There’s something magical about entering the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Yes, sometimes the main roads are crowded, but at the visitor center the folks behind the desk, whether rangers or volunteers, are friendly, knowledgeable, and so happy to see you. The trails are wellmarked and maintained; you can feel that hikers are taken seriously here. You immediately know you’re in a national park.

 

In 2009, the park is celebrating its 75th anniversary  with many programs and celebrations. The picture above is of Gregory Bald, one of the two maintained balds in the park. In late June, Gregory Bald bursts into flame with azaleas and mountain laurel.

 

Hike Name	Location	Type of Hike	Total Distance	Total Ascent
Caldwell Fork	Cataloochee	Loop	9.4 miles	1,650 ft.
Mt. LeConte	Newfound Gap Rd.	Shuttle	13.1 miles	2,500 ft.