Four Fantastic Fall Drives Whether you’re behind the wheel of a fancy convertible or the family minivan, a fall driving tour of Transylvania County is an unforgettable experience. Sure, you can speed through these routes and see plenty of sights, but the ideal way is to take your foot off the gas and plan to make several stops along the way. 1 1 TRANSYLVANIA COUNTY LOOP (3 – 7 hours, depending on stops) When it comes to driving tours, this is the Big Kahuna. It serves as both a wonderful introduction to the county and a splendid opportunity to see fall color thanks to the dramatic elevation changes along the route. To start, enter Pisgah National Forest on US 276 and begin heading north. You’ll encounter a number of great attractions and stops, including the Pisgah Ranger Station and Visitor Center, Looking Glass Falls, Sliding Rock, and the Cradle of Forestry. Once you’re on the Blue Ridge Parkway, numerous overlooks offer up stunning views of the Blue Ridge mountains and the awesome rock monolith of Looking Glass Rock. We especially recommend Pounding Mill Overlook (Milepost 413.2), Graveyard Fields (Milepost 418.8), and Devil’s Courthouse (422.4). Come off the BRP at NC 215 for a winding trip back down into the valley. This stretch also offers abundant opportunities to discover why Transylvania County is known as the Land of Waterfalls, including Courthouse, Bird Rock, Mill Shoals, and French Broad Falls. Head east on US 64 and you’ll be back in... 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, there’s no better place on the planet to try it than right here. The sport is gravel biking. You’ve got questions. We’ve got answers! Q&A Q&A: What is gravel biking? Think of gravel biking as a hybrid between mountain biking and road cycling. In most cases, gravel biking takes place on an unpaved road with bikes that are similar to road bikes, but with wider and/or treaded tires. Q&A Q&A: What’s the point? In a word: fun. Gravel bikes enable you to explore deep in the woods while riding on non-technical surfaces. So, in many respects, you get the benefits of mountain biking without the technical challenges of maneuvering around large rocks and roots. Q&A Q&A: Why is Transylvania County such a great place to gravel bike? Thanks to Pisgah National Forest and DuPont State Recreational Forest, there are literally hundreds of miles of well-maintained gravel roads, often referred to as “Forest Service” or “FS” roads. The opportunities for deep exploration into pristine corners of our county are multiplied many times over when your mode of transportation is a gravel bike. Q&A Q&A: What kind of bike do I need? Thanks to the growing popularity of gravel biking, manufacturers offer a wide range of gravel-specific bikes featuring wider tires and a... 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 Gorges. However, its remote location and limited access make it a more appropriate destination for adventurers with good wilderness and map-reading skills. We caught up with Assistant Regional Forester Michael Cheek, who oversees this 6,730 acre mountain wonderland for the North Carolina Forest Service to help us understand the importance of Headwaters and the opportunities for visitors to enjoy its unique topography and features. Q&A Q&A: Michael, what’s distinctive about Headwaters? “Headwaters is located right along the edge of the Blue Ridge Escarpment and the South Carolina border. It’s very remote and has a very “back country” feel to it. You’ll find plenty of trails and lots of solitude.” Q&A Q&A: What’s the key mission of Headwaters State Forest? “Certainly, recreation is a part of it, but our primary focus is on the conservation of the headwater streams that feed into the East Fork of the French Broad River. There are over a dozen named streams feeding into the East Fork, totaling some 50 miles. That’s where our clean drinking water comes from, and these headwater streams are key to that. Part of our mission is also to demonstrate good forestry practices – to show the public the best way to manage this important resource. This land has... 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 back and enjoy delicious food and beverages in an area full of art and fantastic hangouts. An excellent day trip while visiting Brevard, Cedar Mountain is perfect for catching your breath on the doorstep of outdoor adventure. Here are a few great places to get a sense of what makes Cedar Mountain so special: 1 1 FALL(s) IN LOVE For many visitors to Brevard and Transylvania County, Cedar Mountain is the entry point to DuPont State Recreational Forest. This beloved 12,500-acre state forest has trails, woodlands, beautiful views, and some of Transylvania County’s most popular waterfalls, including High Falls, Triple Falls, and Hooker Falls, as well as Wintergreen Falls, Grassy Creek Falls, and Bridal Veil Falls. Nearby Connestee Falls also offers up gorgeous views of a spectacular plunge from an accessible viewing area. 2 2 THROW THINGS Long known for its pottery studios and local art scene, Cedar Mountain is a great place to check in on what’s coming off the wheel. See what’s new at Studio 276, Mud Dabbers Pottery, Cedar Mountain Pottery, Lezard Brevard, and Hemlock’s Studio, and perhaps get inspired to take up a new hobby. 3 3 SIP AND SNACK Cedar Mountain has a host of delightful and unconventional... 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 great starter tips. 1 1 KEEP IT SIMPLE Brevard resident Christian McLauchlin is a passionate mountain biker. But he also enjoys wetting a line from time to time. He likes nothing better than to combine his two passions, especially in the summer. “In the summer you don’t need boots and waders,” McLauchlin says. “So, all you really need is your flies, rod and reel and a pair of good sandals.” The minimal gear can easily be carried in a small backpack. What McLauchlin likes most about using his mountain bike is that it can take him to places he wouldn’t fly fish otherwise. “It allows you to get into places that people can’t get to from their car or that would require a long hike,” McLauchlin says. The appeal is obvious: fewer people, more fish and a more enjoyable experience. 2 2 DISCOVER TENKARA If you want to go super minimalist on fly fishing gear, Kevin Howell at Davidson River Outfitters suggests looking into the art of tenkara. Originating in Japan, this ancient form of fly fishing relies on very simple equipment that can easily be broken down or telescoped to fit in a small backpack. In Japanese, the word “tenkara” translates into “fishing from the skies.” Tenkara... 