Mountain & Trail: Southeast Summer 2015

MOUNTAIN & TRAILA LIFESTYLE & TRAVEL GUIDE

RULES OF SOUTHERNBARBEQUE10

12MUST SEE

MOUNTAIN MUSIC

EVENTS

MOONSHINEINFUSED

SWEET TEA BROWN SUGAR &SPICED RUM HOT

CHOCOLATE RECIPES!

S O U T H E A ST

SPRING / SUMMER 2015

TAKE OUR QUIZ!WHAT IS YOUR CAMPING STYLE?

SOUTHEAST

TN

WV

MOUNTAIN & TRAIL

1 : : MOUNTAIN & TRAIL

FEATURES

14

17

31

32

FOOD AND BEVERAGEMOUNTAIN RECIPES

10 RULES OF SOUTHERN BBQ

OLE SMOKY MOONSHINE

OUR FAVORITE DRINKS

3

5

21

27

37

42

RECREATIONSURVIVAL KIT

WHAT’S YOUR CAMPING STYLE?

MOUNTAINS BY NUMBERS

SMOKY MOUNTAIN ROMANCE

12 MOUNTAIN MUSIC EVENTS

DISCOVER MORE

contentsTABLE OF

SUMMERSVILLE, WV

PARKERSBURG, WV

LYNCHBURG, VA

MERCER COUNTY, WV

11

12

12

13

EXPERIENCE - pg.9

NEW RIVER GORGE, WV

TUCKER COUNTY, WV

SOUTHERN WEST VIRGINIA

PIGEON FORGE, TN

ROANOKE VALLEY, VA

24

24

25

26

26

EXPLORE - pg.19

SEVIERVILLE, TN

KNOXVILLE, TN

CHATTANOOGA, TN

BRISTOL, TN

39

40

40

41

LISTEN - pg.35

NC

VA

VISITSOUTH.COM : : 2

http://www.visitsouth.com

CAMPING SURVIVAL KIT


1. Lighter2. Water Bottle3. Eating Utensils4. First Aid Kit

5. Thermos 6. Shovel7. Flashlight8. Sleeping Bag

9. Compass10. Knife11. Hatchet

11 Essentials to Pack in Your Hiking Bag

1 2 3

4

5

67

8 9

1011



Check out our quick Camping style quiz below to see whether you should pack the ice for the bubbly or practice your bow and arrow skills.

For each number, choose which camping items you think are most essential:

WHAT IS YOUR CAMPING STYLE?

3 4

21

Polka Dot Thermos OR Beer Growler


Knowing whether you’re prone to glamping in style or roughin’ it with Mother Nature will ensure your camping experience is nothing short of perfection.

5

7

6

8

Candlesticks OR Camping Lantern

Retro Print Tea Cups OR Kettle



CONGRATULATIONS! YOU’RE A CAMPING SURVIVALIST!

You’re a hard-core, knife whittling, sleep on the ground with only the stars for

company kind of camper! You make Chuck Norris look like Paris Hilton at the spa, so go ahead grab your gear, wrestle down a

bear and make your own trail!

CHOOSE MOSTLYGREEN ITEMS?


CONGRATULATIONS! YOU’RE A GLAMPER, THROUGH AND THROUGH.

You don’t just bring the bubbly, you sip it from cut crystal flutes while roasting your

artisanal truffle flavored marshmallows over your carefully controlled pink enameled travel stove. Make sure you pack that extra chenille throw, put on those bedazzled hiking boots

and get your glamping on!

CHOOSE MOSTLYPINK

ITEMS?



EXPERIENCE


Inside these Southern hills are more than just miles of nature and magazine-worthy backdrops. Don’t get us wrong, there’s more opportunities to get your outdoors on than one could ever experience in a lifetime. But, what exactly are visitors getting themselves into here? Spanning the mountains are a charming, cozy-as-home woodland cabins; an unprecedented creative, local dining scene; and quirky shops and local artisan crafts that make other destinations’ souvenirs pale in comparison. The mountains are a place that hold a fresh, Southern sweetness that can’t be replicated. If experiencing every inch of this picturesque destination could take forever, then isn’t it time you got started?



SUMMERSVILLECVB.COM

WHEN YOU GET A CHANCE FOR VACATION, IT’S NICE TO PACK IN AS MUCH ACTION AS POSSIBLE. MAYBE YOU WANT TO GO BOATING, GOLFING, HIKING, DINING AND WINE TASTING ALL IN ONE LONG WEEKEND. ON A TRIP TO SUMMERSVILLE, WEST VIRGINIA, IT’S ALL BOUND TO HAPPEN.

Get in the vacation groove your first day in town with a trip to Summersville Lake. Go boating, kayaking, jet skiing, fishing, SCUBA diving, cliff jumping or even rock climbing with crystal clear water as the backdrop. The Marina and Sarge’s Dive Shop are conveniently located for gear rentals and offer private pontoon tours of the lake.

Hit the trails on day two with several walking and biking options with stunning scenery, like waterfalls, wildlife and spectacular foliage. Grab a quick lunch of home-style and Italian fare at Longpoint Grill as preparation for the rest of your busy afternoon. Digest with a 122 step climb to the top of Summersville Lake Retreat Lighthouse for one of the most breathtaking views around. Finish up with a trip to the historic Civil War battle-site, Carnifex Ferry Battlefield State Park, and a visit to the Henry Patterson Museum.

