Thursday, August 4, 2011

Day Five on Wednesday, August 3, 2011

Another lovely morning--it gets cool at night here, so while there is always humidity in the air the air temperature feels good early in the day. The early bird gets the worm, and so true at Smoky Mountains National Park; we beat the crowd and enjoy leisurely drives and deserted lookouts. This morning we drove about 20 miles to the highest peak in the park and second highest peak east of the Mississippi River at 6,643 feet. When we arrived to Clingman's Dome, it was downright cold! We wished we had brought jackets. But, once we got moving and climbing, we felt much better. The trail to the top is paved though steep and just half a mile, we reached the observation tower in no time. Wonderful views! Felt like we were on top of the world, and we could just soar off into the sky (see pic). Our second stop was Newfound Gap. There in true Will-style, I met some boys, Gabriel and Timothy, and we did a little hike together. They are from New Orleans and had a nice, easy way about them. I was sad to have to say good bye.

In the evening, we found ourselves back in downtown Gatlinburg. We hit the arcade, Hollywood Cars Museum, and Ole Smoky Moonshine Hollow. And, of course, we followed topped it all off with some ice cream. At the car museum, I did not quite understand the Flinstones' car--no engine, no tail pipes? But, I humored my parents and got in; apparently, I have to use my feet to make it go. The 'Fast and Furious' cars were more my style!

No comments: