Tag: hiking

5 Smoky Mountain Fall Hikes Suitable for the Whole Family

Posted on October 23, 2018 by - Blog, Smoky Mountains

Changing Fall Foliage in the Smokies dirt road

Finding hikes that can give you a great close-up look at Smoky Mountain fall colors and are also accessible to your youngest and oldest family members isn’t always easy, but there are actually quite a few. Here are some of our favorites!
The Laurel Falls Trail
Looking for a great all-around hike that offers the kind of sightseeing you’ll find only out in nature, a dirt trail under your feet, and a cool destination? The Laurel Falls hike is a 2.3 mile round-trip hike that begins at a parking lot near the top of Fighting Creek Gap. It is accessible to families with children, though everyone should stay close to the trail as it approaches the Falls (there are some steep drop-offs off-trail). The Falls themselves provide plenty of great photo opportunities, so bring your camera!
Clingmans Dome
Do your kids love when something is “the most?” Clingmans Dome is the highest point in the Smokies, and it’s accessible via a ½-mile-long paved trail. The trail can be managed with strollers, though all should be prepared that it can be quite steep and is generally too steep for wheelchairs. Hikers can look forward to an unbelievable panoramic view at the top; on a clear day, people can see nearly 100 miles in any direction. Pack a jacket – it can be up to 20 degrees cooler at the summit.
The Look Rock Tower Trail
Clingmans Dome is a lot of great things, but it isn’t dog-friendly. Luckily, dogs and their human companions don’t have to miss out on a great Smokies view, thanks to the Look Rock Tower Trail. The trail includes a view of Maryville and Alcoa, as well as the western side of Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Dogs must be leashed, but the trail is paved and it’s just under a mile. A perfect first hike!
The Gatlinburg Trail
The Gatlinburg Trail in Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a dog-friendly 1.9 mile trail through a forest near the Little Prong River, and features the remnants of former Tennessee frontier homes (notably their foundations and chimneys). The trail begins at the Sugarlands Visitor Center and is only one of two dog-friendly trails in the national park. Make sure to observe the rules requiring leash use in the park while on the trail.
The Abrams Falls Trailhead
If the youngest members of your family are in middle school or older, you may want to try a 5-mile hike (round trip) with a few rocks on the path, and the Abrams Falls Trailhead is a great place to start increasing your hiking challenges. There are even more challenging hikes at Abrams Falls, but the 5-mile hike begins at the trailhead exit at Cades Cove Loop Road. Everyone should pack some extra socks if they’re in sneakers (or wear hiking boots), bring a rain jacket or poncho, and watch out for slippery rocks by the falls.

Blount County COVID-19 Information

Posted on May 18, 2020 by - Activities, Blog, Lodging

Smoky Mountain Adventures are Open during COVID-19

Our nation is in a unique time in history, as we watch the COVID-19 pandemic unfold. With all of the change, Blount County wants to make sure as we learn a new normal, we keep everyone safe and healthy. The Great Smoky Mountains gives our county and travel industry a responsible way to stay active and entertained. Following Governor Bill Lee’s “Tennessee Pledge” for reopening businesses and recreation areas, we want to clarify any confusion about safety and regulations during this phased approach to increase access to our travel industry. Here are some highlights of the COVID-19 pandemic responses we have in place to keep both staff and customers healthy.
Smoky Mountain Adventures are Open

CLOSER TO HOME

Travel is a personal choice. However, travel is not advised for those in a high-risk category, those who are sick or traveling with those who are sick, and we discourage groups of 10 or more people traveling together. Beginning May 9, the Great Smoky Mountain Park will be reopening many roads and trails.
Campgrounds, picnic pavilions, visitor centers, and may secondary roads will remain closed until later phases. With a variety of roadways open to pedestrians and cyclists, while still being closed to motorists, right now is a smart time to bike and hike. Right now is also an excellent time for family day trips or short weekend adventures, allowing us to fulfill our spirit of travel while keeping us closer to home. We expect people to follow local area health orders, avoid crowds, and practice “Leave No Trace” principals. Be prepared for new safety regulations and protocols to be enforced by park managers and staff. These short excursions are a great way to break up the monotony we’ve all experienced over the last couple of months.
Join us in maintaining your health with plenty of sunshine and exercise in our gorgeous backyard. For facility openings, service hours, and access, please visit the park website at www.nps.gov/grsm/planyourvisit/conditions.htm (link).

