General Tips for Hiking in the Smokies

The Smoky Mountains are a great place to hike during the more seasonal months. The national park is packed with beautiful nature, from hills to trees to animal life and scenic views. However, visitors must be aware of the fact that with all natural trails, there can be a certain amount of soil erosion. Be sure and check conditions of local trails with the Smoky Mountain National Park before you set out on your hike.

Set Up A Timeline

Know when sunset is and plan your hike accordingly. You may get caught up in the excitement of the wonderful outdoors, but the sun will set eventually! You don’t want to be caught out in the mountains unprepared when night falls. Make sure you inform others where you are going and when to expect you back.

Always Hike With a Friend

Always hike with a friend or a party, as it is dangerous to be hiking out alone. You always want someone there that can watch your back or call for medical assistance in the event that anything should happen.

Bring Binoculars to Spot Wildlife

One of the best things about hiking in the Smoky Mountains is when you are able to spot different wildlife that make this area their home. But bring your binoculars, because it’s going to be tough to spot them up close. You may also be able to see beaver, squirrels, deer, woodchucks, birds, and more. The Smokies are home to many animals, amphibians, fireflies, mammals, and more.

Don’t Forget Your Bear Spray.

You can legally carry bear spray on your person to protect you from attacking or aggressive bears or other wildlife. However, the spray must be labeled Bear Pepper Spray, commercially manufactured, and registered with the EPA as well as have 1-2 percent of capsaicin and capsaicinoids.

Check Online for Trail Closures.

Sometimes the park may be closed in some areas or not open to the public due to acts of nature such as fire, flood or weather conditions. Be sure to check the online site for the Smoky Mountains National Parks to be sure that the area you’re planning on going to is free and clear. You wouldn’t want to go up there only to have to turn around and come back.

Always Bring Food and Water

Water is a must if you’re going to go hiking. Be sure that you bring more than enough water for the time you will be spending in the Smoky Mountains. Always bring at least two bottles of water per person for short hikes and increase the amount if you are planning a longer hike. Bring along some food in case you get hungry or lost. It is better to always be prepared, even if you don’t need it.

Pack an Emergency First Aid Kit

These types of kits are invaluable in case of an accidental bite, cut, scrape or fall. Most first aid kits don’t add much weight to your backpack. You can pick up an inexpensive first aid kit at your local drugstore or at a store like Wal-Mart or Target.

Choose a Well-Traveled Trail

It is always wise to choose a trail that is well traveled and maintained instead of little obscure trails that might result in getting you lost or injured. Do your homework and check out the most highly recommended trails on the Smoky Mountain National Park reference guide. Here are just a few of some of the most popular hiking trails in the Smoky Mountains:

– Little River Trail

This trail is 4.9 miles and in the Elkmont area. You’ll see tons of beautiful wildflowers such as Canadian violets and pretty streams!

– Middle Prong Trail

This 8.3 round trip trail in the Tremont area is challenging but a good choice for people who are looking forward to beautiful waterfalls and tons of beauty. You can also see several historical artifacts along the way as well.

– Laurel Falls

This Elkmont trail is 2.3 miles round trip and has great scenic views, including waterfalls. Great for families!

– Toms Branch Falls

An easy 0.6-mile hike located in Cherokee/Deep Creek that includes waterfalls.

– Porters Creek Trail

A not too challenging 4-mile hike rewards travelers with wildflowers, old homesteads, and more.

– Gregory Ridge Trail

This 11-mile trail is hugely challenging– hikers beware!

These are just a few of the most popular trails in the Smokies. Do your homework and choose the trail that sounds the best to you! Of course you’re visiting the Smokies, you’ll need a comfortable place to stay. Creekside Lodge in Maggie Valley offers a cozy, relaxing atmosphere that is very welcoming after a long day on the trails!   Creekside Lodge is a family-owned and operated and provides the perfect venue for nestling in and enjoying a time of peaceful relaxation and rejuvenation.  Summertime is a busy time at Creekside, so call 800-621-1260 today to reserve your spot!   Grab your hiking shoes and get ready to make some great summer memories!

