Andrews North Carolina - Valley River Country

In the northeastern region of Cherokee County along US 19/129 near the town of Andrews, there is a long open valley floor that appears to be almost perfectly level against its towering mountainous horizons. A phenomenon when you consider this is in the midst of a land where nothing is flat. The valley is encased within long mountain walls on either side that seem to rise straight up to the clouds as each mountain range races to meet at the valley's end. To the south are the towering Valley River Mountains; to the north the rolling Snowbird Mountains, both mountain ranges are part of the Nantahala National Forest.

The 4-lane highway (US 19/129) with its wide medium dissects the center of the valley floor offering outstanding views of the valley from the roadway. The shoulders of the roadway are often lined with wildflowers spring, summer and fall. The Valley River region's older two lane roads along the valley generally hug the long mountain ranges on either side, winding along the valley edge, offering only views of the mountains across the way. At the point where the mountains meet at the eastern end of the valley, the four lanes becomes the two lanes of US 19/129 due to the two mountains range narrowing at the eastern end of the valley. Here the roadway between the giants mountain walls continue their race along either side as the roadway gradually gains altitude up a rather straight path to the low mountain gap in the community of Topton, this is the east end of Cherokee County, beyond here to the east you enter the deep Nantahala River Gorge country.

In the central section of the Valley River along the four-lane you'll find the Western Carolina Regional Airport along the north side of the valley. The runway is 5,500-feet in length and capable of handling small jet engine planes or if you prefer aircraft. On the south side of the highway across from the airport is the valley town of Andrews, North Carolina.

Like Murphy, the town of Andrews has a wealth of history along with interesting turn of the century architecture for an "out of the way" mountain town. Andrews was not incorporated until 1905 and didn't really get its start until 1890 when the railroad was completed at present day Andrews. During that time this depot stop was called Valley Town until it took its name in honor of the railroad's second vice-president Colonel A. B. Andrews.

What makes the town of Andrews so special is that it has a nice laid-back, feel good mountain town atmosphere with a backdrop I can only call, "outstanding." The Valley River borders the north side of town, beyond that the valley flows north towards the lower slopes of the Snowbird Mountains. To the south of Andrews, rolling foothills and meadow lands create a spacious hideaway for mountain escapes.

The historic downtown district is lined with brick buildings and storefronts that date back to the turn of the 20th century. Large historic homes dot the downtown district reminding us of a time when the railroad and local natural resources brought prosperity to this out of the way mountain rail town.

You can access Main Street off of US 19/129 using Business Route 19 on either end of town. Business Route 19 becomes Andrews' Main Street, which will take you into the heart of the historic downtown district. Shops and eateries are located in the downtown district; B&B's, cabin rentals and other lodging are available within the town and outlining areas.

Several structures in Andrews are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The First Baptist Church constructed in 1900 and is currently known as the Valley Town Cultural Art Center was designed in the Classical Revival style.

There's the Queen Anne style Franklin Pierce Cover House constructed in 1900. The Walker's Inn, built in 1825 and the ancient Andrews Mound, built in prehistoric Native American style is also on the list (mound is not opened to the public). Several other buildings in the downtown district are on the Cherokee County list of Historical Places.

The Western Carolina Regional Airport lies in the most perfectly flat valleys in the Blue Ridge Smoky Mountains. It's almost surreal to see it stretched out against a beautiful mountain backdrop. Some contribute its levelness to being shaped by the last ice age; I believe the valley in itself is unique no matter what the explanation. Along the south side of the runway there are a set of railroad tracks running straight as an arrow west, parallel to the airfield. South of the rail line in the center of the valley, the broad 4 lane super highway travels through this natural mountain corridor like destiny deemed it, what a statement in time, history and transportation.

Before leaving the Valley River Country, there's more history that needs to be shared. Up until 1838 this was all Cherokee land from the rising to the setting sun. The county was established in 1839, the same year Fort Delaney was constructed in the Valley River region for the removal of the Cherokee people in accordance to the Treaty of the New Echota.

The difficult mountainous terrain of the Snowbird Mountains between Fort Delaney in the Valley River region, and Fort Montgomery located in what is today's town of Robbinsville in neighboring Graham County was nearly impossible. A road had to be cut through the treacherous wilderness backcountry of the Snowbird's steep mountains and it was done without any instruments, in a terrain where you often can't see the sun or stars for the trees, but the trees are the key, moss grows on the north side of trees, giving something to go by. General Winfield Scott gave the orders and the US Army's troopers carried out the feat, the road is considered the first government built road in the region. The soldiers using axes, picks and saws cut this road by hand and horse team, the road is known as Tatham Gap Road, a now popular primitive forestry road that's off the beaten path. The unpaved road winds up and down along a path with curves that often seem to small to transport anything but pack mules, and to think they used wagons. You can find Tatham Gap Road across the main highway US 19/129 north of Andrews. A local county map of Cherokee and Graham Counties would be helpful on your journey.

