My friend Greta sent some more information about the Asheboro, North Carolina Chili Cook Off.
News on the April Chili Cook Off in NC
Even though the Asheboro Chili Cookoff is giving away $1,500 to the lucky winner, the money isn’t what has pulled more than 40 cooks to the event. They just want to have fun at the town’s newest street festival.
The event will be held on Saturday, April 18, 2009 from 1-10 p.m. in downtown Asheboro. The event will include musical entertainment, a Kid’s Zone, a Hot Head Contest and lots of tasting. The winner of a raffle drawing will go home with either $8,000 or up to $1,000 a month mortgage payment for a year.
The slate of cookers ranges from novices who like to cook a pot of chili for their family – to award-winning contestants – to professional chefs. The common ingredient is they all have a passion for cooking. And when any of them throw a dinner party, they never get turned down.
Most have been testing their recipes – thus sparking more fun at home. Paul Stephanacci, of Asheboro, N.C., says the contest has become a family project. His wife, Robin, his mother, Ruth, four children and their spouses have been helping out. “Our chili is going to include the kitchen sink if I can get it in there,” he chuckled. This is his first chili cook-off, but with his neighbors, family and friends, he’s already a winner. “We’ve had rave reviews on our dry runs.” With strong Italian heritage, Stephanacci joked, “Even the Pope called wanting the recipe, but I had to turn him down!”
Neal Allen, from Asheboro, explained, “I’m a scientist and an artist in the kitchen. I love creating flavors and making blends. I love experimenting.”
He’s a graduate from the Baltimore International Culinary College and works at Jugtown Café in Seagrove, N.C. Like the internationally-renowned Seagrove potters who masterfully create glazes for their pots, Allen works with starches, sugars and complex compounds in food. And old family recipes. Part of his creation is based upon a Southwestern recipe from the 1800s. His chili has won awards at other contests.
The team of Don Johnson and Ricky Jordan, from Asheboro, have won awards for their barbecue, but this is the first time they’ve entered a chili contest. Regionally, they’re known for their ‘Q at the Pinehurst Relay for Life. “But we wanted to do something different,” said Johnson. An avid gardener, his recipe will include preserved produce from his ½-acre garden. “I canned my tomatoes myself, so they have little salt and no preservatives. They’re healthy.”
“Our natural grass-fed beef will come from three local farms,” said Jordan. Their team is called “Country Cooking,” but will be serving “Caraway Fire Chili.”
Ashlee and James Edwards, owners of Off-the-Square restaurant in downtown Albemarle, are blending North Carolina and Texas tastes. “I’m from Texas,” said Ashlee. “You know, we are proud of our food and Texas beef chili. But my husband is from Asheboro, and he knows all about pork barbecue. So our chili will be a blend of both.”
With a combined 22 years of restaurant experience, the couple has learned from one another about cooking. Ashlee reflected, “He graduated from the Cordon Bleu School of Culinary Arts and taught me some technical tricks in the kitchen. But I tend to be more spontaneous. So on the chili cookoff day, he’ll be tending the meat. But when he turns away, I’ll add a little more spice to it!”
“Mine will be a creative masterpiece,” says Joel Leonard, of Asheboro. Songwriter, professional writer and host of www.SkillTV.net, he just bought a new grill for the event. He’s been testing various recipes, one with beef marinated in Frangelica, a hazelnut-flavored liquor and beans soaked in Belgian beer. “Oh, the meat was absolutely delicious,” he commented. “But I’m still working on the right blend.”
Tourism writer and consultant Greta Lint says her research indicates the primary reason people attend a chili cook-off is for the chili. “It tugs at our curiosity – what will it taste like? Hot? Mild? Sweet? The anticipation is a common denominator that pulls us all together.”
For more information, log onto www.AsheboroChiliCookoff.com or call organizer Bryan Vaughan at 336-302-4968.
Tuesday, March 31, 2009
Friday, March 27, 2009
Outer Banks North Carolina - Rustic Beauty on the Coast of NC
You'll Find Lots of Creative Art on the Outer Banks of North Carolina.
Dock on the Outer Banks of NC. You Can Rent Boats and Go Fishing If You Like.
To Hop From Island to Island - Just Take a Ferry. Be Sure to Check Schedules Though.
If You Stay a While or Get Lucky, You Can see Wild Ponies on the Outer Banks.Cape Hatteras National Park is really a string of islands called the “outer banks”of North Carolina. The park includes land running up three islands off the coast of North Carolina. The park stretches about 70 miles with the average width for the islands being about a mile across.
These islands are called the outer banks, since they provide protection for the mainland coast of North Carolina and serve as a buffer. Since the islands are battered by the ocean and storms, the shape of the islands changes constantly. This is a good area for anyone interested in how the oceans impact our coastlines.
On the flip side, the islands have seen many ship wrecks from the ocean side. If you’re a history buff, then you’ll want to read up on the wrecks during the World War era when German U boats washed up on the shores. Divers should check out Olympus Dive Center to learn about wrecks to visit underwater.
Since the shoreline is rough and ragged with harsh weather at times, each island supports a lighthouse to warn boaters. Lighthouse models are very popular souvenir items to purchase on the islands and on the mainland. This is a fabulous spot to visit if you love lighthouses and lighthouse history.
