Worth the drive to see and walk through the tunnel…read more Read the history, it's really a sad story. They call it the stolen highway

If you didn't know the history of this spot, you might not think it's a big deal but if you do know…read morethe history, it becomes more relevant. Yes, it literally is a road that ends in a very long, dark and wet tunnel. There are also several walking trails nearby. We drove back on the road a little bit and did one of the shorter hikes that leads to a section of the lake. There are other trails that are more strenuous. This is more of an oddity than anything else, but still an interesting place to visit.

At 6643 feet, Clingmans Dome, now known by its Cherokee name, Kuwohi, is the highest point in the…read moreGreat Smoky Mountains National Park. My visit to Kuwohi was a highlight of my visit to Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The drive up to the summit is breathtaking. There are several overlooks along the way to stop and enjoy the views. When we arrived, it was about 20 degrees colder than in Gatlinburg and it was very windy. Fortunately, we had dressed warm for the hike. The half mile trail is paved and accessible, however, the climb is straight up and was very difficult for some people. At the top of the trail we passed the Appalachian Trail. Then we found a fantastic Mid Century concrete spiral structure to climb. At the top, is an observation deck with placards describing the magnificent views of Tennessee and North Carolina. The modern observation deck was completed in 1960, replacing a wooden structure. Thomas Lanier Clingman was one of the early explorers that mapped the region in the 1850's. Kuwohi was (and still is) a sacred mountain of the Cherokee people. The mountain held Magic Lake that is believed to have healing powers for those who value the earth and its people. Parking permits are required to park in the large lot. Permits can be purchased on site for $5/day. Restroom facilities are available, but no running water. A nearby Visitors Center sells maps, shirts and other hiking gear. Kuwohi is a must visit on a trip to SMNP. Bring warm clothes (gloves, hat, etc). Cell tower reception is poor, so maps are helpful.

This stop has been on my list for awhile, and I'm not really sure how I hadn't made it yet…read moreconsidering the amount of times I've road tripped to the Smokies... but here we are! Got to see a bear on the way coming from Oconaluftee, which meant the day was perfect no matter what else happened. The weather was a little rainy, scattered storms here and there, and the cloud cover wasn't great for a great view from the overlook, but.... The parking lot view was still excellent, and the overlook itself was cool to see, and there was a Passport stamp station and Visitor Center, loads of camp style restrooms, with plenty of parking, so, absolutely worth the stop!

Came to Brasstown Bald Observation Tower for the views and it was a sight to see! It's not everyday…read more(at least where I live) that you can stand in such a high place and be able to see mountains spanning across 4 different states. The entry fee was 8 per adult (kids are free) which also includes a van ride to the overlook. Or you can choose to hike which wasn't a long hike but steep from what I saw. A must do for anyone visiting the area! Ohh... and make sure you watch the little movie at the top, it's very cool to see how one place is its own little world in different seasons and the history behind the place.

The current Brasstown Bald observation tower was built in 1965, replacing an earlier stone tower…read morethat was constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) in 1935. The original 1935 stone tower was torn down in 1947 and replaced with a steel tower before the current structure was built - we'll folks looks like it's time to build another tower this one is in a state of disrepair. I came here to observe 4 states from the highest point in Georgia, but apparently the observation tower is in such bad shape that it is now closed to the public and your adventure will end after climbing a few flights of stairs ending at the base of the observation deck yeah there's a view from the lower level but in my opinion not worth the price of admission. Thankfully there's a shuttle van that takes you from the parking lot level to the top it runs about ever 10 minutes, our driver was very friendly and tried his best to entertain us during the short drive to the top but there's not much to say - the museum at the top is okay and takes about 2 minutes to tour it then time you walk the lower deck and wait for the shuttle back down - I purchased a refrigerator magnet for the RV from the gift shop and headed for the truck. I guess I am fortunate that I came and saw this, although it was never on my bucket list, I'm still trying to figure out why there's an old train engine in the museum it's quite the anachronism...

I was enjoying a walk at the botanical gardens and saw the sign near where I'd parked. It's a…read moresteady, mild incline 1/2 mile up and down a gravel road to the viewpoints. Not by any means the prettiest trek, but lovely views at the top of course. I did encounter sections of monster mosquitos about 3/4 the way up and around the rocky viewing areas. I didn't arrive at sunset or rise, so I can't account for that aspect. But I found some of the other viewpoints in the area equally pretty, so I probably wouldn't go out of my way for these. And, I enjoyed the setting of the botanical preserve trails below much better. Still yet, I'm sure it would've been a different experience during the right time of day.

