8/3/2025 Update: US 441/Newfound Gap Road is now open on the North Carolina side of the park between Cherokee and Newfound Gap. Visitors are welcome to drive this section of the road, but must turn around at the Newfound Gap Overlook. Visitors can access Kuwohi from the North Carolina side. US 441/Newfound Gap Road remains closed…… MORE
GATLINBURG, Tenn.—Due to dry conditions, low relative humidity, a continued high fire danger, and forecasted high winds, the National Park Service (NPS) is instituting an immediate ban on all campfires and charcoal use in Great Smoky Mountains National Park. This fire ban will remain in effect until further notice on both the Tennessee and North…… MORE
The Tennessee Department of Transportation say Interstate 40 is back open across Cocke County. One lane is open in each direction between mile marker 451 (just before the TN/NC state line) and approximately mile marker 446. This opening is for local traffic, and not into North Carolina. I-40 is open as normal leading up to…… MORE
The historic Biltmore Estate has announced its plan to reopen on November 2nd after closing to repair damages following Helene. Biltmore staff says it’s just in time for their seasonal Christmas at Biltmore. The yearly holiday event lasts until January and features the estate covered in Christmas decorations from wreaths to garlands as well as…… MORE
Nearly three weeks after severe flooding devastated parts of Tennessee and North Carolina, people are still pouring into the impacted areas and offering help. Brian Minton owns a farm in Dandridge and has been to Asheville for several days over the last two weeks. He‘s shared what he’s seen on social media, and immediately received…… MORE
A Norfolk Southern railway network connecting East Tennessee to Asheville and other parts of North Carolina is expected to be closed for months after railroad tracks and bridges suffered flood damage caused by Hurricane Helene. Norfolk Southern says it was able to open all core routes within 72 hours of Helene making landfall after crews…… MORE
Garner, N.C., native Scotty McCreery has a special affinity for his home state. To this day, the American Idol winner—who has scored three No. 1 albums and two No. 1 singles—cites an honor from his home state as one of his “prouder moments.” In March 2017, Scotty was honored with the Order of the Long…… MORE
