Ready to break free from cabin fever and spend a weekend doing something unforgettable? Pack up those hiking boots, grab your sense of adventure, and head to Carter Caves State Resort Park — because Winter Adventure Weekend 2026 is back, and it looks bigger and bolder than ever.
From Thursday, January 22 through Sunday, January 25, 2026, the park will transform into a winter wonderland of outdoor fun — and there’s something for everyone, whether you’re an experienced outdoorsperson or just looking to try something new.
Imagine this: you and your family exploring rugged trails through snow-kissed hills, rappelling down rock faces, venturing deep underground into wild caves, or paddling on the quiet lake if weather permits.
For those craving a little thrill, try the “Leap of Faith” — a bold 30-foot swing off a cliff into the trees. Feel like going vertical? There’s guided rock climbing, recreational tree climbing, and technical rappel routes for those who want real challenge.
Prefer something more relaxed? The weekend offers guided hikes, wild and commercial cave tours, and workshops ranging from beginner-level to advanced — perfect for families or outdoor newbies testing the waters.
And the best part: you don’t have to commit to every single day. Want to come for just one trip or one activity? That’s totally fine. The weekend schedule is flexible — drop in for the parts that call to you.
Need a place to stay? Carter Caves has it covered with a 28-room lodge, cottages, and even campground spots if you’d rather sleep under the stars (or under a cozy roof after a day of adventure).
Registration and full trip details are live now at winteradventureweekend.com — but heads up: many trips fill up fast, and slots are limited by gear availability, participant age, or group size.
So if you’ve been cooped up this winter and feeling the itch for something different — something bold, beautiful, and maybe a little bit wild — Winter Adventure Weekend 2026 might just be the cure. Whether you’re rappelling cliffs, hiking cave trails, or just sipping hot coffee by the lodge fireplace after an outdoor adventure, you’ll leave with more than cold toes… you’ll leave with memories that warm your heart all year long.
Head over to winteradventureweekend.com to register or call (606) 286-4411 for more info. Grab a spot while you still can — adventure awaits!
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If you’re looking for something to really put you in the Christmas spirit this season, circle December 13th at 1 PM, because West Carter Middle School is hosting a Christmas Pageant that’s shaping up to be as sweet and joyful as the season itself.
This is the kind of holiday afternoon that brings the whole community together—kids dressed in their Christmas outfit of choice, families filling the auditorium, and that wonderful mix of laughter, music, and nervous excitement that only a Christmas pageant can deliver.
There’ll be Christmas-themed awards, plenty of festive fun, and yes… a special surprise guest will be dropping by. We can’t say who, but let’s just say he tends to be pretty busy this time of year, so you know it’s someone important.
So gather the family, grab a seat, and enjoy a cheerful small-town tradition that reminds you what this season is all about.
The Christmas Pageant at West Carter Middle School, December 13th, 1 PM.
For more info, you can call (606) 316-3435.
It’s Christmas magic, right here at home.
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Today marks the final opportunity this week for residents in Eastern Carter County to take advantage of the county-wide clean-up campaign, as dumpsters will be available at the Carter County Maintenance Garage in Grayson until 2:30 p.m. The Solid Waste Department reminds all participants that dumpster access has now returned to its regular three-day weekly schedule and urges the public to follow the updated disposal guidelines.
A number of items will not be accepted, including refrigerators, deep freezers, televisions, household garbage, paint, tires, and batteries. In addition, all items must be either bagged or boxed — loose trash will not be collected.
The Carter County Clean-Up campaign operates on a rotating schedule, providing disposal opportunities for both the eastern and western ends of the county. After today’s event, dumpsters will return to the maintenance garage on US 60 from December 17th through the 19th.
This valuable community service is made possible by the Carter County Solid Waste Department, who continue to support these efforts to keep our neighborhoods clean, safe, and beautiful.
Let’s all do our part to keep Carter County looking its best.