WNC Travel Guide 2015

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Hike, Bike & Fish Craſt Breweries AND Farm-to-Table Food ART IN THE MOUNTAINS | GOLF | THE BLUE RIDGE PARKWAY

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A resource for visitors to the Smoky Mountains of Western North Carolina. Learn about events, music, cultural interests, food, outdoor activities and more.

Transcript of WNC Travel Guide 2015

Page 1: WNC Travel Guide 2015

Hike, Bike & Fish

Craft Breweries AND

Farm-to-Table Food

ART IN THE MOUNTAINS | GOLF | THE BLUE RIDGE PARKWAY

Page 2: WNC Travel Guide 2015

www.WNCTravel.com2

Exit 100 off 74 82 Locust Drive, Waynesville NC

828.452.7276View our current inventory at www.smsh.co

WE HAVE A FULL SERVICE DEPARTMENTCall for an appointment

We carry a full line of apparel, accessories, and bike parts

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Page 3: WNC Travel Guide 2015

WNCTravel 2015 3

Asheville • Hendersonville • Waynesville • Valle Crucis • Boone • Winston-Salem, NCGreenville • Columbia, SC • Knoxville, TN • MastStore.com •

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www.WNCTravel.com4

The Women’s BoutiqueWhere the Focus is You!

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Special Occasionsand everyday fashions.

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for All Generations

Page 5: WNC Travel Guide 2015

8-07

North Carolina’s International Folk Festival

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US Philippines, Appalachian clogging & WNC Bluegrass bands

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www.WNCTravel.com6

There’s a lot to do in theSmokies region of WesternNorth Carolina, so youlikely just won’t get aroundto everything on the vacation bucket list. Butthere’s always next time.

One of the most exciting and fast-

growing industries in this region is craft

beer and farm-to-table dining. It seems

brewers and chefs — both homegrown

and newbies from larger metropolitan

areas — have

discovered the

Smokies and are

flocking here in

droves.

No matter where

you travel in this

region, you’re only

a few miles from a

local craft brewery

(see page 14). These aren’t just

rookie brewers learning their trade.

No, brewmasters here are producing

nationally award-winning ales, IPAs,

porters, and more.

The dining scene is just as exciting.

Gourmet restaurants making use of

mountain grown ingredients are finding a

clientele hungry for innovation and

quality food (see page 12).

For travelers and locals alike, that just

means good things.

Of course, the mainstay of the Smokies

remains the outdoor adventure scene.

That includes everything from crazy

kayakers and stand-up paddlers bolting

down whitewater rivers to mountain

bikers and hikers who seek out just the

right trail to suit their frame of mind. And

the opening of the new fly fishing

museum in Cherokee is a testament to

the growing popularity of this region as a

destination for anglers from across the

nation and around the world.

Whatever your pleasure, we hope you

find it in the Smokies.

— Scott McLeod, publisher

INSIDE:Food+DrinkFrom the farm to your plate —

The Chef’s Table . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15Tapping your dreams —

Andrews Brewing Company . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16SELECTED RESTAURANTS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12WNC BREWERIES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16FARMER’S & TAILGATE MARKETS . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18

Art+CultureCrafting the future — Dillsboro . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24A brush with fate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26Over the hills and far away . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31

PERFORMANCE VENUES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20GALLERIES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24MUSEUMS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32

Outdoors+RecreationThe Great Smoky Mountains National Park . . 38The Blue Ridge Parkway serves up

the best of the mountains . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41SELECTED HIKES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42MOUNTAIN BIKING . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44GOLF COURSES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48DISC GOLF . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49TROUT FISHING . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49

FYILocales . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8Calendar of Events . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53Editor/Publisher: Scott McLeod . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [email protected] Director: Greg Boothroyd . . . . . . . . . . [email protected] Director: Micah McClure . . . . . . . . . . [email protected] & Design: Travis Bumgardner . . . . . . [email protected] Moss . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [email protected]

Writing/Photography:Garret K. Woodward . . . [email protected]:Amanda Bradley . . . . . . . . [email protected] Burton . . . . . . . [email protected] Smalley . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [email protected]:Scott Collier . . . . . . . . . . [email protected]

Bookkeeping:Amanda Singletary. . [email protected]

If you’d like bulk copies of the WNC Travel Guide to distribute at your business, email your request to [email protected] or call Distribution Manager Scott Collier at

828.452.4251. Contents ©2015/2016 The Smoky Mountain News. All rights reserved.

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WNCTravel 2015 7

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Western North Carolina is a region of small, vibrant downtowns. Each hasits own personality andhistory, so take the timeto get out of your carand meander, sit on abench, and just enjoyyour time in theseunique places. Waynesville

The social hub of Haywood County,

Waynesville is a vibrant community, one that

embodies the culture and heritage of Western

North Carolina. The town is filled with art

galleries, cafés, farm-to-table and fine dining

restaurants, a classic cinema and four craft

breweries. Throughout the year, there are

numerous evening art strolls and Friday night

clogging on Main Street, with tens of

thousands flocking to the handful of annual

street festivals (Church Street Arts & Crafts

Show, Apple Harvest Festival). Adventurers

can access the legendary Blue Ridge Parkway

just outside of town. Waynesville is also home

to Folkmoot USA, the Official North Carolina

International Folk Festival, which each

summer brings together performance troupes

from around the world to share their rhythm

and dance styles.

www.downtownwaynesville.com

Maggie ValleyThe gateway to the picturesque

Cataloochee Valley section of the Great

Smoky Mountains National Park, Maggie

Valley offers 360-degree mountain views

amid a commercial strip of restaurants, hotels

and shops. Located at the center of the town,

the fairgrounds showcase several weekend

festivals, from motorcycle rallies to

celebrations of Southern Appalachian culture,

up-and-coming country music acts to the

rollicking Hillbilly Woodstock. Head over to

the Wheel Through Time museum, home to

one of the world’s rarest and most extensive

collections of vintage motorcycles and

antique automobiles. Hovering high above the

community is the Cataloochee Ski Area and

Cataloochee Guest Ranch, both longtime

icons of what it means to truly soak in the

essence of fun and family in the mountains.

www.maggievalley.org

Canton/ClydeThe face of blue-collar hard work and

southern grit, Canton is home to the

Evergreen Packaging paper mill, a renowned

company that is the heartbeat of the town and

a economic stronghold for Western North

Carolina. Heading into downtown, you’ll find

local businesses, restaurants and shops. The

Imperial is a fine-dining establishment on

Main Street, where the social circles of

Canton converge. Around the corner is the

legendary Colonial Theatre, which presents

an annual Winter Concert Series featuring

hometown group Balsam Range, the 2014

International Bluegrass Music Association’s

“Entertainer of the Year.”

www.cantonnc.com

SylvaTake a stroll through downtown Sylva and

you’ll bear witness to a small mountain town

doing big things in Jackson County. From

cafes, restaurants and bookstores to brew-

eries, wine shops and artisan galleries, the

nightlife options of this community has made

it a hot spot for the curious and intrigued

“after 5” crowd. Situated on a high hill atop

Main Street in the history Jackson County

Courthouse and library, a societal centerpiece

with innumerable weekly programs, shows,

demonstrations, readings and children’s activ-

ities, all aimed at connecting the dots be-

tween neighbors, business owners and

visitors alike. Jackson County also is the loca-

tion of the Western North Carolina Fly Fishing

Trail, the first of its kind in the country, featur-

ing 15 spots of big rivers, small streams, easy

access and backcountry hike-ins.

www.mountainlovers.com

DillsboroThe art and craft capital of Western North

Carolina, Dillsboro houses numerous gal-

leries, artist studios and collectives. Running

through the heart of the town is the Great

Smoky Mountain Railroad, which originates in

Bryson City and makes frequent stops in the

artisan community. Also alongside a handful

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Welcome to the neighborhood

Panacea Coffee Company,Historic Frog LevelDistrict of Waynesville.Margaret Hester photo

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of downtown restaurants is the historic Jar-

rett House, an 1884 bed and breakfast inn

within walking distance of the craft busi-

nesses. A river park in the center of town of-

fers outdoor adventurers plenty of access for

whitewater rafting, canoeing or kayaking.

www.visitdillsboro.org

CashiersThe crossroads of U.S. 64 and N.C. 107,

Cashiers is a robust community of recreational

outfitters, antique shops, fine dining, golf

courses and country clubs. In the summer,

folks take to the hiking trails, scenic waterfalls

and rock climbing locations, all within vicinity

of the Village Green, a town park of greenery

and art sculptures welcoming any and all at

the 64/207 intersection. In the winter, Sap-

phire Valley Ski Area comes alive as snow and

adventure enthusiasts take to the slopes.

www.cashiersareachamber.com

CullowheeHome to Western Carolina University, a Di-

vision I school of 10,000 students, Cullowhee

is quickly growing not only academically, but

also commercially and socially. Whether it’s

weekly art exhibit openings, guest lecturers

or onstage performances, the campus is filled

with endless opportunities for the public to

immerse themselves in world culture. On the

fall weekends, throw down your tailgate and

get ready for a football game at the E.J. Whit-

mire Stadium. In recent years, a handful of

restaurants have kicked off the business revi-

talization of Cullowhee, where live weekend

entertainment is now the norm. Want to hit

the outdoors? WCU also offers miles of moun-

tain biking and hiking trails bordering the

property, as well as ample fly fishing opportu-

nities in the nearby Tuckasegee River.

www.wcu.edu

HighlandsHalfway between Cashiers and Franklin on

U.S. 64 is Highlands. Fine dining, art galleries,

antique shops and boutiques line the serene

downtown. In the center business corridor are

hotels, a brewery, playhouse and movie

theatre. Within a short drive, one can head for

the hills to tackle a hiking trail or spend an

afternoon beside a waterfall or tranquil lake.

In the summer, there is a weekly concert and

chamber music series, while during the fall

leaf peepers from near and far flock to see the

bright colors of the Western North Carolina

landscape.

www.highlandschamber.org

FranklinThe county seat of Macon County, Franklin

is your All-American downtown, where neigh-

bors and visitors congregate in a local brew-

ery, café or restaurant, ready to take on the

nearby mountain trails or meander the muse-

ums and shops lining the charming, welcom-

ing streets. Down the road is the Smoky

Mountain Center for the Performing Arts,

where acclaimed national music and theatre

acts take the stage throughout the year. Want

some fresh air? Take a walk down the scenic

Little Tennessee River Greenway that snakes

through downtown.

www.franklin-chamber.com

Bryson CityKnown as last outpost of Western North

Carolina before you enter the Great Smoky

Mountains National Park, Bryson City is an

outdoor adventurer’s paradise. A small town

of around 1,400 residents, it’s downtown is

consists of galleries, cafes, restaurants and an

award-winning microbrewery. Only a few

miles from downtown, the Deep Creek en-

trance to the national park has river tubing,

horseback riding, hiking and waterfalls. It’s

also near the Nantahala Outdoor Center, a

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Downtown Highlands is filled with art galleries, antique shops,restaurants, cafes, shops, and more. Margaret Hester photo

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world-class whitewater rafting and freestyle

kayaking facility, which has the Appalachian

Trail running through it. Just down the road

from Bryson City, on the border of Swain and

Graham counties, is the Tsali Recreation Area

on Fontana Lake, regarded as one of the finest

mountain biking trail systems in the country.

www.greatsmokies.com

Cherokee Home to the Eastern Band of the Cherokee

Nation, the town hosts an array of yearly fes-

tivals and events that exemplifies the tradi-

tion, art, culture and deep history of the tribe.

Take a step into the Museum of the Cherokee

Indian with its extensive exhibits or peruse

the Qualla Arts & Crafts Mutual, a Cherokee

collective with detailed displays showcasing

its dozens of artisan craft members. Visitors

can access the Great Smoky Mountains Na-

tional Park heading north out of Cherokee on

U.S. 441, a main route of travel in Southern

Appalachia, which you can also hop onto the

majestic Blue Ridge Parkway from. In recent

years, Harrah’s Cherokee Casino Resort has

become one of the largest employers and at-

tractions in Western North Carolina, with its

fine dining options, luxury amenities and

world-class live entertainment.

www.visitcherokeenc.com

RobbinsvilleThe entrance to the spectacular Cherohala

Skyway, a National Scenic Byway, Rob-

binsville plays host to a wide-spectrum of

outdoor desires. From its bustling downtown,

one can easily escape into the lush back-

woods of Western North Carolina. Just north

of Robbinsville is the town of Lake Santeetlah,

a water wonderland of camping, boating and

hiking surrounded by the Nantahala National

Forest, and only a short drive to the Great

Smoky Mountains National Park.

www.grahamcountytravel.com

Murphy/AndrewsThe halfway point between Asheville and

Chattanooga on U.S. 64, Murphy is the county

seat of Cherokee County. Located at the

confluence of the Hiwassee and Valley rivers,

the town features plenty of opportunities for

water sports, with plenty of fishing and

boating activities on Hiwassee Lake. There

are annual festivals and fairs, and many

outdoor adventures at any of the nearby

hiking trails. Just down the road is Andrews,

and up-and-coming small mountain town

that’s home to the popular Andrews Brewing

Company and the Calaboose Cellars winery.

www.cherokeecountychamber.com

Hayesville/BrasstownFilled with a plethora of mountain biking,

hiking and fishing spots, including boating on

the tranquil Lake Chatuge, Hayesville and

greater Clay County truly embodies the

phrase, “getting away from it all.” Downtown

contains museums, antique shops and

restaurants. The community holds a handful of

yearly celebrations, including the always-

popular Punkin Chunkin contest every

October, where folks use homemade

catapults to launch the orange squash high

into the Southern Appalachian sky. Of the

many points of interest in Brasstown, the

centerpiece in the John C. Campbell Folk

School, an organization offers innumerable

art classes, workshops, demonstrations and

live music performances.

www.ncmtnchamber.com

www.WNCTravel.com10

Locales

— Canyon Kitchen at LonesomeValley in Sapphire.

The Historic ClayCounty Courthousein Hayesville.

