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blue ridge parkway

Split rail fence along the Blue Ridge Parkway
Living in North Carolina

The Gentle Border

Split-rail fences don’t shout “keep out.” They lean, they shift, they invite. And in western North Carolina, they remind us that some lines are meant to hold, not harden.

by Jeremy B. Jones
Stone Mountain, Little Seed Kitchen, and downtown Sparta
Photo Essay

16 Places to Celebrate Spring in Sparta

Each May, spring climbs nearly 3,000 feet to the seat of Alleghany County. Here, as the rhododendrons blush, a beloved mountain town welcomes visitors with its food, art, and flourish of color and creativity.

by Chloe Klingstedt
Sunset in the Blue Ridge Mountains in Jackson County
Sponsored

Three Days of Spring Adventures in Jackson County

Warming weather and longer days make this season a beautiful time to embrace the outdoors with half-day hikes, captivating cascades, and meals to fuel each excursion.

by Matt Lardie
Kayaker in the New River in Boone, NC
Tar Heel Towns

Your Guide to Boone

Known as the heart of the High Country, this vibrant and welcoming community draws travelers to experience the arts, outdoor adventures, and Appalachian culture all year round.

by Lara Ivanitch
Tar Heel Towns

Your Guide to Sugar Mountain

From scenic mountain hikes to snow-covered ski slopes, Sugar Mountain embraces its gorgeous mountain playscape for adventures and events throughout the year.

by Robin Sutton Anders
Linn Cove Viaduct in the fall
Travel Guides

22 Mountain Destinations to Welcome Fall

Like a warm hug from an old friend, it’s time, once more, for a trip to the mountains. Here are some of our favorite destinations that are welcoming autumn’s explorers and leaf peepers with open arms.

by Tamiya Anderson
Mountains in Jackson County during the fall
Sponsored

3 Destinations for Memorable Mountain Experiences

From chasing adventures along the trails to settling into a luxurious mountain escape, here’s how to savor the season in Jackson, Transylvania, and Mitchell counties.

by Robin Sutton Anders, Eleanor Spicer Rice & Lara Ivanitch
Sponsored

8 Outings for a Mile-High Fall Vacation

When autumn arrives, head to the Village of Sugar Mountain for spectacular fall foliage, festivities, and adventure.

by Robin Sutton Anders
Kayaker on Fontana Lake
Tar Heel Towns

Your Guide to Swain County

Escape to the wilds of western North Carolina where a scenic national park, epic mountain drives, and lots of small-town charm are right at your fingertips.

by Lara Ivanitch
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