Blog Archive

Handcrafted Holidays: Shop Local Makers in Transylvania County

This holiday season, consider skipping the big-box stores and giving gifts that are as unique as the people on your list. Transylvania County is home to a vibrant community of makers, artisans, and small businesses offering one-of-a-kind... Read More

Enter the Photo Contest: 12 Days of Holiday Cheer

12 Days of Holiday Cheer Photo Contest Celebrate the magic of the season with us and showcase your holiday spirit in Transylvania County! How to Participate Submit a photo inspired by our 12 Days of Holiday Cheer campaign or share your own... Read More

12 Days of Holiday Cheer in Brevard, NC

12 Days of Holiday Cheer Ring in the holidays, Brevard-style! We’ve curated 12 ways to be merry and bright in Transylvania County this holiday season, and we’re inviting you along for this sleigh ride. Join us on our social media pages as we... Read More

Five Ways to Find Yourself in Brevard this Winter

Five Ways to Find Yourself in Brevard this Winter We want to let you in on a little secret — winter is an underrated time in the Land of Waterfalls. Downtown Brevard sparkles in the light of the holidays. The forests and parks have smaller crowds.... Read More

Take a Drive In Brevard This Fall

Fall is a stunning time to visit Transylvania County, and we are ready to welcome you!  So, whether you’re cruising in a sleek convertible or packing the family into the minivan, a fall drive through Transylvania County is an experience you... Read More

Explore The Cradle of Forestry

Explore The Cradle of Forestry With the Ghost of Tommy Hodges Photo Courtesy of FIND Outdoors Let’s hear a little about you, Tommy. I’m Tommy Hodges, and if you’ve heard my name before, you probably know it’s tied to one of the biggest... Read More

Gear Up for Adventure: Shopping Guide for Hitting the Outdoors

Gear Up for Adventure Shopping Guide for Hitting the Outdoors What’s your favorite way to play in Transylvania County? Maybe that’s not a fair question. After all, it can be tough picking your favorite activity in an outdoor adventure mecca. Our... Read More

Relax, Unwind, and Be Well in Transylvania County

Breathe in… and breathe out. Do you hear that? It’s the sound of life’s hectic moments melting away in the peaceful mountain oasis that is Transylvania County. Here, you can find calm moments in the company of nature as you take in the awe of... Read More

Listen to the Music: Live Music in Transylvania County

The hills are alive with the sound of music — the Appalachian hills, that is! Corner to corner, Transylvania County is filled with the sounds of live music. From cover bands at breweries playing your favorite classic rock and country songs to... Read More

Destination Trip Tips: Catalina Noreña

Destination Trip Tips Discover the Best of Transylvania County with Trip Tips from Catalina Noreñ​a  Catalina Noreña, Photo by Juan Diego Reyes.   Catalina Noreña is a hiker, camping enthusiast, and mountain biker and the leader of Club de... Read More

Explore Responsibly: 8 Ways to Be a Mindful Traveler While Visiting Brevard and Transylvania County

Explore Responsibly 8 Ways to Be a Mindful Traveler While Visiting Brevard and Transylvania County As you plan your travels, have you thought about how you can journey with more intention? There are plenty of ways to reduce your footprint while... Read More

The Ultimate Guide to Water Activities in Brevard & Transylvania County, NC

The Ultimate Guide to Water Activities in Brevard & Transylvania County, NC Summer approaching means warmer temperatures and a corresponding urge to cool off. Luckily, there’s no shortage of ways to do just that in the Land of Waterfalls. The... Read More

View From the Top

View From The Top Transylvania County’s most notable Blue Ridge Parkway mileposts The Blue Ridge Parkway, a scenic ribbon of road that weaves through Virginia and North Carolina, has been providing drivers, cyclists, hikers, and lovers... Read More

Top Hiking Trails to Explore near Brevard, NC

Transylvania County is a hiker’s paradise. Fortunately, each seasons offers wonderful reasons to get out on the trail. Winter’s long range views. Spring’s wildflowers. Summer’s dense green canopy. And autumn’s spectacular color. We’ve compiled... Read More

Escape the Ordinary: Unusual Outdoor Experiences and Stays

Adventure opportunities of every kind abound in Brevard and Transylvania County. But there is a whole host of under-the-radar experiences awaiting your discovery. Here are some exciting ways to create new memories in North Carolina’s Land of... Read More

