Lake James NC Kayaking, Camping and Hiking "A Breath Taking View and Beautiful Lake"

Lake James is one of North Carolina's most beautiful lakes, nestled high in the foothills and NC Mountains  the lake invites many each year to enjoy its natural beauty by way of kayaking in Lake James NC, Hiking around Lake James NC and Camping at Lake James. The Lake James State Park  has a really nice beach area for swimming, renting a canoe and kayaking. Enjoy some really nice camping sites and bathhouses, perfect for a NC Weekend Adventures or quick getaway.The fishing in Lake James is favored by many across the state of North Carolina.

Lake James also has many Boat Marinas, like the Bear Creek Marina and docking areas for houseboats on Lake James and Luxury Yachts. Small boats and kayaking are always welcome and often enjoyed.
The area also features local Lake James Real Estate offices to help with land or home purchases. Real Estate in Lake James is affordable and also very luxurious, surrounded in the arms of many scenic views.

Downtown Asheville North Carolina A Seasonal Wonderland

Downtown Asheville North Carolina - the square area

"North Carolina's own version of Portland, Oregon." Great area for dining and independent films at the Fine Art's Theater. Dining choices are many: Mediterranean, New York style pizza and gourmet hot dogs, Vegetarian cuisine, Latin American dishes, Barbecue, Italian, home-made pastries and many more. 5-star and casual dining are in abundance. Lodging at the Grove Park Inn, Haywood and the new ALOFT contemporary loft-style hotel and pool lounge. There's also a downtown Asheville Hostel for backpackers. Hiking and the Blue Ridge Parkway are just a few miles away. Starbucks and Whole Food's offer a variety of coffees and organic choices. This area offers exposure to eclectic lifestyles and varied cultural experiences like the weekend drum circles and free-style artist's entertaining the streets with their own musical styles. The area also features a river-front art district with many studios displaying local works of pottery, painting and sculpture.

Many dining establishments offer outdoor seating with your pets and a water dish.  The ALOFT hotel offers dog beds and is pet-friendly.

http://www.starwoodhotels.com/alofthotels/property/overview/index.html?propertyID=3373

MacRae Peak, Calloway Peak Grandfather Mountain NC Hiking Trails

Our 15 mile Hike, August 16th. We entered at the lower portion of Grandmother view and hiked up Black Rock Trail to the Grandfather Trail Extension. We hiked the Underwood trail to MacRae Peak ( elevation 5844 ) Across Grandfather Trail through Raven's Roost and the Daniel Boone Scout Trail/Flat Rock and eventually made our way down and across 6 miles of the Tanawha Trail ending at the Rough Ridge Trail Head. The Tanawha trail is a lower trail which is moderate and easy to hike. The trail easily leads to the upper more strenuous trails. These trails can be accessed from the HWY 221 and Blue Ridge Parkway Side - there are several parking areas along the Park Way to access the trails without having to pay to enter Grandfather Mountain. My personal favorite place to enter is the Nuwati Trail, which is closer to the Blowing Rock section of the Park Way MILE MARKER 300 on your right - near the Boone Fork Parking area. This trail will lead you to the top of the Danielle Boone Scout Trail and from there you can hike and see the highest elevations coming across the ridge to MacRae Peak ( the jewel of views ). North Carolina Hiking Trails offer some extremely diverse plant species and make for some great photographs and Family Hiking memories.

Table Rock NC Hiking Overnight Camping and Rock Climbing Morganton NC and Elk Knob

Morganton North Carolina is truly fortunate to have so many gorgeous camping and hiking spots so close by. Exit 105 off of I-40 West onto 181 and your on your way to enjoying some of the most pristine and breath taking North Carolina Hiking Trails known to Western North Carolina. Not too far from Asheville NC these backpacking and hiking trails are great for day hikes, weekend trips and over night camping adventures. Enjoy beginner trails as well as more advanced climbs, plus Table Rock is known for its daring Rock Climbing formations. Table Rock allows camping any where in the area with no permit, so its affordable and makes for a great weekend in the mountains. Along the Table Rock Mountain and Linville Gorge you'll experience places the locals call " Devil's Cellar, Attic Window and the Chimneys " All worth the hike and perfect to record some vacation memories with photographs.