Take it easy with some golf the next day. Nicholas County Veterans Memorial Park Golf Course and Cherry Hills Country Club are both great options for swinging some clubs. Relax over lunch at Lakeside Barbeque before soaking up the sun at the Nicholas County Veterans Memorial Park pool. Cool down with thr best ice cream in the state at Fat Eddie’s or a game of mini golf at Mountain Lake Campground.

“Wine” down at Kirkwood Winery with a tour and tasting on day four –bring home a consumable souvenir. Soak it up with lunch at Maloney’s Sports Pub and Grill, and then stroll through the stores

in downtown Summersville. It’s known for its fantastic Quilt Shop. Finish up with a lavish dinner of authentic Greek fare at Café Acropolis.

Get adventurous before heading back to your usual routine. Kick up that adrenaline with a bridge walk, zip lining excursion or white water rafting on the New River Gorge Bridge, just a short drive out of town. If that’s a bit too much for you, head to Mumsy’s in Richwood for lunch; the drive is beautiful – and it doesn’t culminate with white knuckles.

With restaurants and accommodations for all lifestyles and budgets, it’s all possible. For more, visit summersvillecvb.com

ADVENTURE IS CALLING IN SUMMERSVILLE

SPONSORED

SPEND EACH DAY HEADED IN A DIFFERENT FUN-FILLED DIRECTION


WITH THE MAJESTIC OHIO RIVER AS A BACKDROP, ESCAPE, DISCOVER, AND PLAY IN GREATER PARKERSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA.

CHANNEL YOUR INNER TOM & HUCKJust south of Parkersburg, West Virginia, you’ll feel like Tom Sawyer as you paddle down river in an authentic sternwheeler to Blennerhassett Island Historical State Park. Back on the mainland, continue your exploration into the region’s history by touring the Oil & Gas Museum. You’ll feel as if you were an eyewitness to the development of the early boomtowns as you view photographs and videos, equipment, and other artifacts. The story of the industries’ early beginnings will come to life as you discover how they influenced West Virginia’s bid for statehood.

ROMANTIC HISTORYStroll through Julia-Ann Square Historic District—West Virginia’s largest residential historic district—where oil barons displayed their newfound wealth in gleaming splendor. Then settle in for a picnic or simply take in a panoramic view of the valley atop Fort Boreman Historic Park, which features original Union Civil War fort trenches and magnificent views of the Ohio River.

OUTDOOR ADVENTURENorth Bend State Park offers 2,400-acres of outdoor fun, a cozy lodge, dining room, cabins, campsites, lake and trail system - perfect for hiking, biking, horseback riding or birding.

If paddle boarding is your thing (or maybe you just want to try it out), there’s opportunity on the Ohio River for standup paddle boarding, kayaking, as well as canoeing.

What are you waiting for? Head to GreaterParkersburg.com and start planning your vacation today!

MAKE YOUR OWN HISTORY EXPLORE GREATER PARKERSBURG

GREATERPARKERSBURG.COM

Take a vacation off the beaten path in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, where Lynchburg, Virginia awaits.

HISTORY AND CULTURETraveling as a family? Take the kids to the Rightmire Children’s Museum, where everyone will enjoy hands-on learning and exciting exhibits exploring science, culture, technology, and more.

Peruse local arts and crafts at Art on Depo, watch artists make their magic at Artspace, or pencil in a night at the Lynchburg Symphony to bask in some classical music. History buffs will love The Appomattox Co. Historical Museum and Appomattox Court House National Historic Park, and the Natural Bridge is on the list of the seven natural wonders of the world.

SHOPPINGHunt for a great souvenir or a bit of local crafting in the shops of Lynchburg. Get a taste of local flavor at Community Market downtown, or browse the boutiques of nearby Wyndhurst. The Artifacts Gallery is your go-to for paintings, photography, or glass works. Oxide Pottery has the perfect gift among its selection of ceramics, and the Beeswax Candle Company will tempt you with the cloying scent of pure, creamy beeswax.

BED & BREAKFASTSCome home to a welcoming room. Couples will love the Carriage House Inn Bed and Breakfast, a restored 1868 Italianate mansion with a giant wrap-around porch, fireplaces, and a three-course breakfast. The Federal Crest Inn Bed and Breakfast is a gorgeous 1909 Georgian revival home, and Acorn Hill Lodge exudes good old-fashioned Southern charm.

Start exploring here: VisitLynchburg.org

Lynchburg, Virginia:A Gem in the Foothills

VISITLYNCHBURG.ORG

SPONSORED



Go on adventures, experience living history, and immerse in nature as you and your family discover a gem in the Appalachian Mountains.

GET LOST IN ATHENSThe quaintness of the town of Athens belies its potential as a land for legendary adventure. State parks and mysterious caverns beg to be explored.

The Lost World Caverns take you below the Earth’s surface where ancient stalactite and stalagmite formations wait–this includes The Snowy Chandelier, which is a compound stalactite believed to be the largest in the U.S.

THERE’S NOTHING BLUE ABOUT BLUEFIELDOk, there are a few blue things in Bluefield like mountains and lakes, but there certainly aren’t any reasons to be blue. You’ll discover this as you hike, bike, and fish at Bluefield City Park and Glenwood Recreational Park.

ALL’S WELL IN BRAMWELLDo not leave Bramwell without grabbing a Corner Shop burger. Mahogany wood, bistro-style tables, and souvenirs give this venue an old-fashioned soda shop ambience. Don’t let the Corner Shop’s downhome vibe fool you…Bramwell is known as the “Home of the Bramwell Millionaires”. Made rich by the coal industry, historic Bramwell tours let you explore coal barons’ early 1900 mansions.

