Off the Beaten Path Today At Chimney Rock State Park

September 8   Off the Beaten Path Wild Mushroom Walk at Chimney Rock State Park    Mushrooms can be found popping up all over Chimney Rock in the early fall, especially after rainfall. Join Charlotte Caplan, former president and current member of the Asheville Mushroom Club, in learning about and searching for a variety of fascinating and beautiful fungi.

Whet your appetite with an overview of edible and non-edible mushrooms. Participants will hike up to two hours along Park trails or “off the beaten path” looking for a dozen or two of the estimated 1,000 species of fungi that could be growing in the Park. Limited to 20 people. 9:30 AM-noon

Can't make it today?  Additional "Wild Mushroom Walks" will be offered on September 13, 20 and 27.

Learn more about local events and visitor information on the Chimney Rock NC Guide. 

KidFest TODAY at Grandfather Mountain

September 7   KidFest at Grandfather Mountain   A day designed to get kids excited about the nature and culture of the North Carolina Mountains through fun and entertaining activities. Guided hikes, games, storytellers, music and fun. The events are free with park admission.

Grandfather mountain is the highest mountain in the Blue Ridge Mountain range at an elevation of 5,964 feet. The Mile High Swinging Bridge gives visitors easy access to the breath-taking view from Grandfather Mountain's Linville Peak.

Grandfather Mountain is a Nature Lovers' favorite offering Wildlife habitats, Nature Walks and Trails, Nature Programs, and a Nature Museum. The complex natural terrain includes 16 different classifications of natural communities with backcountry trails providing access to all.

Get links for local information including lodging, dining and other attractions on the Linville NC Visitor Guide

Mustang and Ford Car Meet in Maggie Valley this Weekend

September 6-7  40th Annual Fall Regional Shelby/Mustang and Ford Meet   Friday is a cruise-in day for car cleaning, fellowship and show setup. Saturday is the popular vote car show for all Ford vehicles; Top 3 in 30 classes. The event is open to all Ford bodied and powered products. Food Vendors will be onsite both days. The Meet will be held rain or shine at the Maggie Valley Festival Grounds.

Get links for local visitor information on the Maggie Valley NC Guide.

ICF Canoe Freestyle World Championship this Week at Nantahala

September2 -8   ICF Canoe Freestyle World Championship   Called the X-Games for whitewater, this event offers spins, flips, turns and tricks of freestyle snowboarders, surfers and skaters with freestyle kayaking! This ultimate whitewater event will feature top freestyle athletes from around the world, as well as plenty of activities, competitions and events for spectators and fans.

Live music, arts and crafts, and a festival atmosphere with Appalachian flair round out the weekend.

Get links for available lodging and visitor information on the Nantahala NC Guide and the Bryson City NC Guide.