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 and specials page will help you find a great deal and locate the perfect spot to hang your hat – or your wool stocking cap. Day 1 Day 1 Morning – The Enduring Appeal of Pisgah Winters in Transylvania County are typically mild, which means that with the right clothing choices, you can be quite comfortable exploring the outdoors. Better yet, the winter views are generally spectacular with the contours of the mountains even more pronounced. You’ll also see how prolific our evergreens, rhododendron, spruce, and mountain laurel are – great swaths of dense green color provide an appealing contrast to the rest of the forest in its winter adornment. On your first day, start in Pisgah National Forest. Here you’ll find multiple trails of varying lengths and features. Some to consider are Looking Glass Rock, John Rock, Moore Cove Falls and the Pink Beds. We recommend downloading the AllTrails app (free) as a handy way to determine which trails are most appropriate for you interests and fitness level. The Pisgah Forest Ranger Station is also a great resource for information on trails and insights into the local flora and fauna. While there, don’t miss the Andy Cove Trail. It’s a short (less than a mile) hike into a... Read More
Winter Weather Checklist Seven Safety Tips for Winter Adventures 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 experiencing our natural landscape in a whole new way are many. Like any season, winter comes with risks as well as rewards. Weather can change quickly. Temperatures drop at higher elevations. Knowing how to prepare yourself for cold weather is a critical component of how you can Leave It Better out on the trail, and it will keep you safe and worry-free on your next cold snap adventure. Here are a few tips so you don’t head out (snow) blind: 1 1 CHECK IT OUT BEFORE YOU GO. Many of Brevard and Transylvania’s public lands operate with smaller staffs during the winter months. That’s why it’s critically important to check on the status of trails, roads and landmarks before you go. Updated information can be found here: Pisgah National Forest | DuPont State Recreational Forest Gorges State Park | Blue Ridge Parkway 2 2 KNOW THE FORECAST. Understanding the local weather forecast goes a long way in knowing what type of conditions to anticipate. If the forecast calls for storms or dropping temperatures, consider rescheduling a long hike or a camping trip for milder conditions. Waterfalls can be particularly treacherous in winter... 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 Filled with unique and historic military artifacts, this free museum honors our country’s military history and celebrates the contributions of men and women from every branch of service. In addition to a collection that includes WWI, WWII, Korea, Vietnam and War on Terror artifacts, the museum mounts regular temporary exhibits. Click here, for location, times and information. 2 2 CO-ED CINEMA Since 1934, the Co-ed Cinema has been Brevard’s go-to destination for first-run movies. Step back in time at this classic old-fashioned theatre and sample the latest films from tinsel town. Find out what’s showing here. 3 3 TRANSYLVANIA COUNTY LIBRARY There’s always something fun happening at this state-of-the-art facility located in downtown Brevard. Whether you want to find a good book to snuggle up with or take part in one of the regularly scheduled events (story times, music performances, craft classes), the Transylvania County Library is a great place to relax and explore. 4 4 TRANSYLVANIA COMMUNITY ARTS COUNCIL (TCArts) If you love art, TCArts is the place for you. Here you’ll find a regular rotation of exhibits by local and regional artists. If you’re inspired to create works of your own, TCArts offers pottery classes and other opportunities... Read More
8 Great Holiday Tips For Having A Cool Yule in Brevard Whether it’s waterfalls, white squirrels, or a warm spot by a glowing fire, Brevard and Transylvania County have just about everything you need to make this holiday season unforgettable. We take “jolly” to a whole new level with charming, small-town magic, festive events, and plenty of opportunities for you to get out and explore acres of winter wonderland, jingle bells optional. 1 1 HAVE A THRILL ON THE HILL What could be more fun than an evening snow skiing or snow tubing with the family (weather permitting) at the Ski Sapphire Valley? They will be open Dec 17-Jan 1, then on weekends, Fri-Sun, after the holidays. They will also be closed on Jan 16th and February 20th for national holidays. 2 2 EAT, DRINK AND BE MERRY Special holiday menu offerings from our local restaurants and seasonal selections from our extraordinary craft brewers and tap rooms give new meaning to the term “holiday cheer.” No matter what your taste buds fancy, we’ve got a table (or a bar stool) with your name on it. 3 3 GO TREE CRAZY. For many of us, Christmas is best evoked in the heady scent and furry limbs of a fresh evergreen tree decked with tinsel, lights, random ornaments both grand and sentimental. And then there are some of us who just can’t feel the holiday spirit until they bask in the glow of a neon pink, metallic tree. Fortunately, Transylvania County offers a little bit of... Read More
