The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is made up of over 520,000 acres and countless neat facts about the area during its time as a national park and long before even the pioneers arrived. We wanted to put together some facts that we thought you may enjoy and to give you some fun trivia to share with those that will be vacationing with you!
The Park Species Tally is Still Going!
As of September 2019 the Great Smoky Mountains National Park’s official tally of species included 1,006 species new to science, 9,564 species new to the park and is made up of a total of 20,050 species. Who keeps track of it all? A non-profit located in the park called Discover Life in America. The organization funds some of the world’s top researchers and scientists to work in the park. They not only work consistently to keep track of all species but they also hold events such as “Fireflies at Norton Creek”, the Great Smoky Mountains Salamander Ball and free citizen science events at the Sugarlands Visitors Center such as “Science at Sugarlands: Lichens”. DLIA is dedicated to the parks species, ecosystems and biodiversity. They’re not only a great organization to experience and event with but also a non-profit that is very deserving of support.
Rain, Rain, go away? Nope! It’s here to stay!
Like all areas of the planet, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park goes through periods of drought and dry weather. However, the park on average, receives more rain than any other location east of the Mississippi. This is why you’ll find the Smokies to be lush and beautiful and full of life. The streams and rivers that wind through the hills are fed by plenty of rainfall as well as tranquil mountain springs. The weather differs with every season and with the elevation that you’ll be exploring. When packing for your vacation in the Smokies, there is certainly a couple things that you don’t want to forget – your rain gear and your camera. Rainy days in the Smoky Mountains are the by far the most picturesque! Afterall, we don’t get the smoky part without some precipitation and as Dolly says, “If you want a rainbow, you gotta put up with the rain.”
They Call It Little, But…
The Little River is the longest river in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park! The river is fed by four tributary creeks that run off Mount Collins and the Smokies highest point, Clingmans Dome. If you want to see the impact of those four coming together to create the flow of the river, be at backcountry campsite #30 during heavy rains, just don’t expect to leave anytime soon! The first 18 miles of the river are located within the national park and another 42 miles of the river flowers into Blount and Knox County, Tennessee. Where does the water flowing through the Smokies end up? If it makes the long trip, it will eventually flow into the Gulf of Mexico. If you’re looking to enjoy the park by water, Little River is a great area for kayaking and of course a paradise for anglers throughout the park as well!
50/50
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is the only national park shared almost evenly by two states. It’s also the only national park in which two states deeded land to the federal government for the purpose of establishing a national park for the people. Which two states? North Carolina and, our favorite, Tennessee. When visiting the park, be sure to take the scenic drive up Newfound Gap Road to the state line and take a photo! You’ll notice the states are flipped on each side of the sign! Once you’re finished, explore the Appalachian Trail or head up to Clingmans Dome to take in the views and stretch your legs with a trek up to the top of the viewing tower!
What’s better than learning fun facts about the Great Smoky Mountains National Park online?
Exploring the park firsthand!
Staying at our Sevierville hotel during your next trip to the Smokies will not only give you the opportunity to learn about the park but you’ll also find the history of our property and the Smokies on the walls of our hotel. You’ll have to chance to dine at the Five Oaks Farm Kitchen, one of the top spots in the area, which is located next door to our hotel and also shares our beautiful story and history. Our Guest Rooms will give you a home away from home feeling and Our Amenities will make you wish you were staying twice as long! We are located in the heart of the best shopping and dining experiences in the area, as well as just minutes from many local attractions. You sign up for horseback riding or ziplining in our backyard, be in the park within less than 30 minutes or take a dinner show just down the road.
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If you’re still not convinced that you need an escape to the mountains, check out Our Blog to learn more about our hotel and to read about some of the top things to do in the area!
We hope to see you soon!
