GreatSmokyNPS Profile Banner
GreatSmokyNPS Profile
GreatSmokyNPS

@GreatSmokyNPS

122,053
Followers
323
Following
1,939
Media
3,036
Statuses

Official Twitter feed of Great Smoky Mountains National Park, America's most visited national park.

On the border of NC&TN
Joined October 2014
Don't wanna be here? Send us removal request.
@GreatSmokyNPS
GreatSmokyNPS
3 years
While most visitors to the park are excited by the prospect of seeing bear or elk, another often under-appreciated but no less interesting resident is the Virginia Opossum (Didelphis virginiana). 1/2
Tweet media one
59
216
2K
@GreatSmokyNPS
GreatSmokyNPS
3 years
While most of the snow the mountains received last week has now melted, there is still quite a bit of lingering fog. The southern Appalachians act as a sort of natural wall, capturing moisture coming off the Atlantic often in the form of rain and fog 1/2
Tweet media one
Tweet media two
11
263
2K
@GreatSmokyNPS
GreatSmokyNPS
3 years
“Shaconage” is the Cherokee word for “place of blue smoke.” According to NASA, our mountains get their name from the organic compounds that react with gases to form aerosols with short wavelengths in the blue area of the spectrum, giving the smokies a blue hue. Photo by M Ulrich
Tweet media one
13
345
2K
@GreatSmokyNPS
GreatSmokyNPS
4 years
“Hiking and happiness go hand in hand (or foot in boot).” -Diane Spicer- It’s a beautiful time of year to go for a #hike in the Smokies. #FallFoliage Photos by J. Hoeper; Image description: (1) West Prong Trail, (2) Middle Prong Trail, (3) Appalachian Trail
Tweet media one
Tweet media two
Tweet media three
19
217
2K
@GreatSmokyNPS
GreatSmokyNPS
3 years
Winter is full swing in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park! Take a walk or drive through our Smokies Winter Wonderland. Be sure to check road conditions to ensure roads have not closed due to inclement weather. Check at SmokiesRoadsNPS. Stay warm, be safe, and Happy December
Tweet media one
20
166
2K
@GreatSmokyNPS
GreatSmokyNPS
4 years
Rise and Shine! Those sweeping mountain views are wonderful, but sometimes it’s the little things, like the simple stream of a light beam through a tree canopy that makes a lasting impression. Enjoy the day, you never know what big or small wonders await! Photos by Hannah Jordan
Tweet media one
Tweet media two
24
221
1K
@GreatSmokyNPS
GreatSmokyNPS
7 years
We are most excited to announce that Great Smoky Mountains National Park will reopen to the public tomorrow morning! (photo: K. Plaas)
Tweet media one
15
720
1K
@GreatSmokyNPS
GreatSmokyNPS
3 years
It’s starting to get chilly here in the mountains. At high elevations (such as at Clingmans Dome, pictured above) water seeping through the rock freezes overnight creating fantastic walls of icicles. Be aware when hiking at high elevations of patches of ice on trails.
Tweet media one
Tweet media two
9
125
1K
@GreatSmokyNPS
GreatSmokyNPS
4 years
Are you bummed it’s Monday again? Allow these fungi to brighten your day! What is your favorite color of mushroom?
Tweet media one
Tweet media two
Tweet media three
Tweet media four
32
191
1K
@GreatSmokyNPS
GreatSmokyNPS
3 years
Our black bears have been out and about the last month or so. Please keep a minimum distance of 50 yards to keep you and the bears safe. Use the Rule of Thumb to figure out if you’re too close. Also, drive slow. You never know what’s around the next curve. NPS Photo
Tweet media one
21
164
1K
@GreatSmokyNPS
GreatSmokyNPS
3 years
Wishing everyone peace on Christmas Eve and throughout the holiday season! The Jumpoff, photo by Bob Carr.
