc. According to Boone Bike, “There’s ncsports.org/fallCNCRide. no better way to prepare for the N.C. BOONE BIKE For cyclists new to the High CounCyclocross Series races then this. Get AND TOURING try who want to learn about the best your lungs and legs ready with weekly 774 E. King St. spots to ride, Boone Area Cyclists is training races on Tuesday evenings.” Boone, N.C. a great group to get in touch with. These training runs began on Sept. (828) 262-5750 They can refer cyclists to locations 9 and will continue from Sept. 23 until www.boonebike.com that match their comfort levels and Oct. 14. For more information, call riding experience. Boone Bike and Touring at (828) 262The club welcomes cyclists of all 5750, or visit http://www.boonebike. ages, riding abilities and styles. Boone Area Cyclists’ com/about/local-events-pg64.htm. Sam Hutchens works on a children’s bicycle at Boone Also, Cycle North Carolina will hold an event, Moun- website offers information about group rides through Bike and Touring in Boone. the High Country. For more information, visit www. tains to the Coast, from Sept. 27 to Oct. 4. PHOTO BY FRANK RUGGIERO booneareacyclists.org. As the name suggests, Mountain to Coast is a cycle
AUTUMN TIMES
FRESH AIR AND MOUNTAIN BIKING BY JAMES HOWELL
I
f there’s one thing the High Country is known for, it’s the beautiful Appalachian Mountain range that gently rolls along the countryside, making this area a prime location for mountain biking. Mountain biking is a sport that uses specially designed bicycles to traverse rough, off-road terrain. “Riders use two completely different types of bikes between mountain bikes and bike for road cycling,” said Mike Boone, owner of Magic Cycles in Boone. “A mountain bike is basically a motor cycle without the motor.” Boone also said the Appalachian Mountains provide riders with greater challenges than they may be accustomed to. “The trails here are a little rocky for some people,” Boone said. “They provide more challenging riding than what you would find in the Piedmont.” Also, according to Boone, the High Country’s autumn scenery and cool weather coax non-local mountain bikers The gem of mountain biking in the to visit the area and explore new bike Boone area is Rocky Knob Mountain trails. Biking Park, which opened in 2011. The High Country didn’t always have PHOTO BY ROB MOORE legal mountain biking trails, but acby Velo Magazine, and in April 2013, cording to Boone, the region has added Rocky Knob expanded new trails over the last to five trails covering few years. Boone said MAGIC CYCLES eight miles. there are now several 140 S. Depot St. Another hotspot mountain biking trails Boone, N.C. can be found in Beech in Watauga and Wilkes (828) 262-5750 Mountain’s Emerald counties. www.magiccycles.com Outback trail system, “Mountain biking which offers riders has picked up quite a bit,” Boone said. “It’s a BOONE BIKE eight miles of single and AND TOURING growing sport right now double-track trails. 774 E. King St. in the area, and I think Also, Pisgah National Boone, N.C. there will be more tracks Forest, located in the build locally in the next (828) 262-5750 Boone area, has miles of few years.” www.boonebike.com trail utilized for mounThe gem of mountain tain biking. biking in the Boone area For more informais Rocky Knob Mountain tion about mountain Biking Park, which opened in 2011. In biking sites, visit www.highcountrync. spring 2012, Rocky Knob was named one com/play/bike, and search “mountain of the country’s “ultimate ride hotspots” biking.”
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AUTUMN TIMES
PAGE 54
2014
High Country streets will be filled with tourists and locals alike, as they check out the wide array of arts and crafts during autumn festivals in September and October. PHOTO BY JESSE CAMPBELL
FALL INTO FALL FESTIVALS BY JESSE CAMPBELL
A
utumn is festival time in the High Country. On any given weekend, it’s hard not to stumble into an apple butter, woolly worm and old-fashioned music festival with a smile on your face and a good time to take home. Autumn in the northwest mountains begins with a bit of an artistic flair, as Art on the Mountain, a fine arts and craft festival, returns to West Jefferson from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday,
Oct. 27. The festival is held on the grounds of the Ashe Arts Center at 303 School Ave. in historic downtown West Jefferson. According to www.visitwestjefferson. org, the festival is an opportunity for artists of all skillsets and background to come together to share their artistic visions. History comes alive in the High Country on Saturday, Oct. 11, for the third annual Boone Heritage Festival. The festival features some of the more prominent aspects of the region dur-
ing the establishment of permanent communities when pioneers and other adventurous individuals carved out a piece of civilization in the Appalachian wilderness. In addition to reenactors, historical demonstrations, kids’ activities, food and crafts highlight this blast from the past. The festival is held at Daniel Boone Park at 591 Horn in the West Drive in Boone. For more information, visit www.booneheritagefestival.com. A taste of Germany and Bavarian hops will fill beer steins from around the
region for the 24th annual Oktoberfest at Sugar Mountain Ski Resort Oct. 11 to 12. Parking and cost of admission are free of charge. Traditional German cuisine of bratwurst, knockwurst, sauerkraut, strudel and pretzels will complement the symbolic ethnic beverage of the event — beer. For more information, call (800) 7842768. The 37th annual Woolly Worm SEE CLIMBING, PAGE 55
AUTUMN TIMES
2014
FESTIVALS FROM PAGE 54
Festival in Banner Elk is now a two-day festival that takes place Oct. 18 to 19 in downtown Banner Elk. The festival was founded in 1973, in part by Jim Morton. Today, the fuzzy worm themed event draws 20,000 people, 140 vendors and more than a thousand worm trainers, according to the festival’s website. According to local folklore, the color of woolly worms is used as an indicator of the upcoming winter season. For more information on the festival, visit www. woollyworm.com, or call (828) 898-5605. As far as fall festivals in the High Country go, the Valle Country Fair in Valle Crucis, located on N.C. 194 in southern Watauga County, is the full
package. The aroma of Brunswick stew and soothing mountain music returns to Valle Crucis on Saturday, Oct. 18. The festival is located one mile south on N.C. 194 from Valle Crucis, near the Valle Crucis Conference Center. Food, family fun and traditional mountain music will make this sleepy mountain community a staging ground for one of the region’s most sought-after attractions in October. The festival is also a beacon for lovers of homemade apple butter, which is cooked and boiled from scratch as these mountain chefs take the utmost pride in selecting freshly picked apples in creating the smoothest spread that has become a delectable treat on biscuits or as a country fixin’ with a heaping plate of chicken and dumplings. For more information, call (828) 963-4609.
PAGE 55
Hickory Ridge Living History Museum re-enactors cook rabbit over an open fire during the museum’s annual Boone Heritage Festival, returning Saturday, Oct. 11, to Daniel Boone Park at Horn in the West in Boone. PHOTO BY FRANK RUGGIERO
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2014
VALLE COUNTRY FAIR
T
RETURNS OCT.18
he colors, flavors, sights and sounds of harvest season in the Blue Ridge Mountains all come together at the Valle Country Fair in scenic Valle Crucis, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Oct. 18. Founded as a fundraiser for a little country church, the fair has grown into an annual happening that attracts thousands and raised more than $40,000 for High Country charities in 2013. Always held in Valle Crucis on the third Saturday in October, the Valle Country Fair takes over the grounds of the Valle Crucis Conference Center on N.C. 194. Admission is free, and ample parking is available in the adjoining field for $10 per car, $25 for a small bus or van and $50 for a motor coach. The fair takes place in a huge meadow between a picturesque red
barn and a field of sorghum. The tents of 150 craft exhibitors line wide lanes that meander back and forth across the grounds. Bales of hay are stacked in the intersections of these alleys to offer fairgoers a spot to sit as they ponder which craft booths to visit next. Exhibitors are juried to find the highest quality handmade crafts available and to insure that there are a wide variety of unique products available for the shoppers. Exhibitors selected for the event donate at least 10 percent of their earnings back to the charitable work of the fair. Two stages are set up to provide entertainment throughout the day. The stage located near the dining tent features the best in local mountain SEE FAIR, PAGE 57
Set amid the vivid autumn backdrop of scenic Valle Crucis, the Valle Country Fair attracts thousands of visitors to enjoy a variety of arts, crafts, foods and more. PHOTOS BY FRANK RUGGIERO
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Gluten-free products Exclusive distributor for L’Arrigo Olive Oil Gift baskets & party trays, wine & dining accessories Custom wine ordering
Grandfather Center NC 105 & NC 184, next to the ABC store Banner Elk, NC / 828.898.9424 erickscheeseandwine.com
Saturday Wine Tastings 1:00 - 5:00 pm
AUTUMN TIMES
2014
FAIR FROM PAGE 56
music. The youth stage, located near the alpacas, face painters and sand artist booth, features cloggers and other younger performers. The Kids Area, added in 2013, is expected to be bigger, better and even more fun in 2014. Activities include pumpkin carving, making fall crafts, old-fashioned carnival games and a kids’ market, where children can set up their own booth to sell their own crafts. Kids of all ages will also find their favorite fall festival treats, including kettle corn, cotton candy and candied apples. Eat all you want at the Valle Country Fair, because almost all of the food concessions are operated by the church or by other non-profit organizations that return 100 percent of their earnings to local charities. Tables and chairs are provided under a large tent next to the
music stage, so that fairgoers can enjoy the entertainment while they dine. Food concessions include Brunswick stew, barbecue, chili, hot dogs and hamburgers, corndogs, sausage with onions, ham biscuits, ice cream, funnel cakes, baked goods, jams and jellies, freshpressed apple cider and hot-out-of-the kettle apple butter. The 2014 Valle Country Fair grant recipients are the Appalachian Seniors Program, Caregiver’s Haven, Avery County Council on Aging, Children’s Council of Watauga County, Club 12, Community Care Clinic, Hunger and Health Coalition, Parent to Parent Family Support Network-High Country, “Reaching Avery” Ministry, Emergency Food Pantry and the Western Youth Network. The outreach committee at Holy Cross Church distributed all remaining profits to individuals and families in crisis. For more information, visit www.vallecountryfair.org.
Live music is another staple of the annual Valle Country Fair.
PAGE 57
Apples abound at the Valle Country Fair, from apple butter to apple cider to the original, simple delight.
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PAGE 58
AUTUMN TIMES
HISTORY COMES ALIVE
2014
Hickory Ridge Living History Museum offers a trip back in time
O
utdoor drama “Horn in the West” may have closed for the summer, but the story lives on at Hickory Ridge Living History Museum. Turn back the clock to a time of spinning wheels and mountain crafts, as interpreters dressed like pioneers tell you how life used to be. Hickory Ridge Homestead was created in 1980 by the Southern Appalachian Historical Association to further a “Horn in the West” audience member’s imagination and understanding of the story. Located on the “Horn in the West” grounds at Horn in the West Drive in Boone, Hickory Ridge is an 18th-century living history museum showcasing the lives of early High Country settlers. According to Hickory Ridge, “Visitors get insight into the lifestyle of early mountain settlers, how they lived and what constituted a ‘typical’ mountain homestead. As well, the self-sufficiency
of our forefathers can best be shown through the routines and skills they possessed that we now think of as arts and crafts. People learn crafts by doing and watching others perform. From this idea grew the whole concept of a living museum and hands-on program.” Along with regular demonstrations in weaving and hearthside cooking (look for the 180-year-old loom), a museum gift shop houses the kinds of toys early settlers used to pass the time. Educational programs include the general store, children’s craft workshops and early American skills workshops, including candle-making, corn husk dolls, primitive life skills and hearth-cooking. In the general tour, visitors of all ages explore the historic grounds and buildings, including the Tatum cabin, originally built in 1785, to learn how early SEE HISTORY, PAGE 59
Hickory Ridge Living History Museum brings 18th-century history to life through re-enactments, workshops and tours, all of which offer visitors a glimpse into the lives of early High Country settlers. PHOTOS BY FRANK RUGGIERO
HighCountryNC.com
live the adventure Find your adventure WWW.VACATIONCONDOS.COM
AUTUMN TIMES
2014
PAGE 59
CELEBRATE BAVARIA IN THE HIGH COUNTRY AT
OCTOBERFEST
BY CAROLINE HARRIS
D
on your dirndl, brush off your beer stein, and get ready for the High Country’s take on the world’s most famous fall festival, Oktoberfest. Sugar Mountain Resort will host the 24th annual Oktoberfest from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday, Oct. 11 and 12, rain or shine. Admission, parking and shuttle service are free. A 200-year-old tradition, Oktoberfest is an annual celebration of Bavarian food, drink and culture. The Munich festival lasts more than two weeks and is known internationally for its food and beer. It’s also a time for fun, music, rides and games. Sugar Mountain’s Oktoberfest brings all these traditions together for a genuine Bavarian celebration. An Oom Pah Band will set the Oktoberfest tone with authentic Bavarian music. Harbour Towne Fest Band will perform from noon until 4 p.m. on each day of the festival. The Valle Crucis Middle School band will also perform on Saturday at 2 p.m. While you’re tapping your feet to the music, enjoy some genuine German cui-
HISTORY FROM PAGE 58
settlers lived and survived. Hickory Ridge is located at 591 Horn in the West Drive in Boone. For more information, visit www.horninthewest.com/ museum.htm.
