The siren call of Western North Carolina is always in my ears. It’s a beautiful play land that lures you in – and once you’re there, I believe your life is richer and you’re changed for the better.
As the weather cools down and the leaves turn vibrant hues, there are so many fun things to do outside. It was tough to compile a short list of my favorite activities, events, and festivals to share. I encourage you to get these on your calendar over the next few months.
Brewgrass Festival: Saturday, September 16, 2017
Imagine tapping your toe to live bluegrass and tasting an array of craft beer with your friends and family in downtown Asheville. Created in 1996, Brewgrass is Western North Carolina’s original craft beer festival, and is often voted one of the top beer fests around the country. Proceeds go to Big Brothers Big Sisters of Western North Carolina. Buy a ticket and imbibe responsibly for a great cause.
Leaf Looking: October – early November
Anywhere within Western North Carolina and the Asheville area during this time of year is optimal for enjoying the colorful fall foliage by car – better yet by bike or hike. Hop on the Blue Ridge Parkway for amazing views. The website Romantic Asheville has a fall foliage forecast with a weekly play-by-play of where to go, as well as a robust list of fall festivals throughout the region.
Green River Race: Saturday, November 4, 2017
You can spectate or race – either way, it’s a rush of a day. For 23 years, this Class V whitewater kayaking race brings some of the top paddlers from around the world to the Green River Narrows near Saluda, North Carolina. The Narrows is known for it’s turbulent, steep rapids. One of our A-LINE developers, Toby MacDermott and his wife, Erin, will be paddling in the race this year!
To watch portions of the race, hike in at the Pulliam Trail trailhead, which leads to an intense hike down into the Green River Gorge to the rapid aptly named, “Gorilla.” You can imagine what can happen there to even the most experienced kayakers. The hike, views, and ramble along the river are well worth the sweat.
See you on the road, trail or river!
