Most pet care services propose an alternative for boarding your pet, in much the same way that many childcare providers offer overnight services. For a fee, your pet can live like a king in your absence! Okay, not really. But a quality boarding care service will go the second mile to care for your pet and make them as comfortable as possible in your absence.

Choosing the Right Boarding Service

• Ask Your Friends, Family & Neighbors- To begin selecting a boarding service, first ask around. Other pet owners can frequently recommend a good facility, ordinarily one they have used for their own animals.
• Ask Your Vet- Your local veterinarian can give you valuable information about possible boarding services.
• Check Online Listings – Search the internet and find a list of boarding services then do your research to check out consumer reviews and any complaints.
• No matter which method you choose, make sure you schedule a time to stop by and visit the facility so you can check out the cleanliness, friendliness, safety, and observe first hand how your pet will be treated while your gone.

Choose a Clean Facility

When assessing the level of cleanliness, you are often able to tell a great deal by just looking around and by the smell. If it smells terrible, certainly one of two problems has occurred: they just do not keep their facility clean or the pets just determined to potty at exactly the same time. If the latter is true, the workers ought to be scurrying to get the mess cleaned up fast. If you see signs of waste and improper clean up, this is not the environment you want to leave your pet in. If you have a question, check with the local health department and check out their track record of health inspections.

Know Exactly What You’re Getting

Some pet kennels have luxurious accommodations for a greater price and special VIP treatment available for your pet. This might include more walks, more frequent snacks, bathing and grooming, etc. Make sure you know exactly what services your pet will have. Find out if your animal may possibly have a mattress or dog bed to rest on. Do they have an outdoor play area? Do they let cats outside or do they have an inside play area? Cats can jump fences very important to know if your cat is taken to boarding kennel.

Check the Qualifications of the Staff

It is always important to confirm the qualifications of the staff. Are there professional trainers present? What about a nutritionist? Have the individuals who will care for your pet been trained on how to deal with emergencies, both medical and otherwise? Is there a vet on call 24 hrs. per day? What kind of staff do they keep overnight? Are the animals left alone overnight or do they have someone on staff on the premises available for the animals?

Inspect the Boarding Facility

Of course you want to choose a facility that is safe for your pet. It ought to be clean and well prepared, with nothing present that could present a possible danger to the animals. There needs to be plenty of room for the animals to run and play in a protected, fenced in area, with isolation spots for any pet that doesn’t adapt well to the day care environment (much like with a kid). Play equipment and toys should be of correct style for the size of the dog or cat. Sleeping areas ought to be sufficient, and if the dogs are placed in cages to sleep, they ought to be of a proper size to allow the dog to move around. Waste should be disposed of rapidly, both indoor and out.

What will be the Schedule of Activities?

If both the staff and facility meet your standards, it is time to inquire about the daily schedule for the animals. One of the greatest benefits of boarding your dog instead of simply leaving him (or her) at home is that they have an opportunity to play and mingle through the day with people and other dogs, maintaining or even exceeding their usual levels of activity. Each day at a good boarding care facility, should incorporate time for the animals to be fed and groomed, possibly work with the trainers, play, both with the staff and on their own private, and rest.

Finding the right place to leave your pet will help you relax and enjoy your vacation to the fullest. Start early, take your time and find the one that is right for your beloved friend!

If you’re planning a trip to the Smoky Mountains, try out the friendly, welcoming atmosphere at Creekside Lodge in Maggie Valley!   Creekside Lodge is a family-owned facility nestled in the beautiful Smoky Mountains of North Carolina. Reserve your spot today by calling 800-621-1260.   Get set to relax and enjoy some wonderful southern hospitality while you know your pet is being cared for back home!

Wear A Life Jacket

It seems like a no-brainer, but wearing a life jacket is the easiest way to stay safe while whitewater rafting. A rafting outfitter is required to provide type V life jackets or personal floatation devices to all visitors going whitewater rafting. A type V life jacket represents the foam density and pounds of floatation in the device. It is the most secure kind of jacket you can wear. So, once you are near the river’s edge, be sure that your life jacket is on and it is effectively fitted. Please note that in order for a “proper fit”, a life jacket needs to fit snug. This will make sure that your life jacket does not float up and go over your head if you jump into the water. To do its’ job, your lifejacket needs to stay securely in place around your midsection. Always wear your life jacket any time you are near the water or in the rafting.

