April 2026 Episodes

April 28, 2026



Transcript: 
Welcome back to Radio Cashiers!
Happy Tuesday!
This is Hannah Lee with Radio Cashiers and today is April 28th, the 118th day of 2026.
We are moving our weekly podcast to stream on Tuesday and Friday instead of Monday and Friday. Many restaurants and bars do not announce their Thursday evening music performances until sometime on Monday. So, hoping to capture where you can find the right vibe, we will give this a try!
As we like to do, let’s get into this episode the usual way - checking temperatures across the Highlands – Cashiers – and Sapphire Valley region.
A quick check of area temperatures shows it is 48 at the Highlands Newspaper, 49 at Cashiers Lake, and 48 at the top of old Baldy in Sapphire Valley. Cassidy we’ll cover a more detailed weather report later in this episode.
OK, here is your Cashiers Burger Week, Week 2 Summary.
The competition is heating up for the second and final week of Cashiers Burger Week: The Extended Cut. Running from May 2nd through May 9th, 2026, this week represents the last chance for locals and visitors to sample the 13 unique burger creations across the Plateau and cast their votes for the best in town.
If you are following along with your official Burger Week Passport, remember that the clock is ticking. To be eligible to vote for the Favorite Burger and Most Creative Burger awards, you must visit at least six participating restaurants. Make sure to get your passport stamped at each stop and turn it in to the Cashiers Area Chamber of Commerce by the May 11th deadline.
As the event winds down, the excitement shifts toward the Wrap Party on May 13th at Slopeside Tavern in Sapphire. This is where the community will gather for live music and drinks to find out which local spots will take home the 2026 trophies.
With crowds expected to be heavy during these final days, remember to be patient with the restaurant staff and tip your servers well. You can find the full list of participating locations and photos of every burger online at the official event website to help plan your final route.
For Cashiers and Sapphire Valley, it is the last week of April and the area is officially coming to life. If you are here for the next few days, you have picked the perfect window to enjoy the mountain spring before the summer rush begins.
Your top priority this week should be a visit to Gorges State Park in Sapphire. This is one of the most rugged and beautiful parks in the Eastern United States, and right now is the best time to see it because the spring rains have the waterfalls thundering. You should definitely take the trail to Rainbow Falls where the mist is heavy and the views are wide open before the summer canopy fully fills in. Make sure to stop at the Visitor Center first to see the incredible exhibits on our local temperate rainforest.
For those who want to get a little higher up, a hike on Whiteside Mountain is a must right now. The two-mile loop offers panoramic views of the continental divide, and at nearly five thousand feet, you can literally watch the green leaf line climbing up the valley floor toward you. If the weather turns misty, you can always duck into The Bascom in Highlands to see their latest fine art exhibitions or browse for treasures at Reclamations along the highway.
