15 Must-See Waterfalls in the North Carolina Smokies
The North Carolina Smoky Mountains are home to some of the most beautiful waterfalls in the Southeast. From roadside cascades and family-friendly walks to towering falls hidden deep in the forest, the region offers countless opportunities to experience the power and beauty of mountain water. Whether you’re planning a waterfall road trip, a weekend getaway, […]
Celebrating Scottish Heritage This June in the Southern Smokies
June settles into the Southern Smokies with a familiar rhythm to anyone with Celtic roots in these Highlands. Early Scots and Scots-Irish settlers found a climate and terrain that mirrored their ancestral home. And generations later, that cultural imprint still shapes Western North Carolina. From language and music to food and farming traditions, Scottish heritage […]
Voted Best in the Smokies 2026: Top Places to Visit in Western North Carolina
These were voted Best in the Smokies 2026. Now you can explore the top attractions, restaurants, shops, and places to stay across Western North Carolina, chosen by visitors and locals. The Places Visitors Choose Again and Again The “Voted Best in the Smokies 2026” winners reflect something visitors cannot fake. These are the places people […]
The Spring Food & Drink Trail in the Smokies: Where to Eat, Sip & Savor
Spring in the North Carolina Smokies brings fresh mountain air, blooming landscapes, and the perfect excuse to explore the region one bite at a time. This food and drink trail highlights real stops you can experience across the Smokies—paired with scenic drives and small-town charm along the way. Morning: Coffee & Breakfast in Bryson City Start […]
Best Things to Do in Cherokee, NC This Spring: Culture, Casino & Smoky Mountain Adventure
When spring arrives in the North Carolina Smokies, Cherokee becomes one of the most rewarding mountain getaways of the season. Fresh green landscapes, flowing rivers, blooming wildflowers, and cool mountain air make this the perfect time to explore. Located at the gateway to Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the area offers travelers a unique mix […]
A Perfect One-Day Schedule at Nantahala Outdoor Center
An itinerary of adventure, scenery, and riverside rafting and relaxation in the heart of the Smokies Tucked along the banks of the Nantahala River, the Nantahala Outdoor Center (NOC) is an iconic outdoor destinations. Known for whitewater rafting, scenic settings, and easy access to the mountains, NOC offers a full day of adventure and relaxation in one […]
Wildflower Season in the Smokies: Where to See Spring in Bloom
Discover the color, beauty, and quiet magic of spring across Western North Carolina Each spring, the mountains of Western North Carolina transform into one of the most vibrant natural displays in the country. With more than 1,500 species of flowering plants across the region, the Smokies are often called “Wildflower National Park,” and for good […]
5 of the Best Scenic Drives in Western NC
With can’t-miss stops along the way 🚗 🌄 1. The Blue Ridge Parkway: America’s Favorite Drive Cruise the iconic Blue Ridge Parkway for sweeping views, budding trees, and peaceful pull-offs. ⭐ Along the Way Stops: 👉 This drive is perfect for slow travel + spontaneous stops 💦 2. Waterfall Byway: Highlands to Franklin One of the most scenic drives in […]
Following the Appalachian Trail Through the Smoky Mountains
Where Hikers Explore, Refuel, and Experience the NC Smokies Every spring, something special begins happening across the mountains of Western North Carolina. Thousands of hikers start their northbound journey on the legendary Appalachian Trail, a 2,200-mile footpath stretching from Georgia to Maine. As they pass through the North Carolina Smokies, hikers bring a unique energy to […]
River Legs – Stories of the Southern Smokies – Chapter 2
River Legs There’s a moment that happens in the river. At first, the water feels cold and uncertain. The rocks shift beneath your boots. The current pushes back. But then something changes. Your footing steadies. Your breathing slows. The rhythm of the river begins to make sense. Around here, we call that feeling River Legs. […]
🧘♀️ Smoky Mountain Wellness Escapes: Relax, Rejuvenate & Reconnect
Discover serene spas, peaceful retreats, and wellness-centric stays across Western North Carolina As the brisk chill of winter begins to ease and the promise of early spring peeks over the mountain ridges, there’s no better time to plan a wellness getaway in the Smokies. There is so much to experience. Restorative spa experiences, beautiful nature activities, […]
🌲 Top Hidden Gems in Western North Carolina: Beyond Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Explore small towns, scenic spots, and local experiences that make the NC Smokies unforgettable Everyone knows the Great Smoky Mountains National Park for its renowned hiking trails and iconic overlooks, but as visitors know, Western North Carolina is so much more. From quiet mountain towns to hidden natural wonders and cultural treasures, the southern Smokies region invites […]
A Perfect Spring Break: The Smoky Mountain Blueways Trail System
Trophy Water, Wild Fish, and the Backbone of the Southern Appalachians Designated in 2020, the Smoky Mountain Blueways Trail System quietly stitched together one of the most diverse and rich fishing water networks in the Eastern United States. For anglers just now hearing the name, the timing makes sense—the official designation is young, but the […]
Hit the Slopes This Winter at Cataloochee Ski Area in Maggie Valley
As winter blankets the Smoky Mountains, Maggie Valley comes alive with one of the Southeast’s most beloved winter destinations — Cataloochee Ski Area. A short scenic drive from towns across Western North Carolina, Cataloochee offers family-friendly thrills in the heart of the Smokies. 🎿 A True Smokies Classic for Skiers & Snowboarders Historically, Cataloochee is North […]
Stories of the Southern Smokies — Chapter One
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 […]
Have a Merry (and Beautiful) Christmas in the Smokies
From all of us at Visit Smokies, and all of us in Western North Carolina, Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays. We know that when you visit this beautiful part of the country during this time of year, you get to trade crowded malls and packed schedules for twinkling lights, crisp mountain air, and cozy moments […]
🎄 A Festive Christmas Getaway at Harrah’s Cherokee Casino Resort
Tucked into the snow-kissed peaks of Western North Carolina, Harrah’s Cherokee Casino Resort transforms into a yuletide destination where dazzling entertainment, warm hospitality, and holiday spirit come together in a joyful celebration. Whether you’re planning a weekend escape or a full-blown Christmas vacation, this vibrant resort offers something merry for every kind of traveler. ✨ Step Into […]
Unique Smoky Mountain Christmas Gifts: Shop Local, Shop Cultural, Shop Meaningful
If you’re searching for Christmas gifts with meaning, heritage, and a true sense of place, skip the big-box stores and explore the incredible museum shops scattered across Western North Carolina. From handcrafted Appalachian art to historic heritage keepsakes, each museum offers one-of-a-kind items you won’t find anywhere else. Here’s your guide to some top museum […]
Celebrate Smoky Mountain Holiday Traditions
Not much beats the Smoky Mountain holiday season! Enjoy a cozy and festive holiday escape with gorgeous winter mountain views and the small-town charm of the holidays. Wander among dazzling light displays, ride the Polar Express, enjoy a parade down Main Street, and support local small businesses while checking gifts off your list. Get a […]
Federal Government Shutdown Update North Carolina Smokies
As of 12:01 a.m. October 1st, 2025 the federal government has partially shut down. For those planning visits to the Smoky Mountains, it’s important to know that national parks, forests, and refuges now are operating with limited or no staffing, and many federal facilities are now closed. This affects the National Park Service (NPS), U.S. Forest Service, and U.S. […]