Watch Your Step

This is another one of those rules that may seem like plain common sense, but it does need to be mentioned. You don’t want to ruin or put a damper on your rafting trip because you fell or missed a step when climbing into the raft. Hold on and stay alert until you are properly seated.  Be cautious getting around when on the riverbank and especially when getting in and out of the boat. The rocks, which are along the edge of the river, are very slippery, so take your time. “Low and slow” is a motto that river guides often use, move gradually and crouch down low when the terrain or rocks are particularly dangerous.

Listen to Your Guide

This is especially essential when it comes to a paddleboat, where each has a paddle. The guide will be calling out commands such as left side, right side, etc. They do this to be able to get around securely through a fast, prevent rocks and make sure you are having the most fun possible.

Sit in a Recliner 

If you do occur to fall into the water and you are approaching a fast, you will want to try to get back to the boat as soon as possible. Sometimes it is not always possible to get back in the boat; you may have to float down the river for a bit before being pulled back into the boat. Remember you have a type V life jacket on that will help keep you afloat. Also, all you need to do is sit returning in a La-Z-Boy recliner position with your feet out in the front side of you and float down the river. This position makes sure that if there are rocks in the river, you can push off of them with your feet, not your head or tailbone. You will also have a clear view of what is down the river

Pay Attention to Your Surroundings 

Familiarize yourself with your surroundings both in and out of the water. Your guide will point out local risks of your immediate area, such as snakes, poison ivy, poison oak, etc. Just be conscious of the land, and it risks.

Hire A Guide 

Whitewater rafting can be quite a difficult task if one is not experienced of what exactly to do. If you are a beginner or do not have much experience, then hiring a guide will be one of the best decisions that you can make. A guide can take you to excellent spots and also make sure that you are safe and secure throughout the whole journey.

Make Good Choices 

The most difficult rapids should be maneuvered only after one becomes an experienced rafter and becomes more relaxed with the sport. Do not try anything crazy and dangerous, as your safety should be the first and major concern throughout your entire experience. If you put safety first, not only will you have a great time, but also you’ll be back to enjoy the rapids again and again!

Finally, here’s one last tip for a great whitewater rafting experience: try out the rafting experiences offered in the beautiful Smoky Mountains! Reserve your spot at Maggie Valley’s Creekside Lodge by calling 800-621-1260. Call today and let our friendly staff point you to some of the best rafting spots in the Smokies! After a long day of exciting river adventure, relax in the family-owned get-away at Creekside Lodge in Maggie Valley. Make your plans today and then get set for some excitement, fun and relaxation!

The first question most visiting anglers will ask is exactly where to fish. Some anglers have favorite places, but the Smoky Mountains National Park covers more than 521,000 acres of land with some 800 miles of streams with trout in them. In the case of fly-fishing, the visual aspects are usually more appealing to anglers. Trout rises to feed on aquatic insects. Hence, the insect activity plays an important role in offering a good quality of fly fishing.

Types of Trout

The brook trout is a native trout species of the Smoky Mountains, but brown trout and rainbow trout are also common.   However, due to the introduction of these non-native trout, there has been a fall of the brook trout by about 75% in the park. The native brook trout is now found in only 133 miles of streams in the park. The brown and the rainbow trout outcompete the brook trout, as the two produce a larger number of offspring and grow at a faster rate. The brown trout and the rainbow trout species now occupy most of the habitat that were earlier occupied by the brook trout. The rainbow trout is an average size of about 5 to 8 inches, with the larger brown trout getting up to 20 inches long.   Brook trout are 4 to 8 inches long on an average.

Fishing Regulations

Fishing is allowed in the Smoky Mountains National Park throughout the year, from half an hour before the sunrise to half an hour after sunset. Fishing is also allowed in all the streams of the park. The Smoky Mountains offers several angling experiences, such as headwater streams with trout to cool water bass streams. Most of these streams have a full carrying capacity and thus offer a good opportunity for catching fish all through the year.

Fishing enthusiasts will need a valid license or a permit for fishing, issued either in Tennessee or in North Carolina. However, there is no need of a trout stamp. The licenses cannot be purchased at the park but you can get it in the nearby town or buy it online. Each person is allowed five numbers of brook, rainbow or the brown trout or the smallmouth bass. You can possess any combination of these every day, as long as the total is not more than five. You can also keep twenty rock bass and must stop fishing as soon as you reach the limit. The minimum length for the trout is 7 inches and if you have caught something smaller than this, it is returned to the waters.

Strategies and Techniques

There are several tutorials about how to be successful in catching brook trout, brown trout and rainbow trout. Anglers can read about the methods and the strategies that are most successful, learn about  insects and food that trout like to eat,  and learn techniques for fishing during different seasons as well as tips for fishing in small streams, cold water, pocket water, low water and other fly fishing hints.

