Great Smoky Mountains
Great Smoky Mountains
Sep 2024
Throughout Western North Carolina, activists are cultivating a movement to reawaken history through place naming
Sep 2024
Portraits of the Great Smoky Mountains’ elk, a species restored to our region by a park conservation project
Feb 2024
From a GSMNP archivist comes a collection of missives from the mountains
Jun 2023
For nearly 100 years, the Ela Dam has interrupted the flow of the Oconaluftee River. But now, a team of locals are restoring the waterway.
Aug 2021
After so many months of cancelled and postponed events, the urge to get together and celebrate is palpable. Here to satisfy is a season of great gatherings bursting with local culture: From woolly worms, elk, and Bigfoot to mountain arts, food, music, and more, these festivals truly have something for everyone.
Jun 2021
The new Safe Passage campaign envisions wildlife crossings along human-heavy routes
Dec 2020
Indoors and out, there’s no shortage of options for family fun in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge
Dec 2020
For all of its storm and stress, 2020 proved to be a watershed for WNC authors, with a wave of them publishing particularly notable titles
Sep 2020
Head to WNC's far western areas to take in Indian Lakes, Newfound Gap, Nantahala, and Waterfalls scenic byways
Sep 2020
With autumn color on full display, discover WNC’s most scenic drives, plus insider tips and points of interest along the way
Aug 2019
The towers that once helped the mountains ward off blazes are finding new lives as hiking destinations
Apr 2019
A visionary effort to create a statewide trail has been 40 years in the making. With the path now finished in Western North Carolina and a groundswell of support rising in the East, the completion of North Carolina’s most monumental natural treasure is on the horizon.
Dec 2018
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.
Jun 2018
Discover what’s new and awesome for all ages in Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, and Sevierville, Tennessee
Apr 2018
Just in time for Memorial Day, two histories breathe life into WNC’s iconic cemeteries
Apr 2018
After decades of neglect, WNC’s most iconic river flows toward a promising future
Dec 2017
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