Canopy Tours Give You a Bird’s Eye View of the Mountains

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If you’ve ever wanted to escape the clutches of gravity, and rocket through the trees like a hungry hawk chasing his dinner, consider taking a “canopy tour” through a nearby mountain forest. Provided through specially equipped outfitters, this adrenaline-fueled experience begins when you climb to the top of a high platform. Next, a trained “tour guide” securely harnesses you to a long steel cable (or zipline) that’s strung between a series of trees.

After pushing off the platform, you’ll cruise through the forest canopy far above the ground, and arrive at the next platform for a repeat performance. Whether you fly over the forest floor, sweep along a river, or get a panoramic view of the mountains, it’s an experience you won’t forget. Fortunately, you can find some top-notch canopy tours within easy driving distance of Murphy, NC. So choose an enticing tour, pile your family or friends into the car, and get ready to enjoy some quality air time!

RIDGE RUNNER ZIPLINES

750 Wakefield Road, Andrews, NC. 828-421-8119.

RidgeRunner Ziplines is located right in Cherokee County, with its Andrews basecamp just minutes away from downtown Murphy and the Nantahala Gorge. RidgeRunner offers eleven ziplines and a suspension bridge, with some sections 80 feet above the forest floor.

You’ll begin your two-hour tour at the top of a scenic mountain. Two capable guides will harness you up and provide a helmet and leather gloves. Next, you’ll get some “ground school” basics, giving you the confidence to safely operate the ziplines. Note that each time you reach a new platform, the guides will make all your trolley and safety line connections.

Finally, you’ll push away from the platform and fly through the forest. While you’ll travel at a good clip, you’ll be in a great position to enjoy many sights and sounds you can’t see from the ground. When your zipline adventure ends, you’ll be back at RidgeRunner’s basecamp – giving you the perfect opportunity to swap stories over lunch or dinner in nearby Andrews.

NANTAHALA GORGE CANOPY TOURS AND KID ZIP!

Located at Wildwater Nantahala, 10345 Highway 19 South/74 West, Bryson City, NC. Reservations: 866-319-8870.
Local: 828-488-2384.

Nantahala Gorge Canopy Tours and KidZip! are affiliated with the adjacent Wildwater Nantahala rafting operation. This Nantahala River Gorge complex, located in nearby Swain County, also includes lodgings for families and groups.

Adult Zipline Canopy Tour

The 20-acre adult zipline course features 13 ziplines (including 4 side-by-side ziplines) and eight aerial bridges.
Your three-hour tour begins with “ground school,” where you’ll learn about zipline travel and get comfortable with some easier ziplines. Next, you’ll jump right into the canopy tour, traversing high platforms and getting up close and personal with sky-high trees.

While cruising through the course, you’ll enjoy views of waterfalls, gorgeous Fontana Lake, and even Clingman’s Dome in the distance. If visibility permits, you might be rewarded with a 50-mile mountain view.

KidZip!

If your family includes children from 4-12 years old, and they’re chafing at the bit for their own zipline adventure, KidZip! can treat them to a super-fun two-hour experience. They’ll begin with their own “ground school” session, and then tackle 13 zipline sections targeted to different skill levels. A continuous cable-and-roller system means no clipping and unclipping, allowing the kids to soak up the action with minimal interruptions.

The KidZip! Course includes several tree-based platforms, along with eight climbing challenges, giving your young adventurers a run for their money. In fact, if they really race through the course, they can tackle it again and again within the two hours.

Depending on your child’s age, you might be required to accompany them on the course or serve as a course-side chaperone. Check the KidZip! website for details.

OCOEE ZIPZ

1985 Highway 64, Old Copper Road, Benton, TN. Reservations: 1-877-7ZIP ZIP (1-877-794-7947).

If the Land of Oz sounds like a good zipline destination, Ocoee Zipz will be glad to take you there. Located on 40 acres along the scenic Ocoee River in east Tennessee, this seven-zipline operation offers two hours of Wizard of Oz-themed fun.

Each Oz-friendly zipline highlights one of the major characters in the famous movie. Ocoee Zipz’s certified Flying Monkey Guides will lead your adventure, giving you the basics of zipline safety and brake training before you take to the skies.

