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Pickleball is a racket/paddle sport that was created by incorporating elements of other racket-style sports.  It was invented in the USA in 1965 and is known for being not only fun, but a social and friendly game as well.  It is easy and quick to learn for beginners with skills that can be honed for more competitive, experienced playing.  It can be played as singles or doubles and is enjoyed by all ages and skill levels.

Play Pickleball in Haywood County

Are you looking for a place to play in Haywood County.  Check out PlaytimeScheduler.com to see posted times, dates and locations where you can come join the game.

You are sure to have a ball!

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CLICK HERE to download your FREE REPORT how-to ‘Get your Biggest Bang for your Remodeling Buck.’

The National Association of Realtors, “Remodeling Impact” details what home improvements offer the best return on your investment. If you’d like to discuss these ideas further, please don’t hesitate to contact me for your real estate needs.

• Market trends in these changing times
• Pricing
• Staging before the sale

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Communities in Western North Carolina

All of these small town communities offer a variety of charm:

Maggie Valley borders the Great Smoky Mountains National Park where you can easily hop on the Blue Ridge Parkway for a gorgeous drive.  Go skiing in the winter at Cataloochee Ski Lodge or just stroll through town enjoying the many shops and restaurants.

Waynesville has big city entertainment at the Hart Theater as well as a mountain, trendy Main Street full of quaint shops, breweries and restaurants.

Bryson City has the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad with train rides through the Great Smoky Mountain National Park as well as the Smoky Mountains Trains Museum.

Enjoy a stroll (or work up a sweat) with a walk (or jog) around Lake Junaluska!  This is also a popular spot for bird watchers and photographers.  In the summer months, you can rent a paddle board or go swimming in their pool.  They also offer pickleball, tennis & basketball courts!

Canton is the second largest town in Haywood County.  This is a perfect place to enjoy some tubing through town on the Pigeon River.  Stop at Bearwaters Brewing for a bite to eat after your day on the river.

Take a trip through time at the Shook-Smathers House located in Clyde.  If you are looking for outdoor activities, enjoy a hike or go fishing at a trout farm.

Real Estate in Western North Carolina

If you are thinking about real estate sales in any of these areas, ask Lynda Bennett. She has been as a Realtor selling in the mountains of North Carolina for over 35 years from Hendersonville, NC to Sylva, NC and all areas in between. She lives and works in these mountains and would be happy to assist you with any of your real estate needs.

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Lynda Bennett

Top Real Estate Agent in Maggie Valley – Experience Matters

With all this knowledge and expertise, what an amazing real state professional to have right here in Maggie Valley at Better Homes and Gardens – Heritage.  Lynda works and lives in Maggie Valley and has over thirty years of experience in real estate.   There is truly no better top real estate agent to assist you with your property needs.  She has been selling in all communities from Hendersonville to Sylva and everything in between.

Real Estate Services

There is much to consider when buying or selling a home.  Talk with Lynda today to discuss your real estate options.  She can discuss price, market trends, marketing and even staging options.  Perhaps you are from out of town and unsure of the many offerings of our communities, chat with Lynda about all the communities have to offer.  You are under no obligation – she is just happy to talk real estate.

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When you purchase a home in Maggie Valley, NC, you’ll be within driving distance to all of these.  Which of these gorgeous heights have you visited or seen…

Shining Rock – 6,010 feet
Grassy Cove Top – 6, 055 feet
Tennet Mountain – 6,040 feet
Black Balsam Knob – 6,214 feet
Sams Knob – 6,055 feet
Rheinhart Knob – 6,095 feet
Richland Balsam – 6,410 feet
Cold Mountain – 6,030 feet
Waterrock Knob – 6,292 feet
Mt. Lynn Lowery – 6,290 feet
Plott Balsam – 6,088 feet
Mt. Guyot – 6,621 feet
Big Cataloochee – 6,180 feet

 
For other interesting Haywood County facts, check out these fast facts about Haywood County.

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Sliding Rock
Lower Falls, Graveyard Fields
Skinny Dip Falls
Midnight Hole
Looking Glass Falls
Deep Creek Tubing
Cedar Run
Sunburst
Turtleback Falls
Hooker Falls – Dupont State Park
Secret Falls

Look up more info and photos for each location Here…

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(Maggie Valley NC) Midnight Hole is a deep and scenic pool below a 6 foot waterfall.  The pool the falls are part of the Big Creek section of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.  Midnight hole is a popular swimming destination for adults, teens and families in he Great Smoky Mountains National Park near Maggie Valley NC.

(Maggie valley NC)

There are a number of large rocks around the pool, and due to it’s depth, jumping from the rocks into the pool is a very popular activity for the younger crowd.

We went on Tuesday, July 9th and arrived around 1:00pm with our 6 kids and two additional teens that were friends of our teens.  Midnight hole was pretty busy that day, with lots of families, teens and adults.   Adults, teens and children were basking on the rocks in the sun, wading in the shallow water below the falls, and of course jumping from the rocks into the pool below the falls.  Overall there was probably about 50 people there that day, much more than usual.

