Jonathon Engels

After visiting North Carolina for the first time, Senior Writer Jonathon Engels and wife Emma spent 2 years exploring Western NC in search of a homestead property. They first lived in Brevard, where Jonathon taught writing at Blue Ridge Community College and extensively explored the Blue Ridge Parkway and Pisgah National Forest. For the last several years they have lived just off the BRP near Elkin, Southwest Virginia, and the NC High Country. The couple also volunteers with the Surry Old Time Fiddlers Convention, the Elkin Valley Trail Association, and Reeves Downtown School of Music.

Visiting Doughton Park (Blue Ridge Parkway Mile Marker 238.5 – 244.7)

August 20, 2023January 23, 2020 by Jonathon Engels

Blue Ridges of Mountains in Doughton Park, NC

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Located in North Carolina between Blue Ridge Parkway mile markers 238.5 and 244.7, Doughton Park is actually the largest recreation area along the famous road. This Blue Ridge park spans about 7,000 acres and includes picnic areas, campgrounds, an official Blue Ridge Parkway visitor center, two historic cabins, and a collection of beautiful mountain streams. … Read more

Exploring the Sierra Nevada Brewery in Mills River NC (Near Asheville & Hendersonville)

November 27, 2023January 8, 2020 by Jonathon Engels

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[Update July 31, 2021] Sometimes when a recipe is right, it is simply right. There’s no arguing the fact that Sierra Nevada nailed its flagship beer, Sierra Nevada Pale Ale, coming out of the gate. The Pale Ale flavor might be somewhat familiar these days, but that’s because most of these newbie challengers continually strive … Read more

Highland Brewing: Visiting the First Asheville Brewery

November 27, 2023December 20, 2019 by Jonathon Engels

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[Updated July 31, 2021] Of the many cities across America currently vying for the title of “Best Beer City,” Asheville, North Carolina has a legit claim to the crown. Asheville’s breweries list is not only extensive, but choice, from nationally recognized brands like Sierra Nevada and New Belgium to local stars like Wicked Weed and … Read more