What a perfect way to relax and enjoy an afternoon. Bring a blanket, sit back and enjoy the variety of colors and sweet aroma of our azalea garden for the next few weeks while the flowers are in full bloom. The 1/3 mile paved nature trail and free high speed wi-fi service are always available.

Details about hiking, rafting, fly fishing and other outdoor activities are available in the 2013 NC Mountains Visitors Guide, available free of charge from the Jackson County Tourism Development Authority.

The 48-page, full-color guide explores a variety of leisure pursuits in Jackson County’s popular mountain towns of Cashiers, Cherokee, Cullowhee, Dillsboro and Sylva.

Folks can learn about unique destinations like the Western North Carolina Fly Fishing Trail, the nation’s only fly fishing trail, and the Richland Balsam Overlook, the highest point on the Blue Ridge Parkway at 6,053 feet in elevation.

There’s also information on shopping, dining and lodging, as well as a detailed pull-out map of hiking trails and waterfalls. Lodging options include cozy bed-and-breakfast inns, cabin rentals, riverside hotels and notable mountain getaways like the High Hampton Inn and Balsam Mountain Inn.

“Unplug from the hustle and bustle and relax in the scenic mountains of Western North Carolina,” said Julie Spiro, executive director of the Jackson County Chamber.

To receive a complimentary NC Mountains Visitors Guide, call (800) 962-1911, or submit a request online at: www.MountainLovers.com. The guide can also be downloaded online.

Great news friends! The Cherohala Skyway National Scenic Byway is officially open once again. While it is only one lane at this time, the road is definitely opened for through traffic. With Highway 441 still being closed, this will certainly help as an alternate route into Swain, Jackson and other western counties as you travel and make plans through the rest of this strange winter and into spring!