Picnic in the Park
Posted by Amy Bender on November 8, 2007
One of my favorite things to do, especially this time of year, is to pack a picnic lunch and hike in the park. I usually stop at the Applewood Farmhouse Restaurant and pick up one of their Southern Fried Chicken box lunches (ok, so I’m not the healthiest eater, but hey, at least I’m getting some exercise!). The restaurant is the last one before you hit the park from the Gatlinburg entrance so it doesn’t get more convenient than that!
Once in the park there are so many trails to choose from. I recommend the hike to Rainbow Falls. This trail leads all the way up to Mt LeConte so you can choose how challenging a hike you would like. From the Rainbow Falls parking area, you can expect to spend about an hour and a half on the trail before you get to Rainbow Falls. On a nice day, this is the perfect spot to sit, soak up nature, and enjoy a picnic lunch.
If I’m feeling ambitious (and not too stuffed from the fried chicken) I’ll continue on up the trail to Mt. LeConte. The trail gets much more challenging once you’ve passed Rainbow Falls, so if you want to get to Mt. LeConte and back, plan on getting an early start, and pack some warm clothing as the temperature gets much cooler as you gain elevation.
11-10-07
Amy: I work for Pigeon Forge. Are you familiar with our January project called Wilderness Wildlife Week? The 2008 event is Jan. 12-19 and has about 175 programs, most of which relate directly to Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
–Tom Adkinson
November 10th, 2007 at 5:58 pm
Hi Tom,
I have heard of this, and I’ll be sure to add more info to the blog as it gets closer. In the meantime, I would love to hear more about it if you have any info to pass along!
Thanks,
Amy
November 14th, 2007 at 12:09 am