THE ART OF PRINCETON’S PRIDEDowntown Princeton is resplendent in coal mining history and breathtaking mountain views, and its color palate is enhanced with vivid murals displayed along Mercer Street. It is also home to the RiffRaff Arts Collective and the Princeton Railroad Museum.

Check out VisitMercerCounty.com for more info!

VISITMERCERCOUNTY.COM

SPONSORED

Immerse Yourself in Adventure IN MERCER COUNTY

SPONSORED


RECIPESPULLED PORK PERFECTION • CAST IRON CORNBREAD



DIRECTIONS

Mix dry ingredients in a bowl, stirring until well incorporated. Rub the mixture over the pork and refrigerate for at least 2 hours and up to overnight. When ready to cook, preheat oven to 300 degrees. Put the pork in a Dutch oven and cover with liquid ingredients. Place into oven and cook for 4-6 hours or until roast has reached an internal temperature of 165 degrees (and is falling apart).

When this is complete, remove pork from pot and place on a large cutting board or platter to rest. Put Dutch oven on stove top over medium-high heat and boil cooking liquids until reduced by about half (hint: if you want an even thicker sauce, try adding ½ cup of ketchup before cooking down). Once rested for at least 15 minutes, put pork into reduced sauce and serve on the bun of your choice!

Perfect Pulled Pork Sandwiches INGREDIENTS

3-4 pound pork roast (shoulder or Boston butt)

Dry Ingredients:2 tablespoons salt1 tablespoon black pepper3 tablespoons dark brown sugar2 tablespoons smoked paprika (if smoked paprika is unavailable, use 1 tbsp cumin and 1 tbsp plain paprika)½ tablespoon dry mustard½ tablespoon garlic powder½ tablespoon onion powder½-1 tablespoon ground cayenne pepper (depending on your desired level of heat)

Liquid Ingredients: 1/2 tablespoon liquid smoke3 tablespoons Worcestershire Sauce2 cups of apple juice1 cup apple cider vinegar


Skillet Cornbread

INGREDIENTS

2 tablespoons vegetable oil2 tablespoons butter (extra for serving if desired)

DRY INGREDIENTS

1 cup yellow cornmeal1 cup all-purpose flour1/4 cup sugar2 teaspoons baking powder 1 1/2 teaspoons salt

WET INGREDIENTS

1 cup buttermilk2 eggs

DIRECTIONS

Preheat the oven to 400 degrees. Put the oil and butter in a cast iron skillet, and place into the oven to melt butter and heat the oil.

Meanwhile, in a large bowl, combine dry ingredients. In a separate, smaller bowl, combine all wet ingredients. Slowly add wet mixture to the dry, and stir until well incorporated. Add in one (or all*) of the optional additions if desired. *Note: if all additions are added, this will increase cooking time.

Remove skillet from oven and immediately add in cornbread mixture. Hear that sizzle? Yeah, that’s what you want! Place skillet back into the oven and bake until a toothpick inserted in center comes out clean (about 20 to 25 minutes). Let cool slightly before serving.

Optional Additions

1 cup sharp cheddar cheese3 tablespoons diced jalapenos 1 can whole kernel corn (preferably white shoepeg)2-3 strips roughly chopped bacon



There are few things the South cherishes more than our BBQ. In fact, we don’t just serve it up, we regionalize it. If you grab a bite in North Carolina, you’d think it was in a totally different genre than what you find in West Virginia. And only a Tennessean would ever let their mama catch them munching on Memphis BBQ. No Southern food is more tenaciously regional than barbecue, and the loyalties run deep. In the South, we’re a melting pot of fabulous BBQ, but there are a few rules to keep in mind.

THE 10 RULES OF

SOUTHERN BARBEQ

UE


1. BBQ, barbecue, barbeque, bar-b-que… Don’t let the proliferation of words confuse you. We’re referencing the same thing no matter how it’s spelled.

2. Pick a side: you can hold an allegiance to vinegar-based, mustard laden, your home state’s mop sauce, sweet honey, thick and spicy, whiskey, or anything you want…but not more than one. We choose sides down here, y’all.

3. White BBQ sauce is not the same as “regular” barbecue sauce. It has its own heaven-sent purpose (barbecued chicken, of course).

4. No matter what you’re BBQ-ing, it should be done low and slow5. BBQ was meant to be served with Sweet Tea. Period.6. Appropriate side dishes are limited, but coleslaw, potato salad, baked

beans, mac & cheese, fried okra, and collard greens are always a safe bet…served with cornbread, of course.

7. The best way to end a BBQ-centered meal is with a too large helping of Banana Pudding. That’s not just our opinion; we’re pretty sure it’s the law.

8. Using a napkin (or two) is acceptable. Using a slice of white bread (or two) for the same purpose is encouraged.

9. If it’s got a secret ingredient, don’t ask us to share it. Unless you marry into the family (and sometimes not even then), we’re not likely to divulge anything that’s been passed down from generation to generation.

10. Each plate of BBQ (whether served on Mama’s back porch or in a high-end restaurant) has a story to tell. It’s about the people, and ultimately, about families coming together at the table. Dig in!



