POPULAR NEWS
The Legend Of Uktena
Tips For Safe Driving In The North Carolina Mountains
TRAVEL GUIDES
7 Activities To Do In Cherokee North Carolina
Places You Must Explore in the North Carolina Mountains
HISTORY
Best Hikes in the North Carolina Mountains
7 Activities To Do In Cherokee North Carolina
Discovering Cherokee Culture: A Journey Through History, Traditions, and Modern-Day Life
ABOUT ME
I'm Rose Fontaine: Hi! And welcome to my blog that I have dedicated to sharing my experiences in the little sky valley in the mountains of North Carolina. I have seen groups of friends come to the trails of the Appalachians to have some adventure ever since I was a child. It made me want to share some of the secrets of these valleys with everyone so that they can have a better experience and keep the forest protected. I like to share some of my traditional recipes, special viewing spots, and some of the other interesting things about these mountains with everyone. If you are planning a visit, do not forget to meet me and say Hi!
RECOMMENDED POST
Tips For Safe Driving In The North Carolina Mountains
Sequoyah: A Great Cherokee Indian
Best Hikes in the North Carolina Mountains
HIGHLIGHTS
The Legend Of Uktena
LATEST FROM OUR BLOG
The Cherokee Indians Of North Carolina
The Largest Tribe
The Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians is the largest and most prominent of these three tribes, with over 14,000 members. The tribe has its own government, economy, and healthcare system, and is recognized by the federal government as an American Indian tribe. The tribe’s land base is in western North Carolina near the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.The History
These Cherokee Indians have a long and rich history. The tribe was one of the first to sign the Treaty of Hopewell with the United States in 1785 and played a vital role in the Trail of Tears. The tribe also played a role in the Civil War, with many members serving in the Confederate army.The Tribe Today
Today, they are a thriving community. The tribe’s economic development efforts have created jobs and businesses, and the tribe’s healthcare system is nationally recognized. The tribe is also working to preserve its cultural heritage and promote the Cherokee language as well as its culture.Culture And Traditions
They also possess a strong cultural heritage. The tribe is committed to preserving its language and culture and offers many programs and events that promote the Cherokee culture and language. The tribe also has a rich tradition of art and crafts, and many members are skilled in traditional Cherokee arts such as basket-making, pottery, and weaving. They also have a strong tradition of music and dance. The tribe’s traditional music is an important part of its culture, and the tribe sponsors a number of events each year that feature Cherokee music and dance.7 Activities To Do In Cherokee North Carolina
Visit the Oconaluftee Indian Village
The Oconaluftee Indian Village is a must-see for anyone visiting Cherokee. This living history village allows visitors to experience what life was like for the Cherokee people before European settlement. You can explore the village, meet the villagers, and learn about their culture and customs. The village is located right next to the Oconaluftee River, so you can also enjoy some beautiful views while you’re there.Go tubing on the Nantahala River
The Nantahala River is one of the most popular attractions in Cherokee. Visitors can go tubing, rafting, or kayaking down the river, and there are plenty of companies that offer guided tours. The river is surrounded by stunning mountains, so it’s a great way to enjoy the outdoors while you’re in town.Check out the Museum of the Cherokee Indian
The Museum of the Cherokee Indian is a great place to learn about the history and culture of the Cherokee people. The museum houses a collection of artifacts, artwork, and documents that date back centuries. You can also watch a film about the Cherokee people and see traditional dance performances.Take a scenic drive on the Blue Ridge Parkway
The Blue Ridge Parkway is one of the most popular scenic drives in the country, and it runs right through Cherokee. The parkway offers stunning views of the Appalachian Mountains, and there are plenty of places to stop along the way to enjoy the scenery.Visit the Unto These Hills Outdoor Drama
The Unto These Hills Outdoor Drama is a must-see for anyone interested in Cherokee history. This historical drama tells the story of the Cherokee people from their arrival in the Appalachians to their forced removal during the Trail of Tears. The drama is performed outdoors, so you can enjoy the fresh mountain air while you watch.Stroll through the Cherokee Botanical Gardens
The Cherokee Botanical Gardens are a beautiful place to relax and take in the sights and sounds of nature. The gardens feature a variety of native plants, flowers, and trees, as well as a number of sculptures and fountains. You can also purchase plants to take home with you.Explore the Great Smoky Mountains National Park
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the country, and it’s just a short drive from Cherokee. The park offers beautiful hiking trails, stunning views, and plenty of opportunities to see wildlife. You can also visit historic sites like Cades Cove and Mount LeConte. Whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, or just a place to eat, Cherokee has something for everyone. So what are you waiting for? Start planning your trip today!Best Hikes in the North Carolina Mountains
Driving through the North Carolina mountains is great but remember that it is also a hiker’s paradise, with trails of all difficulty levels and amazing views waiting to be discovered. Whether you’re a beginner just starting out or an experienced hiker looking for a new challenge, these hikes are sure to please. So lace up your boots and get ready for an adventure!
