Ridge upon ridge of endless forest straddles the border between North Carolina and Tennessee in Great Smoky Mountains National Park.  World renowned for the diversity of its plant and animal life, the beauty of its ancient mountains, and the quality of its remnants of Southern Appalachian mountain culture, this is America’s most visited national park.

Wildflowers are heralding the arrival of spring in the park.  Blue phlox, bloodroot, hepatica and other early wildflowers bloom in mid to late April at low elevation and into May at high elevation.

Spring brings unpredictable weather to the park.  Changes occur rapidly –sunny skies can yield to snow flurries in a few hours.  Although snowfalls are rare at low elevation during the month, at higher elevations early spring storms may force the temporary closure of U.S. 441, which travels over the mountains from Gatlinburg, TN to Cherokee, NC.

More than 850 miles of hiking trails traverse the Great Smoky Mountains.  They range from easy to difficult and provide half hour walks to week-long backpacking trips.  The Appalachian Trail runs for 70 miles along the Park’s top ridge.  Pets are not allowed on any trails except for the Gatlinburg Trail and the Oconaluftee River Trail.  Backcountry camping requires a permit.

Directions:  For specific directions, see http://www.mapquest.com

Two of the park’s many trails are: