Maggie Valley, North Carolina

Get to know Maggie and you may never want to leave the lush valley situated in the North Carolina mountains.

During the latter part of the 19th century, this Smoky Mountain settlement had grown large enough to require its own post office. The gentleman who had handled the mail submitted several likely names for the town, including those of his three daughters. The U.S. Postmaster chose Maggie and the blond, blue-eyed 14-year-old was forever immortalized. Maggie, it is told, was quite embarrassed and moved away shortly after marrying at the age of 17 but came back to her namesake town often.

"During milder weather, hiking the local mountain trails will take you to breathtaking views but when the snow starts falling, the skiers take to the downhill runs at the Cataloochee Ranch Area... Warmer weather invites whitewater rafting and foursomes on the local golf courses"

And visiting Maggie Valley is much like returning to the home of a good friend. The town prides itself on Southern hospitality and it is evident at every turn. Rustic motels and condos abound but to truly experience the magic of Maggie, a mountain cabin - preferably next to a babbling brook - is the order the day. Cool breezes encourage a hearty breakfast and you'll need it to fuel yourself for a fun-packed day.

During milder weather, hiking the local mountain trails will take you to breathtaking views but when the snow starts falling, the skiers take to the downhill runs at the Cataloochee Ranch Area. Both young and young-at-heart will enjoy the newly re-opened western-themed Ghost Town in the Sky, reachable by a chair lift offering panoramic scenery. Warmer weather invites whitewater rafting and foursomes on the local golf courses.

Because Maggie is a resort town, it boasts wonderful little shops and boutiques along with a variety of dining experiences, from barbecue joints to upscale restaurants. Events take place throughout the year, including music festivals, an antique tractor show, and international dance festival along with a celebration of that mountain delicacy, trout.

As wonderful as it is to visit Maggie Valley, residents believe that their spot is close to heaven and they are probably right. Approximately 40 percent of Haywood County, where Maggie Valley is located, includes the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the Pisgah National Forest and the scenic Blue Ridge Parkway. It's no wonder that the population of Maggie has virtually doubled since the 2000 census.