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Taking care of your Loved One Is What We Do BEST!

It's no secret, most of us would like to stay in our own home as we age. Yet, sometimes our loved ones just need a little extra help to remain comfortable at home. That's where Always Best Care can help....we are dedicated to exceeding expectations....always.

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Home Care In Hendersonville, NC

Home Care Hendersonville, NC

They say that your golden years are the best years of your life. For most older Americans, that's how it should be - a time to relax, reflect, and live life in a familiar place. After all, senior citizens in the U.S. have worked tirelessly to build a better economy, serve their communities, and raise families.

However, as seniors grow older, completing daily tasks like showering and enjoying activities such as visiting Hyman Heights-Mount Royal Historic District in Hendersonville, NC gets harder without someone by their side. Unfortunately, many older Americans aren't able to rely on their adult children for help. The reality in today's world is that family members do not have the skills or time to dedicate to caring for their parents. That's where Always Best Care Senior Services comes in.

Our in-home care services are for people who prefer to stay at home as they grow older but need ongoing care that family or friends cannot provide. More and more older adults prefer to live far away from long-term, institutionalized facilities and closer to the place where they feel most comfortable - their home. Home care in Hendersonville, NC is a safe, effective way to give your loved ones the care they need when they need it the most.

 In-Home Care Hendersonville, NC

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The Always Best Care Difference

Since 1996, Always Best Care has provided non-medical in-home care for seniors to help them maintain a healthy lifestyle as they get older. We are proud to have helped more than 25,000 seniors maintain higher levels of dignity and respect. We focus on providing seniors with the highest level of in-home care available so that they may live happily and independently.

Unlike some senior care companies, we genuinely want to be included in our clients' lives. We believe that personalized care is always the better option over a "one size fits all" approach. To make sure our senior clients receive the best care possible, we pair them with compassionate caregivers who understand their unique needs. That way, they may provide care accordingly without compromising their wellbeing.

The Always Best Care difference lies in life's little moments - where compassionate care and trustworthy experience come together to help seniors live a fruitful, healthy life. Whether you are an aging adult that can't quite keep up with life's daily tasks or the child of a senior who needs regular in-home services, Always Best Care is here to help.

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TESTIMONIALS

“I am a current client of this provider I like that they are always on time. They have helped me the most with light housekeeping.”

Henry T.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I am a current client of this provider They help with the needs that we have. It gives me time to go to the grocery store.”

Jane R.
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“I am a current client of this provider I like my caregiver. They've made my experience positive by sending me Barbara.”

Marvin ".
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“I am a current client of this provider I feel comfortable with them so far. I don't have any problems getting things done when the caregivers show up.”

Ralph R.
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“ABC has provided care for my client for 5-6 years. They have been great! Melisa and Autumn have given extra effort and care to assist with managing my client's needs. I don't know how I would have made it without them.”

Becky C.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Always Best Care for Seniors has served my clients well based on feedback received. They take the time to assess the needs of caregivers and care recipients alike and establish a detailed person-centered plan of care that addresses the care needs and wellbeing of the care recipient. This approach builds rapport and confidence with the caregiver and emphasizes respite for the caregiver while meeting the care recipients’ needs.”

Bethanie T.
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“I am a current client of this provider Belinda has done everything I have asked and more. Belinda has gone above the call of duty.”

Roger M.
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“I am a current client of this provider They are courteous, polite, kind and hard-working. It helps keep him interactive with people.”

Paul H.
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“I am a current client of this provider I liked the intake interview lady. Mary, the nurse, is very encouraging. Their presence is helpful because I can't be there.”

Gaye B.
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“I am a current client of this provider I like that they are flexible and the people that they provide have been good so far. They have removed a lot of stress from my life.”

Terry A.
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TESTIMONIALS

“The team with Always Best Care were instrumental in the assistance with my mom during her decline and eventual passing. They were thoughtful, kind, supportive, considerate and readily available. Mary, one of the nurse managers at the Asheville location, was so supportive it is as if she became family. She would come without hesitation as I navigated through this difficult time offering tremendous support. She not only foresaw what was needed, but understood what I needed and catered to that need. She is a tremendous asset to your team! I am forever grateful for her.”

Hanna M.
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“I'm a new hire and the office staff is wonderful, informative and thorough. I feel like this will be a most rewarding opportunity.”

Julie C.
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“I am a current client of this provider I couldn't have a life without them. They do the cooking and everything for me. One was a poor caregiver and the other was good.”

Sharon W.
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“I am a current client of this provider This helps us both be more refreshed and get breaks from each other. I like the fact that they seem to be a Christian-based organization. That comes through with the care that is provided.”

Joseph D.
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“I am a current client of this provider They have helped tremendously with her sadness. I like how I can call, get a person and not just a recording.”

Kathy K.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Always Best Care was always responsive to our family’s caregiving and respite needs. They created a thorough and detailed individual care plan with us that addressed all of our concerns and caregiving requirements.Our caregiver Elaine was fantastic. She is genuinely caring, compassionate, friendly, and engaging. My father was always excited when Elaine came to the house. They would talk for hours, laugh, play games, do puzzles, look at photo albums, and watch all kinds of sports together including tennis, football, soccer, and basketball. He said that Elaine made the best peanut butter and jelly sandwiches too. She even stopped by to check on us after hurricane Helene to make sure that we were ok.I fully recommend Always Best Care to any family needing respite and caregiving services for their loved ones. They are truly the Best!”

Veronika G.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I am a past client of this provider They have helped the most with just providing me really good care and there was a never struggle with them. I liked that Always Best Care was always very kind and worked with me very easily.”

Lisa R.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I am a current client of this provider They help the most by talking to him. They're very good about doing what they are supposed to be doing.”

Robert T.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I am a current client of this provider They provide me with company. They make you feel comfortable.”