People of all ages were there.   We saw a few senior citizens just watching all the activity from the shore or while cooling off in the shallows.  A number of younger children, probably 5 – 9 were enjoying the shallow water while the pre-teens and teens hung out on the larger rocks near the falls and jumped into the water.

One of our sons taking the big plunge into the water.

Most of the adults were wading in the water, keeping an eye on their kids, but a few were jumping as well.  Our older teens spent most of their time jumping from the rocks.  The picture to the left is of my 18 year old and his friend, jumping from the tallest rock.

The water was pretty cold, but very refreshing, especially after the 1.5 mile hike in.  We stayed for about 3 hours, and our kids (and us) had a blast.   Just sitting on the rocks listening to the sounds of kids playing and the rush of the waterfall in the background was pure bliss.   We loving taking pictures, and I ended up shooting over 100 pictures that day.  The ones included here are just a few of the better pictures I took that day.   I really didn’t want to leave.

I’m really looking forward to hiking up during the fall, and getting some fall shots, which should be gorgeous.

How to get to Midnight Hole:
Midnight hole is on the Big Creek Trail in the Great Smoky Mountain national park.  Fortunately for us, it’s only about a 20-30 minute drive.

To get to the trailhead, Take I-40 to the Waterville Road Exit (#451). Turn left after crossing the Pigeon River and proceed 2.3 miles to an intersection. Continue straight through, pass the ranger station, and you’ll arrive at a large parking area at the road’s end.   The road into the park is a dirt/gravel road.   I can be a bit rough, but passable by any type of vehicle.  Just go slow and watch out for the pot holes.  Just before you enter the parking lot, you’ll see the Big Creek trail head to your right.

From the parking lot, follow Big Creek trail for about 1.4 miles.  Midnight hole will be on your your left.  You can’t miss it, as you’ll either hear the people swimming or hear the falls.

Hike to Midnight Hole – Great Smoky Mountain National Park

Next to the parking lot is a really nice picnic area next to Big Creek.  This is a great place for families with younger children, as the water is a great depth for wading and splashing.   Midnight hole has more shallow areas as well, but not many.  Most of the water areas in Midnight Hole are a 1 -2 feet, minimum and the current is fairly strong, so small children should be watched closely.   Our 7 year old daughter, who is small for her age, had no problems wading around in the shallows.

Big Creek Trail is an old railroad grade that was used to haul timber and lumber during the logging boom, prior to the area becoming Great Smoky Mountain National Park.  Horses are allowed on the trail, and while we haven’t seen any the times we’ve been there, I would recommend watching where you step, just in case!

Big Creek Trail is a relatively easy hike with a moderate incline walking to Midnight Hole.   The trail is really pretty and you’ll see and hear the wonderful sounds of Big Creek while walking.  The trail does get pretty steep to one side, so be careful.  We held our daughter’s hand during this part, just to be safe.  The walk is nice and shady the whole time, making for a cool walk.

You’ll likely encounter lots of people and families walking on the trail, either going to or coming back from the falls.  You’ll know you’re close to Midnight Hole when you cross the wooden bridge.   To get to the falls/swimming area, just walk down the narrow path to the left.  The trail is a bit rocky, so young children will probably need some help.

If you hike up the trail another 1/2 mile, you’ll come to Mouse Creek Falls.  The falls are 41 foot high, and just beautiful to see and take pictures of.  We didn’t make it that far, but definitely plan to pay it a visit when the leaves begin to turn.

Wrapping Up:
If you’re looking for a nice family hike, with a wonderful reward at the end, I’d definitely recommend Big Creek Trail and Midnight Hole.   The area is gorgeous, the water clean, cool and refreshing.   Adults will enjoy the scenery, sounds and water.  Kids will enjoy the water and all the water action.

Beautiful falls

Midnight Hole should definitely be on your list to visit when coming to Western NC mountains and the Great Smoky Mountain National Park.

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#AVL #Dining #FarmtoTable #Restaurants

25 Restaurants You Have To Visit In North Carolina Before You Die

Note: 4 Restaurants are less than an 1/2 hour drive from Maggie Valley and Waynesville NC – several more about an hour away!

25 Restaurants You Have To Visit In North Carolina Before You Die
North Carolina is a foodie paradise. You’ll find inventive, unique and locally-sourced restaurants in Asheville, fine dining at the top of a mountain, and even amazing eateries located in unassuming small towns. Nearly everywhere in North Carolina is home to a few amazing restaurants. But with so many to choose from – how does one even choose? Well, these 25 are an absolute MUST TRY, guaranteed to give you that ‘once in a lifetime’ experience.

1. Mateo, Durham

Mateo appears on almost every food blog as one of the best restaurants in North Carolina. Mixing Spanish tapas with a southern touch…you’ll get the best of both worlds in this extremely trendy and delicious restaurant.

2. Artisanal, Banner Elk
Artisanal uses a farm-to-table approach sourcing the freshest local ingredients for tasty, unique dishes. Make sure to grab a table May-Nov when Artisanal is open.

