Welcome to the Great Smokies Blog
Stories From The Smokies highlights interesting, out-of-the-ordinary aspects of life in the North Carolina mountains. We offer insider tips on things to do, places to go, and ways to make your Bryson City visit all the more memorable. Look for new posts in this space every few weeks. Or subscribe to receive updates by email.
Bryson City Artists Add Color and Creativity to Downtown
Thanks to the work of our talented art community, Bryson City now has a walkable murals and street art trail. As you stroll around town, take a few moments to enjoy: Six colorful 4-foot quilt squares adorning a number of shops and businesses, a sampling from the...
A Guide to Social Distancing on the Smokies’ Trails and Waters
Here in the Smoky Mountains, we’re known for outdoor adventures. So with our “new normal,” how do we stay six feet apart from others on trails and while pursuing our favorite sports?
Culinary Secrets From Bryson City B&Bs and Country Inns
The one thing that sets bed & breakfasts and country inns apart from other lodging is the food. More than a mere amenity, inn dining can be the most memorable part of the lodging experience. So it's no surprise that innkeepers are often asked to share their secret...
Where to Drink Beer with Your Dog in Bryson City
A cold beer in one hand, your dog in another—now that’s a little slice of heaven. While North Carolina law prevents you from bringing your dog inside places serving food, four-legged friends are still welcome to join in on these patio spaces and dog-friendly places...
Beat the Heat Index: 10 Ways to Cool Off in the Smoky Mountains (And It’s Not All About Water)
If it’s hot where you are this summer, take a trip to Bryson City, where high elevations mean refreshing mountain breezes and plenty of opportunities to cool down. With the Great Smoky Mountains National Park in our backyard, check out these ways to beat the heat!...
Autumn in Bryson City – the Spectacular Grand Finale of Summer Fun in the Smokies
Fall exploration will lead you to the Bryson City area of North Carolina, including “The Road to Nowhere.” Tucked in iconic mountains, Bryson City, NC has a vibrant fall leaf viewing season, which you can enjoy while hiking, fishing, biking or riding the rails. It’s a...
These 6 Unique Places To Stay In Bryson City Are Perfect To Get Away From It All
Traveling is fun, but where you stay is just as important. In the Great Smoky Mountains of Bryson City, NC, there are a few places to spend the night that really stand out. You can sleep in a vintage camper, or a yurt or tiny house on a creek. If you like your stay...
There’s Much to Discover About One Bryson City Visitor Who Helped Create the National Park
Horace Kephart's grave. Photo: plugitinhikes. An icon of the Southern Appalachian region, Horace Kephart (1862-1931) is best known for his efforts to protect the Smoky Mountains as a national park. He was also vigilant in efforts to establish the Appalachian Trail...
In Bryson City, Three People Pushed a 177-ton Locomotive
At the end of many steam excursions on the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad, riders have the opportunity to participate in a unique railroad turntable experience. Volunteers are called upon to assist the crew in manually turning the 353,540 pound engine and tender while...
Few People Know This Cemetery Exists Near a Treasured Landmark in the Smokies
A lot of people who visit Mingus Mill in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park have no idea that there is a burial ground for enslaved people on the grounds. It is not known exactly who is buried here. There are no names or dates or head stones, just rocks that mark...
Take This Mini Road Trip to Capture Some of the Best Photography in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Whether you’re a professional photographer or an amateur, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is one of the most diverse and photogenic landscapes in the United States. Verdant forests, long range mountain views, beautiful streams and serene valleys make this...
Five Awesome Adventures You Can Only Have In Bryson City
Deep Creek, Great Smoky Mountains National Park A favorite family destination for generations, the Deep Creek Recreation Area is just 5 minutes from downtown Bryson City. An easy 2.5-mile round trip hike takes you to three majestic waterfalls. Or just take the...
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