The park is beautiful any season of the year with its majestic peaks, rushing rivers, floral and fauna, huge boulders, and cascades of rhododendron and mountain laurel during spring and early summer.

Beauty is displayed in many ways

You will see awesome waterfalls, cool mountain rivers, wildflowers, floral and fauna. Experience the glory of Fall as leaves change to brilliant colors of red, orange, and gold. Autumn's pageantry of colors usually peaks in mid-October.

In late spring and early summer, park visitors can take in magnificent beauty of gigantic cascades of mountain laurel and rhododendron. Some 800 miles of trails thread the whole of the Smoky Mountains natural fabric - and its waterfalls, coves, balds, and rushing streams.

Picnic grounds offer a respite retreat with their location next to peaceful streams. Fishing is now permitted in all streams, so bring your rod and reel.

Whatever your pleasure, Great Smoky Mountains National Park offers a respite getaway from everyday life.


Site Dedication: This site is dedicated to my mom and dad. Bill and Mildred Payne taught me to love these Smoky Mountains. They brought me and my five siblings here when we were young children. We enjoyed many cookouts at the Chimneys Picnic area, hiking, and jumping from rock to rock and boulder to boulder on the rushing river. In later years, my mom's side of the family began having annual picnics at the Chimneys during the summer. Every year, for thirty years of more, her four sisters would bring their husbands and children for a day of fun, food, and fellowship. Mom and Dad emphasized the importance of getting outdoors as often and possible to enjoy nature and become refreshed.

Highlights of the National Park
	People of all ages will discover fun things to do.