The Woolly Worm Forecast for Winter 2008

Time for yet another amazing prediction from this year's Woolly Worm Wace Winner! Kelly the Woolly Worm is this year's winner and after hours of analyzing, the Woolly Worm scientists have announced Kelly's forecast for the upcoming winter:

"The first four weeks will be cold and snowy, followed by three weeks of seasonably cold weather. Expect the final six weeks of winter to be snowy and cold, with severe cold in week 11."

How accurate is the woolly worm forecast? Well, according to woollyworm.com, woolly worms that win the Banner Elk Woolly Worm Wace have been completely or mostly correct in their predictions about 85 percent of the time over the last 30 years. Kinda makes you want to replace your local weatherman with a worm doesn't it?

The Valle Country Fair

Many people have heard of Banner Elk’s Woolly Worm Festival. But have you heard of the Valle Country Fair, located just seven miles away in Valle Crucis?

The Valle Country Fair is an overgrown church bazaar set in the center of one of the most picturesque valleys in the North Carolina Mountains at the peak of the fall color season. The fair was started by a small church as a small fundraiser and it has now grown into an annual happening that attracts thousands. The fair raised more than $45,000 for local charities in 2006. All monies raised go to fund High Country organizations which serve people in need.

At the fair, you will find 135 juried fine art & crafts booths, freshly pressed apple cider, hot-out-of-the-kettle apple butter, homemade jams & jellies, Brunswick stew, chili, and barbecue.

The fair will be held on the third Saturday in October (October 18, 2008) at the Valle Crucis Conference Center on Highway 194. Admission is free, although there is a $5 fee for parking.

The proceeds from the 2008 fair will benefit the Watauga Humane Society, the Western Youth Network, the Hunger & Health Coalition, the Watauga Basic Skills, Hospice/Palliative Care of Avery County, Community Care Clinic, W. A. M. Y. Community Action, the Hospitality House, and Caregiver's Haven.So come out and join us at the Valle Country Fair! And don’t forget to call A and W Mountain Rentals for all your vacation rental needs!! (828) 898-9188

Daniel Boone Days

Come Celebrate Boone in Boone on September 4th, 5th and 6th in BOONE, NC! The word is out, people are starting to take notice, historians are readying their presentations, wine is being shipped, Daniel Boone caps have arrived, World Record Academy judges have been notified, the bands have signed their contracts, fiddlers are starting to practice, runners are training, area businesses and organizations are jumping on board and the ideas are snowballing.

What is it? It’s Daniel Boone Days—Boone’s new annual festival planned for Thursday, Friday and Saturday, September 4, 5 and 6, at various locations around Boone. Organized by High Country Press and Mountain Fountain Productions, Daniel Boone Days addresses the need for a unifying celebration for the Town of Boone—a celebration that highlights the town’s namesake.

The American pioneer and hunter whose frontier exploits made him one of the first folk heroes of the United States had a soft spot in his heart for the mountains that surround present-day Boone. He appreciated the abundance that fills these hills, and, legend has it, he frequented a hunting cabin near Howard’s Knob during his early life. The area where Boone hunted is the area we now know as the Town of Boone. And what better way to honor the town’s namesake than with a festival celebrating his life and legacy?

The festival kicks off on Thursday, September 4th, with a Daniel Boone Days Open House and Social at the High Country Press office at 130 N. Depot Street in Boone from 11:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. There, visitors will enjoy a exhibit on Daniel Boone from the Appalachian Cultural Museum, a native bird exhibit, a Daniel Boone Hotel exhibit, a display of coonskin caps to be used for a world record, an exhibit on the Daniel Boone Native Gardens, an information kiosk with the Daniel Boone Days schedule and a ticket outlet for the festival’s many events.

On Friday, September 5th, from 11:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. at Appalachian State University’s Valborg Theater, the Daniel Boone Days Symposium takes place, featuring bestselling author and historian Robert Morgan—author of Gap Creek and Boone: A Biography—who will talk about everything Boone with regional experts. Morgan’s book Boone: A Biography is the Together We Read book for this summer and fall. Together We Read is western North Carolina’s regionwide reading and discussion program for bookstores, libraries and schools in 21 western North Carolina counties. Tickets for the inaugural Daniel Boone Symposium are $2.

On Friday night, it’s time to taste the wines of television’s original Daniel Boone at the Fess Parker Wine Dinners at The Gamekeeper Restaurant and Casa Rustica. Both dinners start at 7:00 p.m. and seating is limited, so interested parties are urged to get tickets as soon as possible. Patrons have their choice to wine and dine in a log cabin at Casa Rustica or eat wild game entrees similar to what Daniel Boone would have eaten at Gamekeeper Restaurant. Both dinners include three courses and multiple glasses of Fess Parker wine. The dinner at Casa Rustica costs $65 per person, and the dinner at Gamekeeper Restaurant costs $85.

On Saturday, September 6th, at 8:00 a.m., brave runners will follow in the footsteps of Daniel Boone as they climb and descend Howard’s Knob during the Daniel Boone Chase Foot Race. The race begins in downtown Boone, takes a lap around a city block, ascends the mountain and then returns back to the start. Three winners will be crowned—one for the first to complete the lap around the block, one for the first runner to reach the summit and one for the first person to finish. Do you have what it takes to beat Daniel Boone? Entry into the race is $20 and includes a t-shirt.

In the middle of the day, Boone will make history as festival-goers attempt to set a new World Record Academy Record for the “Largest Gathering of People Dressed Like Daniel Boone.” The hats are for sale at Mast General Store in Boone, as well as at Daniel Boone Headquarters, located at 130 North Depot Street in Boone from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday. A portion of the proceeds from the sale of the caps will go to the Watauga Education Foundation. The caps cost $10.

Daniel Boone Days comes to a close on Saturday with the inaugural Pioneer Festival at the Horn—a music and cultural festival at Horn in the West from noon to 11:00 p.m. An event for all ages, the Pioneer Festival at the Horn features arts and crafts vendors, a square dance, storytelling, the Watauga Arts Council’s fiddlers’ competition, the Daniel Boone Look-Alike Contest, living history and live music from Boone’s Ottava Rima, Boone’s Lost Ridge Band, Virginia’s Larry Keel & Natural Bridge and MerleFest standouts The Waybacks. Tickets are $10 in advance and $12 at the door; children under the age of 12 are $5.