The Valley River region is just as it appears, laid back and serene in a remarkable setting of Cherokee County's Blue Ridge - Smoky Mountains.

Highlander Fine Arts, Authentic Mountain Photography and Fine Crafts

When you are visiting the Blue Ridge - Smoky Mountains, a stop by the Highlander Gallery is well worth your time. The Highlander Gallery represents some of the finest artists in the mountains.  With a large assortment of Fine Art Photography and Fine Crafts as well.

Here are a sampling of the artists you will find....Anthony Abreu • Michael Bedoian • Juanita Greenspan • Linda Thompson • Tonya Fowler • Jason Fowler • Chris Jones • Les Smith • Chuck Waldroup • Joe Waldroup • Billy Reynolds • Randy Rowe • Thomas Payne •  Frances McCord • Rita Poole • Clive Poole • Marla McCormick • Don Milsaps

Wednesday - Saturday 11:00 ish - 5:00 ish
10079 Old Highway 64  •  Brasstown, NC  • 828.835.9982  • www.HighlanderGallery.com

Parson's Pub in Historic Downtown Murphy NC
Lunch •  Dinner • Great Beer

We believe in old fashioned, face to face, friendly conversation. You will not find any televisions or loud music. Just a warm place to feel at home and enjoy...

We pride ourselves on our extensive beer menu (over 50!). Talk to one of our "Beervangelists" to help you try a new favorite! If you request a beer we do not carry, we will attempt to get it!

Monday - Saturday    11 am - 10 pm
19 Tennessee Street • Murphy, NC 28906 • 828-837-4151  •  Parson's Pub Web Site

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Rafting on the Ocoee River

The Ocoee River is often described as the roller coaster of the southeast. Come experience what has been called the greatest white water center in the world.

Professional river outfitter with over 30 years experience. Our safety record is unsurpassed in the industry. We believe our staff is simply the best in the business. Guides are chosen for their character and enthusiasm for sharing the outdoors with you.

Call today to start your adventure...828-835-3275  •  GreatMtnAdventures.com

Rafting on the Nantahala River

Experience this unforgettable whitewater adventure through the gorge. The Nantahala is exciting, and a great time, but not as wild as the Ocoee.  This is a river that you can bring children on as young as seven years old.

Experience the excitement of Patton's Run, the fun and splash of Tumble Dry, the rush and roar of riding Class III Nantahala Falls. For a bigger thrill, try taking one of our Duckies down the river!

Call today to start your adventure...828-835-3275  •  GreatMtnAdventures.com

Zip Line Canopy Tours...Nantahala Gorge • Chattooga Ridge • Asheville • Pigeon River

Whichever course you choose you are sure to enjoy the newest outdoor adventure to hit the US.

All our courses offer a soaring and gliding experience naturally fueled by a gradual drop in elevation. All trips offer fully guided tours with 2 or more Rangers on at least 10 zips, 4 bridges beginning with a training course at each location.

Call today to start your adventure...828-835-3275  •  GreatMtnAdventures.com

 

Adventure Camp on the Ocoee & Nantahala Rivers

White Water Rafting on the Ocoee and Nantahala Rivers • Horseback Riding • High and Low Ropes Course • Giant Swing • Caving • Paint ball • Mountain Biking • Camping & Cabin Rental

Catch the surge and ride the rapids on the exciting Ocoee River in Tennessee or North Carolina's Nantahala River for an experience you won't forget. Challenge your skills on the high ropes just for the thrill. Sit tall in the saddle for a leisure ride through the beautiful scenery of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Camp out or stay in log cabins while letting the kids sleep in groups in one of several bunkhouse's. We will help you create a custom retreat for you or your group.

 tara@greatmountainretreats.com  •  828.835.3275  •  GreatYouthRetreats.com

Trout Treks • Bass Fishing • Wade • Pan Fishing • Fly Fishing • Private Trophy Trout Waters • Drift Boat Trips

Great mountain adventures is offering the "Best Fishing" available in the Mountains. We create a fishing trip, designed specifically towards your needs with a professional fishing guide to guide you to make the most of your fishing adventure on the Finest Lakes, Rivers and Streams in the Southern Appalachians!

So much water to choose from and an adventure you'll never forget.

