Enjoying the Snowy days

This year we had a cold and snowy winter, which was unusual, especially in middle of Tennessee. In fact, I think the whole country had a rough winter. The recent massive snow storm brought the record low temperatures, ice and snow across the country - has left millions of Americans without power. 

We got a good amount of snow over the weekend and had such a great time playing in it. We don't always get a lot of snow out here, so when it does come we make sure to enjoy it while it lasts.  Whether you’re wrapped in a blanket on your couch or out playing in the snow, there’s wintry inspiration all around us, and always something to share with our family.

Making memories with family is what life is all about.

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21 comments AdBenture, Gatlinburg, Great Smoky Mountain National Park, Nashville, Tennessee, United States, Winter Getaways, Winter Memories

A colorful time to explore Smoky Mountain in East Tennessee

Everyone knows the further you go up North  the vibrant fall colors display draw a lot of visitors.  But did you know that the Smoky Mountains in East Tennessee puts on its own stunning display of gold, red, yellow and orange as the temperatures cool down and the days shorten?

The landscape here is populated with sugar maples, hickories, sweetgum, scarlet oaks, red maples and nearly 100 other species of native trees.  This colorful show from Mother Nature will last not that long.  It’s another great reason to make a trip to eastern Tennessee and take a break from your hectic everyday life.

We decided to join a million other leaf-peepers in the Great Smoky Mountains.

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19 comments Great Smoky Mountain National Park, Jeep Adventure, Shades of Autumn, Tennessee, United States

Visit Anakeesta Theme Park in the Mountains of Gatlinburg Tennessee

My husband and I were in Gatlinburg, TN for the Labor Day weekend and for the first time we visit Anakeesta. Anakeesta is a new attraction since the big forest fire of 2016.  It offers a unique outdoor mountain experience for all ages.  Admission includes a scenic Chondola ride from the Parkway to the summit, 16 bridge Tree Canopy Walk, Treehouse Village Playground, Forest Memorial Walk, Dueling Ziplines, Gem Mining, shopping, dining and the most gorgeous scenic views of Great Smoky Mountain.

The breath taking view of the restaurant on top.

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42 comments Gatlinburg, Great Smoky Mountain National Park, Outdoor Activities and Adventures, Tennessee, Theme Parks, United States

Cataract Falls Hike in the Smoky Mountain

We enjoyed our short hike to Cataract Falls,  one of the most popular falls in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.  Located just a half mile behind the Sugarlands Visitor Center, Cataract Falls is an easy hike with a small set of stairs near the falls.  The first part of the trail was flat and featured a small foot bridge that crossed the creek next to a tree that had some very interesting features.

At the end of the hike you will find a beautiful waterfall. The waterfall is comprised of two low-flow streams totaling a 25-foot drop into a small pool below.  After periods of rain, the waterfall is quite impressive!

📌  Hike the Smokies Challenge

Our very first hike at Smokies.

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19 comments Great Smoky Mountain National Park, Hiking Trails, Tennessee, United States, US National Park, Waterfalls

Visit Fontana Dam at North Carolina

Located in the far western corner of North Carolina, Fontana Dam is the tallest dam east of the Rockies . It was built in 1940s by the Tennessee Valley Authority in response to an urgent need for electric power during World War II.  This dam is surrounded by the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the Nantahala National Forest, and deep river gorges. Fontana ranks among the most beautiful dams in the world.  In addition to providing hydroelectric power and flood control for the region, the lake created behind the dam on the Little Tennessee River is a popular site for many kinds of outdoor recreation.

One of our stop over view at North Carolina.

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27 comments Fontana, Great Smoky Mountain National Park, Historic Landmarks, Jeep Adventure, North Carolina, Rivers and Lakes, United States

Hike to Charlies Bunion in the Smoky Mountains

From the popular tourist stop Newfound Gap, Charlie's Bunion is  an eight mile round-trip moderate to strenuous hike along the historic Appalachian Trail.  The views  will take your breath away and the hike is definitely a strong cardio workout.  One of the toughest hike we've ever did.  Its almost 2.7 miles uphill and 1.3 miles downhill.  Hiking path is rocky so be sure to have sturdy hiking shoes. There is no washroom until you get to shelter which is 3 miles away from starting point.  There will be two intersection on the way so do check sign board and follow correct trail.  It will be better if you start hiking early like 9 am or so.  Although  it was super smoky that time, we did get to see a little bit of the view and watch the clouds roll over the mountains.

