This is a favorite of the RITS staff and keeps us energized through the cold winter season. This wholesome, homemade treat is especially yummy with some hot chocolate around the campfire. 2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats 1 cup sliced almonds ½ cup sunflower seeds ½ cup wheat germ ¼ cup brown sugar, packed ½ cup honey 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, plus extra...

Feb 13, 2012

One of our favorite spots for winter camping is along the Old Settlers Trail in the Greenbrier section of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. While the mountaintops do offer spectacular views in the crisp winter air, we crave for some greenery amid the bare, gray branches of the trees. And you can find just that in the rhododendron thickets that line the...

Nov 10, 2011

Tuesday, November the 8th was the official kickoff of Winterfest 2011 in Pigeon Forge.  As I watched the event, I started thinking about the changing weather and how soon snow would be returning to the mountains.  Winter hiking in the Smokies offers great views of snow-covered forests, frozen waterfalls and more.  Here is a guide to some of the best trails...