These mountains are called The Great Smokies and are part of The Great Smoky Mountain National Park which protects the larger range of this group of mountains. It is a natural wonder that lies between the states of Tennessee and North Carolina and is part of the Appalachian Mountains. Fall is the most popular time of year to visit this area because the many hardwoods break forth in remarkable color. If you get up early, you can beat the rush as well as catch the best light for photography on the driveway...and you will be least likely to be hit by a car driven by a distracted driver as you run back and forth across the highway for best views.
The fall weather is perfect for wearing that favorite sweater in the morning and removing it to let the warm sun hit your shoulders in the afternoon.
This area got its name because the fog frequently hangs over the ranges in the early part of the day and looks like smoke in the valleys. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and with very good reason. There are over 800 hiking trails but the parkway is also lovely for the more sedentary tourists who do not wish to leave their car. The photos have been reduced in size. While these woods have the reputation of having the densest population of bears, I saw not a one! (What I DID see is yet to come.)
We had to take a half mile climb up a steep but paved road. With my heart pounding in my ear, I looked back at the parking lot in the distance to see how far we had come.
Now only 800 feet more up a man-made ramp to the actual tower. See, people have made it and are returning. You can do it.
Well, I guess it was. In the distance are the blue mountains just past the spruce and fir trees that struggle with this harsh climate. This is the well earned view from Clingmans Dome.
