Western North Carolina Travel Guide

for All Generations Special Occasions and everyday fashions.

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WNC TRAVEL GUIDE Fall 2013 & Winter 2014

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Welcome to the WNC Travel Guide People flock to Western North Carolina because there is no other place quite like the Great Smoky Mountains.

These mountains inspire locals and travelers alike, whether that’s people with roots dating back several generations or newcomers who have adopted this region as home. In this issue of the Western North Carolina Travel Guide, we talk to people who call this place home and work in businesses that cater to travelers and locals.

Brad Dodson of Mud Dabbers Pottery is a Waynesville resident who is proud to come from a long line of mountain crafters. Jim Rowell never skied until he was an adult, but he got the bug after his first day on the slopes and has been an instructor at Cataloochee Ski Area in Maggie Valley for 25 years. Diane Cutler and Andy Zivinsky decided vacations to the Smokies were not enough, so they quit their jobs, packed it up, and moved to Bryson City to open a bicycle shop.

This is just a sampling of some of our favorite activities and diversions in the small communities that are sprinkled throughout Western North Carolina. Most of these towns have beautiful, vibrant and unique main streets that are worth a visit for anyone looking for a place to relax or shop.

If you’ve misplaced your copy of the WNC Travel Guide, find us online at www.WNCTravel.com — Scott McLeod, Publisher

Inside the Guide All about the mountains Holding heritage in his hands. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Christmas trees galore . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Heart of the matter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 History of the open road . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 Magic in a bottle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 Food for the soul . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23 Putting the pedal down . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 The fastest way down . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28 Kid-rated adventures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32 Outside bound. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34

Mountain Towns Dillsboro . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 Bryson City . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 Franklin . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41 Sylva . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40

Fall 2013 & Winter 2014

WNC Calendar. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38

o Editor/Publisher: Advertising Director: Art Director: Graphics: Writing/Photography Advertising:

Distribution: Bookkeeping:

Scott McLeod Greg Boothroyd Micah McClure Travis Bumgardner Emily Moss Garret K. Woodward Whitney Burton Amanda Bradley Hylah Smalley Scott Collier Amanda Singletary

info@smokymountainnews.com greg@smokymountainnews.com micah@smokymountainnews.com travis@smokymountainnews.com emily@smokymountainnews.com garret@smokymountainnews.com hc-ads@smokymountainnews.com jc-ads@smokymountainnews.com hylah@smliv.com classads@smokymountainnews.com smnbooks@smokymountainnews.com

If you’d like bulk copies of the WNC Travel Guide to distribute at your business, email your request to classads@smokymountainnews.com or call Distribution Manager Scott Collier at 828.452.4251.

For more information about WNC: • Asheville Area Chamber of Commerce 36 Montford Ave., Asheville, NC 28801, 828.258.6101 www.ashevillechamber.org • Cashiers Chamber of Commerce PO Box 238, Cashiers, NC 28717, 828.743.5191 www.cashiersnorthcarolina.com • Cherokee Chamber of Commerce PO Box 1838, Cherokee, NC 28719, 877.433.6700 www.cherokeesmokies.com • Cherokee Visitor Center PO Box 460, Cherokee, NC 28719, 828.497.9195 www.cherokee-nc.com • Cherokee County Chamber of Commerce 805 Highway 64 West, Murphy, NC 28906, 828.837.2242 www.cherokeecountychamber.com

Events

• Clay County Chamber of Commerce P.O. Box 88, Hayesville, NC 28904, 828.389.3704 www.claycounty-nc-chamber.com • Downtown Waynesville Association PO Box 1409, Waynesville, NC 28786, 828.456.3517 www.downtownwaynesville.com • Franklin Chamber of Commerce 425 Porter St., Franklin, NC 28734, 828.524.3161 www.franklin-chamber.com • Graham County Chamber of Commerce P.O. Box 1206, Robbinsville, NC 28771, 828.479.3790 www.grahamchamber.com • Haywood County Chamber of Commerce 28 Walnut St., Waynesville, NC 28786, 828.456.3021 www.haywood-nc.com

On the cover: Fall cover: Music is tied closely to the culture of WNC. Mark Haskett photo Winter cover: Cataloochee Ski Area offers great family fun.

Cataloochee Ski Area photo

Contents© 2013/2014 The Smoky Mountain News.

All rights reserved.

• Haywood County Tourism Development Authority 44 N. Main St., Waynesville, NC 28786, 828.452.0152 www.visitncsmokies.com • Highlands Chamber of Commerce & Visitors Center Located in the historic Partridge-Rice-Thurmond house at 269 Oak Street, Highlands, NC 28741, 828.526.2112. www.highlandschamber.org.

• Jackson County Chamber of Commerce 773 W. Main St., Sylva, NC 28779, 828.586.2155 www.mountainlovers.com • Maggie Valley Area Visitors Bureau PO Box 279, Maggie Valley, NC 28751, 828.926.1686 www.maggievalley.org • Swain County Chamber of Commerce P.O. Box 509, Bryson City, NC 28713, 828.488.3681 www.greatsmokies.com • Great Smoky Mountains National Park 107 Park Headquarters Rd., Gatlinburg, TN 37738 865.436.1200 www.nps/gov.grsm

~ Whispering Woods at Sanctuary Cove ~ WAY N E S V I L L E , N C

Executive retreat on 3.79 acres overlooking the historic Waynesville Inn golf course, long-range mountain views and vistas of Hazelwood, Waynesville and Lake Junaluska.

Craftsman/Prairie style with over 5,000 square feet of open living space with extensive stone, timber, stucco, porcelain tile and Brazilian mahogany hardwood floors. Four bedrooms all ensuite and one half bath. Whole house solar-assisted radiant floor heating system in addition to a 4-zoned HVAC system. Large, private Master Suite with sitting area, huge walk-in closet and spa-type bath with his/hers facilities. Commercial Sub-Zero/Wolf kitchen, custom cherry cabinets with wrap-around granite surfaces. Beautiful landscaping, level yard with patios and party pavilion.

Must see to believe — all within 10 minutes from downtown Waynesville’s shops, restaurants and vibrant arts scene.

MLS#522654 • $2,495,000

PREFERRED PROPERTIES

—————————————————————————————————————————— 62 Church Street | Waynesville, North Carolina

George Escaravage BROKER/REALTOR 828.400.0901 GKE333@Gmail.com Michael Monson BROKER/REALTOR 828.246.8900 MichaelJohnMonson@Gmail.com

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Holding heritage in his hands I

t was a summer job that literally molded itself into a future.

“I couldn’t find any work and I needed a source of income,” Brad Dodson said.

Owner of Mud Dabbers ceramics and pottery studio in Balsam, the 45-year-old grew up in an artistic family. Raised in Columbus, Ga., Dodson’s father was a lifelong potter who made and sold his work around the area. In the 1980s, the elder Dodson moved to Brevard and opened the original Mud Dabbers (currently owned by Brad’s brother). After graduating from Mars Hill College with a degree in health and education, Brad, now married, had to find a steady paycheck.

“Being a potter was initially a ‘Plan B’ for

me, with the original plan to teach and maybe work in pottery during summer vacations,” he said. “But, I got out of school, my wife headed to graduate school, and I needed work, so I started making pottery pieces in my garage and selling them.”

Dodson decided to enroll in nearby Haywood Community College, which boasts a nationally acclaimed crafts program that not only nurtures natural talent but also teaches its students how to design and run a studio and the necessary marketing skills to be able to make a living while creating.

“I had an advantage over the other students in that I knew, from my father and from my own experience, that you could make a living doing this, and I had a good grasp of knowing what your market wanted,” he said.

Once out of HCC, Dodson began searching for the ideal location for his business. He eventually came across an old residence ready for a new opportunity. He took out a loan, refurbished the building into a ceramic and pottery studio, and readied himself for opening day.

“I was nervous that first day, and just like a new business, normally whatever you plan is the opposite of what happens,” he laughed.

“It’s been hard, with a lot of ups and downs.

What’s amazing is a lot of things I thought would be good sellers weren’t and things I didn’t expect to sell became very popular.”

Dodson is constantly mulling over ideas for items and long-term projects. Lately, he’s been focusing on garden pieces and functional products, like dinner bowls and food dishes.

He’s knows what his customers are looking for, and he’ll make what they desire, whether they’re passing through town on vacation or picking up a gift on their way home.

“I have to balance my creativity with what the business needs. I need that artistic time, but I also like to pay my rent, so I’m going to make things you’ll want in your house or garden,” he said. “It can be hard with the artistic desire I have, but I do take opportunities to have a few hours to dedicate to a personal project or special idea.”

On a good year, Dodson will find himself ordering upwards of 15 tons of clay. The business is steady, with a constant stream of return customers and curious visitors alike.

“If you have a desire to create and a passion, people will see it in your work,” he said.

WNC Galleries HAYWOOD COUNTY Art on Depot Studio & Gallery Pottery, sculpture, photography, paintings, gifts 250 Depot Street, Waynesville 828.246.0218 www.artondepot.com Blue Owl Studio and Gallery Animal and nature art, pottery and more 11 N. Main St., Waynesville 828.456.9596 www.blueowlnc.com Burr Studio and Gallery Dane Burr’s lyrical sculpture and MaryEtta’s functional pottery along with works of other local artisans in various mixed media. Work in progress may be observed.

136 N. Main St., Waynesville 828.456.7400 Cedar Hill Studio Featuring the art of painter Gretchen Clasby.

196 N. Main St., Waynesville 828.421.6688 or 828.456.6344 www.cedarhillstudio.com

Earthworks Gallery Art in all mediums celebrating native peoples and the earth. Paintings, jewelry, furniture, and sculpture with a working studio. Also, a frame shop featuring limited edition prints.

21 N. Main St., Waynesville 828.452.9500 www.earthworksgalleries.com Frog Level Studio Ceramics studio focused on hand built items.

313 Depot St., Waynesville 828.729.1439 www.facebook.com/froglevelstudio Gallery 86 - Haywood County Arts Council The Haywood County Arts Council supports and explores art in all mediums by regional and local artists.

86 N. Main St., Waynesville 828.452.0593 www.haywoodarts.org Gallery 262 142 N. Main St., Waynesville 828.452.6100 www.gallerytwosixtwo.com

The Jeweler’s Workbench Specializing in fine handcrafted jewelry, limited edition watches and jewelry boxes.

Featuring award-winning artists from the Great Smoky Mountains and across the country.

80 N. Main St., Waynesville 828.456.2260 www.thejewelersworkbench.us

Classical Glass Custom stained glass art work.

1261 Bee Tree Rd., Glenville 828.743.5822

Leapin’ Frog Gallery Acrylic, water color and mixed media.

Vintage art, prints, lythographs. Located in Frog Level district of downtown.

58 Commerce St., Waynesville 828.456.8441 www.facebook.com/leapinfroggallery Main Street Artists Co-op Gallery A coop of 20 artists under one roof with oil /acyrlic/watercolor paintings, photography, stained glass, pottery, jewelry, collages, and wood carvers.

93 N. Main Street, Waynesville 828.246.0526 www.mainst-art.com Mud Dabbers Pottery Handmade stoneware pottery from a family of potters producing functional and contemporary designs including bowls, mugs, pitchers, dinnerware, casserole dishes, sculptures, masks, raku and Brandon Mountain Gnomes.

20767 Great Smoky Mountain Expressway (U.S. 23-74 in Balsam) 828.456.1916 www.muddabbers.com Pitter the Potter Handmade and turned pottery.

5858 Soco Rd., Maggie Valley 828.926.7676 www.facebook.com/mostermoby T. Pennington Art Gallery Colored pencil drawings of Western North Carolina scenery, wildlife and landmarks by Teresa Pennington with originals, limited edition prints and giclees, unique custom framing and gifts.

15 N. Main St., Waynesville 828.452.9284 www.tpennington.com Twigs and Leaves Gallery featuring porcelain, stoneware, fine art, craft, jewelry and home furnishings with a nature-related theme.

98 N. Main St., Waynesville 828.456.1940 www.twigsandleaves.com

Blue Valley Gallery Paintings, art instruction and supplies.

Hwy. 107 Mountain Laurel Shoppes, Cashiers 828.743.2956 www.bluevalleygallery.com

Dogwood Crafters Arts and crafts co-op featuring local artisans. Stained glass, gourd art, handmade soaps, photography, painting, canned goods, metal work and more. Established in 1976.

90 Webster St., Dillsboro 828.586.2248 www.dogwoodcrafters.com Fiery Gizzard Pottery and Studio Gallery Individually hand-turned pottery by Mark Karner. Comes in blue, speckled rust, copper red glazes, and Trinity 7749 US 74 east Sylva 828.631.1582 www.fierygizzard.com Fine Art Museum at the Fine & Performing Arts Center, Western Carolina University Featuring permanent collections and changing modern and contemporary art in a variety of media showcasing regional national, international artists.

199 Centennial Dr., Cullowhee 828.227.3591 www.wcu.edu/museum The Golden Carp Specializing in local and American watercolorists, exhibits of local and global artisans in basketry, pottery and fiber arts, and unique home accessories and fine gifts.

107 Webster St., Dillsboro 828.586.5477 www.thegoldencarp.com

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It’s By Nature Contemporary and traditional fine art crafts from more than 150 local and regional artists.

678 W. Main St., Sylva 828.631.3020 www.itsbynature.com Jackson County Arts Council’s Gallery One Non-profit organization of local artists.

Gallery offers rotating mixed-media exhibits, instruction, demonstrations and more.

604 W. Main St., Sylva 828.507.4248 www.gallery1sylva.blogspot.com Jackson County Green Energy Park Methane powered business incubator featuring blacksmithing, glassblowing and more.

