Shop Local, Shop Healthy, Shop Fresh at Nash County Farmers Market

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We all learned the hard way in the Summer of 2020 that even the more superficial things we grew to enjoy and maybe take for granted were things that, when unavailable, we deeply missed. These were seldom more evident than when the warmer months arrived, and our favorite outdoor activities were no longer available. Whether you have just moved into your new home in Rocky Mount at Belmont Lake Preserve or you have called your residence at BLP home for years, one such favorite outdoor activity in the surrounding community is the Nash County Farmers Market.

Nash County Farmers Market: Summer Tradition for 16 Years

The Nash County Farmers Market has been a staple of the Rocky Mount summers since its inception in 2005. It is located in the beautiful Rocky Mount Mills Historic District. The initial purpose was to provide the area farmers a facility to sell their products. Likewise, it gives the area residents access to the freshest produce, meats, and foods, and other crafts and products made locally. In addition, it provides the residents a great way to give back to the community and encourages the farmers to increase their production. 

Upon re-opening, the Nash County Farmers Market is open from April through December on Saturdays from 8:00 a.m. through 1:00 p.m. During the Summer Months of June, July, and August, the market is also open on Tuesday afternoons between the hours of 3:00-6:00 p.m. The Nash County Farmers Market’s slogan is “Shop Local, Shop Healthy, Shop Fresh,” and if you have ever experienced it, you would 100 percent agree with that phrasing. 

Local, Healthy, Fresh, and More

Currently, while more vendors can apply for space from week to week, and thus the number could change, there are seventeen Rocky Mount area vendors on-site weekly at Nash County Farmers Market. This listing could vary, but as of the week of June 5, the freshest products around are available from the following with their items listed:

  • 3 Stars Kettle Corn– Kettle Corn (Sweet and Salty), Cheddar Cheese, Caramel and Caramel Apples, Fried Pork skins, and Flour Chips
  • Big B’s Farmstead– Eggs and a variety of seasonal produce depending on the week
  • Carolina Grits Company– Grits and Cornmeal
  • Caveman Charcoal– A variety of woods processed into charcoal to be used in smoking and grilling food
  • Conetoe Family Life Center- Full variety of seasonal produce (varies weekly)
  • Farm 1837- Pound cakes and baked goods
  • Grandma G’s Soap- Soap and lotions
  • HS Howell Farms- Produce boxes, a full variety of seasonal produce (varies weekly) 
  • J&K Veggies- Full Variety of Seasonal Produce (varies weekly)
  • Magie’s Baked Goods- Bread and Baked Goods
  • Nowell Family Farm – Beef
  • OMGoodness Pimento Cheese- Original and Jalapeno Pimento Cheese
  • Ooh La La Skin Care- Body Butter, Sugar Scrubs, Soaps, Lip Balms, and Bath Bombs 
  • Rob’s Fresh Produce- Full Variety of seasonal produce. (Varies weekly)
  • Tar River Microfarm- Pottery and Microgreens
  • Tri-O-Farms- Pork and Eggs
  • Twin Oak Farms- Eggs, Bug Repellent, Soap, Shampoo, Lotion, Lip Balm, and Skin Care Products
  • Washington Crab and Seafood- Fresh Seafood

The Freshness and Healthiest is Minutes from BLP

The Nash County Farmers Market takes place at 1006 Peachtree Street in Rocky Mount. As we noted above, for the summer months, it is open Sat. from 8 a.m.- 1 p.m. and Tue. from 3 p.m.- 6 p.m. It is a short ten-minute drive (6.8 miles) from your new home in Rocky Mount at Belmont Lake Preserve. As they always say, at Belmont Lake Preserve, you’re never too far from there, and in this case, you are never too far from shopping local, healthy, and fresh while supporting your local community.

For more information on the Belmont Lake Preserve new home community, visit belmontlakepreserve.com.

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Cycling Trails in NC: Heading Toward Tougher Terrain

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So far in our series on Cycling Trails in NC, we went through some of the most scenic and rides anywhere in the state. No cyclist would argue that they make for a fantastic ride. Some enthusiasts though prefer a bit more of a challenge and maybe a little more nature in their rides.

Well, these are for those who are a bit more “extreme” about their riding. There are plenty of challenging Cycling Trails in NC. In actuality, there are so that its tough narrowing the choices down. However, on the trails below, you can “take it to the next level.”

Don’t Let Your Eyes Play Tricks on these Cycling Trails in NC

Now, our headline here is an obvious play on words. To explain, it is actually coincidental and does not have a lot to do with the riding portion of our first trail. That being said, due to the amazing natural surroundings of this ride, you may be rubbing your eyeballs briefly. But at least you will be enjoying the ride!

Hanging Rock, Greensboro and Winston Salem

Well, in “stepping up the game” and taking on some more challenging Cycling Trails in NC, we start at Hanging Rock. Officially, North Carolina Route 8 and 89 is this curvy and scenic ride. As you move South toward Danbury, things get interesting as the trail climbs and twists along and up the hill. There is a gorgeous view at this point of the ride but be careful of those sharp curves that come out of nowhere.    