Loved this place! It's a half mile walk in a gravel road but to be able to watch the sunset was so…read morebeautiful!! Will definitely be back.

If you like history, you should definitely check out Silvermont. It's amazing how they are…read moreutilizing this historic mansion. You can take a tour of the preserved second floor. Please note, the tours are at select times on certain days. lol. We totally lucked out. The bottom has been converted to a senior center. What an amazing place for them to gather. There is a very short 1/2 mile paved path around the property. It was a very nice walk. I'm glad we had the opportunity to check this place out.

Dog bags? Check. Interesting swings, including a wheelchair one? Check. Free and well-used…read moretennis courts? Check, but maybe not for long. Clean restrooms, too. This treat of a place is a great resource for the city and visitors. The interior needs love, and currently looks like a turf war is going on.

THE FIRST THING YOU NEED TO KNOW is this is one of the most uniquely beautiful waterfalls I've ever…read morehad the pleasure of visiting in the South, but it is not for the casual hiker. You absolutely need a basic understanding of how to follow blazes and navigate faint areas of the trail that might be overgrown. You also need to be in fairly good physical shape, because this trail is a WORKOUT... but the payoff is so worth it!!! ***** We completed our hike on Saturday 11/12/2022. While most other website reviews say they didn't encounter any other hikers, we actually came across several. At the falls we met a famous hiker and his crew repelling down the vertical drop section of Flat Creek Falls. I was kinda fanboying in the moment because I've used a number of his hiking notes over the years to guide me to many of the more difficult and less populated trails. On our return hike we also encounter THREE other couples separately headed to the falls. Must have been something in the air that day!!! It rained most of the week prior to our hike, so the falls were flowing nicely. But unfortunately the rain knocked all the remaining fall leaves off the trees, so my photos weren't as fall-tacular as I was hoping. The trail itself is rather boring with no scenic views other than the steep downhill section within the last mile where you can get a glimpse of Bear Lake. It can be a rather tricky trail to follow, but there are enough blazes to keep you on track. This is the first trail of hundreds that I've hiked where strips of a terrycloth towel were used as blaze markers... LOL! But hey, they were REALLY helpful! [ NOTES ] * Flat Creek Falls is broken into sections. The main visible fall is a sheer freefall of about 100 feet. Next it cascades heavily down the mountain, lengthening its overall look. Above the waterfall and out of view is another 30+ feet of sliding cascades, adding to its overall height. A drone would allow the best pic of the full glory of this waterfall. Check out this drone video by Seth Hogan: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nT9TiFQtNgE * Lots of blown down trees to climb over/around. * THIS IS A WET HIKE!!! There is almost no way of avoiding getting your shoes or boots wet, so bring extra socks and shoes for the ride home. * Trail can get a little tricky in parts for inexperienced hikers even with the blazes, so be sure to download the offline map. * ALLTRAILS map ends at the lowest decent viewing point. You will still need to boulder jump several more yards to get the best vantage point. * VERY surprised by the "WARNING: BEAR SANCTUARY" markers along the steep downhill section of the trail. * Don't miss NELLIE FALLS which can be accessed along a spur trail near the parking area. DO NOT FOLLOW the wide Flat Creek Road trail. It does not lead to Nellie Falls. Instead, find an unmarked opening in the trees about 100 feet from the parking area AFTER crossing the creek . It looks rather sketchy but follow this trail. It will split in about 1/3rd of a mile and you will continue on the left trail that goes downhill. Once you reach Nellie Falls, you must cross through the river and continue the trail up the left side of a very large boulder to get the best view of Nellie. The hike to Nellie will add about 2 miles to your overall Flat Creek Falls hiking distance. [ NAVIGATION NOTES ] DO NOT... I REPEAT... DO NOT USE GPS NAVIGATION through Panthertown along Forrest Service Road 4670. You WILL NOT get through! Instead, use Hwy 281 to Rock Bridge Rd. The parking area will be at the end of Rock Bridge Road. Also, it is important to download this trail map prior to arriving. Mobile coverage is very weak past Lake Toxaway: https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/north-carolina/flat-creek-road-flat-creek-falls/print?grid_format=decimal&map_center_lat=35.2159563039431&map_center_lon=-83.03239512200847&map_type=alltrailsOutdoorsV2&map_zoom=14.007959882271786&paper_orientation=portrait&paper_size=letter [ FINAL THOUGHTS ] Maybe it is because I haven't hiked much this year and I'm no longer in hiking shape, but this trail really burned out my legs. I don't remember being this exhausted after a hike since I did Mounte LeConte in Gatlinburg via Alum Cave Trail. ALLTRAILS lists the hiking distance @ 5.8 miles round trip, but I don't believe that is accurate. My iPhone walking tracker logged me at 11.1 miles for the day (which also included the 2 miles round trip to Nellie Falls). Other than walking to my truck in my driveway, inside a restaurant after the hike, and to my shower when I got home... I did no other walking that day. TOTAL HIKE TIME - 5 hours 15 minutes It was a blessing to witness these two spectacular natural piece of art with my own eyes. They've been on my list for the past year and did not disappoint! Thank you Jess L for always being willing to tackle ANY trail with me! 2022 / 116