Come celebrate Daniel Boone in the heart of Boone and find out why Daniel Boone had it right, paving the way for all of us to discover what the pioneer originally found. For more information, visit www.danielboonedays.com.

The Woolly Worm Festival in Banner Elk!!!

We all know that groundhogs are supposed to predict the coming of spring with their “shadowy” forecast. But did you know that there is another animal that can predict the severity of winter? That’s right, the Woolly Worm (also known as the Woolly Bear caterpillar) has long been lauded by mountain folk as a forecaster of the coming winter. While scientists dispute the idea that a caterpillar can accurately predict the weather, no one disputes that the Banner Elk Woolly Worm Festivals predictions have an 85% accuracy rate.
The Wooly Bear caterpillar has 13 brown and black segments, which the late Charles Von Canon explained to the small crowd that huddled together in the sub-freezing temperatures at the first Woolly Worm Festival correspond to the 13 weeks of winter. The lighter brown a segment is, the milder that week of winter will be. The darker black a segment is, the colder and snowier the corresponding week will be.
While the accuracy of the worm’s predictions are amazing, for the most part the festival is about having fun! So since 1978, the residents of the village nestled between the Carolina's two largest ski resorts have celebrated the coming of the snow season with a Woolly Worm Festival. They set aside the third weekend in October (October 18-19, 2008) to determine which one worm will have the honor of predicting the severity of the coming winter; and they make that worm earn the honor by winning heat after heat of hard-fought races - up a three-foot length of string.
First, no person is more likely to have a winning worm than any other person. There is no home-field advantage, no preferred age for the person who sets the worm on the string (although worms raced by children do seem to win a bit more frequently).
Second, selecting names for the Woolly Worms is a delightful way to learn how amazingly creative your friends and family members can be. Consider these clever monikers: Merryweather, Patsy Climb and Dale Wormhardt.
Finally, there is no other experience in life that can produce the absurd euphoria that comes from cheering for a caterpillar to climb a string. It is so indisputably ridiculous that it is completely liberating!
And the $1,000 first prize that accompanies the prestige of having your worm used to pronounce the official winter forecast doesn't hurt either.
The Woolly Worm races begin around 10 a.m. Each heat consists of 20 worms and races continue all day until the grand final around 4 p.m. The winning worm on Saturday is declared the official winter forecasting agent. The Sunday worm races are for prestige, fun and small prizes.
In addition to the Woolly Worm Races, the festival features crafts, food vendors, live entertainment and much more. Last year's festival attracted an estimated 20,000 fans, 140 vendors and around 1,000 race entrants.
The Woolly Worm Festival is sponsored by the Avery Banner Elk Chamber of Commerce and the Kiwanis Club of Banner Elk and a portion of the proceeds go to support children's charities throughout the county.

For more information, click here.

Specials and Discounts on Mountain Vacation Rentals!

Here at A and W Mountain Rentals, we are always trying to provide our customers with the best of everything…including prices. Because of the recent downturn in the economy, we have come up with some new discounts to show you how much we appreciate your business!

Gas Allowance Discount
Due to the increase in gas prices this year, we are currently running a special promotion to help offset the cost of gas. Each property has a gas allowance discount listed on its individual page. To view these discounts, simply click on the property you are interested in and read the information listed under the rent totals. This discount was originally scheduled to end 10/01/08, but we have extended it till 12/12/08.

Military Discount
We are now offering a military discount to our wonderful tenants who serve our country. We here at A and W Mountain Rentals & Realty, Inc. want to thank our military men and women for the service that they do for all of us. Please consider this discount a small thank you to all of you because we could never thank you enough.
YOU MUST ASK FOR THE MILITARY DISCOUNT WHEN BOOKING YOUR RENTAL UNIT. You must provide us with a copy of a valid military ID in the name that is listed on the contract to receive the discount.

Returning Tenants Discount
We want to reward those tenants who choose to stay with us multiple times. If you are a returning guest (and your name was listed on a prior contract), you will receive a $25.00 discount (this is in addition to the gas allowance discount if your arrival is 12/12/08 or before). We hope that you like us enough to come back again and again.

So call us here at A and W Mountain Rentals to find the perfect mountain home for your vacation needs!! 828.898.9188 For more information see our Specials and Discounts page at http://www.aandwrentals.com/specials.asp

What’s going on in August!!

There are all kinds of fun and entertaining things to do in the high country this August!!! Here are just a few events going on during the first half of the month:

Lees-McRae Summer Theatre – Oklahoma.
Friday, 8/1 - Thursday, 8/7 - 7 to 7:30 pm Hummingbird Theatre, Lees-McRae College, Banner Elk, NCRodgers & Hammerstein’s first collaboration remains, in many ways, their most innovative, having set the standards and established the rules of musical theatre still being followed today. OKLAHOMA! tells of fun, love and romance in the lives of the families living in the Oklahoma territory at the turn of the century. Although the road to true love never runs smooth, with two headstrong romantics holding the reins, love’s journey is as bumpy as a surrey ride down a country road. That they will succeed in making a new life together there is no doubt, and that this new life will begin in a brand-new state provides the ultimate climax to the triumphant OKLAHOMA! Call 828-898-8709 for details.

Crafts on the Green
Saturday, 8/2, 9 am - 4 pmFred's General Mercantile, Beech MountainOver 60 vendors of fine crafts assemble to display and sell their wares on the green near Fred's pavilion. For additional information, call Fred's Mercantile at (828) 387-4838.
"Music at St. John's"
Sunday, 8/3, 5 pmSt. John's ChurchThe remainder of the series will feature more of North Carolina's special musical treasures: On August 3, Summer Wind, the renowned solo oboist Alicia Chapman of the ASU faculty who will surprise the audience with the choice of her guest musicians. The Music at St. John's events are 'family friendly' with opportunities for member of the audience to meet and interact with artists. Consider bringing a picnic to enjoy on the church grounds following the concert! Please note that pets are not allowed on the property during these events. A minimum donation of $10 is requested for each adult; children under 12 year may attend free of charge.
Directions to St. John's Church, Valle Crucis:
From Linville: take 105 north 12.3 miles to stoplight at Watauga River bridge. Turn left onto Broadstone Rd. Go 4.2 miles to intersection of 194 and Mast Gap rd. Turn left onto Mast Gap Road. Go .4 miles and turn left on Herb Thomas Road. Go 1.5 miles to St. John's Church on the right.
From Boone: Take Hwy 105 south from 105/321 intersection in Boone. Go 4.8 miles to stoplight at Watauga River Bridge. Turn right onto Broadstone Road and go 4.2 miles to intersection of 194 and Mast Gap rd. Turn left onto Mast Gap Road. Go .4 miles and turn left on Herb Thomas Road. Go 1.5 miles to St. John's Church on the right.
From Mast General Store in Valle Crucis: Go 1.3 miles on Hwy 194. From Mast General Store to Mast Gap Road on left. Turn left and go .4 miles to Herb Thomas Road on left. Turn left and go 1.5 miles to St. John's Church on the right. Call 828-963-4609 for details.

