The Mountain Cottage

Western North Carolina and the Blue Ridge Mountains are known for amazing hiking, spectacular waterfalls, and vast long-range mountain views. Visitors flock to the area in the summer months for the cooler temps and in the fall for the beautiful changing of the leaves. But did you know it's also a popular place to visit in the Winter? The winter months offer a completely different experience for the mountain lover. The trees have lost their leaves which means you can see thing

At 411 ft, Whitewater Falls is the tallest waterfall east of the Mississippi. As you explore all that western North Carolina has to offer, be sure to add this one to your list. Located about 9 miles south of Hwy 64 on Hwy 281, and just across the state line into North Carolina, Whitewater Falls is easily accessible through the National Forest parking area. Ample parking is available and public restrooms are also available. There is a really cool giant boulder that our kids li

Summertime in Sapphire Valley, NC is like no other. Nature's playground can be experienced at its best after or around Memorial Day each year as the cool mountain waters start to warm up for the season. Mind you, "warm water" in the Blue Ridge Mountains means temperatures in the high 70's and perhaps the low 80's late in the season. The cleanliness and crystal clarity of the water more than makes up for any chill you may be subject to. There are no shortages of waterfalls