EXPLORE


A trip to the mountains is more than just a vacation. It’s trip to a slice of paradise—a wild escape. A Southern Mountain vacation gives “running for the hills” a whole new meaning. The dress code is casual, the energy is endless, and the magnificence of it all is yours to explore. Yep, you decide how to travel on this distinctive Southern vacation. Would you rather take part in leisurely woodland strolls or highly challenging climbs? Do you prefer floating down a gentle river or navigating some of the most challenging rapids in the country? Whatever your vacation style, the answer can be found in the Southern mountains. Pack your bags, and get ready to explore the wonder of it all.



Number 1How we rank safety when it comes to climbing, hiking, camping, or any

outdoor activity

MOUNTAINS BY NUMBERS

16The number of mountains that reach higher than 6,000 feet in the Great

Smoky Mountains National Park

1,400 Established rock

climbs are available at the New River George

2,000Miles of streams are available

for fishing in the Smokies

900Scenic vistas are located

on the Blue Ridge Parkway


469The number of miles in

which America’s longest linear park, The Blue

Ridge Parkway, stretches

ZERO

The entry fee to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park

THE TOP 10Highest peaks east of the

Mississippi River all reside in the Blue Ridge province of the

Southern Appalachians

1 Billion The amount of years that some of the rocks in the Shenandoah

National Park date back

1 to 5Class rapids are available. From

colossal to mild, whitewater rafting is available year round




STUNNING SCENIC PHOTOS OF THE NEW RIVER GORGE BRIDGE CAPTURE A GLIMPSE AT A VAST OUTDOOR PLAYGROUND FOR FAMILIES TO EXPLORE.

ALONG THOSE OPEN SKIESHidden up high among the rolling mountain peaks, are some of the best views of the gorge.

Trails, such as Long Point, lead explorers out through the forests to sweeping overlooks along the canyon rim. Zipline courses will fly you through the canopies, while aerial trams swoop above the wilderness for a calm, smooth ride. You can even cross the catwalk of the bridge itself, strolling 876 feet above the gaping gorge.

THROUGH THOSE THICK FORESTSSandstone cliffsides offer havens of world-class rock climbing. Among the lush forest, winding paths branch out to hidden waterfalls and tucked-away history. Discover the ruins of abandoned towns like Kaymoor, dotted with rusted, overgrown mine equipment that towers above the trees. Trek out to secluded thickets and marvel at the bountiful wildlife, from vibrantly blossomed florals to dashing deer.

ACROSS THOSE RUSHING WATERWAYSSweeping beneath the iconic steel bridge is the mighty New River, where you can swim, fish and raft. Ride the playful waves of the Upper New or, for a challenge, the Lower section of the river gives a wild run.

And the New isn’t the only waterway to discover: boat the Summersville Lake, hike along the remote Gauley River, trace the tapering streams.

WITHIN REACHCharming, cozy-as-home woodland cabins, and the creative local dining scene, where you can taste gourmet grape pizza or down-home sandwiches garnished with bacon jam. Shopping enthusiasts will love quirky shops and local artisan crafts.

For more information, click here.

SPONSORED

STUNNING VIEWSSPECTACULAR VACATION

TUCKER COUNTY, WEST VIRGINIA IS AN ADVENTURER’S TREASURE CHEST, FILLED WITH WILDERNESS DELIGHTS.

CANAAN VALLEY RESORT STATE PARK Immerse yourself in Nature at Canaan Valley Resort State Park. The Valley itself is the highest of its kind east of the Rockies, and the Resort rests on a plateau with sweeping views of the valley and surrounding mountains. Enjoy countless outdoor activities in the valley or just relax at the Resort, which promises a luxurious and tranquil stay. Decompress on miles of hiking and biking trails, kick back at the indoor pool, or play a round on their championship golf course.

CHARMING MOUNTAIN TOWNSWarm up in the shops and cafes of Davis, Parsons, and Thomas, three quaint mountain towns close by. Here you can treat yourself to some leisurely shopping, whether you are looking for antiques, local arts and crafts, coffee shops, or hiking gear.

NATURAL WONDERS GALOREIt may be tough to decide where to start in Tucker County if outdoor exploration is your goal, but there are a few highlights you should write into your itinerary.

• Dolly Sods Wilderness Area boasts of unique plant life, incredible trailside views, and overlooks.

• Blackwater Falls lives up to its name: to a black waterfall as the result of tannic acid from fallen spruce and hemlocks

• Seneca Caverns, where you can investigate Smoke Hole Caverns, home to an amazing forest of stalactites, rock columns and more.

• Seneca Rocks is a 900-foot rock formation.

Want to know more about Tucker County? Visit CANAANVALLEY.ORG.

ESCAPE TO TUCKER COUNTYWEST VIRGINIA

CANAANVALLEY.ORG

SPONSORED

NEWRIVERGORGECVB.COMVISITSOUTH.COM : : 24


VISITWV.COM

SOUTHERN WEST VIRGINIA MAY JUST BE THE BEST-KEPT SCENIC SECRET OF THE SOUTH AND THE PERFECT DESTINATION FOR UNFORGETTABLE OUTDOOR EXPEDITIONS.

HIKING Southern West Virginia boasts of a diverse array of hiking and biking trails, ranging from leisurely woodland strolls to highly challenging climbs. There are over fifty miles of trails in the New River Gorge alone.

The Appalachian Trail, an option for those in search of a longer backcountry hike, promises solitude and tranquility. Take a hike on the Allegheny Trail, which follows the ridge of Peters Mountain northeastward to Laurel Branch, near Sweet Springs. Or try the Greenbrier River Trail, a 76-mile path open for hiking, riding, biking, and cross-country skiing.

