Wednesday, May 24, 2006

renewal of spirit

Time and again over the years we have been drawn to this area of Elkmont. Unlike some of the other overcrowded areas of the Great Smoky Mountains (Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, Cades Cove), this destination is still peaceful and serene. The only sound is the rushing river over the big boulders.


There are lots of things to explore without ever leaving the campground, trails to hike, wildflowers to find, the historic district of old houses and hotel, two cemeteries left by long-ago residents of the area. The campground roads and loops are paved and run flat along the river, great for riding bikes. Once when riding our bikes we had to stop for a deer to cross in front of us.

A few late bloomers









Historic District and CCC Bridge










We sat under the canopy of our camper and watched it rain. The campground is in a beautiful area along the Little River, among the giant Tulip Poplar trees, their blossoms floating down to cover the picnic table and ground along with the rain. The air was filled with smoke from rain-doused campfires. The sound of the summer thunderstorm echoed through the valley. Unlike at home where there is always work to be done, no guilt arose from sitting and resting and just being…

I go to nature to be soothed and healed, and to have my senses put in order. - John Burroughs

spring