outdoor life spring-summer 2011
YOUR GUIDE TO REGIONAL ADVENTURES
Call Of The Wild Tennessee Turkey Hunting
Tee Time
Golfing Opportunities
Shutterbugs Focus On Nature
Outdoor Drama History Under The Stars
Fish On! Where To Wet Your Line Bicycling Festivals & Events Gardening Recreational Maps Running
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outdoor life spring-summer 2011
YOUR GUIDE TO REGIONAL ADVENTURES
Biltmore Concert Series
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Fun for everyone
Shows under the stars featuring Natalie Grant and many more
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17 Fine Feathered Friends
About OL Welcome to the debut issue of Outdoor Life, your guide to regional adventures in Northeast Tennessee, Western North Carolina and Southwest Virginia and destinations throughout the southeast. In this spring-summer issue, we offer informative articles on many different outdoor activities such as turkey hunting, nature photography, river rafting, bicycling, golfing, camping and much more. Full-color photographs accompany the articles, and the magazine also offers an extensive listing of outdoor summer festivals, concerts and other events. Outdoor Life also contains articles on activities such as gardening, birding, running and grilling. The front cover photo by Brandon Hicks depicts a fly fisherman on a stretch of the Watauga River in Elizabethton to celebrate the region’s fishing opportunities. Be sure to look this fall for the autumn-winter issue. For information on advertising, call (423) 542-1539. For information on editorial content, call (423) 297-9077. Visit our website at www.outdoor-life.net for more details. ••••• Editor: Bryan K. Stevens. Writers: Steve Burwick, Ashley Rader and Robert Sorrell. Photography: Brandon Hicks and Danny Davis. Copy Editing: Janie McKinney. Front cover and inside design: Melissa Hale. Advertising: Brandy Trivett, Shirley Nave and Marcella Peek. Display advertising design: Phyllis Davis, Melissa Hale, Robin Johnson and Lora Dunnigan. Publisher: Nathan Goodwin.
Coming together through birdwatching
35 Traveling with Kids
Make it an adventure
41 Bulb Gardening
Flower gardens made easy
48 Don’t forget to check out the regional recreation zone information toward the back of the book.
outdoor life | page 3
Gone Fishin’
Region’s abundant angling opportunities include large lakes, mountain streams By Steve Burwick OL STAFF steve@outdoor-life.net
to an extent in the area lakes, like South Holston and Watauga, because they’re deep and the temperatures are cooler.” Hampton resident Dave Caldwell, who Whether you enjoy flyfishing in a has been bass fishing competitively for sevmountain stream, bass fishing in a boat eral years, frequents the Walmart out on the lake or sitting on a Bass Fishing League tours, river bank pretending to be traveling to Douglas, Tom Sawyer or Watts Bar and Huck Finn, angling Cherokee lakes opportunities in the in Tennessee, region are endless. as well as Smith Fishing remains Mountain, Va., and a popular recreother hot spots. Caldwell ational activity in East Tennesowns a custom tackle shop at his see, Western North Carolina and Redear Sunfish residence, where he makes cusSouthwest Virginia, supported by tom rods and crankbaits, which are among the abundance of waterways in the region. the most commonly used bass lures. He Carter County offers a great blend of said the most popular bass in area lakes are fishing opportunities. Watauga Lake and smallmouth, largemouth and spotted bass. Wilbur Lake, along with the Watauga and Photo by Brandon Hicks Crappie and lake trout are also popular. Doe rivers, provide plenty of fishDave Caldwell of Hampton prepares to cast a line for bass while fishing on Watauga “There are tons of spotted bass ing spots. The rivers are fed by Lake. here, and the slop many tributary streams and limit now is 15 get a feel for it, and it can be productive. be out on secondary points or back in the creeks that flow from the The most fish and the biggest fish coves to spawn. They feed in the early area’s mountains. I’ve ever caught were morning and around sundown.” Officer on Watauga, and I’ve Baits come in all shapes and Dennis fished a lot sizes, including live bait and Ward of lakes lures. Caldwell said he with the Walleye around inches for prefers using a Zara Spook Tennessee Wildlife Resources here.” smallmouth lure or buzz bait. Agency said trout fishing has Popu“Certain times of the year always been popular in East Tennessee and and largemouth,” said Caldwell. “The spotlar live baits for trout ted bass is still 12 inches if you’re fishing in you can fish topwater, using the is holding steady in recent years. include nightcrawlers and Spook or buzz bait,” he said. “There “A lot of people don’t realize the number a tournament, which is a good thing.” salmon eggs. Artificial lures Caldwell apare tons of baits you can use, but of fishermen we have coming Pumpkinseed such as spoons, spinners and preciates the those are my favorites. I’ll flip a jig Sunfish jigs are also used. fact that around docks. Sometimes in the “We have what we call native sections summer, they’ll be at the docks because the sun is straight up and there’s not a lot of in Northeast Tennessee that are great for shade. I’ll flip a lot of laydowns, people who want to catch native brook too, where the trees are down trout,” Ward said. “There’s one section on Beaverdam Creek in Johnson County, and in the water.” also Laurel Fork Creek above the Dennis Caldwell said he enjoys looking for largemouth bass n See FISHIN’, 6 Largemouth Bass during tournaments, but added that Watauga is a good lake to fish for smallinto the area, unless you’re an mouth. officer like me who is out there trying to fishing opportunities abound year round. “It’s feast locate them,” Ward said. “On a daily basis “A lot of people fish early spring and or famine I see people from all over the Southeastern here,” he said. United States fishing here, and I see people in the fall,” he said. “In the summer, it’s usually too hot and the winters are too cold. “You either catch pretty regularly from all over the country Crappie them or you don’t. But if and even from out of the country. Trout is a The fish will go down deep. But in early big attraction, along with smallmouth bass spring they’ll come up to spawn and they’ll you fish this lake quite a bit you can outdoor life | page 4
The common raccoon (Procyon lotor) • The raccoon was adopted as Tennessee’s wild animal symbol in 1971. • An adult raccoon can weigh between 10 and 30 pounds. • Young raccoons are known as “kits” and are cared for by their mother for about a year after their birth. She usually gives birth to a litter of three to four kits, but sometimes she has as few as one or as many as seven. • Raccoons can be found in most of the United States except for parts of the Rocky Mountains, central Nevada, Utah and Arizona. It is also found in southern Canada and from Mexico to northern South America.
• The raccoon is an omnivore, which means it is not a picky eater and will eat just about anything, including insects, frogs, fish, birds, eggs, small mammals, crustaceans, fruit, nuts and garbage scavenged from trash cans. • Raccoons sport a black mask bordered by whitishgray fur that gives them the appearance of a bandit, which is sometimes reinforced by behavior such as tipping trash cans or raiding bird feeders. • Raccoons are famous for “washing” their food prior to eating it. • In captivity, raccoons have lived for 20 years, but lifespan in the wild is often no more than one to three years. • Walt Disney and actor Fess Parker created a fad for coonskin caps among American boys in the 1950s and 1960s. Parker portrayed both Davy Crockett and Daniel Boone, frontiersmen allegedly famous for wearing coonskin caps, in various Disney films and television series. Historians have offered
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Great Horned Owls, eagles, coyotes and bobcats. • Relatives of the common raccoon include the crab-eating raccoon of Central and South America, the South American coati, the cacomistle and the ringtail, which ranges from northern and central Mexico into the United States in California, Colorado, Oklahoma, Oregon, Arizona, New Mexico, Nevada, Texas and Utah.
Photo by Dave Menke/U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service
The raccoon has served as Tennessee’s official wild animal symbol since 1971.
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evidence that the men never actually made a habit of wearing such caps. • The raccoon is one of several North American mammals that carry a strain of the rabies virus. Other strains are carried by bats, foxes and skunks. • Raccoons have adapted well to human progress and can be found in urban areas as well as suburban and rural habitats. • Some predators of raccoons include
Directions: From Eliz. take Milligan Hwy., turn left on Okolona on 359, take left on Laurels Road outdoor life | page 5
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Fishin’ n Continued from 4
Cove Campground. Both of those streams are located on National Forest land, and there are special restrictions on the native sections. “Hampton Creek Cove (in Roan Mountain) is another native trout section,” he continued. “That’s what I call the purest type of trout fishing because they’re more challenging. They are truly wild trout. If they see you, you’re not going to catch them.” Ward said the outlook for native trout such as brook trout is good where the rainbow and brown are not present to compete with them. Barriers are placed in some locations to keep out competitive species. Fishing is not only a fun recreational activity but creates big business for tourism as well. A section of the Watauga River between the Central and Watauga communities is known as one of only two “quality trout zones” in the state. A proposed TWRA warm water fish hatchery for Elizabethton has recently been stalled by political and economic roadblocks. Randall Rogers, president of the Overmountain
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Chapter of Trout Unlimited, said a hatchery with a learning center to educate children would be a boon to the region, educating the public on the economic benefits of fishing as well as conservation. “That would be great for school day trips and tourists,” Rogers said. The Erwin National Fish Hatchery, a cold water hatchery, is one of more than 70 units administered by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. The Erwin Hatchery raises rainbow trout eggs, harvesting more than 14 million each year. Seventy percent of those eggs mature into adult fish and are stocked in streams nationwide. The federal government has announced tentative plans to eliminate funding to nine such hatcheries, including the one in Erwin. The closure of the Unicoi County facility could have a lasting impact on local, state and federal economies. The Unicoi County Heritage Museum, located on the grounds of the hatchery, could also be in jeopardy.
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Time for some grill talk! Make this your season to sizzle with tempting recipes and expert tips
Grilling season is here and there’s no need to feel stricken over strip steaks or surly over top sirloin. It’s true — men are the self-proclaimed kings of the grill — but with a few recipes and tips from your grill friends you’ll be fired up in no time. Follow these easy steps to sizzling success: tart with a hot grill (500-550˚F. is ideal). Searing beef helps lock in its delicious juices. urn steaks or burgers gently with tongs or a spatula; never pierce them with a fork. nsure juiciness by flipping steaks and burgers only once. ssess doneness with an instant-read thermometer. eep food safety in mind. Thoroughly wash anything that comes in contact with raw meat. et steaks aside to rest a few minutes before serving, to keep the juices inside. Earn rave reviews with Steak Kabobs — rich, beefy chunks of steak and colorful vegetables grilled to perfection. And while you’re grilling, take a tip from Amy Tobin of AmysTable.com. She suggests grilling an extra steak — try top sirloin, strip steak, flat iron or flank steak. Cool completely, then wrap and refrigerate for tomorrow. What to do with the leftovers? Make Mini Steak Sandwiches or Grilled Steak Pizza. You’ll earn grilling guru status with leftovers like no other. To ensure success, remember this: always start with the best ingredients. Steaks should be well-marbled with lots of little white flecks that melt during cooking and baste the steak from the inside. Premium Certified Angus Beef®
brand steaks boast generous marbling and deliver mouthwatering flavor, tenderness and juiciness in every bite. Steak Kabobs Serves 4-6 Prep time: 20 minutes Marinade time: Several hours to overnight Cook time: 10 minutes or less Ingredients 1-1/2 pounds Certified Angus Beef® top sirloin, cut into 1-inch chunks 1/4 cup red wine vinegar 2 teaspoons garlic powder 1 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes 1/3 cup olive oil 1 onion, cut into wedges 1 cup cherry tomatoes 2 cups vegetables, cut into 1-inch pieces: zucchini, summer squash and/or bell pepper Salt and pepper to taste Instructions 1. Combine vinegar, garlic powder, 1 teaspoon salt, red pepper and oil in a gallon-sized zip-lock bag. Add beef and vegetables; toss to coat. Marinate in the refrigerator 5 hours or overnight. 2. Thread beef and vegetables onto skewers. Season with salt and pepper. 3. Spray grill grate with cooking spray. Heat to medium high heat. Turning occasionally, grill kabobs 8-9 minutes or until desired doneness.
Mini Steak Sandwiches Serves 4 Prep time: 10 minutes Ingredients 1-1/2 pounds cooked Certified Angus Beef® steak, thinly sliced 12 mini buns 12 small slices cheddar cheese Optional accompaniments: thinly sliced red onion, sliced tomatoes, lettuce, mayonnaise, whole grain mustard Instructions 1. Layer each bun with thin slices of beef. Top with a square of cheese. Serve with a platter of toppings. Chef’s tip: Round out this “cook’s day off” meal with a trio of salads from the deli and a basket of gourmet potato chips. Grilled Pizza Serves 4 Prep time: 10 minutes Cook time: 10 minutes Ingredients 1 pound Certified Angus Beef® brand steak, cooked medium rare and thinly sliced 14 ounces uncooked pizza dough 2 tablespoons olive oil, for brushing
outdoor life | page 7
8 ounces pizza sauce 1 8-ounce ball fresh mozzarella, sliced (or 2 cups shredded mozzarella) 2 tablespoons fresh basil, sliced thin Salt and freshly ground pepper to taste Optional: thinly sliced banana peppers, Kalamata olives, marinated artichoke hearts Instructions 1. Roll pizza dough on lightly floured sheet tray to a 12-inch square. 2. Spray grill grate with cooking spray. Heat to medium-high. 3. Transfer pizza crust to grill. When lightly browned, flip and brush lightly with olive oil.
4. Once second side is browned and bubbly, flip and brush lightly with oil. 5. Top with sauce, cheese, sliced steak and any optional ingredients. Season with salt and pepper. Close grill lid; heat just until cheese melts. Garnish with basil, slice and serve. — Recipes provided by Amy Tobin for the Certified Angus Beef® brand. For more information on choosing the right cut of beef, delicious recipes, or cooking instructions, visit the Certified Angus Beef® brand website at www.certifiedangusbeef.com. The Certified Angus Beef® brand is the best Angus beef available and a cut above USDA Prime, Choice and Select. Ten standards ensure its premium quality and incredible flavor, tenderness and juiciness in every bite. For more information, visit www.certifiedangusbeef.com, or follow the brand on Facebook and Twitter.
TURKEY TIME State boasts variety of huntable flocks By Bryan Stevens OL Editor bryan@outdoor-life.net
It’s turkey season in the Volunteer State, and the harvest looks to be a good one, according to officials with the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency and National Wild Turkey Federation. Now that the wild turkey has been restored in Tennessee, the goal for TWRA personnel is to ensure that a vigorous, selfsustaining population is maintained in all suitable habitats of the state. Turkeys are managed by TWRA to best meet the needs and desires of the people of Tennessee. Therefore, the agency has developed a long-range plan for managing Tennessee’s wild turkey resource. Agency officials expect that this plan will direct wild turkey management for the anticipated future. Certain parts of the state have experienced tremendous turkey population growth. The popularity of the turkey as a game species versus concern about turkey depredation in some areas of the state have brought about new challenges concerning turkey management. Large numbers of turkeys in certain parts of the state have brought about conflicts with people and in some instances economic losses. The strategies in TWRA’s current management plan seek to resolve these issues while optimizing the worth of the wild turkey. Also working on behalf of the wild turkey in the Volunteer State is the Tennessee Chapter of the National Wild Turkey Federation. “We are proven conservation leaders
with many accolades being bestowed on our organization and volunteers,” said Keith Hickman, NWTF, Tennessee State Chapter President. “Since 1985, over 1.6 million dollars has been raised by our local Tennessee chapters and reinvested into our local communities,” Hickman said. “Tennessee leads the nation in contributions to land purchases for hunting lands and have set precedents by work done on the Cherokee National Forest.” According to Hickman, the state board of the NWTF has for the past 10 years allocated a minimum of $25,000 in superfund dollars to be spent in the Cherokee National Forest. “These dollars have been matched by other agencies, so we end up getting a bigger bang for our bucks,” he added. “Habitat improvement, including clearing, food plots, seeding, right-of-way improvements along with prescribed burning, has been the main focus.” Hickman pointed out that Greene County is leading the state in harvest numbers this spring. “Overall, the statewide population remains strong,” Hickman noted. “The NWTF and state turkey biologist are well aware of some isolated pockets in some counties, mainly in East Tennessee, where the populations seem to be struggling a bit. These areas are being monitored and some harvest restrictions may have to be imposed in these locations.” Tennessee currently ranks 11th in the nation for total membership in the National Wild Turkey Federation with more than 10,000 members in the state. The organization also boasts several lo-
cal chapters in Northeast Tennessee. Washington County is served by the North Cherokee chapter while Sullivan County has the Bays Mountain Longbeards. The Unaka Mountain Longbeards is based in Unicoi County while the Greene County chapter is known as the Volunteer Longbeards. There are currently no local chapters of the NWTF in the counties of Carter or Johnson, although Hickman would like to see that changed. Anyone interested in starting a chapter is encouraged to contact Mark Jackson, Regional Field Supervisor for the NWTF in Tennessee and Kentucky. Write to him at 1700 Garner Creek Road, Dickson, TN 37055, or call him at (615) 441-3747 (office) or (615)347-7549 (cell). He can be reached through e-mail at mjackson@nwtf. net. Hickman pointed out that the organization and its members have won many awards. Accolades include winners of the Grand National Calling Competitions, Wheelin’ Sportsmen NWTF Member of the Year, Roger Latham Award Winner, Conservation Educator of the Year, National Jakes Event of the Year, as well as Conservation Organization of the Year presented by the Wildlife Federation in 2007. Membership in the NWTF has other rewards as well. “Other than being a member of the nation’s best conservation group/organization, members receive a bi-monthly magazine, decals and free admission into the National Convention, which is being held in Nashville the next four years,” Hickman stated.
outdoor life | page 8
“Your membership dollars help fund events for kids (Jakes), women in the outdoors, wheelin’ sportsmen (disabled hunters) and many more programs statewide like the seed program and seedling program, which is offered each and every year and usually administered through the local chapters.” For more information on the NWTF, visit www.nwtf.org. TWRA officials have noted that as a result of the wild turkey restoration efforts in recent years, Tennessee has a wider distribution of huntable flocks which can absorb declines in some local populations without a significant drop in the total harvest. Since weather conditions vary greatly across the state, some flocks exist in areas that will be unaffected by the same storms which could be detrimental to poult survival in other localized flocks. Good production in these areas provides an alternate place for hunters to hunt when local populations are low. The Spring Turkey Hunt in Tennessee, which started April 2, will continue through May 15. All Tennessee counties are open to wild turkey hunting, including WMAs and refuges unless specifically listed otherwise. Bag limits for this hunt are one bearded turkey per day, not to exceed four per season. Turkeys taken on all quota hunts and specially designated WMAs are bonus turkeys. Spring turkey shooting hours are limited to from 30 minutes before sunrise through to 30 minutes before sunset. For more information, visit www.tn.gov/ twra.