Page 11: WNC Travel Guide 2015

WNCTravel 2015 11

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Page 12: WNC Travel Guide 2015

Bryson City• The Bryson City Cork & Bean

Southern/Gourmet – 828.488.1934• Fryemont Inn

Southern/Steak/Seafood –800.845.4879

• Hemlock InnSouthern/Gourmet – 828.488.2885

• Nantahala Village Southern/Bistro – 828.488.9000

• Pasqualino’s Italian – 828.488.9555

• Village BistroSouthern/American – 828.488.9000

• Water’s EdgeSeafood/Southern – 828.488.7977

Cashiers• Canyon Kitchen at

Lonesome ValleySouthern/Farm-to-Table –828.743.7697

• Carolina SmokehouseSouthern Barbecue – 828.743.3200

• Chez Dupont & The Stone SoupCaféSouthern/Farm-to-Table –828.743.1960

• Cornucopia RestaurantSouthern/American – 828.743.3750

• High Hampton Inn & Country ClubSteak/Seafood/Southern –828.743.2411

• The Orchard Southern/American – 828.743.7614

• RandevuSouthern – 828.743.0190

Clyde • Blue Rooster Southern Grill

Southern/American – 828.456.1997

www.WNCTravel.com12

Savoring the Smokies — Fine Dining

After a full day of hiking the mountains,biking the backcountry roads, cruising theBlue Ridge Parkway or swimming in apristine lake, one can sure build up quitethe appetite soaking in all that WesternNorth Carolina has to offer. To remedythat, our region is home to some of thefinest restaurants in the Southeast.Whether specializing in local farm-to-table items, southern “cosmopolitancountry” dishes or intricate ethnic cuisines,any flavor or style can be found, eachable to tantalize and slake any palate.

RESTAURANTS

Eats+DrinksThe Sweet Onion, Waynesville.

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RAFTING ADVENTURES An ideal adventure for families.

ZIP & RAILEnjoy a fully guided tour with

spectacular views of Lake Fontana.RAIL & TRAIL

Tour the mountains in a Jeep® past waterfalls and lakes.

Page 14: WNC Travel Guide 2015

www.WNCTravel.com14

Eats+DrinksDillsboro• Coach’s

American/Greek828.586.0265

• Haywood SmokehouseBarbecue/Southern –828.586.9556

• Jarrett HouseSouthern/American –828.586.0265

• Kostas Greek/Italian – 828.631.0777

Franklin• The Boiler Room

Steak/Southern – 828.349.5555• Boone Thai

Thai – 828.524.1111• The Bowery

Seafood/Steakhouse –828.369.3663

• Caffe Rel French – 828.369.9446

• Lucio’s Italian – 828.369.6670

• The Post & Beam at Mill CreekSouthern/American –828.349.0402

• Sakura Japanese – 828.349.8917

• Thai ParadiseThai – 828.349.0973

Hayesville• The Copper Door

Steak/Seafood/Southern –828.237.4030

Highlands• Asia House

Asian – 828.787.1680• Cyprus

International – 828.526.4429• El Azteca

Mexican – 828.526.2244• Highlands Smokehouse

Southern Barbecue – 828.526.1900• Lakeside

Seafood/Southern – 828.526.9419• Madison’s Restaurant

& Wine GardenSouthern – 828.526.5477

• On the Verandah Gourmet Fusion – 828.526.2338

• Ristorante PaolettiNorthern Italian – 828.526.4906

• Ruka’s TableSouthern/Contemporary –828.526.3636

• Rustico at the Log CabinNorthern Italian – 828.526.0999

• Wild Thyme GourmetSouthern – 828.526.4035

• Wolfgang’s Restaurant & Wine BistroSteak/Seafood – 828.526.3807

Maggie Valley • Andolini’s

Italian – 828.944.0770 • Cataloochee Guest Ranch

Southern/American –800.868.1401

• Country VittlesAmerican/Southern –828.926.1820

• Frankie’s Italian TrattoriaItalian – 828.926.6216

• J. Arthur’s Steakhouse/American –828.926.1817

• Maggie Valley ClubSouthern/American – 828.926.1616

• Moonshine GrilleSouthern/American –828.926.7440

• Rendezvous Seafood/Steakhouse –828.926.0201

• Snappy’sItalian/American – 828.926.6126

Murphy• Murphy’s Chophouse

Southern/Steak/Gourmet –828.835.3287

• ShoeBooties Café Southern/American –828.837.4589

Robbinsville• Carolina Kitchen

Southern/American –828.479.1500

Sylva• Bogart’s

Steakhouse/American –828.586.6532

Bryson City• Everett Street Diner –

828.488.0123• Iron Skillet – 828.488.4766• Mountain Perks Espresso Bar &

Café828.488.9561

Canton• Breaking Bread Café –

828.648.3838• Jukebox Junction –

828.648.4546• Papertown Grill – 828.648.1455

Cashiers• Buck’s Coffee Café –

828.743.9997• Zookeeper Café – 828.743.7711

Clyde• Coffee Cup Café – 828.627.8905• Sherrill’s Pioneer – 828.627.9880

Cullowhee• Cullowhee Café – 828.293.3334

Franklin• City Restaurant – 828.524.4948• Hungry Bear – 828.369.2900

• Ms Lois’ – 828.369.8628• Normandie – 828.524.3118• Stamey’s Café – 828.524.8198 • Sunset – 828.524.4842

Highlands• Buck’s Coffee Café –

828.526.0020• Mountain Fresh Grocery –

828.526.2400

Maggie Valley• Joey’s Pancake House –

828.926.0212• Maggie Valley Restaurant –

828.926.0425• Mountaineer – 828.926.1730

Sylva• City Lights Café – 828.587.2233 • The Coffee Shop – 828.586.2013

Waynesville• Apple Creek Café – 828.456.9888• City Bakery – 828.452.3881 • Clyde’s – 828.456.9135• Cornerstone Café – 828.452.4252• DuVall’s – 828.452.9464• Haywood 209 Café – 828.627.3331• J Creek Café – 828.926.7877• Panacea Coffee House

Café & Roastery –828.452.6200

• Underwood’s – 828.452.4132

RESTAURANTS

CAFÉS

High Hampton Inn & Country Club. Donated photo

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From the farm to your plate— The Chef’s Table

What started as a job while inhigh school turned itselfinto a lifelong career andpassion for Josh Monroe.

“It’s about using the best possible ingre-dients you can find and being able to letthose ingredients shine inevery dish,” he said.

Owner/head chef of TheChef’s Table in downtownWaynesville, Monroe has cre-ated for his customers an at-mosphere of incredible food,flair, family and friends. Orig-inally from Fairview, Monroefell into the food industry byhelping his father run thefamily diner in Asheville.From there, he went to culi-nary school at AB-Tech andworked in a variety of areakitchens, most notably at thefour-star Richmond Hill Inn.

Then one day, Monroefound himself strolling downChurch Street in Waynesvilleen route to a job interview atanother restaurant. He waswearing his chef outfit to theinterview and was stoppedby Richard Miller, the previ-ous owner of The Chef’sTable.

“He was looking for a chefand offered me a job right onthe spot,” Monroe remi-nisced with a smile. “So, I became thechef, and three years later, in 2009, Ibought the place.”

With the styles and flavors of Italy as theplatform, Monroe has taken his love offine food to the highest levels possible,even beyond farm-to-table.

“It’s seed-to-table here,” he grinned.“There’s nothing better for a chef to puton the plate than something just picked.”

You see, Monroe also owns and operatesa 12-acre organic farm in nearby Canton.It’s a farm homestead that he and his fam-ily brought back to life, back to what theoriginal agricultural landscape of Hay-wood County resembled. Alongside hisgoats and chickens, he grows his own

mushrooms, squash, corn and beans,among other produce. This spring, he alsoplanted 100 blueberry bushes.

“It’s a really nice thing to have a cus-tomer ask you where an ingredient camefrom and you know exactly where in yourfield it was picked from,” he said. “And forme, I love being able to learn about thenuances of the ingredients — the weatherconditions involved, the seasons, knowing

what to grow and the timing of when topick it.”

If there is an ingredient that he needsbut doesn’t grow himself, Monroe utilizesmany of the local farmer’s markets andother organic farms around WesternNorth Carolina. For Monroe, it’s aboutsupporting those who support you.

“Waynesville is such a beautiful place,and it’s still growing, especially with all itsnatural beauty and opportunities to suc-ceed,” he said. “This is still a farming com-munity and I love that there’s still so muchof that old knowledge of farming here inHaywood County, where you can learnfrom other farmers and old-timers on justwhat you need to do to succeed.”

• City Lights Café

American/Southern – 828.587.2233• Creekside Oyster House & Grill

Seafood/American – 828.586.1985• Evolution Wine Kitchen

Southern/American – 828.631.9856• Guadalupe Café

Caribbean Fusion – 828.586.9877• Lulu’s On Main

Southern/American – 828.586.8989• O’Malley’s Pub & Grill

American – 828.631.0554 • Soul Infusion Tea

House & Bistro

Southern Fusion/American – 828.586.1717• Speedy’s Pizza

Italian/American – 828.586.3800

Waynesville• Ammon’s Drive-In

American – 828.926.0734• Balsam Mountain Inn

Southern/American – 828.456.9498 • Blossom on Main

Thai Fusion – 828.454.5400• Bocelli’s Italian Eatery

Italian – 828.456.4900• Bogart’s

Steakhouse/American – 828.452.1313• Bourbon Barrel Beef & Ale

Southern/American – 828.452.9191• Café La Rouge

Seafood/Southern – 828.550.3560• The Chef’s Table

Italian/Farm-to-Table – 828.452.6210• The Classic Wineseller

Italian/French/Southern – 828.452.6000• Cork & Cleaver at

The Waynesville Inn

Steak/Seafood – 828.456.3551• Frog’s Leap Public House

Farm-to-Table/Southern – 828.456.1930• Haywood Smokehouse

Barbecue/Southern – 828.456.7275• Herren House Bed & Breakfast

Southern/American/Brunch – 828.452.7837• Pasquale’s

Italian/Mediterranean – 828.454.5002• The Patio Bistro

Southern/American – 828.454.0070• Saki Sushi

Asian – 828.246.4518• The Sweet Onion

Southern/Farm-to-Table – 828.456.5559 • Top Rail Writer’s Night Restaurant

Cajun/Creole – 828.276.5343

RESTAURANTS

Josh Monroe,owner of TheChef’s Table.

Page 16: WNC Travel Guide 2015

Tapping your dreams — Andrews Brewing Company

Sitting on the porch of the Andrews Brewing Company,co-owner Eric Carlson looks out onto his property. Withbluebird skies overhead, bumblebees joyously buzzing inthe garden and the majestic peaks of the Great SmokyMountains in the distance, he shakes his head in awe ofwhere his lives and thrives.

“I mean, look at this place — it’s beautiful,” he smiled.Alongside his wife, Judy, the couple bought their home in Andrews in 2004 after

over two decades of living in New Hampshire. They were looking for a place in South-ern Appalachia that was not too far from family, but far enough to where they couldbuild their own existence.

Eats+Drinks

Andrews• Andrews Brewing

828.321.2006 • www.andrewsbrewing.com

Bryson City• Nantahala Brewing

828.488.2337 • www.nantahalabrewing.com

Franklin• Lazy Hiker Brewing

828.342.5133 • www.lazyhikerbrewing.com

Highlands• Satulah Mountain Brewing

828.482.9794www.satulahmountainbrewing.com

Sapphire• Sapphire Valley Brewing

828.743.0220www.sapphirebrewingcompany.com

Sylva• Heinzelmannchen Brewery

828.631.4466www.yourgnometownbrewery.com

• Innovation Brewing828.586.9678 • www.innovation-brewing.com

Waynesville• BearWaters Brewing

828.246.0602 • www.bwbrewing.com• Boojum Brewing

828.944.0888 • www.boojumbrewing.com• Frog Level Brewing

828.454.5664 • www.froglevelbrewing.com • Tipping Point Brewing

828.246.9230 • www.tippingpointtavern.com

WNC Breweries

HeinzelmannchenBrewery, Sylva.

16

Page 17: WNC Travel Guide 2015

WNCTravel 2015 17

“The weather is perfect, the people hereare great, and the community interactions areall positive when we decided to start ourbusinesses,” Judy said.

“Businesses” is in reference to the threecompanies the Carlson’s run. Initially, theycreated Websites.com (which helps developkey web marketing strategies), but that soonchanged when they relocated to CherokeeCounty. Looking for ways to immerse them-selves in the natural beauty of Western NorthCarolina, and also “get some exercise,” theybegan growing different grape varieties onthe property. That action ultimately moldeditself into Calaboose Cellars, a three-acrewinery the couple built from the ground upin 2007.

“We get customers from Raleigh, Atlanta,Charlotte, and everywhere in-between,” Ericsaid. “For whatever reason they may have,wine lovers will travel great distances to ex-plore a winery — it’s also becoming that waywith craft beer.”

The Carlson’s saw the current craft beerboom overtaking Western North Carolina.Having a longtime love of wine, they also hada deep interest in craft beer. So, in early 2013,they launched Andrews Brewing. Just lastyear alone, the brewery had an output ofaround 400 barrels, with the winery produc-ing 7,200 bottles. With their array of beer se-lections — from pale ales to stouts, blondes toambers — the brewery has made a fast namefor itself around Southern Appalachia bypouring quality, handcrafted liquid gold.

Now that both alcohol businesses are hittingtheir stride, Eric recently purchased an old6,000 square-foot grocery store in downtownAndrews. He’s currently in the process of put-ting in a full-time offsite brewery, one that willallow the original property to focus more ontasting rooms and live entertainment. Whenthe summer months roll around, AndrewsBrewing hosts its “Patio/Lawn Chair” musicseries, where bands from around the regionplay the front porch on Fridays and in thenearby band shell on Saturdays.

“All of this has been enjoyable for me,” Ericsaid. “I love starting new things, and meetingthe daily challenges of what it takes to makea business work.”

“We want visitors to leave here knowingthat it was worth looking for, because we canbe hard to find in these mountains,” Judylaughed. “And really, for us, it’s about thepeople, that they come here to relax andenjoy themselves.”

Seven Silver Seas521 Soco Road | Maggie Valley | 828-926-1877

(the purple shop)

1978-24

Handcrafted Jewelry Whimsical Gifts andArtistic Clothing

Handcrafted Jewelry Whimsical Gifts andArtistic Clothing

P.O. Box 40 • 68 7 Springs Dr. • Balsam, NC 28707 • 800.224.9498 • www.balsaminn.netBreakfast and Dinner daily by reservation, Lunch on Sundays

Page 18: WNC Travel Guide 2015

Waynesville• Haywood’s Historic Farmers Market

Fresh, local produce, fresh seafood, baked goods,

goat cheese, herbal products, meat, eggs, plants,

flowers, preserves, honey and heritage crafts.