Over the next few days in Highlands, North Carolina, the pace is relaxed but there’s still a steady rhythm of things to experience if you know where to look. One of the standout experiences happening right now is the ongoing Carolina Concert Series, with live performances continuing this week. These shows bring a refined but approachable music experience to the Plateau, giving you a chance to settle in for an evening that feels both intimate and elevated, right in the heart of the mountains.
At the same time, Highlands continues to lean into its creative side with hands-on and community-centered experiences. At The Bascom, the visual arts center, programming like Studio Alive and other ongoing activities offer a chance to engage directly with local art and creativity. It’s not just about viewing art, it’s about stepping into the process and being part of the artistic energy that defines the town this time of year.
There’s also a strong thread of community gatherings woven throughout the week, including recurring events like music bingo and informal live music evenings. These are the kinds of low-key, high-enjoyment experiences that Highlands does so well, where locals and visitors come together, share a laugh, and enjoy the simple pleasure of being out in town after a day in the mountains.
For those looking to slow things down and recharge, wellness-focused events like yoga sessions continue through the week, offering a chance to reset in a peaceful mountain setting. Whether you’re easing into the morning or unwinding later in the day, these experiences reflect the quieter, restorative side of Highlands that balances out the social scene.
And finally, one of the simplest but most authentic ways to experience Highlands over the next few days is by stepping into its everyday rhythm through open community spaces like local bookstores, markets, and gathering spots that are hosting ongoing activities. These may not always be headline events, but they provide a genuine feel for the town, where conversation, creativity, and connection are always just around the corner.
Taken together, the next few days in Highlands offer a blend of live music, art, community gatherings, and quiet mountain moments. It’s not about one big event, it’s about the overall experience, and right now, that experience is exactly what makes Highlands special.
Ok, here’s Cassidy with a weather and music report, a little more news, and she’ll close out this episode.
Thanks Hannah Lee. Expect shifting skies and cooling temperatures across the plateau for the next four days. Tuesday starts with clouds and a high of 64 degrees, followed by a low of 48. On Wednesday, look for light rain and a high reaching 67, before dipping to 51 overnight. Thursday brings partly sunny conditions with a high of 66 and a low of 46. To round out the period, Friday remains partly sunny but slightly cooler, with a daytime high of 62 and an overnight low of 46.
How about some Music! Looking for the perfect Thursday night vibe? Get ready for Music on the Slopes! This week, the Sapphire Valley scene is buzzing as we welcome Nikki Talley to the stage for the very first time. Since springtime in the mountains likes to keep us guessing, we’re moving the party indoors to keep things cozy. The music kicks off at 6:00 PM, so head on over to Slopeside Tavern, grab a drink, and help us give Nikki a warm Plateau welcome
Thank you for tuning in!
For more information and links to all today’s podcast items like the Cashiers Burger Week and including our suggested dining venues, find area web cams, and other important information, visit Radio Cashiers.com.
See you Friday!

