C
Carol Thompson
Guest
- Thread Author
- #1
Most of our trips begin with a single goal in mind and then unfold into something far richer than expected. What started as a simple getaway to a concert of a favorite band turned into a layered mountain adventure — one filled with close encounters, scenic wonders, and moments that reminded us why the Blue Ridge has such a lasting pull.
My husband and I kicked off our recent road trip in Weaverville, North Carolina, a charming mountain town just north of Asheville, where our adventure literally took flight.
We spent an incredible morning with Jeff and Samantha from Curtis Wright Falconry, learning the ancient art of falconry under their watchful eyes and alongside magnificent birds. Having a hawk glide onto your gloved hand — feeling the power of its talons and the grace of its wings — was simply unforgettable.
It left us both awestruck and even more deeply appreciative of these wild creatures. It’s also wonderfully kid-friendly, offering families a rare chance to connect with nature up close. This adventure had been on my radar for years, and I’m so thankful we finally did it.
While in Weaverville, we also made a short stop at the Vance Birthplace State Historic Site. This quiet, informative visit offered a glimpse into the region’s 19th-century life and the legacy of Zebulon Vance, a Civil War governor and later U.S. senator.
Walking the grounds and seeing the reconstructed homestead helped us appreciate how deep the roots run here in the Blue Ridge. It added another layer of meaning to our time in the mountains.
From there, we slowly drove through the picturesque Pisgah National Forest toward Grandfather Mountain, a rugged icon of the Blue Ridge. It’s famous for its sweeping vistas, jaw-dropping Mile-High Swinging Bridge, unique rock formations, and unforgettable encounters with wildlife.
The thrilling views in the middle of the Mile-High Swinging Bridge.
We crossed the bridge on foot, taking in its dizzying views, snapped lots of pictures, and enjoyed the clean but crisp breeze blowing at that high elevation.
As we drove back down the mountain, we visited the Animal Discovery Center to see cougars, eagles, elk, bears, and otters up close. We also explored Split Rock and Sphinx Rock, striking natural formations that feel almost otherworldly. One look and visitors can tell how the names were derived.
One unexpected delight was my husband running the Forrest Gump Curve, right where they filmed that iconic scene — an absolute treat since it’s one of our favorite movies. The weather was beautiful, and we kept pulling over, drawn out of the car by views too good to rush past.
Because we made so many extra scenic stops along the way, we didn’t manage our time wisely and missed some waterfalls on our itinerary. But that’s not something I regret — always take the stop.
If you go, plan to see Elk River Falls and Linville Falls. My friends’ photos are breathtaking, and waterfalls always seem to heal the soul a bit.
We wrapped up our journey in Beech Mountain, the town with the highest elevation in eastern America. Often known for skiing, this spot also becomes a lively summer retreat during the warmer months.
Catching a wild bear on a stroll around town in Beech Mountain.
After checking into our cabin, we explored downtown, rode the scenic lift, and played a fun round of mini golf. Best of all, a bear unexpectedly crossed right in front of us — a heart-racing reminder of just how wild these mountains still are.
Other activities included biking on the slopes, hiking, disc golf, and fishing.
We originally decided on this area because of a band my husband and I wanted to see in person, and the rest of the trip evolved from there. The concert popped up on my social media feed one day, held in a place we’d never explored or thought to. We were up for the new experience, so we booked it, and that was that.
That evening, we spread out our blankets for an outdoor concert with the Red Clay Strays, music echoing through the hills. The venue was cool, literally on the ski slopes in front of a stage. (No pun intended!)
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Whether you come for the wildlife, the hikes, or music under the stars, Western North Carolina worked its magic once again — mixing natural beauty, adventure, and simple joys into a trip we’ll never forget.
Photos by Carol Thompson
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About the Author: Carol Thompson is a Georgia-based writer and retired educator who spent over three decades helping students discover the joy of reading. Now an author of six books and numerous magazine and web articles, she writes about travel, nature, family life, and meaningful everyday experiences. When she isn’t writing, Carol can be usually found on her small farmette caring for miniature donkeys, playing with grandchildren, or planning her next adventure.