To get the best out of a white water rafting excursion, you need to ensure that you have packed all the essential items. Here are the main items that you should bring on a white water rafting trip:

1. Quality River Shoes

Apart from sitting in the water rafts, you will spend the rest of your time walking along the riverbank. As you already know, the terrain at the riverbank is not that friendly. Regular sneakers or flip-flops will not provide the level of traction and safety necessary. It is recommended that you use high-quality river shoes so you can safely navigate this unpredictable terrain. Flip-flops can be appropriate while in the raft, but if you decide to take a walk beside the river, then you should brace yourself for tough times ahead. Regardless of what type of shoe you choose, make sure to check the soles to ensure they’re not slippery.

2. An Extra bag for Wet Clothes

White water rafting is definitely not a dry sport. Your clothes will be completely wet. Make sure to bring a separate bag for storing your wet clothes. Mixing wet clothes with your dry ones will make all the clothes damp. A light plastic bag such as trash bags will do the job perfectly. The small size of plastic bags makes them easily portable. Given that they are super light, you won’t be burdened by their weight.

3. Sunscreen

Regardless if its sunny or you’re faced with clouds, your skin needs to be protected. Both of these scenarios can be damaging to your skin. Be sure to take plenty of sunscreen or sunblock and re-apply it frequently. While it is important to lather up at the beginning of the trip before getting into the raft, it is equally important to re-apply liberal amounts at least every 2 hours.

4. Some dry clothes

Getting wet can be fun, but you can’t stay wet throughout the day. During the trip, you may be required to go to the restaurant, do some shopping or visit other attractions within the area. Pack some dry, comfortable clothes that you can wear for the rest of the day.

5. Bring Plenty of Water and Snacks

If it is a privately organized trip, then remember to carry some snacks packed in plastic bags so they won’t get wet. Bring PLENYTY of water as well. White water rafting involves vigorous paddling, and this can exhaust all your energy and dehydrate you if you don’t keep drinking water throughout the day.

6. Emergency Immune Boosters

You are going to a new environment where you will interact with new people. The drastic changes can weaken your immune system and put you at risk of being attacked by different types of viruses or illnesses that are going around. The changes in temperatures can be hard on your system. The vegetation and insects in the area can trigger allergic reactions. Immune boosters will raise your immune system.

7. Extra Pair of Dry Shoes

After you’ve spent most of the day having fun in the water, it is so nice to slip into dry clothes and a fresh pair of dry shoes. Don’t spoil your after-rafting comfort by changing into dry clothes but then having to continue to wear wet shoes because you forgot an extra dry pair.

8. Waterproof Camera

Some of the best moments during a white water rafting trip are those moments fighting the rapids head on! Capturing these moments on film can make the best treasures! This can be made possible by having a high-quality camera. Be sure to pack a water-resistant camera.

9. A Mat or an Old Blanket

A small blanket or a mat will come in handy on various occasions. You can sit on it while relaxing outside the camp. When taking off your wet clothes, you can put them on the mat rather than on the ground. Make sure you place it in a waterproof bag to keep it nice and dry on the river.

Make your white water rafting trip a memorable experience! Pre-plan the right items to bring and then relax and prepare to get the best out of your adventure. Follow the simple list above and set yourself up for a wonderful, exciting water excursion!

If you are planning your white water rafting experience in the Smoky Mountains, make plans to stay at Creekside Lodge in Maggie Valley. Conveniently located just 30 minutes from Asheville, NC, Creekside Lodge provides a perfect place to relax and recover after a fun day on the water! Call 800-621-1260 today to make your reservation. Then grab your list of necessary items to pack, get them packed and get ready to enjoy some summer fun!

Develop a Plan 

According to the United States Coast Guard, more than 250,000 rivers are present throughout the United States. This provides a vast number of options for anyone looking for some on-the-water adventure! And canoeing can be done close to home or in exotic locations.

A critical first step in choosing which river is ideal for your trip is to plan. Determine the surroundings in which you are most comfortable and then research those rivers that meet such criteria. Once a river has been decided upon, research the area in which you will be and familiarize yourself with it. For example, if you opt for a river that is far from town and mingled with dense forest, plan for such an environment.