Other areas of NC Hiking interest that make great North Carolina Mountain Vacations are those close by at Elk Knob State Park near Boone NC , Snake Mountain and Grandfather Mountain off of the Blue Ridge Parkway - Also off of I-40 Exit 105 and turn left under the bridge is South Mountain State Park.

Hickory NC Hiking Outdoor Gear, Camping Supplies, Kayaks, Climbing Gear and more

Just a reminder to anyone venturing out on that Backpacking or Kayaking trip, Outdoor Supply in Hickory North Carolina has a new inventory of Darn Tough hiking socks and large inventory of New Kayaks. Plus a nice selection of ladies apparel, shoes and hiking boots. New climbing gear, ropes, gloves and now they carry a miniature VIDEO camera that attaches to your helmet or Kayak to film those great weekend adventures in North Carolina. They're located at 2427 North Center Street Hickory NC 28601 http://www.outdoorsupplycompany.com/Outdoor_Supply_Company/Welcome.html  See our blog post link below for recent hiking trips to Elk's Knob Mountain, Snake Mountain, Table Rock and South Mountain - all make a great day hike or weekend camping trip with family or friends. Plus Coastal North Carolina Kayaking in Swansboro NC with a Yoga warm up.
http://ncweekendadventures.blogspot.com/

Elk Knob and Snake Mountain Hiking Camping Near Boone North Carolina

One of the newest and undiscovered hiking areas outside of Boone North Carolina is the Elk Knob State Park, this area is also across from an unexplored and unmarked trail through the Snake Mountain Ridges across the road. Snake Mountain Access can be gained by parking at the Elk Knob Rangers station and walking across and down the road to the left facing radio tower ( which you will see at a higher elevation ) the path is very steep and the unmarked trail moves upward and towards the left. Its a very strenuous hike at many points; yet, levels off for most of the trail and ends in a beautiful pasture area coming down. One of the most beautiful hikes I've ever done with a vast variety of trees and foliage that you never see on other trails because of its location being more WEST. Also there is lost of wild life. Wild turkeys, Bear and large deer are easily seen, especially in the early mornings.
http://www.ncparks.gov/Visit/parks/elkn/main.php

Swansboro NC Nature Yoga, Kayaking in Swansboro, Eco-Friendly Cycling, Bicycle Rentals

Family Fun and Things to Do While At The Beach
Enjoy affordable fun in the sun and local shopping, but don't forget to enjoy the really cool things that Swansboro NC has to offer, like Nature Yoga Classes, Family Kayaking Tours and Eco-friendly Bicycle rentals. Explore the town of Swansboro NC and surrounding waters of Emerald Isle Beach, Morehead City, Atlantic Beach and others. Enjoy local fresh baked breads and pastries in downtown Swansboro just a short walk from Second Wind Eco-Tours. " Discover Living Again" Plus fine dining in Swansboro is incredibly romantic and visually laced with water views and beautiful sunsets.

Probably one of the best kept secrets in local kayak paddling adventures, Kayaking in Swansboro. Second Wind offers not only some incredible kayak trips to the ocean and Bear Island North Carolina, but also some breath taking, nature-embraced smaller white oak river trips, meandering through small canals, the river and tree-lined picturesque scenery.
http://www.secondwindecotours.com

Kayaking in Swansboro NC, Yoga And Eco-Friendly Cycling

Probably one of the best kept secrets in local kayak paddling adventures, Second Wind offers not only some incredible kayak trips to the ocean and Bear Island North Carolina, but also some breath taking, nature-embraced smaller white oak river trips, meandering through small canals, the river and tree-lined picturesque scenery. A tour-guided, quietly paced kayak tour can bring you face to face with many of the local wildlife inhabitants, while also cleansing your soul and providing you with a peaceful new birth into the relationship that we share with nature and our own need for serenity. Second Wind also offers nature yoga and Eco-friendly bike tours. Explore the beautiful and friendly city by the sea, SWANSBORO NORTH CAROLINA and discover what this small fishing village offers in fine dining, local fresh baked breads and pastries - along with some great weekend or day adventures. Second Wind can be reached at 910-325-3600 or visit their information-filled web site at
http://www.secondwindecotours.com

Appalachian NC Hiking Trips Blue Ridge Parkway and Boone NC

Some of our hiking trips that we've taken in the last few weeks of June 2011.
Table Rock North Carolina, Boone North Carolina, Elk's Knob and Snake Mountain NC.

Downtown Delights Cafe & Coffee House Downtown Valdese 102 Main Street 28690

Those of you who follow my travel blog have come to know how much I really enjoy unique and out of the way secret places to dine and shop. Join with me as we visit downtown Valdese for one of the finest eateries I have ever sampled!. Together we will visit the land of delightful customer service, with a home-made menu that will make you want to spend the entire day in Valdese, North Carolina, just to enjoy more than one meal. The dining is casual, yet features a warm and inviting coffee bar and pastry area. 

Here are just a few mentions from their light menu. Downtown Delights has a full menu that take you to an all new level in dining enjoyment. " I guarantee you will love this place as much as I do." Out of 10 stars, I give this eatery a 15  : )

You will find one of the finest selections of inventive and FRESH GARDEN SALADS, along with gourmet steaks and seafood. The coffee bar will delight you and the dessert case will have you looking for hours for what to take with you!

This quaint and senses filled eatery is family owned and well represented with family members than seem to delight in the enjoyment of telling you about the many dishes they have invented, mastered and are made available to us as if we're all celebrities in their world. The hardest part is trying to decide on which direction your taste buds will travel. Do you go southwest with a wrap, featuring freshly roasted chicken, sauteed onions, peppers, tomatoes, jalapenos, black beans, corn, cilatro, pepperjack, and home made chipotle sauce or do you go with a spinach & Feta Cheese Omelet. Not to mention some of the tasteful home-made sides like, baked potato salad, fresh fruit salad with Raspberries and grilled vegetables - plus many others.

Also, my favorites are the families fresh baked pastries. Featuring fresh orange-laced brownies with hot Carmel, fruit and chocolate muffins and home-made pies. And don't forget to highlight your road trip with some of the their freshly brewed specialty coffees and lattes.

Take it from me, if you're in the area and traveling down I-40 West between Hickory, NC and Morganton, NC. you have to stop and enjoy this eatery. It ranks at the top of my list !

FREE WIFI, HOME MADE BREAKFAST, FULL COFFEE BAR, PANINIS, WRAPS, HOME MADE SOUPS, SALADS, HOUSE-MADE DESSERTS, AND EXCELLENT CUSTOMER SERVICE! Live Music on the weekends!

10% discount for students - Monday's are Senior Day, FREE COFFEE w/purchase.

102 Main Street East

Valdese, NC, 28690 (downtown)
(828) 874-3231

Monday - Friday 7 am - 8 pm
Saturday - 8:30 am - 4:00

Bunker Hill Covered Bridge Clemmons North Carolina - Catawba County Museum Of History

One of only two original remaining covered bridges in North Carolina. The bridge was built in 1895 by Andy L. Ramsour. It's located on a former Native American trail off of Interstate I-40 and Hwy 70 near the small town of Clemmons North Carolina.

Also visit the Catawba County History Museum located nearby in downtown Newton North Carolina.

http://www.catawbahistory.org/

ENJOY SOME OF THE FINEST ITALIAN PIZZA IN THE STATE - just a few miles from the Bunker Hill Covered Bridge.
From the bridge continue West on Hwy 70 thru Clemmons NC - to the large Food Lion intersection. To the far left of the strip mall you'll find AMALFI'S PIZZA - a very casual and friendly staffed pizza eatery. An enjoyably taste bud adventure with hand tossed, thin crusted pizza as your guide. Stop by and say hello to Lando Vividomini, the owner.

104 -N Thornburg Drive, Conover NC 28613 - 828-464-0807

Table Rock North Carolina - outside of Morganton NC HWY 181

Just a short Post to remind everyone what we have to look forward to as the weather will shortly warm some and all of the local trails and parks will reopen for the season. Posting a few shots from the fall and summer to hold us over. If anyone has the time or interest buy and check out the Documentary on George Masa posted to the right of my blog.
It's a great documentary and will enlighten you as to the hard work that was done so that we all can enjoy the Appalachian trail.