100 Green Energy Park Rd., Dillsboro 828.631.0271 www.jcgep.org

Fall 2013 & Winter 2014

“I’m part of these traditions. It’s always been here, and folks visit these mountains knowing the Appalachian culture and its self-reliance,” he said.

“People here make things with their hands, whether it’s woodworking, clay or metal. A lot of it has purpose, and they would sometimes tweak a piece to make it personal, to give it that loving touch.”

And 16 years later, Dodson is just as passionate for Mud Dabbers as day one.

It’s been a long road, but a bountiful one.

Bringing into the fold other artisans, including a basket weaver and woodworker, he’s excited to showcase the intricate talents of Haywood County’s finest crafters.

“The biggest key to this business is having a community connection,” he said. “When people come and find something here they want a connection, whether physically or emotionally, to a piece they have from their experience in Western North Carolina.”

JACKSON COUNTY

WNC TRAVEL GUIDE

Brad Dodson

Different Drummer Pottery Featuring the work of potter Terrance Painter.

Functional wheel-thrown stoneware and porcelain in a variety of colorful glazes.

2614 Soco Rd, Maggie Valley 828.926.3850 www.differentdrummerpottery.com

Grace Cathey’s Sculpture Garden and Gallery Sculpture for your home, and garden.

Custom work available.

136 Depot St., Waynesville 828.508.4276 www.gracecathey.com

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“It’s great to be able to own your own business and be able to do this, but be prepared to do work, a lot of it, and it’s been worth it.”

Dodson recently discovered his ancestors were crafters in Southern Appalachia. For him, it’s an incredible feeling being able to continue in the traditions and heritage of his forefathers.

Living in Western North Carolina has provided him with a great life, one he’s happy to be part of and participate in.

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Galleries, from page 7 John Collette Fine Arts Paintings, sculpture and fine art glass from emerging and established American artists from throughout the country.

107 Hwy. 107 South, Cashiers 828.743.7977 www.johncollettefineart.com Oaks Gallery Fine handcrafted work of more than 100 professional artists including weaving, jewelry, wood, glass, iron and more.

Riverwood Shops, Dillsboro 828.586.6542 www.oaksgallery.net Penumbra Gallery and Studio Photography gallery and studio.

528 W. Main St., Sylva 828.356.6074 www.penumbragallery.com Riverwood Menagerie Specializes in Tiffany-style stained glass designed by artist Ivor Pace.

Riverwood Shops, Dillsboro 828.586.9083

WNC TRAVEL GUIDE

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Riverwood Pottery Decorative and functional stoneware and porcelain, handmade beads and jewelry.

60 Craft Circle, Dillsboro 828.586.3601 www.riverwoodpottery.com Tree House Pottery Featuring functional raku and horsehair pottery, glass and wood.

148 Front St., Dillsboro 828.631.5100 www.treehousepotterync.com

MACON COUNTY Ann Jacob Gallery Painting, sculpture and contemporary art from more than 40 artists. One of the first contemporary galleries in the Southeast.

394 Main St., Highlands 828.526.5550 www.annjacob.com

Fall 2013 & Winter 2014

The Bascom Featuring art and a permanent collection of 20th and 21st century mixed-media artists.

Art classes and lectures offered.

323 Franklin St., Highlands 828.526.4949 www.thebascom.org CK Swan and Harlee Gallery 18th to 21st century decorative furnishings, accessories, eccentricities and original works by regional and national artists.

Located at the corner of U.S. 64 East and Pine St. Highlands 828.526.2083 www.ckswan.com

Greenleaf Gallery/Robert A. Tino Art Fine art to folk art 211 S Fourth St., Highlands 828.526.9333 www.greanleafgallerygifts.com La Cagnina Paintings, woodcarving and fabrics by father and son artists.

621 Franklin Rd., Highlands 828.526.1947 www.lacaginagallery.com Macon County Art Association & Uptown Gallery Non-profit gallery of association members’ mixed media works. Rotating exhibits.

Workshops, classes, demonstrations.

30 E. Main St., Franklin 828.349.4607 www.mcaauptowngallery.wordpress.com Michael M. Rogers Gallery One-man watercolor gallery.

1511 Highlands Rd., Franklin 828.524.6709 www.michaelmrogers.com Mill Creek Gallery Art and custom framing with local crafts.

Photography by Cynthia Strain and Bill Lea. 206 N. Fifth St., Highlands 828.787.2021 www.cystrainphotos.com Mountain Artisans 155 N. Womack St., Franklin 828.524.3405 www.mountainartisans.net Mountain Heritage Pottery, gifts, home decor, and collectibles.

371 Main St., Highlands 828.526.5519 North Carolina Mountain Made Work by mountain craftsmen, publications, food and more.

36 East Main St., Franklin 828.524.7766 www.ncmtnmade.com Summer House and Tiger Mountain Woodworks Gallery and furniture showrooms featuring custom, and rustic furniture made on the property.

2089 Highway 106, Highlands 828.526.5577 www.summerhousehighlands.com Taylor Pottery Stoneware by Patrick Taylor.

105 Pinecrest Rd., Highlands 828.526.1995, 828.507.1079 www.taylorpottery.com Tree Turnings Lathe turned and sculpted decorative wooden vessels and bowls.

468 Main St., Highlands 828.526.3433

SWAIN COUNTY The Artist’s House Studio and Gallery Contemporary and traditional paintings, etchings, pottery, antiques and garden items.

40 Victorian Dr., Bryson City 828.488.0285 www.theartistshousegallery.com Blue Mountain Studio Mix of local artists and their work.

160 Main Street, Bryson City 828.736.0857 www.blue-mountain-studios.com Charles Heath Gallery Pastel, acrylic, pen and ink and photography

by Charles Heath.

175 Everett St., Bryson City 828.538.2054 www.charlesheath.com The Cottage Craftsman Regional handmade items, baskets, pottery, wood turned pieces, art, jewelry and furniture.

44 Fry St., Bryson City 828.488.6207 www.thecottagecraftsman.com Elizabeth Ellison Watercolors Original paintings using traditional and oriental techniques, including watercolors, oils, acrylic, mixed media, prints.

155 Main St., Bryson City 828.488.8782 www.elizabethellisonwatercolors.com Gemstone Jewelry Custom jewelry by Allyson M. Gernandt.

240 N. Panther Branch Rd., Bryson City 828.488.1144 www.silverandgems.com Mud Leaf Pottery Working studio and gallery.

908 Lower Panther Creek Rd., Almond 828.479.4844 www.mudleafpottery.net Pincu Pottery Handmade, functional pottery pieces 80 Hwy. 28 S., Bryson City 828.488.0480 www.pincupottery.com Sleepy Hollow Farm Homemade items including gourd art, birdhouses, jewelry, arts and crafts, organic veggies, herbs, soaps.

164 Sleepy Hollow Rd, Bryson City 828.736.5078 www.sleepyhollowfarm.net Swain County Center for the Arts Performing arts center and gallery space at Swain County High School. Featuring rotating exhibits, live music and meetings for the Art League of the Smokies.

280 School Dr. Bryson City 828.488.3129 www.swain.k12.nc.us

Wild Fern Studios & Gallery A working studio/gallery of four artists who make and sell jewelry, cornshuck art, gourd art and basketry.

19 Everett St., Bryson City 828.736.1605 www.facebook.com/wildfernstudios

QUALLA BOUNDARY Bearmeat’s Indian Den Handmade authentic native crafts made locally such as birdhouses, carved flutes, masks, dolls, pottery, and wooden toys, as well as the Little Farmer’s Market.

4210 Wolftown Rd., Cherokee 828.497.4052 www.bearmeats-indian-den.com Cherokee Heritage Museum & Gallery Authentic Cherokee crafts and fine art.

Located at Saunooke Village in Cherokee 828.497.3211 www.cherokeeheritagemuseum-gallery.org Great Smokies Fine Arts Gallery Limited edition prints, rustic home furnishings and custom framing.

1655 Acquoni Rd., Cherokee 828.497.5444 www.greatsmokiesart.com Medicine Man Crafts Cherokee baskets, pottery, woodcarvings and many other Native American crafts.

482 Tsali Blvd., Cherokee 828.417.7282 www.medicinemancrafts.com Native American Craft Shop Pottery, baskets, dolls, jewelry, beadwork, paintings, gourd art, wood and stone carvings.

1847 Tsali Blvd., Cherokee 828.497.6790 www.greatsmokiesart.com Qualla Arts & Crafts Mutual Cherokee artist co-op founded in 1946 with the purpose of preserving and advancing Cherokee arts and crafts. Baskets, masks, pottery, carving and more.

645 Tsali Blvd., Cherokee 828.497.3103 www.quallaartsandcrafts.org Traditional Hands Art Gallery Handmade authentic Cherokee jewelry, only master-silversmith in Cherokee, custom work and repairs.

1045 Tsalagi Rd., Cherokee 828.554.5884 www.traditionalhands.com Will Harris Studio Cherokee artwork, prints and notecards.

1714 Big Witch Rd., Cherokee 828.497.9750 www.willharrisstudio.com

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2014 Events

August 31 & September 1, Maggie Valley Labor Day Weekend Craft Show maggievalleycraftshows.com

April 11 – 13, AKC Canine Coursing Ability Test www.wcdfa.org

September 6 & 7, 40th Annual Fall Regional Shelby/Mustang & Ford Meet negeorgiamustangclub.org

April Smoky Mountain Oyster & Seafood Festival www.smokymtnoysterfest.com

September 13 - 15, Thunder in the Smokies Fall Motorcycle Rally www.HandlebarCorral.com

April 26&27, Southeastern Mini Truckin' Nationals www.minitruckinnats.com

September 21 - 22, VW’s in the Valley vwaircooledassociation@yahoo.com

May 2 - 4, Thunder in the Smokies Spring Motorcycle Rally www.HandlebarCorral.com

September 27 – 29, Maggie Valley Fall Swap Meet & Car Show www.maggievalleyswapmeet.com

May 9 & 10, American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life of West Haywood – www.relayforlife.org/westhaywood

October 4 & 5, Maggie Valley Oktoberfest 2013 www.maggievalleyoktoberfest.com October 12 & 13, Maggie Valley October Leaves Craft Show www.maggievalleycraftshows.com

December 7, Maggie Valley “Mountain Top” Christmas Parade & Food for Tots www.maggievalleypd.com

May 23 – 25, Maggie Valley Spring Bike Fest www.maggievalleyrallys.com 9

May 30 & 31, Ole Smoky Tractor Club Spring Farm Fest www.olesmokytractorclub.com

WNC TRAVEL GUIDE

October 19 & 20, Maggie Valley Fall Arts & Crafts Festival www.maggievalley.org

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2013 Events

www.maggievalleyfestivals.com Fall 2013 & Winter 2014

3374 Soco Road, Maggie Valley, NC 28751 828.926.0866 • mvfestivals@townofmaggievalley.com

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FAMILY-RUN CHRISTMAS TREE FARM

stakes out its roots

Fall 2013 & Winter 2014

WNC TRAVEL GUIDE

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Tom Sawyer’s Christmas Tree Farm overlooking Lake Glenville is home to one of the picturesque outdoor wedding locations in Western North Carolina. During the winter, the property transforms into a Christmas tree farm and Santa’s Village, where thousands of visitors come and immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the land. Donated photos

W

hen Myra Sawyer looks around the Sawyer Family Farmstead, she couldn’t image living anywhere else in the world.

“This is about as close as you can get to heaven on earth,” she said. “Words can’t express how beautiful this place is, people dream about places like this.”

And dream they do. From numerous weddings each summer on the property to cutting down that perfect Christmas tree in the winter, the landscape is as inviting as it is breathtaking.

“I like connecting people to the things they love, to hear their dreams for their wedding and being able to make that wish of theirs happen,” said Nicole Wade, wedding planner for the farmstead and daughter-in-law to Myra. “Every bride has a vision for their wedding and we’ll connect them with local vendors to make sure everything is perfect.”

Purchased almost 30 years ago by Myra’s husband, Tom Sawyer, the property and tree farm is now in its third growing

rotation. Originally from Florida, Sawyer found himself in Western North Carolina often for outdoor excursions. He eventually became a partner in another Christmas tree farm. From there, he decided to go at it on his own and came across the majestic 80-acre farmstead near Lake Glenville. What was once an apple farm, cabbage field and cattle ranch was now a beautiful landscape ready for its next role.

“We help Mother Nature and do our part by replanting trees and taking great care of the land,” Myra said. “The clovers and wildflowers help the tree roots and wildlife here. The trees and environment provide us with such fresh air. We want to make sure the land remains pristine and lush.”

Currently, there are more than 70,000 Christmas trees on the land, with 9,000 planted per year. When the weather turns chilly, and snow hits the ground, the Tow Sawyer Christmas Tree Farm and Elf Village emerges. The business sells around 6,000 trees wholesale each holiday season, with 5,000 visitors between Thanksgiving and Christmas making the trek with family and friends to find the perfect tree and experience the village.

“I’ve made 120 elf costumes for anyone who wants to wear one, wander the village and get their picture taken,” Myra chuckled. “It’s always exciting when the village gets full of visitors, I love it all.”

As the snow melts, and winter gives way to spring, the tree farm transforms into a renowned wedding venue. With an array of options and styles, the property has created deep ties with local merchants, vendors, musicians and artisans to provide the wedding party with the true essence of Southern Appalachia.

“We love sharing the farmstead with people,” Wade said.

“Nature has already decorated their wedding for them, and they have very little to do with all we can prepare and provide.”

Wade often finds herself wandering the landscape, where a crisp, clear night in the mountains of Western North Carolina provides the stage for the most beautiful show of all – the night sky.

“You feel like you’re on the moon when you can experience stars like the way you do here,” she said.

