The April Issue of Blue Ridge Outdoors is Live

This month we’re celebrating the 100th anniversary of “America’s Best Idea”, the National Park System, with all the beta you’ll need to check out the numerous national park units scattered throughout the Southeast and Mid-Atlantic. Read on!

DEPARTMENTS

QUICK HITS

Climber murders mentor • Run for women at Mama’s Day 10K • Stroller half-marathon record

FLASHPOINT

Unraveling the mysterious death of Smokies hiker Jenny Bennett

THE DIRT

Cutting Coal: The South’s Climate Success Story • Free Your Feet: Barefoot Running Doc Walks the Talk

THE GOODS

An Outward Bound instructor picks backpacking gear built for the long haul

TRAIL MIX

Southern Playlist: New Bluegrass, Bar Rock, and Banjo

THE PARKS ISSUE

THE CLASSICS

Explore 11 must-do hikes in the Southeast’s iconic national parks: the Smokies, Shenandoah, and the Blue Ridge Parkway.

THE PARKS LESS TRAVELED

The South boasts over 50 national park units—including caves, historic battlefields, and world-class whitewater rivers.

THE NEXT 100

Climate change. Funding shortfalls. Invasive species. How can we protect national parks for another century? Here is what you need to know—and how you can help.

WHY WE JUMP

What inspires BASE jumpers to make the leap—and should they have more places to plunge?

SOUTHEAST EXPOSED

Tackle these seven edgy Southern Appalachian summit hikes with panoramic views.