Artful Adventures: Exploring the Arts in Brevard & Transylvania County

Thanks to its surrounding natural beauty, Brevard has long attracted artists across every discipline, turning the area into a moveable feast of memorable art experiences. This month, the Adventurist sat down with Kathy King, Executive Director... Read More

Keeping History Alive: How Brevard Became a Pioneering Civil Rights Community

We invite you to learn more about a landmark effort by Brevard and Transylvania County’s African American citizens who made history – and the extraordinary African American community that is sharing their history in exciting new ways.  ... Read More

Chills & Thrills in Transylvania County

With the Halloween season almost upon us, the Adventurist thought you might enjoy hearing about some of the spooky legends of Transylvania County. As Halloween approaches, we recomend you share these local stories around a campfire deep in the... Read More

The Legacy of Indigenous People in Transylvania County

North Carolina has the largest population of Indigenous people east of the Mississippi River and the eighth-largest Indigenous population in the United States. With their rich and diverse cultures, traditions, and histories, Indigenous people... Read More

Forest Bathing: How To Cleanse Your Spirit

As a part of North Carolina’s Year of The Trail celebration, “Wellness and Trails” is the theme for August. In conjunction with that theme, this month’s blog is about Forest Bathing, which has become a popular activity for folks who love... Read More

Year of the Trail: Wheely Fun

Memorable Road Rides: Wheely Fun Transylvania County has earned a worldwide — and well-deserved — reputation for itsspectacular mountain biking. Yet the road cycling opportunities here are just as rich, variedand rewarding, whether... Read More

Kidding Around: Seven Sensational Family-Friendly Suggestions

As we celebrate the Year of the Trail, it’s helpful to remember that some trails just go with the flow.  From the 3rd oldest river in the world to numerous tributaries and streams, there are multiple ways to get on the water in... Read More

7 Easy Ways To Be Waterfall Wise

As beautiful as our waterfalls are, they also represent hidden dangers. Every year, there are serious injuries and yes, sometimes even fatalities, experienced at our waterfalls. When visiting North Carolina’s Land of Waterfalls, enjoy our... Read More

Come to Your Senses

When you venture into the woods to celebrate North Carolina’s Year of the Trail, we want you to have the richest and most rewarding experience possible. That’s why we’ve enlisted the help of Torry Nergart, conservation easement manager at... Read More

“Leave It Better” And Be Like Trashsquatch

We love Brevard and Transylvania County. And we know that you do, too. That’s why we introduced our “Leave It Better” initiative several years ago. It has been the Transylvania County Tourism Development Authority’s (TCTDA) most ambitious and... Read More

Ask a Ranger

Kevin Bischof, Gorges State Park This month, the Adventurist had a chance to sit down with Kevin Bischof, superintendent of Gorges State Park. Located in the southwest corner of Transylvania County, Gorges is considered by many to be one of... Read More

Wildflower Walks

Some hiking trails offer big surprises – like hidden waterfalls or dramatic vistas – but some offer smaller, more intimate experiences that can be equally satisfying. Throughout the Blue Ridge Mountains, and specifically in Transylvania... Read More

Going With The Flow

Often, people think of trails as winding routes across terra firma. Yet the truth is, rivers are the original trails – carved by Mother Nature over eons, they journey across the land following the path of least resistance, resulting in... Read More

Waterfalls Worth the Hike

One of the great joys of hiking in Pisgah National Forest, DuPont State Recreational Forest, and Gorges State Park is that there is often a “reward” for your effort: a stunning view, an interesting geological formation or, as the subject of... Read More

Leave it Better

As you venture forth into our woods and waterways during the Year of the Trail, we invite you to learn more about our “Leave It Better” program. Based on the national “Leave No Trace” principles, “Leave It Better” is designed to inspire... Read More

Taps & Trails: Pairing Mountain Biking Trails with Local Craft Breweries

Pairing Mountain Biking Trails with Local Craft Breweries Brevard and Transylvania County serve up incredible mountain biking and amazing craft beers. So, what better way to ring in North Carolina’s Year of the Trail than with a “Taps and... Read More

Mountain Love Song

​ Shannon Whitworth and Woody Platt offer up their Valentine’s Day Tips If you’re looking for a sweet spot to spend your Valentine’s Day, then Transylvania County is the natural choice. The waterfalls. The high peaks. The windy paths, which... Read More

