19 minute read
ACTIVITIES ADVENTURES
Nestled among the Appalachian Mountains in the “Land of the Waterfalls”, the Greystone Inn is the place to experience the splendor of nature and feel the embrace of the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains. Exclusively located on the largest private lake in North Carolina, the opportunities for outdoor activity are infinite.
Allow us to assist you in creating your personal Greystone experience. Our Concierge team can assist with every aspect of your experience from providing pricing and scheduling to transportation and picnics.
Please allow us 24-48 hour notice to schedule your preferred activities
FORESTS & MOUNTAINS
The majestic mountains and valleys overlooking and surrounding the Greystone Inn feature thousands of miles of trails ready and waiting to be explored. From a casual hike to demanding trails, self-guided and guided trips are available. Year round, although winter allows for the best views, hikers of every level will enjoy the endless opportunities to explore. Please call guest services for pricing.
PANTHERTOWN VALLEY
Known as the “Yosemite of the East” Panthertown Valley is considered one of North Carolina’s mountain treasures with over 25 cascading waterfalls, 30 miles of trails, trout streams, sheer granite cliffs and panoramic views. A destination for hikers, mountain bikers, equestrians, rock climbers and anglers. Trailhead parking is 4.5 miles from The Greystone.
GORGES STATE PARK
Find plunging waterfalls, rugged river gorges, sheer rock walls, and one of the greatest concentrations of rare and unique species in the eastern United States. Straddling the high ledges of the Jocassee Gorge, this lush park is a temperate rain forest. The park’s firstrate Visitor Center serves as the perfect gateway to begin exploring Gorges breathtaking waterfalls and dramatic topography. 13 miles from The Greystone For non-hikers, we recommend you visit the Visitors Center followed by White Water Falls.
PISGAH NATIONAL FOREST
Find plunging waterfalls, rugged river gorges, sheer rock walls, and one of the greatest concentrations of rare and unique species in the eastern United States. Straddling the high ledges of the Jocassee Gorge, this lush park is a temperate rain forest. The park’s firstrate Visitor Center serves as the perfect gateway to begin exploring Gorges breathtaking waterfalls and dramatic topography. 13 miles from The Greystone For non-hikers, we recommend you visit the Visitors Center followed by White
Whether you are a novice or an experienced climber, this area has the best climbing in the Southeast. Panthertown Valley, also known as the Yosemite of the East, has rock climbing ranging from 60ft to 100ft on its Black Rock Mountain. That is enough to get your heart pumping and give you an amazing view of the valley. In Pisgah State Forest, You can challenge Looking Glass Rock, a large multi- pitch climb up to 600ft. Ask the front desk about guided rock climbing trips with Pura Vida.
Cove Creek Canyon Waterfall Rappell
Beginner / Ages 12 and up (children aged 8-11 are invited but may need to be taken down rappel with the guide. This is a half day beginner canyoneering experience that includes a 75-foot waterfall rappel. Enjoy the hike to Cove Creek Canyon waterfall on trails that parallel the waterway as well as travel through parts of the waterway negotiating boulders. Participants should be in moderate to good physical shape and be comfortable hiking on rocks. No climbing or rappelling experience necessary. $125 per participant; minimum 2 participants
Beginner Rock Climbing & Rappelling
Beginner / Ages 5 and up Enjoy Pisgah National Forest with our half-day beginner climbing and rappelling program which emphasizes safety, instruction, and fun. No experience necessary, perfect for beginners and people a little afraid of heights. This is a great way for family and friends to spend time together enjoying the mountain of North Carolina. $170 for the first Participant; $35 for each participant up to 6.