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Photo Contributed
This good-sized brown trout is an example of the variety of fish found in the lakes, rivers and mountain streams of Carter County. Several organizations work together year-round to keep area waters clean so fishermen may continue to enjoy such bounty.
Clean streams
Located on Beautiful Watauga Lake
Waterways play vital role in region’s health
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By Steve Burwick OL Staff steve@outdoor-life.net
Creek, because it is a trout stream,” he explained. “It runs into the Watauga River.” Barrigar also noted that there are reguClean streams are a crucial aspect of the lations against excess release of any kind of health of any community, as tributaries af- pollutant. “We have an excellent office of the fect the waterways they flow into along with the various life forms found in and around Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation in Johnson City, where folks the streams. can call and report any abuses,” Barrigar Gary Barrigar, president of the Boone Watership Partnership (BWP), a nonprofit said. “You can do a lot more with partnerorganization that addresses resource issues ships. Trout Unlimited is a conservation organization, and we are partners with in five area counties, said Carter County them. Friends of Roan Mountain, Boone has relatively clean water compared to Lake Association, the City of Elizabethton, other parts of Tennessee. “Some of the surrounding counties have along with Johnson City and Bluff City, are all working with us. We’re working closely multiple streams that are polluted, even unsafe for human contact,” Barrigar said. with TWRA (Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency) and TDEC, trying to identify prob“Carter County only has a couple of lems and find solutions. The Tennessee streams that are listed as having pollutants,” he noted. “Sinking creek is listed for Valley Authority is also an active partner, providing expertise as well as funds.” E-coli bacteria, and Gap Creek has sediHe added that TVA formed BWP about ment concerns. Due to stream bank erosion 17 years ago as one of its initiatives. and maybe improper construction techBarrigar also pointed out that the niques, sediment washes into the stream watershed covers all the waters that run and basically smothers everything — fish eggs, aquatic insects and their eggs. It also into Boone Lake, including the Watauga, Doe and South Holston rivers and all their takes the oxygen out of the water.” tributaries. Barrigar noted that Boone Watershed “It’s 686 square miles,” he said. Partnership is working on a project for Gap One of Barrigar’s allies in the fight to Creek. “We have a federal EPA (Environmental n See STREAMS, 11 Protection Agency) grant to restore Gap
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Biltmore concert series expands to 11 shows ASHEVILLE, N.C. — A mix of Grammywinning and contemporary Christian artists highlight Biltmore’s annual concert series, which has grown from a summertime event to one stretching from July through October. In addition to the South Terrace, performances will be held at Biltmore’s newest event venue, Diana at Biltmore, an intimate Eddie Money setting on the vista overlooking Biltmore House. Stunning views of Biltmore House and the Blue Ridge Mountains from each site offer a perfect place to see a show under the stars. Tickets go on sale May 10. The Biltmore Concert Series line-up is: • Natalie Grant with comedian Jeff Allen, July 29 on the South Terrace. • Michael W. Smith, July 30 on the South Terrace. • Smokey Robinson, Aug. 5 on the South Terrace. • Bruce Hornsby and the Noisemakers and Bela Fleck & The Flecktones — The Original Line-Up, Aug. 11 on the South Terrace. • Alison Krauss & Union Station featuring Jerry Douglas, Aug. 12 on the South Terrace. • The Beach Boys, Aug. 27 on the South Terrace. • Styx, Sept. 3 on the South Terrace. • Eddie Money, Oct. 7 at Diana at Biltmore. • The Fab Four — The Ultimate Tribute with Ed Sullivan, Oct. 14, at Diana at Biltmore.
Photo Contributed
The annual summer outdoor concert series at Biltmore Estate in Asheville, N.C., offers stunning views of Biltmore House and the Blue Ridge Mountains.
• The Chairmen of the Board and The Embers, Oct. 21, at Diana at Biltmore. A variety of ticket, dining and accommodations packages will be available for all of the concerts. Tickets do not include or require estate admission. Performers and dates are subject to change. Biltmore Twelve-Month Passholders receive a discount on general admission and reserved seating. Located in Asheville, N.C., Biltmore was the vision of George W. Vanderbilt. Designed by Richard Morris Hunt, America’s largest home is a 250-room French Renaissance chateau, exhibiting the Vanderbilt family’s original collection of furnishings, art and antiques. Biltmore estate encompasses more than 8,000 acres including renowned gardens designed by Frederick Law Olmsted, the father of American landscape architecture. Today, Biltmore includes Antler Hill Village, which features the award-winning Winery and Antler Hill Farm; the four-star Inn on Biltmore Estate; Equestrian Center; numerous restaurants; event and meeting venues; Biltmore For Your Home, the company’s licensed products division; and Biltmore Inspirations, Biltmore’s home party business. To learn more about Biltmore, go to www.biltmore.com or call 877-BILTMORE. outdoor life | page 10
Streams n Continued from 9
protect water resources also spoke of the value of clean streams. “We work together on stream cleanups, like the Watauga River cleanup, and we do one in Roan Mountain,” said Randall Rogers, president of the Overmountain Chapter of Trout Unlimited, which works to conserve, protect and restore trout fisheries in the Upper Holston, Watauga and Nolichucky watersheds. “We have also worked with BWP on rain barrel workshops — creating a vessel to collect rainwater off your roof so that it can be recycled for gardening,” Rogers said. “It keeps that water from running off and it also conserves water during a drought,” Barrigar added. “It’s a good way for us to get our message out about the importance of everybody taking care of the water.” Several agencies work together to ensure the healthy condition of Hampton Creek Cove Natural Area in Roan Mountain. Dennis Ward of TWRA said Hampton Creek is one of several area streams that are restricted due to the presence of native species that must be protected from depletion or encroachment by other species.
“Rainbow and brown trout tend to compete against the brook trout, and the brook trout suffer where all three species are together,” said Ward, who added that no particular game fish species are currently endangered in the region. Barrigar explained that Hampton Creek is a small tributary of the Doe River. “Hampton Creek has a viable population of native brook trout,” Barrigar said. “It’s not endangered, but it’s become reduced
where it lives.” He said that Trout Unlimited, working with TWRA, the U.S. Forest Service and BWP, had two projects involving Hampton Creek. “One was to put in a barrier to keep other species of fish from coming into the brook trout area,” Barrigar said. “The BWP partnered with the Southern Appalachian Highlands Conservancy to put in a watering system on the property so the cattle wouldn’t get into the creek,” he
added. Barrigar explained that cattle are a big source of pollution in the creeks. “They may put out 30 times the waste that a human does, and it’s a big source of E-coli, along with failing septic tanks,” he said. “It’s a pretty simple thing to fence animals out of the creeks. On Sinking Creek, we’re working to eliminate the septic tanks by linking the residents to the city sewer system, or repairing them so they will work better.” Barrigar said one reason Carter County has relatively clean water is due to the amount of protected national forest land in the region. “This is an economic benefit to the county,” he noted. “We have so much recreational potential here with the lakes, and more trout streams than just about anywhere else except maybe the Smokies.” He noted that water is a valuable resource. “Everybody wants clean water,” Barrigar said. “Think about some of the places in the world where they don’t have it, and they’d give anything to have clean water like we have.”
Create, Discover and Experience Visit Carter County, we’re Naturally Nice! Carter County is undeniably one of the most natural scenic environments within the state of Tennessee. Carter County offers an array of recreational activities for hikers, campers, anglers, and nature enthusiasts. Whether you are looking for a change of scenery, a summer get-away or maybe even a new place to call home, Carter County is the place for you.
www.tourcartercounty.com • 423-547-3850 outdoor life | page 11
History beneath the stars
Outdoor dramas entertain and enlighten audiences By Bryan Stevens OL Editor bstevens@starhq.com
Several regional outdoor dramas, steeped in history, have entertained and educated audiences for several decades. Events that shaped the course of the nation are depicted in these long-running dramas, which tell their stories from the perspectives of both Native Americans and European settlers living on what was then the American frontier. ••••• The 33rd performance season of “Liberty! The Saga of Sycamore Shoals” will open Thursday, July 14, and run for three weekends in the amphitheater at Sycamore Shoals State Historic Park in Elizabethton. Performances are held each evening, Thursday, Friday and Saturday, against the backdrop of the recreation of Fort Watauga. The 2011 season for “Liberty!” will close Saturday, July 30. Recognized as the Volunteer State’s Official Outdoor Drama, “Liberty!” is set in the late 18th century and tells the stories of the colonists who defied British law and settled on Cherokee lands. These settlers formed an independent government, made treaties with the Cherokee, defended their homes and fought a British army at the epic battle of King’s
Mountain during the American Revolution. Tickets are $12 for adults; $10 for seniors; $9 for students; and children five and under are admitted free. For more information, call 543-5808 or visit www. liberty-drama.com. ••••• The 60th season of “Horn in the West” starts on June 17 and runs until Aug. 13. Show time each night is 8 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday, gates open at 7:30 p.m. The production is not staged on Mondays. Loved by young and old, the “Horn in the West” drama is located in the heart of Boone, N.C., in one of the most beautiful outdoor theatres in the country. Produced every summer since 1952 in the Daniel Boone Amphitheatre in Boone, N.C., the show is the oldest Revolutionary War drama in the United States. The play covers the life and times of the first people to settle the mountains of western North Carolina and eastern Tennessee in the time period during the American Revolution between the Battle of Alamance in 1771 and the Battle of King’s Mountain in 1780. This adventure, which celebrates the nation’s heritage, has offered thrilling outdoor entertainment to generations of Americans since its premiere in 1952. Tickets are $18 for adults and $9 for children 12 and under. For more information or tickets, visit www. horninthewest.com or call (828) 264-2120. ••••• “Unto These Hills” is held June 3-Aug. 13 in Cherokee, N.C. Shows start at 7:30 p.m., Monday-Saturday. Closed on Sundays. “Unto These Hills” is an outdoor
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historical drama staged annually at the 2,800-seat Mountainside Theatre in Cherokee, N.C. This outdoor drama was first performed on July 1, 1950. The play follows the story of the Cherokee of the Eastern Region up to their removal, via the Trail of Tears, in 1838. The drama depicts many famous Cherokee figures, including Sequoyah, Junaluska, Chief Yonaguska or Drowning Bear and William Holland Thomas, the adopted son of Drowning Bear and the first and only white chief of the Cherokee. Parking is $3 per vehicle at the theatre. Free parking is available at the Museum of the Cherokee Indian and Qualla Arts & Crafts with free shuttle service provided to the show. General Admission is $18-$22 for adults and $8-$12 for children (6-12). Children five and under are admitted free. To purchase tickets by phone, call toll-free (866) 5544557. Tickets are also available at the Cherokee Historical Association Box Office at 564 Tsali Blvd., across the street from the Museum of the Cherokee Indian, off Highway 441N, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., and at the Mountainside Theatre at 688 Drama Road from 4 p.m. until show time during the summer season. Paid reservations are held for late arrival. All tickets are held at the box office.
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Digital age positive development for nature photographers By Bryan Stevens OL Editor bstevens@starhq.com
“I had made it across and was on my way back,” she recalled of that fateful day at the Piney River. “I stepped on a slick rock, and went down on my face. The camera got The rise of digital photography gave educator and natural- submerged.” Fortunately, she had her camera insured, so she was ist Kris Light a new sense of freedom when it came to indulgable to replace it with the Nikon D90 that she currently ing her passion for nature photography. uses. “I didn’t feel guilty about taking pictures,” she In fact, that incident prompts Light to offer one said. “There was no more having to buy film or pertinent bit of advice to new photographers. She recomthe expense of getting film developed.” mends that anyone using an expensive camera take some Light said her early photos were taken with simple steps, starting with insurance, to protect his or her a small 3.2 megapixel point-and-shoot Sony investment. Sureshot camera. She also recommends a good means of carrying In June 2004, she upgraded to a 5.0 and transporting a camera. megapixel Nikon Coolpix 5700. “I’ve got a good backpack that I use,” she said. She gave up on the point-and-shoot “You definitely need a good way to carry your equipment.” cameras when she traveled to see the Sandhill For shutterbugs who like to travel, she encourages Cranes at the Hiwassee Wildlife Refuge and bringing your camera along in a carry-on bag. returned home to find that none of her photos “Never check your camera,” she said. “Always carry turned out. it on, or it may not be there when you get to your She finally entered the world of destination.” digital SLR when she purchased For the beginning nature photograa 10.2 megapixel Nikon D80 pher, a less expensive point-and-shoot in February of 2007. The camera may be just the ticket. term “SLR” refers to one of “Some of the point-and-shoots have the main differences between a Pink Lady’s-slipper very good macro capabilities,” Light said. point-and-shoot camera. An SLR For photographers who plan to turn some of their digital camera has a detachable lens, which means photogdigital files into prints, she recommends a camera with raphers are not limited only to the lens that comes with the Naturalist and nature photographer Kris Light is pictured at least 10 megapixels. camera. with a grass pink orchid. Rare in some parts of its range, this “Cameras are going higher with the megapixels, and orchid ranges from Minnesota south to Florida. Found in “After the D80 and I had an unfortunate close encounter the price is going down,” Light added. with Piney River in October 2009, I now have a Nikon D90,” open boggy soils and meadows, the grass pink orchid sports When it comes to identifying potential photography up to 24 small, pink flowers that open progressively over a Light said. series of weeks. subjects, Light isn’t picky. “I like to shoot everything,” she said. Wildflowers provide the primary focus for Light’s supplement labels. nature photography. For instance, she operates a website called Kris Light’s But she has also photographed subjects ranging from Website of East Tennessee Wildflowers and Hiking Trails at snowflakes and moths to newborn infants. www.easttennesseewildflowers.com. She began photographing moths last More than 720 of her wildflower photographs are displayed year. “From June to October, at the website. I photographed 230 species,” “East Tennessee has an incredible diversity when it Light said. comes to wildflowers,” Light said. Light used a white bed sheet at a “I really like mountain backdrop for these photos. She said laurel and ladyslipper the smallest of the moths was only three orchids,” she answered millimeters long. when pressed to name With a macro lens, some amazing details come a favorite wildflower. to light in photographs, especially of the smaller Light likes wildflowers Painted moths that usually go unseen by most people. Trillium for many reasons. “You “It’s amazing,” she said. don’t have to get up at the Light said that when she travels she likes to take crack of dawn to find them,” she said. “And cultural photos, which can depict the people, food they don’t move.” and buildings of a culture or region. Light keeps a life list of all the different flowers Digital photography has opened a whole new world she has seen. for her. “I need seven more and I will have 2,600 species She has had her photographs published in textbooks on the list,” she said. and magazines. Rexall Drugs also purchased photos of goldenseal and wild yam for use with the firm’s herbal n See PHOTOGRAPHY, 14 Photos Courtesy of Kris Light
outdoor life | page 13
Photography n Continued from 13
A Few Pointers Here are a few pointers from naturalist and nature photographer Kris Light. • Get out a lot. Light recommends that nature photographers get out in the field as often as possible. “There’s always something changing,” she noted. • Get creative. With wildflowers, Light suggests getting down on the ground to put the photographer and camera at the flower’s level. “Don’t just stand above the flower and snap a picture,” she said. • Get other creatures in the frame. When shooting photos of wildflowers, she likes to include butterflies and bees in the frame. “It’s a way to show some action,” Light explained. • Get a good macro lens or a camera with a good macro capability. “It’s a must for nature photography,” Light said. • Get quality equipment. “You get what you pay for with cameras,” she said. “So, it worth paying a little more to get something extra.” • Get to know your subject. For instance, when looking for wildflowers, Light said it pays to know that north-facing slopes are best for finding wildflowers.
Light has used many of her photos in educational programs, and for the past 24 years has worked as the science outreach instructor for the American Museum of Science and Energy. “I do a lot of outreach programs for the counties surrounding Anderson County,” she said. “I do all sorts of physical and natural science programs.” Subjects for some of her programs range from weather and geology to fossils and insects. Light earned a bachelor’s degree in micro-biology from the University of Tennessee. Much of her knowledge of botany, however, is selftaught, and she credits her grandmother, Isabel Harris, with sparking her interest in flowers at an early age. Light said she also remembers learning about the process of pollination in school. She took the lesson from the classroom and applied it in the field when she tried to cross-pollinate violets with dandelions. Light also tended a moss garden when she was growing up. Some of her favorite places to seek out nature photography opportunities in Northeast Tennessee include Steel Creek Park in Bristol, Bays Mountain Park in Kingsport, the Beauty Spot on Unaka Mountain and the slopes of Roan Mountain in Carter County. Light is no stranger to the region. In 1978-1979, she worked in internal medicine with the East Tennessee State University Medical School in Johnson City. She and her husband, Kenneth, have lived in Oak Ridge for the past 31 years.
He grew up in Kingsport while she was raised in Nashville. This summer, Light will present a program on insects to children attending the third annual Xtreme Roan Adventure Kids Naturalists’ Rally. This yearly summer event is sponsored by the Friends of Roan Mountain.
Showy Orchis
Trout Lily
Photos Courtesy of Kris Light
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Region’s rivers offer rapids from beginners to experts
Downstream with a paddle BY Robert Sorrell OL STAFF robert@outdoor-life.net
Come this summer, whitewater rapids enthusiasts and beginners alike will hit the region’s rivers. Sue Carney of Erwin’s Cherokee Adventures said that the area’s premier whitewater rapids are located on the Nolichucky River, which winds through Unicoi County and into western North Carolina. She noted that the Nolichucky, which attracts enthusiasts from around the southeast, is divided into the lower and upper sections. “The lower section is for families,” Carney said. “It’s gentle.” The upper section of the Nolichucky is more challenging. Carney recommends people who are able and healthier to take the challenge of the upper section. The 10-mile long gorge along the Upper Nolichucky features class III and IV rapids. For the beginners, the Lower Nolichucky features class I and II, with one class III at the end. Rapids are classified from I to VI, with VI being the most dangerous. The class I and II rapids feature some
rough water, maybe a few rocks and little maneuvering. The class III and IV rapids feature larger waves, sharp maneuvering and larger rocks. The popular Nolichucky features deep gorges, mountain views and valleys. “It’s absolutely gorgeous,” Carney said. Cherokee Adventures’ base camp is located at 2000 Jonesborough Road, or Highway 81, in Erwin. The Devil’s Looking Glass, a unique cliff formation, overlooks the office and camp along the Nolichucky. The Watauga River, located in Carter County, consists of mainly class I and II rapids. The calm waters of the Watauga raise and lower regularly as the Tennessee Valley Authority generates. The river stretches from the Wilbur Dam to Boone Lake in Washington County. Teresa Nidiffer of Watauga Kayak in Elizabethton said, “We offer guided class I and II whitewater rafting trips, great for families and first timers.” She said each section of the Watauga is great. “Depending on what you are looking for it offers it all,” Nidiffer added. “One of the best rapids is called Bee
Cliff, or Anaconda, as several out-of-state outfitters call it,” she said. “It is a high class II rapid, but can be modified to go around it if desired by mothers with small children. We have other great places on the river that are better suited for the thrill seekers.” Watauga Kayak and Cherokee Adventures offer a variety of rafting trips and other activities. At Cherokee Adventures, Carney said customers can take the economy trip or the full-day trip, which includes a lunch. Nidiffer said Watauga Kayak also offers a variety of trips, with costs and times depending on the length of the trip. “The most popular rafting trip starts at the dam and ends at our shop,” Nidiffer said of a $39 rafting excursion. One aspect to consider when rafting is to decide what kind and size of boat to take. Families and beginners are recommended to take trips on larger boats. Carney explained that larger boats are more stable than smaller boats. Experts and people wanting to have their own boat should take a smaller kayak, which can be more challenging.
