The autumn season brings about a flurry of activity on the Highlands-Cashiers Plateau.
All the animals are in the final frenzy of fattening up for the coming winter season, and a few of us humans might be doing the same, however unintentionally, as we enjoy apple cider, pumpkin and apple delights, and our final goodies from area farmers markets.
And, of course, we are all rushing about trying to capture the vivid fall colors in our memories so we can hold onto them throughout the coming winter season.
One event that’s not to be missed, and one that has gained national attention, is the annual appearance of the mystical Shadow of the Bear at the Rhodes Big View Overlook on Highway 64 East between Highlands and Cashiers. This bear makes his shadowy appearance for several weeks starting in mid-October between the hours of approximately 5:30 until 6:00 P.M.
As the sun sets and moves behind Whiteside Mountain, the shadowy figure of the bear emerges from the valley floor among the brilliantly colored autumn foliage.
It’s an imposing and inspiring sight whether you’re seeing for the first time or the twentieth, and a sight that’s garnered national attention since it can only be seen here. Only during this brief period does the bear appear. At other times throughout the year due to the earth’s rotation the shadow appears in different forms and more than once I think I’ve spotted a giant mouse that makes me think of the Mouse King in The Nutcracker.
Often forgotten is the fact that the bear shadow makes another appearance from mid-February until early March, but the fall appearance draws the most visitors. The combination of this one-of-a-kind shadowy display and the fiery fall leaves is truly a sight that you shouldn’t miss.
The earliest inhabitants of our area, the Cherokee, revered the Black Bear for both his spirit and as a powerful animal. They believed that the shadow of the bear was a sign that a powerful bear spirit protected them from the evil Spearfinger, a shape-shifting witch who lived in a cave on Whiteside Mountain and used her spear-shaped finger to stab people.
This amazing phenomenon draws a large crowd so proceed with caution to the panoramic overlook, find a safe parking spot and walk to the overlook to view. Always be aware that this is a busy highway, so be safe and find a spot off the road near the guardrail to stand and watch the shadow emerge.
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