Big thanks to Richard R. for adding this one that did not come up in the usual searches and yet, it…read morewas the main reason I passed through the DuPont Forest. I love bridges and I love covered bridges even more! And wow, thanks for the amazing writeup of all the drama on this property that was an eye-opener. I parked the van at the High Falls Trailhead (there are restrooms and even a wifi here!) and made my way along the trail to the bridge. It's about 0.75 of a mile on a path through the woods. I am apparently not as delicious as usual as I earned zero mosquito bites despite sweating a lot in the humidity. I'd call this walk "easy plus." The bridge itself is impressive and quite modern. And I would suggest not missing the nearby Falls though I was simply too tired and it was getting too late for me. I'll need to plan better next time! The walk back was much easier as I opted to take the gravel road that is easy and smooth, but only open for emergency vehicles and the forest rangers. I would rate the hike as "easy" for 0.6 miles though not wheelchairable. You can ask the rangers for access by vehicle for handicapped but they're only open regular hours. [Review 20030 overall - 3463 in North Carolina - 1005 of 2023.]

High Falls Covered Bridge (also known as Buck Forest Covered Bridge) is one of my favorite bridges…read morein the Southern United States. It is a modern structure that has an interesting history. It is an example of the power of the people versus the dollar power of a developer. HISTORY In 1999, Sterling Diagnostic Imaging decided to sell their interest in the land that holds Triple Falls and High Falls, two of the most gorgeous waterfalls you will ever visit this side of the Mississippi. For reasons still unknown, the company decided to use an unusual bidding method by choosing to keep the bidding private and secretive. The State offered up a bid in efforts to save the land for public use, but Sterling announced a developer by the name of Jim Anthony won with a bid of 6.35 million. The developer initially announced in the Hendersonville Times News that he had no plans to develop the land, but instead wanted to use it as a private retreat. However, it soon became apparent Anthony was indeed planning a massive upscale gated community. The fact that the deed he purchased from Sterling Diagnostics stating the land could not be used for residential purposes at the Transylvania Courthouse did not seem to matter. It was later discovered the complex legal agreement between the two was unenforceable and the battle began between the state and Anthony. Anthony proceeded to begin building the roads and this gorgeous covered bridge as part of his planned community, but thankfully he was ultimately defeated. On October 23, 2000 Governor Jim Hunt and the Council of State unanimously voted to invoke eminent domain on the tract of land owned by developer Anthony. In many ways Anthony still won big, because the State paid him 24.5 million dollars in an out of court settlement. WOW! The Falls opened to the public on December 17, 2000. Since then, the entire 2200 acres has been integrated into Dupont State Forest. [History Reference: Romantic Asheville - "How Dupont State Forest was saved"] FINAL THOUGHTS Aside from being one of the most beautiful covered bridges you will ever see, it also is part of a trail system that includes arguably the most beautiful waterfalls in the South. If that is not enough of a reason to come here, let me give you movie fans one more reason. Many scenes from the 1st Hunger Games were filmed right here in this forest. The scene were Katniss finds Peeta camouflaged in the ground at the waterfall is located on the second tier of Triple Falls... just a half mile downstream of High Falls Covered Bridge. Movie scene: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UxvyMiwhJWw Year Built: 2000 Obvious materials: Wood, stone, concrete Spans over: Little River at the top of High Falls Location: Dupont State Forest @ Buck Forest Road