Boone Heritage Festival On Oct. 11, visit Hickory
Harbour Towne Fest Band will bring the authentic sounds of Bavaria to Sugar Mountain’s Oktoberfest, returning Oct. 11 and 12 at Sugar Mountain Resort.
sine, including bratwurst, knockwurst, sauerkraut, strudel and pretzels, beginning at 11 a.m. If German food is not to your preference, hot dogs, hamburgers, cotton candy, kettle corn, funnel cakes, candy apples and other festival foods will be on hand. Wash it all down with a Bavarian brew, Spaten beer. First
Ridge for the third annual Boone Heritage Festival. Expect musical performances, historical demonstrations from the colonial/Revolutionary time period, vendors, regional crafts, children’s activities, food and a raffle. The focus of the event is Appalachian traditions, history and heritage, as well as contemporary Appalachian life. The festival is held at Daniel Boone Park at 591 Horn in the West Drive in Boone. For more information, visit www.booneheritagefestival.com.
brewed in 1872, Spaten is the world’s first Oktoberfest beer. To keep the young ones entertained, the children’s activity center, located in the Ski School Play Yard, will be open from noon until 5 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday. Hayrides, inflatable bounce houses and a chance to meet Sugar Bear
and Sweetie Bear are a few of the fun things that make Oktoberfest fun for the whole family. With fall colors in full swing, take the opportunity to see it all from above with Sugar Mountain’s round trip ski lift ride. Going all the way up to Sugar Mountain’s 5,300-foot peak, there is a breathtaking panoramic view of fall foliage. The ride takes approximately 45 minutes and rides run from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. Lift ticket prices are $12 for a one-time ride and $25 for an all-day ticket. Children ages four and younger ride free with a paying adult. Groups of 20 or more can buy one-time ride tickets for only $8. Advanced reservations are required. Peruse the wide variety of wares from local artisans and craftsmen at the festival. More than 40 vendors will offer handmade items, such as pottery, woodwork, instruments, toys, soaps, artwork, food, jewelry, books and furniture. Commemorate your Oktoberfest experience with t-shirts and souvenir items for sale under the tent on the main celebration deck. For more information, call Sugar Mountain Resort at (828) 898-4521, or visit www.oktoberfest.skisugar.com.
Hickory Ridge re-enactor Travis Souther demonstrates 18th-century craftsmanship during the museum’s annual Boone Heritage Festival, returning Saturday, Oct. 11.
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AUTUMN TIMES
2014
2014
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There’s no place like Beech Mountain, when the annual Autumn at Oz festival returns Oct. 4 and 5. FILE PHOTOS
AUTUMN AT OZ BY JAMIE SHELL
F
or one magical weekend each year, there’s no place like Beech Mountain. There’s no place like Beech Mountain. Unfortunately, it takes more than the click of ruby slippers to find one’s way to Autumn at Oz. The 21st annual celebration is more than a black-andwhite or Technicolor dream, as beloved characters, such as Dorothy Gale, the Tin Man and the Wicked Witch of the West, spring to life for one weekend. For some, Oz is a whirling dervish of nostalgia. For others, it’s a cherished local tradition, where troubles melt like lemon drops and happy little bluebirds fly. On Saturday and Sunday, Oct. 4 and 5, visitors can return to the Yellow Brick Road, and even touch the bricks on their journey. In 1970, a small piece of magic opened on Beech Mountain that celebrated the Land of Oz, a classic adaptation of the publication of L. Frank Baum’s book, “The Wonderful Wizard of Oz,” upon which the beloved film was based. Children and adults alike are enchanted as they experience the re-creation of Dorothy’s magical trip from her farm home in Kansas through the twister and down the Yellow Brick Road to the Land of Oz. Along the journey, visitors will
be met by a full cast portraying many vibrant characters similar to the ones found in the original Oz. Tickets for Autumn at Oz are $35 each, with children younger than 2 admitted free. Shuttle transportation to and from the Land of Oz is included in the ticket price. Visitors will travel by bus to an elevation of around 5,500 feet above sea level, high atop beautiful Beech Mountain, and the timeslot on your ticket designates the time that you will be transported to the Land of Oz from the village at the Beech Mountain Resort. Transportation to the Land of Oz begins at 10 a.m., and on both days the last bus leaves the parking lot to travel to Oz at 4 p.m. The Oz venue closes at 6 p.m. According to venue officials, the Oz property has uneven paths, ramps and stairs and therefore is not wheelchair- or stroller-friendly. Officials also recommend that visitors be prepared for potentially cold and blustery weather conditions that can change from hour to hour by dressing in layers and wearing comfortable shoes, as well as bringing a jacket and umbrella just in case. Autumn at Oz is located at 2669 Beech Mountain Parkway in Beech Mountain. For more information, call Beech Mountain Chamber of Commerce at (800) 468-5506, or visit www.autumnatoz. com.
AUTUMN TIMES
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PAGE 61
At Banner Elk’s annual Woolly Worm Festival, woolly worms race on strings during individual heats, and the champion is used to predict the ‘official’ woolly worm forecast on Saturday. FILE PHOTO
CRAWLING WITH FUN Banner Elk Woolly Worm Festival returns
BY JAMIE SHELL
W
a cers…. Warm up your woolly worms! For 37 years, the annual Banner Elk Woolly Worm Festival has warmed the hearts of visitors and locals throughout the High Country. This year’s Festival weturns, er … returns to downtown Banner Elk on Saturday and Sunday, Oct. 18 and 19. The grounds of the historic Banner Elk Elementary School will swell with thousands of people for the weekend, as the festival marks a sure sign that autumn has arrived in the High Country. Woolly worms race on strings during individual heats, and the champion is used to predict the “official” woolly worm forecast on Saturday. Mountain
residents have used the brown and black stripes of the woolly worm for many years to predict the severity of the coming winter, and the Woolly Worm Festival maintains that tradition. In addition to Saturday’s races, races take place for fun and prizes on Sunday. This family event welcomes more than 20,000 people to the community each year to not only make once-in-alifetime family memories, but also to win the prestigious title of predicting the High Country weather. A grand prize of $1,000 doesn’t hurt participation, either. Come early, as the fun begins at 9 a.m. on both Saturday and Sunday, with entertainment all day. Local groups and impromptu guests provide
Mark Your Calendar! What: 37th annual Banner Elk Woolly Worm Festival When: Saturday and Sunday, Oct. 18 and 19 Time: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Where: Historic Banner Elk Elementary School Cost: $5 for adults, $2 children age 5 to 12, free for children younger than 5 years of age quality music and entertainment during the weekend. Numerous vendors selling arts and crafts, as well as food and drink vendors, add to the entertainment of the festival. Contestants may bring their own woolly worm, or purchase worms
onsite to train and race. Banner Elk resident and “Mr. Woolly Worm” Roy Krege serves as host during the event. “It’s a great festival, as it has something for everyone,” Krege said. The 37th annual Woolly Worm Festival is co-sponsored by Banner Elk Kiwanis and Avery County Chamber of Commerce, with all proceeds given back to the local community to enhance schools, support children’s programs and promote business and tourism in Avery County. Admission is $5 for adults, $2 for kids age five to 12. Children younger than 5 are admitted free. For more information or for advance tickets, visit www.woollyworm.com, email events@averycounty.com, or call (828) 898-5605.
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IT'S HARVEST TIME!
2014
Buy fresh and local at weekly farmers’ markets
BY ANNA OAKES
T
he fall harvest comes fresh to your table each week, courtesy of the High Country’s farmers, growers, producers and artisans. Visit a farmers’ market for heirloom varieties of apples; butternut and acorn squashes; fall greens; pumpkins; honey; locally raised lamb, pork, beef and chicken; herbs; eggs; pastas, pastries and bread; jams, jellies and cheeses; and arts and crafts. In November, look for special holiday items for your Thanksgiving and Christmas, including holiday décor, greenery, gift items and special foods.
WATAUGA COUNTY FARMERS’ MARKET Saturdays through November, mornings 591 Horn in the West Drive Boone, N.C. 28607 (828) 355-4918 www.wataugacountyfarmersmarket.org
SEE HARVEST, PAGE 63
Nestled in a wooded area in the center of Boone, the Watauga County Farmers’ Market is a lovely setting for buying the freshest local goods for home and table. PHOTO COURTESY OF WATAUGA COUNTY FARMERS’ MARKET
Visit the Boone & Blowing Rock area for:
CHOOSE & CUT Christmas Trees It’s Old Fashioned Family Fun!
For details & locations of the 28 choose & cut farms, visit:
www.WataugaChristmasTrees.org or www.ExploreBooneArea.com 800-438-7500 or 828-264-3061
AUTUMN TIMES
2014
HARVEST FROM PAGE 62
BLOWING ROCK FARMERS’ MARKET Thursdays, through Oct. 16, 4 to 6 p.m. Park Avenue, Blowing Rock, NC 28605 (828) 295-7851
ASHE COUNTY FARMERS’ MARKET Saturdays through Oct. 25, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Holiday markets: Nov. 22 & 29; Dec. 6, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Backstreet, West Jefferson, N.C. 28694 (910) 309-1932 ashe.farmers.market@gmail.com www.ashefarmersmarket.com
Market Tips These tips will help make the most out of your farmers’ market shopping experience. • Arrive early for the best selection. • No pets, except service animals. • Carry small bills. It’s easier for vendors to make change. • Ask. Learn about unfamiliar varieties and even how to prepare them. • Use large, reusable bags or baskets. Eliminate the need for plastic or paper bags.
AVERY COUNTY FARMERS’ MARKET • at Avery County Cooperative Extension, Newland: Mondays through September, 4 to 6 p.m. • at AC Pride (old elementary school), Banner Elk: Thursdays through September, 5 to 7 p.m. info@averycountyfarmersmarket.org facebook.com/averycountyfarmersmarket
JOHNSON COUNTY FARMERS’ MARKET Saturdays through Oct. 25, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. 110 Court St. Mountain City, Tenn. 37683 johnsoncountyfm@gmail.com johnsoncountyfm.org facebook.com/pages/Johnson-CountyFarmers-Market/353262790131
PAGE 63
HALLOWEEN AUTUMN TIMES
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High Country
Admission is $31 for adults and children, while kids ages 2 and younger are admitted free. Ordering advance tickets is strongly recommended, due to the limited number of tickets available for each evening. The Ghost Train Festival tickets do not include admission to the park’s daytime activities. For more information, call (877) 893-3874, or visit www.tweetsie.com.
BY ERIKA GIOVANETTI
T
he High Country is famous for its beautiful autumn scenery, which also doubles as the perfect setting for pumpkin carving, costume wearing and candy collecting. There are endless activities in the mountains during this time of year, bustling with excited townsfolk and visitors alike, but perhaps the most popular festivities are those centering on Halloween festivals, corn mazes and haunted houses. Dress your kiddies (or yourself) up for these festive Halloween-time events.
• BEARY SCARY HALLOWEEN AT GRANDFATHER MTN.
• NEW RIVER CORN MAZE Sept. 1 to Oct. 31 Don’t get too lost in this year’s New River Corn Maze, a great way to celebrate autumn’s arrival with the Halloween-time tradition of the corn maze. The maze, which is set on the banks of the scenic New River, winds through five acres of corn. Good luck finding your way through a mile of twists, turns and dead-ends! The fun continues with a fall train ride and pumpkin patch, where you can hand-pick your very own pumpkin for Halloween. The Corn Maze is open on weekends from now until Halloween, operating from 10 a.m. till dark on Fridays and Saturdays, and 1 p.m. till dark on Sundays. Other days, you may visit the maze by appointment. Tickets for the maze are $7 for adults, $5 for ASU and other students, and kids younger than 5 are admitted free. School groups visit on Friday only, and teachers are admitted free and students for $3. Train rides are $5, and combo tickets for both the maze and the train ride are $10 for adults and $8 for students and kids. For more information, visit www.newrivercornmaze. com, or call (828) 264-2986.
• ASHE COUNTY CORN MAZE Sept. 27 to Oct. 1 Crumpler is home to the Ashe County Corn Maze, an acre-and-a-half labyrinth with tricks and turns sure to discombobulate even the most avid maze-goer. The maze, located in the mountains of northwestern N.C., will take patrons anywhere from 25 minutes to hours to complete. In addition to the maze itself, this venue offers games, such as corn hole, horseshoes and inflatable slides. Visitors are also welcome to marshmallow roasting and face painting on the weekends. Admission is $7 for adults and children and free for children younger than 3. For groups of 20 or more, admission is $6 for each person. The maze is open Thursday and Friday from 5:30 till 9 p.m., Saturday from 10
2014
A group of cereal killers descends upon downtown Boone’s annual Halloween celebration, the Boone BOO! FILE PHOTO
a.m. till 9 p.m. and Sunday from 2 till 7 p.m. For more information and directions, visit www. ashecountycornmaze.com, or call (336) 982-6285.
Oct. 25 Celebrate Halloween with the wildlife of Grandfather Mountain from 10 a.m. till 3 p.m. on the Saturday before Halloween. The festivities include crafts, nature programs, trickor-treating and a costume contest. Children watch the animals get a special Halloween enrichment, where the bears get treated to pumpkins. Children can also participate in the interactive program, “Going Batty for Bats.” Activities are included with park admission, and children in costume get in for half price. For more information, visit www.grandfather.com, or call (828) 733-2013 for more information.
