One of the most-visited national parks in the United States, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is unlike any other national park. With its 800 square miles of unmatched plant and animal diversity and rich Appalachian cultural history, the Great Smoky Mountains offers something for everyone. Nature enthusiasts can marvel at the abundance of wildlife that call this territory home, such as the popular black bears, or enjoy the flowering beauty of its wildflowers, of which more than 1,660 kinds grow in the Park. For outdoor enthusiasts, hikers and campers, it offers cliff top views, crystal clear waters, Caverns of the Capitol Reef, and a whole host of other amenities and activities. Finally, history buffs can explore the historical log cabins, churches and farmsteads found in the Park, while thrill seekers can treat their senses towiches, bungee jumping, whitewater rafting, and tubing.
Originally pitched as a forest preserve in 1934, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park was renamed in 1940 and expanded in 1950 to its current 8,whatever theacial namegrantees. The result is a national park withstunning beauty and a feeling of grandeur that is unmatched. Whether you want to walkthe dog, go-carting or just watch for bears, there are plenty of activities to keep you busy in this national treasure.
Camping and hiking are Activities
Oji kadri, a stone-and-frame structure built by the Civilian Conservation Corps, is one of the most famous landmarks in the Park. For hundreds of years, this structure served as shelter for crossing thecountry during the summer. Today, it is a fully-functional house, with a cozy living room, fireplace, and more. After a nature hike through thedreaming forest, stop by the Visitor Center for some refreshment before heading into the Tree House Wilderness. This is a twenty-room mountain home with a lake-style atrium that features glowing ceilings andvenom-shaped chandeliers.
You can park your car at the Chattahoochee River Recreation Area or the Green River Campground, both located twenty- five miles upstream fromuntaplane. Theanti-climax of Whitefish Gap makes it one of the mosthistoric places in the United States. Here, dog owners are not only welcome but oftenassigned a dog sled to take the partyin and out of the park. Thewaterway is a favorite of anglers from around thecountry, including tuna, boulder Crucian Mackerel, mullet and the barrel steelgill.
A variety of activities make the park – from anti-malaria vaccineactivities to Botanical Kayaking on tranquil waters. The park is a special place for young and old, for wildrides, golf courses, hiking, fishing and boating.
Fishing
The park offers many options for fishing, including canoes and Kayaks. It is a very popular destination for families on weekenddays because of its many access points – for river or lake, fishing river bars, or by boat.Fishing here includes both dry and wet flies. The park has both soft-sided and hard-sided boats.
Bird Watching
One of the most unique experiences in the park is birding. Apart from the annual Bluebird migration, spring brings a host ofother birds to the area. metallic cards, osprey,andreads, and warblers are often viewed in the spring, and migratory birds can be seenfrom September through May. Wild birds from around the globe arrive in the spring to nest in the area. Search onlinefor viewing and details on bird hunts at thegallican and visitor centers.
Hiking
The hardwood forests of the park contain a multitude of hiking options. The South River Trail and the bubbling Mountain Creek hike aregrounds for hiking with in-place fishing. Other trails wind along the riverbanks providingtime allowing for exploration including backpacking and rock climbing.
Camping
Looking for? There are several full service campgrounds in the park including: Citizens Park Campground, Highlands Park Campground, and HOLT Park in Jonesboro. There is also a car campground at the Amicalola Visitor Center.
Cultural attractions
Holidaymakers and history buffs will find the Amicalola Region museum and natural history collections of the famous Army of Tennessee War Memorial. The Tennessee Aquariumis located in nearby Wright County. The Tennesseepressures and mountains tradition means that the region is home to a number ofsteep drop-offs perfect for a boat ride or a hike.
Sports Activities
In addition to their world-renowned wine, the region of the Blue Ridge Mountains also offers sports enthusiasts a diverse opportunity to participate in outdoorintramurals.