Annual Barn Dance
Saturday, 8/16Beech MountainCall 828-387-9283 for details.

Grandfather Mountain Camera Clinic
Saturday, 8/16 - Sunday, 8/17, Saturday afternoon through Sunday morningGrandfather MountainTop professionals from the world of news photography gather to share on the hot topics in photojournalism. Free. Seating is limited, so pre-registration is required. Online registration starts July 15. Call 800-468-7325 for details.

Guided Hike on Beech Mountain
Tuesday, 8/19, 8:45amFalls TrailAll guests, residents and neighbors are invited to hike the trail less traveled. Free. Appropriate clothing and footwear are required. Please leave your pets at home as they may disturb wildlife along the trails. For additional information contact the Beech Mountain Chamber of Commerce. Meet at Fred's General Mercantile or the trailhead at 8:45 on the day of the hike. Call 828-387-9283 for details.

17th Annual fine Arts and Master Crafts Festival
Saturday, 8/23 - Sunday, 8/24Banner Elk Elementary SchoolInternationally and nationally known artists gather for this unique one-a-kind handcrafted juried festival. Call 1-800-972-2183 for details.

Mile High Kite Festival at Beech Mountain
Saturday, 8/30 - Sunday, 8/31, 10 a.m.Across from Town HallA great tradition with lots of color and fun activities for kids of all ages. This is a free event sponsored by the members of the Beech Mtn Chamber of Commerce. Kites can be purchased at the event or bring your own. Be sure to bring your kite making supplies. Free kites Saturday and Sunday for the 1st 100 children. Kite building and decorating clinics are presented for the children as well. Two kite clubs are available to demonstrate flying techniques and also display their kites. The festival begins at 10 AM. Free Parking. Call (828) 387-9283 for details.

New River Blues Festival
Sunday, 8/31, 1- 7 pmJefferson Landing, Jefferson NCInternationally Acclaimed Artists in Paradise! The fabulously scenic setting on The New River at Jefferson Landing plays host to a world-class Festival... THE NEW RIVER BLUES FESTIVAL! Bring lawn chairs, blankets, umbrellas. No coolers on lawn please. Great food, soft drinks, beer and wine available! Tickets at Gate the Day of the Show $12.00 Headlining The Fest; Johnny Rawls • Wallace Coleman • Shrimp City Slim • Miss Wanda Johnson • The King Bees • Tampa Blue

Sugar Mountain Charlift Rides
Saturdays and Sundays 10 am- 5:30 pmSugar MountainEnjoy a breathtaking 45 minute roundtrip lift-ride at Sugar Mountain. $10 for a one-time ride, $22 for an all-day ticket. Kids 4 and under ride free with an adult. Call 828-898-4521 for details

Summer Concerts in the Park
Thursdays - 6:30 pmBanner Elk ParkConcerts start at 6 pm at the stage behind Bank of America on Highway 194. Bring your chairs or blankets and coolers. Food will also be available for purchase at the concert. Raffle tickets can be purchased for prizes as well as for the 50/50 split of the "pot."

Fred's Summer Sunday Concert
Sundays All DayBeech MountainCall 828-387-9283 for details.

Grandfather Mountain Highland Games

That’s right! The Grandfather Mountain Highland Games have come once again! This year Games will run from Thursday, July 10th through Sunday, July 13th. This will be the 52nd year of the Highland Games and there are many events scheduled for this year. Some of the events include: the Torchlight Ceremony, The Bear (a five-mile footrace up Grandfather Mountain), the Grizzly Bike Race, Celtic Music Jam Concert, a Ceilidh (a traditional Gaelic social dance), a Scottish Worship Service, the Parade of Tartans, a Scottish Fiddling Competition, the Atlantic International Highland Dance Championship Competition, as well as competitions for athletic events, sheep herding, kilted miles, children’s events, Scottish country dancing, Scottish harps, Tugs-of-War and more! Come join us at Grandfather Mountain and don’t forget to contact A and W Mountain Rentals & Realty for your vacation rental needs! 828-898-9188

The Blue Ridge Parkway

The Blue Ridge Parkway winds from the Shenandoah National Park south to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, winding through some of the most beautiful scenery in Virginia and North Carolina. The Blue Ridge Parkway has been designated an All-American Road by the Federal Highway Administration. An All-American Road is one that “possesses multiple qualities that are nationally significant and have one-of-a-kind features that do not exist elsewhere.” The road must also “provide an exceptional traveling experience so recognized by travelers that they would make a drive along highway a primary reason for their trip.” Only a few miles into your trip along the Parkway, you will understand how it came to receive such an honor. As the Parkway winds through miles of natural habitats and historic areas, and panoramic views open up to you, you will agree that the Blue Ridge Parkway is indeed a destination unto itself.

As you travel the Parkway, you will find a wide variety of attractions; some located on the Parkway and others located just a few miles away in the neighboring communities. Banner Elk, North Carolina (located just off the Parkway near MILE POST 305) offers many attractions and diversions for those traveling the Blue Ridge Parkway.

One of the more breathtaking sights along this stretch of the Blue Ridge Parkway is the Linn Cove Viaduct. The Viaduct wraps around Linn Cove on the side of Grandfather Mountain and was the last section of the Parkway to be finished. The Viaduct is one of the most complicated concrete bridges ever built, as it was designed to have as little impact on the environment as possible. There is a Visitor’s Center at the Viaduct with a trail that gives visitors a beautiful view of the Viaduct. (This trail is handicapped accessible.)