Tweet media one
7
140
1K
@GreatSmokyNPS
GreatSmokyNPS
4 years
Today we honor and remember the nearly 3,000 lives lost and the thousands of first responders who became heroes, nineteen years ago. NPS photo
Tweet media one
5
150
1K
@GreatSmokyNPS
GreatSmokyNPS
4 years
Take in the those fall colors, and a little bit of history, with a short hike to the Walker Sisters Cabin. #fallhike #trailstuesday For more information regarding the Walker Sisters please visit: NPS Photos
Tweet media one
Tweet media two
Tweet media three
17
168
1K
@GreatSmokyNPS
GreatSmokyNPS
4 years
Happy 104th birthday, NPS! Today marks 104 years since President Woodrow Wilson signed the Organic Act into law, creating the National Park Service. Photo by Crystal Chen
Tweet media one
8
234
1K
@GreatSmokyNPS
GreatSmokyNPS
4 years
Happy Fathers Day! Did you know that foxes are excellent dads to their offspring? That’s right! Red foxes, found in the Smokies, enjoy playing with their pups and teaching them valuable life lessons, like how to forage for food. Now, that's a great dad! Photo: Warren Bielenberg
Tweet media one
6
179
1K
@GreatSmokyNPS
GreatSmokyNPS
3 years
We received a dusting of snow overnight in our low elevations, 3 in. at Newfound Gap, & 11 in. at Mt. LeConte! Trails & visitor centers are open today, but some road closures remain in effect. If heading out on a trail, prep for cold temps & ice. NPS photos.
Tweet media one
Tweet media two
Tweet media three
9
110
1K
@GreatSmokyNPS
GreatSmokyNPS
3 years
They say a picture is worth a thousand words... What's one word this picture brings to mind for you? NPS Image: Look Rock webcam at sunset on 11/6
Tweet media one
92
93
1K
@GreatSmokyNPS
GreatSmokyNPS
4 years
#FallColorFriday The beautiful reds, oranges, and goldens of fall can be seen at all elevations. The park is experiencing high visitation this October, which means you are likely to experience heavy traffic & congestion. Photos by: B. Ware, G. Patton, W. Bielenberg, & J. Shultz
Tweet media one
Tweet media two
Tweet media three
Tweet media four
10
135
1K
@GreatSmokyNPS
GreatSmokyNPS
5 years
Even at low elevations, the snow is falling in Great Smoky Mountains National Park! All park facilities, including visitor centers and adminstrative offices, are closed today along with most park roads. Travel is not recommended at this time.
27
197
1K
@GreatSmokyNPS
GreatSmokyNPS
3 years
The snow-covered Smokies tell more than just a story of tranquility and beauty. The Smokies also share the stories of hardy creatures that can withstand frigid temperatures. Which animal do you believe could withstand winter here?
Tweet media one
27
92
1K
@GreatSmokyNPS
GreatSmokyNPS
4 years
Join the challenge of posting a picture you've taken in Great Smoky Mountains National Park! The requirement is that you NOT appear in it. Just a photo, no description. Tweet a photo and let's travel virtually through the park! #VirtualSmokies Photo: S. Sachs
Tweet media one
470
167
1K
@GreatSmokyNPS
GreatSmokyNPS
4 years
Here are some helpful tips to beat the heat and have a safe and enjoyable hike in the Smokies: #recreateresponsibly - Hike early in the morning - Monitor the weather - Carry plenty of water and stay hydrated - Pack some salty snacks - Hike trails at higher elevation
Tweet media one
Tweet media two
Tweet media three
Tweet media four
14
183
1K
@GreatSmokyNPS
GreatSmokyNPS
4 years
Did you know Mingo Falls, located near Cherokee, NC on the Qualla Boundary, stands at 120 feet tall, making it one of the tallest and most spectacular in the Southern Appalachians?! The hike to the waterfall is only 0.4 miles in length and rated moderate in difficulty.
