The Appalachians – at Her Best

The Great Smoky Mountains NP and Appalachian mountain range features some amazing plant and geological spectaculars. Although she’s getting on up there in years and lacks the dramatic geology variations from a canyons perspective, at ~480 million years young, she does sport a beauty all her own – contrast with the Rockies 55-80 million and Grand Canyon 6-70 million. There are many national parks that are larger, the Smoky Mountains have the greatest diversity of plant life in North America. In fact, north of the tropics, only China has a greater diversity of plant life than does the Southern Appalachians.

We spent 5 days this past week hiking some of her trails and byways. Accompanied by my most favorite canyon partner… who is quite particular to which outdoor trips she will join me, for good reason. Our canyon hikes were all non-technical, and non-traditional for the most part, however we did manage to squeeze in a 1700′ elevation change day.

It was John Keats who wrote, “A thing of beauty is a joy forever.” It is in this regard, during springtime, that the Appalachians really showoff. With spring wildflowers adorning the landscape – age certainly has its privileges.

Trillium varieties – Vasey’s (red), Yellow, White, Giant White (which changes color with age)

Crested dwarf Iris

Dutchman’s Britches – Dicentra cucullaria

White Fringed Phacelia

Trout Lily in a sea of Phacelia

Purple Violet

Wild Geranium

Sunset over an Appalachian forest tapestry

All lovely tales that we have heard or read;
An endless fountain of immortal drink,
Pouring unto us from the heaven’s brink.