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What makes rafting exciting is the dangers associated with the activity. Nidiffer and Carney note that training guides and customers is an important aspect of both businesses. “Safety is our main concern,” Nidiffer said. “Our guides train longer than any outfitter on the river.” She added, “I always try to remember that some people are afraid of water, and we want to make sure their first trip is wonderful.” At Cherokee Adventures, Carney said guides are thoroughly trained and take several practice trips without customers. Both businesses also give beginners some training prior to going out on trips. In addition to the Nolichucky and Watauga rivers, local businesses also conduct trips on the Holston and French Broad rivers, as well as area lakes. For information about rates and other items at Erwin’s Cherokee Adventures, visit www.cherokeeadventures.com or call 1-800-445-4238. For information on Elizabethton’s Watauga Kayak, visit www. wataugakayak.com or call 423-542-6777.
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Festival time
Region home to many outdoor celebrations By Bryan Stevens OL Editor bryan@outdoor-life.net
From May to September, a variety of outdoor festivals throughout the region offer a range of activities and festivities to appeal to the whole family. The festivals celebrate everything from covered bridges and irises to ramps and sorghum. • Wayne Scott Strawberry Festival, Town of Unicoi, Saturday, May 14. Community is front and center at this old-time springtime festival on the second Saturday in May. Take Exit 32 off I-26, right on Unicoi Drive and watch for the signs. The festival was renamed in 2009 in honor of the late Wayne Scott, founder of Unicoibased Scott’s Strawberry and Tomato Farms, Inc. The grassy recreation field at Unicoi Elementary School off Massachusetts Avenue is the setting for the festival, a gathering that is equal parts toe-tapping mountain music, handmade arts and crafts, kids’ games, car show, pie-throwing, delectable home-cooked food and plenty of luscious strawberry desserts! The event, which will kick-off with an oldfashioned community parade at 9 a.m., will feature a stellar music lineup of bluegrass, gospel and country music, local line-dancing groups, corn hole games, a dunking booth and a strawberry recipe contest. For more information, call Unicoi Town Hall at (423) 743-7162. • The 26th annual Ramp Festival, Flag Pond, Saturday, May 14. Sponsored each year by the Flag Pond Ruritan Club, this event celebrates ramps, which are also known as wild leek or wild onion. Famed for its raw pungency, ramps have also been embraced by culinary artists. This year’s festival will be held from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and features live music, a ramp recipe competition, a raw ramp-eating contest and a hearty meal featuring fried ’taters and ramps, soup beans, coleslaw, bacon and cornbread with a drink and dessert. • Greeneville’s 17th annual Iris Festival, May 21-22. This celebration puts the Volunteer State’s official wildflower in the spotlight for two days of fun-filled events. The entertainment stage features blues, gospel, bluegrass and country music performers, and the dance stage at the opposite end of the festival area features a varied lineup of performances, including jazz and tap,
square dancing, line dancing and clogging. The festival is designed to offer entertaining local and regional talent, and is promoted as a juried arts/crafts festival. More than 120 crafters and merchants line the streets and fill the parking lots of the festival area, some of which demonstrate arts like wheel-thrown pottery, crocheting and woodworking. The family-friendly event also provide plenty of activities for kids. For more information, call (423) 638-4111. • The third annual Banner Elk Herb Festival, Saturday, May 28, and Sunday, May 29. Held on the grounds of the Banner Elk Elementary School, the festival’s Saturday hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday
ton’s Big Damn Band, Impeach Dixon, The Annie Robinette Band, Major and the Modern Apothecary, Keith McKelley, Walter Hall, Moments Notice with Eddie Dalton, Frito Puente, Jazz Doctors and Joe McBride. For more information, visit www.blueplum.org. • 21st annual Native American Festival at Sycamore Shoals State Historic Park in Elizabethton, June 4-5. The festival offers traditional and contemporary arts and crafts; traditional Cherokee song and dance; Cherokee storytelling and legends; Native American flute, craft demonstrations and sales. Admission for adults is $4, and for children 6-17, the fee is $1. Children 6 and under admitted free. For more information, call (423) 543-5808. • Shakespeare and Friends Celtic
hours are from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. The Herb Festival will feature great local bands, lots of arts and crafts vendors, farmers market items, a kid zone and, of course, thousands of herb plants for sale. Local food and non-alcoholic beverages will be available as well as carnival games and prizes for each participating child. For more information, visit www.beherbfest. com. • Blue Plum Festival in Johnson City, June 3-5. This event is a free outdoor art and music festival spanning seven city blocks in downtown Johnson City. Bring your lawn chair and enjoy! Music’s at the heart of Blue Plum, and a sampling of artists scheduled to perform this year includes The Hackensaw Boys, Ras Alan & the Lions, Amanda Shaw & the Cute Boys, Jill Andrews Band, The Infamous Stringdusters, 18 South, Demon Waffle, April Taylor, Reverend Pey-
Renaissance Faire, Rogersville, June 4-5. Visit the King’s Stage for performances of Celtic music, fire breathing, belly dancing, puppetry and comedy. Visit the marketplace for rare and beautiful objects brought from lands near and far. Listen to music, “sweet to the ear,” and feast on foods common to the time. Watch as jousters challenge each other on the tournament field. Beware the pirates for they practice much mischief and mayhem. This event is held in Crockett Spring Park from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. both days. Admission is $10 for adults and $8 for students and seniors. Children 10 and under are admitted free. For more information, call (423) 923-3581 or e-mail info@shakespeareandfriends.org. • Covered Bridge Celebration, Elizabethton, June 9-11. At the center of this festival is the Queen of the Doe, the
outdoor life | page 17
long-standing Covered Bridge, a landmark in Elizabethton since 1882. Music, arts and crafts, fun and games, good food and a Little Mr. and Miss Hillbilly Contest are just some of the highlights of this long-running festival. For more information, call (423) 547-3850 or e-mail director@elizabethtonchamber. com. • Rhododendron Festival, Roan Mountain, June 18-19. The first Rhododendron Festival was held in June of 1947. Conceived and carried out by the Roan Mountain Citizens Club, the two-day celebration memorializes and perpetuates the most gorgeous display of natural beauty on the North American continent, and has continued uninterrupted for more than 50 years. A variety of craft demonstrations and musical entertainment provides a highlight of the festival. More than 100 arts and crafts vendors offer a diversity of products. Food concessions are also available. Be sure to visit the world’s largest natural rhododendron gardens atop 6,000-foot Roan Mountain. Hike the Appalachian Trail as it runs along the border of Tennessee and North Carolina. A mini-auction to fund scholarships for Cloudland High School students will be conducted between musical performances. For more information, visit www.roanmountain.com. • Trade Days Celebration, Trade in Johnson County, June 24-26. This festival in the Johnson County community of Trade features such crafts as quilting, weaving, crocheting, as well as demonstrations for biscuit-making, butter-churning and the production of cheese the old-fashioned way. Visitors will want to stop by The Historic Trade Mill. Local and Native American crafts and foods will be offered by vendors. Live entertainment will be offered on the outdoor stage daily. The Trade Days Parade will take place on Saturday morning, and on Sunday morning there will be a Worship Service. Of course, opening the annual event is the always popular traditional Indian pow-wow. For more information, call the Johnson County Welcome Center at 727-5800 or Trade Days at (423) 727-3007. • Jonesborough Days, July 2-3. The 41st annual Jonesborough Days offers a patriotic two-day celebration in Tennessee’s oldest town. Highlights will include a Fourth of July Parade, musical entertainment, storytelling, n See FESTIVALS, 18
Festivals n Continued from 17
a crafters village, historic re-enactments, heritage craft demonstrations, children’s games and much more. A fireworks display will conclude the festival. Hours are 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Saturday, July 3, and 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Sunday, July 4. For more information, visit www.jonesboroughtn.org or call (423) 753-1030. • The 56th annual Grandfather Mountain Highland Games, July 7-10. Held each summer on Grandfather Mountain near Linville, N.C. Brawny athletes, delicate dancers, noisy bagpipe band parades, rocking Celtic music and a spectacular highland setting makes this colorful celebration of Scottish culture the best highland games in America. Admission charged. For more information, visit www.grandfather.com. • FunFest in Kingsport, July 15-23. Held annually at the height of summer, FunFest was created as an effort to unite Kingsport residents, to help foster a belief that Kingsport is a caring community that is a good place to live and to work and to provide numerous opportunities for people to congregate and become acquainted while appealing to their interests in culture, athletics, arts and entertainment. The very first FunFest was held Aug. 8-Aug. 15, 1981. For more information on this year’s full schedule of events and concerts, visit www. visitkingsport.com/funfest. • Virginia Highlands Festival, Abingdon, Va., July 23-Aug. 7. The Virginia Highlands Festival began in 1948. Over the years the festival has been selected as a top event by the American Bus Association and Southeast Tourism Society, and as one of the Top 100 Art Festivals (Art Fair SourceBook). Abingdon, Va., is recognized as a “Virginia Main Street” destination and designated an “American Dream Town.” Now in its 63rd year, the festival offers a juried arts and crafts show, plenty of entertainment, a celebrated antiques market, juried art and photography competitions, a variety of music from Celtic to bluegrass and classical, as well as nationally-known writers, lecturers and visual and performing artists. For more information, visit www.vahighlandsfestival.org. • Quiltfest in Jonesborough, July 28-30. This three-day event includes a buffet dinner, quilt exhibits and a variety of lectures by quilting experts such as Lucille Amos, Penny Haren, Shirley Lips, Alice Kay Arnett, Barbara Jones, Toby Lischke, Ann Moore, Pat Sloan and Nancy Prince. Quiltfest classes will be held at Boones Creek Christian Church, but other events are slated for downtown Jonesborough and the Historic Jonesborough Visitors Center. The event is sponsored by Tennessee Quilts. For more information, call (423) 753-6644, toll-free at 1-877-385-0934 or e-mail linda@tennesseequilts.com. • Folklife Festival at Warriors Path State Park, Kingsport, July 30. Celebrate the “good old days” with traditional entertainment from the East Tennessee hills! Enjoy a day full of old-timey music, games and tales, and delight in traditional life-skills demonstrations and contests. This festival is a great way for the whole family to re-live the traditions of the region. For more information, call (423) 239-6786. • Bele Chere Street Festival, Asheville, N.C., July 29-31. The Bele Chere Festival is an annual three-day festival on the streets of downtown Asheville featuring live, original music on four stages for 300,000 festival-goers. The festival is committed to a diverse musical lineup and features local, regional and national performers in all musi-
of Country Music. Every third weekend in September, State cal genres. Featured past performers include Grace Potter Street in historic Downtown Bristol is amped to the beat of and the Nocturnals, The Fabulous Thunderbirds, Old 97’s, Cracker, The Family Stone Project, Travis Tritt, The Wailers, Appalachia’s past, present and future. The Reunion offers 22 Original P Funk, Cowboy Mouth, Rusted Root, Kenny Wayne stages of live music that include four outdoor stages, a dance tent, 16 indoor venues and a children’s stage on Saturday for Shepherd, Marty Stuart, Gin Blossoms, Galactic, Gov’t Mule a free event for families from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. For a complete and many others. The festival also offers arts and crafts, schedule of shows and events, visit www.bristolrhythm.com. activities for kids and food and beverage vendors. For more • Sorghum and Scutching Festival, Tiptoninformation, visit www.belecherefestival.com. • Old Butler Days, Butler, Aug. 12-13. This two-day Haynes Historic Site, Johnson City, Sept. 24. Visitors festival celebrates the “town that wouldn’t drown” with food can participate in old-fashioned sorghum making and also watch demonstrations of flax scutching and apple buttermade by members of the Butler Ruritan — including the popular Butler Barbecue and Corn Boil — along with ham- making. Other crafts will also be demonstrated throughout burgers, hot dogs, funnel cakes and other traditional festival the day. Admission is $5 for adults, $2.50 for children 12 and under. For more information, call (423) 926-3631. foods. Multiple entertainers and contests will entertain • Fall Folk Arts Festival, Exchange Place, Kingvisitors, who can also enjoy a boat tour of Watauga Lake or a visit to the Butler Museum. For more information, call (423) sport, Sept. 24-25. The historic valley farmstead bustles with activity by vendors, demonstrators, bakers and kettle768-0305 or (423) 768-3159. corn-makers! The Brunswick stew and apple-butter kettles • Crockett Days Celebration, Davy Crockett over the open fire bring an inviting aroma to the grounds. Birthplace State Park, Limestone. Attendees can help Music fills the air throughout the weekend from the comcelebrate the life of the legendary Tennessee frontiersman, munity band, dulcimer players and bluegrass bands. The soldier and politician Davy Crockett (1786-1836). The park harvest market includes a colorful array of corn, pumpkins includes a replica of Crockett’s birth cabin, a museum and and squash. Many heritage craftspeople demonstrate the a large campground. For more information, call the park “necessities of the 1850s” — vegetable dyeing, quilting, office at (423) 257-2167 or the campground at (423) 257basketmaking, ropemaking, chairmaking, caning, whit4500. tling, blacksmithing, weaving, spinning, pottery, hearth-side • The Boom in the Park Music Festival at World’s Fair Park, Knoxville, Sunday, Sept. 4. Boom cooking, soap-making, apple-cider-squeezing and handmade toys — to name a few. Hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on in the Park offers world class entertainment and a beautiful setting for watching the Boomsday fireworks, all at a very af- Saturday, Sept. 24, and noon to 5 p.m. on Sunday, Sept. 25. fordable price of just $25 per ticket (plus applicable fees). For Admission is $1. For more information, call (423) 288-6071. more information, visit www.boominthepark.com. • 11th annual Celtic Festival at Sycamore Shoals, Sept. 9-11. A wide variety of music, several stages of continual entertainment, workshops, contests, kids’ activities, Irish dance and much more, will really keep visitors on their toes. In addition, a number of vendors will be sporting their wares throughout the weekend. Handcrafted instruments, jewelry, ethnic food, plants, herbs and seeds, leather, glass, various apparel, weaving and spinning are but a few examples of items that will be available in the shopping venue. More than 15 clans will be represented at the festival, which will feature the always popular Calling of the Clans Torch Light Ceremony. Admission is $12 per day. Entry to a special concert is an additional $12. A weekend pass for the entire event, including concert, is $20. For more information, call (423) 5435808 or visit www.shoalsceltfest.com. • Rhythm & Roots Reunion, Bristol, Sept. 16-18. The awardwinning Bristol Rhythm & Roots Photo by Brandon Hicks The Rhododendron Festival held every June in Roan Mountain attracts Reunion isn’t just a music festival. It’s visitors from miles away. Pictured are Betty Plennons, Gladys Bowen and an infectious, three-day music experiSue Israel. They visited the gardens with their church, West Asheville ence, bursting with creative passion, Baptist Church in Asheville, N.C. During their visit, they enjoyed a picnic electricity and soul — a celebration and a walk through the Rhododendron Gardens. of Bristol’s heritage as the Birthplace outdoor life | page 18
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Celebrating 50th anniversary in 2011 By Ashley Rader OL Staff ashley@outdoor-life.net
Lakeshore Resort and Marina on Watauga Lake will be celebrating its 50th anniversary under the operation of its current owners this summer with a celebration at the marina. The resort and marina are located at 2340 Highway 321 in Hampton along the banks of Watauga Lake. The business includes a full service marina with boat storage and rentals, the Captain’s Table Restaurant and motel and cabin rentals. Current owners Ted and Betty Tipton took over operations of the marina in March 1961. They purchased the marina, restaurant and resort from the Brummitt family. Prior to operating the marina, Ted ran Ted’s Truck Stop along Highway 19-E where Steven’s Septic now stands. Daughter Teresa Calhoun said the marina and restaurant had previously been a part of their lives before they purchased it. For instance, her parents had their engagement dinner at the restaurant. When the opportunity came along to buy Lakeshore Marina, her parents took it. “My dad has always been adventuresome,” she said. “He loves a challenge.” When the family first took over the business, the land was on a 99-year lease from the Forestry Service. In the 1990s, they were able to acquire the land and they now own it. Under the Tiptons’ leadership the marina continued to grow. Calhoun said when they first took over the business,
there was one boat at the marina. The marina now houses more than 450 vessels. “It was slow and sure,” she said. “The biggest improvement was when he started building marinas to house the boats under cover. In 1962, there were 20 covered slips. We have just been expanding over the decades.” In 2000, they started making renovations to the marinas and switched out the materials that were in place with more durable materials that would not need to be replaced as often. The Styrofoam that is used for flotation was switched to an encased device that does not need to be replaced every year. The wooden decks were replaced with concrete and steel and aluminum roofing was put in place. The covered slips are available on an annual basis and the marina also has dry storage available. This past winter, the decking around the marine store at the marina was completely redone. The marine store offers a variety of boating equipment and accessories, live bait, fishing licenses, snacks and beverages. The marina also has full service factory trained mechanics in their service department for boat and motor repairs. The marina also offers fiberglass repairs. Other changes have taken place over time but the thing that remains the same is that the business is family owned and operated. Four generations have worked at the marina/resort and there are currently between 10 and 15 family members working in the marina/resort. Tipton’s daughters run the restaurant and the marina. Kathy Taylor is in charge of the Captain’s Table and Wendy Allara oversees the marina. There are several employees, some of them family members, who have worked at the business for a number of years. These include Von Luther, Betty Tipton’s brother, who has been at the business for 36 years; Jim Shell, who has a tenure of 35 years; Chad Allara, Wendy’s husband, who has worked there for 26 years; Scotty Potter, who has been an employee for 18 years; and Richard Smith, who has worked at the facility for 10 years. “Because it is a family run business, you do take more pride in it and you always want to work to improve it and n See LAKESHORE, 21 outdoor life | page 19
Marinas offer various amenities for area boaters Three major lakes in Northeast Tennessee offer plenty of recreational opportunities for boaters. Several marinas dot the shoreline of Watauga Lake, Boone Lake and South Holston Lake. The marinas provide a variety of services, including storage options for boat and other recreational watercraft. Marinas also offer convenient access for launching boats onto the water. Boone Lake Marinas • Boone Lake Marina 452 Sportsmans Dock Road, Piney Flats (423) 391-7283 www.boonelakemarina.com • Davis Marina 641 Buffalo Road, Blountville (423) 279-0013 • Hidden Cove Marina 149 Boatdock Road, Johnson City (423) 282-9633 • Jay’s Boat Dock 945 Pickens Bridge Road, Gray (423) 282-3522 • Lakeview Marina 474 Lakeside Dock Drive, Kingsport (423) 323-1054 www.thelakeviewmarina.net • Rockingham Marina 651 Rockingham Road, Gray 1-877-651-3625 n See MARINAS, 21
Independence Day 2011
Photos by Danny Davis
Region plans to celebrate in style BY Robert Sorrell OL STAFF robert@outdoor-life.net
Independence Day is not only a day to gather with friends and family, but a date to commemorate an important event in American history, as well as Northeast Tennessee history. Sycamore Shoals State Historic Area in Elizabethton will host an Independence Celebration and Muster on July 2 and 3. Park Superintendent Jennifer Bauer said that in 1776, when the Declaration of Independence was signed, and freedom was delivered to America, people living on the frontier in presentday Tennessee did not have up-to-date information. “There were no telephones or televisions, so people here didn’t know what was happening in Philadelphia (where the Declaration of Independence was signed),” Bauer said. During the Independence Celebration at Sycamore Shoals visitors will have a chance to experience what it was like when word of the signing reached the frontier. “It was very exciting when the settlers learned that the Declaration of Independence was signed,” Bauer said. “At that time, it was a long trip from Philadelphia to Sycamore Shoals.” Four years prior to the signing of the Declaration, Bauer noted that local pioneers created the Watauga Association, the first example of a democratic organization in the United States. “Independence, freedom and liberty were the basis of what happened here, four years before the signing in Philadelphia,” Bauer noted. The Independence Celebration and Muster at Sycamore Shoals will take place on Saturday, July 2, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Sunday, July 3, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Guests will also be able to speak to the re-enactors about independence and observe various 18th century activities and practices. There are several additional Independence Day celebrations
planned throughout Northeast Tennessee. An Independence Day Celebration is planned July 1-2 at David Crockett Birthplace State Park in Greene County. The event, held for Fourth of July weekend campers, will feature a Best Decorated Camper contest. There will also be a bicycle parade and an award for Best Decorated Bicycle. A bluegrass concert is also scheduled for Saturday night from 7 to 9 p.m. The Pepsi Independence Day Celebration is scheduled for Saturday, July 2, at the Freedom Hall Civic Center in Johnson City. The event features a large fireworks display choreographed with music. Fourth of July parades are scheduled for downtown Elizabethton and Bristol. The parade in downtown Elizabethton begins at noon on Saturday, July 2. Bristol’s event will include a parade, a minor league baseball game and fireworks. This event is scheduled for July 2 on both the Tennessee and Virginia sides of downtown Bristol. Revelers can also take to the water for the annual Fourth of July Boat Parade at Watauga Lake in Hampton. Houseboats, sport boats, fishing boats and pontoons are all decked out with red, white and blue to celebrate the nation’s independence! Either as a participant or as a spectator, you are sure to have fun at this annual event that takes place on Monday, July 4. An Independence Day midnight parade is also planned to begin at midnight on the Fourth of July in Gatlinburg. outdoor life | page 20
Also in Gatlinburg, boats will float down the river in the annual River Raft Regatta. It is planned for July 4 and will begin at noon at the Christ of the Smokies bridge and end at Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies. A large fireworks display is also planned for the evening of July 4 in Gatlinburg. Reportedly the largest Fourth of July fireworks display in the southeast is planned during this year’s Rogersville Fourth of July Celebration. The event is planned for Saturday, July 2, and will include a parade, a four-mile road race, a basketball tournament, a musical performance by the Band Perry and the fireworks event. Jonesborough Days is also held on Independence Day weekend in downtown historic Jonesborough. On Saturday, July 2, a parade will begin at 10 a.m. and fireworks will be held on Sunday, July 3, at 10 p.m. Jonesborough Days celebrates not only Independence Day, but the agricultural and storytelling heritage of Tennessee’s oldest town.
