Great Smoky Mountain Railroad and Cades Cove

It was a beautiful day on Monday, so drove to Bryson City, NC for a ride on the Great Smoky Mountain Railroad. We rode in 1920 vintage cars to the Nantahala Gorge.  Total time for the ride was 4 1/2 hours which included a one hour layover.  Phil spend most of the time in an open air car while I sat inside. 

On the way back to Gatlinburg we drove a section of Highway 29 known as "The Tail of the Dragon".  An 11 mile stretch with 318 curves.  It is a famous destination for motorcycle and sport cars.  For us it was a very scenic drive with it's many turns. Pretty difficult to take any photos as the overlooks were on the opposite side of the road.  Chris asked us if we happened to see  "The Tree of Shame" with parts on it from motorcycle crashes.  We did not but I found it on the web.  

This morning, Tuesday, we drove to Cades Cove and hiked the Abrams Waterfall Trail. Once again we followed a river as we climbed up and then down to the river's edge for the waterfall. 

Returning home we drove on the Foothills Parkway.  Red, yellow, and purple colors everywhere.  Photo's just can't capture the beauty as one drives under the tree canopies.  Phil was able to take several close up pictures.  You'll just have to use your imagination and picture a forest full of color!   

Only two more days here then we drive to Hot Springs, AR on Friday.  We're both ready for a change!