TRAVEL & OUTDOORS

Outdoors

Outdoors
Sep 2023
In September and October, the orange-hued monarch butterfly visits Western North Carolina

Jun 2023
A summer getaway in Highlands, and the retro-cool Skyline Lodge

Jun 2023
Looking ahead at the future of ecological protection in WNC

Mar 2023
An abundant resource, poplar wood has a staggering mountain history

Jun 2022
The wildflowers of Western North Carolina’s mountain streams

Mar 2022
Throughout the mountains, mini golf awaits pro and amateur putters alike

Mar 2022
MerleFest returns with a star-filled spring weekend

Mar 2022
The game-changing Nantahala Outdoor Center turns 50

Dec 2021
Even in the depths of the cold season, these lower-elevation routes keep the wheels turning

Dec 2021
Successful nesting is a mountain rarity for this apex predator

Jun 2021
A sculpture showcase comes alive at the North Carolina Arboretum

Jun 2021
These novel stays offer the fun of camping and creature comforts

Mar 2021
The new Waterfall Keepers of North Carolina plans to make a splash

Jun 2020
Take flight in WNC with a hang gliding (or paragliding) adventure

Feb 2020
Nantahala Outdoor Center set to showcase international wildwater championships

Aug 2019
The towers that once helped the mountains ward off blazes are finding new lives as hiking destinations

Apr 2018
River snorkeling reveals a vibrant underwater ecosystem

Jun 2017
For 10 years, Muddy Sneakers has shared the magic of outdoor learning

Jun 2017
The Ultimate Guide to the Great American Solar Eclipse in WNC

Jun 2017
WCU reprints legendary outdoorsman’s mountain memoir

Oct 2016
A fledging climber’s ascent of Looking Glass brings reverence for the iconic rock’s first summit, 50 years ago

Aug 2016
Celebrate—and help preserve—monarch butterflies during their annual migration through WNC

Jun 2016
Test your knowledge of WNC's nationally designated and protected areas under the National Park System.

Apr 2016
A new app puts tours of WNC’s beautiful byways at your fingertips

Apr 2016
After a century of state parks, Western North Carolina’s are more popular than ever

Apr 2016
Three far-out adventures to stretch your limits

Apr 2016
An outdoors hub in Transylvania County picks up the pace

Apr 2016
Learn what drives 4 ultra-runners to go the distance

Feb 2016
The Tryon International Equestrian Center isn’t just horsing around

Dec 2015
Check in to these lodges where après-ski combines a room, dining, and drinks

Dec 2015
Celebrate the cold season at two regional winterfests

Dec 2015
Probe the pains and pleasures of climbing frozen waterfalls

Jul 2015
The High Country’s new aerial adventure park offers 50-foot thrills

Apr 2015
24 must-do experiences await! Hit the road this summer for thrills, beauty, history, and local flavor in every county across Western North Carolina

Apr 2015
Three friends take on the arduous challenge of running the highest mountain range in the East in a single day

Apr 2015
Bike parts maker Cane Creek Cycling Components keeps manufacturing on track in the mountains

Apr 2015
Set out on footpaths that offer big exploration for small people

Apr 2015
Combine ease, adventure, and the great outdoors with these glamping opportunities

Apr 2015
A new guide to area waterfalls and wildflowers

Apr 2015
The Fly Fishing Museum of the Southern Appalachians opens in Cherokee