ONION FALLS is not a destination waterfall. Why you ask? Because it is primarily a spillway for the…read moreLake Glenville Dam in North Carolina and its orientation and property restrictions make it difficult to view. In fact, it is waterfalls like this that have given rise to my desire for a drone. Apparently this is not the original Onion Falls. When the river was impounded in the 1940's, the first waterfall was covered over by the dam according to some sources. Still, mapmakers used the same name for the new waterfall location. The name is inspired by the look of the water as it cascades over the round rock surface and gives the appearance of the skin of a white onion. Based on topography maps, the crest of Onion Falls lies just beyond the dam floodgates at around 3,485 feet and falls like a giant waterslide to its base around 3,245 feet, making the total overall height around 240 feet. *** PRO TIP - There is a small parking area near the dam power house, but signs restrict anyone from following the service road down to the base of the falls. The signs warn of police arrest if caught trespassing, so I took heed despite my overwhelming temptation to risk it! THEE BEST VIEW will be just beyond the dam where a small pull-off across from the lake leads to a trail that allows for a distant view of the falls. You will see a metered power box and two metal poles to mark the beginning of the short trail. It also appears possible to bushwhack to the falls by following the river upstream from the High Falls trail, but not sure that is advisable considering the trespass warnings. *** [ THINGS TO KNOW ] Total Hiking Distance: 200 feet Difficulty: Super Easy Creek Crossings: NO Elevation Gain: maybe 10 feet Waterfall Height: around 240 feet overall Waterfall source: West Fork Tuckasegee River WATERFALL ATTRACTIVENESS - 7 out of 10 TRAIL ATTRACTIVENESS - 5 out of 10 Access to top of falls: NO Access to base of falls: NO (heavily restricted) Pool of water @ base of Falls: NO Sitting areas @ base: N/A RESTROOM FACILITIES: NO PARKING: YES (space for about 5 cars) *** [ FINAL THOUGHTS ] While the falls flow is heavily restricted by the dam, the gates have scheduled releases at least 4 times a year making this waterfall a BEAST!!! I highly recommend looking up the "bypass" release dates and planning a trip accordingly for the best and most spectacular look of the falls. On those dates, use Onion Falls as a bonus waterfall as you hike to nearby High Falls downstream. Both High Falls and Onion Falls go from attractive to flat out stunning during the dam release. I HIGHLY RECOMMEND visiting on those dates! Also be sure to check out the The Pines Recreation Area to make it a full day of hiking, waterfall chasing and beach fun and on the opposite side of the lake is Hurricane Falls for a little more waterfall exploration! 2021 / 84

My husband and I almost skipped the Biltmore because we thought maybe too touristy, but that would…read morehave been a huge mistake because it ended up being one of my favorite stops in Asheville. I even found myself wishing we stayed at the Biltmore Inn so we could wake up and enjoy the beauty everyday in Asheville. We visited during Luminere, which is a new attraction where the Biltmore estate and gardens basically light up after 9pm. We got there a few hours earlier to enjoy the grounds, do some wine tasting (lines too long so just purchased some wine instead) and take in a beautiful sunset. It really is the most gorgeous place to watch a sunset. Luminere began with a light show that shared the history of the Biltmore Estate which i found pretty interesting. Then we walked thru the gardens, which was all lit up similar to what i've experienced at many botanical gardens during the holidays. It was a gorgeous night, a beautiful show and a great way to get our steps in. I think visiting the Biltmore any time of day would be special, but this was an extra fun way to see it!

This had been on my bucket list a long time and while everyone has a different opinion of the tour,…read moreI LOVED every minute I was in there. Being a history and architectural enthusiast, along with being obsessed with this time period, it was amazing to walk through every room and envision what it was like during the time they lived there and marvel at the construction and invention. I highly suggest touring it if you haven't. NOTE: I hear Christmas is spectacular there!

This is a brand new sculpture in downtown Asheville that is now dubbed 'The Buskers Corner'…read more As the plaque says this sculpture was inspired by Asheville's vibrant street musicians and lively drum circles. I really like what this sculpture encapsulates. The artists Chukk Bruursema and Ash Knight did a phenomenal job! Love that they incorporated the dog as Asheville is a dog town!! Stop by and check it out!