Updated February 15, 2014
Snow storm brings nearly a foot of snow
Pinnacle Falls is digging out of about 10 inches of snow following Tuesday and Wednesday's snow storms. Luckily, the accumulation in this area was primarily dry snow and not freezing rain or ice, like other areas of the Carolinas.
Updated February 10, 2014
Pinnacle Falls gets light snowfall; several inches predicted to come this week
According to weather forecasters, Pinnacle Falls and the rest of Western North Carolina and South Carolina are about to get several inches of snow this week.
The Asheville, Hendersonville, and Brevard areas are expected to get between six and nine inches of snow Tuesday, Feb 11 through Wednesday, Feb 12. This would be the first major snow storm of the winter season. The slideshow on the right is just a few scenes from today's light snowfall, which resulted in about half to one inch of accumulation. |
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Tips on how to use a generator safely
With Western North Carolina bracing for what could be the first major snow storm of the season this week, there could be power outages due to downed power lines caused by heavy snow and/or ice. Below is some helpful advice from the American Red Cross on safe generator use.
The following information, developed by the American Red Cross with technical advice from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the National Fire Protection Association (publisher of the National Electric Code®) and the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, is provided to address questions about using a generator when disaster or emergency strikes.
How to Buy a Generator
If you choose to buy a generator, make sure you get one that is rated for the amount of power that you think you will need. Look at the labels on lighting, appliances, and equipment you plan to connect to the generator to determine the amount of power that will be needed to operate the equipment.
For lighting, the wattage of the light bulb indicates the power needed. Appliances and equipment usually have labels indicating power requirements on them. Choose a generator that produces more power than will be drawn by the combination of lighting, appliances, and equipment you plan to connect to the generator including the initial surge when it is turned on. If your generator does not produce adequate power for all your needs, plan to stagger the operating times for various equipment.
If you can not determine the amount of power that will be needed, ask an electrician to determine that for you. (If your equipment draws more power than the generator can produce, then you may blow a fuse on the generator or damage the connected equipment.)
How to Use a Generator at Home
The primary hazards to avoid when using a generator are carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning from the toxic engine exhaust, electric shock or electrocution, and fire. Follow the directions supplied with the generator. Every year, people die in incidents related to portable generator use.
Never Use a Portable Generator IndoorsThis includes inside a garage, carport, basement, crawlspace, or other enclosed or partially-enclosed area, even with ventilation. Opening doors and windows or using fans will not prevent CO buildup in the home. The CO from generators can rapidly lead to full incapacitation and death, but CO can't be seen or smelled. Even if you cannot smell exhaust fumes, you may still be exposed to CO. If you start to feel sick, dizzy, or weak while using a generator, get to fresh air RIGHT AWAY - DO NOT DELAY.
Because you may have windows open to get fresh air while the power is out, be sure to place the generator away from windows, doors, and vents that could allow CO to come indoors. To avoid electrocution, keep the generator dry and do not use in rain or wet conditions. To protect the generator from moisture, operate it on a dry surface under an open canopy-like structure, such as under a tarp held up on poles. Do not touch the generator with wet hands.
It is a good idea to install battery-operated CO alarms or plug-in CO alarms with battery back-up in your home, according to the manufacturer's installation instructions. If CO gas from the generator enters your home and poses a health risk, the alarm will sound to warn you. Test the battery frequently and replace when needed.
Be sure to turn the generator off and let it cool down before refueling. Gasoline spilled on hot engine parts could ignite.
Store fuel for the generator in an approved safety can. Use the type of fuel recommended in the instructions or on the label on the generator. Local laws may restrict the amount of fuel you may store, or the storage location. Ask your local fire department for additional information about local regulations. Store the fuel outside of living areas in a locked shed or other protected area. Do not store it near a fuel-burning appliance, such as a natural gas water heater in a garage. If the fuel is spilled or the container is not sealed properly, invisible vapors from the fuel can travel along the ground and can be ignited by the appliance's pilot light or by arcs from electric switches in the appliance.
Plug appliances directly into the generator. Or, use a heavy duty, outdoor-rated extension cord that is rated (in watts or amps) at least equal to the sum of the connected appliance loads. Check that the entire cord is free of cuts or tears and that the plug has all three prongs, especially a grounding pin.
