Blog

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

Helene Recovery: Debris Removal Boats Working to Restore French Broad River in Asheville As I gaze out over the French Broad River this morning, there’s a different kind of activity stirring its waters. Having written about the majestic Smoky Mountains region for years, I’ve witnessed many changes to this treasured landscape, but few as urgent

I-40 Reopens Through the Smokies: A Welcome Relief for Travelers and Locals As someone who’s spent years exploring every ridge and valley of the Great Smoky Mountains, I can tell you there’s something almost sacred about the narrow corridor where Interstate 40 cuts through these ancient hills. So when I heard the news that crews

Interstate 40 Reopens Through Great Smoky Mountains After Flooding and Rock Slide As someone who’s spent countless hours exploring the majestic terrain of the Great Smoky Mountains, I’ve seen firsthand how nature can both inspire and challenge us. The recent closure of Interstate 40 through this breathtaking region is a powerful reminder of the mountain’s