Outdoor News

Mount Jefferson State Natural Area
Rising abruptly to more than 1,600 feet above the surrounding landscape, Mount Jefferson is often first viewed at a distance from the Blue Ridge Parkway and is a national natural landmark with a rich history.  

Oct 2019 -- (AP) Fall is the best time of year to get new trees, shrubs and perennials into the ground before cold weather sets in, and it’s often the best time to buy them, too. Garden centers traditionally mark down their off-season inventories rather than muscle them indoors for overwintering protection.

Check out Tube World website: The 2019-20 tubing season will be here before you know it.  Online reservations will begin soon.  Prior to December 21, tubing, if available, will be on a first come, first served basis.  We look forward to seeing you in December or sooner!  

SALT LAKE CITY (AP) — A federal judge has rejected the Trump administration’s bid to dismiss lawsuits challenging the constitutionality of a 2017 decision to downsize two sprawling national monuments in Utah.

Duke University Chronicle -- By Cameron Oglesby October 30, 2019 | 12:00am EDT

Western North Carolina is a special place to visit no matter the season, but the Autumn brings with it the incredible burst of seasonal color. Travelers from all over the country travel to our mountains to experience the beauty of Leaf Season. Read on for an introduction to some of our favorite ways to spend Fall days!

WNC -- Contrary to what you may think, winter hiking is popular in Western North Carolina. Many of the popular trails are open, and the hike is a whole new experience in this season. A really cool experience is the state parks’ 1st day hikes.  These are free, park ranger guided hikes on January 1, 2018 in most of the state parks in North Carolina. See the list below for 1st day hikes close to Avalon Mountain Community:

Western North Carolina Fall Forecast 2019!               photo credit: Marjorie Farrington