SW North Carolina Vacation Guide 4#4

FA L

FR

L2

EE

01

8

Celebrating 60 Years Pg. 7

Lodging - Attractions - Restaurants - Recreation - Shopping www.mtnvacationguide.com

For advertising information, contact Mountain Lake Publishing 888.896.2412 ©2018 MOUNTAIN LAKE PUBLISHING, INC.

welcome

Your Local Guide to the SW North Carolina Mountains. Let the Vacation Guide in the Mountains help you find Events, Festivals, and Recreational Activities. Find the best local places to Eat, Shop, and lodge with handy Maps to make getting around easy.

Just find the # - for the advertiser’s location on the Local City Map or Centerfold Area Map. Every Issue we will feature a Community Spotlight and point you in the right direction of Hiking Trails, Waterfalls, or Scenic Road Trips in our area.

View our website at www.MtnVacationGuide.com to find everything Online & Link to find more about our Restaurants, Shopping, Lodging, and Area Recreation. Remember to like us: /MountainVacationGuide

Tell them you “Found them in the Vacation Guide” FA

FR

LL

EE

20

18

Advertise with us!

Next Ad Copy Deadline November 19th

Holiday Edition, Volume 4, Issue 5

Pg. Celebrating 60 Years

7

tion - Shopping - Restaurants - Recrea Lodging - Attractionsmtnvacationguide.com www.

For advertising

information, contact

Mountain Lake

©2018 MOUNTAIN

412

Publishing 888.896.2

, LAKE PUBLISHING

Need Advertising Information?

Call Kathleen Painter: 706.896.2412 or toll-free: 888.896.2412

INC.

In This Issue:

Community Spotlight................ 4-5 Hiking Trails................................ 6 Calendar of Events................ 14-15 Scenic Drives.............................17 Wildlife................................20-21 Area Directory.......................... 22 Andrews....................................16 Brasstown................................... 3 Franklin...................................... 7 Hayesville................................... 8 Murphy.....................................18

Vacation Guide in the Mountains is published by MLP, Inc. © 2016-2018. Reproduction of any photographs artwork or copy prepared by MLP, Inc. is strictly prohibited without prior written permission of the publisher. MLP, Inc. is not responsible or liable for misinformation, misprints or typographical errors.

countryside Brasstown, NC

Photo by Kathleen Painter

2 | vACATION GUIDE in the Mountains

www.mtnvacationguide.com | Fall 2018

Brasstown

Hol

lan

dR

d

64

NC 160

se

4

Ree

Rd

wig

ad

Ro

64

Ln

Brasstown Rd

Hampton Church Rd

g Do ch

Brasstown Rd

n Bra Rd

Creamery Rd

Rd

Fall 2018 | www.mtnvacationguide.com

60

to

e Cov

4

y6

Hw

Folk School Rd

See centerfold map for more business locations.

en

Gre

Old

BRASSTOWN

ily

Em

ta Set

60

s kin

Jen

nch

Bra

Rd

VACATION GUIDE in the Mountains | 3

community spotlight

the GEM of North Carolina

T

he town of Franklin, is “Rich” in history and surrounded by the beautiful Appalachian Mountains.

Located in the southwestern corner of North Carolina, it is just 30 minutes from the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

Over a thousand years before European settlers arrived, this area was the small part of the Cherokee Homeland. Present day Franklin was once an important Indian town called Nikwasi and the remains of a mound can still be seen today. The Nikwasi mound and the townhouse that was built on top were the ceremonial heart of the village, holding a perpetually-burning flame. According to Cherokee folklore an attack by the Creek Nation on Nikwasi occurred and just as they were on the verge of defeat the mound opened for a band of Nunnuhi warriors, a race of spirits, who saved the village.

The Cherokee unlike other Indian tribes did not continually wander. They built cabins for winter and summer and had their own republican form of government. Legends of the great Indian chief Attakullakulla from the 1730’s were told by William Batram who passed through the area in his travels to visit many other Cherokee towns. Many trading relations occurred with the British and when the French Indian War broke out the Cherokees sided with the British. Many battles with the two continued and eventually the village was burned by the British in 1761.

4 | vACATION GUIDE in the Mountains

The Cherokee rebuilt Nikwasi after the British attack, but it was again destroyed in 1776, this time

by American Revolutionary soldiers.

The Cherokees ceded their lands in 1819, signing the Treaty of Washington, as far west as the Nantahala Ridge. At the time two commissioners Jesse Franklin, whom the town was named for and James Meabin were charged with surveying the land and organizing the new territory. They appointed Capt. Robert Love that mapped the land in late spring 1820, which led to the first land sale and settlement proceeded rapidly. The new territory was a part of Haywood County until 1828 and formed into Macon County, with Franklin named as the county seat.

Macon County was named in honor of Senator and Speaker of the House, Nathaniel Macon. He served in the American Revolution as did many of Macon County’s founders and thirty-six years in Congress from 1791 to 1828. Jesse Franklin served North Carolina as a senator and as its 20th governor and the city was formally incorporated in 1855.

