Western North Carolina

Clingman's Dome

2010-04-03T13:20:00.000-07:00

Free landscape desktop wallpaper image of Clingman's Dome covered in fog at sunset in the Smoky Mountains National Park. This image was taken by nature and landscape photographer, Dave Allen.

Pretty Place Chapel

2009-10-30T12:09:00.000-07:00

Fred W. Symmes Chapel (also known as "Pretty Place" because of its amazing view) is one of the many buildings that make up YMCA Camp Greenville. It was given by Mr. Fred W. Symmes for the enjoyment of the boys (and now girls) who camp here each summer and is the spiritual center of the camp. The current chapel was constructed in 1941 with several additions and improvements made in subsequent years. Camp Greenville has been in existence since 1912 and covers 1600 acres. It is a year-round operation serving as a Summer Camp, Environmental Education Center, Group & Conference Center, and facility for weddings.
The Chapel is located on private property owned by the YMCA Camp Greenville (a branch of the YMCA of Greenville, SC). Camp Greenville welcomes visitors to enjoy the beauty of the Chapel during daylight - except when it is in use for a Camp event (Sunday morning worship services by campers or groups), or for another reserved event (weddings, dedications, memorial services, etc.). Typically the chapel is booked throughout the day on Saturday and Sunday. We strongly recommend calling the camp office to check the schedule prior to visiting to avoid conflicts with weddings or other privately scheduled events at Pretty Place!
Fees for use of the chapel help to maintain the area, as well as assist with camperships (scholarships to help provide experiences for children who might otherwise not be able to enjoy a camp experience due to some type of hardship). Donations are welcome. Please contact the camp office at 864.836.3291 for information regarding contributions.
We hope you enjoy the peace and serenity you will experience upon visiting the Symmes Chapel - "Pretty Place"!

2009-10-29T06:47:00.000-07:00

Carl Sandburg Home

2009-10-29T06:45:00.000-07:00

Carl Sandburg was a famous poet who moved to Flat Rock, NC in 1945 to have peace and solitude and to have a spectacular place to continue his writings.
The estate was named "Connemara". Carl Sandburg published over one third of his works while living at Connemara, and it was at this house that he died of natural causes in 1967.
His wife, Lillian raised prized Chikaming dairy goats on the vast property. People have been coming to Connemara to see the goats for many years, and they are still there today!
Today at the Carl Sandburg Home
Today the Carl Sandburg Home is a National Historic site. The estate offers a beautiful place to go when you want to get away, a world away. There are over 5 miles of hiking trails on 264 acres, including 2 ponds, pastures and 2 mountains.
This area is very popular during the leaf season and offers a beautiful view of Hendersonville's fall foliage.
The park is open from 9am to sunset all year long. Tours of the historic home are offered daily. Visitors are encouraged to tour the grounds and enjoy the beautiful solitude it has to offer.
Park entrance is free of charge. Guided house tours are $5 for adults and $3 for seniors. Children 15 and under are free.

Fall Foliage

2009-10-29T06:41:00.000-07:00

Each year many people come to Hendersonville, North Carolina to experience the fall foliage and the spectacular display of beauty and diversity in nature.
This time of the year is a busy time for visitors who want to explore Western North Carolina and enjoy the vibrant colors of the fall leaf change. The scenic drives along the Blue Ridge Parkway and elsewhere during the fall season are mesmerizing and out of this world beautiful.
The fall color season begins at the end of September and goes through the end of October; however, some tourists will come in late September or early November to miss the crowds.

The difference in the elevation here in Hendersonville and the many different species of trees found here in the Blue Ridge Mountains are what make the autumn views exceptionally good in this area of Western North Carolina. The peak in color changes to different areas from week to week depending on the elevation, which means there are always areas to visit that are in the peak of thier transition.
Each fall season the trees in the deciduous forest respond to shorter days and cooler nights by beginning preparations for their dormant winter ahead.
This festival of color offered by nature's changing of the leaves is certainly one of the greatest shows on earth, making this area a spectacular destination for any trip during the fall season.

Mill Shoal Falls

2009-10-28T15:34:00.000-07:00

Spirit Bear

2009-10-26T12:30:00.001-07:00

Fall Foliage from the Blue Ridge Parkway...