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Watauga Lake Marinas $• Cove Ridge Marina and Yacht Club
• Sonny’s Marina and Cafe 109 One Street, Gray (423) 282-4440 www.sonnysmarina.com
947 Piercetown Road, Butler (423) 768-3760 www.coveridgemarina.com • Fish Springs Marina 191 Fish Springs Road, Hampton (423) 768-2336 www.fishspringsmarina.com • Lakeshore Marina 2340 Highway 321, Hampton (423) 725-2201 or (423) 725-2223 E-mail: lakeshore-resort@earthlink.net www.lakeshore-resort.com • Mallard Cove Marina 200 Mallard Cove Drive, Butler (423) 768-3440 www.mallardcovemarina.com • Pioneer Landing Campground and Marina 105 Cowan Town Road, Butler (423) 768-3164 E-mail: info@pioneerlanding.com www.pioneerlanding.com
South Holston Lake Marinas • Friendship Resort and Marina 356 Friendship Drive, Bristol (423) 878-3128 • Lake View Dock 992 Lake View Dock Rd, Bristol (423) 878-4331 E-mail: lakeviewdock@aol.com • Laurel Marina and Yacht Club 191 Shady Ford Road, Bristol (423) 878-3721 • Painter Creek Marina 766 Painter Creek Road, Bristol (423) 878-5775 E-mail: marinasb@aol.com • Sportsmans Marina 23115 Sportsman Drive Abingdon, Va. (276) 628-2850
keep the standards as high as they have been set by my parents,” Calhoun said. “We have met so many good friends over the years. We have built good relationships with them and they come back over the years.” The Captain’s Table Restaurant opens for business the first weekend in March. This gives the staff time to train new employees and get ready for the NASCAR race weekend at Bristol Motor Speedway in March, which is when the restaurant $ typically sees its first surge in business for the year. Calhoun noted they do receive business from both the spring race and the August race. The restaurant specializes in steak and seafood but also serves chicken and pasta dishes. A children’s menu is also available as well as weekend specials. Diners can enjoy a panoramic view of the lake from a large window wall in the restaurant or from the deck when weather allows it. A banquet room for parties of 35 to 100 diners is offered as well. The eatery has received awards, including one when Ted Tipton was recognized as Restaurateur of the Year in the early 1990s. The marina and the resort have their
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yearly kickoff on Memorial Day weekend; however, when the weather is warmer before the holiday many people come to the marina to take their boats out and enjoy the sunshine. Calhoun used the recent weather as an example. Many days had temperatures in the 70s and 80s which brought people out to the lake. Just a few days later though the low temperatures would fall back below freezing. “Last weekend (April 9 and 10) when it was so hot and warm, we had people out then,” she said. “We didn’t even have the water lines de-winterized yet because the next Tuesday night it did get down in the 30s. We have to be careful this time of year.” The resort’s rental properties include one-, two- and three-bedroom cabins and motel units. These units have views of the lake and the surrounding mountains. Amenities include TVs, air conditioning, private balconies and a private 50-foot pool. For more information call, 423-7252201 or 423-725-2223 or e-mail lakeshoreresort@earthlink.net. The website is www. lakeshore-resort.com.
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‘Veggin’ out’ is so in
Tips for starting your own veggie garden to yield a good harvest to make your Vegetable and herb gardening is in efforts worthwhile. But if you’re limited and studies indicate it will continue to grow in popularity. If you’re not growing on yard space — or have none at all — your own yet it’s time to start. Why? The you can grow vegetables and herbs in containers on a deck, terrace, balcony or reasons are as varied as the people who even on the windowsill. garden. • Let the sunshine in — Your plants Some do it to save money. Others need plenty of sun — at least six hours want to ensure their food is chemicala day. A sunny and open location is your free, and as safe as possible. Still others best bet for producing a plentiful harvest. grow their own vegetables because • Pick your plants for fresher is just better. Many do it because your plot — Grow gardening is good for you and some vegetables that are exbecause it’s still fun to pensive to buy in the play in the dirt. grocery store or at the Whatever your farmer’s market, reason for opting such as tomatoes to join the 7 miland peppers. lion Americans who A triedgrabbed their garand-true prolific dening gear and grew producer, the Bonnie their own vegetables and Original Tomato was herbs last year, your road developed exclusively for to success is basically the Bonnie Plants in 1967. same as everyone else’s — They come in environmenplanting at the right time, tally friendly, biodegradable making sure your soil’s pots that you plant right into in shape, weeding and the soil. Recent trials, plantwatering responsibly, and ing five of these tomato plants feeding and nurturing your in 25-gallon containers, averplants. This season, you won’t Bell Peppers aged 100 tomatoes each at an have to buy your fresh herbs average of 37 pounds per plant. and vegetables from a farmer’s market; you can grow them on your own, Another tomato that will tip the scales and you don’t need a farm-sized backyard is Bonnie’s Sun Sugar tomato, a yellow cherry type. Trial garden plants averaged — or pocketbook — to do it. 1,228 tomatoes each. Avid gardener Stan Cope, president If peppers are your passion, the of Bonnie Plants, the largest producer Yummy Bell Pepper, ripening from green of vegetable and herb plants in North America, growing locally in 75 locations to apricot orange, is a best bet. Trial garnationwide, offers some time-saving tips den testing of five plants averaged 248 peppers per plant during the summer to make the growing easy: growing season. • Survey your soil — Your first step is to decide where you’ll put your vegetable and herb garden. Good soil is key. n See VEGGIES, 23 The best soil is loam, a soft, dark, crumbly dirt. Loamy soil holds water, allows for drainage and is easy to dig. If you encounter clay or sandy soil, add peat moss and bone meal so that these soils can also be productive gardening bases. • Size up your space — When plotting out the size of your garden, you’ll want Super Sweet 100 Tomato to be sure it’s big enough
10 common gardening mistakes and how to avoid them
(AP) — Gardening is a forgiving hobby. You can always right any wrongs next growing season. The best way to prevent problems, though, is with good planning. “Designing from the top of your head may work, but things most likely will work better if you write it down and do a simple drawing,” said Jack McKinnon, a garden coach from San Francisco. “Think before you plant.” Most gardening failures result from simple things, he said, “like people who don’t fertilize, or if they do, put on too much. The same goes for people who don’t understand watering, or add too much. Many tend to do their pruning with power tools and then overdo it.” Here are 10 common gardening mistakes and ways to avoid them: 1. Neglecting soil preparation. Test the plant beds before you begin, and again every few years to see if soil conditioners are needed. Add sand or peat moss to compacted, poorly drained ground, to improve its structure and encourage root growth. 2. Overplanting. Design with the size of mature plants in mind. Try succession planting, in which early, cool-weather crops are harvested before later, less hardy plants reach maturity. n See MISTAKES, 23
Photo courtesy of Bonnie Plants
Herbs, such as basil, rosemary and sage, add to the beauty of flowers in a container garden.
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• Time-saving transplants — When you’re ready to begin planting, opt for transplants — seedlings that have already been started — rather than starting from seed. Transplants will buy you lots of time because plants are six weeks or older when you put them in the ground, and you’ll begin harvesting much sooner. • Feed your food — Your vegetable plants will need food and water to survive and grow. When feeding plants, try to avoid chemical fertilizers that could potentially seep into groundwater. Bonnie Plant Food is a unique, organically based, soybean oilseed extract formula that
has demonstrated superior results in the health and vigor of plants. • Give your garden a good watering once or twice a week, although some crops may need more water, especially if your climate is very hot. A thorough soaking, allowing the water to penetrate 4 to 6 inches into the soil, is better for plants than frequent shallow watering. Gardening is rewarding. It will bring great pleasure as you bring your produce from plot to plate so you can literally enjoy the fruits of your labor. For more information on varieties and gardening advice, visit www.bonnieplants.com.
Gardening attracts different persons from a variety of reasons. Some people get into gardening as a means of saving money on grocery bills. Others raise their own fresh produce to enjoy the taste of home-raised vegetables, fruit and herbs.
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3. Flawed feeding. “Mulch plants and they’ll be so much happier,” said Tia Pinney, adult program coordinator at the Drumlin Farm Wildlife Sanctuary, in Lincoln, Mass. “Supplement your soil, don’t just fertilize it.” 4. Improper watering. Too much water can be just as damaging as too little. Do a finger-in-the-ground test to ensure that the soil around the roots is moist. Vegetables need about an inch and a half of water per week. 5. Wrong location. Growing conditions change as trees and shrubs mature, creating different shadow patterns. Most plants need six to eight hours of sun per day to develop. 6. Improper pest control. Don’t kill the good bugs, like pollinators, in an effort to eliminate the bad. “One thing we hear a lot is an attitude of: ‘All I have to do is spray and that will cure it’,” said Mary Ann Ryan, master gardening coordinator with Penn State Cooperative Extension in Adams County, Pa. 7. Faulty maintenance. Don’t set your cultivator (or hoe) too deep, damaging plant roots. Pull some weeds by hand. 8. Over-pruning. As a rule, don’t remove more than 30 percent of the foliage from shrubs in one cutting. And don’t “top” trees to control their height. “That reduces their life span rather than improves their health,” Ryan said. 9. Botched planting. Choose the right plant depth. “I know of one property where they put a tree with its root ball on the surface of the ground, and then mulched around it up to the level of the trunk,” Ryan said. “People don’t know how to plant.” 10. Failing to start over. “Oftentimes, people let diseased things grow that should be pulled out, and it affects the health of the entire crop,” McK-
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innon said. Start with a small plot so you can correct mistakes more easily, the experts say. And look to your county extension office for support if you run into trouble. Garden coaches also can diagnose problems and suggest remedies, as can master gardeners and landscape designers. ___ For more about avoiding garden mistakes, see this North Carolina State University planning guide: http://www.ces.ncsu. edu/depts/hort/hil/ag-06.html. Contact Dean Fosdick at deanfosdick@netscape.net.
Cloud Nine Eggplant
Grape Tomatoes
Let’s Ride Mountain biking gaining in popularity By Ashley Rader OL Staff ashley@outdoor-life.net
The active outdoor pastime of mountain biking is gaining popularity in the region as more trails and rides are becoming available for the public. The mountains of Northeast Tennessee and surrounding states provide the perfect arena for those who want to mountain bike. A variety of trail systems are available to suit the needs of every rider, from the very beginner to the more seasoned, advanced bicycler. As the number of riders continues to climb, so does the number of trail options open to them. In recent years, overseers of the trail systems have started to expand the number of mountain biking trails and have opened former hiking only trails to bikers as well. Local mountain bikers see these changes continuing and the presence of the sport growing as well. “I expect to see more as the number of trails increase,” said Greg Carr, President of the Northeast Tennessee Mountain Bike Association (NTMBA). “Every year we get more and more trails. The sport is really growing quickly. Just in the past couple of years we have seen some improvements.” The NTMBA has been working with officials at Bays Mountain Park in Kingsport to renovate some of the older trails and to build new mountain biking trails throughout the park. Carr noted the park has recently opened a lot of trails that used to be hiking only to bikers as well. “That has boosted mountain biking in Kingsport tremendously,” he said. “They have been working with our club and
allowing us to come in and do some reroutes to make the trails easier to ride and easier to maintain. They have also allowed us to start building trails that are specifically designed for mountain biking. We have built two trails in the past three years and we have just started work on a new trail.”
Similar projects are also taking place at Steele Creek Park in Bristol and the NTMBA built all of the bike trails at Warriors Path State Park in Kingsport. Carr explained the NTMBA is the main mountain bike club in the Northeast Tennessee region. NTMBA was formed in 1998 and is dedicated to the enhancement of mountain biking and the preservation of, and access to, trails across Northeast Tennessee. The club leads group rides during the summer months and takes groups to different trails each time. “It is a good way to experience a trail you have never been to and ride with someone who knows the trail pretty good,” he said. Carr, who has 15 years of mountain biking experience, offered some tips for individuals who may want to get started in the sport. The most important thing to consider is the bicycle that they will be riding. Many beginners will start out on bicycles that come from department stores. However, over time they will likely choose to purchase a bike from a bicycle shop. When looking for a bike specifically for mountain biking, people should look for one from a reputable company that builds mountain bikes. Carr said they should also look for good components, good brakes, knobby tires and the bike should at least have a suspension fork. The fork is the part of the frame that surrounds the front tire. A suspension fork would have some kind of shock absorption built into that area. n See MOUNTAIN BIKING, 25
Cyclists can choose from several events Several bicycle races are held throughout Northeast Tennessee in the spring and summer months. These races are usually held in conjunction with a festival event. Bicycle races and rides are held to accommodate riders of varying experience levels. Some of the rides in the area are: • The Nor-Well Roan Groan Bicycle Race will be held on Saturday, June 4. The riders will begin at Cat Island Park in Elizabethton and will travel on Highway 19-E to Roan Mountain. The racers will be going in seven groups leaving in fiveminute intervals starting at 9 a.m. • The 2011 Omnium Race at the Blue Plum Festival Tennessee State Championship Criterium will be held on Sunday, June 5. The ride is sponsored by GoTricities, Ameriprise Financial and People’s Community Bank. There are 10 different
categories of racing. Kid’s racing starts at 8:30 a.m. and professional racing begins at 2 p.m. Race path is a loop around the Blue Plum festival area. • The 20th Fun Fest (Mountain) Bike Rally will be held on Monday, July 18, at Bays Mountain Park. A 12.5 mile mountain bike race begins at 5:30 p.m. and is for riders age 12 and over only. A 2.5 mile family ride which allows all styles of bicycles will begin at 6:15 p.m. The cost is $10 for adults and $5 for riders age 12 and under. Registration can be made at the Fun Fest store or at Larry’s Cycle Shop in Kingsport. The rally is sponsored by Larry’s Cycle Shop. • The 2nd Funfest White Lightning Ride will be held on July 23 and will begin at the Meadowview Marriott Conference Center at 1901 Meadowview Parkway in
Kingsport. The Performance Medicine 45Mile Ride will begin at 8 a.m.; the 18-Mile Ride will begin at 8:15 a.m. and the 4.5mile Holston Medical Group Family Ride will begin at 9 a.m. Registration fees through July 21 are $30 for the 45 mile and 18 mile ride ($5 online discount) and $12 for the family ride ($2 online discount). Online registration closes at 7 p.m. on July 21. After July 21, registration fees will be $35 for the 45-mile and 18-mile ride and $15 for the family ride. To register online, visit the Kingsport Bicycle Association website at http://kba.tripod.com/, click on the link for bicycle events and then click on the link for ride in the list. Packet pickup and late registration will be held at the Meadowview Marriott Conference Center on July 22 from 4-7 p.m. and July 23 from 6:30-7:30 a.m.
