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Destination notes

North Carolina

Trails, mist, and mountain air

Travel notes from North Carolina’s mountain country, where long trails and quiet overlooks invite a slower pace.

Mountain landscape in the Great Smoky Mountains

Stories from the road

Mountain landscape in the Great Smoky Mountains

The Great Smoky Mountains

Two weeks of trails, mountain air, and quiet overlooks in the Great Smoky Mountains.

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Mountain landscape near Highlands, North Carolina

5 Best Hiking Trails in Highlands, NC

Five memorable hikes, waterfall trails, and favorite local meals in Highlands and Cashiers.

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Mountain view near Boone, North Carolina

9 Things to Do in Boone, NC

Nine favorite hikes, scenic stops, and local finds around Boone and the Blue Ridge Parkway.

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Forest trail near Cherokee, North Carolina

7 Things to Do in Cherokee, NC

A riverside hike, Cherokee culture, and outdoor adventures near Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

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Scenic mountain view along the Blue Ridge Parkway

The Blue Ridge Parkway

A rainy-day hike through Smokemont and a scenic drive along the Blue Ridge Parkway.

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Rainy mountain landscape in North Carolina

A Rain Delay

A rain-soaked mountain pause, a Waynesville visit, and small discoveries around the cabin.

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Rocky creek trail in the Deep Creek area of Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Stone Pile Gap Trail to Deep Creek

A rugged Deep Creek hike with creek fords, mountain water, and a return to a favorite Smokies area.

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Al & Lisa’s Travels

A personal record of the roads, coastlines, cities, and unexpected moments that make a journey memorable.

© 2026 Al & Lisa’s Travels. Made for the long way around.