Morganton NC Overthemountain Victory National Historic Trail

Please lend your support,comments and letter writing opinions to the below contact -
to help us bring a great piece of history and heritage to the town of Morganton, North Carolina. We feel the local involvement ( schools and individuals ) to past history and the preservation of such historical threaded events in our towns past make it an ideal location to house and exhibit portions of the Overmountain Victory National Historic Trail. Please take some time to help us in making the below proposed site a reality for the people and town of Morganton NC.

This trail and exhibit area would add to our already rich Morganton History and present places of interest like the McDowell House at Quaker Meadows, Wall Center For Archaeological Research, The Joara Spanish settlement and Indian town, Berry Dig site and Daughters of the American Revolution women who died supporting the cause of freedom and were buried here in Morganton. The city of Morganton is rich in history and was prevalent in the fight for independence and freedom.


Overmountain Victory NHT
Feasibility Study and Environmental Assessment for a Headquarters and Visitor Center

The National Park Service (NPS) proposes to establish a new Headquarters and Visitor's Center (HQ/VC) for the Overmountain Victory National Historic Trail, a 330-mile long non-motorized route for public use that traverses portions of Virginia, Tennessee, North Carolina, and South Carolina.

In recent years, the Overmountain Victory National Historic Trail has dramatically increased its visibility and regional importance. Currently, more than one million people use marked trail sections annually. As a result of this increased regional presence and involvement, as well as growing public support for the trail and its history, additional NPS presence is needed to accomplish operational and administrative tasks and assist partners with various projects and initiatives. However, expanded and regional NPS presence is currently inhibited by the lack of a dedicated and centrally located facility.

This Feasibility Study and Environmental Assessment (FS/EA) will analyze four different sites and assess the impacts that could result from the establishment of a new facility at each location. The FS/EA also analyzes the no action alternative, which is the continued use and operation of the current headquarters at King's Mountain National Park, located in Blacksburg, SC.

Contact Information and any public comments can be sent to:

Paul Carson
Superintendent
Overmountain Victory NHT
2635 Park Road
Blacksburg, SC 29702

http://www.parkplanning.nps.gov/projectHome.cfm?parkId=400&projectId=25061

Asheville North Carolina Appalachian Trail and George Masa

The beauty of the Asheville, North Carolina area, Appalachian trail and the Great Smokey Mountain National Park and it's splendor of gifts would be unknown to many had it not been for the drive, vision and work ethic of George Masa. An artist of fine landscape photography and collector of data - George Masa a Japanese immigrant, made it his life's work to hike, measure and record all the Appalachian mountains ( name many with friend Horace Kephart ) and to make possible the building of the Appalachian Trail and photography its vastness and the people who shared its abundance of life. Masa was a lover of the mountains, the people and a visionary in preserving its natural beauty for other generations to enjoy. Below is a great blog to follow for more information on this great man's journey as well as a beautifully done DVD " The Mystery of George Masa " by Paul Bonesteel and his company Bonesteel Films.

http://georgemasa.blogspot.com/

To purchase the DVD:

http://www.bonesteelfilms.com/masa.html

NC Mountains Christmas Trees Delivered to your home Nationwide - Fraser Fir Trees and other Christmas Gifts

Can't Make It to the Mountains for a Freshly Cut Tree?
Here's your next best option for The Freshest Fraser Fir
Christmas Tree Available! Delivered to your home...

Situated in the midst of the Christmas Tree capital of the world,
Mast General Store is pleased to announce that you may now
order a freshly cut custom-selected Fraser (pronounced FRA-ZYER)
Fir grown in the heart of Avery County, North Carolina – recognized
for growing magnificent Fraser Fir Christmas Trees. Your tree is only
cut after your order is received. It is then shaken, hydrated, wrapped,
boxed and shipped directly to your front door. After receiving a
hydrating drink, the base of your tree is sealed to minimize drying
while traveling to your home.
Fresh hand-constructed wreaths are also available, decorated
with pine cones
and a holiday bow.

Each tree comes with a biodegradable removal bag.
After Christmas all you have to do is remove your
decorations and pull the bag up over the tree for easy
disposal.