Something’s Brewing 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 component of excellent beer, which you can find on tap at all five of Brevard’s local breweries. These run the gamut in size, shape, and flavor profile, but all are must-stops for fans of a delicious pint, a welcoming atmosphere, and anyone curious to get a taste of what Brevard’s storied waters can do. 1 1 BREVARD BREWING Opened in 2012, this family-owned local brewery is Brevard’s oldest. Brewmaster Kyle Williams specializes in handcrafted lagers and pilsners, which are rare among North Carolina’s microbreweries. Using imported German barley, hops, yeast, and Brevard’s soft brewing water, he creates delicious beers. Brevard Brewing is in the heart of downtown on East Main Street. Truly a business with deep roots in the community, the brewery is located in the former Trantham’s Department store building, which was owned and operated by the family and their predecessors for three generations. Learn more about Brevard Brewing. 2 2 ECUSTA BREWING The Cherokee word “Ecusta” is what Transylvania County’s indigenous population called the Davidson River, which flows through Pisgah National Forest. Technically, the word means “Get Distant,” which Ecusta Brewing hopes will spur many adventurers to take the trail less traveled and drop by for one for their excellent lagers, ales, sours, porters and... Read More
Three Wonderful Winter Adventures Be A Cool Rider Cycling in winter months has long been a favorite activity of avid road bikers. There’s less traffic, fewer crowds and real camaraderie among cyclists in the local community. Winters around Brevard often mean lots of mild, sunny days — sometimes temperatures can soar up around 70 degrees — and great views. The Blue Ridge Parkway closes during the winter, which makes its scenic stretches ideal for cyclists. Remember your lights! front and rear lights are required to ride on the Parkway. Find easy access by taking 276 up through Pisgah National Forest. You can park for free at Wagon Road Gap, walk your bike through the gate, and ride like the wind! And if that wind gets a little chilly, no worries, just remember to dress in layers. Pick up cold-weather gear at one of Transylvania County’s many bike shops and outfitters, where you can also get firsthand tips from locals and check on mountain biking opportunities as well. Or join up with the Winter Bike League for group rides and all sorts of expert advice. Find Your Inspiration For arts and culture lovers, Brevard’s thriving local scene provides a little bit of everything for the creative soul. Downtown’s many galleries feature works of all styles, varieties and media no matter your taste. And while wandering around, you can enjoy the Sculpture Tour, which features more than twenty works scattered throughout downtown. A bit further afield, you’ll find wonderful pottery studios... Read More
Six Sensational Winter Activities 1 1 Take a hike One advantage of winter hikes? You can see everything. The subtle contour of the mountains. Long range views of neighboring states. And the ever-present green of our mountain rhododendron. In short, winter hikes are a favorite winter time activity in these parts. Hikes to John Rock and Looking Glass Rock are perennial favorites. You can find a wide selection of hikes here. X 2 2 Have a thrill on the hill What could be more fun than an evening snow skiing or snow tubing with the family (weather permitting) at the Ski Sapphire Valley? They will be open Dec 17-Jan 1, then on weekends, Fri-Sun, after the holidays. They will also be closed on Jan 16th and February 20th for national holidays. X 2 3 Turn, turn, turn Ever wanted to learn how to throw a pot? Tie a fly? Build your own fly rod? In Transylvania County, local organizations and businesses offer lots of opportunities to learn (or hone) a craft. Our Calendar of Events is a great place to discover a new hobby. X 3 4 Check the thermometer for a deep freeze Typically, we get several hard freezes every winter. The result is one of the most dazzling sights you’ll ever behold: frozen waterfalls. Looking Glass Falls is one of the most easily accessible (on US 276), but there are plenty more options if you’re willing to take a short hike. Smaller waterfalls tend to freeze more frequently, so it’s... Read More
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