Emerald Hollow Mine is truly a special place, located in the quaint town of Hiddenite, North Carolina. Interestingly, Hiddenite isn’t just the town’s name—it’s also the name of a rare green gemstone found there. In fact, Hiddenite gemstones are so rare that some argue true hiddenite can only be found in Hiddenite, NC. This exclusivity ranks them as the fourth rarest gemstone in the world.
Returning to South Mountains State Park Post-Hurricane Helene
Nestled in the rugged beauty of North Carolina’s Blue Ridge foothills, South Mountains State Park offers a serene escape into nature. Spanning over 20,000 acres, this park boasts cascading waterfalls, challenging trails, and tranquil campsites, making it a haven for outdoor enthusiasts.
Discovering Serenity: A Day at T.H. Broyhill Walking Park
Whether you’re looking to create lasting family memories or simply enjoy a quiet moment of reflection, TH Broyhill Walking Park in Lenoir invites you to explore its scenic grounds and discover a peaceful haven steeped in natural beauty.
The Italian Dinner: A Community Tradition Supporting Catawba Science Center
The Catawba Science Center opened in 1975, originally known as the Creative Museum for Youth. It was founded by the Service League of Hickory and housed in the historic John Cilley Victorian-era home in downtown Hickory. By 1986, the center had outgrown its space and moved to its current 35,000-square-foot location at the SALT Block, where it continues to serve the community today.
Exploring Bakers Mountain Park in Catawba County
With Saturday’s midday temperatures hovering in the mid-50s, it felt like the perfect day for a family outing. Wanting to explore someplace new, I suggested Bakers Mountain Park. Just 20 minutes from our house, this 189-acre park—part of the Catawba County Parks system—sits at the highest elevation point in the county (1,780 feet) and offers nearly six miles of trails ranging from easy to advanced.