LODGING AND NON-CONTACT RECREATION GUIDELINES

  • We provided enhanced cleaning protocols that follow CDC/OSHA guidelines on all high traffic/high touch areas, guest areas, and guest rooms.
  • We provided hand sanitizer in high traffic locations.
  • Check-in and payment processes modified, and designated entrance and exit routes provided to maintain social distancing, if possible.
  • Plastic shields or barriers established between customers and employees and cleaned every two hours.
  • Foodservice facilities following the Restaurant Guidelines provided by the Economic Recovery Group.
  • Gyms must be staffed to be open and will follow Exercise Facility Guidelines provided by the Economic Recovery Group.
  • Salon and spa services following Close Contact Personal Service Guidelines issued by the Economic Recovery Group.
  • Customer occupation limits for indoor activities limited to 50% capacity.
  • Group sizes limited to less than ten people, and the combining of non-associated groups will be avoided.
  • Equipment layout and access restricted to maintain social distancing guidelines, and shared resources sanitized regularly.
  • Approved youth participation monitored to ensure children comply with applicable guidelines.
  • Customers screened for illness upon entry to the facility.

Townsend Visitor Center Staff Wearing Facemasks

EMPLOYEE PROTECTION DURING COVID-19

COVID-19 screening is in place for each employee reporting to work daily. Businesses regularly supply appropriate training and personal protective equipment, based on the CDC guidelines, including providing cloth face masks. We have supplied staff areas with extensive signage on health policies, along with hand sanitizing stations, and staggered staffing to maintain social distancing. Guidelines require all staff to report any illness to supervisors and provide notification of any COVID-19 positive cases within their households. We will send home any suspected or confirmed cases and instruct to self-quarantine based on CDC recommendations.
 Smoky Mountain Trails are Open for Hikers

WHAT YOU CAN DO TO HELP WHILE VISITING

The biggest thing you can do to help keep everyone healthy and safe is to maintain social distancing. Be sure to look for signage and stay in your designated area while waiting and participating. Increase personal hygiene by washing hands regularly and using hand sanitizer, when available. Call ahead for reservations to reduce clusters of waiting groups and wear facemasks when in public. If you feel ill at any time during this COVID-19 pandemic, please STAY HOME.
Smoky Mountain Shops are Open

For ideas on how to enjoy yourself in the Great Smoky Mountains, try these:

https://smokymountains.org/blog/lodging/smoky-mountain-glamping/
https://smokymountains.org/blog/activities/family-trip-to-the-smokies/
https://smokymountains.org/blog/smoky-mountains/spring-in-the-smokies-is-glorious-here-are-our-top-5-favorite-choices-for-the-best-spring-photos/

Enjoy a Picnic Lunch at Spruce Flats Falls

Posted on June 18, 2018 by - Blog, Smoky Mountains, Townsend

Looking for a great place to enjoy a picnic lunch while you are in the Townsend, TN area? The 1.9-mile hike to the Spruce Flats Falls may be just what you are looking for. The trail is moderate and may be challenging for smaller children, but older kids and adults should have no problem. Along the way, you will encounter some steep, rocky sections of trail, especially as you reach the end of the trail at the falls.

What to Expect on Your Trip to the Spruce Flats Falls

While this is one of the less commonly hiked trails, the journey is more than worth the effort. The trailhead begins as the Great Smoky Mountain Institute. You need to park on the right side to find the trailhead. The trail to Spruce Flats Falls branches off of the Buckeye Trail, but your journey starts on the Lumber Ridge Trail. You have to look for the sign that says “Falls Trail” as you won’t find the trail listed on any maps.
The trail to the Falls tends to be like most in the area with more than its fair share of roots, rocks, and foot traps. You must keep an eye out as you go unless, of course, you want to twist an ankle. At one point, you have to cross Bull Branch and then do your best log walking trick across a log with steps cut into it. Once you cross the log, it’s just a short trip down to the bottom of the Spruce Flats Falls.
Although the trail might not show up on maps, the falls are relatively popular among waterfall enthusiasts and nature photographers. Not only is the early morning light the perfect time to view the falls, it is also the perfect time to take awe-inspiring photographs.