On to the Park(s) . . .
My suggestion for a trip would be to travel the length of the islands and plan on staying at Ocracoke. You get a better feel for the area and the history by taking your time and hitting all three islands. This is a slow and easy drive with lots of places to stop off and look around.
Bodie Island
The first island starting north and moving south is Bodie. Actually it’s not really an island anymore. As the landscape has changed, Bodie has shifted and connected to mainland NC at Nags Head, NC. Be sure to visit Kitty Hawk and see where the Wright Brothers took their first flight before (or after) you visit the islands.
Most visitors hit the outer banks by way of Bodie. The Bodie Lighthouse has a visitors center and museum. This is the third lighthouse at Bodie. The government wouldn’t put money into securing the first lighthouse, so it washed out during a storm. The second one was destroyed during the Civil War. The current lighthouse built in 1872 is slim black and white striped. Visitors can’t go in the lighthouse, but it is nice for pictures.
From the lighthouse area, you can take an easy trail—Bodie Island Dike Trail. This is a marshy area with lots of water birds. There is a fresh water pond created with a dam, which is the home to many ducks. Easter Seals donated a beach wheelchair with big tires, which can be borrowed so that disabled visitors can go on the trails and down on the beach.
You can pick up a map and information about the park at the Visitor Center, which was the house for the light keeper at one point. Light keepers were no longer needed to maintain the lighthouses after electric lights were added. That’s kind of sad, since lighthouse keeping sounded like a really romantic way to make a living.
Be sure to check out the summer programs offered at all three islands. One program is crabbing where you go out and learn to catch crabs. Another is a beach campfire. Kids can also pick up a Junior Ranger brochure. By taking part in some programs and activities, kids can earn a patch during the trip.
Hatteras Island
To get to Hatteras (the second island) you drive highway 12 across the bridge from Bodie. This is the biggest island and the most touristy though none of the islands on the park line are developed like most beach areas.
Hatteras is the home of the nations tallest lighthouse (208 feet). The lighthouse was almost eaten up by the ocean, but it was moved back in 1999. This is the only lighthouse in the park that you can go inside. It has been closed due to some safety problems with the steps, but it is expected to be open again soon.
Hatteras is the largest of the islands and makes up the biggest portion of the national park. Here you will find the bulk of island visitors. Camping is popular here and also boating. The Park has four campgrounds with low prices, and you’ll also see some commercial campgrounds. Marinas are scattered up and down the shoreline.
Swimming is open on the sound side and ocean side. Water is calm and warmer on the sound side and is good for beginning swimmers. The ocean side has good surfing and wind-boarding. If you don’t have equipment, you can rent or buy on the island.
Fishing is considered some of the best on the east coast. If you fish in the ocean, then you don’t need a license (or not the last time I checked). Fishing from the sound requires a NC fishing license for ages 16 and over.
Ocracoke Island
Okracoke is the isolated and least visited of the outer banks islands, because you can’t drive over. To get to Okracoke you take a 40-minute ferry ride over from Hatteras or from the mainland at Swan Quarter or Cedar Island. The mainland trip over takes about 2 ½ hours.
To get a feel for the island and the history or this sleepy area, be sure to stop at the Visitor Center there on the harbor. You can get information about a walking tour. You cover the town and read about the great history. It takes about an hour and a half to take the self-paced tour. They also have car tour information by tuning in on the AM station.
One of the most interesting stories on the island is about Black Beard the pirate. His head was cut off on this island and sent to Bath, NC. His treasure is supposed to be somewhere buried on Ocracoke.
There are lots of quaint privately owned little shops on the island. They also have two small grocery stores that will remind you of the old time stores on the Little House on the Prairie TV show from a few years back.
When you get hungry, try The Back Porch, which is about a half mile north of town. It’s a small place with a screened in porch. The food is really good, and you can even buy a cookbook featuring the specialties.
About 5 miles outside the village off of Highway 12 you’ll see the Baker ponies. No one is sure how the ponies got to the island, but they have many interesting stories about that. The ponies ran free up until the 1950s when the area was closed in to protect the island from overgrazing and to protect the ponies from traffic. At one point the Boy Scouts cared for the ponies, but now the Park Rangers do that.
You can rent bikes for traveling around Ocracoke, and that is probably the best way to see and enjoy the island. If you drive a car, then you don’t see much water (on any of the islands), and you don’t get to stop and chat with locals and other visitors.
A Different Beach Experience
Cape Hatteras is a very different beach experience from commercial areas like Ocean City or Myrtle Beach. You’ll see natural beaches, marshes, and lots of water birds. It’s quieter and the pace is slower. If you enjoy nature, then this is the beach spot you’ll love.
During the warmer months, this area is fairly busy. During the cold weather, you’ll have the beach almost to yourself. If you visit during colder weather, you’ll need to bring food and supplies. Many shops and restaurants close down during the off-season.
A Few Extra Tips
-Be sure to use sunscreen. Although the sun may not feel as intense on the island, you can easily burn.
-There are lots of bugs on the islands. Mosquitoes and horse flies may eat you up especially if you lotion up. Take some bug spray (or eat lots of garlic).