April 24, 2026



Transcript:

Welcome back to Radio Cashiers!
Happy Friday! Congratulations! You made it to another weekend!
This is Hannah Lee with Radio Cashiers and today is April 24th, the 114th day of 2026.
Let us get into this special episode the usual way - checking temperatures across the Highlands – Cashiers – and Sapphire Valley region.
It’s just after 10AM and quick check of area temperatures shows it is already 65 at the Highlands Newspaper, 65 at Cashiers Lake, and 65 at the top of old Baldy in Sapphire Valley.
Residents and visitors in Highlands, Cashiers, and Sapphire Valley are facing some of the most critical fire conditions we’ve seen in years. As of late April 2026, western North Carolina is locked in an Extreme Drought. Cassidy we’ll cover more about the drought and a detailed weather report later in this episode.
This episode will focus on burgers, burgers and more burgers!
Get ready to loosen your belt because the high country is heating up for Cashiers Burger Week, an extended two-week culinary celebration running from April 24th through May 9th. This year the event is bigger than ever, featuring thirteen local restaurants competing for the titles of Favorite Burger and Most Creative Burger. To join the fun, you’ll want to grab an official passport starting April 20th at the Cashiers Area Chamber of Commerce. As you travel between eateries trying out specialty ten-dollar patties, you can collect stamps to enter a prize drawing, provided you hit at least six different spots. This year also features a heart-warming partnership with the Cashiers-Highlands Humane Society, which is highlighting adoptable pets named after classic burger toppings.
The 2026 Cashiers Burger Week lineup features an incredible mix of local favorites. You can grab a specialty burger at Whiteside Brewing Co., which originally helped launch this tradition, or head over to The Library Kitchen & Bar for a more elevated take. Other local staples joining the fun include Micas Mountain Kitchen, Slopeside Tavern, The Ugly Dog Public House, Cornucopia, and The Orchard. You’ll also find creative entries at Cashiers Valley Smokehouse, The Fix, and Zookeeper Bistro.
The whole event leads to the official Wrap Party on Wednesday, May 13th, at Slopeside Tavern in Sapphire. Starting at 6:00 PM, the community will gather to announce the winners for the "Favorite Burger" and "Most Creative Burger" awards based on your passport votes. It’s going to be a high-energy night with live music, local craft beer, and the final chance to celebrate the local culinary scene before the summer rush begins.
Also in the news, the Cashiers Historical Society has officially announced the 29th Annual Cashiers Designer Showhouse, scheduled to take place from August 28 through September 5, 2026. This year's event features a stunning 3-bedroom, 4 and a half bath cottage retreat located in the new Cashiers Lake development, which focuses on mountain vernacular design with a refined contemporary lens. We’ll have more on this event in the coming weeks. Just mark your calendar for this summer tradition!
Now let’s take a look at some live music happening around Sapphire Valley this week.
If you’re looking for a laid-back evening with great food and even better music, we’ve got just the thing.
This Friday, April 24th, Dave Mauldin will be performing live at Micas Mountain Kitchen for an evening of acoustic favorites.
The music kicks off at 5:00 PM and runs through 8:00 PM, making it a perfect early evening outing—whether you’re wrapping up a day of hiking, golfing, or just enjoying the fresh mountain air.
Micas is always a great spot to catch live music, with a welcoming atmosphere and a menu that pairs perfectly with a relaxed night out.
So if you’re in the Sapphire area on Friday, swing by, grab a table, and settle in for a great night of live acoustic music.
That’s Dave Mauldin, live this Friday evening at Micas Restaurant and Pub in Sapphire Valley.
OK, here’s Cassidy to tell us how the weekend weather looks like, more about the drought, as well as wrap up this episode.
For those of you in Highlands, Cashiers, and Sapphire Valley, the message today is one of extreme caution. This region of the Blue Ridge is currently facing some of its driest conditions in years, with the latest data placing us firmly in the category of extreme drought. Rainfall deficits have hit double digits over the last several months, leaving the mountain landscape incredibly parched.
Fire officials are reporting that relative humidity levels have dropped significantly, while persistent afternoon winds are creating a dangerous recipe for rapid fire spread. There is a statewide burn ban currently in effect, which means all outdoor burning is strictly prohibited—including fire pits, campfires, and the burning of yard debris.
A unique challenge this season is the amount of dry - downed timber and debris still remaining on the forest floor from recent storms. These materials act as heavy fuel for any spark that might ignite. The U.S. Forest Service has also implemented strict restrictions across the Nantahala National Forest, which surrounds our plateau communities.
Local fire crews are on high alert and are asking residents and visitors to be extremely mindful of anything that could cause a spark, from discarded smoking materials to dragging chains on trailers. If you see smoke, report it immediately to local authorities, as containment in this steep terrain is difficult under these bone-dry conditions.
Here’s the weather forecast that it includes some rain but it does not look like much.
For your weekend trip to the Highlands, Cashiers, and Sapphire Valley area, expect a warm start followed by a cool-down. Friday will be mostly sunny and mild with a high of 69 degrees and a low of 52. On Saturday, clouds move in with a good chance of much-needed rain and a high of 65 degrees, dropping to a low of 48 overnight. Sunday clears back out for a beautiful finish to the weekend, featuring plenty of sunshine with a high of 71 degrees and a low of 48.
 In closing, just a heads up, the Radio Cashiers crew will be out of town early next week so we may push the Monday episode until Tuesday. Honestly, this will allow us to capture music venues that announce performances on Monday afternoon.
Thank you for tuning in! For more information and links to all today’s podcast items including our suggested dining venues, find area web cams, and other important information, visit Radio Cashiers.com.

