A giant salamander has been lurking in the rivers and streams of Appalachia for more than a hundred million years.  And in just the last few years – after surviving one of the worst hurricanes in decades – they've become a local symbol of pride.

This episode was produced in partnership with Visit N… A giant salamander has been lurking in the rivers and streams of Appalachia for more than a hundred million years.  And in just the last few years – after surviving one of the worst hurricanes in decades – they've become a local symbol of pride.

This episode was produced in partnership with Visit North Carolina.

We always want to hear from you! If you have a question or story for us, give us a call at 315-992-7902 and leave a message, or send an email to [email protected]. more

This story is about a heist that took place back in 2013 – not at a museum, or a gallery, or a royal palace, but at a garden. What these thieves were after… were Venus Fly Traps. We visit the Stanley Rehder Carnivorous Plant Garden in Wilmington, North Carolina to learn about plants that eat meat, a… This story is about a heist that took place back in 2013 – not at a museum, or a gallery, or a royal palace, but at a garden. What these thieves were after… were Venus Fly Traps. We visit the Stanley Rehder Carnivorous Plant Garden in Wilmington, North Carolina to learn about plants that eat meat, a venus fly trap lover with a vanity license plate, and the shocking $20,000 heist that’s still an unsolved mystery. more

This week, we're honored to welcome Justin Tucker from the North Carolina Outward Bound School. Growing up as a city kid in Baltimore, Justin's path seemed set: fashion industry, New York City life, the whole nine yards. But after losing a close friend, something shifted. That grief led him to a tra… This week, we're honored to welcome Justin Tucker from the North Carolina Outward Bound School. Growing up as a city kid in Baltimore, Justin's path seemed set: fashion industry, New York City life, the whole nine yards. But after losing a close friend, something shifted. That grief led him to a trailhead in the Bronx, and that first hike sparked a transformation that would reshape his entire life.

Justin takes us through his remarkable journey from fashion professional to Appalachian Trail through-hiker to wilderness educator. He describes that pivotal moment on the AT when he met two fellow hikers who planted a seed: the realization that he, too, could attempt something extraordinary. That encounter, combined with the pandemic's forced reset, gave him the push he needed to spend six months walking from Georgia to Maine, ultimately discovering his calling with Outward Bound.

In this episode, we explore the unique world of guiding students through the Florida Everglades (a first for Inspire Campfire). We discuss the profound transformations that happen when young people step outside their comfort zones, the magic of the solo experience, and how Justin's own journey from concrete jungle to mangrove tunnels mirrors the growth he now facilitates in others. Join us for an inspiring conversation about finding purpose through wilderness, the healing power of nature, and what it truly means to become comfortable being uncomfortable. more

This week, we're honored to welcome Austin Whitehead from Salt Lake City, Utah, who made a pivotal decision 15 years ago that would shape the entire trajectory of his life. Growing up in suburban Charlotte, North Carolina, Austin felt the pull of something beyond the traditional path: a calling to s… This week, we're honored to welcome Austin Whitehead from Salt Lake City, Utah, who made a pivotal decision 15 years ago that would shape the entire trajectory of his life. Growing up in suburban Charlotte, North Carolina, Austin felt the pull of something beyond the traditional path: a calling to step away, explore, and discover who he truly was before diving into college.

Austin takes us on a journey through his transformative gap year, from that first step onto the Appalachian Trail as an 18-year-old, to working on organic farms in the Italian Dolomites, to returning as a caretaker at a legendary trail hostel. He describes those pivotal moments: breathing in the mountain air, finding simplicity in the rhythm of walking, and meeting people from all walks of life. These experiences gave him the context and confidence to pursue a life aligned with his deepest values.

In this episode, we explore the profound power of the intentional pause, the difference between falling behind and gaining clarity, and how Austin's deliberate choice to take a gap year became an accelerator rather than a detour. Join us for a deep and moving conversation about listening to your inner compass, the medicine of moving your body in nature with others, and what it truly means to figure it out as you go, one adventure at a time. more

What if the best hikes in America’s national parks aren’t the ones you’ve already heard of?

Jason Frye is a travel and outdoor writer who grew up in the mountains of West Virginia and now lives in North Carolina near the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. His latest book with Moon Travel Guides, … What if the best hikes in America’s national parks aren’t the ones you’ve already heard of?

Jason Frye is a travel and outdoor writer who grew up in the mountains of West Virginia and now lives in North Carolina near the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. His latest book with Moon Travel Guides, USA National Parks Hiking: The Top 100 Trails, covers 100 hikes across 40 U.S. national parks.

