WNC Magazine Digital Edition

Winter 2026

Winter Reflections

Western North Carolina locals are used to the frosty winter temperatures that cool down our region this time of year, but for visitors, the cold can feel daunting. However, I encourage everyone to brave the chill—it’s certainly worth it to observe the winter grandeur on display. After all, there’s nothing more stunning than a snowfall on the Blue Ridge Mountains. Plus, we’ve got plenty of creative ways to keep warm all season long. 

Fall 2025

Growing Stronger

In the last year, Western North Carolina has demonstrated its remarkable resiliency; after Hurricane Helene ripped through our home last September, our community has worked tirelessly to rebuild homes, businesses and neighborhoods, infrastructure, and even industries. It hasn’t been easy, but together, we have worked dilligently to repair and restore what was lost in the floodwaters. 

Summer 2025

The experience of discovery is a powerful force. Over the years, many have traveled Western North Carolina in search of that combination of wonder, excitement, and satisfaction. Spanish conquistador Hernando de Soto traveled though WNC in the sixteenth century in search of gold, and Japanese photographer George Masa’s passion for exploring our expansive mountain ranges led to the creation the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Miners have even discovered rare emeralds in our mountain caverns (read more about this in “Hidden in Hiddenite” on page 38).

Spring 2025

Readers, welcome back to WNC magazine—I’m thrilled to be sharing stories from the mountains with you once again. After pausing our print production in Winter 2025, we’ve returned to the page this spring with newsy updates, local makers and artisans, history lessons, travel guides, events, and more.