October in NC Mountains - Ashe County Leaf Season  As September fades away, October makes its entry into the North Carolina Mountains. October is one of the most beautiful months of the year.  This month's blog will discuss the beautiful nature of Ashe County, West Jefferson, and nearby towns.

Bluff Mountain is in Ashe County, North Carolina, the picturesque corner of the North Carolina Mountains Hiking Bluff Mountain Preserve offers a remarkable journey through breathtaking landscapes, unique landforms, and an extraordinary variety of plant life.  Bluff Mountain stands as one of the most ecologically significant natural areas in the entire Southeast.  Its rich geological structure and diverse ecosystems make it a haven for both rare and endangered species, as well as a sanctuary for nature enthusiasts looking to immerse themselves in the wonders of the natural world. How Bluff Mountain Became a Preserve In 1978, the North Carolina Chapter of The Nature Conservancy began working in collaboration with the owners of Bluff Mountain, Wyn Edwards and Mac Edwards, families of West Jefferson.  They had a common goal of protecting the area’s ecosystem, which resulted in the North Carolina Chapter of the Nature Conservation buying 701 acres of the Bluff.  Today, the Bluff Mountain Preserve encompasses more than 3,800 acres which are carefully managed to secure the continued protection of the extremely rare natural area.

The recent purchase of 152-acres on Paddy Mountain in Ashe County by Blue Ridge Conservancy is a significant achievement in land preservation. In this article, we will take a closer look at the significance of Paddy Mountain, its conservation efforts, and the Northern Peaks State trail.  The trail will connect Boone to Elk Knob State Park, West Jefferson, and Mount Jefferson State Natural Area.  More importantly, the mountain with its stunning landscapes and rich biodiversity will be permanently protected from development.  Ecological Significance Paddy Mountain is part of the ecologically rich Amphibolite Mountains, which are home to a wide range of plant and animal species.  The mountain's eastern slope is known for its unique and diverse habitats.  In collaboration with the NC Plant Conservation Program, the Blue Ridge Conservancy has been actively working to manage and protect the delicate ecosystems found on Paddy Mountain.

Ashe County Christmas Tree Growers Association Sponsored the First Christmas in July Festival in 1987. The first Christmas in July festival began in 1987 and was sponsored by the Ashe County Tree Growers Association.  This event began as a promotional strategy by creating a platform for tree growers to display their Christmas trees and connect with potential buyers.  This is when the idea of hosting festivals in downtown West Jefferson, NC was envisioned.  These festivals have since become an annual tradition, bringing locals and tourists together to celebrate the holiday spirit in the North Carolina Mountains in summertime.

From Serene Landscapes to Thriving Communities: Uncovering the Top Reasons Why People Are Relocating to the NC Mountains ‍The North Carolina mountains have always been a haven for nature enthusiasts, offering a perfect blend of scenic beauty and tranquility. However, in recent years, these mountains have also become a hub for people looking to relocate and start a new life.