Mountain Moose

Cabin Special in Bryson City, NC!

2012-02-14T10:46:00.002-05:00

Great cabin special in the Great Smoky Mountains of Western North Carolina, via Groupon!

Mountain Vista Log Cabins Deal of the Day | Groupon AshevilleWhat You GetAccommodations for four (Check the Fine Print & Details tabs for available cabins)$255 for a three-night stay$340 for a four-night stayAmenitiesChoose from 10 cabinsGreat Smokies viewsNearby trout fishingPrivate outdoor hot tub

Andrews Bald Hike

2011-09-28T20:45:00.002-04:00

Join Great Smoky Mountains Association on October 8

Fantastic views andgorgeous Fall colors await those hiking to Andrews Bald!

Join naturalist LizDomingue on Saturday, October 8^th for a 3.6 mile round-trip hike toone of the park's most picturesque destinations. This trail was one of thefirst to be improved in the park under the Trails Forever program.

The flame azalea andCatawba rhodies will be gone, but you may find a stray blueberry or two, if abear didn't get there first! As you approach the bald the scent of evergreensovertakes the air and it'll almost seem like the holiday season.

Plan on packing a lightlunch to enjoy at the bald while taking in the breathtaking colors of Autumn inthe vast panorama. You'll have a great view of Fontana Lake, too!

As always, wear goodhiking boots (the trail is rocky with a steep downhill section), bring waterand rain gear. Though considered an easy hike, a hiking stick might beadvisable also to help steady yourself as you traverse the rocks.

Meet Liz in the ClingmansDome parking lot at 9:00 am for what should prove to be a true Smokiesexperience!

Reservations are required and limited to 20 participants. A fee of $10per adult will cover the cost of the presenter. Children under 12 are free.Call 865-436-7318, Ext. 222 or 254 to register.

Fall Foliagealong Roaring Fork by Charlie Choc

Hike to Spruce Flats Falls

2011-06-29T19:28:00.000-04:00

Hike to Spruce Flats Falls

What's Cooler on a Hot Summer Day?

Photo of Spruce Flats Falls by Ulrich Burkhalter

Take an educational hike to Spruce Flats Falls with former Great Smoky Mountains at Tremont teacher/naturalist Mike Matzko on Saturday, July 9^th.

A beautiful little known gem of the Smokies is located in the Tremont area of the park and consists of four cascades making up a 125 foot drop and a 320 foot run. A large plunge pool holds the water prior to it falling down to the Middle Prong of Little River.

This region of the park was also one of the last logged by Little River Lumber Company.

It's a 2-mile roundtrip, moderate hike. Wear good hiking boots, bring rain gear, water, and a light lunch to enjoy at the falls. Meet at 10:00 am in front of the Tremont office.

Participation is limited to 20 with a registration fee of $10 per adult. Children 12 and under are free. To register call 865-436-7318, Ext. 222 or 254.

Great Smokys Cabin Rentals

2011-05-16T18:07:00.000-04:00

Great Smoky Mountains National Park - The search for Sweet pinesap (U.S. National Park Service)

2011-05-16T10:32:00.000-04:00

): "Sweet pinesap, we found out on a recent warm spring day, is elusive. Each of us—the park botanist, vegetation ecologist, and science communicator—dutifully checked the field guide photos before we left to note the stubby flowers this plant sends up through the leaf litter. Although rare and small—just about thumb-height—Sweet pinesap (Monotropsis odorata) is distinctive. For one thing, it blooms a deep pink against the decay of the forest floor. For another, it sends out a rich, sweet smell that lingers in the sun-warmed air like a cloud of perfume. Monitoring Sweet pinesap, which is a Tennessee state threatened species, is part of the park’s mission to preserve and protect its natural resources. We set out with a map and an approximate location of where the flower was found last year. Sure enough, after a couple miles trotting along trillium-speckled hillsides, we smelled it. It was unmistakable and heavy-sweet, like honeysuckle wearing rose perfume. We dropped our bags and started looking. Read more: Great Smoky Mountains National Park - The search for Sweet pinesap (U.S. National Park Service

Carpets of Trillium Throughout The Smokies

2011-04-10T11:12:00.000-04:00

If you’re a Trillium-lover, now is the time to head for the mountains. In the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, you’ll see them carpeting the wooded slopes along Newfound Gap Road (US 441), which runs from Cherokee to Gatlinburg. They are especially abundant near Collins Creek on the North Carolina side and Chimneys on the Tennessee side.

Read More: Carpets of Trillium Throughout The Smokies

Owl Prowl

2011-01-02T16:43:00.000-05:00

Join the Great Smoky Mountains Association on Saturday, January 22, at 7:00 pm for their popular Owl Prowl. Venture into the woods around Sugarlands Visitor Center with naturalist Liz Domingue to try your luck locating these denizens of the night.

Be prepared for cold weather. Wear warm clothing, hiking boots, and bring gloves, water, a flashlight or headlight, and binoculars.

Meet Liz at 7:00 pm at Sugarlands Visitor Center. A registration fee of $10 is required beforehand. Children are always welcome and if they're under 12 there is no charge.

To register call 865-436-7318, Ext. 222 or 254. This is always a fun event for adults and kids alike!

Owl Eyes by Donna Eaton

Favorite Winter Waterfall Hikes in the Smokies

2010-11-29T16:18:00.000-05:00

Rainbow Falls - 5.4 mile roundtrip - From the parkway in Gatlinburg, turn at traffic light #8 and follow Historic Nature Trail into Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Continue past the Noah "Bud" Ogle homesite to the marked Rainbow Falls parking area. Moderate to difficult.

Abrams Falls - 5 miles roundtrip - The turnoff for the trailhead is marked and is located past stop #10 on the Cades Cove Loop Road. Moderate difficulty.

Waterfall Extravaganza: Three Waterfalls Loop. Starts from the Deep Creek trailhead at the end of Deep Creek Road (across the stream for Deep Creek Campground). 2.4 miles. Start on the trail to Juney Whank Falls, then continue to Indian Creek and Tom Branch falls. Moderate. Video of 3 Waterfall Loop Hike - Juney Whank, Indian Creek, and Tom Branch.

Courtesy of Great Smoky Mountains Association

Winter Smokies Closings

2010-10-29T08:26:00.000-04:00

Great Smoky Mountains National Park has announced its winter season facility closings schedule. As cooler weather approaches and visitation decreases, various facilities will close, including 7 of the 10 campgrounds, and operational hours for some visitor services will be reduced.

Fabulous Fall Color! – Great Smoky Mountains National Park

2010-10-23T13:56:00.001-04:00

One of the most anticipated times of the year is here! Peak fall color complete with beautiful weekend weather. Get out there and enjoy it, or get a head start with this video: Fabulous Fall Color! – Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Lazy Hiker's Guide to the Appalachian Trail

2010-10-20T16:30:00.000-04:00

Max Patch is a hiker highlight along the 2,175-mile Appalachian Trail.

The trail has 2 million visitors a year. But fewer than 2,000 are hikers traveling end-to-end on a 5- to 6-month odyssey.

About 16% are section hikers, attempting the whole trail, but over many years.

The rest are day users or just staying a night or two. The average hike? Less than 20 miles.

Read More: Lazy hiker's guide to the Appalachian Trail | freep.com | Detroit Free Press

Fall Fun in the Smokies

2010-10-12T08:34:00.001-04:00

Friends of the Smokies has lots of news about fall fun in the Smokies.Read more from the latest newsletter from Friends of the Smokies

Photo Credit: Rich Mountain Road by Sam Hobbs

Autumn Naturalist Ramble

2010-09-29T20:43:00.002-04:00

Autumn Naturalist RambleOctober 30

Join naturalist Liz Domingue on Saturday, October 30 for a walk on the Little River-Cucumber Gap Loop. This easy to moderate walk is a little over 5 miles round-trip. Enjoy the sights, smells, and sounds of a cove hardwood forest in the Fall. With Liz as your guide, investigate whatever crosses your path or catches your interest. This can include anything from birds and other wildlife to plant life, as well as animal tracks and traces.

This is one of the nicest short loops in the Smokies. Your trail begins on an old railroad bed with an easy grade, created by the Little River Lumber Company prior to the creation of the national park. Be serenaded by the sounds of the Little River and enjoy the serenity of Huskey Branch Falls, a pretty cascade that tumbles down 120 feet of bare sandstone before flowing into the Little River.

Meet at 9:00 am at the Little River trailhead. To get there, drive to Elkmont Campground. Just before the campground entrance station, turn left. The trailhead is 0.6 mile up the side road at the gate and trail sign.

Wear good hiking boots and bring water, a light lunch or snack, and rain gear. Please be willing to wait a reasonable amount of time for your group and hike leader to arrive. Also, if you have any health issues that your leader should be aware of, please inform them before beginning the hike. GSMA is not liable for any accidents or health issues that may happen on the hike.

A registration fee of $10 per person is required. To register, call 865-436-7318, Ext. 222 or 254.

Virginia Fall 2010: Scenic Drives and Driving Tours Through Virginia

2010-09-29T07:24:00.001-04:00

"Enjoy a cruise through some of the most picturesque areas of Virginia. A great place to start is with one of Virginia's four National Scenic Byways.

Be sure to also travel along Virginia's Trails, including the Virginia Civil War Trails, Journey Through Hallowed Ground, and The Crooked Road!

Virginia Fall 2010: Scenic Drives and Driving Tours Through Virginia

Postcards From The Smokies » Indian Creek’s ‘Baby’ Falls

2010-09-26T18:59:00.000-04:00

Postcards From The Smokies » Indian Creek’s ‘Baby’ Falls: "A few hundred feet below Indian Creek Falls is a much smaller cascade where Indian Creek narrows to just three feet in width forcing the water to churn through the narrow opening between two boulders. The “baby’ falls can be viewed up close from a bridge on the Deep Creek Trail.

Short Hikes in the Smokies

2010-09-16T21:19:00.000-04:00

With all the trails in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, where do you start? With some easy to moderate hikes of a relatively short duration, that's how! Here are a couple to start with:

Grotto Falls

• Distance: 2.4 Miles – Difficulty: Moderate

This trail is located off the Roaring Fork Motor Trail and offers the only waterfall that visitors are able to walk behind. Though the trail is primarily traversing a hemlock forest, it is a suitable trek for novice hikes. The distance to the falls is relatively short and the slope is easy to travel. Located close to Gatlinburg, Grotto Falls has long been a tourist favorite.

Laurel Falls

• Distance: 2.5 Miles – Difficulty: Easy

Laurel Falls offers the easiest waterfall access in the Smokies. Following a paved trail, hikers walk through a progression of cascades before arriving at the flat, rocky base of the 60-foot waterfall. This trail is easily accessible by wheelchair and stroller and offers the perfect spot to sit and take in the beauty of the falls and mystifying sounds of rushing water. Because of this, Laurel Falls is one of the Smokies most visited trails.

Learn more about short hikes in the Smokies.

Intro to Map and Compass 9/18 at Great Smoky Mountain National Park

2010-09-15T18:18:00.000-04:00

This Smoky Mountain Field School course includes an introduction to the use of a forester's compass and a basic understanding of reading and topographical map as used by land managing agencies for control and management of emergency incidents.

This will be done through lecture, classroom activity, and outdoor exercise.

Fee: $49

Online registration is available.

Instructor: Joe Kelley served as a National Park Ranger for more than 30 years, mainly in the Great Smokies and on the Blue Ridge Parkway.

Read More

Friends of the Smokies Purchases Land Adjacent to National Park

2010-09-13T12:22:00.002-04:00

KODAK, TN - SEPTEMBER 13, 2010- Friends of Great Smoky Mountains National Park was the successful bidder in a public auction of 20 acres of land surrounded on three sides by Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The not-for-profit organization bought the two 10-acre tracts on Saturday, September 11, 2010 for $775,000.

Read the full story.
Image via Wikipedia

Friends of the Smokies

2010-09-02T22:01:00.000-04:00

Smoky Mountains - Favorite Destinations for September

2010-08-25T21:01:00.000-04:00

Alum Cave Trail is guaranteed not to disappoint. There are things to see, footbridges, and fun for hikers of all abilities. You can go to Arch Rock (1.25 miiles), Inspiration Point (2 miles) , Alum Cave Bluff (2.25 miles), or go the whole way to Mt. LeConte Lodge (5 miles).

September is a great time to do a shuttle hike involving Sweat Heifer Creek Trail, Kephart Prong Trail, and the Appalachian Trail. Park a car at the Kephart Prong trailhead on Newfound Gap Road, then drive the second car up to Newfound Gap.

Take the Appalachian Trail north from Newfound Gap 1.7 miles to the junction with Sweat Heifer. Descend on Sweat Heifer 3.7 miles through open Northern Hardwood forest to Kephart Prong Trail. Then follow it 2 miles to the trailhead and your shuttle car.

And Foothills Parkway East, near Cocke County, is now open!

Hen Wallow Falls

2010-08-25T20:57:00.002-04:00

Join Westy Fletcher on Saturday, September 25 for a leisurely walk to Hen Wallow Falls. The hike is a moderate one at 4.3 miles round trip and begins at the Gabes Mountain Trailhead across from the Cosby Campground picnic area.

The trail was built by a CCC crew in 1934 and is a delightful walk through old growth forest and rhododendron and laurel tunnels. You'll cross several small creeks on foot logs and soon discover why the falls was a favorite destination for a Sunday drive and picnic. Yes, part of this trail was an old roadbed in pre-park days.

Hen Wallow cascades down three sections of rock with an almost 100 foot drop. Be forewarned... the algae-covered rocks are extremely slippery and no climbing should be attempted! But it is a delightful and cool spot to enjoy the early autumn weather. So be sure to pack a light lunch and "pull up a rock" at the falls' base and enjoy!

The hike will start at the trailhead at 9:00 am. Please wear good hiking boots, bring water, rain gear... and a hiking stick might prove helpful. Reservations are limited to 20 with a $10 fee per person. Call 865-436-7318, Ext. 222 or 254 to register.

SMOKY MOUNTAIN Hikes for Extremely Lazy People

2010-08-22T15:29:00.003-04:00

Click below for a list for lazy hikers, people hiking with small children, or people who are looking for gentle easy hikes:

GREAT SMOKY MOUNTAINS NATIONAL PARK Smokies Hikes for Extremely Lazy People

The Le Conte Lodge Llama Train!