Necessary Equipment 

After the planning comes the packing. Canoe trips require more than a sack lunch and map of the river to be navigated. The list that follows encompasses a number of items strongly recommended to make your adventure a safe and comfortable one:

-Waterproof first aid kit that can be purchased already-assembled from a variety of retailers. Included within this kit should be, at a minimum, bandages, burn ointment, anti-bacterial cream, medication for insect bites and pain relievers.

-Sunscreen

-Life Jackets & Floatation Devices

-Plenty of Water – Plan to bring a water bottle for each member of the canoe party and subsequent jugs of fresh water

-Warm nylon jacket for each person

-Duct tape that can be used for repairs of the canoe or related equipment

-Dry plastic bags for storing additional clothing and gear

-Extra paddle

-Map and compass

-Food secured in waterproof bags. Make sure any food you bring is tightly secured in waterproof bags. This will go a long way for preventing a soggy lunch!

With regard to Life Jackets, make sure each person is actually wearing their life vest or floatation device. It is not sufficient to just have the PFD in the canoe, it needs to be worn at all times! Many rivers are deceiving in appearance: they look shallow but in fact have rapid currents. Properly fitting PFDs are also important so as to remain secure against the body and promote easy movement.

Ideas for Keeping Kids Engaged 

For adults, paddling a canoe while enjoying the picturesque surrounding can be a whole lot of fun, but for the kids, it can be a bit boring. However, there are a number of ways that can keep up the children’s interest. You can consider paddling near the shore to provide everyone an opportunity to watch for animals and birds and look for unique beach rock. Or if you have two canoes, you can have contests such as racing or spotting certain wildlife, plants, or other nature landmarks.

Choose Your Level

Aside from being a form of transportation, canoe racing is a remarkably fun activity! Racing using outrigger canoe is a sport that involves team paddling. This competitive sport is now appreciated worldwide. There is also what you call slalom canoe. Like a kayak, it is a closed watercraft employed for normal canoe trip. The main reason why slalom canoeing is held is to improve one’s skill of maneuvering a canoe at fastest speed possible all the way through a series of gates placed by the river rapids. You might not be a slalom canoe-racer, but you can certainly have some fun with your canoe in fast moving water!

As you can see, canoeing provides fun for all levels! It can be a fast-paced, competitive sport or a leisurely activity for those who just want to relax, sit back and enjoy being outside in nature. Regardless of which level you may choose, just remember to plan early, always be safe and bring your essentials!

Don’t Forget Lodging 

Make your canoe trip extra special by planning a canoe trip in the beautiful Smoky Mountains! The cold, clear mountain streams rushing into mountain rivers make a wonderful and exciting venue for summer canoeing! After a long day of fun on the water, you’ll be ready for a place to relax, unwind and get a good night’s sleep. Creekside Lodge in Maggie Valley is just the place for you! Creekside Lodge is family owned and operated and is a wonderful place to relax and recover after a long day in the sun! There’s only one problem…Creekside Lodge books up fast, especially in the summer months, so you need to make your reservation quickly! Take a moment today and call  800-621-1260 to reserve your spot! Then get set to enjoy some canoeing fun!

Waynesville Inn Golf Resort

Located at 176 Country Club Drive just a few minutes away from Asheville, Waynesville Inn Golf Resort, approximately 5 miles to The Blue Ridge Parkway with Balsam Mountains also lying on the opposite side. This Golf Resort is only 12.2 miles from Maggie Valley using US-23 S route, and 19 minutes by car. If you are looking for a place to play outstanding mountain golf, then look no further than the triple-award-winning golf resort at Waynesville Inn. This venue was originally designed by renowned Scottish architect, Donald Ross, as a 9-hole playground. With time, it has grown to include surrounding mountainside areas, which have been shaped out into two extra 9-hole courses, namely Blue Ridge and Dogwood. Waynesville has proudly hosted celebrities such as Billy Graham, Willie Nelson and even President Richard Nixon. The resort was recently awarded a 4-star rating by Golf Digest keeping up with its tradition of excellence.