Kenneth I.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I am a current client of this provider I can depend on her coming and being there. They are very responsive and do what they say they're going to do and are dependable.”

Lorrie M.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I am a past client of this provider Always Best Care Seniors Services provide the personal touch in-home care! From our initial call inquiring about services, to meeting staff to discuss our unique family needs, to the caring compassionate and understanding caregivers we are thoroughly impressed. Its such a relief knowing our loved ones are receiving the care they deserve.”

Living T.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I'm so happy to have such a professional and reliable agency that I can refer my caregivers to and know that they will receive the service they need to assist with the care of their loved ones with dementia,”

Lisa K.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Always Best Care Seniors Services provide the personal touch in-home care! From our initial call inquiring about services, to meeting the owner Jim Smeaton to discuss our unique family needs, to the caring compassionate and understanding caregivers we are thoroughly impressed. Its such a relief knowing our loved ones are receiving the care they deserve.”

James K.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Highly professional and very caring. A great company”

Melisa L.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Highly professional and very caring. A great company”

Joyce P.

What is Non-Medical Senior Care in Hendersonville, NC?

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Home is where the heart is. While that saying can sound a tad cliche, it is especially true for many seniors living in America. When given a choice, older adults most often prefer to grow older at home. An AARP study found that three out of four adults over the age of 50 want to stay in their homes and communities as they age.

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When you begin to think about why, it makes sense. Home offers a sense of security, comfort, and familiarity.

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The truth is, as we age, we begin to rely on others for help. When a family is too busy or lives too far away to fulfill this role, in-home senior care is often the best solution. Home care services allow seniors to enjoy personal independence while also receiving trustworthy assistance from a trained caregiver.

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At Always Best Care, we offer a comprehensive range of home care services to help seniors stay healthy while they get the help they need to remain independent. As your senior loved one gets older, giving them the gift of senior care is one of the best ways to show your love, even if you live far away.

 Senior Care Hendersonville, NC

Types of Elderly Care in Hendersonville, NC

To give our senior clients the best care possible, we offer a full spectrum of in-home care services:

Personal Care

Personal Care Services

If your senior loved one has specific care needs, our personal care services are a great choice to consider. Personal care includes the standard caregiving duties associated with companion care and includes help with tasks such as dressing and grooming. Personal care can also help individuals with chronic conditions like diabetes.

Common personal care services include assistance with:

  • Eating
  • Mobility Issues
  • Incontinence
  • Bathing
  • Dressing
  • Grooming

Respite Care Hendersonville, NC
Home Helper

Home Helper Services

Sometimes, seniors need helpful reminders to maintain a high quality of life at home. If you or your senior has trouble with everyday tasks like cooking, our home helper services will be very beneficial.

Common home helper care services include assistance with:

  • Medication Reminders
  • Meal Preparation
  • Pet Care
  • Prescription Refills
  • Morning Wake-Up
  • Walking
  • Reading
 Caregivers Hendersonville, NC
Companionship Services

Companionship Services

Using this kind of care is a fantastic way to make life easier for you or your senior loved one. At Always Best Care, our talented caregivers often fill the role of a companion for seniors. That way, older adults can enjoy their favorite local activities, such as visiting Patton Park in Hendersonville, NC with friends while also receiving the care they need daily or weekly.

Common companionship services include:

  • Grocery Shopping
  • Transportation to Appointments
  • Nutritional Assistance
  • Conversation
  • Planning Outings
  • Completing Errands
  • Transportation to Community
  • Events and Social Outings
Home Care Hendersonville, NC
Respite Care

Respite Care Services

According to AARP, more than 53 million adults living in the U.S. provide care to someone over 50 years old. Unfortunately, these caregivers experience stress, exhaustion, and even depression. Our respite care services help family caregivers address urgent obligations, spend time with their children, and enjoy nearby activities. Perhaps more importantly, respite care gives family members time to recharge and regroup. Taking personal time to de-stress reduces the risk of caregiver burnout. So, if you've always wanted to eat at the local Postero or visit Lennox Park Historic District, don't feel bad. Doing so is great for both you and your loved one.

At the end of the day, our goal is to become a valuable part of your senior's daily routine. That way, we may help give them the highest quality of life possible. We know that staying at home is important for your loved one, and we are here to help make sure that is possible.

If you have been on the fence about non-medical home care, there has never been a better time than now to give your senior the care, assistance, and companionship they deserve.

 In-Home Care Hendersonville, NC

Benefits of Home Care in Hendersonville, NC

Always Best Care in-home services are for older adults who prefer to stay at home but need ongoing care that friends and family cannot provide. In-home care is a safe, effective way for seniors to age gracefully in a familiar place and live independent, non-institutionalized lives. The benefits of non-medical home care are numerous. Here are just a few reasons to consider senior care services from Always Best Care:

Always Best Care offers a full array of care options for patients at all levels of health. With our trusted elderly care services, your loved one will receive the level of care necessary for them to enjoy the highest possible quality of life.

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Aging in Place: The Preferred Choice for Most Seniors

While it's true that some seniors have complicated medical needs that prevent them from staying at home, aging in place is often the best arrangement for seniors and their families. With a trusted caregiver, seniors have the opportunity to live with a sense of dignity and do so as they see fit - something that is unavailable to many older people today.

In-home care makes it possible for millions of seniors to age in place every year. Rather than moving to a strange nursing home, seniors have the chance to stay at home where they feel the happiest and most comfortable.

Here are just a few of the reasons why older men and women prefer to age at home:

How much does a senior's home truly mean to them?

A study published by the American Society on Aging found that more than half of seniors say their home's emotional value means more than how much their home is worth in monetary value. It stands to reason, then, that a senior's home is where they want to grow old.

With the help of elderly care in Hendersonville, NC, seniors don't have to age in a sterilized care facility. Instead, they can age gracefully in the place they want to be most: their home. In contrast, seniors who move to a long-term care facility must adapt to new environments, new people, and new systems that the facility implements. At this stage in life, this kind of drastic change can be more harmful than helpful.

Institutional care facilities like nursing homes often put large groups of people together to live in one location. On any given day, dozens of staff members and caregivers run in and out of these facilities. Being around so many new people in a relatively small living environment can be dangerous for a seniors' health and wellbeing. When you consider that thousands of seniors passed away in nursing homes during the COVID-19 pandemic, opting for in-home care is often a safer, healthier choice for seniors.

Aging in place has been shown to improve seniors' quality of life, which helps boost physical health and also helps insulate them from viral and bacterial risks found in elderly living facilities.

For many seniors, the ability to live independently with assistance from a caregiver is a priceless option. With in-home care, seniors experience a higher level of independence and freedom - much more so than in other settings like a nursing home. When a senior has the chance to age in place, they get to live life on their own terms, inside the house that they helped make into a home. More independence means more control over their personal lives, too, which leads to increased levels of fulfillment, happiness, and personal gratification. Over time, these positive feelings can manifest into a healthier, longer life.

More independence, a healthier life, and increased comfort are only a few benefits of aging in place. You have to take into consideration the role of cost and convenience. Simply put, it's usually easier and more affordable to help seniors age in place than it is to move them into an institutional care facility. According to the US Department of Housing and Urban Development, seniors who age in the comfort of their homes can save thousands of dollars per month.

In-home care services from Always Best Care, for instance, are often less expensive than long-term solutions, which can cost upwards of six figures per year. To make matters worse, many residential care facilities are reluctant to accept long-term care insurance and other types of payment assistance.

With Always Best Care's home care services, seniors and their families have a greater level of control over their care plans. In-home care gives seniors the chance to form a bond with a trusted caregiver and also receive unmatched care that is catered to their needs. In long-term care facilities, seniors and their loved ones have much less control over their care plan and have less of a say in who provides their care.

 Elderly Care Hendersonville, NC

Affordable Care

In-home care is a valuable resource that empowers seniors to age in place on their own terms. However, a big concern for many families and their loved ones is how much in-home care costs. If you're worried that in-home care is too expensive, you may be pleasantly surprised to learn that it is one of the most affordable senior care arrangements available.

Typically, hiring an Always Best Care in-home caregiver for a few hours a week is more affordable than sending your loved one to a long-term care facility. This is true even for seniors with more complex care needs.

At Always Best Care, we will work closely with you and your family to develop a Care Plan that not only meets your care needs, but your budget requirements, too. Once we discover the level of care that you or your senior need, we develop an in-home care plan that you can afford.

In addition to our flexible care options, families should also consider the following resources to help offset potential home care costs:

If your loved one qualifies, Medicaid may help reduce in-home care costs. Review your NC's Medicaid program laws and benefits, and make sure your senior's financial and medical needs meet Medicaid eligibility requirements.
Attendance and aid benefits through military service can cover a portion of the costs associated with in-home care for veterans and their spouses.
Many senior care services like in-home care are included in long-term care insurance options. Research different long-term care solutions to find a plan that provides coverage for senior care.
Home care can be included as part of a senior's private insurance plan. Read over your loved one's insurance policy carefully or speak with their insurance provider to determine if in-home care is covered.
Depending on the life insurance plan, you may be able to apply your policy toward long-term care. You may be able to use long-term-care coverage to help pay for in-home elderly care.
 Senior Care Hendersonville, NC

Compassionate Care. Trusted Caregivers.

When you or your senior loved one needs assistance managing daily tasks at home, finding a qualified caregiver can be challenging. It takes a special kind of person to provide reliable care for your senior loved one. However, a caregiver's role involves more than meal preparation and medication reminders. Many seniors rely on their caregivers for companionship, too.

Our companion care services give seniors the chance to socialize in a safe environment and engage in activities at home. These important efforts boost morale and provide much-needed relief from repetitive daily routines. A one-on-one, engaging conversation can sharpen seniors' minds and give them something in which to be excited.

At Always Best Care, we only hire care providers that we would trust to care for our own loved ones. Our senior caregivers in Hendersonville, NC understand how important it is to listen and communicate with their seniors. A seemingly small interaction, like a short hug goodbye, can make a major difference in a senior's day. Instead of battling against feelings of isolation, seniors begin to look forward to seeing their caregiver each week.

Understanding the nuances of senior care is just one of the reasons why our care providers are so great at their job.

Unlike some senior care companies, our caregivers must undergo extensive training before they work for Always Best Care. In addition, our caregivers receive ongoing training throughout the year. This training ensures that their standard of care matches up to the high standards we've come to expect. During this training, they will brush up on their communication skills, safety awareness, and symptom spotting. That way, your loved one receives the highest level of non-medical home care from day one.

Assisted Living Referral Services

While it's true that many seniors prefer to age at home, sometimes in-home care isn't the best fit. For those seniors and their families, choosing an assisted living facility makes more sense. Unfortunately, finding the optimal care facility is easier said than done in today's day and age. That's when Always Best Care's assisted living referral services begin to make a lot of sense.

Assisted living is a form of housing intended for seniors who require varying degrees of medical and personal attention. Accommodations may include single rooms, apartments, or shared living arrangements. Assisted living communities are typically designed to resemble a home-like environment and are physically constructed to encourage the independence of residents.


Respite Care Hendersonville, NC

At assisted living communities, seniors receive help with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, and eating. They may also benefit from coordination of services with outside healthcare providers, and monitoring of resident activities to ensure their health, safety, and well-being. Caregivers who work at assisted living communities can also provide medication administration and personal care services for older adults.

