I grew up in New Orleans. My parents divorced when I was young, and my mom worked two jobs to make ends meet. Vacations were not something we were able to do. In my teens I was invited to go on a trip with a friends family to the Smoky Mountains. The beauty of the park was amazing and unlike anything I had seen. I eventually enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps and during my career I was lucky to visit many states as well as several other countries. My travels enabled me to visit several national parks, and each provided beautiful memories. I was happy to be able to take my sons to many of these parks, and the memories made there will never be forgotten. Now, as my wife and I are empty nesters nearing retirement we look forward to being able to visit the parks more often, and stay longer to explore them even more. Time spent in the parks is special to us, whether riding a motorcycle on two lane twisting roads through the mountains, paddling a fast moving stream, or walking a quiet path enjoying the sights and sounds of the natural setting around us. We consider our national parks a treasure, and hope that enough people agree and help to preserve them so my sons will have the same chance to introduce their children to them someday.
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
“Our parks are a treasure and should be preserved for the enjoyment of many generations to come. They provide areas and experiences that benefit everyone that visits!”
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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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