Jason takes us through some of the best hikes in America’s national parks, broken down into three helpful categories: the iconic must‑do trails where the views are legendary but the crowds may be heavy, the lesser‑known trails inside the big parks where you can find solitude without sacrificing scenery, and the true hidden gems tucked away in lesser‑visited parks waiting to be discovered. 

Whether you’re an experienced hiker or someone who just wants to get outside and explore nature, Jason shares practical tips on how to avoid crowds, pick a hike that fits your comfort level, and get the most out of your park visit. 

Plus, we have part one of our bonus three-part mini series, Best in Travel Tech!

What’s the best hike you’ve ever done in a national park, and what made it memorable for you? I'd love to hear what about it, and I hope you’ll share by sending me an audio message.

Tune In To Learn:


Why hiking down into a surreal red-rock landscape full of spires and silence can feel like a private wilderness escape


Why the right timing in one of the most visited parks in the country can make all the difference 


Why the annual U.S. National Parks pass is still one of the best travel deals in America


How to identify lesser­crowded trails in major parks, and what to do when you arrive and the parking lot is full.


Safety tips for extreme terrain, wild weather, and remote locations that catch many hikers off guard


Why “just try” might be the most important mindset to take into the backcountry


A short trail that leads to an unforgettable view, yet barely anyone talks about


Why national parks aren’t just about nature—they’re also about culture, history and the stories of people and place beneath the landscapes.


Which resources Jason uses to scout, prep, and get the most out of every national park trip


And so much more

Resources:


Sign up for our FREE newsletter


Moon US National Parks Hiking: The Top 100 Trails


Jason on Instagram


National Park Service


Recreation.gov 


AllTrails


Google Explore

Want More?


Hiking the West Highland Way in Scotland with Lynne Nieman


A 2,190+ Mile Mother-Son Adventure: Thru-Hiking the Appalachian Trail after a Decade of Nomadic Family Travel with Jessica and Largo Sueiro


How to Plan Your Camino + Going Beyond the Camino Frances (Secret Routes, Donkey Highways, and Spain’s Hidden Village Network) with Shawn and Lainey

Thanks To Our Sponsors



Holafly - Get 10% off your annual Holafly eSIM with code “ZEROTOTRAVEL”



Turkish Airlines Series - Listen to the podcast on Apple and Spotify


Moon Travel Guides: USA National Parks Hiking - Use code ‘ZERO’ for 20% off your order of Moon’s latest book and other guides.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices more

This week, we're honored to welcome Kijuan Amey, a resilient Air Force veteran, motivational speaker, and author of “Don’t Focus on Why Me.” Raised in Durham, North Carolina, Kijuan’s adventurous spirit and drive led him to serve as an in-flight fueling specialist in the United States Air Force, and… This week, we're honored to welcome Kijuan Amey, a resilient Air Force veteran, motivational speaker, and author of “Don’t Focus on Why Me.” Raised in Durham, North Carolina, Kijuan’s adventurous spirit and drive led him to serve as an in-flight fueling specialist in the United States Air Force, and to pursue entrepreneurial and academic goals. But everything changed in an instant when a motorcycle accident left him blind and facing a long, difficult recovery.

Kijuan takes us on a powerful journey through his transformation from independent achiever to someone forced to confront unimaginable loss—and ultimately, to a passionate advocate for overcoming adversity. He shares the pivotal moment in his hospital bed when, after questioning “Why me?”, he found a new sense of purpose and faith, choosing not to let his accident define him. Instead, Kijuan embraced his love of music, especially drumming, as a source of healing and self-expression, and discovered new ways to participate fully in life.

In this episode, we explore the depths of resilience, the importance of community and faith, and how Kijuan’s story inspires others to move beyond a victim mindset. Through vulnerability and humor, he reveals how he rebuilt his life, found meaning in empowering others who feel lost, and continues to break barriers as a speaker, coach, and adaptive athlete. Join us for an uplifting conversation about finding strength in the face of darkness, redefining what’s possible, and living with intention—no matter the challenges life brings. more

We’re celebrating the start of summer with refreshing beers from Munich and Berlin in Germany as well as Santa Fe, New Mexico and Asheville, North Carolina. Brent samples suds from beer halls in Munich and craft beer brewers in Asheville. Plus spicy tacos with local beer, tropical IPA, an ale trail,… We’re celebrating the start of summer with refreshing beers from Munich and Berlin in Germany as well as Santa Fe, New Mexico and Asheville, North Carolina. Brent samples suds from beer halls in Munich and craft beer brewers in Asheville. Plus spicy tacos with local beer, tropical IPA, an ale trail, and much more! [Ep 340]

