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Volunteer with the Elk Rover Team in Great Smoky Mountains National Park: A Unique Opportunity for 2025 As someone who’s hiked countless trails through the misty valleys of the Great Smoky Mountains, I’ve always been captivated by the majestic elk that were reintroduced to the park in 2001. Now, there’s an exciting opportunity for nature […]

Trump Orders Increase in National Park Entry Fees for Foreign Visitors: What It Means for Smoky Mountains Lovers As someone who has spent years exploring and writing about the mist-shrouded peaks of the Great Smoky Mountains, I’ve seen firsthand how these natural treasures draw visitors from across the globe. But recent changes might affect how

Adventure Awaits: Hiking and Floating to Indian Creek Falls in Bryson City’s Great Smoky Mountains There’s something magical about the way sunlight filters through the dense canopy of trees along Deep Creek. As someone who’s spent countless summers exploring the hidden gems of the Great Smoky Mountains, I can tell you that the journey to

Smoky Mountain Magic with Toddlers: Your Ultimate Guide to Family Fun I’ve been exploring the Smokies for years, and there’s something truly magical about introducing little ones to these majestic mountains. While ziplines and moonshine distilleries might grab the headlines these days, families with toddlers need a different kind of Smoky Mountain adventure. Let me

Cades Cove Named One of USA TODAY’s Most Treasured Views in America for 2025 As someone who’s spent years exploring the misty valleys and sun-dappled ridges of the Great Smoky Mountains, I felt a surge of hometown pride when I heard the news: our beloved Cades Cove has been recognized as one of USA TODAY’s

I-40 Reopens Through Great Smoky Mountains After 9-Day Closure Due to Flooding The resilient spirit of the Smokies shines through once again as Interstate 40 reopens following yet another weather-related closure. As someone who’s wandered these mountains for years, documenting their beauty and challenges, I’ve witnessed firsthand how this vital transportation artery connects not just

Interstate 40 Reopens Through the Great Smoky Mountains After 9-Day Closure There’s something deeply comforting about the resilience of the Great Smoky Mountains. As someone who’s been writing about this breathtaking region for years, I’ve witnessed how these ancient peaks weather storms, both literal and figurative. Today brings welcome news for travelers and locals alike

I-40 Reopens Through Great Smoky Mountains After Flooding and Rock Slide The narrow corridor of Interstate 40 that winds through the majestic Great Smoky Mountains has reopened after crews worked diligently to clear debris from flooding and a rock slide. This critical transportation artery, which connects Tennessee and North Carolina through one of America’s most

Tragedy in the Smokies: Motorcycle Accident Claims Life in Great Smoky Mountains National Park The serene beauty of the Great Smoky Mountains was overshadowed by tragedy Thursday evening when a fatal motorcycle accident claimed the life of a woman visitor. As someone who has spent years exploring and writing about these majestic mountains, news like

Cozy Weekend Getaways in Tennessee: Exploring Nature’s Hidden Gems There’s something magical about escaping to a quaint Tennessee town for the weekend. As someone who’s spent years writing about and exploring the Smoky Mountains, I can tell you that Tennessee offers some of the most charming weekend getaways you’ll find anywhere in the South. From