2010-08-04T16:37:00.000-04:00

© Great Smoky Mountains Association 2010.
Hike up Mt. Le Conte with special guest video blogger, Walter Wuthmann, and the famous llamas that keep Le Conte Lodge stocked with supplies. You won't believe what the llamas have for lunch at the top! Le Conte Lodge is the only lodging in Great Smoky Mountains National Park, and sits atop the third highest peak in the park. It is reached by a number of hiking trails from 5 to 8 miles long.

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Western North Carolina Raffles Off a Log Cabin in the Smoky Mountains, Tickets Just $100 Each

2010-07-27T21:11:00.002-04:00

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Western North Carolina Raffles Off a Log Cabin in the Smoky Mountains, Tickets Just $100 Each

ASHEVILLE, N.C., July 27 /PRNewswire/ -- Big Brothers Big Sisters of Western North Carolina announced today that the organization is raffling off a Log Cabin in the Great Smoky Mountains of Bryson City, North Carolina. The holder of the winning raffle ticket will take possession of this beautiful Smoky Mountain Cabin, a fully furnished 2 bedroom 2 bathroom Log Cabin with custom hardwood floors, granite countertops, hot tub, pool table and a rocked fireplace. Proceeds from the 1st annual Smoky Mountain Cabin Raffle will benefit Big Brothers Big Sisters of Western North Carolina in its continued effort to recruit, screen, train and support caring adults who want to make a difference in the life of a child.
A limited number of raffle tickets will be available for purchase from July 16, 2010 through the October 7, 2010 deadline on our specially created event website at www.LogCabinRaffle.org The Grand Prize Drawing will take place on October 14, 2010 and will be open to the public. The Smoky Mountain Cabin Raffle will also include bonus drawings throughout the three-month event. Designed to incentivize early ticket purchases these bonus drawings include a one-week stay at a cabin provided by Hidden Creek Cabins, a Whitewater Rafting trip for 4 down the legendary Nantahala River provided by Paddle Inn Rafting and a $1,000 cash prize drawing.
"The Smoky Mountain Cabin Raffle was created as an innovative way to raise significant funds for children and mentors," says Robin Myer, Executive Director. "We are thrilled to present this Smoky Mountain Log Cabin as the Grand Prize of our raffle. It's a beautiful cabin in the mountains overlooking one of the country's most spectacular views. Raffle participants can give back while also having the exciting chance to win a beautiful custom log cabin in the Smoky Mountains."
"Some kids wait more than 9 months to be matched with a Big Brother or Big Sister stated J. Clarkson, Director of Development for Big Brothers Big Sisters of WNC. "It takes time to recruit, screen, and train a caring adult to be a "Big" and the funds raised from this raffle will allow us to dedicate more staff to that effort and still give professional support to the mentoring relationships already in place. In the end, this means more children will have the opportunity to experience the difference that a Big Brother or Big Sister can make."
For more information about Big Brothers Big Sisters of Western North Carolina please visit their website at www.bbbswnc.org and for more details on the "Smoky Mountain Cabin Raffle" please visit www.LogCabinRaffle.org

Press Contacts
Info@LogCabinRaffle.org
Mary Anne Baker (239) 898-1662 info@LeisureLinx.com J. Clarkson (828) 253-1470 jc@bbbswnc.org

Mt. Le Conte Llama Train

2010-07-23T09:37:00.000-04:00

Hike up Mt. Le Conte with special guest video blogger Walter Wuthmann and the famous llamas that keep Le Conte Lodge stocked with supplies. You won’t believe what the llamas have for lunch up at the top!

Mt. Le Conte Llama Train

Great Smoky Mountains Association - Member Hike

2010-06-14T21:54:00.000-04:00

Stand on one of the high spots in the Smokies and drink in not only a bird's-eye view of Fontana Lake and the surrounding mountains, but also be mesmerized by the stunning flame azaleas and Catawba rhododendrons! Marti Smith will lead the hike and is a "900-miler", having hiked every trail in the park.

The almost 4-mile round trip hike to Andrews Bald offers an opportunity that any visitor to the park simply should not miss. Though considered to be an easy to moderate hike, the trail is extremely rocky with a steep descent and an upward climb before reaching the Bald. Andrews is the highest grassy bald in the park and the only one that is completely located on the North Carolina side.

The hike will begin at the Clingmans Dome parking area at 9:00 am on Saturday, June 19. Wear good hiking boots, bring rain gear (hopefully you won't need it), water and a lunch to enjoy when you arrive at the bald. And don't forget a camera and binoculars, especially if you're a birder. A hiking stick may be advisable for added stability. GSMA is not liable for any mishaps on the trail.

Registration is limited to 20 people and there is a $10 registration fee per person. Call Judy or Marti at 865-436-7318, Ext. 222 or 254 to register.

Savor the Scenic Blue Ridge Parkway

2010-05-04T16:58:00.000-04:00

By Jayne Clark, USA TODAY

The first thing to know about the Blue Ridge Parkway is that it isn't designed for speed.

With 250 pull-outs and 800 or so spots to drink in wow-inducing vistas — not to mention a speed limit that maxes out at 45 mph — this 469-mile roadway is meant to be savored.

Consider it the "slow food" of road trips.

This year marks the 75th anniversary of the byway that has been dubbed "America's Favorite Drive," and dozens of related events, from symposia to art exhibits, will commemorate the occasion.

Read more.

Wildflowers of the Blue Ridge Parkway

2010-05-04T11:30:00.000-04:00

The Blue Ridge Parkway is a wildflower lover's paradise, offering a huge variety of native species during spring, summer and fall. Depending on your elevation and north/south orientation, some species can be found blooming over a considerably long period of time.

See the Blue Ridge Parkway Wildflower Bloom Schedule

Cades Cove Auto Tour

2010-04-28T12:03:00.001-04:00

Courtesy of TheGreatSmokyMountains.org:

		Cades Cove gets its grand reopening Saturday after the repaving of the loop road, so brush up on your knowledge of this popular destination with Elizabeth and Jill! PART 1: Ever hear of a “stranger room”? Do you know how a spring house works? Click here or on the photo to view the video!
		PART 2: Explore the Cable Mill area and meet Ken, the miller! Learn how corn meal is made in this grist mill that was built in the 1860s. Click here or on the photo to check it out!
		PART 3: Take a look at some of the historic homes and structures in Cades Cove, and the people who lived and worked there. They experienced good times and hardships in this beautiful mountain setting. Click here or on the photo to view the video!

Smoky Mountain Sound Off

2010-04-15T13:26:00.000-04:00

Smokey Mountain Sound Off is an all day music extravaganza on Saturday, 5/8/2010. Featuring the Cullowhee Blues Projects, Shane Meade, Bo McMillion andmore, join.landscreek.com and hiddencreekcabins.com for this free event in Bryson City.

Here is the music line-up:

12:00 Cullowhee Blues Project
1:30 Bo McMillion
2:30 Rye Holler Boys
4:00 Friends of Fil
5:30 Johnny Floor & the Wrong Crowd
7:00 Shane Meade & the Sound
8:30 Young Funk Sung
10:00 Smoky Mountain All-star Jam

Remember that there will also be a special acoustic showcase taking place at Harmony Hall on Friday, May 7th @ 8:00 pm to kickoff the event. ( www.landscreek.com/hall.htm )

This inaugural all day extravaganza is FREE to all festival goers, and will feature food, fun, and hourly raffles taking place with a chance for everyone in attendance to win various prizes and giveaways, such as:

* Weekend cabin getaways for two
* Zipline Tours
* Rafting Trips
* Horseback Riding trips for two
* CD(s) and Merchandise from bands
* Sound Off Memorabilia
* Plus many more…….

Lodging Contact Info:
www.hiddencreekcabins.com (828) 507-5627 Ask for Kevin
www.landscreek.com 888-346-9793 Ask for Robin
Harmony Hall (www.landscreek.com/hall.htm)

Camping/Musicians Village Contact Info:
Please e-mail your requests to shanemeademusic@gmail.com
(20) campsites w/ facilities available on-site
$25 total for 2 nights

Spread the word, and we look forward to sharing in this fun-filled
weekend in the Great Smoky Mountains!

Spring Wildflower Pilgrimage

2010-03-22T12:55:00.000-04:00

The Spring Wildflower Pilgrimage is an annual five-day event in Great Smoky Mountains National Park consisting of a variety of fauna, and natural history walks, motorcades, photographic tours, art classes, and indoor seminars. Most programs are outdoors in Great Smoky Mountains National Park, while indoor offerings are held in various venues throughout Gatlinburg, TN. The next Spring Wildflower Pilgrimage in the Smokies is April 21-25, 2010.

Learn More!

7 Great Spots for Hiking in the Blue Ridge and Smoky Mountains

2010-03-15T16:43:00.000-04:00

>With summer right around the corner, the Blue Ridge and Smoky Mountains offer hikers a plethora of options for easy to moderate to strenuous trails with vistas and views unmatched anywhere else. Here's a sampling and we welcome your recommendations!

Western North Carolina

Grandfather Mountain has 11 trails varying in difficulty from a gentle walk in the woods to a rigorous trek across rugged peaks. It is in the backcountry of Grandfather Mountain State Park that you come up against the more challenging hikes.

Administered by the National Park service Waterrock Knob is actually part of the Blue Ridge ParkwayMilepost 451.2. After driving up the short road that leads from the BRP you will enter a large parking lot that has panoramic views. The view from the parking lot is stunning - both sides drop away and leave you with breathtaking views of mountain after mountain in every direction. On a clear day, the Unicoi Mountains in Tennessee are visible, at 52 miles distant! On clear nights many amateur astronomers set their telescopes on the grassy areas that border the parking lot. The absence of "light pollution" here makes it a great place to star gaze... with or without a telescope.

Feeling energetic? A short but strenuous hike to the top of the Knob affords a view of the surrounding area from the highest point around. According to the sign, the trail to the top of Waterrock Knob is only a half of a mile long. What the sign doesn't say is that it feels like two miles. The trail begins on the right side of the parking area and is paved. Although the first quarter of a mile of this very steep trail is paved. A short distance from Maggie Valley and at a high elevation, this is a good escape on a hot summer afternoon.

North Georgia
Short Day Hikes in Fannin County, GA

Blue Ridge Loop Trail-This easy trail begins as a hike along the shore of Lake Blue Ridge, then meanders through the woods on the return trip. Distance .6 miles

Green Mountain Trail - An easy to moderate trail, it leaves from Deep Gap in the Aska Adventure Area, climbs Green Mountain where seasonal views of Lake Blue Ridge are possible, then descends to a second trailhead. On the return trip a slightly different trail can be taken.

East Tennessee

The Great Smoky Mountain National Park straddles the border of North Carolina and Tennessee, and offers many hiking trail with panoramic vistas and varied levels of difficulty. A stop at either the Sugarlands Welcome Center on the Gatlinburg Tennessee entrance or the Oconaluftee on the Cherokee, NC side of the Park, the locals will tell you to pick up the “little brown hiking book” touted as the best everyday hiking guide.

Norris Dam State Park in Lake City, TN: The park's newest multi-use trail stretches 4.9 miles along the shoreline of Norris Lake. Called the Lake View Trail, the trail does in fact provide superb views of Norris Lake as it hugs the shoreline for almost five miles. The Lake View Trail was completed last summer through state and federal grants. It's open to horseback riders, mountain bikers and hikers. Except for a few short, but notably steep, sections, the grade is easy to moderate.

Southwestern Virginia

New River Trail State Park in Foster Falls, VA, has been designated an official National Recreation Trail by the U. S. Department of the Interior. The park parallels 39 miles of the New River, which is one of the world's oldest rivers and among a handful of rivers flowing north.

Webcams in the Smoky Mountains

2010-02-11T07:56:00.000-05:00

Webcams provide a great opportunity to take a peek at your favorite Smoky Mountain views. Whether you're halfway across the world, or in the foothills looking ahead at the weather, these webcams by the National Park Service give you the "heads up"!

View from Look Rock (west side of the park)
View from Purchase Knob (east end of the park)

2010 Major Road Projects in the GSMNP

2010-01-26T14:12:00.000-05:00

Image via Wikipedia

A great deal of work will be done on Great Smoky Mountains National Park roads in 2010. Here's a list of the major projects:

Full Closures:

Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail
February 1 - May 28

Clingmans Dome Road
February 15 - May 28
One-lane closures to continue through June 30

Cades Cove Loop Road
March 1 - May 21

Heintooga Ridge Road
October 2009 - May 28

Sinks Parking Area - Meigs Creek Trailhead
January 5 - May 10

Smokemont Campground
March 10 - May 28

Little River and Jakes Creek Trailheads in Elkmont
July 5 - August 31

Partial Closures:

Foothills Parkway-West
May 10 - June 30

Repaving Gatlinburg Bypass to Sugarlands Visitor Center
April 1 - May 28
The Bypass will be closed entirely for 3 weeks in May

Foothills Parkway-East Repaving
Late spring - mid-August

This is the largest single project, costing approximately $24 million for design and construction of Bridge 2 on the unfinished Foothills Parkway. Work will begin in the spring of 2010. That area is not open to traffic so no visitor travel will be affected.

The Road to NoWhere

2010-01-25T19:54:00.000-05:00

With so much to see and do in the Bryson City area, it is hard to imagine a day when you might have nowhere to go. But should that happen, there is always the "Road to Nowhere", a scenic mountain highway that takes you eight miles into the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and ends at the mouth of a tunnel. On the map, it is called Lakeview Drive, but to the citizens of Swain County it is The Road to Nowhere — A Broken Promise.

In the 1930s and 1940s, Swain County gave up the majority of its private land to the Federal Government for the creation of Fontana Lake and the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Hundreds of people were forced to leave the small Smoky Mountain communities that had been their homes for generations. With the creation of the Park, their homes were gone, and so was the road to those communities. Old Highway 288 was buried beneath the deep waters of Fontana Lake.

The Federal government promised to replace Highway 288 with a new road. Lakeview Drive was to have stretched along the north shore of Fontana Lake, from Bryson City to Fontana, 30 miles to the west. And, of special importance to those displaced residents, it was to have provided access to the old family cemeteries where generations of ancestors remained behind.

But Lakeview Drive fell victim to an environmental issue and construction was stopped, with the road ending at a tunnel, about six miles into the park. The environmental issue was eventually resolved, but the roadwork was never resumed. And Swain County's citizens gave the unfinished Lakeview Drive its popular, albeit unofficial name "The Road To Nowhere."

