Remarkable Rhododendron Ramble At Grandfather Mountain Starts Early This Year!
The showy rose-lavender blooms that decorate Grandfather’s slopes and indicate the beginning of another breathtaking summer on the mountain have arrived early this year. The mild winter that brought an early advent for other floral mountain displays will likely move this year’s spectacular showcase of rhododendron on the Mountain forward as well.
The “Remarkable Rhododendron Ramble” hosted by the attraction’s naturalists will celebrate this memorable sight June 2-17 at 1 p.m. daily. Grandfather’s knowledgeable guides are looking forward to sharing the beauty of this year’s blooms with park visitors.
“I am really excited to show guests this wonderful flower and plant as it is very important to the Mountain,” said Katie Gray, chief naturalist at Grandfather Mountain Stewardship Foundation. “The history about Andre Michaux and the plant’s discovery is really interesting.”
The naturalists have planned guided walks to honor the native Catawba Rhododendron and educate guests on how the plant fits into the important ecological communities at Grandfather Mountain.
Found throughout the southern Appalachia, Catawba Rhododendron also hold special significance in the botanical world. It is among only four original species of rhododendron that have been used to cultivate thousands of hybrids. The Catawba Rhododendron covers more than 1,000 feet in elevation from MacRae Meadows to MacRae Peak where it reaches 5,845 feet. The wide range of elevation provides guests with a longer window of opportunity to see the rhododendron blooming on Grandfather. It typically first appears at overlooks near the entrance of the attraction in late May and arrives at the higher peaks near The Mile High Swinging Bridge by the end of June.
Due to this year’s unseasonably warm weather, blooms can already be found around MacRae Meadows. Staff naturalists may plan rhododendron-focused programs earlier than June 2 if the blooms are widespread late May.
“For each Rhodo Ramble we’ll lead guests on a short walk, teach them how to identify the differences between species, take pictures and discuss the vivid colors of this stunning plant,” said Gray. “Information boards in the Nature Museum and at the Entrance Gate will direct guests to where the ramble will begin.” All Rhododendron Ramble activities are included in the regular attraction admission.
The Grandfather Mountain Stewardship Foundation is a not-for-profit corporation established to preserve Grandfather Mountain, operate the nature park sustainably in the public interest, provide an exceptional experience for guests, and inspire them to be good stewards of the earth’s resources. For more information, visit www.grandfather.com or call 800-468-7325.
The High Country Host is a regional travel promotion organization. For more information on accommodations, attractions, dining or shopping in the area please visit www.mountainsofnc.com or call 800-438-7500.
Experience Naturalist Weekend At Grandfather Mountain!
The Grandfather Mountain Stewardship Foundation is hosting its annual Naturalist Weekend May 11-13. This weekend provides guests with an in-depth look at the diversity found in the mountain’s ecological communities through guided hikes and workshops.
The weekend starts off Friday with the all-day Grandfather Spring Bird Count. During the bird count, visitors will be birding at various locations around Grandfather Mountain, including the Blue Ridge Parkway and Grandfather Mountain State Park. That evening, guests will be guided throughout the park looking and listening for Grandfather’s native nocturnal animals in the Owl Prowl. Space for both of Friday’s programs is limited and reservations are necessary.
“The Owl Prowl is one of the neatest events on the Mountain. We go to the top, discuss natural history, play owl calls and wait for the owls to return them.” said Katie Gray, chief naturalist at the Grandfather Mountain Stewardship Foundation.
Saturday’s busy schedule begins with a 9:30 a.m. Wildflower Hike and a “Birds of Prey” program at 11 a.m. Naturalist Weekend continues in the afternoon with a “Crayfish Research Project” at 1 p.m. offering participants an introduction to the project and an up-close look at some of Grandfather’s crayfish.
At 2 p.m., a Grandfather Mountain Stewardship Foundation Interpretive Ranger leads guests on the “Nature on the Edge Hike.” This trek will follow the Extension Trail loop, starting and ending at the Black Rock Parking Area. This moderately strenuous hike focuses on the transition of habitats from the Mountain’s flanks to ridgeline. Space for this hike is limited and reservations are necessary.
Another plant-themed hike begins at 4 p.m. called “Trees and Shrubs of the Southern Appalachians.” This moderately strenuous hike focuses on the native trees and shrubs on Grandfather Mountain. This hike begins and ends at the Extension Trailhead next to the Black Rock Parking area.
Sunday’s schedule begins at 7:30 a.m. with a Birding Hike on the Profile Trail in Grandfather Mountain State Park. “Geology of Grandfather,” a hike focusing on the unique geology of Grandfather Mountain begins at 10 a.m.
A “NASA Climate Workshop” begins at 11 a.m. and a “Habitat Animal Training” program at 1 p.m. A “Tracking Animals” guided walk takes place at 2 p.m. and focuses on tracks and signs of animals. The weekend will come to a close with a “Cultural Walk” at 3 p.m. followed by a “Diseases on Trees and Local Plants” program at 4 p.m.
For more information about Grandfather’s Naturalist Weekend or to make reservations for the Owl Prowl or “Nature on the Edge Hike” please call 828-733-4326. To make reservations for the Spring Bird Count please call 828-733-3224. For a complete schedule of the Naturalist Weekend events, please visit www.grandfather.com.
All programs and guided walks offered as part of the Naturalist Weekend are included in the regular price of admission. Those who attend for more than one day should keep their receipt from their first visit and present that for discount admission the following day.
The Grandfather Mountain Stewardship Foundation is a not-for-profit corporation established to preserve Grandfather Mountain, operate the nature park sustainably in the public interest, provide an exceptional experience for guests, and inspire them to be good stewards of the earth’s resources. For more information, visit www.grandfather.com or call 800-468-7325.
The High Country Host is a regional travel promotion organization. For more information on accommodations, attractions, dining or shopping in the area please visit www.mountainsofnc.com or call 800-438-7500.
First Annual Grandfather Campout At Grandfather Mountain
This summer at Grandfather Mountain brings a brand new event, offering participants unique and new opportunities on the Mountain. The First Annual Grandfather Mountain Campout July 27-29, is an all-weekend event hosted by the Grandfather Mountain Stewardship Foundation.
During this campout, guests can spend up to three days and two nights camping in MacRae Meadows between organized events all over the Mountain. Grandfather’s education and interpretive staff will be present in the camp area to assist novice campers, answer questions and even offer campfire treats and activities. The campsite will be safe, cater to all levels of camping experience and welcomes families, couples, and solo adventurers throughout this weekend of wonder.
These opportunities are included in the price of registration: “Night Adventures,” “The Wonders of Bees” children’s program, a climate and weather program, a tree and shrub walk and an orienteering workshop. Also included in the registration price is “A Bug’s World” children’s program, a clouds and weather program, a butterfly program, “Nature Near the Swinging Bridge” and several campfire and evening gatherings. There are also additional, more in-depth activities like “Grandfather’s Attic Hike” and Behind the Scenes habitat tours, available at an additional charge.
Campout participants also get the added bonus of extended hours on Grandfather. Campers receive access to the park’s overlooks, Woods Walk picnic area and walking trail and the Mile High Swinging Bridge in the morning starting 30 minutes prior to sunrise and in the evening from closing time to 30 minutes after sunrise, allowing for incredible and rare scenic photo opportunities.
Registration for the Grandfather Mountain Campout begins May 1 on www.grandfather.com. Registration forms must be printed and mailed in. Those who wish to resister for a guided hike and/or a Behind the Scenes Tour must be sure their registration is received by July 25. Registration for the Campout must be received by July 27.
Campsites are $30 per night for participants or $25 per night for annual pass holders. Admission to the park is not included in the campsite fee. Those who attend multiple days of the campout should keep their admission receipt to receive discount admission into the park the following days of the event. For questions about registration please call 828-733-4326.