Intermediate Rock Climbing & Rappelling
Intermediate Level/Ages 10 and up. This Panthertown Valley adventure begins with a 1.5-mile hike down into and along the valley floor before arriving at the base of the rock. It is here that you will have the chance to climb up to 100 feet for the most stunning views of Panthertown Valley and the peaks that surround it. A well-deserved visit to a waterfall to cool off or rest before you enjoy before the hike back. $150 per person; participants who do not climb $100 per person; minimum 2ppl
Big Bradley Canyon Waterfall Rappel
Intermediate/Ages 15 and up This full day adventure includes a waterfall rappel that’s pictured in National Geographic magazine! This trip is a 6-9 hour day full of adventure, climbing, rappelling and bouldering. Participants should be in good physical shape and have experience rappelling and/or climbing $225 per participant; minimum 2 participants
Rappelling
Intermediate – Advanced / Ages 15 and up This Panthertown Valley trip begins with a 1.5-mile ridgeline hike to your 260-foot rappel into Panthertown Canyon. The views from the top of the rock are spectacular and include the three famous peaks of Panthertown Big Green Mountain, Little Green Mountain and the Devil’s Elbow. This view will make clear why Panthertown Valley is nicknamed the ‘Yosemite of the East”. After rapelling into the canyon you will enjoy a 2.5-mile hike exploring the valley floor and visiting waterfalls and swimming holes. $175 per person; participants who do not climb $125 per person; minimum 2ppl
Rock Climbing & Rappelling
Intermediate – Advanced / Ages 15 and up (or experience climbers 12 and over) If you’re not afraid of heights, you’re in good physical shape and have experience climbing either outdoors or indoors, this is the experience for you. Be prepared for a moderately challenging 1.5-mile hike before you explore some of the more challenging rock faces of Pisgah Forest. $250 for the first two Participants; $50 for each additional participant up to 6
Indoor
The Brevard Climbing Gym has indoor training opportunities for beginners and experts alike with challenging boulder climbs.
The Riveter in Mills River adds another option for indoor climbing. Its environmental responsible construction was finished February 2020. It provides new indoor climbing options from bouldering to top rope.
BIKING
Transylvania County is home to some of the finest cycling in North America. BIKE Magazine calls the area “America’s Best Kept Secret.” Between Pisgah, Panthertown Valley Wilderness Area ( 4.5 miles from The Greystone) and DuPont State Forest there are hundreds of miles of epic single-tracks to explore. Road bikers can hit the asphalt on a variety of twisty, challenging roads just minutes from The Greystone on the upper elevations of the famous Blue Ridge Parkway and the flat valleys between Rosman and Brevard, NC. Explore Pisgah Forest or DuPont State Forest with an experienced guide that will show you the best sights and travel on the most exciting trails to get there. Ask the front desk about guided mountain bike rides with Pura Vida that include bike rentals. Available year round Full Suspension Bikes: $90/day Premium Hardtail Bikes: $70/day Hardtail Bikes: $50/day Kids Bikes: $45/day
Guided Mountain Biking
Beginner / Ages 12 and up Everyone will love this waterfall tour on mountain bikes. Your personal guide will tailor your experience to your skill level where you will enjoy the gradual hills, smooth trails, gorgeous waterfalls, swimming holes and lakes of Dupont Forest. $200 per participant, $125 per participant for two or more (save $25 per person if you bring your own bike)
On Your Own
Brevard Greenway: Enjoy the leisurely 4.8 mile Brevard Greenway Trail. Perfect for families, this trail is off the road and great for all ages. The best place to park is at the City of Brevard Sports Complex.
Bike Rental Options In Brevard, Nc
The Hub and Pisgah Tavern Sycamore Cycles Squatch Bikes & Brews
EQUESTRIAN
Horses and guided trail rides are available year-round for seasoned and beginner equestrians looking to explore the area. Pisgah National Forest has more than 100 miles of horseback riding trails, DuPont State Forest has over 80 miles of horseback riding trails and Gorges State Park, allows horses on their 12-mile round-trip Auger Hole Trail from the Frozen Creek Access to Turkey Pen Gap on the park’s western boundary. Available year round Horseback Riding – 1 hour: $75/person Horseback Riding – 1.5 hours: $95/person
WINTER TUBING
The entire family will enjoy Sapphire Valley’s 500-foot run with a vertical drop of 60 feet! Attendants and an easy “moving sidewalk” get you and your tube to the top and off you go.
BEGINNER SKIING
Saphire Valley is the perfect place to learn to snow ski or snowboard.
THE LAKE
As the largest private lake in the state, Lake Toxaway affords people the opportunity to enjoy a lake without feeling like they’re on a freeway. Paddle boards, kayaks, canoes, guide and pedal boats can be rented through Guest Services. Boats can be rented at the marina to cruise the lake or spend the afternoon water skiing and tubing.
GREYSTONE RENTALS
Kayak: $16 per hour Paddle board: $20 per hour Canoe: $20 per hour Pedal Boat: $20 per hour Adirondack guide boat: $20 per hour
MISS LUCY
For wooden boat enthusiasts, The Miss Lucy is a big attraction. This 26-passenger handcrafted mahogany boat made by the hundred-year-old legendary Hacker-Craft Company, escorts guests on a nightly sunset cruise. The quiet leisurely pace of the Miss Lucy is perfect for relaxing and enjoying a tour of the expansive lake and lavish lakeside homes. 12pm and 5pm daily May–October (weather permitting). Please RSVP 24 hours in advance to confirm your reservation. Don’t forget to grab a cocktail and meet at the boat dock 15 minutes prior to departure time. Hotel guest enjoy one complimentary cruise per visit. Restaurant guests $25 per cruise (limited availability, reservations must be made in advance). Private, one hour Miss Lucy cruises are available for $350.
