The 20 Best Cabin Rentals in Ellijay GA

Ellijay GA Cabin Rental -Stargazer

[Updated March 8, 2023] Known as “the Apple Capital of Georgia” for its ample apple-picking opportunities and apple-themed fall festivals, Ellijay has become one of the most popular mountain towns in Georgia. The weather in Ellijay is perfect for apple orchards, pumpkin patches, and wineries. And it’s close to both the town of Blue Ridge GA and the … Read more

20 Beautiful Birds of Virginia

Barn Owl in Virginia

There are nearly 500 species of birds in Virginia, including native species and migratory visitors. For fans of the feather– whether novices or serious birders– that makes for a lot of Virginia birds to spot. Home to 41 state parks, 22 national parks, and over 1.6 million acres of national forests, the state of Virginia … Read more

Visiting the Peaks of Otter Lodge & Campground in Bedford VA

Peaks of Otter Lodge & Abbott Lake in Bedford VA

We’ve been fortunate enough to drive the entire 469-mile length of the Blue Ridge Parkway several times over the past two years. And though the world-famous scenic route boasts plenty of highlights, the Peaks of Otter (Blue Ridge Parkway Milepost 86) stands out among our favorite BRP attractions. Located 11 miles north of Bedford VA … Read more

Non-Venomous vs Venomous Snakes in North Carolina (ID Guide)

Red-bellied Watersnake

[Updated February 20, 2023] When it comes to snakes in North Carolina, some people have a deep, abiding fear that no amount of practical knowledge can subdue. In their eyes, a snake is a snake, and any snake is dangerous. Unfortunately, this results in a dead snake much more frequently than a bitten person. Some … Read more

45 Fun Facts About Georgia State History, Culture & More

Atlanta Georgia

[Updated 2/20/2023] You may have learned a little bit about the state of Georgia in school, or perhaps from your travels to the state.  Some of the more commonly known Georgia facts include that the state was one of the original 13 colonies, the birthplace of former US President Jimmy Carter, and that Hartsfield-Jackson International … Read more

10 Best Virginia Mountain Towns to Visit

Downtown Lexington VA

The beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains stretch approximately 550 miles, from North Georgia to southern Pennsylvania. But the State of Virginia is home to 300+ linear miles of mountains, which cover the western side of the state from Bristol north to Winchester. Within the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia you’ll find a stellar array of attractions, including Shenandoah … Read more

Exploring the Smokemont Campground in Cherokee NC

Bradley Fork Trail Smokemont Campground in Cherokee NC

Deep within Great Smoky Mountains National Park, at an elevation of 2,200 feet, the Smokemont Campground is a must-see for anyone wanting a true Smoky Mountains camping experience. Located along Newfound Gap road, just a few miles from the Oconaluftee Visitor Center and myriad other activities and attractions, Smokemont offers a perfectly secluded spot for … Read more

25 Beautiful Birds of Georgia

Birds of GA - Ruby-Throated Hummingbird

[Updated on February 16, 2023] The state of Georgia is filled with a variety of natural habitats, ranging from fertile Piedmont and hardwood forest to coastal beaches and the rolling hills of the North Georgia mountains.  Soaring above it all, there are more than 300 different species of birds in Georgia! Some of these fascinating flyers find … Read more

North Carolina Wildflowers Guide (& Where to See Them in Western NC)

North Carolina Wildflowers

[Updated February 16, 2023]  Western North Carolina is truly stacked with natural beauty. From the misty hills of the Blue Ridge Mountains and the towering trees of Pisgah National Forest to the countless waterfalls scattered throughout the area, it’s easy to find yourself awestruck by the scenery that greets you nearly every which way you turn.  … Read more