Life after the Civil War for most families did not change a great deal as most necessities were either grown or made at home. After WWII the logging industry became prominent and work for building the Tallulah Falls Railroad in 1907 until 1962.

Once the huge timber companies moved out of the area the US Forest Service controlled almost fifty percent of the land. The Nantahala National Forest, encompasses 531,148 acres that provides recreational activities from whitewater rafting to www.mtnvacationguide.com | Fall 2018

Franklin camping. With over 600 miles of trails, opportunities for mountain bikers, horse-back riders and offhighway vehicle riders, plus hikers enjoy waterfalls, wildlife, and many scenic overlooks.

The famous Appalachian Trail winds through Macon County with many campsites just off the trail, such as Standing Indian here in Macon County, just west of Franklin on highway 64W. Outdoor enthusiasts visit the forest regularly to take advantage of the Nantahala River and Nantahala Lake. Franklin is situated on the Little Tennessee River and Tassee Park provides good access to the river for peaceful walking, running, and biking trails.

Franklin is also known as the, “Gem Capitol of the World.” Mining for ruby and sapphire began in Macon County in 1870. Called corundum, the minerals were mined commercially for abrasives and gave work to many men. Corundum and other minerals, mica and kaolin, were hauled to the railroad by horse and wagon and shipped out of Macon County in large quantities. Today there are many gem mines in the area and museums open for visitors. Substantial amounts of mineral and other precious stones have been discovered a here such as amethyst, rubies, garnets, sapphires, and moonstones that continued to be found. Annual gem shows attract various mineralogists and gem enthusiasts to the region.

In downtown Franklin there are many museums that show visitors it’s unique history including the Ruby City Museum that have one of the largest collections of gems, minerals, Native American, Fall 2018 | www.mtnvacationguide.com

& pre-Columbian collections. The Macon County Historical Museum which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The Scottish Tartans Museum features original and replica kilts dating back over 200 years from the late sixteenth century. Other exhibits include Scottish weaponry, a weaving display, and information detailing the Scottish migration to North Carolina. Also while visiting Franklin, be sure to visit the Cowee West’s Mill Historic District that is located off Route 28 North where you’ll discover man-made structures dating back more than 1,400 years.

Visitors enjoy walking in downtown Franklin with galleries, restaurants, antiques and shopping, for seasonal festivals. Fall kicks off with the Annual Pumpkin Fest in late October, with hayrides, crafters and live music. “Winter Wonderland” happens during the holidays for the spirit of the season with merchants serving refreshments like hot cider, that offer a warm friendly atmosphere.

Spring festivals include April Fools Trail Days and Airing of the Quilts in May. Summer brings the Taste of Scotland in June to celebrate authentic Scottish foods, music, dancers, games, crafts and the Parade of Clans & Tartans.

No matter what the season, visitors are welcome to rent cabins and stay in one of it’s many accommodations for the family to enjoy a variety of activities or to see a great show at the Smoky Mountain Performing Arts. Year round events and outdoor recreational activities make this “Gem of a Town” a cut above the rest!

VACATION GUIDE in the Mountains | 5

hiking trails

JOYCE KILMER MEMORIAL TRAIL The 2 mile figure-eight loop trail begins at the main parking area and climbs to Poplar Cove. The lower portion of the loop climbs the side of the cove.

The other half follows the creek for a ways. At the middle of the figure “8” is a stone monument, with a plaque engraved with a short biography of Joyce Kilmer himself. The upper portion of the loop passes through large trees.

Chatuge. A main central loop, which is easy and nearly level, has junctions with several more difficult side trails, traveling to some interesting destinations such as ridgetops and beaches.

From Robbinsville, Follow US 129 North for 1.5 miles to NC 143 West (Massey Branch Road).

Turn left and go 5.0 miles to a stop sign. Turn right onto Kilmer Road. Follow this road for 7.3 miles to Santeetlah Gap and the junction with the Cherohala Skyway straight ahead. Turn right; continue for another 2.5 miles. Turn left on the access road for Joyce Kilmer Memorial Forest; it is about 1/2 mile to the parking area.

WAYAH BALD LOOKOUT TOWER This national historic landmark offers panoramic views of many mountain ranges and two valleys. From the tower, one can see the main ridge of the Smoky Mountains to the North, the Balsams and the Cowees to the East, and the Tusquittee and Slickrock ranges to the West.

APPALACHIAN TRAIL - STANDING INDIAN MOUNTAIN is the highest point along the Appalachian Trail south of the Smokey Mountains. Views from the top can be spectacular regardless of the time of year. Hike from Deep Gap to the summit along the Appalachian Trail marked with very obvious white blazes. Though you are “northbound” on the AT, you will actually be going somewhat southeasternly. This is one of the few areas where the AT takes a horseshoe shaped route rather than pointing north.

