July 2021

Chimney Rock State Park’s signature formation is a nice match for the charming downtowns of Hendersonville and Black Mountain, North Carolina.

Top Town/Park Pairs: Population of 10,000-49,999

Our readers pick the top 10 trips to mountain towns with a nearby state park and populations between 10,000 and 49,999.
The rugged upper reaches of Grandfather Mountain State Park make a great pairing with Blowing Rock or Banner Elk, North Carolina.

Top 28 Mountain Town / State Park Trips In The Blue Ridge

Outdoor days and downtown stays: our readers pick the best trips to mountain towns with a nearby state park.
What’s a visit to Asheville, North Carolina without a stop at the Biltmore Estate?

Top Town/Park Pairs: Population 50,000+

Our readers pick the top 4 trips to mountain towns with a nearby state park and populations of over 50,000.
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Guest Column: The Magic of these Mountains

Rosey Santerre is the Pendleton County Service Forester with the West Virginia Division of Forestry. While not working, she enjoys spending time with her family, growing food and playing in the woods.
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From The Editor – Outdoors: Go Big, Go Long

Or go small and go short! That’s one of the many beauties of the Appalachian Trail through the Southern mountains—you can walk as little or as much as you like.

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