On weekends throughout the summer, the Park Service still ferries groups of Swain County residents across Fontana Lake to visit their old family cemetaries for Decoration Days and family reunions. And the legal issue of whether to build the road remains unresolved.

Download pdf brochure or click here to learn more.

2010 Marks the 75th Anniversary of the Blue Ridge Parkway

2010-01-13T21:52:00.000-05:00

Join the adventure with an extraordinary journey through the stories of this remarkable route and the region through which it passes. Discover the opportunities the 75th Anniversary presents for us all!

Why is the Parkway "More than a Road?" Recreational opportunities, habitat for diverse species of flora and fauna, access to America’s cultural heritage, an icon of American progress and ingenuity, and a gateway to charming communities. Discover communities along the Parkway, study the rich heritage and history, and explore the future by visiting the official website which touts this landmark anniversary.

Hiker-Friendly at Amicalola Falls State Park

2010-01-09T17:48:00.000-05:00

Hike from Amicalola Falls State Park in northern Georgia to the southern terminus of the Appalachian Trail at Springer Mountain on this 16.2-mile loop. This memorable, 16.2-mile loop in Chattahoochee National Forest links Amicalola Falls, Len Foote Hike Inn, and the summit of Springer Mountain. Hike it all in one day, or stay at the Hike Inn for a multi-day trip. The route begins in Amicalola Falls State Park and travels northeast to the Hike Inn Trail–Approach Trail junction. Bear right on Hike Inn Trail to begin a counterclockwise loop past creeks, hardwoods, and mountain laurel.

Less than 5 miles in, the trail passes Len Foote Hike Inn, a twenty room, eco-friendly lodge. Spend the night here (hikers must check in at the Visitors Center before 2:00 p.m.) or continue along the trail, heading northwest. Roughly a mile later, turn right at a 3-way junction for a 6.5-mile out-and-back to Springer Mountain, the southern terminus of the Appalachian Trail.

Read more at Backpacker Magazine

Photo Workshop in Great Smoky Mountains National Park This Spring

2010-01-07T07:19:00.000-05:00

Top outdoor photographer Richard Bernabe announces a spring photo workshop in the Great Smoky Mountain National Park. The details:

Beautiful Wildflowers and Lush Spring Landscapes
April 23 - 25, 2010
Townsend, Tennessee
Tuition $575

According to Richard, "The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is my favorite place to be when the leaves begin turning green and the first wildflowers start to bloom in the lush hardwood coves. Maybe that's the reason I've been helping lead other nature photographers to this magical National Park for over ten years. The convergence of vernal awakening and this magical place inspires me greatly and I try to inspire and help others to see and feel the same way when they are here on one of my workshops or tours."

Visit Richard Bernabe's website to learn more about the spring workshop

About Richard Bernabe

Richard Bernabe has become one of the top outdoor photographers in the southeastern United States. His images have been licensed to magazines, advertising campaigns, calendars, and large format photography books. A partial list of his varied clients include: American Rivers, Audubon Society, Backpacker Magazine, Blue Ridge Country, Canon Global, Costa Del Mar, National Geographic Society, National Parks, Nature, Orvis Corporation, Outside, Outdoor Life, Patagonia, Rock and Ice, South Carolina Wildlife, Trail Runner Magazine, Trout Unlimited, Wildlife in North Carolina

Richard is also a writer, teacher, and adventure traveler. He pens several monthly
columns on outdoor and adventure topics and conducts dozens of hands-on photography workshops each year with Mountain Trail Photo as well as occasional classroom study programs at select local colleges and schools, such as the University of North Carolina at Asheville and the John C. Campbell Folk School.

High Above the Clouds on Mt. LeConte

2010-01-06T22:45:00.000-05:00

Visit the blog of Doug McFall, perched high atop Mount LeConte in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park as the winter caretaker. As a Crew Member and Cook at the Lodge, Doug shares his experiences about Living On Mt. LeConte. A laptop computer with a broadband connection is powered by solar panels. Weather permitting, he will have enough power and a connection good enough to update the blog site regularly. So please utilize the resources on the site. Enjoy all the views and photos of the mountain. Check out the Blog. Send Doug a "Hello." And climb the mountian for a visit sometime!

Blue Ridge Parkway named one of top 10 value destinations for 2010

2010-01-04T12:39:00.000-05:00

(MSNBC) Stretching 469 scenic miles across North Carolina and Virginia along the Southern Appalachian Mountains, the historic Blue Ridge Parkway, celebrating its 75th year in 2010, attracts all walks of life -- from nature lovers to bikers to the occasional family of black bears.

Many area hotels are celebrating the occasion with Parkway-themed promotional packages.

In Asheville, N.C., the artsy and most visited town along the drive, the upscale Grand Bohemian (a new addition from the Kessler Collection) is promoting a 75th Anniversary package, which includes breakfast for two, a gourmet picnic basket, and detailed Parkway guide map.

Read more at MSNBC...

Who Gives A Hoot?

2009-12-31T21:01:00.000-05:00

Is it a Great Horned Owl, a Barred Owl, a Northern Saw-whet Owl, or an Eastern Screech Owl? Or none of the above?

What luck will you have finding these denizens of the night? Join us for an Owl Prowl and find out!

Join former park ranger Butch McDade on Saturday, January 23 for a nighttime adventure into the elusive world of these amazing birds.Meet at Sugarlands Visitor Center at 7:00 pm.Bundle up with winter clothing, wear hiking boots or athletic shoes with tread, and bring flashlights or headlights... maybe even a rain parka, just in case.

Please register in advance by calling 865-436-7318, extension 222 or 254. There is a small $5.00 fee to help cover the presenter's fee.

Four Scenic Peaks in Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

2009-12-06T21:29:00.000-05:00

From Backpacker Magazine comes a short trek on the Appalachian Trail through the Great Smoky Mountains National Park from Clingmans Dome to Silers Bald via Appalachian Trail

This 10-mile out-and-back on the Appalachian Trail delivers outstanding returns on your aerobic investment. It's a relatively easy stroll on a high, narrow ridgeline with constant views into Tennessee and North Carolina. From the Clingmans Dome parking area, hike 0.25 mile to the summit observation tower, where you can claim Tennessee's (and the AT's) high point (6,643 feet) before turning left on the AT.

You'll roll through spruce, fir, beech, and ash to open views at 6,575-foot Mount Buckley and 5,560-foot Jenkins Knob. Then, at 4.5 miles, you'll hit The Narrows, where the ridge squeezes to a few yards wide, for a 0.5-mile tiptoe to 5,607-foot Silers Bald and its views of Fontana Lake and surrounding balds. To make it an overnight, head to Silers Bald Shelter 0.2 mile beyond.

Read more

Winter Wine Weekend in the Georgia Mountains

2009-12-03T15:16:00.000-05:00

The Winegrowers Association of Georgia will hold its first Winter Wine Highway Weekend December 11th, 12th, and 13th, 2009. This is a great time to visit the mountains and take a break from all the holiday hustle and bustle.

Many North Georgia wineries will be participating, including Crane Creek Vineyards & Winery, Habersham Winery, Blackstock Vineyards and Winery, Tiger Mountain Winery, Persimmon Creek Vineyards & Winery, Sharp Mountain Winery, Frogtown Cellars, Wolf Mountain Vineyards & Winery, and Yonah Mountain Winery.

Plan to spend a couple of days in the mountains and do your Holiday Shopping at these Wineries, while staying in the great B&B’s! Admission is $20.00 which gives you the opportunity to taste the Award Winning Fine Wines at each of the 9 participating wineries. Visit georgiawine.com for more details and events.

Dates & Times
December 11: 12:30 PM - 5:00 PM December 12: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM December 13: 12:30 PM - 5:00 PM

Farm Fresh Christmas Trees - An Old Fashioned Family Tradition

2009-11-09T15:21:00.001-05:00

From the Boone and Blowing Rock Area of the North Carolina Mountains, Watauga County, also known as the Choose and Cut Capital, is home to some of the most entertaining and scenic Choose and Cut farms across the region. Choose and Cut involves customers visiting a tree farm and roaming across tree-covered hillsides hunting the perfect tree to take home with them. Choose and Cut is the essential holiday family tradition, where young and old alike can enjoy a day on a real farm. Many farms offer hayrides, farm animals, cookies and cocoa and even Christmas Shops to purchase other holiday gifts. Wreaths and roping are also available to purchase.

Many families visit the same Choose and Cut farm year after year, establishing not only long-lasting friendships but also cherished family traditions that take us back to a simpler, slower pace of life. Countless couples have chosen Choose and Cut as the occasion to ring in an engagement as well as the Christmas Season. Come bring your family to the Boone and Blowing Rock areas in Watauga County. Shop at unique mountain craft stores and visit classic destinations like Dan’l Boone Inn and Mast General Store. Come explore Watauga County and Choose and Cut farms…you’ll be glad you did!

Click on a location on the map for information on the choose and cut growers.

The "Explore Boone Area - Winter Ski Vacation" Sweepstakes

2009-11-04T16:13:00.002-05:00

Watauga County and the Boone area offers a picturesque place to escape and relax, as well as an array of exciting outdoor adventure and attractions for the whole family.

There is something for everyone in the North Carolina High Country. Try our thrill-packed 20-lane snow tubing park, ski and snowboard on the slopes at any one of our three sky-high ski mountains, or hike unforgettable scenic trails and then cozy up by the fire after your day of winter fun.

Now, you can win a trip for a Winter Ski Vacation in the North Carolina High Country. The winner will receive:

* Three nights accommodations in a three bedroom/three bathroom “Echota on the Ridge” condo from Foscoe Rentals
* One pair of Atomic Skis
* One UVEX Ski Helmet
* One pair of UVEX Ski Goggles
* Two days of lift tickets at Appalachian Ski Mountain for two adults and two children
* Gift certificate for four to Hawksnest for snow tubing sessions
* Welcome Gift Basket
* $50 gift certificate to Mast General Store
* $250 voucher for food
* $500 travel voucher

Enter today at VisitNC.com! The sweepstakes ends November 30, 2009.

Last Minute Hot Spots for Fall Color

2009-11-02T16:07:00.001-05:00

(CNN) -- U.S. trees are exploding in brilliantly colorful fall foliage this year in many regions, thanks to stellar growing conditions and excellent temperatures, say experts.

In fact, it's still not too late to enjoy the peak of the season in parts of the Southwest and South, according to plant physiologists.

"We have a good mixture of colors this year," said Howard Neufeld, who keeps close tabs on North Carolina's Appalachian Mountains region. Barring any storms that might shake leaves off the trees, Neufeld said, "I think you can get another two weeks for fall color from 2,000 feet down to 1,000 feet."

Seven Blue Ridge Mountain Must-Sees

2009-10-24T10:51:00.001-04:00

Within a short radius of Brasstown along the state lines of North Carolina and Georgia - lies a treasure of daily jaunts for mountain enthusiasts. From shopping to wineries to waterfalls to dining, we have gathered a few of our favorites. Print or bookmark this article before your next trip to the mountains - you'll be glad you brought it along!

Crane Creek Vineyards in Young Harris, Georgia. Famous for hayrides, grape stomping, winery tours, wine tasting and more!

John C. Campbell Folk School - Located in scenic Brasstown, North Carolina, the Folk School offers year-round weeklong and weekend classes for adults in craft, art, music, dance, cooking, gardening, nature studies, photography and writing.

Blue Ridge Parkway - Outstanding scenery and recreational opportunities make the Blue Ridge Parkway one of the most popular units of the National Park System. "America's Favorite Drive" winds its way 469 miles through mountain meadows and past seemingly endless vistas. Split-rail fences, old farmsteads and historic structures complement spectacular views of distant mountains and neighboring valleys.

Stretching from Shenandoah National Park in Virgina at the north end, to the Great Smoky Mountain National Park, the Parkway incorporates several recreation areas, some exceeding 6,000 acres. These parks within the Parkway have visitor centers, camp grounds, picnic areas, trails and, in many instances, concessionaire-operated lodges, restaurants, and other facilities.

Nantahala Outdoor Center There's plenty to do at the "NOC", just west of Bryson City, NC. Even if you're not a whitewater enthusiast, enjoy casual dining along the Nantahala River, browse the outfitter stores, and enjoy the scenic views and sitting spots throughout the grounds.

Waynesville shopping - Waynesville is a lively and friendly small town nestled in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park with magnificent mountain views of the Blue Ridge Parkway. Unique shops, art galleries, cafés and restaurants are all within walking distance on Main Street's tree lined brick sidewalks in Downtown Waynesville. Its historic buildings, relaxing benches and quaint charm make Waynesville a thoroughly enjoyable place to live and visit. Numerous popular events and festivals take place downtown throughout the year. The heart of Appalachian culture and heritage, Waynesville hosts FOLKMOOT USA, North Carolina's official international music and dance festival annually.

Waynesville, a quaint mountain retreat, is home to Haywood Arts Regional Theater, an award winning theater; The Museum of North Carolina Handicrafts at the historic Shelton House; historic bed and breakfasts, a general store, book store, toy store, art & sculptures, mountain trout, mountain golf, clean air, clean water, cool summers, dramatic autumns, mild winters, lush springtime, as well as Southern hospitality. Waynesville is the largest town in Western North Carolina west of Asheville.

Shoebooties Cafe in Murphy, NC - From spinach/artichoke dip appetizers to the "dippers" to surf and turf, Shoebooties Cafe is guaranteed to soothe your palate. A steady stream of locals and tourists make this a popular stop for great food and even better service.

Bald River Falls is located in Tennessee near the North Carolina border, in the Cherokee National Forest. the Bald River Falls are a gorgeous spot with plenty of scenic outdoor attractions. Visitors can view the falls from the road, or park and walk to enjoy them. Beautiful in the summer, the falls are entrancing in the winter when they are covered in ice.

U.S. Mint will roll out Smoky Mountain National Park quarter in 2014

2009-09-14T07:51:00.000-04:00

Attention coin collectors and Smoky Mountain lovers: America's most visited national park will adorn a new U.S. quarter representing Tennessee.

Next year, the U.S. Mint will begin issuing quarters that honor national sites. The Smoky Mountain coin, to be released in 2014, will be one of 56 new quarters to be rolled out starting in 2010.

