Sapphire Valley
Sapphire Valley
Syndicate
SapphireValley: Did you know??
Interesting factsabout our area : There are 82 mountain peaks between 5,000 to 6,000 feet (1,500-1,800 m) in elevation in western North Carolina, and 43 peaks rise to over 6,000 feet (1,800 m). Among the subranges of the Appalachian Mountains located in western North Carolina are the Great Smoky Mountains, Blue Ridge Mountains, Great Balsam Mountains, Great Craggy Mountains, the Plott Balsams, and the Black Mountains. Mount Mitchell, in the Black Mountains, is, at 6,684 feet (2,037 m), the highest point in eastern North America.[5] Valley locations are typically closer to 2,000 feet (610 m) AMSL.
The French Broad River is the largest river in the region; others include the Little Tennessee River and Swannanoa River. The Eastern Continental Divide runs through the region, dividing Tennessee-bound streams from those flowing through the Carolinas.
Source: Wikipedia
The newest place to read about the history of Sapphire Valley, places to eat, things do along with a complete Sapphire Valley Events Calendar! Go Here!
Sapphire Valley is located in Western North Carolina in the Smoky Mountains! Just a few hours from Atlanta, Augusta, Columbia, Charlotte and other areas in the Southeast! Come for a visit!
Sapphire Valley: 2013 Tour de Cashiers
2013 Tour de Cashiers
Saturday May 4
The Tour de Cashiers has a rich heritage... More than 20 years ago organizer Clark Moore gathered a small group of enthusiasts in front of the Cashiers Area Chamber of Commerce and set off on an 11-mile route across the area's scenic mountain byways.
For 2013, we offer the same great routes we have used in 2012, including the very scenic re-route of the Full Century. Last year's riders will remember its mountain lakes and views of rugged gorges, and that it no longer includes the tough Charley Creek climbs.
Early Spring in our mountains is a time of cool mornings, warm afternoons, wild flowers and flowering shrubs, and dramatic differences in leafing at different elevations – which our riders will experience along their courses. Summer residents begin returning, and the stores and restaurants are reopened. But the pace (and traffic) are at a lower level than in mid-Summer. In short, an ideal time for a solid, supported bike ride in the mountains, and for any non-riding family members to come visit also. REGISTER NOW!
The newest place to read about the history of Sapphire Valley, places to eat, things do along with a complete Sapphire Valley Events Calendar! Go Here!
Sapphire Valley is located in Western North Carolina in the Smoky Mountains! Just a few hours from Atlanta, Augusta, Columbia, Charlotte and other areas in the Southeast! Come for a visit!
Sapphire Valley: Cashiers Transportation Plan Approved
Cashiers Transportation Plan Approved
Staff Writer Cashiers Chronicle
The Jackson County Board of Commissioners approved the Cashiers Transportation Plan during its work session meeting Monday afternoon.
With the board’s approval, the plan will now be included in the Jackson County Comprehensive Transportation Plan. For inclusion on the county plan, the board held
a public hearing during the work session meeting
The Cashiers Area Chamber of Commerce sent a letter in support the plan. Signed by Ken Fernandez, Chamber board of directors president, the letter urges the board to endorse the plan.
“This collaborative strategic document outlines priority projects, in the categories of roadway, pathway and policy, designed to improve mobility and aesthetics of the Cashiers Village
Center and crossroads area,” Fernandez wrote. “With your timely support, these consensual transportation- related recommendations can be presented to the North Carolina and U.S. Departments of Transportation or funding consideration.”
The board of commissioners unanimously approved the plan, after one Cashiers resident spoke during the hearing.
Lou Blanc of Cashiers spoke about concerns he had over the sidewalk currently under construction on Frank Allen Road potentially impeding on his property. The board assured him that the plans for the sidewalk only go to the new Cashiers/Glenville Recreation Center and
would not intrude on his property.
The transportation plan focuses on three areas including roads, pathways and policy. The final plan is the product of a Mountain Landscapes Initiative Project of 2007-2008 led by the Southwestern Commission. After the MLI plan was completed, the Cashiers Village Council was formed and took up some of the recommendations of the study. A public work shop was held in the transportation plan in October 2011.
Design firm Fuss & O’Neill, of Manchester, Conn., produced the final plan.
With approval from the county, the hope is that the Cashiers Village Council can begin to seek funding for the projects in the plan from the NC DOT and other sources.
The vision in the plan is to establish roads and walking paths in the town to redevelop the character of Highways 107 and 64 to make Cashiers resemble more of a village Main Street
than a rural state highway. Recommendations in the plan include connector roads between Highways 107 and 64 in all four quadrants of the village. Frank Allen Road already serves
as a connector for one quadrant.
The plan also includes roundabouts at the four outer entrances to the community that would serve to slow traffic.
A final roundabout is also planned at the crossroads that would be larger and include welcome signage.
Sidewalks and more natural walking paths through the area are also included. Sidewalks are recommended along N.C. 107 and U.S. 64, with a top priority being to establish walking
paths to the Ingles Shopping Center.
Other natural trails area included such as connection to the Village Green trail along Frank Allen Road. “This is just a true wish list that can be added to the county’s Comprehensive Transportation Plan,” said county commissioner and Cashiers representative Mark Jones after the meeting Monday.
He said implementation of the plans would be based on funding and that it is likely that it could be 10 to 15 years before the roundabouts and other aspects of the plan become a reality.
**Article from the Cashiers Crossroads Chronicle
The newest place to read about the history of Sapphire Valley, places to eat, things do along with a complete Sapphire Valley Events Calendar! Go Here!
Sapphire Valley is located in Western North Carolina in the Smoky Mountains! Just a few hours from Atlanta, Augusta, Columbia, Charlotte and other areas in the Southeast! Come for a visit!
Sapphire Valley: Understanding Amenity Card Requirements
Amenity Cards Required for most Sapphire Valley Resort Activities
Please call the Sapphire Valley Community Center (828-743-7663) should you have any questions about access to Sapphire Valley facilities.
Resort homeowners and rental housing areas (the hotel, timeshare developments, and homeowners that rent) maintain 'membership' in the Sapphire Valley Master Association which manages all the Sapphire Valley resorts amenities. This membership provides for an amenity card that provides access to the amenities. If you are renting on the Sapphire Valley resort from an individual or property manager, be sure to inquire as to the status of a Sapphire Valley Amenity Card.
Sapphire National Golf Club and the Red Bird Golf Course are open to the public. All restaurants in Sapphire Valley are also open to the public.
Dates and times for events are subject to change or cancellation. Phone 828 743 7663 Email: SVMA@aol.com
The newest place to read about the history of Sapphire Valley, places to eat, things do along with a complete Sapphire Valley Events Calendar! Go Here!
Sapphire Valley is located in Western North Carolina in the Smoky Mountains! Just a few hours from Atlanta, Augusta, Columbia, Charlotte and other areas in the Southeast! Come for a visit!
Sapphire Valley: Ski Sapphire Valley Outhouse Races
"Toward the end of each ski season we all get a little restless and look for a bit of excitement, so we decided to do what comes naturally...race outhouses on ski’s down a hill! Crazy? Maybe. Dangerous? Perhaps. Fun? Without a doubt! For a good cause? Definitely! This is an event to raise funds to sponsor ski scholarships for children that don’t have the opportunity to attend our after school ski programs."
This year it's February 16th...so mark your calendars!! Videos below...
The newest place to read about the history of Sapphire Valley, places to eat, things do along with a complete Sapphire Valley Events Calendar! Go Here!
Sapphire Valley is located in Western North Carolina in the Smoky Mountains! Just a few hours from Atlanta, Augusta, Columbia, Charlotte and other areas in the Southeast! Come for a visit!
Sapphire Valley: Ski Sapphire Valley History
The Ski Sapphire Valley Ski Area was built in 1964! The Howerdd Family, owners of the Sapphire Valley Resort at that time, decided to build a southern ski slope!
Ski Sapphire Valley’s First Run
This image is the first recorded run on the new Ski Sapphire Valley slopes in late 1964! Mr. Gene Howerdd, Jr. also built Hogback Lake that same year. Anyone who purchased a lot on the new lake received free passes to the new Ski Sapphire Valley ski area!