Ocoee Zipz offers Land of Oz tours on weekends all year ’round, with private tours available on weekdays. Make your reservations on the Ocoee Zipz website.

Dressing for Your Canopy/Zipline Tour

Although each canopy tour company has its own guidelines, follow these general tips for maximum safety and comfort. First, while zipping through the canopy will be highly addictive fun, you’ll wreck your feet by braking with sandals or flip-flops. So, closed-toe shoes are highly recommended and might be mandatory.

Next, long pants or longer shorts, plus a collared shirt, will help prevent potential chafing problems from your harness and seat. If you have long hair, tie it back so it won’t tangle in the zipline gear. And leave your mobile phones in the car.

Why Good Physical Conditioning Matters

Your canopy/zipline tour will involve considerable air time, but you’ll also be expected to complete short hikes and/or stair climbs between platforms. To minimize your risks, and increase your enjoyment of the trip, you should be in reasonably good physical shape. Also, remember that your weight will affect your momentum along the ziplines. Finally, check your tour operator’s regulations about riding with existing injuries, or attempting the trip while pregnant.

Avoiding That “Lost in the Mountains” Look

When driving to your canopy/zipline tour destination, remember that some Internet mapping and/or vehicle GPS systems get their signals scrambled in our rural locations. To lessen the chances of getting completely lost, bring along a printout of the operator’s directions to the site.

After finishing your high-energy canopy tour, swap stories and photos over a tasty meal in downtown Murphy, NC. Then, make plans for a return trip while the thrill is fresh in your mind.

Love the thrill of canopy tours and mountain life? Let our realtors in murphy nc help you find a home close to the action.

The Poltrock Team – REMAX Mountain Properties – Murphy NC – www.ilovemurphy.com – Call us Toll Free at 1-866-Murphy-NC or 1-866-687-7496 – Murphy’s #1 Real Estate Team

Realtor & Freind

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John was always willing to look for property on a last minute notice. Always will take a call or answer a text. We never felt like we were bothering him, it was like being with a friend.

Thanks for being a friend, realtor and answer guy.

Looking for a Realtor who’s always there for you? Trust the murphy nc real estate agents who treat you like a friend—The Poltrock Team.

— Randy & Lenora Spensley

The Poltrock Team – REMAX Mountain Properties – Murphy NC – www.iLoveMurphy.com– Call us Toll Free at 1-866-Murphy-NC or 1-866-687-7496 – Murphy’s #1 Real Estate Team

Found a Home in One Day

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We had the easiest, most enjoyable experience working with Donna.. Within one days time all was found, hassle free. Thank you all for your time being with us.

Looking for a home in the mountains? Let our experienced murphy nc realtors make it just as easy for you.

–Quincey (Kip) & Miriam Kirkland

The Poltrock Team – REMAX Mountain Properties – Murphy NC – www.iLoveMurphy.com– Call us Toll Free at 1-866-Murphy-NC or 1-866-687-7496 – Murphy’s #1 Real Estate Team

Professional & Organized

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I had the pleasure of listing some property with John and the rest of the Poltrock Team. From the very first day, the professionalism and expertise was evident. We had an in depth discussion on how and what price we should set for my property. We had both a short term and long term selling strategy. Additionally, the proactive communication though out the process was fantastic.

The bottom line is that the property was sold in less then four months. The Poltrock Team was flawless during the closing process; especially when some unexpected bumps occurred. And even though I was not present for the closing, it was totally seamless and painless for me. I could not be more pleased with my experience with John and The Poltrock Team. They Truly Rock.

Want a truly professional & organized experience? Trust the expert realtors murphy nc who get it done—The Poltrock Team.

 — Tom Aufiero

The Poltrock Team – REMAX Mountain Properties – Murphy NC – www.iLoveMurphy.com– Call us Toll Free at 1-866-Murphy-NC or 1-866-687-7496 – Murphy’s #1 Real Estate Team

Highly Recommended

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Photo Aug 15, 11 15 06 AM

We have worked with other real estate agents in the past. John and his team are by far the most professional people we have ever dealt with. The advertising was extremely well done and there was plenty of it which seems to have led to a quick sale resulting in our receiving the asking price for our home. We would highly recommend John and his team for all real estate needs.

Work with real estate agents who combine marketing power and professionalism—your trusted murphy nc realtors.