• TWEETSIE RAILROAD GHOST TRAIN Sept. 26 to Nov. 1 Join the ghosts and ghouls of Tweetsie Railroad for the 25th annual Ghost Train Halloween Festival, one of the most popular Halloween attractions in the High Country. The celebration begins Sept. 26 and continues every Friday and Saturday through Nov. 1. The park opens at 7:30 p.m., with the merriment ending at 11:30 p.m. Ghost Train passengers travel back in time to the “Great Train Wreck of 1914,” putting them at the scene of what was the worst (albeit fictional) wreck of railroading history. In addition to the traditional Ghost Train, Tweetsie’s Festival offers a plethora of bloodcurdling attractions. Visitors stroll down the pathways of the Freaky Forest, encountering spooky surprises around every dark turn. The Boneyard, which is in the Hacienda, is the eerie home of the Black Hole, 3-D Maze and the newest addition to the park, the Warp Tunnel. Brave visitors must not miss the Haunted House, which is home to 13 ghostly rooms, and is sure to send chills down the spines of its guests. For a more mellow thrill, patrons of all ages are welcome to trick-or-treating throughout the park, a hairraising black light show at the Haunted Palace Saloon, amusement rides at the Creepy Carnival and a costume dance party on Tweetsie’s Main Street.
• BLOWING ROCK HALLOWEEN FESTIVAL Oct. 25 On the Saturday before Halloween, Blowing Rock hosts its annual Halloween Festival from 2 to 9 p.m. The festival, which is hosted in downtown Blowing Rock, is sure to have spooky activities to suit mummies and ghosts alike. The festivities begin at Memorial Park, where superheroes learn how to fly at the air walks from 3 till 8 p.m. Later at the park, festival patrons of all ages can grab a Hay Ride, running from 4 till 8 p.m. At the Blowing Rock Recreation Center, kids can practice their astronaut walk at the inflatable fun house. Games will also be available at the rec center from 3 until 5:30 p.m. Gutsy ghouls may show off their ghastly getups at the Monster March, which begins at 5:45 p.m. Monsters should arrive at the American Legion at 5:30 p.m. to line up. The trick-or-treating at downtown Blowing Rock begins at 6 p.m., and children and their supervisors must look out for the orange and black balloons indicating participating businesses. For the more competitive Halloween patrons, a costume contest is held at the rec center, starting at 7 p.m. Those SEE HALLOWEEN, PAGE 65
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HALLOWEEN FROM PAGE 64
wishing to participate must sign up by 6:45 p.m. Following the costume contest, there is a Moonlight Scavenger hunt hosted at Broyhill Lake. Kiddies age 6 to 13 can participate in teams of three or less, and remember to bring a flashlight! For more information, call (828) 295-5222.
• TRICK-OR-TREAT FOR TOTS
Oct. 30 Appalachian State University’s Housing Office welcomes ASU faculty and staff as well as community families to bring the kids to this year’s Trick-or-Treat for Tots, which takes place from 5 to 8 p.m. the day before Halloween. Costumed children are welcome to visit the dorms on the East Side of ASU’s campus, including Hoey, Cannon, Lovill, East, Doughton, White, Summit and Cone residence halls. ASU students will be handing out candy, and the hall lobbies will be bustling with treats, games and other fun activities, as well. Parents and children must check in at the Legends parking lot to receive a map and instructions for the evening’s festivities. Parking is available in the faculty/ staff parking lots on the East Side of campus. For more information, contact the University Housing Office at (828) 262-2160. SEE HALLOWEEN, PAGE 66
Trick-or-treating is a highlight of the annual Boone BOO!, wherein downtown merchants open their doors and candy bowls to young ghosts and goblins. FILE PHOTO
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AUTUMN TIMES
HALLOWEEN FROM PAGE 65
• APPALACHIAN MOUNTAIN BREWERY’S HALLOWEEN Oct. 31 For the adults, Appalachian Mountain Brewery offers Halloween festivities sure to impress even the sternest beer-snob. Come down to AMB on Halloween for local brews, farm-fresh food and Boone tunes. Music from BanDam, an alternative rock band from Boone, kicks off the merriment at 7:30 p.m. With $3 pint specials and buy-one-get-one-half-off Farm to Flame pizza specials, there’s no reason not to go local at AMB’s party. Farm to Flame is a food truck, which debuted this summer, and offers locally fresh fare prepared in a wood-fired oven. During the party, there will be a costume contest with prizes for best beerrelated, scariest, best couple and best overall costumes. The excitement continues with fire jugglers, and the brewery stays open with An otter at Grandfather Mountain enjoys a Halloween treat during the mountain’s extended hours till midnight. annual Beary Scary Halloween celebration, returning Oct. 25. This year’s Halloween Party will raise PHOTO BY MONTY COMBS money for local nonprofits through AMB’s Pints for Nonprofits program. There’s truly no reason not to grab a cold one at this local-oriented party. For more information about AMB’s Halloween Party, visit www.appalachianmountainbrewery.com or call (828) 263-1111.
2014
• BOONE BOO! Oct. 31 Families and visitors from all around Watauga County and beyond flock to Boone on Halloween for the annual Boone BOO! celebration, hosted by the Downtown Boone Development Association. The festivities start at the Watauga County Library at 4:30 p.m., descending into the dark hours of the evening. At the library, kids can participate in arts and crafts, play games and listen to storytellers, as well as live music. Around 5 p.m., the children parade to the Jones House Community Center, where there is a haunted house. “One side of the house is ‘scary,’ suitable for older children and adults, and the other side of the house is family friendly, suitable for children of all ages,” Virginia Falck of the town of Boone said. Prizes and candy are given out at the Jones House, and, weather permitting, there will be outdoor games and entertainment at the venue, as well. Merchants in downtown Boone begin to pass out candy just after 5 p.m. November 1 is the Family Day game for Appalachian State’s football team, so Falck is expecting a bigger crowd. She hopes that some of the out-of-town visitors will attend Boone BOO!, as well. As for safety tips, Falck recommends that children stay together in groups, watch out for cars and carry glow sticks or flashlights. For more information about the event, contact Boone Department of Cultural Resources at (828) 268-6283.
A colorful cast of costumed characters hits the streets of Tweetsie Railroad, during the theme park’s annual Ghost Train Halloween Festival, returning Sept. 26 to Nov. 1. PHOTO BY FRANK RUGGIERO
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Banner Elk, NC is celebrating!
! s u n i o j e Com
37th Annual Woolly Worm Festival October 18 & 19
Sponsored by the Banner Elk Kiwanis Club & Avery County Chamber of Commerce
Trunk or Treat October 31 Halloween Night
Christmas In The Park & Parade Of Lights December 6
Sponsored by the Town of Banner Elk and Banner Elk Chamber The Banner Elk, of Commerce
North Carolina TDA is pleased to present promotional grants to these wonderful events.
Event Info: BannerElkTDA.Com
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GHOST TRAIN AUTUMN TIMES
2014
Halloween Festival haunts Tweetsie Railroad
W
hen the eerie sound from the whistle of a steam locomotive pierces the peaceful quiet of an autumn High Country night, it can only mean one thing: It’s time for Tweetsie Railroad’s annual Ghost Train Halloween Festival. Starting Sept. 26 and continuing every Friday and Saturday night through Nov. 1, guests will enjoy a frightfully spooky ride as the Ghost Train howls its way through the Blue Ridge Mountains, with new frights and delights around every corner. Daytime visitors can still enjoy all of Tweetsie’s Wild West adventure, rides and attractions; but when the sun goes down, ghosts and spirits fill the park
when the gates open at 7:30 p.m., daring brave guests to take a trip back in time to the “Great Train Wreck of 1914.” Ghost Train passengers will travel back in time to the scene of one of the worst (fictional) accidents in railroading history. Old-timers swear they’ve seen an apparition of the phantom locomotive and its doomed engineer and passengers. According to Tweetsie, “A true screamworthy experience, the journey is filled with spooky frights around every bend and is guaranteed to give passengers a ghostly good time.” Named one of the Top 20 Events in the Southeast by the Southeast Tourism SoSEE TWEETSIE, PAGE 69
Engineer Casey Bones welcomes all aboard the Ghost Train, taking visitors on a frightfully spooky ride through the Blue Ridge Mountains, with new frights and delights around every corner. PHOTOS BY FRANK RUGGIERO
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TWEETSIE Solid Wood Furniture
FROM PAGE 68
ciety, the hauntings include much more than the signature train ride. Enjoy a spooky stroll through the Freaky Forest, while encountering dark surprises along a desolate woodland pathway of terror. Visit The Boneyard, where you can venture into the 3-D Maze, the disorienting Black Hole and, new for 2014, the mystifying Warp Tunnel. Brave visitors should not miss the spine-chilling Haunted House, where 13 spooky rooms will startle and challenge the imagination. For those looking for less chills and thrills and more tricks and treats, visitors of all ages can be enchanted and amused by the spook-tacular black light show at the Haunted Palace Saloon, the lively dance party on Tweetsie’s Main Street, the amusement rides at the Creepy Carnival and, of course, traditional trick-ortreating throughout the park. The Ghost Train Halloween Festival is safe, scary fun for all ages. Due to the popularity of this annual event, a limited number of tickets are available for each evening. Many nights often sell out, so ordering advance tickets online is strongly recommended. Admis-
Full Line of Outdoor Furniture Ghost Train passengers will travel back in time to the scene of one of the worst (fictional) accidents in railroading history. Old-timers swear they’ve seen an apparition of the phantom locomotive and its doomed engineer and passengers.
sion is $31 for adults and children, while kids ages 2 and younger are admitted free. Tickets are available at www.tweetsie.com. Tweetsie Railroad is open Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays Aug. 18 through Nov. 2. The 2014 season ends Sunday, Nov. 2. The park’s Wild West themed hours are 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. The Ghost Train Halloween Festival runs from 7:30 to 11:30 p.m. Tweetsie Railroad is located in the Blue Ridge Mountains on U.S. 321 between Boone and Blowing Rock. For more information about the 2014 season at Tweetsie Railroad, visit www.tweetsie. com, or call (877) 893-3874.
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Owners Steve & Sally Tatum HOURS Dec 1 - May 15 Mon, Wed-Sat Noon-6pm, Sun 1-5pm, Closed Tues May 16 - Nov 30 Mon-Sat Noon-6pm, Sun 1-5pm
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E
T
in T
invites you to taste the fruit of our vines. Visit our tasting room located in the Historic Big Dry Run Schoolhouse. Enjoy a bottle of our award-winning wine at our vineyard pavillion. Soak up the majesty of the mountains. Open: Thursday-Saturday 11am-6pm Sunday 1pm-5pm
6952 Big Dry Run Rd. Butler, TN 37640 423-768-0345 • 423-768-3633
2014 37TH ANNUAL
Photo by Heather Payne
Watauga Lake Winery
2014
WINE COUNTRY T
Banner Elk Winery & Villa
he beautiful scenery paired with the different varieties of wineries in the region makes High Country wine tasting a destination, not just a stop along the way. According to the N.C. Department of Commerce, North Carolina is ranked as a top-five destination for wine travelers and enthusiasts, where visitors can enjoy more than 100 wineries and 400 vineyards. In fact, North Carolina is one of the only regions on earth that supports every major type of grape grown in the world.
Banner Elk Winery & Villa is located in Banner Elk and is the High Country’s original winery. It also serves as a bed and breakfast. Winery tastings are offered year round, from noon to 6 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday. Tastings are $7 per person. Banner Elk Winery also offers private tastings for parties of 10 or more with SEE WINE, PAGE 71
Woolly Worm festival
Beautiful Downtown Saturday, October 18, 9am-5pm · Sunday, October 19, 9am-4pm Banner Elk, NC
, S WINNING Y A D R SATU WORM W, INS $1N0IN00G SUNDAY S WINS $500 WORM WIN
Performances by Dance Teams & Local Entertainment
WORM RACES (CASH PRIZES) CRAFTS, FOOD, RIDES FUN FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY!
All proceeds are given back to our community to enhance our schools, children’s programs, and to promote businesses and tourism in Avery County. For more information contact the Avery County Chamber of Commerce (828)898-5605 · (800)972-2183 · events@averycounty.com
www.WoollyWorm.com · www.AveryCounty.com
Please, no pets – except woolly worms, of course!
2014
AUTUMN TIMES
WINE FROM PAGE 70 advance scheduling of at least one-week notice. Vineyard tours are offered May through October at 2:30 and 4:30 p.m. Friday through Sunday and cost $12 per person. Banner Elk Winery also offers romantic packages, wedding opportunities and adventure packages. For more information, call (828) 260-1790, or visit www. bannerelkwinery.com.
Grandfather Vineyard One winery the High Country has to offer is Grandfather Vineyard & Winery, which opened in May 2011. Grandfather Vineyard & Winery is a terraced mountainside vineyard at the base of Grandfather Mountain right on the Watauga River in Foscoe. At the bottom of the vineyard is the tasting room and winery. Steve and Sally Tatum started planting grapevines in their backyard in 2003, which led to Watauga County’s first winery. They opened the winery with the help of their son, Dylan Tatum, who studied viticulture and enology at Surry Community College and business and entrepreneurship at Appalachian State University. Grandfather Winery prides its self in being a community-based winery and vineyard. “We always try to keep it local and try to support the community that supports us,” Dylan Tatum said. According to Tatum, Grandfather bought more fruit from Watauga and surrounding counties than ever before this year — about 10 tons of locally grown fruit, to be more specific. The family is also always trying something new. For instance, the winery is currently in production of 100-percent Watauga-grown sparkling wines and hard ciders, Tatum said. Another way Tatum says Grandfather is supporting the community is by helping with Appalachian State University’s Fermentation Science program. “Appalachian State doesn’t have a winery on site, so the students come here,” he said. “Dr. Seth Cohen and Dr. Stephan Sommer bring the students here to see all aspects of the industry from picking the grapes to the bottling of the wine. ASU even helped create a
According to Banner Elk Winery co-founder Dick Wolfe, ‘The High Country is wine country.’
Want to Go? BANNER ELK WINERY & VILLA 60 Deer Run Banner Elk, N.C. 28604 (828) 898-9090 www.bannerelkwinery.com
GRANDFATHER VINEYARD & WINERY Vineyard Lane Banner Elk, N.C. 28604 (828) 963-2400 www.grandfathervineyard.com
LINVILLE FALLS WINERY 9557 Linville Falls Highway
wine we named ‘Scholar,’ and part of the proceeds go back to the university’s program.” The winery also likes to give back to the community and visitors by providing a charismatic environment and delicious wine, according to Tatum. The tasting room offers a variety of white and red wines, and guests keep their wine glass as a memento. Live music is offered at the winery on some Sundays during the summer. “It is a perfect time for people to get a bottle of wine, sit by the river and listen to music,” Tatum said. Fall hours are noon to 6 p.m. Monday through Saturday and 1 to 5 p.m. on Sunday. Grandfather Vineyard and Winery isn’t the only place in the High Country for wine production. Several other
Newland, N.C. 28657 (828) 765-1400 www.linvillefallswinery.com
THISTLE MEADOW WINERY 102 Thistle Meadow Laurel Springs, N.C. 28644 (800) 233-1505 www.thistlemeadowwinery.com
WATAUGA LAKE WINERY 6952 Big Dry Run Road Butler, Tenn. 37640 (423) 768-0345 www.wataugalakewinery.com
award-winning wineries offer unique options. Many visitors create their own tour of High Country wineries, visiting and sampling from all nearby sites, which is an action Tatum encourages. “We see each other as synergy, not competition,” Tatum said. For more information, visit www. grandfathervineyard.com, or call (828) 963-2400.
Watauga Lake Winery Watauga Lake Winery owners Wayne and Linda Gay “retired” to Johnson County, Tenn., in 2002, after spending 22 years in the Italian import business. The couple, after working in Italy, fell in love with the mountains and vine-
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yard covered slopes of the old country. When they discovered east Tennessee, they immediately felt as if they had been transported to the Italian Alps. They purchased 35 acres overlooking Watauga Lake and began construction of Villa Nove, an Italian-inspired farmhouse whose namesake is a small town in northern Italy, where their import business began. In 2005, as Wayne Gay likes to tell it, they decided to plant a few grapevines on the property as landscaping, “and it simply got out of hand.” The result is Villa Nove Vineyards, which consists of more than 4,000 wine grape vines. Gay made his first wine in 2006 and found that he enjoyed it. He enrolled in a viticulture and enology course in Santa Barbara, Calif., Washington State, Cornell University, Surry Community College and other locations. The couple purchased the historic Johnson County Big Dry Run Schoolhouse and began renovations and the winery permitting process in 2010. Watauga Lake Winery opened to the public in November 2012. Its mission: to grow quality fruit, make exceptional wine from local grapes and develop a venue where customers can enjoy la dolce vita - the good life. Watauga Lake Winery produces wine for many palates, from a dry Seyval and Merlot to a sweet dessert wine. The winery won two silver medals last year for its Laurel Creek Surprise, a raspberry, chocolate dessert wine in competition at Finger Lakes, N.Y., and also in the Wines of the South competition. At Wines of the South, Watauga Lake Winery won gold with its Doe Mountain Red, a dry, full-bodied Cynthiana wine. In addition to the tasting room and wine production area, the winery consists of a full catering kitchen, complete with GE Monogram appliances and a meeting and dining room area, which can accommodate more than 100 people. The kitchen is used for weddings and other events, food and wine pairings, gourmet dinners and demonstration, hands-on cooking events. The winery also prides itself on using locally grown, Tennessee farm products whenever possible. Watauga Lake Winery is located at 6952 Big Dry Run Road in Butler, Tenn. The tasting room is open Thursday through Saturday, from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Sunday, from 1 to 5 p.m. For more information, call (423) 768-0345, or visit www.wataugalakewinery.com.
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2014
EXHIBITS AND EXPLORATIONS Blowing Rock Art and History Museum turns 3 this fall BY JEFF EASON
O
n Oct. 1, 2014, the Blowing Rock Art and History Museum (BRAHM) turns the ripe old age of 3. In those three short years, it has become one of the premiere destinations of its kind in Western North Carolina. This fall, BRAHM has opened an exciting new exhibit in its main gallery that combines art, history and artifacts from a variety of galleries and private collections. The new exhibit is titled “Common Threads: Five Influential Women and their Legacies.” The exhibit focuses on the lives and work of Bertha Cone, Emily Prudden, Dr. Mary Martin Sloop, Lucy Morgan and Vera Lachmann, all of who had a great impact on Blowing Rock and the High Country in the 20th century. Prudden was the founder of 12 North Carolina schools, including the Skyland Institute in Blowing Rock. Cone, the widow of Moses “the Denim King” Cone, was a noted art collector and managed the Cone Estate for 39 years after her husband’s death. Sloop was a doctor, educator and founder of the Crossnore School. Morgan was the founder of the Penland School of Crafts, and Lachmann was a Holocaust survivor who founded and directed Camp Catawba for Boys in Blowing Rock. The exhibit features portraits, historic photos and objects, correspondence and other documents. There is even an antique loom that had been used at the Penland School. “We are delighted to display an exhibit highlighting these memorable, exceptional women,” said Joann Mitchell, executive director at BRAHM. “Each of them has created a lasting legacy through their work, and we are honored to share their stories with our community.”
The Blowing Rock Art and History Museum, now in its third year of operation, has become one of the must-see destinations in the High Country. PHOTOS BY JEFF EASON
Meeting Room. The Museum is delighted that Sarah Cash, Bechhoefer Curator of American Art at the Corcoran Gallery in Washington, D.C., will be the featured speaker at this year’s lecture. Cash will give an informal presentation about the unfolding history of the Corcoran Gallery and its amazing American collection.
THIRD THURSDAY LECTURE SERIES BRAHM’s newest exhibit, ‘Common Threads: Five Influential Women and their Legacies,’ focuses on the lives and work of Bertha Cone, Emily Prudden, Dr. Mary Martin Sloop, Lucy Morgan and Vera Lachmann, all of who had a great impact on Blowing Rock and the High Country in the 20th century.
MOUNTAIN TOYS The Blowing Rock Art and History Museum’s Historic Objects Gallery will feature a new exhibit, titled “Mountain Toys,” beginning on Thursday, Oct. 9. The exhibit will include gee-haw whimmy-diddles, wooden toys, cornhusk
BRAHM will wrap up the 2014 Third Thursday Lecture Series at 4:30 p.m. Oct.16. Dr. Peter White of the North Carolina Botanical Garden will speak to the public in the Community Meeting Room. Admission is free for BRAHM members and $5 for the general public. The event will be followed by a catered reception.
dolls and other homemade playthings.
SPECIAL PROGRAMS ALEXANDER LECTURE SERIES The third annual Alexander Arts Lecture will be held at 4 p.m. on Sunday, Oct. 12, in the museum’s Community
BRAHM features a number of ongoing and special programs for children and adults in the community. Adult programs include yoga lessons,
artistic workshops and “Cork and Canvas,” a program where folks get together for some wine and painting. Youth programs include “Young at Art” gatherings, the Doodlebug Club and field trips.
ADMISSION General admission to the museum is $9 for adults and $5 for children ages 5 and older, students and active military. The museum, located at 159 Chestnut St., on the corner of Chestnut and Main streets, is open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday and Wednesday, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Thursday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday and Saturday, and 1 to 5 p.m. Sunday (closed on Mondays). For more information, visit www. blowingrockmuseum.org, or call (828) 295-9099. The mission of the Blowing Rock Art and History Museum is to promote the visual arts, history and heritage of the mountains through educational programs, exhibitions, and significant permanent collections. For more information, visit www.blowingrockmuseum. org, or call (828) 295-9099.
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TUNE INTO AUTUMN From live shows to karaoke, music abounds in the High Country BY JESSE CAMPBELL
C
risp fall evenings and the sound of music are as quintessential in the High Country as hayrides and Sunday dinners at grandma’s. The mountains are teeming with music hall and concert venues that, despite their unassuming sizes, have hosted some pretty high caliber musicians that could easily fill coliseums in larger cities. In downtown Boone, psychedelic funk and traditional mountain jams are just a few of the eclectic tunes you will hear if strolling down King Street. Boone Saloon is a popular watering hole, which typically boasts a strong repertoire of musicians, as well as numbers, for the 21 and older crowd. September closes with performances by Malcolm Holcombe, a country-folk luminary, on Thursday, Sept. 25, and party rockers Lee Bains III and the Glory Fires. Those shows are $7 and $5, respectively. All shows after 10 p.m. are 21 and older. September and October will be rocking months for Murphy’s of Boone. The Kings of Belmont come to town on Friday, Sept. 26, and will be followed by Imperial Blend on Saturday, Sept. 27. The Southern Belles will ring in October at Murphy’s will a show on Oct. 10. Sumilan will follow on Saturday, Oct. 11. Hickory Ridge Living History Museum’s Boone Heritage Festival returns Saturday, Oct. 11, bringing not only arts and crafts of yesteryear, but the sounds, as well. With cooler nights beginning to settle in, LINGO will warm things up with a downtown show on Friday, Oct. 17. Austin Mallory Band takes the floor on Saturday, Oct. 18. A more traditional schedule prevails at Town Tavern in Boone. Thursdays are filled with classic rock covers of legendary musician Ed Main from 6 to 9 p.m. There is no cover charge and all ages are welcome. Ever watched a live show and thought,
The Sheets Family Band performs at 2013’s Boone Heritage Festival. The festival, returning Oct. 11, will feature a variety of acts playing old-time and bluegrass. PHOTO BY FRANK RUGGIERO
“Hey, I could do that” or even do it better? Well, here is your chance. Karaoke nights return to Town Tavern on Fridays from 10 p.m. to 2 a.m. Aspiring contestants on “America’s Got Talent” are invited to prove they are the voice of a generation, as Jerry “The Maestro” Parker hosts the event. For more traditional mountain music, check out the border community of Todd, located on N.C. 194 South on the Watauga and Ashe county border. The Todd New River Festival, returning Oct. 11, boasts some of the region’s best bluegrass in the region. In addition, crafts, family activities, moon walk and a rubber ducky race on the New River highlight the afternoon of fall fun in the High Country. For more information, call (800) 4387500.
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AUTUMN TIMES
2014
Farren Hilliard and Remy Martin star in Appalachian State University’s production of ‘Kiss Me, Kate.’ This autumn, Appalachian promises another stage-stopping season of theater. PHOTO BY FRANK RUGGIERO
STAGES OF
AUTUMN Theater in the High Country BY JESSE CAMPBELL AND FRANK RUGGIERO
T
he High Country has its share of drama. Fortunately, most of the action is limited to the limelight and silver screen.
• ASHE CIVIC CENTER The Missoula Children’s Theatre will be the company in residence from Oct. 20 to 25 at the Ashe Civic Center, located on U.S. 221 beneath the Lowe’s Food building. The production will feature 60 Ashe County youth in grades K-12, as they hit the figurative high seas in their production of “Blackbeard the Pirate.” Show times are 3 and 7:30 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 25.
• LEES-MCRAE COLLEGE At Lees-McRae College in Banner Elk, “Cinderella: The Enchanted Tradition” will play out under the bright lights of Hayes Auditorium from Oct. 2 to 5. While this timeless classis is reborn in this particular edition, it retains the Rodgers and Hammerstein’s hallmarks of originality. “I have always loved the music of Rodgers and Hammerstein’s ‘Cinderella,’” said Dr. Michael Hannah, director of “Cinderella” and program coordinator of musical theater, “and I’ve always wanted to direct it. This year, I decided it was time to do it. With the current Broadway production’s popularity, there’s never been a better time to tell this wonderful story. SEE STAGES, PAGE 75
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STAGES FROM PAGE 74 “The characters are familiar but updated to sound a bit more contemporary. As long as the music is still Rodgers and Hammerstein’s fantastic score, with ‘Do I Love You Because You’re Beautiful?,’ ‘In My Own Little Corner,’ ‘Impossible’ and ‘Ten Minutes Ago,’ it’s always going to be a wonderful evening of family entertainment.” Comedy of the dark variety is also on tap at Hayes Auditorium this fall. “Reckless,” directed by David Craven, will be shown at LMC at 7:30 p.m. Nov. 20 to 22 and at 2 p.m. Nov. 23. The story is focused on harrowing account of a woman who has just learned her husband has hired a hitman to kill her and that she must flee for her life. She later meets up with two unlikely cohorts before wining $100,000 on a game show and beginning a series of even more escapades. “‘Reckless’ can be very moving for anyone who fought to find hope after being deceived, betrayed or abandoned,” said David Craven, director of “Reckless” and program coordinator of LMC Performing Arts Studies. “I am thrilled to get to share a play with such a scope of emotions, plot twists and salvation with the actors who will breathe life into this play, as well as the audiences.” Tickets are $12 for adults and $5 for children. For tickets to any LMC production, call (828) 898-8709.
In/Visible Theatre is a Boone-based professional theater group, presenting original works, such as ‘Kill Will,’ on a regular basis. PHOTO BY FRANK RUGGIERO
to 22 with the Fall Appalachian Dance Ensemble, also at Valborg, with shows at 7:30 p.m. each night. Tickets cost $16 for general admission and $9 for students. For more information, or to purchase tickets, visit http://theatre.appstate.edu.