Since moving to the farmstead from Fort Lauderdale, Wade has truly embraced the intricate and personal nature of residing in a small town. She appreciates the peace and quiet, as well as the unique characters that make up the community.

“I love the natural beauty of the mountains and the landscape. It’s great being able to take my children on all these adventures throughout the region,” she said. “I came from a city as large, population-wise, as this entire area, so being part of a small town is amazing. You go to the grocery store or the pharmacy or wherever, and everyone knows who you are.”

With 43 weddings held at the Sawyer Family Farmstead in 2013, and another 29 already lined up for next year, Wade is eager for any and all to come and see for themselves this slice of paradise tucked away in the hills of Jackson County.

“It’s a blessing to meet so many incredible people through this land,” she said. “And seeing them experience and enjoy this atmosphere is why we’re here.”

Find a tree Boyd Mountain Tree Farm 143 Boyd Farm Road • Waynesville 828.926.8888 or 828.506.3513.

Dutch Cove Christmas Tree Farm 280 Setzer Drive • Canton 828.648.9133.

Nesbitt Christmas Tree Farm 333 Sunset Ridge • Clyde 828.456.9914

JACKSON

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hristmas tree farms throughout the region begin selling trees the week before Thanksgiving. Many farms offer pre-tagging, allowing families to pick out the tree they want as early as the first week of November and come back later to fetch it. All farms continue selling trees until a few days before Christmas, and some up until Christmas Eve.

Peak Experience 2820 Dillard Road • Highlands 828.526.0229.

SWAIN Darnell Farms U.S. 19 • Whittier • 828.488.2376.

Ted Craig Tree Farm 160 Frasier Fir Drive • Bryson City 828.488.3954

G RAHAM Evergreen Acres Nursery N.C. 28 (near Stecoah Barber Shop) Robbinsville • 828.479.8014.

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CHEROKEE “Fir” Heaven’s Sake 220 Nelson Road • Topton 828.321.5339.

Shields Tree Farm U.S. 64 West (past Triple B Restaurant) Murphy • 828.644.5254.

TRANSYLVANIA Mount Hardy Christmas Tree 34 Rocky Hill Branch Road Brevard 828.577.2678 or 828.884.8681.

Fall 2013 & Winter 2014

All the farms carry Fraser firs, the most traditional and common form used to decorate homes, but some farms carry other species of evergreens. Typical tree heights are 5 to 10 feet, but some farms carry large trees suitable for homes with grand entries or very high ceilings.

Some farms are more formal operations than others, with official hours and various accoutrements. Others are old-time farmers

with a few acres of Christmas trees on the hill behind the homestead. When asked for their hours of operation, some replied “Why, anytime folks want to come by, we’ll fix them right up with any tree they want.” Ultimately, we tried to list hours that are guaranteed times to find the farmers around, but people can always call ahead to set up a time outside the listed hours.

In most cases, Christmas tree farmers live on the farm and use their house as an office, so don’t be shy to go right on up to the house and knock on the door if you don’t see anyone in the field. All farms will tie up your tree and secure it on top of your car for you.

With many farms, getting there is half the fun. It’s a great excuse to take a beautiful country drive down scenic back roads that you otherwise may never travel on. Many families from South Carolina, Georgia and Eastern North Carolina make an annual pilgrimage to the mountains to get a tree every year.

The guide to local chambers of commerce is on page 4 of the WNC Travel Guide, and people in each county will gladly answer questions about special events some growers offer during the holiday season.

MACON

WNC TRAVEL GUIDE

Christmas trees galore

Adrian Fowler Tree Farm 2478 Cedar Creek Road • Cashiers 828.399.0673.

Ammons Brothers Nursery 2231 Wolf Mountain Road Tuckasegee 828.293.5398.

Chris Burrell Christmas Trees Tuckasegee 828.743.2882 or 828.586.8782.

D’s Trees Farm Cane Creek Road • Cullowhee 828.293.3308.

Flat Creek Tree Farm 1749 Flat Creek Valley Road Lake Toxaway 828.966.4300 or 828.577.2297.

Grandy Mountain Farm 841 Breedlove Road • Cashiers 828.508.8183 or 828.743.1737.

HCL Farm 303 Fowler Road • Glenville 828.226.9327.

Hutch’s Mountain Trees, LLC 455 Lakeside Circle • Glenville 828.736.1405.

Jim Fortier 6701 Charlies Creek Road Tuckaseegee 985.674.1445.

Lazy Acres Farm 1081 Breedlove Road • Glenville 828.507.5072.

Moss Tree Farm 1822 Norton Road • Cashiers 828.226.2397 or 828.743.2215 828.226.2340 or 828.743.6398.

Neil Dawson Tuckaseegee 828.506.3534 or 828.293.5057.

Pressley Tree Farm 770 Shirley Pressley Road • Glenville 828.399.1505 or 828.743.2275.

Ryan Holquist 4735 Charlies Creek Road Tuckaseegee 828.506.2231 or 828.293.1141.

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HAYWOOD

SnowBird Farms 4484 Pine Creek Road • Cullowhee 800.511.6404 or 828.743.5329.

Stewart’s Tree Farm 244 Shook Cove Road Tuckseegee 828.293.5329 or 828.226.4174.

Tom Sawyer Tree Farm 240 Chimney Pond Road • Glenville 828.508.2301 or 828.743.5456.

Ty-Lyn Plantation 971 Lloyd Hooper Road Cullowhee 828.508.9612 or 828.743.3899.

Wind Dog Farm 360 Comanche Road • Cullowhee 828.743.7938.

Windy Gap Tree Farm 385 Fowler Road • Glenville 828.507.8863 or 828.586.0637.

Woodard Tree Farm Pumpkin Town Road 828.586.8577.

DILLSBORO 1431-33

Make tracks to Bradley's Den to explore 4 rooms of fun & merchandise

since 1969

BRADLEY’S

General Store Bradleys-since1888.com

A Family & Student Friendly Portrait Studio for all your special occasions...

Baby pictures, Family reunions, Christmas Cards, Club events, etc Costumes & Props available for that Old Tyme look.

Each Sheet $18.88 regardless of the number of people in picture

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Open Thurs., Fri., & Sat. Noon to 7 p.m. (and by appt.)

393 Haywood Rd. Dillsboro, NC - Beside the Dillsboro Post Office • 828.586.1888

488 Haywood St. • Dillsboro NC • 828-586-5391 1431-56

WNC TRAVEL GUIDE

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Fall 2013 & Winter 2014

All your travel needs in one place

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W N CTR AV E L.C O M

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85 Muse Business Park • Waynesville, NC 828/452-4757 • orders@gscframing.com 1431-55

Travel the historic Murphy Branch Line through scenic Western North Carolina. Ride in restored vintage cars!

Enjoy our First Class seating service with a delicious meal served fresh by a private attendant, or experience the rush of riding the rails on an open air car!

WNC TRAVEL GUIDE

Begin your adventure at the Bryson City Depot!

13

Fall 2013 & Winter 2014

WNC Music Venues Alley Kats Tavern Waynesville 828.226.1657 Facebook.com/AlleyKatsTavern Balsam Mountain Inn and Restaurant Balsam 800.224.9498 • BalsamMountainInn.net BearWaters Brewing Waynesville 828.246.0602 BWBrewing.com Great Smoky Mountains Railroad Depot Bryson City 800.872.4681 • GSMR.com City Lights Café Sylva 828.587.2233 CityLightsCafe.com

Heart of the matter

I

Filled with the musical attitudes of bluegrass, old-time country and early rockn-roll, the band is influenced as much by Bill Monroe as The Band, by Johnny Cash as The Grateful Dead. It’s about creating something bigger than yourself, about embracing the deep roots of mountain music and incorporating it into modern times, and sharing it with those family and friends you care about most.

“It’s half heritage, half cutting edge,” said banjoist Joey Fortner. “It’s the culmination of the modern Appalachian mountains meeting the mountains of the old days. This area is the greatest place on Earth, and this music is deeply rooted in its history.”

Alongside Fortner is Caleb Burress (vocals/acoustic guitar), Chance Kuehn (electric guitar/mandolin), Jeff Mendenhall (fiddle), Rick Shore (drums) and Zack Edwards (bass). Each member is a resident of Haywood County, each as passionate and determined to spread the serene sounds of a landscape that mesmerizes its inhabitants.

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Nantahala Brewing Bryson City 828.488.2337 • NantahalaBrewing.com Nantahala Outdoor Center Nantahala Gorge 888.905.7238 • NOC.com Nick and Nate’s Waynesville 828.452.0027 Facebook.com/Pages/Nick-and-Nates-ofWaynesville No Name Sports Pub Sylva 828.586.2750 • NoNameSportsPub.com Salty Dog’s Seafood and Grill Maggie Valley 828.926.9105 Facebook.com/Pages/Salty-Dogs-Seafoodand-Grill

Classic Wineseller Waynesville 828.452.6000 ClassicWineseller.com

Signature Brew Coffee Roasting Company Sylva 828.587.6300 Facebook.com/Pages/Signature-BrewCoffee-Roasting-Company

Colonial Theatre 53 Park Street Canton 828.235.2760 • CantonNC.com

Smoky Mountain Center for the Performing Arts Franklin 828.524.1598 • GreatMountainMusic.com

Frog Level Brewing Waynesville 828.454.5664 • FrogLevelBrewing.com

Smoky Mountain Roasters Waynesville 828.452.1212 Facebook.com/SmokyMountainRoasters

Guadalupe Café Sylva 828.586.9877 GuadalupeCafe.com Harrah’s Cherokee Cherokee 828.497.7777 • HarrahsCherokee.com

t’s the sound of the ancient mountains, the unique people and rich culture of Southern Appalachia. It’s the sound of Soldier’s Heart.

Mulligan’s Bar & Grille Franklin 828.349.3183 • Mulligans-Bar.com

Maggie Valley Festival Grounds Maggie Valley 828.926.0866 MaggieValleyFestivalGrounds.org Maggie Valley Opry House Maggie Valley 828.648.7941 or 828.926.9336 RaymondFairchild.com

Soul Infusion Sylva 828.586.1717 • SoulInfusion.com Stompin’ Ground Maggie Valley 828.926.1288 Facebook.com/Pages/Stompin-Ground Tipping Point Brewing Waynesville 828.246.9230 • TippingPointTavern.com The Strand at 38 Main Waynesville 828.283.0079 • 38Main.com

Maggie Valley Rendezvous Maggie Valley 828.926.0201 • MaggieValleyHotel.com

Tuck’s Tap & Grille Cullowhee 828.293.5400 Facebook.com/Pages/Tucks-Tap-Grille

Mickey’s Pub Bryson City 828.488.9308 Facebook.com/Pages/Mickeys-Pub

Tuckasegee Tavern Bryson City 828.488.9880 • facebook.com/pages/tuckasegee-tavern

Mixers Bar and Nightclub Franklin 828.369.9211 • MixersBarandNightclub.com

Water’n Hole Waynesville 828.456.4750 • WaynesvilleWaternHole.com

TG: Where does the name come from?

CB: Soldier’s Heart is an Antebellum [Civil War era] term for posttraumatic stress disorder or shell shock. It’s a tender way to talk about something awful. It kind of ties us to the past and we are aware of our roots. It’s love and war, happiness and sadness. The last shot for the war of southern independence was shot in this area. My dad still has my great-greatgrandfather’s drum he beat for the 62nd North Carolina before he was captured at Cumberland Gap and spent two years at a prison camp on the south side of Chicago.

TG: Why is this project different from past musical endeavors of yours?

CB: I’ve got some older songs I’ve written from other projects that I feel are better represented in this project. It’s more about how the song feels and the mood it creates, and that’s really at the center of all of this. It shows a lot more of those roots, instead of just playing rock-n-roll music, why don’t we play something that’s more true to this area? Everybody thinks of this area as bluegrass, but its part of the equation and not all of it.

TG: The band was asked to perform for “Hillbilly Blood.” What was that experience like?

CB: I was worn out. I was a character on the show, picked up a week of work as a member of the build crew, and then we did the band thing for one of the episodes. I think the experience will open up some doors for us. It’ll definitely be a feather in our cap. We’ve been working hard for a year. We’re ready to get this out there and drive it around a little bit.

ART AFTER DARK

FIRST FRIDAY OF THE MONTH, MAY-DECEMBER: Galleries open until 9 p.m. Artist receptions, music and food.

CHURCH STREET ART & CRAFT SHOW

OCTOBER 12, 10-5: Celebrating our 30th year! Main Street is transformed into an art & craft marketplace, widely known as one of the finest juried art shows in the region. Entertain includes Balsam Range & Whitewater Bluegrass, two of the South’s finest bluegrass bands, clogging, local & international food.

APPLE HARVEST FESTIVAL

OCTOBER 19, 10-5: 25 years of crafts, music, dance, food, & bushels of apples on Main Street.

TREATS on the STREET

OCTOBER 31, 5-7: Merchants offer treats to young children. First Baptist Church, Police & Fire Departments also participate.

HOLIDAY OPEN HOUSE

15

NOVEMBER 24, NOON-4: Enjoy the sights, scents, and sounds as the holiday season begins in our fesively decorated shops and galleries.

CHRISTMAS PARADE

DECEMBER 9, 6 P.M.: Main Street, downtown Waynesville.

“A NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS”

DECEMBER 14, 6-9 P.M.: A Family holiday tradition downtown.

Restaurants, shops & galleries remain open. Live music, caroling, Bethlehem Marketplace, Live Nativity, storytelling, Santa, old fashioned wagon rides, luminaires and more.

DOWNTOWN WAYNESVILLE ASSOCIATION w w w.downtownwaynesville.c om • 828.45 6.3517

SPONSORED IN PART BY HAYWOOD COUNTY TOURISM DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY • 800.334.9036 •WWW.VISITNCSMOKIES.COM

Fall 2013 & Winter 2014

TG: How did Soldier’s Heart come about?