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42 comments Charlies Bunion, Great Smoky Mountain National Park, Hiking Trails, Tennessee, United States

The 10 Must-See Waterfall Hikes in Tennessee

Welcome to East Tennessee, the home to the nation's most visited national park— the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Tennessee is famous for beautiful outdoor scenes. With its beautiful blend of rustic scenery, smoky mountaintops, rolling hills and countryside, it’s pretty clear Mother Nature lay her place in Tennessee. 

As one of the Appalachian Trail’s highlighted states, Tennessee is a paradise for backpackers and hikers,  and the state has plenty of hot spots for black bear sightings. Challenge your self  and your family! Join numerous hikers that have logged over 100+ miles and the park will reward you with mileage pins.

Here are 10 must-see hiking trails and waterfalls in Tennessee, in no particular order. (Click each waterfalls name to view more photos.)

1. Hike to Ozone Falls

Located just off U.S. Highway 70, Crab Orchard, Tennessee. This stunningly grand Ozone Falls is a 110-foot waterfall with a pool below it has been a popular tourist attraction for more than a century. The waterfall was named Ozone, because the mist from the falls was believed to have healthy qualities. Today, the waterfall is protected as part of Ozone Falls State Natural Area and it's just a short hike — less than a mile — and easy, but the trail that takes you to the pool below is strenuous, especially on the way back up.

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34 comments Crossville, Gatlinburg, Great Smoky Mountain National Park, Tennessee, Tennessee State National Park, Travel Tips, Waterfalls

Smoky Mountain Fall Foliage 2017

It’s late October and the fall foliage 2017 season is underway to the lower elevation at the Great Smoky Mountains. The fall foliage  for this year is an average season. This is because of the moderate summer temperatures during this past summer . But an average fall foliage appearance is still a good one.

When hurricane Irma passed through East Tennessee weeks ago it did cause some closures in the park. But the closures were more for safety reasons. There was no real damage to the park and areas of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park are open. The wind from Irma was not bad enough to have a detrimental effect on this year’s fall foliage season.

Impressive display the dramatic scenery of fiery trees in Smoky Mountains.

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18 comments Great Smoky Mountain National Park, Jeep Adventure, Road Trip, Shades of Autumn, Tennessee, United States

The Smoky Mountain Fall Festival

The muggy summer heat fades into an inviting fall chill.  The greenery on the trees transforms into the vivid colors of the season.  Today is the time where everyone starts to wear a jacket and warmer clothes when they go out.  When you visit the Smokies in the fall, you can be assured you’ll always have something to celebrate, whether it’s a harvest festival, a food tasting or a parade.

My favorite time to visit the Smoky Mountains is fall. Autumn is a special season in the Smoky Mountains with the incredible weather, beautiful scenery of fall foliage, talented craftsmen, delicious treats, mountain music, and everything else that makes fall one of the favorite times of year for both locals and visitors.

Smoky Mountain is your home-away-from-home all year long, but fall is an especially good time visit. 🍁🍂🎃

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5 comments Festival, Great Smoky Mountain National Park, Mountain, Shades of Autumn, Tennessee, Tennessee State National Park, Townsend, United States

Wears Valley Log Cabins

This year we only experience mild winter in East Tennessee and I like it by the way.  Just because the temperatures are a little uncomfortable doesn't mean you need to be stuck inside all winter. Driving around is a pleasure, and allows for plenty of exploring. We both enjoy an uncrowded area of Wears Valley where we can briefly survey the mountain range beyond in all its glory on a mid morning drive.

First winter in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park should not be missed. Even if there is snow accumulation and some business establishments are closed. There is still many places to check out. Also, bears are hibernating, so there is not much concern there either. Though the GSMNP is not vibrantly green like other seasons, you may be surprised to discover how breathtaking it is even on a winter days.

The mountain cabin homes located throughout Wears Valley, Townsend Tennessee.

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10 comments Cabin and Hotel Reviews, Great Smoky Mountain National Park, Jeep Adventure, Mountain, Road Trip, Tennessee, Townsend, Winter Memories

Sunset at Clingman's Dome

📌 Highest Peak of  Great Smoky Mountain National Park

We went to Clingman's Dome to watch sunset for the first time. You have to hike to get there, its a steep and tough hike up but only about 1/2 mile so with frequent stops it can be done. We are both  in decent shape but had to stop several times just to catch our breathe. There are  number of benches , rocks, along the trail for you to rest so it's not that bad. The hike down is a breeze!

