I have always found that nature always helps me feel better, no matter what. Since I was a little girl, my parents, and especially my mom, would always instill in my brothers and me a love for nature. My mom’s childhood was full of character, where the river was close to her home situated in a remote mountainous area. It was only “natural” that her children would love nature as much as we do now. My older brother and I have hiked many trails, near and far, and have been to many National Parks. Now, I intend to pass that love for nature down to my son. He’s only three years old, but my husband and I have been taking him on nature walks and kid-friendly hikes since he was born! He knows it’s “just a part of life!” Recently, in September, we had a break at school (I’m a teacher!), and we decided to take our son to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park! I always knew that nature was where I felt best and where I felt I could be myself, but the feeling I experienced when I stood there and saw the sunset behind those glorious mountains is a feeling I’ll never forget. I felt reborn. I hope that everybody in the world gets to experience that feeling one day when they stand in front of something so majestic and feel its presence. Seeing that sunset, and the loves of my life in front of it (as seen in the photograph), is a memory that will remain alive in me forever…
Sincerely,
Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Great Smoky Mountains National Park is one of the country's most popular national park sites. It offers postcard-perfect views and plentiful wildlife.
State(s): North Carolina Tennessee,
Established: 1926
“It's where we can be ourselves, while we help others (animals, trees, etc...) be themselves as well...”
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Greetings from Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Mid-October, 2023—colors between Cherokee and Gatlinburg
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Greetings from Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Even before my family and I reached the Smokies, I was in awe of the scenery around me. Tennessee’s vibrant forests framed the road on either side, and we drove along a glimmering creek that threaded through the trees. Later, after hiking up to Clingmans Dome, we watched the fog…
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