Other services offered within assisted living communities can include some or all of the following:

  • Housekeeping
  • Laundry
  • Recreational Activities
  • Social Outings
  • Emergency Medical Response
  • Medication Monitoring
  • Family Visitation
  • Personal Care
 Caregivers Hendersonville, NC

At Always Best Care, our representatives can match your senior's emotional, physical, and financial needs with viable assisted living communities nearby. Results are based on comparative data, so you can select the best choice for you or your loved one.

Always Best Care works closely with local senior living communities to gain valuable knowledge that we then use to help seniors and their loved ones make informed decisions. This information can include basic care and rent, resident availability, and services provided. Because Always Best Care is compensated by these communities, we provide senior living referral services at no extra cost to you.

Some of the most popular assisted living communities to consider in our area include the following:

  • Carolina Reserve of Hendersonville
  • Cherry Springs Village
  • The Gardens of Hendersonville
  • Bridge at Lake Pointe Landing
  • Carolina Reserve of Laurel Park
  • Brookdale Hendersonville East
Home Care Hendersonville, NC

For many seniors, moving into a senior living community revolves around how and when they want to make a transition to more involved care. Some seniors are more proactive about transitioning to independent living. Others choose to remain home until their care needs or other requirements are satisfied. Remember - our staff is here to help. Contact our office today to learn more about assisted living communities and how we can find a facility that exceeds your expectations.

 In-Home Care Hendersonville, NC

Taking the First Step with Always Best Care

The first step in getting quality in-home care starts with a personal consultation with an experienced Always Best Care Care Coordinator. This initial consultation is crucial for our team to learn more about you or your elderly loved one to discover the level of care required. Topics of this consultation typically include:

A discussion of your needs and how our trained caregivers can offer assistance in the most effective way

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A draft of your care plan, which includes highly detailed notes and a framework for the care that you or your senior will receive

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Discuss payment options and help coordinate billing with your insurance provider

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Our caregivers are trained to spot changes that clients exhibit, like mental and physical decline. As your trusted senior care company, we will constantly assess and update your Care Plan to meet any new emotional, intellectual, physical, and emotional needs.

If you have never considered in-home care before, we understand that you and your family may have concerns about your Care Plan and its Care Coordinator. To help give you peace of mind, know that every team member and caregiver must undergo comprehensive training before being assigned to a Care Plan.

At the end of the day, we only hire the best of the best at Always Best Care. Whether you need home care in Hendersonville, NC 24-hours a day or only need a respite for a couple of hours, we are here to serve you.

When you're ready, we encourage you to contact your local Always Best Care representative to set up a Care Consultation. Our Care Coordinators would be happy to meet with you in person to get to know you better, discuss your needs, and help put together a personalized Care Plan specific to your needs.

 Elderly Care Hendersonville, NC

Latest News in Hendersonville, NC

8 of the Most Walkable Towns in North Carolina

North Carolina has always been a top vacation destination. Why, even imperial civilizations from Europe have sent over throngs of their citizens for years to stay a while in the Tar Heel State. Because of the state’s abundance of natural beauty, artistic and cultural attractions, and intriguing historical sites, you can have easy access to a number of destinations. Whether from the rolling mountains to the Atlantic Coast, North Carolina’s most walkable town will allow you to immerse yourself in the community no matter how long yo...

North Carolina has always been a top vacation destination. Why, even imperial civilizations from Europe have sent over throngs of their citizens for years to stay a while in the Tar Heel State. Because of the state’s abundance of natural beauty, artistic and cultural attractions, and intriguing historical sites, you can have easy access to a number of destinations. Whether from the rolling mountains to the Atlantic Coast, North Carolina’s most walkable town will allow you to immerse yourself in the community no matter how long you stay. If you're traveling to North Carolina and want a pedestrian-friendly locale, then check out the Tar Heel State’s most walkable small towns.

Hendersonville

Being called the “City of the Four Seasons” means that Hendersonville is a town that offers every form of attraction from spring to winter. Among these natural and cultural treasures you will enjoy are the Blue Ridge Mountains, Jump Off Point, and the Cheers! Trail. The last one is so named after the hit TV show Cheers! as an allusion to the five unique types of craft beverages you can find along the trail.

Aside from a TV reference, Hendersonville also has Wolfe’s Angel Statue, a stone-carved reference to a character from Look Homeward, Angel, which is renowned writer Thomas Wolfe's first novel. Because Hendersonville is part of a much larger community of intertwined neighborhoods, consider visiting the town’s equally splendid partners like Apple Country (Edneyville), Etowah/Horse Shoe, Flat Rock, Fletcher, Laurel Park, Mills River, and Tuxedo/Zirconia/Green River. You can learn all about these neighborhoods at the Henderson County Heritage Museum as well as their contributions during the American Civil War. If you are ever in need of accommodations, then let the Charleston Inn or the Henderson keep you comfortable.

Blowing Rock

There are at least two origins for the name of Blowing Rock. One, the townsfolk found inspiration from the blowing rock cliffs at the Blue Ridge Parkway. And second, a Native American love story called “The Blowing Rocks,” where two lovers from the warring Catawba and Cherokee tribes yearned to find peace and love in disparate social dynamics and dichotomies. Travelers can appreciate Blowing Rock’s riveting past more at the Blowing Rock Art & History Museum.

The Moses H. Cone Memorial Park contains an impressive collection of artworks for conservationists. As for those eager to go exploring in the wide and open landscape, you ought to go climbing up the Grandfather, Table Rock, and Hawksbill Mountains. There is also the Bass Lake Trail for scenic travels through the forested slopes, and while you are standing at the top of Thunder Hill Overlook, you can get a perfect vantage over Blowing Rock. Give yourself a grand time while staying in fine lodgings like Blowing Rock at the Chetola Resort.

