Day 8

This morning after "Red, White, and Blueberry" pancakes from IHOP we headed for the Great Smokey Mountain National Park. We studied the map carefully and decided to start on an easy hike to (I can't remember the name) Waterfalls. When we got there we found out that about 500 others had the same idea. We skipped that adventure and headed across the mountains on Newfound Road. This road carries you all the way across the top of that section of the mountains. All along the way there were areas to pull over, hike, look at God's handiwork, and wait for faster cars to pass you. We finally got to the Newfound Gap where the Appalachian Trail crossed the area. Now - know that our goal was not to hike far on the trail just to hike some on the trail. There were about 300 people at the beginning of the trail - but not to worry about crowds - they did not go on the trail just took their picture at the sign! Ron and I started up at a healthy pace and did pretty well for 2 non hikers. We stepped over rocks and stumps and kept on walking up the incline - well for 1/2 mile. Then we decided it was time to turn around. Coming down was easier on the lungs but harder on the legs!

Our next stop was at Clingman's Dome. This was another 1/2 mile incline walk. I had to stop a few times on the way up but I am proud to say I made it. But the best part is that we made it back to the car just as the rain started.

We drove to Blue Ridge, Georgia where we are staying tonight.

It has been great day but my tennis shoes are saying "enough"!

Pictures 2 is when we turned around on the trail and picture 3 was what was behind us when we turned around.

Ron and Sandy