Great Smoky Mountain National Park
This 800 square mile area hosts the regal peaks of the Appalachian Mountains, open valleys, hundreds of species of flowering plants and a multitude of magnificent hardwoods. During the spring and summer months, the days are warm and the nights are cool. In autumn the Great Smoky Mountains are breathtakingly beautiful with foliage ranging the colors of an artist palette. The reds, golds and yellows of the mountains trees draw visitors from across the country. During the winter there is often snow and heavy fog, but it is still a good time to visit as you can see for miles around without obstruction.
The Park is an incredible place for hiking, camping, horseback riding, and fishing, whether you are on the North Carolina half or the Tennessee. You  will also find preserved cabins, barns and mills of the mountain people.
The visitor centers (Oconaluftee in North Carolina, and the Sugarlands and Cades Cove in Tennessee) all have exhibits and information about the park. There are campfire programs and observation platforms as well as self-guided nature trails which make your visit a memorable experience.
44 miles SE of Knoxville
www.nps.gov/grsm
Cades Cove in the Great Smokey Mountains
- by Lee Coursey
Top Banner Picture by U Kine
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