Explore Brevard’s 48-Hour Winter Wonderland

If you’re looking to escape the winter doldrums, there’s no better destination than Brevard and Transylvania County. Explore Brevard’s Winter Wonderland itinerary is perfect for a weekend (or weekday) getaway. Our handy accommodations finder... Read More

Red Spruce & Carolina Flying Squirrel

A 78-Foot Red Spruce from Pisgah Travels to DC as the US Capitol Christmas Tree The assortment of fir trees and evergreens that thrive in the higher elevations of Brevard and Transylvania County is one of the area’s most scenic and treasured... Read More

Rocking and Rolling

​Gravel Cycling in Transylvania County Brevard/Transylvania County is justifiably renowned for its mountain biking and road cycling. But there’s a lesser known – yet equally superb – cycling activity that’s gaining popularity. Best of all,... Read More

Headwaters State Forest: Go Wild

​Headwaters State Forest A Conservation Laboratory North Carolina’s newest state forest was founded in 2018 and represents another iconic destination in Transylvania County. In terms of beauty and features, it’s on par with Pisgah, DuPont and... Read More

Cedar Mountain Cool

The Latest Word on a Small Community with Plenty of Big Fun Once a secret gem of a spot, the tiny, scenic hamlet of Cedar Mountain has become one of Transylvania County’s liveliest and most rewarding communities. It’s a great place to kick... Read More

Be Waterfall Wise

Waterfalls are part of the identity of Brevard and Transylvania County. There are more than 250 cascades scattered throughout the county, earning us the nickname “Land of Waterfalls.” While we encourage visitors and residents alike to enjoy... Read More

Land of Waterfalls for All

All are invited and welcome to discover the incredible natural resources, vibrant businesses, and unique artistry that make Brevard and Transylvania County such a special place. We know that to be as welcoming as possible, we need to... Read More

Four Extraordinary Things About Toxaway – Sapphire

Toxaway and Sapphire, in Transylvania county’s high-altitude southwest edge, are A+ destinations whether you want to catch a stunning view at the end of a hike or relax in a place long-celebrated for its beauty and history. Here are a few... Read More

Brevard Rocks!

Big Time Geology in Transylvania County With waterfalls, high peaks, canyons, gorges, and impressive natural rock walls, no matter where you are in Transylvania County, you’re just a stone’s throw away from unforgettable scenery. The area’s... Read More

Winter Weather Checklist

Wintertime brings a host of exciting options to adventurers eager to get on the trails in the amazing forests of Brevard and Transylvania County. From more expansive views to ice climbing to a car-free Blue Ridge Parkway, the opportunities for... Read More

Top 4 Things To Know About Brevard White Squirrels

You don’t have to spend much time in Brevard before you catch sight of the four paws and fluffy white tail of Transylvania County’s most beloved local mascot, the white squirrel. From shops on Main Street with countless souvenirs to the... Read More

Gears and Gills

Double your fun by combining two favorite outdoor activities. The public lands in Transylvania County serve as the backdrop for myriad outdoor activities. For many, it means an opportunity to combine their favorite hobbies. Here are three... Read More

Fifteen fun ways to chase away those rainy-day blahs.

Inclement weather put a hitch in your outdoor plans? Not to worry. Here are fifteen “satisfaction guaranteed” ways to enjoy yourself in Brevard while you’re waiting for the sun to reappear.Have fun! 1 1 VETERANS HISTORY MUSEUM OF THE CAROLINAS... Read More

Horsin’ Around

​A Short Overview of Tails, and the Equestrian Experience in Brevard Brevard and Transylvania County’s extensive trail systems have famously offered both cyclists and hikers a whole world of exciting paths to take and places to explore. You... Read More

Five Cool Things to Do in Rosman, Sapphire and Toxaway

Travel southwest on Highway 64 from downtown Brevard and you’ll see a beautiful world unfolding before you. A temperate rainforest. The headwaters of the French Broad – one of the oldest rivers in the world. Spectacular, edge-the-world views... Read More

Something’s Brewing: Top 5 Best Breweries Near Brevard

What’s on tap at Brevard’s local breweries The clean, clear and chilly water that runs down the mountains and fills Transylvania County’s streams, rivers and lakes has long been one of our greatest local resources. Water is also a critical... Read More

