A local compares Black Balsam and Shortoff Mountain sunsets—two iconic WNC hikes with unexpectedly chaotic vibes, weddings, parties, and unforgettable views.
Tag: nature
Lessons From My First Full-Moon Hike in Western North Carolina
I finally checked “full moon hike” off my Western North Carolina bucket list with a nighttime trek up Black Balsam. Here’s what I learned about timing, trails, and how to make a full moon hike actually magical.
A Sunrise at Mt LeConte
After getting laid off at a Virginia rest stop, I hiked to watch the sunrise at Mt. LeConte. Reflections on layoffs, friendship, and the kind of clarity only the Smokies can give you.
I Woke Up Early to Catch a Smoky Mountain Sunrise, and All I Got Was This Gloomy Photo
I woke up to see a gorgeous Smoky Mountains sunrise, but nature had other plans.
A Solo Sunset at Sam’s Knob
Sam’s Knob might be the best place in Western North Carolina (and Asheville-adjacent) to get a mountain sunset all to yourself.
Nature is Terrifying
If I had to pick what my biggest takeaway from Helene was, it’s not anything about climate change ignorance, the … More
Embracing Hiking Mediocrity at Lunch Rocks
I’ve confessed before to becoming a bit of a hiking snob lately. I’m pretty vocal about differentiating between “hikes” and … More
Sometimes Nature Isn’t Great, aka My Thoughts on Why Bugs Suck, Featuring a Hike to Pisgah Forest’s Twin Falls and Whaleback Swimming Hole (Both of Which are Great)
On a hike to Pisgah Forest’s Twin Falls, I bitch about how nature isn’t always relaxing.
AshevilleExplorer 