CANOPY TOURS, ZIPLINES, AND RAFTING This region is also home to aerial adventures and exciting rafting opportunities. The New River, ironically one of the world’s oldest rivers, has phenomenal whitewater rafting, and the Gauley River has more than 100 rapids on its course.

Hook up with Adventures on the Gorge, which also offers canopy and zipline tours in addition to lodging and dining facilities. Rock climbers will also find their mecca in the New River Gorge, where visitors can take courses at any level of difficulty from some of the best teachers and guides around. For an exceptional canopy tour, try The Ridges at River Expeditions, and enjoy the thrills of their skybridge and rappelling features. Finally, a catwalk across the New River Gorge Bridge will take you along a 1.25 mile breathtaking stroll with unrivaled views.

CABIN RENTALS AND LODGE GETAWAYS Why not stay where you play? Make it a weekend and spend a night or two in a cozy cabin or lodge where you can savor the quiet and bond with family. Bring your crew to The Meadows, a lodge that accommodates twenty guests in a spacious ranch-style home, or luxuriate at the Ambrosia Inn, a bed and breakfast that offers gourmet food and beautifully decorated rooms. For a more rustic experience, try Laurel Ridge Cabins: relax in lovely two-bedroom units on Summersville Lake, fully equipped with kitchen supplies, grills, hot tubs, and more. Whether you are looking for a night by the fire in a rustic cabin or a savory candlelit breakfast brought to your room, southern West Virginia has your rental waiting.

Want to know more about what southern West Virginia has to offer? Head to VisitWV.com.

A HIDDEN GEM IN THE APPALACHIANS: SOUTHERN WEST VIRGINIA

SPONSORED


TAKING IN THE VIEWSPossibly the most breathtaking aspect of the Roanoke Valley landscape is the view as you cruise down the Blue Ridge Parkway. Dubbed “America’s Favorite Drive”, you coast and wind through 469 miles of Blue Ridge Mountain views which, in the fall, is a canopy of vermillion, harvest gold, burnt sienna, and lemon colored leaves affixed atop the trees of the National Park System. At other times of year, the landscape is covered in snow and is powder white, or it’s shrouded in lush green foliage and vivid flora.

Carvins Cove Natural Reserve is 12,700 acres and is a major water reserve. As the nation’s second largest municipal park, Carvins Cove is an absolute paradise for hikers, bikers, fishers, and boaters.

A LAND RICH IN HISTORY AND CULTURERoanoke Valley has a rich culture. There is a rich history of bluegrass music in this region, but sophisticated music lovers can also indulge their fancies courtesy of the Roanoke Symphony Orchestra and Opera Roanoke.

Art aficionados might feel more at home in the Taubam Museum of Art whilst history buffs will find their fixes at the O. Winston Link Museum, the Virginia Museum of Transportation, the Booker T. Washington National Monument, and at the National D-Day Memorial in Bedford.

Roanoke Valley is a land rich in history and heritage and in natural beauty. Tour the colorful landscapes and challenge yourself as you explore the great outdoors.

Check out the Visit Roanoke VA website and plan your tour of Roanoke Valley’s great outdoors and rich heritage.

ROANOKE VALLEY:Cruise the “Star City of the South”

A FAVORITE ATTRACTION FOR LOCALS AND TOURISTS ALIKE, PIGEON FORGE ENJOYS AN IDEAL LOCATION. BRING THE FAMILY FOR A WEEKEND OF GREAT SHOPPING, SHOWS, AND OUTDOOR ADVENTURE.

SHOPPINGSouvenirs and mementos abound in Pigeon Forge’s many shops, so visitors looking for tee-shirts, cowboy boots, or an old-time black-and-white photo will need look no further. But serious shoppers on the hunt for regional antiques or for that impossible bargain will also find endless opportunity among Pigeon Forge’s antique malls and outlets. In the smaller shops, look for handmade arts and crafts, collectibles, baskets, hand-blown glass, and more.

FAMILY FUNPigeon Forge is the Smoky Mountain capital of comedy shows and family-friendly attractions. Choose from over forty area venues, ranging from minigolf to ziplines to waterparks. A great place to start is the Titanic museum, where you can explore an amazing half-scale replica of the original vessel and learn the real stories about its history. The Hollywood Wax Museum will amaze with its perfect likenesses of celebrities, and Wonder Works will mystify with its mind-boggling interactive exhibits.

GREAT SMOKY MOUNTAINS NATIONAL PARKGreat Smoky Mountains National Park is the ultimate playground for outdoor enthusiasts, from the seasoned hiker looking for the next summit to the newlywed couple out for a romantic riverside walk. Enjoy diverse fishing opportunities in the Park’s deep creeks and streams, pleasant front-country camping at one of the Park’s beautifully-set campgrounds.

READY TO PLAN YOUR TRIP TO PIGEON FORGE? FIND MORE DETAILS HERE.

Pigeon Forge, TN:Family Hub in the Mountains

MYPIGEONFORGE.COM

VISITROANOKEVA.COM

SPONSORED



RomanceAN OUTDOOR ENGAGEMENT

IN KNOXVILLE , TN

SMOKYMOUNTAIN

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOPHOTO27 : : MOUNTAIN & TRAIL

RomanceThese days, romance is

more than candlelit dinners and long walks on the

beach. Couples like Evelyn and Paul know that love is abounding in the great

outdoors. They have a fresh perspective, and you can see it in this engagement session taken by JoPhoto.



