Falconry Demonstration

Earlier this week we had local Master falconer, Peter Kipp, visit us along with his red-tailed hawks, Jade, Macho, and Chance, to demonstrate the art of falconry on our majestic mountain.  Red-tailed hawks are native to our area, but getting to see them up close and personal while they worked with Peter was incredible!

Falconry has a long and rich history, which can be traced all the way back to 2,000BC in Mesopotamia.  In medieval Europe, falconry was the sport of nobles and kings.  Now, it continues as a hobby around the world, and has begun to gain popularity in the United States through demonstrations at games, fairs, and private events at communities like Preserve at Rock Creek.

A red tailed hawk flying during a Falconry demonstration at the Preserve at Rock Creek near Cashiers, NC.

All falconers in the US are required to be licensed.  An Apprentice License comes first, then a General License.  With enough time and training, a Master License can be earned.  It is an amazing experience to watch a trained bird of prey perform exercises and hunting simulations in a natural, mountainous setting.  If you’d like to set up your own personal demonstration, Peter can be reached at 828.883.4500, or contact us if you’d like to discuss hosting a private demonstration in the Preserve at Rock Creek meadow.

Headwaters Photography Trip

Exciting news for photographers who hike! Headwaters Outdoor Adventures will soon be offering a series of hiking and photography trips in Panthertown Valley with Todd Ransom, a noted photographer and guidebook author.

Panthertown Valley, in Nantahala National Forest near Preserve At Rock Creek

Panthertown Valley has been designated by the Forest Service as “Management Area 5,” which means it is being allowed to return to its natural state.  A network of trails crosses the valley, but no further development will occur.  These trails range from old roadbeds to steep, narrow, twisting mountan trails.  For this reason, Headwaters Outdoor Adventures requires participants to be able to hike for 2-3 hours at a time. 

Particpants will not only go on a beautiful hike through the Nantahala National Forest, but will also learn the basics of exposure on digital cameras, including evaluating lighting conditions, how to use a histogram, and adjusting exposure levels for optimal mountain shots.  The trip begins at the Cold Mountain Gap trailhead, and the photography instruction begins after a short hike to Schoolhouse Falls.  Once the basics have been covered, the hike will continue to different picturesque locations in Cold Mountain Valley to practice additional photography techniques. 

You Will Need to Bring:

• Digital SLR and Tripod
• Lunch and Water
• Sturdy Shoes or Hiking Boots
• Fleece or Rain Jacket, depending on the weather conditions

These trips will be offered for a limited time, so contact Headwaters Outfitters to reserve your spot.  Upcoming dates are September 20; October 1, 11, 15, 25, and 29; November 1, 8, and 22.

This is a great opportunity to develop photography skills in a beautiful part of Western North Carolina.  When you’re finished, come by Preserve at Rock Creek – we’ll give you a tour of our mountain and let you practice your new photography skills on our spectacular views and waterfalls.

Escape the Heat at Preserve at Rock Creek

Weather Map of Southeastern US

With the heat wave we've seen throughout the Southeastern US, if you’re reading this from the lower elevations - Georgia, South Carolina, and especially the coastal areas, where daytime temperatures are expected to reach the upper 90s (with high humidity) – then you’re probably ready for a break.

Now’s a great time to visit Cashiers, NC – right in the middle of the Plateau area of the Western North Carolina Mountains.  Our high temperatures will top out in the lower 80’s, and evening temperatures will cool down to the mid-60’s.  We're willing to go out on a limb and call that a comfortable change. If it’s still too hot for you, there’s plenty of whitewater rafting available to cool you down even further.

Historically, these lower temperatures are fairly normal for summertime at the Preserve at Rock Creek. From Memorial Day to Labor Day the average monthly high temperatures range from 77 degrees in June to 72 degrees in September, with July (the warmest month) still comfortable with a 79 degree average high.  Our approximately 4000 ft elevation keeps the temperatures so comfortable, and the humidity levels are kept low, too. It’s a combination that’s pretty hard to beat!

When you’re ready to escape the heat, come to Cashiers, NC and visit the Preserve at Rock Creek while you’re here. We’ll be more than happy to share the crisp, mountain air with you!

Cashiers Farmers Market

Located just before the crossroads on Highway 64, Cashiers Farmers Market has been a mainstay for area residents since 1995. If you're looking for locally grown fresh fruits and vegetables, artisanal jams and jellies, native flowers and plants, or gourmet foods you will find them all here.

Fresh, local produce arrives daily and is complemented with a selection of seafood and farm-raised poultry and beef. Fresh-baked breads and locally canned jams, jellies and condiments are also abundant, as are homemade pies, cookies, pecan brittle and other treats.

The Farmers Market is also home to BBQ On the Side. Their pulled pork, shredded chicken, and rack of ribs are delicious and come with a selection of sauces and side dishes made from scratch.  BBQ on the Side also features their daily dessert specials. It's a great place to stop in for a sandwich at lunch or pick up dinner for the whole family on your way home. They also provide catering for sports events, weddings, reunions, backyard parties and other special events.

For us, the abundance of local and fresh foods at Cashier Farmers Market make it a frequent stop.