Tweet media one
18
154
1K
@GreatSmokyNPS
GreatSmokyNPS
3 years
Last night, December 29th into this morning December 30th, the longest full moon of the year was in the sky for a total of 15 hours and 27 minutes, reaching its’ highest point at 12:15 AM EST. Were you able to catch a glimpse of the “Cold Moon”, the last full moon of 2020?
Tweet media one
23
141
1K
@GreatSmokyNPS
GreatSmokyNPS
4 years
As the elk rut continues to wind down towards the end of October, a question often asked to park rangers is “what exactly is the elk rut?” 1/14
Tweet media one
Tweet media two
Tweet media three
14
123
1K
@GreatSmokyNPS
GreatSmokyNPS
3 years
Check out this Pine Warbler! Take a moment to listen and you will hear many more birds than you will see in the dense, tall forests! Even if you don’t know the song, you can use the sound to locate the bird and get a view of it.
Tweet media one
7
106
1K
@GreatSmokyNPS
GreatSmokyNPS
4 years
Shaconage (pronounced Sha-Kon-O-Hey) meaning "Land of Blue Smoke" is the Cherokee word for the Great Smoky Mountains. 📷 Brandon Altemose
Tweet media one
11
178
1K
@GreatSmokyNPS
GreatSmokyNPS
4 years
Sitting at 6,593 ft., Mt. LeConte provides hikers with some amazing views! With multiple trails to the summit for visitors to choose from, Mt. LeConte is one of the most popular places in the Park to hike. #trailstuesday Which is your favorite #route to take to the top?
Tweet media one
29
118
1K
@GreatSmokyNPS
GreatSmokyNPS
3 years
Take time to slow down and reflect. Each day brings a new beginning. Notice the small victories and what makes you happy. Get out. Watch the sunrise. You were gifted with another day. Make the most of it. Explore your park. Find your park. Good vibes and peace NPS Photo
Tweet media one
7
203
1K
@GreatSmokyNPS
GreatSmokyNPS
4 years
Vibrant colors can be found everywhere in the Smokies, and this sunrise is a gorgeous example! What vibrant colors have you seen in the Smokies? Photo by Anna Godzik.
Tweet media one
18
107
1K
@GreatSmokyNPS
GreatSmokyNPS
3 years
And the river got frozen And the home got snowed in And a yellow moon glowed bright Till the morning light Fleet Foxes - Blue Ridge Mountains As the nights grow longer and colder, what’s on your winter playlist?
Tweet media one
Tweet media two
Tweet media three
Tweet media four
9
119
1K
@GreatSmokyNPS
GreatSmokyNPS
4 years
This park is home to 60 resident bird species, including the belted kingfisher. Kingfishers generally live next to water and hunt for prey, including frogs and crayfish. Amazingly, this bird will dive fully underwater to avoid a predator's attack! Photo by Warren Bielenberg
Tweet media one
13
155
994
@GreatSmokyNPS
GreatSmokyNPS
3 years
On this last day of winter, hints of spring are all around - from bird song in the treetops to flowers emerging from the earth and revealing their vibrant colors! What are your favorite signs of spring in the Smokies? Photo by Kristina Plaas
Tweet media one
8
117
1K
@GreatSmokyNPS
GreatSmokyNPS
4 years
When you realize tomorrow is Monday... Wishing you all a beary happy Sunday! Photo: Scott and Jayne Young
Tweet media one
7
132
973
@GreatSmokyNPS
GreatSmokyNPS
5 years
Enjoy this photo from Chimney Tops Trailhead today taken by one of our Park Rangers. We didn't receive as much snowfall as predicted, but it blanketed the mountains beautifully with nearly 3 inches at Newfound Gap and over 3.5 inches at Mount Le Conte.