Live music. 8 a.m. to noon on Wednesdays and

Saturdays through Oct. 31, with a winter market

through mid-December. 250 Pigeon Street in the

parking lot of the HART Theatre.

www.waynesvillefarmersmarket.com.

• Waynesville Tailgate MarketFruits, vegetables, black walnuts, organic food

and other homemade products. 8 a.m. to noon on

Wednesdays and Saturdays through Oct. 29. 171

Legion Drive at the American Legion behind Bog-

art’s restaurant. 828.648.6323 or

www.buyhaywood.com.

Canton• Canton Farmer’s Market & Heritage Crafts

Fruits, vegetables, herbs and flowers. Open from

3 to 7 p.m. Thursdays through October at munici-

pal parking area in Sorrells Park. 828.734.9071 or

www.buyhaywood.com.

Sylva• Jackson County Farmer’s Market

Plants, seeds, honey, breads, sweets and locally

made crafts, local meats. 9 a.m. to noon on Satur-

days through October. Railroad Avenue at the

Municipal Parking Lot near Bridge Park in down-

town. The winter market is from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

from November through March across the bridge

at the Community Table in downtown.

828.631.3033 or

www.jacksoncountyfarmersmarket.org.

Cullowhee• Whee Farmer’s Market

Locally grown vegetables, eggs, and more. 4 to 7

p.m. Tuesdays through October. Corner of North

Country Club Drive and Stadium View.

www.facebook.com/cullowheefarmersmarket.

Cashiers• Cashiers Tailgate Market

9 a.m. to noon Saturdays through October. Angli-

can Church parking lot next to Macon Bank on

U.S. 64 East. 828.226.9988 or

[email protected].

Franklin• Cowee Farmer’s Market

Local produce, plants, herbs, honey, crafts, and

more. 3:30 to 7 p.m. on Tuesdays through Oct. 28.

51 Cowee School Drive. 828.524.8369 or

www.coweefarmersmarket.com.

• Franklin Farmer’s Tailgate MarketVariety of only products such as cheese, plants,

eggs, trout, honey and more. 8 a.m. to noon on

Saturdays through November. 200 East Palmer

Street. 828.349.2049.

www.facebook.com/franklinncfarmersmarket.

Bryson City• Swain County Farmer’s Market

Organic produce, plants, trout, honey, jams, quail

and rabbit as well as an array of local crafts. 9

a.m. to 1 p.m. on Fridays through October. The

Barn on Island Street in downtown.

828.488.3848 or

www.greatsmokies.com.

www.WNCTravel.com18

Eats+DrinksFarmer’s & Tailgate Markets

The foundation of culture in Western NorthCarolina lies in a keen emphasis on thingslocally made and grown. Whether it’s theporch sounds of mountain music or stitchingtogether one’s heritage with an elaborate quilt,quality and one-of-a-kind are attributes to themany products offered in this region. And atthe heart of these traditions is the freshproduce raised and harvested from the richsoil of Southern Appalachia.

There is a renewed vigor in the local farmer’s markets as newgrowers working smaller farms have become the norm. Fromdelicious fruits and crisp vegetables, to sweet honey and fresh trout,there are innumerable unique items locals and visitors alike canpurchase. Throughout the week, dozens of vendors in several townsgather to showcase and sell their goods. With organic productsbecoming more popular, these markets provide the community withthe perfect avenue for healthy options.

Max Cooper photo

Page 19: WNC Travel Guide 2015

Cherokee• Cherokee Farmer’s Tailgate Market

Fresh local, organic and heirloom produce. 11 a.m.

to 2 p.m. on Fridays through October. Acquoni

Road. 828.554.6931.

• Cherokee Farm StandLocally-grown agricultural produce. 11 a.m. to 1

p.m. on Thursdays through October. 876 Acquoni

Road at the Cherokee Indian Hospital.

828.359.6935.

Robbinsville• Graham County Farmer’s Market

Local farmers, growers and harvesters. 8 a.m. to

noon on Saturdays from July through October.

828.479.8871.

Stecoah• Stecoah Tailgate Market

Local produce and handmade products. 8 to 11

a.m. on Wednesdays at the Stecoah Valley Cul-

tural Arts Center. 828.479.3364 or

www.stecoahvalleycenter.com.

Murphy• Cedar Valley Farmer’s Market

Fresh produce, meats and handmade products. 9

a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturdays through October in the

old L&N Depot in downtown.

www.doylescedarhill.com/farmers-market.

Andrews• Andrews Farmer’s Market

Live music and community produce. 8 a.m. to

noon from mid-June through mid-October. First

Street at Hall Memorial Park.

828.321.5960.

Hayesville• Hayesville Evening Market

High quality, local produce and farm products. 4

to 8 p.m. on Thursdays through September.

828.389.8931 or

www.southernappalachianfamilyfarms.com.

• Mountain Valley Farmer’s MarketLocal farmers and growers, homemade baked

goods and products. 8 a.m. to noon on Saturdays

through October. Old Courthouse Square.

828.361.7261.

Brasstown• Brasstown’s Farmer’s Market

Local produce, organic chicken, eggs. Open last

Wednesday in May through last Wednesday in

October. 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Old Highway 64.

828.360.2498.

WNCTravel 2015 19

1433-05

828.488.9000 ■ W W W.NA N TA HA L AVI L L AG E.C OM

Offering avariety of lodging,restaurants, andactivities withinminutes ofBryson City, theNantahalaGorge, FontanaLake and otherarea attractions.

ZIP LINE TOURS • FAMILY CHALLENGE COURSEADVENTURE FOR ALL AGES • GROUND-TO-AIR NATURE TRAIL

BIRTHDAY PACKAGES

NEW THIS SUMMERGiant Swing and

Mule-Drawn Wagon Rides

NEW THIS SUMMERGiant Swing and

Mule-Drawn Wagon Rides

PRICES AS

LOW AS $10

www.HighlandsCanopyTour.comTOLL FREE: 855.947.6344 828.526.8773

Located between Dillard, GA & Highlands, NC

Page 20: WNC Travel Guide 2015

www.WNCTravel.com20

Andrews• Andrews Brewing

828.321.2006www.andrewsbrewing.com

• Jimmy’s Pick-N-Grin

www.jimmyspickngrin.com

Brasstown• John C. Campbell Folk School

800.365.5724 or 828.837.2775 www.folkschool.org

Bryson City• Derailed Bar & Lounge

828.488.8898• Great Smoky Mountains

Railroad Depot

800.872.4681wwwgsmr.com

• Mickey’s Pub

828.488.9308• Nantahala Brewing

828.488.2337www.nantahalabrewing.com

• Nantahala Outdoor Center

888.905.7238 • www.noc.com

Canton• Colonial Theatre

828.235.2760 • www.cantonnc.com

Cherokee • Harrah’s Cherokee

828.497.7777www.harrahscherokee.com

Cullowhee• Tuck’s Tap & Grille

828.293.5400 • www.tuckstapgrille.com

Franklin• Lazy Hiker Brewing

828.342.5133www.lazyhikerbrewing.com

• Mixers Bar and Nightclub

828.369.9211www.mixersbarandnightclub.com

• Mulligan’s Bar & Grille

828.349.3183www.mulligans-bar.com

• Smoky Mountain Center

for the Performing Arts

828.524.1598www.greatmountainmusic.com

Hayesville• Chevelle’s

828.835.7001www.chevellerestaurants.com

• Peacock Performing

Arts Center

828.389.2787www.peacockplayhouse.org

Art+CulturePerformance venues

Live music is an important part of theheritage of Western North Carolina. Here’s a list of venues that regularly havebands in the region:

The Lazy Hiker Brewing Company,Franklin. Right: Balsam Range on the

stage of Canton’s Colonial Theatre.Below: No Name Sports Pub, Sylva.

Page 21: WNC Travel Guide 2015

WNCTravel 2015 21

Highlands• Lost Hiker

828.526.8232www.thelosthikerbar.com

• Satulah Mountain Brewing828.482.9794www.satulahmountainbrewing.com

• Ugly Dog Pub828.526.8364www.theuglydogpub.com

Maggie Valley• Eaglenest

828.926.9658• Maggie Valley Festival Grounds

828.926.0866www.maggievalleyfestivalgrounds.org

• Maggie Valley Opry House828.648.7941 or 828.926.9336www.raymondfairchild.com

• Maggie Valley Rendezvous828.926.0201www.maggievalleyhotel.com

• Salty Dog’s Seafood and Grill828.926.9105

• Stompin’ Ground828.926.1288

Murphy• Chevelle’s

828.389.6069www.chevellerestaurants.com

Robbinsville• Stecoah Valley Cultural

Arts Center828.479.3364www.stecoahvalleycenter.com

Sylva• City Lights Café

828.587.2233www.citylightscafe.com

• Guadalupe Café828.586.9877www.guadalupecafe.com

• Heinzelmannchen Brewery828.631.4466www.yourgnometownbrewery.com

• Innovation Brewing828.586.9678www.innovation-brewing.com

• Mad Batter Food & Film828.586.3555www.madbatterfoodandfilm.com

• No Name Sports Pub828.586.2750www.nonamesportspub.com

• O’Malley’s Pub & Grill828.631.0554

• Signature Brew Coffee Roasting Company828.587.6300

• Soul Infusion828.586.1717 • www.soulinfusion.com

Waynesville• Alley Kats Tavern

828.226.1657 www.facebook.com/alleykatstavern

• Balsam Mountain Inn and Restaurant800.224.9498www.balsammountaininn.net

• BearWaters Brewing828.246.0602 www.bwbrewing.com

• Boojum Brewing828.944.0888www.boojumbrewing.com

• Classic Wineseller828.452.6000www.classicwineseller.com

• Frog Level Brewing828.454.5664www.froglevelbrewing.com

• Mad Anthony’s Bottle Shop & Beer Garden828.246.9249 •www.facebook.com/madanthonysbar

• Smoky Mountain Roasters828.452.1212 www.facebook.com/smokymountainroasters

• The Strand at 38 Main828.283.0079 • www.38main.com

• Tipping Point Brewing828.246.9230www.tippingpointtavern.com

• Water’n Hole Bar & Grill828.456.4750

Theaters+playhouses• Colonial Theatre

Canton828.235.2760 • www.cantonnc.com

• Franklin High School Fine Arts Center828.524.2787

• Haywood Arts Regional TheatreWaynesville828.456.6322 • www.harttheater.org

• Highlands Playhouse828.526.2695 • www.highlandsplayhouse.org

• John W. Bardo Fine & Performing Arts CenterWestern Carolina University, Cullowhee828.227.2479 • www.wcu.edu/bardoartscenter

• Peacock Performing Arts CenterHayesville828.389.2787 • www.peacockplayhouse.org

• Smoky Mountain Center for the Performing ArtsFranklin828.524.1598 • www.greatmountainmusic.com

• Smoky Mountain Community TheatreBryson City828.488.8227 • www.smctheatre.com

• Stecoah Valley Cultural Arts CenterRobbinsville828.479.3364 • www.stecoahvalleycenter.com

VENUES

Haywood Arts RegionalTheatre in Waynesvillehosts a variety of showson two stages.

Page 22: WNC Travel Guide 2015

www.WNCTravel.com22

6961 Upper Burningtown Rd., Franklin 828.369.9742

MasonsMine.comOpen 9-5, Apr. 1–Oct. 31, except Easter

Franklin’s Original Native Dig-Your-Own Gem MineWe have primitive camping and multi-day passes available.

Now offering enriched buckets. mobile technology to help you get a lot less mobile.

Log on. Plan a trip.

And start kicking back.

ANTIQUES

JEWELRY

GIFTS

HOME DECOR

NEW FURNITURE

581 W. Main St. • Downtown Sylva • 828.586.3600

Page 23: WNC Travel Guide 2015

WNCTravel 2015 23

Affairs of the Heart—————————————————————————————120 N. MAIN ST. • WAYNESVILLE, NC • 828.452.0526

Choose from a large selection of Clocks, Jewelry,Scarves, Candles, Flags, Mailbox Covers, Puzzles

...and so much more!

Check this out!

Road Kill

Grillspice rub

(to spice up your life!)

Great store –great stuff

Page 24: WNC Travel Guide 2015

www.WNCTravel.com24

Andrews• Kappy’s Home Again

828.321.0642

Brasstown• John C. Campbell Folk School

Craft Shop 828.837.2775 • www.folkschool.org

• River’s Rim Studio828.360.2498www.facebook.com/riversrimstudio

• Silva Gallery828.835.9413 www.facebook.com/silvagallery

Bryson City • Charles Heath Gallery

828.538.2054www.charlesheath.com

• Cottage Craftsman828.488.6207www.thecottagecraftsman.com

• Elizabeth Ellison Watercolors828.488.8782www.elizabethellisonwatercolors.com

• Gemstone Jewelrywww.silverandgems.com

• Pincu Pottery828.488.0480www.pincupottery.com

• Sleepy Hollow Farm828.736.5078www.sleepyhollowfarm.net

• Swain County Center for the Arts828.488.3129www.swain.k12.nc.us

• Wild Fern Studios & Gallery828.736.1605www.wildfernstudios.com

Cherokee• Bearmeat’s Indian Den

www.bearmeats-indian-den.com

• Great Smokies Fine Arts Gallery828.497.5444www.greatsmokiesart.com

• Medicine Man Crafts828.497.2202www.medicinemancrafts.com

• Museum of the Cherokee Indian828.497.3481www.cherokeemuseum.org

• Qualla Arts & Crafts Mutual828.497.3103www.quallaartsandcrafts.org

• Traditional Hands Art Gallery828.554.5884www.traditionalhands.com

• Will Harris Studio828.497.9750 • www.willharrisstudio.com

Crafting the future — Dillsboro

Amid the numerousbusinesses in Dillsboro, itscultural and economic heartlies in the plentiful artgalleries and studios. Fromdecades old locations tobrand new operations, thetown is an ever-evolvingcommunity, one with the driveand commitment to bring abeloved art haven into the21st century.

Oaks GalleryPerched atop a small hill overlooking

downtown Dillsboro, the Oaks Gallery fea-tures the works of over 125 artists fromwithin a 100-mile radius. Owned by Bob andSusan Leveille, the shop, like the 400-year-old oak tree it’s positioned under, has stoodtall in its mission of bringing quality art toconsumers from near and far.