Just a mile from milepost 305, you’ll find Grandfather Mountain. It’s the highest peak in the Blue Ridge Mountains and offers spectacular views, several hiking trails, a museum and natural habitats for bears, otters, eagles, cougars and deer. If you view the mountain from Hwy 105, you’ll see where the mountain gets its name – along the profile of the ridge, you’ll see the old man, “Grandfather.” Local legend says that he laid down on the ridge of the mountain to rest, fell asleep and laid there so long that he became part of the mountain. There are also many legends about the mountain in the local Cherokee lore that designate the mountain as a passage to the underworld. The mountain is privately owned, and it is interesting to note that the present owner’s father, Hugh Morton was largely responsible for the Linn Cove Viaduct. It was Hugh Morton’s dedication to protecting the environment on his beloved mountain that produced the Viaduct – one of the environmentally-friendly bridges in existence.

Another attraction you will find just off the Parkway is the Old Hampton Store in Linville North Carolina. The Old Hampton Store began operating around 1920. Here you will find the old fashioned general store and grist mill. (They make their own cornmeal, grits and buckwheat pancake mix! Yummy!) Stop by and enjoy some of the best BBQ in the High Country, served on homemade sourdough bread! Next door is an art gallery, featuring southern folk art, pottery, wood carving, blacksmithing, weaving, blown glass and jewelry. Great old timey family fun!

At the top of Beech Mountain, you will find Fred’s General Mercantile. With a little bit of everything, from groceries to hiking boot and ski rentals, Fred’s proudly boasts, “If we don’t have it, you don’t need it!” Fred’s is a true general store experience, with everything from groceries to hardware to clothing. Make your trip to Beech Mountain complete by stopping at Fred’s.

For a day of outdoor family fun, try visiting Coffey Lake and Buckeye Lake. There are great places for fishing, walking trails, picnic areas and wonderful views. And don’t forget to stop by Fred’s Mercantile to pick up your license and equipment!

The Weaving Room in Crossnore is an excellent chance to watch the mountain tradition of weaving in action. You can also visit the craft shop and the Blair Fraley Thrift Store. These are all located on the campus of Crossnore school in Crossnore.

Linville Caverns gives you the opportunity to take a guided tour through caverns filled with stalactites and stalagmites and watch the trout swim through streams running below the caverns. The Caverns are open year round and are very family friendly. (Remember that if you have children under the age of two, the tunnels are not stroller-friendly.) Don’t forget to visit the gift shop containing souvenirs, local pottery and rock specimens.

The Brown Mountain Lights are a mystery that no one has ever been able to fully explain. The yellow, red or bluish-white lights appear over Brown Mountain in all seasons. There are many legends to explain the mystery of the lights. One of the more enduring stories is that after a clash between the Cherokee and Catawba, several wives went up on the mountain to search for their missing husbands. The legend says that the lights are the torches of those wives as they continue to search for their lost loves. Locals say that while the lights can be visible year-round, the best chance of seeing the lights is on a fall night just after a good rain. There are several overlooks to view the lights: an overlook on NC 181 near Jonas Ridge, Lost Cove Overlook on milepost 310 and Thunder Hill Overlook on milepost 290.

And of course, the Blue Ridge Parkway has access to countless hiking trails, many of which offer breathtaking views of local waterfalls.

Call A and W Mountain Rentals today to reserve your Blue Ridge Parkway vacation home! (828)898-9188 Or click here to visit our website, where you can browse through all our rental properties and even search by amenities!

Hiking in the High Country!

The High Country of North Carolina offers a wide variety of outdoor activities to entertain you in the summer months. One of our more popular activities is hiking. While there are a wide variety of hiking trails in the area, we’ve put together a list of some of the more popular trails.

The Appalachian Trail follows the mountain crest from Maine to Georgia with over 200 miles through Pisgah and Nantahala National Forests. Eighty-eight miles of the Trail pass through North Carolina and with an elevation between 2,000 and 5,000 feet. The best time to hike the trail is from mid-May through October. The Trail is open to foot travel only and boasts a chain of shelters spaced from 8 to 12 miles apart. The Appalachian Trail follows segments of mountain ranges from Damascus, Virginia, through the Cherokee National Forest to the North Carolina-Tennessee state line. Here you will find the highest mountains along the Trail, some above six thousand feet.

Along the Appalachian Trail, you will discover the Roan Highlands, well known for their Rhododendron Gardens and the panoramic views of the open grassy balds (blunt summits covered by a thick layer of native grass). The Appalachian Trail then continues south along the state line and through the Pisgah National Forest.

The Trail continues through the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and it is important for hikers to remember that permits are required for overnight stays in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Also remember that you need reservations to use the shelters there.

The Grandfather Trail at Grandfather Mountain is an upper mountain ridge trail. It offers hikers a wide variety – from forests of spruce and fir to rock walls and pinnacles and open spaces with views of mountains in every direction.

The Trail follows the crest of Grandfather Mountain from the Hiker’s Parking area to Calloway Peak, 2.4 miles away. The pace is often cautious and there are places where progress is hand over hand. At some very steep sections, hikers use in-place cables and ladders. For the less adventurous, there is an alternative route up the MacRae peak by way of the Underwood Trail.

The Profile Trail is also located on Grandfather Mountain. This Trail begins as a scenic stroll through seasonal wildflowers, crosses the Watauga River and then travels through rhododendron thickets and under a hardwood canopy. The upper sections (which begin around Foscoe View) can get noticeably steeper, but there are frequently spaced benches for rest stops. This trail offers a view of the “Grandfather” profile (look closely to see the outline of Grandfather asleep on his back!) The path becomes a demanding trail a little over two and half miles in. After a climb of 0.3 miles, the Profile Trail joins the Grandfather Trail.

Linville Falls is located on the Blue Ridge Parkway. There are trails leading to the views of both the upper and lower falls. Surrounding forests are filled with hemlock, white pine, oak, hickory and birch trees. There are also a variety of colorful wildflowers surrounding the trails in the spring and summer. In autumn, the changing colors of the leaves will leave you breathless.

The trails are open from dawn to dusk, year-round and with no fee. The falls are located on the Blue Ridge Parkway, between where US 221 and NC 181 intersect the Parkway. The Linville Falls trail is ½ miles long and joins the Park Service’s trail system.

There are two main hiking trails that lead to views of the Falls. Both begin at the Linville Falls Visitor Center and range in difficulty from moderate to strenuous. The Erwins View Trail is a moderate walk of 1.6 miles round trip, offering four different overlooks of the area.

The trails to Linville Gorge and to Plunge Basin begin at the visitor center and fork approximately 0.2 miles from the center. The right fork leads to the Plunge Basin Overlook which offers views of the lower falls. The Linville Gorge trail winds down through the rock cliffs to the bottom of the falls. Both of these trails are strenuous and you should remember that swimming and climbing on the rocks are prohibited for safety reasons.

Elk River Falls - This short waterfall hike is tucked into an isolated tract of Pisgah National Forest near the border with Tennessee. This trail is a popular 0.5-mile round-trip saunter after church on Sunday for local families. The parking lot is lined with grills and picnic tables (no camping), and a scenic, fishable river flows by.

To get to the falls from Banner Elk, follow NC 194 to the intersection with 19E. Turn right and travel approximately 2 miles to SR 1308. Follow the signs to Elk River Road on your right. The parking area will be approximately 5 miles ahead. (Note that the road turns from a two lane paved road to a one lane dirt road.) The trail to the falls is clearly marked and a very easy walk, however, the climb down to the pool at the bottom is moderately steep.
Roan Mountain State Park encompasses 2,006 acres of southern Appalachian forest at the base of Roan Mountain. The Park offers hiking, trout fishing, tennis, swimming, educational programs and mountain music concerts. The Appalachian Trail and famous Rhododendron Gardens of Roan Mountain are nearby at Carver’s Gap, a short 8 mile drive from the park. The park has a naturalist on hand year round to provide programs for visitors and special groups.

There are approximately 12 miles of hiking trails in the park and 2 ¼ miles of biking trails. The trails range in difficulty from easy to strenuous. At Carver’s Gap, you can access the Appalachian Trail, Rhododendron’s Gardens Trail, Roan High Bluff Trail and Hack Line Road Trail.

Call A and W Mountain Rentals (828-898-9188) today to reserve a rental for your summer hiking vacation. And remember, we have many pet friendly units available too!

Congratulations Brandy!

If you’ve ever called the A and W Mountain Rentals office, you probably talked to Brandy. She’s the sweet and efficient full-time reservationist who answers the phone when you call. Well, now we are proud to announce that Brandy is also wearing another hat at A and W. She has recently become a N.C. Provisional Broker and is working in A and W’s Property Manager training program. A Provisional Broker is someone who has been licensed by the state, and they can generally do the same things as a broker as long as they are supervised by a broker-in-charge. When Brandy completes her post license course, she will be issued her Broker’s license and become a Broker/Property Manager.

CONGRATULATIONS BRANDY!
We are all so proud of you.

Things To Do In The High Country In June!!

So, you’re ready to come on vacation in the mountains, but you’re wondering, “What on earth can I do once I’m there?” Well, check out all the cool things we’ve got going on this month!!

Grandfather's Remarkable Rhododendron Ramble
Monday, 6/2 - Sunday, 6/15 at Grandfather Mountain - The red Catawba Rhododendron is abundant all across Grandfather Mountain with the first blooms appearing at the lower overlooks in early June and the display arriving at the Swinging Bridge by the end of the month. The Mountain’s staff naturalists can't wait to share their excitement for the showy rose-lavender blossoms. Join them for the "Remarkable Rhododendron Ramble" and participate in special programs and activities that celebrate this herald of summer. Call 800-468-7325, or visit http://www.grandfather.com/ for details.

Beech Mountain Race "A Cool 5"
Saturday, 6/7, 10 a.m at the top of Beech Mountain - Beech Mountain Recreation Department director Craig Colistra has announced the town‘s plan to host its first running event. "A Cool 5" will feature a run across the top of Beech Mountain, eastern America‘s highest town, on Saturday, June 7, at 10 a.m. The five-mile run and accompanying fun run will be open to all runners and walkers. The race course will be above 5,000 feet in elevation with moderate climbs and awesome views across the Blue Ridge Mountain range. Participants will be able to enjoy Beech‘s "cool" summertime temperatures, which seldom exceed 72 degrees. Views of Grandfather and Mt. Mitchell will be among the scenic vistas available to those running. This year‘s event will benefit the construction of a new children‘s playground at Buckeye Lake that will be built totally with volunteer help from the community. Colistra said, "This playgrond is a monumental undertaking by a small community like Beech Mountain, but with the fundrasing help from events like ‘A Cool 5,‘ we will be able to achieve our goal for the kids of Beech Mountain." For additional information email buckeyerec@townofbeechmountain.com. Call 828-387-3003 for details.

Avery Heritage Festival
Saturday, 6/7, 10 am - 4 pm at Plumbtree - This year The Avery County Heritage Festival adds a whole new branch to its Family Tree. The Heritage festival will be held in Plumtree "The Heart of Avery County" on Saturday June 7th, 2008 from 10AM till 4PM.
Call 828-733-7111.

Toe River Studio Tour
Saturday, 6/14 - Sunday, 6/15, 10-5 in Spruce Pine & Burnsville areas - Artists and galleries invite you to their informal open houses and sales. This is a rare opportunity to visit many of the studios in this world-rekowned artist's community. TRAC galleries in Burnsville and Spruce Pine serve as information centers for the Studio Tour. Stop by to ask questions, see photos of participants or pick up maps. Watch for signs with arrows at intersections and "Welcome Studio" signs at the entrance to the srtist's studios. Call 828-765-0520 or 828-682-7215.

Elk Park Street Fair
Saturday, 6/14, 8 am at the historic site of Cranberry High School – Join us for the town fair & yard sale. Call 828-737-9070 for details.

Guided Hike on Beech Mountain
Tuesday, 6/17, 8:45 a.m. at the Lower Pond Creek Trail - All guests, residents and neighbors are invited to hike the trail less traveled. Free. Appropriate clothing and footwear are required. Please leave your pets at home as they may disturb wildlife along the trails. For additional information contact the Beech Mountain Chamber of Commerce. Meet at Fred's General Mercantile or the trailhead at 8:45 on the day of the hike. Call 828-387-9283 for details.

Banner House Museum
Wednesday, 6/18 - Monday, 6/30 at 7990 Hickory Nut Gap Rd, Banner Elk - Experience 19th century history of life in Banner Elk and the High Country in the home of one of Banner Elk’s original settlers. View demonstrations as you wander back in time through the re-created household of the 1870-80s. Call 828-898-3634 for details.