The old Fairfield Inn was in operation and many southeastern visitors got their first exposure to snow skiing here.
Ski Sapphire Valley Base Lodge
An old farm house at the base of the new slopes provided the perfect location for the first Ski Sapphire Valley base lodge. The Ski Sapphire Valley base lodge would always have a fire in the fireplace and cheese fondue and wine for the adults!
An adjacent 'warming hut' with an old free standing fireplace provided a place for skiers to warm up and get back on the slopes.
The original fireplace, which SkiSapphireValley owns, was salvaged and has been stored for over 30 years! We hope to bring it out of storage and re-install it, soon, at a new facility to be announced later this year.
The newest place to read about the history of Sapphire Valley, places to eat, things do along with a complete Sapphire Valley Events Calendar! Go Here!
Sapphire Valley is located in Western North Carolina in the Smoky Mountains! Just a few hours from Atlanta, Augusta, Columbia, Charlotte and other areas in the Southeast! Come for a visit!
Sapphire Valley: Gorgeous Hike
Looking for a scenic, moderate hike….
Whiteside Mountain, designated a National Recreation Trail, is about 390 to 460 million years old. It is a "moderate" two mile loop trail takes you on top of sheer 750-foot high cliffs (plenty of railings for safety) with outstanding views to the east, south, and west.
Begin the hike on the trail that leads uphill behind the sign boards. It starts out fairly steep, but soon merges with an old roadbed which isn't as difficult. Follow this road uphill about a mile to the top.
At the top, you will see the first of several overlooks breathtaking vistas. The trail continues about along the ridge of the mountain, with plenty of places to enjoy the views from the rock face.
During the spring and summer, you may see peregrine falcons flying above or sitting on rock outcrops. The falcon was reintroduced in 1985 to Whiteside Mountain, through the endangered species program, part of the bird’s native range. From January until summer, peregrines—one of the world’s fastest and most beautiful birds— return annually to nest on rock ledges. Because peregrines are nervous parents, climbing routes near nesting sites are closed during nesting.
The trail will reach the summit rock outcropping about halfway along the cliffs. A triangular-shaped overlook with a large rock sticking up marks the spot, and on the back of the rock the name of the mountain and elevation is carved in. The trees - mostly oaks with a few pines, maples and other hardwoods thrown in - are short and stumpy, and mountain laurel grows abundantly all around the area.
After going downhill for a bit from the summit, you start to get a view back toward the highest point on the mountain and of its highest cliffs. The best view of the cliffs themselves is next, from a concrete slab platform which appears on the right on a side trail, jutting out over the mountainside. This old overlook is the final safe place to enjoy the view, so get your fill before continuing on.
This final segment of the hike is much wider, with no views. But you'll be traveling through a very pleasant forest, much different from the one at the summit. It's a cooler, moister place, and grass sometimes grows in open areas between the trees and rhododendron. You'll see many more northern hardwoods such as birch and beech.
What a fantastically beautiful hike and a great way to spend a morning or afternoon!
Some info courtesy of Hike WNC and Romantic Asheville.com
The newest place to read about the history of Sapphire Valley, places to eat, things do along with a complete Sapphire Valley Events Calendar! Go Here!
Sapphire Valley is located in Western North Carolina in the Smoky Mountains! Just a few hours from Atlanta, Augusta, Columbia, Charlotte and other areas in the Southeast! Come for a visit!
Sapphire Valley: Arts and Crafts Festival
Sapphire Valley Arts and Crafts Show
Sapphire Valley's Community Center is hosting its' annual Arts and Crafts Show on December 1st and 2nd from 10 am to 5pm. Special selected vendors will be participating from all over the area, so be sure to check out the rarity items available!!!
For more info call (828) 743-7663
The newest place to read about the history of Sapphire Valley, places to eat, things do along with a complete Sapphire Valley Events Calendar! Go Here!
Sapphire Valley is located in Western North Carolina in the Smoky Mountains! Just a few hours from Atlanta, Augusta, Columbia, Charlotte and other areas in the Southeast! Come for a visit!