-Keep a jacket in the trunk. When a storm comes up or when the sun goes down, the temperatures drop a lot.
-Stick a kite in. This is a great area to fly kites. Kites also make good markers if members of your group wander on down the shore.
These islands are called the outer banks, since they provide protection for the mainland coast of North Carolina and serve as a buffer. Since the islands are battered by the ocean and storms, the shape of the islands changes constantly. This is a good area for anyone interested in how the oceans impact our coastlines.
On the flip side, the islands have seen many ship wrecks from the ocean side. If you’re a history buff, then you’ll want to read up on the wrecks during the World War era when German U boats washed up on the shores. Divers should check out Olympus Dive Center to learn about wrecks to visit underwater.
Since the shoreline is rough and ragged with harsh weather at times, each island supports a lighthouse to warn boaters. Lighthouse models are very popular souvenir items to purchase on the islands and on the mainland. This is a fabulous spot to visit if you love lighthouses and lighthouse history.
On to the Park(s) . . .
My suggestion for a trip would be to travel the length of the islands and plan on staying at Ocracoke. You get a better feel for the area and the history by taking your time and hitting all three islands. This is a slow and easy drive with lots of places to stop off and look around.
Bodie Island
The first island starting north and moving south is Bodie. Actually it’s not really an island anymore. As the landscape has changed, Bodie has shifted and connected to mainland NC at Nags Head, NC. Be sure to visit Kitty Hawk and see where the Wright Brothers took their first flight before (or after) you visit the islands.
Most visitors hit the outer banks by way of Bodie. The Bodie Lighthouse has a visitors center and museum. This is the third lighthouse at Bodie. The government wouldn’t put money into securing the first lighthouse, so it washed out during a storm. The second one was destroyed during the Civil War. The current lighthouse built in 1872 is slim black and white striped. Visitors can’t go in the lighthouse, but it is nice for pictures.
From the lighthouse area, you can take an easy trail—Bodie Island Dike Trail. This is a marshy area with lots of water birds. There is a fresh water pond created with a dam, which is the home to many ducks. Easter Seals donated a beach wheelchair with big tires, which can be borrowed so that disabled visitors can go on the trails and down on the beach.
You can pick up a map and information about the park at the Visitor Center, which was the house for the light keeper at one point. Light keepers were no longer needed to maintain the lighthouses after electric lights were added. That’s kind of sad, since lighthouse keeping sounded like a really romantic way to make a living.
Be sure to check out the summer programs offered at all three islands. One program is crabbing where you go out and learn to catch crabs. Another is a beach campfire. Kids can also pick up a Junior Ranger brochure. By taking part in some programs and activities, kids can earn a patch during the trip.
Hatteras Island
To get to Hatteras (the second island) you drive highway 12 across the bridge from Bodie. This is the biggest island and the most touristy though none of the islands on the park line are developed like most beach areas.
Hatteras is the home of the nations tallest lighthouse (208 feet). The lighthouse was almost eaten up by the ocean, but it was moved back in 1999. This is the only lighthouse in the park that you can go inside. It has been closed due to some safety problems with the steps, but it is expected to be open again soon.
Hatteras is the largest of the islands and makes up the biggest portion of the national park. Here you will find the bulk of island visitors. Camping is popular here and also boating. The Park has four campgrounds with low prices, and you’ll also see some commercial campgrounds. Marinas are scattered up and down the shoreline.
Swimming is open on the sound side and ocean side. Water is calm and warmer on the sound side and is good for beginning swimmers. The ocean side has good surfing and wind-boarding. If you don’t have equipment, you can rent or buy on the island.
Fishing is considered some of the best on the east coast. If you fish in the ocean, then you don’t need a license (or not the last time I checked). Fishing from the sound requires a NC fishing license for ages 16 and over.
Ocracoke Island
Okracoke is the isolated and least visited of the outer banks islands, because you can’t drive over. To get to Okracoke you take a 40-minute ferry ride over from Hatteras or from the mainland at Swan Quarter or Cedar Island. The mainland trip over takes about 2 ½ hours.
To get a feel for the island and the history or this sleepy area, be sure to stop at the Visitor Center there on the harbor. You can get information about a walking tour. You cover the town and read about the great history. It takes about an hour and a half to take the self-paced tour. They also have car tour information by tuning in on the AM station.
One of the most interesting stories on the island is about Black Beard the pirate. His head was cut off on this island and sent to Bath, NC. His treasure is supposed to be somewhere buried on Ocracoke.
There are lots of quaint privately owned little shops on the island. They also have two small grocery stores that will remind you of the old time stores on the Little House on the Prairie TV show from a few years back.
When you get hungry, try The Back Porch, which is about a half mile north of town. It’s a small place with a screened in porch. The food is really good, and you can even buy a cookbook featuring the specialties.
About 5 miles outside the village off of Highway 12 you’ll see the Baker ponies. No one is sure how the ponies got to the island, but they have many interesting stories about that. The ponies ran free up until the 1950s when the area was closed in to protect the island from overgrazing and to protect the ponies from traffic. At one point the Boy Scouts cared for the ponies, but now the Park Rangers do that.
You can rent bikes for traveling around Ocracoke, and that is probably the best way to see and enjoy the island. If you drive a car, then you don’t see much water (on any of the islands), and you don’t get to stop and chat with locals and other visitors.
A Different Beach Experience
Cape Hatteras is a very different beach experience from commercial areas like Ocean City or Myrtle Beach. You’ll see natural beaches, marshes, and lots of water birds. It’s quieter and the pace is slower. If you enjoy nature, then this is the beach spot you’ll love.
During the warmer months, this area is fairly busy. During the cold weather, you’ll have the beach almost to yourself. If you visit during colder weather, you’ll need to bring food and supplies. Many shops and restaurants close down during the off-season.
A Few Extra Tips
-Be sure to use sunscreen. Although the sun may not feel as intense on the island, you can easily burn.
-There are lots of bugs on the islands. Mosquitoes and horse flies may eat you up especially if you lotion up. Take some bug spray (or eat lots of garlic).
-Keep a jacket in the trunk. When a storm comes up or when the sun goes down, the temperatures drop a lot.
-Stick a kite in. This is a great area to fly kites. Kites also make good markers if members of your group wander on down the shore.
Want To Hear the Flavor of the Outer Banks? Check out this video. You will the islanders talk about the various terms from the area. You will also hear the interesting dialect from the eastern shore of the Outer Banks. Plenty of humor thrown in too.
Wednesday, March 25, 2009
Pilot Mountain State Park, North Carolina - Almost Mayberry
Pilot Mountain Knob - Close Up of the Unique Hump on A North Carolina Landmark
Pilot Mountain is Easy to See From the Highway
Pilot Mountain State Park is one of many parks in North Carolina. It is just off highway 52 between Mount Airy and Winston Salem. Pilot Mtn State Park is about 14 miles from Mt. Airy and about 25 miles from Winston. It's not really in a town. It's off the road as you travel. That may only make sense in NC. But, it is off the beaten track I would say.
You’ve probably seen the Andy Griffith show and remember Andy and friends talking about going up to Mount Pilot. Although Mount Pilot was a fictional town, the name came from Pilot Mountain which can be seen from Andy’s real home town, Mt. Airy.
You’ll know you’re getting near Pilot Mountain State Park when you see the big bump on the mountain as you’re driving down the highway. Actually there are two bumps, but the one you can see and the one that gave the mountain the name Pilot Mountain is the big bump. The big bump looks like the pilot hump of one of those old time airplanes. So that’s why it’s called Pilot Mountain.
There are 2 sections to the state part. One part is the mountain park and the other is the Yadkin River section. Both are primitive areas with lots of wildlife to see.
In NC, we have loads of deer, squirrels, fox, and even brown bears.
In the mountain section, you have look-out areas with beautiful views. One especially good spot to look is near the small bump. Any time of the year is worth a look, but the fall is the best when the leaves are turning all colors.
The mountain section is good for a picnic. They have tables in several spots and one shelter which you can use if it has not been reserved by a group (max number = 35). Grills are available if you want to cook out. They have canned sodas in the park office, but you probably just want to bring a cooler to this park.
The mountain section is great for hiking. There are trails for all levels. You can take an easy one mile walk on up to a 5 miler or go rock climbing. The Yadkin River section adjoins the mountain section, but it is on flatter ground and on the water. This is also a nice area for walking, and you can also ride the horse trails.
If you like to fish, you can fish in the Yadkin River. Cat fish are good catching in the area. You need a NC fishing license over age 16. Many of the community stores sell those as well as some chains like Wal-Mart.
One of the most fun things to do is to canoe and then camp in the Yadkin section. You need to bring a canoe though, as the park does not rent those out. If you can get a canoe, then you can ride in the river and go over to the island and camp there. This is very back woods camping with no water or bathroom, but it is a fun thing to do if you’re into that sort of thing.
If you are not the rough-it sort of person, then you can camp in the tent-camper section near the river. In this section, you do have a nice bathhouse. Pilot Mountain Park is good for a quick stopover from the highway or for a day trip. They are open from about sun up to sun down. Check the times before you go as the gates are locked after hours. You don’t have to pay to get in and look around either.
If you decide to visit Pilot Mountain, then be sure to visit the Horne Creek Farm which is right there on the edge of the Yadkin River park section. You can learn about old time farming. They are opened most weekends and also for group tours during the week if you call and make arrangements.
You’ll also want to stop by in Mount Airy (20 minutes or so). Although Mt. Airy is larger than Mayberry, you still get that small southern town feeling. As I mentioned, this really is Andy’s home town.
Look for the Snappy Diner which was mentioned on the TV show. You can get a pork chop sandwich there and other southern foods.
When you’re driving around in the area, stop at one of the road stands. They are all over the place in the mountains. Those are fun to visit. If you’re hungry, then some of our local products are the apples in season, apple cider, jams, jellies, honey, peanuts roasted, and fried fat back (usually called pork rinds). You can also get garden grown vegetables in the spring and fall. One of my favorites - Cherokee purple tomatoes. Those are mellow and really yummy.
You’ve probably seen the Andy Griffith show and remember Andy and friends talking about going up to Mount Pilot. Although Mount Pilot was a fictional town, the name came from Pilot Mountain which can be seen from Andy’s real home town, Mt. Airy.