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Mountain Biking
Variety of regional trails available
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“A good bike from a reputable bike shop is probably your best bet, as far as customer service goes, and it is going to be reliable,” he said. “You are going to get a better fit. With a bike shop you are going to get a little more information. It is a bit of a learning experience too. Shopping at a bike shop for a mountain bike is definitely key. We have a lot of great bike shops in this area.” Bikers would need a quality helmet and gloves. It is also important that riders learn how to do minor maintenance, like fixing a broken chain or changing a flat tire, on their bikes in case an issue should arise while out riding on a trail. Beginners should also get familiar with their bike and riding off pavement on easier trails like the Creeper Trail in Virginia. The NTMBA will be hosting a maintenance clinic called Bike at Bays at Bays Mountain Park on May 14. The clinic is geared for beginner riders or anyone interested in learning maintenance. There will also be group rides to introduce cyclers to single-track mountain bike riding. When mountain biking, riders will have the possibility of riding on three different kinds of trails; single track, double track or fire roads.
Single track is a narrow ribbon of trail that runs through the woods. It can be anywhere from 2-4 feet in width. It is always dirt and there are obstacles like roots, rocks and stream crossings depending on the area. This type of trail is geared more toward mountain bikers and hikers. Double track is wider than a single track. Fire roads are frequently covered in gravel and are wide enough for vehicles to travel on to reach different areas of the mountain. “Single track is ideal for mountain bikers,” Carr said. “That is what we strive to ride the most. It is more challenging and you are more in tune with nature. You are closer to the trees and rocks. It is just you and nature. That can be very stress relieving. When you get on a fire road and it is covered in gravel, it is not that exciting. It is not the same. It is definitely more exciting to ride single track. It is more challenging.” To get an idea of what a trail is all about, riders can visit the NTMBA website at ntmba. org. There they can view different videos taken while riding various trails and can download different trail maps. The site also has an open forum to discuss different topics and to get information on scheduled rides.
By Ashley Rader OL Staff ashley@outdoor-life.net
There are hundreds of miles of mountain biking trail available in Northeast Tennessee and surrounding states. Trails are available to suit all experience levels, from beginner through intermediate and advanced. Some of the trails available include: • Warriors Path State Park in Kingsport. The park has nine miles of pure single track trails. There is also a paved path around Duck Island. • The East Tennessee State University trail system in Johnson City. The system runs in a clockwise motion. A half mile of track has been added to the system of 4.5 miles already in place. The trails offer a mix of short burst climbing and very technical sections as well as easier sections for beginners. • Bays Mountain Park and Planetarium in Kingsport. Approximately 20 miles of trail is open to mountain bikers. The newest trail is Chinquapin Trail. This trail
is two and a half miles long and is described as an excellent starting point for beginners but is still fun for advanced riders. • Buffalo Mountain. These trails are better known as ATV trails but there are trails for mountain bikers. The main destination is the fire tower which is six miles from the bottom and is an all uphill ride. Mountain bikers are urged to use caution when riding these trails because they are shared by motorized vehicles. • Steele Creek Park in Bristol. The park has 21 miles of hiking and biking trails. • Roan Mountain State Park in Roan Mountain. The park has a relatively short section of mountain bike trails available. There is a section of trail that is 2.25 miles long. The difficulty ranges from easy to strenuous. • Hampton Watershed Trails in Hampton. There is five miles of trails with difficulty levels to suit n See TRAILS, 26
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Trails n Continued from 25
riders who are beginner, intermediate and advanced. • The Virginia Creeper Trail. The trail is 34 miles long and begins in Abingdon, Va. It runs through Damascus along Whitetop Laurel River up to Whitetop, Va. The highest point is its stopping place. The trail is open to hiking, mountain biking and horseback riding. • Rocky Fork. Rocky Fork is a 9,624-acre nature area along the Tennessee and North Carolina border in Greene and Unicoi counties. The land was recently purchased by the U.S. Forest Service and the Conservation Fund and could be turned into a park or other nature preserve. The area is currently open to the public for mountain biking, hiking, running, hunting and fishing. • Haw Ridge Park in Oak Ridge. The 780acre park has over 28 miles of wooded dirt trails that are used by hikers, trail runners, mountain bikers, Nordic skiers and horseback riders. • Panther Creek State Park in Morristown. The park has eight mountain biking trails. There are signs at each trail head that give the name and distance of the trail.
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Region offers plenty of golfing options By Steve Burwick OL Staff steve@outdoor-life.net
Men and women of all ages enjoy the benefits of a relaxing, challenging round of golf. There are several good golf courses in the East Tennessee mountain region, with a variety of scenic terrain to add to the experience. Among the most popular courses are Cattails at MeadowView in Kingsport, Blackthorn Club (formerly known as the Ridges) in Jonesborough and the Elizabethton Municipal Golf Course. Elizabethton Golf Course, nestled in the foothills of the Iron Mountain Range, offers great value for enthusiasts. Greens fees and cart rentals range from $23 on Monday and Tuesday (for 18 holes with a cart) to $32.50 on weekends and holidays. Ninehole prices are $18.25 and $11 (weekdays with and without cart), and $24.25 and $17 (weekends).
Golf carts and pull carts are available, along with rental clubs. Training facilities include driving range, putting green, sand and chipping area and a teaching pro on the premises. Tee times can be scheduled as early as 7:30 a.m., and the course is open all year. Steve Howard, resident pro since 1999 at Elizabethton Golf Course, said the course was redesigned by D.J. DeVictor, a renowned course architect and designer from Atlanta, Ga., in 1993. The 18-hole course lies on a gently rolling and sloping terrain. Smooth Bermuda fairways are contrasted with well placed sand traps and water hazards. The total yardage of the course is 6,339. The signature hole is number two, a 402-yard, par four that involves a mild dogleg left, along with sand to worry about off the tee. The second hole is also one of the many holes in which elevation changes must be negotiated in order to shoot par or better. “The main change was reconstruction of the greens,” Howard said. “Typically, they need to be rebuilt about every 20 to 30 years. During that time, golf was in a real boom, so they did that to attract players.” Howard is proud of the fact that “everybody says we have the best greens around.” The Elizabethton Golf Course also offers several tournaments. “We have three tournaments that we sponsor, that are open to non-members, and we have a two-man select shot that anyone can play, and then we have the three-man select shot in the fall,” Howard said. “Our biggest
tournament of the year is the Carter County Bank East Tennessee Amateur,” he said. “It’s a well attended tourney.” Play at the course is not Each golf season, numerous golfers unlimited to local residents. knowingly continue habits which result in “We draw golfers from all golfer’s elbow. Golfer’s elbow, also known over the area — from Knoxas medical epicondylitis, is similar to tennis ville, Chattanooga, Asheville, elbow, but occurs on the inside, as opposed Boone and a number of differ- to the outside of the elbow. It is usually a ent places,” Howard said. “I pain or discomfort that forms where the feel that we are one of the best tendons of one’s forearm muscles attach to values in the area. We offer the bone on the inside of the elbow. The a quality, conditioned golf pain may spread into one’s forearm and course at a reasonable price.” wrist. Most common at the beginning of the The course also hosts golf season, this injury is typically due to the various fundraisers during repetitive activity and increased duration. the year. The pain of golfer’s elbow doesn’t have The tentative 2011 tourna- to keep you out of the game or hinder the ment schedule at Elizabethton start of the season — if you keep in mind a includes: few easy tips from Dr. Michael R. Hausman, • May 14-15: Spring Two- Robert K. Lippmann Professor of OrthopePerson Select-Shot Tournadic Surgery and Vice Chairman of the Dement partment of Orthopaedics at Mount Sinai. • June 10: Three-Person • Golf Clubs — It is crucial to make sure Glowball Tournament that you are using golf clubs that are sized • July 1-3: The Carter properly, including grip size. County Bank East Tennessee n See GOLF TIPS, 29 Amateur • Sept. 3-5: EMGC Club Championship include: • Sept. 24-25: Fall Three-Person Select• Buffalo Valley in Unicoi. Call 423Shot Tournament 743-5021 for more information. • Oct. 1: EMGC Shoot-Out (Rain date is • Pine Oaks in Johnson City. Call 423Oct. 2). 434-6250 for more information. “Golf in general has gone down, as with • Red Tail Mountain in Mountain City. everything else, due to the economy,” said Call 423-727-7931 for more information. Howard. “We have about 27,000-28,000 • Tri-Cities Golf Course in Blountville. rounds a year. We had about 35,000 around Call 423-323-4178 for more information. the time they re-did the golf course. It’s • Steele Creek Park in Bristol. Call 423down about 20 percent from the peak.” 764-6411 for more information. The Elizabethton Golf Course Pro Shop • Warriors’ Path in Kingsport. Call 423offers high-quality and name brand golfing 323-4990 for more information. equipment and supplies. Howard offers lesThe region is also home to some private clubs, which include: sons at the pro shop as well. • Blackthorn Club is a private country Cattails at MeadowView, a Denis Griffiths design, originally opened in 1998 and club consisting of an 18-hole championship golf course designed by Arthur Hills. has been recognized as one of the top golf courses in East Tennessee, a region that was Other amenities include four tennis courts, a heated outdoor swimming pool and dinrecently named the second best golf city in America by Golf Digest Magazine. Cattails is ing at Blackthorn Grille. The Blackthorn located at 1901 MeadowView Parkway, King- Club is located at 1501 Ridges Club Drive, sport. For more information, call 578-6622 Jonesborough. For more information, call or e-mail: cattails_golf@yahoo.com. n See GOLFING, 29 Other public courses in the region
outdoor life | page 27
Avoid Golfer’s Elbow This Golf Season
Dash for the Finish Line
Runners enjoy wide range of regional races BY Robert Sorrell OL STAFF robert@outdoor-life.net
The Don’t Rock The Boat 5K is a new race along the historic Holston River in Kingsport. Organizers say the event will take place at the Netherland Inn. For more information, call Julie Pierson at (865) 207-3031.
Runners of all ages gather throughout the year in various locations throughout Northeast Tennessee for foot races. They run through historic downtown areas, through scenic state parks, college campuses and anywhere else a course can be drawn. A majority of the foot races in the area benefit charities and organizations. Below are just a few of the area’s premier foot races. May 14 Foot Rx 5K Johnson City The Foot Rx 5K is a five-mile run around Johnson City. In its fourth year, the event features door prizes and race shirts. The race begins at 8 a.m. and preregistration is required. For more information, visit www.footrxjc.com or call (423) 282-2235. May 15 FBC Kingsport AmazinGrace 5K Kingsport The AmazinGrace 5K begins at 7:15 p.m. on May 15. The course leads through the streets of downtown Kingsport and begins at the Providence Medical Clinic at 441 Clay St. The path generally features flat streets. The Kid’s Festival of Miles mile run begins at 6:30 p.m. For more information, visit www.fbcamazingrace5k.blogspot.com or call Allison Jones at (423) 791-2757. New Balance Girls on the Run 5K Milligan College The New Balance Girls on the Run 5K event is non-competitive and benefits the Girls on the Run of Northeast Tennessee. The event will begin at 2 p.m. and takes place on the Milligan College campus. For more information visit www. gotrnetn.org/race. May 21 The Hope 4 Greeneville The Hope 4 is a competitive 4-mile run and a non-competitive 4K (about 2.4 mile) walk in support of the American Cancer Society. Runners and walkers will enjoy scenic countryside near Tusculum College in Greeneville. For more information, visit www.
thehope4.com. May 28 Bill Gatton Honda Memorial Freedom 5K Bristol The Bill Gatton Honda Memorial Freedom 5K begins at 8 a.m. on May 28. The event benefits the Make a Wish Foundation. The course leads participants through downtown Bristol and surrounding neighborhoods. Pre-race packet pickup and late registration is planned on Friday, May 27, at Bill Gatton Honda in Bristol from 1 to 6 p.m. Race day packet pickup and late registration is the morning of May 28 till 7:30 a.m. at the Bristol Train Station. For more information, visit billgattonhonda.com or call Trace Bratton at (423) 340-9850. May 30 Big Little 5K Kingsport The Big Little 5K is a new race planned for May 30 at the Ridgefields Country Club and Golf Course in Kingsport. For more information, e-mail Jeremy Lively at jeremy@livelyagency.com. June 4 Blue Plum Festival 5K Run Johnson City The Blue Plum Festival 5K Run begins at 9 a.m. June 4 and is a very fast course with little elevation change. The race is limited to 800 participants. For more information, visit www. blueplum.org. June 5 Duck Island Spring Mile: Kids and
Adults Warriors Path State Park The Duck Island Spring Mile is set for June 5 at 4 p.m. for kids and 4:30 p.m. for adults. The event is free and there are no awards, or shirts. For more information, call Jason and Nicole Goodman at (423) 360-5348. June 11 CASA Road Race Rogersville The CASA 8K run leads participants through the historic streets of downtown Rogersville. The event begins at 8 a.m. There is also a kids run at 9:15 a.m. For more information, call Mark Skelton at (423) 345-2335 (home) or (423) 272-4812 (office). Covered Bridge 5K and 3K Walk Elizabethton In conjunction with Covered Bridge Days in downtown Elizabethton, a 5K walk and 3K walk are planned for June 1. The 5K walk will begin at 7:30 a.m. For more information, call Sharon Sheppard at (423) 542-1338. June 24 Morristown Main Street Mile Morristown This annual run travels along Main Street in downtown Morristown. It is scheduled for 7 p.m. on June 24. For more information, call John Smyth at (865) 805-8743. June 25 Don’t Rock The Boat 5K Kingsport
outdoor life | page 28
July 2 Firecracker 4 Miler Rogersville In conjunction with Rogersville’s massive Fourth of July celebration, the Firecracker 4 Miler is an annual event that begins at 7 a.m. The course leads participants through historic downtown Rogersville. For more information, call Mark Skelton at (423) 345-2335 (home) or (423) 272-4812 (office). July 19 Wolf Run Kingsport The Wolf Run foot race is part of the annual Fun Fest event in Kingsport. The seven-mile run begins at 6:30 p.m. The race takes place at Bays Mountain Park. For more information, call Mark Skelton at (423) 345-2335 (home) or (423) 272-4812 (office). July 30 Astros 5K Tusculum The Astros 5K run leads participants through the streets of Tusculum and Tusculum College. The event benefits the Boys and Girls Club of Greeneville. The event begins at 8 a.m. For more information, call the Greeneville Astros at (423) 638-0411. Aug. 9 Duck Island Summer Mile: Kids and Adults Warriors Path State Park The Duck Island Summer Mile is set for Aug. 9 at 4 p.m. for kids and 4:30 p.m. for adults. The event is free and there are no awards, or shirts. For more information, call Jason and Nicole Goodman at (423) 360-5348. Aug. 20 Greene County YMCA 5K Run Greeneville The 5K run through Greeneville begins at 8 a.m. For more information, call Debbie Overacker at (423) 639-6107.
Golfing
Golf Tips
n Continued from 27
913-3164. • The Country Club of Bristol is the birthplace of organized golf in the state of Tennessee. The Old Jonesboro address is the fourth physical location of the Club since it was originally formed in 1894 by Boston native and area newcomer, W.O. Came, and several of his local friends. In 1999, the golf course was reshaped by the Mark McCumber design group; the changes were executed by Course Crafters, who was also responsible for reshaping Augusta National. The club also offers a Family Fitness Center, swimming pool, Golf Pro Shop, restaurant and banquet facilities. For more information, call 423-652-1700. • Johnson City Country Club. This club is located at 1901 E. Unaka Ave., Johnson City. The JCCC Golf Course was designed by world golf architect, A.W. Tillinghast. It is a challenging, fun course to play. The Club also hosts some of East Tennessee’s premiere golf tournaments including The Tillinghast Invitational, Member-Guest Golf Classic and Raggedy Ann & Andy Tournament. The club also offers tennis courts, swimming pool and a fitness center. For more information, call 928-5161.
n Continued from 27
• Stretching and Exercises — Some simple stretches and exercises reduce the symptoms of golfer’s elbow. These exercises should not cause pain. By strengthening the muscles and tendons involved with golfers’ elbow, you can help prevent the problem from returning. • Anti-Inflammatory Medication — If you do feel persistent pain in the elbow area, using an antiinflammatory medication is suggested to control the pain and inflammation. • Alternatives — A cortisone injection is another option if other methods have not helped to subside the pain; however, if a patient has tried more than two cortisone injections and has not felt relief, it is unlikely such injections will benefit the patient. Dr. Michael Hausman has appeared on national and local TV and radio, as well as in many print outlets as a resource on orthopaedic care and injuries specifically on the hands and upper extremities. Dr. Hausman has been interviewed by ABC’s 20/20 and New York Daily News. He is currently the Robert K. Lippmann Professor of Orthopedic Surgery and Vice Chairman of the Department of Orthopedics at Mount Sinai. He is an internationally recognized upper extremity surgeon who
Sycamore Shoals Where Liberty Began
Sycamore Shoals State Historic Area
1651 W. Elk Avenue • Elizabethton , TN 37643 • 423-543-5808 Hours of Operation - Daylight to Dark each day Visitor Center: Mon-Sat, 8:00 a.m.-4:30 p.m. - Sun. 1:00-4:30 p.m.
Interpretive Facility with Information • Historic Displays Events & Programs • Hiking Trails • Picnic Facilities 21st Native American Festival June 3, 4 & 5 18th Century Independence Celebration & Muster July 2 & 3
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Carter Mansion Celebration & Muster August 6th & 7th Sycamore Shoals Celtic Festival September 9 - 11 Overmountain Victory Trail Celebration September 24 & September 25
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treats disorders of the hand, elbow, shoulder and peripheral nerves. Dr. Hausman also performs microsurgical reconstruction of congenital, trauma, burn and neoplastic conditions throughout the body. He has pioneered the use of arthroscopy for treating pediatric elbow deformities and adult fractures and dislocations and has been invited to lecture on these topics throughout the world. He has also served as Chairman and Director and faculty for international courses in elbow arthroscopy and reconstruction in America, Europe, South America and the Middle East. Mount Sinai’s Leni and Peter W. May Department of Orthopaedics stands out for its depth of expertise and individualized patient care. Faculty and staff invest the time to learn about their patients, ensuring that each receives the appropriate care from subspecialty-trained orthopaedics. Our expertise includes surgery of the foot and ankle, knee, hip, hand, elbow, shoulder and spine; total joint replacement for knee, hip, foot, ankle and shoulder; microvascular surgery; cancer surgery; minimally invasive surgery. Taking a whole-patient approach to care, the department collaborates with specialists in geriatrics, neurology, oncology, pathology and rehabilitation medicine.