Show Notes:

Destination Eat Drink foodie travel guide ebooks

Stu Helm Food Fan

Rick Kaempfer’s blog

Eckhartz Press

Darley Newman and Travels with Darley

Walk With Us Tours in Berlin more

This week, we're honored to welcome Zack Luttrell, an entrepreneur, adventurer, and community builder from Charlotte, North Carolina. Growing up with an event planner mother, Zack developed an early talent for bringing people together that eventually evolved into something deeper—a calling to create… This week, we're honored to welcome Zack Luttrell, an entrepreneur, adventurer, and community builder from Charlotte, North Carolina. Growing up with an event planner mother, Zack developed an early talent for bringing people together that eventually evolved into something deeper—a calling to create authentic experiences that connect people through shared passion.

Zack takes us on a journey through his transformation from corporate employee to visionary business owner. He describes that pivotal moment when, after losing his job during the recession, he turned his casual hobby of organizing Panthers fan events into a thriving community called Roaring Riot. What began as coordinating travel packages for friends to away games soon blossomed into a movement with thousands of members, dedicated tailgates, and international travel experiences that players themselves recognize from the field.

In this episode, we explore his latest breathtaking venture—purchasing and restoring the historic SV Mandalay, a 102-year-old sailing cruise ship with a remarkable pedigree that once belonged to E.F. Hutton and his wife Marjorie Merriweather Post. Join us for a deep and moving conversation about betting on yourself, the importance of authentic human connection, and what it truly means to build community around the things you love—whether it's football fandom or sailing the Caribbean seas in board shorts instead of suits. more

Rising sea levels, stronger storms, eroding shorelines, and sinking terrain are taking a toll on the fragile ecosystems and historic resources at Cape Lookout National Seashore on the Outer Banks of North Carolina.  A new study by the U.S. Geological Survey takes a close look at these threats and pr… Rising sea levels, stronger storms, eroding shorelines, and sinking terrain are taking a toll on the fragile ecosystems and historic resources at Cape Lookout National Seashore on the Outer Banks of North Carolina.  A new study by the U.S. Geological Survey takes a close look at these threats and predicts how they will impact the national seashore over the coming years.
 
Climate change impacts are happening across the country, reaching into most, if not all, units of the National Park System. Sea level rise is particularly concerning because you just can't up and move a park, and if that park is on an island, well, high water is coming.
 
This week the Traveler's Lynn Riddick talks with Cape Lookout Superintendent Jeff West and authors of the USGS study about the challenges the National Park Service faces in creating sustainable coastal management practices for Cape Lookout. more

This week on the podcast, we’re bringing you a powerful episode centered on compassionate leadership, belonging, social awareness, moral courage, and driving social change. These values are at the heart of the Charlotte Unity Project by the North Carolina Outward Bound School—a transformative initia… This week on the podcast, we’re bringing you a powerful episode centered on compassionate leadership, belonging, social awareness, moral courage, and driving social change. These values are at the heart of the Charlotte Unity Project by the North Carolina Outward Bound School—a transformative initiative that begins with a free 7-day wilderness program for 48 high school students from 8 diverse schools across Charlotte, North Carolina.

In this program, students develop technical skills, engage in deep, meaningful conversations, and cultivate leadership and problem-solving abilities. Upon returning to school, they’re encouraged to join their high school’s Unity Club to share their insights, inspire peers, and make impactful contributions to their communities.

You might remember episode 44, where Charlotte Program Manager Alexys Woods shared her journey with Outward Bound and her leadership of the Unity Project. Today, we’re thrilled to welcome three incredible recent participants of the program. These inspiring high school student leaders will share their transformative experiences and the impact the Unity Project has had on their lives.

Please listen, subscribe, and share! more

Hello and welcome to Episode 166 with Chris and Ellen, who are YouTubers, travel creators and friends of mine who I met this year at TravelCon. They are based in Asheville, and a caveat for this episode is that this was recorded before the devastating floods this year, so please bear in mind some of… Hello and welcome to Episode 166 with Chris and Ellen, who are YouTubers, travel creators and friends of mine who I met this year at TravelCon. They are based in Asheville, and a caveat for this episode is that this was recorded before the devastating floods this year, so please bear in mind some of the information relayed may not be true anymore, which is super sad. However, this is a fun episode with lots of laughs, tips, travel content ideas and a new launch of their product, Apear. This is a sustainable travel blanket found on the link below.