You’ll know you’re getting near Pilot Mountain State Park when you see the big bump on the mountain as you’re driving down the highway. Actually there are two bumps, but the one you can see and the one that gave the mountain the name Pilot Mountain is the big bump. The big bump looks like the pilot hump of one of those old time airplanes. So that’s why it’s called Pilot Mountain.
There are 2 sections to the state part. One part is the mountain park and the other is the Yadkin River section. Both are primitive areas with lots of wildlife to see.
In NC, we have loads of deer, squirrels, fox, and even brown bears.
In the mountain section, you have look-out areas with beautiful views. One especially good spot to look is near the small bump. Any time of the year is worth a look, but the fall is the best when the leaves are turning all colors.
The mountain section is good for a picnic. They have tables in several spots and one shelter which you can use if it has not been reserved by a group (max number = 35). Grills are available if you want to cook out. They have canned sodas in the park office, but you probably just want to bring a cooler to this park.
The mountain section is great for hiking. There are trails for all levels. You can take an easy one mile walk on up to a 5 miler or go rock climbing. The Yadkin River section adjoins the mountain section, but it is on flatter ground and on the water. This is also a nice area for walking, and you can also ride the horse trails.
If you like to fish, you can fish in the Yadkin River. Cat fish are good catching in the area. You need a NC fishing license over age 16. Many of the community stores sell those as well as some chains like Wal-Mart.
One of the most fun things to do is to canoe and then camp in the Yadkin section. You need to bring a canoe though, as the park does not rent those out. If you can get a canoe, then you can ride in the river and go over to the island and camp there. This is very back woods camping with no water or bathroom, but it is a fun thing to do if you’re into that sort of thing.
If you are not the rough-it sort of person, then you can camp in the tent-camper section near the river. In this section, you do have a nice bathhouse. Pilot Mountain Park is good for a quick stopover from the highway or for a day trip. They are open from about sun up to sun down. Check the times before you go as the gates are locked after hours. You don’t have to pay to get in and look around either.
If you decide to visit Pilot Mountain, then be sure to visit the Horne Creek Farm which is right there on the edge of the Yadkin River park section. You can learn about old time farming. They are opened most weekends and also for group tours during the week if you call and make arrangements.
You’ll also want to stop by in Mount Airy (20 minutes or so). Although Mt. Airy is larger than Mayberry, you still get that small southern town feeling. As I mentioned, this really is Andy’s home town.
Look for the Snappy Diner which was mentioned on the TV show. You can get a pork chop sandwich there and other southern foods.
When you’re driving around in the area, stop at one of the road stands. They are all over the place in the mountains. Those are fun to visit. If you’re hungry, then some of our local products are the apples in season, apple cider, jams, jellies, honey, peanuts roasted, and fried fat back (usually called pork rinds). You can also get garden grown vegetables in the spring and fall. One of my favorites - Cherokee purple tomatoes. Those are mellow and really yummy.
Sunday, March 22, 2009
North Carolina's First State Park - Mount Mitchell
Mount Mitchell - Highest Mountain Peak East of the Mississippi RiverMount Mitchell is the first state park developed in North Carolina. It was taken over by the state in 1915 to prevent the logging of the fir trees. That saved the trees then, but now they are dead from acid rain and aphid bugs of modern times. You’ll see what looks like a tree graveyard up at the top with the evergreens striped down to just skeleton trunks with limp limbs sticking out. That may sound pretty unattractive, but it’s just an eerie kind of look up at the top of the mountain.
The mountain and park are named for Dr. Elisha Mitchell who taught at UNC-Chapel Hill. Mitchell explored the Black Mountain range and is the one who figured out how to calculate heights for the range. He was only 12 feet shy on his estimate of Mount Mitchell. He died when he fell down the waterfall and drowned. He is buried up next to the observation tower where you’ll see a market with some details about him.
When I was a kid, the elementary school used to take classes up to Mount Mitchell. We would spend the day going up and down the observation tower and hiking the trails. Actually we would park in the lower lot and climb up to the peak where the tower stands. That’s about 6 miles and strenuous climbing unless you are in elementary school. Our teachers must have been younger than we thought back then, because they always hiked up that steep incline with us. I can say that it is a work out now with my two boys.
The reason we visited Mount Mitchell with school classes was because it is the highest peak east of the Mississippi River. It’s part of the Black Mountain range, which is a small range above the Smokey Mountains. Although the range is smaller than our other mountain ranges with only about 15 miles of mountains in the chain, this one has the highest peaks with Mount Mitchell being the highest of all at 6684 feet.
We also visited, because it was an easy day trip from near Charlotte, NC. Mount Mitchell is a half hour north of Asheville, NC in Burnsville. The only way to get to Mount Mitchell is from the Blue Ridge Parkway on NC 128. The Blue Ridge Parkway is a beautiful drive through the mountains across several eastern states, and it’s a nice drive except during heavy snow.
When you get off the Parkway at Mount Mitchell, you just follow the signs. You can park at a lower level and walk up or you can drive up to the top. At the top, you have a great view unless it’s foggy. You can see for miles and miles. Climb the observation tower for an even better view. Kids really love the tower.