2009-10-26T08:27:00.000-07:00

Dry Falls Re-opens

2009-10-26T08:25:00.000-07:00

Now Open - 2 Miles From Highlands - A Must See When The Leaves Change In Fall

Now is the time to visit the Biltmore Estate

2009-10-26T08:21:00.000-07:00

The Biltmore House is open to guests as a museum house and has guided tours available.The Gardens at the estate are worth the trip by themselves. Designed by America's foremost landscape architect Fredrick Law Olmsted, the gardens are expertly cared for and a tribute to Olmsted's genius.The Winery has been operational since 1985 producing award winning estate wines, with wine tasting and a store on the premises.

Historic Poinsett's Bridge

2009-10-24T13:41:00.000-07:00

Pretty Place Chapel

2009-10-24T13:37:00.000-07:00

Pretty Place Chapel on a striking autumn day at the edge of the mountains

Visit the Blue Ridge Parkway this fall!

2009-10-24T13:32:00.000-07:00

Right now the drive along the Blue Ridge Parkway is spectacular! So many great places to stop along the way! Devils Courthouse is located on mile marker 422 on the Blue Ridge Parkway. It is a rather strenuous half mile hike to the peak, where a panoramic view of the area can be seen. This view covers four states; North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, and Georgia.
Devils Courthouse gets its name from its devilish looks and many folk tales surrounding this mountain. Within the mountain is a cave with a history of Cherokee folklore about Judaculla, a slant-eyed giant that is said to dwell there. Folk tales also say that the devil, Judaculla, holds court in his chamber in the cave.

Carl Sandburg Home

2009-10-24T07:25:00.000-07:00

Graveyard Fields

2009-10-24T07:24:00.001-07:00

Graveyard Fields is one of the most popular hiking spots on the Blue Ridge Parkway on mile marker 418. This flat high mountain valley is located where the Yellowstone Prong of the Pigeon River originates. Graveyard Fields has many uprooted trees and tree stumps left by loggers the gives the appearance of several grave sites all over.
Graveyard Fields offers extensive trails for both day hikes and overnight hikes. These trails takes you through Black Balsam mountain to the Yellowstone Prong which leads up to two of the three waterfalls there, Second Falls and Upper Falls. This site is more barren looking than most places on the parkway from an intense fire that happened in 1925 to a recently logged area. This area can be rather crowded on weekends.

Looking Glass Rock

2009-10-24T07:23:00.001-07:00

Looking Glass Rock is a spectacular view from mile 417 on the Blue Ridge Parkway. Although it looks impossible to climb, there are many rock climbers that come here for what is considered one of the most strenuous climbs in our area. Fortunately for hikers there are easier ways to the top.
Looking Glass Rock is known for it's sheer face comprised of exposed Whiteside granite. Looking Glass refers to the way the surface reflects the sun like a mirror when rainwater freezes on its surface. Hikers, climbers, birders and photographers all enjoy coming here for the fantastic views.

Triple Falls

2009-10-24T07:20:00.000-07:00

Triple Falls flows on the Little River through the DuPont State Forest in Transylvania County. It has 3 distinct, different types of waterfalls. There are two views of the falls, one at the base, where you can only see the bottom falls, and a second upper overlook that allows you to view the entire falls. The water cascades above 120 ft. The hike to the trail view above is less than 1/2 mile and is easy to moderate. The trail is a gravel road trail and it is well maintained. The access is pretty easy is and there is an overlook near the picnic shelter.
From downtown Hendersonville Take Church St. south to Kanuga and turn right. Kanuga becomes Crab Creek Rd. after 3.9 miles at Little River Rd. (flashing traffic light). Continue on Crab Creek 7.1 miles to DuPont Rd. Turn left and continue for 3.1 miles to the parking area on the right near the bridge.