From Hayesville or Franklin: Take Highway 64 until you see a small brown sign with an arrow pointing towards Deep Gap. Follow this Service Road #71 for several winding miles until you come to the Deep Gap parking area. During the winter this road is closed.

JACK RABBIT MOUNTAIN TRAILS This trail system provides access to over 14 miles of trails in the southern parts of Nantahala National Forest. It is also great for mountain biking as it travels along the shores and hills beside Lake

6 | vACATION GUIDE in the Mountains

From Murphy: Follow US Hwy. 64 East for 18.9 miles and turn right on NC Hwy. 175 S. From Franklin: Follow US Hwy. 64 West for 28.3 miles and turn left on NC Hwy. 175 South.

From Nantahala: Take Hwy.74, turn Right on Wayah Rd. Several miles until turn on Left to Forest Service Rd. 69.. see directions below.

From Franklin: from Hwy. 64 take Patton, turn Left on Wayah Rd. Several miles until turn right on gravel road (FS 69) to Wayah Bald. Go- about 4.5 mi. to parking area near end of road just around 180 degree turn. Walk back to the turn, take paved path past latrines up to stone tower (path is suitable for handicapped).

SNOWBIRD MOUNTAIN BACK COUNTRY Big Snowbird Creek and a network of 37 miles of hiking trails. Snowbird’s highlights are waterfalls and ridgetop and streamside trails.

From Robbinsville, take Highway 129 North for 1.5 miles to the junction with Highway 143 West (Massey Branch Road). Turn left on Highway 143 and travel approx 5 miles to a stop sign. Turn right onto SR1127. Continue for approx 2 miles and bear left at the fork onto SR 1115. After 2 miles the road turns sharply to the left. Travel another mile, cross a bridge and turn right onto SR 1120. The road dead-ends after 6 miles (4 miles of which is gravel) at the trailheads. www.mtnvacationguide.com | Fall 2018

Franklin

Celebrating 60 Years

www.rubycity.com (800)821-RUBY 130 East Main Street, Franklin NC 28734

(828)524-3967 gems@rubycity.com • Onsite Lapidary Services & Supplies • Rare Collector Gems & Minerals • Loose Gemstones & Findings • 14K & Sterling Silver Jewelry • Gem Bags & Buckets • Jewelry & Design • Himalayan Salt • Healing Stone • Fossils

Franklin’s Original “Dig Your Own” Native Gemstone Mine 9am-5pm 6961 Upper Burningtown Rd Franklin, NC 28734

828-369-9742

017

masonsmine.com

043

FRANKLIN 28 East Main 043 441

Maple St

Porter St

Phillips St

East Palmer

West Palmer

23

Carolina Mtn Dr

Depot St

BUS

Patton St

West Main

64

64

See centerfold map for more business locations.

Allman Dr

Franklin Plaza

Highlands Rd

Ge

or gia

Rd

Wayah St

441

Fall 2018 | www.mtnvacationguide.com

VACATION GUIDE in the Mountains | 7

Hayesville

Fine Arts & Crafts

Not So Buried Treasure We sell Antiques, Furniture, Home Decor, & More

828-389-6536 2011 US Hwy 64w Hayesville, NC

Mon-Fr 10-5 066 Sat 10-4

Fine Art: Oil, Acrylic, Pastel & Watercolors • Photography • Pen & Ink • • Baskets • Pottery • Soaps • Carving • Books • Weaving • Dolls • • Jewelry • Woodturning • Stained Glass •

Custom Picture Framing 74 Sanderson St., Hayesville, NC 28904

828-389-2880

MorningSongGallery.com

49

HAYESVILLE Fort Hembree St Hickory St

Bald St

itte eS t

BUS

Ritter Rd

Church St

Davis Loop

010

Curtis St

Pass St

Church St

Hiawassee St

See centerfold map for more business locations.

May St

Tu sq u

64

Riverside Dr

Sullivan St

Riverside Cir

BUS

Main St 64 49

Sanderson St

Herbert St 69

8 | vACATION GUIDE in the Mountains

Anderson St

16

Mill

St

www.mtnvacationguide.com | Fall 2018

Hayesville

Visitor’s delight in “The Arts Tour” that will begin for the Winter Season on November 9, 10, & 11.

Helen & Sautee features picturesque scenes and accomodations.

This event also includes Lodging & Dining facilities to visit in the beautiful North Georgia Mountains.

Follow Arts Tour Signs in Habersham, Rabun, Towns, Union, White Counties, GA & Clay County NC to wind down roads of beautiful scenery and discovering Art at every turn. You can receive your personal driving tour map by picking one up at Chambers of Commerce, Visitor Centers or downloading one online at ArtsTour.org

This is a special event for the Northeast Georgia area to see galleries & working studios in a six county area with live demonstrating artists.

Because of the popularity of the Arts Tour, an additional two counties of Union County, Blairsville, GA area and our friends to the north in Clay County, Hayesville, NC will be participating this year.