Call today to start your adventure...828-835-3275  •  GreatMountainFishing.com

Tim Noland, Realtor® - Buyer's Agent • North Georgia & Western North Carolina

When looking to buy mountain property, you need someone that not only understands the mountains, you need someone that specifically represents you, the buyer. When you choose to work with a Buyer's Agent you are assured that you have an agent that is truly looking for your best interests, someone that will not only find what you are looking for, but someone that will negotiate the best price possible.

10886 Old Highway 64 • Brasstown, NC 28902  •  828.557.1009  •  GreatMtnRealEstate.com

  

Great Mountain Properties & Cabin Rentals in now accepting additional cabins

Whether you purchased your mountain home as an occasional getaway, an investment, or the destination of your future retirement, we realize the importance that it be respected as your home first and foremost.

It is our objective to provide you with both quality property management as well as a rental program to help offset some of the expense of owning a 2nd home. Through the combined knowledge of all of us at Great Mountain Cabin Rentals, we have the expertise to help you understand and create a Great Mountain Cabin Rental.

896 Green Cove Road  •  Brasstown, NC 28902  • 828.835.3275  •  www.GreatMountainCabinRentals.com

Great Mountain Cabin Rentals

We are proud to represent the finest cabin rentals in Murphy North Carolina and the surrounding area. We have a nice selection of cabin and vacation rentals with excellent amenities in beautiful and peaceful mountain settings, at very reasonable prices. It is our pleasure to help you find the perfect cabin or vacation rental whether you are looking for a romantic weekend, a girlfriend's getaway, fishing trip for the guys or a family retreat. It is our goal to help you plan the best mountain getaway available.

828.835.3275  •  GreatMountainCabinRentals.com

Heaven's Ridge, Luxury Mountain View Cabin

This beautiful, custom, luxury cabin will absolutely blow your mind. Take all of your cares and worries away, while you enjoy peace and quiet this private estate has to offer during your stay. Heaven's Ridge is located on 42 acres on top of a mountain with phenomenal mountain views all the way around. WOW! is what you will say each and every time you look out the windows of this cabin or spend time on any of the large decks that surround this home.

828.835.3275  •  Heaven's Ridge

Perfect View Luxury Pet Friendly Cabin Rental

Luxury "Pet Friendly", Hot Tub Cabin located in Murphy NC.  Perfect View Hideaway offers great views with lots of covered and uncovered decks. This cabin has upscale furnishing and exceptional decor throughout.   Perfect View Hideaway has 2 full living/great rooms both with large flat screen TV's and satellite service. Both living areas also have gas fireplaces.

828.835.3275  •  Perfect View Pet Friendly Luxury Cabin

Fox Den Pet Friendly Cabin in Murphy NC

Luxury Pet Friendly, Cabin Rental located in Murphy NC. Fox Den is a recently built cabin offering mountain views with covered and uncovered decks. This custom designed cabin has upscale furnishing and exceptional decor throughout. Fox Den has 2 Master Bedrooms with private baths. King master has a rustic stone shower in the bathroom. Second Master has a Queen Bed. There is also a Queen size sofa bed in the living room. Fox Den has a 3 large flat screen smart TV's with Cable one in each bedroom and one in the living room, also wireless Internet service throughout. If you are looking to get away to the mountains in style, this is the cabin for you.

828.835.3275  •  Fox Den Pet Friendly Cabin Getaway

My Mountain Pet Friendly Cabin in Murphy NC

This sweet cabins offers 2 bedrooms, 2.5 baths and 2 fire pits. Just .2 miles of pavement (not gravel here) from Highway 64 and 5 miles from the Tennessee lines allowed quick access to the Ocoee Recreation Area for a great deal of adventure fun. One bedroom (queen) is located on the first floor and the second is the loft (king) offers and additional 1/2 bath and small office area/reading nook. The kitchen is well equipped and has beautiful granite counter-tops. The Flat screen TV offers satellite service and the cabin comes equipped with Internet and wifi. The first fire pit is located in a gazebo off the main deck and is gas for easy convenience.  The second fire pit it down a short walking deck staircase and is wood.  Great for making s'mores and telling stories.

828.835.3275  •  My Murphy Vacation Cabin

Cozy Bear Cabin

Sit back and watch your cares float away on the hammock in the large screened in porch; rock till your hearts content in the rocking chairs or sit by the brand new fire pit on the spacious deck. This cabin is within a few minutes to town. This 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom cabin sleepy 4 comfortably with a queen size bed and private bathroom connected to each bedroom. Brand new large screen smart tv's (living room and bedrooms) will allow you to stream your favorite movies or watch the game.

