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Elk Encounters on the Rise in Maggie Valley: Safety Tips for Tourists As the summer sun bathes the misty peaks of the Smoky Mountains, Maggie Valley transforms into a wildlife wonderland that draws visitors from across the country. Having spent countless seasons exploring these majestic mountains, I’ve witnessed firsthand how the reintroduction of elk has […]

Discovering the Hidden Gems of the Smoky Mountains: A Local’s Perspective There’s something magical about the mist that clings to the ancient peaks of the Smoky Mountains. As someone who’s spent years exploring these mystical ridges and valleys, I’ve developed a deep connection with this breathtaking landscape. The way the morning fog dances between the

Clearer Skies Over the Smokies: Celebrating Improved Air Quality in Great Smoky Mountains National Park As someone who’s been writing about the misty majesty of the Great Smoky Mountains for years, I’ve witnessed both the breathtaking beauty and concerning haze that has sometimes dimmed the splendor of America’s most visited national park. Today, I’m thrilled

10 Refreshing Ways to Beat the Heat on Your Smoky Mountain Vacation East Tennessee was in the midst of one of the coolest springs and summers in recent memory until late June when someone kicked the thermostat up a couple of notches. We went from mild to wild in seemingly record time. It’s important to

7th Annual Great Smoky Mountains Hot Air Balloon Festival Returns August 2025 There’s something magical about watching colorful hot air balloons drift across the sky, especially when they’re set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Smoky Mountains. As someone who’s spent years exploring and writing about this remarkable region, I’m thrilled to share news about

Newfound Gap Road Rehabilitation: A Fresh Look for One of the Smokies’ Most Beloved Routes As someone who’s hiked, photographed, and written about the Great Smoky Mountains for years, I always get excited when improvements come to this natural treasure. The misty blue peaks and winding roads have been my playground and office for longer

The Magic of the Great Smoky Mountains: Adventure in America’s Most Visited National Park There’s something truly magical about standing on a misty mountain peak at sunrise, watching the clouds dance between ancient ridges that seem to roll endlessly into the horizon. As someone who has hiked countless trails and witnessed the changing seasons transform

Experience the Magic of the 7th Annual Great Smoky Mountains Hot Air Balloon Festival There’s something truly magical about watching a kaleidoscope of hot air balloons drifting across the backdrop of the Smoky Mountains. As someone who’s spent years exploring and writing about the wonders of East Tennessee, I can tell you that the annual

Newfound Gap Road Rehabilitation Project Begins in Great Smoky Mountains National Park There’s something magical about driving through the winding roads of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, especially along the iconic Newfound Gap Road. As someone who’s spent years exploring these misty mountains, I’ve traveled this stretch countless times. Now, I’m excited to share

Cades Cove Named One of USA TODAY’s Most Treasured Views in America: A Smoky Mountain Treasure As someone who’s spent years exploring the mist-shrouded valleys and ridges of the Great Smoky Mountains, I’ve always had a soft spot for Cades Cove. There’s something magical about those morning hours when the fog still clings to the