Caleb Burress: Joey and myself have known each other for 15 years and hadn’t really done anything together.

Soon, we noticed we had similar musical tastes and decided to get together on the porch and see what we could do. That was about a year ago. It really kind of just fell together and has congealed ever since then.

TG: How would you describe the sound?

CB: We want to make music that sounds the way your grandmothers cooking taste, comfort music, something that is comfortable and embracing.

WNC TRAVEL GUIDE

“Our music is real. It’s a machine and it’s well-oiled right now,” Fortner said.

“This is the greatest group of musicians I’ve ever played with. We’re all focused.

The musical roots are deep in these parts and we’re one part of this big wheel of Appalachian music.”

At the center of the group is Burress, a beloved singer amid the regional music scene. He has the look and swagger of someone destined for greatness, a notion that seems closer and closer as the years wear on. His family has been in Western North Carolina for generations. He aims to bridge the connection between his ancestors and himself through the vocals he pushes through the microphone with every ounce of his soul.

The past year is shaping up to be a cornerstone time for Burress. Besides the recent formation of the band last summer, he also himself a character on the Discovery Channel reality show “Hillbilly Blood.” The show features two survivalist expert hosts from Western North Carolina who encounter different people throughout each episode. Besides being brought onto the program as part of his father’s blacksmithing trade, Soldier’s Heart was also filmed performing at a party held for the show.

Yes, it has already been quite the year for Burress and Soldier’s Heart, but the journey is long and there’s plenty more to do before all is said and done.

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WAYNESVILLE

Fall 2013 & Winter 2014

WNC TRAVEL GUIDE

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loud roar echoed from the back of the building. The deafening sound is terrifying, yet exhilarating, with the smell of burning oil and gasoline permeating through the air.

Go visit Wheels Through Time is located just off Soco Road on Maggie Valley’s main strip.

828.926.6266 • www.wheelsthroughtime.com Hours: 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Thursday-Monday Closed Tuesdays & Wednesday Admission: adults $12; seniors (65 and up) $10; children $6

Based in Maggie Valley, the Wheels Through Time Museum is home to the world’s premier collection or rare American vintage motorcycles. The nonprofit organization recently finished Season One of their reality show “What’s In The Barn?” through Velocity TV, a division of the Discovery Channel. Garret K. Woodward photos

every inch of every one made between 1926 and 1932.”

The trip resulted in three bikes, the 1928 Hillclimber, 1928 Harley-Davidson JD and a 1929 Hillclimber, all of which laid dormant in an old general store for the better part of the last 80 years. Walksler figures they were originally custom built for Harley-Davidson legendary rider Floyd Clymer. The bikes found their way into the hands of a man named “Wild Bill,” who used them to smuggle moonshine during Prohibition. From that point, the exquisitely preserved bikes were left in the store to gather dust and remain forgotten.

“I have to be one of the luckiest guys in the world finding these motorcycles,” he said.

“There are other people in the industry with as much passion as me who know what I’m looking at is a one-of-a-kind built machine.”

And that passion for motorcycles seeps

into the deepest parts of Walksler’s soul. He’s a bundle of energy, a lightning in a bottle personality who bounces around his 38,000 square foot showroom like a pinball. He shakes hands and takes photos with anyone he crosses paths with. They’re visitors from all over the world, all wanting to experience the vision Walksler had those many years ago that remains today.

They follow him around, hanging on his every word and action. One moment, he’s cranking up a bike, the next he’s pointing out where an antique sign or machine part came from. Each piece in the museum has a story, and Walksler knows them all.

“This isn’t just a museum of motorcycles, it’s a museum of people’s lives,” he said.“Passion for what you do is something that’s contagious.

Whether you’re three years old or 80, everything in here appeals to everybody, and this show is really the proof in the pudding.”

Fall 2013 & Winter 2014

thought was something unique and worth checking out. Walksler jumped on the chance and headed for Central City, Colo.

“Hillclimber motorcycles are what I’m familiar with intimately,” he said. “I’ve been collecting them for over 40 years and know

17

WNC TRAVEL GUIDE

It’s the sound of a 1928 Harley-Davidson Hillclimber.

“It’s more than the sound,” said Dale Walksler. “It’s also the sight, smell and taste.

Starting this motorcycle up achieves all of your sensitivities.”

Owner/founder of the Wheels Through Time Museum in Maggie Valley, Walksler straddled the bike on his elaborate showroom.

Several people strolling Dale Walksler the museum immediately head for Walksler, not only hear and see the historic machine, but also listen as he explains where it came from and how it works.

The one-of-a-kind motorcycle was rescued from an old general store in Central City, Colo.

“We rebuilt this here and had it running in one day,” he said. “This museum is a very earthy place, where things are brought back to life everyday.”

The Hillclimber became one of the subjects of Walksler new reality show, “What’s In The Barn?” Produced by Velocity TV, a division of the Discovery Channel, the show travels around the country in search of forgotten and highly prized motorcycles to bring back to Maggie Valley to resurrect and once again hit the open road. Filmed from Labor Day last year through Easter, the eight-episode first season has been airing throughout the summer. With much worldwide interest, plans are already in the works for the next season.

“It’s a very simple premise where we take a cross-section of American history, where it’s about finding something and doing something with it,” he said. “We aren’t like the other mainstream reality shows where they find something and make a buck or take advantage of somebody to make a buck.”

Created in 1992, the museum has resided in Maggie Valley since 2002. Featuring more

than 320 of the most highly sought after American motorcycles in the world, the collection is a living, breathing history of this country on two, three and four wheels, with hundreds of thousands of visitors over the years. At the center of it all is Walksler, who has spent more than 45 years scouring the world, from musty barns to urban storage units, in an effort to preserve the mechanical history of the United States.

“I have the best connections and reputation for vintage motorcycles in the world,” he said.

“My phone rings everyday with opportunity.”

Wheels Through Time is no stranger to television. Since its inception, Walksler has been producing hundreds of his own videos online of bike rebuilds and treasure hunts. The History Channel and Discovery Channel have both featured the Walksler and the museum numerous times, with popular show “American Pickers” tapping his shoulders over a halfdozen times. Eventually, Velocity TV and the museum decided to do their own project.

“This show is the reflection of what we do here at the museum, which is to inspire Americans to love their country while we’re bringing things back to life,” he said. “This is not a chase a dollar show. Education is at the top of our ladder. We want to provide education and discovery through entertainment. It’s about history and preservation.”

Thus far, the program has Walksler and his son Matt traveling to Fresno, Pittsburgh, Denver and Philadelphia, among other places.

The Hillclimber discovery came through a cold call, where the owner of the motorcycle sent along some blurry photos of what he

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Showcasing the history of the open road

Fall 2013 & Winter 2014

WNC TRAVEL GUIDE

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W N CTR AV E L.C O M

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We also offer packages to ride the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad, or to go rafting at Nantahala Outdoor Center (please book in advance).

We also offer the train and rafting tickets individually.

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WNC TRAVEL GUIDE

Sleep Inn Bryson City

S I X I S S U E S P E R Y E A R : $2 5 smliv.com

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Fall 2013 & Winter 2014

MAGAZINE

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CALL 828-280-1381 FOR DETAILS ABOUT OUR WINTER MARKET

MAGIC

in a bottle

Swain County’s home to live music and craft beer, Nantahala Brewing Company in Bryson City offers an array of local/regional performers alongside a constantly evolving variety of brews.

Garret K. Woodward photo

WNC TRAVEL GUIDE

1431-18

I

f you build it, they will come. If you brew it, they will come and party.

Fall 2013 & Winter 2014

Offering a variety of lodging, restaurants, and activities within minutes of Bryson City, the Nantahala Gorge, Fontana Lake and other area attractions.

828.488.9000

WWW.NANTAHALAVILLAGE.COM

“If you make a great product, people will come and find it,” said Joe Rowland, coowner of Nantahala Brewing Company in Bryson City. “This town is one of the last outposts where you can be this close to a giant wilderness area and still be able to go out there and explore it. You can’t get that anywhere else.”

For years, Rowland worked in marketing and operated a kayaking outfitter in Charleston. Surrounded by the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Bryson City mesmerized him and his colleagues whenever they would visit the region.

The brewery was launched in 2010 in an effort to bring together two passions – craft beer and the great outdoors.

“We fell in love with Bryson City and kept trying to find ways to live here,” Rowland said. “So, a handful of us got together and started the brewery. It’s great to be involved in an industry that people appreciate and are happy when they leave, which that in itself is rewarding.”

The philosophy for Nantahala Brewing is simple – quality over quantity.

Instead of mass-produced basic brews, the company aims to concoct unique, delicious flavors that tease the senses.

“Certain people are used to sitting down and drinking something that tasted

WNC BREWERIES Western North Carolina has become one of the country’s craft beer hotspots, and nearby Asheville was named Beer City USA for three years running. The area west of Asheville is home to five breweries, which all produce beer as unique as the communities themselves.

Bear Waters 130 Frazier Street, Suite 7 • Waynesville 828.246.0602 • www.bwbrewing.com Frog Level 56 Commerce Street • Waynesville 828.454.5664 • www.froglevelbrewing.com Heinzelmannchen 545 Mill Street • Sylva 828.631.4466 • www.yourgnometownbrewery.com Nantahala 61 Depot Street • Bryson City 828.488.2337 • www.nantahalabrewing.com Tipping Point 190 North Main Street • Waynesville 828.246.9230 • www.tippingpointtavern.com

— JOE ROWLAND, CO-OWNER OF NANTAHALA BREWING CO.

the same, and was cheap. The mentality was about how many beers you could get for $20,” Rowland said. “Now, you go in, sit down and have a great tasting beer, where it’s not about how many you get, but rather it’s about what value you get for your dollar.”

Alongside their flagship Noon Day IPA, the brewery also serves their Appalachian Trail Extra Pale Ale, Bryson City Brown, Dirty Girl Blonde and Up River Amber.

Throughout the year, they release seasonals, high gravity selections and host a variety of events during their “Trail Magic Ale” series.

The series and festivities are all in an effort to showcase the adventurous spirit of Southern Appalachia and the mystical ways of the Appalachian Trail (A.T.) that runs through the heart of Western North Carolina.

“It’s a huge party, and we never expected it to be that way,” Rowland said.

Started as a way to incorporate the ideals of

the business with the ambition and diverse character of people hiking the entire A.T., from Georgia to Maine (or vice versa), the releases (three a year – March, June and October) have garnered quite a following of beer connoisseurs and nature wanders. The events focus on the idea of “trail magic,” which is why a random act of kindness occurs on the trail, whether it be providing food to a hungry thru-hiker or inviting them into your home for a rest.

“That whole concept of doing something totally random, an act of kindness we can tie to the A.T. just fit us,” Rowland said.“So, we came up with the series, which coincides with the launch time, midway point and end of hike.”

Besides the brewery’s own fascination and enjoyment of the A.T., brewmaster Greg Geiger was actually hiking the trail when he first crossed paths with Nantahala Brewing.

Geiger was living in Knoxville in 2011 and decided to do a 500-mile trek through the

“I just hiked 500 miles of this area and fell in with it all,” he said.

“It’s the mountains, the water, how lush the landscape is, how much variety there is with the flora and fauna.”

Taking his longtime love of homebrewing to the next level, Geiger enjoys the idea of the brewery as his laboratory, with him playing the mad scientist role.

“This is my playground to toy around with new things,” he said.

“There’s so much you can do to experiment, to push the boundaries and make new flavors, new things you’ve never tried before, and we have that freedom here to do just that,” he said.

Nantahala Brewing Company co-owner And yet for Rowland, all of Joe Rowland and brewmaster Greg Geiger. these people, places and things are Garret K. Woodward photo part of the rich philosophy of why he and his comrades decided Southern Appalachian portion of the route. A to set deep roots in Western North Carolina friend of his who worked at the brewery and create fine craft beer.

“We really could be anywhere, but we coaxed the 17-year homebrewer and industrial engineer off the trail to help volunteer at a craft wanted to be here, and we’re lucky for that,” he beer festival. Geiger felt a kinship with the said. “And we’re just going to keep getting better and better.” brewery and the rest is history.

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“We really could be anywhere, but we wanted to be here, and we’re lucky for that. And we’re just going to keep getting better and better.”

21

Join WNC’s Hidden Jewel:

Laurel Ridge Country Club For a limited time, reduced initiation fees for golf and social memberships.

Premade Baskets offered as well as Create your Own We’ll do the searching, shipping, & packaging for you.

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WNC TRAVEL GUIDE

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Individual items are also available

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Call 828.452.0545 for more details.

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W N CTR AV E L.C O M

October 2013 STINGY JACK’S SUPPORTS

&

Transylvania Christian Ministries

StingyJacksPumpkinPatch.com WNC TRAVEL GUIDE

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A Great Smoky Mountain Destination

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Fall 2013 & Winter 2014

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FOR THE

soul

“People come here to hang out, play on the Internet, have lunch or have a couple of beers.

The atmosphere just gives you such an energy.”

— HALEY MILNER , OWNER , SOUL I NFUSION TEA HOUSE & BISTRO

Fall 2013 & Winter 2014

“I want them to feel satisfied, to feel full and good, for them to know they’re always welcome back and will always be greeted with a smile,” she said.

Owner of Soul Infusion Tea House & Bistro in Sylva, Milner has operated the 13-year-old business for the better part of the last two years.

For her, it’s about creating a comfortable atmosphere where people from all walks of life can come together and celebrate through food, drink, music and hearty conversation.