Never try to power the house wiring by plugging the generator into a wall outlet, a practice known as “backfeeding.” This is an extremely dangerous practice that presents an electrocution risk to utility workers and neighbors served by the same utility transformer. It also bypasses some of the built-in household protection devices.
Future Generator Safety Considerations
The only recommended method to connect a generator to house wiring is by having a qualified electrician install a power transfer switch. This switch must be installed in accordance with the National Electrical Code® (NEC), which is published by the National Fire Protection Association, as well as all applicable state and local electrical codes. Call a qualified electrician or check with your utility company to see if they can install the appropriate equipment.
For power outages, permanently installed stationary generators are better suited for providing backup power to the home. Even a properly connected portable generator can become overloaded. This may result in overheating or stressing the generator components, possibly leading to a generator failure. Be sure to read instructions that come with the generator to make sure you operate it within its limitations for power output.
Source: American Red Cross, www.redcross.org/prepare/disaster/power-outage/safe-generator-use
The following information, developed by the American Red Cross with technical advice from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the National Fire Protection Association (publisher of the National Electric Code®) and the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, is provided to address questions about using a generator when disaster or emergency strikes.
How to Buy a Generator
If you choose to buy a generator, make sure you get one that is rated for the amount of power that you think you will need. Look at the labels on lighting, appliances, and equipment you plan to connect to the generator to determine the amount of power that will be needed to operate the equipment.
For lighting, the wattage of the light bulb indicates the power needed. Appliances and equipment usually have labels indicating power requirements on them. Choose a generator that produces more power than will be drawn by the combination of lighting, appliances, and equipment you plan to connect to the generator including the initial surge when it is turned on. If your generator does not produce adequate power for all your needs, plan to stagger the operating times for various equipment.
If you can not determine the amount of power that will be needed, ask an electrician to determine that for you. (If your equipment draws more power than the generator can produce, then you may blow a fuse on the generator or damage the connected equipment.)
How to Use a Generator at Home
The primary hazards to avoid when using a generator are carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning from the toxic engine exhaust, electric shock or electrocution, and fire. Follow the directions supplied with the generator. Every year, people die in incidents related to portable generator use.
Never Use a Portable Generator IndoorsThis includes inside a garage, carport, basement, crawlspace, or other enclosed or partially-enclosed area, even with ventilation. Opening doors and windows or using fans will not prevent CO buildup in the home. The CO from generators can rapidly lead to full incapacitation and death, but CO can't be seen or smelled. Even if you cannot smell exhaust fumes, you may still be exposed to CO. If you start to feel sick, dizzy, or weak while using a generator, get to fresh air RIGHT AWAY - DO NOT DELAY.
Because you may have windows open to get fresh air while the power is out, be sure to place the generator away from windows, doors, and vents that could allow CO to come indoors. To avoid electrocution, keep the generator dry and do not use in rain or wet conditions. To protect the generator from moisture, operate it on a dry surface under an open canopy-like structure, such as under a tarp held up on poles. Do not touch the generator with wet hands.
It is a good idea to install battery-operated CO alarms or plug-in CO alarms with battery back-up in your home, according to the manufacturer's installation instructions. If CO gas from the generator enters your home and poses a health risk, the alarm will sound to warn you. Test the battery frequently and replace when needed.
Be sure to turn the generator off and let it cool down before refueling. Gasoline spilled on hot engine parts could ignite.
Store fuel for the generator in an approved safety can. Use the type of fuel recommended in the instructions or on the label on the generator. Local laws may restrict the amount of fuel you may store, or the storage location. Ask your local fire department for additional information about local regulations. Store the fuel outside of living areas in a locked shed or other protected area. Do not store it near a fuel-burning appliance, such as a natural gas water heater in a garage. If the fuel is spilled or the container is not sealed properly, invisible vapors from the fuel can travel along the ground and can be ignited by the appliance's pilot light or by arcs from electric switches in the appliance.
Plug appliances directly into the generator. Or, use a heavy duty, outdoor-rated extension cord that is rated (in watts or amps) at least equal to the sum of the connected appliance loads. Check that the entire cord is free of cuts or tears and that the plug has all three prongs, especially a grounding pin.
Never try to power the house wiring by plugging the generator into a wall outlet, a practice known as “backfeeding.” This is an extremely dangerous practice that presents an electrocution risk to utility workers and neighbors served by the same utility transformer. It also bypasses some of the built-in household protection devices.
