Outdoors
The Joyful Botanist: A Nod to the Ladies
In unmown yards and along roadsides across the mountains, there will sprout a delightful fall treasure that is among the last native wildflowers to bloom in the season. Ladies’ tresses orchids (Spiranthes spp.) spiral their way out of the ground to grow in full sun, even as the seasonal changes bring lower and less intense sunlight.
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.
Wildlife agency updates on hatchery devastated by Helene
Hurricane Helene devastated western North Carolina on Sept. 27, 2024, nearly destroying the Armstrong State Fish Hatchery in McDowell County. Flooding and landslides caused major damage and killed more than 600,000 fish, severely reducing trout production.
Learn about waterfall photography
Larry Korhnak’s photography will be on display in the Macon County Library Meeting Room throughout the month of October. He enjoys waterfall photography for the experience and adventure, so at 6 p.m. on Oct. 8 at the library, he’ll share some of his knowledge of resources, safety, lighting, equipment and creativity.
Join Franklin Bird club for Macon County walks
The Franklin Bird Club leads walks along the Greenway on Wednesday mornings at 8 a.m. through September. Walks start at alternating locations: Macon County Public Library, Big Bear Park and Salali Lane.
Haywood County Farm Bureau annual meeting, awards scheduled Oct. 20
The Haywood County Farm Bureau will hold its annual meeting at 6:30 p.m. on Monday, Oct. 20 at the Haywood County Extension Office.
This annual gathering provides members an opportunity to reflect on the organization’s work and to recognize individuals and community members who have made outstanding contributions to agriculture in Haywood County.
Record crowd at Outdoor Economy Conference contemplates investment in recovery
Born from the high, cold springs of Great Smoky Mountains National Park and destined for the Gulf of Mexico, the clear waters of the Oconaluftee River have a long journey ahead. The river flows through the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians’ homeland in Cherokee and joins increasingly voluminous waterways as it travels toward the sea. The Cherokee know this southbound path as the Long Person, yvwi ganvhida — a living being with its head in the mountains and its feet in the sea.
