Blog

Pride on Main: Waynesville Celebrates Inclusivity in the Heart of the Smoky Mountains The vibrant spirit of inclusion is coming to downtown Waynesville this summer! As someone who’s spent years exploring and writing about the majestic Smoky Mountains, I’m excited to see this beautiful region embrace diversity through events like Pride on Main. The mountains […]

Cades Cove Named One of USA TODAY’s Best Scenic Views for 2025 There’s something magical about driving through Cades Cove as the morning mist lifts off the valley floor, revealing historic cabins and lush meadows surrounded by mountain views. As someone who’s spent countless days exploring the hidden corners of the Smokies, I wasn’t surprised

Land of Blue Shadows: The Final Poetic Journey of George Ellison Through the Smoky Mountains There’s something magical about the way morning light filters through the mist in the Great Smoky Mountains, creating that ethereal blue haze that gave these ancient peaks their name. For decades, one voice captured this beauty with particular grace –

Abrams Falls Trail Closure: Temporary Maintenance in the Smoky Mountains As the morning mist rolls through the towering trees of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, hikers planning to visit one of the park’s most beloved destinations will need to adjust their plans this week. If you’ve been dreaming of the refreshing spray from Abrams

Sierra Club Warns: ‘Big Beautiful Bill’ Could Be the Worst Environmental Legislation in American History As someone who’s hiked through the misty trails of the Smoky Mountains for years, I’ve developed a deep appreciation for Tennessee’s natural treasures. That’s why recent environmental policy developments have caught my attention – and should catch yours too. A

Beyond the Beaten Path: Exploring Hidden Gem Hikes in the Great Smoky Mountains There’s something magical about standing on a trail in the Smoky Mountains, breathing in that misty mountain air as sunlight filters through ancient trees. After 15 years of exploring these mountains, I still discover new trails that take my breath away –

Abrams Falls Trail Closure in Great Smoky Mountains National Park: What Visitors Need to Know As someone who’s spent years hiking through the misty valleys and verdant forests of the Smokies, I always feel a little pang when a beloved trail closes—even temporarily. If you’ve been planning a trip to see the picturesque Abrams Falls,

Veterans’ Tribute Event at Great Smoky Mountains Heritage Center There’s something magical about the Smoky Mountains in any season, but when they become the backdrop for honoring our veterans, the experience takes on an even deeper significance. I’ve spent years exploring every hidden trail and local tradition these mountains have to offer, and I’m particularly

Celebrating Father’s Day and the Anniversary of Great Smoky Mountains National Park Today is Sunday, June 15, 2025 – the 166th day of the year with 199 days remaining. As we celebrate Father’s Day across the nation, it’s also a perfect time to reflect on a significant historical milestone that occurred on this very date:

Father’s Day 2025: Celebrating Great Smoky Mountains National Park’s Historical Legacy Today is Sunday, June 15, 2025—the 166th day of the year with 199 days remaining. As we celebrate Father’s Day across the nation, it’s also a perfect time to recognize a significant milestone in American conservation history. On this day in 1934, Great Smoky