If you’re hungry, the park has a snack bar. It is also the only state park with a full restaurant (May 1 to October 31 only). There are no restaurants on the Blue Ridge Parkway, so this is a nice stop if you want to eat. Of course, you can also take a picnic. They have 40 picnic tables on a first come basis. Two shelters are available with 2 tables each. There are some grills too if you want to cook out.
Camping is available, but there are only 9 spaces. These are tent spaces, and you don’t have bathrooms or hot water. You can also register and park at Mount Mitchell and then hike into the Pisgah National Forest which connects. This would be backpack camping and very back woods.
If you are visiting Asheville or driving the Blue Ridge Parkway, this is a great stop. The views are terrific. You can also learn about our forests and how modern life is impacting and destroying the evergreens. You can check about the educational programs, and school groups are always welcome just as they were back when I was a kid.
This would also be a good park to home base from if you want to do some deep woods camping. I prefer a real bathroom myself and some hot running water, but if I decided to really rough it, then this would be my pick for a first time.
If you want more info or want to contact the park, then call 828-675-4611.
The mountain and park are named for Dr. Elisha Mitchell who taught at UNC-Chapel Hill. Mitchell explored the Black Mountain range and is the one who figured out how to calculate heights for the range. He was only 12 feet shy on his estimate of Mount Mitchell. He died when he fell down the waterfall and drowned. He is buried up next to the observation tower where you’ll see a market with some details about him.
When I was a kid, the elementary school used to take classes up to Mount Mitchell. We would spend the day going up and down the observation tower and hiking the trails. Actually we would park in the lower lot and climb up to the peak where the tower stands. That’s about 6 miles and strenuous climbing unless you are in elementary school. Our teachers must have been younger than we thought back then, because they always hiked up that steep incline with us. I can say that it is a work out now with my two boys.
The reason we visited Mount Mitchell with school classes was because it is the highest peak east of the Mississippi River. It’s part of the Black Mountain range, which is a small range above the Smokey Mountains. Although the range is smaller than our other mountain ranges with only about 15 miles of mountains in the chain, this one has the highest peaks with Mount Mitchell being the highest of all at 6684 feet.
We also visited, because it was an easy day trip from near Charlotte, NC. Mount Mitchell is a half hour north of Asheville, NC in Burnsville. The only way to get to Mount Mitchell is from the Blue Ridge Parkway on NC 128. The Blue Ridge Parkway is a beautiful drive through the mountains across several eastern states, and it’s a nice drive except during heavy snow.
When you get off the Parkway at Mount Mitchell, you just follow the signs. You can park at a lower level and walk up or you can drive up to the top. At the top, you have a great view unless it’s foggy. You can see for miles and miles. Climb the observation tower for an even better view. Kids really love the tower.
If you’re hungry, the park has a snack bar. It is also the only state park with a full restaurant (May 1 to October 31 only). There are no restaurants on the Blue Ridge Parkway, so this is a nice stop if you want to eat. Of course, you can also take a picnic. They have 40 picnic tables on a first come basis. Two shelters are available with 2 tables each. There are some grills too if you want to cook out.
Camping is available, but there are only 9 spaces. These are tent spaces, and you don’t have bathrooms or hot water. You can also register and park at Mount Mitchell and then hike into the Pisgah National Forest which connects. This would be backpack camping and very back woods.
If you are visiting Asheville or driving the Blue Ridge Parkway, this is a great stop. The views are terrific. You can also learn about our forests and how modern life is impacting and destroying the evergreens. You can check about the educational programs, and school groups are always welcome just as they were back when I was a kid.
This would also be a good park to home base from if you want to do some deep woods camping. I prefer a real bathroom myself and some hot running water, but if I decided to really rough it, then this would be my pick for a first time.
If you want more info or want to contact the park, then call 828-675-4611.
Grand Canyon of North Carolina - Linville Gorge
Sunset Table Rock at Linville Gorge, North Carolina
Linville Falls in the Rocky Area of Linville GorgeLinville Gorge is often called The Grand Canyon of North Carolina. It’s really a very different kind of “canyon” though. The gorge is covered with hardwoods and has lush undergrowth mixed with massive rocks. While much of the NC mountain area was logged before national and state land was set aside, this area was not. It was simply too wild for loggers to bother with.
The Linville River starts out on Grandfather Mountain then leaks over the edge in spectacular falls (Linville Falls) and cuts a twisting path through the gorge wilderness area. Native Americans called the river Eeseeoh which means river of many cliffs. That’s very fitting. The name Linville was given in memory of an explorer and his son who were scalped by Cherokees in 1766. Actually, some legends say that the son, John, did live through the experience.
This mostly “untouched” area is a favorite with backcountry travelers. In addition to primitive camping, the area is popular for hunting, fishing, and rock climbing. Although a few brave souls have attempted to ride the waters, this is not a white water space.
There are two main entrance areas to the gorge—one on the east and one on the west. Most visitors come in on the east side near Table Rock and Linville Falls. These areas are not inside the park boundaries, but a trail connects over to the wilderness area.
