The Great Smoky Mountains National Park

13 May 2016

I’ve been coming to the Smokies since I was a little kid. Dad took a photo of my mother, my brother Archie and me (in pajamas) somewhere in the park. I figure I was around 4 or 5.

Mom, Archie, and me in pajamas. I remember I got got car sick from the curves.
Mom, Archie, and me in pajamas. I remember I got got car sick from the curves.

I remember the tunnels, especially because back then if you stopped in a tunnel and honked your horn, it would sound like it was raining in the tunnel.  Of course, you cannot do that today.  You would be rammed from behind by a car following you.  The Smokies are far and way the most visited park in the U.S.

I’ve been to quite a few national parks and each has its own beauty and charm, but to me, the Smokies are special.  The Appalachian chain is much older geologically than anything out west and it has a mature beauty – a comfortable feel when you travel through the park.  I honestly think it the most beautiful drive anywhere in the world.

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Archie clowning for the camera.
Archie clowning for the camera.

The trip out of Gatlinburg gave emphasis to the name of the place.  There were several patches of fog hanging around and plenty of the “smoke” from the killer trees Reagan spoke about.  There were a couple of times when I rounded a bend or curve and the fog cleared and the horizon opened up for a spectacular view of the rolling, rounded peaks and it simply took your breath away.

Archie and Mom playing around for the camera.
Archie and Mom playing around for the camera.

I will never tire of the Smokies.  It’s been a part of my life as long as I can remember and will always return. It nourishes the soul in a way nothing can.

Author: searcyf@mac.com

After 34 years in the classroom and lab teaching biology, I'm ready to get back to traveling and camping and hiking. It's been too long of a break. I miss the outdoors and you can follow my wanderings on this blog.

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