hiking trails
hiking trails
Sep 2024
Portraits of the Great Smoky Mountains’ elk, a species restored to our region by a park conservation project
Mar 2022
WNC’s boomtown has mighty good neighbors—meet 10 nearby communities prized for their own style of livability
Mar 2022
From a scary-steep ride to historical encounters and a swig of Tennessee whiskey, our travel writer dives into Chattanooga
Jun 2021
A contemporary cabin on Lake James offers enduring style and a blissfully slow pace
Sep 2020
Discover Valle Crucis, the Yadkin Valley, a Blue Ridge Parkway alternative, and the New River along four of the region's northern routes
Sep 2020
Head to WNC's far western areas to take in Indian Lakes, Newfound Gap, Nantahala, and Waterfalls scenic byways
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.
Apr 2016
After a century of state parks, Western North Carolina’s are more popular than ever
Jun 2012
Devastating fires played a role in creating the natural playground known as Graveyard Fields
Sep 2011
Autumn is upon us, and you can park yourself in the backyard and watch the leaves put on a show.
May 2011
You are now leaving WNC. Don’t call us traitors for straying from our beloved natural wonderland. Sometimes you just have to play outside the lines. After all, much of what we love here—lofty peaks, wild rivers, picturesque lakes, and awe-inspiring trails—spills over into Georgia, South Carolina, Tennessee, and Virginia. Summer is the season to grab your gear, whether it be a life jacket, fishing rod, hiking boots, or mountain bike, and head for great escapes just across the border.
Jul 2009
Look beyond Lenoir’s reputation for fine furniture, and you’ll discover a town dedicated to visual arts and simple pleasures