The Grandfather Mountain Stewardship Foundation is a not-for-profit corporation established to preserve Grandfather Mountain, operate the nature park sustainably in the public interest, provide an exceptional experience for guests, and inspire them to be good stewards of the earth’s resources. For more information, visit www.grandfather.com or call 800-468-7325.
The High Country Host is a regional travel promotion organization. For more information on accommodations, attractions, dining or shopping in the area please visit www.mountainsofnc.com or call 800-438-7500.
Earth Day Celebration at New River State Park!
Sunday, April 22 from 11:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
The live music picnic will begin at 11:00 a.m. featuring musician Jeff Martin and others. Some grilled foods (hotdogs and a vegetarian option) will be served until supplies run out. (Or bring your own lunch and join us at the riverside picnic area).Thanks to Food Lion, Ingles, Lowes Hardware and Walmart for your support of this community event.
The activities begin at noon with a Ranger-led River Ramble. Please wear close-toed shoes that can be worn in the river and have a change of clothing, as you will get wet.
At 1:00 p.m. River Girl Fishing & Rafting Company will provide a fly fishing demonstration near the riverside picnic area.
At 2:00 p.m. there will be a ranger-led Earth Day sing-a-long for kids in the visitor center.
At 3:00 p.m. there will be a Junior Ranger “animal signs” activity. Participants will be looking for signs of park animals on a short hike starting from the Visitor Center.
From 4:00 p.m. – 6:00pm there will be a movie shown at the visitor center with an earth/sustainability theme. Title TBA.
Also from 1:00pm – 4:00pm, the park will host the following Earth-supporting organizations and businesses to give the public the opportunity to become familiar with their ideas and services. These include non- profit organizations such as:
Friends of High Country State Parks-The mission of Friends of High Country State Parks is to enhance and perpetuate the High Country State Parks and State Natural Areas for the enjoyment and benefit of all the state’s people.
The Nature Conservancy of NC-The mission of The Nature Conservancy is to conserve the lands and waters on which all life depends. The Conservancy was founded in 1951 and is the world’s leading conservation organization. Since its inception in 1977, the North Carolina Chapter has protected over 700,000 acres of critically important lands across the state including over 12,000 acres in northwestern NC. The Conservancy has an office in Boone, NC and we own several nature preserves in the region including our Bluff Mountain preserve in Ashe County near West Jefferson.
The Appalachian Voices (Appalachian Voices is a regional non-profit committed to protecting the land, air and water of the central and southern Appalachian region by working to reduce coal’s impact on the region and advancing our vision for a cleaner energy future. Since the impacts of coal threaten Appalachian states like North Carolina more than any other single source of pollution, we have recently launched our Red, White and Water campaign to mobilize citizens to stand up for their right to clean water.)
The Blue Ridge Conservancy-“Working with willing landowners and local communities to permanently protect land and water resources with agricultural, ecological, cultural, recreational and scenic value in northwest North Carolina.”
The National Committee for the New River-(NCNR) is a multistate non-profit organization focusing on the health and preservation of the New River Watershed. NCNR uses a 3 pronged approach in safeguarding the New River: Land Protection, Restoration, and Advocacy. NCNR protects land critical for preserving important wildlife habitat, rare and endangered species, cornerstones of biodiversity, and working farmland along the New River and its tributaries, through voluntary acquisitions and conservation easements. NCNR works with private landowners to stabilize eroding stream banks, restore riparian buffers to prevent further erosion, and to create healthy riparian habitat for wildlife and aquatic life. NCNR works to increase citizens’ capacity to defend and protect the New River watershed, working with local citizens to identify and address specific land and water uses activities that threaten the New River’s health, wildlife, and scenery.
High Country Audubon Society covers Avery, Ashe, Alleghany, Watauga, and Wilkes counties and is designed to encourage beginning birders and experts alike to engage in conservation, education, and research for the birds of western North Carolina.