Tweet media one
12
156
987
@GreatSmokyNPS
GreatSmokyNPS
3 years
While they certainly look cute, a cow elk weighs an average of 4-500 pounds and can be fiercely protective of their young. Please remember to keep a distance of at least 50 yards (150 feet) when viewing or photographing wildlife. NPS photos - Nick Kramer
Tweet media one
Tweet media two
15
106
966
@GreatSmokyNPS
GreatSmokyNPS
3 years
Are you looking for something to brighten your mood? Scientists suggest that falling water colliding with itself can help lessen the effects of depression. So come take a load off and experience our park today! NPS Photo
Tweet media one
10
112
957
@GreatSmokyNPS
GreatSmokyNPS
3 years
Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. used beautiful allusions inspired by nature in his powerful speeches. In his last speech, ‘I’ve been to the Mountaintop’ he says, "only when it is dark enough, can you see the stars..." Today, we honor Dr. King.
Tweet media one
4
130
962
@GreatSmokyNPS
GreatSmokyNPS
7 months
Monday at the park, we experienced a battle between winter and fall. This beautiful clash of seasons was a day to remember! What has been your most memorable visit at the Smokies? NPS Photos
Tweet media one
Tweet media two
Tweet media three
18
98
971
@GreatSmokyNPS
GreatSmokyNPS
5 years
One of the many wonders about the Smokies is being able to look out and see an ocean of clouds after hiking to the top of a mountain. The feeling of wonder after trudging through the thick clouds and surfacing at the top is one never forgotten. Picture taken by Bob Carr
Tweet media one
4
142
946
@GreatSmokyNPS
GreatSmokyNPS
3 years
During #NativeAmericanHeritageMonth we would like to honor the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians as well as other Indigenous people that have lived and continue to live in Southern Appalachia, managing the land using many methods and means.
Tweet media one
6
143
925
@GreatSmokyNPS
GreatSmokyNPS
3 years
National Park Service officials decided to establish Great Smoky National Park after a visit to Mount LeConte. Photo Credits: Ana Villalobos
Tweet media one
3
99
919
@GreatSmokyNPS
GreatSmokyNPS
3 years
"Go to the winter woods: listen there, look, watch, and “the dead months” will give you a subtler secret than any you have yet found in the forest." -William Sharp #ThrowbackThursday NPS Photo, winter 1940.
Tweet media one
11
135
902
@GreatSmokyNPS
GreatSmokyNPS
3 years
Have you ever heard of carotenoids? Carotenoids are plant pigments that act as the oil paints of nature, helping trees achieve their red and orange hues, serving as the sunscreen of a tree's leaves, and changing and expelling extra light energy into heat. #FallColors
Tweet media one
3
112
893
@GreatSmokyNPS
GreatSmokyNPS
4 years
Great Smoky Mountains National Park holds over 90 historic structures. These sites have been preserved or rehabilitated and provide a unique visitor experience. Where is your favorite place to see historic structures in the park? Photo: Sheree Varnes
Tweet media one
29
95
889
@GreatSmokyNPS
GreatSmokyNPS
4 years
You need special shoes for hiking – and a bit of a special soul as well” – Terri Guillemets- With an abundance of hiking trails for visitors to choose from, there are plenty of places for one to escape the crowds and experience the beauty of the Smokies. #trailstuesday
Tweet media one
9
113
889
@GreatSmokyNPS
GreatSmokyNPS
4 years
While exploring the Smokies today, don't forget to slow down and enjoy this gorgeous, sunny winter Saturday! Video by: Allison Bate; Video description: A slow motion view of a rushing stream on Jake's Creak Trail.
17
140
886
@GreatSmokyNPS
GreatSmokyNPS
4 years
As today begins, we remember and honor the brave men and women who have made the ultimate sacrifice to protect our country. We hope you all have a safe and relaxing Memorial Day! Photo by Bob Carr
Tweet media one
7
110
872
@GreatSmokyNPS
GreatSmokyNPS
4 years
Did you know we have six webcams spread throughout the park, so you can look before you go? These sunset pictures were captured by our webcams at Clingman’s Dome Friday night. Find the webcams on our website or by using this link Photos via NPS webcams
Tweet media one
Tweet media two
Tweet media three
4
136
862
@GreatSmokyNPS
GreatSmokyNPS
3 years
While many trees are dropping their leaves, fall colors can still be spotted throughout the park, especially at low elevations. While enjoying this autumn splendor, please keep in mind that congestion is heaviest on the weekends, so plan ahead! Photos by Gail Patton & NPS staff.