Future Generator Safety Considerations
The only recommended method to connect a generator to house wiring is by having a qualified electrician install a power transfer switch. This switch must be installed in accordance with the National Electrical Code® (NEC), which is published by the National Fire Protection Association, as well as all applicable state and local electrical codes. Call a qualified electrician or check with your utility company to see if they can install the appropriate equipment.
For power outages, permanently installed stationary generators are better suited for providing backup power to the home. Even a properly connected portable generator can become overloaded. This may result in overheating or stressing the generator components, possibly leading to a generator failure. Be sure to read instructions that come with the generator to make sure you operate it within its limitations for power output.
Source: American Red Cross, www.redcross.org/prepare/disaster/power-outage/safe-generator-use
Carolina Mountain Land Conservancy offers volunteer opportunities
by Kathleen Nance
Maneuvering down Lake Falls Road, you might have noticed a section on the east (right) side of the road marked with pink slashes and a yellow and green diamond sign on the trees. One day, curious about these, Grady and I stopped to read the small notice, which identified the property as part of the Carolina Mountain Land Conservancy. Intrigued, we looked up the group on the Internet.
The Carolina Mountain Land Conservancy, or CMLC, was founded in 1994 as Natural Heritage Trust of Henderson County. A year later, the name was changed to Carolina Mountain Land Conservancy. Since that founding, they have protected over 27,000 acres in Henderson and Transylvania and parts of Buncombe, Rutherford, Polk and Jackson counties. According to their mission statement on their website, the CMLC “partners with landowners and organizations to protect land and water resources vital to our natural heritage and quality of life. Dedicated to saving the places you love, CMLC works to permanently conserve and actively care for an ever-growing regional network of significant farm, forest, park and natural lands.”
CMLC is based in Hendersonville and has a strong local presence, including helping to conserve Dupont State Forest. There is even a protected area in our Pinnacle Falls development. With an easement established in 2006, five acres located along the banks of the river paralleling Forest Stroll trail are being protected for habitat and water quality values. Their listed goals, according to their website are:
We initially got involved by joining as members, going on sponsored hikes (like our recent trek up to the top of Bearwallow Mountain at sunset), and completing the White Squirrel 2.0 Hiking Challenge. We have signed up for a workshop on invasive species in March and are keeping an eye out for when their workshop on trail maintenance and development becomes available. There are other opportunities for volunteerism, as well, which don’t necessarily involve field work.
According to the website, the program: “seeks the assistance of local volunteers to help us steward the Florence Nature Preserve (Gerton, NC), the Lewis Creek Nature Park (Edneyville, NC), and Rush Mountain (Hendersonville, NC) so that they remain pristine and safe for all to enjoy. This opportunity is a great way to gain experience in preserve management and trail maintenance, to learn about plants and animals, and to enjoy the outdoors. Volunteers will have the opportunity to serve as an extension of CMLC’s Stewardship Staff by…
Grady and I have signed up to be part of the Rush Mountain Volunteer Corp. We met with Kristen Todd, the volunteer program associate, on February 6th and spent an enjoyable hour walking the property and learning more about it. We would love to have others join us in monitoring the area and reporting back any changes noted. If anyone in Pinnacle Falls would be interested in joining us in this stewardship group, you can contact Kristen at 828-697-5777 or volunteer@carolinamountain.org or go onto the CMLC website at www.carolinamountain.org. You would need to fill out their volunteer form and release form.
The Carolina Mountain Land Conservancy, or CMLC, was founded in 1994 as Natural Heritage Trust of Henderson County. A year later, the name was changed to Carolina Mountain Land Conservancy. Since that founding, they have protected over 27,000 acres in Henderson and Transylvania and parts of Buncombe, Rutherford, Polk and Jackson counties. According to their mission statement on their website, the CMLC “partners with landowners and organizations to protect land and water resources vital to our natural heritage and quality of life. Dedicated to saving the places you love, CMLC works to permanently conserve and actively care for an ever-growing regional network of significant farm, forest, park and natural lands.”
