One of the most scenic and peaceful places I've found in Maggie Valley, NC, is the Cataloochee ski area. Follow the long winding road up to the top of the mountain and eventually you'll find yourself in the middle of an open ranch... No manmade fences, only horses and cows roaming the mountainside. Take a moment to enjoy that closeness to the animals, and then turn around to see the beauty of the Blue Ridge mountains. From this area, you can see peaks and valleys for miles. This spot is especially beautiful in the fall, when the landscape is so bright and colorful you have to wonder if it's real.
Brother, this looks like a painting - amazing palette.
Thanks!