Everything you need to know about the Great Smoky Mountains
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
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
Smoky Mountain Winter Adventures
Many travelers love the NC Great Smoky Mountains in winter! They explore outdoor sports and adventures in the beautiful snowy landscape. Hike the trails without
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
Haywood County Ice Fest Weekend
Who says all the fun in the Great Smoky Mountains hibernates after the winter holidays? Not Haywood County, that’s who! Enjoy the coolest event of the year
Cozy Winter Escapes in the Smoky Mountains
With winter views that go on for miles, cozy cabin rentals, and plenty of indoor activities to pass the time, winter is a beautiful time
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
🎄 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
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
Winter Adventures at Highlands Outpost
Highlands Outpost offers all-day, winter fun for the whole family in Scaly Mountain, NC! Snow tubing, ice skating, and the Scaly Mountain Screamer are open
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
All Aboard for the POLAR EXPRESS™
Experience the magic this holiday season! Join us for a truly magical recreation of the classic holiday story, THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride. Climb aboard
Announcement: October Officially Recognized as Rediscovering the Mountains of Western North Carolina Month
Western North Carolina — During the Western Carolina University home football game, where the Catamounts defeated Furman 52–7, the first public presentation of the Proclamation
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
🍂 NC Smoky Mountains Fall Foliage Forecast 2025
Fall is on its way, and the Smoky Mountains of Western North Carolina are ready for a spectacular show of color. Thanks to healthy summer
Fall Adventures with Nantahala Outdoor Center
Experience the seasonal change from lush summer greenery to spectacular fall foliage. Each year, the Smokies become a canvas of vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows
Best Hikes to Enjoy Smoky Mountains Fall Foliage
Experience nature’s best show by hiking through a kaleidoscope of flaming colors. Here are our favorite fall hikes in the NC Smokies.
One Year After Hurricane Helene – The Great Smoky Mountains
Next month will mark the one year anniversary of Hurricane Helene’s unforgettable impact across the Smoky Mountains. Recovery continues in the hardest-hit areas, but destinations
Upcoming Fall Events in the Smokies
There’s something extra special about the Great Smoky Mountains in the fall. Maybe it’s the perfectly crisp chill in the autumn air, or the changing
John C. Campbell Folk School celebrates 100th Anniversary
John C. Campbell Folk School celebrates 100th Anniversary with a fall festival October 4-5th. Expect exhibitors, storytelling, artists showcase, and projects highlighting the impact.
Culinary Experiences in the Great Smoky Mountains
The Great Smoky Mountains reveal wonderful culinary experiences with unique dishes, regional specialties and places to play along the way.