Touring the Western North Carolina Backroads - 4th Edition by Carolyn Sakowski (Paperback)

About the Book

Now in its fourth edition, Touring the Western North Carolina Backroads has long been the go-to guide for folks seeking the unspoiled landscape and little-known cultural attractions of western North Carolina.

Book Synopsis

Now in its fourth edition, Touring the Western North Carolina Backroads has long been the go-to guide for folks seeking the unspoiled landscape and little-known cultural attractions of western North Carolina.

This is a guide for those who want to travel the mountains of western North Carolina, who want to see the scenery but escape the crowds. The book's 21 tours cover the entire mountain region of western North Carolina and provide numerous opportunities for seeing unspoiled landscapes and pastoral scenes. But scenery is not the only focus. Once you're on the backroads, you might speculate about the history behind the old white clapboard farmhouse that dominates the valley ahead, or you might wonder about the rest of the story behind the two sentences on the historical marker at the side of the road. Touring the Western North Carolina Backroads fills in those details. Drawing from local histories and early travel writings, each tour is designed to be a journey through the history of the area. Tales of eccentric characters, folklore that has been passed down through the ages, and stories about Native Americans and early white settlers combine to present a perspective that makes the scenery come alive. This edition features updated directions, additional sites, new photographs, and nearby recreational opportunities. Use this guidebook to plan a day trip, weekend getaway, or cycling adventure.

Review Quotes

"I recommend it highly―not only for you outdoorsy types but also for history buffs and anybody who enjoys a good, old-fashioned Sunday drive."―Polly Paddock, The Charlotte Observer

"Sakowski's great contribution to the bookshelf―if not the back seat of the car―is 1) latching onto a rich concept; 2) applying an eye for delicious anecdote; and 3) delivering crisp prose. . . She is a reliable traveler, a homegrown appreciator, and a wonderful storyteller. "―Rob Neufeld, North Carolina Libraries (journal of North Carolina Library Association)

"For adventurous travelers, or those who want to get away from tourist traps, or even history buffs, this is an enjoyable, educational, entertaining work."―Deirdre Parker Smith, The Salisbury Post

"Every once in a while you're overwhelmed with chagrin stemming from a sense of 'What a good idea. Why didn't I think of that?' Well, it is a good idea, and Carolyn Sakowski did think of it, and she has a winner...This is a book to have beside you on the front seat as you explore the backroads of the mountains."―Jim Dumbell, The Charlotte Observer

"Those who enjoy the Western North Carolina scenery―but don't appreciate the crowds―will enjoy Touring the Western North Carolina Backroads...it can bring the traveler closer to the history, people and beauty of Western North Carolina."―Alva Stewart, The State

"Whether traveling the backroads of western North Carolina from the cushioned comfort of a minivan or a squeaky front porch rocker, Sakowski's book offers hours of enjoyable reading and a glimpse at life not visible from the fast pace of the freeway."―Rose Erskine, Out 'n About

About the Author

Carolyn Sakowski is a native of Morganton, North Carolina. She holds a B.A. in history from Queens University of Charlotte and an M.A. in history from Appalachian State University. She lives in Winston- Salem, North Carolina. Her previous books include Touring the East Tennessee Backroads and Travel North Carolina.