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Living High In North Carolina's High Country
From the Spring 2005 Issue
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White-Water Rafting: Guided rafting on the Watauga River, canoeing trips and day trips rock climbing. Sources: Edge of the World Outfitters, located in Banner Elk. www.edgeofworld.com and High Mountain Expeditions, Blowing Rock. The latter also offers water rafting on Nolichucky and Watauga rivers, mountain biking, kayaking, hiking and caving led by professional guides. Equipment available. (828) 295-4200.
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One of the region’s top tourist attractions, Grandfather Mountain’s peak is
accessible today via the Mile High Swinging Bridge.
Photo BY Hugh Morton
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Grandfather Mountain: Hugh McRae, an MIT graduate, son of a Wilmington textile and railroad family, and founder of Linville Improvement Company, came to North Carolina in search of the mica once used in the production of electricity. When he saw the area and realized its potential for development, he invested in 16,000 acres and built the first road up Grandfather Mountain. He went on to develop the resort town of Linville and built the Yonahlossee Trail to facilitate travel between Linville and Blowing Rock, now U.S. 221. In 1952 Hugh McRae Morton, grandson of Hugh McRae, extended the road to the top of the mountain, built the Mile High Swinging Bridge, later added a visitors center, picnic grounds, camping sites, gift shop and museum… and a scenic attraction was born. They called it Grandfather Mountain, named for the resemblance to an old man’s profile across its ridge. Grandfather Mountain is the highest peak in the Blue Ridge Mountains, a mile straight up. When you reach the top you can literally look an eagle in the eye. Famous for its flora, the mountain is an International Biosphere Reserve with more than 60 rare and endangered species and some of the oldest rock formations in the world. Visitors can view wild animals in their natural habitat, walk the foot bridge, or just have a picnic overlooking the incredible beauty of this legendary mountain, one of the top scenic attractions in the country.
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Another winner with visitors, the Tweetsie Railroad brings back the fun of steam locomotives for a three-mile ride.
Photo courtesy of NC Division of Tourism, Film and sports development
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Tweetsie Railroad: The ET & WNC train became known as “Tweetsie” because of the shrill call of its steam whistle. So, when the whistle blows, the train is full for a three-mile, steam-powered train ride. Live entertainment, rides, shopping and a deer park add up to real fun for the whole family in this re-created Old West theme park outside Blowing Rock.
Horn In The West: This compelling outdoor drama depicts the saga of Daniel Boone and the Revolutionary War through story, song and dance. Under the stars at the Boone Amphitheater from June through August.
Mystery Hill: Guests here marvel as the laws of physics are challenged. Also visit onsite the Native American Artifacts Museum and the Appalachian Heritage Museum, displaying the arts and crafts of Appalachian ancestors.
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A step back in time draws crowds to Flat Top Manor, the neocolonial home of textile magnate Moses Cone, and centerpiece of the estate.
Photo by Pat & Chuck Blackley
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Moses Cone Estate and Parkway Craft Center: The Moses H. Cone Memorial Park is maintained as a recreational facility for the public and covers more than 3,600 acres with 25 miles of wooded horseback trails, carriage and walking trails, bridle paths, and lakes. Flat Top Manor, the neocolonial home built in 1899 as the private residence of textile philanthropist Moses Cone, is now the centerpiece of the park and offers crafts for sale by 2,500 artisans from the Southern Highland Handicraft Guild.
-LK |
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