Image for Graveyard Fields

Hiking Graveyard Fields

Intro The etymology behind Graveyard Fields is somewhat smoky. Centuries ago massive wind storms uprooted a once prominent spruce forest in this 5,000’ high, hanging valley. Root balls from the uprooted trees slowly decayed and overtime left…
Image for Chimney Rock State Park

Hiking Chimney Rock State Park

Intro Chimney Rock State Park is one of the most iconic outdoor destinations in the state of North Carolina. From the top of the ancient rock face for which the park is named, visitors can witness amazing views of Lake Lure and the sweeping…
Image for Craggy Gardens

Hiking Craggy Gardens

Intro One of the closest hikes to Asheville with the best long-range views is Craggy Gardens at Milemarker 364.1 off the Blue Ridge Parkway. Because of its easy access, this is a popular spot and although its never exactly ‘crowded,’ you…
2015_11_firetower-feature-edit.jpg

5 Fire Towers to Explore in Western Carolina

It's hard to deny the lure of mountain fire towers, with their place in history as guardians of the forest, and the intrigue of the solitary, beatnik existence of the watchmen who were once posted within them. Like lighthouses, these imposing…
20160411_KnoxvilleTN_Osprey-Hen Wallow Falls-17-003 Cody Myers

8 of the Best Waterfall Hikes in the Smokies

The Great Smoky Mountains may be known for their enchanting mist and spectacular views, but these rounded peaks have another claim to fame: they are home to waterfalls of all shapes and sizes. There’s nothing quite like kicking off your shoes…
best day hikes Mountains to Sea Trail

The Best Day Hikes on the Mountains to Sea Trail

Ask someone their favorite part about living in North Carolina, and a likely response will touch on the accessibility of both mountains and ocean. From mile-high peaks to rolling farmland to wind-swept sand dunes, the Tarheel State is, indeed,…

Asheville's Urban Trail

Ask your neighbor to describe the Great Outdoors and you’ll get plenty of answers peppered with words like “trees,” “trails,” “rivers,” “sky,” and other hallmarks of untamed areas. You’re a lot less likely to get a description…

Half Tank Getaways: Mountains to Sea Trail

One of my favorite hikes near Asheville is along the Mountains to Sea Trail (MST) between the Visitor Center (Blue Ridge Parkway Mile Post 384) and the Folk Art Center (BRP MP 382). If you want a walk of five and a half miles, then make it an…

Half Day Getaways: Winter Hiking at Daniel Ridge Falls near Asheville, NC

After the blast of snow we got last weekend, forecasters are calling for temperatures in the high 50s and low 60s this week. That's a perfect combination for winter hikes and breathtaking frozen waterfalls. One of our favorites is Daniel Ridge…