Featuring the finest crafts created in the Toe River Valley
Since 1976, the Toe River Arts Council (TRAC) has been working to connect the arts and the community. TRAC is dedicated to enhancing the lives of people in this region through arts-related experiences and education. They work in the schools, with the artists, for residents, and for those who may just be passing through.
Serving both Mitchell and Yancey counties, the Arts Council works to make sure the area is top of the to-do list for the intrepid traveler, the seeker and lover of art, and the visitor respectful of nature and the beauty of the land. Mount Mitchell in Yancey County rises to the highest point east of the Mississippi River and joins the natural beauty of the Appalachian Mountains, scenic rivers, multiple hiking and biking opportunities, camping, river rafting along the North and South Toe and Nolichucky Rivers, and other outdoor adventures for those young and young at heart. Roan Mountain State Park in Mitchell County includes the world’s largest rhododendron garden.
Originally inhabited by Catawba and Cherokee Indians, European settlers from the British Isles colonized the area in the 1700s. Immigrants adapted to survive the challenging mountain terrain and scarce topsoil by being resourceful. Self-reliance married craftsmanship to become a way of life for families that continues to be part of the mountain culture today.
TRAC’s offices are located on Main Street in Burnsville and Oak Avenue in Spruce Pine. The Burnsville location is a temporary space while its next home is renovated. For now, it features a gallery. The Spruce Pine location rotates exhibits monthly and has a gift shop featuring artists who live in the Mitchell, Yancey, or Avery County region.
For information and hours, visit the website. And check out the annual Toe River Studio Tour to meet the makers where they create their crafts.
