Friday, September 7, 2007

Strenuous Trail Ahead

First let me just say, I'm in love, with Tennessee and the Great Smokey Mountains. One of the most scenic drives we have had so far has been from West Memphis, Arkansas to Gatlinburg, Tennessee. We really enjoyed all the mountains and the gigantic Christmas Trees (Frasier Fur Trees).

Yesterday we drove through the Smokey Mountains and up to the lookout point (elevation 6,500 ft). All I can say is wow. We took a million pictures, but they can't come close to capturing the beauty of the Smokey Mountains. It was breathtaking.

Today we decided to hike the Smokies. We got a recommendation at the visitors center for a hike with a waterfall at the end. We figured since we completed a 6.5 mile moderate hike, that a 8 mile strenuous hike would be a piece of cake. Let me tell you, when the park service volunteer tells you the hike is strenuous, you should believe him. I make the mistake about a mile and a half into the hike of saying that guy was all wrong and that this hike wasn't that strenuous. Famous last words....Hiking uphill on rocks and roots (sometimes climbing over trees) was very...whats the word..oh yeah, strenuous! I am so sore right now, even my fingertips hurt typing. But let me tell you it was worth it. We saw three of the oldest trees in the park. They were huge. There was also this beautiful waterfall. If you ever get a chance to see the Great Smokey Mountains, do it. It is so worth it. I wish we could stay longer, but it is off to Virginia tomorrow.

Before/After












Click here to see all our photos from Tennessee

3 comments:

Anonymous said...

Heya kelly-n-Scott,(and maggie too), So happy you got to see the Smokey Mountains, your absolutly right that pictues don't do them justice! We're so proud of you guys, your like Lewis and Clark or astronauts that see things for the first time and send the info and pics back for all of us to see and share with you, as you discover them. Pepe're says you two are living and doing what everyone dreams of doing, but sometimes dont get the chance to do. We're cheering you on, can't wait until you get to see Maine, so we can hear about your journey there. Be safe and Godspeed. Love you both, Dad and Sue.

Anonymous said...

I'm so glad you saw the Frasier Fur trees!! Did you make a coat out of them???

Btw, the before/after pics look pretty good! :) You guys are going to be in great shape for Maine!

Are you doing General Delivery mail pickups along the way?
xoxox

Anonymous said...

Seriously, is it just me or is Scott the WORLD'S GREATEST SELF PICTURE TAKER IN THE WORLD!!!!
You guys are really racking up some FANTASTIC photos of yourselves wiht AMAZING background...You're like my veryown travel book like 1001 places to get your picture taken before you die...
Miss you guys and wish I was in these pics with you!
Corinne