Country Roads

CURRENT Country Roads

Joel Ridge Nature Preserve near Lake Lure is a recent protection by Conserving Carolina.

Conserving Carolina Reaches 50,000-Acre Milestone

The nonprofit Conserving Carolina organization is celebrating reaching a milestone of 50,000 acres protected across western North Carolina and upstate South Carolina.
skywatch

January/February Skywatch: Is the Brightest Star the Closest?

Stars are without a doubt far, even the closest ones.
Mountain Lake Lodge with Salt Pond Pub

Virginia’s Mountain Lake Lodge Earns Historic Hotels of America Induction

Mountain Lake Lodge, which debuted in 1851 as Salt Pond, has been inducted into Historic Hotels of America.
The Ecusta Trail’s first section connects Hendersonville with Horse Shoe, North Carolina.

New North Carolina Rail Trail: Ecusta’s First Six Miles are Open

The trail will eventually connect Hendersonville and Brevard.
skywatch

November/December Skywatch: Spy a Galaxy Not Our Own

The early sunsets of November and December make it convenient to gaze at the stars on a cold, clear evening.

Departments

Knoxville Asian Festival, August 29-30,  Knoxville, Tennessee. Photo courtesy of Asian Culture Center of TN
Events

Fall 2026 Festivals & Events Guide

From the Virginias and the Carolinas to Georgia, Tennessee, and Kentucky, our annual compendium is the perfect travel companion. Inside,

4th of July Parade & Festival, July 4, Blowing Rock, North Carolina.
Events

Summer 2026 Festivals & Events Guide

From the Virginias and the Carolinas to Georgia, Tennessee, and Kentucky, our annual compendium is the perfect travel companion. Inside,

CALENDAR OF EVENTS