Keepers of the Mountains
In the Southern Smokies, the mountains are not just scenery—they are shared responsibility. They are shaped, protected, and carried forward by people and places that understand stewardship as a way of life. These are the keepers of the mountains. And in Hayesville, North Carolina, that spirit is reflected not only in one individual, but in an entire community.
At the heart of this first chapter is Joanna Padgett Atkisson, a sixth-generation resident whose roots run as deep as the valleys surrounding Clay County. Known throughout the region as Mother Rabbit, Joanna’s story is inseparable from the land and the people she has spent decades serving.
Mountain Biking for the Community
Her service story begins as a nurse for Clay County Schools. Joanna was searching for meaningful ways to get middle schoolers outside—active, engaged, and connected to the mountains that define their home. In a county where more than 50% of the land is public, she recognized an opportunity to cultivate mountain biking as an accessible, community-centered experience.
For 25 years, Joanna dedicated her heart and soul to building a trail system designed to welcome riders of all levels. That vision became the Jackrabbit Mountain Bike Trail System, a 21-mile mountain biking network. It’s a true gateway. Jackrabbit introduces beginners and families to the sport while allowing riders to grow into more advanced terrain over time. The trails connect directly to the Jackrabbit Recreation Area, where camping, swimming, and fishing along Lake Chatuge round out a full outdoor experience. It’s a place rooted in land, water, and shared space.
Luckily, her story doesn’t end at the trailhead. She represents a part of Hayesville, and this is where the entire community also comes into focus.
Hayesville and a Unique Rhythm
Businesses actually shape the town itself, quietly and consistently keep the community strong. The Hayesville Bike Shop plays a vital role for riders. It offers rentals, gear, service, and local insight that makes the trail system approachable for visitors and locals alike. Nearby, Lazy Llama celebrates creativity and place, supporting dozens of regional artists whose work reflects the culture and craftsmanship of the Southern Smokies.
Food, tradition, and gathering are central to the town’s rhythm. Community cornerstones include Tiger’s Store and Chinquapin’s Ice Cream and Soda Bar. These places are where generations intersect and everyday moments become part of Hayesville’s living history. The award-winning Copper Door Restaurant offers a welcoming space where residents and visitors come together over thoughtfully prepared meals. Bauer Brand provides education and relaxation in their shop, adding to the town’s sense of balance and well-being.
Culture and connection continue at the historic Beal Center, where concerts, performances, and community events keep Hayesville’s creative spirit alive. For those choosing to stay awhile, the Deerfield Inn offers welcoming accommodations that reflect the town’s reputation for genuine, small-town hospitality.
In all, these businesses are more than places to visit—they are keepers in their own right. They steward tradition, support community, and contribute to a town where conservation and connection go hand in hand.
Joanna Padgett Atkisson is one of those keepers. Yet, every business owner, artist, and neighbor has invested time, care, and heart into Hayesville. This mountain town and its people are a living example of how community-driven outdoor recreation, local enterprise, and stewardship can grow together. This is what it truly means to care for a place.
The Ongoing Series
This is just the beginning. Follow 🎥 Stories of the Southern Smokies on YouTube to experience the authentic people and places that shape this region—and discover which story, and which keeper, we reveal next.