April 20,2026



Transcript:
Welcome back to Radio Cashiers!
Happy Monday! We hope you had a great weekend!
This is Hannah Lee with Radio Cashiers and today is April 20th, the 110th day of 2026.
Let’s get into this episode the usual way - checking temperatures across the Highlands – Cashiers – and Sapphire Valley region.
A quick check of area temperatures shows it is 48 at the Highlands Newspaper, 49 at Cashiers Lake, and 47 at the top of old Baldy in Sapphire Valley. After a breezy Sunday, cooler, crisp air moved in. Cassidy we’ll cover a more detailed weather report later in this episode.
Welcome to a brand-new segment! Starting today, we’re your scouts for the rhythm of the mountains, bringing you the lowdown on where to catch a beat between Highlands and Sapphire Valley.
This is your official Live Music Report for the week. We’ll be back with a fresh update this Friday to get your weekend soundtrack dialed in. Let's dive into who's hitting the stage.
This is one of those in-between spring weeks where the mountains are waking up, but the full summer music calendar has not quite kicked into gear yet. So, what you are going to hear is a mix of one standout performance, a few likely local options, and a realistic look at where things are quiet right now.
Let’s start in Highlands, because this is where the clear headliner of the week is happening.
At Old Edwards Inn, out at The Farm, the Orchard Sessions series continues with a performance on Thursday night featuring singer-songwriter Mike Kinnebrew. This show runs from six to eight in the evening and is set in what is probably one of the most intimate live music environments anywhere on the Plateau. You are sitting outdoors in a mountain orchard setting, with light bites and a cash bar, and the focus is completely on the music.
Kinnebrew is a longtime regional favorite known for deeply personal songwriting and a style that blends folk, Americana, and Appalachian influence. These Orchard Sessions are not background music. They are meant to be listened to, and they consistently draw both locals and visitors looking for a more elevated music experience.
That is your anchor event this week. If you are planning one night out around live music, that is the one to circle.
Now shifting over to Sapphire Valley, the picture changes a bit.
At Slopeside Tavern, live music tends to be more casual and less formally scheduled. Their model leans toward rotating local acts, typically acoustic, typically early evening, and often announced closer to the date. Based on their established pattern, you can expect the style to fall into Americana, light country, or acoustic covers, usually in that relaxed après-ski style setting even outside of winter.
However, as of right now, there is no clearly published, confirmed act listed specifically for this week. So Slopeside remains a “check in and see” venue. If you are already in Sapphire Valley, it is still one of your better bets for stumbling into live music on Thursdsay night, but it is not a guaranteed scheduled show.
Now let’s talk about two spots people ask about all the time: The FIX and Mica’s.
Both are known for hosting music, especially as the season ramps up. But based on their currently available public calendars and postings, there are no clearly confirmed live performances listed for this week.
That does not necessarily mean nothing will happen. It simply means there is nothing officially scheduled or publicly promoted at this time. And that is pretty typical for mid-April up here. Many venues are still in that transition between winter traffic and the start of the summer season.
So here is the honest takeaway for this week across the Plateau.
There is one clear, high-quality, plan-your-evening-around-it show, and that is Thursday night at Old Edwards with Mike Kinnebrew.
Beyond that, your options shift into more informal territory. Slopeside Tavern is your best chance for a casual live set, but you may need to check day-of. And for The FIX and Mica’s, this is simply a quiet week on the calendar.
The good news is that this lull does not last long. Over the next few weeks, the entire region starts to come alive with more consistent bookings, outdoor shows, and eventually full concert series as we move toward late spring and early summer.
But for now, this is a locals-style week. Fewer crowds, fewer big shows, and one good opportunity to catch live music in a setting that reminds you why people love this area in the first place.
That is your live music update for the week.
Here’s Cassidy with your weather report and to close us out!
For your journey through the mountains over the next three days, expect a beautiful warming trend under mostly clear skies.
Today starts off bright and sunny with a high of 62 degrees and a chilly low tonight of 34. There is a frost warning tonight and it is still very dry with that burn ban still in effect.
 Tuesday keeps the sunshine going as we warm up to a high of 67 with a low of 42 after dark. By Wednesday, it will feel like a true spring peak with a pleasant high of 70 and a much milder low of 44.
It is the perfect window for exploring the plateau, just keep a jacket handy for those crisp mountain mornings.
Thank you for tuning in! For more information and links to all today’s podcast items including our suggested dining venues, find area web cams, and other important information, visit Radio Cashiers.com.
See you Friday!

April 17, 2026



Transcript:

