The Cherokee people called this the "Place of Blue Smoke," for the lovely bluish mist from which the mountain tops rise. Today, millions of visitors know it as one of our greatest natural treasures, The Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

The park's 800 square miles are home to more species of plants than any other area on the North American continent, as well as over 50 species of mammals, including frequently seen black bears. Its mountains are the highest in the Appalachian range. And its possibilities for recreation and inspiration seem endless.

You can explore the gorgeous forests, waterfalls and soaring vistas via more than 900 miles of hiking trails. You can bike or ride horseback or even go lazily tubing down a mountain stream. You can fish for trout (for information on licenses, please request our Trout Fishing brochure by calling 1-423-436-4558). You can picnic or camp or drive to one of the many historic sites preserving pioneer structures dating back to the 1840s.

After all, you'll be right in the heart of everything the Smokies have to offer. You'll be in Gatlinburg.