Blog

Celebrate Independence Day with a Patriotic Concert at Great Smoky Mountains Heritage Center There’s something magical about the Smoky Mountains in summer. The misty peaks, the lush forests, and the rich cultural heritage all come together to create an atmosphere that’s uniquely Appalachian. And what better way to celebrate our nation’s birthday than with music […]

Public Access to Smoky Mountain Views: A Perspective on Blackberry Mountain Resort Living in the shadow of the Great Smoky Mountains for years has given me a profound appreciation for these majestic peaks. The misty blue ridges that stretch across the horizon aren’t just a tourist attraction – they’re a national treasure that stirs something

George Masa: The Forgotten Photographer Who Captured the Soul of the Smokies There’s something magical about the Smoky Mountains that captures your heart the moment you set foot on those misty trails. As someone who’s spent years writing about these ancient hills, I’ve always been drawn to the stories of those who helped preserve their

Exploring America’s 50 States: A Journey Through the United States There’s something magical about the diverse landscapes that make up the United States. From the rolling hills of the Smoky Mountains (one of my personal favorite places to write about) to the vast deserts of Arizona, our nation offers an incredible tapestry of experiences for

I-40 Reopens Through the Great Smoky Mountains After Flooding and Rock Slide The familiar hum of traffic has returned to a crucial artery of the Great Smoky Mountains. After days of closure that left travelers and locals alike searching for alternate routes, Interstate 40 through the Tennessee side of the Smokies is finally open again.

Clayton’s Landing: A Fresh Chapter for Gatlinburg’s Beloved Historic Attraction As I strolled through the misty morning air of Gatlinburg last week, the familiar scent of pine and mountain laurel welcomed me back to the Smokies like an old friend. Having written about these mountains for over a decade now, I thought I’d seen all

Cades Cove Named One of USA TODAY’s Best Scenic Views for 2025 There’s something magical about driving through Cades Cove at sunrise, when the mist hangs low over the valley and deer graze peacefully in the golden light. I’ve been visiting this Smoky Mountain treasure for years, and it still takes my breath away every

Summer Adventures Await: Exploring East Tennessee’s Best Summer Camps As the warm breeze sweeps through the Smoky Mountains and the sun stretches its golden rays across East Tennessee, there’s something magical happening every Wednesday this summer. I’ve been writing about the Smokies for years, and there’s nothing quite like the region during the summer months

Beyond Dollywood: Discovering the Charm of Pigeon Forge Cabin Rentals Nestled at the doorstep of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Pigeon Forge, Tennessee offers visitors so much more than just spectacular mountain views. I’ve spent years exploring the nooks and crannies of the Smokies, but there’s something special about Pigeon Forge that keeps drawing

Experience Vehicle-Free Wednesdays at Cades Cove in 2025: A Nature Lover’s Dream There’s something magical about experiencing the Great Smoky Mountains National Park without the rumble of engines or the constraints of staying in your vehicle. As someone who has spent years exploring every hidden gem in the Smokies, I’m thrilled to share one of