Discover the work of local artists, painters, potters, folk art, jewelry makers, fiber, glass, wood, mixed media, metal artists and more. Watch the craftsmanship, love, and care put into unique pieces made originally by the artist.

Featured artists in Habersham start in Clarkesville and follow the Scenic Hwy. 197. Visit wineries in Rabun and view artists in downtown Clayton and Tiger, GA. Travel the scenic vistas of Hwy. 76 to Hiawassee & Hayesville and visit Lake Chatuge. Explore Blairsville’s artists, including the Trackrock area for inspirational beauty. Lively Fall 2018 | www.mtnvacationguide.com

VACATION GUIDE in the Mountains | 9

Cherokee Homestead Exhibit The Cherokee Homestead Exhibit, located in downtown Hayesville, is an outdoor exhibit which includes replicas of a 17th century winter house, summer house, corn crib, summer shelter, mound gardens, dugout canoe, and public art depicting elements of the Cherokee culture. The elements of the exhibit were researched and are as authentic and accurate as possible. Informational kiosks at the exhibit enable free self-guided tours at any time.

The winter house and summer house were constructed with upright locust poles which support the rivercane woven sides and thatched roofs. Mud and straw daub create the plaster which was added to the woven sides of the winter house in order to enclose it against the cold winter weather. The circular fire pit would have been used for cooking, heat and light throughout the winter. The corn crib was constructed similar to the summer house and raised off the ground to prevent pilfering by animals. A shelter, located near the mound gardens, would have been used for a multitude of activities during warm weather, including basket making, flint knapping, and pounding corn kernels into corn meal. A dugout canoe constructed from the straight trunk of a poplar tree was placed under the summer house to shelter it from the elements.

Forged metal masks placed throughout the exhibit represent the seven Cherokee clans: bird, blue, deer, long hair, paint, wild potato, and wolf. A two-story wall mural shows representative elements of the Cherokee culture including petroglyphs, pottery, projectile points, tools, weapons, and woven baskets. The wall also contains plaques with Cherokee philosophical thoughts written in English and Cherokee Syllabary. Hand-forged metal disks have been placed on both

10 | vACATION GUIDE in the Mountains

www.mtnvacationguide.com | Fall 2018

Hayesville Adults (55+)

Pe & Q ace uie t

Where Vacations are a way of Life RV s Pa & Mo rk del s www.SundownerRvVillage.net 42 Sundowner Circle ~ Hayesville, NC 28904 828-389-3241 007

Shady Sites

010

sides of the fence atop the wall and contain iconic figures of Cherokee culture and legends.

Tours and workshops are provided by volunteers for public and private schools, colleges, adult classes and tour groups at the Cherokee Homestead Exhibit. Arrangements for a guided tour or workshop may be scheduled by calling (828) 389-3045.

The Cherokee Homestead Exhibit is the site of the Cherokee Heritage Festival held from 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. on the third Saturday in September.

Sponsored by the Clay County Communities Revitalization Association, a non-profit 501C3 organization.

Please visit http://cccra-nc.org/ or write to PO Box 1533, Hayesville, NC 28904 for more information.

Free Weights ~ Cardio Exercise Classes Racquetball ~ Pickleball “Personal Trainer Available” Precor Equipment Open Monday - Friday 6am - 8pm Saturday 8am - 3pm 333 Ball Park Drive, Hayesville, N.C. 28904

828-389-0368

Fall 2018 | www.mtnvacationguide.com

016

VACATION GUIDE in the Mountains | 11

Tennessee

Fontana Lake

Santeetlah Lake 165

ROBBINSVILLE

Nantahala 17 Burnin

Rd

ad

h Ro

a Way

Topton

gtown

Lake Appalachia

g

g

Ha

n gi

Do

Rd

n

ANDREWS

Marble

Jo

see pg 16

eB wn Hw y

MURPHY see pg 18 64

Rd ek re sC

56

HAYESVILLE see pg 8

66

tin

32

61 wn ssto Bra see pg 3

M ar

09

Nantahala Lake

ro

Hiwassee Lake

06

11

Warne

07

Lake Chatuge

205

YOUR AD SHOULD BE HERE! Map Sponsors receive

PREMIUM PLACEMENT in print & on the web!

Call toll free 888-896-2412 to reserve this spot!

Wa

Waynesville

Cherokee Bryson City

Snow Hill Rd

Olive

Sylva

Dillsboro Rd reek ee C Cow

Cullowhee

Rd

Airpo

rt Rd

FRANKLIN see pg 7

Bear Creek Lake

Cat Creek Rd

ayah Road

Lake Glenville

Glenville

Lake Toxaway

Highlands Scaly Mtn

Georgia

a rolin a C h Sout

mtnvacationguide.com

Fall calendar of Events ANDREWS Every Thursday, Friday & Saturday Various Concerts

Andrews Brewing Co.

