Great Smoky Mountains National Park
The Great Smoky Mountains is a national park located in the United States. It belongs to two states - Carolina and Tennessee, which divide it into the following counties: Blounty, Sevier and Kok, Swain, Haywood. The reserve is one of the largest protected areas, with a total area of 2,109 km2. The National Park was created in 1934 by decree of the U.S. government. It was opened for hiking trips in 1940. The Great Smoky Mountains Nature Reserve is a UNESCO Protected World Heritage Site.
The park's location is the Appalachian Mountain range. The Chilhouie and English Mountain rocks are included in this mountain range. There are rivers and streams around the ridge. Rivers such as the Little Pigeon River, the Oconalufty River and the Little River are born in the mountains of the reserve. Many streams of water flow into the Tennessee River. It is impossible not to pay attention to such lakes as Tellico, Chilhaui, Chehoa and many others.
The name of the Great Smoky Mountains Park is associated with the mists, which are a common sight here, they roll down in clouds of smoke from the mountain range. Thick fog is a regular visitor here in the mornings, as well as after rains.
It is in this reserve that the Appalachian Trail is laid, which is the longest trail in the whole world. This route stretches across the mountains from Maine to Georgia and the total length of the trail is approximately 3,500 km.
Tourists pay attention to the rock grotto, which is located near the Quartz Cave trail. Exposed rocks are also presented to their attention at the top of Chimney Tops Mountain.
There is an observation tower in the upper part of the Great Smoky Mountains Reserve, which offers guests an indescribable landscape of mighty mountain peaks, beautiful rivers, waterfalls, lakes, as well as a variety of pristine nature.
The Great Smoky Mountains Park is more than 90% forest area. There are territories of a pristine forest area here. There are 142 species of trees growing in the park, which is more than anywhere else in North America. As a rule, this is a mixed broad-leaved forest, which includes linden trees, maples, beech, pine, oak and many others. The treeless area is represented by a rich species of flowering plants, of which there are close to 1600, as well as various varieties of mosses and fungi. From the first month of spring to the end of autumn, flower glades of unusual beauty bloom here: azaleas, daisies, orchids, rhododendrons.
The animal world is very diverse, which is represented by wolves, moose, deer, squirrels, raccoons, beavers. There are approximately 65 types of mammals in total, some of which are endangered species. Many birds, including the cuckoo, thrush, yellow-throated vireonvute, and myrtle wood warbler, build their nests in the park.
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is one of the most visited places among tourists. There are 9 million travelers here every year. In terms of attendance, the park surpasses even the world-famous Yellowstone and the Grand Canyon. Tourist routes have been developed for the guests of the park. Bike paths, equestrian sports, and electric car rides are also featured. There are many places for picnics, photo shoots, and various activities for the enjoyment of children. There is an opportunity to perform a memorable wedding ceremony in the park. Souvenir shops, cafes, and hotels for every taste and price are also available for guests.
