What to do in Western Carolina

Taking in such natural beauty as the Appalachian Mountains, Blue Ridge Parkway and Great Smoky Mountains National Park, it is perhaps not surprising that many of the best things to do in Western Carolina involve strenuous activities. Hiking along the Appalachian Trail, river rafting along the Nantahala River, taking the Tsali Biking & Horseback Riding Trail or experiencing the Tuckasegee River Rafting are all unforgettable pursuits. But there is more to Western Carolina than the great outdoors. So let's take a look at what else is on offer.

Attractions

Biltmore House & Gardens (Biltmore.com) in Asheville, North Carolina, 60 miles east of Bryson City. A 250 room mansion built by George Vanderbilt in 1895 complete with a vineyard and extensive gardens. Cherokee Indian Museum (Cherokeemuseum.org) is located in Cherokee, North Carolina and contains a unique collection of original artifacts used by the Cherokee Indians. Fontana Lake & Dam is 35 miles West of Bryson City and is a dam that towers 480 feet in height and backs up water for 30 miles to provide a major source of energy. Great Smoky Mountains Railway (Gsmr.com) winds around the mountains of Western North Carolina. With a depot located in Sylva, Bryson City, and Andrews they offer a range of rides starting from around two and a half hours. Western Carolina University in Cullowhee, North Carolina (Wcu.edu) is a local university that provides a number of interesting spectacles throughout the year. Rightly proud of their 'Catamounts' athletics, basketball and American football teams, they also provide musical stimulation with their Pride of the Mountains Marching Band. The band has around 380 members making it one of the largest marching bands in the area.

For the kids

Cherokee Bear Zoo & Exotic Animals (Cherokeezoo.com) gives you the chance to see the native Black Bear, the non-native Grizzly, Lemurs, Tigers, and much more in a safe environment. Chimney Rock Park (Chimneyrockpark.com) is a privately owned National Heritage site with a rock that provides a spectacular 360 degree view of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Nearby are other scenic spots such as Hickory Nut Falls, the Needles Eye, and Inspirations Point. Mountain Farm and Museum (call 828 497 1900) is an early 1900's farmstead located on the Oconaluftee River, just inside the Great Smoky Mountain National Park. Western Carolina State Fair in Aiken, South Carolina (Westerncarolinastatefair.com) usually takes place in October and lasts for around nine days. The fair includes such attractions as arts, crafts, horticulture, demolition derby's and special kids events.