The Spruce Flats Falls

The Spruce Flats Falls drop 30 feet over four stages into the pond below. The pool is the perfect place for a cool refreshing swim after the hike down to it on a hot summer day. This is also the perfect place to enjoy a relaxing family picnic. There is plenty of shade in which to relax and then take an afternoon dip in the pool below the falls before heading back out. Just remember, if you pack it in, pack it out: don’t leave your mess behind, including your kids!
While the trail to the falls may be a little steep in places for some families, those of you who like to “backpack” your littlest ones should have no problem. With so much shade and a good sunblock, your kids can hang out and play to their heart’s content. There are a number of smaller pools that are perfect for letting the kids wade in and chase salamanders under a watchful eye.
Although Spruce Flats Falls is not one of the better-known waterfalls in the Great Smoky Mountains, it is quite beautiful and well worth making a day hike out of your journey. Pack a tasty picnic, take the family, and make the most out of getting back to nature.

Have Small Kids with You? Check Out These 3 Hikes, Suitable for the Little Ones

Posted on August 22, 2018 by - Blog, Smoky Mountains

The Great Smoky Mountains are truly a nature lover’s paradise, and the best way to explore this incredible area in Tennessee is on foot. One of the great things about Blount County is that there are plenty of day hiking trails that are ideal for the whole family, including the little ones. When you decide to take small children out for a hike, be sure you choose trails that are less strenuous, and pack plenty of snacks and water. Here are three of our favorite day hikes in the Smokies that are perfect for your little ones.
The Trail to Abrams Falls
The Abrams Falls trail starts out in Cades Cove and covers a total of 5.2 miles by the time you make the round trip. The cool thing about this trail is that it is listed as moderate in difficulty, which makes it perfect for most kids. You can even backpack the littlest members of your family if needed. Following the trail takes you across several footbridges until you reach the falls that drop 20 feet down a rocky slope. Be sure you prepare your kids for the few rougher areas of terrain you will encounter, then enjoy the many forms of wildlife you might be lucky enough to see on your hike, especially black bears.
The Schoolhouse Gap Trail
If you are a lover of wildflowers, you simply must take your family along the Schoolhouse Gap Trail during the spring months. Spring is the time of year when the incredible wildflowers that grow in the Smoky Mountains are at their peak beauty. Your kids will love this 3.8-mile trail with its gentle climb. The trail is perfect for toddlers and preschoolers just getting started on what may become a lifelong hobby. The trail runs along a creek, which, once it warms up, is an excellent place for your kids to cool off and splash around in. As you walk along, you can see glimpses of the mountain peaks through the trees.
The Maryville-Alcoa Greenway
If you prefer a paved trail, the Maryville-Alcoa Greenway may be just what you are looking for. It runs close to the city and winds its way through schools, shopping centers, parks, and places to stop for a picnic. There are lots of places to take a break from the trail, perfect for when your kids need something new to keep them occupied. The trail passes through vast expanses of greenery and over several tiny hills, which are sure to delight the younger members of your family as you walk along. This is the perfect hike for those who want to enjoy a nice walk without having to be out in the woods.
Blount County offers a number of hiking trails that meet the needs of hikers at all skill levels. They make a great way to get your family out in the fresh air and sunshine. Try different trails each time and experience all the Great Smoky Mountains and Blount County have to offer you and your family.

Our Top 3 Favorite Fall Hikes for Viewing Fall Foliage in the Smokies

Posted on October 15, 2018 by - Activities, Blog, Smoky Mountains

Fall in eastern Tennessee is the ideal time of year to go hiking in the Smokies. The fall foliage display, courtesy of Mother Nature, runs from September through November, but keep in mind the foliage starts changing color at the higher elevations first. By mid-October the mountains put their full splendor on display from midway to peak, making this time of year the best time to go hiking in the Smokies. Here are three of our favorite hikes for viewing the fall foliage.

1. The Rich Mountain Loop Trail

Located in Cades Cove, the trail is a delightful way to explore what many consider to be “one of the most picturesque valleys” anywhere in the country. Hiking along this trail takes you past several spectacular views of Cades Cove and through some incredible areas of forest. If you come here in late October, the fall colors are at their peak.

The trail itself is only mildly challenging and should be fine for all family members. You can also include hikes to the John Oliver Cabin and the Primitive Baptist Church located in the Cove while you are here. Since this is a very popular trail, you should park in the campground and walk to the trailhead; it’s not very far.