If you’re planning a fishing trip in the Great Smoky Mountains this summer, it is important to book early! Creekside Lodge in Maggie Valley is a wonderful place to set up your home base. Family owned and operated, Creekside Lodge is a wonderful place to relax after a long day fishing! Reserve your spot today by calling (828) 926-1301 and scheduling your dates. Then just pack your bags and your fishing gear and get set for a wonderful fishing adventure in the beautiful Smoky Mountains!

Start Early 

It’s always easier to put together a good plan when you start early. Not only are prices better, but you’ll have a much wider variety of choices when you book early. Plus, planning is much more enjoyable if you know you have plenty of time to choose a vacation that will be your top choice! Don’t make the mistake of getting stuck with whatever is left over because you waited too long!

Choose Your Vacation Dates 

If you have an option to select your vacation dates, make sure to consider the weather of your destination spot. If you’re a warm weather vacation person, you don’t want to be confined to a time of year where you’re destination spot is cold!

Choose Your Destination 

What is your dream vacation? Do you love the city or do you love the beach and rural areas? Do you prefer the mountains or love a tropical island? If you love outdoor adventures such as exploring mountain tops, fishing, hunting, hiking, rafting, horseback riding, etc. then a getaway to the Smoky Mountains in North Carolina might be the perfect place for you!

Choose Your Transportation

What is the best way to get to your destination? Is it feasible to drive or do you need to fly and book a rental car once you arrive? If it is feasible to drive, do you LIKE to drive or is it a real pain? Consider your preferences and don’t plan to do something you don’t particularly like to do, such as driving long distances, if you can avoid it.

Choose Your Accommodations 

After you chose your destination, choose the accommodations that you feel most comfortable in. Do you like being in the center of activity or do you prefer a quaint little quiet getaway? Most vacation destinations have both types of accommodations so you have a choice of what best suits your taste.

Plan Your Activities 

What are your favorite things to do? Are you an adventurer and love to pack your vacation with fun, exciting activities? Or is your ideal vacation activity just chilling out and taking it easy? Are you a schedule-keeper or do you just enjoy a no-schedule vacation? Sit down and decide what activities you definitely want to include and put together a loose itinerary so you will be able to do everything you’d like to do, whether it’s high-energy adventures, or low-key relaxation!

Plan Your Packing 

One of the most frequently-felt frustrations of vacationers is arriving at their destination and not having the items they need! Whether it’s gear, clothes, shoes, personal items, etc. it’s always so inconvenient to need something and not have it with you! The best way to avoid this problem is by making a list of everything you need for your vacation. Lists will keep you from forgetting important items and make your experience a lot more pleasant! In this case, an ounce of prevention is truly worth a pound of cure! Don’t forget to put any medication & specialty items on that list!

In summary, we hope these basic tips will help you in laying down the groundwork for your vacation plans! Even though planning can be a tedious process, remember that it is also part of the fun!

If you are planning a vacation in the Smoky Mountains, Creekside Lodge in Maggie Valley, NC, is a perfect spot to stay! Creekside Lodge is a wonderful, family-owned and operated mountain retreat! Our friendly staff would love to help make your vacation a very special memory for you! Call us today at 800-621-1260 and reserve your spot! You’ll be glad you did!

That might sound a little “out-there” and a little crazy, but what better way to see the beautiful Smoky Mountains, enjoy the thrill of flying high and experience a once-in-a-lifetime adventure! If this is right up your alley, then here are some helpful tips to make your experience one of your favorite adventures:

1. Check Your Budget

Hot air balloon rides are definitely not cheap! You need to be prepared to spend some money on this activity. Depending on the length of ride and the package you choose, average prices start a little over $200 per person and go up from there. Check out your chosen vendor carefully and see if they offer any kind of a package deal, especially if you’re booking for several people.

2. Check the Weather

Riding a hot air balloon in the sky is fun. However, harsh weather conditions might interfere with this activity. This is the reason why you should check the weather before riding your hot air balloon.  Rain, wind or inclement weather definitely affects whether or not the balloon will be able to fly and your flight may be cancelled.

3. Be Social

Hot air ballooning is typically not something you do alone. Others will be will be riding the hot air balloon as well. Small baskets usually hold 2-4 people and large baskets can fit as many as 10-14 people. Enjoy meeting some new friends during your adventure!

