Tryon
The town of Tryon is located about 40 miles south of Asheville via I-26, just off US 176 near the state line. At the base of the Saluda Grade, the steepest standard-gauge railway grade in the country, Tryon lies at an elevation of 1,067 feet.Calling itself “The Friendliest Town in the South,” Tryon is home to about 1,800 residents. However that number is expected to change dramatically over the next few years, due to annexation and development.
Tryon is probably best known for its Foothills Equestrian Nature Center, a 390-acre educational and recreational center that provides programs in nature study, outdoor recreation and equestrian competition. The facility includes five miles of trails, suitable for hiking or riding, and a nature pond with a boardwalk. The center features three lighted show rings, spectacular seating and stables for over 200 horses.
Every June, the Blue Ridge Barbeque Festival held at Harmon Field attracts thousands of visitors from around the country. The festival is the largest in Polk County and has been recognized by the Travel Channel as number five on its list of the World’s Best Barbecuq Contests. The highlight of the festival is the barbeque contact, which awards $20,000 in prize money. Beyond Barbecue, the two-day festival includes artisans, live music and a variety of food.