Fraser Fir trees from the Cartner Christmas Tree Farm are
known for their:

* Unsurpassed needle retention
* Short soft needles
* Deep green color
* Stately shape
* Elegant strong boughs
* Refreshing mountain fragrance
* Forest freshness

Shipping Your Tree

Due to the size and weight of a boxed Christmas Tree
shipping rates will vary. The following table is an
estimate of costs.
The actual charge will be calculated at checkout.

Shipping Rates Nationwide
NC and SC
4 ft - $10 5 ft - $18 6 ft - $21 7 ft - $22 8 ft - $75

Mid-West and Northeast
4 ft - $12 5 ft - $23 6 ft - $26 7 ft - $27 8 ft - $77

West Coast
4 ft - $23 5 ft - $38 6 ft - $45 7 ft - $47 8 ft - $99

Mast General Store http://www.mastgeneralstore.com/christmastrees/index.cfm

History behind these beautiful trees and the Family Farm in North Carolina: http://www.carolinafraserfir.com/

Table Rock NC Morganton NC Fall Leaf Change in the mountains of North Carolina

Leaf Viewing in the mountains of North Carolina came slightly later this year and because of so much rain, the colors tended to be more brown and dark yellow. Still beautiful in some areas with varied colors. This weekend November 7 thru November 8 will probably be the last weekend to enjoy leaf change in the higher elevations - yet the foothills will enjoy another week of color through November the 15th.

Still haven't seen the color range and bright colors like we witnessed 7 years ago - mainly because of too much rain or too little rain - also strong winds after some rains tended to make the leaves fall sooner. Hopefully everyone can make it to the North Carolina mountains this year.

Mast General Store Valle Crucis NC and Boone - A Great Adventure in Nostalgic Memories, Shopping, Candy, Tee-Shirts and 10 Cent Coffee

Mast General Stores - Everyone's favorite destination to journey back in time and enjoy the palette painted flavors of candies and sweets we all remember as kids. Whether it's the large jaw breakers our moms declared would break our teeth or the sentimental candy necklace we gifted to our adolescent sweetheart, it's all here at the Mast General Stores. The barrel candy displays are almost endless in sight and each one takes you on a personal journey of nostalgia, remembering our fondest childhood memories.

Plus, don't forget - all Mast General Stores carry an extensive line of Hiking and Back Packing supplies for the beginner, and seasoned trail lover. Warm and inviting Woolrich pullovers, sweaters, shirts and socks - A Great Hiking Boot selection with on-staff professionals to help you size up your needs as well as guaranteeing a sure fit for your mountain journeys.

Stop by and join them for an old fashion cup of coffee, as they welcome you to the Mast General family; also, sharing with you, some of the most beautiful places to visit near all of their locations.

http://www.mastgeneralstore.com/index.cfm

Mast General Store Home Office
Highway 194
Valle Crucis, NC 28691
828-963-6511

Original Mast General Store and Annex
Highway 194
Valle Crucis, NC 28691
828-963-6511

Mast General Store Old Boone Mercantile
630 West King Street
Boone, NC 28607
828-262-0000

Mast General Store - Waynesville
63 North Main Street
Waynesville, NC 28786
828-452-2101

Mast General Store - Hendersonville
527 North Main Street
Hendersonville, NC 28792
828-696-1883

Mast General Store - Asheville
15 Biltmore Avenue
Asheville, NC 28801
828-232-1883

Mast General Store - Greenville, SC
111 North Main Street
Greenville, SC 29601
864-235-1883

Mast General Store - Knoxville, TN
402 South Gay Street
Knoxville, TN 37902
865-546-1336

Mast General Store - Online
630 West King Street
Boone, NC 28607
866-FOR MAST (toll-free - 866-367-6278)

Fort Macon Atlantic Beach North Carolina - Island Grill Great Dining Experience

A getaway weekend with a history lesson. This week we're traveling to Atlantic Beach North Carolina, at the Eastern end of Bogue Banks, to visit Fort Macon - an old military fort where once General Robert E Lee was stationed as a junior officer. Built in 1826-1834 this fort is a pentagon-shaped fortress and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

The scene of an significant Civil War Battle while occupied by Confederate troops, the fort was under a Union artillery siege from March 23 - April 26, 1862. Its fall into Union hands gave the Northern forces complete control of the entire North Carolina coast. It was re-garrisoned during the Spanish-American War and again during World War II.