2. The Middle Prong Trail

The trailhead for the Middle Prong Trail is located near the Great Smoky Mountains Institute at Tremont. The trail stays at a low level, making it perfect for the less experienced hiker and younger children. There are many other trails that take you higher into the mountains where you look out over the mountains. You won’t find views like that on the Middle Prong Trail. But what you will find is a delightful trail winding through glorious woods covered in a shroud of fall colors including golds, yellows, oranges, reds, and browns.

The trail also takes you past a number of waterfalls and cascades as it winds near and over the creeks that curve lazily down the mountainside. While you are here, why not take the one-mile trip on the Spruce Flats Falls Hiking Trail. The trailhead is located at the Great Smoky Mountains Institute at Tremont and offers mountain views and a 20-ft waterfall. Bring the family and make sure you grab your camera; both trails offer spectacular photo opportunities.

3. The Gregory Bald Trail

“I’m on top of the world, ma!” Well, at least it will feel that way by the time you get to the top of Gregory Bald. From here you have an uninterrupted view of the southeastern corner of the park, including Cades Cove. While the view from the top of the bald is incredible and a fantastic destination, the journey itself is worthy of comment. As you hike towards the top, your journey will take you past the stands of hardwood that make the mountains so glorious at this time of year. It’s a ten-mile hike, but more than worth the effort.

The Peaceful Side of the Smokies has dozens of trails for you to explore in the fall. One thing you can count on is that no matter which hike you take, you will never be disappointed by the scenery.

Smoky Mountains National Park is Open All Year; Experience the Exhilaration of Hiking in the Winter

Posted on December 14, 2018 by - Blog, Smoky Mountains

Whether a first-time visitor to the Smokies, or someone who has been returning for years, you already know it is a remarkably beautiful region. It is why millions of people head there every year, but you don’t have to limit your visits to the peak seasons. From late spring and into autumn, the region hosts many visitors who head out on the roads and trails to enjoy the stunning natural beauty that is the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
Yet, as winter arrives, the crowds thin and the park grows quieter than at any time of year. And that is precisely the reason to pay a visit during the winter months. Now, you might think it a bit unappealing to head into the woods if the snows are deep and the temperatures freezing, but you might be surprised at how amenable the parklands are to winter hikes.
The Advantages of Winter Hiking in the Smokies
Experts even point out that there are distinct advantages to choosing to hike in the winter. One such advantage is the absence of bugs! You won’t have to use any sort of repellents in the winter and can just enjoy the scenery.
Another advantage is that the leaves have fallen and opened up views and vistas that you cannot enjoy at any other time of the year. While the leaves may help to keep you cool and create a wonderful sort of scenery in the warmer seasons, with their disappearance in the winter, it changes the entire experience of hiking.
The temperatures are always cool and amenable to activity. You may even find you have to unzip or remove a layer as you make your way along the snow covered trails! And speaking of the snow cover, it is a wonderful way to begin learning about the native creatures of the forest. After all, they leave behind their footprints, quite clearly, in the snow and can help you to begin recognizing who has passed through the same trails you are hiking!
Of course, the peace and quiet of a winter’s hike in the Smokies is also an advantage. Though it is great that so many people like to get out into the woods and explore this stunning destination, it is awfully nice to feel like you have it almost entirely to yourself!
The Hikes to Consider
Not all trails are suited to novice or even somewhat experienced hikers in the winter months. We suggest the following three easy hikes for their amazing winter beauty and predictable conditions:

  • Laurel Falls – If it is very cold, the falls freeze and create an unforgettable sight. The 1.3 mile trail is paved, so no extra-slippery conditions, and you’ll definitely want to use the wooden footbridge to take a few unforgettable photos.
  • Porter’s Creek – Easily reached by car, it is gentle and brings you past Fern Branch Falls, usually frozen in the winter months. This is a four-mile loop.
  • Schoolhouse Gap – Set near famous Cades Cove, it is where you will find a lot of local wildlife and can enjoy the scenery on this relatively flat and easy hike.

Remember to always check conditions and ensure roads are open, dress properly, and bring a camera! Winter hiking in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is something you’ll want to photograph in order to capture some amazing memories.