Once you get to the top the hike is well worth it. We saw a layer of cloud in front of us, somewhat like cotton candy, with mountain peaks peeking out above the layer. Felt like at the top of the world.

Who doesn't enjoy Smokies sunset? The sight is even more rewarding when you hike to a destination with a spectacular view.

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10 comments Clingman's Dome, Great Smoky Mountain National Park, Hiking Trails, Mountain, Summer Getaway, Tennessee, Tennessee State National Park

The Hen Wallow Falls

We hiked up to Hen Wallow Falls on June 18. This was a great two hour hike at least 4.5 miles round trip . Maybe, little over two hours if you take your time.  The entry of the trail is beautiful. It feels like you are walking into a tunnel of beautiful greenery. The trip to the falls is almost all up hill and very uneven (lots of roots) in parts. The elevation gain is just over 550 feet but the total round trip elevation gain is just over 1,100 feet. There are several places along the trail on the way up to stop, take pictures, and catch your breath if needed. 

This isn't an easy hike, and it's not as popular as some of the other waterfall trails in Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The amount of water flows at the fall is depending on the time of year the amount of recent rainfall, still can be a very enjoyable experience.  We brought snacks with so we were able to hang out at the base of the falls for awhile. If you are looking for a short day hike to a waterfall away from the crowds this trail is a good choice.

Here's one of the tree bridges on the trail.

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Leave a Comment Great Smoky Mountain National Park, Summer Getaway, Tennessee, Tennessee State National Park, Waterfalls

The Jump Off trail

We hiked this trail on 7th of May 2016, this is a challenging 7-mile round trip hike on the Appalachian Trail. Mostly uphill the first couple miles with a mix of downhill and uphill the rest of way, making the return much easier. Take your time and you'll make it. This is a very popular hike so expect people to be there and on the trail. When you reach the Jump Off the views are spectacular. A little bit chilly that day and I spotted some snow on the ground so always bring a coat when you hike  even on late spring. 

Drive on Newfound Gap Road to Newfound Gap parking lot

The trailhead is to the left of the overlook, at the end of the parking lot near the restrooms. 

Don't see the Smokies from just the seat of your car, you'll never regret it!

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2 comments Great Smoky Mountain National Park, Hiking Trails, Summer Getaway, Tennessee, Tennessee State National Park

Abrams Falls and Hiking Trail

Abram Falls has the highest volume of water flow of any waterfall in the Great Smoky Mountain National Park, which easily makes it one of my favorites. The drive to get here and all the things to see once you arrive in Cades Cove makes it my BEST recommendation for outdoor activities when visiting the Smokies. You' will want to come back here again and again.

There are rocky areas and tree roots along the way but if you hang in there it is well worth it. Once you arrive, you will know it. The falls are glorious, but because of the curve of the trail, they remain hidden from your view until you are only 50 yards away... but what a sight! I could honestly spent the entire day watching and admiring this falls,

Hiking Distance (Roundtrip Length): 6 Miles

Trail Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult

One of the beautiful Falls of Smoky Mountain, bigger than photo suggest.

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24 comments Great Smoky Mountain National Park, Summer Getaway, Tennessee, Tennessee State National Park, Waterfalls

Foothills Parkway of the Smoky Mountain

This is our first time that we drove the Foothills Parkway, even though we have been to the Smokies a number of times before. Most scenic areas have one special road to see the foliage. In the Smokies, fabulous foliage is truly everywhere. But the Foothills Parkway offers an elevated view of the area as it rolls along from peak to peak with amazing overviews. It was a nice drive with plenty of pullouts to see the valley below and all of the mountain ridges across the park. We enjoyed the views from the Look Rock Tower. It is great to be on a ridge that you could see 360 degrees of scenery.

Address: Between Chilhowee Lake and Townsend, TN

Beautiful, doesn't even begin to describe the view from here.

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18 comments Great Smoky Mountain National Park, Shades of Autumn, Tennessee, Tennessee State National Park

The Summit of Mount LeConte

We decided to hike up to the Mount LeConte roughly 2.7 miles further from Alum Cave. On the way up its gets a little steeper and rockier. A little rough on our joints but it was definitely worth it. At some points you have to hold on to a rope to get up the slick rocks. This did not stop us, as the views on the way are amazing.  It took us about 6 hours round-trip and that's with a few breaks. Overall, if you are in decent shape I would definitely recommend hiking Mt. LeConte. Literally you get a little bit of everything with this hike like different types of terrain, the cave, rocks, narrow spots, slick spots, multiple bridges and wires to hold on. 

Panoramic views to die for - Mission accomplished

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22 comments Great Smoky Mountain National Park, Hiking Trails, Mountain, Shades of Autumn, Tennessee, Tennessee State National Park, US National Park

Alum Cave Trail

Looking for a challenging yet scenic hike in the Smoky Mountains? Look no further than Alum Cave Trail also known as Alum Bluffs. It is the shortest and steepest of the several trails leading to the top of Mount LeConte. Due to its short length and beautiful scenery it is often considered Le Conte's most scenic route and the most common footpath for hikers seeking to reach the summit of Le Conte.

My husband been wanted to hike this trail ever since we moved to Tennessee , and I'm glad he appreciates my enthusiasm.  We hiked two trails in a day, for total of 10 miles. My body is sore and tired, but I feel very satisfied.  Personal challenge completed.

Autumn is a beautiful time to visit Great Smoky Mountain

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24 comments Great Smoky Mountain National Park, Hiking Trails, Mountain, Shades of Autumn, Tennessee, Tennessee State National Park, US National Park

A hike to heaven at Charlies Bunion

We hiked to the Bunion from Newfound Gap on 30th of August 2015. Got started about 1:00pm and returned to the Gap at 6:00. Weather was gorgeous, partly sunny with temps in the high 70s. I say the hike is challenging, my husband says it is moderate. If you are carrying a heavy backpack, it  can added weight on the back. The views are awesome especially with the fairly clear skies we had that day. We spend at least an hour at the Bunion and  we enjoyed sitting there, totally in love at God's country. If you still have the energy on your return trip, take the relatively short side trail to visit the Jump Off, located near the Boulevard Trail junction. Going there we ran into a few hikers which is okay, over all we enjoy this hike. 

Trail Features: Panoramic Views

Roundtrip Length: 8.1 Miles

Highest Elevation: 6122 Feet

Trail Difficulty Rating: 11.38 (strenuous)

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11 comments Charlies Bunion, Great Smoky Mountain National Park, Hiking Trails, Summer Getaway, Tennessee, United States

Take a Day Hike at Andrews Bald in Smokies

The trail had a lot of man-made steps out of rock and timber. It also had a lot of planks over the land for pathways. The trail went downhill most of the way there and it had a few rocks and roots here and there. Once we get to the top of Andrew's ball we had a beautiful view of the mountains. The viewing area was about as big as a football field. We brought some food and had a nice, little picnic out there and baked in the sun for a while. There was a lot of room to spread out. The climb back up to the parking area was pretty steady and much more difficult. It's a good place to get your cardio workout. It took us almost 3 hours including the stay at the top. 

Directions to Trailhead: From the Sugarlands Visitor Center near Gatlinburg, drive 13.2 miles south on Newfound Gap Road to Clingmans Dome Road. Turn right onto Clingmans Dome Road and drive another 7 miles to the end of the road. Due to its popularity, the parking area for the highest point in the Smokies is quite large. Andrews Bald is accessed via the Forney Ridge Trail, which is located at the far end of the parking lot.

Hiking Distance (Roundtrip Length): 3.5 Miles
Trail Difficulty Rating: 5.30 (moderate)

A reminder of God's amazing creation

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6 comments Great Smoky Mountain National Park, Hiking Trails, Outdoor Activities and Adventures, Summer Getaway, Tennessee, Tennessee State National Park, United States

Visit Tuckaleechee Caverns

We have been to Townsend , TN many times .  It was kinda rainy  the past few days so we decided to go. This place looks very basic once you arrive, when you pull up you may think that this is not going to offer much. But below that building is the entrance to one of the most spectacular rock formations and underground river with waterfall that you will get the chance to see. It's absolutely stunning.

There are steps and handrails throughout the cave, and enough lighting to see.The light show in the big room was fun, highlighting the different structures, and experiencing what a cave is like with all the lights off was another level of darkness. Most people should be able to do the tour, it is not too strenuous and there are a couple of breaks and places to sit. The tour last about an hour and a half or two. 

I thought this was a fantastic experience. We're looking forward to checking out other caves now that I know they are all a bit different. If you are in the area and looking for something fun to do, this a place you should definitely stop and see. 

The entrance building under this is a stunning cave

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7 comments Caves and Caverns, Great Smoky Mountain National Park, Outdoor Activities and Adventures, Summer Getaway, Tennessee, Townsend, United States