• PROFESSIONAL THEATER The High Country boasts two professional theater companies in Ensemble Stage and In/Visible Theatre. To check out their respective lineups, visit www.ensemblestage.com and www. invisibletheatrenc.org.
• APPALACHIAN STATE UNIVERSITY Performance arts abound at Appalachian State University, whose Department of Theatre and Dance presents an eclectic season of stage work. “Holmes: The Art of Deduction” runs Oct. 1 to 4 at 7:39 p.m. and Oct. 5 at 2 p.m. All performances take place at Valborg Theatre, located on campus off Howard Street in downtown Boone. Tickets cost $16 for general admission and $9 for students. The North Carolina Dance Festival returns Oct. 23 to 25, with show times at 7:30 p.m. at Valborg. Tickets cost $16 for general admission and $9 for students. The French comedy, “Tartuffe,” takes the Valborg stage at 7:30 p.m. Nov. 5 to 8 and Nov. 12 to 15 and 2 p.m. Nov. 9 and 16. Tickets cost $16 for general admission and $9 for students. Dance leaps back onto stage Nov. 19
• THE MOVIES If live theater feels a little too played out, check out local silver screens for the latest Hollywood blockbusters. Boone Regal Cinema 7, located at 210 New Market Centre in Boone, shows a variety of the latest comedy, drama, horror and even the occasional indie film on a rotating schedule. For more information and show times, call (828) 262-3800, or visit www.regmovies.com. For local film reviews, visit www.mountaintimes.com. Not to be outdone by larger chain cinemas, the Parkway Twin Theater in downtown West Jefferson has two auditoriums that feature some of Hollywood’s most popular films. The theater has recently converted production and display to an all-digital system. For more information call (336) 846-3281.
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Los Lobos will perform Oct. 23 at Appalachian State University’s Schaefer Center for the Performing Arts.
APPALACHIAN’S
PHOTOS SUBMITTED
PERFORMING ARTS SERIES Lineup includes Los Lobos, N.C. Symphony, L.A. Theatre Works and more BY FRANK RUGGIERO
A
ppalachian State University is falling into autumn with its Performing Arts Series. ASU’s Office of Arts & Cultural Programs has announced the initial lineup for the 2014-15 series, featuring performances from the N.C. Symphony and Appalachian Symphony (Oct. 7), Los Lobos (Oct. 23), L.A. Theatre Works (Nov.11), the Broadway tour of “Rain: A Tribute to The Beatles” (March 4, 2015) and the Koresh Dance Company (April 17, 2015). Megan Stage, the office’s marketing and public relations manager, admitted the lineup seems somewhat slim — and for good reason. “We have our staples … but we’re looking to do more of a continuous booking this year, realizing that some
of the more popular artists aren’t ready to book a show for April 2015 yet, even though we are. We don’t want to miss out on any opportunity to bring an artist to the area for our community and campus, so we decided to keep the booking lines open, keep talking to the agents and looking at artists for tour schedules and just adding on a date if we find a good fit.” The university is also reaching out to the community at large. “In telling people that we’re continuously booking, it’s opened up communication a lot more,” Stage said. “People are sending us ideas, telling us about different bands they heard of or are up and coming, or other popular artists who are touring during the year.” People are invited to share their suggestions online at http://pas.appstate.edu and through social media.
“We do get a lot of ideas (submitted), and a lot of the series gets birthed that way,” Stage said, “because of the feedback we received from our audience members.”
THE LINEUP (SO FAR) A primary focus of the Performing Arts Series is tying each performance to a curricular activity, be it a master class, question-and-answer session or artist residency — programs that engage both the campus and off-campus communities, Stage said. For instance, the N.C. Symphony will partner with the Appalachian Symphony Orchestra, offering students from ASU’s Hayes School of Music the opportunity to study and perform with professional musicians. The concert takes place Tuesday, Oct. 7. SEE ARTS, PAGE 77
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The N.C. Symphony Orchestra, featuring conductor David Glover, will open the 2014-15 Performing Arts Series with a performance Oct. 7, featuring the Appalachian Symohony Orchestra.
ARTS
2014-15 PERFORMING ARTS SERIES SCHEDULE
FROM PAGE 76 On Oct. 23, Los Lobos will bring their Grammy-winning brand of rock, folk, country, rhythm and blues and traditional Mexican music to the Schaefer Center. “That concert is going to be really fun, kind of putting a popular touch on the series,” Stage said. “They’re a really fun band to bring in and round out the series.” On Nov. 11, L.A. Theatre Works will present a staged radio drama adaptation of John Ball’s classic novel, “In the Heat of the Night,” on which the Oscar-winning film and subsequent TV series were based. Stage said the troupe will also perform the play for area schools, as part of the university’s APPlause! program, which welcomes students to a special performance at an affordable price. “They’re really an incredible company to work with, and they do a lot of outreach, as well, with our theater students,” Stage said. On March 4, 2015, the PAS forecasts “Rain: A Tribute to The Beatles,” as part of the Broadway production’s
• • • • • •
Oct. 7: North Carolina Symphony with the Appalachian Symphony Oct. 23: Los Lobos Nov. 11: L.A. Theatre Works: ‘In the Heat of the Night’ March 4: Broadway tour of ‘Rain: A Tribute to The Beatles’ April 17: Koresh Dance Company Additional events to be announced
current tour. “We’re pumped about this, because the renovation of the Schaefer Center (formerly Farthing Auditorium) means we’re able to bring in some larger scale shows,” Stage said. And “Rain” fits the bill. “It’s gotten incredible reviews, and a lot of people are saying it’s like reliving The Beatles,” Stage said. “These are professional actors who have studied this iconic
band forever, and they’re just incredible. They don’t just look like them; they sound like them and embody the essence of them completely.” Although Koresh Dance Company will take the stage April 17, Stage anticipates the group will also enjoy a residency at the university, working personally with students prior to the show. “We were part of a statewide dance initiative, and last year, we brought River North Dance Chicago, and they were here for a week on campus, working with students and deepening that connection,” she said. “When people came to their performance, they felt they had this connection with the dancers. Koresh Dance Company will do something similar.” The remainder of the lineup is yet to be determined, although Stage promised updates via PAS social media and online at http://pas.appstate.edu.
TICKETS Tickets to the 2014-15 Performing Arts Series are currently on sale. To purchase them, or for more information, call (800) 841-2787, or visit http://pas.appstate. edu.
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TOGETHER WE RISE Appalachian State University Football BY STEVE BEHR
A
ppalachian State’s football team plays its first season in the Sun Belt Conference this fall. The Mountaineers, members of the Southern Conference since 1971, made the switch to the Sun Belt in 2013, and officially joined the new conference in July 2014. It means that instead of playing in the Football Championship Subdivision, formally known at Division I-AA, the Mountaineers play in the Football Bowl Subdivision, which used to be known as Division I-A. It means Appalachian State will have 85 players on scholarship instead of 63, the limit in the FCS. It also means that the Mountaineers’ schedule will be filled with FBS teams, who also have 85 players on scholarship. Appalachian State got off to a rocky start in 2014 with a 52-14 loss at Michigan on Aug. 30. The Mountaineers, who shocked the college football world with a 34-32 upset in 2007, fell behind Michigan 49-7 in 2014. Appalachian State faced a completely different situation the following week. The Mountaineers hosted Campbell, a team that plays in the Frontier League, a league that does not allow football scholarships. Appalachian State cruised to a 66-0 victory after taking a 45-0 halftime lead. The Mountaineers had a bye the previous week, but return to the field on the road at Southern Mississippi. It’s the first of two games, both on the road, in six days for the Mountaineers. Appalachian State plays at Georgia Southern on Sept. 25 in the first Sun Belt Conference game for both teams. Georgia Southern also made the jump to the Sun Belt from the Southern Conference in 2014. Appalachian State hosts South Alabama in the Mountaineers’ first home Sun Belt game. It is also the first time an FBS team has ever played in Kidd Brewer Stadium since the Division I-AA subdivision was created in 1978. Appalachian State will also honor former coach Jerry
Appalachian State receiver Simms McElfresh scores a touchdown against Michigan in the first game of the season. PHOTO BY STEVE BEHR
Moore before and during that game on Oct. 4. Moore coached the Mountaineers for 24 years, three that ended with Appalachian State winning the Division I-AA national championship (2005-07). Moore also coached the Mountaineers to their 2007 win over Michigan. Liberty, the final FCS game on the schedule, visits
Kidd Brewer Stadium on Oct. 11. Appalachian State hosts Sun Belt opponents Georgia State (Nov. 1), Louisiana-Monroe (Nov. 8), and Idaho (Nov. 29). Appalachian State has Sun Belt road game at Troy (Oct. 18), at 2013 Sun Belt co-champion Arkansas State (Nov. 15) and at 2013 Sun Belt co-champion LouisianaLafayette on Nov. 22.
APPALACHIAN STATE 2014 FOOTBALL SCHEDULE Aug. 30 Sept. 6 Sept. 20 Sept. 25
at Michigan CAMPBELL at Southern Miss. at Georgia Southern
L. 14-52 W. 66-0 7 p.m. 7:30 p.m.
Oct. 4 Oct. 11 Oct. 18 Nov. 1
SOUTH ALABAMA LIBERTY at Troy GEORGIA STATE
TBA TBA TBA TBA
Nov. 8 Nov. 15 Nov. 22 Nov. 29
LOUISIANA-MONROE at Arkansas State at Louisnana-Lafayette IDAHO
TBA TBA TBA TBA
2014
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SHOPPING FOR AUTUMN
T
reat yourself! You’re on vacation, after all, and the High Country has some of the most eclectic shopping this side of the Blue Ridge. From one-of-a-kind, local retailers to well-known national brands, there’s a bargain waiting for just about anyone.
• BOONE Shopping in downtown Boone isn’t just about the merchandise. It’s about the experience, Downtown Boone Development Association director Pilar Fotta said. “I think sometimes people forget how many wonderful shops we have downtown and all the great things you can find downtown,” she said. “This is our home, and downtown Boone is the heart of our home.” And they’ve got that cheery, Norman Rockwell-ian spirit you expect in a sleepy mountain town. Retailers, Boone Area Chamber of Commerce president Dan Meyer said, depend on that magic enticing holiday shoppers. With a variety of stores offering everything from apparel to that perfect bottle of balsamic vinaigrette, SEE SHOPPING, PAGE 82
Downtown Boone is a shopper’s paradise, with local businesses offering a variety of unique clothing, art, souviners and more. PHOTO BY FRANK RUGGIERO
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• BANNER ELK
SHOPPING FROM PAGE 81 downtown Boone is the perfect partner for shopping in any season, so come with an empty car trunk. It won’t be empty for long. For a list and map of downtown Boone retailers, flip to pages 20 and 21.
• BOONE MALL The Boone Mall, located at 1180 Blowing Rock Road, offers a bounty of indoor shopping, including big name stores and local landmarks alike.
• BLOWING ROCK Blowing Rock offers a variety of unique shopping experiences downtown, as well as at the Tanger Shoppes on the Parkway, featuring 30 brand name and designer outlet stores. For more information on Blowing Rock shopping experiences, including a complete and comprehensive listing of stores, visit www.blowingrock. com, or flip to pages 38 and 39 for a map and some Blowing Rock shopping highlights.
From clothing and souvenirs to produce and birding supplies, the Avery County town of Banner Elk features an eclectic variety of shopping, nearly as unique as its name. For a map and list of some Banner Elk highlights, turn to page 67.
• WEST JEFFERSON All along West Jefferson’s colorful Jefferson Avenue, customers will find an array of gifts and seasonal wares. From antiques, collectibles and handbrushed paintings to a multitude of styles of clothing and jewelry, downtown West Jefferson will satisfy any taste not only during autumn, but throughout the year. For a list of local merchants and a map of businesses, along with a calendar of events, contact the West Jefferson Business Association or the Ashe Chamber of Commerce at (336) 846-9550 or www.ashechamber.com. Also, don’t forget to visit the local shops and eateries in the neighboring townships of Jefferson and Lansing, which are home to some of the Ashe County’s best-kept secrets for shopping and dining out.
More to LOVE at Libby's!!! We've expanded our LOOK.
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Monday-Friday 9:30 a.m. - 6 p.m. Saturday 9:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. Closed on Sunday
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AUTUMN TIMES
GENERALLY SPEAKING • MAST GENERAL STORE The Mast General Store is the granddaddy of regional general stores, having opened the door in its Valle Crucis location in 1883, opened by Henry Taylor and eventually co-owned by W.W. Mast. It developed a reputation for living up to the “general” in its name, carrying everything a family might need, from “cradles to caskets.” But besides the goods, the store served as community gathering place, with a post office, wood stove, a porch suitable for checkers or politics, and sometimes both. Today the store is the flagship for a family of general stores owned by John and Faye Cooper in the mountains, including the Old Boone Mercantile downtown location and the Annex in Valle Crucis, famous for its “candy barrel.” The stores now contain an array of clothing, outdoor gear, footwear, food, books, maps, caps, gloves, decorative items and more. Hours at the main Mast General Store on Broadstone Road in Valle Crucis are 7 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. Monday through Saturday and noon to 6 p.m. on Sunday. For more information, call (828) 963-6511. Downtown Boone store hours are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Saturday and 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Sunday. For more information, call (828) 262-0000.