— Ned & Debbie Karantois

The Poltrock Team – REMAX Mountain Properties – Murphy NC – www.iLoveMurphy.com– Call us Toll Free at 1-866-Murphy-NC or 1-866-687-7496 – Murphy’s #1 Real Estate Team

Mountain Biking Trails Offer Workouts with a “Wow” Factor

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If you’re a dedicated off-road bicycling fan, and you’re looking for scenic new spots to explore, load up your mountain bike and head to our western North Carolina mountains. If you’re already here, get ready to ride, because you’ve got three mountain biking hotspots not far from Murphy, NC.

Whether you’re an experienced mountain biker looking for new challenges, or are just dipping your toes into this addictive sport, you’ll find trails that match your skill level. Even better, most mountain biking trails include rest stops equipped with restrooms and picnic areas. So grab your bike and gear, and get ready to soak up some gorgeous views while you enjoy an energetic workout.

Cherokee County: Hanging Dog Recreation Area

Just five miles from downtown Murphy, you’ll find Hanging Dog Recreation Area, which borders beautiful Hiwassee Lake. This nearby destination is popular with day trippers and overnight campers, and also offers several mountain biking trails.

If you’ve racked up some previous mountain biking time, try the moderately difficult Ramsey Bluff Mountain Biking System. You’ll wind through eight miles of challenging trails, pedaling yourself silly while you burn some serious calories. On the plus side, you’ll be rewarded with enticing lake views.

Directions: From Murphy, drive roughly five miles on State Road (SR) 1326. Turn left onto SR 1447, and continue for about a mile. You’ll find parking and recreation facilities at the end of this road.

Graham County: Tsali Recreation Area

Mountain bikers nationwide flock to this well-known recreation area, named for a Cherokee Indian who once called this region home. Located in the Nantahala National Forest near Robbinsville, Tsali offers four moderately difficult mountain biking trails ranging from 4 to nearly 14 miles in length. Trails are open all year ’round, and the parking area is adjacent to restrooms.

Tsali’s single-track trails are hard packed from regular use, and they’re known for providing a fast, adrenaline-fueled ride. Depending on your chosen route, you might enjoy views of beautiful Fontana Lake or the Great Smoky Mountains National Park during your trip. However, you shouldn’t encounter horses, as the narrow trails cater to mountain bikers and horseback riders on different days of the week.

Directions: From Robbinsville, drive east on State Highway 143 until you reach the Highway 28 junction. Turn right at the stop sign, and go south on Highway 28 for about 8.4 miles. The Tsali Recreation Area entrance will be on the north side (left) of the road, and has good signage. About 1.5 miles from the entrance, you’ll see a parking area, with a short walk to several trailheads.

Clay County: Jackrabbit Mountain Trails

At the other end of Nantahala National Forest, near Hayesville,  you’ll find Jackrabbit Mountain campground. In 2011, mountain biking fans celebrated the opening of the 14-mile Jackrabbit mountain biking trail network, located a stone’s throw from the campground facilities.

Built expressly for mountain biking, the Jackrabbit trails collectively form a “stacked loop” configuration. The mostly fast trails wind along Lake Chatuge’s shores, and you’ll also travel your share of rolling hills. You’ll find easy trails catering to beginning riders and kids, while advanced mountain bikers will enjoy challenging climbs and rock features. However, you won’t have to contend with horses, as Jackrabbit’s trails are off limits to equine users.

Because Jackrabbit’s trails are located at a lower elevation with more sun exposure, you might work up a sweat during your warm-season rides. Pack plenty of water to keep yourself hydrated. After you finish the trip, rejuvenate yourself at the trailhead’s picnic tables, and take advantage of the basic restroom facilities.

Directions: Start your trip in Murphy at the US Highway 19/74/129 intersection with US Highway 64 East (the new 64 Bypass). Travel US Highway 64 East for 18.9 miles. After you pass Hayesville, turn right on NC Highway 175 South.

Drive 0.9 miles, and turn right to stay on NC Highway 175, crossing a long one-lane concrete bridge over part of Lake Chatuge. Go 2.5 miles, and turn right onto Jack Rabbit Road. Drive 250 feet, and bear left to stay on Jack Rabbit Road. Look for the signed parking area on the left. You’ll also see the campground straight ahead, at the end of Jack Rabbit Road.

