The Cherokee who lived here first, revered the Black Bear for his courage and his presence as a literal force of nature. They saw the Shadow Bear as a powerful spirit animal that was sent to protect them from a terrifying monster named Spearfinder that resided on Whiteside Mountain. The Shadow Bear’s presence at the base of the mountain demonstrated his wish to protect his human neighbors. To witness the Shadow Bear on the Highlands-Cashiers Plateau, head to Rhodes Big View Overlook the last half of October between 5:30 and 6 PM you’ll see the shadow of a colossal bear emerging from the valley at the foot of Whiteside Mountain. He also shows up on sunny days mid-February to early March at 5:30 PM for just 30 minutes. It’s his late October patrol over Whiteside Cove that has the best views. Find a safe place to park and walk to view in front of the guard rail.