Tweet media one
Tweet media two
Tweet media three
Tweet media four
4
91
863
@GreatSmokyNPS
GreatSmokyNPS
4 years
"I could never in a hundred summers get tired of this." -- Susan Branch We agree! Do you have any favorite summertime memories of the Smokies? Photo by A. Bate
Tweet media one
34
101
858
@GreatSmokyNPS
GreatSmokyNPS
4 years
#FallColorFriday While the landscape is mostly green, early signs of fall are appearing in some plants like maple, dogwood, and Virginia creeper! Keep in mind that October generally has high visitation, with increased traffic, especially on weekends between 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Tweet media one
Tweet media two
Tweet media three
Tweet media four
9
124
857
@GreatSmokyNPS
GreatSmokyNPS
3 years
"Did you hear the news, mom is kicking us out soon!" These two bear cubs were seen play wrestling in the forest of Cades Cove. It won't be long before its time for them to start a life of their own! Photo Credit: Bob Hailey
Tweet media one
17
70
835
@GreatSmokyNPS
GreatSmokyNPS
3 years
Happy #WinterSolstice to the Northern Hemisphere! Tonight, on this longest night of the year, take some time to savor the sights of the stars. Tomorrow we’re heading towards brighter days and gain three extra seconds of sunlight! Photo: NPS, Tom McManus, 2018
Tweet media one
4
147
837
@GreatSmokyNPS
GreatSmokyNPS
4 years
#FallColorFriday Fall colors are showing, especially at high elevation, with the beautiful yellows of birch & beech trees. At mid & low elevations, early fall colors can be seen. Because October is a very popular month to visit, heavy traffic & congestion is likely. NPS Photos
Tweet media one
Tweet media two
Tweet media three
Tweet media four
6
117
834
@GreatSmokyNPS
GreatSmokyNPS
4 years
Did you know there are over 2,900 miles of streams running through Great Smoky Mountains National Park? Each stream provides essential habitat, nutrients, and moisture to native plant and animal communities. NPS Photo 📷 Israel Golden
12
143
811
@GreatSmokyNPS
GreatSmokyNPS
4 years
Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a welcoming place for all people. Happy #PrideDay ! Photo: Joye Ardyn Durham
Tweet media one
9
94
808
@GreatSmokyNPS
GreatSmokyNPS
3 years
While observing nature, you may find something amazing & unexpected that you didn’t even know you wanted to find, like the vibrant reds of a cardinal against a snowy backdrop. While you discover, please respect wildlife by giving them the extra space they need. PC: W. Bielenberg
Tweet media one
7
90
810
@GreatSmokyNPS
GreatSmokyNPS
3 years
The Little Greenbrier School located near the Metcalf Bottoms picnic area was built in January 1882 and was used as a schoolhouse and a church for the Primitive Baptists until 1936. The cemetery near the school grounds was a part of the church. NPS Photo
Tweet media one
12
66
799
@GreatSmokyNPS
GreatSmokyNPS
4 years
“Look deeper into nature, and you will understand everything better” -Albert Einstein You don’t need to be a genius to discover the beauty of our spectacular outdoor world. The Smokies has stunning vistas for everyone! What drives you to get outside? Photo: Scott Maas
Tweet media one
11
112
798
@GreatSmokyNPS
GreatSmokyNPS
4 years
Great Smoky Mountains National Park averages between 55 to 85 inches of rain every year. All this precipitation leads to some of the magnificent waterfalls you can see throughout the park! It's also never a bad idea to have rain gear when visiting.
Tweet media one
Tweet media two
Tweet media three
9
114
792
@GreatSmokyNPS
GreatSmokyNPS
4 years
If you’ve visited the park in the past few days you may have noticed that many rivers and waterfalls are flowing faster and higher than usual (due to a large amount of rain).