October 12th-14th

Nevermore: Imaginary Life & Mysterious Death of Edgar Allan Poe

October 26th-28th

Fall Square Dance Weekend John C. Campbell Folk School

November 3rd

Blacksmith & Fine Craft Auction John C. Campbell Folk School

November 9th

Valley Town Cultural Arts Center

Butternut Creek Friends

October 19th

John C. Campbell Folk School

Downtown

Geoff Hohwald & Rick Taylor

Homecoming Parade

November 15th

October 20th

John C. Campbell Folk School

Downtown

Howard Rains & Tricia Spencer

Wild Fat Cat 5k

October 26th-27th Harvest Festival

Andrews Public Library

November 15th-17th Cocoa with Santa Main Street

November 17th

Christmas on Main Main Street

December 8th

Christmas Parade

November 30th

John C. Campbell Folk School

December 2nd Fireside Sale

John C. Campbell Folk School

December 7th

Brasstown Ringers Holiday Concert John C. Campbell Folk School

FRANKLIN October 11th-12th

Autumn Leaves Craft Show

Main Street

November 10th

BRASSTOWN

Main Street

All American Bazzar

Every Tuesday

November 16th

John C. Campbell Folk School

Smoky Mountain Center for Performing Arts

October 12th

November 24th

John C. Campbell Folk School

Downtown

October 19th

November 24th

Celtic-Confusion

A John Berry Christmas

John C. Campbell Folk School

Smoky Mountain Center for Performing Arts

October 20th-21st

November 25th

Settawig Road

Downtown

Beginner Contra & Square Dance

Andrew Magill & John Cloyd Miller

Punkin’ Chunkin’

The Bellamy Brothers

Winter Wonderland Nights

Franklin’s Annual Christmas Parade

December 1st Winter Wonderland Nights Downtown

December 1st Cowee Christmas

MURPHY Nov. 2

Art Walk Downtown Murphy

November 3

Historic Cowee School: Arts & Heritage

Harvest Pet Celebration

December 6th-8th

WagonMaster Ranch

The Best Christmas Pageant Ever!

Smoky Mountain Center for Performing Arts

November 21st

Midweek Motoring Comfort Grub

HAYESVILLE

Dec. 1

October 12th-21th

Downtown Murphy

Angel Street Play Peacock Performing Arts

October 19th Chili & Anything Pumpkin Cookoff Downtown Square

October 20th-21st Punkin’ Chunkin’ Settawig Road

November 3rd The Return Peacock Performing Arts

Nov. 9, 10, 11 Arts Tour Various Art Galleries

November 10th Wyatt Espalin & Austin Coleman Concert

Christmas Tree Lighting & Christmas Parade

Dec. 7

Art Walk Downtown Murphy

NANTAHALA October 27th NOCtoberfest

Nantahala Outdoor Center

ROBBINSVILLE October 12th-14th Corvette Expo

Tail of the Dragon

October 19th-20th Harvest Festival

Stecoah Valley Cultural Arts Center

October 27th

6th Annual Cobalt Nation

Peacock Performing Arts

Fontana Village Resort

Nov. 10 & 11

November 23rd-24th

Candy Cane Market The Immaculate Heart of Mary Church

Dec. 1 Lighting of the Tree & Christmas Events

Dec. 8 Christmas Parade Downtown

Arts & Crafts Drive-About Tour Stecoah Valley Cultural Arts Center

December 1st

Breakfast With Santa Stecoah Valley Cultural Arts Center

December 1st

Christmas in the Mountains Stecoah Valley Cultural Arts Center

Andrews

Relax and focus on the experiences you came for...

Nested in the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains, this pet-friendly hotel in Andrews gives you easy access to other local sites, activities and attractions like: • Trail of Dragon • Field of the Wood • Nantahala White Water Rafting and Zip Line • Calaboose Cellars • Harrah’s Cherokee Valley River Casino AMENITIES INCLUDE: • FREE WiFi • Free hot, fresh and healthy breakfast • Seasonal outdoor pool • Guest laundry facilities • Volleyball court

828-321-2176

ChoiceHotels.com 138 Upper Valley River Lane Andrews, NC

067

ANDREWS

Higdon St

Higdon Loop 19

Sioux St

Locust St

Walnut St

Clovard Ave

3rd St Connaheta Ave

Aquone Rd 6th St

Av e

Walker St

Br

ist

ol

See centerfold map for more business locations.

BUS

Oak St

2nd St

Fairview Rd

Graham St

1st St Bristol Ave

Teas St

Robbinsville Rd

Wilson St

Railroad St

Chestnut St

Whitaker Ln

Wilson St

Valley River Lane 67 (old Country Health Inn Dr)

Locust St

19

M. Mashburn Dr

129

Laurel St

19

Macon St

74 BUS

16 | vACATION GUIDE in the Mountains

www.mtnvacationguide.com | Fall 2018

Tail of the Dragon Cherohala Skyway Moonshiner 28 Tail of the Dragon at Deals Gap, with 318 curves in 11 miles, is America’s number one motorcycle and sports car road. Designated US Hwy 129, the road is bordered by the Great Smoky Mountains and the Cherokee National Forest, with no intersecting roads or driveways to hamper your travel. It is considered “the destination” for thousands of motorcycle and sports car fans throughout the spring, summer, and fall. Be cautious as the turns are tight, but the Tail of the Dragon is guaranteed to be the ride of your life!