Welcome back to Radio Cashiers!
Happy Friday! What another great week of weather but please keep in mind there is a total burn ban across all of North Carolina! More on that in a moment.
This is Hannah Lee with Radio Cashiers and today is April 17, the 107th day of 2026.
Let’s get into this episode the usual way - checking temperatures across the Highlands – Cashiers - Sapphire Valley region.
A quick check of area temperatures shows it is 58 at the Highlands Newspaper, 60 at Cashiers Lake, and 63 at the top of old Baldy in Sapphire Valley. Cassidy we’ll cover a more detailed weather report later in this episode.
Here is more about the burn ban. As of April 2026, a statewide burn ban remains in effect for all 100 counties in North Carolina, including the western region. Issued by the North Carolina Forest Service, this ban was enacted on March 28 due to hazardous conditions such as extreme drought, low humidity, and gusty winds. We covered details of the ban in our last episode which you can find on Radio Cashiers.com under the Previous Episodes section. Also, there are shortcuts to info about this under the Urgent Links navigation.
OK! Here are the top three things to do in Highlands, Cashiers, and Sapphire Valley over the next seven days:
1. The Gorges State Park Experience
First up, you have to head over to Gorges State Park in Sapphire. This is one of the most rugged and beautiful parks in the Eastern U.S. Because the leaves aren’t fully out yet, the views of the Horsepasture River are wide open.
The Big Hike: Take the 1.5-mile trek to Rainbow Falls. The spring rains haven’t come yet, but it is still absolutely thundering right now, and if the sun hits the mist just right, you’ll see exactly how it got its name.
Pro Tip: Stop by the Visitor Center first, it’s world-class with great exhibits on the "temperate rainforest" ecology unique to this area.
2. Spring Music & Small-Town Soul
While the big summer concert series are still a few weeks away, the local music scene is alive and well in the intimate venues:
Thursday Night: Catch local favorite Myron Hyman at the Cashiers Celtic Table. It’s the perfect spot for a pint and some authentic mountain vibes.
Weekend Vibes: Head into Highlands to the Highlander Mountain House. They often have live sessions at the Ruffed Grouse Tavern that feel like a private living room concert.
3. Wildflower Spotting & Waterfall Hopping
The "Spring Awakening" is officially here.
Whiteside Mountain: This is the week to hike the 2.5-mile loop. You’ll see the trillium and violets starting to carpet the forest floor, and from the top, you can watch the green leaf line literally climbing up the valley.
The Drive-Bys: If you’re not feeling a long hike, Dry Falls and Bridal Veil Falls in Highlands are must-sees. You can walk behind Dry Falls and feel the power of the falls without getting too wet.
Culture Break: Check out the Highlands Performing Arts Center—they often have screenings or live theater if you want to swap the hiking boots for something a bit dressier.
Cultural & Local Stops
The Bascom Art Center: Located in Highlands, this is a must-visit for rotating exhibitions and high-end mountain crafts.
Antiquing: Spend an afternoon "treasure hunting" at Reclamations located on US 64 between Highlands and Cashiers—it’s a favorite for finding unique mountain decor before the summer rush.
OK, over to Cassidy for your weather report!
Expect a beautiful but changing stretch of mountain weather across Highlands, Cashiers, and Sapphire Valley over the next four days—starting warm and sunny with highs around 77° and mild lows near 55, then holding similar warmth into Saturday before a round of showers moves in late with a cooler low near 45. By Sunday, temperatures drop sharply with highs only around 56–58° and brisk conditions, followed by a crisp, clear Monday with sunshine returning and highs near 60–62° and chilly overnight lows dipping into the upper 30s. Rick, the founder of Radio Cashiers is with us for a special segment.
"We want to take a quick second to give a huge shout-out to a longtime friend, Sydneye the creative force behind Crowfoot Pottery.
If you’re near Cashiers, you’ve got to check out her studio. It’s this incredible, nature-inspired space where anyone—and I mean anyone, regardless of skill level—can get their hands dirty and create something beautiful.
Whether you’re looking for a functional piece for your kitchen or something decorative for the mantel, Sydneye is all about guiding you through the process. As she says on her site: 'No experience? No problem!' They’ll walk you through every step, and you’ll be genuinely surprised at the masterpiece you get to take home.
It’s the perfect spot for a unique date night, a relaxing group outing, or just a day of laughter with friends. So, for a truly memorable, hands-on experience, reach out to Crowfoot Pottery and get creating!"
Closing
Thanks Rick, and thank you for tuning in!
For more information and links to all today’s podcast items including our suggested dining venues, find area web cams, and other important information, visit Radio Cashiers.com. We’ll be back on Monday and earlier if important news breaks. Have a great weekend!