The Smoky Mountains speak for themselves—they’re legendary. The mere mention evokes images of majestic mountain tops, grandiose hiking adventures, and breathtaking waterfalls. And these photos show that mountain-top glamour is such a thing. If nothing else, this vintage camping scene will make you want to curl up with someone you love (and maybe gorge yourself on s’mores, too).


Being in the Smokies is more

than just spending the day working

your glutes on miles and miles of hiking

trails—it’s a chance for engagements,

the perfect backdrop for a honeymoon

picnic, and, every girl’s dream, the

opportunity to be a Pinterest-Perfect

Bride. If you think the mountains are

just for those travelers seeking the

rugged outdoors, think again.

IT’S SMOKY MOUNTAIN

SPECIAL THANKS TO JOPHOTO FOR PROVIDING THE BEAUTIFUL PHOTOGRAPHY FEATURED HERE.

Romance time.VISITSOUTH.COM : : 30


Many visitors to the mountains of Tennessee are

curious about the old stories about moonshiners and their brews. The legends about these pioneers in the liquor business still haunt the Smokies, from the hiking trails in the National Park to the hollows hidden behind busy tourist destinations in the valleys. Now, those

looking to satisfy their curiosity can experience what Appalachian moonshining is all about—including what its makings taste like—at the Ole Smoky Moonshine Distillery located in Gatlinburg, also known as, "The Holler."

Expanded to accommodate its growing popularity, the Distillery offers a unique experience for any visitor. The entire distilling process becomes accessible: guests may tour the authentic, working moonshine stills and also ask questions of the distillers themselves, who are happy to explain the traditions involved. Visitors will also have the option of sampling some of the Distillery’s most famous creations, such as White Lightning, Unaged Corn Whiskey, Strawberry, or Peach, or the shop’s irresistible candy-apple-red Moonshine Cherries, if they are bold enough for the experience!

Of course, a fully-equipped store is part of the package deal on site. Those wishing to take home a bottle or two of their own, or a gift for a friend, can stop in the shop and make their selections. The Gatlinburg store also features special flavors of moonshine that are not typically available elsewhere, like eggnog, pineapple, peppermint, and butterscotch.

A Gatlinburg must-see, the Distillery is a place representing long-standing tradition and hard work. It was the first distillery in east Tennessee to be federally licensed, and its recipes and methods have descended from some of the earliest settlers of the Smoky Mountains. All ingredients are locally grown.

Want to know more about events and offerings at the Ole Smoky Moonshine? Visit their website at OleSmoky.com.

Photos courtesy of Ole Smoky Moonshine Distillery

SAMPLE THE SOUTH AT OLE SMOKY MOONSHINE DISTILLERYLIQUOR AND LEGENDS


COCKTAILSMOONSHINE WITH A TWIST • BOOZY HOT CHOCOLATE



INGREDIENTS (Yields 2 glasses)

2 black tea bags (we like orange pekoe)1 cup boiling water1 cup ice cubes3 tablespoons sugar2 shots Lemon moonshine (Ole Smokey Lemon drop Lightnin’ is our favorite! http://olesmoky.com/products/lemon-drop-moonshine)

DIRECTIONS

In a saucepan bring 2 cups water to a boil, once water has reached a rolling boil add the tea bags and immediately take off the heat. Let steep for 5 minutes then remove the tea bags and stir in ice and sugar. Chill for at lease 2 hours. When ready to serve, stir in shots of lemon moonshine and enjoy!


DIRECTIONS

Put the milk into a saucepan and break the chocolate into pieces. Add chocolate to the milk along with a cinnamon stick, honey, and sugar. Heat gently until the chocolate is melted.

Add the vanilla and mix with a small hand whisk. Still whisking, add a spoonful of the rum first and taste to see if you want more. Add more sugar if you want this sweeter, too. Take out the cinnamon stick and pour into 2 cappuccino or café latte cups.

Recipe modified from Nigella Lawson’s Alcoholic hot chocolate recipe.

INGREDIENTS

2 cups milk3 1/2 ounces dark chocolate, bittersweet or semisweet1 cinnamon stick2 teaspoons honey1 teaspoon brown sugar1 teaspoon vanilla extract2 tablespoons dark rum, or to taste



LISTEN

When you think of mountain music, Bluegrass and Country should certainly come to mind. Music is king in the mountains—and there’s good reason for it. It’s here that world famous stars got their start—and they haven’t forgotten their roots. It’s the kind of place where every day is a celebration, and great music is as flavorful as the BBQ that accompanies it. Here, festivals, historical music sites, and more banjo playin’ than you can shake a fiddle bow at are boundless. It all comes down to good music, Southern cuisine, and old-fashioned fun. That’s what you’ll find nestled here in the Southern mountains. Do you hear that? It’s your mountain vacation calling!



If there’s one thing Southerners know a thing or two about, it’s music. We live to celebrate our rich, musical heritage. From the Birthplace of Country Music to the Home of Bluegrass, we’ve got a thriving music scene. On any given weekend, our Southern Mountains are peppered with musical extravaganzas playing host to some of the country’s hottest musical acts and to regional names that serve as the heartbeat of the Southeast.

Of course, there’s also ideal Southern weather, craft beer, award winning BBQ, and more hospitality than you can shake a banjo at. If you’re headed for a Southern vacation, then you better make sure one of these can’t miss Mountain events makes your itinerary.