4. Check References

It is important that you do your research before engaging in this activity. You should know how long the company has been in operation, and review it’s customer service and safety records. Make sure to confirm that a company is safe and verify they are licensed, bonded and insured before you put your life and health in their hands. If you want to be right in the middle of the Smoky Mountains, check out hot air balloon companies in the Asheville area.

5. Dress Appropriately

Take a few minutes to plan what you will wear on this activity. Be ready for a fair share of bumps on this ride so plan to wear appropriate clothes such as shorts, pants, etc. It is not advisable to wear skirts for this activity. If it happens to be chilly, bring gloves and other warm clothes or tie a sweatshirt or sweater around your waist so you can put it on as necessary. Remember that the higher you go, the chillier it gets! Also, don’t forget your footwear! Sneakers or other non-slip footwear is recommended. Sandals or flip-flops aren’t recommended for this ride.

6. Bring a Dependable Camera/Video Cam

Riding in a hot air balloon is a photo-opp-extraordinaire! You will be able to capture some breathtaking views and some great candid shots! These will be memories of a lifetime and photos you will treasure! Make sure you have a fully charged battery and bring a back-up battery if possible.

7. Avoid Alcohol Before Riding the Hot Air Balloon

Some people might think that a couple drinks before riding in a hot air balloon would make it more fun, however, this can make it very dangerous! It will actually alter your balance and perception and can put you and other passengers at unnecessary risk! Remember that riding a hot air balloon is a high adventure activity and trying to be more adventurous can actually be detrimental and dangerous for everyone on the ride.   A better idea is to plan an after-ride cocktail so you can sit back, recap the experience and enjoy the experience!

If you are planning your hot air balloon ride in the Smokies, you’ll want to stay somewhere with reasonable access to the ride. We know just the place! Creekside Lodge in Maggie Valley, NC is located just 30 minutes outside of Asheville, NC, and will welcome you with some good old-fashioned southern hospitality! Creekside Lodge is family owned and operated and will make sure your visit is comfortable and cozy! Call us today at 800-621-1260 and book your reservation, then get ready to make some memories in the Smokies!

The 23RD Annual Southeastern Mini Truckin’ Nationals 

Mini Truckin’ Nationals is an exciting and laid back open car and truck show that is held every year. The 2017 event will be held on Saturday, April 22 and Sunday Aril 23 at the Maggie Valley Festival Grounds. Bells Rod Shop and Drop ‘Em Wear will host the event. Participants can register their cars and trucks for only a total of $ 20 (early registration). Spectators will be charged $ 5 for admission to the event.

The gates open at 8.00 am the on both days. Registration opens at 8:30 am on the first day and closes at 11:00 am on the second day of the event. The awards ceremony will be held at 2:00 pm on Sunday, April 23 and the show will close at 3:00 pm Sunday afternoon.

“Thunder in the Smokies” Spring Motorcycle Rally 

The annual “Thunder in the Smokies” motorcycle rally draws in thousands of bikers in one of the busiest motorcycle weekends of the spring. This rumbling event will be held on Friday, May 5th thru Sunday, May 7th. It will feature bike shows with a $ 1,000 cash prize, nightly concerts, bike games with a $ 1,000 cash prize, a tour ride on the Blue Ridge Parkway, tons of vendors and much, much more!

All bikes and ages will be welcome. Weekend tickets go for only $8 (ages 5- 12yrs) and $20 (ages 13yrs and above). Tickets are available online for all participants and spectators alike. Gates will open at 11:00 am on Friday, then at 9:00 am both Saturday and Sunday. The event will close at 11:00 pm each evening.

Maggie Valley Spring Rally 

The Maggie Valley Spring Rally will be held from Friday, May 26th thru Sunday, May 28th. This major event will feature a bike rally, spring car show, bike games, rally rides and bagger bike shows as well. Attendees will also enjoy amazing evening concerts featuring local bands throughout the weekend.

This event will also feature numerous vendors including truck, car and bike sales, car and motorcycle vendors, new and used parts vendors as well as food and beverage vendors. Weekend admission tickets go for only $20 per person. Children below the age of 12 years old accompanying their parents or guardians will be admitted free.

The gates open at 9:00 am on all three days of the event. Closing times will be 9:00 pm on Friday and Saturday evenings and 3:00 pm on Sunday after the “Honoring Our Heroes Day” event. All military, law enforcement and firefighting personnel and their immediate families will be admitted free on Sunday as a special gesture of appreciation for their service!

