In the summer, it’s so much cooler in the mountains. I’m not only talking about the temperature differences between points of high and low elevations. The energy, the scene here in Western North Carolina—it’s unmatched during the warmer months. Visitors and locals, groups and solo travelers, artists and mountaineers alike come out to play when the temperature rises. The summer mountain heat beckons adventure and inspiration, making our region the place to be for the season.
WNC’s appeal hasn’t only begun recently, either. As one of the world’s oldest waterways, the French Broad River is perhaps one of the best examples of this convergence. Learn more about recent conservation efforts in “Old River, New Current” on page 58. On page 70, Jon Elliston, former WNC editor, examines some historic shots of our region’s summer camps, many of which are still in operation today. In “Batter Up!” author Bill Ballew delves into the origins of McCormick Field, Asheville’s now-hundred-year-old baseball stadium (page 84).
For thousands of years, the Cherokee people have been farming trout as a means of sustainable fishing, and today, that practice has grown in popularity. Find out more in, “A Great Catch,” on page 38, accompanied by trout recipes from Asheville Chef William Dissen on page 112.
Whether you’re looking to the past, present, or future, Western North Carolina is a happening place. With its vibrant return, a summer in the mountains is well worth the wait.
Allison Sherman
Senior Editor