Maggie Valley Club Golf Course

The Maggie Valley Club is found in 1819 Country Club Drive, it’s been rated as One Of America’s Finest by GOLFWEEK and also ranked amongst the Top 50 Southern Golf Resorts by Southern Living Travel Guide. There are only 6 courses that have achieved this prestigious status in North Carolina and MVC is one of them. From Maggie Valley, NC it lays 3.4 miles north following the Soco and Moody Farm Rd, drivers would take 7 minutes to get there. It boasts of beautifully manicured lawns that are kept soft throughout the year to improve quality of tee offs. According to Golfweek Magazine, this Club offers visitors the thrill of playing a ‘cove’ setting along the front nine section and ‘mountain’ layout on the back nine. It’s one of the most popular golf courses in the region given its proximity to Maggie Valley.

Laurel Ridge Country Club

Laurel Ridge is a private golf course at 49 Cupp Lane, Waynesville NC.  It is located 10.6 miles or 16 minutes’ drive from Maggie Valley via US-19 N/Soco Rd. This course features an attractive but challenging 18-hole golf course, nestled right at the middle of Great Smoky Mountains. Guests enjoy a peaceful, serene, mountain atmosphere without sacrificing their conveniences. Tournaments are available in all four seasons, meaning members can enjoy year-round opportunities to interact with friends, dine, play, dance and develop lifelong relationships. Laurel Ridge Country Club covers a total area of 6,904 yards with all the possible challenges expected of an alpine course. Furthermore, they provide members the latest accessories and merchandise to enhance their golfing experience.

Lake Junaluska Golf Course

This course is found on 756 Golf Course Rd, Waynesville around 7.6 miles from Maggie Valley, or 11 minutes by road via US-19 N. Lake Junaluska offers an 18-hole course that’s perfect for playing tournaments with colleagues, or just single rounds with friends. This course is open from Monday to Saturday 7:30AM-6:00PM and Sundays from 12:00PM till 6:00PM. The field is 5,034 yards par 68 and there’s also a mini-golf area located near the tennis courts and aquatic center. Mini golf area has no age limits and is open daily, including Labor Day and Memorial Day.

Springdale Country Club

Springdale Country Club is located at 200 Golfwatch Road Canton, NC. From Maggie Valley, this venue is approximately 21.4 miles east via US-276 S and is nestled in-between the Blue Ridge Mountains. This 18-hole championship course is family owned and has a rich history dating back to 1968. A practice center is part of this facility and it also offers members a full-course driving range. Best known as the “hidden gem of alpine golf”, it gives guests a blend of fine golf, dining mixed in with some good old southern hospitality. There are multiple packages to choose from including unlimited golf, personal field cart for two, country breakfast buffet and special family dinners each evening. All rates are quoted per person.

If you are a golf enthusiast, you’ll want to check out these wonderful courses during your stay at Creekside Lodge!    Be sure and call our office at (800) 621-1260 and let our friendly staff arrange a golf outing during your coming visit to Creekside Lodge!  Golfing in the picturesque Smoky Mountains…. a wonderful experience that will be hard to forget!

If you are familiar with Maggie Valley, you must have heard that this place is known for it’s scenic mountain views, babbling creeks, and tumbling waterfalls.  It’s truly a treat to be able to not only view the beauty of some of nature’s gifts, but to also be able to jump in and experience it first hand!

You will find several swimming holes in this area, with easy accessibility from town. A number of the swimming holes are located within thirty miles of Maggie Valley’s Creekside Lodge.   Many of these are open to the general public, so you can join in the fun anytime during daylight hours. If you’re looking for a way to cool off during those hot summer days while also relaxing your body and mind, then it’s worth a visit to one of these swimming holes. You will certainly enjoy it and chances are, you’ll want to stop by more than once during your visit.

Graveyard Fields Trail

When we talk about the natural swimming pools, you usually focus on the beautiful, outdoor setting.  A nature lover and swimmer will be in heaven if he gets a perfect combination of a relaxing swimming hole with waterfalls after a relaxing walk through a tunnel and across a wooden bridge. That’s the setting found at Graveyard Fields Trail.  You’ll find this little gem about 25 miles southeast of Maggie Valley.  You can conveniently park in the parking lot, which is located a short 0.3 miles away from the swimming area. You will take a walk thru a tunnel then across a wooden bridge, enjoying some flowers along the way before you arrive at the swimming area and waterfalls.  There is an observation deck and some large boulders used for sunbathing if you choose! If you love fresh blueberries and blackberries, be sure to bring a little bucket for your berry picking along the way! You are allowed to collect up to a gallon of berries per day.

