I’ve been exploring the North Georgia mountains since I was a young boy, camping and hiking with my parents and our church youth group (which they led). In my 20s I got my start in professional photography by exploring the North Georgia State Parks, whose myriad hiking trails and waterfalls provided a great escape from … Read more
[Updated January 13, 2023] We’ve explored 40-50 of small towns in North Carolina over the last few years, from tiny burghs like Bryson City and Little Switzerland to major tourism hotspots like Blowing Rock, Boone, and Cherokee. But none of these mountain towns has had more personal relevance for me than Waynesville NC. Located halfway between … Read more
[Updated September 10, 2025] For far too long, Hendersonville NC seemed like the Jan Brady to Asheville‘s Marcia, never quite garnering all the accolades and attention it deserved. But in recent years, Asheville’s immense popularity has proven to be a double-edged sword. Thanks to national media attention, Asheville’s population has grown by nearly 12% since … Read more
[Updated on 1/3/2023] Located about 85 miles northeast of Asheville, Boone NC is a popular mountain town that’s packed full of outdoor activities and attractions. From Blue Ridge Parkway road trips and beloved hiking trails to enjoying the area’s many fun festivals and art galleries, Boone offers a little something for everyone. Three of North Carolina’s best ski … Read more
[Updated November 9, 2024] In winter, Asheville NC is still a great place to be. It’s cold enough for some snow and snuggles by a cozy fire, but sheltered enough not to be an absolute Arctic blast. Christmas in Asheville includes luxury venues like the Biltmore Estate and nearby NC mountain towns, with festive lights and … Read more
The Top 15 Helen GA hiking trails, including the distance, difficulty, elevation gain, and descriptions of each trail’s highlights.
[Updated October 27, 2024] As much as we love the wildflowers of spring, lakes and swimming holes in summer, and the dazzling fall colors, Christmas is arguably our favorite time of year in the Blue Ridge Mountains. The crowds are smaller, the weather is cooler, and the charming small towns seem to be filled with … Read more
10 Fun, Festive Ways to Celebrate Christmas in Helen GA, including the Helen Christmas Parade, Lighting of the Village, Santa photos & more.
The 15 Best Christmas Towns in Georgia including info about what makes each town so special and what holiday events you can look forward to!
I grew up camping with my parents and their friends. Weekends would smell like tent tarpaulins, campfires, and bacon (which always seemed to sizzle for breakfast). Sometimes there would be a lake with a speed boat and tubing, other times there would be a canoe and fishing poles. But there would always be friends, and stars, … Read more