Hurricane Helene Relief


Mount Mitchell

Mount Mitchell
Sep 2024
From elegant, curated food and spirits offered in chic, boutique hotels to a mile-high eatery offering splendid mountain and valley views, and a cafe and market catering to hungry trail enthusiasts

Sep 2024
Savoring the past on Grandfather Mountain’s Classic Trail Corridor

Sep 2024
Where to find Western North Carolina’s iconic fall colors in 2024

Nov 2023
Western North Carolina’s clear skies offer plenty of sites to catch an amazing, unpolluted view of the cosmos. Check out these epic locations to view the night sky, along with tips and resources for stargazing hobbyists.

Dec 2022
WNC’s guide to camping out during nature’s starkest season

May 2022
New eco retreat promises unique outdoors experience

Sep 2020
In WNC's central region, follow these routes to explore the Linville Gorge and Lake James, Mount Mitchell, and the region's forestry heritage

Sep 2020
With autumn color on full display, discover WNC’s most scenic drives, plus insider tips and points of interest along the way

Jun 2020
New books to take you on and off the usual trails this summer

Feb 2020
MARK YOUR CALENDAR! FROM FOOD AND DRINK FÊTES TO CULTURAL CELEBRATIONS AND MUSICAL BLOWOUTS...

Feb 2020
Near Lake Toxaway, a one-of-a-kind native plant sanctuary preserves and restores

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

Aug 2019
25 fall foliage adventures that are big on color and light on crowds

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
Great hikes in Western North Carolina

Dec 2017
Big Butt Trail to Little Butt

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

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

Aug 2017
Discover close encounters with creative characters and starry nights

Apr 2017
Offering adventures for every member of the gang

Apr 2017
Trek from Ox Creek Road to the historic remains of Rattlesnake Lodge

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

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

Dec 2014
A reinvigorated search for Southern snow

Apr 2014
Before the Blue Ridge Parkway paved the way, Mt. Mitchell’s visitors rode storied rail lines and motor routes to the top

Apr 2013
Two shops meld cycling with beer for a whole new spin on community hubs

Jan 2013

Dec 2011
Elk Knob State Park Distance: 4 miles round-trip Difficulty: strenuous

Sep 2011
Summit these lookouts for awe-inspiring mountain vistas

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.

May 2011
Friends of the Ecusta Trail hope to add a new route to the region’s selection of recreational pathways

Jan 2011
Frigid temperatures, record snowfall, remarkable beauty— rangers experience it all atop mighty Mount Mitchell

Apr 2010
This summer, log some miles and celebrate the Blue Ridge Parkway’s anniversary with 75 must-see stops

Apr 2010
From the opening of the state’s first course 130 years ago to the Morganton amateur who almost won the Masters against Ben Hogan, golf has enjoyed a long and fascinating history in these mountains

Dec 2009
A February trail-running tradition brings the pain

Sep 2009
Twenty years ago this month, a little community radio station in Spindale started making a big noise

Jul 2009
Your Guide to some of Western North Carolina’s most memorable holes

Jul 2009
Exploring Asheville’s timeless and tireless streets, shops, and bistros