Blog

Kid-Friendly Fun in the Great Smoky Mountains: Beyond the Scenic Hikes Planning a trip to the Great Smoky Mountains with kids? You’re in for a great time, but if you’re wondering how to keep little ones excited between scenic hikes and waterfall views, you’re not alone. While the national park is stunning, younger kids might […]

Living in Harmony: Sonya Carpenter’s “Cohabitate; Living with Nature” Lecture Coming to Highlands The misty mornings and lush green canopies of the Smoky Mountains have always been a testament to nature’s perfect balance. As someone who’s spent years writing about these magnificent mountains, I’ve come to appreciate how humans and nature can coexist in harmony.

Exploring the Rich Heritage: Gannett’s Legacy in the Smoky Mountains There’s something magical about the mist rising over the Smoky Mountains at dawn. I’ve spent countless mornings watching this natural spectacle, coffee in hand, as the sun paints the ancient peaks in gold. As someone who’s written about these mountains for years, I’ve developed a

Swain County Sheriff Curtis Cochran Suspended Following Criminal Charges As someone who’s spent years exploring and writing about the majestic Smoky Mountains, I’ve always appreciated the quiet strength and integrity that defines mountain communities. Today, I’m addressing a troubling development that has shaken Swain County, nestled in the heart of these beautiful mountains I’ve come

Luxury Mountain Retreats: Western North Carolina’s Hidden Gems When most folks think of the Smoky Mountains, they picture rustic cabins, winding hiking trails, and cascading waterfalls. But having explored these misty peaks for years, I can tell you there’s a whole different side to Western North Carolina – one of refined elegance and luxury that

Experience the Serenity of Vehicle-Free Wednesdays at Cades Cove in 2025 There’s something magical about experiencing Cades Cove without the hum of engines or the parade of vehicles. If you’ve been dreaming of pedaling through one of the most scenic loops in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park with nothing but the sounds of nature

Thrill-Seeking Above Pigeon Forge: Experience the MegaZip at WildSide Adventure Park If you’ve been following my Smoky Mountain adventures over the years, you know I’m always on the lookout for that perfect blend of natural beauty and adrenaline rush. The Great Smoky Mountains have always held a special place in my heart – from the

Safety Alert: Why You Should Never Feed Wild Elk in Maggie Valley As someone who’s spent years exploring and writing about the majestic Smoky Mountains, I’ve witnessed firsthand the remarkable return of elk to our region. Their reintroduction has been a conservation success story that fills me with joy every time I spot these magnificent

Mysteries of Enloe Cemetery: Hidden Histories in the Smoky Mountains In a shaded clearing near Mingus Mill lies a cemetery. Small, unmarked rocks sit at the head and foot of each plot, adorned with shimmering coins visitors have left as tokens of respect. The names, life stories, and even the exact number of people occupying

The Tale of Charlie Conner and the Smoky Mountains: How Charlies Bunion Got Its Name As I gaze out over the misty peaks of the Great Smoky Mountains, I’m reminded once again why this place has captured my heart for all these years. The rolling blue ridges, the ancient forests, and the stories—oh, the wonderful