Happy Birthday to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park!
To honor our favorite park, here are 6 reasons why we love the Smokies:
Most visited park in America
The Great Smoky Mountains attract between 8 and 10 million visitors each year! That’s more people than Yellowstone and the Grand Canyon! The Smokies cover more than half a million acres in Tennessee and North Carolina and is a day’s drive to 1/3 of the U.S. population. This easy accessibility make the Smokies a must-see destination for travelers. If you’ve ever been to the Smokies, you probably understand why millions of people flock to these beautiful mountains each year. They’re beautiful! Not to mention FREE.
Among the oldest mountains on Earth
During the Ice Age, glaciers covered most of the U.S. and stopped just south of the Great Smoky Mountains. Once the glaciers receded, they left behind these beautiful mountains.
Holds the largest protected bear habitat in the U.S.
There are about 1,500 bears located within the GSMNP. That’s approximately 2 bears for every square-mile! These fuzzy creatures can be found roaming the area. If ever encountering a bear, be smart and take precaution. Also, DON’T FEED THE BEARS.
Elk have reclaimed the park as home
Once upon a time, elk were once widespread through the Smoky Mountain area. But due to hunting and degradation of habitat, their population dwindled and eventually killed off in the mid-1800’s. During the early 2000’s more than 50 elk were reintroduced to the Smokies. Now, over 140 elk are living in the park! Most of which can be found on the North Carolina side of the park.
There are 30 different species of salamanders within the park
Did you know that the Smoky Mountains are known as the Salamander Capital of the World? It’s the highest concentration of salamander species in the entire world!
Home to over 100 species of trees
The Great Smoky Mountains is home to over 100 types of tress and the largest variety of plant species in the U.S. With a wide variety of plant life, it creates an amazing view of color during the fall and spring each year.
The Smokies is a very special place filled with so much beauty! If you’re planning a trip to Gatlinburg, make sure to plan a day to get out and explore these beautiful mountains.