Haley Milner “I love the way this place makes people feel, whether if you come in by yourself or with a group of friends,” she said. “People come here to hang out, play on the Internet, have lunch or have a couple of beers. The atmosphere just gives you such an energy.”

Originally from Georgia, Milner grew up in a cooking household. Everyone in her family knew their way around the kitchen, with Milner picking up all the secrets and techniques along the way.

“My love for cooking started when I was a teenager,” she said. “I was one of those kids whose parents both worked, so they expected dinner to be ready when they got home. I would just go through all of the cookbooks and find something to make.”

And Milner has been working in the restaurant industry

ever since. Eventually, her significant other was offered a job in Western North Carolina. Now in Sylva, Milner began frequenting Soul Infusion. It became almost a second home for the culinary artisan.

“I always liked the quality of their food and all the different varieties of tea and microbrews they had,” she said. “So, when the previous owners were ready to move, I jumped on the opportunity.”

Using the finest ingredients from local markets and stores, Milner sees the value in providing food based on quality. Once in the kitchen, Milner is like a maestro, moving around the space with grace and precision, all in an effort to create a healthy, delicious meal.

“When I start cutting the food and preparing a dish for somebody who I know will absolutely love it, it makes me feel great,” she said. “I want to provide my customers with really good, healthy food they will enjoy eating.”

Blending in her own skills and vision for the business, Soul Infusion remains a beacon for music, art, food, drink and culture in Jackson County. During the day the

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he feeling of a new customer walking through the door never gets old for Haley Milner.

Garret K. Woodward photos

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Food

building will be filled with professionals, while at night it houses local artisans and graduate students from nearby Western Carolina University.

“You’ll have doctors, lawyers and nurses in here for lunch, then, around 8 or 9 p.m. on the weekends, comes this magical pumpkin transformation where the place gets packed with everybody,” said Martin Adams, head bartender.

Besides his duties behind the counter, Adams also manages the bistro and books the musical acts. Everything from jazz to rock, bluegrass to hip-hop finds its way through the doors of the venue or into the backyard where numerous acts hit the stage for an evening of performance and celebration.

“There’s a lot of very talented, intelligent musicians in this town,” he said. “A lot of them come from WCU and plenty are homegrown, as well. We’ll let anybody come in and play their stuff. That’s the way it has always been.”

A Jackson County native, Adams grew restless after high school graduation. He and a buddy bought a Volkswagen Bus, packed their surfboards and left town. A few months passed and Adams missed home. He headed back and has resided in Sylva ever since.

“It wasn’t until I left and came back that I realized just how special this area really is,” he said.

“Even when I travel to the beach or back to Georgia, as soon as I come back over these mountains I know I’m home,” Milner added.

Pointing to the strong diversity and camaraderie of the community, Milner is eager to see what the future holds for Sylva and Jackson County as a whole. Everyday more and more unique individuals are relocating to the region, and with that comes more people to satisfy as they wander into Soul Infusion.

“Our motto is, ‘Where souls come to meet, eat and drink,’” she smiled. “It makes me feel great to see all the people that come in here. The community truly does come together and we all support each other.”

BIKE SHOPS IN THE AREA W N CTR AV E L.C O M

Bike shops are a great place to go to for advice on where to ride. Many also sell maps and lead group rides.

Bryson City Bicycles Bryson City. Sales, service, repairs and rentals.

828.488.1988. www.brysoncitybicycles.com.

Fontana Village Adventure Center Robbinsville. Sales, service, rentals and repairs.

800.849.2258. www.fontanavillage.com.

Motion Makers Bicycle Shop Sylva. Sales, service and repair.

828.586.6925. www.motionmakersbikes.com.

Putting the pedal — and roots — down in the Smokies

Nantahala Outdoor Center Nantahala Gorge. Sales, service and rentals, guided trips, mountain biking courses.

828.488.2175 or 800.232.7238. www.noc.com.

Rolls Rite Waynesville. Sales, service and repairs.

828.276.6080. www.rollsritebicycles.com.

Smoky Mountain Bicycles Sales, service, and rentals. Located beside the Little Tennessee River greenway for quick access to riding out the back door. 828.369.2881. www.smokymtnbikes.com.

Garret K. Woodward photos

Fall 2013 & Winter 2014

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W

hat looked like a risk to some was a dream for Diane Cutler and Andy Zivinsky.

“If you have a love for the outdoors, this is the place to be,” Zivinsky smiled.

Owners of Bryson City Bicycles, the couple opened the shop in 2009. Together for the last seven years, they were living in Raleigh and eventually grew weary of the 9 to 5 office workday.

“We wanted to do something different. We wanted to leave corporate America and be somewhere we really wanted to live,” Zivinsky said.‘We’ve been able to see a lot of places and do a lot of great things, but we knew we wanted to do something more fulfilling with our lives.”

In need of a vacation, they wandered up to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

On one of the days, they wandered into Bryson City. Meeting strangers that now became friends and enjoying all of the amenities of downtown, it was love at first sight.

They then packed up everything, sold their house and decided to make their dream of opening a bike shop a reality in Bryson City.

“We’re really pleased at what we’ve been able to see and do here in four years,” Cutler said.

“We’ve built a customer base from scratch, and

have had a lot of loyal repeat clients. The community support has been incredible.”

And though they were nervous on that first day opened, the duo’s worries were washed away when a Tampa-based family entered in search of rental bikes. Cutler and Zivinsky correctly fitted each family member, making sure all the angles were right and that comfort was a top priority.

“They went out riding, came back the next day and said they wanted to buy the bikes,” Zivinsky chuckled. “So, we sold four bikes by the second day of being in business.

With that, we knew we could do this and make it work. We love what we do.”

A competitive BMX racer in his teenage years, Zivinsky soon transitioned into mountain biking. Being out in the woods, on the trail, he felt at peace. And with the vast network of trails in the Smokies, he can head for the hills at a moment’s notice.

“Bryson City is a jumping off point for the national park,” he said. “All the things you can do outside, from hiking to biking, paddling to fishing, literally everything is minutes from your doorstop. It’s phenomenal.”

That love and accessibility of Southern Appalachia is a sentiment shared by Cutler.

“I love being outside and in the woods, being part of nature and exercising, getting away from it all,” she said.“I get out there because I love it. I

about the joy of love just tooling around the riding and being trails, working hard to get up part of this comthe hill, then just coasting munity,” Cutler back down.” said. “Yes, we Around Western want to make a North Carolina, riders will living with this find an array of single-track shop, but we trails and never-ending also want to Forest Service roads. Hot making a living spots include trail systems making people at Tsali, Fontana Dam, happy, too.”

Deep Creek and the newly Now with a formed routes through the firm foothold in backwoods of Western the local busiCarolina University. The Andy Zivinsky ness community, choices are endless, with and Diane Cutler.

Bryson City more systems planned in Bicycles is aimthe coming years within ing for the future. Sales numbers are climbing, the state forests and national park.

“We’re working hard to tie all of the with more and more curious riders entering mountain bike organizations together, where stepping foot in their shop. It’s been a long we can move forward together,” Zivinsky said. road since sitting in the office in Raleigh, but a “We want to expand the biking area and give bountiful one for Cutler and Zivinsky, where back to the sport and people that come here their dream has now come to fruition. The sky’s the limit, with the trails eager and ready to ride.”

Alongside their retail sales, the shop is for riders and biking enthusiasts alike.

“We realize people only get so much vacaalso a full-service repair and rental establishment. They can find a bike for any budget, tion time, and we want you to come here and body size and type of riding. It’s about helping have a great time riding,” Zivinsky said. “We the customer, not trying to empty their wallet. want to help you and send you out there to “We’re not about the all-mighty dollar, it’s give you an unforgettable experience.”

Rough Creek Watershed, Canton A 830-acre preserve with a 10-mile mountain bike trail. The trail system consists of three loops, kind of like a figure-8 with an additional horseshoe-shaped protrusion.

The main trail system only has 350 feet of elevation gain. The downside, however, is the haul from the parking area to the trail system. A mile-long climb of about 700 feet of elevation has to be overcome before reaching the first loop.

Directions: From Waynesville, head east on I-40 toward Asheville. Get off at Exit 33 and make a right at the end of the exit ramp.

Make a right again onto Beaverdam Road. (It will take you back under the Interstate.) Turn left onto Rice Cove Road. Turn right on Rough Water Plant Road. When the road forks, go left onto a narrow paved road that leads to the old water processing plant.

Nantahala Outdoor Center, Bryson City The Nantahala Outdoor Center in the Nantahala Gorge has its own trail, which

Oconaluftee River Trail, Cherokee This flat, wide 1.5-mile trail meanders along the river. It’s excellent riding surface and gentle terrain make it great for beginners, kids and even families pulling wee ones in a trailer. A series of well-done bulletin boards share Cherokee history, culture and mythology along the way, along with benches overlooking the river. Advanced riders should check it out as well, as one of only a couple of trails in the Great Smoky Mountains that allow mountain bikes.

The reward is even sweeter than most rides: the trail emerges from the national park just a stone’s throw from ice cream, fudge and souvenir shops.

Directions: From Cherokee, head north on U.S. 441 and park in the Cherokee Transit lot on the left just before you leave the reservation. Cross the road to reach the trail head. Or begin from the visitor center just inside the park entrance.

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Fall 2013 & Winter 2014

Jackrabbit Recreation Area, Hayesville A 15-mile single-track trail system is on a peninsula jutting into Lake Chatuge, located at Jackrabbit Recreation Area in Clay County near Hayesville. About two-thirds of the trail system is a perimeter trail bordering the lake, generally flat and easy for beginners. The remaining miles are the inner connectors, with some climbing and more advanced stretches. There is a lakeshore recreation with a swimming area and beach up the road from the mountain bike trail head for a cool dip after riding.

Directions: From Franklin, take U.S. Highway 64 west for about 23 miles. Before you get to Hayesville, turn left on N.C. 175 S. Cross over Lake Chatuge and turn right at Jackrabbit Mountain Campground sign.

Parking area is on left just past Philadelphia Baptist Church. www.sabacycling.com/jackrabbit.shtml.

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WNC TRAVEL GUIDE

Lewis Soles Memorial Trail, Franklin Adjacent to the Little Tennessee Greenway, there is a total of 2.6 miles of single-track with three loops: the Upper Loop, the Lower Loop and a River Loop. The Upper and Lower loops are just under one mile each. The River loop is six-tenths of a mile.

The loops can be strung together in a figure8 fashion. Access it by riding the Greenway to the trail system or from the Macon County Public Library.

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Fontana Village, Robbinsville There are a ton of trails in the village, each of them labeled and fairly well blazed.

Mix and match from numerous options to make your own loop.

You can get a good bit of climbing and long descents, plus technical rock gardens, stream crossings and log crossings on the 20-mile trail system that is among the best in the region.

Directions: From Bryson City, take U.S. 74 south eight miles past Bryson City. Turn right on N.C. 28. Go about 25 miles. www.fontanavillage.com/hiking.

Tsali Recreation Area, near Bryson City The famed mountain bike trail system on the shore of Fontana Lake is fast and usually well-packed. There are a few steep hills and technical sections but for the most part Tsali is manageable for even novice riders. If you run into some locals or some riders who look like they’ve ridden there often, ask them about the loop that leads to the awesome view of Fontana Lake. It’s worth the climb.

Directions: From Bryson City, take U.S. 74 south for eight miles. When the highway narrows to two lanes, turn left on NC 28. Go about three miles to the top of the hill and a sign for the Tsali Recreation Area is on the right.

W N CTR AV E L.C O M

Biking hot spots

allows riders to try their hand at some technical maneuvering. The 4.5-mile Flint Ridge Trail system was designed specifically for mountain bikers. It features technical riding as well as some rolling single-track.

Directions: From Bryson City, go south on U.S. 74 for 12 miles and the NOC campus will be on the right. The highway will narrow to two lanes after about 8 miles. www.noc.com/adventures/ biking/mountain-biking.

Fall 2013 & Winter 2014

WNC TRAVEL GUIDE

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W N CTR AV E L.C O M

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WNC TRAVEL GUIDE

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W

hat started as an unsure adventure turned into a passion-filled career for Jim Rowell.

The fastest way down

Cataloochee Ski Area photo

Fall 2013 & Winter 2014

WNC TRAVEL GUIDE

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“I certainly remember that first day, and it was terrible,” the 64-year-old chuckled.

A 25-year veteran instructor at the Cataloochee Ski Area, Rowell was fresh out of college when he was first asked to hit the slopes of his now second home. Though he had attended nearby Western Carolina University in pursuit of a writing degree, he never made it up to the renowned ski resort in nearby Maggie Valley. It wasn’t until he was a sports writer at the Asheville CitizenTime that his boss Larry Pope took him up the hill.

“Larry said, ‘Let’s go skiing,” and I replied, ‘I’ve never been,” Rowell said. “But, he insisted, so I decided to take him up on the offer.”

Buying a pair of jeans and a parka, Rowell prepared for the outdoor endeavor by spraying the denim with layer upon layer of scotch guard.

“I sprayed so much on them, I swear they could have stood up on their own,” he smiled. “But, it kept the water out, and me dry.”

Heading up the chairlift, Rowell was instructed by Pope to “just follow my lead,” to which Rowell fell again and again and again. After about an hour, he decided to get himself a lesson. It was an experience that made all the difference. From the helpfulness of instructor Kathy New (who’s still teaching on the mountain), Rowell got the hang of it and has been honing his skills ever since.

“People who are beginners always say they don’t need a lesson, which is a huge mistake,” Rowell said. “I see it all the time when folks think they can figure it out themselves. Skiing is a very intuitive sport. It’s a very simple sport, but you need those lessons to know where to position your body on the skis and have an enjoyable time.”

After that first lesson, Rowell skied throughout the east coast and out west for the next 15 years, immersing himself in the grandeur and splendor of breathing in the fresh mountain air and winding down the trails and backwoods.

