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Cashiers, NC

Nestled up in the Appalachian Mountains is the little village (it’s got maybe four stoplights) of Cashiers, NC. You can easily get there from Upstate SC or from Asheville or Brevard, NC or upper GA. The town is also not that far off of the Blue Ridge Parkway, so the town’s location affords you a great place to stay if you’ve been driving all day. A visit to Cashiers isn’t one for those hot on the trail of sightseeing, though adventure and sights are part of the town’s charm; Cashiers is more of a nature destination. Hiking Whiteside Mountain is one way to have a great time there, leaf season or no, and Sliding Rock, Moss Gap, Little Green Loop, and Turtleback Falls are great spots to take a dip in some *cold* mountain water. In terms of food, Cashiers doesn’t offer the most varied of options, but the Carolina Smokehouse is a great bet for anyone looking for some authentic Carolina BBQ. Cornucopia and The Orchard are popular grub stops, and the Wild Thyme Bakery is always slammed with visitors. The best place, for my vote, to get the most out of the mountains and your food options is October’s End, a short drive away, where you can eat while overlooking the Toxaway Falls. Or, of course, a picnic made from local grub at the Farmer’s Market. Note: Cashiers is located in a dry county, meaning you are not able to purchase alcohol at restaurants or in retail stores. You can bring your own alcohol to most restaurants, but it’s advised to purchase any alcohol before you get to Cashiers. Rent a cabin with your friends and enjoy canoeing, swimming, hiking, or just plain relaxing in a beautiful mountain locale!

Devil’s Fork State Park; Oconee County, SC

Getting lost on the trails at Devil’s Fork State Park with my buddies and my intrepid hound was one of the most pleasing memories from my time in grad school at Clemson University, and I’d encourage anyone else to take the trek there when possible (though hopefully you will not lose your camera or hike aimlessly in the dark like I/we did).  Devil’s Fork has a few hiking trails – maybe moderately taxing, mostly easy – which circle the beautiful Lake Jocassee, which is popular for fishing, boating and swimming (no lifeguards, by the way) in the warmer months. There’s even a patch of sand (which my dog loved) with a volleyball net available, not to mention paddle boats for rent in the summer! The drive to Devil’s Fork is part of the pleasure, as you drive through the scenic Cherokee Foothills Parkway (Highway 11), which can take you on to several beautiful areas of the Blue Ridge Parkway and Appalachian Mountains.  But staying at Devil’s Fork, if you’re inclined, in entirely an option, as there are cabins available for rent (check the reservations website for more info) and you can even bring your dog(s) and make it a fun-filled affair.  Wildlife and beautiful flora and fauna surround this serene area, which would be an ideal getaway on the cheap but majorly on the fun.

JR: Asheville, NC

Once known for it’s counter-culture mountain ways, Asheville, NC has taken on a glossier exterior. Hippie shops and a vintage vibe have now been replaced with gleaming high rises, pricey condos and a booming tourist industry. Never the less, Asheville remains an exciting and popular destination. The walkable downtown area is a great place to shop in boutiques, talk to quirky artists, visit galleries, drink at bars, and you could spend days just sampling the restaurants and cafes. You do not want to miss the Chocolate Fetish on Haywood Street; their truffles are pure heaven. For a taste of the new south, visit Tupelo Honey on College Street. If you can afford to splurge stay at a bed and breakfast in the historic Montford neighborhood, walking distance to downtown. For a truly indulgent experience add the Biltmore Estate to the itinerary (don’t forget to visit the gardens and the winery!). For outdoor enthusiasts: The Blue Ridge Parkway runs through Asheville and you can pick it up at many places. Hiking trails are easy to find. For the water adventurers: Head out to Brevard to go swimming at Sliding Rock or head down to Saluda to go tubing on the Green River.

Juror #2, M.F./Andalee

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