12 CAN’T MISS MOUNTAIN MUSIC EVENTS


1. RIVERBEND FESTIVAL IN CHATTANOOGA, TN – June 5-13 Catch shows by world-famous artists…watch by land or by river.

2. SECOND FRIDAY SONGWRITER NIGHTS IN PARKERSBURG , WV – March 13 Live music straight from the folks who wrote it.

3. LYNCHBURG MUSIC FESTIVAL IN LYNCHBURG, VA – May 9 1 day. 9 bands. Bring your dancing shoes and an appetite.

4. CULTURE FEST IN PIPESTEM, WV – September 10-13 Immersing yourself in culture never looked so pleasurable.

5. MOUNTAIN MUSIC FESTIVAL IN NEW RIVER GORGE, WV – June 5-6 No other music festival provides as many adrenaline-pumping activities (white water rafting, anyone?).

6. BLOOMIN’ BARBEQUE & BLUEGRASS IN SEVIERVILLE, TN – May 15-16 Some of the best BBQ in the country served with a side of banjo pickin’.

7. BLUE RIDGE MUSIC FESTIVAL – IN SALEM, VA – May 30-31 The finest names in Country music and some of the finest views in the country.

8. MUSIC IN THE MOUNTAINS BLUEGRASS FESTIVAL IN SUMMERSVILLE, WV – June 24-27 A family-friendly festival, 35 years and going strong.

9. THE BREW SKIES FESTIVAL IN DAVIS, WV – August 21-22 A magical place where the tunes are hot and the brews are cold.

10. BRISTOL RHYTHM AND ROOTS REUNION – September 18-20 A Festival celebrating the city’s musical heritage…ya know, as the birthplace of Country music.

11. BIG EARS MUSIC FESTIVAL IN KNOXVILLE, TN – March 27-29 Film, food, and outdoor activities play sideshow to a packed musical lineup.

12. BARBEQUE & BLUEGRASS FESTIVAL IN PIGEON FORGE, TN – May 23 - June 7 Dollywood’s free concert series features bold flavors and fabulous tunes.



VISITSEVIERVILLE.COM

IN THE FOOTHILLS OF GREAT SMOKY MOUNTAINS NATIONAL PARK, SEVIERVILLE, TENNESSEE IS A SPECIAL PLACE FILLED WITH BREATHTAKING SCENERY, WARM PEOPLE AND A UNIQUE HISTORY. THAT’S WHY SEVIERVILLE AND THE SMOKY MOUNTAINS HAVE SERVED AS INSPIRATION FOR SOME OF TENNESSEE’S GREATEST SONGS.

“IT COSTS A LOTTA MONEY TO LOOK THIS CHEAP” Dolly was born and raised in Sevierville and got her start in the music industry right downtown, singing live on the Cas Walker radio show. With her songs, she has described the beauty and richness of Sevierville and the Smoky Mountains and inspired many people to visit her “Smoky Mountain Home.” These days, visitors to Sevierville usually make a stop at the bronze statue of a young Dolly perched atop a rock with guitar in hand for a one-of-a-kind photo opportunity before visiting her Dollywood theme park.

SHOP TILL YOU DROPEven with her international appeal, Dolly Parton is only part of what draws people to visit Sevierville. Shopping in Sevierville is a must, especially because it is home to Tennessee’s largest authentic outlet mall, Tanger Outlets Sevierville. This massive complex features name-brand stores such as Coach, Polo Ralph Lauren, and more all stocked with designer merchandise. Of course, Sevierville also features unique stores – like Smoky Mountain Knife Works – a cutlery mega store that also specializes in historical items and even fossils!

FOR THE WHOLE FAMILYSevierville and the Great Smoky Mountains resort are packed with family-friendly activities to keep everyone busy. Catch a game with the Tennessee Smokies, then take a walk on the wild side at animal attractions like Rainforest Adventures—one of America’s

finest small zoos. See airworthy war bird aircraft and national treasures like the Doolittle Medal of Honor at the Tennessee Museum of Aviation then experience the “Best Golf in the Smokies” on The Sevierville Golf Club’s two brand new courses.

Whether you’re taking in the scenery by trail, in your car or on a helicopter flight with Scenic Helicopter Tours, natural beauty is synonymous with Sevierville and the Great Smoky Mountains. Views stretch for miles across the rolling foothills into Great Smoky Mountains National Park, America’s most visited national park. Here, warm smiles and genuine care for everyone are hallmarks of the area’s southern hospitality. For more information about visiting Sevierville, Tennessee, request a free vacation planner at VisitSevierville.com

VISIT THE PLACE THAT INSPIRES

DOLLY PARTON

SPONSORED


KNOXVILLE LIGHTS UP THE MOUNTAIN NIGHT AND WELCOMES GUESTS IN SEARCH OF GOOD MUSIC, SOUTHERN CUISINE, AND OLD-FASHIONED FUN.

ENTERTAINMENTKnoxville has plenty to offer in the culture department. Start by taking in some of the city’s music with Jazz on the Square, live performances in Market Square (Knoxville’s downtown hub). The Knoxville Symphony Orchestra is dessert for your ears, and the Tennessee State Company, which performs Shakespeare downtown, promises engaging drama.

DININGThere’s something for every craving and whim in Knoxville when it comes to dining out. Try some real Southern cooking at Bistro at the Bijou, or some pastry at Coffee & Chocolate downtown. The Downtown Grill & Brewery combines great beer with succulent seafood and steak straight off the mesquite grill. Tupelo Honey in Market Square features fantastic Southern cuisine like shrimp and grits and buttermilk biscuits, and The French Market serves up delicate crepes stuffed with every imaginable delight.