The post Falconry, Concerts, and a Bear, Oh My! A Scenic North Carolina Road Trip appeared first on Road Trips For Families.
My husband and I kicked off our recent road trip in Weaverville, North Carolina, a charming mountain town just north of Asheville, where our adventure literally took flight.
Avian Adventures at Curtis Wright Falconry
We spent an incredible morning with Jeff and Samantha from Curtis Wright Falconry, learning the ancient art of falconry under their watchful eyes and alongside magnificent birds. Having a hawk glide onto your gloved hand — feeling the power of its talons and the grace of its wings — was simply unforgettable.
It left us both awestruck and even more deeply appreciative of these wild creatures. It’s also wonderfully kid-friendly, offering families a rare chance to connect with nature up close. This adventure had been on my radar for years, and I’m so thankful we finally did it.
While in Weaverville, we also made a short stop at the Vance Birthplace State Historic Site. This quiet, informative visit offered a glimpse into the region’s 19th-century life and the legacy of Zebulon Vance, a Civil War governor and later U.S. senator.
Walking the grounds and seeing the reconstructed homestead helped us appreciate how deep the roots run here in the Blue Ridge. It added another layer of meaning to our time in the mountains.
Exploring Grandfather Mountain
From there, we slowly drove through the picturesque Pisgah National Forest toward Grandfather Mountain, a rugged icon of the Blue Ridge. It’s famous for its sweeping vistas, jaw-dropping Mile-High Swinging Bridge, unique rock formations, and unforgettable encounters with wildlife.
The thrilling views in the middle of the Mile-High Swinging Bridge.
We crossed the bridge on foot, taking in its dizzying views, snapped lots of pictures, and enjoyed the clean but crisp breeze blowing at that high elevation.
As we drove back down the mountain, we visited the Animal Discovery Center to see cougars, eagles, elk, bears, and otters up close. We also explored Split Rock and Sphinx Rock, striking natural formations that feel almost otherworldly. One look and visitors can tell how the names were derived.
One unexpected delight was my husband running the Forrest Gump Curve, right where they filmed that iconic scene — an absolute treat since it’s one of our favorite movies. The weather was beautiful, and we kept pulling over, drawn out of the car by views too good to rush past.
Because we made so many extra scenic stops along the way, we didn’t manage our time wisely and missed some waterfalls on our itinerary. But that’s not something I regret — always take the stop.
If you go, plan to see Elk River Falls and Linville Falls. My friends’ photos are breathtaking, and waterfalls always seem to heal the soul a bit.
Bidding Farewell in Beech Mountain
We wrapped up our journey in Beech Mountain, the town with the highest elevation in eastern America. Often known for skiing, this spot also becomes a lively summer retreat during the warmer months.
Catching a wild bear on a stroll around town in Beech Mountain.
After checking into our cabin, we explored downtown, rode the scenic lift, and played a fun round of mini golf. Best of all, a bear unexpectedly crossed right in front of us — a heart-racing reminder of just how wild these mountains still are.
Other activities included biking on the slopes, hiking, disc golf, and fishing.
We originally decided on this area because of a band my husband and I wanted to see in person, and the rest of the trip evolved from there. The concert popped up on my social media feed one day, held in a place we’d never explored or thought to. We were up for the new experience, so we booked it, and that was that.
That evening, we spread out our blankets for an outdoor concert with the Red Clay Strays, music echoing through the hills. The venue was cool, literally on the ski slopes in front of a stage. (No pun intended!)
—
Whether you come for the wildlife, the hikes, or music under the stars, Western North Carolina worked its magic once again — mixing natural beauty, adventure, and simple joys into a trip we’ll never forget.
Helpful Links for Your Own Adventure
- Curtis Wright Falconry
- Grandfather Mountain
- Beech Mountain Tourism
- Linville Falls
- Elk River Falls
Photos by Carol Thompson
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The post Falconry, Concerts, and a Bear, Oh My! A Scenic North Carolina Road Trip appeared first on Road Trips For Families.
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