Slingshot in the Smokies

Slingshot in the Smokies is an event for the premier owners of Polaris Slingshots. This year’s event is the 3rd annual Slingshot in the Smokies and will take place as from Tuesday, May 30th – Sunday, June 4th at the Maggie Valley Festival Grounds. The 2017 event will feature daily group rides, weeklong entertainment, vendor presentations, and an exclusive sit-down tent dinner on June 2nd.

Due to limited seating, reservations are required for the tent dinner. Each driver and his or her Slingshot will incur a registration fee of $49. An extra fee of only $25 will be included for a passenger as well. A free event T-shirt will be available following registration. Extra T-shirts will be available for purchase for $12.

MVR Indian Victory Slingshot Rally in the Smokies 

Indian Victory Slingshot Rally in the Smokies will be held from Thursday, June 8th – Saturday, June 10th. This amazing event will feature a bike rally, Indian motorcycle demo rides, bike shows including an Antique Indian bike show, numerous bike games, door prizes, DJ, and concerts. The bands expected for the event include Silver Blue & Gold, Main Street, and Roadhouse Atlanta.

Various vendors will offer their leather & jewelry, parts, food, beverages and much more. Weekend Admission tickets will be available at the cost of $20 per person. Children below the age of 12yrs will be admitted for free. The gates open at 9.00 am and close at 9.00 pm on all days of the event.

These are just a few of the fun things waiting for you in Maggie Valley! Pick out your favorite events, put them on your calendar, then reserve your lodging early to secure your spot!

If you’re looking for a quaint getaway with a family-friendly atmosphere, Maggie Valley’s Creekside Lodge is just the place for you! Creekside Lodge is family owned and operated and is overflowing with down-home hospitality! Call Creekside Lodge today at 800-621-1260 and make your reservation today! Then relax and get ready to enjoy your fun getaway to your favorite Maggie Valley Spring Event!

Location, Location, Location 

The first thing to do is to choose the location. When picking out the perfect picnic spot, consider what your special someone likes. The goal is to choose a spot that you both will love! While it’s always fun to “people-watch,” you might want to choose an area that’s more quiet and serene rather than an area that’s overly crowded. Do a little research and choose a spot that is safe, pretty and not too noisy so you can focus on each other. The wonderful thing about planning a picnic in the Smoky Mountains is that there are countless quaint mountain spots that would be perfect for a little picnic outing!

Pick Your Basket 

Next, select a picnic basket. Choose a basket that is large enough to hold the necessary items, but make sure it’s not too heavy to carry once you have it loaded up!

Gather Your Essentials

After you have your picnic basket, start collecting all the essential items that you’ll need, such as a blanket, towel and napkins, plates, cups or glasses, and utensils. Blankets need to be large enough to comfortably stretch out on and allow you to spread out all the food items you bring.  Choose a waterproof blanket so that you won’t get damp even if the ground or surface is damp. If you want to keep your blanket stretched out tightly on the ground & prevent ripples or wrinkles in your blanket, you can bring 4 tent stakes and a hammer to secure the blanket edges down. If you can, it’s always a nice touch to bring some cushions or pillows to make your outdoor setting even more comfortable.

Once you have your picnic site and ground setup planned, then it’s time to start planning what to put inside your picnic basket! Here are some suggestions:

Wine 

If you love wine, then this is the first thing you need to have your basket. Pick a bottle of your favorite wine. Make sure to also bring a cooler, ice, and a couple of wine glasses. If you aren’t a wine drinker, then just pop in a bottle of your favorite soda, flavored water or favorite drink. Also, a very important point, remember to pack a wine bottle opener! It would be a shame to have a great bottle of wine and no way to open it!

Chocolate 

Nothing says romance quite like a bottle of wine, your favorite chocolate, and relaxation in a beautiful mountain setting! Make sure to find out what your partner’s favorite chocolate is and tuck some of it away in your cooler. Don’t forget to put it inside a plastic bag so it won’t get wet & soggy.

Flowers 

Flowers can be a wonderful surprise for your partner! Remember that you don’t have to spend alot of money on flowers… you can usually pick up a beautiful inexpensive bouquet at your local market or grocery store. Hide a bunch of flowers in the car and present it to your partner at just the right moment!

Dry Fruits & Nuts

For a quick energy snack, take a bag of dry fruits & nuts or some trail mix. You don’t have to worry about refrigerating these and they always make a great snack! Granola is another great choice that travels well and is a great snack!

Food 

The menu for your picnic can be as simple or extravagant as you like, it’s all up to you! You can choose simple sandwiches, traditional fried chicken, gourmet feasts or anything in-between. Check out your favorite restaurant and place a takeout order. Another good idea is to check in your area to see if special picnic lunches can be ordered. Pack a few of your favorite foods as well as some finger foods like grapes, strawberries, veggies, cheese and crackers, etc.

