Category Archives: America

Croatan National Forest, North Carolina

Posted on September 5, 2017 by julieovaltrades

If you’re road tripping to the Outer Banks, or want to take a day trip while visiting, there are many National Wildlife Refuges and a National Forest close by with a range of outdoor recreational opportunities. Boardwalks through the marsh … Continue reading →

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The American Museum of the House Cat, North Carolina

Posted on September 4, 2017 by julieovaltrades

Do you believe in fate? I’m not very superstitious, but visiting the The American Museum of the House Cat [4704 Hwy 441 South Sylva, North Carolina, NC 28779] happened to be one of those kismet moments for me. I am … Continue reading →

Posted in Asheville | Leave a comment

Oconaluftee Island Park, North Carolina

Posted on September 3, 2017 by julieovaltrades

It was a gorgeous sunny day, warm, and balmy – what could be better? I was on my way to hike in Great Smoky Mountains National Park, but seeing people joyfully splashing in the Oconaluftee River I became a bit … Continue reading →

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Mingo Falls, North Carolina

Posted on September 2, 2017 by julieovaltrades

Families come and count the stairs it takes to get to majestic Mingo Falls [6523 Big Cove Rd, Cherokee, NC 28719]. It is a short and well maintained, very popular, just .8 RT out and back following the creek. It … Continue reading →

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Soco Falls, North Carolina

Posted on September 1, 2017 by julieovaltrades

This roadside waterfall feels like a hidden gem, while the path is short it a total adventure to get there. Soco Falls [US-19, Maggie Valley, NC 28751] comes up quick after the small sign, the road has a high speed … Continue reading →

Posted in Asheville | 3 Comments

Lake Junaluska, North Carolina

Posted on August 31, 2017 by julieovaltrades

Nestled between Asheville and Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a retreat owned by the Methodist Church on Lake Junaluska, but everyone is invited to enjoy the lovely property. One day I visited to kayak, the lake is surrounded by … Continue reading →

Posted in Asheville | 2 Comments

Guide to visiting the Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Posted on August 29, 2017 by julieovaltrades

Black bears, flashing fireflies, and fog rolling over the blue crests of the Appalachians. Great Smoky Mountains National Park is the most visited national park in the United States, renowned for its beauty, wildlife, and history. The park straddles the … Continue reading →

Posted in North Carolina, Tennessee | 4 Comments

Hiking the Lookout Trail in Montreat near Asheville, NC

Posted on August 28, 2017 by julieovaltrades

The national parks like Pisgah and Great Smoky Mountains get a lot of attention around Asheville, but there are some truly incredible state and private parks that are just as worthy of a visit. The Lookout Trail [Lookout Rd, Montreat, … Continue reading →

Posted in Asheville | 3 Comments

Hiking at Gorges State Park near Asheville, NC

Posted on August 27, 2017 by julieovaltrades

The national parks like Pisgah and Great Smoky Mountains get a lot of attention around Asheville, but there are some truly incredible state and private parks that are just as worthy of a visit. Just over an hour outside of … Continue reading →

Posted in Asheville | 4 Comments

Hiking at DuPont State Forest near Asheville, NC

Posted on August 26, 2017 by julieovaltrades

The national parks like Pisgah and Great Smoky Mountains get a lot of attention around Asheville, but there are some truly incredible state and private parks that are just as worthy of a visit. Just over an hour outside of … Continue reading →

Posted in Asheville | 2 Comments