The Best Spring Trails in the Smoky Mountains

Posted on March 27, 2019 by - Blog, Smoky Mountains

Springtime in the Smokies offers locals and visitors alike a majestic view not only of the mountains but of the hundreds of different colored wildflowers that bloom starting in spring and staying in bloom into the summer months. This time of year, not only are the millions of flowers a sight to behold, but you have a good chance of seeing new baby bear cubs, newborn fawns, baby birds, and so much more.
The snow line is slowly creeping higher up into the mountains the trees begin to burst out in their canopy of color, and with all this comes a serious case of cabin fever. It’s not unusual for anyone who has been cooped up all winter to feel the need to get outside and enjoy a little warm spring sunshine and fresh air. If you are coming to the Peaceful Side of Smokies to visit, make sure you bring your camera. Here are five of our favorite spots to take photographs.
Abrams Falls – It’s a five-mile round trip to Abrams Falls from Cades Cove. Your hike will take you through dense forest and rhododendrons that are blooming in a riot of color. The falls are one of the most popular spots to hike to and offer amazing photo opportunities.
Little River Trail – The Little River Trail is over in Elkmont and offers a 5-mile trek along the riverside where you will see an incredible selection of wildflowers blooming in a riot of color. Among them are hepaticas, rhododendron, and yellow trillium. Make sure you have plenty of room on your memory card, the photo ops are almost endless.
Laurel Falls Trail – The Laurel Falls Trail is considered by most to be the easiest trail in the Smokies to hike. It’s only 2.6 miles to the falls and back, but the walk will take you to the picture-perfect Laurel Falls. The trail leads you between the upper and lower falls and offers several fabulous photo opportunities.
Mount LeConte – For those of you who are up for a challenging hike, the Mount LeConte is third tallest peak inside the boundaries of the national park. The hike might be a bit tough, but the view from the summit is breathtaking, and you can capture some amazing photos here, making the trip well worth the effort.
Potters Creek Trail – If you want pictures of flowers, historical buildings, and a four-mile hike that is sure to create great memories, then Potters Creek Trail is for. Along the trek, you will go past the site of the John Messer farm along with a spectacular array of wildflowers including yellow trillium, foamflower, baneberry, wild geranium, dwarf ginseng, toothwort, and many, many more.
These are just a few of our favorite places to hike for photos. No matter who you talk to here, everyone is going to have their list of places they like to go to take pictures. The most important thing is for you to come to the Peaceful Side of the Smokies and find your own favorite places!
 

Waterfalls in The Great Smoky Mountains

Posted on July 25, 2022 by - Activities, Blog

cascading waterfall in the peaceful side of the smokies

There is no better outing during the summer than a trip to one of the many Waterfalls in the Great Smoky Mountains. Luckily, there are over 2,000 miles of rivers and streams in the national park, resulting in a series of over 100 cascades and falls. We have picked out a handful of beautiful hikes in the Peaceful Side of the park for every level of experience.

Hiking in the Great Smoky Mountains

Meigs Falls

Meigs Falls is one of the most accessible waterfalls to visit. In fact, you can drive your car up to within 500 feet of the falls. The drop is only 28 feet, but it is nestled into a breathtaking spot of the Smokies.

 
Directions

Only located 12.9 miles west of the Sugarlands Visitor Center, near the Townsend “Wye”.

Waterfalls in the Great Smoky Mountains

Ramsey Cascades

If you are looking for a more strenuous adventure, check out the Ramsey Cascades. The hike is 8 miles roundtrip, and as the tallest waterfall, it follows over 100 feet of tumbling cascades throughout the park. The trail to the waterfall gains over 2,000′ in elevation, passing through old-growth cove hardwood forest.


Direction

Take Highway 321 east of Gatlinburg to the Greenbrier entrance to the park. Follow the signs to the Ramsay Cascades trailhead.

group hiking to a waterfall in the smokies

Spruce Flat Falls

The hike to Spruce Flat Falls is only two miles roundtrip, but it can get significantly steep, making it a more challenging hike. Located in the Tremont section of the park, a still relatively unknown area, there is a chance for a more private experience. At the bottom of the 30-foot fall, dropping in four stages, you will find a pool of water perfect for a refreshing summer swim.