River Girl Fishing & Rafting Company- “At Rivergirl Fishing Company, we love to share the resources and knowledge that are at the core of our passion for fishing and floating down the river. We offer a wide range of services tailored to the needs of our customers, including fly-fishing lessons, guided fishing trips, kayak, canoe, tube and bike rentals. Need a fishing license? We can provide that too. Come on by the old train depot in Todd and let us help you enjoy your time outdoors in the splendid wonderland that mother nature offers. Live. Learn. Fish! “
Riverside Canoe -The Riverside Canoe located on the South Fork of the New River in Crumpler, NC. Riverside Canoe, is a full service outfitter, offers New River canoeing in Northeastern Ashe County. With Riverside Canoe you can begin your adventures canoeing or kayaking on the beautiful south fork along the 26 mile section of the National Wild & Scenic New River.
Florence Thomas Art School-The Florence Thomas Art School is a non-profit art school that provides resources for instruction, exhibition and experience in the fine arts, master crafts and heritage crafts for Ashe County, the region and the world. It has been promoting and preserving the legacy of its founder Florence Thomas, by fostering an environment for creative thought and artistic expression, since 2007.
West Jefferson Chevrolet- The Cruze Eco on site and they will a representative to discuss its attributes. (West Jefferson Chevrolet Buick GMC offers a full lineup of fuel efficient cars, trucks, and SUVs. Our vehicles are designed to meet all transportation needs while being eco-friendly. General Motors and West Jefferson Chevrolet offer vehicles featuring the latest in fuel saving technologies such as extended range electric vehicles, two-mode hybrids, e-assist, and active fuel management.)
Blue Ridge Electric (who will be giving away CFL light bulbs to the first 50 visitors)
J & S Construction (a certified “Green builder”)-It is our mission at J.S. Construction to provide our clients with unsurpassed quality and availability every step of the way. Our unique management strategies, scheduling techniques and professional attitudes translate into a seamless construction experience no matter the scope of the project. Whether its New Home construction, Renovations, Decks, or Additions.
B & R Energy Works LLC -Blue Ridge Energy Works has been working in the energy efficiency and renewable energy industry since we formed in 2007. We offer solar electric, wind electric, and micro hydro electric power systems. We also offer solar hot water systems and are happy to coordinate with your HVAC contractor to increase your heating efficiency. We install spray foam insulation to keep your heat where it belongs, inside!
Sunny Day Homes: Sunny Day Homes is a leader in energy-efficient, green building in the High Country; we help homeowners improve the energy conservation of their existing home or help them plan and construct a new home or addition that will be gentle on the planet as well as a healthy place to live and raise kids. You can learn more about us at www.boonegreenbuilders.com or email us at boonegreenbuilders@gmail.com.
Come on out to New River State Park in support of Earth Day and the New River. Enjoy the day with friends and family while learning a few more ways to be good stewards of our Earth and make some wholesome New River memories.
Call 336-982-2587 for more information.
The High Country Host is a regional travel promotion organization. For more information on accommodations, attractions, dining or shopping in the area please visit www.mountainsofnc.com or call 800-438-7500.
SKI OR RIDE TO BENEFIT THE AMERICAN CANCER SOCIETY AT SUGAR MOUNTAIN SKI RESORT
On Sunday, March 4th we celebrate the life of the late Dick Trundy, a decorated Marine Corps General and aviator who served as Sugar Mountain Ski Resorts Director of Operations after his retirement from the service. Dick was an avid skier who enthusiastically embraced the daily life of a ski area executive. Sadly he died of cancer in 2002.
The Dick Trundy Sugar Cup giant slalom competition is a NASTAR style competition open to skiers and snowboarders from the age of four to seniors 65 years and up. Event registration is from 7:30 am until 8:30 am with racing beginning at 9 am on Big Red. Prizes are awarded to the top three ski and snowboard finishers in 13 categories ranging from four and under to 60 plus. Entry fee is $15.00 and participant lift tickets are $25.00. One-hundred percent of entry fees are given to the American Cancer Society in Dicks memory. Additional donations are greatly appreciated.