• FRED’S GENERAL MERCANTILE
Valle Crucis is home to the original Mast General Store, the history of which is as unique as its merchandise. FILE PHOTO
Fred’s General Mercantile has just about everything you need, and if you can’t find it there, you might ask yourself if you really need it. Fred and Margie Pfohl launched the store in 1979 on Beech Mountain, living above the retail space for many years. That helped them maintain a “family” atmosphere and business. The main store consists of a grocery store, hardware store and clothing store. Its fully stocked grocery store carries everything from canned goods to gourmet foods, and Fred Pfohl stays price-conscious because he jokes that he originally started the store as a protest over a high-priced can of tuna fish. The store carries fresh fruits and vegetables, meat and poultry, home- Fred’s General Mercantile has just about everything you need, and if made breads and a plethora of beers you can’t find it there, you might and wines, as well as plenty of snack ask yourself if you really need it. foods. FILE PHOTO The hardware section carries tools, supplies, home-improvement goods, tire chains, nuts and bolts, and plenty of fix-it supplies. The clothing store has hundreds of T-shirts, sweatshirts and brand-name clothing.
The Backside Deli features sandwiches, soups, desserts, salad, pizza, ice cream, cookies, and beer and wine, and is a cozy place to get warm on those snowy days. Usual hours are 7:30 a.m. to 10 p.m., although the store stays open half an hour later when the ski slopes are open. Through the addition of a ski shop, Fred’s General Mercantile has become a favorite landmark of Beech Mountain.
• THE OLD HAMPTON STORE The Old Hampton Store in Linville was built in 1921 as a stop on the Tweetsie Railroad. The store features cornmeal ground from an on-site grist mill, has an adjacent art gallery, and features guest musicians. The store also features food and antiques. For more information. call (828) 733-5213.
SEE GENERAL, PAGE 84
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High Country General Stores
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The Downtown Boone Art Crawl, held the first Friday of every month, sees area galleries, businesses and restaurants opening their doors in celebration of art and community. PHOTOS BY FRANK RUGGIERO
CRAWLING WITH ART Art crawls abound in the High Country
• DOWNTOWN BOONE ART CRAWL The Downtown Boone Art Crawl brings food, music and culture to King Street this fall. Held on the first Friday of every month, the art crawl is downtown’s chance to show off its greatest asset: culture. With wine, hearty appetizers and music fueling your trek, you’ll experience firsthand the kismet that happens when local art and local business collide. With a run of eclectic galleries and studios downtown (not to mention Appalachian State University’s Turchin Center for the Visual Arts), it’s no surprise that tourists from all over hit Boone for an aesthetic overdose. After all, there’s just something about the High Country that does more than attract tourists, it attracts artists, and, on the first Friday of every month, downtown unites to celebrate. You’ll see retail businesses showcasing handcrafted jewelry and local paintings, restaurants celebrating with bar specials and music and galleries, like the Jones House, showing off the area’s finest. To crawl, check out businesses on King Street, Depot Street and Howard Street. Look for art crawl flags at area businesses, businesses like Doe Ridge Pottery, Art of Oil, Hands Gallery and Anna Banana’s. The Downtown Boone Art Crawl lasts from 5 p.m. to
2 a.m., though shops typically close at 7:30 p.m.
• SECOND SATURDAY ARTS CELEBRATION Every second Saturday of the month, the Watauga County Arts Council invites one and all to the Blue Ridge ArtSpace for its Second Saturday Arts Celebration. Celebrations include exhibition openings, live music and interactive arts demonstrations and workshops. Looking for a gift for that special someone? The arts council’s gift shop boasts a wide assortment of art and items from local artisans. The Blue Ridge ArtSpace is located at 377 Shadowline Drive in Boone. For more information, visit www. watauga-arts.org, or call (828) 264-1789.
Todd General Store was built in 1914. FILE PHOTO
GENERAL FROM PAGE 83
• TODD GENERAL STORE • AVERY TOUR DE ART Avery County has its own trek. Entitled “Tour de Art,” it’s an opportunity for area residents and visitors to check out art by local artists. The tour takes participants along and around the byways of Avery and western Watauga counties. You’ll get to visit studios and galleries where the Avery environment inspires its artists. The Tour de Art is a monthly event, held every fourth SEE CRAWLING, PAGE 85
The Todd General Store is open through Christmas in the historic Todd community. It’s open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Thursday, Sunday from noon to 5 p.m., and it stays open late Friday evenings for supper and traditional music. The store was built in 1914 and features a deli, collectibles, antiques, groceries, rustic furniture and several rooms’ worth of exploration. It’s also on the National Register of Historic Places. For more information, call (336) 877-1067.
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To crawl, check out businesses on King, Depot and Howard streets in downtown Boone.
CRAWLING FROM PAGE 84 Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., June through November, where artists open their studios to the public and galleries hold special art events. Maps can be picked up at each location on the tour, with participating galleries including Alta Vista Gallery, Carlton Gallery, Kevin Beck Studio, Linville River Pottery with Patti Conner Greene, Sally Nooney Studio and Gallery, Art Purveyors and the tour’s newest participant, Studio 140, featuring the work of Kent Paulette and David Banega.
• WEST JEFFERSON GALLERY CRAWL The Friday night Gallery Crawl in downtown West Jefferson is the place to be for cool weather, friendly people and an abundance of artistic talent. The Ashe County Arts Council will again sponsor Gallery Crawl from 5 to 8 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 10. Crawlers are invited to stroll the streets, visit the galler-
ies, view the downtown murals and take advantage of the downtown restaurants. Numerous galleries will be open after hours to showcase the latest exciting artwork of talented local and regional artists. Participating galleries include: Acorn Gallery, Ashe Arts Center, Ashe Custom Framing and Gallery, Backstreet Beads, Bohemia Gallery, Broomfields Gallery, Catch-Light Gallery, Everything Has a Story, Florence Thomas Art School, French’s Art Gallery, Originals Only Gallery, Quilt Square Girls, Ripples Gallery, R.T. Morgan Art Gallery, Shoemaker Studio and The Artists’ Theatre. Genres include photography, paintings, pottery, stained glass, quilts, fiber arts, furniture, toys, jewelry, wood turned art and more. Many artists greet visitors and some even offer up demonstrations on their craft. Visit www.ashecountyarts.org for a crawl map and contact information about the galleries. For more information, call (336) 8462787.
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FINDING FRESCO JEWELS in the High Country
T
he High Country is known for its scenic beauty and amid the majestic mountains of Appalachia, visitors will find artistic murals, sculptures and other masterpieces, which accentuate the area’s appeal. One such type of art is the frescoes which can be found in Ashe, Avery and Wilkes counties. The four frescoes which can be found in the area were created by world-famous fresco artist Benjamin F. Long IV and are among the nine frescoes found along the Benjamin Long Fresco Trail in the Blue Ridge National Heritage Area. Individuals visiting the area won’t be disappointed with the artistic gems or the scenic drive to get to any of the frescoes. Four of the frescoes are located in Ashe County. St. Mary’s Episcopal Church in West Jefferson houses three frescoes, includ-
ing “Mary Great with Child,” “John the Baptist” and “Mystery of Faith.” St. Mary’s is located at 400 Beaver Creek School Road in West Jefferson. “The Last Supper” fresco can be found at Holy Trinity Episcopal Church, sisterchurch to St. Mary’s, in Glendale Springs. It adorns the entire front wall of the sanctuary. Holy Trinity is located at 120 Glendale School Road in Glendale Springs. In Avery County, the Crossnore School features “Suffer the Little Children,” painted in the E.H. Sloop Chapel. The fresco features children who have lived at Crossnore with the Christian Bible verse, Mark 10:14. Daily viewings are available from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. The Crossnore School is located at 100 DAR Drive in Crossnore. It is a nonprofit SEE FRESCO, PAGE 87
Visitors to Holy Trinity Episcopal Church can take a seat in one of the old pews and flip through the hymnals as they take in the view of Ben Long’s ‘The Last Supper’ fresco. FILE PHOTOS
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FRESCO FROM PAGE 86 children’s home and school. For more information about the school or the frescoes, call (828) 733-4305, or visit www. crossnoreschool.org. Frescoes of “St. Paul’s Conversion” and “St. Paul Writing His Epistles” adorn St. Paul’s Episcopal Church in Wilkesboro. The works of art by Long can be found in the commons area. St. Paul’s is located at 200 W. Cowles St. in Wilkesboro. The frescoes in the High Country draw thousands of visitors to the area each year, whether for religious purposes or just to enjoy Long’s creations. More of Long’s frescoes can be found in Buncombe, Burke, Iredell and Mecklenburg counties in North Carolina. The artist was born in Texas, but grew up in Statesville. He attended the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and the Art Students’ League in New York. After serving in the military, Long studied under Pietro Annigoni in Italy for almost eight years.
HighCountryNC.com ‘The Mystery of Faith’ fresco by Ben Long is featured on the wall of St. Mary’s Episcopal Church in West Jefferson. The church is also home to two other frescoes by Long.
He painted several frescoes in Italy, and, since 1978, Long has finished 13 frescoes in North Carolina. To see some of Long’s other works, visit www.BenLongFineArt.com.
live the adventure Find your adventure
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boondocks brewing tap room & restaurant 108 s. jefferson ave, west jefferson, nc 28694 336-246-5222 www.boondocksbrew.com
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828.963.8228 • www.eatcrownc.com Dinner Served on Thursdays -- Twice a Month Reservations Recommended Fabulous British Chef/Owner
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Come enjoy your breakfast, lunch & dinner favorites at great prices.
Caterings, specialty cakes and breads, desserts Call and let us help with your next event!
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full service restaurant custom catering banquet services 2 fully stocked bars brewery tours & special events monthly wine & beer pairings over 30 craft beers on tap using local ingredients vegetarian & gluten free options available 2013
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Unique and varied menu offerings that you’ll want to experience again and again!
The Red Onion Dine in the cool mountain air, rain or shine, on our covered outdoor patio! 227 Hardin Street, Boone, NC 28607
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BURGERS SANDWICHES PIZZA SALADS PASTA OUTDOOR SEATING - PET FRIENDLY
STEAKS
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For FREE food offers and event updates text CFABOONE to 411247
Follow us on at Chick-fil-A of Boone ‘Balance at the Water’s Edge’ by Andrew Braitman at Carlton Gallery.
THE HIGH COUNTRY’S Art Galleries
A
rt buyers and enthusiasts will find that the High Country’s art galleries have much to offer. Home to almost countless venues that host a variety of styles and mediums, the High Country has a gallery for just about every artistic disposition.
Fine Art
For two decades, Blowing Rock Frameworks & Gallery has provided its clientele with custom framing and artwork. During its 20 years, owner Tim Miller has assembled a gallery featuring more than 25 of the most accomplished artists in the Southeast, including the renowned Elliott Daingerfield. According to Miller, a stroll through Blowing Rock Frameworks is as pleasing
to the first-time visitor as it is to seasoned collectors. Carlton Gallery in Banner Elk is one of the most established fine art galleries in North Carolina. Representing more than 200 local, regional and national artisans, the gallery is filled with art in all mediums, including paintings, glass, sculpture, wood, clay, wearable art and jewelry. The gallery is located 10 miles south of Boone and seven miles north of Linville on N.C. 105 in the Grandfather Mountain community. For more information, call (828) 963-4288, or visit www. carltongallery.com. Originals Only Gallery in West Jefferson features original art by SEE GALLERIES, PAGE 92
828-264-4660 2082 Blowing Rock Rd Boone, NC 28607 www.cfarestaurant.com/boone/home
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2014
GALLERIES FROM PAGE 91 Joan Stiles Bell and Lenore De Pree, handcrafted wood furniture by Tom Sternal and pottery by David and Sherry Hoffman. Also in West Jefferson, The Artists’ Theatre is housed in a historic building that was formerly a Ford auto dealership in the 1920s, a movie theater in the ’30s and ’40s, a used furniture store in the ’50s, ’60s, ’70s and ’80s, and an office in the ’90s. Offerings include fine art, antiques and conversation pieces aplenty.
Pottery
Bolick Pottery and Traditions Pottery, located in the Martin House on Main Street in downtown Blowing Rock, features the work of the Bolick and Calhoun families, which can trace their crafts back several generations to the Seagrove School of potters in eastern North Carolina. Lula Owens Bolick and her husband, Glenn, and Janet Calhoun and her husband, Michael, continue a pottery tradition that goes back in the family for nearly 200 years.
Jewelry
With more than 30 years of experience, Old World Galleries owners Charlie and Joy Travis value the relationship with each client, striving to ensure that every transaction provides true customer satisfaction. Old World specializes in fine jewelry in platinum, gold, sterling silver, precious and semi-precious gemstones, as well as custom-designed jewelry for budgetminded customers. The gallery also buys, sells and appraises antique and estate jewelry, including diamonds and precious gems, while offering a full line of jewelry repair, cleaning, evaluation and more.
