| One of the greatest places to spend a family | | | | containing everything from seahorses to sharks |
| vacation is at a National Park. There are literally | | | | and everything in between. |
| dozens of National Parks to select from in the | | | | The park itself is the biggest draw. In fact, millions |
| United States, each with its own unique | | | | of people flock to the Smokey Mountains each |
| characteristics and activities. | | | | year. One of the biggest attractions within the |
| One of the most popular National Parks in the | | | | park is Cades Cove. This 11 mile, paved loop |
| United States to visit is the Great Smoky National | | | | takes you through some beautiful scenery within |
| Park in Tennessee. Not only is the park a beautiful | | | | the park. You can also pull off the road at several |
| treasure, there are many activities to enjoy right | | | | locations in order to take hikes. Some of the |
| outside of the park as well. | | | | hikes will take you to old churches, houses, and |
| If you enjoy shopping and looking at crafts | | | | more, all of which have a wonderful historical |
| created by local artisans, the city of Pigeon Forge | | | | meaning. You can also take hikes to waterfalls, |
| is a must-see. In addition to its dozens upon | | | | such as Abrams Falls, while driving through Cades |
| dozens of shopping opportunities, you can also | | | | Cove. Don't be surprised if you see several deer |
| take in great shows and even be entertained at | | | | and even a black bear or two! |
| one of the many different dinner shows the area | | | | The number of hiking opportunities are immense |
| has to offer. If you are looking for a thrill, on the | | | | in the Smoky Mountains, with many trails leading |
| other hand, you might want to visit the famous | | | | running alongside meandering rivers and ending in |
| Dollywood. Here, you will find rides and attractions | | | | spectacular waterfalls. If you aren't up for hiking, |
| to please every member of your family. | | | | however, many of the sites can be seen by car. |
| Another town to visit while at the Smoky | | | | Even some of the historical buildings in Cades |
| Mountains is Gatlinburg. Gatlinburg also offers | | | | Cove can be easily seen as you drive by. If you |
| many shopping and dining opportunities, as well as | | | | are more interested in nature, a drive down |
| a number of unique and interesting museums. The | | | | Highway 73 through the park will lead you past |
| Ripley's Believe it Or Not museum and a museum | | | | many treasures, including the spectacular Sinks as |
| displaying memorabilia from the Guinness Book of | | | | well as several waterfalls trickling down the sides |
| World Records can both be found here. The | | | | of the mountain in many different locations. |
| Ripley's Aquarium is also a great experience, | | | | |