Thursday, April 29, 2010

Day 5 Great Smoky Mountains, Wears Valley, Gatlinburg


Day 5 Snow in the Smokies, originally uploaded by Gail S.

Day 5 dawned cold and rainy, guess we will get on the motorcycle tomorrow. We jumped in the truck to take a day trip through the Smoky Mountains to Wears Valley near Pigeon Forge, Tennessee. Our friends, Rick and June, just purchased a cabin (click for info) overlooking this beautiful valley. They plan to rent it to vacationers who are attracted to the mountains, the rivers, nearby Dollywood, outlet malls and touristy Gatlinburg.

The sun came out just as we reached this mountain hide-away with breathtaking views of the mountains and the valley. The cabin is so cozy with rustic decor and comfy furnishings. I took a few photos before we headed on to Sevierville for a stop at Lowe’s Hardware store.


Day 5 Wears Valley (TN) Cabin View, originally uploaded by Gail S.


The rain started back as we entered Gatlinburg, which has a pancake restaurant on every block. Sid and I hadn’t been here together in 33 years. It looks much the same. We even had a glimpse of a black bear in the woods along the side of the road - just like 33 years ago! As we drove through the Smokies back to our campsite, we were stunned to discover it was snowing at Newfound Gap with about a half inch accumulation so far. We stopped for a photo or two, along with many other delighted and cold tourists. Sid exclaimed each time we passed soggy motorcyclists on the road. Been there...done that...thankful for our camper and truck.

Day 5 Velvet Antlers, originally uploaded by Gail S.

On the road to Indian Creek Camp, we saw two elk resting in a field, undisturbed by tourists stopping to take their photo. I wish my photos showed their velvety antlers shining in the afternoon sun. Tomorrow, the forecast is for sun. We will break out the bike for the first time on the trip.

No comments: