Great Smokey Mountains

Caught the fall colors on a trip to visit my bestie. Clingman’s Dome proved slow and steady makes anything possible. 300 feet elevation gain in a half mile at more than 6,000 feet. The payoff was a spectacular view that touched 5 different states. We also set foot on the Appalachian Trail, which was surprisingly moving. We started at the Visitor’s Center and the nature trail. It pays to ask questions. Never would have found this hike without the suggestion of a savvy volunteer.Read more