Searching for the Elusive White Squirrel
By Dani Halliday
THE HIGHWAY 64 PROJECT
The Foothills Region
Mocksville
Located in Davie County, North Carolina, Mocksville is the largest town within the County. In addition, it is a town with a population of about 6,092 people, was founded in 1839, and has a motto of “time well spent!” Both routes 64 and 601 run directly through the town. Mocksville’s
The “small town” vibe attracts visitors regularly. Davie County is home to numerous vineyards and winners that contribute to North Carolina’s tourism industry. Mocksville, in particular, is home to over four farms focusing on general produce, four greenhouses and nurseries, three meat producers, two bee farms, and three vineyards and wineries.
Mount Airy
While Mount Airy, North Carolina is not technically on Route 64, it is only a slight drive off route and remains considered “a part of the foothill region.” The town has a population of 10,471 as of 2023 and was established in 1885. Mount Airy is an authentic hidden gem. Located on the Surry Sonker Trail, Mount Airy attracts thousands of tourists each year who travel long and far to try some of its wonderful activities, attractions, and places to eat.
Statesville
“Statesville - Where it all comes together.”
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Statesville, North Carolina has a population of 30,077 and was founded in January 1789. Located in Iredell County, North Carolina, Statesville has become one of the leaders in both whiskey and tobacco production, and in the distribution of roots and herbs. Statesville is also known for its annual Carolina Balloonfest, which attracts nearly sixty thousand tourists each year. Fort Dobbs is a state park with a replica of the actual 18th-century fort used as a frontier defense during the French and Indian War. Lake Norman, the state’s largest man-made lake, offers a relaxed climate with swimming, canoeing, kayaking, and more.
Taylorsville
The town of Taylorsville is located in Alexander County, North Carolina, and was founded in 1847. Measuring a population of about 2,336 people as of 2023, the town is memorable because of its beautiful wildlife and hiking trails. It is a very outdoorsy area. The town of Taylorsville lies just off Highway 64 and is known for its local mom-and-pop shops. With that said, since 1988, Taylorsville has held its annual Apple Festival which is held on the third Saturday of October and draws thousands of visitors to enjoy the day of entertainment, food, and fun.
Lenoir
Located within Caldwell County, North Carolina, the town of Lenoir reached a population of about 18,300 people as of 2020. It is located within the foothills region of the Blue Ridge Mountains, and it is memorable due to its beautiful hiking trails and outdoor attractions. For the most part, the town is pretty quiet, however, once a month, Lenoir undergoes a remarkable transformation to host the Lenoir Downtown Cruisers Auto Show.
Morganton
Morganton, NC is a city in Burke County, North Carolina on Highway 64. It was founded in 1777 with a population of 17,518. It was named after Brigadier General Daniel Morgan, a hero of the American Revolutionary war. Activities to do include the annual Morganton festival, Bimonthly Third Thursday art crawls, farmers markets, hikes, and more.
Rutherfordton
Rutherfordton, North Carolina is one of the oldest towns in Western, North Carolina, being established in 1787 with a population of 3,623. Rutherfordton sits along a ridge line offering a scenic view of rolling countryside with a backdrop of the Great Blue Ridge Mountains. The town keeps its rich history alive with the town still being made up of traditional historic brick buildings in downtown. Offering attractions such as the Bechtler Mint Site Historic Park and the Riverside Riding Stables, as well as the Broad River Gems and Mining Co. where visitors can
look for and collect their own gems.
Lake Lure
Lake Lure, North Carolina is a town located within Rutherford County. In 2020, the town’s population was just under 2000 people. Lake Lure is known for its outdoor adventures by the lake of which it is named after, whether that be kayaking, canoeing, hiking, or simply playing outdoors. The movie “Dirty Dancing” had scenes shot by the lake in Lake Lure, and thus one of this town’s main attractions is the annual Dirty Dancing festival.
Bat Cave
Bat Cave is a town also located in Henderson County, North Carolina, and it is often considered as part of the Asheville region. It is named after a bat cave located nearby, which is the largest known granite fissure cave in the continent. It is also where US Route 64, 74A, and NC 9 join. The town is known for its escape from city life, its beautiful forests, and its many outdoors activities. In addition, another popular attraction aside from the Bat Cave itself is the The Bat Cave Old Cider Mill, which is located only a few miles down the road, where travelers can sample the homemade apple cider made and sold at the mill.
Hendersonville, North Carolina is located within Henderson County. It is about 20 miles South of Asheville, North Carolina, and it was traditionally called “The City of Four Seasons.” It is known for its beautiful downtown area and its amazing views of the town’s surrounding nature. In addition, each year, the town hosts a Rhythm and Brews festival to showcase their local chefs, artists, musicians, and brewers.
Hendersonville