Sliding Rock

Sliding Rock is for those looking to add a little adventure with your swim!  Just as the name implies, Sliding Rock features a 60-foot natural waterslide and a 6-foot deep natural pool at the end of that waterslide! It is estimated that 11, 00 gallons of water comes gushing down the rock waterslide every minute! Lifeguards are on staff from Memorial Day thru Labor Day to insure the safety of the summer crowds.  Bathrooms are available for your use as well. If you want fewer crowds during the summer, then consider visiting during the week rather than on the weekends.  A small parking fee is also charged at this location.

Oconaluftee Islands Park

Oconaluftee Island Park that is located a short ten miles from Maggie Valley.   With its’ shallow, ankle-deep waters and bed of smooth river rocks, this is an ideal place for young children to explore the water.  Bring a blanket to spread out under the canopy of shade trees and just relax or enjoy a leisurely picnic! This is a wonderful spot that will be enjoyed by all, whether you choose to be in or out of the water!

Bust Your Butt Falls

As the name implies, Bust Your Butt Falls provides access for those daredevils in your group who dream of jumping off a cliff into a deep pool of water!   This site is reserved for those who are skilled swimmers because without experience and skill, you can injure yourself!  Visitors here just jump off the cliff into the natural pool then exit…. this is not an area to swim in due to the swift currents! Bust Your Butt Falls is located about 40 miles south of Maggie Valley.

Now you have an idea of some of the choice swimming holes in the Maggie Valley area!  Pick out the one that sounds best to you or just plan to visit several spots and choose your favorite!   At Creekside Lodge, we would love to be your home base while you are exploring all the fun activities that await you in the Maggie Valley area!  Please call us at (800) 621-1260 and set up your reservation today!  Creekside Lodge will help you make Smoky Mountain memories you’ll never forget!

Before you embark on any adventure in the great outdoors of the Smoky Mountains, please make sure you are well equipped with the essentials.  First of all, it is important that you wear comfortable, non-slip footwear that will be safe as your trail might include some areas that are a little wet or include a few slippery areas.  Please note that some type of hiking shoes or sneakers is probably the best choice for this activity.  Next, as with any outdoor activity, be sure to wear comfortable clothes, and bring sunscreen and water.

Distance From Maggie Valley and Cherokee 

One can access Soco Falls from the towns of Cherokee and Maggie Valley. It is located approximately 5.5 miles from Maggie Valley and approximately 10 miles from Cherokee. If you are staying at Maggie Valley, proceed 1.5 miles past Blue Ridge parkway. Before reaching the waterfall, you will come across a blue signpost telling you that Soco Falls is only half a mile away. Look for a roadside parking area on your left. It is small area that can easily be missed if you’re not paying close attention.  Please note that the sign also easy to drive past without notice.

From this roadside parking area, one can clearly hear the beautiful sound of the rushing Soco Falls from a distance. Right at the break of the guardrail, the trail starts. It can take an average person approximately 5 minutes or less to walk to the best Soco Falls’ observation deck. At this viewing point, one is in a position to view the taller falls that are approximately 120 foot in height. During the periods when the tree leaves have fallen off, especially during winter months, one can as well clearly see much smaller falls on their left.

For closer views, you can choose to continue down the available steep trail. This steep trail runs right to the waterfall’s base from the deck. One can access the base with the help of ropes. People are advised to use the section with ropes that help with balance. In addition, people are warned that this section is very slippery and they should be very careful.

Soco Falls Hiking Trail

The hiking trail begins where the parking area meets the metal fence and the guardrail. It is a rough trail, but manageable at the same time. The short trail leads to a wooden observation deck. On the right, one can view gorgeous falls of more than 50 feet. From this location, one can see the tallest of the two main falls and also a number of small secondary falls.

Before the deck, another trail leads down to the view of other smaller falls.  People should always be careful and avoid getting too close to the falls’ top because the rocks are slippery and the drop is very long. Most people prefer viewing the falls from the available observation deck. However, on the deck’s left are climbing ropes that are attached to trees. Adventurous people can climb down using the ropes to the bottom for better views and more photo opportunities. This route is very slippery and steep and people should consider being very careful. Please exercise extreme caution here and follow the safety precautions to the tee because a slip of the foot here can very well lead to serious injury or even death!   While it is wonderful to get a closer look at such a gift of nature, it is certainly not worth the risk of sustaining painful or life-threatening consequences.

Soco Falls is one of nature’s gorgeous gifts and is definitely worth the short drive from Maggie Valley to drink in its’ natural beauty!  Wear non-slip footwear and follow the safety guidelines and you will have a wonderful outdoor adventure in the Smoky Mountains!

Please contact our friendly staff at Creekside Lodge to help you choose those daily excursions that will help make your trip to Maggie Valley one of your favorites!  Please call us at (800) 621-1260 and reserve your spot today!  Our friendly staff at Creekside Lodge look forward to making your stay a truly amazing experience!

Nature Trails

Blue Ridge Parkway has numerous nature trails for nature lovers, campers and hikers.  The Appalachian Trail, Shining Rock Wilderness Trail, Mountain Farm Trail, Mountain to Sea Trails are examples of some of the most famous trails. These nature trails cater to hiker and campers from all over the world and even attract amateur hikers. Most of these trails are meant to be explored by foot, nevertheless, taking a drive along these pristine locations can refresh your mind and body with its’ breathtaking beauty!

Noted Landmarks & Attractions

Stretching to above 450 miles, this parkway hosts a number of famous landmarks and beautiful spots, which can make your road trip even more worthwhile! From high standing mountain peaks to colorful valleys, let’s take a look at some of the most noted stretches or locations that you will cover during a scenic drive through Blue Ridge Parkway.

Ravens Roost – Sitting above a cliff right after mile 10 of the parkway, Ravens Roost offers impeccable scenic views of Torry Mountains and Shenandoah Valley. Mostly attracting tourists and locals for activities like hang-gliding, rock climbing, etc. it is otherwise a breathtaking location to sit, relax and traverse into nature.

Sherando Lake Campground – One of the most popular camping spots in this stretch, Sherando Lake Campground in Virginia is just 4.5 miles off the parkway and caters to new campers greatly because of comfortable washrooms and showers present. Take time to enjoy the beautiful, tranquil environment of Sherando Lake.

Linville Falls – Milepost 316.4 guides you to the start of Linville Gorge. This lovely location includes the peak highlight of Linville Falls and attracts not only tourists, but locals too. There are a number of walking trails around this region, which will let you explore nature like never before.

Devil’s Courthouse – Devil’s Courthouse is located on the west of Pisgah National Forest and offers unparalleled views of the Blue Ridge mountain peaks. Noted for its folklore and Cherokee legends surrounding this place, Devil’s courthouse at mile 422.4 is a popular spot for anyone exploring the Parkway!

Looking Glass Rock – Famous amongst rock-climbers, this granite face rock reflects sunlight in a way that makes it look like glass thus earning its moniker. This spot provides beautiful views of the parkway itself and mountains in Transylvania County, NC.

Craggy Gardens – With its’ rocky peaks, beautiful gardens and breathtaking views of the Appalachian Mountains, Craggy gardens is another tourist hotspot. Craggy Gardens is located at an elevation of 3500 feet and is best visited during summer when it is covered in a thick blanket of pink and purple rhododendrons. Located between mile 363.4 and 369.6, this is a perfect spot to take a halt during your scenic drive through the Blue Ridge Parkway.

Richland Balsam – Mile 431 leads to Richland Balsam, one of the most sought after landmarks in this stretch.  With its’ high peak elevation of 6020 feet. Richland Balsam offers an impeccable view of both sunrise and sunset.  Numerous self-guided nature trails around this area allow you to explore the wonders of nature amidst a rich scent of Balsam and Fraser fir trees.

The entire drive from Maggie Valley through Cherokee, NC through the Blue Ridge Parkway is picturesque and pristine! Its’ many spots of breathtaking beauty beckons to all nature lovers and makes it one of the most popular parkways in the world!   This is just one of the many experiences that await you in the Maggie Valley, NC area!  Don’t delay!  Book your dates at Creekside Lodge today!  Call the friendly staff of Creekside Lodge at (800) 621-1260 and let us help your make your visit to Maggie Valley and Blue Ridge Parkway a wonderful experience you will never forget!