“I love the freedom skiing gives me,” he said.

“Especially when you’re by yourself and find your perfect rhythm on the trail, when your skis are responding and your body just glides down the slopes.”

Soon, Rowell’s entire family was hitting the mountain. Looking for the most sensible economic way to make sure everyone had what they needed for a fun day on the hill, someone suggested he become an instructor.

“I had a wife, three kids and a mortgage, so being an instructor and getting family discounts to Cataloochee seemed like a great plan,” he said.

Though a seasoned skier in his own right, Rowell was surprised at how much he still needed to learn, especially if he wanted to adequately be able to teach others. He was initially hired on a provisional level until he figured out how to properly instruct.

“Speed is a great compensator for a lack of skills,” he said. “It’s when you slow down and try and do a proper demonstration that you see how far off you are in your skills. I had to take my instructor test and demonstrate at

W N CTR AV E L.C O M

Jim Rowell, 25-year veteran ski instructor at Cataloochee Ski Area. (right) Slopes illuminated at night. Cataloochee Ski Area photo

“The trick is to build trust because if they don’t trust you, they’ll never learn.

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grace his presence day in and day out. It’s a labor of love, one that has resonated within him since that first day on the slopes.

“People here tend to look out for each other and take care of each other,” he said. “If you’re not having fun and learning the sport,

At a glance Elevation: 5,400 feet Vertical Drop: 740 feet Trails: 17 (25% beginner, 50% intermediate, 25% expert) Longest Run: Upper and Lower Snowbird (3,500 feet) Lifts: 5 (quad, triple, double chair, two moving carpet) Snowmaking: 100 percent Day: 9 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday, non-holiday 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Saturday, Sunday and Holidays Half Day: 9 a.m.- 1 p.m weekday; 8:30 a.m.-1 p.m. weekends; 1 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. weekday and weekends.

Twilight Skiing: 1 p.m. to 10 p.m.

Night Skiing: 6 p.m. to 10 p.m.

Marathon: 9 a.m.-10 p.m. weekdays; 8:30 a.m.-10 p.m. weekends.

Rates: Lift ticket pricing ranges from $39 weekdays to $59 weekends. Ski and snowboard equipment can be rented at the ski area, with rental costs ranging from $21 for juniors to $26 on adults.

Cataloochee offers several midweek programs and packages such as our “Kids Stay and Ski Free,” “Drive, Slide, & Stay” and a free “Intro to Skiing or Riding” program. Outer gear rentals, such as overall bibs and jackets and accessories, can be found at The Shop

then I’m not doing my job. The idea at Cataloochee is to have fun, and that’s what we’re all about.”

at Cataloochee, the mountain gift shop. Bib and jacket rentals are available there for a nominal fee plus deposit.

Amenities: Terrain park, cafeteria, bar, tubing, gift shop, apparel shop, rental/lesson shop.

Directions: Cataloochee Ski Area is located four miles off U.S. 19 above Maggie Valley and is easily accessed from Interstate 40 (GPS devices can incorrectly direct you through impassable roads.

Use the directions below for the quickest routes. Use the Google Map service for driving directions.)

From the East (Asheville/Charlotte): Take I-40 West to Exit 27 (Maggie Valley). Exit on to U.S. 19 South (exit right) and follow the signs.

From the West (Knoxville): Take I-40 East to Exit 20 (Maggie Valley).

Exit on to U.S. 276 South (exit right) and follow the signs. From the North (Cherokee): Take U.S. 441 South to U.S. 19 North (Maggie Valley) and follow the signs.

From Atlanta (and points south): Take U.S. 441 to U.S. 23 exiting at Waynesville (Exit 102B). Take 276 North to U.S. 19 South (turn left) and follow the signs.

For additional directions or assistance: 800.768.0285, 828.926.0285 or www.Cataloochee.com.

Fall 2013 & Winter 2014

half-speed. It was frustrating, but I eventually learned the correct methods.”

Now after years as an instructor, Rowell has picked up an array of knowledge and carries with him a “bag of tricks” to help beginners with their greatest need – a sense of comfort.

“The real key to being an instructor is communication. It’s not how well you ski, it’s about how well you can communicate to people what’s it’s all about,” he said. “The trick is to build trust because if they don’t trust you, they’ll never learn. You have to keep them in their comfort zone, back things down and work with them because everyone has a different level of comfort.”

For beginners, Rowell points out the importance of proper clothing, which also has comfort as a top priority. Those new to the mountain have to remember they’ll sweat heading down the hill and cool off riding the chairlift – so, dress appropriately. He also suggests to rent equipment those first few times in an effort to get acquainted with gear before plucking down money for top-of-theline attire. Rowell is excited for the upcoming ski/snowboard season, and is ready for a whole new group of eager beginners that will

WNC TRAVEL GUIDE

— JIM ROWELL

W N CTR AV E L.C O M

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WNC TRAVEL GUIDE

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Keeping the kids satisfied is a huge part of any family vacation. Here’s a limited listing of activities for whole families or for children.

North Carolina Arboretum, Asheville The North Carolina Arboretum in Asheville is a paradise for kids and families.

A series of trails and paths meander through whimsical gardens begging to be explored.

The sense of wonder is heightened by the discovery of secret benches, foot bridges, waterfalls, outdoor art and sculptures and other treasures tucked into the lush gardens.

There are several garden themese, from a quilt garden to an Asian bonzai garden. Also, a series of groomed woodland footpaths form a network of loops to create the perfect length “hike” for any size legs.

As an added perk, kids can borrow an explorer’s backpack, complete with a magnifying glass, binoculars, net, garden trail map, clipboard and scavenger hunt checklist.

Make sure to check out the rotating exhibits and rich line-up of special events, children’s programs and day-camps.

For those with older kids or traveling with bikes, the Arboretum has a total of 10 miles of hike and bike trails. www.ncarboretum.org or Oconaluftee Indian Village This exceptional living history site is like stepping back in time to a 1760s Cherokee village. Costumed guides stationed throughout the recreated village go about daily tasks, allowing kids to see first hand the way life was lived 250 years ago and explore Cherokee culture. Blowgun demonstrations, dugout canoe building, weaving and pottery making, cooking, tanning animal skins, ceremonial dances and more. A trail leads through the forested setting, which includes Cherokee huts and an impressive council house.

828.497.2111 or www.cherokeehistorical.org/ OconalufteeVillage.html Gem mining Western North Carolina boasts native gems such as rubies, sapphires and emeralds. Head to a local gem mine and get a little dirty in your quest for mineral riches. Kids delight getting a bucket of sand and crushed stone and letting the water from the flume flow over it, gently rinsing away the sand as they sift for the hidden, colorful gems.

The greater Franklin area is a geological hotspot for gems and boasts a whopping eight gem mines open to the public. There’s also Ruby City and the Gem and Mineral Museum, both in downtown Franklin, where you can learn about what comes out of the ground.

For a list, contact the Franklin Area Chamber of Commerce at 828.524.3161 or go to www.franklin-chamber.com/whattodo/gemmining.php.

There are a couple gem mines in Cherokee and one in Maggie Valley as well. Also check out the Old Pressley Sapphire Mine, located near Canton, where the famous Star of the Carolina’s sapphire was found. The gem weighed in at 1,445 carats. 828.648.6320 or www.oldpressleymine.com.

Pisgah Center for Wildlife Education, Pisgah National Forest Feeding the fish — hundreds and hundreds of teaming, splashing, sparkling trout — in the hatchery raceways is every kids dream. Take a walk on paved interpretive trails and check out indoor exhibits that focus on Mountain region wildlife, including live frogs and snakes. Several programs are held throughout the summer for children and adults, from stream ecology explorations to guided tours of the hatchery. Free.

828.877.4423 or www.ncwildlife.org/Learning/ EducationCenters/Pisgah.asp

Cradle of Forestry, Pisgah National Forest The Cradle of Forestry in America teaches kids about forestry, ecology and Appalachian history. Exhibits include a fire fighting helicopter simulator, an old locomotive, scavenger hunt, and hands-on nature activities. Get a glimpse of life in the past by visiting an old one-room schoolhouse, general store, cabins, blacksmith shop and other historic buildings.

There are often special programs and events, from “Bug Day” to the annual birthday party for Smokey the Bear. Woodsy Owl’s Curiosity Club for 4 to 7 year olds is held every Thursday at 10:30 a.m.

828.877.3130 or visit www.cradleofforestry.com.

Great Smoky Mountains Railroad, Bryson City What kid doesn’t love a train ride? There

Catch a trout There’s nothing quite like the satisfaction of your own fresh caught trout. If you’ve never caught a fish before, stop in to one of several trout ponds. They’ll set you up with a line, bait and show you what to do. They’ll also clean it for you when you catch one — and don’t worry, you will!

• Sorrell’s Creek Trout Farm, Waynesville.

828.648.9903.

• Ferguson’s Trout Pond, Waynesville. 828.627.6404.

• Soco Gap Trout Ponds, Maggie Valley. 828.926.3635.

• Cooper’s Creek Trout, Bryson City. 828.507.0620.

• Cowee Creek Trout Pond, Franklin. 828.369.2870.

• Rose Creek Campground, Franklin. 828.524.3225.

• Andy’s Trout Farm, Franklin.

828.746.2550.

Fun Factory, Franklin Like an indoor amusement park, the Fun Factory is a kid’s dream come true. Plan an exit strategy ahead of time, as major protests are inevitable when you tell the kids it’s time to go.

Activities include laser tag, mini-golf, arcade, go-carts, bowling, an indoor playground good for toddlers and preschoolers, plus a steakhouse and pizza restaurant onsite.

Hours are 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Monday-Thursday; 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Friday-Saturday.

828.349.8888 or funfactoryfranklin.com.

Ashley T. Evans photo

W N CTR AV E L.C O M Fall 2013 & Winter 2014

WNC TRAVEL GUIDE

32

Kid-rated adventures

are few places in America where you can ride scenic passenger trains, and the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad serves up the right combinations for families, with short excursions, pretty scenery, open air cars and lay-overs that allow you to get off an walk around for a bit at either the Nantahala Outdoor Center or the village of Dillsboro, depending which trip you book.

The railroad also offers special themed trains geared for kids, like Thomas the Train

and Dinosaur Train in the summer, plus the Polar Express and Charlie Brown’s Great Pumpkin Patch train in the fall and winter. www.gsmr.com or 800.872.4681.

Smoky Mountain Trains, Bryson City With its collection of 7,000 Lionel engines, cars and accessories, a giant model train set running through a sprawling miniature town, interactive children’s train sets, and gift/toy shop, Smoky Mountain Trains in Bryson City is an eye-popping array. The museum is owned by the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad — also a great experience for kids — and admission is included in most excursion ticket prices.

Kids enjoy a scavenger hunt to find more than 30 items and scenes on the track layouts. Make sure to talk to the train operators. Adjacent to the train depot downtown.

866.914.5200.

Santa’s Land, Cherokee This spectacular, vintage-era amusement park is a great way to spend a day. Kids can ride the rides over and over, as many times as they want, all day long. When they want a break, there’s the Candy Mountain playground, a small zoo, and an old-fashioned magic show that’s not to be missed.

Santa’s Land is ideal for kids 7 and under, but has enough to keep the interest of older children as well. There’s a fairly large Ferris wheel and the famous Rudicoaster, a small rollercoaster with a couple of stomachdropping hills and fast spiral curves.

The grounds are clean, shady and wellkept, the rides are safe, and the staff is friendly. www.santaslandnc.com or 828.497.9191.

Cherokee Fun Park, Cherokee Go-kart track with under and over passes, arcade with more than 75 games and mini-golf. www.cherokeefunparknc.com.

W N CTR AV E L.C O M

“Rider or Not – You’re gonna love our store! “ Pre-owned Harley Davidson Motorcycles Rentals • Roadsmith Trike Dealer • Service • Dyno Tuning Parts • Accessories • Apparel • Bike Storage 33

Fall 2013 & Winter 2014

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WNC TRAVEL GUIDE

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1431-31

W N CTR AV E L.C O M

Outward bound

Fall 2013 & Winter 2014

WNC TRAVEL GUIDE

34

When nature is the main attraction, adventure surrounds you

High places Blue Ridge Parkway Highest point on Blue Ridge Parkway (6,053 feet), and Richland-Balsam Trail The views are great all along the Parkway, but there’s even a milestone achievement available for those don’t want to hike but prefer just getting out of their car to take a picture, enjoy the view, or have a picnic. Just about halfway between the Balsam Gap (U.S. 23/74) and N.C. 215 entrance to the Parkway, near milepost 432, is its highest point, which is marked with a large sign and a great overlook. Just a mile away at milepost 431 is the Richland-Balsam Self-Guiding Trail, which is just one mile long and meanders through a spruce-fir forest.

Mt. Pisgah (5,749 feet) Located near milepost 408, this mountain with the Biblical name used to be part of the George Vanderbilt Estate (he’s the man who built Biltmore Estate). A parking area is well

The Great Smokies National Park

from barn door hinges to horseshoes, a spring house to keep milk and butter cool, and sundry buildings for storing the food they raised, from corn cribs to apple houses to smoke houses. The outhouse is a guaranteed eye-opener for kids.

Located at the entrance to the park on U.S. 441 just north of Cherokee.

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park rivals the equatorial rainforests for biological diversity. Why? The Smokies has an amazing array of mini-ecosystems within its borders — from peaks over 6,000 feet to low valleys, from moist, forested coves to dry meadows. A walk from mountain base to peak compares with traveling 1,250 miles north.

Several resident plants and animals live only in the Smokies.