CMLC is based in Hendersonville and has a strong local presence, including helping to conserve Dupont State Forest. There is even a protected area in our Pinnacle Falls development. With an easement established in 2006, five acres located along the banks of the river paralleling Forest Stroll trail are being protected for habitat and water quality values. Their listed goals, according to their website are:
- “CMLC protects forested wilderness, working farms, clean drinking water, verdant trout streams, wildlife habitat and sweeping views
- Partners with private landowners, community visionaries, and estate management professionals, to conserve land and maximize financial benefits through the use of voluntary land protection agreements, land donations and purchases
- Monitors protected properties to ensure that the conservation values of the land are forever maintained
- Provides technical resources that help landowners tailor conservation easements that suit individual needs
- Raises awareness about the importance of land conservation for future generations.”
We initially got involved by joining as members, going on sponsored hikes (like our recent trek up to the top of Bearwallow Mountain at sunset), and completing the White Squirrel 2.0 Hiking Challenge. We have signed up for a workshop on invasive species in March and are keeping an eye out for when their workshop on trail maintenance and development becomes available. There are other opportunities for volunteerism, as well, which don’t necessarily involve field work.
- Most of the acreage under their auspices are landowner easements, which CMLC monitors, and lands managed by other conservation groups. However, some of the acreage has been deeded outright to CMLC, which brings us back to the area which Grady and I first noted along Lake Falls Road. This pink-slashed part of Rush Mountain is owned by CMLC and is part of their Adopt-a-Preserve Volunteer Corps program.
According to the website, the program: “seeks the assistance of local volunteers to help us steward the Florence Nature Preserve (Gerton, NC), the Lewis Creek Nature Park (Edneyville, NC), and Rush Mountain (Hendersonville, NC) so that they remain pristine and safe for all to enjoy. This opportunity is a great way to gain experience in preserve management and trail maintenance, to learn about plants and animals, and to enjoy the outdoors. Volunteers will have the opportunity to serve as an extension of CMLC’s Stewardship Staff by…
- Monitoring an assigned trail route monthly
- Observing trails for damage, downed trees, adverse uses like equestrian-use and camping, or discovery of rare plants or wildlife and reporting these issues to CMLC staff
- Participating in pre-arranged workdays to take care of major invasive species removal, native plantings, or trail maintenance as needs arise”
Grady and I have signed up to be part of the Rush Mountain Volunteer Corp. We met with Kristen Todd, the volunteer program associate, on February 6th and spent an enjoyable hour walking the property and learning more about it. We would love to have others join us in monitoring the area and reporting back any changes noted. If anyone in Pinnacle Falls would be interested in joining us in this stewardship group, you can contact Kristen at 828-697-5777 or volunteer@carolinamountain.org or go onto the CMLC website at www.carolinamountain.org. You would need to fill out their volunteer form and release form.
County 4H selling plants to raise funds for youth programs
The Henderson County 4-H is raising funds to support youth programs and awards by selling strawberry, blueberry, raspberry, blackberry, and asparagus plants. All plants are bare root, and should be planted immediately. They prefer full sun and moist, well-drained soil. Instructions for planting and care will be provided with the plants. Order forms and payment are due to the NC Cooperative Extension by March 15 and all plants must be picked up at Henderson Farms, 705 Tracy Grove Road, Flat Rock, on Saturday, April 19th between 12pm - 4pm. Extra plants will be available after 2 pm on that day. Click here for an order form.
Source: February 2014 Henderson County Local Government E-Newsletter
Source: February 2014 Henderson County Local Government E-Newsletter
Updated January 29, 2014
Snow storm brings first major snowfall to PF
Well, we were only supposed to get a light dusting of snow. But instead, we got about three inches on Tuesday, January 28.
It started snowing around 9am Tuesday and continued until early evening, while temperatures stayed in the teens. Thanks to A.J. Ball who helped get the roads in Pinnacle Falls plowed and clear of snow and ice on Wednesday, January 29. |
Updated January 28, 2014
POA Board holds first meeting of 2014
The POA Board held its first meeting of 2014 on Saturday, January 25 at the clubhouse. Meeting minutes summarizing the discussions will be sent to property owners soon. In the meantime, topics discussed included:
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Social and trails committees need volunteers
Volunteers are needed for two POA committees.
Join Carol Fife and Gayden Gauthier on the Social Committee to help plan fun and entertaining get-togethers for the community. Contact either Carol or Gayden to volunteer.
Also, after a year as chairman of the Trails Committee, Abe Shor has stepped down. The Trails Committee helps to maintain Pinnacle Fall's hiking trails by clearing fallen branches, cleaning the bridges, and ensuring the trails are safe. Anyone interested in joining as a member or as chairman, should contact a member of the POA board.