Roan Mountain Nature’s Beauty At Its Best
Roan Mountain State Park
1015 Hwy 143 • Roan Mountain , TN 37687 423-772-0190 1-800-250-8620 Hours of Operation - 8:30 am - 4:00 p.m. - Open year round Cabins • Camping • Events & Programs Fishing • Hiking Trails • Meeting Facility • Swimming
The Roan Mountain State Park is part of the Tennessee State Parks system and was created in the 1950s and developed in the 1970s. Park visitors can enjoy valley or mountain camping in one of the finest campgrounds in the country. Completely modern cabins are available for rent. Email them at vicky.dyer@tn.gov The Doe River offers magnificent trout fishing. The park also features picnic shelters, a swimming pool, tennis courts, children’s play areas, and extensive hiking trails. During summer weekends a variety of entertainment events may be enjoyed in the park amphitheater. A Convention Center for large meetings is available.
outdoor life | page 29
W
atauga Lake
Recreation Zone
Wautaga Ranger Station 4400 Unicoi Drive (off I-26, Exit 23) Unicoi, TN 37692 (423) 735-1500
The Watauga Lake Recreation Zone is a study in contrasts, from highly-developed recreation facilities along Watauga Lake to dispersed backcountry opportunities on White Rocks and Walnut Mountains and in Pond Mountain Wilderness and Doe River Gorge Scenic Area. Water is abundant with TVA’s 6,400-acre Watauga Lake, Doe, Elk and Watauga rivers, several streams including Laurel Fork and seven waterfalls. The area is easily accessed by US 19E, US 321, TN 67 and TN 167. Nearby communities include Elizabethton, Mountain City and Roan Mountain, TN and Elk Mills, NC.
Boat, Swim or Go Fishing! Spend the day sailing or motor
boating on Watauga Lake, surrounded by forested mountain. Launch your craft from public launches at Rat Branch, Little Milligan, Sink Mountain and Watauga Dam Observation Area or from private marinas. Swim in designated areas at Shook Branch and Watauga Point. Fish for rainbow and brown trout, bluegill, walleye, and bass. Cantilevered over the lake, the pier at Rat Branch offers accessible fishing. Below Dennis Cove Recreation Area, Laurel Fork Creek is stocked with rainbow trout; above, it is managed as a natural fishery for brown, brook and rainbow trout.
Picnic in the Woods! Enjoy lakeside scenery from Watauga Point’s
grassy knoll and the coves at Shook Branch, where picnic tables, pedestal grills and flush toilets are available. A group of tables can be reserved (for a fee) at Watauga Point for day-use gatherings. Cook your catch from picnic facilities at Dennis Cove Recreation Area, located along Laurel Fork Creek.
Follow the Trail! Hike eight miles along scenic Laurel Fork Creek
on Trail #39. Fish for trout and look for beaver dams near Cherry Flats and take in waterfalls near the stream. Mountain bikes can use a portion of Laurel Fork Trail, as well as nearby forest roads. The Appalachian National Scenic Trail (A.T.) runs through the heart of this zone. Laurel Fork, Coon Den and Jones waterfalls are a short distance off the A.T.. Major trailheads are located off US 321/TN 67 in Hampton and off Dennis Cove Road. Two shelters provide lodging for weary hikers. Sleep under the Stars! Listen to the lake lapping the shoreline from your site at Cardens Bluff, where paths and steps lead into your 15’ x 30’ site. Amenities include picnic tables, fire rings, lantern posts and camping cupboards. Flush toilets and water are located in each loop and shower facilities are in the middle of the campground. Dennis Cove Recreation Area offers camping in a remote wooded area.
2800 North Ocoee Street t Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 476-9700 t www.fs.fed.us/r8/cherokee USDA is an equal opportunity provider and employer outdoor life | page 30
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Ocoee challenges adventurers on Class III and Class IV Rapids
COPPERHILL — A splash-filled rollercoaster ride on Class III and Class IV rapids awaits adventurous thrill-seekers on the Ocoee River. The Middle Ocoee is currently open for rafting on Saturday and Sunday. Starting on Memorial Day weekend, the river will be open from Thursday through Monday for five days of rafting. Ocoee Adventure Center, as one of the area’s premier rafting companies, offers one-third more time on the water than other area outfitters with different trips to choose from. “Our trademark is our rafting experience, with plenty of time on our trips to surf, swim and ride the rapids,” said Larry Mashburn, president of Ocoee Adventure Center. “For our guides, it’s all about the full rafting experience and simply enjoying the ride. We’re known for our splash-andplay approach to the Ocoee, and it keeps our guests coming back time after time.” Controlled by three dams, the Ocoee is ordinarily diverted through wooden flumes along the side of the mountains above the river bed. On rafting days, the water of the Middle Ocoee is released di-
rectly into the river bed, creating five miles of nearly continuous whitewater rapids with descriptive names like Broken Nose, Moon Shoot, Table Saw and Grumpy’s. Hell’s Hole, one of the Ocoee’s largest rapids, is located just below the bridge to the “When the Upper Ocoee is open, we combo-trip on both the Upper and the power station; immediately following it, offer two trips — the Upper itself and a n See OCOEE, 32 Powerhouse has a big drop with a strong hydraulic. “The Middle Ocoee is legendary, known around the world, and we have visitors that come from around the globe to experience this whitewater,” Mashburn said. “And of course the eyes of the world were focused on the Upper Ocoee during the You know we have home & auto loans but we 1996 Summer Olympics, when world-class also offer personal loans for things like... paddlers challenged the rapids in this part of the river.” ATVs•Jet Skis•Mountain The Upper Ocoee is typically dry with B Bikes•Summer Clothes•Lawn the water diverted into the flumes, but in M Mowers•Vacations•Swimming 2011 it will be open for 34 days of rafting Pools•Motorcycles by the public. Check the website at www. ocoeeadventurecenter.com/rafting/calenWe’re Open dar.htm. for exact dates.
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Call 423-878-8527
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Middle,” he said. “The Ocoee River is the only Olympic River in America that people can experience the exact same conditions, rapids and water levels that the Olympic competitors experienced. Because people are so into experiencing the same whitewater as the Olympians, these trips tend to book early.” Ocoee Adventure Center is locally owned and operated and has been operating on the Ocoee since 1997. Rafting trips run on both the Upper Olympic section and the Middle section. Ocoee Adventure Center is a one-stop-shop, not only providing whitewater rafting adventures but also offering guided mountain biking, hiking, whitewater kayak instruction, and flat-water kayaking trips in the Cherokee National Forest. Ocoee River Rafting is open for rafting on the weekends only in April and May. Beginning May 26, rafting is open five days a week (Thursday through Monday) through Labor Day and then weekends only until the end of October. Please call the reservation office at 1-888-732-8622 for trip times and availability or book online at www.ocoeeadventurecenter.com.
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Happy Campers Many popular camping destinations offered By STEVE BURWICK OL Staff steve@outdoor-life.net
Whether campers are looking for a primitive, serene spot beside a babbling brook or a large campground with plenty of recreational activities, outdoor enthusiasts in the region have plenty of campground options from which to choose. Roan Mountain State Park provides one of the largest campgrounds in the region with 86 campsites equipped with water and electric hookups and 20 tent sites with community water. All sites have picnic tables and charcoal grills and easy access to six centrally-located bath houses. A dump station
is located near the check-in station. A trail leads from the campground to the park’s swimming pool, tennis and volleyball courts and a playground. The campground is open all year, with a 14-day maximum stay in-season (April 1-Oct. 31) and 28 days in the off-season (Nov. 1-March 31). The basic rate for the preferred Type A+ sites along the river is $25 per day, or $20 for disabled campers. For more rugged, outlying Type A sites, the rates are $20 and $16. For Type C sites with no electricity and water, the rates are $11 and $8. In addition, four group sites are offered for church groups, scout troops, Little League
teams or other nonprofit organizations. These sites will accommodate about 24 people. Group site rate is $1.50 per person with a $15 minimum. For information, call the campground check-in station at 423-772-4178, or to reserve a group site call park headquarters at 423-772-0190 or 1-800-250-8620. “We’re open year-round, but in the wintertime you have to have a self-contained unit with your own water and bathroom,” said Park Ranger Jacob Young. “We start filling up around Memorial Day weekend and we stay 75 to 80 percent capacity into October.” Park Manager Pat Gagan said an electri-
cal upgrade in the tent section has been completed this spring and a water upgrade is expected to begin at the end of the 2011 season. ••••• Cardens Bluff Campground, on Watauga Lake about four miles east of Hampton on U.S. Highway 321, is on a jetty with some sites overlooking the lake. The area is heavily wooded, with 36 tent sites and six combined sites for either tent or RV. Sites offer gravel tent pads, each with a table and grill. No RV hookups are available. Flush toilets and hot showers are among the offerings, and all n See CAMPING, 34
Walk-In Tent Sites (No Electric Hook-Ups)
Information
Bike Trail
Fee Station
Hiking Trail
Restroom
RV Dump Station
Call 423-638-4109 for more information
Electric Hook-Ups in Loops A/B/C outdoor life | page 33
Camping n Continued from 33
toilets and two of the showers are wheelchair-accessible. Canoes and kayaks are welcome in the campground, which offers carry-down access to the lake. Power boating is permitted on the lake, but there is no access from the campground. Hiking and fishing opportunities are available as well. Cardens Bluff is open April 23 through Oct. 12, weather permitting. Sites are available on a first come, first served basis. The rate is $12 per day and maximum stay is 14 days. Call 423-735-1500 for information. ••••• Dennis Cove Recreation Area can be reached from Highway 321 in Hampton by turning onto Dennis Cove Road across from Brown’s store and driving five miles on the narrow, winding road to the Dennis Cove sign. The campground is situated about a mile and a half from the Appalachian Trail crossing. The eight-mile Laurel Fork Trail also provides scenic hiking opportunities. Laurel Fork, which flows nearby, is stocked with rainbow trout and also has native brook and brown trout. Dennis Cove Campground is open April 23 through Oct. Photo by Brandon Hicks 12. The rate is $10 per day for a 14-day maximum stay. A family gathers around their campfire at the Roan Mountain State Park Campground, which is one of many area Sixteen sites are available, including 14 combined tent-RV campgrounds where people can relax and get away from the daily grind. sites. No RV hookups are offered, but 15 tables and 14 grills are available. Flush toilets are available, but no showers. phone, picnic tables and grills, canoe access, boat ramps Springs Road and then Steel Bridge Road to Wilbur Dam For more information, call the Elizabethton-Carter County above and below the dam and lake and river fishing. Call Road, or Siam Road from U.S. Highway 19E to Wilbur Dam Chamber of Commerce at 423-547-3850. 423-542-3533 for further information. Road. This self-service campground with 29 sites is open ••••• ••••• March 18-Nov. 14. Daily rate is $20 with electric hookups. Watauga Dam Tailwater Campground, on the Watauga The Hamptons RV and Camp Park, 5322 Highway 19E in Restrooms are available with heated showers and flush River below the dam, is operated by the Tennessee Valley Hampton, has 16 RV sites, with 50-amp hookup, water, sewer toilets. The campground also offers a dump station, public Authority. It can be reached by taking State Route 91 to Blue and Internet, for $20 a night, and 10 tent sites for $10 a night. The Hamptons is open year-round. ••••• Bayview Family Campground and Marina in Butler leases seasonal campsites with full hook-up services — electric, water and sewer. They are open April 1-Oct. 31, and they also rent covered boat slips and offer jet ski slips. For information, call 423768-0434 or e-mail info@bayviewfamilycampground.com. ••••• Davy Crockett Birthplace State Park, 1245 Davy Crockett Park Road in Limestone, is open year-round and has 88 campsites along the Nolichucky River with electric and water hookups. Full hookup rate (40 sites include sewer) is $25 ($20 for disabled), electric-water $20 ($16 for disabled, state employees and Tennessee residents 62 or older), sites without hookups $16 and $13, and tent sites for $11 and $8. A swimming pool, playground and picnic pavilion are also available. For information, call 257-2167 or e-mail Dawn.Coleman@ tn.gov. Other area campgrounds include: • Little Oak on South Holston Lake, off Highway 421 near Bristol, open March 12-Dec. 6 with 70 tent or RV sites at $10 per day and 14-day maximum. • Jacobs Creek, also off Route 421 on South Holston Lake, open April 16-Oct. 12, with 27 tent-RV sites, $12 per day and 14-day maximum. • Rock Creek Recreation Area on State Route 395 in UniPhoto by Brandon Hicks coi County, open May 1-Nov. 1 with 30 tent-RV sites, $10 per Watauga Dam Tailwater Campground at Wilbur Lake offers an opportunity to relax around a campfire, do some day ($15 with electrical hookup) and 14-day maximum stay. fishing or paddle a canoe or kayak. Camping is a favorite pastime for many outdoor enthusiasts in Northeast Contact the U.S. Forest Service at sf@forestcamping.com Tennessee. for more information on these and other campgrounds. outdoor life | page 34
Flocking Together History of birding group dates back to 1944 By Bryan Stevens OL Editor bryan@outdoor-life.net
Area residents who want to learn more about local birds and gather tips on how to find and identify them can attend an upcoming bird walk conducted by members of the Lee and Lois Herndon Chapter of Tennessee Ornithological Society
Even better, join the chapter and get to know fellow bird enthusiasts and participate in a variety of nature activities. The chapter will conduct a bird walk at Sycamore Shoals State Historic Park in Elizabethton at 8 a.m. on Saturday, May 14. This walk celebrates the annual observation of International Migratory Bird Day. Participants should meet in the parking lot
at the park’s visitors center. Bring binoculars to increase your viewing enjoyment. Sycamore Shoals State Historic Park and the adjacent Watauga River is home to nesting Yellow-crowned Night-Herons. Other birds spotted on previous walks include a variety of colorful species, such as Scarlet Tanager, Cape May Warbler, Indigo Bunting, Baltimore Oriole and Northern Cardinal.
The chapter’s members include some well-known birders who have made some exceptional finds in the region. Some of these recent observations have included such “rare birds” as Surf Scoter, White-winged Scoter and Ross’s Goose. It’s interesting sightings like these that have helped motivate members and keep the organization thriving for n See BIRDING, 36
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Birding n Continued from 35
more than 67 years. Originally known as the Elizabethton Bird Club, the local birding organization was established in 1944. The chapter’s name honors the memories of two of its founders. In addition, the late Fred Behrend, a former editor with the Elizabethton Star, was also instrumental in establishing the group. The group has a membership of about 50 individuals throughout Northeast Tennessee, southwest Virginia and western North Carolina. Upcoming events for the chapter include a summer picnic and various field trips. The chapter’s spring banquet was held at the Farmhouse Gallery and Gardens in Unicoi on Friday, April 1. Tom Hunter of Lebanon, Va., and Michele Sparks of Bluff City, presented a fascinating program on the Clinch Mountain Golden Eagle Project spearheaded by members of the Bristol Bird Club. The chapter conducts an annual Fall Bird Count and also offers weekly bird walks each Saturday in October beginning at 8 a.m. at Sycamore Shoals State Historic Park in Elizabethton. Dates for these walks in 2011 are Oct. 1, 8, 15, 22 and 29. The chapter has also conducted two Christmas Bird Counts for decades. One count is based in Elizabethton and the other in Roan Mountain. Officers for the chapter include Roy Knispel, president; Kathy Noblet, vice president; Darla Anderson, treasurer; and Mary Anna Wheat, secretary. Chapter meetings are held on the first Tuesday of each month, except July, on the lower level of the science building on the campus of Milligan College. Meetings begin at 7 p.m. and feature a guest speaker each month. For more information about the Lee and Lois Herndon Chapter of TOS, send e-mail to ahoodedwarbler@aol.com or go to www. groups.yahoo.com/group/HerndonBirdClub/ to visit the chapter’s Yahoo group, which offers photo galleries, a message board and other interactive features to keep members informed of group activities.
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Natural Tunnel State Park to host ‘Birding Weekend’
Natural Tunnel State Park in Virginia will host a “Birding Weekend” on Saturday and Sunday, May 21-22. Fly on over to Natural Tunnel State Park and join the Bristol Bird Club as they conduct hikes along the Virginia Birding and Wildlife Trail. Participants will experience four different habitats and observe a variety of birds that live in those habitats. Hikes start at 8:30 a.m. and 6 p.m. from the Cove Ridge Center on both days. Don’t forget to bring binocular, a bird identification guide, camera and notepad. The hikes are free and open to the public. For more information, call (276) 940-2674.
A re-enactor performs at Sycamore Shoals State Historic Park in Elizabethton.
