The Unofficial Guide to the Grea

Great Smoky Mountains National Park the largest wilderness area in the eastern United States. The park receives ten million visitors each year--more than three times the Grand Canyon National Park!The Unofficial Guide to the Great Smoky and Blue Ridge Mountains will tell you when the Smokies are least crowded, when the wild-flowers bloom, and when the fall colors create a crazy-quilt pattern on the mountain sides. Youll get the lowdown on the best things to do in the mountains, from the best scenic drives to great day hikes--from half mile strolls along paved walkways to an all-day scramble leading to a 100-foot waterfall deep in the forest. Well also tell you where the biggest trout lurk, the best places to ride a bike, and how to get an adrenaline high on a raging whitewater river.We deliver the lowdown on how to have a good time after a day spent enjoying the mountains--from a dinner theater complete with a rodeo and quiet campgrounds, to the best regional shopping and area hotels, mptels, lodges and resorts--all ranked and rated for value and quality. You will also learn all the practical stuff youll need to know--suggestions on how to avoid getting blisters on a hike, tips on how to protect valuables from car thieves, and advice on how to avoid an unplanned confrontation with local wildlife.With this guide, youll uncover the Smoky and Blue Ridge Mountains that most people miss!