Exploring the Smoky Mountains

One of the best things to do in Maggie Valley, North Carolina is to enjoy the breathtaking natural beauty of the Great Smoky Mountains. It’s the perfect place for nature tripping, sight seeing, hiking, and reconnecting with nature. You can take a relaxing drive down one of the many scenic backroads or take a leisurely roadtrip along the Blue Ridge Parkway, Cataloochie Valley, or the Scenic byway. However, if you are a thrill-seeker, whitewater rafting is a must for you! Whitewater rafting in Maggie Valley and the surrounding areas can be that action-packed adventure you’ll never forget!

The Best Whitewater Rafting Places

Rafting in North Carolina usually takes place in one of the popular rivers, such as the Cheoah River, Nantahala River, and Ococee River. The Nantahala George is the widely known as the center of kayaking, whitewater rafting, and paddling. Those who are thinking of going to this place should prepare themselves for an no-stop action experience that whitewater rafting is known for.

Another whitewater rafting spot that you should consider is the one located near the French Broad River. This river is nearest to the town of Ashville, and features another fun activity – zip lining!

Safety Precautions

Before you decide which location to choose for your rafting experience, you’ll first need to decide what skill level you’re at so you can make a wise decision. It is important to match your level of expertise with the level of difficulty of the rapids. Consider the following important guidelines and choose the venue that best fits your skill and comfort area:

1. Adventure Level: During your whitewater rafting adventure, you have to decide if you want an intense action, reinvigorating getaway, or a wilderness experience with your family.

2.Weights/Ages: Everyone who’s going to try this adventure should discuss with the expert guide the weight and age limits of those who are allowed to participate.

3. Season: Although most people enjoy summertime rafting, it’s important to note that the seasons change the river’s atmosphere which can make the rapids even swifter and more fierce than ever!
4. Always wear a helmet and a lifejacket no matter what level rafting you are engaging in.
5. Make sure the whitewater rafting site has CPR trained guides and staff.

Items to Bring When Going Rafting

Always bring temperature appropriate clothes along with an extra change of clothes just in case you get soaked. In early spring and fall, the water can be pretty chilly so a wet suit or river shoes can make your experience lot more comfortable.   Don’t forget to pack the sunscreen and water bottle too! Even if the sky is overcast, UV rays still penetrate and being on the water makes them even more intense! No matter how long or short your rafting trip may be, staying well hydrated is always a necessity. Once you arrive at your rafting location, be sure and listen carefully to your guide’s rules and safety presentation. These rules and guidelines are there to keep you safe as you enjoy this breath-taking river ride!

After a long day riding the river’s fury, it is always a treat to return back to your comfortable surroundings at Creekside Lodge for some rest and relaxation.   Even fun-filled days can leave one completely exhausted! Does this sound like fun? Then don’t hesitate! Call Creekside Lodge at (800) 621-1260 to reserve your spot today!

Best Hiking Spots

Gregory Bald: The views in this place are stunning all the year over. Gregory Bald is most renowned for its splendid flame azaleas that bloom during the summer months on the summit. Experienced hikers from all over the country come to see these beautiful flowers. At Gregory Bald, you will see Azaleas of multifaceted colors like wine red, salmon, orange, red, white, pink as well as multicolored Azaleas. You can see the spectacular views of the Fontana Lake, Cades Cove and the amazing eastern crests of the Smokies.

Rocky Top: Reaching the top of Rocky Top is a difficult task in itself. Hikers will huff and puff while hiking the first 4 miles, but are rewarded by spectacular views from the Spence Field. If the fog is less and the visibility is perfect, one can see the North Carolina part of the Smokies while standing atop the grassy beautiful meadows. Springtime is the best time to go hiking in Spence Field, as the display of mountainous laurel that you will come across is absolutely stunning! Spence Field is amazing by itself but the Appalachian Trail just 1.2 miles further along the Spence Field will serve to give you amazing panoramic views of the Fontana Lake, Cades Cove and Maryville.

Andrews Bald: Andrews Bald is only a 1.7-mile long hike, which features beautiful views. The rugged hike leads to many acres of splendid open and luscious grassy meadows. At the end of the hike you will bask in the wonderful views of the Southern side of the Smokies . This is the best place to open a blanket up, relax and enjoy a sumptuous picnic.

