North Carolina Travel, North Carolina Real Estate, University of North Carolina

The western region of North Carolina has many benefits, such as easy access to the amenities of the city of Asheville, the chance to explore the scenic Blue Ridge Mountains, and a relaxed small town lifestyle in historic Hendersonville.

Land of the Sky is famous for the sweeping mountain views that are found in Western North Carolina. Real Estate in Hendersonville NC gives the local homeowners the warm setting sun over the mountains and colorful changing leaves in the fall.

The Blue Ridge Mountains and the Great Smoky Mountains, part of the Appalachian Chain, surround this region. Hendersonville NC is nestled beneath these mountains among the oak trees and the wildflowers. Much of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and the Nantahala National Forest are located in this region, and there are many smaller national and state forests nearby that you can explore.

Western North Carolina provides you with access to fishing, boating, mountain climbing, spelunking, hiking, skiing, and many more outdoor activities.

You can be close to the adventures in the local forests and parks with Hendersonville NC real estate. There are so many trails to hike in the local parks, including Jackson, Westveldt River, Etowah, Edneyville, Dana, and East Flat Rock Parks. For a local homeowner, this is just a quick day trip for the fun of exploring the natural area.

Asheville is the major city in Western North Carolina. Located northeast of Hendersonville, this city is the location of UNC Asheville as well as many smaller colleges and many great high schools.

This city is a countercultural haven and has many festivals and concerts, as well as vegetarian restaurants and independent stores. With a population of 70,000, it also has many other services that are available. Hendersonville NC is located about 20 miles southeast of this city.

Many more attractions are located in Western North Carolina. Hendersonville NC is only a short drive away from many unique natural sights.

The North Carolina Arboretum, which has 426 acres to explore, is located north of Hendersonville. Azaleas here are one of the main attractions, and they also grow wild in the Blue Ridge Mountains, and meadows of wildflowers below the azure peaks.

The Blue Ridge Parkway is a scenic route that travels through the mountains and is also accessible from the north of Hendersonville. On the parkway, you will want to stop and visit the Folk Art Guild, which is located along this road and offers crafts made by the local artisans.

Cherokee also live in Western North Carolina, and the Eastern Band of Cherokee offers tours of the local area as well as theatrical performances. Lake Lure, located 14 miles east of Hendersonville, is a serene lake designed to be the focus of a resort community.

While you are there you will also want to visit Chimney Rock, which is a great place to see the surrounding meadows. Hendersonville real estate agents have even more local attractions to show you in Western North Carolina.

Hiking is a great way to be physically fit while exploring the terrains of an unfamiliar place. However, there are certain precautions that even the most experienced hiker must take, especially when hiking in the mountains of Western North Carolina. This article provides a partial list of things to remember for those who are planning to take a hiking trip. Of course, with hiking, it would also be good to plan your trip with a stay at an Asheville bed and breakfast or an Asheville inn. The tips here are based on the assumption that you as a hiker have done your part by familiarizing yourself with hiking outdoors.

1. Weather. The mountains are notorious for having rapid changes in weather. The region of North Carolina is also known to have wildly varying weather conditions, especially in high elevations. Before planning your trip, research for weather forecasts and be properly prepared for it.

2. Footwear. Experts often advise hiking boots that have ankle supports for any serious hiking activity. This may not be necessary, but if you have the tendency to lose your balance and twist your ankle at one time or another, this is an excellent suggestion. Consider sturdy boots also if you have a heavy backpack so that you will be more stable. You can also wear wool socks, but make sure that it does not constrict the blood vessels on your feet. The most important thing to remember in terms of footwear is to comfort for your feet and appropriateness for the trail.

3. Outerwear. Make sure your clothes are comfortable and loose enough for moving around. Check with the weather forecasts to prepare for what clothes to bring, but just in case, include jackets or sweaters to protect yourself from the elements.

4. Animals or other dangers. Remember that you are entering unfamiliar grounds, and it can have unfamiliar dangers as well. The woods can contain anything from the fiercest and nastiest bears to the inconspicuous but still dangerous bacteria that can wreak havoc on our bodies. Take comfort in knowing that encounters with the wild rarely happens. It is indeed a possibility to be attacked by a wild boar, bear, or cat, but worrying about it will only ruin your trip so it’s best to have a guide, stick to the trail, and be prepared.

5. Maps and compasses. Carrying a compass and a map is highly recommended when hiking. Familiarize yourself with reading maps and figuring out how much information it can give or withhold. A compass is definitely handy and convenient, but it is not a necessity unless you plan to head for the wilderness.

6. Getting lost. Many people say that in case you’re lost, just sit still so that the others can find you easily. However, it may not always be the case in the wild. Consider these important questions: How far along the trail are you? Do you have companions with you? When did you notice that you have strayed from the trail? Is the terrain conducive for hiking alone? What time of the day is it, and, with the given life, is it realistically possible to go back or at least find the others? Do you still have food or drink? Are you with someone? Are you or he or she sick or injured? These questions will help you decide if it’s best to stay put or get out by yourself.

Remember that if you will be going to Western North Carolina and you are planning to go hiking or for other activities, be prepared with the knowledge of some of the best Asheville bed and breakfasts and Asheville inns to ensure your stay would be the most pleasurable one.