In the shadow of a National Radio Astronomy Observatory telescope, Laurel Fork Trails offers scenic views and a rare chance to escape the buzzes and beeps of the technological age.
Blog Archives
Monumental Momentum
The proposed Birthplace of Rivers National Monument would provide additional protection for approximately 122,000 acres within the Monongahela National Forest and aims to boost tourism in the area.
Trailbuilding: Forging New Paths
Trail advocates in Pound, Va., Elizabethton, Tenn., and Wyoming County, W.Va., are working with community members and partners to develop new hiking paths.
TAGS: C&O Railroad Trail Overmountain Victory National Historic Trail The Great Eastern Trail trailbuilding
Pink Beds Loop
Pisgah National Forest’s Pink Beds Loop offers hikers an opportunity to enjoy the diversity of Appalachia’s ecosystems.
Climbing the Highlands
Appalachia offers climbers challenging routes in beautiful settings, and the region’s geology invites adventurers of all styles and abilities. And in return, the sport of climbing provides an opportunity for economic development for areas around these rock formations.
TAGS: Boone bouldering climbing Flag Rock Recreational Area Grayson Highlands State Park Norton Outdoor Recreation outdoor sports
The Hidden Gem of Rocky Fork
This moderately strenuous hike through the mountains of eastern Tennessee follows an old logging trail to the 100-foot Big Falls on Lower Higgens Creek. Several creek crossings and caves mark the remainder of the path to Birchfield Camp Lake.
Trek to the Top of Mt. Cammerer
Enjoy a strenuous 11-mile hike to the top of Mt. Cammerer, located in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The hike culminates with a view of the Pigeon River Gorge 3,000 feet below and the opportunity to stroll around the catwalk of the historic fire tower at Mt. Cammerer’s peak.
TAGS: Appalachian Trail Great Smoky Mountains National Park hiking hiking Appalachia hiking the Smokies
Rails To Trails
Former railways have been converted into beautiful biking and hiking trails across Appalachia.
Cooling off in the Devil’s Bathtub
Hikers flock to the cool swimming spots along the Devil’s Bathtub Trail in southwest Virginia, though the trail can be challenging.
Solitude and Discovery at Zaleski State Forest
During Baby Josie’s first mountain hike, her parents took her on a 10-mile loop in southeast Ohio that wanders by a pond of lily pads, along ridgelines and through pine groves.
