Everything you need to know about the Great Smoky Mountains

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

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

Spring Break in the Mountains
Have you been to the Great Smoky Mountains in the springtime yet? Well, what are you waiting for? The weather is lovely and unpredictable –

🧘♀️ 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

🌲 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

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

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