Gallery Listings Banner Elk
‘Mountain Farm No. 3’ by Joseph Cave at The Art Cellar Gallery in Banner Elk
www.artpurveyors.com
Blowing Rock Frameworks & Gallery
Blue Ridge ArtSpace
Carlton Gallery
7935 Valley Blvd. (828) 295-0041 www.blowingrockgalleries.com
377 Shadowline Drive (828) 264-1789 www.watauga-arts.org
Bolick Pottery & Traditions Pottery
Doe Ridge Pottery
The Martin House 1116 Main St. (828) 295-6128 www.traditionspottery.com
585-D W. King St. (828) 264-1127 www.doeridgepottery.homestead.com
10360 N.C. 105 South (828) 963-4288 www.carltongallery.com
Clark Gallery 393 Shawneehaw Ave. (828) 898-2095 www.clarkgallerync.com
Hands Gallery Morning Star Gallery
Maggie Black Pottery 1225 N.C. 105 (828) 773-2459 www.maggieblackpottery.com
257 Sunset Dr. (828) 295-6991 www.morningstargalleryusa.com
Jones House Community Center Rock Galleries of Fine Art
Sally Nooney Gallery 7137 N.C.194 South (828) 963-7347 www.sallynooney.com
1153 Main St. (828) 295-9752 www.thomaskinkadeasheville.com/ blowingrock
The Art Cellar 920 Shawneehaw Ave. (828) 898-5175 www.artcellaronline.com
Art Purveyors World HQ 112 Aldridge Park (828) 963-7246
Blowing Rock
543 W. King St. (828) 262-1970 www.handsgallery.org
Boone
604 W. King St. (828) 262-4576 www.joneshousecommunitycenter.org
Kevin Beck Studio 1590 Shull’s Mill Road (828) 963-1181 www.kevinbeck.com
Art & Artifacts
ArtWalk
Modern Rustic
159 Sunset Drive (828) 414-9402 www.artandartifactsbr.com
611 W. King St. (828) 264-9998 www.artwalkboone.com
182 Howard St. SEE GALLERIES, PAGE 93
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2014
GALLERIES FROM PAGE 92
Shed Studios 555 W. King St.
Turchin Center for the Visual Arts 423 W. King St. Boone, N.C. 28607 (828) 262-3017 www.tcva.org
Linville & Newland
Blowing Rock Frameworks & Gallery features work from more than 25 of the most accomplished artists in the Southeast.
87 Ruffin Street Gallery 87 Ruffin St., Linville (828) 733-6449
www.bohemianc.com
Broomfields Gallery Pam Brewer Studio 41 Redbird Lane, Newland (828) 733-5755 www.pambrewer.com
414 E. 2nd St. (336) 846-4141 www.broomfieldsgallery.com
Ripples Gallery
Pineola, Crossnore & Linville Falls
101 N. Jefferson Ave. (336) 219-0089 www.claytonproctor.com
Linville River Pottery
R.T. Morgan Art Gallery & Glass by Camille
2180 Goose Hollow Road, Pineola (828) 387-1944 www.linvilleriverpottery.com
120 N. Jefferson Ave. (336) 246-3328 www.rtmorganartgallery.com
Crossnore Fine Arts Gallery
The Artists’ Theatre
The Crossnore School 205 Johnson Lane (828) 733-3144 www.crossnoregallery.org
8 E. Main St. (336) 846-3355 www.theartiststheatre.com
Ashe Custom Framing & Gallery Anvil Arts Studio 9600 Linville Highway, Linville Falls (828) 765-6226 www.studiosculpture.com
105 S. Jefferson Ave. (336) 846-2218 www.ashecustomframing.com
Originals Only
West Jefferson
3-B N. Jefferson Ave. (336) 846-1636 www.originalsonlygallery.com
Ashe Arts Center Gallery 303 School Ave. (336) 846-2787 www.ashecountyarts.org
Valle Crucis Alta Vista
Acorn Gallery 103 Long St. (336) 246-3388 www.acorngallery.com
2839 Broadstone Road (828) 963-5247 www.altavistagallery.com
Rivercross Market Bohemia 106 N. Jefferson Ave. (336) 846-1498
3595 N.C. 194 (828) 963-8623 www.rivercrossmarket.com
Pottery by Nathan Fields at Doe Ridge Pottery in downtown Boone PHOTO SUBMITTED
PAGE 93
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2014
ARTS ARE ALIVE IN ASHE BY JESSE CAMPBELL
A
rt councils and civic centers are more than just a cultural hub in the High Country. These cherished public institutions are also a community gathering place, where townspeople and visitors can come together to share ideas, artistic visions or perhaps even sip warm apple cider, while listening to emerging wordsmiths read lines of poetry. With the changing of the leaves, the art education centers can also offer a visual spectacular in just as many brilliant colors as Mother Nature’s display. In addition to plays, poetry readings and musical showcases, the High Country’s art councils also take the lead in offering classes pertaining to a wide array of mediums. From painting, drawing and sculpting to basket weaving and making art out of everyday household items, the arts councils meet a cultural need that traditional schools and colleges can not solely meet. In Ashe County, the arts council’s typical busy summer schedule doesn’t relent with the changing of the seasons. On Sept. 27, the Ashe Arts Center will host the Art on the Mountain showcase. From 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., artistic displays on pottery, weaving, crafts, literature, fibers, jewelry, painting, photography and much more will show art enthusiasts the finer points of creating. October will be Gallery Month in downtown West Jefferson. The Oct. 10 Gallery Crawl will feature 16 galleries and street musicians. An opening reception for the art council’s “Best of the Blue Ridge” juried art competition, and Cora Mae Pipkin will jury the exhibition. An autumn chill will be in the air on Nov. 15 at the West Jefferson United Methodist Church during Coffee House Live at 7:30 p.m. Featured performers will include Scott Pope, Henry Doss, Maureen Klinedinst,
Local art councils will host or sponsor a variety of arts and craft exhibitions and festivals this fall in the High Country. PHOTO BY JESSE CAMPBELL
Becky Stragand, Jonah Horton and Jacob Greer. New to this year’s fall lineup is Madrigal Feasts, which features two nights of music, merriment, theater and a great meal. Madrigal feasts date back to the Middle Ages, and the tradition continues in Ashe County with choral music, solos, small ensembles, instrumentalists, a court jester and more surprises. The dinners
will be held at 6 p.m. on Friday and Saturday, Nov. 21 and Nov. 22, respectively. “As you can see, we’ve got a lot going on, and I’ve just scratched the surface,” said Jane Lonon, executive director of ACAC. For more information on the ACAC, call (336) 8462787.
YOUR AUTUMN TIMES CALENDAR SEPT. 23
GOLF: The 23rd annual Boone Area Chamber of Commerce Last Chance Gold Tournament will be held Sept. 23 at the Linville Ridge Country Club. Registration begins at 8:30 a.m.; the shotgun start is at 10 a.m. Entry fee per player is $200 and includes green fees, cart, range balls, two mulligans, lunch, two beverage tickets and
pub grub and more. For more information, contact Barbara Armstrong at barbara. armstrong@boonechamber.com, call (828) 264-2225 or visit www.boonechamber.com.
SEPT. 25 SCHOLAR: Henry Giroux, a noted scholar, educational theorist and public in-
tellectual, will speak at the Schaefer Center for the Performing Arts on the Appalachian State University campus at 7 p.m. Sept. 25. STORYTELLING: Storytelling will take place at the Riverside Restaurant, 7181 Railroad Grade Road, Todd, at 6:30 p.m. with the following: Sept. 25, ReVonda Crow.
MUSIC: The Foxfire with Andy Ferrell and Oncoming Train will perform at 9 p.m. Sept. 25 at Legends on the Appalachian State University campus. Admission is $5 in advance and $7 at the door. For more information, visit www.community.appstate.edu.
SEE CALENDAR, PAGE 95
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CALENDAR FROM PAGE 94
SEPT. 26
GHOST TRAIN: Tweetsie Railroad’s annual Ghost Train Halloween Festival will be held from 7:30 p.m. to 11 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays, Sept. 26-Nov. 1. Visit the Haunted House or Freaky Forest, 3-D Maze, the Black Hole, rides, Halloween shows and trick-or-treating. Take a chilling journey into the night on the Ghost Train — if you dare. Tickets are now on sale. For more information, call (800) 526-5740.
SEPT. 27 CRUISE-IN: A cruisein will take place from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. Sept. 27 in downtown Jefferson. There will be classic and custom cars, truck and motorcyles, as well as a 50/50 raffle, vendors, food, DJ and other activities. For more information, call (336) 877-0755.
OCTOBERFEST: The second annual German Oktobertest with a beer garden, German and American food and drinks and the musical group High Country Bavarians will be held from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sept. 27 in downtown Jefferson. Admission is free. Pets need to be on a leash. For more information, email mayelegacy@ gmail.com. REUNION: The Ashe Central High School Class of 1994 will hold its 20-year reunion from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. Sept. 27 at the Ashe County Park at the Lakeview Shelter. Those attending should bring their own picnic lunch.
OCT. 1
MUSIC: Jonas Sees in Color will perform at 8 p.m. Oct. 1 at Legends on the Appalachian State University Campus. Admission is $7 for the public. For more information, visit www.community.appstate.edu.
OCT. 2
THEATER: “Cinderella — The Enchanted Edition” will be performed at 7:30 p.m. Oct. 2-4 and at 2 p.m. Oct. 5 at Hayes Auditorium on the Lees McRae College campus in Banner Elk. Admission. For more information, visit www.lmc.edu/ calendar/. WRITERS: Author George Ella Lyon
will speak as part of the Hughlene Bostian Frank Visiting Writer Series Oct. 2 at Appalachian State University. A reception in Lyon’s honor will be held in the Price Lake Room from 6 p.m. to 7:15 p.m., followed by a reading by Lyons at 7:30 p.m. in the Table Rock Room on campus. For more information, visit www.community.appstate.edu. MUSIC: An Evening with Keller Williams will take place beginning at 9 p.m. Oct. 2 at Legends on the Appalachian State University campus. Tickets are students for $12 in advance; $16 at the door. For more information, visit www.community. appstate.edu.
OCT. 3 APPLE JAM: The 13th annual Brushy Mountain Apple Jam will be held from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Oct. 3. Bring your chair and help kick off the 37th annual Brushy Mountain Apple Festival, sponsored by the Brushy Mountain Ruritan Club. It will be held at the Brushy Mountain Apple Festival Park, at the corner of 10th and Main streets in downtown North Wilkesboro. For more information, www.applefestival. net. APPLE FESTIVAL: The 37th annual Brushy Mountain Apple Festival will be held from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Oct. 4 in downtown Wilkesboro. There will be crafts, food and entertainment throughout the day. For more information, visit www.AppleFestival.net. HAUNTED HOUSE: A Lansing Haunted House featuring 13 nights of horror will be held every Friday and Saturday night in October in the old rock-faced elementary school. There will be 20-plus rooms “filled with terror.” Admission is $5. A portion of the proceeds will go to the Lansing American Legion and to the restoration of the historic school building. For more information, call (336) 977-0944 or visit www.lansinghaundedhouse.info.
show of the season will be held Oct. 4. ART: The fourth annual Jay Winston Art Show and Fundraiser will be held at the Rustic Gallery Oct. 4 in downtown Blowing Rock. Call (828) 295-9033 for more information. A collection of Jay Winston’s contemporary paintings will be on display. All the proceeds of the show will go to Mountain Alliance, to continue providing leadership and adventure opportunities to Watauga County high school youth. Refreshments (wine and light snacks) will be served. Call for time. A KID’S OZ ADVENTURE: A Munchkinland Family Adventure will be held Oct. 4 at the Buckeye Recreation Center at Beech Mountain. Inspired by the “Autumn at Oz” event held for the past 20 years on Beech, Munchkinland will be held indoors at the town recreation center and concentrate on activities and games for children 8 and younger. The cost is $10 a person; children youger than 2 are admitted free. Guests must RSVP. Tickets are limited and the recreation department anticipates selling out all four sessions. Parking is available on-site and the event is stroller and wheelchair accessible. For tickets and more information, call (828) 387-3003 or visit www.becchrecreation.org.
OCT. 5 MUSIC: A wind ensemble concert will be held from 3 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. Oct. 5 at the Schaefer Center for the Performing Arts on the Appalachian State University campus. Admission is free.
OCT. 7 CONCERT: The North Carolina Symphony joined by the Appalachian Symphony Orchestra will perform at 8 p.m. Oct. 7 at the Schaefer Center for the Performing Arts on the Appalachian State University campus. Admission charged. For more information, visit http://theschaefercenter. org/events.
OCT. 4
OCT. 10
ART IN THE PARK: Art in the Park in Blowing Rock is an outdoor juried art and craft show featuring 90 artists. Each artist invites you to stop by his or her tent and check out their work. Enjoy pottery, fiber, glass, paintings, drawings, sculpture, fine crafts, and more. Prices for items range from $5 to $500 Admission is free. The last
CONCERT: Mandy Barnett will perform at The Walker Center, located on the campus of Wilkes Community College 1328 S. Collegiate Dr., Wilkesboro. For more information, visit www.walkercenteronline.org/Events/. Barnett’s style is rooted in classic country and pop crooning. Admission.
