C R E AT E D B Y T H E B AC K ROA D P O R T FO L I O S TA F F
Backroads transport us to the places in-between. This regularly occurring feature takes you to and from two southeastern destinations via winding rural roads lined with charming small towns, captivating landscapes, historic structures and, in this particular journey, homes and businesses recovering from a devastating hurricane. Our winter excursion takes you from Lenoir, North Carolina, down to Pickens, South Carolina—a corridor lined with American history and timeless beauty. Discover cozy cafés and tea shops, acclaimed wineries and breweries, an iconic overlook, artisan shopping, southern-style dining, and more. The southbound drive from Lenoir to Pickens is 3 hours, 44 minutes, and 142 miles, compared to the journey back, which is 4 hours, 21 minutes, and 159 miles. We recommend booking a midpoint overnight stay so you can fully enjoy the journey. Be sure to check drivenc.gov for possible road closures and route delays. NOTE: Upon publication of this issue, we’ll share the link to both Google Maps routes online.
PHOTO: A GOLDEN HOUR AERIAL VIEW OF A WINDING WESTERN NORTH CAROLINA MOUNTAIN ROAD IN THE SNOW. BY EIFEL KR EU TZ - STOCK. A D OBE. COM.
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