In this conversation, Chris and Ellen discuss their travel experiences and their love for Asheville, North Carolina. They talk about the unique characteristics of Asheville, such as its artsy and hippie vibe, its music scene, and its reputation as a beer city. They also touch on the myths and legends surrounding the Appalachian Mountains and the ghost tours in Asheville.

Chris and Ellen share their childhood travel experiences and how they developed a love for exploring new places. They discuss their travel philosophy, which includes a mix of budget travel and splurging on bucket list trips. They also talk about their work-life balance while traveling and the activities they enjoy, such as taking walking tours, visiting museums, and exploring local coffee shops and thrift stores. Chris and Ellen discuss their favorite travel destinations, including France and Scotland. They talk about the different regions of France they have visited, such as Normandy, the Loire Valley, and Alsace. They appreciate the food, culture, and slow pace of life in France. In Scotland, they enjoy exploring the west coast, including Loch Lomond and Inverness. They mention the NC 500 and the Hebrides as popular destinations in Scotland.

They also share their experiences at the Olympics and their love for competitive sports. Ellen and Hammo discuss their favorite cities and regions to visit, including Edinburgh and Glasgow in Scotland, New England in the United States, and Prince Edward Island in Canada. They highlight the unique characteristics and attractions of each place, such as the mix of grit and academia in Edinburgh, the gothic architecture and live music scene in Glasgow, the colonial charm and seafood of New England, and the beautiful landscapes and historic sites of Prince Edward Island.

They also discuss their methods of documenting their travels, including voice notes and filming videos for their YouTube channel. Ellen and Hammo discuss their approach to travel and the importance of enjoying the moment. They emphasize the need to balance content creation with personal experiences and memories. They also share their house-sitting experiences and how it has allowed them to save money and have unique travel opportunities.

They discuss their travel philosophy and the types of travel they enjoy, as well as their upcoming travel plans. In this final part of the conversation, Chris and Ellen discuss their favorite countries, places they didn't like, favorite landmarks, and their advice for nervous travelers. They also share their favorite places to drink coffee and discuss the importance of stepping out of your comfort zone and embracing new experiences.

Apear - A Sustainable Travel Blanket

Amazon

Chris and Ellen

YouTube

Instagram

Website

Winging It Travel Podcast

Website

Review - Please leave a review and rating wherever you get your podcasts!

Winging It Travel Podcast Credits

Host/Producer/Creator/Writer/Composer/Editor - James Hammond

Contact me - [email protected] 

Social Media - follow me on:

Instagram

TikTok 

Facebook 

Support My Podcast - Memberships

Patreon - Here

Buy Me A Coffee - Here

Support My Podcast - Affiliate Links 

If you click one of the below to book something, I get a tiny commission, which helps the podcast.

Book Flights with Skyscanner - Here 

Use Revolut Travel Card - Here

Book Your E-Sim With GigSky - Here

Book Hostels With Hostelworld - Here

Booking.com - Here

Book Experiences With Viator - Here

Discovery Car Hire - Here

Book Buses With Busbud - Here

Book Trains With Trainline - Here

Travel Insurance with SafetyWing - Here

Book Flights With Expedia Canada - Here

Merch Store - Here

Buy my Digital Travel Planner - Here

Thanks for supporting me and the podcast! Happy travels and listening!

Cheers, James.

Mentioned in this episode:

Check out the Smart Travel Podcast

This week's show is supported by the new Smart Travel Podcast. Travel smarter — and spend less — with help from NerdWallet. Check out Smart Travel at the Link below:

Smart Travel Podcast

Check out all of our other travel podcasts from around the world

This podcast is part of Voyascape, a podcast network that brings together the world's best travel podcasts. You can find all of our podcasts from around the world at Voyascape.com.

If you are interested in advertising or sponsored content on any of our shows you can find out more at the link below more

This week on the Inspire Campfire podcast, we’re excited to welcome Mary "Newfound" Leavines, a storyteller, writer, photographer, and the owner of a popular hostel for thru-hikers along the Appalachian Trail. Mary’s journey to the AT began with an inciting incident that set her on a path of self-di… This week on the Inspire Campfire podcast, we’re excited to welcome Mary "Newfound" Leavines, a storyteller, writer, photographer, and the owner of a popular hostel for thru-hikers along the Appalachian Trail. Mary’s journey to the AT began with an inciting incident that set her on a path of self-discovery—one that led her to thru-hike the trail in 2022. During her time on the trail, she not only reconnected with her inner self but also rewrote her own story. Now, back home in Franklin, North Carolina, Mary has purchased a hostel to stay closely connected to the trail and provide a supportive space for fellow hikers.

Join us as we dive into Mary’s transformative adventure and explore how the call to adventure often begins with a single, life-changing moment. Her journey is a testament to how embracing the unknown can help us discover what truly matters.

Please listen, subscribe, and share! more

The coastal town of Rodanthe, North Carolina is just a small spot on the map, but it's a big place in the hearts of the people who live, own property, and vacation there. Located along Cape Hatteras National Seashore, Rodanthe has been in the national spotlight because of a succession of houses that… The coastal town of Rodanthe, North Carolina is just a small spot on the map, but it's a big place in the hearts of the people who live, own property, and vacation there. Located along Cape Hatteras National Seashore, Rodanthe has been in the national spotlight because of a succession of houses that have fallen into the Atlantic Ocean due to beach erosion. There have been ten houses affected in the past four years, and five this year alone. 

As the Traveler and other national media outlets have reported, every time a beach house succumbs to the sea, it creates a massive debris field that is carried down the shore for miles, posing serious hazards to people, flora and fauna alike. Residents have described the phenomenon as a slow-motion hurricane. 

In addition to the ongoing discussions about other at-risk houses, there is the very real issue of cleanup. The National Park Service brings in contractors who take out debris in truckloads, but that doesn't mean that local residents are just standing idly by. Recently Traveler correspondent Kim O'Connell had the pleasure of interviewing local Tom Brueckner the day before he was set to join a group of residents to do a big beach cleanup as part of the National Park Service's newly launched Adopt-A-Beach program. more

Let’s go on an adventure! This summer, we took a road trip through some of our favorite parks, plus we added in a few places we had never been to before. And now we want to take you along with us on this epic driving route!
Join us on a 10-day journey through the Tennessee, North Carolina, and Kentu… Let’s go on an adventure! This summer, we took a road trip through some of our favorite parks, plus we added in a few places we had never been to before. And now we want to take you along with us on this epic driving route!
Join us on a 10-day journey through the Tennessee, North Carolina, and Kentucky National Parks as we share all of the fun things you can do with your family in this area.
In this episode, we discuss: 
Our favorite things to do in Nashville
The best activity to do in Townsend (plus what to beware of!)
Navigating the craziness of Gatlinburg
Highlights of Great Smoky Mountains National Park 
Everything we loved about Blue Ridge Parkway
Eating our way through Asheville
Why the Biltmore is a must-see
Exciting tours of Mammoth Cave
There you have it—our 10-day summer road trip to some incredible national parks! 
We hope you enjoy this journey and that this episode gives you ideas for your own road trip through Tennessee, North Carolina, and Kentucky!
Don’t forget to complete your task for this week! This road trip covered Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the Blue Ridge Parkway, and Mammoth Cave. Which one is your favorite? Bonus points if you share pictures! Head over to the Dirt in My Shoes Facebook or Instagram page and let us know! 
Check out the full show notes here. more

In this week's episode, we’re joined by Michael McLaurin, a dedicated family man from Charlotte, North Carolina, who has a background in banking and operational risk. Michael’s story took an unexpected turn when, during the Covid lockdowns, he sought a new family activity that could break free from … In this week's episode, we’re joined by Michael McLaurin, a dedicated family man from Charlotte, North Carolina, who has a background in banking and operational risk. Michael’s story took an unexpected turn when, during the Covid lockdowns, he sought a new family activity that could break free from the constraints of the pandemic. This search led him to discover a newfound passion for sailing. Tune in to hear how Michael went from exploring his new interest to planning and executing a multi-day bareboat sailing expedition with his family, transforming a casual hobby into a remarkable adventure.

Please listen, subscribe, and share! more

There is never a shortage of stories to follow across the National Park System, whether you're in the West at Olympic National Park, the Northeast at Acadia National Park, or the Southwest at Grand Canyon National Park.
 
This week, Contributing Editor Kim O'Connell is down in North Carolina to spen… There is never a shortage of stories to follow across the National Park System, whether you're in the West at Olympic National Park, the Northeast at Acadia National Park, or the Southwest at Grand Canyon National Park.
 
