The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a must-see for any nature enthusiast or outdoor enthusiast alike. Spanning over 521,000 acres, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is the most visited national park in the United States, attracting over 11 million visitors each year.
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park encompasses the highest peaks in the Appalachian Mountains, including Clingmans Dome, the highest peak in the park at 6,643 feet. The park is divided into two sections, the Tennessee side and the North Carolina side, with the former being the more popular side due to attractions such as Cades Cove, a preserved mountain valley that has been inhabited since the 1800s.
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is known for its lush vegetation, which includes over 100 species of trees and over 1,500 species of flowering plants. The park is also home to a wide variety of wildlife, including black bears, elk, white-tailed deer, wild turkeys, and over 200 species of birds.
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park offers a variety of activities for visitors, including hiking, camping, fishing, and biking. There are over 800 miles of trails throughout the park, ranging from easy strolls through the woods to strenuous hikes up the mountain peaks. Camping is allowed in designated areas, and the park also offers numerous cabins, lodges, and campgrounds for visitors.
Fishing is one of the most popular activities in the park, with an abundance of trout, bass, and other fish to be caught in the park's many rivers and streams. Biking is also a popular activity in the park, with many trails designated specifically for mountain biking.
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is also home to numerous historic and cultural sites, including a variety of old-growth forests, historic buildings, and old-fashioned Appalachian cabins. The park also offers a variety of educational programs and events, including ranger-led hikes, nature talks, and more.
No visit to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is complete without visiting the iconic Clingmans Dome. This observation tower offers breathtaking views of the park and its surrounding areas, and is the highest peak in the park. The view from the top is simply spectacular, and the surrounding area is home to an abundance of wildlife.
For anyone looking to explore the wonders of the great outdoors, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a must-see destination. With its lush vegetation, abundance of wildlife, and activities for all ages and skill levels, the park truly has something for everyone.
Elinor Samuels
April 29, 2021 at 10:59 amThis is an amazing park!