March 2020

Two of Molly Dugger Brennan's rescue dogs, Squirrel and Biscuit

The Good Mountain Mutt: New Pup – Now What?

The first installment of a new Blue Ridge Country blog, from an expert.
The view from Fullers Rocks onto the James River and, beyond on the horizon, Apple Orchard Mountain.

The Fine View from Fullers Rocks

Hike, March 1, 2020: Little Rocky Row Trail to Appalachian Trail to Fullers Rocks and back. 6.2 miles.
Farmer and author Evan Willams’ orchard grows heirloom apples.

Evan Williams: Grafting Trees and Drafting Fiction

For Henderson County apple-farmer-turned-novelist Evan Williams, a lifetime in the orchard yields a bounty of stories.
The Market Street Bridge and downtown Chattanooga reflect on a calm-surfaced Tennessee River.

7 Rich and Rewarding River Walks in the Blue Ridge

Our walks columnist and his wife have done the homework for your enjoyment of these fulfilling wanders along the riverside.
Newfound Gap to Charlies Bunion: Follow U.S. 441 south from Gatlinburg, Tennessee, to the Newfound Gap parking area in Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Take the A.T. 4.1 miles to Charlies Bunion. The first 2.5 miles is rather difficult with a large elevation gain, rocks and roots. The remaining 1.6 miles along the ridge line offers beautiful views of the forest and of the Smokies. Once you reach Charlies Bunion, be cautious of the drop-offs on each side as you take in one of the most iconic views of the A.T.

Photo Essay: Appalachian Trail Beauty Spots

C’mon along as we head out for some of the best views on the Tennessee/North Carolina section of the Great Trail.

Departments

Behind Blue Ridge Country

Even More Sweet Virginia Breezes

Casually cruising to Claytor Lake in southwest Virginia, I felt like I had come home – back to where it

CALENDAR OF EVENTS