“We’ve always tried to offer professionalcraftspeople an opportunity here in this area

to show their work in an envi-ronment that honors theirwork,” Susan said. “We want thisplace to be more like a gallery,and not like a grocery story —the artist’s work is valued here.”

Susan herself is no stranger toquality work. A renownedweaver, she was recentlyawarded the North CarolinaHeritage Award for her uniqueand intricate talents. And it’sthat personal connection to the arts thatalso radiates into her business.

“We see all of our artists on a regularbasis, we know what’s happening in theirlives,” she said. “Dillsboro keeps changing,and it’s a great place to live.”

Dogwood CraftersIn its 39th year of operating, Dogwood

Crafters on Webster Street is running strong.Crafting is a labor of love, one that can beseen on the numerous shelves in the store.Through the hard work and dedication of anall-volunteer workforce of members, thenonprofit co-op and its 90 members hasheld true to its original vision – a beacon oflight shining at the center of Dillsboro.

“This place gives everyone a chance to selltheir crafts, to supplement their income ifneed be,” said Brenda Anders, a mixed

media artist and president of the co-op. “It’simportant because if the crafters are able tosell their works here, then it brings in morepeople, which helps the local economy, mak-ing this community a better place for us all.”

And through the decades, the organizationhas remained steadfast, always knowing thatpeople would walk through the door insearch of Appalachian artisan crafts.

“It’s so refreshing when the door opensand someone tells you how happy they arethat Dogwood is still here,” Anders said. “Wehad someone recently who was brought hereas a kid and now they’re bringing their chil-dren to come an explore the crafts.”

Art+Culture

“We see all of our artists on aregular basis, we know what’shappening in their lives.”

— Susan Leveille, Oaks Gallery

GALLERIES

Page 25: WNC Travel Guide 2015

WNCTravel 2015 25

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Stay for a day, a weekend or a lifetime. There’s always something amazing to do inMaggie Valley, North Carolina - including nothing at all.

golf fish hike raft dine play stay|| || || || || ||

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© 2015 Maggie Valley Club & Resort. All rights reserved.

Clyde• Artisan in the Mountains Gallery

828.565.0501www.facebook.com/artisaninthemountains

Cashiers• Blue Valley Gallery

828.743.2956 • www.bluevalleygallery.com• John Collette Fine Arts

828.743.7977 • www.johncollettefineart.com• William Whiteside Gallery

828.743.2269

Cullowhee• Fine Art Museum at the Fine & Performing

Arts Center (Western Carolina University)828.227.3591 • www.wcu.edu/museum

• Watercolors by Susan828.293.5556 • www.watercolorsbysusan.com

Dillsboro• Claymates/Mountainscape Gallery

828.631.3133 • www.claymatespottery.com • Dogwood Crafters

828.586.2248 • www.dogwoodcrafters.com • Golden Carp

828.586.5477 • www.thegoldencarp.com • Jackson County Green Energy Park

828.631.0271 • www.jcgep.org • Matthew Turlington Photography

828.226.6824www.matthewturlingtonphotography.com

• Oaks Gallery828.586.6542 • www.oaksgallery.net

• Riverwood Menagerie828.586.9083

• Riverwood Pottery828.586.3601 • www.riverwoodpottery.com

• Tree House Pottery828.631.5100 • www.treehousepotterync.com

• Tunnel Mountain Crafts954.707.2004 • www.facebook.com/tunnelmtncrafts

Franklin• Macon County Art Association & Uptown Gallery

828.349.4607www.mcaauptowngallery.wordpress.com

• Michael M. Rogers Gallery828.524.6709 • www.michaelmrogers.com

• Mountain Artisans828.524.3405 • www.mountainartisans.net

• North Carolina Mountain Made828.524.7766 • www.ncmtnmade.net

Glenville• Classical Glass

828.743.5822

Page 26: WNC Travel Guide 2015

www.WNCTravel.com26

A brush with fate

Just mere feet from a bustling South Main Street in Waynesville resides a cocoon of creativity.

With a steady stream of vehicles rushingby, one enters Jenny Bucker’s studio as if tostep into a portal of a calmer ambiance. Vi-brant, intricate paintings hang from anyavailable wall space, while the sounds ofSimon & Garfunkel’s “Scarborough Fair”echo throughout the cozyabode. Meandering aroundthe rooms, the source of thesong is not only located, butso is the person immersed inthe melody, who faces ablank canvas ready to beadorned with the colors ofthe imagination.

“Art is the one thing I get so excited aboutthat I forget to eat,” Buckner laughed. “I’venever enjoyed anything that much, and be-lieve me — I love to eat and cook.”

As a painter, she constantly changes upher technique, almost as if to cover up hertracks before others can find her and pi-

geonhole who she “really is” asan artist. It is that unrelentingwork ethic and internal driveof “catch me if you can” over acourse of years which has re-sulted in Buckner becomingone of the most sought afterpainters in the Southeast.

“A painting creates an emo-tion just like a story does,” shesaid. “As long as your emo-tionally involved somehow,you’re going to keep on read-ing, you’re going to keep looking, keeping

being drawn into the story,into the painting.”

Bucker was 33 when shebegan putting paint to ablank canvas. Atop eitherwinning or placing high atregional and national com-petitions, she recently en-tered a floral painting

contest put on by International ArtistsMagazine, a prestigious worldwide publica-tion. To her surprise, Buckner’s painting“Timeless Pink III” was chosen as a finalistto be featured in one of their issues.

“There were finalists from Ontario, Cali-fornia, Iceland, France, New York and

British Columbia, and then you turn thepage and there’s little Jenny Buckner fromWaynesville,” she chuckled.

Even though Buckner never had any for-mal training in terms of learning how topaint, her story is a testament to the will ofthose who push ahead with their dreams, nomatter the situation they’re in, no matterthe judgment by others, no matter if at firstyou have no idea what to do, and how to goabout doing it.

“You don’t have to go through the motionsto get to a certain point. It’s a freedom toknow that everyone has that chance, thatyou don’t have to go to art school to becomean artist,” she said. “With anything in life, thehardest part is simply getting out the door.”

Hayesville• Goldhagen Studio

828.389.8847www.goldhagenartglass.com

• Morning Song Studio828.389.2880www.morningsong-studio.com

• St. Pierre Wood Pottery 828.389.6639

Highlands • Ann Jacob Gallery

828.526.5550 • www.annjacob.com • Bascom

828.526.4949 • www.thebascom.org

• CK Swan and Harllee Gallery828.526.2083 • www.ckswan.com

• Hen House828.787.2473www.facebook.com/thehenhousehighlands

• Highlands Fine Art and Estate Jewelry Inc.828.526.0656www.highlandsfineart.com

• La Cagnina828.526.1947

• Mill Creek Gallery828.787.2021 • www.cystrainphotos.com

• Mountain Heritage828.526.5519

• Summer House and Tiger Mountain Woodworks828.526.5577www.summerhousehighlands.com

Maggie Valley• Different Drummer Pottery

828.926.3850www.differentdrummerpottery.com

Murphy• Appalachian Heritage

Crafters828.835.3500

• Artists Common828.835.9108

• Gallery 26828.539.0026www.gallery26.org

• Valley River Arts Gallerywww.valleyriverarts.com

Robbinsville• Bee Global Studio Gallery

828.479.8284 • www.beeglow.com • Creative Impulses –

“The Little Art Studio”828.479.6135

• Stecoah Valley Cultural Arts Center828.479.3364www.stecoahvalleycenter.com

• Stecoah Valley Weavers828.479.3939

• Wood Gallery 828.479.9373www.robertwoodsgallery.com

• Yellow Branch Pottery and Cheese828.479.6710www.yellowbranch.com

Art+Culture

GALLERIES

“With anything inlife, the hardest partis simply getting outthe door.”

— Jenny Buckner

“Timeless Pink III,” by Jenny Buckner.

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WNCTravel 2015 27

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www.WNCTravel.com28

SLEEP INN BRYSON CITY1/2 Mile to Bryson City Railroad Depot

500 VETERANS BLVD. BRYSON CITY, NC

TOLL FREE: 866-939-0998LOCAL: 828-488-0326

Guests enjoy free hot breakfast buffet, brand new 32” flat panel LCD televisions, free wireless internet,

seasonal outdoor swimming pool and access to on-site coin laundry facilities.

www.sleepinnbrysoncitync.com

We also offer packages to ride the Great SmokyMountains Railroad, or to go rafting at Nantahala

Outdoor Center (please book in advance). We also offer the train and rafting tickets individually.

Bryson City, NCMicrotelBrysonCity.com828.488.7900

AMENITIES INCLUDE:

Free Continental BreakfastHigh Speed Internet

Interior Corridors Flat Panel Televisions

1 Mile to GSMR8 Miles to Cherokee CasinoCoffee Makers, Microwaves,and Refrigerators in SuitesGuest Laundry Available

Bryson Citywww.greatsmokies.com

Sylva• Fiery Gizzard Pottery and Studio Gallery

828.631.1582 • www.fierygizzard.com• Gallery One — Jackson County Arts Council

828.507.4248 • www.gallery1sylva.blogspot.com• It’s By Nature

828.631.3020 • www.itsbynature.com • Terri Clark Photography

828.586.4455 • www.terriclarkphotography.com

Waynesville• Art on Depot Studio & Gallery

828.246.0218 • www.facebook.com/artondepot• Blue Owl Studio and Gallery

828.456.9596• Burr Studio and Gallery

828.456.7400 • www.facebook.com/burrstudionc• Cedar Hill Studio

800.456.1590 • www.cedarhillstudio.com• Earthworks Gallery

828.452.9500 • www.earthworksgalleries.com• Frog Level Studio

828.729.1439 • www.facebook.com/froglevelstudio• Gallery 86 — Haywood County Arts Council

828.452.0593 • www.haywoodarts.org • Grace Cathey’s Sculpture Garden and Gallery

828.508.4276 • www.gracecathey.com • Great Smokies Creations

828.452.4757www.greatsmokiescreations.blogspot.com

• Jeweler’s Workbench828.456.2260

• Leapin’ Frog Gallery828.456.8441 • www.facebook.com/leapinfroggallery

• Mahogany House Art Gallery & Studios828.246.0818 • www.themahoganyhouse.com

• Mud Dabbers Pottery 828.456.1916 • www.muddabbers.com

• Rodwell Gallery at the Performing Arts Center828.456.6322 • www.harttheatre.com

• T. Pennington Art Gallery828.452.9284 • www.tpennington.com

• Twigs and Leaves828.456.1940 • www.twigsandleaves.com

• Village Framer828.452.0823

Art+CultureGALLERIES

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Located at the southern end of the the Asheville Ale Trail in the former townhall and fire department in Franklin, Lazy Hiker Brewing

Company is crafting beer and community that are freshand honest. Come and make yourself comfortable in

our tap room or on our outdoor patio.

We are kid and pet friendly, provide Wi-fi andhave a food truck on site. We also offer brewerytours. Check our website for the entertainment

lineup on our indoor and outdoor stages.

LazyHikerBrewing.com

188 West Main Street, Franklin NC 28734 828.349.BEER (2337) LazyHikerBrewing.com

Find YOUR BALANCE of

Rest&Adventure

in ANDREWS, MURPHY & BRASSTOWN, N.C.

Hiking • Fishing • Outdoor AdventuresScenic Byways • Canoeing • Walking Trails

Festivals • Quaint ShopsJohn C. Campbell Folk School

Fine Arts & Local Crafts • Dining

• 828-557-0602 •VisitCherokeeCountyNC.com

FIRSTFRIDAYS May-October

Downtown MurphyArtist Demos, Live Music,

Wine Tastings, Food & More

Free Admission

Page 31: WNC Travel Guide 2015

31

Over the hills and far away

Taking a left off U.S. 64 onto SettawigRoad in rural Clay County, the busycommercial thoroughfare trans-forms into lush farmland. The

mountain air gets sweeter, soothing latespring sunshine spilling into the open win-dows of your vehicle.

A few miles down the winding road, youenter the tiny community of Brasstown, withits one gas station and handful of buildings.You take another left and cross a bridge intoCherokee County. And though that bridgemay just seemingly provide transport overthe waters of Brasstown Creek, one will soonunderstand that the threshold is more thanmeets the eye.

Across a vast meadow is the John C.Campbell Folk School. And though you may

be in the middle of nowhere in WesternNorth Carolina, you’re actually at the centerof the universe.

“There is nothing like this on earth. Thisplace opens up, sparks and reawakens peo-ple,” said Pam East, a metal jewelry/clay in-structor. “You’re in this beautiful setting,you’re not in the thick of life, you’re awayfrom all the things that distract you. Beingwith people is important, connecting withpeople is important, and here, you do that.”

Specializing in an array of year-roundweeklong courses, the 300-acre Folk School,established in 1925, attracts people fromevery corner of the globe. Students spendtheir days immersed in their chosen course,which reads like a “Pick Your Own Adven-ture” book where one can take black-smithing or broom making, mandolin orpottery, wood-burning or jewelry.

“The Folk School is a restorative thing, itbalances you out and makes you feel

human,” said Marketing Man-ager Keather Gougler. “We’recurious by nature and thesefolks coming here are curiousabout themselves and theircreative potential.”

“We all have a built-in mem-ory of how to do these skills,how to use our hands to cre-ate,” added Jan Davidson, di-rector of the Folk School.“Humans have been doingthese things for so long, andwe’ve also been separated fromthese things for so long, too, sowhen you get in touch with itagain, it’s in your soul, your in-tuition of being a human.”

Stepping into one of theclassrooms, a wood-burningcourse is nearing the end oftheir morning session. At anearby table, student Jim Davis

is working on an owl design. Hailing fromLouisiana, Davis figured he’s taken over 50weeklong courses at the Folk School sincefirst coming to Brasstown in 1992.

“I’ve taken cooking classes, basket weav-ing, rock hunting,” he said. “What’s not tolike about this place? It’s as close to heavenas I’ll ever get.”

And for Davidson, he’s already working onwhat’s next for the Folk School. It’s about al-ways keeping one foot firm in tradition, onein the progressive evolution and creativespirit that embodies the institution.

“We’re going to build a walk-in silo kalei-doscope. To tell you the truth, we don’t yetknow how it will exactly work, but we’regoing to build it,” he confidently chuckled.

Art+Culture

“We all have a built-in memory of how to do these skills, how to use our hands to create ... when you get in touch with it again, it’s in your soul, your intuitionof being a human.”

— Jan Davidson, director, John C. Campbell Folk School

Painting en plein air at the John C.Campbell Folk School in Brasstown.