Insect Repellent

When planning a romantic picnic, make sure you include the insect repellent. Just imagine what will happen if mosquitoes, flies or other uninvited guests decide to join your romantic outing. To avoid this, always include a bottle of insect repellent.

Favorite Music

Music is a great atmosphere-creator! Set the tone for romance by playing some of your favorite love songs from whatever venue you prefer. If you’re not sure what type of music your special someone prefers, then opt for smooth jazz. Smooth jazz is relaxing and has a universal appeal no matter what style of music you may prefer. Make sure you fully charge your phone, ipad, ipod or other music source so you can enjoy music throughout your entire outing.

Water

No matter what special drink you choose to take, make sure you pack some bottled water! Remember that you’re outside and you need to make sure you remain well hydrated. You can also take a thermos of coffee or hot chocolate if it is a chilly day!

Hand Sanitizer 

A staple for every outing, include a bottle of hand sanitizer! After setting up your picnic, you’ll want to cleanse your hands before opening the wine and food.

Paper Towels, Napkins & Wet Wipes 

It’s always a good idea to bring a roll of paper towels or extra napkins, just in case of spills, cleanup or other emergencies.   Moist towelettes are always a welcome picnic staple, especially if you’re serving messy foods. You can also take extra water for clean up as well.

Emergency Kit

No one ever expects to have an emergency situation, but when they happen, it’s invaluable to be prepared with a few supplies. Slip a small emergency kit in your basket just in case.

Last Minute

Don’t forget to check the weather forecast before you set out on your excursion! The best-laid plans can be totally ruined if Mother Nature decides not to cooperate! Have a “Plan-B” ready to go with an alternate indoor location should your outdoor plans be ruined by bad weather.

Relax & Enjoy

Now for the two most important ingredients of a great romantic picnic… Relax & Enjoy!

If you are planning this picnic during your visit to the Smoky Mountains, make sure you’re staying at Creekside Lodge.   Creekside Lodge in Maggie Valley is a quaint, family owned and operated mountain getaway, conveniently located just 30-40 minutes outside of Asheville, NC. Our staff would be happy to help you plan your romantic picnic and other wonderful activities during your stay in the Smoky Mountains. Call us today at 800-621-1260 and reserve your mountain getaway! Your romantic picnic in the Smoky Mountains will be a memory you’ll never forget!

A particular type of springtime flower called the “Spring Ephemeral” is first to kick off the yearlong flower lineup. The reason these flowers are called Ephemerals is that they are visible above the ground in the late winter or early spring and then blossom, bear fruit and perish within their short lifespan of just two months. Ephemerals typically emerge between February and March, and then disappear by May or June.

Ephemerals are a unique group of flowering plants that adapt themselves to the life cycle of the overshadowing trees. Ephemerals gain most of their growth before the leaves of deciduous trees mature. During this time, full beams of sunlight hit the forest floor and these flowers experience a fast growth rate! The moisture and nutrient level in the soil is high during this time, due to the breakdown of leaves that were shed during the previous autumn. These Ephemerals use these optimum conditions to their benefit by growing, flowering, and bearing fruit at this time. Before the summer hits with all its strength, parts of Ephemerals located above the ground begin to decay.

Spring flowers uniquely distribute themselves all over the park in accordance with the varying altitudes of the park. Typically, peak time of wildflower blooms at the lower reaches of the mountains is in April with blooms reaching their peek in the following weeks at the upper reaches of the park. The springtime flowers in the Smokies include some short stalk flowers like the trillium, of which, the park houses at least 10 different species.

Located on the shrubs much closer to the forest floor, the bright yellow, small flowers of the spicebush bloom in the month of February. These are accompanied by the sweet shrub, the flame azalea and dog-hobble. The park is also popular for its famed displays of mountain laurel and the widely popular rhododendron. The beautiful white and pink flowers of the mountain laurel, begin blooming in the month of May, and continue blooming through June. The Catawba rhododendrons, which thrive primarily at heights above the 3,500 feet mark, usually reach their peak in the month of June. At the same time, the Rosebay rhododendron blooms at the lower reaches a little later in July.

During the summer, the gorgeous wildflower display continues with the brilliant red or “cardinal” wild flowers, butterfly weed, pink turtleheads, Turk’s cap lily, tiny purple-fringe orchids, Black-eyed Susans and jewelweed. By the late summertime and during the fall months, the goldenrod, the tall ironweed, mountain gentian, beautiful sunflowers, the monk’s hood, and a number of species of asters start to bloom.

In addition to the blooms of beautiful wildflowers, the mountain landscape is dotted with trees and wild shrubs that also bloom throughout the year. From the month of February through the last week of April, the red flowers of maple trees wash the mountainside with their brilliant red paint! This is followed by trees such as the serviceberry, flowering dogwood, silver bells, redbud, and tulip trees. In the summer months, Sourwood trees are popular.  The Sourwood tree is considered valuable for the honey produced by bees attracted to the trees’ small, white, bell-shaped flowers. Nature’s exquisite display of color is concluded with the appearance of the yellow Witch-hazel flower, which blooms extensively from the month of October through the last week of January.

Every year during springtime, The Smoky Mountain National Park hosts the popular “Spring Wildflower Pilgrimage”.   This event is a week long celebration with programs, guided walks and special hikes that help you explore the astounding and awe-inspiring flower diversity that blooms in the park. Whether you are a flower-lover or just a nature-lover, this is a wonderful annual event and a great time to visit the Smoky Mountains!

One of the first things you’ll want to do when planning your visit to the Smokies is choose the right place to stay. Maggie Valley’s Creekside Lodgehttp://creeksidelodge.com is a wonderful family-owned hotel conveniently located just 30-40 minutes outside of Ashville, NC. In addition to it’s convenient location, Creekside Lodge offers a warm and relaxing atmosphere where you are comfortable to just sit back and enjoy the moment! Call us today at 800-621-1260 and let our friendly staff help you secure your plans! Then just sit back and prepare yourself to enjoy some of America’s most beautiful spring wildflowers!

Now that you’ve chosen your general destination, the next major hurdle is collecting and packing all the necessary items to make your trip convenient and successful! For some vacationers, packing is something that is a fun adventure; for others, it is a dreaded necessary evil! No matter where you fall in that continuum, here are a few packing tips that will make this process much simpler:

Start Early 

No matter what the task is, it is always easier when you start early! Give yourself plenty of time to research where you’re going, the temperatures and the activities that you will be doing.

Check the Weather Forecast 

Start by doing some climatic research to determine the typical lows and highs at that particular time, besides the weather forecast. Select flexible items that you can wear in cases of bad weather or the temperature climbs or drops significantly. However, that does not mean that you should pack for any possible weather occurrences. Even though weather and temperature conditions highly vary at higher mountains elevations, The Smoky Mountains have a relatively moderate climate. Therefore, packing for drastically or extreme changing temperatures are not typically necessary.

List Planned Activities

After you have researched the possible weather conditions, establish and review your route, naming all the things you will require for all your activities. For a nice dinner or a show, you might want one outfit of dress clothes, but the Smoky Mountains are typically very casual. When planning to take advantage of the available outdoor opportunities, or to go hiking in the mountains, you want to make sure you have the appropriate hiking clothes & shoes, and gear such as trail maps, hiking poles and packs. What’s more, you will have to include electronics such as charger, camera and memory card in your list.

Make a Master Pack List

Always begin the actual packing process a few days before your departure, because that way you will have adequate time to recall all the things you might have forgotten. Make a list of the items you require so that you can check off when packing.

Pack Necessities First 

After you have developed the list of items you require, you are ready to start packing. Start by gathering up all the items and lay them out so you get a visual of any duplicates or identify missing items. You’ll probably find yourself eliminating around half of the items you’ve laid out!

Choose Your Clothing 

When it comes to selecting clothes, versatility is king! Choose items that you can wear in several venues. If you plan to spend a lot of time exploring the mountains, then wrinkle-free, low maintenance clothes should be top on your list! Each of the clothing pieces you select should fulfill three of the following factors:

1. -Comfortable for exploring the city and nature
2. -Suitable for both warm and cold weather
3. -Packs compactly
4. -Will coordinate with the other items you have selected
5. -Can conceal spills and stains
6. -Can be easily layered

In addition to choosing clothes that can be worn a variety of ways, versatility should also apply to the accessories you select. A quick example: a neutral sarong will serve as your picnic blanket, bathing suit cover up, head wrap and satchel for several days. You need a pair of jeans, slacks and maybe one other type of trousers, such as khakis.

Most lodging in the Smoky Mountains area provide access to washers and dryers, so packing different outfits for each day of your stay is not important. A single day of laundry during your vacation will save you lots of packing hassle.

Make sure you always include a jacket, sweater or sweatshirt, and appropriate hiking gear.

