Tuesday, August 7, 2012

Chimney's Picnic Area a favorite



The Chimney's picnic area always beckons when visiting the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

Why?


Well, its a picnic area, so when visiting it must be time to eat. If for no other reason, that's a good one.

Then there's the west prong of the Little Pigeon River gently coursing down the mountain or cascading over the ledges, depending on the rainfall.


And the rocks, here and there, in the river and out.

During the early spring, when there is no greenery on the trees, one can see a wider landscape since nothing is hidden behind leaves.


In late spring, one can find a variety of blooming flowers on the Cove Hardwood Nature Trail.


And then there is the cool rising up from the river that helps refresh the hottest person, even in the middle of the summer.

What was once a campground now offers about 100 picnic sites. While we always like to get one by the river, the sites are tucked into all areas making each one unique and beckoning and are enjoyed by thousands.



And for some reason, I find it interesting to witness the moss growing on the tops of the restroom facilities. It just looks old world -- whatever that means.

During our visit in July, like always, we usually make the complete circuit around the picnic area hoping to find a riverside site, but if not, we enjoy what is there.

On the beginning of our second trip around the area, a man in a vehicle by the river indicated they were leaving and motioned us to take the site.

It just so happened that they live just 15 miles from us back in south Mississippi.

Next post: Aug. 14, 2012

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