John C. Campbell Folk School photo

WNCTravel 2015

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www.WNCTravel.com32

• Andrews Art MuseumExhibits and galleries featuring local

and regional artists.

Corner of Chestnut and

Third streets, Andrews.

828.360.5071

www.andrewsvalleyarts.com

• Canton Area Historical MuseumDisplays focusing on the cultural

history of Canton and Haywood

County.

36 Park Street, Canton

828.646.3412

www.cantonnc.com

• Cherokee County Historical MuseumArtifacts and exhibits showcasing

the Cherokee Indians, local history

and artisans.

87 Peachtree Street, Murphy

828.837.6792

www.cherokeecounty-nc.gov

• Clay County Historical & Arts Council MuseumDisplays exhibiting the history, art

and people of the area.

21 Davis Loop, Hayesville

828.389.6814 • www.clayhistoryarts.org

• Franklin Gem & Mineral MuseumExtensive exhibits on the region’s

gems and minerals.

25 Phillips Street, Franklin

828.369.7831

www.fgmm.org

• Graham County Museum of Prehistoric RelicsA collection of prehistoric artifacts

from North, South and Central

America.

3204 Fontana Road, Fontana Dam

828.479.3677

www.thehikeinn.com

• Highlands Museum & Historical VillageA village composed of several re-

stored buildings, with historical ex-

hibits in the museum.

524 North 4th Street, Highlands

828.787.1050

www.highlandshistory.com

• Junaluska Memorial & MuseumDisplays dedicated to preserving

Cherokee Indian history

and culture.

1 Junaluska Drive, Robbinsville

828.479.4727

• Macon County Historical Society & MuseumAntiques and artifacts showcasing

the history of Macon and Western

North Carolina.

36 West Main Street, Franklin

828.524.9758

www.maconnchistorical.org

• Mountain Farm MuseumCollection of historical log buildings

and artifacts.

150 U.S. 441 North,

Oconaluftee Visitor Center

423.436.1200

www.nps.gov/grsm

• Mountain Heritage CenterExtensive displays of Western North

Carolina and Southern Appalachian

history.

150 H.F. Robinson Building, Western

Carolina University, Cullowhee

828.227.7129

www.wcu.edu

• Museum of American Cut & Engraved GlassExhibits presenting one of the finest

collections of its kind in the world.

472 Chestnut Street, Highlands

828.526.3415

www.ashevilleguidebook.com

Windows to the past — WNC museums

Although the rich history and culture ofWestern North Carolina is alive and thrivingthrough the hands of our local artisans andperformers, there are also numerous museumshere preserving and perpetuating theheritage of Southern Appalachia. Thesebuildings each pay homage to the crafts,sounds and deeply-held traditions of theseancient mountains and its people.

Art+Culture

Wheels Through Time museum, Maggie Valley. Max Cooper photos Museum of the Cherokee Indian.

Page 33: WNC Travel Guide 2015

WNCTravel 2015 33

ASK MICHELLELocal questions about real estate?

Michelle [email protected]

at 74 N. Main Street in Downtown Waynesville. Michelle will be happy to help

area she calls home.

Buy Haywood at farmers markets, tailgates, christmas tree farms

& so much more!Buy Haywood's Uniquely Local

Project received support from the NC ADFP Trust Fund

BuyHaywood.com

• Museum of the Cherokee Indian Large exhibits showcasing the extensive and intricate tribe history.589 Tsali Boulevard, Cherokee828.497.3481 • www.cherokeemuseum.org

• Museum of North Carolina HandicraftsFeaturing unique works from some of the state’smost acclaimed artisans.49 Shelton Street, Waynesville828.452.1551 • www.sheltonhouse.org

• Ruby City Gems MuseumThousands of gem and mineral specimens on display.131 East Main Street, Franklin828.524.3967 • www.rubycity.com

• Scottish Tartans MuseumExhibit on Scottish history and culture abroad andin Western North Carolina.86 East Main Street, Franklin828.524.7472 • www.scottishtartans.org

• Wheels Through Time MuseumRare and extensive collection of vintage motorcycles and classic automobiles.62 Vintage Lane, Maggie Valley828.926.6266www.wheelsthroughtime.com

• World Methodist MuseumArtifacts and memorabilia celebrating founderJohn Wesley and the worldwide religion.575 Lakeshore Drive, Lake Junaluska828.456.9432www.worldmethodistcouncil.org

Shelton House, Waynesville.

Scottish Tartans Museum, Franklin.

Page 34: WNC Travel Guide 2015

www.WNCTravel.com34

Raft - Zip - Staywww.wildwater.info877-247-5536

Page 35: WNC Travel Guide 2015

WNCTravel 2015 35

828-369-2881SmokyMtnBikes.com

SALES • SERVICERENTALS

Group Rides & FREE Trail Maps

Trek, Strider & Waterford Dealer

31 EAST MAIN ST.DOWNTOWN FRANKLIN

(FORMER PEOPLE'S BUILDING)

1978-28

www.WNCTravel.com

All your travelneeds

in one place

All your travelneeds

in one placeJuly 23 – 26, 2015Gold, Silver,

Gem Stones, Minerals & More

Robert C Carpenter Community Building1288 Georgia Road

50th Annual Macon County

Gemboree

50th Annual Macon County

Gemboree

Cooking Demos, Vendors, Crafters,

Entertainment & Cruise InSaturday Car Show

7th AnnualAugust 7 & 8, 2015Macon County

Fairgrounds1436 Georgia Road, Franklin

Franklinwww.franklin-chamber.com

Page 36: WNC Travel Guide 2015

www.WNCTravel.com36

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

Nancy Tut’s Christmas Shop

since 1969

Southern style food and lodging. A Southern tradition since 1884.(828) 586-0265 • TOLL FREE (800) 972-5623 • www.jarretthouse.com

1978-42

TheJarrettHouse100 HAYWOOD ST.DILLSBORO, NC

ChickenSteak - Ribs

Salads & Sandwiches

489 Haywood Road, Dillsboro NC | 828 631-0777Daily Homemade Specials

Let your smartphonebe your guide!• Find restaurants nearby• Read descriptions and explore menus• View photos and interactive maps

It’s that simple!

MountainEats.com

Monkey Toes

130 Front St. • Dillsboro • 828.631.0900

Finding the out of the ordinary gift for the out of

the ordinary soul

Featuring Darn Tough

SocksGuaranteed

For Life the Cushe Slipper

&

10% OFF ENTIRE PURCHASE WITH THIS AD

Dogwood CraftersOPEN ALL YEAR

Dogwood Crafters Cooperativehas been a showcase of

handmade traditional mountaincrafts, as well as a treasure ofmemorable gifts since 1976!

90 WEBSTER ST.DILLSBORO, NC

(828) 586-2248DOGWOODCRAFTERS.COM

1978

-41

Dillsboro www.visitdillsboro.org

Page 37: WNC Travel Guide 2015

WNCTravel 2015 37

Home of the 1061 carat sapphirefound at GOLD CITY GEM MINE,

featured in PEOPLE WEEKLY, DISNEYADVENTURES and ROCK & GEM

Magazines and appraised at $40,000!

We have Native and Enriched Gemstonesbuckets. We also have Gold Panning. New and

Improved large covered flume for Gem Mining rainor shine. New inside heated flume for cold days.

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

for Hours. Tour buses group ratesavailable. Bring your rough stones in for

a free inspection and cuttingfrom our professional team in

our jewelry store.

Home of the1061 Carat

Sapphire!

9410 Sylva Rd. • Highway 441 N, Franklin, NC800.713.7767 or 828.369.3905 www.GoldCityAmusement.com

GOLD CITY GEM MINE828.631.4466 • YOURGNOMETOWNBREWERY.COM • MON.-SAT. • 545 MILL ST. DOWNTOWN SYLVA, NC

E

2004

Tap Room & Brewery

Flights, Pints & GrowlersSnacks available,

feel free to bring a picnic or order from a local restaurant!

Pet Friendly, Kid Friendly

1978-65

Page 38: WNC Travel Guide 2015

The park has more than 100 species oftrees and 4,000 species of plants. Somepeople say if you throw a rock and thentrace its path, you’re likely to walk by at least30 different kinds of trees.

The Great Smoky Mountains National Parkencompasses more than 500,000 acres, mak-ing it the largest national park in the East.

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

Oconaluftee Visitor CenterAlong with knowledgeable rangers who can

help you plan your time in the park, fabulous

exhibits will take you back in time among the

early settlers and Cherokee who called these

mountains home.

The visitor center chronicles the culture and

history of the Smokies, from exhibits on the

Civil War in the Smokies to moonshine mak-

ing.

Located on U.S. 441 at the North Carolina

entrance to the park, north of Cherokee and

near the terminus of the Blue Ridge Parkway.

828.497.1904.

Mountain Farm MuseumThis stroll through an historic Appalachian

farm offers a window on the ingenuity and

self-reliance of early mountain people and

Cherokee. A blacksmith shop to make every-

thing from barn door hinges to horseshoes, a

spring house to keep milk and butter cool, and

sundry buildings for storing the food they

raised, from corn cribs to apple houses to

smoke houses. The outhouse is a guaranteed

eye-opener for kids.

Located at the entrance to the park on U.S.

441 just north of Cherokee.

Deep Creek Enjoy a little of everything at Deep Creek.

Hiking to waterfalls, picnicking, mountain bik-

ing, camping and what Deep Creek is famous

for: tubing. Several outfitters rent inner tubes

for just a few dollars to float all day in the

creek. This is a fantastic place to visit for a few

hours because you can do so many different

activities without having to go to different

places. If you are in the Bryson City area, treat

yourself to a visit.

www.WNCTravel.com38

Outdoors+Recreation

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park has an amazing array of mini-ecosystems withinits borders — from peaks over 6,000 feet to low valleys, from moist densely forested coves todry meadows. A walk from mountain base to peak compares with traveling 1,250 miles northto south. Several resident plants and animals live only in the Smokies.

Seizing the SmokiesMark Haskett photo

Page 39: WNC Travel Guide 2015

Mingus MillThe rumble of mill stones, the whistle of

corn meal sliding down the wooden shoot, the

slap-slap-slap of water falling over the giant

paddle wheel. Explore this historic site just

one mile from the park entrance on U.S. 441

north of Cherokee.

Clingmans DomeA paved half-mile trail leads to a soaring

lookout tower atop the highest peak in the

Smokies. At 6,643 feet, the panoramic view

offers spectacular scenery and is one of the

best examples of the region’s famed blue

mountain ridges marching endlessly across

the horizon. The tower features a spiraling

375-foot ramp to the top.

Cataloochee ValleyHistory and nature intersect in this pictur-

esque meadow, a long, narrow valley cradled

by mountains on all sides. An elk herd has

been re-introduced into the park and calls the

valley home. Cataloochee Valley is also home

to a former mountain settlement, with intact

farm houses, churches, schoolhouse and

cemeteries that can be toured by car and

hikes. Pick up an interpretive brochure at the

campground on the left after you get to the

valley that describes the historic buildings.

Big CreekThis relatively isolated area is a favorite of

locals, with a campground, bathroom, picnic

area and jumping off point for some great

hikes into the Smokies, including the all-day

hike up to Mount Cammerer lookout tower.

One of the coldest, clearest swimming holes

in the Smokies — aptly named Midnight Hole

— is a short one-mile hike up the wide Big

Creek Trail.

WNCTravel 2015 39

Festival Director: Joe Sam Queen | 828-452-1688

www.smokymountainfolkfestival.com

Paid for in part by the Haywood CountyTourism Development Authority.

1-800-334-9036www.visitncsmokies.com

Sept. 4 – 5, 2015Open Tent Show

5-6:30 p.m.Main Stage Indoor Show

6:30-11p.m.

45thAnnual

Nature

AGalleryWHEREArtDances

WITH

98 N. MAIN ST. • WAYNESVILLE NC • MON.-SAT.10-5:30 • SUN. 1-4828.456.1940 • WWW.TWIGSANDLEAVES.COM

JACK STERN: OIL ON CANVAS

Clingmans Dome.

Page 40: WNC Travel Guide 2015

www.WNCTravel.com40

Page 41: WNC Travel Guide 2015

Waterrock Knob Visitors Center,milemarker 451A must for Parkway travelers. Stop

here to get recommendations from

park rangers on things to do and see,

plus pick up a free Parkway map and

browse the bookstore. Views are fab-

ulous if you are looking for a picnic

spot. Also, there is a one-mile hike to

the summit of Waterrock Knob. Inter-

esting fact: the visitor center is pow-

ered by solar panels.

Richland Balsam, milemarker 432The views are great all along the Park-

way, but there’s even a milestone

achievement available for those don’t

want to hike but prefer just getting

out of their car to take a picture, enjoy

the view, or have a picnic. Just about

halfway between the Balsam Gap

(U.S. 23/74) and N.C. 215 entrance to

the Parkway, near milepost 432, is the

Parkway’s highest point (6,053 feet),

which is marked with a large sign and

a great overlook. Just a mile away at

milepost 431 is the Richland-Balsam

Self-Guiding Trail, which is just one

mile long and meanders through a

spruce-fir forest. You’ll top out at an

elevation of 6,410 feet, the 10th high-

est peak in the Eastern U.S.

Devil’s Courthouse, milemarker 422 This one-mile round-trip trail leads to

the top of stunning rock formation, a

giant pedestal that seems to rise up

magically from the mountains around

it and makes you feel like you’re on

top of the world looking out. Despite

the sheer drop off all around you, rock

walls provide a sense of safety — just

don’t hop over them or let kids climb

on the edge. Ecologically, visitors

should stay off the cliff face, which is

home to peregrine falcons and endan-

gered rock-clinging lichens and plant

life. The trail is steep but paved, mak-

ing it accessible to anyone if you take

it slow and steady.

Sam’s Knob, milemarker 420 Stellar hiking trails lead into the Shin-

ing Rock Wilderness, passing over

grassy balds, rock outcrops, high ele-

vation streams and fir forests. The

area is riddled with trails, some of

which extend for miles into the Shining

Rock Wilderness, so if you don’t have a

map, watch the way you came care-

fully. To reach the parking area, turn

down a gravel forest service road.

Upper Falls at Graveyard Fields, milemarker 419 A high-elevation bowl is home to two

waterfalls, a swimming hole and crys-

tal clear rocky stream. Unlike the

dense forests that engulf most hiking

trails in the Smokies, this area is de-

fined by open meadows.