Don’t Forget Your Technology 

With technology advancement, it is now possible to digitize some items you require during your vacation with apps and some features on your mobile phone. You do not require a camcorder or a camera if your phone features a quality camera. Similarly, you do not require maps, hiking logs, magazines, books, and travel guides as you can download them from the Internet. You only need a tablet or a smartphone. If you prefer printed documents, bring only the items you will require immediately after your arrival to save on packing space.

List Items You Can Rent or Borrow at Your Destination 

Many items needed for outdoor activities can possibly be rented at your destination. Call ahead and confirm this with your hotel or place of activity. This could save you a lot of extra expense and packing hassle if you have access to things like fishing gear, golf clubs, etc. at your destination.

These are just a few tips to help put you on the right track to an incredible vacation adventure! One huge tip is to make arrangements for your lodging early! Creekside Lodge is a very popular Maggie Valley hotel nestled in the Smoky Mountains. Conveniently located only 30-40 minutes from Ashville, NC, Creekside Lodge in Maggie Valley offers a comfortable, friendly atmosphere to relax in after a long, adventurous day! Call us today at 800-621-1260 and secure your spot! With everything taken care of, you’ll be able to pack up, settle back and prepare yourself for your wonderful Smoky Mountain adventure!

Events 

From May 26 to May 28, 2017, organizers of the Spring Rally in the Valley in the Smoky Mountains have planned an array of exciting activities for motorcycle enthusiasts of all ages!   There will be all kinds of fun activities such as bike rallies, baggar, trike and car shows as well as bike shows. Other attractions will feature bike games, rally rides and evening concerts with DJ K9 all weekend. All types of vendors, from car and motorcycle vendors, food and beverage vendors, etc. are also expected to participate in the event. The event will feature a special ceremony to honor our nations heroes, including military personnel, law enforcement officers, and firefighters. As a special gesture of appreciation to their services to the general public, entry is free for these heroes as well as their immediate families.

Expected Attendees 

The Maggie Valley Spring Rally usually draw riders from numerous states around America. This year, organizers have specifically called upon motorcycle riders from North Carolina, Maine, Kansas, Vermont, Oklahoma, West Virginia, Minnesota, Arkansas, South Carolina, Michigan, Maryland, Alabama, Virginia, Texas, as well as a host of other states in the country.

Location 

This year’s rally events will take place in Maggie Valley, NC, at the Maggie Festival Grounds, located at 3374 Soco Road, Maggie Valley, NC.

Admission 

Admission price is $20 for the weekend. Rates on Sunday will be discounted to $5 per person. The entry fee covers all concerts. Gates will open on Friday, May 26th at 10:00 AM and will be open until 9:00 PM. On Saturday, May 27th, hours will be from 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM. On Sunday, May 28th, gates will open at 9:00 AM and the event will close at 3:00 PM.

Entertainment 

Several live bands will be featured in concert during this event. The concert schedule will be as follows: On Friday, the HWY 14 Band will be performing live at the festival grounds. On Saturday, Rock University will be performing. Additional bands featured on Saturday include Fine Line as well as Brickyard Road. On Sunday, CJ Ballard Band will be on stage as the special Hero Honoring ceremony takes place. Spend each day enjoying the food and activities on the grounds or maybe riding through the beautiful Smoky Mountains, then top off each evening by relaxing and listening to good music.

Rider Routes 

A guide called “The NC Smokies Motorcycle Routes Guide” was created specifically to direct riders on the best routes. Those who will sign up for riding on each of the three days will be treated to three different routes. These will include The Park Way, The Rattler as well as the Tail of the Dragon Rides. The Blue Ridge Park Way road offers some of the most breathtaking views of the Smoky Mountains. The Rattler, on the other hand, has scenic pastoral views and some challenging mountain climbs. Last but not least, the Tail of the Dragon is popular with its 318 curves in 11 miles guaranteed to give riders one of the most exciting rides of their lives!

This spring biker event in the Smokies is sure to impress both newcomers and those who have participated in the event in the past!  All interested riders,vendors, artists and attendees can register online.

While you enjoy the festivities, you’ll need a place to call home base and there’s no better place in Maggie Valley than Maggie Valley’s Creekside Lodge. With its friendly, southern style and mountain charm, Creekside Lodge is the perfect place for peace and relaxation after a long day of activity! Reservations book quickly this time of year so take a moment to sit down right now and call 1-800-621-1260 to reserve your spot today! Then just relax and get ready for an unforgettably wonderful biking experience in the mountains!