HIDDEN TREASURES #2

Welcome to part two in our exploration of the most amazing places in the Central and Southern Appalachian Mountains — this time exploring some of our most fabulous Public Lands.

Cherokee Foothills National Scenic Highway

Photo by Nicholas T.

One way to start your exploration of the little-known mountains in South Carolina is by driving along S.C. Highway 11, also known as the Cherokee Foothills National Scenic Highway. Curving through what is called Upstate South Carolina, the highway winds along the southernmost edge of the Blue Ridge Mountains past an interesting blend of Civil War history, scenic vistas and quaint mountain towns. The 112-mile byway — listed by motorcycleroads.com as “[one] of the best motorcycle roads east of the Mississippi” — follows what was once a trade route used by the Cherokee Indians and European fur traders.

‘First Line of Defense’

During Hurricane Helene and its aftermath, rural fire departments and other first responder hubs played critical roles in keeping their communities safe, even without power and cut off from outside support for days or weeks after the storm. Two years later, plenty of work remains to ensure these hubs have the resources they need to operate day to day and be ready when emergencies or natural disasters strike.

Alice and Gary Stevens stand on their new 40-foot bridge with their dog in Watauga County, N.C.

The Rocky Road — and Bridge — to Recovery

Hurricane Helene is estimated to have damaged nearly 7,000 private roads and bridges in Western North Carolina. Two years later, many restoration projects are complete, but the journey hasn’t been easy — and isn’t over for others.

Since the proposed federal prison near Roxana was first announced, it has faced opposition from some local residents. Photo by Willie Dodson

After 20 Years, Letcher County Prison Proposal Is Still Alive, Though Obstacles Remain

A $605 million proposal for a federal prison on a former strip mine site in Letcher County, Kentucky, championed by U.S. Rep. Hal Rogers, refuses to die, despite local opposition, a lack of support from the executive branch and numerous other obstacles.

Hurricane Helene devastated parts of Erwin, Tennessee. Photo by Abby Hassler

The Washout and Rebuild

For nearly two years, residents of Unicoi County, Tennessee, have had to make do without a hospital after Hurricane Helene destroyed the rural hospital. Ballad Health, which owns the hospital, broke ground on a new location — in another floodplain — in August 2026.

Shenandoah salamander. Photo by Rob and Ann Simpson

The Shenandoah Salamander

The Shenandoah salamander is a woodland salamander, which has adapted to life at higher elevations away from water. This sparkling rarity lives among the dry leaves, cracked logs, and stony hillocks on the highest peaks of Shenandoah National Park.

People gather around a basket of mushrooms in a forested area with ferns and other greenery

‘Foraging Is a Way of Connecting’

Foraging has experienced a modern resurgence, partly because of social media, online groups, the pandemic and people wanting to connect with nature. It also builds community, whether in person or online.

One response to “HIDDEN TREASURES #2 – South Carolina”

Mark

June 11, 2012

I have to absolutely agree that Hwy 11 is one of the prettiest drives. When I first moved to SC I would take 11 every chance I got, even if it meant it would take longer. It is that pretty. And there are plenty of great places to stop along the way to eat, shop or just enjoy nature. Highly recommend!

HIDDEN TREASURES #2 – South Carolina

Cherokee Foothills National Scenic Highway