Learn More About These Mountain Biking Hotspots

For more details on these mountain biking destinations, plus other western North Carolina mountain biking hotspots, check out the United States Forest Service website: http://www.fs.usda.gov/activity/nfsnc/recreation/bicycling/?recid=48112&actid=24.

With three enticing places to take your mountain bike, your biggest decision is which one to choose first. And after you conquer that challenge, travel back to Murphy, NC and swap stories and photos over a tasty dinner. Chances are, you’ll begin planning your next bike ride before you’re finished with dessert.

Love outdoor adventures and epic mountain biking trails? Let our murphy nc realtors help you find a home near the action.

The Poltrock Team – REMAX Mountain Properties – Murphy NC – www.ilovemurphy.com – Call us Toll Free at 1-866-Murphy-NC or 1-866-687-7496 – Murphy’s #1 Real Estate Team

Five Stars for The Poltrock Team!!!

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Hands down the most professional and responsive real estate experience we have ever had. Donna Srabian is wonderful to work with and so patient with our numerous questions. My husband and I would highly recommend The Poltrock Team!

Looking for top-tier service like this? Trust the murphy nc real estate agents at The Poltrock Team for your next move.

– Richard & Carmen Sohne

 

The Poltrock Team – REMAX Mountain Properties – Murphy NC – www.iLoveMurphy.com– Call us Toll Free at 1-866-Murphy-NC or 1-866-687-7496 – Murphy’s #1 Real Estate Team

Hit Our Miles of Beautiful Mountain Trails on Horseback

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Horseback riding is probably one of the best “two-fer” experiences around. First, you get outside in our gorgeous corner of the world, poking around wooded trails and soaking up our mountain air. At the same time, you get friendly with your horse, whether you’re on a two-hour trail ride or you’re meandering along with your own equine buddy. If you’re itching to saddle up and ride, we’ve got a riding stable in Cherokee County, just a few miles from Murphy, NC. You’ll find two more horseback riding operations within easy driving distance.

Horseshoe Creek Riding Stables, 1386 Stewart Road, Andrews, NC. 828-321-2376. This multi-purpose riding facility operates seven days a week. Enjoy guided trail rides ranging from one to five hours in length, visiting familiar destinations including Tatham Gap and the Trail of Tears. For maximum enjoyment, bring a picnic lunch and camera.

For a different type of riding adventure, take a covered wagon tour on several of the same area trails. Schedule a private or group ride, with a 10-person maximum (8 in the wagon and 2 on horses). Please note: For both activities, helmets are required for children 18 and younger, and are available for adult riders.

Finally, Horseshoe Creek offers basic riding and horse care lessons, along with horse training. And by booking a riding adventure here, you’ll support the stables’ admirable horse rescue efforts. For more than 50 years, the facility has given down-on-their-luck horses a new lease on life, making them a valued part of the local equine community.

Chunky Gal Stables, 1306 Hot House Road, Hayesville, NC. 828-389-4175.

Over in nearby Clay County (Hayesville, to be exact), you’ll find Chunky Gal Stables, named for adjacent Chunky Gal Mountain from an old Cherokee Indian story.

Open seven days a week, this full-service riding facility offers one- to four-hour guided trail rides through the Nantahala National Forest. Whether you’re an experienced rider, or this is your first time on a horse, they’re happy to accommodate your needs. Children are also welcome, but please mention the kids’ ages when making your reservations. Double riding (for parent and younger child) is allowed. And yes, reservations are strongly recommended.

Maybe you’ve been bitten by the riding bug, and you’d enjoy some in-depth lessons. Chunky Gal Stables offers Western-style riding lessons for individuals and groups of all experience levels. Finally, if your own horse needs some training, these helpful folks also provide that service.

A Step Above Stables, 696 Mauney Circle, Blairsville, GA. 706-745-9051.

Finally, head over to A Step Above Stables in Blairsville, Georgia, about a half-hour from Murphy, NC. These full-service stables operate year-round, and design guided one- to two-hour trail rides for riders of all levels. Even better, this facility specializes in horses for beginning riders, which most likely will increase your comfort level.

