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Great Smoky Mountains National Park Reopens: A Triumph of Community Spirit There’s something magical about the mist that clings to the ancient ridges of the Smokies. As I’ve wandered these trails year after year, I’ve come to recognize that the true spirit of these mountains isn’t just in their natural beauty—it’s in the resilience of

Gatlinburg Bypass Closed Indefinitely Due to Landslide After Heavy Rainfall As a long-time writer covering the breathtaking Smoky Mountains, I’ve seen my fair share of nature’s power in this majestic region. But the recent developments along one of the area’s crucial roadways have caught the attention of locals and visitors alike. The Gatlinburg Bypass, a

Historic Preservation in Action: Oconaluftee Job Corps Students Restore Mountain Farm in Great Smoky Mountains There’s something magical about watching the past come alive through the hands of a new generation. As someone who’s hiked countless trails and documented the rich heritage of the Smokies for years, I’m always thrilled to see preservation efforts that

Preserving Mountain Heritage: Oconaluftee Job Corps Students Restore Historic Structures in Great Smoky Mountains National Park There’s something magical about the Great Smoky Mountains that captures your heart the moment you wind through those misty peaks. Having written about this national treasure for years, I’ve witnessed countless stories of preservation efforts, but few as heartwarming

Knoxville, TN: Your Complete Guide to Local News, Weather, and Sports There’s something special about Knoxville that keeps drawing me back. Whether it’s the rolling Tennessee hills, the passionate Vols fans, or the unique blend of urban energy and Southern charm, this city has a heartbeat all its own. As someone who’s spent years exploring

Discovering the Hidden World of Lichens in the Great Smoky Mountains There’s something magical about walking through the misty valleys of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. As the fog lifts and sunlight filters through the ancient trees, a hidden world reveals itself—one that I’ve been fortunate to explore and write about for years. While

Summer Travel Rush Still Strong at Atlanta Airport Despite Drop in International Tourists As I stroll through the Great Smoky Mountains on a crisp summer morning, I can’t help but think about the ebb and flow of travelers across our beautiful country. While international tourism numbers might be down nationally, Atlanta’s Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport (ATL)

Dollywood Safety Incident: Employee Injury Raises Concerns Ahead of 2025 Season As someone who’s been exploring and writing about the Smoky Mountains for years, I’ve always had a soft spot for Dollywood. This beloved attraction has been the crown jewel of Pigeon Forge, bringing joy to countless families including my own. However, recent news has