Chapel Hill

Approximately 25 minutes from Durham and 35 minutes from Raleigh, the biblically beautiful town of Chapel Hill welcomes visitors with the compelling arts and stunning cultures of North Carolina. You will feel like a colorful figure in several paintings as you walk down the mural-painted streets and alongside the artistic architecture of Chapel Hill. Being home to one of the best college towns in North Carolina, the University of North Carolina, you can appreciate the arts and culture of North Carolina at the Ackland Art Museum, which showcases masterpieces from Europe and Asia.

As a liberal, open-minded town that celebrates life, Chapel Hill hosts the Pride Promenade each June and Juneteenth—also known as Emancipation Day—which commemorates the emancipation of enslaved people in the U.S. The calendar is packed with dozens of other annual events, including the Carolina Jazz Festival in February, Revolutionary War Living History Day at the Alexander Dickson House in April, and the Forest Theatre Summer Giant Puppet Show in August, among many more. Recharge with a stroll through the North Carolina Botanical Garden, or catch live demonstrations and programs at the Morehead Planetarium & Science Center. When you’re ready to settle in, store your vacation gear at The Siena Hotel, the Carolina Inn, or the Rizzo Center before heading out to explore Chapel Hill’s charm.

Banner Elk

Known as North Carolina’s premier ski capital, Banner Elk also serves as a convenient base for exploring the wooded beauty of the state’s southern high country. Paddle or take a refreshing swim in Wildcat Lake, then stop by Apple Hill Farm to meet its famously cute llamas and alpacas. For sweeping views of Grandfather Mountain and nearby Boone, head to the Mile High Swinging Bridge in the Blue Ridge Mountains. In the area’s UNESCO-designated International Biosphere Reserve, you may spot some of North Carolina’s most captivating wildlife in their natural habitat. The historic Tweetsie Railroad offers a fun way to experience the Banner Elk-Boone-Blowing Rock triangle, surrounded by rugged forests and peaks. For a change of scenery, explore the shadowy depths of Linville Caverns on Humpback Mountain. Back in town, the Banner House Museum’s exhibits and murals add local context, and cozy stays await at the Perry House Bed & Breakfast or the Azalea Inn.

Edenton

Set along the gentle shores of Edenton Bay and the Albemarle Sound, Edenton invites travelers to slow down and unwind. With its 18th-century architecture and easygoing charm, this near-idyllic town offers rich storytelling at sites like the Maritime Underground Railroad, where enslaved people and fugitives—including abolitionist writer Harriet Jacobs—sought freedom during the American Civil War. You can dig deeper into local history at the Chowan County Courthouse, the Cupola House, the Roanoke River Lighthouse, and Saint Paul’s Episcopal Church. To tie it all together, hop aboard one of Edenton’s vintage trolley tours and cruise through nearly 300 years of the town’s past. One tour highlights Edenton’s role as North Carolina’s first colonial capital and the site of what is considered the first female political action in U.S. history. After a full day of exploring, recharge for the night at the Couch House or the Hampton Inn.

New Bern

New Bern, located on the Neuse River that leads out into the Atlantic Ocean was the first state capital of North Carolina before Raleigh took the title. The Tryon Palace stands as the former state capitol, replete with lavish gardens, hallways, and vestibules that accommodated governors, legislators, and even George Washington. Come explore the solemn grounds of the New Bern Battlefield Park, where the Battle of New Bern occurred in 1862. Then, pay homage to the fallen soldiers of that battle at the New Bern National Cemetery.

The history of African Americans is most prominent in New Bern, as the Freedmen’s Bureau allied with White charities and Northern missionary communities to educate and support many illiterate and newly freed slaves following Emancipation. And if you are ever walking down the intersection of Neuse, Broad, Roundtree, and Queen streets—popularly known as the Five Points—you might come across an old drugstore from the 1890s where Pepsi Cola was first created.

There is more to discover in New Bern, like learning about the Great Fire of 1922 at the New Bern Firemen’s Museum or gallivanting in the Croatan National Forest. Whatever you decide, remember to first purchase a room at the Bridge Pointe Hotel & Marina, Aerie Bed & Breakfast, or Abbot Zeigler Motel & Suites.

Black Mountain

Travel 25 minutes away from the city of Asheville and into the mystical town of Black Mountain. As a premier resort town within the Black Mountains, the eponymous town was a thriving location for pioneers of the Appalachian arts and culture in the 20th century. One can find serenity and adventure while braving the sinuous trails and tracks in the Mount Mitchell State Park and Pisgah National Forest, one of the 11 most awe-inspiring national forests in the US.

Take photos of the bellowing Andrew’s Geyser or from the top of Black Mount Fire Tower. Every August, attend the Sourwood Festival to celebrate the local ethnicities and communities in Black Mountain. At Catawba Falls, you can let yourself feel relaxed and rejuvenated by the lulling waterfall descending from the mountains. You can also feel the same sense of tranquility while strolling along Lake Tomahawk Park. Do not feel so fretful in Black Mountain because excellent lodgings like the Black Mountain Inn and Lake Eden Retreat will keep you safe and sound in the long evenings.

Brevard

About 50 minutes away from Black Mountain, the lush and vivacious town of Brevard gives travelers access to some of the best and most walkable natural attractions in Transylvania County. One can brave the hundreds of scenic routes in the Gorges State Park, the Nantahala National Forest, and the DuPont State Recreational Forest. You can soak in the iridescent sprays of over 250 mesmerizing waterfalls in the region, such as Looking Glass Falls, Cove Creek Falls, and Daniel Ridge Falls. You can also attend the annual White Squirrel Weekend every May, where the townsfolk celebrate the most adorable and commonplace animal in the region, the white squirrel.

