A Hidden Hike In Bryson City & Renewed Motivation

Now that the weather is changing, we’re excited to begin spending time in the mountains we call home. A few local friends recommended this hike that’s off the beaten path called Noland Creek Trail. It’s on the way to another well-known and gorgeous hike on the Road to Nowhere, right off the corner of a lookout point. If you didn’t know it was there, you’d miss it.

I’ve always loved hiking, but since moving here I’ve developed a nagging fear of bears. Though as my trusted friend Raul astutely pointed out to me, this is not an unfounded fear. They’re bears. However, every local has reassured me black bears in Appalachia are scared of people and almost 100% of the time (that is to say basically always) they leave people alone. But still, confronted with every hike, my heart races a little and my ears are extra vigilant of any noise that could mean a bear is lurking. It’s been stressful to get over, honestly. And it takes me out of the reviving experience of spending time in the forest.

I’ve been making an effort to go out on more walks lately for some fresh air and to clear my mind. They say going for a walk is one of the best ways to critically think and problem solve. I have a tendency to get stuck sitting in a chair answering emails or taking phone calls, and it’s easy to forget to move my body. When our blood is flowing and we’re out of our heads and into our bodies, somehow it’s like the mind works better. Solutions begin to reveal themselves that were not available to us only moments before. It seems too simple a tactic, but I promise you, it’s done wonders for my creativity and positive outlook. Needless to say, our walk in the woods left me clearer and motivated to get back to life, treating all the things that stressed me out with a grounded sense of gratitude.

As the for bears, well, little by little I am learning to trust that we are meant to experience the mountains and it is possible to share this sacred forest with all its inhabitants.

Enjoy a Short Video of This Hidden Hike in Bryson City!

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