Brevard- day activity (Asheville, Saluda: rental, camp, restaurant)

[hlsess]

I am picking up my 15 year old daughter at camp 7/25 and she and a friend from Tampa want to do something that day-- we kayaked down Green River last year which was alot of fun out of Saluda- we were thinking about tubing- realize there won't be many rapids- they go to Sliding Rock with Camp- not big hikers- any other thoughts or names of outdoor places-thanks in advance

[blueridgemama]

If you tube, you can pick up rental tubes at the entrance to the Pisgah Forest at 276N (not to be confused with 276S--two different roads connected by hwy 64). The water level is a little low, but I've seen lots of tubers this year. They say it isn't too bad, but you will have to drag your tube in some places. Other things to do that aren't hiking...there are some fun swim spots. Hooker Falls in Dupont State Forest has a great swimming hole at the bottom. It is very wide and deep. There is a small hike to get out there (my 2 year old did it without complaint and I think it took us about 3 minutes). The Dupont State Forest web site can give you directions. Also, there is a nice spot called Coon Tree Landing that is near Sliding Rock on 276N. Go through the picnic area, cross the river on a well worn path (water up to about your knees) and there is an island on the other side with a great swim beach. There is a high rock that people jump off of into the water.

You may hit the very beginning of blueberry season. If you go up to the Parkway on 276N, head west (away from Asheville) and go to Graveyard Fields. Bring a bucket or something and hike down the staircase from the right end of the parking lot (if you are facing away from the road). You can walk down to the river in 5 minutes or so and the blueberry bushes are everywhere. You can't miss them. The sweetest ones are the ones with the dusty blueish color. you can swim there, too. Follow the trail to the right after the bridge and go less than a 1/4 mile to the steps. Down the steps you'll find the falls that empty into a beautiful emerald green pool that is a popular swimming spot.

Besides swimming, the Main Street area in Brevard has some nice shopping and dining. There are a few antique emporium places and also several clothing shops with a unique look to them. There is a new Gelato ice cream place across from Square Root restaurant and next to the new chocolate store. There are interesting places to look at art. The humane society thrift shop is an adventure...don't miss the bottom floor.