Gatlinburg, Tennessee

We stayed very near Smoky Mountain National Park. We learned why the Smokies are called that and what makes them Smoky – VOCs – volatile organic compounds which are gasses created by the plants and trees. These vapors create the fog which is uniquely different each day.

We arrived early to see if we could get our little trailer up the mountain roads to the house we were staying at for a church retreat. The mountain roads are narrow and steep and basically awful.

Jerry had to back this thing up and turn it around on a one lane road. This was quite possibly the least fun thing of the whole trip.

We had to put little Quinn in storage for a few days just down the street. She didn’t seem to mind.

The view was spectacular and always changing throughout the day.

Our group did the Grotto Falls Trail in Smoky Mountain National Park because it was supposed to be for all abilities and ages. It turned out to be a little steep and challenging.

The falls were very beautiful and flowing.

Everybody made it!

The thunderstorm and torrential rain started almost immediately after we began heading back.

We really like bridges, covered or otherwise.

It’s interesting that Harrisburg Bridge is right in a residential neighborhood.

Charlotte’s Web at the bridge.

Foxfire Mountain – a really cool family owned adventure park with hiking, zip lines, bridges, obstacle courses, waterfalls and streams.

Wishes that folks hung up in the Whispering Winds Covered Bridge

This is the kind of zip line that Kristi is willing to do.

The cutest little otters we’ve ever seen.

Very memorable and meaningful sword ceremony our group participated in.

Who took this? A cute little drone did.