Visitors clambered up to the guardrails at the Rhodes Big View between Highlands and Cashiers on Hwy 64 to catch a glimpse of the Bear Shadow in the Chattooga River headwaters. Every year from mid-October to early- to mid-November the shadow makes an appearance around 5:45 p.m.
Bear Shadow morphing into shape below:
Jason Zacher traveled with his family from Greenville, S.C. last year to the scenic overlook in mid-October to witness what he has only seen in photos.
“I’ve wanted to this this for a while, I’ve only seen pictures,” said Zacher. “It’s like any other natural phenomenon, it good to come up and see it with your own eyes.”
A view of the Bear Shadow along Hwy 64 at Rhodes Big View between Highlands and Cashiers.
Before the shadow had taken shape, Zacher’s son, Charles, 9, said he was getting excited to finally see the Bear Shadow.
“All I’ve heard is that it’s shaped like a bear and it’s really cool to watch,” said Charles.
Dana Foreman has recently delved into photography and made her way from Old Fort, N.C. to watch the spectacle.
“A co-worker told me about it and I looked it up and thought ‘I have to photograph this,” said Foreman. “I think it’s amazing. I wish the colors were a little better but it’s better than sticks.”
Visitors from all over the country make their way to the Rhodes Big View for a glimpse at the Bear Shadow along Hwy 64 between Highlands and Cashiers.
Part-time Cashiers resident and artist Lisa Smith said this is something in the area that everyone should have the chance to enjoy.
“I think it’s one of the most magical things, not just here, but everywhere,” said Smith. “This particular day is one of the clearest I’ve ever seen.”
Jill Hillendale originally grew up in the area and now lives in California. She came back to visit friends and hit some of her favorite hotspots, which includes the Bear Shadow.
“It’s just so beautiful,” said Hillendale. “It’s a way to rejuvenate and come back to who you are. And why we’re here.”
Editor’s Note: I passed by the shadow in nearly-full effect today at 5:58 p.m.
Article and Photos by Brian O’Shea
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