Locals, especially, can confirm Western North Carolina holds a wealth of riches. From natural wonders and cultural treasures to splurge-worthy experiences, the indulgences afforded in our mountains are, in many ways, priceless.
Hiking to a summit, scanning the night sky for stars, or hunting for wild delicacies are activities best experienced in fall’s crisp temperatures, when crystal clear skies and showy foliage provide a breathtaking backdrop for a day’s chosen adventure
In the summertime, warm waters, cool nights, and unfiltered sunshine coalesce in a bucolic, unfettered burst of beauty. And There’s no shortage of ways to enjoy it; work up a sweat or take a cool dip—there’s something for everyone in this sweet season
Harboring troves of curiosities, such as dwarfed turtles and carnivorous plants, bogs are among the most imperiled habitats in the mountains. Today, conservationists are bringing these fascinating and rare ecosystems back from the brink in hopes of creating the first national wildlife refuge in Western North Carolina.
Each year, millions of visitors pass through this scenic valley in Great Smoky Mountains National Park to marvel at the wildlife that roams free. Get a glimpse of what awaits with this collection of photographs that capture one lensman’s breath-taking encounters.