Outdoors
Tourism to national park contributes $2 billion to local economy
A new National Park Service report shows that approximately 12.2 million visitors to Great Smoky Mountains National Park in 2024 spent more than $2 billion in communities near the park. That spending had a cumulative benefit to the local economy of more than $2.8 billion.
48 acres preserved by land trust
The Highlands-Cashiers Land Trust is proud to announce the permanent protection of 47.97 acres of ecologically significant land generously donated by High Hampton. This private conservation easement ensures the preservation of unique natural features such as rock outcrops, mature forests, headwaters, floodplains and mountain bogs.
DEQ awards money for clean vehicle projects
The North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality’s Division of Air Quality has awarded $1.14 million in grants for projects that will reduce air pollution from diesel-powered mobile sources.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park open amid shutdown — for now
When the federal government shut down at midnight Oct. 1, there were a lot of questions, especially for Western North Carolina, where business owners and residents are already on the heels of a year of economic uncertainty.
Friends of the Smokies helps fund full reopening of Great Smoky Mountains National Park during federal government shutdown
The nonprofit Friends of the Smokies will help pay to fully reopen Great Smoky Mountains National Park for one week during the ongoing federal government shutdown. The park will be fully open and operational from Saturday, Oct. 4, through Friday, Oct. 10, 2025.
Smokies Life to man Smokies visitor centers amid shutdown
When the federal government shut down at midnight Oct. 1, there were a lot of questions, especially for Western North Carolina, where business owners and residents are already on the heels of a year of economic uncertainty.
It’s beginning to feel like fall in the Smokies: Plan ahead to ensure you have a great visit this season
Autumn is a beautiful — but busy — time in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Visitors should plan ahead and be prepared for incredible fall colors, but also crowds, traffic congestion and limited parking throughout the park.
Gatlinburg Bypass closed as landslide cleanup continues
The Gatlinburg Bypass in Great Smoky Mountains National Park remains closed as crews continue cleanup efforts following a significant landslide that occurred the morning of Saturday, Sept. 27.
American Chestnut Day at the Arboretum
The American Chestnut Foundation (TACF), in partnership with The North Carolina Arboretum, will host American Chestnut Day from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 4, at the Arboretum.
