Pretend, for just a moment, that there were no outlet malls in Sevier County; There are no amusement parks. If those facts were true, the area would still have one of the largest tourist attractions in the area with the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. It is the anchor around which everything else is set in the area.
Let’s take a look at some of the history around Great Smoky Mountains National Park…and what makes it so special!
Great Smoky Mountains National Park Road & Trail Closures
Road closures & congestion occur in the National Park from time to time for a variety of reasons… You can stay up to speed with current road closures by following this up to the minute Twitter feed from the National Park Service – http://twitter.com/smokiesroadsnps
In early July 2012, there was a damaging storm that came through the park causing many trees to fall and closing many hiking trails. The NPS is working currently to get the damage under control, but it’s probably a wise idea to check their website for current Facility & Trail Closures In the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
The mountains are thousands of years old, and their history stretches from the Paleo Indians all the way to the Civilian Conservation Corps that helped to further develop the park in 1934. The park, which is in the midst of celebrating its 75thanniversary, is the United States’ most visited national park.
There’s a reason for this. Whether you visit in the winter, spring, summer, or fall, you will be simply amazed by the breathtaking beauty that surrounds you and everything the park offers to do and see for each visitor.
For example—did you know that there are over 800 miles of hiking area in the park, which covers parts of Tennessee and North Carolina? In addition, there are some incredible fishing sites to be had, and the park is ideal for a family picnic.
Another attraction of the park is those that inhabit it—the wildlife. There are countless deer and elk to be found, but when most people come to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, they are looking for bear…and the park will not let you down in that respect.
Over 1,500 bears call the park home. Of course, you’re best served to look at them from afar if you see one, as you wouldn’t want to get too close, would you?
There are more than animals that are worth looking at. History runs rampant at the park, with over seventy-five historic structures on site, ranging from grist mills, churches, schools, and barns. Besides that, in keeping with the goal of preserving Appalachia, you can also find some of the homes of the early settlers of the area. The trip back in time will enchant you!
There are several different ways to become acquainted with the park. You are welcome to explore the grounds yourself, as a lot of people do, but there are also Park Ranger guided tours available during the autumn. It’s a great way to learn about the area from those who know it best!
However you choose to experience the natural beauty of this God-made wonder, you definitely need to set aside some time to do so. Yes, the food you’ll find in the area is great, and so is the shopping, and the amusement parks…but in Sevier County, it all centers around the Smokies. So why not take them in on your next trip?
The Free 2013 Official Smokies Trip Planner From The National Park Service
You’ll find many different guides, brochures, and other sources of information out there regarding the Smoky Mountain National Park, but if you’re looking for the best overview of what the park actually has to offer, it’s highly recommended that you take a look at this official Smokies Trip Planner (updated for 2013). Because it’s a free yearly guide that comes right from the National Park Service itself, the information couldn’t be any more accurate!