God’s Country

My husband and I just spent 11 days in the Smoky Mountains. I cannot begin to tell you how beautiful this country is. The mountains soar above small towns and houses that snuggle right up to the mountains. The people are generous and kind, love meeting people, and showing off their crafts to strangers. Never have I met such genuine people that honestly enjoy living where they do. When you ride out into the Smoky Mountain National Park, you cannot help but feel like you are in God’s country. The nature spectacle that is on display is amazing.

According to the Great Smoky Mountain National Park website, “Over 17,000 species have been documented in the park: Scientists believe an additional 30,000-80,000 species may live here. There are also over 100 species of trees in the park as well. Over 1,500 additional flowering plant species have been identified in the park. The park is the center of diversity for lungless salamanders and is home to more than 200 species of birds, 66 types of mammals, 50 native fish species, 39 varieties of reptiles, and 43 species of amphibians. Mollusks, millipedes, and mushrooms reach record diversity here.”

When we were there it was beautiful in the park with lots of snow. Here are some pictures.

                                    

If you are looking to stay in Gatlinburg or Pigeon Forge there are a variety of cabins, condos, etc…We have stayed in the same place every time and absolutely loved it. The condos sit in the park, and above Gatlinburg, so you are in the middle of everything. Yes, you can even get around when it snows as they plow and sand as soon as the weather begins to clear. We stay at Highlands Condominiums, these people will take care of you and there is free firewood available for the tenant’s use on sight.

                                                   

Please take the time to vacation in the Smoky Mountains, it is a trip you will not forget. We love it and I am sure you will too.