It’s a good idea to drop by the Linville Gorge Information Center first. If you plan to camp, you’ll have to get a permit before you hike in. Since the area is really popular, the limit is 3 nights in the gorge. Even if you don’t plan to camp, you can get maps and the park rangers will tell you great stories and give you tips for enjoying the area. Checking in is important safety wise too. Between 45 and 50 folks are injured each year and many hikers/campers get lost.
The Info Center is located off NC Hwy 183 about ½ a mile. You take Secondary State Route 1238 (also called Country Line Road or Kistler Memorial Highway).
Once you’re ready to go into the area, you’ll drive up steep mostly dirt roads to small parking areas and hike in. You really need a 4-wheel drive to get back into the gorge area especially if you try it from the west side of the park.
Once you’re in, you have some lightly blazed trails scattered with big boulders with a variety of interesting names given by past hikers. The trails are steep and difficult. You often cross over the water. There are plenty of rocks for climbing. Fishing is excellent. Some of the largest trout in the state are in the stream, and you can also catch small mouth bass. You can hunt too though I don’t hunt.
For more information on the wilderness area, call 828-257-4202.
If you just want to see this beautiful area, but you don’t want to rough it, then stop by Table Rock. It is right on the edge of the wilderness area. You can park and see the gorge area and some of the falls or take shorter hikes on trails. The Table Rock Trail is one mile and pretty strenuous, but certainly not the hard hiking in the wilderness area. They have parking, picnic tables, and a bathroom area (no running water) at Table Rock.
Another option is to visit Grandfather Mountain and just look down on the gorge area. This tourist attraction is very user friendly. You can drive right up to the top to the visitor’s center and then walk across the mile high bridge over to the rock area. From the rocks, you can look out over the gorge. They have a gift shop and a restaurant as well as a small animal exhibit. Phone 800-468-7325.
If you’re visiting the wilderness area or one of the view areas, be sure to stop by Linville Caverns located in Linville Valley in Marion, NC. This cave is small with many tunnels. A stream runs through the cave. Local trout swim in the river and are blind from living in the dark. Tour guides are excellent at this cave site. The phone number is 800-419-0540.
Linville Gorge is a beautiful area in North Carolina. If you want a real mountain adventure, then plan to visit the wilderness park. You will be sure to leave with lots of memories and stories. If you want to see this area, but you’re not sure about going totally wild, then try Table Rock. Grandfather Mountain is good if you just want to stop and view. Any option will be fun.
The Linville River starts out on Grandfather Mountain then leaks over the edge in spectacular falls (Linville Falls) and cuts a twisting path through the gorge wilderness area. Native Americans called the river Eeseeoh which means river of many cliffs. That’s very fitting. The name Linville was given in memory of an explorer and his son who were scalped by Cherokees in 1766. Actually, some legends say that the son, John, did live through the experience.
This mostly “untouched” area is a favorite with backcountry travelers. In addition to primitive camping, the area is popular for hunting, fishing, and rock climbing. Although a few brave souls have attempted to ride the waters, this is not a white water space.
There are two main entrance areas to the gorge—one on the east and one on the west. Most visitors come in on the east side near Table Rock and Linville Falls. These areas are not inside the park boundaries, but a trail connects over to the wilderness area.
It’s a good idea to drop by the Linville Gorge Information Center first. If you plan to camp, you’ll have to get a permit before you hike in. Since the area is really popular, the limit is 3 nights in the gorge. Even if you don’t plan to camp, you can get maps and the park rangers will tell you great stories and give you tips for enjoying the area. Checking in is important safety wise too. Between 45 and 50 folks are injured each year and many hikers/campers get lost.
The Info Center is located off NC Hwy 183 about ½ a mile. You take Secondary State Route 1238 (also called Country Line Road or Kistler Memorial Highway).
Once you’re ready to go into the area, you’ll drive up steep mostly dirt roads to small parking areas and hike in. You really need a 4-wheel drive to get back into the gorge area especially if you try it from the west side of the park.
Once you’re in, you have some lightly blazed trails scattered with big boulders with a variety of interesting names given by past hikers. The trails are steep and difficult. You often cross over the water. There are plenty of rocks for climbing. Fishing is excellent. Some of the largest trout in the state are in the stream, and you can also catch small mouth bass. You can hunt too though I don’t hunt.
For more information on the wilderness area, call 828-257-4202.
If you just want to see this beautiful area, but you don’t want to rough it, then stop by Table Rock. It is right on the edge of the wilderness area. You can park and see the gorge area and some of the falls or take shorter hikes on trails. The Table Rock Trail is one mile and pretty strenuous, but certainly not the hard hiking in the wilderness area. They have parking, picnic tables, and a bathroom area (no running water) at Table Rock.
Another option is to visit Grandfather Mountain and just look down on the gorge area. This tourist attraction is very user friendly. You can drive right up to the top to the visitor’s center and then walk across the mile high bridge over to the rock area. From the rocks, you can look out over the gorge. They have a gift shop and a restaurant as well as a small animal exhibit. Phone 800-468-7325.
If you’re visiting the wilderness area or one of the view areas, be sure to stop by Linville Caverns located in Linville Valley in Marion, NC. This cave is small with many tunnels. A stream runs through the cave. Local trout swim in the river and are blind from living in the dark. Tour guides are excellent at this cave site. The phone number is 800-419-0540.