Must See Waterfalls

2009-10-24T07:17:00.000-07:00

No matter where you're from waterfalls are the focal points that draw people to nature. Here in Western North Carolina many visitors hike well worn trails to Pearson Falls, Triple Falls, Hooker Falls and many other popular area waterfalls.
It's not hard to wonder what the attraction to these beautiful, mesmerizing waterfalls is. The fact that you can observe so much water closely and vividly. Perpetual motion fueled by nothing other than gravity and rain. It is also said that waterfalls make people feel good because they generate negative ions (negatively charged air molecules created by a number of natural and electronic processes). Another great attribute is the soothing "white noise," a sound that engineers try to imitate for electronic gadgets that are designed to help you relax, concentrate or sleep.
*NOTE: Always be very cautious when walking near waterfalls. Some of the trails can be difficult or strenuous. People attempting strenuous hikes should be in good physical condition and be equipped with proper footwear for hiking. Always stay on established trails at all times. Also, be mindful of where you step when you reach the waterfall. People are killed every year at waterfalls, and this can be easily avoided by exercising care while visiting the waterfalls.
Check out our favorite local waterfalls and enjoy them for yourself.
Waterfall photographs provided by Dave Allen Photography.

Hendersonville NC Fall Color Report

2009-10-24T07:15:00.000-07:00

Fall Foliage

2009-10-24T07:14:00.000-07:00

Enlightenment - Autumn Rays on the Blue Ridge Parkway

2009-10-13T09:42:00.000-07:00

Evening sun beams through the clouds over the colorful mountains during the fall foliage. This is another shot from one of my favorite spots along the Blue Ridge Parkway western North Carolina.

Friends of the Blue Ridge Parkway

2009-10-13T06:54:00.000-07:00

Dedicated to preserving & protecting the Parkway. Help plant trees to restore views - don’t just visit the Parkway... make a difference on the Parkway! PO Box 20986, Roanoke, VA 24018, (800) 228-7275. www.blueridgefriends.org.

America's Favorite Drive

2009-10-11T09:49:00.000-07:00

Outstanding scenery and recreational opportunities make the Blue Ridge Parkway one of the most popular units of the National Park System. "America's Favorite Drive" winds its way 469 miles through mountain meadows and past seemingly endless vistas. Split-rail fences, old farmsteads and historic structures complement spectacular views of distant mountains and neighboring valleys.

Sunset From the Blue Ridge Parkway

2009-10-11T09:42:00.000-07:00

Deep in the Nantahala National Forest, elevation rises to over 6,000 feet. The Cowee Mountain Overlook affords a classic ridge after ridge view, similar to that at the Yadkin Valley Overlook. At this one, however, the mountains rise up like dominoes, all at the same or similar heights. The Richland Balsam Overlook, half-a-mile beyond the Cowee Mountain Overlook, is in fact the highest point on the Parkway.

Asheville Fall Color Report

2009-10-11T09:33:00.000-07:00

Asheville’s leaf color is now at approximately 15%, thanks to the cool nights we’ve had this week. Fall color will continue to grow steadily as nighttime temperatures drop. Some individual trees have completely turned, while others only show color at the tips of their branches.
Leaf color at Grandfather Mountain (elevation 5964’) has really started to jump this past week. Maples, birch, and buckeyes paint the mountainside red and yellow. While you’re there, be sure to check out Scheer Bluff for a view of the Blue Ridge Parkway and a clump of trees that is one of the first places to turn year after year. Choose from Grandfather Mountain’s 11 backcountry hiking trails, home to 16 distinct ecosystems.

Look for bright red mountain ash berries near Mount Pisgah and Craggy Gardens, where fall color is approaching peak color but not quite there yet. Bruce O’Connell from the Pisgah Inn reports vivid colors from Highway 151, which descends from Mount Pisgah to the Candler area just west of Asheville.

"And There Was Light"

2009-10-11T08:33:00.000-07:00

Spectacular evening light with beams of sun punching through the clouds during a summer sunset along the Blue Ridge Parkway. No HDR here, just a single exposure. It was impossible to capture the entire range of tones here without using multiple exposures, but the blown highlights please me in this shot for some reason. I think it adds to the intensity of the light source...

Fall Scenic Drives

2009-10-11T08:01:00.000-07:00

Looking for that perfect autumn vista? Fall forecasters note that in the mountains the peak actually changes weekly depending on the elevation. Visit our weekly leaf reports to find the most colorful fall foliage peaks in the Asheville area. This is a guide to the best scenic fall drives whether you're visiting in early fall (late September to early October), mid-fall (early late October) or late fall (late October to early November).

