From Asheville NC take I-26 West to Exit 15 (Jupiter, Barnardsville).  Turn right at the bottom of the exit and proceed to Barnardsville on NC 197 (North).  Continue through Barnardsville on NC 197 for 4.8 miles where the road turns to gravel.  This is still NC 197.  The gravel section is 4.4 miles long.  At this point the road becomes paved again and starts descending into the Cane River valley.  Follow this road for 6.5 miles to Pensacola.  At Pensacola turn right onto Cattail Creek Road.  Follow Cattail Creek Road for 2.7 miles at which point it forks into Winter Star and Deep Gap roads.  Stay straight on Winter Star Road, which is gravel.  The road climbs up the mountain through a series of switchbacks following the old logging railroad grade.  After 2.6 miles you will reach Winter Star Retreat (2554 Winter Star Road).  Proceed up the driveway to the cabin.

 
The road is passable for all vehicles except RVs and cars with low suspensions, such as sports cars.

Below:  The mountains just above Winter Star Retreat including Winter Star Mountain (6203 ft.)

Deck at Winter Star Retreat overlooking the creek.