Tweet media one
6
64
782
@GreatSmokyNPS
GreatSmokyNPS
5 years
With the enactment of the continuing resolution, staff at Great Smoky Mountains National Park resumed regular operations beginning on Saturday, January 26! Enjoy this photo from the Newfound Gap webcam today, a perfect winter day for exploring the park!
Tweet media one
26
100
777
@GreatSmokyNPS
GreatSmokyNPS
3 years
Park staff have been hard at work replacing footlogs on Alum Cave Trail to allow for safe conditions on this popular hike. To complete this work, the crew uses power and hand tools to create stable bridges. One of the last steps in the process is adding handrails! NPS Photos
Tweet media one
Tweet media two
Tweet media three
13
65
782
@GreatSmokyNPS
GreatSmokyNPS
3 years
"There is nothing in the world more beautiful than the forest clothed to its very hollows in snow. It is the still ecstasy of nature, wherein every spray, every blade of grass, every spire of reed, every intricacy of twig, is clad with radiance." -W. Sharp #ThrowbackThursday NPS.
Tweet media one
3
89
772
@GreatSmokyNPS
GreatSmokyNPS
4 years
When was the last time you were silent and listened intently to the world around you? Today is #WorldListeningDay , a day dedicated to doing just that. Take a moment today, find somewhere outside, and listen. Share what you heard! Video by A. Bate; Goldenrod swaying on 9/24/19
13
154
763
@GreatSmokyNPS
GreatSmokyNPS
4 years
Phew, it's hot! Anyone missing winter right now? NPS photo by A. Bate, taken 12/4/2018
Tweet media one
35
66
762
@GreatSmokyNPS
GreatSmokyNPS
1 year
'Twas the day before Christmas when all through the Park, not a creature was stirring, not even a lark! The stockings were hung at Chimney Tops with care, in hopes that St. Nick soon would be there. 🎄 Happy holidays! Current weather info:
Tweet media one
11
51
776
@GreatSmokyNPS
GreatSmokyNPS
4 years
I spy with my little eye.... water! Whether it's a river or the recent afternoon storms, water is an essential feature of the Smokies. Share your Smokies water pics! NPS photos by A. Bate
Tweet media one
Tweet media two
19
73
756
@GreatSmokyNPS
GreatSmokyNPS
5 years
Need a break from sitting in traffic or do you just want to stretch your legs out a bit? Quiet Walkways can be found throughout the Park, primarily along Newfound Gap Road and Little River Road. NPS Photos
Tweet media one
Tweet media two
6
70
752
@GreatSmokyNPS
GreatSmokyNPS
3 years
What a difference a little elevation can make! The snow seen in this photo (taken yesterday morning) is now mostly gone. While it’s a balmy 32° at the Oconaluftee Visitor Center (elevation 2,100’), it remains 19° and snowy up at Newfound Gap (elevation 5,050’).