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park encompasses more than 500,00 acres, making it the largest national park in the East. An auto tour of the park offers panoramic views, tumbling mountain streams, weathered historic buildings and uninterrupted forest stretching to the horizon.

Here are a few of the highlights on the North Carolina side of the GSMNP.

Mingus Mill The rumble of millstones, the whistle of cornmeal sliding down the wooden shoot, the slap-slap-slap of water falling over the giant paddle wheel. Explore this historic site just one mile from the park entrance on U.S. 441 north of Cherokee.

Oconaluftee Visitor Center Along with knowledgeable rangers who can help you plan your time in the park, fabulous exhibits will take you back in time among the early settlers and Cherokee who called these mountains home.

Located on U.S. 441 at the North Carolina entrance to the park, north of Cherokee and near the terminus of the Blue Ridge Parkway. 828.497.1904.

Mountain Farm Museum This stroll through an historic Appalachian farm offers a window on the ingenuity and self-reliance of early mountain people and Cherokee. A blacksmith shop to make everything

marked, and the hike is only about a mile but it is relatively strenuous to the platform atop the mountain. Once there, however, the 360-degree views are fabulous.

Tsali’s Fontana Lake overlooks (2,000 feet plus) If you’re a mountain biker, too often you are in the trees or too dog tired after a climb to enjoy the views, but there are several in Tsali that are worth getting off your bike and using as a rest break, photo-op or both. All of these are just above 2,000 feet in elevation, but because of the lake’s backdrop they make for stunning views. Tsali Recreation Area is located 12 miles west of Bryson City in the Nantahala National Forest. Go west on U.S. 74 and turn right on N.C. 28. Tsali is about five minutes down the road. Once there, the Mouse Branch, Right and Left loops all have great overlooks. According to experienced riders, the Mouse Branch overlook 4.5 miles into that loop is the most stunning. On the Right it’s Windy Gap Overlook and the overlook on the Left trail isn’t named. All are fabulous.

Clingmans Dome A paved half-mile trail leads to a soaring lookout tower atop the highest peak in the Smokies. At 6,643 feet, the panoramic view offers spectacular scenery and is one of the best examples of the region’s famed blue mountain ridges marching endlessly across the horizon. The tower features a spiraling 375-foot ramp to the top.

Cataloochee Valley History and nature intersect in this picturesque meadow, a long, narrow valley cradled by mountains on all sides. An elk herd has been re-introduced into the park and calls the valley home. Cataloochee Valley is also home to a former mountain settlement, with intact farm houses, churches, schoolhouse and cemeteries that can be toured by car and short walks. Pick up an interpretive brochure at the campground on the left after you get down to the valley floor.

Deep Creek Enjoy a little of everything at Deep Creek. Hiking to waterfalls, picnicking, mountain biking, camping and what Deep Creek is famous for — tubing. Several outfitters rent inner tubes for just a few dollars to float all day in the creek.

Mt. LeConte (6,643 feet) The vistas are endless in the Smokies, but getting to the top of this mountain has the added advantage of being to check out LeConte Lodge, the only commercial lodging facility in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. There are five trails to the lodge, the shortest and steepest being Alum Cave Trail at 5.5 miles, which a hiker in good condition can do in approximately four hours. None of these trails can be considered a stroll and you occasionally encounter ice and snow as late as May or as early as October. The other trails are Rainbow Falls and Trillium Gap, each 6.5 miles, a hike of about five hours; Bullhead at 7.2 miles and about five hours; and Boulevard, eight miles and about 5.5 hours. Parking is available at the start of each trail. Once at the top signs lead to the best overlooks.

Wayah Bald (5,342 feet) The Nantahala Mountains are not as tall as the Smokies, but the views are every bit as stunning. This is a land of 4,000- and 5,000-foot mountains in one of the region’s wildest areas. Follow State Route 1310 out of

Franklin until you pass Wayah Crest, where there is a camping area. A forest service road, with signs, leads to the parking area at Wayah Bald, where there is an old Civilian Conservation Corps firetower made of stone.

Views from the platform are wonderful, and the Appalachian Trail passes right by.

Max Patch (4,629 feet) This may be the most scenic bald in the Smokies as well as one of the most accessible.

From the top, the 360-degree views, the sheer vastness of the bald (which is mowed by the Forest Service) and the beauty is well worth the trip. Since the trail to the parking area is about a quarter of a mile max, it’s a great place to picnic and watch the sunset. Take Exit 7, the Harmon Den Exit, off Interstate 40 and turn right off the exit onto Cold Springs Creek Road. The dirt road goes into Pisgah National Forest. Stay on the main road for several miles until you come to a sign for Max Patch. It is a left-hand turn. Stay on the road until you come to a parking area with an unobstructed view of the bald. Follow the trail to the top of the bald and it intersects with the Appalachian Trail.

Waterfalls

Cullasaja Falls.

Elizabeth Jensen photo

Stop by our office located at 74 N. Main Street in Downtown Waynesville.

Michelle will be happy to help you discover this wonderful area she calls home.

Michelle McElroy 828.400.9463 michelle@beverly-hanks.com

35

Pottery • Sculpture • Jewelery • Paintings

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Fall 2013 & Winter 2014

Cullasaja Falls Cullasaja Falls is the final waterfall on the Cullasaja River before leaving the Gorge. The falls, a 200-foot cascade, is powerful and beautiful. You can get a good view of it from the road, but it would be a hike to get to the base, and I haven’t seen any trails that lead down to it. The downside to Cullasaja Falls

Soco Falls Soco Falls is one of the closest large falls to Waynesville. Two creeks flow over steep rock cascades at a right angle from each other. There’s a wooden platform that faces the higher of the two falls. The other falls is nearly impossible to see face on without going down to the base of the falls.

There’s a really steep dirt incline that goes down there without a lot to hold on to. I’ve never gotten the guts to slide down — especially with my camera.

From Waynesville, drive north on U.S. 19.

You’ll pass under the Blue Ridge Parkway.

After passing the Blue Ridge Parkway, drive 1.4 miles to a pull off on the left. At the corner before the pull off you want, you’ll see a large gravel pull off. This is actually a private driveway and not the way to Soco Falls. A sign on the right side of the road will tell you to go another half mile. You want a pull off with a guardrail.

A short, steep path goes down between the guardrails. Follow the trail, which leads to a wooden platform. The trail beyond the platform is steeper and more difficult but will take you to the top of one of the falls. A dirt incline leads to the bottom of the falls that you’d have to slide down. It looks like it would be a challenge to get back up.

ASK MICHELLE

WNC TRAVEL GUIDE

Dry Falls Dry Falls is one of the most popular waterfalls in Western North Carolina and an easy stop if you are seeing the other falls on U.S. 64 through the Cullasaja Gorge.

Visitors can walk behind the falls and to the other side. The powerful waterfall is about 65 feet tall.

Dry Falls is in between Quarry Falls and Bridal Veil Falls about three miles west of Highlands on U.S. 64. There’s a small parking area on the left if you are headed west.

Signs mark the falls on both sides of the road. If you come on a Saturday during peak tourist season, a parking space will be hard to come by. The trail to the falls is short with some steps.

Mingo Falls On the Qualla Indian Reservation in Cherokee, you’ll find the popular Mingo Falls.

A small creek falls about 150 feet over mossy rocks. Access to the falls is good — if you can handle lots of steps. A small bridge goes across the creek, giving hikers a face on view of the falls. People often climb around the bridge and on the rocks in front of the falls.

Some of the rocks are very slippery, so be very careful if you choose to stray from the bridge.

Coming from Cherokee, head north on U.S. 441. You’ll turn right onto Acquoni Road.

There will be signs telling you to turn there for Big Cove Road. In about 0.1 mile, turn left on to Big Cove Road. Again you’ll see signs pointing to Big Cove Road. Drive about five miles and turn right into Mingo Falls Campground. The parking area is straight ahead. The trail starts there, goes up a lot of stairs, levels out and comes to a bridge overlooking the falls. The trail is about 265 yards.

Local questions about real estate?

W N CTR AV E L.C O M

Bridal Veil Falls Bridal Veil Falls is easy to get to and impossible to miss. If you are headed west from Highlands through the Cullasaja Gorge on U.S. 64, the falls will go over a small pull off road on the right. The falls isn’t nearly as impressive as the other falls in the Gorge, but after all, how often do you get the chance to drive your car under a waterfall?

Bridal Veil Falls is 2.3 miles west of Highlands on U.S. 64. You’ll see a pull off road on the right side of U.S. 64 under the falls.

is that the pull off is small and is a dangerous place for traffic to stop.

Cullasaja Falls is about two and a half miles west of Quarry Falls on U.S. 64. The pull off is small and at a sharp curve. The small pull off fills up quickly during peak tourism days. You might have to drive past it a few times before you can get a spot.

Heading west, the pull off is on the left side of the road. You might want to drive past it, turn around and approach it from the eastbound side of the highway.

W N CTR AV E L.C O M WNC TRAVEL GUIDE

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“Thanks to Carolyn Lauter we found the ideal second home.

We have lived in about 30 different locations and have been involved in 20 or so real estate deals both with & without Realtor involvement.

From our perspective, this has been the best managed and least stressful deal in our experience thanks to Carolyn’s attention to detail and schedule. You are fortunate to have Carolyn as an associate.”

Commitment, consistency, results.

— D. Berger & M. Berger

Carolyn Lauter Fall 2013 & Winter 2014

BROKER/ABR

828.734.4822 Cell www.carolynlauter.com carolyn.lauter@realtyworldheritage.com

1986 SOCO ROAD, HWY 19 MAGGIE VALLEY, NC 28751

W N CTR AV E L.C O M

Experience High Country Furniture & Design… with over 35,000 square feet of Distinctive Home Furnishings, Lighting, Wall Art, Fabulous Accessories, Gifts and Professional Interior Design Services.

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Asheville

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103

19

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Waynesville

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High Country Furniture West

WNC TRAVEL GUIDE

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276

www.highcountry.com www.highcountr y.com

Fall 2013 & Winter 2014

W N CTR AV E L.C O M

WNC Calendar October Art After Dark Oct. 4 (6 – 9 p.m.)

Waynesville DowntownWaynesville.com Maggie Valley Oktoberfest Oct. 4-5 Maggie Valley MaggieValleyOktoberfest.com Nunsense Oct. 4-13 Highlands Playhouse 828.526.2695 HighlandsPlayhouse.org Color Fest – Art & Taste of Appalachia Oct. 5 (10 a.m. – 4 p.m.)

Dillsboro 828.586.5100 VisitDillsboro.org

WNC TRAVEL GUIDE

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Dave Coulier Oct. 5 (7:30 p.m.)

Smoky Mountain Center for the Performing Arts, Franklin 866.273.4615 GreatMountainMusic.com Cherokee Indian Fair Oct. 8-12 Cherokee Indian Fairgrounds 828.554.6471 VisitCherokeeNC.com Autumn Leaves Craft Show Oct. 10-12 Franklin 828.349.4324 • Franklin-Chamber.com Leaf Festival Oct. 11-13 (9 a.m. – 5 p.m.)

Cashiers 828.743.8428 VisitCashiersValley.com

Fall 2013 & Winter 2014

Oktoberfest Oct. 12 Snow Hill Inn, Franklin 828.349.6887 Franklin-Chamber.com Maple Leaf Fall Festival Oct. 12 (10 a.m. – 4 p.m.)

Whittier 828.497.7589 GreatSmokies.com Church Street Art & Craft Show Oct. 12 (10 a.m. – 5 p.m.)

Waynesville DowntownWaynesville.com

The Tuckasegee Ramblers Oct. 12 (6:30 – 8 p.m.)

Bryson City Train Depot GreatSmokies.com Fall Hike Week at Fontana Oct. 13-17 Fontana Village Resort 828.498.2122 • FontanaVillage.com Alash Tuvan Throat Singing Ensemble Oct. 16 (7:30 p.m.)

Western Carolina University, Cullowhee WCU.edu Singing in the Smokies Oct. 18-19 Inspiration Park, Bryson City TheInspirations.com Stecoah Harvest Festival Oct. 18-20 Stecoah Valley Center, Robbinsville StecoahValleyCenter.com Sapphire Valley Arts and Crafts Show Oct. 19 (8 a.m. – 5 p.m.)

Sapphire SapphireValley.com Apple Harvest Festival Oct. 19 (10 a.m. – 5 p.m.)

Waynesville HaywoodAppleFest.com Chili Cook Off Oct. 19 (11 a.m. – 3 p.m.)

Bryson City Train Depot 800.867.9246 • GreatSmokies.com Avelina Oct. 19 (6:30 – 8 p.m.)

Bryson City Train Depot GreatSmokies.com Russell Moore & Illrd Tyme Out Oct. 19 (7:30 p.m.)

Stecoah Valley Center, Robbinsville StecoahValleyCenter.com David Cassidy Oct. 19 (7:30 p.m.)

Smoky Mountain Center for the Performing Arts, Franklin 866.273.4615 • GreatMountainMusic.com

Haunted Indian Village Oct. 25-31 Oconaluftee Indian Village, Cherokee 828.497.1126 • VisitCherokeeNC.com NOCtoberfest Oct. 26 Nantahala Outdoor Center NOC.com VeggieTales Live!

Oct. 26 (6 p.m.)

Smoky Mountain Center for the Performing Arts, Franklin 866.273.4615 GreatMountainMusic.com Blue Eyed Girl Oct. 26 (6:30 – 8 p.m.)

Bryson City Train Depot GreatSmokies.com Halloween in the Park Oct. 31 Franklin 828.349.2010 • Franklin-Chamber.com Downtown Trick or Treat Oct. 31 (3:30 – 6 p.m.)

Bryson City GreatSmokies.com

November Art After Dark Nov. 1 (6 – 9 p.m.)