Linville Gorge is a beautiful area in North Carolina. If you want a real mountain adventure, then plan to visit the wilderness park. You will be sure to leave with lots of memories and stories. If you want to see this area, but you’re not sure about going totally wild, then try Table Rock. Grandfather Mountain is good if you just want to stop and view. Any option will be fun.
Saturday, March 21, 2009
Common Sense Tips - Nantahala White Water River Area - North Carolina
Mountain Wild Flowers in North Carolina
The Nantahala River area in North Carolina is a beautiful and rustic area of the state. Nantahala is known most for the white water rafting, but it’s also a pretty place to rest and look at the scenery. You’ll enjoy the mountain flowers in the spring, the water in the summer, leaves in the spring, and snow in the winter.
Remember that this is small town are and rural even though you will see some tourists and tourist attractions. Locals don’t get in a hurry. You may have to wait in line to buy stuff while someone shows off pictures of grandkids or talks about the weather.
Ask about fun things to do in the area. Many of the sites are hard to find or not listed at all. One of the locals told us about the cave and another gave us directions to rent the pontoon boat. Another loaned us a phone when the phone went out in the cabin. If you are looking for small town charm and kindness, this is where you’ll find it.
Be sure to use the bathroom before you hit the road. You won’t find many rest stops or gas stations. Sure. There are places to see and stop, but you’ll find long stretches of trees and wildlife.
You’ll also want to keep the gas tank filled and carry some food. I would suggest taking soda crackers. The roads are very winding, and both my boys threw up. The crackers helped a lot. Dramamine would be a good idea for those who get motion sickness, but that can make you sleepy. I’d say to try the crackers first.
Picnic supplies are a good idea. There are lots of roadside tables or pretty spots to stop and eat. We carried a cooler with us everywhere and had cold drinks or something to eat when we got hungry. You’ll go long stretches without seeing a restaurant or drink machine in Nantahala. You’ll also save money by taking food with you.
Take warm clothing. Even in the summer, this area can get cool. It also rains pretty often. We kept a change of clothes with us in the trunk of the car . . . just in case. Since I got soaked on the white water rafting trip, I was glad to have dry things to put on. We also bought those reef runner slip on shoes at Wal-Mart. Those are a good idea, since you’ll often get wet feet and walk in mud. You can just rinse those shoes in the creek and set them on the car hood to dry off.
Relax in Murphy, North Carolina - Fishing, Boating, Hiking
Harbor Cove Marina in Bear Paw, NC - near Murphy, NC
My Youngest Son Learns to Drive at Boat on the Lake in Murphy, North Carolina
Murphy is a small town in the very tip of North Carolina, but it is central to the big North Carolina and Tennessee tourist areas. We were a couple of hours from Asheville, Chattanooga, and Knoxville. Murphy is also close to Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, Maggie Valley, and Cherokee (about a hour to any of those areas). If you head back down the mountain, you can also white water raft on the Nantahala or closer – cross the state line into Tennessee and test yourself on the Ocoee.
Right in Murphy off Highway 294, you’ll find a recreation area. Just look for the brown sign about 5 miles or so after you turn off 64. The area is on the lake with a fishing pier and lots of ducks. They have picnic tables and grills under a shelter. You can walk around the edge of the lake to the dam and fish off the dam or along the edge of the lake. We had the best luck fishing in brushy areas before the dam.
Howard’s Bait Shop is on the right before you get to the Park turn in off 294. You can get your fishing license and also live bait there at the shop. They also had frog legs when we were up there. Those were for eating and not for bait. We picked up a box of frog legs on the way home and really enjoyed having some fried frog legs back at home.
If you want to rent a boat to ride on the lake, then go to the end of 294. You have to turn right or left. Go right and then a few miles down you will see a marina sign. Follow the dirt road down to the edge of the lake. You can rent a canoe, fishing boat, or a pontoon. We got the pontoon which was wonderful for fishing and also for climbing in and out of the lake to swim. There is a little island a few miles toward the damn with a picnic table.
This Marina is Harbor Cove Marina. The phone number is 828-644-9310. You may need to call to check the lake water levels as it’s been dry the last few years in North Carolina. They also have a limited number of boats to send out, so a reservation is a good plan too – although we just dropped by and got a boat rental set up. The people renting the boats are very friendly. The people docking there are as well. I climbed up in the boat with some guys to try to rent, and they were just regular guys on their own boat. They just laughed and said we could come along, but I had them point us to where we were supposed to go to rent the pontoon.
There’s a second boat rental company right next to the Hiwassee Dam. The marina is inside the gated community of homes and condos there. You may want to ask someone there at the dam exactly where to turn. Once you get inside the gate, the signs are easy to follow, but we missed the turn in on the first run through. They had more boats for rent. They also have snacks and drinks. It’s more formal than Harbor Cove.
We often stay in Murphy or Bear Paw, North Carolina, because the area is very pretty, peaceful, and we’re still close to all the places the boys like to check out on vacation. We generally rent a cabin for a week and then white water raft one day, boat on the lake another, and then hit one of the big tourist towns one day. Some days or in the evenings, we just grill out and play Scrabble or watch TV. So, we come home actually feeling like we’ve had a vacation rather than like we need one.
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