Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Viewpoint along Alum Cave Trail ascending towards Mount LeConte, GSMNP, TN

Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a United States National Park located in the southeastern region of the United States. It straddles the border between North Carolina and Tennessee and is part of the larger Appalachian Mountains range. The park is renowned for its diverse range of plant and animal life, its beauty, and the remnants of Southern Appalachian mountain culture. It is one of the most visited national parks in the United States.

History

The idea of preserving the region as a national park began in the early 20th century, with efforts led by individuals such as Horace Kephart and George Masa who advocated for the conservation of the area's natural beauty and biodiversity. After years of fundraising and negotiation, the park was officially established in 1934. The creation of the park also involved the displacement of several thousand residents and the cessation of logging operations, which had significantly deforested parts of the mountains.

Geography

Great Smoky Mountains National Park covers an area of over 522,000 acres, making it one of the largest protected areas in the eastern United States. The park's landscape is characterized by rugged mountains and rolling hills, with elevations ranging from about 875 feet at the park's lowest point to 6,643 feet at Clingmans Dome, the highest peak in the park and in Tennessee. The park is also known for its diverse ecosystems, ranging from dense forests to subalpine zones.

Biodiversity

The park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and an International Biosphere Reserve due to its exceptional biodiversity. It is home to over 19,000 documented species, with scientists believing that an additional 80,000 to 100,000 species may live in the area. This includes a vast array of plants, with over 1,500 flowering plant species, numerous species of trees, and a wide variety of ferns, mosses, and lichens. The park also supports a rich fauna, including black bears, elk, deer, and over 200 species of birds.

Recreation

Great Smoky Mountains National Park offers a wide range of recreational activities. There are over 800 miles of trails for hiking, including seventy miles of the Appalachian Trail. Other activities include camping, fishing, wildlife viewing, and auto touring. The park's historic sites, such as Cades Cove and Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail, provide visitors with a glimpse into the region's past.

Conservation

The park faces several environmental threats, including air pollution, exotic plant species, and diseases affecting native trees. Efforts are ongoing to monitor and address these issues to preserve the park's ecological integrity. The park's management practices focus on protecting its natural resources while accommodating millions of visitors each year.

See also

• National Park Service
• Appalachian Trail
• Biodiversity
• Conservation in the United States

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