Many thanks to Abe for serving as chairman of the Trails Committee, and doing a fantastic job at coordinating the maintenance of the trails and common area landscaping, and doing a lot of the work himself.
Join Carol Fife and Gayden Gauthier on the Social Committee to help plan fun and entertaining get-togethers for the community. Contact either Carol or Gayden to volunteer.
Also, after a year as chairman of the Trails Committee, Abe Shor has stepped down. The Trails Committee helps to maintain Pinnacle Fall's hiking trails by clearing fallen branches, cleaning the bridges, and ensuring the trails are safe. Anyone interested in joining as a member or as chairman, should contact a member of the POA board.
Many thanks to Abe for serving as chairman of the Trails Committee, and doing a fantastic job at coordinating the maintenance of the trails and common area landscaping, and doing a lot of the work himself.
Tips for hiking in winter months
by Kathleen Nance
When outdoor temperatures are more akin to Siberia than St. Croix, the temptation is strong to cocoon indoors with hot chocolate and a DVD. During the recent polar weather, however, Grady and I discovered many pleasures in a walk/hike outdoors.
Walking is touted as an always good-for-you exercise, but some particular advantages we have found for hiking during the winter include:
1. No mosquitos, no gnats, no snakes, no spider webs (other than the occasional fall leftover). Wildlife sightings may be limited to the birds that winter here, but that also means some of the less desired trail mates are also gone.
2. Winter views. With the deciduous trees bare and the rhododendron leaves sulking, views open up. You can enjoy scenes that you haven’t been able to find during greener seasons – river cascades, vistas across our beautiful mountains, rock formations, mosses and empty nests on the trees. Take a step outside and savor the rustle of juncos through the underbrush, the colors of small ground plants normally hidden, the intricate ice formations by creeks and falls, and the crunch of leaves and frost beneath your feet.
Walking is touted as an always good-for-you exercise, but some particular advantages we have found for hiking during the winter include:
1. No mosquitos, no gnats, no snakes, no spider webs (other than the occasional fall leftover). Wildlife sightings may be limited to the birds that winter here, but that also means some of the less desired trail mates are also gone.
2. Winter views. With the deciduous trees bare and the rhododendron leaves sulking, views open up. You can enjoy scenes that you haven’t been able to find during greener seasons – river cascades, vistas across our beautiful mountains, rock formations, mosses and empty nests on the trees. Take a step outside and savor the rustle of juncos through the underbrush, the colors of small ground plants normally hidden, the intricate ice formations by creeks and falls, and the crunch of leaves and frost beneath your feet.
Ice formations and winter views from Moore Cove, January 2014
3. Trails are less crowded. Recently, we went to the Moore Cove Trail in Pisgah and were the only hikers on the trail the entire trip. When would that happen in summer? Midnight?
4. Health benefits. During the winter, our bodies tend to store fat, and without exercise, our muscles begin to lose tone. We can also be afflicted with seasonal disorders like SAD (seasonal affective disorder), colds and flu. Google the benefits of winter exercise and you find improved immune systems, improved mood, and improved calorie burn among the healthy results. Coming from Michigan (where winters tend to run to gray), we have enjoyed the sunshine of the North Carolina winters. Getting out and soaking up some of that sunshine, can lessen depression as well as increasing your Vitamin D.
4. Health benefits. During the winter, our bodies tend to store fat, and without exercise, our muscles begin to lose tone. We can also be afflicted with seasonal disorders like SAD (seasonal affective disorder), colds and flu. Google the benefits of winter exercise and you find improved immune systems, improved mood, and improved calorie burn among the healthy results. Coming from Michigan (where winters tend to run to gray), we have enjoyed the sunshine of the North Carolina winters. Getting out and soaking up some of that sunshine, can lessen depression as well as increasing your Vitamin D.
There are few precautions and preparations to keep in mind however. An article by Jeff Doran on Active.com offers these Tips for Winter Hiking:
1. Wear layers – You may feel chilled when you first start out, but your body will soon generate heat and warm you up. The last thing you want to do is sweat and get wet; this is a first step toward hypothermia. The article recommends starting with wicking layer, then a fleece layer for warmth, and an outer shell to combat wind and water. Don’t forget gloves and hats, as a significant amount of body heat can be lost through the head and hands. He recommends to avoid cotton, since, if wet, it wicks away heat and no longer insulates. Grady and I found one of the best investments we made this year was to replace our old, (and probably less effective) thermal underwear with a new base layer shirt and leggings and a head covering that also goes around the neck and can be pulled up to cover the nose and mouth.