Tweet media one
10
63
753
@GreatSmokyNPS
GreatSmokyNPS
3 years
There is nothing like a hike in the spring, surrounded by new life and regrowth. By packing out all food and trash items you bring, you are protecting wildlife and are helping to preserve the special places of the Smokies. #Recreateresponsibly Photo by Kristina Plaas
Tweet media one
5
73
741
@GreatSmokyNPS
GreatSmokyNPS
3 years
The Eastern Hellbender is a species of giant salamander found in streams throughout Appalachia. They can grow up to two feet long, and can live up to 30 years! Do your part in protecting these and other aquatic species in the park: don’t move or stack rocks in streams! NPS video
10
153
742
@GreatSmokyNPS
GreatSmokyNPS
4 years
Yum! Bugs! Did you know? To get all those tasty bugs out of a log, pileated woodpeckers and other species are capable of pecking with 15 times the force that causes a human concussion. NPS video by A. Bate Video description: A male pileated woodpecker pecks on a fallen log
24
150
733
@GreatSmokyNPS
GreatSmokyNPS
4 years
On this day in 1934, Congress authorized the establishment of Great Smoky Mountains National Park. We are thankful for the past 86 years of official protection and preservation of this Southern Appalachian treasure. Photo by Kristina Plaas
Tweet media one
13
173
743
@GreatSmokyNPS
GreatSmokyNPS
3 years
“When the snow-covered forest lies motionless beneath the faintly darkening sky, it is completely still. If it then begins to snow and the air fills with snowflakes, it is completely silent, but that silence is different. 1/2
Tweet media one
Tweet media two
Tweet media three
4
86
732
@GreatSmokyNPS
GreatSmokyNPS
3 years
The Appalachian Trail extends between Springer Mountain in Georgia and Mount Katahdin in Maine. The A.T. runs for more than 71 miles through Great Smoky Mountains National Park. You can access the trail at the Newfound Gap parking lot, as well as Clingmans Dome! Photo: Bob Carr
Tweet media one
6
89
718
@GreatSmokyNPS
GreatSmokyNPS
4 years
Enjoy the yellows of autumn in the Smokies, with this second post for #FallColorFriday . Please keep in mind that congestion is generally heavy in October, especially on weekends. Please be patient and plan ahead on your next trip to the park! Photos by Bob Carr
Tweet media one
Tweet media two
Tweet media three
5
96
711
@GreatSmokyNPS
GreatSmokyNPS
6 years
Today, the view at approximately 6,000 feet above sea level shows some early color change. Fall colors have arrived somewhat later than average this year, likely related to the recent warm temperatures and large amounts of rainfall we have received.
Tweet media one
13
171
706
@GreatSmokyNPS
GreatSmokyNPS
3 years
Nothing demonstrates the vast biodiversity of the Smokies better than mushrooms. There are over 3,400 different fungi identified in the park, with new species still being found! What colors will you look for on your next hike? NPS Photos
Tweet media one
12
96
701
@GreatSmokyNPS
GreatSmokyNPS
4 years
There is nothing like open skies and fresh air to revive the spirit! What outdoor spaces help you find peace? Photo of Charlies Bunion by Bob Carr
Tweet media one
19
97
702
@GreatSmokyNPS
GreatSmokyNPS
3 years
Shadows are a reminder that for dark to be behind you, there must be light in front. This sunrise mountain shadow was captured from Clingmans Dome just before closing for the season. What is the “light” in front of you as you #PlotYourPath into the new year?
Tweet media one
5
103
703
@GreatSmokyNPS
GreatSmokyNPS
3 years
Cool temperatures can make for great hiking conditions, as long as you are prepared. Dressing in layers, bringing extra water, & knowing your trail will help you have a successful trip! For more info about hiking in the park, visit: Photo by Bob Carr
Tweet media one
5
54
699
@GreatSmokyNPS
GreatSmokyNPS
4 years
Great Smoky Mountains National Park sits on the traditional lands of the original inhabitants, the Tsalagi, more commonly known as the Cherokee Indians. In honor of #NativeAmericanHeritageMonth we honor all 573 sovereign tribal nations. NPS photo of HQ area circa 1920
Tweet media one
6
79
690
@GreatSmokyNPS
GreatSmokyNPS
3 years
Whether experiencing it in person or by photo, the clear, cold sky and expansive views at Mt. Le Conte provide inspiration for many. What places inspire you the most? Photo by Bob Carr
Tweet media one
22
64
689
@GreatSmokyNPS
GreatSmokyNPS
3 years
Winter is here. Mother Nature has decorated the Smokies in a light dusting of snow at higher elevations in the park this week. How are you celebrating the holidays? Show us your decorations Photo taken by: John Johnson at Newfound Gap 12/18/20
Tweet media one
6
61
687
@GreatSmokyNPS
GreatSmokyNPS
3 years
“I never knew winter could be so beautiful,” – Princess Anna, Frozen. Winter’s beauty can be found in the most unexpected of places! Winter is usually for staying indoors and sipping hot chocolate, but you never know what you can find if you go out to explore for a while.
