School out for Summer!  Vacationing in an area like the Great Smoky Mountains is perfect for the whole family.  The Smoky Mountain National Park has  hiking trails for all levels of experience from elementary to experienced.  When choosing a hike you will need to consider skill level, how much time you would like to spend and the scenery you desire. 
If you are interested in peaks you will want to visit Clingmans Dome.  This beautiful area has roads that traverse the landscape with scenic pull offs that provide spectacular views.  Clingmans Dome boasts an elevation of 6,643 ft (the highest point in the Park) so be sure to bring a light jacket as the weather is much cooler at this elevation.  The 30 minute walk to the viewing area is well worth it with a view of approximately 20 miles on a cloudy or poor air quality day and up to a 100 mile view on a clear day.  Several trail heads start here including the Appalachian Trail.
Waterfalls are one of the most spectacular features in nature.  They give you a sense of wonder and awe as they rush down the mountain side.  There are several trails that lead you through the lush landscape and end at a magnificent fall. Laurel Falls is 2.6 miles round trip with a paved pathway. This fall is 80’ high and the hike is considered moderate.  Abrams Falls has a moderate rating and is 3 miles round trip.  The Falls are only 20’ feet high, but this fall has the highest water volume of any park fall.
If you are looking for a scenic drive you cannot miss Cades Cove (Abrams Falls trail is accessed here).  This 11 mile loop of scenic road has something for everyone. There are historic churches, cabins and barns waiting to be explored; some can be accessed from the road while others require a short walk.  There are great areas for a picnic lunch and wildlife is everywhere.  You may also ride bicycles along the loop.  The traffic can be very heavy in season, most people take the loop very slowly and stop frequently to catch a glimpse of the wildlife and enjoy every minute of the experience, so be patient and appreciate all that the Great Smoky Mountains Park has to offer!  

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