Hikers visit Dry Falls in Franklin County.

Put ramekins on a baking sheet. Bake for 25-35 minutes, until puffed and golden. Remove from oven, and let stand for 5 minutes. With a flexible spatula, remove strata to

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A Year-Round Guide to Franklin and Nantahala

Deep in the blackwater swamps of the Black River, ancient bald cypress trees have stood for thousands of years — sentinels to history and living proof of the power of

Food

Rosemary and Goat Cheese Strata

Deep in the blackwater swamps of the Black River, ancient bald cypress trees have stood for thousands of years — sentinels to history and living proof of the power of

Video

NC Icons: The Legend of Methuselah

Deep in the remote Three Sisters Swamp of the Black River stands an ancient old-growth forest. For decades, a famed bald cypress, dated to 372 AD and known as Methuselah, was its patriarch — until two even older trees were discovered.

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Deep in the blackwater swamps of the Black River, ancient bald cypress trees have stood for thousands of years — sentinels to history and living proof of the power of conservation.

This story was published on Feb 17, 2023

Our State Staff

Since 1933, Our State has shared stories about North Carolina with readers both in state and around the world. We celebrate the people and places that make this state great. From the mountains to the coast, we feature North Carolina travel, history, food, and beautiful scenic photography.