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OCT. 11 OKTOBERFEST: The 21st annual Oktoberfest celebration will be held Oct. 11 and 12 at the Sugar Mountain Resort. The weekend features activities from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. Admission is free. More than 40 artisans and craftspeople open their stands at 10 a.m. each day. The children’s activity center, located in the Ski School Play Yard, will keep the young ones entertained each day from noon until 4 p.m. A $7 fee per child per day includes hayrides, a chance to meet Sugar Bear and Sweetie Bear and several air walk stations. From noon until 4 p.m. both days, the Harbour Towne Fest Band will perform. Bavarian cuisine will be available starting at 11 a.m. both days. For more information, call (828) 898-4521 or visit www.skisugar. com/oktoberfest. FRESCOES: The Festival of the Frescoes on Oct. 11 is a traditional country fair on the grounds of the Mission House across the street from the church, located at 120 Glendale School Road, Glendale Springs. It features homemade arts and crafts and baked goods. It’s classic fun for all, as this is reminiscent of a traditional country fair. Admission is free. For more information, call (336) 877-3706 or visit www.churchofthefrescoes.com. GOLF: The Elk Shoals’ 11th annual Camp Classic Golf Tournament will be held beginning at 8 a.m. Oct. 11 at Mountain Aire Golf Club in West Jefferson. For more information, email elkshoals@skybest. com, call (336) 877-4607 or visit www. elkshoals.org. HERITAGE FESTIVAL: The Southern Appalachian Historical Association and the town of Boone will present the Boone Heritage Festival beginning at 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Oct. 11 at the Hickory Ridge Living History Museum. Admission is free. The festival will be held outdoors in the wooded setting of the Hickory Ridge Living History Museum. The Boone Heritage Festival includes musical performances, storytellers, historical demonstrations from the colonial and Revolutionary time period, vendors, regional crafts, children’s activities, food, and a raffle. Hickory Ridge Living History Museum is a nonprofit museum located at 591 Horn in the West Drive, Boone, where eight original log cabins and outbuildings transport the visitor to another time. For SEE CALENDAR, PAGE 96
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CALENDAR FROM PAGE 95 more information, visit http://booneheritagefestical.com.
OCT. 12
JAZZ: The Blowing Rock Jazz Society offers jazz concerts every second Sunday of each month from April through October. Concerts are hosted at the Meadowbrook Inn in Blowing Rock. Call (828) 295-4300 for reservations or plan to arrive early for best seating. On Oct. 12, Melva Houston, vocals, jazz and blues, will perform. All concerts begin at 7 p.m. General admission is $20 for nonmembers, $5 for students. BRJS members are admitted free ($75 individual annual memberships are available, which include admission to all concerts). A pre-set dinner menu is available via reservation. For more information, visit http://brjs.blogspot.com/.
OCT. 14 MUSIC: Phil Woods will be featured in a guest jazz saxophone concert from 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Oct. 14 at the Schafer Center for the Performing Arts on the Appalachian State University campus. Admission. For more information, visit http://theschaefercenter.org/events. MUSIC: Aer with Dizzy Wrights and Njomza will take place beginning at 7 p.m. Oct. 14 at Legends on the Appalachian State University campus. Admission is $10 for students in advance and $15 at the door and $15 for the public. For more information, visit http://www.community. appstate.edu.
OCT. 17 THEATER: The Ashe County Little Theatre will present the production “Wait Until Dark” Oct. 17-19 at the Ashe Civic Center, 962 Mt Jefferson Road, West Jefferson. For more information, visit http:// ashecountyarts.org.
OCT. 18 WOOLLY WORM FESTIVAL: The 36th annual Woolly Worm Festival will be held Oct. 18 and 19 in downtown Banner Elk. Admission is $5 for adults, $2 for children and free for children younger than 5 year olds. Parking is free on a first-come, first served basis, and other parking by
organizations for a minimal fee. No pets are allowed in the festival gates, except woolly worms, of course. Doggie day care is available outside of the gates at the main entrance. It costs $5 to wace your worm. The area PTO will have worms for sale at the festival. Tickets can be purchased online at WoollyWorm.com, The winning woolly worm from the races on Saturday has the honor of predicting the High Country weather and winning a $1,000 cash prize. VALLE COUNTRY FAIR: The 36th annual Valle Country Fair will be held from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Oct. 18 off N.C. 194 in Valle Crucis. Admission is free; with $10 for parking. For more information, visit www.ValleCountryFair.org. All monies raised go to fund High Country organizations, which serve people in need.
OCT. 20 SPEAKER: Timothy DeChristopher speaking on “A Movement with Soul” will take place at 7 p.m. Oct. 20 at the Schaefer Center for the Performing Arts on the Appalachian State University campus. DeChristopher is a climate activist and co-founder of the environmental group Peaceful Uprising. Admission is free.
OCT. 23 MUSIC: Los Lobos will will perform at 8 p.m. Oct. 23 at the Schaefer Center for the Performing Arts on the Appalachian State University campus. Los Lobos is celebrating 40 years of making uniquely iconic tunes comprised of Tex-Mex, folk, country, R&B and classic rock themes. Admission. For more information, visit http://theschaefercenter.org/events.
OCT. 25 CHILDREN’S THEATER: The Missoula Children’s Theatre will perform at 7:30 p.m. Oct. 25 at the Ashe Civic Center, located at 962 Mt. Jefferson Road, West Jefferson. For more information, call (336) 846-2787 or visit www.AsheCivic.com. The organization’s mission is the development of life skills in children through participation in the performing arts. HALLOWEEN FESTIVAL: The Blowing Rock Halloween Festival will be held from 2 p.m. to 9 p.m. Oct. 25 in downtown Blowing Rock. For more information, call (828) 295-5222. The tentative schedule
includes air walks in Memorial Park from 3 p.m. to 8 p.m. Games and a fun house in the recreation center for kids from 3 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. Hayrides with Tom through Blowing Rock from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m.; meet at Memorial Park. A Monster March will be held at 5:45 p.m.; line up at the American Legion at 5:30 p.m. There will be trick-ortreating in downtown beginning at 6 p.m. A costume contest will be held at 7 p.m. at the recreation center; sign up at the center by 6:45 p.m. A Moonlight Scavenger Hunt at Broyhill Lake for ages 6 to 13 begins after the costume contest.
NOV. 5 MUSIC: The Hayes School of Music Jazz Ensemble I will perform at 8 p.m. Nov. 5 at the Schaefer Center for the Performing Arts on the Appalachian State University campus. Free admission. For more information, visit http://theschaefercenter.org/events.
NOV. 11 THEATER: LA Theater will present John Ball’s “In the Heat of the Night” at 8 p.m. Nov. 11 at the Schaefer Center for the Performing Arts on the Appalachian State University campus. Admission. For more information, visit http://theschaefercenter.org/events.
NOV. 13 VISITING WRITERS: Author Shira Dentz will speak as part of the Hughlene Bostian Frank Visiting Writer Series Nov. 13 at Appalachian State University. Dentz will deliver a craft talk from 2 p.m. to 3:15 p.m. in the Rough Ridge Room of the Plemmons Student Union and a reading at 7:30 p.m. in the Table Rock Room of the Plemmons Student Union. For more information, visit www.community.appstate.edu.
NOV. 23 TREE FEST: The Ashe Arts Center will feature a Tree Fest exhibit Nov. 23-Dec. 31. The opening reception will be from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. Dec. 5 at the center, located at 303 School Ave., West Jefferson. For more information, email jane@ashecountyarts. org or phone (336) 846-2787.
NOV. 24 MUSIC: A wind ensemble concert will
2014
be held from 8 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. Nov. 24 at the Schaefer Center for the Performing Arts on the Appalachian State University campus. Admission is free. For more information, visit http://theschaefercenter. org/events.
NOV. 28 CHRISTMAS IN THE PARK: Christmas in the Park and lighting of the town will take place at Memorial Park in Blowing Rock Nov. 28. Admission is free. For more information, visit http://blowingrock.com. Visit with Santa from 2 p. m. to 4 p.m. There will be hayrides from 3 p.m. to 8 p.m. Air walks will be set up from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. Free hot cider and hot chocolate will be available from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. Caroling will be held from 3 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. The Vagabonds will perform from 5 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. The lighting of the town will take place at 5:30 p.m. Diana and Sarvis Ridge will be perform from 5:30 p.m. to 8 p.m.
NOV. 29 BEECH HOLIDAY MARKET: A Holiday Market will be held from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Nov. 29 at the Beech Mountain Recreation Center. Admission is free. Vendor tables are available. For more information, visit www.beechrecreation.org. PARADE: The Blowing Rock Christmas parade will be held beginning at 2 p.m. Nov. 29 in downtown Blowing Rock. OPEN HOUSE: The Blowing Rock Art and History Museum will hold a Holiday Open House on Nov. 29. Call (828) 295-9099 for more information and time. It will take place after the Blowing Rock Christmas parade. There will be hot chocolate, cider, crafts for children, silent wreath auction and caroling. It’s a free event. KILN OPENING: The annual Thanksgiving Kiln Opening will be held beginning at 10 a.m. Nov. 29 at the Traditions Pottery Studio. For more information, call (828) 295-3862 or visit www.traditionspottery. com. Items in the wood kiln will include work from Bolicks and from Traditions. Food will be served. Free admission.
HIGHCOUNTRYNC.COM For even more listings of events and happenings in the High Country, visit www. highcountrync.com.
AUTUMN TIMES
2014
PAGE 97
ADVERTISERS INDEX
4 Seasons Vacation Rentals Real Estate Sales – 26, 85
Casa Rustica Restaurant & C.R. Catering – 87
Hotel of West Jefferson, The – 98
Past & Present Antiques & Artisan Shoppes – 27
A-1 Mountain Realty – 27
Cha Da Thai – 20
Hotel Tavern, The – 90
Perry’s Gold Mine – 73
Andrew Roby General Contractor – 86
Chick-fil-A – 91
Hound Ears – 7
Petal Pusher Designs & Gifts – 26
Anna Banana’s – 20
CoBo Sushi Bistro and Bar – 20
Incredible Toy Company – 30
Ram’s Rack Thrift Shop – 20
Antiques on Howard – 21
Coffey Furniture – 8
J.E. Broyhill Civic Center – 82
Red Onion, The – 89
App Urgent Care – 66
Country Retreat Family Billiards – 89
Lees-McRae College – 83
Rivercross Market – 75
Ashe County Arts Council – 26
Crossnore School, The – 81
Jackalope’s The View Restaurant – 90
Rock Dimensions – 44
Ashe County Chamber of Commerce – 27
Dewoolfson – 80
Jenkins Rentals – 12
Seven Devils – 63
Ashe County Cheese – 26
Dianne Davant Interiors – 99
Jim’s Corner Furniture – 27
Six Pence Pub – 87
Ashe County Farmers Market – 26
Downtown Boone Development Association – 21
Libby’s – 27, 82
Sky Valley Zip Tours – 42
Avery County Humane Society – 47
Eat Crow – 88
Linville Land Harbor – 19
SkyLine SkyBest – 23
Bandana’s Bar-B-Que & Grill – 60
Erick’s Cheese & Wine – 56
Local, The – 21, 89
Southern Highland Craft Guild – 81
Banner Elk TDA – 67
Everything Has a Story – 26
Logs America – 18
Sugar Mtn Lodging Inc. – 43
Banner Elk Winery & Villa – 57
Festiva Hospitality Group Blue Ridge Village Resort – 58
Lost Provine Brewing Company – 21
Sugar Top Resort Sales – 43
Bechmark Provisions – 20
Fleetwood Max General Store – 26
Lucky Penny – 20
Sunalei Preserve – 3
Blowing Rock Art & History Museum – 36
Foggy Mountain Gem Mine – 65
Magic Cycles – 44
Tanner-Doncaster Outlet – 38
Blowing Rock Chamber of Commerce – 38
Footsloggers – 44
Makoto’s – 91
TAPP Room, The - 90
Blowing Rock Frameworks & Gallery Ltd. – 14
Foscoe Companies – 100
Mast General Store – 2
Tatum Galleries – 69
Blowing Rock Furniture Gallery – 32
Foscoe Fishing Company – 56
Mast Mobile Pet Care & Acupuncture – 47
The Artists Theatre – 26
Blowing Rock Market – 50
German Oktoberfest – 60
Monkee’s – 9
These Were the Days – 43
Blowing Rock, The - 69
Gilded Lily by Patra, The – 53
Mountain Dog and Friends – 47
Timberlake’s Restaurant at Chetola – 89
Bolick & Traditions Pottery – 65
Glen Burney Grocery – 51
Mountain Outfitters – 36
Tis the Season For All Seasons – 27
Boondocks Brewing - 88
Grandfather Mountain – 79
Mountain Sotheby’s International Realty – 51
Trolly Stop, The – 20
Boone Bagelry – 20
Grandfather Trout Farm – 53
Mustard Seed Market, The – 24
Tweetsie Railroad – 68
Brushy Mountain Apple Festival – 30
Grandfather Vineyard & Winery – 69
My Best Friend’s Barkery – 47
Valle Crucis – 49
Buffalo Tavern – 27
Green Park Inn – 10
Mystery Hill – 33
Village Inns of Blowing Rock, The – 38
Cabin Fever – 39
Greenhouse Crafts – 26
Old World Galleries – 13
Watauga County Christmas Tree Association – 62
Cabin Store, The – 63
Gregory Alan’s – 39
Originals Only Gallery – 27
Watauga Lake Winery – 70
Café Portofino – 90
Hawksnest – 55
Over Yonder – 48
Woodlands Barbecue & Pickin’ Parlor, The – 88
Capone’s Untouchable Pizza – 20
Hickory Furniture Mart – 74
Papa Joe’s & Indulge Bakery – 88
Woof Pack Pet Services – 47
Carlton Gallery – 33
Honey Hole, The – 27
Parker Tie Company Inc. – 26
Woolly Worm Festival – 70
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AUTUMN TIMES
PAGE 98
2014
Escape The High Country’s
Cool breeze, beautiful views, close to downtown West Jefferson and the New River.
Relax with us and enjoy the sights and sounds of the mountains.
INDOOR SWIMMING POOL
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CONTINENTAL BREAKFAST
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WI-FI
The High Country’s Choice Currently Hotel of West Jefferson 203 Hampton Place Court, West Jefferson, NC 28694 Phone 336.846.4000 • Fax 336.846.4045
COMING SOON