Guest Author - Jessica Hoffmann
The highcountry of North Carolina boasts what many call the Grand Canyon of North Carolina – Linville Gorge. This magnificent area is easily accessed from Asheville, Morganton and Charlotte in less than two hours. With a recently improved parking and picnic area, Table Rock boasts incredible views and versatile areas for camping, hiking and rockclimbing. Panoramic views of the gorge allow you to see down to the Linville River as it makes its way through the gorge and into the fertile Catawba Valley.
The rocky outcroppings are home to quite a variety of plant species, which make for excellent colors in fall and spring. With clear weather, you can see Shortoff Mountain, Wiseman’s View and Mount Mitchell from the area peaks. Keep children and pets close at hand, as there are many steep cliffs in the area, allowing for unobstructed views. The road to the picnic area is steep and windy, and remains closed in winter. Camping permits are free, but required May 1- October 31st , and available at the District Ranger’s Office in Marion or at the Linville Gorge Information Cabin on Kistler Memorial Highway.
The area surrounding Linville boasts dozens of charming mountain towns, Christmas tree farms and ski resorts. Stop in Boone for a host of dining and shopping opportunities or head to the Penland School of Crafts for a look at Appalachia’s best arts and crafts. Once home to the Catawba and Cherokee Indian tribes, Blowing Rock is an ideal mountain town for delicious food at local favorites Best Cellar and Bistro Roca. Cabin Fever is the perfect spot for mountain décor. Visit in mid- April to partake in the Blue Ridge Wine and Food Festival, featuring wines from North Carolina and beyond.
Spring announces the arrival of near perfect temperatures in the high country, and it is also an excellent time for birding in Linville Gorge, as the area hosts 160 species of birds plus over 200 migrating species. Popular birding areas include Grandfather Mountain, Lewis Fork Overlook, Elk Knob State Park and the Tanawha Trail.
