One of the best activities to do during the warm months is hike to some of the many waterfalls that western North Carolina has to offer. The views are spectacular, the air is brisk, the exercise is great, and the … Read More
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The Majestic Elk
Maggie Valley and Cataloochee Valley are home to Elk that continually grace our homes and fields. These majestic animals in the Red Dear family can weigh up to 700 pounds and are only exceeded in size by there cousins the North American Moose. Elk are often seen grazing or relaxing next to Maggie’s mountain homes and in the fields off of Soco Road. It is important to note that federal regulations require that you stay at least 150 feet away so as not to disturb them. Male Elk (bull) can become aggressive during the fall rut (mating) season, September to October. You can often hear their legendary bugling calls to challenge other bulls and to attract females (cows). Females can also be aggressive while guarding their young, usually May thru June, so be especially careful. The best place to view Elk is in the Cataloochee Valley. From Maggie Valley take US276 north to Cove Creek Road. Make a left to reach the valley. Cove road has sections that are steep and unpaved. There are also no gas stations or other commercial services so plan accordingly. The best time to view Elk is early morning or approximately two hours before sunset.
The Cabin Experience
We were looking buy a mountain home in the Asheville area for many years. Many home we saw had single lane switchback roads requiring nerves of steel to get to. Some were in areas off the beaten path requiring a decent drive even to just buy groceries. We fell in love with this home the first time we drove up the driveway. It had easy access yet it was at a 4000 ft elevation. The parking area was large but the sight of a log cabin with a wrap around deck within a green lush forest was spectacular. We felt like we were going back in time. Getting out of the car and hearing the lower creek and the stream along side the front deck was definitely a bonus. A bridge arching over the stream to a small open area offered potential for a sitting area. Now a sitting and smokeless firepit area. The hot tub was secluded in the back of the front deck and offered a private relaxing environment next to the stream. Even before entering the cabin, we knew this home was a one of a kind gem.
The cabin is located in Maggie Valley, a quaint “artsy” town close to shopping and centrally located to many great destinations. There is always a new place to go, a new restaurant to try, and a new adventure to explore.
Welcome to Our Blog!
Welcome to the Mountain View Getaways blog. Interesting and fun stuff that we saw, learned, experienced, or tasted along the way! Please let us know what you think or any suggestions about the blog, things you’ve done or seen in … Read More
Main Street, North Carolina
Main Street, the most common street name in the United States is currently being used over 10,000 times. It’s also one of my favorite streets to visit. Main street is often where you’ll find a concentration of local restaurants, shops, … Read More
Golf is More Than Just a Game
North Carolina has an abundace of golf courses and fortunately Maggie Valley not only has its own but is close to many more public courses. The Maggie Valley Golf Club is the closest golf course. Nestled between the majestic Blue … Read More
Exploring the World Through Our Lens
Embarking on day trips from our cozy cabin is a cherished tradition. The allure lies in the boundless wonders that surround us, waiting to be captured. Armed with our trusty digital cameras, we embark on a quest to immortalize these fleeting moments.
For both amateurs and seasoned photographers, the canvas is vast. Nature’s grandeur unfolds before our lenses—majestic landscapes, intricate architecture, and captivating portraits. Our imagination knows no bounds; it paints vivid scenes, and our cameras dutifully translate them into pixels.
In this age of ubiquitous smartphones, everyone wields the power of photography. The very devices that connect us also transform us into artists. With a simple click, we freeze time, preserving sun-kissed waterfalls, serene vistas, and the crisp mountain air.
The trails we tread are more than paths; they’re gateways to discovery. Kid-friendly and pet-welcoming, they lead us to hidden gems. And then there’s the Biltmore house and its sprawling grounds—a photographer’s paradise.
As we hone our skills, our imagination becomes our compass. With each frame, we weave stories, capturing not just light but also the essence of the moment. So, whether you’re a novice or a seasoned pro, let your creativity soar. The world awaits, and your lens is the bridge between reality and wonder.
Note: The Biltmore house and grounds offer a rich tapestry of photographic opportunities, and your journey as a photographer will evolve over time. What is your favorite type of photography and where is your favorite place to take pictures?
Coffee, Coffee, and more Coffee..
One of our stops, almost wherever we go is a coffee shop. We usually have our morning cup in the cabin. My daughter going for the espresso and my wife and I attacking the drip coffee maker. During one of … Read More
Unforgettable Experiences at the Festival Fairgrounds!
The Festival Fairgrounds host a diverse array of events throughout the year, catering to various tastes. With the Event Calendar conveniently accessible online, anyone seeking to immerse themselves in festival fun can plan ahead and visit Maggie Valley at the … Read More
Traveling – it leaves you speechless, then turns you into a storyteller
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