Directions

You will find this trail located on Tremont Road near Smokey Mountain Institute at Tremont, near Cades Cove.

man hiking through a river in the Smokies

Abrams Falls

Abrams Falls is one of the “Waterfall Quartet”, a group of four waterfalls, including Abrams, Laurel, Grotto, and Rainbow Falls. Although the waterfall is only 20 feet high, it has the highest volume of water, making it the most voluminous falls in the park. It empties into a large, picturesque pool, but swimming is off-limits because of the strong currents and dangerous undertow.


Directions

From Townsend or Gatlinburg, follow signs to Cades Cove. The turnoff for Abrams Falls Trail is located past stop #10 (signed) along Cades Cove Loop Road.

Woman hiking in the Smoky Mountains

Indian Creek Falls

The Indian Flats Falls is beyond Toms Branch Falls another half-mile, turning right onto Indian Creek Trail. The trail begins as a wide path as it traces Deep Creek upstream. After walking just one-tenth of a mile, there will be a short spur trail on your left that leads down to the 45-foot waterfall. If you were to climb back to the main trail and walk a short distance up, the Indian Flats Falls looks more like a water slide than an actual waterfall.


Directions

Located on Tremont Road near Smokey Mountain Institute at Tremont, near Cades Cove. Hike on Middle Prong Trail to Panther Creek Trail.

Waterfall in the Great Smoky Mountains

These are just a handful of the waterfall opportunities in the Great Smoky Mountain National Parks. Take the time to do a little more research and find yourself in a world of awe-inspiring waterscapes and hiking opportunities for the whole family.

For more summer adventures in the Peaceful Side, check out the blog links below.

Hidden Treasures in the Peaceful Side

Kid-Friendly Activities on the Peaceful Side

Winter in the Smoky Mountains: Advantages & Hiking Tips

Posted on December 30, 2022 by - Activities, Blog

When people think of hiking in the Smoky Mountains, the most popular times of year are generally Spring through Fall. But the Smoky Mountain National Park is open year-round, and winter brings a unique beauty. We’ve put together some of the best reasons you need to get out and enjoy the Smokies this time of year, along with some valuable Winter Hiking Tips.

Exploring The Smoky Mountains in Winter

Are you in the mood for a more challenging hike, like Thunderhead Mountain (elevation: 5527 feet) and Gregory Bald (elevation: 4949)? Or would you prefer a short, invigorating trek to Look Rock Fire Tower on Chilhowee Mountain, off the Foothills Parkway? If you haven’t already explored, here are several reasons to take that journey in winter. First of all, the most apparent difference while hiking in the cold months is the lack of foliage on the trees. Some trails become very narrow during the summer, so hiking when there is less vegetation can be a relief for the more claustrophobic traveler. And can we talk about the views during the winter? Once the trees shed their leaves, a more pristine view of the magnitude and breadth of our lovely mountains reveals itself.
In the winter months, you will also find that you often have the trails all to yourself. Not only will you see fewer people on your journey, but there will also be a fraction of insects and bugs. There is a special kind of peace when the forest blanketed with silence, your only companion the sound of crunching leaves and falling snow. Another welcome absence on a winter hike is the sometimes stifling summer humidity. Winter in the Smokies is a definite case of less is often more.
Group of friends winter hiking in the snow

 

Tips for Hiking the Smokies in the Cold

  1. Always check the weather and be prepared for it to change.
  2. Snow/ice spikes and trekking poles will help with traction and stability.
  3. Don’t be afraid to spend the extra money to get top quality winter gear. Waterproof and windproof gear can be lifesavers when the windchill at the higher elevations create dramatic temperature drops. 
  4. Layering is essential. Choose wet-wicking material and a light but warm coat, such as a down jacket. Be prepared to layer up or down depending on changing altitudes and surprise weather. Wool socks and appropriate hiking boots will keep your feet warm and a toboggan will prevent body heat from escaping through your head.
  5. Extras. Pack extra socks and gloves in case the ones you are wearing get wet. Extra HotHands or hand warmers are great for putting in your sleeping back for overnight hikes. Remember, it is better to have a heavier pack, with everything you need, than finding yourself hurt or in danger.

Don’t Forget Your Camera

Take advantage of the season to find those distinctive winter shots. You may discover animal prints in the snow or icy rivers. Look for the way the sun reflects on the frosted mountains and expect to see a whole new side of the Smoky Mountains’ personality.
Family goes winter hiking in the snow covered mountains

 
Feature Image by Nikki Adam Jenkins

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