These men’s contributions are significant to the Great Smoky Mountains region and provide us the opportunity to enjoy the park today in its near pristine condition. Stephen Mather revitalized the area by hiring members of the local community to staff the park, creating an economic transformation of east Tennessee and western North Carolina. purchased over half of the land in the park and donated it to the National Park Service in order to protect the area from logging. These men were instrumental in the creation of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. At the visitor center there, you can also learn about John Rockefeller Jr. Stephen Mather, the founder of the National Park Service, has a dedication plaque on the crest of the Newfound Gap. Several museums and visitor centers around the park offer a greater glimpse into the history and culture of the Appalachian region. Visitors can explore these structures and learn about the lives of the early settlers in the region. The park is home to several historic structures including old homes, barns, and churches that date back to the early 19th century. It is also the road off which popular attractions like Clingmans Dome and Newfound Gap are accessed.Īpart from the natural beauty, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park also has a rich cultural and historical significance. This significant commerce route contributes to the park’s high visitation numbers with some people crossing through the park simply to travel between these two towns. It connects the towns of Cherokee, North Carolina and Gatlinburg, Tennessee. Highway 441 is a major roadway traversing the park. The observation tower at the top provides a stunning view of the sunrise and sunset, making it a popular spot for photography enthusiasts. Visitors can reach the top of Clingman’s Dome by hiking a steep half-mile trail or taking a paved road to the parking area. Standing at an elevation of 6,643 feet, Clingman’s Dome offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. One of the most iconic spots in the park is Clingman’s Dome, the highest point in Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Visitors can enjoy scenic vistas, waterfalls, and mountain streams.Įxplore Ashville and the smokies The Draws: Clingmans Dome The park boasts over 800 miles of hiking trails, including the famous Appalachian Trail running through the park. The Great Smoky Mountains are part of the Appalachian Mountains, which are among the oldest in the world. The park gateway towns of Gatlinburg and Asheville give visitors the opportunity to partake in these activities and more around the local area.Īnother factor contributing to the park’s popularity is its breathtaking natural beauty. These activities are not limited to just the park itself. The park has something for everyone to enjoy, and visitors can choose from a range of activities including hiking, camping, fishing, and wildlife watching. This makes it an easy and convenient destination for families, nature lovers, and outdoor enthusiasts alike. The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is located within a day’s drive of more than half of the United States population. The recreational opportunities inside and outside of the park are what make it popular, but its proximity to large population centers and major roadway running through it, also add to its accessibility and annual visitation. With more than 12 million visitors annually, the park’s stunning beauty, rich history, and diverse wildlife, draw visitors from all over the world. The Great Smoky Mountains National Park, located in Tennessee and North Carolina, is the most visited National Park in the United States.
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