Tails on The Trail

Five Tips for Traveling with Your Favorite Four-Legged Friend Dogs make great travel and trail buddies, and in Transylvania County, we’re particularly fond of Fido and all his furry friends. But before you and your best canine buddy set off on... Read More

Four Fun Ways to Give the Gift of Brevard this Season

Four Fun Ways to Give the Gift of Brevard this Season The holidays are upon us. As you’re making your lists and checking them twice, it’s a very merry time to consider how you can give your family and friends a unique and special gift this season... Read More

Leaf Your Worries Behind

Leaf Your Worries Behind Five Out-of-the-Car Ways to Get Out and Enjoy Fall Color In Brevard The high mountains and lush forests of Brevard and Transylvania County are particularly spectacular when the leaves start to change. The month of October... Read More

Memorable Road Cycling Rides: Wheely Fun

Memorable Road Rides: Wheely Fun Transylvania County has earned a worldwide — and well-deserved — reputation for its spectacular mountain biking. Yet the road cycling opportunities here are just as rich, varied and rewarding, whether... Read More

Five Fabulous Fall Hikes

For visitors to Brevard and Transylvania County, a walk in the woods takes on a whole new meaning. With a national forest (Pisgah), a state park (Gorges), two state forests (DuPont and Headwaters) making up over a hundred thousand acres of... Read More

Take a walk on the wildflower side.

Some hiking trails offer big surprises – like hidden waterfalls or dramatic vistas – but some offer smaller, more intimate experiences that can be equally satisfying. Throughout the Blue Ridge Mountains, and specifically in Transylvania... Read More

Jolly good fun: Making the most of the holidays in Brevard

Every year it seems, the holidays get a little more hectic. But not in Brevard and Transylvania County. We celebrate the holidays the old-fashioned way: with beloved music traditions, heartwarming seasonal gatherings and festive events the... Read More

Rock of Ages: Looking Glass

Western North Carolina offers more rock climbing than any other state east of the Mississippi River, with more variety, diverse rock types, and climbing styles to boot. And Looking Glass Rock is the King Daddy of them all. Fortunately,... Read More

5 Best Brevard Swimming Holes: Splash Down

Looking for a place to cool off in the summer? We’ve got you covered. From the ever-popular and world-famous Sliding Rock to more remote, have-it-all-to-myself spots, here are some of our favorite swimming holes near Brevard to splash down 5 5... Read More

4 Tips From A Fly Fishing Champ: Get Hooked

There are 500 miles of fishable trout waters within a one-hour drive of Brevard. No wonder avid anglers come from every point on the compass to test their skills here. We sought out Kevin Howell, past National Fly Fishing Masters Champion, to... Read More

Let’s Ride: Epic singletrack

BIKE Magazine calls Brevard and Transylvania County “ground zero for some of the best riding in the nation.”  Here are five singletrack rides that prove that claim. Thad Walker, a former head coach of the Brevard College Bike Team, is your... Read More

The Perfect Family Adventure: All Together Now

There’s no shortage of fun activities for families in Transylvania County. Here’s a starter list that will get you properly oriented to all there is to see, do and experience here in the Land of Waterfalls: 5 5 Hike John Rock There are... Read More

Fun & Free: No Dough

With over 170,000 acres of public lands to explore and a host of special events tailor-made for fun, Transylvania County represents one of the best vacation values you’ll find anywhere. Here’s a top ten list of fun and free things to do. 10 10... Read More

7 Tips For Savvy Camp Counselors

Being a summer camp counselor in Transylvania County might just be the best gig around for high school and college students. But even counselors need a break from time to time. Here are tips we’ve gleaned from seasoned counselors on how to... Read More

5 Fun Activities For Camper Parents

Once you’ve dropped off the kids at summer camp here in Transylvania County, it’s time for your own summertime fun. These five activities are sure to get you into the spirit of summer: 5 5 Listen to the music. Everywhere you turn in... Read More

8 Iconic Brevard Experiences

Sure, they’re popular, but it’s because they are F-U-N. See how many you can do on your next visit. 8 8 Hike to Rainbow Falls Gorges State Park Much beloved Rainbow Falls is located in Pisgah National Forest, but it is accessed by a trail that... Read More

Top 10 Waterfalls

When you’ve got 250 waterfalls from which to choose, the competition gets pretty tough. We ranked our Top 10 Transylvania County waterfalls based on beauty and accessibility. 10 10 Moore Cove Falls Pisgah National Forest Wind your way... Read More