LAKE TOXAWAY MARINA
Open May–September Motor boat rental: Deck or Pontoon $175 per hour, $350 for three hours, $2,500 per week
Waterskiing, Tubing and Lake Toys
$40 per hour, $55 for three hours, $300 per week
Boat Rental: Deck or Pontoon, 1 hour: $175.00 Boat Rental: Deck or Pontoon, 3 hours: $350.00 Boat Rental: Deck or Pontoon, 9 hours (Day): $525.00 Boat Rental: Deck or Pontoon, Weekly: $2,500.00 Skis/Tubes/Toys, 1 hour: $40.00 Skis/Tubes/Toys, 3 hours: $55.00 Skis/Tubes/Toys, 9 hours (Day): $65.00 Skis/Tubes/Toys, Weekly: $300.00
SWIMMING
Enjoy the fresh mountain water of Lake Toxaway. We have a designated swimming area for our guests. For more serious swimmers, we invite you to join us over Labor Day weekend for the 2.4 mile Dam-to-Dam swim.
COUNTRY CLUB
We invite you to enjoy the exclusive Lake Toxaway Country Club. As our guest, you will be given a membership card and number that will be tied to your Greystone account. Enjoy the ease of using this card as you sign into, and charge activities and meals to your account.
Some activities may require a health history form and/or medical release be completed and all activities require appropriate dress and footwear. There is a golf and tennis pro shop available should you wish to shop for new equipment, footwear and clothing.
GOLF
Highlighted by sweeping mountain vistas and breathtaking topography, the 18-hole championship golf course at Lake Toxaway Country Club is one of the premier courses in western North Carolina. The course provides a challenge to high-skilled players yet manages to place an emphasis on playability for golfers of all ages and skill levels. No walking, jogging or bicycling on golf course between 7am and 7pm Golf Course Hours of Operation Friday – Monday: 8am – 7pm • Tuesday & Wednesday: 11:30am – 7pm • Thursday: 8am – 4pm
Open Saturday of Easter weekend thru the Sunday after Thanksgiving
Green Fees 18 holes - $199 9 holes - $99.50 // Golf cart $16 FAZIO GOLF LEARNING CENTER Designed by the game’s leading architect and Hendersonville, N.C. native Tom Fazio, the Golf Learning Center at Lake Toxaway Country Club features a full-service 20-acre facility that is truly unrivaled in Western North Carolina. This area features a practice putting green, short game and driving range. Private golfing lessons and clinics may be arranged through the professional staff. A ten-minute drive from The Greystone – 1005 South Club Drive, Lake Toxaway
Hours of Operation Thursday – Tuesday; 8:30AM – 6:30PM • Wednesday: 11:00AM – 6:30PM Fazio Learning Center Fees $35 Open Saturday of Easter weekend thru the Sunday after Thanksgiving
Adjacent to the Greystone Inn, the courts could not be more convenient. The Lake Toxaway Country Club’s facilities include five Har-Tru fast-dry courts and a fully stocked Pro Shop. If you’re looking to brush up on your skills, private lessons are also available.
Hours of Operation 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM daily • Closed Daily from 12PM – 1PM for maintenance Open May 1 – November 1st Court fees $30 per person // Ball machine $35 per hour
CROQUET
Just steps from the Greystone Inn, the immaculate bentgrass lawns set the stage for a relaxing, or competitive, round of croquet. While many of us have played the familiar ninewicket croquet in the backyard, the championship croquet lawns of the Lake Toxaway Country Club are intended for a more traditional and formal style of play, which includes players wearing their whites.
Hours of Operation 9:00am – 6pm daily (closed Wednesday mornings for maintenance) Open May 1st – October 1st Court fees $30 per person
FITNESS CENTER
Maintain your health and wellness goals in this 2,000-square foot fitness center offering a full complement of state-of-the-art equipment including: Cybex Treadmills, Precor Elliptical Trainers, Nautilus Resistance Equipment, Free Weights, Medicine and Stability Balls.