Mt. Pisgah (5,749 feet)Near milepost 408, this mountain

with the Biblical name used to be part

of the George Vanderbilt Estate (the

man who built Biltmore Estate). A

parking area is well marked, and the

hike is only about a mile but it is rela-

tively strenuous to the platform atop

the mountain. Once there, however,

the 360-degree views are fabulous.

Nearby campground and one of the

only restaurants on the Parkway at

the Pisgah Inn.

WNCTravel 2015 41

Outdoors+RecreationBlue Ridge Parkway serves up the best of the mountains

The Blue Ridge Parkway is a National Parkway andAll-American Road that winds for 469 miles from thesouthern end of Shenandoah National Park’s SkylineDrive in Virginia to U.S. 441 at Oconaluftee in the

Great Smoky Mountains National Park near Cherokee.It’s hard to get lost on the Blue Ridge Parkway. It only goes

in two directions — north or south. Short, wooden posts alongthe edge of the road mark off each mile — the entire length ofthe Parkway — making it easy to know exactly where you are.The milemarker is listed for the recommended stops on theParkway below, and should be easy to find by watching themileposts. Hint: the numbers get bigger as you go south, sothe end of the Parkway in Cherokee is mile 469.

The Parkway boasts more than 200 overlooks and morethan 100 trails. The local section of the Parkway runs fromthe southern end in Oconaluftee to the Pisgah Inn on theHaywood, Transylvania County line. Along this stretch ofscenic road you’ll find highlights such as the Parkway’shighest elevation overlook at Richland Balsam (6,053 feet)(views of Cold Mountain made famous by author CharlesFrazier), Waterrock Knob, Oconaluftee Visitors Center, andDevil’s Courthouse Trail.

The Parkway is made for exploring. Here are few suggestedhighlights in our region. Remember, it’s all about the journey,not the destination.

STOPS

David Simchock photo

Page 42: WNC Travel Guide 2015

EasyPanthertown ValleyPanthertown Valley is a 6,700-acre area in the Nan-

tahala National Forest. It’s been nicknamed “the

Yosemite of the East” and is home to granite domes,

waterfalls, valley floors and rare high altitude bogs,

as well as the headwaters for Greenland and Pan-

thertown Creeks and the East Fork of the Tuck-

asegee River. Trails abound and primitive overnight

camping and catch-and-release fishing is allowed.

Horsepasture River TrailThis out and back three-mile hike in Sapphire offers

outstanding view of four large waterfalls and good

camping along the way. The trail can be a little

gnarly. Use extreme caution when viewing water-

falls, particularly Rainbow Falls, which can be

viewed from the top. Falls are slippery and that

closer look just isn’t worth the type of injuries that

may occur. The trailhead is located approximately 10

miles east of Cashiers.

Boogerman TrailThis 3.8 mile loop hike in the Great Smoky Moun-

tains National Park takes you past old growth hem-

locks and Robert “Booger” Palmer’s home place

(hence the name). There’s plenty of creek views and

wildflowers. Nearly a mile in, you’ll see a sign for

Boogerman Trail. To avoid a relentless and steep

climb, continue further up Caldwell Fork Trail and

take the upper loop of Boogerman Trail. The hike

begins near the Cataloochee campground.

Wayah BaldNear Franklin in Macon County, this paved trail suit-

able for the handicapped leads to the Wayah Bald

lookout tower, which is a National Historic Landmark

offering , panoramic views of the area. The Ap-

palachian Trail and Bartram Trail intersect at the tower.

42

Nantahala National ForestLegend has it that sunlight can only reach

the floors of the rich cove forests or touchthe ribbons of water that course throughthe gorges of the wild and scenic NantahalaForest at noon when the sun is directlyoverhead. Created in 1920, Nantahala is thelargest of the four national forests in NorthCarolina, covering just over half-a-millionacres.

The Nantahala National Forest isrenowned for whitewater, mountain bikingand camping and hiking. The AppalachianTrail, Bartram’s Trail and the Mountains-to-the-Sea Trail all meander through the forest.Of course with more than 600 miles of trailsthere are plenty of dayhikes and short strolls.

There are more than 27,000 acres of des-

ignated wilderness in the Nantahala. Theseinclude Ellicott Rock, Joyce Kilmer/Slick-rock and the Southern Nantahala Wilder-ness. The Joyce Kilmer Memorial Forestand the Joyce Kilmer/Slickrock WildernessArea is one of the most beautiful old growthforests in the east. It was set aside in 1936 inorder of its namesake poet and author of“Trees” who was killed in action in Franceduring World War I.

www.fs.fed.us

Pisgah National ForestThe Pisgah National Forest began as a

part of George Vanderbilt’s private estate.The area west of Vanderbilt’s Asheville Bilt-more Estate was sold to the federal govern-ment after his death in 1914. These acresbecame the first tracts of the now half-mil-

lion-acre Pisgah National Forest. Pisgah is home to the Shining Rock

Wilderness Area, Max Patch, the HarmonDen Bear Preserve, the Cradle of Forestryand Sliding Rock.

Vanderbilt’s forests were the birthplace ofmodern forestry in this country. A glimpseof that birth is available at the forest’s6,500-acre National Historic Site at TheCradle of Forestry. Let the Cradle rock youback to the turn of the 20th century. Strollalong the mile-long Biltmore Campus Trailand talk to the town blacksmith or othercrafters while they ply their trades. Visit the“campus” of the first forestry school inAmerica begun in 1898 by Carl Schenk atthe behest of Vanderbilt and take a peek in-side the Biltmore Forest School.

www.fs.fed.us

Into the great wide open

Outdoors+RecreationHiking is one of the best ways to get out andcommune with nature. With a quiet step you standa great chance of seeing some of the multitude ofwildlife Western North Carolina has to offer.

There are hikes for all kinds — climbs along the rocks to a high mountainwaterfalls, casual strolls to expansive mountain views, all-day treks out intothe wilderness and brisk jaunts to perfect picnic places. Wherever you go,try making part of your hike a “soft walk.” Tread quietly and use your sensesto experience the world around you without talking. If you see somethingworth pointing out, communicate without speech. The process will help youtune in to nature and how it communicates with us.

When hiking, you know best what you’re looking for and what you’re ca-pable of — injuries happen when you take on too much or get too tired.Find a hike that suits your tastes and skills.

HIKES

Page 43: WNC Travel Guide 2015

WNCTravel 2015 43

Joyce Kilmer Memorial TrailJoyce Kilmer Forest, the last remnant of virgin for-

est in the Southern Appalachians, offers a spectacu-

lar 2-mile loop trail. Near Robbinsville.

MediumHemphill BaldThe Loop hike at Hemphill Bald is 13.7 miles in total,

but just 4.7 miles in will get you to the Bald. The bald

was named after a pioneer family.

Tsali Recreation AreaLocated in Graham County the Tsali Recreation Area

is known for its excellent trails. Hikers, bikers and

horses all must share, but a bike/horse usage

schedule keeps down the melee. Hikers may use any

trail at any time. The Thompson Loop and Mouse

Branch Loop are billed as easy to moderate and

good for families.

Looking Glass RockThis 6-mile hike through the Pisgah National Forest

travels first through small cove, then steeply up the

backside of Looking Glass Rock through many

switchbacks, hardwood forests, Carolina hemlocks.

At the top of the trail there are cliffs providing views

of Pisgah Ridge from Mt. Pisgah toward the Shining

Rock/Black Balsam Area and the valleys below.

HardShining Rock Wilderness AreaShining Rock became one of the original

components of the Wilderness System in September

1964. A series of high ridges extends east and west

from the north-south oriented Shining Rock Ledge.

There are three main access points for trails within

this wilderness. First and foremost is the Black

Balsam area near the Blue Ridge Parkway. Although

this is not part of the wilderness itself, the Art Loeb

(moderate) and Ivestor Gap (easy) trails lead into

the wilderness area from here.

Mount Sterling Gap TrailThis low ridge trail begins at Mt. Sterling Gap on

Cataloochee-Big Creek Road. It’s only 2.8 miles to

the firetower, but is rated extremely strenuous be-

cause of a 2,000-foot climb in 2.3 miles along an

old jeep trail to the ridge just below the firetower.

This firetower is one of three remaining in the Park.

There are several excellent lookouts from the trail

prior to reaching the main ridge, but the view from

the tower is unequalled in the park.

Fontana to WesserThis 30-mile hike along the Appalachian Trail is full

of ups and downs. There are shelters along the way,

and in the end you’ll find yourself at the Nantahala

Outdoor Center. Or do the hike in reverse and end

at Fontana Dam. To learn more about the Ap-

palachian Trail visit www.appalachiantrail.org.

Some hike recommendations courtesy of DannyBernstein, author of Hiking the Carolina Mountains.

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Page 44: WNC Travel Guide 2015

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Mountain biking

This is one of the fastestgrowing recreationalactivities in the Smokies, oneeasily witnessed by all thevehicles with mountain bikesstrapped to the back or top.Pretty straightforward as towhy so many partake of thissport: the Smokies containsome of the best bike trailsanywhere. Here are thepopular spots:

Tsali Recreation AreaThis is the granddaddy of Western North

Carolina mountain biking, boasting 40 milesof trails on four loops. Rated as one of top 10places to ride in the U.S. Fast, hard-packedsingletrack, and you can’t go wrong with anyof the loops. Off N.C. 28 past Bryson City, orif coming from Robbinsville N.C. 143 untilyou reach N.C. 28, go east. Entrance onnorth side of N.C. 28, well-marked.

The Santeetlah Lake TrailA 15-mile

trail open tomountainbikes, horses,and hikers.The trail fol-lows a numberof open andgated ForestService roadswith a shortportion of sin-gle-track. Largesections of thetrail hug the

shoreline of Lake Santeetlah offering beauti-ful mountain lake views. The primary trail-head is located at the intersection of N.C.143 (N.C. 1127) and Snowbird Road 

Jackrabbit MountainLocated next to the huge Jackrabbit

Campground at Lake Chatuge, this 14-miletrail system is gaining popularity fast. Mostlyflat with rolling dips and berms and just afew technical areas. At Lake Chatuge get onN.C. 175, turn onto Jackrabbit Road, signedparking area on left.

Western CarolinaUniversity Trail

Recently opened 6.6 miles of singletrackacross the street from main WCU campus inCullowhee. Challenging but relatively short.The trail system has two trailheads. One islocated near the softball field and picnicarea on WCU main campus, east of N.C. 107.Trail users then travel through the pedes-trian tunnel under 107 and access the trailon NCCAT property. The second trailheadis located at the parking lot of the Healthand Human Sciences building.

Bent Creek, AshevilleLocated near where N.C. 191 intersects the

Blue Ridge Parkway and I-26, this favoriteamong Asheville locals because of its prox-imity to this outdoors-loving city. Lots ofhardpacked singletrack with very few tech-nical sections, great place for beginner to in-termediate riders and for children.

www.mtbikewnc.com.

Dupont State ParkLocated near Brevard, this has become

one of the premier destinations in the re-gion. 10,000 acres of trails, waterfalls, andrivers. Great spot with numerous trailheads.www.dupontforest.com.

Pisgah National ForestHundreds of miles of trails for bikers,

some of it among the most technical in theregion. For information on specific trails andtrailheads, visit www.mtbikewnc.com.

Outdoors+Recreation

Max

Coo

per

phot

o

Page 45: WNC Travel Guide 2015

WNCTravel 2015 45

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Page 47: WNC Travel Guide 2015

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CRAFT BEER BOTTLE SHOP • LOGO WEAR • UNIQUE GIFTS & DECOR

Come experience what happens when

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As you explore Western North Carolina,

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Page 48: WNC Travel Guide 2015

48

Swinging for the Smokies

T here’s nothing like playing around of golf at high elevationto quicken the blood and makeyou feel alive. Golf courses in

Western North Carolina have attitude aswell as altitude, challenging golfers inthe most gorgeous of settings.

In this mountain region, there are ahandful of top-notch public courses, in-cluding the Sequoyah National in Chero-kee (designed by Robert Trent Jones II)and the historic 27 holes at WaynesvilleInn, Golf Resort and Spa. In the Cashiersarea of Jackson County, the scenic HighHampton Inn is regarded as one of themost picturesque courses in the country.

Other public area golf courses include:

• Cherokee Hills Golf ClubMurphy828.837.5853

• Franklin Golf CourseFranklin828.524.2288 • www.franklingolfcourse.com

• The Golf Club at Mill CreekFranklin828.524.4653www.thegolfclubatmillcreek.com

• High Hampton Inn & Country ClubCashiers800.334.2551 • www.highhamptoninn.com

• Lake Junaluska Golf CourseLake Junaluska800.222.4930 • www.lakejunaluska.com

• Maggie Valley Club & ResortMaggie Valley 855.467.2430 • www.maggievalleyclub.com

• The Ridges Golf ClubHayesville828.233.5273 • www.theridgesgolfclub.com

• Sequoyah National Golf ClubWhittier828.497.3000 • www.sequoyahnational.com

• Smoky Mountain Country ClubWhittier800.474.0070 • www.smokymountaincc.com

• Springdale Country ClubCanton800.553.3027 • www.springdalegolf.com

• Waynesville Inn, Golf Resort and SpaWaynesville800.627.6250 • www.wccinn.com

The Waynesville Inn,Golf Resort & Spa

When asked why he lovesWestern North Carolina,Travis Smith had to pausefor a moment.

“Well, that’s a good question,” hechuckled. “It’s special to me because I’vebeen here most of my life. I love themountains, the people. You’re away fromthe cities, from all the traffic and noise.”

Director of Golf at The WaynesvilleInn, Smith oversees the day-to-daycourse operations, making sure localsand visitors who eagerly arrive to playalso leave ready to come back for more.

“My job is to make sure everything istaken care of to ensure you have a greattime out there,” he said.

The property houses three 9-holecourses. “Blue Ridge” and “Dogwood”are more mountainous, while “Carolina”is flatter. These variations provide challenges for seasoned pros and easy-to-navigate playing surfaces fornovice golfers.

“What’s really attractive on ourcourses is that they aren’t extremelylong,” Smith said. “A lot of new coursesbeing built are very long and that can betoo much. Our courses give families,kids and older folks a chance to reallycome out, play and have fun at theirown pace.”

