Everyone across Western North Carolina is excited about the Great American Eclipse on August 21! The once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to view a 100% total eclipse is something everyone is proud to be a part of—as if we’re responsible for the moon’s orbit around the planet. But even though our location is completely serendipitous, we’re making the most of our position in the umbra’s path.
Last week, we shared a list of solar eclipse celebrations happening across WNC. But with so much going on—and so much extra traffic to plan for—how would you know the best place to be to view the totality? As experts in the region, our Beverly-Hanks associates each have their own opinions about where to be on Monday. We asked them: Where are the best spots to watch the Great American Eclipse in Western North Carolina?
My family and I will be visiting Brevard College! The campus has an incredible open field that will allow for magnificent views of the sun. Also, the town of Brevard has tons of great dining options to enjoy after the eclipse passes!
Lots of people are confusing totality with not seeing the eclipse at all. The fact is, you can see a 99.74% eclipse from the comfort of our Beverly-Hanks office at 512 N. Main Street in Hendersonville. We’ll have water available inside. C’mon down!
The Blue Ridge Parkway has so many great spots for viewing the eclipse. I would recommend choosing an area close to Mount Pisgah and going to the Pisgah Inn for lunch or dinner. My family loves to drive the parkway and eat at the Pisgah Inn. Make sure to sit outside in the rocking chairs and take in the incredible views!
Take a 53-minute drive from Asheville to Whiteside Mountain in the majestic Nantahala National Forest. From there, hike about two miles up the mountain to what is known as “Fool’s Rock.” Hiking in will give you an opportunity to catch a breath of fresh air, and you will end up at the top, as close to the stars as possible, while the eclipse takes place!
To avoid any traffic snarls, I am staying close to home and will walk over to our Biltmore Forest neighborhood golf course. It offers a wide expanse of space to see the sky AWAY from any city lights that may come on automatically once nighttime takes over day. I am praying there will be no clouds in the sky on this special day!
I recommend Highland Brewing Company as a great spot to view the eclipse. They are having a great event that’s both adult and family friendly. They have a huge meadow for families with kiddos, and they also have a rooftop bar, which should have an amazing view, for adults only. I’ve been looking forward to it for quite some time! Not to mention the have some of the best craft brews in Buncombe County. 🙂
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