How Odd: Western North Carolina Odd, Fun Facts!

Western North Carolina, well know for white water rafting, hiking in the mountains and friendly people! Here are a few oddities and fun facts about WNC! 

Brevard - specifically, is home to white squirrels — not albino squirrels, but white squirrels. Legend has it that after a carnival passed through town in the 1940s, two white squirrels escaped and have since left their mark on future generations. While some don't believe they exist, they are very, very real.

Asheville - With 250 rooms, 8,000 acres, and gardens even Louis XIV would approve of, the Biltmore is as close to Versailles you can get in this part of the world. It was built for the Vanderbilts in the late 1800s when the youngest son fell in love with the scenery and climate and wanted a "little mountain escape." Over a million visitors tour the grounds each year; if you're one of them, make sure you have an entire day — between the chateau, the grounds, and a tasting at the most popular winery in the US, your itinerary will be packed.

Grandfather Mountain -  (near Linville) is the only private park in the world designated by the UN as an International Biosphere Reserve. On a clear day from the mile-high top, you can see the skyline of Charlotte, 160 miles away. In addition to crossing the 228-foot Mile High Swinging Bridge (bring a scarf and jacket; no matter the weather, you're still hanging in mile-high air), the park has a number of impressive wildlife exhibits and is right off the Blue Ridge Parkway, sandwiched between dozens of hikes and waterfalls, making for an epic outdoor weekend. 

Make your plans to come to WNC!

WNCTIMES found these facts on matadornetwork, where you can find more facts and photos!