Everything you need to know about the Great Smoky Mountains

Exploring the Joyce Kilmer Memorial Forest
The Joyce Kilmer Memorial Forest in Graham County, N.C., inspires the kind of hushed awe that can only be found in rare old-growth forests. Widely

A Winter Escape to Highlands
If you’re looking to take a break from the hustle and bustle of the season – from work, responsibilities, and tackling never-ending to-do lists –

Drive the Indian Lakes Scenic Byway
The Great Smoky Mountains are synonymous with adventure, even when your plan for the day is a serene drive along the Indian Lakes Scenic Byway

Bryson City Exploration Guide – Top Things To Do
Known as the place where you can take “a big vacation in a small town,” Bryson City, NC is a destination for history fans, train

Five of our Favorite Museums in the Smokies
Not all Great Smoky Mountain adventures have to be outdoor excitement. Sometimes the best afternoon is spent at a museum, learning about the region’s Native

Elk Viewing in the Smoky Mountains
An amazing wildlife viewing experience is available in the Smoky Mountains. On any given day you can find dozens of elk in the heart of

Exploring the Waterfall ByWay
The Waterfall Byway begins just north of Brevard, NC, famous for its music center and white squirrels and nicknamed the “Land of Waterfalls.” The 98-mile

Sylva Exploration Guide – Top Things To Do
Part of the charm of exploring the Great Smoky Mountains is found in the small towns tucked into the mountain landscape. Sylva is one such

Can’t Miss Adventures in the Smokies
The Smoky Mountains of North Carolina are a dream destination for lovers of the great outdoors. With stunning year-round views that stretch for miles, thrilling

Best Motorcycle Routes to Explore in the Smokies
The stunning mountain views and twisting scenic byways of the North Carolina Smoky Mountains and surrounding area offer one of the best places in the

Waynesville Exploration Guide — Top Things to Do
Located in the heart of Haywood County, Waynesville is the largest North Carolina town west of Asheville (population approx. 10,000) . Waynesville’s historic downtown and

Our Five Favorite Spring Hikes in the NC Smokies
Spring is the perfect season to get out on the trails and immerse yourself in the scenic beauty of the Smoky Mountains. Wildflowers are in

3 Days to Explore the NC Smoky Mountains – An Itinerary for Travel Inspiration
The Smoky Mountains provide visitors with thousands of things to do, and for first time visitors and weekend warriors it may be daunting to figure

Four Must-See Waterfalls Near Highlands, N.C.
The Blue Ridge and Smoky Mountains of Western North Carolina are home to dozens of breathtaking waterfalls cascading down slopes and rock faces. These four

Discover Handmade Craft in the NC Smokies
The Smoky Mountains are home and inspiration to hundreds of artists. Across Western North Carolina visitors can find handmade crafts at a number of studios

Monarch Butterfly Migration in the N.C. Smokies
Late September in the Smoky Mountains of Western North Carolina brings early signs of fall—cooler weather, the first few brightly tinted leaves, and the fluttering

7 Great Fall Adventures in the Smoky Mountains
The Smoky Mountains are one of the most beautiful places to visit during autumn, with cool mountain weather and brilliant fall foliage blanketing the slopes.

The Impact of COVID-19 in the Smoky Mountains
Covid-19 has impacted the way we live, and the way we travel. While you’re still safer staying at home, the great outdoors provide much needed

Birding in the Smoky Mountains
The Smoky Mountains of western North Carolina are a prime destination for birdwatchers, or “birders,” thanks to a wide range of elevations and a diversity

Top 10 Romantic Things to Do in the Smoky Mountains
A mountain escape is even sweeter with someone special, and the North Carolina Smoky Mountains have plenty to inspire a romantic getaway. From cozy accommodations

Dillsboro Exploration Guide – Top Things To Do
Located in Jackson County, Dillsboro, North Carolina is the ideal getaway for a weekend or longer. Surrounded by the Nantahala National Forest and located along