East Tennessee excellent area for staycations By Ashley Rader OL Staff ashley@outdoor-life.net
As the economy continues to struggle, many families are choosing to spend their vacations closer to home and are exploring the different attractions that can be found in their own backyards. Northeast Tennesseans find themselves in a centrally located position to enjoy many opportunities for a staycation. A relatively short drive provides a variety of different activities to fill a vacation day. Claudia Moody, Chief Executive Officer of the Northeast Tennessee Tourism Association (NETTA), said a staycation is described as when a family decides to stay closer to home over going on a traditional vacation that takes multiple hours to reach the destination. Staycation excursions are typically day trips that are within 50 miles or so of the families’ home. “This region has a multitude of options,” Moody said. “You can stay at home without staying at home.” She noted that NETTA does not receive many requests for information on staycations but that the attractions were largely the same for people who are coming from out of state as for families who already live here and are looking for day trip ideas. Many visitors are interested in activities focused on area heritage and history as well as outdoor activities. “So many of our attractions are inexpensive,” she said. “There are many opportunities to stay at home and have a good time. People who live next to them year round can enjoy them just as much as visitors.” She said Carter County is blessed to have two state parks that would make good staycation destinations, Sycamore Shoals State Park and Roan Mountain State Park. Sycamore Shoals is located in Elizabethton along the Watauga River. The park features special activities and/or historical musters most weekends of the year. outdoor life | page 37
There are picnic areas with grills and the park is located next door to the City of Elizabethton’s Franklin Pool. The park also has a two-mile walking trail that follows along beside Watauga River and shows where the Overmountain Men crossed on their way to the Battle of Kings Mountain. There is also a reconstruction of Fort Watauga, the first settlement in the area. Sycamore Shoals also oversees the Carter Mansion, the oldest frame house in Tennessee. Roan Mountain State Park is located in Roan Mountain. It offers a variety of outdoor activities including hiking, fishing, tennis, volleyball, horseshoes, basketball, softball, swimming pool and playgrounds. There are also picnic areas and a game room as well as a century old farmhouse. The park hosts various naturalist rallies and the Rhododendron Festival in June. For those who want to spend more time in the park, there are numerous options for camping. Visitors have a choice of an RV or tent campsite or to stay in one of the fully equipped AAA cabins. For those who want to spend time fishing, Moody noted there are numerous lakes and rivers that make excellent spots for fishermen. Lakes in East Tennessee include Watauga Lake, Boone Lake, South Holston Lake and Fort Patrick Henry Lake. There are also numerous other areas to fish in the various rivers and streams. As summer takes its place, more people will hit the area waterways to enjoy water sports, such as boating, waterskiing and whitewater rafting. Moody said the Nolichucky River in Unicoi County is a popular destination for people who like to whitewater raft. Several rafting companies from North Carolina bus in customers to raft and tube on the Watauga River in Carter County. For those who are sports minded, a trip to the Bristol Motor Speedway for drag races or a track tour might be an option. There are also numerous professional minor league baseball teams in the region, including the Bristol White Sox, Elizabethton Twins, Greeneville Astros, Johnson City Cardinals and Kingsport Mets, that play games on a regular basis. A trip to the ball field is always a good family event. Other staycation possibilities include trips to Bays Mountain Park and Planetarium in Kingsport, the East Tennessee State University and General Shale Brick Natural History Museum at the Gray Fossil Site, the Barter Theatre in Abingdon Va., or Biltmore Estate and Gardens in Asheville, N.C. Shopping trips are another option for those taking staycations. Moody explained that shopping trips to area downtowns, like those in Elizabethton, Rogersville n See DAY TRIP, 38
Day Trip
Boomsday!
n Continued from 37
and Jonesborough, is a popular destination for out-of-state visitors and for those just looking to get away for a day. “People enjoy going into downtowns because they get to know the people and it’s like running into old friends when they see them again,” she said. “These are seen as safe, friendly, affordable, accessible ways to relax and enjoy a day away from home.” She added residents in this area are fortunate to have
so many different options available to them within driving distance. Families could spend a week “staycationing” and could visit something different each day. “You could go to Bristol one day and listen to music in downtown,” Moody said. “The next day you could go up to Abingdon and go for a hike on the Creeper Trail and then take in a play that night at the Barter Theatre. There are many things to do and it appeals to a diverse group.”
Photo by Brandon Hicks
To tell the story of the region’s role in shaping the nation’s history, Sycamore Shoals State Historic Park in Elizabethton relies on the talents of volunteer re-enactors.
Photo Contributed
Roan Mountain State Park Ranger Jacob Young offers natural history lessons on a variety of topics to visitors at the park. outdoor life | page 38
Welcome Labor Day at Knoxville festival
KNOXVILLE — The Boomsday Festival (www.Boomsday.org), one of the largest festivals in Tennessee and the South, and host of the nation’s largest Labor Day weekend fireworks show, has announced a new event for this year’s festival: the Boom in the Park Music Festival. The Boom in the Park Music Festival (www.boominthepark.com) is a familyfriendly event that takes place on Sunday, Sept. 4, at World’s Fair Park in Knoxville. Boom in the Park offers world class entertainment and a beautiful setting for watching the Boomsday fireworks, all at a very affordable price of just $25 per ticket (plus applicable fees). This year’s festival provides an outstanding entertainment lineup, including Grammy award winning classic rock superstars Lou Gramm of Foreigner, John Elefante of Kansas and Bobby Kimball of Toto, superstar Mickey Thomas with his band Starship, country music star Chuck Wicks, Columbia Nashville teen recording artist Jordyn Shellhart and No. 1 country hit songwriters Benita Hill, Kirsti Manna and Bernie Nelson. Gates open at 1 p.m., and the entertainment begins at 2 p.m., and continues until the fireworks show begins at 9:30 p.m. Immediately after the fireworks show, country music star (and country music channel CMT’s Most Eligible Bachelor) Chuck Wicks will conclude the show. Tickets are on sale now and can be purchased online at www.boominthepark.com or boomsday.org. Fans can also purchase tickets toll-free at 1-800-5143849 (a phone processing fee applies), or in person at Disc Exchange, 2615 Chapman Highway in Knoxville, (865) 573-5710. A VIP Experience (http://boominthepark.com/vip_experience) is also available that includes a meet and greet with the Legends of Classic Rock, and the unique opportunity of a lifetime to be photographed with all four of them. A drawing will be held, and two complimentary VIP Experiences for two will be given to fans who are among the first 3,000 to purchase their tickets for Boom in the Park. Tickets are expected to go fast.
Line of fun LED products will keep the fun going even after the sun sets As the weather starts to heat up, Nite Ize is rolling out the new stars of summer. Just because the sun is setting doesn’t mean it’s time to pack up for the day. Instead of calling it a night at the campsite, beach, or in the backyard, break out Nite Ize’s line of fun LED equipped light up discs, bean bag balls, and balls. Simply hold down the LED switch and these toys light up and last for countless hours of entertainment.
Light Up Your Night! The Flashflight LED light-up flying disc is sure to be the talk of the campground. It’s patented LED fiberoptic array extends from the center of the disc to the rim illuminating every angle for fun in the dark. It’s constructed from lightweight yet durable materials and has been balanced to meet the exacting specifications of a professional Ultimate player. It’s long straight flights
n See TOYS, 45
Shirley’s
BEE CLIFF CABINS
Nestled in the mountain valley of Siam on the Watauga River, the cabins are a great place for fishing, hunting, or just peaceful family get-a-way. All the cabins share a dock on the river, but each cabin is fully furnished with all the luxuries of home. All you need is food! Plus each cabin has its own private porch. Owned by John and Norine Allen
will have kids and disc throwing enthusiasts reaching for it even in the light of day. The Flashflight comes in four LED colors including red, blue, green and Disc-O which, cycles through the color spectrum. For fun on the disc golf course, don’t forget to bring along Nite Ize’s Flashflight Hole-In-One. The Hole-In-One is an LED module that snaps onto disc golf discs so the game can be played far into the wee hours of the morning. Bring the kiddies’ favorite daytime games to life at night with the Astrobrite LED Bean Ball. This soft and durable lycra knit ball measures three inches in diameter and is filled with plastic beads to help transmit the green LED light. If they’ve still got energy to burn
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outdoor life | page 39
423-768-2092
U
naka Mountain Recreation Zone
Nolichucky-Unaka Ranger Station 4900 Asheville Hwy. Greeneville, TN 37743 (423) 638-4109
Tall mountain peaks ranging from 3,100 to 5,200 feet dominate the landscape of the Unaka Mountain Recreation Zone. Hike the Appalachian National Scenic Trail (A.T.), take a scenic drive, or raft the Nolichucky River for intimate views of the zone’s tall mountains, high elevation balds and scenic waters. Unaka Mountain Wilderness and Scenic Area and Stone Mountain roadless area form nearly 11,000 acres of remote backcountry. Backcountry trails and the Nolichucky State Scenic River provide opportunities for an outdoor adventure experience. The nearest communities include Erwin, Limestone Cove and Unicoi, TN with access along major routes including I-26, US 19E and 19W, TN 81 and 107.
Picnic in the Woods! Picnicking at Chestoa Recreation Area
is coupled with a boat put-in/take-out along Nolichucky river. Historic Rock Creek Recreation Area near Erwin includes picnic facilities, a natural swimming pool, playground, trails and CCCconstructed bathhouse. Limestone Cove along North Indian Creek offers picnicking, an interpretive trail, abundant wildflowers and trout fishing opportunities. The Laurels offers picnic sites and two pavilions, available on first come-first served basis or by reservation.
Study the Past! This area is rich with Civilian Conservation Corps
history. Companies 1455, 1457 and 1472 were stationed at Camp Cordell Hull off TN 107 near Unicoi. CCC crewmen constructed the picnic grounds at Rock Creek and The Laurels as well as Unaka Mountain Road. The pavilions at The Laurels and bathhouse at Rock Creek Recreation Area commemorate their skill and hard work.
Follow the Trail! Explore the exceptionally scenic and remote
Blueway Trail on Nolichucky River between Poplar, NC and Chestoa Recreation Area. Local outfitters provide transportation and guided tours. Several high elevation mountain balds along the crests of the Bald and Unaka Mountain ranges provide spectacular views from the Appalachian National Scenic Trail (A.T.) that spans 42 miles through this vicinity
Sleep under the Stars! Rock Creek Recreation Area has 27
single and five double sites, equipped with electrical hookups and sized to accommodate large RVs. There are also five walk-in tent sites. Each site is equipped with a wooden picnic table, fire ring and lantern post. The campground offers drinking water, showers, flush toilets, dump station, and opportunities to hike, swim and romp on playground equipment.
2800 North Ocoee Street t Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 476-9700 t www.fs.fed.us/r8/cherokee USDA is an equal opportunity provider and employer outdoor life | page 40
U.S. Department of Agriculture Forest Service Southern Region
Let’s Travel Make trips an adventure with fun items for kids When it’s time for the family vacation, nothing will keep your kid more organized and excited for the journey ahead then Stephen Joseph’s line of adorable travel bags and accessories just for children! The line includes Rolling Luggage and Luggage Backpacks, Snack Sacs, Buddy Bags for toiletries, Luggage Tags, Water Bottle Totes and Children’s Wallets in delightful themes and characters. The collection is designed to be mixed and matched, too. With just one or a few of these items, a child can keep all their travel essentials secure and handy for the plane trip, car ride and adventure that awaits! All products are available online at www. StephenJosephGifts.com and in hundreds of U.S. stores. Stores by city can be found by doing a zip code search on
the website. ROLLING LUGGAGE FOR BOYS & GIRLS: It’s fun on wheels with Stephen Joseph’s adorable line of luggage on wheels in themes children will love! There are two kinds to choose from: rolling backpacks, which can also be carried on their back, or rolling luggage (which is a bit roomier, perfect for longer trips). Both come with wheels and an extendable handle making it easy to pull them while walking through an airport. They are not only cute, but sturdy and roomy! They feature larger zipper pockets and additional outside pockets for storing
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all of your child’s clothes, shoes and major must-haves. Designs include a Ladybug, a Monkey, a Tiger, Flowers, Sports, and new this season Butterflies, Airplanes and Turtles! They can be personalized with the child’s name. Price: Rolling Backpacks are 18.99 and the Rolling Suitcases are 39.99. WATER BOTTLE BUDDIES: Bringing along a friend makes any adventure more fun! These fuzzy, irresistible little characters will ensure your child’s water or apple juice bottle stays close for convenient hydration on-the-go! Nylon mesh adjustable straps make this compact and colorful bottle tote easy to carry over a child’s shoulder or diagonally across his or her chest. Characters include: Elephant, Alligator, Mermaid, Giraffe, Lion, Butterfly and new for 2011 an Orca Whale, a Polar Bear, a Baseball Player, Zebra and an Owl. Price: 6.99 each. SNACK SACS: Perfect for snacking on a plane, in a car, or during a day trip, Snack Sacs by Stephen Joseph will bring a smile to your
child’s face and keep their food fresh and handy. Fully lined and insulated and made of completely safe materials, they can fit juice bottles, a sandwich, treats and more. Each delightful character (a shark, dog, horse, hippo, cat, robot, etc!) also comes with themed note cards for mom or dad to leave a note of encouragement. Price: 24.99 each. CHEERY LUGGAGE TAGS: Keep your luggage safe with these unique luggage tags in a variety of cute themes: ballet slippers, a pirate ship, a shark, a Soccer ball, a dolphin, a princess crown and many more! Each one comes with a funny phrase and an information n See TRAVEL, 42
Cottage Nestled at the Base of Roan Mountain
Two bedroom, sleeps 6, fully furnished cottage located less than 2 miles from Roan Mountain State Park. There are two covered porches if you do smoke. Has wheel chair access. TV & VCR. No phone. All linens are provided. There is also a picnic table and fire pit in back yard. Come get away from it all and enjoy the beauty that the Northeast TN mountains have to offer.
• Nightly - $75.00 • Weekly - $475.00 • Minimum Stay - 1 Night
outdoor life | page 41
Call 423-772-3268 To Make Reservations
Travel
Enjoy a cool splash at waterpark resort Looking for a great travel destination close to home? Wilderness at the Smokies resort opened in 2009 and is the Southeast’s largest indoor/outdoor waterpark resort. With two outdoor waterparks and a six-acre indoor waterpark, Wilderness also has six restaurants, a deli, gift shops, convenience stores, mini-golf and a 36hole championship golf course. Wilderness is connected to a 100,000 square-foot conference and event center capable of hosting events for 10,000 people. Wilderness at the Smokies, located minutes from Interstate 40 and situated in the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains, is one of the area’s only yearround vacation destinations. For more information about Wilderness at the Smokies, call toll-free 877-325-9453 or visit
n Continued from 41
www.WildernessAtTheSmokies.com. The resort recently named Steve Cruz General Manager of the popular 700-acre indoor/ outdoor waterpark resort in Sevierville. Cruz, who previously served as Director of Sales and Marketing for Wilderness, brings more than 15 years experience in the East Tennessee tourism industry to his new role. Cruz’s professional experience includes working with Dixie Stampede in Pigeon Forge, and Wild Adventures Theme Park in Valdosta, Ga. Wilderness owner Pete Helland said Cruz has the perfect background and knowledge to firmly establish Wilderness at the Smokies as the Smoky Mountain region’s premier resort attraction.
card making it easy to identify your child’s suitcase or carry along. Price: 6.99 each. BUDDY BAGS: This bag is GREAT for all of a child’s toiletries and bathtime must-haves because it’s made of terry cloth and is fully lined. Measuring 7.5 x 5.5, they have a handle and can be carried along, but also fit well into a suitcase. With huggable characters like an Airplane, a Bear, a Cat, and Ladybug, your son or daughter won’t want to pack them away though! Price: 18.99 each. TOO CUTE KID’S WALLETS: Every young boy or girl can keep a few dollars from mom handy on-the-go with these perfectly-sized cloth wallets from Stephen Joseph. They are always a best seller because they’re so unique and fun! Themes for boys include: firetrucks, trains, sports, rockin’ guitars, bears, tractors, pirates and more; for girls, choose from cupcakes, pink horses, princess crowns, ballet slippers and a lot more. Many great new designs debuting this spring! Price: 7.99 each.
outdoor life | page 42
B
ald Mountain Recreation Zone
Nolichucky-Unaka Ranger Station 4900 Asheville Hwy. Greeneville, TN 37743 (423) 638-4109
A range of gently rolling to steep, rugged slopes with high elevation balds characterize the Bald Mountain Recreation Zone. The area is known for its diverse population of wildflowers and for a number of waterfalls including the 60-foot fan-shaped Margarette Falls. Most of this Recreation Zone is remote backcountry, including Bald Mountain Ridge Scenic Area, the 7,992-acre Sampson Mountain Wilderness and 3,069acre Sampson Mountain Addition (recommended wilderness study area). Roads are limited, but 44 miles of trails access the forest interior. TN 350, 70 and 107 are the main routes into the Recreation Zone that is situated between Greeneville and Erwin.
Follow the Trail! The easy 1/2-mile Sill Branch North Trail #115 culminates at a spectacular 25-foot waterfall; trailhead parking on Clark Creek Road #25 currently adds an additional two miles to the round-trip trek. Appalachian National Scenic Trail (A.T.) runs along the Tennessee-North Carolina state line. Almost half of Bald Mountain’s trails are multiple use for horses, bicyclists and hikers.
Explore the Forest! Waterplay is popular in developed areas at
Horse Creek and Old Forge. Forest Road #94, a high-clearance fourwheel drive road, culminates in five miles at Cold Spring Mountain trailhead where you can explore Big Butt and other high-elevation mountain balds on foot. Adventuresome motorists may want to explore the forest along Upper Paint Creek Road #42 to Camp Creek Bald or Forest Road #88 leading to Round Knob.
Go Fishing! Horse Creek, Dry Creek and Clark Creek are favorite
trout-fishing destinations. Special regulations in effect at Horse Creek between May 1 and September 30 limits fishing to people 12 years old and under, 65 and older, and physically-challenged; all of which may catch up to two fish a day.
Picnic in the Woods! At Horse Creek Recreation Area, you’ll
find tables, grills and restrooms along with a reservable pavilion. For a unique experience, travel to the top of Round Knob along Forest Road #88 to a covered pavilion with fireplace and other facilities. On a reservation-only basis, Katy Branch offers a covered pavilion with fireplace and open gathering area and is easily accessed off TN 107.
Sleep under the Stars! Listen to babbling creeks from your
campsite! Horse Creek contains 11 sites, equipped with picnic tables, fire rings and lantern posts. Potable water and vault toilets are near the sites, with showers and flush toilets a short walk away in the day use area. Most sites can accommodate small pop-ups and trailers. Ten walk-in tent sites are available at Old Forge, along with a vault toilet and a group gathering area with a fire ring.
2800 North Ocoee Street t Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 476-9700 t www.fs.fed.us/r8/cherokee USDA is an equal opportunity provider and employer outdoor life | page 43
U.S. Department of Agriculture Forest Service Southern Region
I
ron Mountain
Recreation Zone
Wautaga Ranger Station 4400 Unicoi Drive (off I-26, Exit 23) Unicoi, TN 37692 (423) 735-1500
Steep, rugged mountains up to 4,000 feet in elevation characterize the Iron Mountain Recreation Zone. The 11,900 acre Big Laurel Branch Wilderness/Wilderness Study Area combined with the more than 13,000 acres in Beaverday Creek, London Bridge Branch and Rogers Ridge roadless areas provide nearly 25,000 acres of backcountry recreational opportunities. Try fishing for trout in Beaverdam and Laurel creeks and Chalk, Maple and Fagall branches. Roan Creek at the foot of Doe Mountain provides the headwaters for Watauga Lake. A number of major highways skirt this backcountry area, including US 321 and 421, TN 67, 91, 133 and 167.
Follow the Trail! Enjoy the day, or several days, hiking on
backcountry trails in the Iron Mountain Recreation Zone. Hike along Watauga Lake on the Appalachian National Scenic Trail (A.T.); begin your hike from US 321/TN 67 and head towards Damascus, VA. Spend the night in one of three A.T. shelters or pitch a tent in the woods. Try a 19-mile hike on Iron Mountain Trail #54 between Cross Mountain and TN 91 near Damascus, VA. If you’re looking for a multi-day, 50+-mile backpacking journey, make a loop with this section of the Iron Mountain Trail and the Cross Mountain-Damascus section of the A.T.