Lees-McRae Summer Theatre - Southern Voices 2008
Thursday, 6/19 - Sunday, 6/22, 2 pm & 7:30 pm at the Pinnacle Room: 2nd Stage, Lees-McRae College - June 22nd at 2 pm June 19th – 21st at 7:30 pm Southern Voices audiences know they will hear a collection of funny, touching, and always thought provoking selections of stories from great Southern writers. Those great southern ladies, Tessa Carr and Charlotte D'Armond Talbert, use their unique storytelling and performance talents to engage the audience in an intimate setting where the South in all its glory, zaniness and crazy relatives comes alive! Call 828-898-8709 for details.

Horn in the West
Friday, 6/20, June 20th - August 16th nightly at 8:00 pm, Tuesday-Sunday at Horn in the West, The Hickory Ridge Homestead Museum, & The Powderhorn Theatre, all located on the same property in the center of Boone - Horn in the West drama is performed in Boone North Carolina at one of the most beautiful outdoor theatres. Horn in the West is great entertainment to share with family. Highlighting the story of the nation’s first settlers to the Blue Ridge Mountains, this drama is enjoyed by children and adults alike. If you are visiting the Blue Ridge Mountains, join us this summer for the historic performance of Horn in the West! Closed on Monday nights. Call 828-264-2120 for details.

Roan Mountain Rhododendron Festival
Saturday, 6/21 - Sunday, 6/22, 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM in Roan Mountain, TN - Features hand-made crafts, food, music, and old-time folkway demonstrations. Visit the spectacular rhododendron gardens atop 6,000 foot Roan Mountain. If you are JUST interested in how the rhododendrons are blooming...call 1-828-688-9405 (NC Forest Service) or 828-682-6146 (US Forest Service). Also, check out www.elizabethtontennessee.com. Visit http://www.roanmountain.com for details.

Erick‘s Treat & Train Your Palate
Saturday, 6/21, 6 - 9 pm at the Best Western Mountain Lodge - Erick‘s Cheese & Wine and The Avery Arts Council invite you to a perfect opportunity to try before you buy! More than 100 wines at special event pricing, samples of our best gourmet foods and cheeses. Receive a 20% off coupon to use at Erick‘s! Tickets are $25 in advance or $30 at the door. They may be purchased at Erick‘s, The Avery Arts Council at The Old Cheese House in Banner Elk and Dereka‘s Sugar Mtn Rentals. Call 828-898-5395 for details.

High Country Community Yard Sale
Saturday, 6/21, 8 am-noon in Beech Mountain, NC across from Town Hall - This event features items for sale from around the high country. Vendors can apply for space at the Beech Mountain Chamber of Commerce for $10 a space, bring your own table. Call 828-387-9283.

Singing on the Mountain
Sunday, 6/22, 8:30 am - The "Singing" is a day-long gathering held out-of-doors in a meadow at the base of Grandfather Mountain. Music begins at 8:30 a.m. and continues throughout the day, with a break at mid-day for the sermon. Many families bring lawn chairs and picnics and make a day of seeing old friends and enjoying performances by top Southern Gospel groups. Call 800-468-7325.

Mountain Top Promotions Fine Art/Fine Crafts Award Show Weekend
Thursday, 6/26 - Friday, 6/27, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at The Great Train Robbery parking lot - This Fine Art & Fine Crafts show, showcasing strictly handmade items by artists from around the country, will be held on Saturday and Sunday in The Great Train Robbery parking lot from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more information, please email Pat Fay at mtntoppromotions@bellsouth.net.

Blood Sweat & Gears Bike Race
Saturday, 6/28 in Valle Crucis - A demanding route, which showcases the mountain communities of Watauga County, North Carolina, requires over 13,000 feet of total climbing. Highlights of the route include a 21 mile section of the Blue Ridge Parkway, a strenuous climb over the 4,500 foot gap at Snake Mountain, and a 10 mile "flat" on old US 421. A 50 mile "Half Century" is available for those who prefer the sanity of a challenging, but shorter route. Both rides are fully supported with aide stations and SAG support. Always the 4th Saturday in June. Call 828-264-8226

Award Show in Mountains
Saturday, 6/28 - Sunday, 6/29, 10 am-5 pm at The Great Train Robbery in Banner Elk - Fine Art & Fine Crafts Hand made. This event will feature a fine arts and craft show, wines from a private vineyard in Sparta, NC, and a wild life exhibit from Genesis Wild Life Animal Reserve among other things. Call 828-733-0675 for details

Lees-McRae Summer Theatre - Children’s Show: You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown
June 28th and July 5th,12th and 19th at 10:00 AM in the Pinnacle Room: 2nd Stage - Based on the Comic Strip "Peanuts" by Charles M. Schulz, You’re A Good Man, Charlie Brown depicts a day in the life of everyone’s favorite “blockhead.” Musical numbers include “My Blanket and Me,” “The Kite,” “The Baseball Game,” ‘Suppertime,” “Happiness” and many more! Join the Peanuts gang in this fast paced, lighthearted musical, guaranteed to please audiences of all ages! Call 828-898-8709

Kiddo Fishing Derby
Saturday, 6/28, 8:00 AM Registration at Coffey Lake in Beech Mountain, NC - This is a free event open to all children ages 4 to 12 (children under 10 must be accompanied by an adult. Free. Derby begins at 9:00 AM and prizes and trophies will be awarded in several categories. Bring fishing gear and bait. Sponsored by the Beech Mountain Chamber of Commerce and its member businesses. Call 828-387-9283.

An Appalachian Summer Festival
Saturday, 6/28, June 28 - July 26 at ASU - An Appalachian Summer Festival is a multi- and inter-disciplinary arts festival presenting and producing programs in music, theatre, dance, and visual arts. The festival will forge a unique national identity through artistic excellence, innovative programming, commissioning new works, and educational opportunities. By bringing the most accomplished and respected creative and performing artists from around the world to Appalachian State University, the festival supports the overall university mission, enhances the cultural life of the Appalachian community, and serves as an important gateway onto the campus. Visit http://www.appsummer.org for details.

