Hiking the Great Smoky Mountains Photo Friday

A few years back we took a family vacation to Great Smoky Mountains National Park.  Straddling parts of Tennessee and North Carolina, the park is loaded with abundant hiking and outdoor opportunities.  We stayed in a luxurious cabin in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee with spacious bedrooms and four full bathrooms affording privacy and comfort for our multigenerational brood.  The cabin had arcade games and a billiards table in the basement.  A wrap around balcony surrounded the house.

Streams and rivers create innumerable waterfalls in the Smoky Mountains.

We took advantage of many local sights including a visit to an aquarium, two dinner shows, and some competitive miniature golf.  But everyone seemed to love communing with nature and we went on several hikes.  Great Smoky Mountains National Park is the most touristed park in the United States.  800 miles of trails beckon visitors with surprises around every bend.  Streams, waterfalls, and rich wildlife provide a canvas for artists and photographers.  Try the Laurel Falls hike for a paved route leading to crushing waterfalls or Chimney Tops for a more challenging course.

It can get muddy on the Chimney Tops hike so wear appropriate footwear.

Patrick and Melissa fashioned walking sticks from fallen branches.

Hikers on the Laurel Falls trail are rewarded with these views after a 1.3 mile paved hike.

Moss and tree living a symbiotic existence in Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Self-portrait of my shadow against rocks

Mel tested her limits and put her walking stick to good use while crossing this stream.

Great Smoky National Park straddles parts of Tennessee and North Carolina.

Nearing the summit of the rocks that provide Chimney Tops trail with its name

Melissa and Partrick faced many inclines when we hiked in Tennessee.