As for the “eye rubbing” we allude to above, that comes as you reach Sizemore Road and have an incredible view of Hanging Rock to your direct right. You truly will have to look twice and at the same time, you’ll realize why it’s called “Hanging Rock,” as the huge masses appear to just be hanging off the mountainside.

Back to Earth…or at least the Ground with Cycling Trails in NC

All right, no more tricks or illusions! Just moving on to some hardcore riding and our next two amazing Cycling Trails in NC.

Cashiers Tour, Smoky Mountains and Cherokee

The next on our Cycling Trails of NC list is one that will no question leave those thighs burning. While the trail is only 10 miles, Cashiers is perched on a plateau that is surrounded by Nantahala National Forest. Thus the views and accompanying scenery is absolutely breathtaking.

Jump on this entry among our Cycling Trails in NC on U.S 64 at Cashier’s Commons. Next, turn right on to North Carolina 107. Now let the hairpin turns and heart-thumping inclines take over. A great trail for mountain bike enthusiasts for sure.

Tsali Trails, Smoky Mountains and Cherokee

In the Tsali Trails of Nantahala National Forest is where we start or next grueling but rewarding trek on our Cycling Trails of NC. Get ready for more than 40 miles of heart-pounding hilly trails, broken up into several loops each that vary in degree of difficulty. 

Right Loop, which is more difficult a ride gives you much “hilly” ride with a few creek crossings and access to the Windy Gap Overlook. The moderate Thompson Loop, still gives you a hilly ride. but far less

This concludes our three post series on Cycling Trails in NC. Much like all the previous outdoor activities we detail, these are just another way to enjoy the beauty of North Carolina. Above all, the majestic natural setting at all these trails are perfect for a nice ride.

To read more about the Belmont Lake Preserve new home community in Rocky Mount, visit belmontlakepreserve.com.

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The Best NC Biking Trails Give an “Illusion,” Go Past the Greens, and Recall Our History

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Moving to the next three paths on our journey along the Best NC Biking Trails. Here in the second of a three-post series, we have some unique stops across the state. We will bring you on two-wheels past one of the state’s most famous spots to golf. Another on the list below will make you rub your eyes in disbelief. The other of our three trails brings you by one of the most historic war sites in state history. However, the true “battle” for you as a true cycling fanatic is deciding which of these incredible rides to take on first!

Now, we realize, that while some of these are just a zip in the car down the road and an easy unload to start riding. Others may be a bit farther from your new home in Rocky Mount and BLP, no question. But as we will stress in the posts before and after this one, make plans when you have the time. You will truly enjoy these spectacular “two-wheel” treks, that we are sure of.

Golf Country Tour, Pinehurst, and Sandhills

We finally move along in our look at the Best NC Biking Trails and our next stop is in a place much more known for driving…a golf ball, that is, than cycling. But the Sandhills area with towering pine trees, spectacular homes, spacious horse farms, and over 40 golf courses, serves as a beautiful backdrop for a great ride, too.

Starting the ride in Southern Pines lets you see the small-town charm before hitting Midland Road toward Pinehurst. This trail was once a train spur and its impeccably graded surface makes for a real smooth ride. A stop off for some more small-town charm in Pinehurst is suggested, as there aren’t many places more charming nation-wide.

Duke Forest, Raleigh, Durham, Triangle Area

The next of our Best NC Biking Trails begins at one of the most historic spots of the Civil War, Bennett Place. Duke Forest also puts you on 30-miles of biking path in the Raleigh/Durham area of NC known as the Triangle area.

In addition to that 30-miles of road, there is also a gorgeous 3.5-mile stretch that bends and twists through the woods at the incredible Duke University Golf Course. As we suggested above, a stop-off point that is very bike-friendly is the beautiful Duke University campus, which is definitely worth a peek.

Linn Cove Viaduct, High Country

Ok, so now we move along to the Linn Cove Viaduct and a true “sight to see” among our Best NC Biking Trails. Now, this is part of the Blue Ridge Parkway, so we immediately know the natural surroundings are amazing along this trail. But this portion of the Parkway, has a bit of an illusion to it. As you snake your way down and around the mountainsides here at spots it appears the parkway magically floats above Linn Cove.

Now, before getting ahead of ourselves, let’s start our route at Julian Price Memorial Park. This is a gradual 7-mile ascent where you can see the spectacular peaks of Grandfather Mountain off in the distance. Sure, this is a challenging incline, but lesser experienced riders, need not worry, there are plenty of overlooks along the way up. Oh yeah, and last but not least, when you actually cross the viaduct itself, many claims you feel the sensation of riding on air. 

Any of the Best NC Biking Trails Make the Best Memories

You may be a rider are one who likes the casual ride and the great natural backdrops. On the contrary, you may like to get dirty and take your riding a bit more towards the extreme. But no matter which is your preference, one thing you can count on is at any of these Best NC Biking Trails listed, you can truly find yourself at one with nature here in the Tar Heel State.

For any further information on the Belmont Lake Preserve new home community, visit belmontlakepreserve.com

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