@RhubarbAsheville #AVL

3. Rhubarb, Asheville
Rhubarb is an award-winning, chic Asheville eatery that specializes in farm-to-table American fare. Stop by on Sunday nights for the ‘supper menu.’

4. Kindred, Davidson
Set among the quaint downtown district of Davidson, Kindred came on the scene and quickly rose to fame. This ‘chef-driven’ restaurant has an ever-changing menu that focuses on seasonal ingredients.
5. Herons, Cary

Located in an upscale hotel setting, Herons is perfect for a chic, five-star date night.

6. Angus Barn, Raleigh
Angus Barn is an amazing steakhouse in a unique location. If you’re looking for that perfect medium rare filet, go here!

7. Fearrington House Restaurant, Pittsboro
Exotic, creative, and unique cuisine awaits your taste buds in this rustic yet cozy farmhouse restaurant and hotel outside of Chapel Hill.

8. The Dining Room, Biltmore
Everyone deserves an elegant, five-star experience at least once. The Dining Room is perfect for that. All meat is farm-raised and the veggies come straight from the garden.

9. Chef and the Farmer, Kinston
You might have seen Chef and the Farmer on PBS…but behind the scenes, this amazing restaurant is worth the 2-3 month wait. Chef and the Farmer is the perfect mix of subtle southern cuisine with a uniquely elegant approach.

10. Snappy Lunch, Mt. Airy
Snappy Lunch is half the experience and half the amazing food. You’ll get the Mayberry vibe with Andy Griffith regalia adorning the walls. But you MUST order a pork chop sandwich!

11. B’s BBQ, Greenville
If you’re looking for some of the best Eastern style Q in the state…B’s BBQ should be top of your list!

12. Ryan’s Restaurant, Winston-Salem
Ryan’s is a steak with a view. Located amidst dense greenery, you’ll love the cozy setting. Ryan’s pairs delicious dishes with an extensive wine menu. It’s perfect for date night, celebrating with friends and family, or a Friday night out.

13. The Gamekeeper Restaurant and Bar, Boone
You haven’t experienced high country dining until you’ve tried Gamekeeper. Specializing in a wide selection of game, this rustic mountain eatery is a mingling of elegance and Appalachia charm.

14. The Copper Door, Hayesville
The Copper Door is a quality steakhouse that won’t break your budget. Intimate yet rustic, it’s perfect for date night.

15. On the Square, Tarboro
Located in one of the oldest towns in the state, On the Square specializes in urban-inspired dishes minus the urban setting. Their fresh, ever-changing menu always offers something new. On the Square is a perfect mix of fine dining, yet comfortable and approachable.

16. Lexington Barbecue, Lexington
Located in the birthplace of Lexington BBQ, ‘the honemonk’ is THE place to stop for the best Lexington style Q.

@curatetapasbar #AVL #Dining

17. Cúrate, Asheville
There’s no denying Asheville is a foodie haven. One must-stop is Cúrate. Enjoy uniquely delicious spanish inspired tapas.

18. Amos Mosquito’s, Atlantic Beach
On your next trip to the Crystal Coast…you must try Amos Mosquito’s. Everything (besides the ketchup) is made from scratch in-house or locally sourced. It’s a meal you won’t forget. Not to mention the waterside patio is perfect for summer nights.

19. Heritage Food & Drink, Waxhaw
While Charlotte has plenty of amazing restaurants, you won’t mind driving to the suburbs to try Heritage. All ingredients are locally sourced and the plating is a pure work of art.

20. Colington Cafe, Kill Devil Hills
Colington is consistently ranked as the number one dining spot on the Outer Banks. You’ll find it nestled beneath 300-year-old oak trees. Colington specializes in elegant dishes without sacrificing traditional, comfortable roots. Order up some fresh seafood and experience the best OBX has to offer.

21. Dame’s Chicken and Waffles, Durham
If you’re a lover of chicken and waffles, or just soulful southern comfort food…Dame’s should be top of your list. So much deliciousness!

22. Price’s Chicken Coop, Charlotte
And for some of the best fried chicken you’ll ever have in your life…you have to visit the famous Price’s in the Queen City.

23. Johnson’s Drive-In, Siler City
This no-frills, straight up joint is like stepping back in time. There’s plenty of award-winning ‘burger restaurants’ in North Carolina…but the best one you’ll find in the state is at Johnson’s.

@NOC #WNCMountains

24. River’s End Restaurant, Bryson City
For a restaurant with a view, River’s End is one of the best. Located at the Nantahala Outdoor Center, each seat promises a riverside view.Enjoy classic breakfast dishes like Fontana Hash Browns, or a hearty lunch after a morning of kayaking.

25. Fiction Kitchen, Raleigh
For some of the best vegan and vegetarian dishes you’ll find in the Tar Heel state…you have to try Fiction Kitchen.
What did you think of our list? Did your favorite make the cut? Tell us in the comments!

#AVL dining @Curates

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