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Monthly newsletter
Hello Hikers!
Well, fall is here and the weather is changing! There are amazingly beautiful
days ahead with fall colors upon us. Hiking in any weather is a good day hiking and with tourist season still a
ways off this is an excellent time to go for a hike in the Great Smoky
Mountains, accommodations are affordable and with over 900 miles of trails there
is something for everyone!
But when you decide to go for a hike there are a few
things to remember. First, always take rain gear because at anytime in the
Smoky Mountains rain could be on it's way considering this area is known as a
temperate rain forest. Also, be sure to take enough water for
everyone on your outing. You may use a filter to make drinkable water from
the park's many streams. Streams and pools are beautiful and refreshing to take a dip in, but
remember never drink
right out of a stream without first purifying. Be sure to wear
the right boots and socks, comfort is important but support and stability are
paramount! Remember, your feet take you into and out of the woods so think
ahead, you are in the mountains and the terrain can get very rough and wet.
Avoid cotton socks at all cost, they don't cushion the feet or wick moisture and
can't keep blisters at bay. Choose a good merino wool or synthetic sock, they
are expensive but are completely worth the extra cost. With these points for
consideration, get out in the woods and have a great hike!
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park has something for
everyone! As I said before, there are miles and miles of trails, whether you
like doing short days close to town or prefer long strenuous days over rough
terrain. Remember, as spring approaches and the mountains and wildlife awaken,
the sights and sounds will simply amaze you. If you need any trail information,
gear or suggestions for a hike that will suit your needs, we can tell you where
to find a great view, a beautiful waterfall, or a hike through old growth
forest! Be sure to visit us at The Happy Hiker in Gatlinburg, turn right
at traffic light 10 behind the Burning Bush Restaurant. The Information is
always free and remember: We're more than a Hiking Store, We're a Mountain
Experience.
This Month's Hiking Suggestion:
RAINBOW FALLS (This month we suggest a good hike to
a waterfall, with all of the rain we get this time of year the falls are
exceptionally beautiful.)
TRAILHEAD: Take Historic Nature Trail (formerly
AIRPORT Rd-Traffic Light #8) go up and into the park. Go approx. 3.4miles (just
after the road becomes one~way) Turn Right in the RAINBOW FALLS Parking Lot, you
will find the trail by following a short path just a few a few yards SOUTH into
the woods.
LENGTH: From the Trailhead to the Falls is
approximately 2.7 miles(each way) but you can also go past the Falls and on to
Mt. Le Conte which is an additional 3.9 miles past RAINBOW FALLS.
TRAIL HIGHLIGHTS: Rainbow Falls(of course) Great
Views, Spring and Summer Wildflowers, Large Boulders and many varieties of
trees. NOTE: Trail may be ICY in winter.
Barrett Ogle (The Happy Hiker)
National
Park's Web Site
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