Visit the Silvermont Mansion for some bluegrass music, or tour the grounds of the Allison-Deaver House, the oldest known standing frame house west of the Blue Ridge Mountains since 1815. Pay homage to the veterans of World Wars I and II, the Korean War, the Vietnam War, and the War on Terror at the Veterans History Museum of the Carolinas. At the Transylvania Heritage Museum, learn all about the Cherokee, Yuchi, and Creek peoples, whose artifacts can be found deep in the forests. And at cozy establishments like the Sunset Motel and Campbell House, let go of your troubles while spending your walks in Brevard.

Conclusion

Even though Orville and Wilbur Wright invented the airplane for people to take to the skies, you need not travel so fast and far a distance when you are exploring the most walkable towns in North Carolina. Brevard and Black Mountain are surrounded by dynamic and untamed wilderness within trekking convenience. Hendersonville is a composition of tight communities and neighborhoods, each with its own attractions for tourists to cherish. As for others, you will not worry about straying far off course when each town’s amenities are remarkably near to whatever place of residence you will be resting at. In short, you best pack your most durable shoes and pants when you are touring the most walkable towns in North Carolina.

Lots of Winter Family Fun at Black Bear Snow Tubing in Hendersonville, NC

Are you thinking about snow tubing at Black Bear Snow Tubing in Hendersonville, NC? Western North Carolina has great snow tubing and Black Bear Snow Tubing is a stellar option for families! They have a huge mountain to get your winter in high gear with a fun snow tubing trip for the whole family!We took a trip up to try out that snow-tubing mountain and it was so much fun! Now we have all the details to share so you can plan your trip!Media tickets were provided for this review, and the opinions are solely those of the auth...

Are you thinking about snow tubing at Black Bear Snow Tubing in Hendersonville, NC? Western North Carolina has great snow tubing and Black Bear Snow Tubing is a stellar option for families! They have a huge mountain to get your winter in high gear with a fun snow tubing trip for the whole family!

We took a trip up to try out that snow-tubing mountain and it was so much fun! Now we have all the details to share so you can plan your trip!

Media tickets were provided for this review, and the opinions are solely those of the author.

While there aren’t any places to snow tube in the Upstate, SC, there are definitely options nearby and one of them is Black Bear Snow Tubing in nearby Hendersonville, NC, just over an hour from Greenville, SC. The snow tubing family-owned operation has been in business for over eight years and they really have a good thing going there, which I’m going to tell you all about in this story.

Black Bear Snow Tubing opens on December 20, 2025 for their 2025-26 season. This is a great way to support local Western NC businesses still struggling after Hurricane Helene.

Scenes From the Slope

Take a sneak peek at this video at Black Bear Snow Tubing.

Snow Tubing at Black Bear

The slope at Black Bear Snow Tubing is 600 feet long with an 80-foot drop and it’s pretty fast. They make their own snow (unless they get a big snowstorm, which doesn’t happen too often) and the hill is well-maintained by their attentive staff.

How it works is that when you get to Black Bear, you go to a little shed to watch a short safety video, where you learn how to get out of your tube on the run and not to start snowball fights, sign a waiver, and head inside the cozy lodge to pay. Then you get your tubes and head to the hill.

They have a pulley system to get you to the top of the hill, which works by slipping the handle of your tube on a cable that takes you, while sitting inside your tube, right up the hill to the top. Once at the top, you’ll wait for a few minutes before being situated into your group by the staff and then sliding down the hill.

Why Black Bear is Different

I’ve snow tubed at many places in our area and I think Black Bear Snow Tubing is pretty fantastic. Here’s why:

My kids, ages 11 and 8, and I had such a blast snow tubing at Black Bear Snow Tubing. We went down the hill about 10 times (maybe more, I lost count honestly) and had so much fun together. I really love places where adults can carelessly be kids again. My kids are already asking to go back. The hill was super fast and seeing my kids faces light up with joy was special. I love those moments.

Tips on How to Enjoy Snow Tubing at Black Bear

Winter being winter, it’s usually cold when you go snow tubing. I’ve found that bringing hand and foot warmers is a really good trick to keeping everyone warm and comfortable. You can get them at Wal-Mart, Amazon, or most drug stores and they stay warm for hours.

It’s also really important to make a reservation when you know you want to go snow tubing. This is especially true during school breaks and holidays. Snow tubing is an awesome family activity on a day off but a lot of people also have the same thought. Don’t forget to make a reservation.

You don’t need to wear snow bibs or snow pants. I had on fleece leggings, hiking boots, and a couple layers of tops with a heavy coat (it was really cold when we went!) and I was fine. I saw people wearing all kinds of clothes that worked for them like pants, leggings, jeans, and sweatpants. The snow wasn’t wet at all when we went but if you go on a warmer day, you may want to bring a change of pants in case they get wet.

There are port-a-potties outside the lodge to use, and no bathrooms indoors.

Double-check Black Bear’s Facebook page before heading out. Snow tubing is very dependent on weather, which changes often in the mountains. They will post current conditions and if they are open or closed most days.

Ticket Prices and Policies at Black Bear Snow Tubing

Tickets are $30/hour or $40/two hours for snow tubing. Kids must be 4 years old in order to go snow tubing. You can either sign a waiver when you get to Black Bear Snow Tubing or print one out online ahead of time. Either is fine.

While Black Bear Snow Tubing does take walk-ups, it is much better to make a reservation ahead of time instead of getting there and finding out they are full. Online reservations are fantastic for this very reason so definitely make use of them.

And be sure to check Black Bear Snow Tubing’s Facebook page before heading out to double check they are open and running. Winter tubing runs mid-December through February usually depending on the weather, of course.

And if you want to tube during other times of the year, you totally can! They have warm-weather tubing in the fall.