Lees-McRae Summer Theatre - A Chorus Line
June 29 - July 5 at the Hummingbird Theatre, Lees-McRae College, Banner Elk, NC - In an empty theatre, on a bare stage, casting for a new Broadway musical is almost complete. The field’s been narrowed down to just 17 dancers. For these men and women, this audition is the chance of a lifetime. It’s what they’ve worked for — with every drop of sweat, every hour of training, every day of their lives. It’s the one opportunity to do what they’ve always dreamed of. Not to be the star, but to get the job … to have the chance to dance and come through. Performed as a series of vignettes, A CHORUS LINE is a celebration of those unsung heroes of the American Musical Theatre and a celebration of the American Musical itself. Call 828-898-8709

Traveling with your pet

Here at A and W Mountain Rentals, we understand how quickly an animal can go from just being a pet, to being a full-fledged member of the family. And what could be better than taking a family vacation to the mountains and being able to take along your four-footed family members? That’s why we offer a number of pet friendly cabins and vacation rentals that allow a small to medium, well-behaved dog to be a member of your group.

A and W Mountain Rentals has more than 20 homes that are pet friendly. If you would like to see a list of our pet-friendly offerings, just click here to go to our “Search by Amenities” page. Once there, simply check the box for “Pets” and search! You can also call us at (828) 898-9188 and ask one of our reservationists about a pet-friendly rental. We’ll be glad to help you find the perfect rental for you and your furry friend!

While you’re looking for that perfect rental, keep the following tips in mind to make traveling with your pet safer and more enjoyable!

The preparation begins before you leave home. Planning ahead is essential to any successful vacation, especially when traveling with a dog:

• Take your dog to the vet a few weeks before you are scheduled to leave. This is a good time not only for a checkup to make sure your pet is up for the trip, but also to update his vaccinations, refill any medicines he needs and make sure he has proper parasite protection for the trip. Vaccinations should be up to date; you will want to have proof of this to take with you on your trip. You also want to make sure that your dog is protected, not only from fleas, but from ticks and mosquitoes as well. Be sure that your pet is protected with a medicine such as Frontline or K-9 Advantix. (Note that ADVANTAGE only protects your pet from fleas. Here in the South, ticks and mosquitoes can be much more dangerous as they can carry far more disease than fleas.) REMEMBER, all dogs are at risk of parasites, since they all have to go outside to do their business!
  



• Fido’s suitcase: The next thing to do is to pack Fido’s doggie suitcase. Be sure to bring some of his/her favorite toys, dog treats, a water bowl, plenty of water for the trip (we read that diluting the local water with water from home can help prevent diarrhea), a food dish, the dog’s normal food (of course), any medications you might need for Fido, dog leashes, doggie clean-up bags, crates, bedspread (quilt, sheets or a blanket) from home, dog tags (rabies and name tag stating address and phone numbers), colored photo and complete description (in case FIDO is lost).
  



• Kennel comfort: Many humane societies recommend that pets in cars/trucks be crated. If your pet requires travel in a kennel, train them before you make the trip. Make sure it’s large enough for the dog to stand, turn around and be comfortable. Purchase this ahead of time. We have read that you should let your pet eat and sleep there before you leave, as well as throw in an old sock (worn by you) so he will become accustomed to the kennel in time for travel. It has also been recommended that a strong mesh crate (the bottom lined with towels) with plenty of food and water be used.
  



• Grooming: It is a good idea to take your dog to the groomers before leaving on your trip. While we have wonderful groomers right here in Banner Elk, your dog may be more comfortable going to a groomer he is familiar with. If you don’t go to the groomers, be sure and bathe your dog right before leaving.
  



• Exercise your dog before you leave. A tired pet will sleep more easily and adapt more readily to new surroundings.

Come Out and Play!

So, you’ve heard all about our great skiing in the High Country, but did you know that we also have a lot of great stuff to do in the summer? In addition to hiking, fishing and rafting, we also have some great golf courses that make the perfect destination for a weekend getaway.

What makes the High Country so perfect for the summer? With warm days and cool nights, summers in the high country are great for enjoying the great outdoors without battling the extreme heat you may find in other areas. Call us today at 828-898-9188 to book your summer rental!

Here are some of the golf courses you can enjoy during your stay:

Beech Mountain Golf Club Course (exclusive)
Beech Mountain Golf Club is a private course located on Beech Mountain, just a few miles from Banner Elk. While this is an exclusive course, A and W Mountain Rentals & Realty has a number of rentals that offer Beech Mountain Club guest access. The Beech Mountain Club maintains that they are “blessed with an 18-hole golf course designed by Willard Byrd stretching over 6,250 yards across beautiful mountain terrain. The golf season typically runs from May through October.” So be sure to ask a reservationist about booking a rental that offers guest access to Beech Mountain Club and enjoy this wonderful private course!

Boone Golf Club
Located just south of Boone, NC is the Boone Golf Club. This golf course features “level to gently rolling fairways, large undulating greens, lush greenery, crisp mountain air, and breath-taking views of the surrounding Blue Ridge Mountains.” Come enjoy the game at this beautiful course designed by architect Ellis Maples.

Mountain Glen Golf Club
You can find Mountain Glen Golf Club just outside of Newland, North Carolina (just minutes from Banner Elk). This Golf Club is operated by the Avery Development Corporation and has been open since 1963. Here you can find an “18-hole golf course, club house with large upstairs dinning facility for special events or occasions, proshop, snack bar, driving range, golf shed and putting green.” The course was designed by George W. Cobb, ASGCA.

Sugar Mountain Golf Club

Located just minutes from Boone and Banner Elk, the Sugar Mountain Golf Club was designed by the late Frank Duane. This 18-hole course is open to the public and features 9-par threes, 8 par fours and a single par five. The course is enjoyable for players of all skill levels.

Call A and W Mountain Rentals & Realty today (828-898-9188) and find out more about booking a house, log cabin or condo for your golfing vacation. Remember, summer in the High Country is filled with a dazzling array of recreation and entertainment possibilities. Check out our Things To Do page at A and W Mountain Rentals for more fun stuff!

Congratulations, Casey Drake!!!

A and W Mountain Rentals is proud to announce that our very own reservationist, Casey Drake, will be graduating from Lees-McRae College this Saturday! Way to go Casey! Ya done good!

Things To Do In The High Country In May!

There are some exciting events going on in the High Country for May!

