Visit NC Smokies

Haywood County is nestled in the mountains of Western North Carolina. The area offers beautiful scenic views, outdoor adventure and a rich authentic cultural experience. However, it competes with neighboring mountain towns and is challenged with evolving travel and tourism interests among consumers. The tourism department had a goal to drive greater awareness among families as well as garner national and regional media coverage highlighting the outdoors. A custom press trip was coordinated for a Trekaroo writer and her son. Trekaroo is an online website and vacation planning tool catered to families. The content features both destination reviews as well as calls to action to encourage readers to book their vacations. A Southern Living writer attended the inaugural Smoky Mountain Elk Festival. She shared with readers what she learned at the event, highlighting the conservation efforts of the area and noting she’s excited to return next year. TOWN magazine encouraged its Carolina readers to venture into the wild with three recommendations for an outdoor getaway.