Month: June 2017

Ober-Gatlinburg Amusement

As a proof that humanity is resilient or commerce has to thrive the amusement park was open again (mostly as some of the chair lifts and attractions were not functional when we were there).

So, we grabbed a pretzel and watch the kids on the ice skating ring,

the crowds arriving per Swiss build tram and took one of the operational chair lifts up to Mount Harrison.

Of course the obligatory photographer had to take a picture of couples as they were arriving

And when we got to the top, the panoramic view was exquisit and the live music the topper. The live bluegrass band just made the scenery feel at home.

On the way down he last remnants of the devastating fires could still be seen in the background

In the end we were glad we did not take the tram as we would not have seen the fire damage on the way up the mountain

Ober-Gatlinburg and Gatlinburg

It was good to see the communities getting back to normal after the devastating fires last Thanksgiving 2016. More than 14,000 people were evacuated and over 250 structures destroyed.

When we were at the Tennessee Legend Moonshine distillery David, the proprietor and voluntary fireman, told us numerous stories about those eventful weeks.

The aftermath can still be seen months later as the communities is still re-building over 6 months after the fires.

Clingmans Dome

At 6,644 feet this is the highest point in the Smoky Mountains National Park.

Climbing up the mountains past the Sugarlands Visitor Center via winding roads and natural beauty.

Park the car, enjoy the view and prepare for the uphill 1/2 mile walk, crossing the Appalachian Trail at its highest point.

Located on the state line between North Carolina and Tennessee, it is said that on a clear day the view can be over 100 miles into 7 states. Unfortunately due to pollution, this does not happen to often anymore. But the view is spectacular anyway.

Farmers Market

We love shopping local and have gotten used to the Farmers Market in St. Augustine, FL. So wherever we go we have to check the local Farmers Market.

Held every Friday morning around the corner from the Sevierville County Courthouse and its famous citizen.

It does have room to grow

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