Abrams Falls: Even though, Abrams Falls is only 20 feet high, the spectacular waterfall over the sandstone cliff creates a magnificent sight! The 5. 2-mile hike around the waterfalls is a popular hike amongst hikers in the Great Smoky Mountains.

Considerations Before Choosing Your Hiking Spot

One of the most daunting decisions facing the hikers is how to choose the trail best suited for them. The first thing to do is to start by deciding exactly what you want to see. Decide if you want to see old growth forests, massive waterfalls, or mountaintop views. The next step is to select the distance of your hike. How far do you really want to walk? If you love to hike and haven’t hiked much in the past few days, then perhaps a five-mile round-trip is ideal for you. There are numerous ways to enjoy the hikes. In case you are interested in hiking with your kids, you can opt for the amazing kid friendly trails to bring a smile to your child’s face. In case you are planning on an all day or multi-day backpacking trip, you need to first get a permit and reservation for overnight stays. Be sure to leave early in the morning. Hikers in the Smokies travel at approximately 1.5 miles per hour so it is important to plan ahead. Sunsets range from around 5 pm during the winter months to 9 pm in the summer months. Decide on the best time to leave, plan your hike ahead of time.

The friendly staff at Creekside Lodge can provide some helpful tips as you plan your hike and other vacation activities. Don’t hesitate to call Creekside Lodge at (800) 621-1260 to plan your getaway today!

For the serious horse lover, a great place to visit is the Western North Carolina Agricultural Centre located the town of Ashville. This Centre is famous for hosting horsemanship championships, horse shows and similar events.  A drive into the beautiful city of Ashville can make a wonderful day trip!

Once you have decided to add a horseback riding experience, just where can you find the best horseback riding trails? Here are a few recommended stables:

Cataloochee Ranch: This is one of the best-known horse ranches in all of North Carolina. Ideal for horse lovers, you can easily take a morning ride amidst a mile high type meadow where you will find that the mountains stretch, ridge beyond ridge to almost the very edges of eternity. Once you go there, you can savor the quite ambience, the lush display of rhododendron and the green forest trails that intricately wind through the entire ranch and amidst the Great Smoky Mountains. In any case, whether you are an expert or a novice rider or something in the middle, the experience of horseback riding on the Cataloochee Ranch is sure to be one of your best mountain memories! The ranch offers half-day as well as full-day rides and the ideal time to visit is April thru November. All horseback riding activity is strictly directed by professionals and riders are grouped according to the level of their riding skill. Your professional guides are responsible to decide the pace and the terrain based on skill level, terrain, and present weather conditions.

Little Creek Outfitters: Located in Hot Springs in Western North Carolina this ranch is an ideal place to experience the beautiful views of the Appalachian Mountains! The facility offers horseback riding for 1 to 5 persons on a full-day or half-day basis and overnight rides can be arranged here. The horse will walk, canter or trot with you on its back during the overnight and sunset rides. Highly professional wranglers will be your guides and are always equipped with first aid kits and radio communication with the head Ranch office. This is a great place to saddle up and enjoy a leisurely, long ride amidst the wildflowers and beautiful and lush trails!

Smokemont Riding Stables: This ranch in Cherokee offers the best hourly rates amongst all other horse ranches in the area. Located approximately 15 miles from Maggie Valley, you can experience a horseback ride during a climb up the mountain and enjoy the trail amidst the beautiful scenery and flowing waterfall. The ranch has various levels of rides based on the skills of the riders. The trail follows the beautiful path along the Ocanaluftee River in and the Great Smoky Mountains.

Sandy Bottom Trail Rides: For those riders interested in half day horseback riding, one can easily choose from amongst the several packages that offer the most relaxing and intuitive horse riding lessons in the Maggie Valley and the Blue Ridge Parkway area. The Sandy Bottom trail is a one to four hour secluded trail through the wooded lands and high country parts that ensures horseback riders enjoyment of the best scenic, panoramic mountain views!

Whether you are a horse enthusiast or just someone who wants to try out a new outdoor adventure, horseback riding can enhance your visit to Creekside Lodge and make your stay even more enjoyable! Don’t wait! Call Creekside Lodge at (800) 621-1260 today to book your reservation to enjoy your own mountain adventure!