Peak Colors at Grandfather Mountain

2009-10-10T11:49:00.000-07:00

People always ask when the peak color will be. One of the best answers I ever heard was, "at 10 am on the 10th day of the 10th month." Well this is the tenth day of the tenth month, and at 10 am it was overcast. There is not enough sun out today to really make the colors pop, so this year the "peak" did not occur on the 10th. There are plenty of leaves out there yet to color up, so at this elevation "the peak" should happen later this week. The color is the most exciting above 4,000 feet. The Blue Ridge Parkway between Blowing Rock and Grandfather Mountain looks good this week and will only get better. Other places to look for color are NC 184 between Tynecastle and Banner Elk, NC 181 between Pineola and Newland, NC 194 between Elk Park and Valle Crucis, and Beech Mountain Parkway.

Visit Pretty Place Chapel

2009-10-10T11:46:00.000-07:00

Fall Foliage in the Mountains

2009-10-10T11:43:00.000-07:00

Typically, throughout the month of October park visitors can expect to find good fall color along the Blue Ridge Parkway. Leaves will begin changing first on the highest peaks and conclude in the lower elevations. Whether classified as "spectacular" or simply "average,” the leaf color display will nonetheless be pleasing to the eye somewhere along the Blue Ridge Parkway. We are very fortunate in that the most varied fall color, as well as the longest lasting, occurs in the southern Appalachians, where a dozen or more species of trees may change color at slightly different times over the longer fall season. There is no simple formula for predicting fall color. The intensity of fall color and time of peak color vary and are determined by complex environmental factors, as well as the genetic makeup of the plants themselves. These factors vary from plant to plant and from region to region. However, with ideal weather conditions such as bright sunny and cool days in the fall, one can expect slightly above average leaf color. The "best" fall color for an area occurs during the shortening days of autumn when days are bright, sunny and cool, when nights are cool but not below freezing, and when there has been ideal rainfall. Adequate rainfall also keeps the leaves on the trees longer and enhances the color. Wet, cloudy, warm weather or exceptionally low temperatures in early fall tend to mute the much anticipated autumnal display. We don't yet fully understand all of the complicated actions - and even more complicated interactions - involving pigments, sunlight, moisture, chemicals, hormones, temperatures, length of daylight, site, genetic traits, and so on that make for a perfect autumn color display. As research probes deeper into the basics of plant life, we will understand more about the processes that color the autumn landscape.

Looking Glass Sunrise!

2009-08-01T13:04:00.000-07:00

Looking Glass Rock is located in the Pisgah National Forest, north of the town of Brevard, North Carolina. It's not far into the state which makes it a popular place for visitors coming up from the south. It's only a few hours from Atlanta, and less than an hour south of Asheville.

Distant Sunrise

2009-07-31T16:26:00.001-07:00

An early morning view from the Blue Ridge Parkway.

The Grotto - Waterfall Landscape

2009-07-27T10:15:00.000-07:00

"This one is a beautiful waterfall in the Smoky Mountains. It takes a hike to see this one, but it sure is nice.

Shot with a Nikon D300, the 18-200mm VR walkaround lens, and a Nikon circular polarizer..."

Forsaken - 1820 Historic Bridge in WNC

2009-07-09T13:21:00.000-07:00

"This bridge was built by hand in 1820 and completed the first road ever between Asheville NC and Greenville SC.

Shot with a Nikon D300, the 18-200mm VR walkaround lens, and a Nikon circular polarizer...

Signed prints are available through my website at Dave Allen Photography

Unsigned prints are available through my imagekind gallery at Dave Allen on imagekind

© 2008 Dave Allen Photography, All Rights Reserved. This image may NOT be used for anything without my explicit permission."

Rays and Rust

2009-06-26T19:32:00.001-07:00

Another Blue Ridge Parkway view with the sun's rays raining down through the clouds. There was a nasty storm moving around and I was lucky to be at the edge of it to get this.

On a side note, as I was shooting I looked down and realized there was a large rattlesnake skin in the crack of the rock near my feet, glad I didn't meet it's previous owner...

