Rambling Roots Hostel

05/19/2026

Quiet night here. A group of happy hikers enjoying the comforts of home while a sliver of moon rises over their heads.

05/01/2026

Back country thru-hiker permits are changing

Backcountry campers planning an overnight trip in Great Smoky Mountains National Park will see changes to the park's permit reservation system.

04/21/2026

Bears are becoming more active. As you head into the Smokies pay attention to bear activity, be sure to follow park rules on food storage.

Rangers in Great Smoky Mountains National Park responded to multiple bear‑related incidents at Ramsey Cascades Trail this past weekend, including cases where a bear approached visitors, took backpacks, and briefly chased a group. Ramsey Prong Road and Ramsey Cascades Trail are now closed as rangers monitor bear activity.

Last weekend, rangers also handled several incidents involving an aggressive bear at Abrams Falls Trail. That area has now reopened after several days with no observed bear activity.

Spring means increased black bear activity in the Smokies. Mother bears are emerging with cubs and food sources are limited. This is a sensitive time for bears, and getting too close can lead to dangerous encounters.

To keep people and bears safe, please remember:
• Stay 50 yards away from bears—approaching bears is illegal.
• Don’t stop in the road to view bears; it creates hazards and delays emergency response.
• Secure all food and trash in a locked vehicle and never leave it unattended.
• Never feed bears. Feeding wildlife is illegal and can cause bears to become aggressive and lose their natural fear of humans.
• Stay alert on trails and consider carrying bear spray. Hike in groups when possible.
• Report bear encounters or unsafe behavior to park authorities at 865‑436‑1230.

Thank you for helping keep the Smokies safe for everyone—people and bears alike.

Learn more: https://www.nps.gov/grsm/learn/news/bear-incidents-prompts-trail-closure-safety-reminder-in-great-smoky-mountains-national-park.htm

NPS Photo

04/16/2026

We have an unexpected guest here at the hostel!!!
I am thrilled to have this beautiful lady settled in here at our entry.

04/03/2026

It is just incredible to me how many folks have traveled through the hostel this year. It is so enjoyable to take a moment and hear their stories. I have folks reaching back out to me and sharing where they are along the trail, what's going on, asking for information up the way. Every day I get to meet someone new is a good day. Thank you hikers for sharing your journey with me!!!
**the pup in the photo was found on the road, returned to owners shortly after photo shoot**

04/03/2026

Lots of activity in the sky today! Watched a chopper carrying water to manage fires.

🚫 Reminder: Burn Ban Still in Effect 🚫

Please remember that we are currently under both a statewide burn ban and a local burn ban. This means NO open burning is allowed at this time.

Conditions remain unsafe, and even small fires can quickly get out of control. For everyone’s safety, please follow the ban and avoid any outdoor burning until restrictions are lifted.

Let’s all do our part to keep our community and first responders safe. 🔥🚒

03/29/2026

Looking for a way to support the trail and places you hike? Check out the clean up efforts in the GSMNP.

03/29/2026

Burn ban in effect!!! 🚫🔥

Firefighters are battling several wildfires across western North Carolina on Saturday, March 28, during a period of high fire danger.

03/27/2026

Wildfires are a real concern in WNC this time of year. Please do not have campfires in non-designated areas. Be sure all fires are put out completely. Follow local and state burn bans.

Firefighters are battling several active wildfires across western North Carolina during a period of high fire danger on Friday, March 27.