More information can be found in this article by USA TODAY

Taken a Liking to Hiking?

2009-08-25T22:36:00.000-04:00

My friends at Go Smokies have great tips for hiking trails in the Great Smoky Mountain National Park. With hundreds upon hundreds of miles of marked trails, where do you begin to learn the best trails? Hands down, the locals strongly recommend the "bible" of Smoky Mountain hiking - The Third Edition of Hiking Trails of the Smokies includes new trail profile charts, expanded and updated trail narratives, and revised, more-accurate trail mileages.

The guidebook covers all 150 official trails in Great Smoky Mountains National Park with in-depth narratives and invaluable profile charts that show mileage, elevation change, and major stream crossings at a glance. Includes information on all backcountry campsites, shelters, regulations and permit/reservation information. New edition includes Mountains-to-Sea Trail and handy pocket in the back cover to hold park map. Printed on special lightweight paper. Pocket-sized. 584 pages at the Great Smoky Mountains Association's Bookstore

A Warm Welcome

2009-08-24T12:29:00.000-04:00

Welcome to Mountain Moose, a blog for mountain lovers from across the Southeast U.S., including the Smoky Mountains, Blue Ridge Mountains, and Appalachian Mountains. We share the best tips, opportunities, hiking trails, places and secrets throughout these mountain regions. Visit the websites we recommend (in the sidebar) for more information about connecting with mountain people, finding lodging and real estate and other cool websites to help you learn more about the beautiful Smoky and Blue Ridge mountain regions in the states of Tennessee, North Carolina, South Carolina, Virginia, Georgia, West Virginia, Alabama, and Kentucky.

Special Offers in North Carolina

2009-08-20T08:27:00.000-04:00

August is a great time to explore the mountains of Western North Carolina. Cool mountain waterfalls, whitewater escapades, charming bed and breakfast inns, all set amid the natural wonders of the mountains. And with incredible fall rates, golf packages, and other late summer sales, check out the VisitNC list of special offers

Best Places To Live The Simple Life

2009-08-06T06:59:00.000-04:00

Greenville, South Carolina was named one of the best places to live the simple life by AARP Magazine due to its rich culture, great food, and low stress.

Dubbed as family-friendly fun, from "penny candy" to goat-cheese pizza, Greenville's median housing price is just $151,080. When the most relaxing way to spend an afternoon is hiking the pristine mountain woodlands of Jones Gap State Park, just 25 miles outside Greenville and simple fun for less than $10 means grabbing a cup of coffee or an ice-cream cone at Spill the Beans, how could you go wrong?

Read the full article by Sarah Mahoney

Lake Lure & The Blue Ridge Foothills Sweepstakes

2009-08-05T17:13:00.000-04:00

From majestic peaks to hip and historic small towns, Lake Lure and the Blue Ridge Foothills offer everything you need for a getaway that will help you renew your senses. With great food, fun things to do, and amazing things to see, the lake may lure you – but the spectacular scenery and abundant activities will make you want to stay awhile.

Now, you can win a family trip for four to the area that Frommer’s Budget Travel called ‘a lake not to miss’. The winner will receive:

Two rooms for four nights and breakfast for four at the historic Lake Lure Inn and Spa

Admission for four to Chimney Rock at Chimney Rock State Park and a picnic lunch provided by the park’s Old Rock Café

A one-hour Lake Lure Boat Cruise for four.

A 90-minute eco-kayak tour for four and a ½ day pontoon boat rental from the Lake Lure Adventure Company.

A half-day guided fishing trip for two from Granddaddy Fly Fishing.

A two-hour guided scenic horseback tour for four from Cedar Creek Riding Stables.

$100 gift certificate for MSquared Restaurant

$100 gift certificate for the Anna Rose Restaurant

$100 shopping voucher

$500 travel voucher

Enter today! The sweepstakes ends August 31, 2009.

Courtesy of www.visitnc.com

Cool Off in the Mountains This Summer

2009-07-29T23:51:00.000-04:00

If the summer heat has you frazzled, consider a trip to the mountains and lake regions of the Southeast U.S. The lake breezes and higher mountain elevations ensure a cool down to soothe your stress.

If quiet ambiance is your dream vacation, consider a cabin rental through a vacation rental agency. Quaint small towns are filled with shops, diners, and local artisans and crafters.

But if adventure is your escape, consider whitewater rafting, canoeing, kayaking, or a more rigorous mountain trail in the Great Smoky Mountain National Park. Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge, TN offer a plethora of adventures such as horseback riding, Dollywood, Ober Gatlinburg, shopping, dining, the Gatlinburg Aquarium and so much more.

Visit http://www.floridahalfbacks.com/ to connect with lodging and adventure options throughout the mountains and lakes of the Carolinas, Tennessee, Georgia, Virginia, and more.

North Carolina Mountain Living: The Sky's the Limit in Buyer's Market

2009-07-19T18:37:00.000-04:00

If you’ve dreamed of owning a vacation or second home in the North Carolina mountains, the best buying opportunity in a generation may well be at hand. Prices have dropped, interest rates are low and good deals can be found just about anywhere you look.

Better hurry, though. After a sluggish fall and nearly dormant winter, the Western North Carolina real estate market is once again showing signs of life. While the boom days of 2003 to 2006 are gone, the mountains are clearly beginning the long slow climb back to health.

To view entire article by Jim Hughes, click here: http://www.metronc.com/article/?id=1923

Plenty of Summer Fun in West Virginia!

2009-07-14T16:21:00.000-04:00

The mountains and valleys here are comfortable, shady and full of outdoor fun.

Visit West Virginia State Parks, each offering a different mountain experience with plenty of outdoor recreation and lodging options. From resort rooms to camping, it will be easy to find the best fit for your interests and your budget.

Take a guided horseback ride at Pipestem Resort State Park, enjoy a scenic hike at Babcock State Park, and both Pipestem and Twin Falls Resort State Park offer great golf on scenic courses.

Outside the parks, Southern West Virginia is also home to 10 other golf courses, including a couple of beauties at Glade Springs Resort and Conference Center.

Hike, bike or ride a horse along the 76-mile Greenbrier River Trail. Include a fishing pole in your backpack; there are some wonderful spots to wet a line! This area abounds with rivers and lakes that are ideal for folks who fish and boat.

The Spirit of the Cherokee Sweepstakes

2009-07-08T16:42:00.000-04:00

Cherokee, North Carolina is so close, but yet 11,000 years away. Nestled quietly at the gateway to Great Smoky Mountains National Park and the southern entrance to the Blue Ridge Parkway, this ancient home of the Cherokee people combines a beautiful natural setting with thousands of years of Indian tradition, history, art and ceremony.

Now, you can win a family trip for four to this culturally rich homeland in the NC Mountains. The winner will receive:

Four nights for a family of four at the Comfort Suites Cherokee

Passes for four to various attractions including the “Unto These Hills” outdoor drama, the Oconaluftee Indian Village, The Museum of the Cherokee Indian, and a guided tour at the Qualla Arts & Crafts Mutual

Passes for a ½ day guided fishing tour, a whitewater rafting/tubing trip, and a horseback ride

Four $50 dinner vouchers at four local restaurants

Four vouchers for a traditional Indian meal/lunch that explores the Cherokee language with a Warrior of AniKituhwa

$20 gift certificate for ice cream at a local shop

$20 gift certificate at Tribal Grounds Coffee

Various gifts, including an autographed Chief’s book, a copy of Cherokee Heritage Trails, and gifts from the Qualla Arts & Crafts Mutual

$100 voucher for the Oconaluftee Indian Village Gift Shop

$100 voucher for the Museum of the Cherokee Indian Gift Shop

$500 travel voucher

Enter today! The sweepstakes ends July 31, 2009.
Enter To Win!

Taxes and gratuities not included. See complete listing of Official Rules.

2009-06-30T09:43:00.000-04:00

Lots to do this July 4th weekend in the north Georgia mountains: http://ping.fm/aASos

Pigeon Forge Seeks 75 Families for $75 Gas Giveaway

2009-06-29T14:40:00.000-04:00

Pigeon Forge, Tenn., has gone wild for 75. It’s a project called “75 Ways To Celebrate, from the Parkway to the Park.”

To help celebrate the 75th anniversary of neighboring Great Smoky Mountains National Park, this gateway city is seeking 75 families so it can give them $75 in gas, $75 of attraction tickets and a challenging list of 75 fun activities. The 75 families will get a Dolly Parton Smoky Mountains CD, too, the sound track from her “Sha-Kon-O-Hey!” musical at Dollywood.

“Pigeon Forge has 10 million visitors each year, and the national park is a large part of why today’s Pigeon Forge is here,” said Leon Downey, executive director of the Pigeon Forge Department of Tourism. “Our ‘Parkway to the Park’ idea makes the connection between the attraction-filled parkway that goes through the middle of town and the treasure that is Great Smoky Mountains National Park.”

The giveaways are designed help travelers recognize the significance of the 75th anniversary. Registration for the “Parkway to the Park” packages is online at http://www.PF75.com

Registration ends July 15.

“Pigeon Forge really is a gateway to the Smokies,” Downey said.

One of only a handful of free national parks, Great Smoky Mountains National Park is the most visited of all (nine million visitors in 2008). The park, by design, is a major economic engine for the region, and many of its visitors land for a while in Pigeon Forge.

Pigeon Forge, one of the country’s top tourism destinations, is located within a day’s drive of two-thirds of the U.S. population east of the Mississippi River.

“Parkway to the Park” registration and complete information about Pigeon Forge travel itineraries and attractions are available at http://www.PF75.com

Affordable Cabin Rentals in the Smoky Mountains

2009-06-24T01:08:00.000-04:00

From one to five bedroom cabins and chalets in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge Tennessee. We are located minutes from the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and all area attractions such as Dollywood, Splash Country, Dixie Stampede and dinner shows and shopping. From honeymoon to family vacations, budget to luxurious... our fully furnished cabins feature all the comforts of home including jacuzzi tubs, fireplaces, kitchens, pool tables, theater room cabins, hot tubs and more. Ask about our honeymoon and wedding packages and PET FRIENDLY CABINS, because we know pets are family TOO! Visit our web site for great online booking specials! http://www.floridahalfbacks.com/Tennessee/Eastern-Tennessee/Pigeon-Forge/Affordable-Cabins-in-the-Smokies.htm

Free Fun Ideas in the NC Mountains

2009-06-17T12:21:00.000-04:00

Did you know that there's no admission fee to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park? It's true, America's most popular park is free, but it is only one of many NC attractions and events that visitors can enjoy without spending a cent. VisitNC has provided a list of some fun free things to do in the North Carolina mountains. Find your favorite freebie:

Sliding Rock (near Brevard)

Heat getting to you? Come slip down this renowned 60-foot sloping slide into an eight-foot deep mountain pool near Brevard, NC. Lifeguards supervise the fun during the summer, so bring the family. Enjoy 11,000 gallons of water flowing down over the rock face each minute, and it’s just a few strokes to shore. Where else can you get that kind of thrill? Okay, it’s not quite free. Cost to enter the recreation area is $1.00 per person.

Dancin’ In The Streets – Lake Lure
Thanks to the Lake Lure Hot Summer Nights Street Dance Series, you can dirty dance where Johnny and Baby did… for free! The dances will be held right at spectacular Lake Lure, where much of Dirty Dancing was filmed. This is part of Lake Lure and The Blue Ridge Foothills’ Endless Summer Event Series. 828-625-2725

June 8 Beach Motown
July 13 Rock and Roll
August 10 Swinging Big Band
Sept 14 Country Bluegrass

The Create-Your-Own Art Tour
A D-I-Y art tour can turn into an adventure – it costs you nothing to look! Homegrown Handmade Art Roads and Farm Trails let you create your own free driving tour of authentic folk artisans, handicrafts, farmers and creative entrepreneurs rooted in our North Carolina’s rural countryside. Or how about looking into the artistry of traditional and not-so-traditional patterns on a Barn Quilt Tour? Free tours, each featuring between 30-100 quilts, can be found in three western North Carolina counties:
Avery
Watauga
Ashe

Shindig For The Price Of None –Asheville
Starting in July, Asheville’s Shindig On The Green goes into high gear as crowds with lawn chairs and blankets gather on summer Saturday evenings to enjoy Appalachian mountain music and dance traditions. (Saturday evenings July – September)

Are You The Stovepipe Type? – Valle Crucis
Midday rush? Not in Valle Crucis, thank you. The Mast General Store has music on the back porch each Saturday and Sunday from noon until 2 p.m. at the Original Store in Valle Crucis. Sometimes groups start a little earlier; sometimes they play a little later. Musical selections include bluegrass, old-time, Celtic and Appalachian performed by local talent. On occasion, cloggers, flat footers and shufflers come along to dance a bit, too.

Hospitality Reigns at Mountain Inns

2009-06-11T21:34:00.000-04:00

Heading to the mountains of North Carolina provides a high-elevation getaway from flat Florida. The bar is raised even higher when the trip includes a stay at a unique mountain inn. Mountain inns have a long tradition in North Carolina, where hospitality starts at the welcome mat. The Windover Inn in Waynesville provides elevating experiences.

Within walking distance of downtown shopping and Waynesville, NC attractions, and a short drive to Asheville and the Biltmore Estate, the Blue Ridge Parkway, the Great Smoky Mountain National Park and Maggie Valley, this Waynesville, NC bed and breakfast allows you to connect to all of the western North Carolina attractions that abound in the area and more, while providing you with a warm and cozy sanctuary to return to at the end of the day. Built in 1910, this late Victorian home with its original tiger oak woodwork and heart maple hardwood floors provides an atmosphere of comfort from the moment you enter our front door.

Blairsville Scottish Festival

2009-06-09T16:29:00.000-04:00

Ceud Mile Failte (100,000 Welcomes)!!! Blairsville Scottish Fesitval and Highland Games is held the second weekend in June at Meeks Park in Blairsville, Georgia, the "Land of Scenic Beauty and Friendly People". Brought to you by the Blairsville-Union Chamber of Commerce, the festival offers fun for the whole family.

Featuring a Kilted Golf Classic at beautiful Butternut Creek Golf Course, a Ceilidh Dinner at the First United Methodist Church Activities Center, and a variety of festival activites, it's no wonder that the Blairsville Scottish Festival recently made the Southeast Tourism Society's Best Top 20 Events list.

Plan on attending the Blairsville Scottish Festival and Highland Games. There are lots of things to see and do including clan gatherings, genealogy tents, athletic competitions, pipe and drum bands, concerts, Highland dancing, children's activities, the kilted mile (race), the bonniest knees contest, Scottish food, Scottish merchancise, an Opening Ceremony with Massed Bands and the Parade of Tartans, Kirkin of the Tartans, workshops, exhibits, demonstrations, falconry, sheepdog herding, Highland Cattle, ancient weaponry, historical re-enactors, and a Closing Ceremony.

Visit http://www.blairsvillescottishfestival.org/ for more information and lots of photos! For lodging and area information visit http://www.blairsvillechamber.com/. (Pets and alcoholic beverages are not allowed in the park.) We hope to see you at the Blairsville Scottish Festival and Highland Games. Come catch the excitement!

Nantahala Outdoor Center (NOC) 2009 Flex Pricing

2009-06-04T14:31:00.000-04:00

We won't let the economy keep you off the river—especially not with the best water levels we've seen in seasons—so we're offering special Flex Pricing to get you on the most popular trips on the most popular days:

No More Saturday or Holiday Pricing Raft when you want to raft. This season, there's no premium for enjoying our busiest days, even on premium trips like the Chattooga River. You can bring all your friends too since there won't be group pricing restrictions.

Save up to 45% on Ocoee River rafting: Raft earlier or later in the day and pay as little as $25 for a fully-guided trip on America's most popular stretch of whitewater with America's most popular outfitter, NOC. Offer available:

Saturday, June 27

Sunday, June 28

Saturday, July 4

Saturday, July 11

Sunday, July 26

Sunday, August 2

Sunday August 9

Save 35% on Pigeon River rafting Raft later in the afternoon and pay as little as $25 for a fully-guided trip on the Smokies' best thrill ride.

Things To Do in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park

2009-06-04T13:25:00.000-04:00

Whether you delight in the challenge of a strenuous hike to the crest of a mountain or prefer to sit quietly and watch the sun set, Great Smoky Mountains National Park offers a myriad of activities for you to enjoy. The hardest part may be choosing which auto tour, trail, waterfall, overlook, or historic area to explore!

Auto Touring- An auto tour of the park offers a chance to see panoramic vistas, rushing mountain streams, weathered historic buildings, and majestic forests stretching to the horizon. Inexpensive booklets are available to serve as your personal tour guides along many park roads.
Bicycling - Ride through Cades Cove on a misty summer morning for a truly memorable way to experience the park.

Camping - Escape into the Smokies wilderness for a backpacking adventure or opt for a tamer excursion in one of the park's developed campgrounds.

Fishing - Anglers can match their skills against wily brook, brown, and rainbow trout on over 700 miles of fishable streams in the park.

Hiking - Choose from over 800 miles of trails ranging from quiet walkways to multi-day backpacking treks through the backcountry.

Historic Buildings - The park has one of the best collections of log buildings in the eastern United States. Nearly 80 historic structures—homes, barns, churches, schools, and grist mills—have been preserved in the park.

Horseback Riding - The park has hundreds of miles of horse trails and five drive-in horse camps. If you don't own a horse, four rental stables provide mounts and guides.

Picnicking - Craving hotdogs, potato salad, water melon... and ants? There are eleven picnic areas to choose from in the park—many have pavilions that can be reserved in advance.

Waterfalls - Waterfalls can be found on nearly every river and stream in the park. Here's your guide to some of the best.

Wildflowers - Great Smoky Mountains National park is known as the "wildflower national park." You can find blooming plants year-round here, but spring and summer are renown for spectacular displays of wildflowers along roads and trails.

Wildlife Viewing - Hoping to see an elk, white-tailed deer, or black bear? Read some tips to improve your chances of spotting animals during your visit to the park.

Visit Great Smoky Mountains National Park's official online store for books, maps, and guides to the park. Operated by the nonprofit Great Smoky Mountains Association, proceeds generated by purchases at the store are donated to educational, scientific, and historical projects in the park.

Folkmoot USA Celebrates 26 Years!

2009-06-02T22:55:00.000-04:00

Folkmoot USA, North Carolina's Official International Festival, is a two-week celebration of the world's cultural heritage through folk music and dance. Held each summer across the beautiful mountains of Western North Carolina, Folkmoot features performances, parades and workshops by more than 350 performers from a dozen or so countries.

Performers demonstrate cultural heritage through colorful, authentic and original reproduction costumes, lively dance and beautiful music. During its 25-year history, over 200 folk groups from more than 100 countries have shared their heritage and culture at Folkmoot USA.

Countries expected to perform in 2009 include India, Serbia, Georgia, Greece, Italy, Netherlands, Romania, Kenya, Spain and Israel. This year's Folkmoot Festival takes place throughout Western North Carolina in the towns of Waynesville, Lake Junaluska, Maggie Valley, Canton, Clyde, Highlands, Bryson City, Cullowhee, Asheville, Columbus, Burnsville, Marion, Mars Hill, Flat Rock and Franklin.

Be sure to see the Folkmoot Festival Parade of Nations on Friday, July 17 at 1 pm and enjoy crafts and entertainment at International Festival Day on Saturday, July 25 from 10 am - 5 pm. Both events take place in downtown Waynesville.
Buy performance tickets by clicking on the link below (starting May 1, 2009).
Buy your Folkmoot tickets online now!

Nature Conservancy 4th Annual Photo Contest Announced

2009-06-01T15:47:00.000-04:00

The Nature Conservancy invites you to enter your stunning nature photos to our 4th annual digital photography competition.

We're looking for beautiful nature photography representing the diversity of life on Earth. Your own original digital images of our lands, waters, plants, animals and people in nature are all eligible for the competition.

We are especially interested in images that showcase the wide range of habitats across our planet, including all types of forests, grasslands, lakes and rivers, deserts and arid lands, rainforests, marine habitats and coral reefs in all seasons and around the world.

The winner's image will be printed in the 2011 Nature Conservancy calendar - reaching nearly 2 million households worldwide.

The Best Nature Photo winner's image will be featured on The Nature Conservancy's website, nature.org, which is visited by more than 3 million people annually.

How to Enter:
To enter one or more images, upload your photo(s) to the Conservancy's Flickr™ group and tag them with PhotoContest-TNC09 ... it's that easy. Not familiar with Flickr? Find our more about this easy way to enter. Or, if you prefer, you can complete our online form and email each photo, one at a time.

The Fine Print:
The contest is open to all participants age 18 and older regardless of residence or citizenship, so long as the laws of their jurisdiction allow participation. Photo submissions must be uploaded by 11:59 pm Pacific Standard Time on September 30, 2009. Please review the full rules before entering. And good luck!

A Carolina Getaway Refreshes a Florida Family

2009-05-31T16:06:00.000-04:00

Dan and Rhonda Robbie built the house that proves you can get away from it all. Almost a mile up in the mountains of North Carolina, the 5,200-square-foot timber-frame retreat has quickly become their home away from home.

Their 12-acre parcel of rugged mountain land allows plenty of room for Dan, Rhonda, children Austin and Erica, and their two black Labs, Kelsey and Calvin. Since finishing the house in 1996, the family has made a concentrated effort to spend every spare minute at their getaway. They think nothing of packing up the entire clan and driving eighteen hours from their everyday home in Florida, even just to spend a few days in their very special mountain retreat.

The Robbies took the first step toward making their dream getaway a reality in 1995, when they started to design the house with their builder, Mark Kirkpatrick, president of Mountain Construction Enterprises of Boone, North Carolina. A builder of custom homes since 1981, Mark is a dealer for Hearthstone, Inc., which produces log and timber frame homes in Dandridge, Tennessee.

“We wanted a custom-designed house with the best craftsmanship available,” Dan recalls. “Although Rhonda and I had a pretty good idea of the floor plan we wanted, our major challenge was siting the structure. The ideal building location was on three sides. But we wanted this view because from here, we face three major mountains: Grandfather Mountain, Beech Mountain and Sugar Mountain. There are ski resorts on those slopes, and at night they’re all lit up. It’s a spectacular view.”

Situated up the steep and winding road that threads through the woods, the house looms dramatically against the backdrop of the mountainous terrain. With wooded trails to the left and right, the vista of the mountains comes into view sweeping 180 degrees around the back end of the house.

The interior is almost as dramatic as the outside view. Floor-to-ceiling windows, wood inside and clad outside, located at the far end of the living room bring the mountains into view the minute you step inside. Rhonda, who is a talented decorator, wanted the house to appear simple and uncluttered. She included local art and antique objects acquired from the many shops in the mountain towns of North Carolina. “I would describe the look of this house as Western and rustic, as opposed to Southwestern, which reminds me of peachy colors,” she explains. “We felt that the neutral tones in the great room heighten the beauty of the wood.”

Rhonda and Dan agree that their favorite room in the house is the kitchen. With the breakfast bar that separates that room form the more formal dining room, it is the hub of family “hang out time.”

The Robbies especially enjoy their getaway because the have full, busy lives. The house in the mountains gives the family a place to spread out, relax and spend time together. Dan, Rhonda and Mark’s shared goal was to build the finest custom home possible. They are satisfied they have done exactly that, creating the perfect place for a young, active family. The home is every bit as comfortable to live in as it is magnificent to look at. And such a delight that the Robbies agree, nothing could be finer that to be in Carolina.

Story and Photos by Franklin and Esther Schmidt

Reprinted from Timber Homes Illustrated

Storytellers Galore Ready to Spin Yarns at Pigeon Forge Festival

2009-05-29T19:39:00.000-04:00

Smoky Mountains Storytelling Festival promises three days of tall tales June 4-6

PIGEON FORGE, Tenn. (May 2009) – Expect truth to be in short supply June 4-6 at the 18th Annual Smoky Mountains Storytelling Festival in Pigeon Forge, Tenn., but also expect a counterbalancing dose of entertainment, enchantment and, dare we say, education.

You’ll hear from a genuine possumologist, a keeper of Cherokee creation stories, a middle school principal who uses storytelling in the classroom and a cowboy poet whose Oklahoma retelling of “Ben Hur” inspires him to wear a watermelon and a bra on stage. (It’s something you just have to see to understand.)

In addition to the festival’s world-traveling, professional storytellers, you’ll also hear some of America’s budding tale-telling talent at the National Youth Storytelling Showcase. The showcase has attracted youngsters, none older than 17, from as far away as Utah, Texas, Maryland and Florida.

Many of this year’s storytellers will focus on stories that relate to Appalachia and the nearby Great Smoky Mountains. That’s one reason the festival is on the official calendar of the 75th anniversary of Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The festival also is on the Southeast Tourism Society’s “Top 20 Events in the Southeast” list for the fifth year in a row.

Three late-night programs (9:30-11 p.m.) augment the regular sessions. A Haunts and Haints ghost story session is Thursday, a tribute to Great Smoky Mountains National Park is Friday and a memorial to legendary mountain storyteller Ray Hicks is Saturday.

The Smoky Mountains Storytelling Festival is co-hosted by the City of Pigeon Forge and the Smoky Mountain Storytellers Association. Featured storytellers:

+ Lloyd Arneach—A Cherokee storyteller who learned his first legends from two storytelling uncles on the Cherokee Reservation in North Carolina.
+ Donald Davis—A native Appalachian storyteller who performs nationally and teaches workshop that focus on family-based storytelling.
+ Doug Elliott—A storyteller, herbalist and naturalist who sings about catfish, pontificates about possums and plays a mean harmonica.
+ Todd Elliott—Doug’s son and a two-time participant in the National Youth Storytelling Showcase who now is following in his father’s footsteps.
+ Andy Offutt Irwin (pictured here)—A Georgia public radio show host who says he used to have real jobs before becoming a professional storyteller.
+ Kent Rollins—A genuine cowboy from Oklahoma, who also is a poet, chuckwagon cook and humorist (he’s the one with the watermelon and bra).
+ Elizabeth Rose—Principal of Cherokee Middle School in Roane County, Tenn., who blends southern folklore with fairy tales, ghost stories and international legends.

If You Go:
The Smoky Mountains Storytelling Festival is June 4-6 (Thursday-Saturday). All sessions—concerts, the youth performances and workshops in which you can learn storytelling skills—are at the Belz Outlet Mall in Pigeon Forge. Admission for the entire weekend is $25, and one-day admission is $10 for everyone age 18 and older (free for age 17 and younger). The three late-night programs are $5.

The festival schedule can be found at www.MyPigeonForge.com/storytelling , and complete visitor information about Pigeon Forge is available at http://www.mypigeonforge.com/ or by calling toll-free to 1-800-251-9100.

About Pigeon Forge
Pigeon Forge, located in East Tennessee near Great Smoky Mountains National Park, is one of the country’s top tourism destinations, drawing more than 10 million visitors each year. With more than 40 family-friendly attractions along its five-mile Parkway, Pigeon Forge offers family fun for all ages. The destination city is located within a day’s drive of two-thirds of the U.S. population east of the Mississippi River.

Blairsville Town Square

2009-05-25T14:18:00.000-04:00

Welcome to Blairsville-Union County located in the northeast Georgia mountains approximately one hour driving time from Atlanta, Chattanooga, and Asheville. Known for its Blue Ridge Mountain beauty, Scottish Festival & Highland Games, and sorghum syrup, Blairsville-Union County has more than half the county's acreage within the Chattahoochee National Forest. Brasstown Bald, Georgia's highest point can be found here as well as Lake Nottely, the Appalachian Trail, Vogel State Park, the Misty Mountain Model Railroad, Historic Courthouse, hiking trails, waterfalls and even ancient Indian petroglyphs. Play golf, picnic in beautiful Meeks Park. shop for crafts and antiques, or just relax and enjoy the mountain vistas. Come enjoy Blairsville-Union County, any time of the year, where the possibilities are endless and the memories last a lifetime!

Best time to Go -Union County is nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Northeast Georgia where Mother Nature reigns supreme. Delight in the explosion of autumn leaf color in the mountains, or cuddle up in a cozy cabin during the winter. Enjoy horseback riding, golfing, and antiquing year round, or plan your trip around one of our unique festivals. No matter when you come, you’re sure to find why we say "Each Season Something New".

What You'll Need for Your Visit -Your individual activities will dictate what you need to bring. Spring and fall bring warm days and cool nights. Summers are generally not hot, but evenings remain warm and comfortable. Winters are generally mild, requiring sweaters or jackets, but don't be surprised by an occational snow.