Tweet media one
8
80
688
@GreatSmokyNPS
GreatSmokyNPS
6 years
Who's up for a good hike in the mountains? Photo of the Appalachian Trail by Bob Carr
Tweet media one
10
112
682
@GreatSmokyNPS
GreatSmokyNPS
4 years
The rolling mountains of the Smokies are a vision allowed to be seen by everyone. #recreateresponsibly , so that each visitor, even those years from now, can bask in the glory of the Smoky Mountains. What is your favorite sight to see in the Smokies? Photo: Hannah Jordan
Tweet media one
32
85
668
@GreatSmokyNPS
GreatSmokyNPS
1 year
At Great Smoky Mountains National Park, we have millions of visitors a year. We are thankful for all the memories and adventures we shared together. What are you thankful for this year? NPS Photo
Tweet media one
Tweet media two
22
50
676
@GreatSmokyNPS
GreatSmokyNPS
3 years
Give Me All Mountains - Hymn to Artemis Give me all mountains. City, town, the precinct of temple, the crowded town gate, I have no love for: walls must crash or hide whether of market palace court or precinct. Give me the stream’s cold path, the grove of pine,
Tweet media one
Tweet media two
5
98
676
@GreatSmokyNPS
GreatSmokyNPS
3 years
Have you driven the newest section of the Foothills Parkway that was completed in December 2018? It’s a great way to see the mountains and take a look into the park. Check @SmokiesRoadsNPS on Twitter to see if the road’s closed. Happy driving! NPS Photo
Tweet media one
15
56
652
@GreatSmokyNPS
GreatSmokyNPS
3 years
“In November, the trees are standing all sticks and bones. Without their leaves, how lovely they are, spreading their arms like dancers. They know it is time to be still.” -Cynthia Rylant NPS photo, November 1936.
Tweet media one
6
71
662
@GreatSmokyNPS
GreatSmokyNPS
3 years
Eastern Hemlocks are known as foundation trees. Foundation trees uniquely and irreplaceably control forest ecosystems and associated biodiversity by preventing extreme fluctuations in stream temperature, protecting watersheds and soil moisture.
Tweet media one
5
81
657
@GreatSmokyNPS
GreatSmokyNPS
3 years
Elevations in the Smokies range from 876 to 6,643 feet. Mount LeConte, seen here, is the park’s third-highest peak (6,593 feet). For more information on mountain elevations, visit Photo: Sheree Varnes
Tweet media one
9
91
652
@GreatSmokyNPS
GreatSmokyNPS
5 years
There are many places in the Smokies to view a beautiful sunset, but Clingmans Dome is a favorite of many. Where do you go to see the sunset in the park? Picture by Keely Dunham-Adkins
Tweet media one
13
135
657
@GreatSmokyNPS
GreatSmokyNPS
3 years
If you are deciding where to hike in the Smokies, start by determining what you would like to see. Then decide how far you would like to hike. No matter which hike you choose, you should follow our hiking safety tips: . Photo: Bob Carr
Tweet media one
13
75
642
@GreatSmokyNPS
GreatSmokyNPS
3 years
Did you know 2/11 is the International Day of Women & Girls in Science? We have many amazing #WomenInScience who work in our park, including our Chief of Resource Management and Science, Lisa McInnis. Do you have a woman or girl in science in your life who you admire?
Tweet media one
9
97
637
@GreatSmokyNPS
GreatSmokyNPS
6 years
Moving rocks to build dams and cairns (stacks) can disrupt salamander habitats, and with 11 million visitors a year, small impacts really add up. Therefore, we ask you to be gentle in these natural areas so they can continue to provide inspiration for generations to come.
Tweet media one
3
325
642
@GreatSmokyNPS
GreatSmokyNPS
4 years
Take a minute today to watch this short video on how YOU can protect our Eastern Hellbender salamanders while visiting the Smokies. Thank you for not moving rocks! NPS video
7
204
631