Great
Smoky Mountain National Park
Beyond
the downtown strips of Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg,
there lies the spectacular wonder of the Great Smoky
Mountains National Park. Cascading waterfalls, river
rapids and calm valley fields are just the beginning
of this distinct mountain environment. The Great
Smoky Mountains are among the tallest in the Appalachian
Mountain chain. Elevations in this mountain range
from about 875 feet to nearly 6,643 feet, and feature
sixteen peaks which rise over 5,000 feet. Nearby
Mount Le Conte towers to 6,593 feet and Clingmans
Dome, the park's highest summit, is the third tallest
peak east of the Mississippi River.
This
world renowned National Park is well known for its
diversity of plant and animal life. The Park is home
to more than 4,000 plant species, 65 different types
of mammals, 230 species of birds, as well as countless
reptiles and amphibians, including over 30 species
of Salamanders alone.
Perhaps
the most sought after animal for animal watchers is
the population of Black Bears that make the Great
Smoky Mountains their home. Nearly 1800 Black Bears
are estimated to live in the National Park as the
Smoky Mountains offer a rugged, temperate environment
for the bears.
Here
are some interesting facts about the Smoky Mountain
Black Bear population:
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A
bear's life spans averages 12 years |
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During
summer months, a typical male weighs approximately
250 pounds, while females average slightly over
100 pounds. However, this may double by fall.
|
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They
obtain most of their protein from insects, but
occasionally eat fawns, or other small animals. |
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Bear
sightings usually begin in early March, but weather
conditions can delay this. If you're hoping to
spot a mother and her cubs, you'll need to wait
until about April. |
Beyond
the wildlife, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park
is home to hiking trails, waterfalls and camp sites
for those who prefer to rough it while vacationing.
For instance, there are more than 850 miles of hiking
trails in the National Park, ranging from easy to
difficult and provide anywhere from half a day hike
up to a week long backpacking adventure. Some of the
most popular trails are: Alum Cave Trail (4.4 miles
RT), Chimney Tops (4 miles RT), Andrews Bald (3.6
miles RT), Charlies Bunion (8 miles RT).
If
cascading waterfalls is what you're after, here a
list of some of the best know waterfalls in the Smokies:
Laurel Falls (2.5 miles RT), Grotto Falls (2.4 miles
RT), Chasteen Creek Falls (4 mile RT) , Indian Creek
Falls (1.5 miles RT) , Henwallow Falls (4.4 miles
RT), Abrams Falls (5 miles RT), Ramsey Cascades, (8
miles RT), Rainbow Falls (5.5 miles RT).
When
taking on any trail, there are a few things you'll
want to keep in mind. Remember, Safety First!
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Don't
hike alone. Always, always, always hike with at
least one other person. It's also a great idea
to let others know your plans. Be sure to tell
someone who's not hiking with you what route you're
taking and what time you will return. |
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Bring
along a small flashlight or headlamp in case the
sun sets before you were expecting. |
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Staying
hydrated in crucial. You may be miles away from
the nearest medical facility, so always take enough
water with you. |
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There's
nothing worse than NEW hiking boots when you're
on a trail. Your feet will thank you if you take
the time to plan ahead and wear the appropriate
footwear. |
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Carry
a small first aid kit. |
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Before
heading out for the day, check the current weather
forecast and be prepared for quickly changing
conditions. If you take the time to plan ahead,
you'll be less likely to get caught in a storm
with no shelter. |
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