USA: North Carolina

[roadrunner20]

Originally Posted by tonyjohnson

Now that we have a NC forum here, it gives me the opportunity to ask a question specific to that state. I have some property in the mountains in western NC. The nearest town (and grocery store) is in Marion.

I am building an RV8A which I intend to use as my chariot to the mountains. It takes too long to drive from Orlando. The problem is that in Marion, although they have a nice grass strip, there seem to be no hangars available, and no rental cars.

The next nearest airport is Avery County Airport, which is bordered by high terrain. It is in the town of Spruce Pine. I don't think they have rental cars available there either.

I am trying to figure out how to fly into the area and get to my property, which is on Linville Mountain. I suspect that some of you guys may have this same dilemma.

Any insight would be appreciated.

Tony

Hi Tony,
I flew into Franklin(1A5), last month. Rental car thru Airnav, Enterprise, 59.95. Yikes

Tried Andrews(KRHP) on Tuesday. Airnav said no Enterprise available but the FBO had cars from the local KIA dealer. Rented a SUV for 39.95.
Really nice group there and nice approach into the mountains.
3.80 for 100LL and waived nightly tiedown.
2 1/2 hours from Brooksville.

[Wayne Gillispie]

We are planning a 3 day trip to the OBX after Memorial Day. Any advice on accomodations, restaurants, things to see and do would be much appreciated.

[Bill Boyd]

Memorial Day is a good time for that itinerary. Been to each of those places many times; they're about 1.6 RV hours away from us in the mountains

FFA has a one night only policy that is strictly enforced by the Park Service. It does not offer hospitality for extended stays at the OBX. Landing and returning does not reset the meter, either. It's one night per month. The Wright Memorial and museum are must-do local attractions. Beaches are not convenient by foot; you'll want a cab or bikes.

Manteo (MQI) is where you would want to tie down for an extended stay at KDH or Nags Head. Very nice airport and FBO, offers mogas and self-fueling. I recall that only one of its original three runways is open anymore. Lots of banner towing and GA operations out of there. Plenty of sea gulls, too. Be vigilant and stay on the radio. Bring gust locks; the wind never stops.

Okracoke is awesome. The runway is a short walk from the beach, which is never crowded. Bring bug repellent or the mosquitos will eat you alive in the privy when you relieve the P-factor after landing. Howard's Pub is one of the best eateries on the island, and the only one within comfortable walking distance of the airstrip. They offer golf cart pickup for patrons who phone or call them on Unicom, which they typically monitor. I've rented bikes from the island realty companies ahead of time and had them lock them to the fence for use when I arrive. Easy. A bike is all you need for exploring the populated end of the island. No fuel available and no services either. There is Verizon cell coverage.

Let us know how your trip goes. My new bride loves the Carolina beaches and we are looking forward to many day and one-night trips there this summer in the 6A.

-Bill

[Bill Boyd]

I can personally recommend Captain's Landing and Crew's Inn on Ocracoke. Different ambience, both great in their own way.

[Skykingbob]

Originally Posted by Wayne Gillispie

We are planning a 3 day trip to the OBX after Memorial Day. Any advice on accomodations, restaurants, things to see and do would be much appreciated.

Along with what others said......Howards Pub is excellent. If you have time go and check out the small piece of England that is in Ocracoke. A ship from England was torpedoed by a German U-boat during WWII off the Carolina coast. The bodies of four english sailors washed up on the shore. They are buried on a small plot there and the land was deeded to England.....they actually send an honor guard there from time to time to perform a ceremony in honor of the sailors.

Watch out for the Dwarf Prickly Pear Cactus that are in the grassy areas of FFA....ouch!!

[Clarkie]

Just did FFA and Ocracoke. Great day trip and all the reviews are spot on. Howard's Pub is great. Just give them a call in the pattern on unicom and they'll send the golf cart for you.

[Wayne Gillispie]

Thank you. We will try to provide a trip report later.

[Larry Ocker]

Try 6A4 Johnson County TN. I live on Beech Mountain and fly out of their. Call the airport and Dave will get you a car and hangar space. Real friendly and a nice airport.