April 13, 2026



Transcript;
This episode is titled Hummers, the Spring Transition and the no Burning Ban for Highlands, Cashiers, and Sapphire Valley
Happy Monday! We hope you had a great weekend. We are a bit late getting this episode out, so we apologize!
This is Hannah Lee with Radio Cashiers and today is April 13th, the 103rd day of 2026.
If you liked the weather last week just stick around! The upcoming week looks just as good! Cassidy we’ll cover a more detailed weather report later in this episode.
Let’s get into this episode the usual way - checking temperatures across the Highlands – Cashiers and Sapphire Valley region.
A quick check of area temperatures at 5pm shows it is 68 at the Highlands Newspaper, 69 at Cashiers Lake, and 67 at the top of old Baldy in Sapphire Valley.
First up, the burn ban. A statewide burn ban is in effect for all 100 counties in North Carolina, including Western North Carolina, as of March 28, 2026, due to high fire danger. The ban prohibits all open burning, and all previously issued burning permits are suspended. It applies to fires over 100 feet from an occupied dwelling.
Here are Key Details on the NC Burn Ban.
What is Banned: All open burning, including leaves, branches, and brush.
Exceptions: The ban does not apply to campfires or fires used for cooking within 100 feet of an occupied home.
Duration: The ban is indefinite, following dangerous, dry, and windy conditions.
Violations: Violating the ban carries a $100 fine plus $183 in court costs.
Official Information: You can check the N.C. Forest Service Facebook page for updates.
And now, the birds! We can officially state that Hummingbirds have returned. We saw one buzzing round in Sapphire Valley on Saturday. The little thing may have been an early scout for the rest of the flock. Learn more about this special little creature on our hummingbird page on Radio Cashiers.com
Get your appetites ready because Cashiers Burger Week is officially returning, and this year it’s bigger than ever. Dubbed "The Extended Cut," the event has expanded from one week to two full weeks, running from April 24 through May 9, 2026. We will have more details on this next week as Burger week gets closer. Just mark your calendars!
As of mid-April, the Highlands-Cashiers Plateau is transitioning into a vibrant spring with mild days reaching the mid-70s and crisp nights in the 50s. This week is ideal for exploring the "spring awakening" of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
So, here are the top three outdoor activities for your upcoming week on the plateau:
Number 1 - Wildflower and "Water-falling" Tours.
This week offers a unique "window" for waterfall hopping before the summer canopy fully fills in, providing clearer sightlines of the cascades. Here are your must-see spots.
Walk directly underneath the 75-foot Dry Falls near Highlands, or take the short, accessible path to the 411-foot Upper Whitewater Falls in Sapphire, the tallest waterfall east of the Rockies.
Here is a Pro-Tip: Book a private Waterfall Jeep Tour from Highland Excursion for back-road access to hidden gems like Secret Falls.
Number 2 - Spring Bloom Hikes on Whiteside Mountain.
As the leaf line climbs the mountainside, the forest floor is currently carpeted with spring ephemerals like trillium, violets, and trout lilies. Hike the 2.5-mile loop on Whiteside Mountain for panoramic views of the continental divide. At nearly 5,000 feet, you can literally see the green-up happening in the valleys below.
Here is another pro tip - Join a guided Wildflower Hike with local experts on April 15, 16, or 18 to learn how to identify native blooms like the Oconee Bell.
And Number 3 - The Heritage Apple Day Festival on Saturday, April 18th.
For a mix of outdoor culture and mountain history, head to Cashiers this Saturday.
The Cashiers Historical Society is hosting its 19th annual Heritage Apple Day from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM at the historic Zachary-Tolbert House.
This free outdoor event features live Appalachian music, traditional cider-making demonstrations, beekeeping exhibits, and apple tree grafting workshops. It’s a perfect family-friendly stop on your way to The Village Green, which is also currently hosting its own spring garden displays.
OK, let’s check in with Cassidy for the weather this week.
For travelers heading to the scenic Plateau, the next few days bring beautiful, spring-like conditions with plenty of sunshine and warming temperatures. Tuesday starts the trend with partly sunny skies and comfortable highs reaching 74 in Highlands and 75 in Cashiers and Sapphire Valley, following overnight lows around 53°F. By Wednesday, expect a high of 78 across the region with lows dipping to 54 or 56 under mostly cloudy to cloudy skies. The mild stretch continues into Thursday with partly sunny conditions and highs of 75°F, while evening temperatures settle back down to a cool 54 or 55. Back to Hannah Lee. Oh, we hear Rick will be in the studio as early as this Friday.
Thank you for tuning in! For more information and links to all today’s podcast items including our suggested dining venues, find area web cams, and other important information, visit Radio Cashiers.com.