Waynesville DowntownWaynesville.com Rumble in the Rhododendron Fish Tournament Nov. 1-3 Cherokee FishCherokee.com WNC Pottery Festival Nov. 2 (10 a.m. – 4 p.m.)

Dillsboro Phone: (828) 586-5100 VisitDillsboro.org Ronnie Milsap Nov. 2 (7:30 p.m.)

Smoky Mountain Center for the Performing Arts, Franklin 866.273.4615 GreatMountainMusic.com

Pumpkin Fest Oct. 25-26 Franklin Franklin-Chamber.com

Treats on the Street Oct. 31 (5 – 7 p.m.)

Waynesville DowntownWaynesville.com

Zumz Zuma Performance Nov. 8 (7:30 p.m.

Smoky Mountain Center for the Performing Arts, Franklin 866.273.4615 GreatMountainMusic.com

Leaf Lookers Gemboree Oct. 25-27 Franklin Franklin-Chamber.com

Halloween Masquerade Dinner Train Oct. 31 (8 p.m.)

Bryson City Train Depot GSMR.com

The Polar Express Nov. 8-Dec. 29 Bryson City Train Depot GSMR.com

Gun Show Nov. 9-10 Franklin 828.524.2064 Franklin-Chamber.com Veteran’s Day Celebration Nov. 11 Cherokee Indian Fairgrounds, Cherokee 828.508.2657 CherokeeSmokies.com Veteran’s Parade Nov. 11 (11 a.m.)

Franklin Franklin-Chamber.com

152 South Main Street Waynesville, NC 1431-22

828-456-6000

www.BlueRidgeBooksNC.com

Fly Fishing the South

Two locations to serve you ASHEVILLE: 252.3005 WAYNESVILLE: 251.9721

www.hunterbanks.com

W N CTR AV E L.C O M

African Acrobats International Nov. 8 (7:30 p.m.)

Smoky Mountain Center for the Performing Arts, Franklin 866.273.4615 GreatMountainMusic.com

Songwriters in the Round Nov. 16 (6 – 9 p.m.)

Balsam Mountain Inn, Balsam 800.224.9498 MountainLovers.com Rhonda Vincent Nov. 16 (7:30 p.m.)

Smoky Mountain Center for the Performing Arts, Franklin 866.273.4615 GreatMountainMusic.com

Ring of Fire: The Music of John Cash Nov. 24 (5 p.m.)

Western Carolina University, Cullowhee WCU.edu Thanksgiving Family Festival at Fontana Nov. 27-30 Fontana Village Resort 828.498.2122 FontanaVillage.com

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WNC TRAVEL GUIDE

Holiday Open House Nov. 24 (Noon – 4 p.m.)

Waynesville DowntownWaynesville.com

Hard Candy Christmas Arts & Crafts Show Nov. 29-30 (9 a.m. – 5 p.m.)

Cullowhee MountainLovers.com Stecoah Artisans Drive About Tour Nov. 29-30 (10 a.m. – 5 p.m.)

Stecoah/Robbinsville GreatSmokies.com

Christmas in the Smokies Dec. 1-30 Fontana Village Resort 828.498.2122 FontanaVillage.com

Fall 2013 & Winter 2014

December

SYLVA D E A L E R / F R A N C H I S E

Authorized Agent

Serving Jackson County for Over 25 Years Total Data Systems

Village Electronics

90 East Main St. Suite 2 Sylva, NC

44 Cashiers Shopping Center Cashiers, NC

828-586-8133

828-743-5581

SylvaRadioShackDealer@gmail.com Boyd & Lynda Sossamon, Owners 1431-15

All of our items are donated, all of our workers are volunteers and all of our proceeds benefit the Jackson County Public Library in Sylva.

Local Beer, Organic Wine, Paninis, Crepes & More, 1431-35

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YOURFULL SERVICE BIKE SHOP FROM KIDS TO CUSTOM!

Sunday: Noon-4 p.m.

Monday-Thursday: 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

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SYLVA 1431-39

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60584

Serving Breakfast, Lunch Dinner & Coffee in Downtown Sylva on Spring Street

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Fall 2013 & Winter 2014

WNC TRAVEL GUIDE

40

ASHEVILLE

536 W. Main St. • Sylva, NC 828.586.1221 • www.fojcml.org

W N CTR AV E L.C O M

Massage, Facials, Sauna & more...

Ask about our Membership Club with discounted pricing Full spa boutique including: Eminence Organic Skincare, Jane Iredale cosmetics, Jack Black for Men & much more!

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41 1431-47

Heinzelmännchen Beer entices your palette and complements what’s on your plate!

Enjoy samples & pints at the brewery and take home growlers of locally crafted beer and sodas.

WNC TRAVEL GUIDE

Support Your Gnometown Brewery!™

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828.631.4466 • YOURGNOMETOWNBREWERY.COM MONDAY-SATURDAY • 545 MILL ST. DOWNTOWN SYLVA, NC

Fall 2013 & Winter 2014

2004

W N CTR AV E L.C O M

Christmas Parade Dec. 1 (3 p.m.)

Franklin Franklin-Chamber.com An Enchanted Broadway Holiday Show Dec. 3 (7:30 – 9 p.m.)

Western Carolina University, Cullowhee WCU.edu Art After Dark Dec. 6 (6 – 9 p.m.)

Waynesville DowntownWaynesville.com Winter Wonderland Dec. 6/13 (5 – 8 p.m.)

Franklin Franklin-Chamber.com

White Christmas: The Musical Dec. 12-15 Smoky Mountain Center for the Performing Arts, Franklin 866.273.4615 • GreatMountainMusic.com

1431-08

Christmas Arts & Crafts Show Dec. 14 Stecoah Valley Center, Robbinsville StecoahValleyCenter.com Bryson City Christmas Parade Dec. 14 (2 p.m.)

Bryson City GreatSmokies.com A Night Before Christmas Dec. 14 (6 – 9 p.m.)

Waynesville DowntownWaynesville.com The Nutcracker Ballet Dec. 20-21 Smoky Mountain Center for the Performing Arts, Franklin 866.273.4615 • GreatMountainMusic.com Holiday Homecoming Dec. 21 (10 a.m. – 4 p.m.)

Oconaluftee Visitor Center, Cherokee NPS.gov New Year’s Eve at Fontana Dec. 31 Fontana Village Resort 828.498.2122 • FontanaVillage.com Songwriters in the Round Dec. 31 (6 p.m.)

Balsam Mountain Inn, Balsam 800.224.9498 • MountainLovers.com New Year’s Eve Fireworks Dec. 31 (8 p.m.)

Acquoni Expo Center, Cherokee VisitCherokeeNC.com

Dillsboro Lights & Luminaries Dec. 6-7/13-14 Dillsboro VisitDillsboro.org

Fall 2013 & Winter 2014

Mark O’Conner and Friends: An Appalachian Christmas Dec. 6 (7:30 p.m.)

Smoky Mountain Center for the Performing Arts, Franklin 866.273.4615 GreatMountainMusic.com Cherokee Christmas Parade Dec. 7 Cherokee 828.554.6491 CherokeeSmokies.com Waynesville Christmas Parade Dec. 9 (6 p.m.)

Waynesville DowntownWaynesville.com

Home of the 1061 carat sapphire found at GOLD CITY GEM MINE, featured in PEOPLE WEEKLY, DISNEY ADVENTURES and ROCK & GEM Magazines and appraised at $40,000!

We have Native and Enriched Gemstones buckets. We also have Gold Panning.

New and Improved large covered flume for Gem Mining rain or shine. New inside heated flume for cold days.

Located on highway 441, 6 miles north of Franklin, NC.. Open most of the year.

Call for Hours. Tour buses group rates available. Bring your rough stones in for a free inspection and cutting from our professional team in our jewelry store.

New Year’s Gala with Great Smoky Mountains Railroad Dec. 31 (8 p.m.)

Bryson City Train Depot GSMR.com

January-March Smokey Joe’s Café Jan. 26 (5 – 6:30 p.m.)

Western Carolina University, Cullowhee WCU.edu 1964 – The Beatles Tribute Fe. 9 (5 – 7 p.m.)

Western Carolina University, Cullowhee WCU.edu Squirm Burpee Circus March 2. (5 – 7 p.m.)

Western Carolina University, Cullowhee WCU.edu Carolina Chocolate Drops March 3 (7:30 – 9 p.m.)

Western Carolina University, Cullowhee WCU.edu

GOLD CITY GEM MINE

9410 Sylva Rd. HWY 441N, Franklin, NC 800.713.7767 or 828.369.3905 www.goldcityamusement.com

Celebrating 23Years in Business!

1431-05

Holiday Open House December 6th, 7th & 8th

Full line of Arts, Crafts Supplies, Eclectic Home & Cabin Decor, Greeting Cards, Donna Sharp Handbags & more

828-456-5441 Corner of Haywood & Miller in Waynesville

Friday and Saturday 10-6 Sunday 12-5

W N CTR AV E L.C O M

The creations of 18 local artists in a working studio

20767 Great Smoky Mtn. Expy. (Hwy. 23/74) Waynesville • 7 Days/Week, Year-Round

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Between the Rest Area and the Blue Ridge Parkway entrance at Balsam Gap

828.456.1916 www.muddabbers.com

1431-50

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WNC TRAVEL GUIDE Fall 2013 & Winter 2014

Eats & Drinks Try our New Panini & Sandwich Lunch Menu!

Classic, local, American comfort foods, craft beers & small batch bourbons & whiskey.

454 HAZELWOOD AVE. • WAYNESVILLE Call 828-452-9191 for reservations

Where delicious food, handcrafted beer and hearty folks congregate.

1431-12

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ITALIAN

MEDITERRANEAN

STEAKS • PIZZA CHICKEN • SEAFOOD SANDWICHES

190 N. MAIN STREET | WAYNESVILLE

828/246.9230 CLOSED SUNDAYS 1431-49

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Fall 2013 & Winter 2014

COME ENJOY OUR OUTDOOR PATIO!

Local Beer, Organic Wine, Paninis, Crepes & More,

OPEN FOR LUNCH & DINNER 7 DAYS AWEEK

1863 S. MAIN STREET WAYNESVILLE 828.454.5002 HWY. 19/23 EXIT 98

1431-35

Serving Breakfast, Lunch Dinner & Coffee in Downtown Sylva on Spring Street 1431-64

CityLightsCafe.com

1431-21

1431-11

Let us host your next special event.

18 North Main Street Waynesville • 452.3881 www.citybakery.net

Fair Trade Coffee & Espresso

ARTISAN BREADS & PASTRIES

Bed & Breakfast and Restaurant

Bridget’s Bistro

DOWNTOWN’S ONLY COVERED OUTDOOR DECK

94 East St. • Waynesville 828-452-7837

Enjoy fresh local products, created daily. Dine with us in our beautiful patio garden.

OPEN TO THE PUBLIC YEAR-ROUND

LUNCH, WED.-FRI. 11:30-2 SUNDAY BRUNCH 11-2:30

LOCATED ONE BLOCK FROM MAIN STREET

Scratch-Made Fresh Daily Breads • Biscuits • Bagels Cakes • Pies • Pastries Soups • Salads • Sandwiches BREAKFAST • LUNCH • TAKE-OUT • EAT-IN • CATERING PROUD TO SERVE LOCAL PRODUCTS

DAILY SPECIALS

Specializing in Regional Cuisine

YOUR SUNDAY

SPOT FOR BREAKFAST

ASHEVILLE: 60 Biltmore Ave. 252.4426 & 88 Charlotte St. 254.4289

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WNC TRAVEL GUIDE

SMOKY MOUNTAIN COFFEE ROASTERS, SUNBURST TROUT, HAW CREEK HONEY, THREE GRACES DAIRY AND MORE!

HOMEMADE SOUPS &

For details & menus: www.herrenhouse.com

1431-14

Corporate meetings, weddings & receptions, private parties, luncheons & showers.

All your travel needs in one place

www.WNCTravel.com

Reservations accepted

Walk-ins Welcome

Fall 2013 & Winter 2014

39 Miller Street Downtown Waynesville 828.456.5559

Fall 2013 & Winter 2014

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JAZZ Presents

FESTIVAL SERIES SECOND ANNUAL THE CLASSIC

2013

You’ll fall in love with this authentic log cabin circa 1866 (1,000 sq ft), plus 1,800 sq. ft. new construction. Large kitchen w/ handcrafted all wood cabinets, granite countertops, center island, stainless appliances. Three bedrooms, 2.5 baths with plumbing for third. Cabin bath has antique claw foot cast iron tub. MBR has walk in shower, large bubble tub, walk in closet. Six hundred bottle wine cellar, exercise room. Hickory flooring, ceiling fans, split HCAC system, gas fp, laundry room, oversized garage. Two covered porches, outdoor patio, stone walkways.

FOR

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With two creeks, in Waynesville City Limits.

FALL

2,800 SQ FT HOME ON SIX WOODED ACRES

Priced below appraisal at $439,000. Brokers protected

Appointment only: Call 828-550-2555

Wine • Beer • Food • Live Music

OCTOBER 19: JAMES HAMMEL TRIO OCTOBER 26: WENDY JONES QUARTET

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WNC TRAVEL GUIDE

Come Share Our Passion

OCTOBER 12: EVE HASLAM AND SATIN STEEL JAZZ

NOVEMBER 2: CENTERPIECE JAZZ $39.99 per person, plus tax & gratuity.

Price includes four course dinner and live jazz. Call or email to reserve your table. Seating is limited. All shows at 7pm.

Limited Seating • Reservations Required

20 Church Street | Waynesville | 452.6000

20 Church Street | Downtown Waynesville

Fall 2013 & Winter 2014

828.452.6000 • info@classicwineseller.com

Fall 2013 & Winter 2014

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