We set out for a day trip to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. We drove through the Cades Cove Loop. It was great! Lots to look at and enjoy. We followed along with our guide booklet and learned about the history of early pioneers and their lives in the Smokies.
Here’s an interesting scene. The picture on the left was taken in November 2004 (the last time we were here). 17 years later without knowing, I took the picture on the right – almost the exact same angle! This is Cades Cove Primitive Baptist Church – the first church in the area. It was encouraging and challenging to learn that God was a primary focus of life in the culture of that era! God is ALWAYS with us!
It was a bit rainy off and on during our hike and while exploring Cades Cove – and a good amount of others driving the loop. We found “Elijah Oliver’s Place”, a nice log cabin with multiple buildings. It was fun to imagine living here during his time. There was even a “cold house” that allowed the stream to run through and keep food cool during the day!
Traveling on the next day, We explored another hiking area in the Great Smoky Mountains that we had experienced 17 years ago – the Appalachian Trail and the Clingmans Dome Observation Tower! At 6,643 feet, Clingmans Dome boasts the highest point in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. (The “Dome” refers to the mountaintop, not the man-made observation tower.)The Dome actually lies within both Tennessee and North Carolina and is the highest point in Tennessee.
The paved trail to the summit of Clingmans Dome is paved, about 1/2 mile, but very steep! We gained elevation of over 330 feet which makes the climb gradient almost 13%! There were several benches along the way – we needed to catch our breath several times! Then we needed to take the ramp to the top of the tower – another approx. 400′ and another 45 feet elevation! They say on clear days, visitors may see as far as 100 miles – it was very clear for us, and we had amazing views! (Again with the whole exploring high places – yikes!)
What a special treat to find this old sign at the Appalachian Trail near Clingman’s Dome. We were here 17 years ago! It was fun to re-create these photos and reminisce of earlier adventures together! (The sign sure has aged – not us! LOL!)
A picnic lunch by a river and more exploring in the GSM National Park. So beautiful and relaxing! We’ve had a full week of every-day adventures! One of our favorite get-away’s this year!