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Along the Appalachian Trail

We're incredibly lucky to be so close to some of the best backpacking country in this part of the United States.  Though all the other parks and trails we wander have their own character and appeal, the valleys and mountain peaks, rivers, waterfalls, plant and animal life, and virtually every other aspect of the Smoky Mountains seem to take things to a new level.

Misty Mountain

Smoky Mountain National Park is the most visited national park in the country, but with over 800 miles of trails, we've never had any problems "getting away".

Side of the Mountain

 Gear Hanging

These gear hanging systems are found at all backcountry campsites. You suspend your gear (especially the food!) to keep bears and other critters from helping themselves.

 Deer

The variety of wildlife here really is amazing. Deer, bears, turkey, wild hogs, coyotes.....the list goes on and on.

 Turkey

 We ran across a number of turkeys on this mid summer trip along the Appalachian Trail.

Rattlesnake

This guy was enjoying the sun on Rocky Top along the AT.  He was even nice enough to rattle at us. He was one of the largest rattlers I've seen.

Black Bear

It's always exciting to see a bear in its natural habitat.

Northern Brown Snake

This guy was enjoying the sun just a few feet from the rattlesnake pictured above.

Stream

One of our campsites was right along this stream which made for a really good night's sleep.

Another View from Rocky Top

Trail Map (Courtesy National Park Service)

 Above the Clouds

This view from Clingman's Dome is one of the best in the Smokies. This peak is the highest in the park at an elevation of 6,643 feet.

 In the Clouds

The weather at the higher altitudes can be really unpredictable.  We went from cold, icy, and rainy to sunny and warm in about 100 yards.

 The AT

71 miles of the 2,175 mile long Appalachian Trail that stretches from Georgia to Maine pass through the Smoky Mountains.

Appalachian Trail Shelter

This is one of the many shelters along the AT. Hikers are encouraged to sleep in these structures along the route to help protect them from the bears and the bears from them. During the busy through-hiking season in spring, finding a spot on the two levels of wooden bunks can be tough. The cross section of people and personalities you meet out here can be stunning.

Waterfall

 Azalea

Azaleas and rhododendron were in full bloom on this summer trip.

Flame Azalea

The flame azalea is native to the southern Appalachians and several varieties exist only in specific parts of the Blue Ridge mountains.

 AT

Rocky Top

View from Rocky Top along the Appalachian Trail.  This mountain served as the inspiration for the song of the same name.

AT Sign

Road Map to the Park (Courtesy of National Park Service)