Grandfather Mountain
There are a variety of trails to choose from at Grandfather Mountain, each with its own unique set of challenges and rewards. The most popular trail is the Mile High Swinging Bridge, which is a challenging but rewarding hike that takes you to the top of the mountain. If you’re looking for something a bit easier, the scenic loop around the mountain is a great option. And for the most experienced hikers, the hike to the top of one of the many peaks is a true test of endurance. No matter which trail you choose, you’re sure to enjoy stunning views of the North Carolina mountains.
Rough Ridge (Blue Ridge Parkway)
Rough Ridge is a moderate hike that takes you through a beautiful forest and offers stunning views of the Linville Gorge. The trail is well-marked and relatively easy to follow, making it a great option for beginner hikers. However, there are some sections of the trail that are quite steep and may be challenging for some. But the effort is well worth it when you reach the top and take in the breathtaking views.
Devil’s Courthouse (Blue Ridge Parkway)
Devil’s Courthouse is a strenuous hike that should only be attempted by experienced hikers. The trail is steep and rocky, and the summit is exposed to the elements, making it a challenging but rewarding hike. The views from the top are simply incredible, making it one of the most popular hikes in the North Carolina mountains.
Table Rock (Linville Gorge)
Table Rock is a moderate hike with some sections that are quite steep. However, the reward for completing this hike is an incredible 360-degree view of the surrounding mountains. Table Rock is also a great option for those looking for a bit of adventure, as there are several rock formations along the trail that can be climbed. Just be sure to use caution, as the rocks can be slippery.
Hanging Rock (Hanging Rock State Park)
Hanging Rock trail is relatively short at only 1.3 miles. However, hikers should still be careful because there are still some steep sections. One good thing about this trail is the warm temperature. That means you can enjoy hiking this trail at any time of the year as long as there aren’t any severe weather conditions. There are multiple viewpoints and you can take your time enjoying the view of what each stop has to offer.
Roan Mountain (Roan Mountain State Park)
This is another short hike at 1.5 miles but don’t let the length of the trail deceive you. You will be going up an incline for most of the hike but once you reach the top, you’ll be able to see six different states! That’s right, on a clear day you can see Tennessee, Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, and Kentucky. Can you imagine being able to say you saw all those states in one day?
The Rhododendron gardens at Roan Mountain State Park are a must-see for any hiker. The gardens are home to over 12,000 rhododendrons, making it one of the largest collections in the world. And with so many different varieties to see, there is something for everyone. So be sure to make time to stop and enjoy the beauty of the Rhododendron gardens on your next hike in the North Carolina mountains.
Art Loeb Trail (Pisgah National Forest)
The Art Loeb Trail is a long and challenging hike that spans 30 miles through the Pisgah National Forest. This trail is recommended for experienced hikers only, as it can be difficult to navigate and there are some sections that are quite steep. But the stunning views of the Appalachian Mountains make it well worth the effort.
The best time to hike the Art Loeb Trail is in the spring or fall when the weather is cool and the leaves are changing color. But no matter when you decide to hike this trail, you’re sure to enjoy incredible views of the North Carolina mountains.
There you have it! These are just a few of the best hikes in the North Carolina mountains. So get out there and explore all that these beautiful mountains have to offer. And be sure to take in the breathtaking views along the way.
The Legend Of Uktena
The Origin Of The Uktena
Deep in the swamps of the American Southeast, there is said to dwell a giant snake with a jewel in its head. This creature is known as Uktena, and it is said to be able to transform into any other animal. Uktena has been known to kill people who cross its path, and some believe that if you can get the jewel from its head, you will have great power. The legend of Uktena is steeped in mystery and fear. Different stories will talk about their origin. In one of the stories, it is said that “Little Men” were the ones who turned a man into a monster snake. They had to create this monster in order to kill the Sun who became angry with the people of the earth. Due to his anger, there was a sickness that was placed upon the people. Unfortunately, the Uktena wasn’t able to successfully do his mission. They sent a rattlesnake next and it was the one who succeeded. The Uktena felt jealous and mad about his failure. Many people grew afraid of him that’s why the tribe decided to take him away. Some say that the creature is a spirit that has been brought to our world from another realm. Others believe that it is a physical embodiment of evil, a force of nature that should be avoided at all costs. Whatever the truth may be, there is no denying that Uktena is a fearsome creature.The Dwellings Of The Uktena
According to legend the Uktena dwells isolated in the swamps, away from human contact. It is a solitary creature that only comes out at night when it is said to prowl the forests and wetlands in search of prey. The Uktena is said to be huge, with some reports claiming that it can grow up to 30 feet in length. It is also said to have glowing eyes and a jewel on its forehead. This jewel is said to be the source of the Uktena’s power, and many people have tried to steal it over the years.Simple And Easy North Carolina Biscuit Recipe
North Carolina Biscuits
First off, preheat your oven to 450 degrees. Gather your ingredients:- 2 cups of all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon sugar (optional)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 cup of buttermilk (if you don’t have any on hand just add 1 tablespoon of white vinegar or lemon juice to regular milk and let sit for 10 minutes)
- 6 tablespoons of cold unsalted butter, cut into pieces
- Egg wash: Beat one egg with 1 tablespoon water and a pinch of salt.