If you’re lucky enough to have your own horse, A Step Above Stables also offers first-class boarding facilities. They’ll provide a tailored feeding program for your younger horse to your equine senior citizen, and have an on-site farrier and trainer. In other words, your horse will live in the lap of luxury.

Now that you’re ready to hit the trails, here are several tips on dressing for the occasion. First, wear comfortable clothes so you can enjoy the ride. Long pants will keep your legs from getting scratched up when you ride through the brush, and closed-toe shoes offer protection for your feet. Finally, because our weather can be unpredictable, prepare yourself for cool, warm, or wet conditions. So, now that you’ve gotten the details ironed out, saddle up and get yourself on the trails!

Love trail adventures on horseback? Let our realtors murphy nc help you find a home near the saddle and the scenic.

The Poltrock Team – REMAX Mountain Properties – Murphy NC – www.ilovemurphy.com – Call us Toll Free at 1-866-Murphy-NC or 1-866-687-7496 – Murphy’s #1 Real Estate Team

Cherokee County Recreational Parks Offer Lots of Family-Friendly Activities

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When you want to spend some time in the great outdoors – or just want to blow off some steam – Cherokee County’s two recreational parks are just a short drive away. In fact, if you’re in downtown Murphy, NC or nearby Andrews, they’re right around the corner. When you arrive at the park, take an energizing jog through the grounds, enjoy a game of tennis, or nosh on picnic food with your family or friends. Depending on the season, you might catch a soccer or baseball game, or even a community festival. So grab a cold drink and some sunscreen, and enjoy some welcome downtime in a local park.

Murphy Recreation Park (Konehete Park)

Operated by the Cherokee County Recreation Department, Konehete Park fronts the scenic Valley River in Murphy. Come enjoy a picnic anytime, or let the kids burn off some energy on the playground equipment. Konehete Park also contains three convenient pavilions, which you can reserve for parties or other get-togethers (Note: There is a 2 1/2-hour time limit for pavilion use). And speaking of big parties, Konehete Park also plays host to several Cherokee County festivals, such as the Kids’ Fair and July 4th celebrations.

If you’re a tennis enthusiast, take advantage of Konehete Park’s four lighted courts. If team tennis brings out your best game, or you’d like to learn this popular sport, contact the Cherokee County Recreation Department for details. During the conversation, ask about pickleball, a hot new game that recently made its debut in Murphy.

Or, get acquainted with slacklining, an addictive new sport that involves balancing (and walking) on a low-to-the-ground flexible tightrope. If this sounds intriguing, head down to Murphy Slackers’ slackline park, behind Konehete Park’s last baseball field at the River Walk ending point. In fact, take the kids along, as they’ll probably enjoy slacklining as well. Check out Murphy Slackers’ Facebook page for a list of seasonal activities.

If a cool swim or a fitness class sounds appealing, Konehete Park is just a stone’s throw from the Hiwassee Valley Pool and Wellness Center. Purchase an affordable day pass, or consider a membership for yourself and/or your family.

Andrews Recreation Parks

Next, travel about 15 miles northeast of Murphy on Highway 19/129 (also called the four-lane). Before reaching Andrews, North Carolina, you’ll pass some of the most stunning mountain scenery you’ve ever seen – so pull over and get some pictures.

After arriving in Andrews, travel on Main Street before turning left onto Park Street, and follow to the Andrews Recreation Parks. This 70-acre complex contains an entire wish list of recreational facilities. Enjoy the swimming pool, skate park, ball and soccer fields, and tennis and basketball courts. For a change of pace, hike the walking trails before enjoying a picnic lunch or grilling burgers and hot dogs. Afterward, let the kids enjoy the playground while you relax with a cold drink.

Maybe you and your family would enjoy playing team sports. Adult leagues include men’s softball, church league softball, flag football, women’s or coed volleyball, tennis, or table tennis. The younger set might enjoy ball field sports such as youth softball, Little League ball, tee-ball, and machine pitch. Youth football, basketball, and volleyball are also popular in season.

With all these recreational options in Murphy, NC and Andrews, NC, you can enjoy the great outdoors right in your own community. So put on com

fortable clothes, grab some cold water, and find an activity you enjoy. We just might see you out there.

Want to live near beautiful recreational parks and outdoor fun? Let our murphy nc real estate agents help you find your perfect home.