The 50 mile-long Cherohala Skyway, one of Discovery Channel’s Top 10 Motorcycle Rides in North America, is tamer but offers ridge after ridge of forested mountainside and abundant, unobstructed scenic overlooks around every corner with unsurpassed views of Joyce Kilmer Memorial Forest and the Cherokee National Forest. From Santeetlah Gap in Robbinsville, NC, to Telco Plains, TN, there is little evidence of civilization, so make sure the weather is good and you have plenty of gas. fall 2018 | www.mtnvacationguide.com

Moonshiner 28 might bring-up an image of the old rum-runners of the past. The road today boasts some great twisties, wide sweepers and unsurpassed scenery. It is fast becoming one of the great must-do roads of western North Carolina. It is less crowded than similar drives and offers even more to see for the two-lane tourist.

Mountain vistas, waterfalls and secluded lakes appear around nearly every corner. Stretching from US HWy 129 at the Tail of the Dragon at Deals Gap, Moonshiner 28 winds its way southeastward through Franklin and Highlands North Carolina before turning southward into Georgia and South Carolina ending at the sleepy town of Walhalla.

There are hundreds of miles of other great roads to explore in every direction: Devils Triangle, Diamondback 226, Six Gap North Georgia, The Snake and Great Forest Service Dual Sport and Jeep Roads.

For more information on these scenic drives and more, visit http://tailofthedragon.com/ VACATION GUIDE in the Mountains | 17

Murphy

Mon. - Thurs. 11 - 9 & Fri. - Sat. 11 - 10 19 Tennessee St., Murphy, N.C. 28906

828-837-4151

www.TheParsonsPub.com

014

More than just a magazine!

mtnvacationguide.com

Casino

30

Ple

as

an

An

dr

tV all ey

Rd

ew sR

d

MURPHY

W ell

sC

NC

Te n

ne

Lak

esid

yR lle Va 37

ee

St 68

r

14

Pe

ac

49

69

ee

74 19 129

See centerfold map for more business locations.

St

St

129

16

ee ss

19

htr

a aw

Hi 11 BUS

St

n.

ive

ss

eD

ve rA

Hill

on

50

64

18 | vACATION GUIDE in the Mountains

Hiawasse

e St

64

NC 1687 Hiawassee St www.mtnvacationguide.com | Fall 2018

Murphy (828) 835-9100

Antiques & More Antiques • Crystial Depression Glass Art • Pottery • Fine Linens Booths for Rent • Consignment

727-415-8563

www.LotsaMemories-Shop.info

1466 Andrews Rd. Murphy, NC 28906

068

41 Tennessee St, Murphy, NC (across from the Henn) Open Tuesday - Saturday

Dine In • Take Out

Come see our expanded salad bar!

See our website for menu & hours of operation.

BrothersRestaurantInMurphy.com

030

Boating & Fishing on 3.5 acre pond Unlimited Wi-Fi, Free Local & US Long Distance Calling, Satellite TV, Pet Friendly, Washer/Dryer in All Cabins

20 Minutes from Casino

Reasonable Rates: stay for a few days, a week or long term.

828.644.5518 www.fishpondcabins.com

032

Happily Ever After...

50

TWO GREAT LOCATIONS

Murphy Next to Capt D’s on Hwy 64 828.837.1999 Blue Ridge in the Ingles Shopping Center 800.711.1251

Fall 2018 | www.mtnvacationguide.com

Authorized

Dealer

blueridgediamondcenter.com “Like Us” to recieve updates & special promotions!

VACATION GUIDE in the Mountains | 19

Murphy

828-837-8050 Saturday & Sunday Year Round!

Decker’s 75 Blairsville Hwy, 056 Murphy, NC 28906

Lunch & Dinner Daily 11am to 11pm & Beyond

Karaoke - Trivia - Live Music

006

in North Carolina

www.chevellerestaurants.com 66 Hiwassee St, Murphy

828-835-7001

983 NC Hwy 69, Hayesville

828-389-6069

20 | vACATION GUIDE in the Mountains

011

WILD TURKEYS – Game species throughout North Carolina Turkeys are once again common in North Carolina, thanks to a restoration program implemented by the N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission. The male eastern wild turkey has dark plumage with striking bronze, copper and green iridescent colors. Males have a growth of bristle-like feathers known as the “beard” that extends from the chest.