828.835.3275  •  Cozy Bear Cabin Rental

Riverside Retreat on the Nottely River

The ultimate retreat for your mountain get-away! Perfect for the family or a romantic get-away. This comfortably furnished, Non-Smoking, two bedroom, two full bathroom, cabin home is nestled on the banks of the widest portion of the Nottely River. Rumor has it, that the fishing has been great this year. Enjoy spending your morning on the large river front deck as you watch the water go by. The yard is a great place for kids to run around. The winter months you will enjoy the wood burning fireplace.

828.835.3275  •  Riverside Retreat

Reese's Retreat Close to the Ocoee

Brand new cabin with all the amenities. Located close to Ocoee River this sweet 2 bedroom, 2 bath cabins is great for families. Master on main has a king size bed while the living room has a pull out couch and the loft bedroom has a queen size bed making this cabin sleep 6 comfortably. The main level of the home has a nice size, well equipped kitchen for all of your cooking needs. The open dining area seats 6 along with a nice dining table on the wrap around porch for that seasonal evening meal.

828.835.3275  •  Reese's Retreat

Bear's Den, Pet Friendly Cabin

Mountain View Cabin with Community Hiwassee River Access. This cabin is located only 15 minutes to town and the road is paved the entire way. Pet Friendly and WiFi access, Bear's Den is a beautiful cabin offering 3 bedrooms, one king in the loft and one queen on the main floor and the lower level has 2 sets of twin size bunkbeds, a bonus room with a queen size bed on the lower level, a pull out sofa and 3 full bathrooms. Dog friendly offering a large amount of decking with a gate for your pup to run around and enjoy. A side screen in porch allows for great outdoor dining or that morning cup of coffee, the sunrises are amazing.

828.835.3275  •  Bear's Den, Pet Friendly Cabin

Sunset Ridge, Pet Friendly Mountain Getaway

Sunset Ridge offers a wide range of amenities and is the perfect getaway for any occasion. If you are looking for the perfect family retreat, you have found it. Sunset Ridge with Great Mountain Cabin Rentals is the perfect place to escape the big city with your family. With 3 bedrooms, a beautiful scenic porch, and a basement filled with a pong table, foosball table, and air hockey table, there's enjoyment for the whole family. Sunset Ridge has a fully stocked kitchen, indoor fireplace, a gas grill, outdoor seating, and a range of mountain views perfect for sitting by the fire pit and making s'mores with your family!

828.835.3275  •  Sunset Ridge Cabin

Running Waters, Luxury Hiwassee Riverfront Cabin

Running Waters sits above the beautiful Hiwassee River in the historic town of Murphy, North Carolina. This wonderful riverfront cabin offers you private escape with scenic views and direct access to the Hiwassee River, a special treat to any getaway.

Whether it's a romantic getaway, restful family vacation, or a holiday away from home, you'll be treated to comfort in our luxury riverfront 3 bedroom - 2 bathroom home.

828.835.3275  •  Running Waters

Wild Wolf Lodge, Luxury Hot Tub Cabin

Huge cabin with main level king master suite, and private bath, 2 bedrooms upstairs, 1 with 2 twins, 1 with a king bed, twin beds, trundle twin bed and a private balcony, 2 additional king beds on Terrace Level. Terrace level also has a large recreation room with full size pool table, 2 dart boards, full size bar, brand new flat screen Smart TV, and an over sized battleship game. Step outside to the large hot tub, fire pit area and even a tree-house for the little ones.

828.835.3275  •  Wild Wolf Lodge

Murphy/Peace Valley KOA

The beauty and solitude of the Mountains make our KOA an ideal spot to settle in and relax for a while. Located one mile from Harrahs Cherokee Valley River Casino, we offer spacious RV Sites, fully furnished Deluxe Cabins, and Tent Sites along the scenic Valley River. At the campground, guests can wade into the water to cast their lines for trout in the stocked river, take a dip in the pool, catch up on news and sports in the game room, spend time with family and friends, and simply relax. Then get settled in and head out to explore our beautiful area. You're just a short ride to the Cherohala Skyway and Tail of the Dragon. Visit Fields of the Wood Park, hop on a mountain train, or join in a class at the famous John C. Campbell Folk School. Piney Knob Hiking Trails are just around the corner. Fires Creek, Lake Hiawassee, Nantahala, and Fontana are great natural areas to visit.

800-562-9382   •   117 Happy Valley Road   •   Marble, NC 28905  •  Murphy Peace Valley KOA Campground

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