Go Sightseeing! Pastoral farmsteads encircled with rugged
mountains provide wonderful scenic drives along TN 167 between the headwaters of Watauga Lake and Mountain City. Pass through the “shortest tunnel in the world” on TN 133 at Backbone Rock, where you can picnic in one of two CCC-constructed pavilions, hike across the rock, or view 40-foot Backbone Falls. Experience picturesque creekside views of Laurel Creek along TN 91 between Laurel Bloomery, TN and Damascus, VA. Splash through the creek on Trail #51 on your way to 80-foot Gentry Creek Falls. Nearby Rogers Ridge Trail #192 leads equestrians, cyclists and hikers into the high elevation mountain balds of Rogers Ridge Scenic Area. View scenery and wildlife from Watauga Dam observation area and Wilbur Lake. Sleep under the Stars! Listen to Beaverdam Creek from your campsite site in Backbone Rock Recreation Area. There are 11 fully-accessible sites, including 2 double-sites, wooden picnic tables, fire rings, and lantern posts, along with flush toilets and drinking water. An accessible vault toilet is nearby in the northern day use area. Campers enjoy picnic facilities and trails, one of which leads to the A.T.. Other developed campgrounds are nearby at Mt. Rogers National Recreation Area in Virginia and on Watauga River at TVA’s Watauga Dam Tailwater Campground.
2800 North Ocoee Street t Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 476-9700 t www.fs.fed.us/r8/cherokee USDA is an equal opportunity provider and employer outdoor life | page 44
U.S. Department of Agriculture Forest Service Southern Region
Toys n Continued from 39
before bedtime, let them play catch or bean bag toss without worrying about losing another ball to the dark. Light up the night with the Meteorlight LED ball. The tennis ball sized Meteorlight is the perfect way to keep the game
going after dark. Whether throwing, catching, rolling, bouncing, or juggling, its extra durable rubber keeps the ball safe and is water resistant. Just follow the glow and never lose another game of catch to the shadows. The Meteorlight comes in four LED colors including red, blue, green and Disc-O, which cycles through the color spectrum. Nite Ize specializes in providing active people with innovative performance driven products that can help simplify the task at hand! Nite Ize has been raising the hardware industry’s bar since a nighttime fishing trip gone awry in 1989. After losing his flashlight to the lake, President of Nite Ize Rick Case create the Headband Mini Flashlight Holder. Since that first product he has been adding durable, functional, life and time-saving products to the marketplace.
Grandfather Mountain offers Naturalists Weekend
LINVILLE, N.C. — The annual Grandfather Mountain Naturalist Weekend will be held May 14-15. Join fellow naturalists for two days filled with guided hikes and special presentations on the birds, wildflowers and other natural wonders. The Grandfather Mountain Naturalist Weekend is a fascinating collection of programs and guided walks offered to help guests discover more about the diversity of life at Grandfather Mountain. All programs and guided walks offered as part of the Naturalists Weekend are included in the price of admission. Those who attend for both days should keep to their receipt on Saturday and present that for discount admission on Sunday. For more information, call 1-800-468-7325 or visit www. grandfather.com.
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7317 Hwy. 19-E • Roan Mountain, Tennessee
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Open: Tuesday - sunday 11 am - 9 pm • CLOsed mOnday
423-542-6078
423-772-3026
outdoor life | page 45
210 East C Street • Elizabethton, TN
* Restrictions apply. See loan officer for details.
R
oan Mountain
Recreation Zone
Nolichucky-Unaka Ranger Station 4900 Asheville Hwy. Greeneville, TN 37743 (423) 638-4109
Steep rugged mountainsides with deep hollows provide habitat for unique natural areas in this Recreation Zone. Unique sites include rock outcrops on Ripshin Ridge, Moffett Laurel’s Botanical Area, and the Roan Massif’s highelevation mountain balds and spruce-fir forests. View long-range mountain vistas while driving major highways in the area. Visit Rhododendron Gardens, in bloom around mid-June, but interesting year-round. Hampton Creek State Natural Area and Roan Mountain State Park are prominent features in this Recreation Zone. This area is accessed by US 19E, TN 143 and NC 261. The nearest towns are Roan Mountain, TN and Bakersville, NC.
Explore the Forest! You’ll want to walk forest roads and
trails to closely explore this Recreation Zone’s rare communities. Moffett Laurel Botanical Area off Tiger Creek Road is one of the Forest’s most diverse habitats, featuring a woodland of hemlocks and northern hardwoods, forest bog, high elevation seep and many rare plants. Steep and rocky Ripshin Ridge, rising to an elevation of 4,600 feet, offers opportunities to explore unusual communities that thrive on cliffs, bluffs and boulderfields. One of the highest summits in the Appalachian mountain range, Roan Mountain, is richly diverse and home to plants and animals not found anywhere else in the world. Emphasis on wildlife and game management at George Creek provides habitat for grouse and brook trout, as well as amphibians in four scenic ponds. Discover the Neotropical migrant birds and “blackberry pickin’ like you’ve never seen” in the old fields at Hampton Creek State Natural Area. Area creeks offer some of the best brook and rainbow trout fishing in the Forest.
Follow the Trail! A short hiking section of the long-distance
Overmountain Victory National Historic Trail runs through Hampton Creek State Natural Area to national forest lands at Yellow Mountain Gap. Crossing Iron, Roan and Yellow Mountains, the Appalachian National Scenic Trail, is the southern boundary of this Recreation Zone.
Picnic in the Woods! Individual tables are available at Twin
Springs, Rhododendron Gardens and Roan Mountain State Park. Reserve a pavilion at Roan Mountain State Park or Twin Springs.
Sleep under the Stars! Roan Mountain State Park has facilities
for tent and RV camping, as well as rustic cabins for rent in a beautiful wooded mountain setting.
2800 North Ocoee Street t Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 476-9700 t www.fs.fed.us/r8/cherokee USDA is an equal opportunity provider and employer outdoor life | page 46
U.S. Department of Agriculture Forest Service Southern Region
Gardening with summer flower bulbs Summer and fall flowering bulbs provide another dimension to gardening. They add beauty and interest to the landscape and, since most of them are tender, they offer a unique challenge to the gardener. There are a large number of different types of bulbs, offering variations in forms, fragrances, colors and lasting brilliance which many summer annuals cannot achieve. When choosing “bulbs,” one must always be aware of a few basic terms. Not all grow from true bulbs; some grow from rhizomes (Canna), corms (Gladiolus), or tuberous-roots (Dahlia). Botanically, there is a difference, but this is generally important only to the scientist. The everyday usage of the term “bulb” includes all plants that grow from fleshy underground storage organs. The most important difference which must be understood is the distinction between hardy and tender bulbs. In North Carolina and Northeast Tennessee, hardy bulbs (daffodils, hyacinths, tulips, lilies) over-winter in the ground, while most tender bulbs (Gladiolius, caladiums, tuberous begonias) are either dug after the first frost or the containers are brought indoors. They are dried or placed in storage materials in either a warm or cool place. In the spring they are either replanted after being subsequently placed outside on patios and decks. When landscaping with summer and fall flowering bulbs, special attention must be given to the design. As with most annual flower beds, they are planted in late spring and usually renovated every year. During the winter months, a mulch is spread over the bare ground. Design the area to incorporate woody ornamentals which offer a landscape interest when the bulbs are not
flowering. Favorite uses of these bulbs are in: borders, ground covers, rock gardens, and especially in containers and hanging baskets. Most summer flowering bulbs are not suggested for “perennializing” because they do not overwinter and they are considered somewhat “formal.” Rhizomous Iris, Lilies, and daylilies are notable exceptions. The following are examples of the eight of the most popular summer and fall flowering bulbs and their cultural and storage requirements: Caladiums Caladiums are tropical plants with heart-shaped leaves ranging in size from 6 to 12 inches. The numerous cultivars offer foliage colors in red, salmon, rose, white, or green with many variegated combinations. Caladiums prefer a rich soil and shade. Grown mostly for their interesting foliage display, caladiums perform well in garden borders and containers. Fertilize them once a month with 8-8-8 (2 pounds/100 ft2). Caladiums do not overwinter in most parts of the region. Therefore, they must be dug in the fall and stored dry at 70 to 75°F. The tubers are replanted in the spring after the last chance of frost. One additional note: most cultivars are adapted to full shade, but many selections tolerate partial sun or early morning sunlight. Full sun generally reduces the intensity of the foliage color of most cultivars. Cannas Cannas are popular among home gardeners and professional landscapers because of their extended flowering period and luxurious green or bronze foliage. There are over 60 cultivars available, providing a wide choice of colors. The Irises are the perfect accompaniment for any water garden outdoor life | page 47
n See COLOR, 48
Color n Continued from 47
rhizomes are generally planted the first of May in a rich well-drained soil, and in an area which receives full sun for at least 6 hours per day. Plant with only about an inch of soil over the rhizomes and set them 18 to 24 inches apart. Apply 3 to 4 pounds of 10-10-10 per 100 square foot every 4 to 6 weeks throughout the growing season and water thoroughly. In cold areas of North Carolina (zone 6), the ground freezes and the rhizomes do not overwinter well. Once the foliage has been killed by frost, the rhizomes should be dug, shoots removed (along with any soil), and dried for a few days. They can be stored in bushel baskets or burlap bags covered with dry peat or vermiculite at 41 to 50 0F. In zones 7 and 8, they can be left in the ground, if mulched with 3 to 4 inches of organic material. Dahlia Dahlias are generally associated with late summer to early fall flowering periods in N.C. (usually August to October). They can, however, be flowered earlier. Dahlias prefer full sun (zone 6) to partial shade (zones 7 and 8) and a rich, well drained soil. They require ample water during the summer, especially during periods of drought . Once started, be certain to keep them actively growing. Some dahlias require staking, as heights up to 7 feet are not uncommon. Flowers range from 3 to 12 inches in diameter and there are many shapes and colors available. A good pest control (insect and disease) program will enhance the success of dahlias. They are excellent as fresh cut flowers for the homeowner. Dahlia clumps are generally dug in the fall after the first frost and stored at 35 to 45 0F in dry vermiculite or sand. In the spring, clumps can be divided with each section having at least one shoot. It should be noted that seed grown dahlias are not very heat tolerant. Also, they tend to lack uniformity in growth habit and
flower color display. Daylilies Daylilies (Hemerocallis — Greek meaning “beautiful for a day”) are among the most popular and easiest bulbs to grow. One can have a flower display from early on summer to frost by using average garden soil, full sun to partial shade, an early summer application of 8-8-8 fertilizer, and a range of cultivars. Some daylilies can perennialize in extreme environments e.g., poor eroded slopes with no supplemental irrigation. However, the addition of organic matter is generally recommended for landscape use, both incorporated into the rootzone area and as a mulch. Currently there are over 12,000 registered cultivars representing almost the entire spectrum of the rainbow (Pure blue and pure white are the only two colors not available.). Daylilies are excellent for use in the perennial garden as taller background plants, in naturalized settings, or even the cutting garden. Hardy through zone 3, daylilies are adapted to all regions of N.C. and do not require winter storage. Propagation is usually by division of clumps either in the fall or early spring using plantings that are 2 to 3 years old. Each clump should have 3 shoots with an adequate amount of fibrous roots. They range in height from 12 inches to 4 feet. The flowers are borne on a leafless stem called a scape. Gladiolus Gladiolus are a gardener’s delight because they are easy to grow and offer a wide spectrum of colors. When planting times are staggered (weekly), they will flower over the entire summer. Corms can be planted outdoors starting in early May. Planting depth to base of the corms is 4 to 6 inches. Use a well-drained soil and plant them 6 to 8 inches apart. Many gardeners like to plant in rows — if so, the rows should be approximately 36 inches apart. A slow release fertilizer (5-10-10) should be applied at the rate of 3 to 4 pounds per 100 feet of bed area when plants are 6 to 8 inches tall, and again when the flower spikes begin to appear in the foliage. Most Gladiolus do not overwinter. Therefore, the corms must be carefully dug and stored. After the foliage has dried, dig the corms, remove the soil, and cut off dead tops. Dry corms for 3 or 4 days in an open area and dust with an insecticide and fungicide. Store dry in mesh bags or trays at 35 to 41 0F. Lilies Lilies (Lilium spp.) are excellent bulbs for the summer garden. There are about 80 species and several hundred cultivars available. They range in height from 2 to 8 feet. They are available in white, yellow, red, pink, orange, maroon and various bicolors. They require a well-drained area that receives plenty of sunlight and need to be kept moist. They can be planted either in the fall or spring. Either time is satisfactory; it only depends on the availability of the bulbs. Space them 6 to 10 inches apart. With the exception of Lilium candidum outdoor life | page 48
(Madonna Lily), which should be planted with only 1 inch of soil covering the bulb, lilies should be planted with 4 to 5 inches of soil covering the bulb. This allows them to form stem roots. Tall lilies may need to be staked and should be protected from high winds. For most lilies, the pH should be about 6.5. Fertilize them lightly on a monthly basis with 5-10-10 starting when the shoots begin to emerge. Lilies perennialize readily and generally do not need to be disturbed. Aphids and thrips can be pests. Iris Rhizomatous Iris (Iris spp.) are one of the easiest to bulbous plants for the garden. There are many species including: Yellow Flag Iris, Siberian Iris, Blue Flag Iris, Japanese Iris, Crested Iris and Black Iris. There are 6- to 8-inch dwarf types and 3- to 4-foot tall types. They come in all colors (solid and bicolors) except red. Most species require a well-drained soil and only an occasional fertilization. They can be planted in the fall or spring depending on the availability of the rhizomes. Plant them with 1 to 2 inches of soil covering the rhizomes. They grow best in full sun, but do quite well in light shade. Rhizomatous Iris tend to grow and perennialize rapidly and they need to be separated every 4 to 5 years. Begonias Tuberous Begonias are one of the most spectacular of the summer flowering bulbs. Colors range from soft pastels to brilliant and electric solid colors. They can be used as bedding plants, in hanging baskets, or simply as flowers around trees in home lawns. Tuberous begonias are somewhat temperamental because they do not tolerate stresses. They dislike strong winds and require good air drainage. They need to be well watered, but do not like moisture on the foliage. They don’t flower well in either full sun or dense shade if not properly watered. Incorporate a rich, organic loam into well-drained topsoil. Plant the enlarged hypocotyls (also called tubers) after the last chance of frost. The top of the hypocotyl should be at soil level. Place containers in partial shade. Water when soil shows signs of drying, preferably in the morning hours. Storage procedure requires digging after frost has killed foliage, drying for a few days in open area, then storing in dry peat moss at 35 to 41 0F. They can also be stored in containers or hanging baskets. •••••• — By A.A. De Hertogh, Professor and M.A. “Kim” Powell, Extension Horticultural Specialist with Department of Horticultural Science, North Carolina Cooperative Extension Service.
To Newport
To Knoxville SEVIERVILLE
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Mountain Farm Museum Soco Gap
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One-way road
Horseback riding (rental)
Historic structure(s)
Observation tower
East Tennessee ATV Sea-Doo Sales & Service
East Tennessee’s ONLY authorized Sea-Doo Sport Boat Dealer
500 Railroad Street • Elizabethton, TN
423-542-6109
outdoor life | page 49
outdoor life | page 50
Watauga Falls Waterfront Mountain Retreat...
Marty Plumm er 423-76 8-5217
tter Lisa Po 49 5-19 423-33
* 2 Bedrooms, 2 Baths * Gated Community * Lake Access And Boat Slips * Pristine Mountain Setting * Unspoiled Natural Environment * Limited Number Of Lots & Homes Only a fortunate few will have the opportunity to experience this unique mountain retreat nestled in the mountains on beautiful Watauga Lake. Watauga Falls is the newest gated resort community located in Butler Tennessee. The developers have artfully carved out of the mountain a wonderful retreat complete with waterfalls, log cabins, exceptional boating facilities and an unspoiled natural environment where you can completely relax and unwind. Partially bounded by the National Forest insures the ultimate in privacy and seclusion. You owe it to yourself to come and visit. Once you are there you won’t want to leave...
114 Piercetown Road, Butler, TN 37640 • 423-768-3333 Email: lisapotter@embarqmail.com • martyp@centurylink.net
The EVTS system is a complete system that integrates Global Positioning Satellites (GPS), advanced wireless technology, the internet and 24/7/365 Response Centers to provide stolen vehicle recovery, driver safety and convenience and vehicle tracking services.
• Mopar EVTS uses state-of-art computer module that’s equipped with Global Positioning Satellite (GPS) receiver, wireless date modem and vehicle interface component that allows us to “talk and listen to the car.” Each unit”s unique electronic serial number (similar to a cell phone number), allows information to be sent back and forth between the vehicle and Guidepoint’s Response Center over a nationwide wireless network. • The Mopar EVTS unit constantly updates and stores vehicle location with real-time information from the Department of Defense satellites. • The Mopar EVTS unit constantly transmits real-time vehicle location, direction of travel and speed to the Guidepoint Response Center. • Nationwide GSM Wireless Networks provide seamless communication between the Guidepoint Response Center and the vehicle throughout the United States, Canada and Mexico. • Trained support personnel receive data from the vehicle plus the Member’s profile and provide the authorities with all information needed for recovery: vehicle location, make, model, color, VIN and plate number. Police recover vehicle. 99% + Recovery Rate. Most within 2 hours. Stolen Vehicle Recovery • Nationwide Coverage • Unlimited Vehicle Tracking Low Battery Notification • Vehicle Status • Automated Vehicle Status Stop Summary Report • Stop Summary At Landmarks • Arrival/Departure Notification via text or email On Call/Panic Button(Optional) • Virtual Odometer • Selectable Features Activity Report• Transferable • Excessive Speed Notification via text or email EVTS BASE SYSTEM GPS Stolen Vehicle Locator • Real‑Time GPS Stolen Vehicle Tracking • $1,000 Theft Protection Warranty • Transferable • Upgradeable
F o S rd al es
Bo Sh dy op
C A hry ll M sle ak r es & Se rv
ic e
OPTIONAL SERVICE PLAN FEATURES SILVER PLAN • E‑Call 24/7 Emergency Service Dispatch • Security Fence • Automatic Theft Notification • OnCall (on board panic button) • Excessive Speed Notification • Selectable Convenience Features (lock/unlock, remote start) • Historic Trace Maps of vehicle’s past locations • Online Tracking 200/year • Full Concierge Service
OPTIONAL SERVICE PLAN FEATURES GOLD PLAN • E‑Call 24/7 Emergency Service Dispatch • Security Fence • Automatic Theft Notification • OnCall (on board panic button) • Excessive Speed Notification • Selectable Convenience Features (lock/unlock, remote start) • Historic Trace Maps of vehicle’s past locations • Online Tracking Unlimited • Full Concierge Service
Come to Grindstaff in Elizabethton and ask for Bobby or Joe in the Chrysler Service Dept. Look at the picture and follow the yellow line.
2224 West Elk Avenue • Elizabethton, Tennessee
423-542-2187 • 1-800-554-9529 • www.grindstaffchryslerdodgejeep.com