All Pro Group Blog
Although the Fall is my absolute favorite season of the year Spring runs a close second and it’s spring time in the Gatlinburg area. The Rhododendron and Mountain Laurel plants are beginning to bloom and they will be spectacular. While many wildflowers bloom in April as well as the spectacular dogwood trees some of the most colorful plants are coming in to their prime right now. If you enjoy natural beauty and like to hike the many wonderful trails throughout the National Park are beckoning. This is the time to start thinking of coming to the Smokies and making a hike away from the city and the traffic.
My daughter and I last month hiked to Mt. LeConte and back along the Alum Cave Trail and there was still ice and snow at the top of the mountain but no more. On Friday of last week Michael McBryde, (one of the young men in the Sunday School class that I teach), and I hiked the Ramsay Cascades trail up to the top where a majestic 90 foot waterfall awaits those that are persistent. The hike is about 4 miles and is rated as moderate but is somewhat challenging if you carry a few extra pounds like I do. Climbing continuously along the river toward the top the trail is well maintained though still a real workout if you haven’t been hiking regularly.
The waterfall at the top is well worth the effort but in just a couple of weeks the
Rhododendron and Mountain Laurel that cover the area all along the river will be on display. Though they are now blooming primarily in the valley below the National Park will be ablaze with color soon so make your plans now. The color of the blooms vary from lavender to pink depending on soil acid content but here is a sample of what the plant looks like when blooming. This photo was taken yesterday in downtown Gatlinburg and shows a Rhododendron plant in full bloom. 
A close-up of the bloom shows the intricate design and beauty of this plant.
What does this have to do with Smoky Mountain real estate you might ask? If you need just one more reason to own a full time or vacation home here in the Gatlinburg area you now have it!
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