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Smoky Mountain News
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Way out, but way cool
Rural WNC resorts provide plenty for guests to do
Accessible only by seriously curvy roads with nicknames like “Hellbender” and “Tail of the Dragon” and situated a good 30 minutes from the nearest town, Fontana Village
... full story

 

All aboard
Fall and winter have turned into the high season for The Great Smoky Mountain Railroad as it offers many special excursions. Most of these special trips are aimed at
... full story
For the kids
 

An eye to the sky
Fall migration in the mountains
Fall migration has begun. Tens of millions of songbirds, raptors and shorebirds that nested across North America are returning to their wintering grounds in Central and South America. The Southern Appalachians offer many opportunities to witness this southbound odyssey
... full story
 

Fun in the winter
When the weather outside is frightful, head somewhere delightful to enjoy the mountains snow or warm up after a jaunt in the cold... full story
Downhill destinations

 
The Parkway
A scenic byway, a national treasure
The Parkway runs through the Blue Ridge Mountains, a part of the Appalachian Mountains, boasting more than 200 overlooks and more than 100 trails. The local section of the Parkway runs from the Southern End in Oconaluftee to the Pisgah Inn... full story

Get off the beaten path

Some of the best places to visit in Western North Carolina are those that aren’t typically found in any visitors’ guides. Get off the beaten path for some great experiences and local culture... full story
 
 
Learn as you go
Western North Carolina’s rich heritage offers many educational opportunities
The Western North Carolina mountains have been shaped by their many inhabitants, giving the area an unique character. The Cherokee and the Scotch-Irish laid the groundwork for what became Appalachia, who were in turn routed in... full story

The great outdoors
The fall and winter seasons are a great time to get outdoors and enjoy the changes going on in nature. Many creatures such as the squirrel scamper about during the fall, building stockpiles of nuts and seeds to feed on while food is scarce... full story
Outdoor programs

Hike
Sometimes the best thing to do is to venture out and see for yourself
There are hikes for all kinds — climbs along the rocks to a high mountain waterfalls, casual strolls to expansive mountain views, all-day treks out into the wilderness and brisk jaunts to perfect... full story
Change your latitude/suggested hikes