Now Fort Macon is a 398 acre state park, one of the most poplar in the United States. Swimming, fishing, nature programs and trails, guided tours of the fort, a museum with numerous exhibits and audio-visual displays are some of the activities available. The old Fort Macon Life Boat Station, where history was made again as late as 1990 when the U. S. Coast Guard named a woman to its command, is adjacent to the state park.

http://www.ncparks.gov/Visit/parks/foma/main.php

The fort makes for a great day trip with lots of history to absorb - When leaving make sure you stop by one of the local eateries listed below. Guaranteed to also make history.

• The Big Oak Drive-In pit cooks Eastern NC Bar-B-Q each day and is located only
minutes from the fort going north on Hwy 58 towards Salter Path NC.
• My favorite evening dining spot, The Island Grill - offers an unbelievable 2 for 1
special on Tuesday nights ( Fillet with sundried tomatoes or fresh tuna, caught each day )
You'll see the sign on your left - roughly 1 mile from the fort as you head back towards
Atlantic Beach.

http://www.bigoakdrivein.com/

http://islandgrillerestaurant.com/page/1478-Home

Swansboro NC, Cedar Island, Ocracoke and Areas In Transit To The Cedar Island Ferry

North Carolina is home to some of the most serene and beautiful places on this earth. From The mountains to the Coast. North Carolinians and visitors from many parts of the world can easily find and enjoy many soulfully enlightening adventures within our state's borders. Our state provides an abundance of secret hidden places that will fill your weekend with unbelievable memories and renewal of spirit. From the out-of-the way dining treats, local boutique shopping, to the many places to hike, explore, take photos and just enjoy - its all within reach for a weekend get away or longer. Join us here each week as we feature some of the most unique places in the state, many only locals are aware of - Our goal is to make all of you feel like locals by sharing in the bountiful treasures the state of North Carolina has to offer.

Swansboro North Carolina - Eastern North Carolina's entry point to some of the state's coastal secrets ( downtown boutique shopping in Swansboro, on the Beaufort Waterfront and Morehead City ) Plus, the fine eateries along the way, that will delightfully entertain your taste palette with unique offerings from some of the finest chefs in the country - Many tucked away in secret little places along the Eastern North Carolina Coast. Plus the beautiful and untouched scenic beauty you'll enjoy as you travel down Hwy 70 to reach the Cedar Point Ferry - your destination passage to Ocracoke Island NC . Below are a few of my favorite places for dining, shopping, camping, horse back riding on the sandy beaches or visiting for photos:

One of my favorite LOCAL dining places on the entire Eastern NC coast is the Island Grill, near Atlantic Beach NC - This culinary dining secret will have you returning with each visit to the coast - especially on Tuesday Nights for their 2 for 1 Fillet special with sundried tomatoes. The atmosphere is quaint and frequented mainly by locals. The small and lighty color paletted room brings you within arms reach of your neighbors table, which only inbelishes your visit by allowing you to over hear the talk of locals and more importantly view the many delights others may choose off the menu. The tuna is caught fresh each day. But don't bring your stuffiness - this place is casual attire only and demands your relaxed state of mind - where the conversation, fine wine, and great food all meet in the best dining expereince you'll ever have!

http://islandgrillerestaurant.com/page/1478-Home

White Sands Horseback Riding
http://www.insiders.com/crystalcoast/wwwads/cedarislandstables/cedarislandstablesjump.htm

http://www.crystalcoastnc.org/
http://www.ncbeaches.com/CrystalCoast/

http://www.historicbeaufort.com/
http://www.ocracokevillage.com/

http://swansboro-nc.org/index.asp?Type=B_BASIC&SEC={C8E8CEB9-AD7F-456D-89B8-7375F6222AE2}

http://www.ncbeaches.com/CrystalCoast/Swansboro/Attractions/PreservesRefugesConservancies/HammocksBeachStatePark/


photos by Dave and Mindy Bolduc during their incredible boating journeys.