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 don’t, however, always need hiking boots or handlebars to have a grand adventure in Brevard’s forests. The equestrian-inclined will find multiple opportunities to get their tails on the trails with the help of four-footed friends, who rarely say “neigh” to a little exploring. Experienced riders have celebrated Brevard’s multiple equestrian options for years, but novices will also find many opportunities to enjoy getting in on the “mane” event. All three of the area’s public lands — Pisgah National Forest, DuPont State Recreational Forest, and Gorges State Park — have horse-friendly trails. By and large, the trails are clearly marked, but it’s recommended that you do a little research in advance on where horses are welcome before you hoof it into the wilderness. Left your pony at home? No worries. Several local stables will be happy to help you find a suitable horse, gear, and a trail guide to lead you. These include: Pisgah Forest Stables | Rusty Spur Trail Rides | Whitewater Equestrian Center Once you hit the trail, here are some tips to keep in mind whether you are hiking, biking,or horsing around: 1 1 Everyone: Be friendly and aware. That means keeping an eye ahead and an ear on your surroundings.... 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 from the Blue Ridge Escarpment, waterfalls and starry skies aplenty. These treasures and more are woven into the communities of Toxaway and Rosman, which offer visitors extraordinary opportunities for fun and unforgettable adventure. 1 1 HEADWATERS OUTFITTERS For more than 25 years, this family-owned outfitter has served as an outpost for all things French Broad River-related from paddling, tubing, and fishing to gearing up for your adventure or just hanging out after a good long float at their onsite Forks of the River taproom. Headwaters also plays host to live music, food trucks and special events, so it’s always a good idea to keep an eye on their goings-on when you plan your trip. Learn more about Headwaters Outfitters. 2 2 PARI This 200-acre Space Age Educational Center in Rosman was once a NASA relay station and a Department of Defense tracking station. These days, PARI hosts programs and events that welcome guests of all ages to explore the universe via their telescopes, museum, gallery, and Certified Dark Sky Park. With cabins on premises and special overnight packages on weekends, would-be astronomers can have a celestial experience at a truly out-of-this-world place. Learn more about PARI. 3 3 GORGES STATE PARK With... Read More
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 (and sometimes into November) produces spectacular hues in an ever-shifting palette of reds, yellows, oranges, greens, and near-purples. While you can get a front-row view of the color show from pretty much anywhere in Transylvania County, mild temperatures and easy access to outdoor adventure mean that you can enjoy the season change from a host of thrilling locations. Here are a few ideas to take your leaf game to (sometimes literally) the next level: 1. Paddle the Upper French Broad. Take a trip down one of the oldest rivers in the world, as it runs through a scenic landscape marked by high mountains, lush meadows, and all the colorful flora and fauna that call the area home. The trip is gentle and fun for all ages and abilities (though you might run into a small Class I rapid), so you’ll have plenty of opportunities to bask in the beauty of the season. 2. Cycle the Blue Ridge Parkway. The high twists and turns of the Blue Ridge Parkway have long offered cyclists some of the most rewarding rides and jaw-dropping vistas around. Cooler temperatures and the stunning fall color of the landscape make rides this time of year even more dazzling. 3. Hike to High Falls. DuPont State Recreational... Read More
Cruise into Fall Color Whether you’re behind the wheel of a fancy convertible or a family wagon, these two driving tours showcase the best of what Transylvania County has to offer in the autumn. Sure, you can speed through these routes, see plenty of sights and take in some breathtaking color, but the ideal way is take your foot off the gas and plan to make several stops along the way. Remember: the trees at a higher elevation change color earlier than those below, so enjoy the view from the top! Transylvania County Loop(3-7 hours, depending on stops) If you want a grand tour of all of Transylvania County’s most gorgeous fall leaf color, this is it. Begin in downtown Brevard, where you can get helpful information about our area at our Visitor Center and fortify yourself with coffee and sweet rolls from one of our local bakeries or cafes before setting out. Your route takes you into the yellow and red-dappled Pisgah National Forest where you can get sidetracked by any number of great attractions, from Looking Glass Falls to Sliding Rock to the seasonally-hued Cradle of Forestry. Top out on the Blue Ridge Parkway and follow it south through brilliant splashes of rich hues on the surrounding mountains. Numerous overlooks offer up the spectacular fall color of the Blue Ridge mountains at peak season, and the awesome rock monolith of Looking Glass Rock. At Devil’s Courthouse, stretch your legs on a trail that summits on a granite... 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 lush woodlands, an afternoon hike in our part of the world will either soothe your soul or stretch your spirit depending on your path. Below you’ll find five not-to-be-missed 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 lush woodlands, an afternoon hike in our part of the world will either soothe your soul or stretch your spirit depending on your path. Below you’ll find five not-to-be-missed hikes. 4 5 Pink Beds Loop Pisgah National Forest Here’s your chance to marvel at the capabilities of the irrepressible “castor canadensis” (more commonly known as the North American beaver) to transform a landscape. This mostly flat 5 mile trail works around bogs and ponds created by these industrious engineers. This high-elevation valley is ideal for a casual ramble. You’ll see lots of native wildflowers and ferns along the way. Be sure to visit the Forest Discovery Center at the nearby Cradle of Forestry, too. Reach the trailhead by entering Pisgah National Forest on US276 and drive north 11.4 miles. Parking is on the right. Level: EasyDistance: 5 milesTrail: Pink... Read More
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