For more information please call 800-SUGAR-MT or visit www.skisugar.com/calendar.
The High Country Host is a regional travel promotion organization. For more information on accommodations, attractions, dining or shopping in the area please visit www.mountainsofnc.com or call 800-438-7500.
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Inaugural 5K To Fund Eagle Habitat Renovations!
Since Grandfather Mountain added eagles to their showcase of indigenous North Carolina wildlife in 1981, these majestic birds-of-prey have been housed in an open-topped enclosure. All the eagles that have called Grandfather Mountain home were injured by gunshot, resulting in a full or partial wing amputation and leaving them completely flightless.
Their enclosure has remained beautiful and well maintained during this period, but several problems arose as a result of the absence of a fully enclosed habitat. Ravens, bears and other animals can enter the eagles’ home, stealing their food and posing a serious threat to their well-being.
Another drawback stemming from the park’s lack of a fully enclosed eagle habitat, is Grandfather’s inability to adopt other eagles that may be partially or fully flighted. Even though these eagles may have the ability to fly normally, other injuries, such as eye problems, could render them unable to hunt for food and survive in the wild.
The park’s habitat staff has been tirelessly fund raising for over a year in hopes of renovating the enclosure and their efforts are continuing this May with the first annual “Critter Crawl” at Grandfather Mountain. This 5K race begins in MacRae Meadows and ends at the top of Grandfather. It is a charity event where runners pay a $30 admission fee to participate. All of the money generated will directly benefit these pending renovations.
“We’ve been actively raising money for a year now in the community. We’re excited because the hope is that this race will finally allow the improvements to begin,” said Christie Tipton, Grandfather Mountain Stewardship Foundation habitat manager. If the Critter Crawl is a success and all 500 running spots are filled, the renovation process will begin on the eagle habitat.
The $30 cost per runner includes: a “Critter Crawl” t-shirt and a free day-pass for the following weekend. T-shirts are only guaranteed for participants registering before April 19. Awards will be presented to the top three male and female competitors.
The “Critter Crawl” race is very similar to the popular “Bear Run” held each year during the Grandfather Mountain Highland Games, but is unique in that it loops through the animal habitat pathways, giving runners the opportunity to view the eagle habitats they are helping to renovate. Online registration for the event begins March 1.
For registration information, please visit www.grandfather.com and for more information about the “Critter Crawl” or the eagle habitat renovation project, call 828-733-8715.
The High Country Host is a regional travel promotion organization. For more information on accommodations, attractions, dining or shopping in the area please visit www.mountainsofnc.com or call 800-438-7500.
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First Annual “Critter Crawl” Set For May 3rd at Grandfather Mountain!
This May, the inaugural “Critter Crawl” kicks off at Grandfather Mountain. The 5K race begins in MacRae Meadows and ends at the top of Grandfather. All proceeds will directly benefit upcoming renovations to the Grandfather Mountain eagle habitats.
The race will begin at 6:30 p.m. on Thursday, May 3. To accommodate runners and race spectators, the park will end ticket sales at 4 p.m. and close at 5 p.m.
Online registration for the “Critter Crawl” begins March 1 with 500 spaces for runners available. The cost per participant is $30 and includes: a “Critter Crawl” t-shirt and a free day-pass for the following weekend. T-shirts will not be guaranteed for participants that register after April 19. Awards will be presented to the top three male and female competitors.
Parking passes, available during registration, are $10 per car. Spectators will be able to park in designated parking lots on Grandfather and MacRae Meadows on a first-come, first-serve basis. Shuttles will transport spectators to the top from each parking area.
For registration information, please visit www.grandfather.com and for more information about the “Critter Crawl” or the eagle habitat renovation project, call 828-733-8715.
