Have you ever been to the mountains of western North Carolina and wanted
to see the scenery, but escape the crowds? Maybe you were tempted to
take off down a side road, but hesitated, fearful of getting lost. Now,
Touring the Western North Carolina Backroads can help you make that
escape. The book's 21 tours cover the entire mountain region of western
North Carolina and provide numerous opportunities for seeing unspoiled
landscapes and pastoral scenes. But scenery is not the only focus. Once
you're on the backroads, you might speculate about the history behind
the old white clapboard farmhouse that dominates the valley ahead, or
you might wonder about the rest of the story behind the two sentences on
the historical marker at the side of the road. Touring the Western
North Carolina Backroads fills in those details. Drawing from local
histories and early travel writings, each tour is designed to be a
journey through the history of the area. Tales of eccentric characters,
folklore that has been passed down through the ages, and stories about
early settlers combine to present a perspective that makes the scenery
come alive. This third edition features updated directions, additional
sites, new photographs, and nearby recreational opportunities. Use this
guidebook to plan your next day trip, weekend getaway, or cycling
adventure! John F. Blair's Touring the Backroads(TM) series includes
travel books that literally take readers off the beaten path to historic
sites and landmarks. Each book departs the highways and thoroughfares in
favor of the backroads, giving directions, suggested routes, and
historical details along the way. These books can be read at home, or
they make excellent travel companions for those looking for something
beyond the norm.
Carolyn Sakowski is a native of Morganton, North Carolina. She holds a
B.A. in history from Queens University of Charlotte and an M.A. in
history from Appalachian State University. She lives in Winston- Salem,
North Carolina. Her previous books include Touring the East Tennessee
Backroads and Travel North Carolina.
I recommend it highly--not only for you outdoorsy types but also for
history buffs and anybody who enjoys a good, old-fashioned Sunday drive.
-- Polly Paddock The Charlotte Observer