Georgia GPS Photo Sweepstakes

2009-05-25T14:02:00.000-04:00

Share your photos of your Georgia experiences with the world – and be entered for a chance to win a free GPS system. Each month we’ll pick the best of your photos to feature on ExploreGeorgia.org. Upload up to 3 pictures at a time as frequently as you like – each photo is one more chance to win!

Take 40 Off in Virginia

2009-05-14T21:59:00.000-04:00

Save big bucks when you take advantage of Virginia's 40 Off Travel Deals. Choose from nearly 200 offers ranging from 40% off Eastern Shore lodging to a free concert ticket in Northern Virginia.

~ $40 Discounts

~ 40% Discounts

~ Buy 3/Get 1 Free Deals

Mountain Tennis and Soccer Camps for Kids This Summer!

2009-05-13T22:12:00.000-04:00

Do you vacation in Blowing Rock? RDUTennis has teamed up with the Chetola Resort located in the High Country’s most beautiful town in Blowing Rock, NC.

Camps will run the week of 6/29 and 7/6. Camp is run 9am-3pm (Mon thru Thurs) for resort guests and others who would like to come. Price is $200 per child with lunch included from the Resort. Ages 5-14 welcome!

REGISTER at www.rdutennis.net for two locations:

CHETOLA RESORT IN BLOWING ROCK
When: 4-day sessions June 29-July2 and July 6-9 (Rain Make-Up on Fridays)
Who: Ages 5-14
More Information:. http://rdutennis.net/?page_id=112

BUCKEYE LAKE RECREATION CENTER
When: 4-day sessions June 22-25 and July 20-23 (Rain Make-Up on Fridays)
Where: Buckeye Lake Recreation Center in Beech Mountain
Who: Ages 5-14
More Information:. http://rdutennis.net/?page_id=117

RDUSoccer Camp- 2 Locations
REGISTER at www.rdusoccer.net for both camps
BUCKEYE RECREATIONAL CENTER
When: June 15-18, August 3-6, 9:00 AM-3:00 PM
Where: Buckeye Recreation Center in Beech Mountain
Who: Children ages 5-12
Highlights:
Fee: $125 per child
More information: Click here to register

BANNER ELK SCHOOL Soccer Camp
When: July 6-9, July20-23, 9:00 AM-3:00 PM
Where: Banner Elk Elem Field
Who: Children ages 5-12Fee: $95 Avery Co Students, $105 otherMore Information: http://rdusoccer.net/?page_id=24

Breathtaking Scenic Drives

2009-05-10T17:52:00.000-04:00

Skyline Drive
Front Royal to Rockfish Gap, Virginia
Distance: 105 miles

Built between 1931 and 1939, with sections of the route constructed as part of the New Deal relief effort, this sweeping road through Shenandoah National Park crests the Blue Ridge Mountains (hard to believe that noisy Washington, D.C., is just 75 miles away). You'll see oak trees and evergreens on your leisurely trip, in addition to white-tailed deer and wild turkeys. Just make sure to stop at Range View Overlook (at mile 17.1) for a first-rate view of the fog-veiled mountains.

Big Meadows, at mile 51, boasts 130 acres of wildflowers in spring, summer, and fall. You'll also see doe and their tiny fawns during the warmer months (540-999-3500).

Newfound Gap Road
Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, to Cherokee, North Carolina
Distance: 40 miles

It's the only route that completely crosses Great Smoky Mountains National Park, rising out of Pigeon Forge (yes, the home of Dollywood) before climbing 3,000 feet and descending across the state line. You'll pass through hardwood and evergreen forests and get a glimpse of Clingman's Dome, the highest point in Tennessee.

You won't see an actual sign, but keep an eye on your odometer and stop at mile 21.5—this is Newfound Gap (5,048 feet), where FDR dedicated the park. Even better: You can stand in two states at once (865-436-1200).

Provided by: AARP Magazine

Spa Packages in Virginia's Shenandoah Valley

2009-04-16T23:06:00.000-04:00

The Homestead Spa Renewal Package
Hot Springs
Package Price: $399*
Through Saturday, December 19, 2009

Stonewall Jackson Spa Package
Harrisonburg
Package Price: from $525
Through Wednesday, March 03, 2010

Body, Mind, and Soul Spa Package
Staunton
Package Price: $268/couple/night
Through Thursday, December 31, 2009

The Homestead Classic Spa Package
Hot Springs
Package Price: $399*
Through Monday, December 21, 2009

The Homestead Golf & Spa Your Way Package
Hot Springs
Package Price: $399*
Through Monday, December 21, 2009

Twenty Things To Do in the Mountains of Western North Carolina!

2009-04-15T07:13:00.000-04:00

North Carolina’s mountain region is an outdoor playground, a natural wonderland, and a historical treasure. In fact, there are so many things to see and do here that it might be hard to decide which to conquer first. Visit NC has compiled a list of twenty places that you have to go before you can say you’ve completely experienced the NC mountains.

Take a ride on the Blue Ridge Parkway - It is America’s Favorite Drive, and after a few miles it’s easy to see why. The Blue Ridge Parkway has spectacular scenery, year-round color, and hundreds of hikes, overlooks, and charming just-off-the-road towns to explore. Whether you go for an hour or for the weekend, NC’s 250 miles of this national treasure are hard to beat.

Drink a toast to the day at a Yadkin Valley Winery. One of the hot new wine regions in the United States is right here in North Carolina’s Yadkin Valley. With a perfect grape-growing climate and some spectacular scenery, a handful of visionary viticulturalists have transformed rolling farmland into a wine-tasting wonderland. Find a wine you love and enjoy a glass on a vineyard patio as you look out onto rows of stately grapevines.

Picnic by a waterfall in Transylvania County. There are no vampires in North Carolina’s Transylvania, just waterfall after beautiful waterfall. Millions of years of erosion and 80 annual inches of rainfall has blessed this scenic corner of the state with more than 200 large waterfalls, including Whitewater Falls and its amazing 400-foot drop. While you’re there, have some fun: You can drive under Bridal Veil Falls, walk under Dry Falls, and slide down Sliding Rock.

Shop in the Mast General Store, Valle Crucis. Step into the Mast General Store and you step back in time to an era when the local merchant supplied all of a community’s needs, ‘from cradles to caskets’. First opened in Valle Crucis back in 1883, the store still stocks a little of everything and a lot of merchandise that you’ll never find in a mall. The business has grown to include several locations, but if you want the real deal, visit the original in Valle Crucis.

Bask in the opulence of Biltmore, Asheville. George Washington Vanderbilt fell in love with Western North Carolina after his first visit there, and by Christmas Eve 1895, he was welcoming guests to his brand new estate in Asheville. The Biltmore was (and still is) the largest private residence in the world, with 34 bedrooms, 43 bathrooms, 65 fireplaces, and more priceless works of art than anyone can count. Biltmore is also home to spectacular gardens, wonderful outdoor opportunities, and America’s most visited winery.

Feel the spirit at the Churches of the Frescoes, Ashe County. These aren’t your grandfather’s stained glass windows. In these two tiny churches in the small mountain towns of Glendale Springs (Holy Trinity Episcopal Church) and West Jefferson (St. Mary’s Episcopal Church) there are a trio of Ben Long frescoes that are both inspiring and breathtaking. The artwork, painted between 1974 and 1980, has brought these little parishes international acclaim and about 60,000 visitors each year.

Witness history as art in Unto These Hills, Cherokee. North Carolina is home to nearly 100,000 Indians, the largest Native American population east of the Mississippi River. Of the dozen tribes that call NC home, certainly the Cherokee is the most familiar. The Cherokee story, from the arrival of the Spanish in 1540 to the tragic Trail of Tears in the early 19th Century, is the subject of Unto These Hills, one of the country’s oldest and most popular outdoor dramas. It’s been staged at the Mountain Theatre since 1950 and has entertained more than five million visitors. In 2009, the production will open its 60th season on June 9.

Get into the groove at Merlefest, Wilkesboro. It all began with a gardener who wanted to raise funds for gardens on the campus of a rural NC Community College and musicians who wanted to honor the memory of local blues guitarist Merle Watson. It grew to an internationally renowned music festival and fundraiser that contributes more than $17 million to the region. It's MerleFest, and if you like bluegrass, blues, and folk music, you need to be here on the last weekend of April. Regional musicians are the backbone of this festival, but legendary musicians such as Elvis Costello, Lucinda Williams, Alison Krauss, Vince Gill, Emmylou Harris and the Indigo Girls have also graced its stages throughout the years.

Melt your cares away at Hot Springs. Up in the mountains northwest of Asheville, nearly to the Tennessee state line, is a place where waters bubble up from the ground at more than 100 degrees. Folks here have harnessed North Carolina’s only natural hot springs into hot tubs overlooking the French Broad River and Spring Creek, where visitors can soak their cares away… and soak in the beautiful view. In addition, the Appalachian Trail runs right through downtown Hot Springs, so day hikers (or through hikers) can get a workout on the trail and then melt away the soreness in the healing waters of Hot Springs.

Wander through the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. This is America’s most popular National Park, and it’s no surprise: from spring wildflowers to fall foliage to cascading streams, this is truly one of the most amazing places on Earth. The park was established in 1934, and at 520,000 acres (about 800 square miles) it’s one of the largest protected areas east of the Rockies. Recommended stops include Clingman’s Dome, Fontana Dam, Newfound Gap, and the beautiful drive through Cades Cove. The park is open daily, and unlike many other national park, admission is free – the Rockefellers insisted on this after they donated $5 million for the park’s creation.

Choose and Cut an NC Christmas Tree. Want to bring back the feeling of an old-timey holiday? There’s no better way to do it than to head up to a North Carolina Christmas tree farm to pick out the family tannenbaum. NC has more than sixty choose and cut tree farms in the mountains, and some enhance the experience by adding hayrides, bonfires, and visits from Santa. When you get home, the evergreen aroma will fill the house, and your fresh cut tree will stay full and green throughout the holiday season.

Stop and smell the rhododendron, Roan Mountain. At the peak of rhododendron season (usually around mid-June), pink rhododendron blossoms cover 600 acres of Roan Mountain at an elevation of 6,285 feet, which is likely the largest and highest natural flower garden you’ll ever see. If you can’t get to Roan, then get to Craggy Gardens on the Blue Ridge Parkway near Asheville. Rhododenron shrubs are common, but the view of an entire mountainside covered in pink blossoms is not.

Learn a craft at Penland. The arts and crafts that symbolize North Carolina have many homes, but in the mountains in particular, people seem to have a way of creating beautiful and functional things with their hands. Penland, just north of Spruce Pine, celebrates those skills by hosting some of the world’s most talented artists. This school is the oldest and largest of its kind in the country, and students come from all over the world to learn from the masters of Appalachian weaving, pottery, glass blowing, woodworking, music, and more. Some studios are open to the public, and there are exhibits year-round.

Take a hike in Mount Mitchell State Park. Mount Mitchell has wowed outdoor enthusiasts since 1916, when it became North Carolina’s first state park. At 6,684 feet, it’s the highest point east of the Rockies, and the summit tower offers panoramic views of six peaks more than 6,000 feet high. Take a jacket, though, Mount Mitchell’s annual snowfall exceeds 100 inches, and measurable snowfall has fallen in all twelve months of the year. The park provides a haven for many rare species, but it’s the scenery that keeps people coming back.

Enjoy a breakfast feast at the Shatley Springs Inn, Crumpler. When you’re ready for a real, hearty, country breakfast, look no farther than this NC Highway 16 landmark about 35 miles northeast of Boone, which has been serving it up “old school” since the 1920s. The menu at Shatley Springs Inn is almost unending: eggs, bacon, country ham, sausage, tenderloin, grits, potatoes, baked apples, cereal, strawberry preserves, gravy, juice, coffee, and mouth –watering biscuits to die for. Grab a plate – you’re guaranteed to leave full and happy.

Climb Chimney Rock. Don’t worry. By ‘climb’, we don’t mean you’ll need ropes and crampons. In fact, there are two ways to get to the spectacular views from the Chimney – you can either climb up the 400+ stairs from the parking lot, or ride the elevator up a 26-story shaft blasted through solid granite. Either way, bring a camera. From the top, you’ll be able to see Hickory Nut Gorge and Lake Lure, and on a clear day you’ll see all the way to Kings Mountain – some 75 miles to the east! The park offers many other hiking, climbing and sightseeing opportunities on its many acres.

Enjoy the warmth of the Grove Park Inn fireplace, Asheville. Edwin W. Grove didn’t want to keep the beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains all to himself, so he built a hotel to share the experience with others. Grove broke ground in July 1912, and when the mule teams and workers had finished toting the last of the massive granite blocks up the mountain, it was hailed as one of the finest resort hotels in the world. The Grove Park Inn is one of NC’s most famous landmarks, and if you want to spend some time in a place that evokes a bygone hospitality, then make the drive to Asheville.

Slip slide away at Hawksnest, Seven Devils. Everyone knows that North Carolina has some great Southern skiing, but did you know that the state is also home to the largest snow tubing area on the East Coast? Hawksnest is a former ski resort now totally dedicated to snow tubing, with 20 lighted runs and daily snowmaking in the winter. A perfect place to have some winter fun with the kids or those whose skiing and snowboarding skills are not quite ready to hit the slopes.

Cross the swinging bridge at Grandfather Mountain. Rising 4,000 feet above the Catawba River Valley, Grandfather Mountain is a great place to get a bird’s eye view, and a protected habitat for 42 rare species. Privately owned by the Morton family for more than 120 years, the state purchased much of the property in 2008 and officially turned it into a State Park in 2009. You can hike, bird watch, take in the scenery, and stroll across the famous “Mile High Swinging Bridge.” Bring a sweater, though… the average temperature here is only 45 degrees, and the winds are legendary.

Feel poetic at the Carl Sandburg Home, Flat Rock. Most people know that Carl Sandburg was one of this country’s most beloved poets and biographers. But few know that this literary great, remembered for giving a voice to the downtrodden, moved to Flat Rock in 1945 and spent 22 years quietly pursuing his craft in a farmhouse that he called Connemara. All told, one-third of his published works sprang from these mountains. Today, the site is managed as a National Historic Site by the National Park Service. You can also tour the grounds, which are maintained as a living farm. The Sandburg Home is open year-round except for Christmas Day.

