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Behind Blue Ridge Country

CURRENT Behind Blue Ridge Country

November’s Blue Ridge Mountain Apple Profile: Stayman Winesap

The Stayman Winesap originated in Kansas in the mid-1800s, but it began to appear in our region late in that century and quickly became a fixture in highland orchards.

July’s Wild Edible: Cinnabar Chanterelles

If I hadn’t been scanning the ground for mushrooms, I likely would never have spotted one of the smallest – and tastiest - of the Blue Ridge Mountain’s edible fungi… the cinnabar chanterelle.

Fish the Blue Ridge Highlands of Virginia!

Welcome to the Blue Ridge Highlands of Virginia, home to some of the best and most diverse freshwater fishing in the state.

May’s Wild Edible: Dryad’s Saddle

Though most foragers concentrate on yellow and black morels, Dryad’s saddles are well worth pursuing, too.

June’s Mountain Wildflower: Wild Geranium

Take a close look at the petals of a wild geranium flower and you will see dark blue lines leading from the outer edge to the center of the blossom.

Current Issue

Stayman Winesap apples are a heritage Blue Ridge apple.

November’s Blue Ridge Mountain Apple Profile: Stayman Winesap

The Stayman Winesap originated in Kansas in the mid-1800s, but it began to appear in our region late in that century and quickly became a fixture in highland orchards.
Cinnabar chanterelles growing in a Roanoke County, Virginia hardwood stand.

July’s Wild Edible: Cinnabar Chanterelles

If I hadn’t been scanning the ground for mushrooms, I likely would never have spotted one of the smallest – and tastiest - of the Blue Ridge Mountain’s edible fungi… the cinnabar chanterelle.
Matt Reilly fly fishing

Fish the Blue Ridge Highlands of Virginia!

Welcome to the Blue Ridge Highlands of Virginia, home to some of the best and most diverse freshwater fishing in the state.
Dryad’s Saddle found growing in Monroe County, West Virginia

May’s Wild Edible: Dryad’s Saddle

Though most foragers concentrate on yellow and black morels, Dryad’s saddles are well worth pursuing, too.
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June’s Mountain Wildflower: Wild Geranium

Take a close look at the petals of a wild geranium flower and you will see dark blue lines leading from the outer edge to the center of the blossom.
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Departments

Smith Mountain Lake Virginia is a hidden gem within the Blue Ridge Mountains. This beautiful area features boating, sailing, hiking, shopping, fishing, and much more.
From The Editor

Sarah Smiles: The Lake Effect

Growing up, many of my weekends were spent at my late step-grandmother’s house on Smith Mountain Lake in Virginia.

June 26, 2026

CALENDAR OF EVENTS