This week, Contributing Editor Kim O'Connell is down in North Carolina to spend a few days at Cape Hatteras National Seashore, which has no shortage of news to report on, whether it's leatherback sea turtles nesting, the restoration of Cape Hatteras Light, or the collapse of houses into the Atlantic Ocean at Rodanthe.

Kim is working on a number of those stories for the Traveler, and we're going to check in with her today to learn what she's discovering.  more

Welcome to another inspiring episode. This week, we're thrilled to have Justin Rosales from Charlotte, North Carolina, share his incredible journey. Discover how a small-town boy came to believe that all things are possible and embarked on a life journey to prove it.

Justin is a strategist at Eleva… Welcome to another inspiring episode. This week, we're thrilled to have Justin Rosales from Charlotte, North Carolina, share his incredible journey. Discover how a small-town boy came to believe that all things are possible and embarked on a life journey to prove it.

Justin is a strategist at Elevation Church, a Christian entrepreneur, and co-author of "Becoming the Iceman," a book he wrote with the legendary Wim Hof. Justin's adventures have taken him to many far-off places with Wim as his guide, where he tested his limits and pushed past boundaries.

Tune in to hear a remarkable story about truly getting to know yourself through adversity and the realization that we're all capable of so much more than we ever imagined. This episode is a testament to the power of belief, resilience, and the extraordinary potential within us all.

Please listen, subscribe, and share! more

In this episode, we're joined by Sarah Goldman to talk about the sport of Adventure Racing, which is highlighted in the new movie, Arthur the King starring Mark Wahlberg. Sarah is the Community Programs Director for the North Carolina Outward Bound School, who has proudly served as a firefighter, po… In this episode, we're joined by Sarah Goldman to talk about the sport of Adventure Racing, which is highlighted in the new movie, Arthur the King starring Mark Wahlberg. Sarah is the Community Programs Director for the North Carolina Outward Bound School, who has proudly served as a firefighter, police officer, and adventure racing participant and coach.

The Adventure Racing World Championship takes teams on a journey in exotic locations through over 700 km of trekking, running, mountain biking, kayaking, rope work, and navigation.

Please listen, subscribe, and share! more

If you're looking for an awesome Christmas getaway, Asheville is the perfect destination! The weather is mild, the views are spectacular, and there are so many festive things to do with kids!

Definitely include the Biltmore Estate, the National Gingerbread House Competition at the Omni Grove Park I… If you're looking for an awesome Christmas getaway, Asheville is the perfect destination! The weather is mild, the views are spectacular, and there are so many festive things to do with kids!

Definitely include the Biltmore Estate, the National Gingerbread House Competition at the Omni Grove Park Inn, and a drive on the Blue Ridge Parkway.

Plus this episode shares a VERY unique stay we had in Asheville that would be SO fun for families!

Listen to find out the top things to do in Asheville with Kids this holiday season! 

Links mentioned in this episode:

Blog Post: Festive Things to Do in Asheville at Christmas with Kids

Video Guide to Biltmore with Kids: Instagram | TikTok

Zoe Tour+ Stroller: $15 off with this link

Going (formerly Scott's Cheap Flights): Sign Up Here

Instagram: @amomexplores 

TikTok: @amomexplores

A Mom Explores Blog more

Is there a more life-giving place than Great Smoky Mountain National Park? We don’t think there is! This is the time of year this park really shines, so in this episode, we are exploring everything the Smokies have to offer. 
We know that some of you are heading out there in the next few weeks to se… Is there a more life-giving place than Great Smoky Mountain National Park? We don’t think there is! This is the time of year this park really shines, so in this episode, we are exploring everything the Smokies have to offer. 
We know that some of you are heading out there in the next few weeks to see the fall colors, so we are excited to talk about and celebrate this beautiful national park with you!
Join us as we cover: 
Why this park is the most visited national park in America

The most popular part of this park that you don’t want to miss

Our favorite waterfall hike in this park

What you need to know about Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail

What we love about Gatlinburg

If you only have time for one trail, this is the one you want to do

What you need to know about the trails - and how to pronounce them

The diverse ecosystems in the park

What to check out on the North Carolina side of the park

The best way to get Smoky Mountain views

We hope you enjoyed exploring this stunning park with us! It is truly amazing, and it deserves all of the hype that it gets. There is so much magic in this park, and we know you’ll love it. 
If you want some help planning your trip to the Smokies and avoiding the massive crowds, grab your Great Smoky Mountains Itinerary before you go!
 
Check out the full show notes here. more