Smoky Valley Rally Scheduled for June 2009

2009-04-14T15:07:00.000-04:00

Lenoir City, Tennessee, Loudon County. Tennessee will welcome motorcycle enthusiasts to the best riding pavement in the U.S. June 4-7, 2009 for the first annual Smoky Valley Rally. This inaugural rally will help fill the gap left by the canceled 2009 Honda Hoot, giving riders a new opportunity to ride the twists of the Dragon and a host of lesser known roads during this long weekend of live music, street parties, self-guided tours, and one of the largest arts and crafts festivals in the South.

Smoky Valley Rally will feature planned rides every day for all registered attendees. Planned rides include RT 129/the Dragon; Fall Creek Falls, Cherohala Skyway, and a poker run. Attendees also can take a riverboat breakfast cruise on the Watts Bar Belle riverboat and kayak on the Tennessee River, among other activities.

Smoky Valley Rally general activities will begin daily, rain or shine, at Loudon Municipal Park at 8:30 a.m. Daily passes are $10 and an event pass for all four days is $25. This year’s event will feature live music every evening at the park along with contests, vendor displays and demonstrations, and concessions.

For general information about Smoky Valley Rally, please call Loudon Parks and Recreation at 865-458-7525. For information on accommodations, call the Loudon County Visitors Bureau at 888-568-3662 or visit our website.

Experience North Carolina Wine Country

2009-03-19T12:39:00.000-04:00

Over the past three decades, North Carolina has gone from just a handful of wineries to more than eighty. And that number just gets bigger every year. For visitors to NC wine country, it means a friendly, relaxed atmosphere for tastings and tours, and wineries that have distinctive flavors and settings. Whether you’re a wine connoisseur or a newbie, whether you prefer whites or reds, merlot or muscadine, North Carolina wineries will have a bottle just right for your taste… and enjoyable experiences that will keep bringing you back.

If you’re traveling from the Charlotte area to the mountains around Asheville (or vice versa), this five-winery trail is a perfect sampler of the North Carolina Wine Country experience. From the muscadine wines produced at WoodMill Winery to the classic varietals grown at Rockhouse, from the small family-run operations at Owl’s Eye and Green Creek to America’s most visited winery at Biltmore, you will see and taste a wide range of NC wines and can explore the methods by which they’re produced. Plus, you’ll see some amazing North Carolina scenery along the way!

Family Fun Destinations

2009-03-19T12:29:00.000-04:00

Beach at Lake Lure: Stretching out unexpectedly in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains just south of Asheville, the Beach at Lake Lure offers beautiful vistas in a relaxing setting. Gaze up at Chimney Rock as you float on the lake; then dry off in the sun before stopping for a bite or an ice cream cone at one of the restaurants on the shore. Lakeview Restaurant offers spectacular views. www.rutherfordtourism.com

Sliding Rock, Brevard: This 60-foot natural water slide in the Pisgah National Forest is not to be missed. Wear your old blue jean cut-offs to sit and slip down the rock into the pool below, where 60-degree water beats summer heat. Sliding Rock is a few minutes drive from Looking Glass Falls located on US 276 about five miles past the entrance to the Pisgah National Forest. The 60-foot falls were featured in Last of the Mohicans. www.visitwaterfalls.com

Linville Caverns, Marion: In the caverns, you’ll find a constant 52-degree temperature. After remaining a mysterious secret for centuries, North Carolina’s only show caverns near Boone allow visitors to glimpse nature at work "inside" the mountains. Slow moving ground water created underground labyrinths forming an incredible series of rooms and passages and spectacular formations. www.linvillecaverns.com

Boomerang Bay Water Park, Carowinds, Charlotte: Carowinds Boomerang Bay Water Park added a new, 600,000-gallon wave pool, rental cabanas with chair-side service and numerous other amenities. Bondi Beach, Carowinds second wave pool, totals 34,000 square feet with 275 feet of “beach frontage” (shallow end width), giving guests ample opportunity to sunbathe as they watch the waves roll in on the zero-depth entry. www.carowinds.com

North Carolina Zoo, Asheboro: This world-class zoo is home to more than 1,100 animals from Africa, North America and Australia. In April 2008, the zoo opened an $8.5 million expansion of its elephant and rhinoceros facilities called the Watani Grasslands Reserve. Visitors can stroll through a rainforest of tropical birds. Gaze across a prairie filled with bison. Sit face-to-face with polar bears and enjoy the Australian Walkabout hopping with kangaroos. Take a ride on the zoo's 36-foot Endangered Species Carousel featuring figures of polar bears, zebras, bears, sea lions, elephants, gorillas and other animals. www.nczoo.org

N.C. Transportation Museum, Spencer: If planes, trains and automobiles make you tick, Spencer Shops allows you to explore antique locomotives, rail cars, automobiles and more. Spencer Shops was once a national hub for steam engine repair and employed 3,000 people. Take the train ride around the historic 57-acre site, enjoy the many family-friendly special events and learn how transportation helped build North Carolina. The museum is located just minutes off I-85, about an hour's drive from Charlotte, Greensboro or Winston-Salem. The museum is featured in the new George Clooney film, Leatherheads. www.nctrans.org

Old Salem, Winston – Salem: Old Salem Museums & Gardens is one of America's most comprehensive historical attractions. Old Salem’s four museums - the Historic Town of Salem, the Museum of Early Southern Decorative Arts (MESDA), the Old Salem Children's Museum, and the Old Salem Toy Museum - engage visitors in an educational and memorable historical experience about those who lived and worked in the early South. www.oldsalem.org

Experience America's Favorite Drive!

2009-03-19T12:10:00.000-04:00

The Blue Ridge Parkway, nicknamed "America's Favorite Drive," is a 469-mile scenic route connecting Shenandoah National Park in Virginia with the Great Smoky Mountains National Park in North Carolina. Split-rail fences, old farmsteads and historic structures complement spectacular views of distant mountains and neighboring valleys. Meandering through two national forests the surrounding area offers campgrounds, picnic areas, lodges, restaurants and countless scenic overlooks.

http://www.blueridgeparkway.org/

Celebrate the 75th Anniversary of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park

2009-03-19T11:59:00.000-04:00

Ridge upon ridge of forest straddles the border between North Carolina and Tennessee in Great Smoky Mountains National Park. World renowned for its diversity of plant and animal life, the beauty of its ancient mountains, and the quality of its remnants of Southern Appalachian mountain culture, this is America’s most visited national park.

Working closely with partners Great Smoky Mountains Association and the Friends of the Smokies, and with neighboring communities, www.GreatSmokies75th.org has been developed as the "Virtual Visitor Center" for all the exciting opportunities surrounding the 75th Anniversary.

On this site you will find a rich and evolving variety of information on the park’s history, current issues, and future visions. Throughout 2008 and 2009 you’ll find information about a wide array of activities and events in the park as well as officially recognized events in all our many neighboring communities.

Grandfather Mountain

2009-03-19T11:49:00.000-04:00

Grandfather Mountain, one of the best-known landmarks of the Blue Ridge, is more than just a mountain. Towering 5,946 feet above northwest North Carolina, Grandfather Mountain is operated as a scenic travel attraction and is the only private park in the world designated by the United Nations as an International Biosphere Reserve. A Mile High Swinging Bridge was built to give visitors easy access to the breath-taking views from Grandfather Mountain's Linville Peak.

Marvel at 360-degree views of mountain ridge after mountain ridge retreating to the horizon and let our knowledgeable staff help you find your own perfect mountain adventure.

http://www.grandfather.com/

Springtime in the Mountains

2009-03-19T11:41:00.000-04:00

Get acquainted with Western North Carolina's gardens this spring:

Asheville
Biltmore Estate – 800-624-1575
The Botanical Gardens of Asheville – 828-252-5190
The North Carolina Arboretum – 828-665-2492
Richmond Hill Inn – 888-742-4536

Boone
The Daniel Boone Native Gardens – 828-264-6390

Cherokee
Cherokee Botanical Garden and Nature Trail – 828-497-2315

Chimney Rock
Chimney Rock Park – 800-277-9611

Clyde
The Campus Arboretum of Haywood Community College – 828-627-2821

Wilkesboro
Wilkes Community College Gardens – 336-838-6294

Find Fabulous Fall Colors in National Parks

2008-10-30T19:01:00.000-04:00

(ARA) - Every year, millions of Americans look forward to autumn and the opportunity to take in the beautiful fall foliage. As deciduous trees across the country begin to shed their leaves, “leaf peeping,” as it is known, becomes a pastime of many travelers.

The national parks offer a serene setting and unmatched views to enjoy this majestic transformation. Our parks preserve hundreds of tree species, which, into November, vibrantly paint the mountains and hillsides and fields with fresh shades of red, orange, yellow and purple.

“Visitors come from miles away each year to experience fall foliage in our national parks. It is truly a spectacular time of year,” says Mark Wenzler, director of Clean Air and Climate Programs for the National Parks Conservation Association.

Here are a few national park sites beloved for their brilliant fall foliage:

Great Smoky Mountains National Park (Tennessee, North Carolina) usually experiences a fall foliage season that lasts several weeks. Park trees change colors at various times, depending mostly on elevation. At mid and lower-level elevations, the color display typically reaches peak between mid-October and early November. The park attracts leaf peepers, who want a glimpse of the nearly 100 native tree species, most of which are deciduous. Some of the more vibrant trees include hickories, sugar maple, scarlet oak, sweetgum and red maple.

The fall foliage display at Great Smoky Mountains remains one of the best in the country. For more information about fall foliage at Great Smoky Mountains, please visit www.nps.gov/grsm/planyourvisit.

Mammoth Cave National Park in Kentucky is known for its extensive cave system -- the longest in the world. However, visitors have ample opportunity to explore other features of this national park, as well. Mammoth Cave preserves the forested Kentucky hills, which offer numerous trails for hikers to explore and observe the vibrant fall foliage. Oak, tulip poplar and sassafras are among the trees that scatter park forests and attract leaf peepers annually.

For an updated webcam shot of fall foliage at the park, please visit http://nature.nps.gov/air.

Courtesy of ARAcontent

Blog Cabin

2008-09-30T20:09:00.000-04:00

DIY Network's crew of home improvement experts build the cabin you helped design. When it's done, one lucky winner is going to call it home. Visit http://www.diynetwork.com/blogcabin

Try the Blue Ridge Parkway For Fall Color Viewing

2008-09-29T12:44:00.000-04:00

Soon the leaves will turn gold and red, and the hillsides in Western North Carolina will burst into color. Autumn brings scenic spendor, but in mountain country, it's nothing less than spectaular. The color change starts in the higher elevations, spreading to mid-mountain, and finally to the valleys, and that makes viewing time a lasting one.

Some of the best panoramas are seen from the Blue Ridge Parkway, which runs for 251 miles through the heart of Western North Carolina's mountains at elevations up to 6,000 feet or more. According to the U.S. National Park Service, this roadway is the most visited unit of America's National Park System and offers numerous pull-over spots for motorists to admire the majestic scenery. The best viewing is mid-October.

Grandfather Mountain offers views with easy access that are unmatched in peak season. The sweeping curves of the Blue Ridge Parkway's Linn Cove Viaduct set against the reds, yellows and oranges of the hillside are particularly photogenic.

In the town of Sylva, on Fisher Creek Road, Pinnacle Park provides visitors a brilliant fall kaleidoscope. Or park near the top of Whiteside Mountain, close to the town of Cahsiers, to admire the autumn views and sheer cliffs, or walk the two-mile hiking trail there. And in the waterfall country west of Hendersonville, lovely views of cascading waters alongside vivid foliage are abundant. Along Lake Lure's 21 miles of tree-line shores, the fall panorama can be seen from miles arond.

Halfbacks In Western North Carolina

2008-09-23T21:55:00.000-04:00

Finding a native Floridian is quite challenging. Most of us are from somewhere north of here, and on hot summer days we often wish we could go back to someplace cooler and less humid. But we don't want to go all the way back, just far enough to find the cool change of season and slower pace that we miss - just halfway back. Thus the term, "halfbacks." One of the most popular halfback spots for may Floridians is the serene and majestic mountains of western North Carolina. The cool mountain breezes and spectacular scenery, coupled with the casual mountain lifestyle, draws vacationers and second home buyers.

Homebuyers See East Tennessee Smoky Mountains as a Smart Buy

2008-06-13T23:08:00.000-04:00

Of course, we all know how magnificent the Smoky Mountains are. From the intense, rich hues of Autumn to the bluish, smoky tint of the vast panoramas, it is an exquisite area to live and visit. That alone is probably good enough reason why so many people are relocating to East Tennessee, just for the sheer beauty and serenity of mountain living.

It is the best of both worlds. You can enjoy the peace and quiet, and extraordinary views from your new mountain home, and just a short drive away you will discover the cultural and business hub of one of America's truly great cities, Knoxville, home to the University of Tennessee (Go Vols) and a rich history dating back to the American Revolution.

The Great Smoky Mountain National Park of East Tennessee, opened in 1933 and ranks today as the most visited national park in the United States, with over 9 million visitors per year.You may think, that all of the above is good enough reason to relocate to East Tennessee. The developers of a new mountain community, The Ridges at Tellico Lake, have recently seen interest in the area grow due to the economics of the area as well. East Tennessee is proving to be an affordable alternative for many people, whether they are looking to relocate permanently, or purchase a vacation home.

Some of the financial incentives the area offers is; NO state income tax, NO luxury tax, LOW insurance rates on property and autos, NO auto registration tax, LOW property tax and LOW cost of local services.

This all added up seems to be many attractive reasons for new homebuyers to come to the Smoky Mountains of East Tennessee. In a relatively slow economy and housing market, homebuyers are finding the area a safe investment opportunity.For more information regarding purchasing a new mountain home and homesites in the Smoky Mountains, visit http://www.theridgesattellicolake.com/ or call 239-253-2332.