The Poltrock Team – REMAX Mountain Properties – Murphy NC – www.ilovemurphy.com – Call us Toll Free at 1-866-Murphy-NC or 1-866-687-7496 – Murphy’s #1 Real Estate Team

The Blue Ridge Scenic Railway Offers a Fun Family Excursion

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A Blue Ridge Scenic Railway excursion is like taking a trip back in time. You’ll begin your train adventure in downtown Blue Ridge, Georgia, just a short drive from Murphy, NC. Located in the beautiful north Georgia mountains, Blue Ridge has seen freight and passenger traffic since the 1800s. In fact, train service played a large part in the town’s growth as a mountain getaway destination.

Since 1998, the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway has operated its popular excursion service, appealing to seasonal visitors along with residents who appreciate a daytime diversion. The rail line runs varied daily schedules from March through December, and also offers specialty trips throughout the year.

Depart from Historic Blue Ridge, GA

Today, Blue Ridge’s circa-1905 train depot blends perfectly with the downtown area’s enticing shops, antique stores, and eateries. In other words, spend some quality time in Blue Ridge before or after your train ride.

When purchasing your current trip’s tickets, choose a vintage climate-controlled rail car, or soak up the great outdoors in a spacious open car. After boarding the train, settle into your comfortable seat, and chat with the well-informed volunteer Car Hosts who will add a personal touch to your trip. Then, get ready for the four-hour, 26-mile round trip along the scenic Toccoa River and through the Chattahoochee National Forest.

Travel to McCaysville, GA/Copperhill, TN

After the train chugs out of the Blue Ridge depot, you’ll enjoy a leisurely one-hour trip to McCaysville, GA/Copperhill, TN. Along the way, you’ll spot vacation homes and farms, horses grazing in nearby fields, and railroad crossing arms operating on scenic country roads. On any given day, you might also encounter fly fishermen in waders, along with tubing enthusiasts cooling themselves in the river’s chilly water.

Next, you’ll arrive in McCaysville/Copperhill, where you’ll spend a two-hour layover. This single town is divided by the Georgia and Tennessee state line, giving you a nice photo opportunity while you straddle the state-splitting “Blue Line.” During your visit, stop for lunch and poke around the craft, antique, and variety stores. Or, relax near the river before boarding the train for your one-hour trip back to Blue Ridge.

Spotlight on Popular Special Events

The Blue Ridge Scenic Railway also offers several themed excursions during 2016. During October and early November, book a ride on a wildly popular Fall Foliage trip. In fact, Southern Living Magazine has designated the BRSR as one of the top five regional fall color attractions. As a special October treat, the Pumpkin Express runs two trips on October 23. These excursions will stop at Farmer Brown’s field, where guests can choose their own pumpkin before returning to Blue Ridge.

The Santa Express, operating from November 25 through December 24, is a perennial favorite with kids of all ages (including adults). When you hop aboard for this one-hour daytime trip, you’ll relax in a festively decorated car while you mingle with Christmas characters and sing popular carols. As an added bonus, Santa Claus will delight guests with a special onboard appearance.

On Saturday evenings from November 25 through December 17, kids are invited aboard the Santa Night Pavilion Train, where they’ll enjoy quality time with Santa before receiving a BRSR memento and candy cane. During the two-hour layover in McCaysville, GA/Copperhill, TN, guests can do some Christmas shopping in the festively decorated town.

For a distinctively different New Year’s Eve celebration, adults 21 and older are invited to ring in the New Year aboard the train. Departing at 10:00 p.m. and returning about 12:30 a.m. on December 31, the trip features appetizers, adult beverages, and party favors. You’ll even get a glass of sparkling wine when the clock strikes midnight!

If you can’t wait to take yourself on a train ride, the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway is an easy drive from Murphy, NC. Choose an excursion on the railroad’s website, pile your family into the car, and prepare to enjoy a train trip you won’t forget.

Love experiences like the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway? Let our realtors in murphy nc help you find a home near timeless mountain charm.

The Poltrock Team – REMAX Mountain Properties – Murphy NC – www.ilovemurphy.com – Call us Toll Free at 1-866-Murphy-NC or 1-866-687-7496 – Murphy’s #1 Real Estate Team