Black Bear Snow Tubing 373 Kerr Road, Hendersonville, NC 828.685.1155

Want to spend the day in Hendersonville? We’ve got lots of ideas on what to do in this fun town!

Hendersonville voters to decide on $10 million transportation bond

undefined City residents will decide in the spring whether to approve financing for a major overhaul of Hendersonville’s roads, sidewalks and other transportation infrastructure.City Council voted unanimously in its Dec. 4 meeting to adopt a bond, allowing the city to borrow $10 million, which will go into effect if and when it’s authorized by voters.Assistant Manager Brian Pahle said that he doesn’t expect the bond to cause tax hikes, but the ordinance includes language allowing for an increase...

undefined City residents will decide in the spring whether to approve financing for a major overhaul of Hendersonville’s roads, sidewalks and other transportation infrastructure.

City Council voted unanimously in its Dec. 4 meeting to adopt a bond, allowing the city to borrow $10 million, which will go into effect if and when it’s authorized by voters.

Assistant Manager Brian Pahle said that he doesn’t expect the bond to cause tax hikes, but the ordinance includes language allowing for an increase of $20 per $100,000 of value in case of an emergency.

“That’s our failsafe … we don’t want to say zero (percent increase in the measure) and then something goes wrong,” Pahle said.

A referendum is set for March 3 on the primary ballot because the city can’t declare a new standalone election, councilmember Gina Baxter told the Times-News after the meeting.

The $10 million would go toward a project totaling $14.5 million, including $900,000 per fiscal year from the city’s General Fund from 2027 through 2031, Hendersonville Budget and Evaluation Director Adam Murr told City Council.

It would include $8.2 million for street resurfacing, $2.4 million for Americans with Disabilities Act accessible curb ramps and $3.7 million for safety features and other infrastructure improvements, he said.

The city aims to resurface around one third of all its streets over five years, Pahle told Council.

It would divide the city into five zones, with the streets in each under construction for a year, he said.

The Blythe Street Multi-Use Path, planned between U.S. 64 and N.C. 191 along Blythe Street, a two-lane road with no sidewalk, is one of the signature projects the bond would fund.

A nearly $4 million project, all but $560,000 of it would be paid for with North Carolina Department of Transportation matching funds, making it an efficient use of the bond money, Pahle said.

Other projects drawn from the city’s Walk Hendo Pedestrian Plan and Bicycle Plan include adding sidewalks to King, Washington and Grove streets, improving walkability around the intersection of Orleans and 9th avenues at Hendersonville Middle School and bike lanes or other protections for cyclists along 5th Avenue.

Other smaller projects might include improvements to crossings at different points of the Ecusta Trail, crosswalks, bulb outs — which protect pedestrians by narrowing crosswalks — and sharrows, which are lanes marked for shared used between bikes and cars.

Christopher Dannals, a leader at the nonprofit Bike.Walk.HVL, spoke in favor of the bond and the infrastructure projects.

“There’s a lot of trouble spots where, if you’re a pedestrian, if you’re on a bike, if you’re trying to get through the city without a car, it’s dangerous and it’s difficult and a lot of people just give up,” he told City Council during public comment.

He referred to an NCDOT finding that Hendersonville had the highest pedestrian fatality rate in the state among cities in its population range of 10,000-25,000 between 2010 and 2019, according to a document from the City of Hendersonville’s website.

“This is a great opportunity to fix that, recognizing that there’s a lot of small changes that may not cost a huge amount of money,” he said.

'No accountability': Hendersonville group protests Border Patrol

George Fabe Russell is the Henderson County Reporter for the Hendersonville Times-News. Tips, questions, comments? Email him at [email protected].

Winter weather advisory for Western NC. Will Asheville see ice Dec. 1?

The National Weather Service is predicting wintry weather in Western North Carolina to ring in the first day of December.Overnight on Monday, Dec. 1, areas including Buncombe and Henderson counties, as well as the Rutherford and Polk mountains, can expect temperatures near or below freezing, with a 100% chance of precipitation, according to the weather agency.According to warnings from the National Weather Service, this winter weather could cause icy conditions on certain roads, with the potential to impact commutes on Tuesday ...

The National Weather Service is predicting wintry weather in Western North Carolina to ring in the first day of December.

Overnight on Monday, Dec. 1, areas including Buncombe and Henderson counties, as well as the Rutherford and Polk mountains, can expect temperatures near or below freezing, with a 100% chance of precipitation, according to the weather agency.

According to warnings from the National Weather Service, this winter weather could cause icy conditions on certain roads, with the potential to impact commutes on Tuesday morning, Dec. 2.

With a weather advisory active, here's everything Western North Carolina residents and visitors need to know.

Winter weather warning for Western NC: Will it snow in Asheville?

A winter weather advisory was issued by the weather service at 12:49 p.m. on Monday, Dec. 1 for Buncombe and Henderson counties and the mountains of Rutherford and Polk counties. The advisory affects the cities of Fletcher, Candler, Hendersonville, Dana, Asheville, East Flat Rock, Etowah, Black Mountain, Tuxedo, Chimney Rock State Park and Saluda.

The advisory warns of freezing rain, with ice accumulations that could total around .1 inches. The inclement weather is expected from 7 p.m. Monday, Dec. 1, to 10 a.m. Tuesday, Dec. 2.

The ice could create slippery conditions on roads, bridges and sidewalks, and could impact Tuesday morning commutes, warns the National Weather Service.

Ice accumulation potential is expected to be the worst over the eastern parts of Buncombe and Henderson Counties, east of Swannanoa, Fairview and Edneyville to the Blue Ridge Escarpment. The good news for residents of Asheville and Hendersonville, however, is that no significant ice accumulation is expected.

The weather service advises caution on roads and to prepare for possible power outages in affected areas.