Shot from the Blue Ridge Parkway at around 7:30pm with a Nikon D300, the 18-200mm VR walkaround lens, a Tiffen ND6 Grad, and a Nikon circular polarizer...

2009-06-22T12:42:00.000-07:00

Located 14 miles east of Hendersonville, Chimney Rock Park is the perfect place for a day outdoors with the family. Chimney Rock Park offers stunning scenery, hiking, picnic areas, waterfalls, caves, famous rock formations, and much more.It's exotic rock formations; including Devil's Head, Needle's Eye, Peregrine's Rest, the Opera Box, Outcroppings, Inspiration Point, and of course, the famous Chimney Rock, are an amazing sight to see. Along the way you'll encounter interesting birds, wildflowers, and many strange geological formations.
The park offers one photo opportunity after another with all of its breathtaking sights, and has been featured in major motion pictures such as "Last Of The Mohicans". You can spend a day, a week, or perhaps just the afternoon hiking the trails or enjoying the scenic views that the park has to offer.
Tickets cost $14 for anyone over the age of 12, children from 4 to 12 cost $6, and children under 4 are admitted in for free. The park opens at 8:30 am, but if you come after 4 pm you can use your ticket the next day as well.
Are you a rock climber? Chimney Rock Park is now offering rock climbing instruction. It doesn't matter how skilled you are because the park offers expert instruction from Adam Fox from Fox Mountain Guides. You can call (800) 277-9611 to sign up for your next Chimney Rock Park adventure.
Park Information:Hours: 8:30am – 5:00pm Monday thru FridayHighway 64/74AChimney Rock, NC 28720Phone: 828-625-9611

The Biltmore Estate

2009-06-22T12:39:00.001-07:00

The Biltmore Estate is a very popular destination for both tourists and locals. The estate features the largest single family home in the United States, and is a major attraction in western North Carolina that receives over 1 million visitors per year. The entrance to the estate is located in Biltmore Village just south of Asheville on Hwy. 25. The Biltmore Estate includes the largest single family home in the country, and was built by George Vanderbilt II between 1888 and 1895. The Vanderbilt family made a fortune in the steamboat and railroad businesses, as well as other ventures. The house was designed by famed architect Richard Morris Hunt, and the grounds were designed by Frederick Law Olmsted. The house includes a 70,000 gallon heated indoor pool, a private bowling alley, a two story library, and many other grand amenities that were state of the art when the house was built in the late 1800s. The estate also features gardens, a working winery, a 4 star hotel and various restaurants.
The Biltmore House is open to guests as a museum house and has guided tours available.The Gardens at the estate are worth the trip by themselves. Designed by America's foremost landscape architect Fredrick Law Olmsted, the gardens are expertly cared for and a tribute to Olmsted's genius.The Winery has been operational since 1985 producing award winning estate wines, with wine tasting and a store on the premises.The Inn on Biltmore Estate offers award winning lodging right on the estate premises. It has been awarded Four Stars by Mobil Travel Guide, Four Diamonds by AAA, and is on Condé Nast Traveler's 2007 Gold List.Restaurants and Dining options are excellent at the Biltmore Estate, with a few places to choose from.

Looking Glass Falls

2009-06-22T12:36:00.000-07:00

One of the most popular and well known waterfall in Western North Carolina is Looking Glass Falls. This beautiful waterfall is right next to the road and there are stairs that take you to the bottom of the waterfall for an even better view. This waterfall is about 60' high. Swimming is allowed in the pool at the base; however remember wet rocks are very slippery so swim at your own risk.
From downtown Hendersonville head West on Hwy 64 to the Pisgah Forest entrance, drive north on Hwy 276 north for 5.6 miles and pull off in the paved lane on the right. Looking Glass Falls will be on your right.

Grave Yard Fields

2009-06-22T12:33:00.001-07:00

Cold Mountain

2009-06-22T12:31:00.000-07:00

Cold Mountain is in the Great Balsams Mountains which are a part of the Blue Ridge Parkway within the appalachian mountains. Enjoy a spectacular view from this uninhabited area from as high as 6000 feet above sea level. Many people are familiar with the movie "Cold Mountain" from 1997 which was based on a popular novel.
There are 4 primary trail heads at Cold Mountain which include Big East Fork Trail Head, Camp Daniel Boone Trail Head, the Old Butt Knob Trail Head, and the Art Loeb Trail , which leads to the top of the mountain is an 11 mile round trip to the summit. The Black Balsam Parking Area is located on the Blue Ridge Parkway at mile marker 420.
The trail is a strenuous round trip hike in the beautiful Shining Rock Wilderness area. There are prime campsites near the Cold Mountain summit where you can enjoy 180 degree views. This area is best visited only on warm summer days. Snow usually covers the mountain peaks from October to May.