Sapphire Valley: Real or Artificial
Real or Artificial.... Christmas Tree that is!!
Did you know that the first artificial Christmas trees were actually made in the early 1930′s by a company called Addis Brush? They were in the business of making toilet scrubbers and brushes. So, the first fake trees were really nothing more than gigantic, green toilet bowl scrubbers. Imagine that! It’s pretty funny to think about now.
Since their invention, artificial trees have continued to gain widespread popularity. In 2007 alone, almost 18 million were sold here in the U.S. That should hardly be surprising especially in tough economic times. It’s commonly believed that buying an artificial Christmas tree saves money. You invest the money once, and use the tree year after year. Plus, you help the environment by saving a tree from being cut down.
So really, buying an artificial tree over a real one is a no brainer, right?
Well, not really. There are advantages and disadvantages to both sides of the “real” versus “fake” debate when it comes to Christmas trees. Let’s look at the various pros and cons so you can make the best decision for you and your family this holiday season.
Advantages
1. One of the biggest advantages of using artificial trees is the cost savings. As I mentioned earlier, once you invest the money you’re done. You can use the tree year after year.
2. Artificial trees are convenient. All you need to do is drag it out of your attic, basement or garage once a year and you’re good to go. It’s always that “perfect shape”, and you don’t have to worry about haggling with the Christmas tree lot salesman to get a good deal. The trees don’t need any watering and won’t scatter mounds of messy needles all over the floor.
Disadvantages
The bad news is that there are a lot of disadvantages to using artificial Christmas trees, many of which you probably didn’t know about.
1. Artificial trees are made from PVC plastic. Researchers believe that millions of artificial trees, especially older models, could be harboring lead, which can easily spread inside the home. Furthermore, PVC plastics release dioxins over time. These dioxins are extremely toxic to both humans and animals. When they’re released into the air or water, they’re stored in our fatty tissue and can cause cancer, neurological damage, and many other serious health issues.
2. PVC is a petroleum-based, non-biodegradable plastic. Once you throw your artificial tree away, it’s going to be in the landfill forever. And because the plastic fibers are fused and glued to the metal frame, artificial trees can’t be recycled.
3. Over 85% of all the artificial trees sold in the U.S. come from China. This not only adds to the carbon footprint, but it means we’re buying (yet again) more products from China instead of something that’s produced here in the U.S.
4. Fake trees are a fire hazard. The Farmington Hills, MI fire department conducted a burn test to see which was more dangerous in a fire: an artificial tree or a real tree. Take a look at what happened.
(Content Courtesy of Money Crashers)
For environmental pros and cons Click here!
The newest place to read about the history of Sapphire Valley, places to eat, things do along with a complete Sapphire Valley Events Calendar! Go Here!
Sapphire Valley is located in Western North Carolina in the Smoky Mountains! Just a few hours from Atlanta, Augusta, Columbia, Charlotte and other areas in the Southeast! Come for a visit!
Sapphire Valley: Frozen Falls Tube Park in Ski Sapphire Valley
The entire family will enjoy this 700 foot run with a vertical drop of 60 feet! Attendants and an easy rope tow get you and your tube to the top and off you go. So much fun!!!
The tubing sessions are for 1.75 hours and do sell out quickly. As they are on a first come, first served basis, you should inquire at least one hour before you would like to tube.
Groups are welcomed and encouraged to pre-book your outing to secure a time and date! See the Group Info lower in this page.
Tube Park Rates:
1.75 Hour Sessions
Public Rate: $24
Amenity Rate: $18
Public Group Rate: $20
Have a snow tubing party!!!
Come join us at Ski Sapphire Valley's Frozen Falls Tube Park for your next big party. Ski Sapphire provides discounted tubing tickets, private room reserved for your party, drinks, chips, choice of pizza or chicken tenders for just $6.00(food cost).
The newest place to read about the history of Sapphire Valley, places to eat, things do along with a complete Sapphire Valley Events Calendar! Go Here!
Sapphire Valley is located in Western North Carolina in the Smoky Mountains! Just a few hours from Atlanta, Augusta, Columbia, Charlotte and other areas in the Southeast! Come for a visit!