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I-40 Reopens in the Smokies: Nature’s Reminder of the Mountain’s Power If you’ve ever driven through the majestic corridor where Interstate 40 cuts through the Great Smoky Mountains, you know it’s one of the most breathtaking stretches of highway in America. But sometimes, the mountains remind us who’s really in charge. After a tense period […]

I-40 Reopens Through Great Smoky Mountains After Flooding and Rock Slide The rhythmic hum of traffic has returned to a critical section of Interstate 40 that winds through the majestic Great Smoky Mountains. After an intense period of closure due to flooding and a treacherous rock slide, this vital east-west corridor is finally welcoming travelers

America’s Public Lands Face Record Crowds Despite Shrinking Resources As someone who’s spent years exploring and writing about the majestic Smoky Mountains, I’ve witnessed firsthand how our national treasures draw millions of visitors each year. There’s something magical about standing atop Clingmans Dome or hiking along the Appalachian Trail that stays with you forever. But

Controversy in the Smokies: Swain County Sheriff Curtis Cochran Faces Criminal Charges and Suspension As someone who’s been writing about the majestic Smoky Mountains for years, it’s with a heavy heart that I share news that has rocked this beautiful region. The peaceful communities nestled in these ancient mountains are facing a troubling situation involving

Interstate 40 Reopens After Nine-Day Closure in the Smoky Mountains: What Travelers Need to Know As a long-time explorer and writer focusing on the Great Smoky Mountains, I’ve witnessed firsthand how vital Interstate 40 is to both travelers and locals alike. The recent reopening of this crucial highway after a nine-day closure marks a significant

Important Closure Alert: Great Smoky Mountains Road Access Changes Coming July 1 There’s something magical about driving through the misty roads of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park – the way the fog clings to the ancient trees, how wildlife occasionally crosses your path, and those breathtaking vistas that appear around sudden turns. As someone

NC Disaster Recovery Act of 2025: A $575 Million Lifeline for Helene Victims As someone who’s spent years exploring and writing about the Smoky Mountains, I’ve developed a deep connection with this magnificent region. The recent devastation brought by Hurricane Helene has left an indelible mark on these beloved landscapes and the communities that call

Tragedy in the Smokies: Motorcyclist Dies in Great Smoky Mountains National Park Accident The Great Smoky Mountains National Park, a place of breathtaking beauty and serene landscapes, became the site of a heartbreaking incident this Thursday. As someone who has spent years exploring and writing about these majestic mountains, news like this always hits close

Tragedy in the Smokies: Motorcycle Accident Claims Life on Little River Road The Great Smoky Mountains National Park, a place I’ve explored and written about for years, became the site of a heartbreaking incident this Thursday. As someone who cherishes these ancient mountains and regularly shares their beauty with readers, it’s always difficult to report

North Shore Cemetery Decoration Day: Honoring Heritage in the Great Smoky Mountains The misty mountains hide stories as old as time, and on Sunday, July 6, those stories will be honored once again. As someone who’s spent years exploring every trail and hollow of the Smokies, I’m particularly moved by the upcoming North Shore Cemetery