Deena Bouknight

Just 20 miles from Highlands, Black Rock Mountain State Park offers scenic overlooks, varied trails, and a taste of Appalachian history for an easy off‑Plateau adventure.

Mainspring Conservation Trust invites visitors to explore Tessentee Bottomlands, Queen Branch, and Gibson Bottoms—beautiful, accessible riverfront lands preserved for all.

Now is the time to plan a fascinating, off-the-beaten path westward trip.

Varying hikes to Rabun Bald fire tower offer a grand experience for everyone.

After extensive hurricane damage, Chimney Rock State Park reopened offering limited-hours access by reservation with breathtaking hikes and panoramic views in the Hickory Nut Gorge area near Asheville.

With house-made dough, locally sourced ingredients, and inviting indoor and outdoor spaces, Slab Town Pizza offers a gourmet twist on the classic pie experience.

Just beyond Clayton, Georgia, the Warwoman Dell trail offers a scenic hike through forested history and three stunning waterfalls—all in the footsteps of a legendary Cherokee woman.

At Highlands Smokehouse, guests enjoy more than legendary pit-smoked meats—they’re welcomed into a rustic, mountain-style retreat where fresh sides, bold flavors, and a warm atmosphere redefine the barbecue experience.

Just a few hours from the Plateau, Fall Creek Falls and Rock Island State Parks offer dramatic gorges, towering waterfalls, and unforgettable hikes—perfect for a weekend escape into nature’s grandeur.