Looking Glass Rock

2009-06-22T12:29:00.000-07:00

Looking Glass Rock

2009-06-22T10:29:00.000-07:00

Waterfalls Galore!

2009-04-25T10:44:00.000-07:00

Image of the Week

2009-04-25T09:29:00.001-07:00

A spotlight on one of the most popular images on our site this week.

http://www.wncdesktopwallpaper.com/download/rockyriver001.php

New Wallpapers

2009-03-03T08:17:00.001-08:00

New wallpapers have been added to http://www.wncdesktopwallpaper.com

What Are You Waiting For?

2008-10-25T07:44:00.000-07:00

Right now is a spectacular time to visit NC! It's Fall Foliage time and this year the colors are some of the best I've ever seen! But it's almost over so if you want to come see then you need to do it NOW!

New Desktop Wallpapers

2008-10-23T21:46:00.000-07:00

You can now download desktop wallpapers free from WNC Desktop Wallpaper. Choose from many beautiful photographs taken in Western North Carolina. Too many to pick just one? Come back often and try them all.

Fall Foliage Means Lots Of Leaves

2008-10-23T08:33:00.000-07:00

Yes, Fall Foliage is breathtakingly beautiful, but it means lots of yardwork. When the leaves start to fall it's time to get out the leaf blower or rake. It's all worth it though with scenes like this one. Western North Carolina is one of the most beautiful places in the United Sates to enjoy the beauty of fall.

The Biltmore Estate's Fabulous Gardens

2008-10-22T16:54:00.000-07:00

The Gardens at the estate are worth the trip by themselves. Designed by America's foremost landscape architect Fredrick Law Olmsted, the gardens are expertly cared for and a tribute to Olmsted's genius. There are always new flowers at the Biltmore House. It's amazing how the keep up with it all. At Easter time they have every type of Lilly you have ever heard of. Each visit to the Biltmore Estate is a new and unique experience.

More Desktop Wallpapers Available

2008-10-21T08:18:00.000-07:00

Don't miss the new Desktop wallpapers that are all taken right here in WNC! Pick your favorite and set as background. Don't forget to tell a friend!

Wow This is Beautiful!

2008-10-20T19:48:00.001-07:00

Local Area Pictures

2008-10-19T07:50:00.001-07:00

Another stunning print capitalizing on the beauty that fall brings. The corn stalks are so vibrant and the sky is spectacular. Looking at this, you almost feel that you are there. Beautiful colors and lighting. This one and other pictures like it can be seen at the free desktop wallpaper site.

Fall Foliage is Here

2008-10-19T07:47:00.000-07:00

This festival of color offered by nature's changing of the leaves is certainly one of the greatest shows on earth. We are so blessed to live here and enjoy the fall foliage! Each fall the trees in the deciduous forest respond to shorter days and cooler nights by beginning preparations for their dormant winter ahead.

Bee in Flight

2008-10-19T07:45:00.000-07:00

This picture taken by Dave Allen. IT is amazing how the flying bee is so sharp and you can see every detail on the flower.

DuPont State Forest

2008-10-17T18:42:00.000-07:00

DuPont State Forest is located between Brevard and Hendersonville and is truly the land of waterfalls. The forest contains about 10,400 acres of waterfalls, trails, and forest. Come and see Hooker Falls, High Falls, Triple Falls, Bridal Veil Falls, Wintergreen Falls, and Grassy Rock Falls. While your there, visit Cedar Creek and Stone Mountain as well. You can also go horseback riding, mountain biking, hunting, fishing, and hiking in the forest.

