Herd of Elk in Great Smoky Mountains National Park

A cute baby doing Yoga (Downward Facing Dog)

Namaste 

He was hollering about something! 

As are animals I've seen in other National Parks, it appears these elk are randomly tagged. Believe me, I wouldn't have wanted to be the one who had to hold this big fella down and clamp the tag in his ear!

Great Smoky Mountains National Park ~ Clingmans Dome (10/2011)

The trek up to Clingmans Dome is brutal; it's only about a mile, but it is a big incline.  But, the view from the top is well worth it (and it's pretty easy coming back down).   I was not the only one huffing and puffing; seems, there are a lot of out of shape folks!  It was too perfect of a day NOT to climb up to the top.  Spectacular!

I love to see dogs in National Parks!

Amazing views such as this along the walkway!

Yaaaah!  The dome is within my reach!

Some snow on the ground, even tho it seem liked a warm day!

Finally, I reached the top!

EASTERN VIEW

NORTHERN VIEW

SOUTHERN VIEW

WESTERN VIEW

There's an easy portion of the Appalachian Trail here

The AT crosses in several areas of this park

Great Smoky Mountains National Park ~ Laurel Falls (10/2011)

Laurel Falls

The fall colors were fading fast, but still beautiful in some places. 

 

 

Too bad you actually have to tell people to watch their kids!

This was a perfect hike - a little uphill and a nice paved pathway!

I was afraid that THIS trickle was the waterfall! 

Beautiful trees all along the shady pathway

Finally, I reached the Falls!

Me enjoying this pretty day in a national park!