A ten-minute drive from The Greystone // 1005 South Club Drive, Lake Toxaway Guests under 15 require adult supervision // Minimum age of 13 for fitness classes
Hours of operation May 1 - May 13th - 8am - 4pm Daily May 13 - October 13th - 8am - 6pm Daily October 13 - May 1st - 9am - 2pm Daily $20 per visit // Variety of fitness classes available - $15 per class
SWIMMING POOL
As an alternative to the lake, guests may enjoy use of the country club swimming which is equipped with restroom facilities and an outdoor fireplace. Located Next to the Lake Toxaway Country Club, Greystone guests have access to a newly updated pool. Hours of Operation and Fees $15 per person, per day
WELLNESS
YOGA
Please RSVP with Guest Services 24 hours in advance. Available Saturday at 8:30am $20 per person • Private sessions available upon request.
PILATES
Private sessions available upon request.
This is a community rich not only in the outdoors but also in cultural events, arts, music and unique shopping opportunities. There are dozens of festivals, concerts and exhibits throughout the year that draw thousands of people to the area. A list of local events and festivals during your stay can be found in your welcome material. A full listing of events can be found on our website.
SOUTHERN HIGHLAND RESERVE
A private native plant arboretum and research center dedicated to sustaining the natural ecosystems of the Blue Ridge Mountains. The varied topography gardens and forest types found on the 120 acres emulate many of the plant communities found in the higher reaches of the southern Appalachians.
Southern Highlands Reserve (SHR) offer two opportunities to see the Reserve. Visitor’s Days are best suited for first-time guests to SHR and are led by a Garden Tour Docent. Private group tours are guided by SHR’s Executive Directory Kelly Holdbrooks and provide the opportunity for a deeply personal look at the true beauty and wonder of the Reserve. Please see our Tours & Events page for available dates.
Available April – October On select Tuesdays and Fridays … $25 per person Private group tours available … $350 per group up to 10 people Reservations required for all visits
FALCONRY
Falconry was once considered “The Sport Of Kings” and is an ancient interaction between man and animal. Guests have an opportunity to experience falconry “Hands On” and fly birds of prey with Master Falconer Peter Kipp-duPont of Curtis Wright Falconry. $150 handler fee and $60 observer fee (minimum 2 handlers per outing). Cancellation Policy: Cancellations within 7 days of appointment will be charged 50%. In inclement weather cancellation policy is not applicable.
EXPLORING WATERFALLS
With over 250 waterfalls in the area, it’s not surprising to know this area is also known as the “land of the waterfalls”. Whitewater Falls with a 400-foot drop (highest falls east of the Rocky Mountains), beautiful Looking Glass falls, Sliding Rock where kids can slide down the falls, and a few private falls inside of Lake Toxaway Estates, are all just a short distance away.
ZIPLINING
Spend an afternoon at Highlands Aerial Park, a world-class outdoor experience for all ages where every participant and spectator feels welcome and included in the experience. ZIPLINE CANOPY TOUR Enjoy the beautiful scenery from a unique perspective as you zip. Experienced guides take you on a fantastic journey across 17 elements, including 8 zip lines, among the many different trees and species of flora and fauna that only grow in North Carolina’s eastern temperate rain forest.
THE GIANT SWING Three brave adventurers are secured in a harness and winched four stories high. One rider pulls the ripcord and the bottom drops into an 80-foot arc through the trees.
TREE CLIMB Climb side by side with a friend or family member 40′ up 2 trees in an epic race to the top! Rock climbing handholds and an auto belay. OPEN YEAR ROUND.
A honey apiary tour will give you the opportunity to wear a traditional bee suit, participate in a personal meet and greet with the bees, and inspect a hive with the beekeeper. After coming to an understanding of bees you will be able to taste the delicious fruits of their labor and partake in a honey tasting & food pairing guided by one of 4 Americans registered with the Italian Registry of Honey Sensory Experts. At the end of your tour, visit the honeyprocessing center and pour your own souvenir bottle of honey; all while enjoying the breathtaking views of the majestic Blue Ridge Mountains. From the forest to the hive to your table – let Killer Bees Honey sweeten your day. Open May through September • Fridays & Saturday’s at 9:30am – 1:30am Reservations only. Reserve your spot through the Greystone concierge • $120 per person Killerbeeshoney.com
GEM MINING
North Carolina’s Blue Ridge Mountains and foothills are among the oldest in the world and contain some of the richest deposits of gems and minerals in the world. Quartz, sapphire, emeralds, rubies, topaz, amethyst and other gemstones are found in the area. Guests keep what they find on this adventure!