It is not uncommon, however, to find females with a beard. The head and neck of adult males is largely bare and varies in color from red to blue to white, depending on the bird’s mood. Females are usually duller in color than males, which help camouflage them while they are nesting. The eastern wild turkey thrives best in areas with a 037 mix of forested and open land habitats. Forested areas are used for cover, foraging, and for roosting in trees at night. Open land areas are used for foraging, mating, and brood rearing. www.mtnvacationguide.com | Fall 2018

Murphy Mountain Cabin Rentals Our Cabin Rentals feature 2-6 BR’s, Rec Rooms, Wi-Fi, Mtn Views

For All Age n s Fu

5510 W. US 64, Murphy, NC 28906

Call today 1-800-837-9199

www.AppalachianLand.com

009

MINI GOLF 18 Challenging Holes in a beautiful mountain setting just west of Murphy Mayfield Ice Cream, Milkshakes, Snacks, & Gifts GEM MINING 4 Bucket sizes to pan for gems.

RACOON – common furberarer species throughout North Carolina The mischievous little creature wearing the familiar black mask is the raccoon. These handsome mammals are highly intelligent and very playful.

In folk stories, the raccoon often outwits humans or other animals. Its great adaptability has allowed it to flourish throughout our history and in almost all environments. There are few people who haven’t surprised a raccoon on a nocturnal raid of their garbage cans. North American raccoon relatives are the coati and the ringtail, both of which have banded tails.

828-516-1581

64

7289 US Hwy 64 W • Murphy NC 28906

There’s even more to see and save in the Vacation Guide with our new coupon section!

coupon on page 23

CAROLINA NORTHERN FLYING SQUIRREL – Endangered species The squirrel was found in three areas of the southern Appalachians: studies found the species in mountain ranges: east of the French Broad River Basin, and Great Balsam, Plott Balsam, Smoky, and Unicoi Mountains Northern flying squirrels have bright cinnamon brown colored fur dorsally, Fall 2018 | www.mtnvacationguide.com

gray fur around the face and the end of the tail, and bicolored fur on the belly that is gray at the base and creamy white at the tip of each hair. This squirrel’s most distinctive feature is the cape of loose skin that stretches from its wrists to its ankles and forms the membrane on which it glides.

The squirrel has a long, flat, furred tail. The northern flying squirrel inhabits the cool, wet boreal and deciduous forests of North Carolina’s highest mountains. It prefers a mix of conifers (red spruce, Fraser fir, Eastern hemlock) and northern hardwood trees (yellow birch, buck- eye, sugar maple) VACATION GUIDE in the Mountains | 21

AREA DIRECTORY Dining Hayesville Chevelles 983 NC Hwy. 69

828-389-6069

is not only a Sports Themed Restaurant & Bar, but also carries apparel. Come enjoy Lunch, Dinner and Take-Out or shop anytime at Chevelles. chevellerestaurants.com

See pg. 20

Copper Door 2 Sullivan Street

828-389-8460

thecopperdoor.com

See pg 11

Fine dining in historic Hayesville. Aged steaks, fresh seafood, full bar, award winning wine list, wine dinners, cooking classes.

Murphy Brother’s Restaurant 1466 Andrews Rd

828-835-9100

Open for Lunch & Dinner. Mon - Sun, Breakfast on Sat & Sun. Come try our fresh mozzarella sticks, fried green tomatoes, and so much more. brothersrestaurantinmurphy.com

Chevelles 983 NC Hwy. 69

See pg 19

828-389-6069

is not only a Sports Themed Restaurant & Bar, but also carries apparel. Come enjoy Lunch, Dinner and Take-Out or shop anytime at Chevelles. chevellerestaurants.com

Downtown Pizza Co 52 Hiawassee Street

See pg 20

828-837-0500

Murphy

Hayesville

Appalachian Land Company 800-837-9199 5510 West Hwy 64 W

Morning Song Gallery 74 Sanderson Street

828-389-2880

MorningSongGallery.com

See pg 8

Murphy, North Carolina Mountain Cabin Rentals appalachianland.com

See pg 21

Fish Pond Cabins Fish Pond Lane

828-644-5518

fishpondcabins.com

See pg 19

Cute and cozy cabins on pond. Fishing, Boating & pet friendly. Close to casino.

Franklin’s Original “Dig Your Own” Native Gemstone Mine. Open 7 Days a Week 9am - 5pm. masonmine.com

See pg 7

828-524-3967

Featured on TLC Network’s “Cash and Treasures”. Your one stop shop for finished jewelry, cut gemstones, decor, lapidary and mining equipment, and rock tumblers. rubycity.com

See pg 7

Hayesville Clay County Recreation Center 828-389-0368 333 Ball Park Dr

downtownpizzaco.com

See pg 23

The Parson’s Pub 19 Tennessee Street

828-837-4151

See pg 18

Lodging Andrews Nested in the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains, this pet-friendly hotel in Andrews gives you easy access to other local sites, activities and attractions. choicehotels.com

See pg 16

Hayesville Sundowner RV Village 42 Sundowner Circle

See pg 11

Murphy Bear Creek Adventures Mini Golf 828-516-1581 7289 US Hwy. 64 West

Fun for all ages! 18 Challenging Holes of Mini Golf in a beautiful mountain setting just west of Murphy. Stop in for Mayfield Ice Cream, Milkshakes, Snacks, & Gifts. PLUS Gem Mining!