PARKS & OUTDOORS When spring blossoms in the mountains, Knoxville itself is a great destination for outdoor fun. The city’s many parks are a great place to start:

• World’s Fair Park - acres of flowers, streams, waterfalls, and wide open spaces for picnicking and relaxing

• The University of Tennessee Gardens - over 1,500 varieties of flowers

• Knoxville’s Outdoor Adventure Center at Volunteer Landing - a focal point for outdoor recreation, with canoe and bike rentals

• Knoxville’s Urban Wilderness - 1,000 acres of forested land along the waterfront where trails abound

Start your exploration at VisitKnoxville.com

Knoxville, Tennessee:City Beneath the Hills

VISITKNOXVILLE.COM

Chattanooga is engulfed in breathtaking scenery, nestled along the banks of the Tennessee River. It’s a safe, walkable city with an intense, compact vibrant downtown complete with a footbridge that crosses the Tennessee River.

Once you’ve arrived, park your car and navigate downtown on the free electric shuttle or by riding one of the 300 bicycles provided by the public Bicycle Transit System.

While you’re downtown, experience world-renowned hotspots like the Revitalized Riverfront, the Tennessee Aquarium, the Chattanooga Choo Choo, and the Bluff View Arts District amidst a variety of museums, galleries, and public art features. Historical attractions like the Chickamauga-Chattanooga National Military Park are worth a visit before traveling to the must-see Rock City Gardens, Ruby Falls, Chattanooga Zoo, Tennessee Valley Railroad, and Lake Winnepesaukah.

Festivals and events like Nightfall, Riverfront Nights, the Riverbend Music Festival, the 4 Bridges Arts Festival, RiverRocks, Spring Break Safari, and ChattaBOOga are ongoing year-round. Don’t forget to hit up the live music scene at Track 29 and Rhythm & Brews while you’re out and about.

Meanwhile, Chattanooga’s culinary scene has attracted food reviewers and culinary celebrities. You won’t want to miss a meal at St. John’s, 212 Market, Taco Mamacitas, Urban Stack, The Terminal Brewhouse, or Elemental.

When you’re ready for more outdoor adventures, try kayaking, hiking, and stand-up paddle boarding, whitewater rafting, hang gliding, or just taking a good old-fashioned walk around one of the many urban parks (or across the river).

For more information on charming Chattanooga, visit www.chattanoogafun.com.

CHATTANOOGA:The Scenic City

SPONSORED

CHATTANOOGAFUN.COM



FEW THINGS ARE SURER TO GET YOUR ENGINE REVVING THAN LIVE MUSIC AND CAR RACING. BRISTOL, TENNESSEE, BOASTS BOTH.

TAKING IN THE VIEWSThe official birthplace of Country Music, the city is home to the first commercial country music recordings in 1927. It was those famed sessions that launched the careers of icons, like Jimmie Rodgers and the Carter Family. To celebrate the history and importance of the town, the Smithsonian Institution affiliate, the Birthplace of Country Music Museum has recently opened its doors to country music novices and connoisseurs.

Looking for live performances? For everything from bluegrass and rock to symphonies and ballets, head to the Paramount Center for the Arts. This art deco movie palace has earned a spot on the National Register of Historic Places.

The Bristol Motor Speedway is one of the favorites of NASCAR fanatics, attracting over a million visitors annually. Drag racing fans have reason to come, as well; the races held at Bristol Dragway (aka Thunder Valley) are renowned for the booming noise that rolls through the hills with each race.

The town isn’t all loud music and fast automobiles. You can: • Bristol City Parks offers thousands of acres of hiking,

biking and walking trails. Check out Steele Creek and Sugar Hollow.

• Shop your way down State St. which offers antiques and specialty shops.

Want to find out more about action-packed or laid-back trip in Bristol? Plan your trip at MyBristolVisit.Com.

A Trip Through the History of

COUNTRY & CARS

MYBRISTOLVISIT.COM

SPONSORED


VIEW OTHER TRAVEL GUIDES

WIN A VACATION

SEE LOCAL EVENTS

ART DIRECTOR ....................................................Autumn Wood, Matt Baltzell

DIGITAL PROJECT MANAGER ..................................................... Darcy Griffin

CONTENT ................................................................Kate Burke, Autumn Wood

CLIENT MATERIALS COORDINATOR ............................................... Jana Furr

GRAPHIC DESIGNER ...............................................Matt Baltzell, Ashley Inzer

INTERACTIVE SERVICES ............................................................... Jake Gillikin

VP OF SALES & MARKETING ................................................Dustin Gontarski

DIGITAL MARKETING COORDINATOR Dianna Levin

PRESIDENT .......................................................................................J.Gary Ellis

CHIEF DIGITAL OFFICER ...................................................Kathleen Stockham

FINANCIAL ADMINISTRATOR .........................................................Brea Scott

Information in this publication is carefully compiled to ensure accuracy. However, the publisher does not assume responsibility for accuracy. No recommendation regarding the quality of goods and services is expressed or implied. Address: 175 Northshore Place, Gulf Shores, AL 36542. 251.968.4600. Copyright 2015 by Compass Media, Inc. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form or by any means – electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise—without the prior consent of Compass Media, Inc. Information in the sponsored sections is provided by the advertiser.

produced by

.COM



Documents

Mountain & Trail: Southeast Summer 2015