North Carolina weather radar

Weather warnings for Western North Carolina

Asheville weather forecast for week of Dec. 1

Monday, Dec. 1 - Overnight, rain, mainly after 9 p.m. Patchy fog after 2 a.m. Low around 34 degrees. Southeast wind 3-7 mph. Chance of precipitation is 100%. New precipitation amounts between .1-.25 inches possible.

Tuesday, Dec. 2 - Rain, mainly before 9 a.m. Patchy fog before 12 p.m. High near 48 degrees. Light and variable wind becoming north northwest 9-14 mph in the morning. Winds could gust as high as 24 mph. Chance of precipitation is 80%. New precipitation amounts between .1-.25 inches possible. Overnight, mostly cloudy, then gradually becoming mostly clear, with a low around 21 degrees. Northwest wind 6-11 mph becoming light after midnight. Winds could gust as high as 24 mph.

Wednesday, Dec. 3 - Sunny, with a high near 50 degrees. Calm wind. Overnight, mostly clear, with a low around 27 degrees.

Thursday, Dec. 4 - Partly sunny, with a high near 48 degrees. Overnight, mostly cloudy, with a low around 30 degrees.

Friday, Dec. 5 - A chance of snow before 8 a.m., then a chance of rain and snow between 8-9 a.m., then rain likely after 9 a.m. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 42 degrees. Chance of precipitation is 60%. Overnight, rain likely, mainly before 12 a.m. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 35 degrees. Chance of precipitation is 60%.

Hendersonville, NC, latest weather forecast

Monday, Dec. 1 - Overnight, rain, mainly after 11 p.m. Patchy fog after 1 a.m. Low around 33 degrees. East southeast wind around 5 mph becoming calm in the evening. Chance of precipitation is 100%. New precipitation amounts between .25-.5 inches possible.

Tuesday, Dec. 2 - Rain, mainly before 9 a.m. Patchy fog before noon. High near 49 degrees. Light and variable wind becoming north northwest 5-10 mph in the morning. Winds could gust as high as 20 mph. Chance of precipitation is 80%. New precipitation amounts between .25-.5 inches possible. Overnight, mostly clear, with a low around 24 degrees. Northwest wind 8-13 mph becoming light after 12 a.m. Winds could gust as high as 24 mph.

Wednesday, Dec. 3 - Sunny, with a high near 46 degrees. Calm wind becoming south around 5 mph in the afternoon. Overnight, mostly clear, with a low around 28 degrees.

Thursday, Dec. 4 - Partly sunny, with a high near 48 degrees. Overnight, mostly cloudy, with a low around 31 degrees.

Friday, Dec. 5 - A chance of rain and snow before 8 a.m., then rain likely. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 39 degrees. Chance of precipitation is 60%. Overnight, rain likely, mainly before 12 a.m. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 34 degrees. Chance of precipitation is 60%.

Iris Seaton is the trending news reporter for the Asheville Citizen Times, part of the USA TODAY Network. Reach her at [email protected].

BorgWarner to create nearly 200 jobs with new Hendersonville facility

HENDERSON COUNTY, N.C. (WLOS) — Auto parts manufacturer BorgWarner Inc. plans to invest at least $74.9 million in a new facility in Henderson County, bringing nearly 200 jobs to the region.In a news release on Tuesday, Oct. 28, North Carolina Gov. Josh Stein said the new 220,000-square-foot manufacturing site will be the company's second North Carolina facility, adding to its 84 manufacturing and technical centers worldwide."I am pleased that BorgWarner will deepen its roots in western North Carolina...

HENDERSON COUNTY, N.C. (WLOS) — Auto parts manufacturer BorgWarner Inc. plans to invest at least $74.9 million in a new facility in Henderson County, bringing nearly 200 jobs to the region.

In a news release on Tuesday, Oct. 28, North Carolina Gov. Josh Stein said the new 220,000-square-foot manufacturing site will be the company's second North Carolina facility, adding to its 84 manufacturing and technical centers worldwide.

"I am pleased that BorgWarner will deepen its roots in western North Carolina," Stein said in a written statement. "This decision reaffirms our ranking as the best state to do business, highlights our thriving automotive industry, and invests in our manufacturing economy in western North Carolina at a time when it's sorely needed."

HOW HURRICANE HELENE IMPACTED THE JOB MARKET IN WESTERN NORTH CAROLINA: REPORT

BorgWarner's new Hendersonville facility is expected to create 193 jobs and produce "a new industrial product," according to the governor's office.

Wages vary by position, but the governor's office said the annual average salary for the new positions is expected to be $78,628. By comparison, the average wage in Henderson County is $51,565.

The project is estimated to grow the state's economy by $583 million over the next 12 years, according to Tuesday's news release.

"BorgWarner could have chosen anywhere in the world for this new product line, but they chose to reinvest in North Carolina," N.C. Commerce Secretary Lee Lilley said in a written statement. "Western North Carolina is recovering stronger every day, and companies looking to grow want to do so in places like Henderson County, where there is access to a strong talent pool, a solid supply chain, and an excellent quality of life."

BORGWARNER ANNOUNCES $62.25 MILLION, 100+ JOB EXPANSION PLAN FOR ARDEN SITE

The governor's office said BorgWarner's planned expansion was made possible, in part, by a Job Development Investment Grant (JDIG) awarded to BorgWarner Industrial Solutions LLC. The grant was approved by the state's Economic Investment Committee on Tuesday, Oct. 28.

"BorgWarner is proud to continue to invest in the state of North Carolina to bring an exciting new technology to market and provide jobs to local residents," Joseph F. Fadool, the president and chief executive officer of BorgWarner Inc., said. "We appreciate the grant and continued support from the state of North Carolina to expand our manufacturing footprint here in the United States."

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