Like us on Facebook

Quality Inn 828-321-2176 138 Upper Valley River Lane

828-389-3241

See pg 21

WagonMaster Adventure Ranch 828-494-9521 359 Adventure Ranch Road

See pg 8

828-837-2727

Where your necessities are handmade. Body care, massage, and yoga. bluemoonelise.com

Decker Flea Market 75 Blairsville Hwy

See pg 20

828-837-8050

Large flea-market, open Sat & Sun. year round. Antiques, produce, funnel cakes, silk flowers, socks, wood mantles, & natural and Cultured stone.

Diamond Center 560 West HWY 64

See pg 20

828-837-1999

The area’s only full service jewelry store, locally owned and operated with locations in Murphy, NC and Blue Ridge, Ga. The Diamond Center family has been servicing the Tri-State area for over 40 years! blueridgediamondcenter.com

See pg 19

Lotsa Memories: Antiques & More 41 Tennessee St 727-415-8563 Offering affordable Antiques, Depression Glass, Crystal, Vintage Housewares, Musical Instruments, Furniture, Folk Art, Handmade Quilts, Original Art, Trade Cookbooks, Glassware, Fine Linens, Pottery, Mountain Crafts, Native American Crafts and so much more.

Booths for renting, consignment, buying and selling. lotsamemories-shop.info

See pg 19

Tourism Murphy

Gem mining, gold panning, mini golf, skeet & pistol range, wagon rides, paintball gallery, cabins, wedding & event venue, pet friendly. wagonmasterranch.com

We sell Antiques, Collectibles, Furniture, Home Décor and lots more.

Blue Moon Elise 26 Valley River Ave

Mason’s Ruby & Sapphire Mine 828-369-9742 6169 Upper Burningtown Road

Free Weights, Cardio, Exercise Classes, Raquetball & Pickleball. Open Mon. - Friday.

theparsonspub.com

828-389-6536

Murphy

Franklin

All you-can-eat pizza & salad since 2001.

Traditional Irish Food with a Mountain Twist.

Over 70 Different Varieties of Craft Beer “Look at our Live Beer List”. Open Monday - Saturday 11am - 10pm.

Not So Buried Treasure 2011 US Hwy 64w Like us on Facebook

Recreation

Ruby City Gems 130 E. Main St.

Morning Song Gallery with its exceptional collection of fine arts & crafts representing the heart & soul of over 70 artists for near and far.

See pg 20

Shopping

Cherokee County Chamber of Commerce 828-837-2242 805 West US 64 Welcome to Murphy, Andrews and Brasstown, North Carolina. Visit our Welcome Center, conveniently located on the four-lane. cherokeecountychamber.com

Brasstown

Andrews & Murphy Visitor Centers 20 Tennessee Street 828-557-0602

This 13 acre, quaint RV/Park Model Village is nestled under a grove of majestic oaks catering to the adult camper (55+) as a haven for peace, quiet and tranquility.

Highlander Gallery 10079 Old Hwy. 64

Fine Arts & Crafts featuring Local & Regional Artists

Find your balance of rest and adventure in Cherokee County, NC

sundownerrvvillage.net

HighlanderGallery.com

visitcherokeecountync.com

See pg 11

828-835-9982

See pg 3

coupons

YOUR BUSINESS COULD BE HERE WITH A COUPON...

Call 888-896-2412 to reserve this spot!

What discounts can you offer to drive more traffic & get more customers?

$1.00 OFF

the purchase of an adult buffet & drink.

All you-can-eat pizza & salad since 2001.

Visit our Murphy, NC & Blairsville, GA locations

www.downtownpizzaco.com

069

Do You Have A Lodging, Attraction, Restaurant, or Shopping Outlet?

Call

Call

888-896-2412 to reserve this spot!

888-896-2412 to Market Your Business!

LET US GUIDE YOU! We can help you find events, festivals, and learn about our area.

You’ll find the best places to eat, shop, lodge, and enjoy recreational activities. Just look for our FREE guides distributed throughout North Georgia & Southwest North Carolina or view online!

Excited About

VACATION? www.mountainlakeguide.com | www.mtnvacationguide.com

1-888-896-2412 facebook.com/MountainVacationGuide

Fall 2018 | www.mtnvacationguide.com

VACATION GUIDE in the Mountains | 23

No, your vacation doesn't have to end...

Two ways to get your FREE copy of Homes For Sale in the Mountains 1. P ick one up at any of our hundreds of locations in SW North Carolina or North Georgia 2. View and/or order a magazine online at homesforsalemagazines.com