Hiking

Hiking
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.

Aug 2018
Relish apple orchards and vineyards in this enthralling town

Jun 2018
Meet five exceptional dogs that lead the pack in Western North Carolina. These pups sniff out drugs, race through agility courses, model dog fashion, and guard farms like pros.

Apr 2018
River snorkeling reveals a vibrant underwater ecosystem

Apr 2018
Take a hike for a cause with a shelter dog

Dec 2017
When wildflowers dot the greening landscape and rushing rivers flow cold from snow melt, take in the beauty of springtime in the mountains with activities for the whole family

Jun 2017
Hit the road to five off-the-beaten-path historic sites that hold lessons aplenty

Apr 2017
Offering adventures for every member of the gang

Apr 2017
Dive deep into the mountains’ greatest chasms

Apr 2017
Enter the Spin Zone with our insider's guide to cycling in Transylvania

Dec 2016
Distance - 4 miles round-trip, Difficulty - moderate

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

Oct 2016
Embark on a tour of six distinct wine-producing regions in WNC, and find out why each of our vineyards and wineries can boast of unique and notable fruits of the vine.

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
As tourism continues to rise, local college students size up the economic impact

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

Apr 2016
An expansive account of Grandfather Mountain’s unique history and offerings

Feb 2016
Rare antique finds and contemporary design commingle in a remarkable North Wilkesboro loft

Dec 2015
Sometimes, smaller is better.

Jul 2015

Mar 2015
Tryon International Equestrian Center readies for its first full season

Dec 2014
A reinvigorated search for Southern snow

Oct 2014
Difficulty: Easy Length: 1.3 miles round-trip

Aug 2014
Internationally known for the quality of the mica in its soil, Spruce Pine is also ground zero for one of the most highly regarded craft communities in the nation. Potters and other artisan wizards work in the hills and hollers that surround Mineral City, making Spruce Pine a prime base for hiking, touring, and studio-hopping.

Jun 2014
Sierra Nevada’s East Coast brewery overflows with craft beer and so much more

May 2014
Meet 11 leaders in the quest to conserve WNC’s natural areas

Apr 2014
Discover seasonal beers and the peaks that inspired them

Apr 2014
Celebrate 50 years of wilderness conservation

Dec 2013
You can never foresee how the life you choose—or the one that chooses you—can ultimately impact someone in extraordinary ways. Meet seven inspirational locals whose personal journeys are making a big difference in the lives of others.

Dec 2013
Difficulty: Difficult, Round-Trip: 3.5 miles

Jun 2013
Discover your inner calm with a yoga hiking trek

Jun 2013
Elite kayakers take on the Nantahala for the Freestyle World Championships

Apr 2013
Three new reads chronicle adventures past and present

Apr 2013
This Polk County town’s image is forever tied to the steep railroad grade that once brought passengers to downtown, but more recently its outdoor persona is on the rise.

Jan 2013
Make your way to the High Country for outdoor winter revelry

Oct 2012
Cancer patients reconnect with a sense of inner calm at Wind River retreats

Jun 2012
TRACK Trails leads kids down a path of outdoor discovery