Greetings from Great Smoky Mountains National Park

I spent most of my childhood growing up in the shadow of the Great Smoky Mountains. I have many fond memories of hiking and camping in the Smokies with my family. I was the kid begging my siblings to stop along the trail so I could rest. Hiking is hard work! Decades later I returned to the Smokies on a journey of healing from illness, starting with a hike on the shortest, flattest trail in the park. A few months later I revisited my favorite childhood trails, places I thought I’d never see again like Laurel Falls and Clingmans Dome. Now I’m giving back to the place that gave me my life back by serving as a park volunteer.

Sincerely,
Kristina

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

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“We need unspoiled natural places to retreat to as we disconnect from our hectic everyday lives and reconnect with the peace and beauty of this world. We all need healing places. I found mine!”

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