The Joys (and Realities) of Living in Saddle Ridge
Embracing the Mountain Beauty while Living with Nature
Nestled in the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains, the Saddle Ridge development offers a unique natural beauty matched by a close-knit, nature-oriented community where neighbors know each other and are quick to lend a helping hand. However, living in the foothills of the Smokies also comes with its own set of challenges including occasional power outages, encounters with wildlife, roads and accessibility, and travel distances to the amenities of the city.
Here is a synopsis of some of the unique challenges you might encounter when living the Saddle Ridge Life and how residents adapt and thrive in this mountain community.
The Adventures of Mountain Living
Power Outages
In our forested neighborhood, storms can bring down trees and branches, leading to power outages. While most outages last only a few hours or less, a rare ice storm once caused a week-long power loss for some residents. Recently, high winds led to trees across power lines and a small fire. Fortunately, the fire department and Forestry responded quickly. And, neighbors alerted neighbors.
Alcoa Electric's linemen and repair crews do an amazing job restoring power at all hours of the night and often in inclement weather. Nearly all residents are prepared for outages with backup power sources (for example, generators) and extra supplies. Keep in mind, when you lose power, you also lose water because the well pump needs power.
Encounters with Wildlife
The rich diversity of plant and animal life that are found in Saddle Ridge also occur in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Living in close proximity to nature is why people choose to live in Saddle Ridge. This also means sharing the land with wildlife that might be intimidating such as bears, coyotes, bobcats, and snakes. Unless you have a trail cam you’re unlikely to see most of this wildlife. Judging by excited Facebook posts, most neighbors have bears visit their house. Sometimes those bears cause mischief. It is sensible to take precautions such as being bear-wise and not leaving food and trash outside to attract bears. And, avoid feeding birds in the summer where fallen seeds attract not only bears but also rodents, which in turn may attract snakes.
Roads and Accessibility
The remote and rugged terrain and gravel roads of Saddle Ridge present their own challenges depending on the time of year. Travel can be dusty during the dry season and winter snow and ice can make travel difficult. During these times its essential to have a well-stocked pantry and emergency supplies and be prepared to hunker down, hopefully by a cozy fire with a good book.
During spells of deeper snow and ice some residents that have to travel out use tire chains. Having a 4-wheel drive or AWD vehicle is highly recommended in Saddle Ridge. When icy conditions make travel unwise, residents that have to drive to work may consider staying with friends and family or at a hotel in town.
Limited Amenities
While the charm of Saddle Ridge lies in its seclusion, it also means limited access to certain amenities. Grocery stores, medical facilities, and other essential services are not as readily accessible as they are in more urban settings. Residents often need to plan trips to nearby towns for supplies and services, which can require significant travel time.
Emergency services, fire trucks and ambulances, respond quickly to calls; however, their travel time is at best 15-20 minutes. Consider you and your families medical needs before purchasing a home in Saddle Ridge.
Overall, cell phone service is good in Saddle Ridge, but there are dead zones.
Household garbage and recycling is taken to the Barn, located at the far end of the pond. Any other trash, such as old lawn furniture or remodeling materials, must be taken to the Blount County landfill.
Packages and mail are delivered to the kiosk at the entrance. Delivery services place packages in the shared, locked box. Occasionally there is a delay between notice of delivery and the actual delivery. Generally, it is a one-day delay because of the hand-off between the vendor and the local delivery service.
Embracing the Mountain Lifestyle
Despite these challenges, residents of Saddle Ridge embrace the mountain lifestyle. The rewards of living amidst such natural splendor far outweigh the difficulties. The strong community bonds, sense of self-sufficiency, and daily connection with nature can create a fulfilling and enriching way of life. But it is not for everyone.
A former resident of Saddle Ridge, Liz Hood, made the statement: “Saddle Ridge chooses her people.” Over the years Liz’s statement has rung so true. For all of the wonderful aspects of mountain living, sometimes it is not for everyone.
Lastly, if you’re considering buying in Saddle Ridge, consider reaching out to the Board and connect with residents who may be able answer your questions. The Saddle Ridge website, www.saddleridgepoa.com is a good resource.