Buying Land Today, Still a Great Investment

2008-04-28T07:39:00.000-04:00

Buying Land Today, Still a Great Investment
Bucking the Trend and Purchasing Large Homesites

With the real estate market slowdown and the stock market as volatile as ever, many experts’ advise is to invest in land. With a land purchase, your real estate investment is obviously smaller than investing in a home/land package, plus your purchase provides more flexibility.
The real estate market will change, it always does. It will go from the buyer’s market it is today to a seller’s market, so the equity in your land purchase, by just holding on to it, will build into a nice profit.
The developers of The Ridges at Tellico Lake, a gated community in the Tennessee Smoky Mountains are offering an interesting investment opportunity. Purchase your homesite today, with no money down, three years interest only and you don’t have to build until 2013. The advantage to not having to build for 5 years is that within that period of course the market will change, and you can resell your property whenever you wish within that period of time. Of course, if you fall in love with this Smoky Mountain getaway you have the option of building a gorgeous new home. It’s a win- win program.
These are not small ¼ acre homesites. They range in size up to 3 acres and can feature incredible 50 mile mountain vistas.
Not only will the value of the land go up due to the turn in the market, but with other homesites sales and luxury homes being built in the community your investment can grow significantly.
Land investment historically has a low risk factor and a high yield on return.
For more information regarding purchasing a homesite at The Ridges at Tellico Lake visit http://theridgesattellicolake.comor call 239-253-2332.

How Are Log Homes Built Today?

2008-04-23T14:08:00.000-04:00

If your vision of a log home is the usual depiction of Abraham Lincoln's boyhood home, or the label illustration on a famous pancake syrup bottle, then wait until you see what today's log home builders are up to. With technological advances in craftsmanship and building materials, and meeting the needs and demands of the marketplace, log homes today look nothing like their great ancestors. The log home industry has grown rapidly as consumers discover their advantages and flexibility, plus every creature comfort they desire can be incorporated into a magnificent luxury log home.

In addition log homes are among the most energy efficient housing styles on the market. A log home is more than 30% more efficient than any other form of home construction, according to a U.S Government agency report. Today's log homes are airtight and weather resistant, and with the log's ability to absorb and slowly release heat, the weather does not enter the home, keeping it comfortable and using less energy to maintain temperature control than wood frame homes.

The new log home is not necessarily just a log home anymore. There are many ways today's builders are constructing their log homes. Many builders are calling them "Hybrids".

A new gated community in the Smoky Mountains of Tennessee, The Ridges at Tellico Lake will be an exclusive log and timber home community. The homes are hybrids, a combination of materials that allow for much more design flexibilty and beauty for the homeowner. Utilizing customized timber frame trusses with milled log walls, and stone for architectural accents these homes can range in size up to 5,000 square feet of luxury living space. After the buyer selects his Smoky Mountain homesite, they will select their builder, which will be approved by the design board, The home will be customized to meet every need of the homebuyer, just as they would if it were of wood frame construction.

For more information about The Ridges at Tellico Lake visit www.theridgesattellicolake.com
or call 239-253-2332.

Florida Halfbacks Heading to the Great Smoky Mountains

2008-04-08T21:10:00.000-04:00

In years passed, a "halfback"meant something much different than it does today. During pro football's golden era of the fifties and sixties, we had our share of halfback heroes, Frank Gifford, Paul Hornung, Lenny Moore and Gale Sayers. They glorified the position with spectacular, galloping runs across the gridiron with a combination of speed and grace.

Now that the word "halfback", along with "flanker" and other now nostalgic phrases from a bygone era are no longer part of the football lexicon, halfback has taken on a new meaning. Today, halfback describes a new real estate trend. A Florida halfback is someone who years ago relocated to Florida to escape the cold harsh winters of Michigan, Minnesota, New Jersey and many other of our wintry northern states. Now, for various reasons, they have made the decision to leave Florida, but are not willing to go all the back and experience freezing temperatures again, but go halfway back, to the mountains of Tennessee, North Carolina and Georgia, where the winters are mild and the opportunities abundant. This is why they are called "Florida Halfbacks".

The developers of The Ridges at Tellico Lake, a new gated community in the Tennessee Smoky Mountains believe that over half of their residents will be "Halfbacks" from Florida. Why are they leaving Florida and heading halfway back? There are many reasons. Some choose to live seasonally in the mountain areas, avoiding the summer heat in Florida. The summers are much more comfortable in these mountain regions, so many are choosing the mountain lifestyle as a summer retreat. The majority of the halfbacks however are searching for a long term alternative to the Florida lifestyle they sought in years past. So why the move for these Florida Halfbacks?

A slower real estate market, high property tax and insurance rates are a key reason. The summer heat of course and concern over hurricanes is another factor. Many are getting more home for the money. Many areas in Florida have seen property values increase at a phenomenal rate over the past 20 years, pushing prices up and value down. Plus, one of the most significant reasons many people came down to Florida originally was to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. With Florida's rapid growth in population and industry, halfbacks are finding in the Smoky and Blue Ridge Mountains the quiet lifestlye they once enjoyed in Florida. There are new employment opportunities in many of these mountain areas and many opportunities to invest in gorgeous mountain properties with exquisite mountain views.

New mountain communities, like The Ridges at Tellico Lake are offering homesties up to 3 acres in size, which is also attractive to the halfback who feels the need for more space, as Florida continues to grow and large homesites are becoming a thing of the past.

For more information about The Ridges at Tellico Lake, please visit www.theridgesattellicolake.com or call 239-253-2332.

Bed and Breakfast - A Vacation Rental Alternative

2008-03-28T20:29:00.000-04:00

Do you love the ambiance of a vacation rental cabin in the mountains, but aren't that crazy about cooking and cleaning? Consider a Bed and Breakfast Inn. Many innkeepers allow you to rent the whole place for your large family, special event, or family reunion.

The Windover Inn in Waynesville, NC offers luxurious accommodations and a delicious breakfast, beautiful wraparound porch and gardens, and personalized services to help you pull it all together. With eight spacious and private rooms, it might just be the right alternative for you.

High Point, NC Experiencing Real Estate Growth

2008-03-18T07:30:00.000-04:00

You may be either trying to sell a house, trying to buy a house, or know someone who is. I know some of you don't live in High Point nor do some of you even live in North Carolina but I believe this information will still be of use to you.

Let me assure you that North Carolina and, particularly, High Point is in great shape. We do not have the same conditions to which the national media is referring when it comes to foreclosures etc. Please reassure your friends and family that High Point, North Carolina, among many other places, is a fantastic place to buy a home right now.

Recent headlines about local conditions have been wonderful.
- this area attracted 3,100 new jobs in ’07
- the Thomasville-Lexington area was selected as the nation’s #1 micropolitan area for attracting corporate projects.
- the High Point metro area was named #1 in the nation for it’s size category for attracting new industries.
- High Point is the most competitive city, in the most competitive region, in the most competitive state. For more economic development news, please go to: www.highpointedc.com/news.cfm .

North Carolina has ranked 5th among the highest population growth and only 25th among foreclosure rates. What does this mean? People think NC is a worthy place to stay and we can afford to stay. Furthermore, you will note that 2-3 of the states that ranked above us in population growth are also in the top ten in foreclosures.

Thanks for your time and I hope this information is reassuring to you.

Lisa Duke
www.DukeBrothers.com
336-885-4256
336-442-7372
336-885-5731

Enjoy an afternoon with Smith Mountain Lake, Virigina.

2008-02-16T05:36:00.000-05:00

On Saturday February 23rd from 3:00 until 6:00 PM at the Himmarshee Bar and Grill in downtown Ft. Lauderdale, take the opportunity to learn more about vacations and retirement living on Smith Mountain Lake, Virginia. Affordable living, golf, tennis, waterfront dining... and so much more! For reservations to our cocktail party, please email jayw@marinerslanding.com or call 804.278.9672.

Log and Timber Home Show

2008-02-02T23:09:00.000-05:00

Dreaming of a log or timber home? The Log & Timber Home Show is coming to Orlando, FL! The Orange County Convention Center is the site for this premier marketplace for those seeking log or timber home packages, finishing materials, furniture, lighting and financing. You don't have to trek across the country to speak one-on-one with leading log and timber providers because they're all under one roof! This three-day event offers you the chance to meet with up to 150 exhibitors from March 7 – 9, 2008.

Florida Migration

2008-02-02T23:08:00.000-05:00

For the second year in a row in 2007, Atlas Van Lines moved more people out of Florida than into the state, reflecting what Floridians are seeing everyday – friends and neighbors moving away. Where are they going? Apparently many Floridian’s agree with North Carolina’s tagline, “A Better Place.” Analysts say the migration to the Carolinas and other adjoining states such as Georgia, Alabama and Tennessee has to do with a lower cost of living and other expenses including property taxes, insurance, and impact fees. Learn more.

Skis Please!

2007-12-31T17:50:00.000-05:00

Sugar Ski Mountain in Western North Carolina is open! Check their website for ski conditions and hours of operation. The nearby Pinnacle Inn Resort is offering great lodging values for your ski vacation.

Proposed Florida Property Tax Breaks

2007-12-31T17:08:00.000-05:00

The constitutional amendment that would provide tax breaks to Florida property owners goes to the voters on January 29. The amendment calls for doubling the $25,000 homestead exemption AND it allows a homesteader to take a 3 percent property tax increase cap with them to another home.

For Florida Halfbacks who are stuck with a home for sale in Florida’s sluggish real estate market and need to sell it to find their home in the mountains, these proposed tax breaks may well jump start Florida home sales. Buyers within Florida will have assurance of property tax breaks and are likely to get the market moving again, allowing Florida Halfback sellers the opportunity they are waiting for in the mountains!

Also keeping Floridian’s interest in the value of the Euro and the Canadian dollar compared to the U.S. dollar. Favorable conditions for foreigners may also prompt real estate sales.

Real estate is “looking up” in the mountains

2007-11-06T06:55:00.000-05:00

The national news paints a gloomy picture of the real estate market. But ask any Floridian looking for their spot in the mountains. Second home buyers know that now is the time to buy! Check out the real estate professionals and listings on www.FloridaHalfbacks.com to find your mountain or lake home.

Fall Color

2007-10-09T13:48:00.000-04:00

Fall color typically begins in early October and lasts for as long as six weeks. While the region is currently experiencing summer-like weather, cold fronts are on the way and leaf color changes are in the very early stages. Floridians seeking mountain color changes and cooler temperatures should be making plans now to visit the mountain and lake regions for a showcase of deep colors during the middle to latter part of October. The diversity of plants and trees, along with the changing terrain in the Appalachian Mountains, cause vibrant colors and typically a longer fall season. Visit www.FloridaHalfbacks.com to find your place in the mountains!

Mountain Moose

Cabin Special in Bryson City, NC!

Andrews Bald Hike

Hike to Spruce Flats Falls

Great Smokys Cabin Rentals

Great Smoky Mountains National Park - The search for Sweet pinesap (U.S. National Park Service)

Carpets of Trillium Throughout The Smokies

Owl Prowl

Favorite Winter Waterfall Hikes in the Smokies

Winter Smokies Closings

Fabulous Fall Color! – Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Lazy Hiker's Guide to the Appalachian Trail

Fall Fun in the Smokies

Autumn Naturalist Ramble

Virginia Fall 2010: Scenic Drives and Driving Tours Through Virginia

Postcards From The Smokies » Indian Creek’s ‘Baby’ Falls

Short Hikes in the Smokies

Intro to Map and Compass 9/18 at Great Smoky Mountain National Park

Friends of the Smokies Purchases Land Adjacent to National Park

Friends of the Smokies

Smoky Mountains - Favorite Destinations for September

Hen Wallow Falls

SMOKY MOUNTAIN Hikes for Extremely Lazy People

Click below for a list for lazy hikers, people hiking with small children, or people who are looking for gentle easy hikes:

The Le Conte Lodge Llama Train!

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Western North Carolina Raffles Off a Log Cabin in the Smoky Mountains, Tickets Just $100 Each

Mt. Le Conte Llama Train

Great Smoky Mountains Association - Member Hike

Savor the Scenic Blue Ridge Parkway

Wildflowers of the Blue Ridge Parkway

Cades Cove Auto Tour

Smoky Mountain Sound Off

Spring Wildflower Pilgrimage

7 Great Spots for Hiking in the Blue Ridge and Smoky Mountains

Webcams in the Smoky Mountains

2010 Major Road Projects in the GSMNP

The Road to NoWhere

2010 Marks the 75th Anniversary of the Blue Ridge Parkway

Hiker-Friendly at Amicalola Falls State Park

Photo Workshop in Great Smoky Mountains National Park This Spring

Beautiful Wildflowers and Lush Spring LandscapesApril 23 - 25, 2010Townsend, TennesseeTuition $575

About Richard Bernabe

High Above the Clouds on Mt. LeConte

Blue Ridge Parkway named one of top 10 value destinations for 2010

Who Gives A Hoot?

Four Scenic Peaks in Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

Winter Wine Weekend in the Georgia Mountains

Farm Fresh Christmas Trees - An Old Fashioned Family Tradition

The "Explore Boone Area - Winter Ski Vacation" Sweepstakes

Last Minute Hot Spots for Fall Color

Seven Blue Ridge Mountain Must-Sees

U.S. Mint will roll out Smoky Mountain National Park quarter in 2014

Taken a Liking to Hiking?

A Warm Welcome

Special Offers in North Carolina

Best Places To Live The Simple Life

Lake Lure & The Blue Ridge Foothills Sweepstakes

Cool Off in the Mountains This Summer

North Carolina Mountain Living: The Sky's the Limit in Buyer's Market

Plenty of Summer Fun in West Virginia!

The Spirit of the Cherokee Sweepstakes

Pigeon Forge Seeks 75 Families for $75 Gas Giveaway

Affordable Cabin Rentals in the Smoky Mountains

Free Fun Ideas in the NC Mountains

Hospitality Reigns at Mountain Inns

Blairsville Scottish Festival

Nantahala Outdoor Center (NOC) 2009 Flex Pricing

Things To Do in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Folkmoot USA Celebrates 26 Years!

Nature Conservancy 4th Annual Photo Contest Announced

A Carolina Getaway Refreshes a Florida Family

Storytellers Galore Ready to Spin Yarns at Pigeon Forge Festival

Blairsville Town Square

Georgia GPS Photo Sweepstakes

Take 40 Off in Virginia

Mountain Tennis and Soccer Camps for Kids This Summer!

Breathtaking Scenic Drives

Spa Packages in Virginia's Shenandoah Valley

Twenty Things To Do in the Mountains of Western North Carolina!

Smoky Valley Rally Scheduled for June 2009

Beautiful Wildflowers and Lush Spring Landscapes
April 23 - 25, 2010
Townsend, Tennessee
Tuition $575