The High Country Host is a regional travel promotion organization. For more information on accommodations, attractions, dining or shopping in the area please visit www.mountainsofnc.com or call 800-438-7500.
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High Country Host Welcomes New Member: Florence Thomas Art School!
Inspiration and creativity flourish on the beautiful 10-acre campus of Florence Thomas Art School, located along the Blue Ridge Parkway in Glendale Springs, North Carolina, and just minutes from the New River. Here, visitors can attend half-day to five-day workshops in the fine arts, master crafts, and heritage crafts led by regional and national artisans. Affordable on-site lodging, nearby area attractions and cultural events make this the perfect vacation for individuals as well as families.
One student recently commented: ” The setting of the school and the little touches by the staff create an atmosphere where creativity can really blossom.” Another agreed, adding, ” I feel refreshed, relaxed and blessed for having the opportunity to be here.”
There is something for everyone at all artistic levels. Workshops in painting to weaving are hosted from May to October and include special programming such as Fiber Arts Heritage Craft Week and an Intergenerational Workshop in July.
For more info, visit: http://www.florencethomas.org
The High Country Host is a regional travel promotion organization. For more information on accommodations, attractions, dining or shopping in the area please visit www.mountainsofnc.com or call 800-438-7500.
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High Country Host Welcomes New Member: Woof Pack Pet Services!
We are proud to welcome our newest member, Woof Pack Pet Services! They offer dog training, pet sitting and much more!
Puppy Kindergarten is a class for puppies from 4 months – 1 year in age focusing on socialization, problem puppy behaviors.leash walking and 6 of the basic commands.
Basic Obedience is a class for dogs over 1 year in age focusing on learning 12 basic commands with distraction and proper leash walking.
AKC Programs – Dogs do NOT have to be purebred to participate in either program
AKC STAR Puppy Program is for puppies (up to 1 year) who want to get a head start on their Canine Good Citizen skills and work through puppy problem behaviors. At the end of the 6 weeks your puppy will be tested to be enrolled in the AKC S.T.A.R program
AKC Canine Good Citizen is a class for dogs (over 1 year) who are working towards their 10 skills in the Canine Good Citizen Certification.At the end of the 6 weeks your dog will be evaluated to become an AKC Canine Good Citizen.
For more info, visit: http://www.woof-pack.net
The High Country Host is a regional travel promotion organization. For more information on accommodations, attractions, dining or shopping in the area please visit www.mountainsofnc.com or call 800-438-7500.
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The High Country Host Welcomes New Member, Blue Ridge Dinner Theater!
The Blue Ridge Dinner Theater is owned and operated by Dick and Linda Copus of Winner’s Circle Restaurant & Steakhouse and former owner’s of Greenfield Restaurant. Dick and Linda have been in the restaurant business since 1990. The opening of the Blue Ridge Dinner Theater has given them the opportunity to take their restaurant experience to the next level by combining good food and good entertainment!
With the conception of the Dinner Theater, Dick and Linda strive to offer name-brand as well as local entertainment to Ashe County. It is their wish to provide something unique and different to the High Country that will bring more visitors to our area.
The Blue Ridge Dinner Buffet is included in your ticket price and provided by Winner’s Circle Restaurant & Steakhouse and is the same great buffet you new and loved at Greenfield Restaurant. You’ll have your pick of mouth-watering entrees and side items including pan-fried chicken like Grandma used to make, roast beef, baked ham, real homemade mashed potatoes, green beans, corn, homemade biscuits and gravy. And you’ll not want to miss the homemade baked apples and cobblers. Buffet meal also includes coffee, tea, and water. Soft drinks sold separately.
Although our mailing address is 9331 Hwy. 16 S., West Jefferson, we are actually located in the small town of Glendale Springs at the old Mountain Music Jamboree.
For more info, visit: http://blueridgedinnertheater.com!
The High Country Host is a regional travel promotion organization. For more information on accommodations, attractions, dining or shopping in the area please visit www.mountainsofnc.com or call 800-438-7500.
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