Don't Miss the "Shadow of the Bear" a favorite Fall Leaf Season Event near Cashiers

CASHIERS NC - One of the most unique leaf-looking experiences in the United States is now available for viewing.

The "Shadow of the Bear," located in southern Jackson County near Cashiers, is visible for about 30 minutes daily between 5:30 and 6 PM. from mid October through early November. During this brief period, the bear-like shadow comes out of hibernation as the autumnal sun begins to set behind Whiteside Mountain.

With an elevation of 4,930 feet, Whiteside Mountain boasts sheer rock cliffs that are among the highest in the eastern United States. The well-know Cashiers' landmark provides a splendid backdrop for viewing leaves throughout autumn, especially during the emergence of the bear.

Tourists and photographers come from near and far to catch a glimpse of this natural phenomenon, which can best be viewed from the Rhodes Big View Overlook on U.S. Hwy. 64, approximately 4.5 miles west of Cashiers.

photo by Jerry Jaynes

More information about the Shadow of the Bear and other local Leaf Season Events is available at The Jackson County Visitors Center, 773 W. Main St. in Sylva NC (800-962-1911).

The shadow also occurs in late winter from mid February through early March.

Fall Leaf Season Events: The Corn Mazes are OPEN!

It's Cornfusion Time in the NC Mountains! The coming of fall in the mountains means it's time for a fun family tradition: Corn Mazes. Local farms turn their harvested corn fields into acres of puzzles along with special events and Halloween Happenings.

Eliada's Fields of Fun in Asheville lets you “Get Lost” in three huge corn mazes over 12 acres of twisting trails! Eliada's includes activities for kids of all ages, like corn cannons, slack line challenge, haybale maze, cow train, corn box, pedal carts and this year's new giant spider web perfest for climbing by those little "spidies".

The Blue Ridge Corn Maze in Brevard offers 6 Acres of "corn~fusion" where you can lose it and it's all right! The Ashe County Corn Maze in the West Jefferson Area takes anywhere from 25 minutes to 45 minutes to hours! There are six "stations" in the maze to explore. The Hickory Nut Gap Farm in the Asheville area lets you wind your way through the corn maze, pick your own pumpkin, fill your bag with organic apples, hold a baby chick, visit the animals and enjoy a day with your family.

The Maze at Seasonal Produce Farm in Canton includes special events such as a professional lumberjack competition, haunted house and Hospice Day.

Darnell Farms in Bryson City is a true "Agritourism" farm with horseback riding, wagon rides, camping, bluegrass music, educational tours, pick-your-own seasonal produce and an 8+ acre corn maze that opens in mid August!

Get links for the NC Corn Mazes and other things to do in the mountains on the NC Attractions Guide.