April 10, 2026



Transcript:
Welcome back to Radio Cashiers!
Wow! What a perfect week in the High South. The weather has been, and will be perfect for the next several days.
This is Hannah Lee with Radio Cashiers and today is April 10th, the 100th day of 2026.
We have quite a bit of news and events to share with you so let’s get to it in our usual way.
A quick check of area temperatures shows it is 54 at the Highlands Newspaper, 55 at Cashiers Lake, and 60 at the top of old Baldy in Sapphire Valley. Cassidy we’ll cover a more detailed weather report later in this episode.
Planning your 2026 getaway? The brand-new Jackson County Visitor Guide just dropped, and the best part—it’s completely free. Cashiers and Sapphire Valley are in the southern part of Jackson County. This year’s edition is overflowing with fresh inspiration, whether you’re a foodie hunting for the best local eats, a thrill-seeker ready for the trails, or even if you’re bringing your dog along for the ride. It’s got specialized itineraries for everything from low-key retreats to bachelorette weekends. So, whether you’re a Jackson County regular or you’re just putting us on your radar for the first time, grab your copy and find something new to explore. We have links to the guide on our new website, Radio Cashiers.com
Here is a special news item from last week. Our friends with Cashiers Cares had a Record-Breaking Charity Year. This nonprofit distributed over $150,000 to 10 local organizations in March, marking its most successful fundraising cycle to date. They have to major fundraisers this year, be sure to check them out.
How about some upcoming local events!
Now – April 12, it’s the Highlands Restaurant Week. It’s the perfect time to explore the Plateau’s famous food scene with special multi-course menus and exclusive dishes.
April 11 & 18: Community Cleanups. Want to give back? Join the "Cleaning up the Mountains" event on the 11th at Monteith Park, or the "Plateau Pickup" in Highlands on the 18th. Here is a Bonus: the first 50 volunteers at Monteith Park get free breakfast biscuits!
April 24 – May 9 the Cashiers Burger Week is back. The "Extended Cut" is back with 13 restaurants and $10 specialty burgers. Pick up a passport starting April 20 to vote for your favorite and enter to win prizes.
Here is a Pro Tip for Anglers: Hatchery-supported trout waters are officially open! Hit the Nantahala River or Greens Creek for some of the best spring fishing in Western North Carolina.
Ok Cassidy, what’s our weather looking like.
Looking ahead at our mountain forecast, it is a spectacular window for outdoor adventure across the Plateau. Expect mostly sunny skies through the weekend with a high of 68° and a low of 41 on Friday, warming up to a beautiful 74 on Saturday with a crisp low of 46. Sunday remains perfect for a hike or a patio lunch, reaching a high of 72 before dipping back down to 46° at night.
If you’re looking to make the most of that sunshine, here are three iconic treks across the Plateau that never disappoint:
Whiteside Mountain: This is the big one. It’s a moderate 2-mile loop that takes you along the highest cliffs in Eastern North America. The views over the valley are unmatched—perfect for those panoramic 'I'm on vacation' photos.
Sunset Rock: For something a bit more low-key but still high-reward, take the short walk from downtown Highlands. It’s a local favorite for a reason—the flat rock face gives you a front-row seat to the sun dipping behind the mountains.
Yellow Mountain Trail: If you’re a serious hiker looking for a challenge, this is your trail. It’s a 12-mile round trip, but once you reach the historic fire tower at the summit, you get a 360-degree view of the entire Blue Ridge range.
Back to Hannah Lee to close us out.
Closing
For more information and links to all today’s podcast items including our suggested dining venues, find area web cams, and other important information, visit Radio Cashiers.com.

April 6th 2026 Episode



Transcript:
Welcome back to Radio Cashiers!
Happy Monday! We hope you had a fun, family filled Easter weekend!
This is Hannah Lee with Radio Cashiers and today is April 6th, the 96th day of 2026.
Many of our listeners are on spring break this week. Safe travels to all!
A quick check of area temperatures shows it is 40 at the Highlands Newspaper, 41 at Cashiers Lake, and 43 at the top of old Baldy in Sapphire Valley. Cassidy we’ll cover a more detailed weather report later in this episode.
Here are the news highlights from this past week.
The region’s primary news source, The Highlander, has entered a new era. This week, it was announced that Paxton Media Group acquired the title along with eight other community newspapers across western North Carolina and north Georgia. While ownership has changed, the paper remains committed to its 67-year legacy of covering local Plateau stories.
And this is very important! The mandatory Burn Ban is still in Effect!!
If you are planning a bonfire or using a fire pit at your home or vacation rental this week, take note: the North Carolina Forest Service has issued a statewide burn ban due to intensifying wildfire risks and drought conditions. In Macon and Jackson counties, this ban explicitly includes fire pits and open-flame devices. Standard outdoor grilling remains permitted. It is very dry out there so please be alert to any smoke you may see.
For travelers who want to give back, the Highlands Chamber of Commerce is hosting its annual Plateau Pickup on Saturday, April 18. Volunteers will meet at Kelsey-Hutchinson Founders Park at 8:30 a.m. to help clear litter from scenic routes like U.S. 64 and N.C. 28. The Chamber provides safety gear, breakfast, and lunch for all participants.
Over in Cashiers, the Heritage Apple Day Returns!
The Cashiers Historical Society is gearing up for its 19th annual Heritage Apple Day Festival on April 18. This free event at the Zachary-Tolbert House celebrates the region’s agricultural roots with cider sampling, Appalachian music, and live beekeeping demonstrations. It is a perfect family-friendly stop for anyone visiting the Sapphire Valley or Cashiers area.

