Written by: Adrienne Sylver

With gas prices nearing the $4 a gallon mark and airline prices increasing, many families
are searching for unique ways to experience an affordable summer vacation or a weekend
getaway. Even honeymooners are looking for alternatives to expensive trips. One solution—stay
closer to home and explore North Carolina. And one beautiful option is Fall Creek Cabins,
nestled in the mountains near Boone and Blowing Rock.

“There are so many activities in our area that are free or reasonably priced,” said Tim
Thompson, who with his wife, Beverly, owns Fall Creek Cabins. Located off U.S. 421, the
private log cabins are true vacation homes with hot tubs, fireplaces, fully-equipped kitchens, and
covered porches with rocking chairs and a gas grill.

“Most of our guests enjoy hiking, viewing the many spectacular waterfalls nearby and
exploring the Blue Ridge Parkway from Linville Falls & Gorge to Doughton Park,” Mrs.
Thompson said. “Others choose to try tubing, kayaking, canoeing or biking.”

Many who stay at Fall Creek Cabins return year-after-year because of its seclusion, its
family-friendly feel and the personal and high-quality service provided by the Thompsons. The
54-acre property features eight cabins, some with creekside settings, others with mountain views.
A state-stocked trout stream runs through the property. Hiking trails have been marked off and
lead through the woods and to a waterfall. Campfire rings, complete with seating, offer a place
for the whole family to gather.

One look at the Fall Creek Cabins online guest book reveals the many happy memories of
guests. “We absolutely loved everything about the place,” one woman wrote. “As you probably
saw in my thank-you note to you, we will recommend the place to all of our friends.” Another
woman said, “The cabin and grounds were more beautiful than we could have imagined.” A
honeymooner praised the Thompsons for meeting a special request — a bed of pink rose petals
to greet them upon arrival.

The Thompsons have expanded their business by adding a vacation rental property
management division, Fall Creek Vacation Rentals. Through the rental division, vacationers can
find cabins at other sites in the Boone area. They vary in size and location, some offering
panoramic views of the mountains, others overlooking the New River. Amenities also vary, from
hot tubs and game tables to gas grills and covered porches.

To help make the vacation experience more affordable, the Thompsons offer specials
throughout the year. Information on those and about the cabins is available online at
www.fallcreekcabins.com and www.fallcreekvacationrentals.com. They also offer discount
tickets to some attractions during certain times of year.

“We have already teamed up with Tweetsie Railroad as part of their Lodging Partner’s
Program and also offer discount tickets/coupons to both Grandfather Mountain and Mystery
Hill,” Mrs. Thompson said. “For our customer’s convenience, the discount tickets and/or
coupons are in the cabin upon arrival.” Because the cabins are located centrally, it’s easy to get
to the different attractions. There are golf courses, antique shops, and places to go horseback
riding or rafting not far away as well.

And being close is what it’s all about in today’s economy. By staying in North Carolina,
you’ll not only save on gas and transportation, you may just find some hidden gems you’ve
never experienced before.