The Biltmore Estate

2008-10-17T18:40:00.000-07:00

The Biltmore Estate includes the largest single family home in the country, and was built by George Vanderbilt II between 1888 and 1895. The Vanderbilt family made a fortune in the steamboat and railroad businesses, as well as other ventures. The house was designed by famed architect Richard Morris Hunt, and the grounds were designed by Frederick Law Olmsted. The house includes a 70,000 gallon heated indoor pool, a private bowling alley, a two story library, and many other grand amenities that were state of the art when the house was built in the late 1800s. The estate also features gardens, a working winery, a 4 star hotel and various restaurants.

Chimney Rock Park

2008-10-17T18:38:00.000-07:00

Carl Sandburg Home

2008-10-17T18:36:00.000-07:00

Jump Off Rock

2008-10-17T18:34:00.000-07:00

Jump Off Rock in Laurel Park offers a fantastic view of the Blue Ridge Mountains and towns below. Just a 10 minute drive from downtown Hendersonville, Jump Off Rock is a great place to visit if you like hiking, stunning mountain views, or just reading a book in the afternoon sun on one of the park's benches. The view is an impressive panorama that stretches from Flat Rock, NC all the way to Asheville and even further north. It offers a clear view of the Blue Ridge and Pisgah Mountains, and on a clear day you can see the Biltmore Estate, the Asheville Airport, and other attractions to the north. Jump Off Rock is a favorite destination for bicyclists from Hendersonville as the ride up the mountain is great exercise, the view is a great reward, and the ride back down the mountain is a blast. It's also a favorite destination for painters and photographers who draw inspiration from its beauty.

Historic Downtown Hendersonville

2008-10-17T18:25:00.000-07:00

Historic Downtown Hendersonville, established in 1988, is the perfect place to shop, eat, or just take a walk. Downtown offers many shops including art, clothing, collectables, music stores, and toys. There's even a movie theater! From barbecue to cafes, you'll find exactly what your looking for.
Do you like live music? Then Downtown Hendersonville has just the thing for you! "Music on Main Street" is a popluar event that is fun for the whole family. Come see live performers every Friday evening from June 3 to August 26 from 7:00 pm to 9:00 pm. In the case of bad weather, concerts will be postponed until 8:00 pm or cancelled. Admission is free, so bring a chair and relax with the sound of sweet music.

Fine Art Photography

2008-10-16T13:08:00.000-07:00

Western North Carolina photographer Dave Allen captures award winning fine art photography that showcases the beauty of western North Carolina and the surrounding Blue Ridge Mountains.
Based out of Hendersonville, NC, much of Dave Allen's photography is centered around the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains of western NC.
His portfolio of stunning fine art prints features a varied range of subjects including mountain landscapes, silky waterfalls, vivid floral photography, wildlife, and other nature and outdoor related themes.

The Hendersonville Directory

2008-10-16T12:57:00.000-07:00

This website includes information on Hendersonville's nightlife, restaurants, shopping, entertainment, attractions, local government and much more. Our online guide to Hendersonville, NC is updated daily so bookmark us and check back often to see the latest Hendersonville news and check out the current Hendersonville Events Calendar which is full of things to do in the area.

My Favorite Nature Wallpaper Site

2008-10-16T12:50:00.000-07:00

Everyone likes to have a great desktop for their computer. One for your home computer and one for work. Well, this site was designed by a photographer who makes desktop wallpapers out of the incredible shots he takes that he doesn't plan on using. My favorite picture is the one with the awesome waterfall.

Fall Foliage Time

2008-10-16T12:42:00.000-07:00

Spectacular Fall Foliage

Each year many people come to my home town Hendersonville to experience the fall foliage and the spectacular display of beauty and diversity in nature. Of course that means this time of the year is a busy time for visitors. Everyone's checking out Western North Carolina and enjoying the vibrant colors of the fall leaf change. The scenic drives during the fall season are mesmerizing and out of this world beautiful. It's a great place for motorcyclists! There are so many great roads to take including the Blue Ridge Parkway.
The fall color season begins at the end of September and goes through the end of October. The difference in the elevation here in Hendersonville and the many different species of trees found here in the Blue Ridge Mountains are what make the views exceptionally good in this area of Western North Carolina. The peak in color changes to different areas from week to week depending on the elevation. It is already in full color some place right now. It's a photographer's dream!