Originally a dairy farm, The Way-nesville Inn, Golf Resort & Spa opened

in 1926 as the Waynesville CountryClub. The Carolina “9” was designed byDonald Ross, considered the most pro-lific golf architect in the history of thesport. Ross’ intent was to constructcourses that were not only challenging,but also accessible for all skill levels andaesthetically pleasing, too.

Playing host to the likes of PGA leg-ends Sam Snead, Chi-Chi Rodriquezand Arnold Palmer, the business hasmaintained an identity for decades as amountain destination for golf enthusi-asts and those simply looking to getaway from it all.

“With three courses and 27 holes, youcould play two days in a row and get adifferent combination of courses,” Smithsaid. “Our courses are for every level ofplayer — it’s all about having fun and en-joying yourself.”

Smith himself grew up in Waynesville.He was introduced to the game of golfand took his first lessons at the inn.

“I started coming here at an early age,around 9 years old, and took lessonsfrom golf pro Duane Page,” he said.

Now 38, it’s a full circle experience forSmith in now directing the golf opera-tions at the exact course where he gothis first taste of golf. And even thoughhe’s played those courses innumerabletimes, hitting the links and being sur-rounded by the 360-degree mountainviews doesn’t ever get stale for him.

“It never gets old,” he said. “I enjoy thescenery and having that fresh mountainair, to be able to play some golf and take time to make a birdie — it’s what it’sall about.”

Outdoors+Recreation

www.WNCTravel.com

Page 49: WNC Travel Guide 2015

WNCTravel 2015 49

Throwing caution to the wind

Alongside trail running, hiking and mountain biking,disc golf has become one ofthe most popular outdoor activities — it really is thatmuch fun. Western North Carolina is home to severalfantastic disc golf courses.Here are a handful of localfavorites, for beginners all theway up to expert levels:• Beginner — Catamount Links,

Western Carolina University, CullowheeIt’s pretty impossible for one to lose their disc on

this course. Looping around the athletic fields,

there are wide-open spaces and sparse tree lines.

Though there are only 13 holes, many of them are

extended in length, and a real treat to be able to

chuck your disc without fear of it disappearing.

• Intermediate — Waynesville Disc GolfCourse, Waynesville Recreation CenterThough plenty of holes are very welcoming for

beginners, there are definitely some difficult ones.

If you don’t know the 18-hole course, which can

be a little tricky to navigate, ask the center for a

complimentary map, or simply ask around (lots of

folks play this course).

• Advanced — Haywood Community College, ClydeTranquil, quiet course. Not too many folks around.

Holes meander into the woods, which surround

the school. Nice trails. The 18-holes are somewhat

challenging, but not too far out of reach for inter-

mediate players.

• Expert — Richmond Hill, AshevilleQuite possibly the most beloved disc golf course

in the region, it’s 18 holes of utter chaos looping

around a wooded mountain ridge. One hole

you’re throwing way uphill, the next it’s back

down the other side. Very challenging, but if

played with respect and caution (for intermediate

players), one can have the time of their lives out

there.

As well, there are also courses at HeritagePark (18) in Andrews; Bethel Elementary (9);Meadowbrook Elementary (9) in Canton;and Bear Lake Reserve (9) and the JacksonCounty Recreation Center (18), both in Cullowhee.

For more information on the sport andcourse locations, visit www.pdga.org.

Bro

oke

Pala

y ph

oto

Reelin’ in Appalachia — the WNC Fly Fishing Trail

All of Western North Carolina isrenowned for its fly fishing, andits reputation continues to grow.

Jackson County developed the first official,mapped fly fishing trail, which has also beenemulated by Swain County. And of course thereare plenty of outfitters and guides ready to takevisitors to the best fishing holes in the mountains.

Encompassing big rivers, small streams, easyaccess and backcountry hike-ins, the 15-spot trailwas the first of its kind in the United States.

For more information, visit www.flyfishingtrail.com.

For details on fishing in Swain County, visit www.greatsmokiesfishing.com.

Page 50: WNC Travel Guide 2015

www.WNCTravel.com50

Country VittlesRESTAURANT & GIFT SHOP

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Page 51: WNC Travel Guide 2015

WNCTravel 2015 51

CaféDeli & So Much More

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Page 52: WNC Travel Guide 2015

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Salads • SandwichesDaily Specials & and more!

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Page 53: WNC Travel Guide 2015

WNCTravel 2015 53

Ongoing• First/Third Thursdays — Community music jam,

Bryson City. www.fontanalib.org

• First Friday of the Month — Art After Dark,

Waynesville. Evening stroll of galleries, restau-

rants and breweries in downtown.

www.downtownwaynesville.com

• First Friday of the Month — Art Walk, Murphy.

Stroll downtown art galleries, restaurants and

shops. www.visitcherokeecountync.com

• Memorial Day through Labor Day — Concerts

on the Creek, Sylva. www.mountainlovers.com

• Memorial Day through September — Groovin’ on

the Green, Cashiers. www.visitcashiersvalley.com

• Memorial Day to Mid-October — Pickin’ on the

Square, Franklin. www.franklin-chamber.com

• Late May to Labor Day — Music on the River,

Cherokee. www.visitcherokeenc.com

• Early June to Labor Day — Pickin’ in the Park,

Canton. www.cantonnc.com

• Early June to Late October — Bryson City Train

Depot concert series. www.greatsmokies.com

• Mid-June to October — Friday Night Live, High-

lands. www.highlandschamber.org

• Late June to Labor Day — Saturdays on Pine

concert series, Highlands. www.highlandschamber.org

• Thanksgiving-Christmas Eve— Winter Fest,

Robbinsville. Arts and crafts fair with other events

and activities. www.townofrobbinsville.com

• Thanksgiving-Late December — Festival of

Trees, Cashiers. Visitors to the central park at the

Cashiers Crossroads enjoy twinkling lights and

festive decorations. The Village Green becomes

home to sparkling evergreens adorned by local

businesses and nonprofit organizations.

www.villagegreencashiersnc.com

• Month of December — Christmas in the Smokies,

Fontana Village Resort. www.fontanavillage.com

June• June 4-6 — Cherokee Bluegrass Festival.

www.adamsandandersonbluegrass.com

• June 6 — CarB-Que, Hayesville. Annual barbecue

celebration. www.ncmtnchamber.com

• June 6 — Art, River & Music Festival, Murphy.

Daylong event of live music, regional artists and

outdoor activities. www.cherokeeartscouncil.org

• June 11-14 — Highlands Motoring Festival. Clas-

sic car show, live music, food, tours, and more.

www.highlandsinfo.com

• June 13 — Wild & Scenic Film Festival, Highlands.

One of the nation’s premier environmental and

adventure film festivals. www.mountaintrue.org

• June 13 — Cherokee Voices Festival. Celebrate

Cherokee traditions with music, dance and story-

telling. www.visitcherokeenc.com

• June 13 — Appalachian Lifestyle Celebration,

Waynesville. Appalachian music, dance, crafts and

food. www.downtownwaynesville.com

• June 18-21 — Taste of Scotland Weekend,

Franklin. Celebrating the Scottish heritage in

Western North Carolina with music, food and

craft demonstrations. www.franklin-chamber.com

• June 20 — Front Street Arts & Crafts Show, Dills-

boro. www.visitdillsboro.org

• June 20-21 — PlottFest, Maggie Valley. Music, food,

crafts, clogging and trout fishing. www.plottfest.org

• June 20-21 — Highlands Village Square Art &

Craft Show. www.highlandsinfo.com

• June 26 — Mountain Street Dance, Waynesville.

Clogging and square dancing.

www.downtownwaynesville.com

• June 26-27 — Stecoah Artisans Drive About Stu-

dio Tour. Visit different artists’ studios and gal-

leries. www.stecoahvalleycenter.com

• June 27-28 — Mountain Artisans Arts and Craft

Show, Franklin. www.mountainartisans.net

• June 27-28 – Sapphire Valley Fine Art Show.

www.sapphirevalley.com

July• July 3-5 — Eastern Band of Cherokee Nation

Pow Wow. Traditional music, dance and culture

celebration. www.visitcherokeenc.com

• July 4 — Fourth of July Celebration, Andrews.

www.visitcherokeecountync.com

• July 4 — Stars & Stripes Celebration, Way-

nesville. www.downtownwaynesville.com

• July 4 — Fireworks Celebration, Highlands.

www.highlandsinfo.com

• July 4 — Red, White & Boom!, Maggie Valley

www.maggievalleyfestivalgrounds.org

• July 4 — Independence Day Fireworks, Murphy.

www.visitcherokeecountync.com

• July 4 — Lake Junaluska Fireworks Celebration.

www.lakejunaluska.com

• July 4 — Independence Day Parade/Celebration,

Hayesville. www.ncmtnchamber.com

Upcoming Events

The “Official North Carolina International FolkFestival,” Folkmoot USA is a two-week

celebration in July of world culture, where avariety of guest music and dance troupes perform

around Western North Carolina. Max Cooper photo

Page 54: WNC Travel Guide 2015

www.WNCTravel.com54

• July 4 — 4th of July Parade/Fireworks Celebra-

tion, Franklin. www.franklin-chamber.com

• July 4 — Fourth of July Celebration. Sylva.

www.jacksonnc.org/parks-and-recreation.html

• July 4 — Glenville Fireworks.

www.friendsoflakeglenville.com

• July 4 — 4th of July Fireworks Show, Cherokee.

www.nc-cherokee.com

• July 4 — Sapphire Valley Yankee Doodle Dandy

Day. www.sapphirevalley.com

• July 4 — Freedom Fest, Bryson City.

www.greatsmokies.com

• July 10 — Mountain Street Dance, Waynesville.

Clogging and square dancing.

www.downtownwaynesville.com

• July 10-12 — Festival on the Square, Hayesville.

Craft vendors, food, live music and other activi-

ties. www.ncmtnchamber.com

• July 11-12 — Maggie Valley Summer Arts & Crafts

Festival. www.maggievalley.org

• July 16-26 — Folkmoot USA. Two-week interna-

tional dance and music festival. Held throughout

Western North Carolina. www.folkmootusa.org

• July 18 — Arts & Crafts Market, Dillsboro.

www.visitdillsboro.org

• July 18 — ArtFest, Waynesville. Live music, dance,

art vendors and demonstrations.

www.downtownwaynesville.com

• July 18 — Franklin Folk Festival. Living exhibits of

authentic mountain living, food and entertain-

ment. www.franklinfolkfestival.com

• July 23-26 — Macon County Gemboree,

Franklin. Rough and cut gems, fine jewelry,

demonstrations. www.franklin-chamber.com

• July 24 — Mountain Street Dance, Waynesville.

Clogging and square dancing.

www.downtownwaynesville.com

• July 24-25 — Smokin’ in the Valley WNC BBQ

Festival, Maggie Valley. www.maggievalley.org

• July 31-Aug. 1 — Hillbilly Woodstock, Maggie

Valley. Celebrating Western North Carolina’s rich

musical history and heritage. www.maggievalley.org

August• Aug. 7 — Mountain Street Dance, Waynesville.

Clogging and square dancing.

www.downtownwaynesville.com

• Aug. 7-8 — Fines Creek Bluegrass Jam.

www.finescreek.org

• Aug. 7-8 — Mountain High BBQ Festival & Car

Show, Franklin. www.mountainhighbbqfestival.com

• Aug. 8-9 — Lake Logan Multisport Festival.

Triathlon. www.gloryhoundevents.com

• Aug. 8-9 — Sapphire Valley Fine Art Show.

www.sapphirevalley.com

• Aug. 14-16 — Maggie Valley Summer Rally. Music,

barbeque, bike shows. www.maggievalleyrallys.com

• Aug. 15 — Waynesville Beer Faire. Local and re-

gional craft beer festival. www.waynesvillebeer.com

• Aug. 15 — Blue Ridge Breakaway at Lake Ju-

naluska Conference and Retreat Center. An an-

nual cycling event in support of the initiatives of

the Haywood County Chamber of Commerce.

www.blueridgebreakaway.com

• Aug. 21 — Main Street Mile, Waynesville. One-

mile road race through downtown.

www.downtownwaynesville.com

• Aug. 29-30 — Highlands Village Square Art &

Craft Show. www.highlandsinfo.com

For more information aboutWNC, these websites and organizations will have themost up-to-date information:

• Asheville Area Chamber of Commerce

36 Montford Ave., Asheville, NC 28801

828.258.6101 • www.ashevillechamber.org

• Cashiers Chamber of Commerce

202 Highway 64 West, Cashiers, NC 28717,

828.743.5191 • www.cashiersareachamber.com

• Cherokee Chamber of Commerce

516 Tsali Road (US Hwy 441), Cherokee, NC

28719, 877.433.6700

www.cherokeesmokies.com

• Cherokee Visitor Center

PO Box 460, Cherokee, NC 28719

828.497.9195 • www.cherokee-nc.com

• Cherokee County Chamber of Commerce

805 Highway 64 West, Murphy, NC 28906,

828.837.2242

www.cherokeecountychamber.com

• Clay County Chamber of Commerce

388 Highway 64 Business, Hayesville, NC 28904

828.389.3704

www.claycounty-nc-chamber.com

• Downtown Waynesville Association

PO Box 1409, Waynesville, NC 28786

828.456.3517 • www.downtownwaynesville.com

• Franklin Chamber of Commerce

425 Porter St., Franklin, NC 28734

828.524.3161 • www.franklin-chamber.com

• Graham County Chamber of Commerce

P.O. Box 1206, Robbinsville, NC 28771

828.479.3790 • www.grahamchamber.com

• Great Smoky Mountains National Park

107 Park Headquarters Rd., Gatlinburg, TN 37738

865.436.1200 • www.nps/gov.grsm

• Haywood County Chamber of Commerce

28 Walnut St., Waynesville, NC 28786

828.456.3021 • www.haywood-nc.com

• Haywood County Tourism

Development Authority

44 N. Main St., Waynesville, NC 28786

828.452.0152 • www.visitncsmokies.com

• Highlands Chamber of Commerce

& Visitors Center

269 Oak Street, Highlands, NC 28741

828.526.2112 • www.highlandschamber.org

• Jackson County Chamber of Commerce

773 W. Main St., Sylva, NC 28779

828.586.2155 • www.mountainlovers.com

• Maggie Valley Area Visitors Bureau

PO Box 279, Maggie Valley, NC 28751

828.926.1686 • www.maggievalley.org

• Swain County Chamber of Commerce

P.O. Box 509, Bryson City, NC 28713

828.488.3681 • www.greatsmokies.com

Additional Resources

CALENDAR

The Waynesville Beer Faire is held yearly on the grounds of the American Legion lodge. Garret K. Woodward photo

Page 55: WNC Travel Guide 2015

WNCTravel 2015 55

September• Early September — Cherokee BBQ & Bluegrass

Throwdown. www.visitcherokeenc.com

• Sept. 4 — Rotary Club of Cashiers Valley Arts &

Crafts Show. Labor Day celebration.

www.cashiers411.com

• Sept. 4-5 — Seven Clans Rodeo, Cherokee.

www.visitcherokeenc.com

• Sept. 4-5 — Smoky Mountain Folk Festival at

Lake Junaluksa’s Stuart Auditorium. Two nights of

the finest traditional music and dancing in the re-

gion. www.lakejunaluska.com

• Sept. 4-6 — Railfest Celebration, Bryson City.