Embracing the Mountain Beauty while Living with Nature
Nestled in the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains, the Saddle Ridge development offers a unique natural beauty matched by a close-knit, nature-oriented community where neighbors know each other and are quick to lend a helping hand. However, living in the foothills of the Smokies also comes with its own set of challenges including occasional power outages, encounters with wildlife, roads and accessibility, and travel distances to the amenities of the city.
Here is a synopsis of some of the unique challenges you might encounter when living the Saddle Ridge Life and how residents adapt and thrive in this mountain community.
The Adventures of Mountain Living
Power Outages
In our forested neighborhood, storms can bring down trees and branches, leading to power outages. While most outages last only a few hours or less, a rare ice storm once caused a week-long power loss for some residents. Recently, high winds led to trees across power lines and a small fire. Fortunately, the fire department and Forestry responded quickly. And, neighbors alerted neighbors.
Alcoa Electric's linemen and repair crews do an amazing job restoring power at all hours of the night and often in inclement weather. Nearly all residents are prepared for outages with backup power sources (for example, generators) and extra supplies. Keep in mind, when you lose power, you also lose water because the well pump needs power.
Encounters with Wildlife
The rich diversity of plant and animal life that are found in Saddle Ridge also occur in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Living in close proximity to nature is why people choose to live in Saddle Ridge. This also means sharing the land with wildlife that might be intimidating such as bears, coyotes, bobcats, and snakes. Unless you have a trail cam you’re unlikely to see most of this wildlife. Judging by excited Facebook posts, most neighbors have bears visit their house. Sometimes those bears cause mischief. It is sensible to take precautions such as being bear-wise and not leaving food and trash outside to attract bears. And, avoid feeding birds in the summer where fallen seeds attract not only bears but also rodents, which in turn may attract snakes.
Roads and Accessibility
The remote and rugged terrain and gravel roads of Saddle Ridge present their own challenges depending on the time of year. Travel can be dusty during the dry season and winter snow and ice can make travel difficult. During these times its essential to have a well-stocked pantry and emergency supplies and be prepared to hunker down, hopefully by a cozy fire with a good book.
During spells of deeper snow and ice some residents that have to travel out use tire chains. Having a 4-wheel drive or AWD vehicle is highly recommended in Saddle Ridge. When icy conditions make travel unwise, residents that have to drive to work may consider staying with friends and family or at a hotel in town.
Limited Amenities
While the charm of Saddle Ridge lies in its seclusion, it also means limited access to certain amenities. Grocery stores, medical facilities, and other essential services are not as readily accessible as they are in more urban settings. Residents often need to plan trips to nearby towns for supplies and services, which can require significant travel time.
Emergency services, fire trucks and ambulances, respond quickly to calls; however, their travel time is at best 15-20 minutes. Consider you and your families medical needs before purchasing a home in Saddle Ridge.
Overall, cell phone service is good in Saddle Ridge, but there are dead zones.
Household garbage and recycling is taken to the Barn, located at the far end of the pond. Any other trash, such as old lawn furniture or remodeling materials, must be taken to the Blount County landfill.
Packages and mail are delivered to the kiosk at the entrance. Delivery services place packages in the shared, locked box. Occasionally there is a delay between notice of delivery and the actual delivery. Generally, it is a one-day delay because of the hand-off between the vendor and the local delivery service.
Embracing the Mountain Lifestyle
Despite these challenges, residents of Saddle Ridge embrace the mountain lifestyle. The rewards of living amidst such natural splendor far outweigh the difficulties. The strong community bonds, sense of self-sufficiency, and daily connection with nature can create a fulfilling and enriching way of life. But it is not for everyone.
A former resident of Saddle Ridge, Liz Hood, made the statement: “Saddle Ridge chooses her people.” Over the years Liz’s statement has rung so true. For all of the wonderful aspects of mountain living, sometimes it is not for everyone.
Lastly, if you’re considering buying in Saddle Ridge, consider reaching out to the Board and connect with residents who may be able answer your questions. The Saddle Ridge website, www.saddleridgepoa.com is a good resource.