Bear Tracks Travel Center, Lake Toxaway, NC 10932 Rosman Hwy, Lake Toxaway, NC • 828-862-8992 Gem Mining - Small bucket $20, Large bucket $30
BIRD WATCHING
Lake Toxaway is abundant with many kinds of bird life. The Cherokee Indian word “toxaway” translates into ‘red bird.’ The ‘toxaway’ or cardinal, is also North Carolina’s state bird. Mornings are extra special when we see the cardinals, chickadees, nuthatches, finches, and the humming birds we call back in the spring with our special humming bird food. Self-guided trips for birdwatching are available at Chimney Rock Park.
BLUE RIDGE PARKWAY
A Blue Ridge Parkway experience is unlike any other: a slow-paced and relaxing drive revealing stunning long-range vistas and close-up views of the rugged mountains and pastoral landscapes of the Appalachian Highlands. The Parkway meanders for 469 miles, protecting a diversity of plants and animals, and providing opportunities for enjoying all that makes this region of the country so special.
SIERRA NEVADA DAY TRIP
Visit the sprawling East Coast brewery in Mills River, North Carolina and explore one of America's premier craft breweries.
Hours of Operation Monday - Saturday 10am - 5:30pm • Sunday 11am - 5:30pm
TRANSYLVANIA HERITAGE MUSEUM
This fascinating museum works to preserve the historical heritage of Transylvania county and its families through educational programs, collections of artifacts, and heritage/cultural activities. Wed–Fri 10am–5pm Sat 11am–3pm
CRADLE OF FORESTRY
Walk down lush forest trails to historic cabins, climb aboard a real logging train and, at the Forest Discovery Center, explore hands-on exhibits and films that show how America’s first forestry school shaped the modern forest conservation movement. Open Wed–Sun 10am–4pm $6.00 per person, Free for youth ages 4–12
THE ALLISON DEAVER HOUSE
The historic Allison-Deaver House provides visitors a rare glimpse into 19th century life in Transylvania. Its grounds and gardens offer picnic spots and event spaces throughout the year.
Completed in 1917, this gracious 33-room Greek Revival mansion offers eight acres of recreational opportunities, popular Thursday night bluegrass jams and a free museum
WESTERN NORTH CAROLINA AIR MUSEUM
Antique aircraft. Dedicated to Preserving and Promoting the Flying Heritage of the Western North Carolina Mountains region. Open Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday 12pm - 5pm
SWANNANOA VALLEY MUSEUM & HISTORY CENTER
Museum in a 1921 firehouse tracing regional history with photos, artifacts & temporary exhibitions. Open Tuesday - Saturday 10am - 5pm
THE WCU FINE ART MUSEUM
WCU Fine Art Museum at Bardo Arts Center features four galleries, a growing permanent collection, and exhibitions highlighting regional, national, and international artists. The museum facilitates scholarly research and provides lifelong learning opportunities for individuals of all ages by collecting, interpreting, and showcasing cross-cultural innovation in contemporary art. Open Tuesday, Wednesday & Friday 10am - 4pm. Thursday 10am - 7pm
MUSEUM OF THE CHEROKEE INDIAN
Cherokee art, history & culture presented via exhibits, digital films, photographs & holographs. Open Daily 9am - 5pm
SMITH-MCDOWELL HOUSE MUSEUM
Located in Asheville, North Carolina. It is the city's first mansion and oldest surviving house, and the oldest brick structure in Buncombe County. The house was constructed in the 1840s for James McConnell Smith. Open Wednesday - Saturday 10am - 4pm
FOURTH FRIDAY GALLERY WALKS
The monthly celebration of art, food, music and wine happens every fourth Friday from April through December in downtown Brevard, NC. Retailers and galleries stay open late to give shoppers a chance to meet local artists, find distinctive gifts and make new friends.
PISGAH ASTRONOMICAL RESEARCH INSTITUTE
PARI is located at the site of a former satellite tracking station operated by NASA. Today, it remains focused on the heavens – but with an emphasis on education.
PISGAH CENTER FOR WILDLIFE EDUCATION
Located in Pisgah National Forest, the Center offers a fascinating look at how wildlife and the natural environment relate to human events and activities. The Center’s exhibits include wildlife conservation areas and aquariums containing regional aquatic species. The Center also offers a wide variety of workshops and programs throughout the year
BOBBY N. SETZER STATE FISH HATCHERY
The state’s largest trout hatchery is right next door to the Pisgah Center for Wildlife Education and gives visitors a chance to see how brook, brown and rainbow are transformed from “fingerlings” to a fly fisherman’s obsession. A fun and educational stop for all ages.
