Smokey Mountains May 2014

Here we are on the road again.  This time we are in the Smokey Mountains of TN/NC.  Yesterday we enjoyed a road trip to Cades Cove where there are lots of old buildings open to the public and all for free.  Today we drove from Pigeon Forge to Cherokee and back along the main road through the Smokey Mountain Park....again for free.

"Smoke" in the Smokey Mountain

Deb beside a mountain stream

Chute leading to Grist Mill

Working Grist Mill

roadside waterfall

Bigger roadside waterfall

checking water temp.....Deb was waiting for me to fall in

Wood rocking chairs outside our motel room

double door Presbyterian church in Cades cove..built by pastor in 150 days for total wage of $150

cabin on Cades Cove loop

outbuilding behind cabin

In today's tour we enjoyed hearing lots of birds, viewing many waterfalls and watching the many mountain streams along the roadside. We viewed Tufted Titmouse, Scarlet Tangier, Cardinals, Swallows and best of all a mother black bear with her cub.  We saw signs warning of elk but didn't see any of them.  So much for seeking spring weather, both yesterday and today topped 30 degrees C.