Hurricane Helene brought unprecedented damage to western North Carolina. Our editors followed up with people, businesses, and places featured in our October 2024 issue to see how they fared and how you can support those still recovering.
blue ridge parkway
Carefree Cruising
For some drivers, the Blue Ridge Parkway is the portal to our state’s soaring peaks and offers the sights and routes that remind them of home.
North Carolina’s Blue Ribbon
The Blue Ridge Parkway stands out among America’s national parks: Unfurling across six Appalachian mountain chains, it connects dozens of rural communities and binds together generations of families through shared memories.
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.
50 Things You Didn’t Know About North Carolina
The history of the Old North State is peppered with little-known facts and fascinating tidbits. More than ephemera, these are the details that add color and texture to the story of our state.
3 Mountain Trails to Explore This Summer
Float by a 60-foot-tall waterfall, hike along a path lined with vibrant seasonal blooms, and plan for a picnic with vista views while exploring these mountainous trails.
6 Can’t-Miss Hikes for Birding & Blooms in the Blue Ridge
Find yourself surrounded by birdcalls and wildflowers as you welcome the season with a walk in the woods — through old-growth forests, along mountain summits, and past clear, cold creeks.
North Carolina Nature Trails for the Littlest Explorers
Discover family-friendly outdoor adventures on special trails across the state.
North Carolina’s Forgotten Forest
Is it possible to lose track of 50,000 trees? Within the sprawling expanse of Pisgah National Forest, an army of red spruces hid in plain sight for more than 70 years.
