Hurricane Helene Relief #WNC Strong


TRAVEL & OUTDOORS

Outdoors

Outdoors
Sep 2024
Blooming Red and Orange
Where to find Western North Carolina’s iconic fall colors in 2024
Sep 2023
Just Fluttering Through
In September and October, the orange-hued monarch butterfly visits Western North Carolina
Jun 2023
Skyline Highs
A summer getaway in Highlands, and the retro-cool Skyline Lodge
Jun 2023
Forest Forward
Looking ahead at the future of ecological protection in WNC
Mar 2023
The Magnificent Mountain Poplar
An abundant resource, poplar wood has a staggering mountain history
Jun 2022
Baiting a Brookie
The wildflowers of Western North Carolina’s mountain streams
Mar 2022
Get in the Hole
Throughout the mountains, mini golf awaits pro and amateur putters alike
Mar 2022
Back In The Groove
MerleFest returns with a star-filled spring weekend
Mar 2022
High-Water Mark
The game-changing Nantahala Outdoor Center turns 50
Dec 2021
Get Down for Winter Biking
Even in the depths of the cold season, these lower-elevation routes keep the wheels turning
Dec 2021
Peregrine falcon (Falco peregrinus)
Successful nesting is a mountain rarity for this apex predator
Jun 2021
Fantastic Forms
A sculpture showcase comes alive at the North Carolina Arboretum
Jun 2021
Next-Level Camp
These novel stays offer the fun of camping and creature comforts
Mar 2021
Cascade Connection
The new Waterfall Keepers of North Carolina plans to make a splash
Jun 2020
Hang Time
Take flight in WNC with a hang gliding (or paragliding) adventure
Feb 2020
Paddle Up!
Nantahala Outdoor Center set to showcase international wildwater championships
Aug 2019
Fired Up
The towers that once helped the mountains ward off blazes are finding new lives as hiking destinations
Apr 2018
What Lies Beneath
River snorkeling reveals a vibrant underwater ecosystem
Jun 2017
Wild School
For 10 years, Muddy Sneakers has shared the magic of outdoor learning
Jun 2017
Going Dark
The Ultimate Guide to the Great American Solar Eclipse in WNC
Jun 2017
Thrill of the Hunt
WCU reprints legendary outdoorsman’s mountain memoir
Oct 2016
A Pioneering Feat
A fledging climber’s ascent of Looking Glass brings reverence for the iconic rock’s first summit, 50 years ago
Aug 2016
All a Flutter
Celebrate—and help preserve—monarch butterflies during their annual migration through WNC
Jun 2016
Natural Wonders
Test your knowledge of WNC's nationally designated and protected areas under the National Park System.
Apr 2016
The Scenic Route
A new app puts tours of WNC’s beautiful byways at your fingertips
Apr 2016
People's Playground
After a century of state parks, Western North Carolina’s are more popular than ever
Apr 2016
No Fear
Three far-out adventures to stretch your limits
Apr 2016
New-Growth Forest
An outdoors hub in Transylvania County picks up the pace
Apr 2016
The Long Run
Learn what drives 4 ultra-runners to go the distance
Feb 2016
Unbridled Enthusiasm
The Tryon International Equestrian Center isn’t just horsing around
Dec 2015
Ski & Stay
Check in to these lodges where après-ski combines a room, dining, and drinks
Dec 2015
Chill Out
Celebrate the cold season at two regional winterfests
Dec 2015
Ice Breakers
Probe the pains and pleasures of climbing frozen waterfalls

Jul 2015
Vertical Play
The High Country’s new aerial adventure park offers 50-foot thrills
Apr 2015
Ready, Set, Go!
24 must-do experiences await! Hit the road this summer for thrills, beauty, history, and local flavor in every county across Western North Carolina
Apr 2015
Feeling the Burn
Three friends take on the arduous challenge of running the highest mountain range in the East in a single day
Apr 2015
On a Roll
Bike parts maker Cane Creek Cycling Components keeps manufacturing on track in the mountains
Apr 2015
Tot Trails
Set out on footpaths that offer big exploration for small people
Apr 2015
Happy Campers
Combine ease, adventure, and the great outdoors with these glamping opportunities
Apr 2015
Bloomin’ Good Hikes
A new guide to area waterfalls and wildflowers