Introducing
The Trailhead
Sign up for our newsletter and community events in Western North Carolina
Why is our newsletter called The Trailhead?
The natural beauty of Western North Carolina is one of the things that makes this region special. The people of our region come together on the trails, campsites and rivers of our mountains. When you head out onto a trail, the trailhead is your first destination for the information that you will need on your journey. Is there a weather warning? Construction? Or bears ahead? The Trailhead newsletter will share the policy and news that you need to make your way through life in WNC.
How do we define Western North Carolina?
It is a question that seems like it should have an easy answer, but defining Western North Carolina is a challenge. For some, WNC is defined by county lines and mountain topography. For others, the region is defined by Appalachian culture, food and music.
While there are no hard lines, we look forward to conversations about how communities perceive WNC. How do you define it? Let us know!
Who is behind it?
NC Local’s Senior Reporter for Western North Carolina Lilly Knoepp, based in Jackson County, oversees the newsletter, community engagement events, and collaboration with local student journalists, area newsrooms and other local partners.
“Hi, I’m Lilly Knoepp. I was born and raised in Franklin, NC, and I have spent much of my adult life in Sylva, NC. I graduated from UNC-Chapel Hill in 2014 after working in journalism throughout college.
I thought I wanted to be a foreign correspondent, so I set off to to New York City to get a masters degree at CUNY’s Graduate School of Journalism. But throughout my time living in the Big Apple, I realized what a special place I left in Western North Carolina. I also learned how little folks outside of the region know about my home.
Not only is WNC my home, but I feel a special bond to it because our region has often been misrepresented in media. This is one of the most beautiful places in the world, and I feel so lucky to be able to share its complexities through The Trailhead.”
What kind of content will I get?
This Trailhead will provide useful and trustworthy information that helps residents navigate and celebrate life in their communities while staying informed about key civic issues. This isn’t just about sending you news articles. It is about our ongoing community conversations about what is happening in WNC and why it matters.
NC Local’s mission is to fill information gaps, highlight community voices and strengthen understanding of local and statewide issues across the state. The Trailhead is the fulfillment of that vision here in the mountains.
How do I get involved?
If you haven’t already, make sure to subscribe to the newsletter. Look for information from Lilly on how to attend community events or share your feedback. We’re building this together with the community. Come have a drink or take a walk with me at our kickoff events November 13 in Sylva and November 14 in Arden.
And if you are interested in serving on our WNC community advisory committee? Get in touch.
Help us shape our coverage.
What local issues matter to you? What do you want our team to explore more in WNC? We’re listening and invite you to submit your questions and ideas.