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Grady demonstrating his hiking attire at Moore Cove, temperature 20 degrees. (Yes, the tripod can be part of your hiking attire)
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2. Keep your feet warm – they recommend sturdy hiking boots for traction (above the ankle if you are going out in snow) with wool blend or synthetic hiking socks. Our normal hiking footgear has proved adequate on the trails and temperatures we’ve tried.
3. Consider the terrain – Be aware that conditions can change rapidly and there may be more snow or ice at higher elevations, along with cold and wind. We also found the coves can be chilly and damp in shadows. If you are hardy, specialized gear like crampons or snow shoes could be useful. If you are like us, simply avoid icy or snow covered trails and keep alert.
4. Stay fueled – Being in the cold can burn more calories than the same trail in summer. The article recommends bringing high energy snacks, being careful about protein bars which can freeze solid. (Ever try to eat one that’s been in a cooler? You might want to have your dentist’s number handy). Keep them near your body if temperatures are that cold.
5. Stay hydrated – Cold air can be more drying than summer air, so bringing water is essential during winter. The article recommends insulating your water bottles with an old wool sock to keep them from freezing.
6. Know all possible hazards and prepare – A good tip for any hike winter or summer. The article recommends checking weather reports, bringing emergency gear (e.g. first aid kit, fire starter, waterproof matches, pocket knife, emergency blanket), carrying maps and a compass, and letting someone know where you are going.
I would add to be aware of and respect your own physical condition. As I remind Grady, walking is not a competition. On the coldest days, we have aimed for well maintained, less strenuous trails we are familiar with like Moore’s Cove, Triple Falls, Bearwallow, and the excellent trails here in Pinnacle Falls. Even a stroll along the roads has pleasures to experience while offering those benefits of Vitamin S(unshine).
3. Consider the terrain – Be aware that conditions can change rapidly and there may be more snow or ice at higher elevations, along with cold and wind. We also found the coves can be chilly and damp in shadows. If you are hardy, specialized gear like crampons or snow shoes could be useful. If you are like us, simply avoid icy or snow covered trails and keep alert.
4. Stay fueled – Being in the cold can burn more calories than the same trail in summer. The article recommends bringing high energy snacks, being careful about protein bars which can freeze solid. (Ever try to eat one that’s been in a cooler? You might want to have your dentist’s number handy). Keep them near your body if temperatures are that cold.
5. Stay hydrated – Cold air can be more drying than summer air, so bringing water is essential during winter. The article recommends insulating your water bottles with an old wool sock to keep them from freezing.
6. Know all possible hazards and prepare – A good tip for any hike winter or summer. The article recommends checking weather reports, bringing emergency gear (e.g. first aid kit, fire starter, waterproof matches, pocket knife, emergency blanket), carrying maps and a compass, and letting someone know where you are going.
I would add to be aware of and respect your own physical condition. As I remind Grady, walking is not a competition. On the coldest days, we have aimed for well maintained, less strenuous trails we are familiar with like Moore’s Cove, Triple Falls, Bearwallow, and the excellent trails here in Pinnacle Falls. Even a stroll along the roads has pleasures to experience while offering those benefits of Vitamin S(unshine).
I'm just sayin'...
"Something's got to be done about this cold weather. Something dramatic -
like weather-stripping the Canadian border."
Lake Lure originally planned as resort community
Lake Lure is a well-known destination for thousands of visitors each year from around this country, Canada, and abroad. The Town of Lake Lure is home to more than 1,050 permanent residents.
Located in western North Carolina, the town sits in the heart of Hickory Nut Gorge, east of Asheville. The Rocky Broad River winds its way through a series of rapids down through Hickory Nut Gorge, and the crystal clear water flows through the valley that feeds Lake Lure. The Town of Lake Lure encompasses 13.25 square miles including the lake with a large central body of deep water, three long bays, an island of seven acres and many small bays and inlets with a background of forest clad hills and mountains. The climate is unusually temperate as Lake Lure lies in the thermal belt of the western North Carolina mountains and foothills.