OK Cassidy, tell us what we can expect from Mother Nature this week.
Stay prepared for a bit of everything if you're heading to the plateau this week. Highlands kicks things off with cloudy skies today and a high of 59°, followed by a mostly sunny Tuesday at 60 before cooling down to a cloudy 56 on Wednesday. Cashiers mirrors this trend with highs of 60 today and tomorrow, dipping to 55 by mid-week, with overnight lows hovering between 35 and 39°. In Sapphire Valley, expect a mild Tuesday high of 61 after today’s 59, though Wednesday brings a chance of light snow as temperatures drop to a high of 55 and a low of 36. Whether you're chasing waterfalls at Dry Falls or hiking near Whitewater Falls, keep a light rain jacket handy as nighttime lows across the region will consistently dip into the mid-30s.
Hannah Lee has a couple of events to think about.
First up is the Highlands Restaurant Week. Running through April 12th, this is your best chance to explore the town's world-class dining scene. Local favorites like The Stubborn Bull are offering special menus and seasonal pairings.
How about waterfall hopping and these two are easy to access. You can walk behind the 75-foot cascade at Dry Falls or take a quick stroll to the more secluded Silver Run Falls in Cashiers.
Rick just told us our website has even more content loaded now including some great visitor videos. To check these out and for more information and links to all today’s podcast items including our suggested dining venues, find area web cams, and other important information, visit Radio Cashiers.com. See you later in the week!


April 3rd 2026 Episode


Transcript:

Happy Good Friday! This is Hannah Lee with Radio Cashiers and today is April 3rd, the 93rd day of 2026.

This episode is all about Easter! Let’s get to it in our usual way.

A quick check of area temperatures shows it is 62 at the Highlands Newspaper, 60 at Cashiers Lake, and 62 at the top of old Baldy in Sapphire Valley. Cassidy we’ll have your Easter forecast later in this episode.

Welcome back to Radio Cashiers, your local guide to the best of the Blue Ridge. It’s early April 2026, and the Plateau is officially waking up for spring. Again, today we’re talking all things Easter. If you’re visiting Highlands, Cashiers, or Sapphire this weekend, grab your baskets because the schedule is packed.

For a moment of reflection on Friday, head to The Village Green in Cashiers at 4:00 PM for the Stations of the Cross walk. If you’re over in Sapphire Valley and looking for some family creativity, the Resort is hosting an egg-coloring contest from 2:00 to 4:00 PM at the Community Center.

Saturday the 4th is the big day for the kids. You’ll need to be strategic! Start early in Highlands at the Rec Park—their hunt begins promptly at 10:00 AM with over two thousand eggs hidden for the little ones.

Then, hop over to Cashiers for 'Easter on the Green' at 11:00 AM. They’ve got age-divided hunts across the lawns and a special appearance by the Easter Bunny on the Commons Stage. And for the late risers or those staying in Sapphire, you’ve got a third chance! The Sapphire Valley Resort hunt starts at 3:00 PM.

Easter morning on the Plateau is truly special. There is no better way to see the sunrise than at the 7:00 AM Community Sunrise Service at The Village Green.

If you’re coming hungry, you’re in luck! The entire corridor from Highlands through Cashiers and over to Sapphire is turning into a culinary destination this weekend. Our local chefs are pulling out all the stops with special Easter-themed menus that celebrate the best of mountain spring flavors.

Here’s Cassidy with your forecast.

Over the next three days in the plateau communities of Highlands, Cashiers, and Sapphire Valley, you’re looking at a classic early spring mountain mix—cool mornings, mild afternoons, and a little bit of everything in between. Daytime highs will generally climb into the upper 50s to mid 60s, while overnight lows dip back into the upper 30s to low 40s, so you’ll definitely want layers. Expect at least one stretch of light rain or passing showers, especially early in the period, followed by some clearing skies and even a bit of sunshine breaking through by the latter part of the weekend. For your travel plans, that means crisp mornings perfect for coffee on the porch, comfortable afternoons for hiking or waterfall chasing, and cool, quiet evenings—ideal mountain weather, just keep a light jacket and maybe a rain shell handy as you explore.

For Radio Cashiers, this is Cassidy wishing everyone a Happy Easter! Now back to Hannah Lee.

On a business note, Rick tells us the new Radio Cashiers web site is live with new features like an online NOAA weather radio player ready to go. Many new features and tons of content will be loaded over the next several weeks.

OK, that’s your Easter outlook for the Plateau. For more details and links to all these events, visit our website at radio Cashiers.com. Happy Easter, everyone!


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