Good morning. 

As much as we may take it for granted, the Grand Canyon is absolutely stunning. However, it’s not the only stunning canyon in the country.

Read on to find out more about the “Grand Canyon of the East,” plus some tips on how to figure out if there are animals around your campsite, a recipe for a delicious pre-outdoors breakfast and some great deals and discounts on gear.

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Signs of Wildlife: How to Tell When Animals Are Nearby

When you’re outdoors doing what you do, do you ever get the sense that something else is nearby? Something not human? I’m not talking about aliens — not really — but rather, animals. While you might not see critters lurking around you, there are signs that they’re there.

And you don’t have to be a wildlife expert to see them either.

According to seasoned outdoorsmen, the most common signs of wildlife are tracks, leftover waste, damage to vegetation, and natural habitats.

Together with Inside Hotels

Hotels We Love: Barnsley Resort

Not all lodgings are created equal: there are hotels, and then there are resorts, and then there are the kind of resorts where you find yourself wishing you lived on-premises. Barnsley Resort, which sits on 3,000 acres of land in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, is of the third category. A great escape not too far from the big city (Atlanta is only just over an hour away), the staff at Barnsley have made it their job to ensure that you have everything you need for an immersive escape. You’ll have plenty of onsite activities to keep you busy, including horseback and UTV riding, archery, fishing on the lake, and shooting at the onsite grounds. When you’re hungry, head for a gourmet meal at the farm-to-table Woodlands Grill overlooking the resort’s Jim Fazio-designed golf course, or opt for an out-of-this-world four-course tasting experience at the Rice House. And when it’s time to rest your sore muscles, you can head to the wonderful spa.

This Canyon Is Also Grand

Many folks, even those who live in the Appalachian Mountains, aren’t aware of the craggy swath of land in the northern corner of Western North Carolina, where the earth appears to crack wide open and a rousing river runs below the cliffs.

About an hour and a half north of the freewheelin’ city of Asheville, the rugged Linville Gorge—known as Eeseeoh or the “River of Cliffs” by the Cherokee—often flies under the radar due to its remote nature. Those who know about this lush, complex, and quartz-dappled slice of wilderness consider it the “Grand Canyon of the East.”

Recipe: Grilled Breakfast Burrito

It’s often said that breakfast is the most important meal of the day, especially when you’ve got a busy day of outdoor adventures planned.

Make sure you start your day off right with a delicious, protein-filled breakfast that will keep your energy up all day.

Outdoor Gear Checklist

We take pride in uplifting other brands within the Outdoors community. Check out and buy from the brands that support us.

1. Public Lands

Public Lands is having their End-of-Season Sale! Get up to 50% off from brands like Patagonia, Howler Brothers, Cannondale, & more!*

2. Solo Stove

Solo Stove is having a 24-hr flash sale for all things s'mores! Enjoy 10% off select products on SoloStove.com with promo code GWR!*