The lake is the number one attraction and the reason so many families visit Lake Lure year after year. Visitors come to enjoy the 720 acres of lake, sparkling clean beach area, and the incredible Blue Ridge mountain range including Chimney Rock. History records that the idea of a resort community in western North Carolina was the vision of Dr. Lucius B. Morse, who imagined hotels, polo fields, a spa, and more in Hickory Nut Gorge. But at the time, Hickory Nut Gorge didn't have a lake.
Soliciting the financial backing of his brothers, Hiram and Asahel, Dr. Morse purchased 400 acres around Chimney Rock in 1902 to create Chimney Rock Park. Additional acreage was acquired over the next several years to bring the total to 8,000 acres. Dr. Morse conceived the idea of building a dam on the Rocky Broad River to create a lake and a year-round resort. The dam was completed in September 1926, and in 1927, the lake itself was completed. Dr. Morse's wife, Elizabeth Parkenson, named it Lake Lure because of its alluring beauty. The Town of Lake Lure was also incorporated in 1927.
When the economy crashed in 1929, plans for the resort community surrounding Lake Lure came to a halt. The Morse brothers were able to hold onto the acreage that encompassed Chimney Rock Park.
Hickory Nut Gorge’s history goes back much further than that of Lake Lure. Once home to Cherokee and Catawba Indians, they believed the Gorge was the gateway to the land of "tso-lungh" – tobacco. They also believed the valley was guarded by the spirits of the "little people" and legends about these mythical people abound today.
Because the Gorge provides a natural gap in the mountain range, it was most certainly used by early settlers to travel west. Some historians even argue that the Spanish explorer Hernando de Soto may have passed through the area.
By 1830, a stagecoach was running a regular route through Hickory Nut Gorge from Rutherfordton to Asheville. With transportation came more and more development.
Sources: Chimney Rock Park website, www.chimneyrockpark.com/park/history/lakelurehistory.php; and the Town of Lake Lure website, www.townoflakelure.com/about-lake-lure.php
Located in western North Carolina, the town sits in the heart of Hickory Nut Gorge, east of Asheville. The Rocky Broad River winds its way through a series of rapids down through Hickory Nut Gorge, and the crystal clear water flows through the valley that feeds Lake Lure. The Town of Lake Lure encompasses 13.25 square miles including the lake with a large central body of deep water, three long bays, an island of seven acres and many small bays and inlets with a background of forest clad hills and mountains. The climate is unusually temperate as Lake Lure lies in the thermal belt of the western North Carolina mountains and foothills.
The lake is the number one attraction and the reason so many families visit Lake Lure year after year. Visitors come to enjoy the 720 acres of lake, sparkling clean beach area, and the incredible Blue Ridge mountain range including Chimney Rock. History records that the idea of a resort community in western North Carolina was the vision of Dr. Lucius B. Morse, who imagined hotels, polo fields, a spa, and more in Hickory Nut Gorge. But at the time, Hickory Nut Gorge didn't have a lake.
Soliciting the financial backing of his brothers, Hiram and Asahel, Dr. Morse purchased 400 acres around Chimney Rock in 1902 to create Chimney Rock Park. Additional acreage was acquired over the next several years to bring the total to 8,000 acres. Dr. Morse conceived the idea of building a dam on the Rocky Broad River to create a lake and a year-round resort. The dam was completed in September 1926, and in 1927, the lake itself was completed. Dr. Morse's wife, Elizabeth Parkenson, named it Lake Lure because of its alluring beauty. The Town of Lake Lure was also incorporated in 1927.
When the economy crashed in 1929, plans for the resort community surrounding Lake Lure came to a halt. The Morse brothers were able to hold onto the acreage that encompassed Chimney Rock Park.
Hickory Nut Gorge’s history goes back much further than that of Lake Lure. Once home to Cherokee and Catawba Indians, they believed the Gorge was the gateway to the land of "tso-lungh" – tobacco. They also believed the valley was guarded by the spirits of the "little people" and legends about these mythical people abound today.
Because the Gorge provides a natural gap in the mountain range, it was most certainly used by early settlers to travel west. Some historians even argue that the Spanish explorer Hernando de Soto may have passed through the area.
By 1830, a stagecoach was running a regular route through Hickory Nut Gorge from Rutherfordton to Asheville. With transportation came more and more development.
Sources: Chimney Rock Park website, www.chimneyrockpark.com/park/history/lakelurehistory.php; and the Town of Lake Lure website, www.townoflakelure.com/about-lake-lure.php