On Tuesday, May 6th there will be a guided hike on the Westerly Hills Trail on Beech Mountain. “All guests, residents and neighbors are invited to hike the trail less traveled. The hike is free. Appropriate clothing and footwear are required. Please leave your pets at home as they may disturb wildlife along the trails. For additional information contact the Beech Mountain Chamber of Commerce. The group will meet at Fred’s General Mercantile or the trailhead at 8:45 on the day of the hike.

Friday, May 16th through Saturday, May 31st: The Historic Orchard at Altapass celebrates its 100th season as an apple orchard perched atop the Blue Ridge Mountains!
Saturday, May 17th – South Bound roars into the Orchard with high-stepping bluegrass.
Sunday, May 18th – Randy Flack brings back great stories and entertaining original and country tunes.
Wednesday, May 21st – Bob Lominac and Tom Sparks strum and sing informally for orchard guests to enjoy.
Thursday, May 22nd – The very talented Julia Ann shares her stirring country and gospel songs with visitors.
Friday, May 23rd – Herb Green and Herman Coffey pick and sing good ol’ fashion mountain bluegrass. Join in.
Saturday, May 24th – Linda Davis accompanies herself on the piano and sings country, jazz, bluegrass, and gospel favorites. Terry McKinney hosts his mountain opry show.
Sunday, May 25th – Glenn Nance and his buddy Lenny Ski are our special guests. Enjoy! Brian Gurl and Friends return with an ultra-talented array of performers.
Monday, May 26th – The Orchard celebrates its centennial at a very special Memorial Day barbecue and covered dish dinner! Come join in the 100th birthday fun with long-time and brand new friends! Admission: Bring a dish large enough for your party and some extra for the musicians. The Orchard provides the barbecue, paper goods, iced tea and water, and the musicians entertain all day in half hour segments. If you cannot bring a dish, dinners cost $10 each. P.S. You might bring along a couple of lawn chairs.
Wednesday, May 28th – Tom Sparks and Bob Lominac gather friends and sing country favorites.
Friday, May 30th – Bonnie Schmink brings a bevy of performers for lots of upbeat fun
Saturday, May 31st – Jeff Atkins and his Cole Mountain Cloggers show the fine dancing skills of our local young people. Bluegrass Mix, local folks with an amazing bluegrass sound, join The Orchard’s regular music schedule.
Click here for times and more information: http://www.altapassorchard.com/

On Saturday, May 17th and Sunday May 18th, Grandfather Mountain is hosting a Naturalist Weekend. There will be two days filled with guided hikes and special presentations on the birds, wildflowers and nature of Grandfather Mountain. The price is included with regular park admission.

On Saturday, May 24th and Sunday May 25th, The Great Train Robbery in Banner Elk will be hosting an arts and crafts show. The event will feature handmade fine arts and crafts, wines from a private vineyard in Sparta, NC and a wildlife exhibit from Genesis Wild Life Animal Reserve among other things.

On Saturday, May 24th and Sunday, May 25th, Jim & Jennie’s Music Barn and Campground will be hosting their Annual Ramp Festival. The festival will include Bluegrass music and dancing and a menu of ramps, raw or fried with potatoes and all the trimmings. Ramps are a wild, mountain onion, garlic flavored, found only in the higher elevations of the mountains. For recipes using ramps, see www.wild-leeks.com. For details on times and location, call (828) 733-2807.

On Friday, May 30th, Grandfather Mountain will host a Nature Photography Weekend. Come and hear presentations from top Nature Photographers in the evenings and photograph spectacular scenery and native animals during the day. There is an additional cost and online registration at www.grandfather.com.

Don’t forget the Highland Games begin July 10th!!! A and W Mountain Rentals offers many houses and cabins in the area, so call now to reserve yours! (828)898-9188.

Get away to the North Carolina mountains!!

A and W Mountain Rentals is located in Banner Elk, North Carolina. We provide cabin rentals, vacation homes, condos and townhouses in the Banner Elk, Beech Mountain, Sugar Mountain, and Seven Devils areas of the Western North Carolina mountains.

Are you looking for that perfect North Carolina mountain cabin rental? Or perhaps the ideal Blue Ridge Parkway lodging, for that visit to Grandfather Mountain, Tweetsie Railroad and many other scenic western North Carolina attractions? Then look no more. A and W Mountain Rentals features log cabins, vacation homes, condos, and townhouses in the Banner Elk, Beech Mountain, Sugar Mountain, and Seven Devils areas of the western North Carolina mountains.

When looking for great ski lodging, Banner Elk and Beech Mountain are ideal…In fact, our cabin rentals in Banner Elk and our Beech Mountain lodgings offer great accommodations in beautiful surroundings.

Throughout the year, our western North Carolina mountains have much to offer visitors. Each of the four seasons has its own magic here in the High Country:

Winter is spectacular with four major ski resorts in our area. Many of our Beech Mountain vacation rentals are located near the Ski Beech Resort. Our Banner Elk cabins and vacation homes are near the Sugar Mountain Ski Resort. We also have vacation rentals near Hawks Nest Ski Resort. So if you are looking for wonderful ski lodging to take advantage of skiing, snowboarding, tubing, sledding, ice skating, or just enjoying the snow, this is the place to be when those white flakes begin to fall.

Spring brings a profusion of color on the ground and in the trees, and the birds are everywhere singing to their heart's content. You can once again travel the entire Blue Ridge Parkway to take in the beautiful scenery. As you pass the streams and lakes in the area, you'll see trout fishermen reveling in their beloved sport. In April you will find the perfect Bristol Race rental here at A and W.

Summer in the High Country offers escape from the heat since nature provides the natural air-conditioning. Summer sports abound: Golf, tennis, fishing, swimming, whitewater rafting, horseback riding, caving, gem mining, antiquing, shopping, wild life viewing---there is something for everyone in your group. The Grandfather Mountain Highland Games in early July each year are extremely popular. In late August we once again offer that perfect Bristol race rental to enthusiasts of the sport.

Autumn sets the Blue Ridge Mountains ablaze with magnificent fall color. With the first weekend in October comes the "October at Oz Festival” on Beech Mountain and the third weekend of the month is highlighted by the "Woolly Worm Festival” in Banner Elk and the “Valle Crucis Country Fair.”

Check out our 'Things To Do' page at http://www.aandwrentals.com to find more entertainment and activities for every season!