Celebrating the anniversary of the Great Smoky

Mountains Railroad. Storytelling, music, dance,

food and special excursions. www.gsmr.com

• Sept. 5 — Block Party, Waynesville. Music, food

and activities. www.downtownwaynesville.com

• Sept. 5-6 — Cashiers Valley Arts & Crafts Fair.

www.cashiersrotary.org

• Sept. 5-6 — Maggie Valley Labor Day Weekend

Craft Show. www.maggievalleycraftshows.com.

• Sept. 5-7 – Canton Labor Day Celebration.

Weekend of free live music, rides, crafts, food and

parade. www.cantonlaborday.com

• Sept. 11-13 — Thunder in the Smokies Fall Motorcy-

cle Rally, Maggie Valley. www.handlebarcorral.com

• Sept. 12 — Shining Rock Riverfest, Bethel. Live

local and regional music and activities.

• Sept. 12 — Dazzling Dahlia Festival, Highlands.

www.highlandschamber.org

• Sept. 19 — Arts & Crafts Market, Dillsboro.

www.visitdillsboro.org

• Sept. 19 — Jackson County Green Energy Park

Youth Arts Festival, Dillsboro. Annual hands-on

art activities, entertainment, with dozens of pro-

fessional art demonstrations. www.jcgep.org

• Sept. 25-27 — Guest Appreciation Festival, Nan-

tahala Outdoor Center. www.noc.com

• Sept. 26 — Mountain Heritage Day, Cullowhee.

Annual celebration featuring live Appalachian

music, crafters, artisans and vendors. www.wcu.edu.

October• Oct. 2-3 — Maggie Valley Oktoberfest. Live

music, craft beer, craft and food vendors.

www.maggievalleyoktoberfest.com

• Oct. 3 — Taste of Sylva. Seventeen restaurants

participate in this culinary celebration throughout

downtown. Food and beverage tastings, live

music and an array of dishes to choose from.

www.mainstreetsylva.org

• Oct. 3 — ColorFest, Dillsboro. Over 40 local artist

demonstrations in downtown. Craft and food ven-

dors. www.mountainlovers.com

• Oct. 3-4 — Sapphire Valley Arts & Crafts Show.

Handmade crafts, folk art, music and food ven-

dors. www.sapphirevalley.com

• Oct. 3-4 — Fall Festival, Brasstown. Live music,

craft booths and food vendors. www.folkschool.org

Page 56: WNC Travel Guide 2015

www.WNCTravel.com56

Dan Womack OWNER/BROKER

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MOUNTAIN REALTY

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SUBSCRIBE OR LEARN MORE:www.smliv.com 866.452.2251

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Celebrating theSouthern Appalachians

• Oct. 6-10 — Cherokee Indian Fair. Carnival and

agricultural show, with live music, games, food

vendors and more. www.visitcherokeenc.com

• Oct. 8-10 — Autumn Leaves Craft Show, Franklin.

Unique handmade crafts and artisans booths at the

Macon County Fairgrounds. www.franklin-chamber.com

• Oct. 10 — Church Street Art & Craft Show, Way-

nesville. Over 20,000 visitors pass through this

festival throughout downtown. Dozens of artisan

booths, food vendors, as well as live Appalachian

music and craft demonstrations.

www.churchstfest.com

• Oct. 10 — Highlands Own Arts & Crafts Show and

Hometown Day. www.highlandsnc.org

• Oct. 10-11 — October Leaves Craft Show, Maggie

Valley. Appalachian artisan and craft booths, food

vendors and more. www.mvcraftshows.com

• Oct. 16-18 — Leaf Lookers Gemboree, Franklin.

Gem show featuring dealers from all over the

Southeast offering fine jewelry and precious

stones. www.franklin-chamber.com

• Oct. 16-18 — Harvest Festival, Robbinsville. A

three-day event of evening campfires, story-

telling, country fair, live music/dance and more at

the Stecoah Valley Center.

www.stecoahvalleycenter.com

• Oct. 17 — Chili Cook Off, Bryson City. A renowned

chili cook off in downtown, with craft vendors,

train rides and live music. www.greatsmokies.com

• Oct. 17 — Oktoberfest, Dillsboro. Live music, food,

craft beer and activities. www.visitdillsboro.org

• Oct. 17 — Apple Harvest Festival, Waynesville. Live

artisan demonstrations, Appalachian music, clog-

ging and dozens of craft booths and food vendors.

Over 40,000 people stroll through downtown dur-

ing the celebration. www.haywoodapplefest.com

• Oct. 17-18 — Punkin Chunkin, Brasstown. Annual

event testing the talents of pumpkin tossers.

www.ncmtnchamber.com

• Oct. 17-18 — Maggie Valley Fall Arts & Crafts Fes-

tival. Craft booths, food vendors and more.

www.maggievalley.org

• Oct. 24 — Pumpkin Fest, Franklin. Street festival

with live music, pumpkin rolling contest, parade,

hayrides and more. www.franklin-chamber.com

• Oct. 24 — NOCtoberfest, Nantahala Gorge.

Pumpkin decoration, live music, costume contest,

activities for all ages, as well as the Great Pump-

kin Pursuit in the Nantahala River. www.noc.com

• Oct. 31 — Highlands All Hallows Eve Celebration.

Trick or treating, children’s activities and more.

www.highlandschamber.org

• Oct. 31 — Treats on the Street, Waynesville. Mer-

chants offer treats to children in a safe, downtown

environment. www.downtownwaynesville.com

• Oct. 31 — Downtown Trick or Treat, Bryson City.

Safe, fun downtown trick or treating by local mer-

chants for children and families.

www.greatsmokies.com

CALENDAR

Page 57: WNC Travel Guide 2015

WNCTravel 2015 57

• Late October — Catch the Spirit of Appalachia:

Celebration of the Arts, Bryson City. Storytelling,

spontaneous art, exhibits and readings.

www.mountainlovers.com

• Late October — Fall Festival, Highlands-Cashiers

Hospital. Costume contest, hayrides, trick or

treating, games, music, food and more.

www.franklin-chamber.com

• Late October — Hauntober Weekend, Fontana

Village Resort. Halloween events and activities for

all ages. Ghost tours and hayrides.

www.fontanavillage.com

• Late October — Hiker Jam Octoberfest,

Cashiers. Day of local/regional music and craft

beer. www.hikerjam.ticketleap.com

November• Early November — Cheoah Storytelling Festival,

Robbinsville. Writing workshops, storytelling and

musical performances.

www.townofrobbinsville.com

• Early November — Mountain Shapes & Colors,

Bryson City. Daylong event filled with 20 craft

vendors, food, live music and artisan demonstra-

tions. www.greatsmokies.com

• Nov. 5 — Highlands Culinary Weekend. Multi-day

celebration of local food, restaurants and bever-

ages. www.highlandschamber.org

• Nov. 7 — WNC Pottery Festival, Dillsboro. Featur-

ing master potters, the daylong event includes

live demonstrations and craft booths. The festival

was recently named a “Top 20 Event” by the

Southeast Tourism Society, which represents 12

states. www.wncpotteryfestival.com

• Nov. 11 — Veteran’s Day Parade, Franklin. Down-

town celebration. www.franklin-chamber.com

• Nov. 11 — Veteran’s Day Celebration, Cherokee.

www.visitcherokeenc.com

• Nov. 14 — Heritage Arts Holiday Festival, Bryson

City. Handmade crafts and more.

www.greatsmokies.com

• Nov. 26-29 — Thanksgiving Family Festivities,

Fontana Village Resort. Live entertainment,

guided hikes, square dancing and a classic

Thanksgiving feast. www.fontanavillage.com

• Nov. 27-28 — Hard Candy Christmas Arts &

Crafts Festival, Cullowhee. An variety of Ap-

palachian artisans, holiday craft booths and more.

www.mountainartisans.net

• Nov. 27-28 — Stecoah Artisans Drive About Tour,

Robbinsville. Enjoy the works of multiple artisan

studios and galleries.

www.stecoahvalleycenter.com

• Nov. 28 — Bryson City Spirit of Christmas. Holi-

day celebration of caroling and downtown cheer.

www.greatsmokies.com

• Nov. 28 — Christmas Tree Lighting, Highlands.

Caroling, refreshments and a visit from Santa.

www.highlands-chamber.com

• Nov. 28 — Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony and

Candlelight Service, Franklin.

www.holidaysinfranklin.com

• Nov. 28 — Winter Wonderland, Franklin. Holiday

festival, live music, Santa Claus, and more.

www.holidaysinfranklin.com

• Nov. 29 — Christmas Parade, Franklin. Celebrate

the holidays with a downtown parade and special

appearance by Santa. www.franklin-chamber.com

December• Early December — Canton Christmas Parade.

www.cantonnc.com

• Early December — Christmas Parade,

Brasstown. www.ncmtnchamber.com

• Early December — Cherokee Christmas Bazaar.

Handmade crafts, food and more.

www.visitcherokeenc.com

• Dec. 4 — Hometown Christmas Celebration,

Murphy. Tree lighting, live entertainment, stroll

downtown, and more.

www.visitcherokeecountync.com

• Dec. 4-5 — Dillsboro Lights & Luminaries. Jack-

son County town is lit with luminaries, stores host

open houses, Santa, children’s activities, horse

and buggy rides, music. www.visitdillsboro.org

• Dec. 5 — Christmas Arts & Crafts Show, Rob-

binsville. www.stecoahvalleycenter.com

• Dec. 5 — Lighting of the Square, Hayesville.

www.ncmtnchamber.com

• Dec. 5 — Christmas Parade, Sylva.

www.mountainlovers.com

• Dec. 5 — Hometown Christmas Parade, Murphy.

www.visitcherokeecountync.com

• Dec. 5 —Bryson City Christmas Parade. Floats,

marching bands, homecoming queens and more.

www.greatsmokies.com

• Dec. 5 — Cherokee Christmas Parade.

www.visitcherokeenc.com

• Dec. 5 — Highlands Christmas Parade.

www.highlandschamber.org

• Dec. 5 — Winter Wonderland, Franklin. Holiday

festival, live music, Santa Claus, and more.

www.holidaysinfranklin.com

• Dec. 5 — Hometown Christmas Parade, Murphy.

www.cherokeecountychamber.com

• Dec. 7 — Waynesville Christmas Parade.

www.downtownwaynesville.com

• Dec. 11-12 — Dillsboro Lights & Luminaries. Jack-

son County town is lit with luminaries, stores host

open houses, Santa, children’s activities, horse

and buggy rides, music. www.visitdillsboro.org

• Dec. 12 — “A Night Before Christmas,” Way-

nesville. A family holiday celebration in down-

town, filled with live music, caroling,

old-fashioned wagon ride, storytelling and a spe-

cial appearance by Santa.

www.downtownwaynesville.com

• Dec. 12 — Christmas Parade, Andrews.

www.visitcherokeecountync.com

• Dec. 12 — Cashiers Christmas Parade. A tradi-

tional parade celebrating the holidays in the

Cashiers Area. Visitors and local residents alike

can join in the fun with marching bands, floats,

dancers, horses, dogs, antique fire engines and

more. www.cashiers411.com

• Dec. 19 — Holiday Homecoming, Cherokee. A hol-

iday celebration at the Oconaluftee Visitor Center

in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

www.greatsmokies.com

• Dec. 31 — Possum Drop, Brasstown. Annual

event celebrating the New Year and possums.

www.ncmtnchamber.com

• Dec. 31 — New Year’s Eve Fireworks, Cherokee.

www.visitcherokeenc.com

• Dec. 31 — New Year’s Eve Reception and Gala,

Bryson City. Celebrate the end of the year with a

ride on the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad. Din-

ner, live music and champagne toast.

www.gsmr.com

Top: The Bryson Chill Cook Off featuresnumerous hot and spicy recipes from arearesidents and chefs, while the Dillsboro Lights &Luminaries rings in the holiday season with atwo-weekend celebration in December.

Page 58: WNC Travel Guide 2015

Gardens • Hiking & Biking Trails • Art • Exhibits

w w w. n c a r b o r e t u m . o r g

Upcoming Exhibits & Events:

SAVAGE GARDENS: May 23-September 7, 2015

THE ROBOT ZOO: September 19-January 3, 2016

CAROLINA BONSAI EXPO: October 10-11, 2015

WINTER LIGHTS: November 20-January 2, 2016

WILD SURVIVAL: Opening January 23, 2016

Page 59: WNC Travel Guide 2015

WNCTravel 2015 59

BRING HOME something special!

Bookstore & Cafe

828.454.6777 lakejunaluska.com/bookstore

710 N. Lakeshore DriveLocated across from The Terrace

in the Harrell Center

DEVOTIONAL JOURNALS JEWELRY & ACCESSORIES

FAIR TRADE GIFTSGARDEN DECOR & FLAGS

GIFTS FOR CHILDRENSIGNS & MORE

Page 60: WNC Travel Guide 2015

www.WNCTravel.com60

Gems Minerals

Since 1958

800.821.RUBY • 828.524.3967www.rubycity.com • [email protected]

130 East Main Street Franklin

At the top of Town Hill in downtown

Tues-Sat 10-5

Closed Sun & Mon

Largest & Finest Jewelry, Gem & Mineral shop in the Southeast!

Large selection of 14k, sterling, jewelry, mountings and cut stones. Tumblers, lapidary equipment and supplies. Custom cutting, mounting, setting sizing, repair on site.

Now carrying children’s jewelry by Kiddie KraftTM

as well as a full line of birthstone rings earrings and pendant sets.

Healing stones, rare, and collector gems & minerals available in rough, polished, and set in designer jewelry.

Free Museum