Hot Times in the Smokies

There's never a dull moment when on vacation with our family! (Chelsea plans like her mother . . .)  On August 1, 2022, a morning activity took us to the adjoining town for some fun at the "Island at Pigeon Forge", a family entertainment complex.

The kids were champs on the ropes course! Later that day, we headed into the mountains for a short hike to Laurel Falls. This provided another glimpse of how beautiful our surroundings were.

The following day, August 2, we hiked to Clingman's Dome. The website, greatsmokies.com, describes it like this: "At 6,643 feet, Clingmans Dome is the highest peak in the Smokies and the third highest east of the Mississippi. From the parking lot, seven miles west of Newfound Gap, walk the steep half-mile path to the 54-foot observation tower for a 360-degree view of the Park. Sunrises and sunsets are spectacular. The Appalachian Trail crosses Clingmans Dome, marking the highest point along its 2,144-mile journey." Although the wind was fierce at the top of the observation tower, there were some pretty amazing views.

We couldn't resist wandering along the Appalachian Trail for a bit before returning to our car. Bob's dream is to hike the entire trail someday . . .

That evening, while the Bosen's played in the pool at the resort, Dad and I went to Dollywood. Of course . . . Sharon can't resist amusement parks!  I think the most exciting thing there was to see the drone lights show, which was something new for us. But their world famous cinnamon bread was a treat worth waiting in line for!

Our fun day ended with smiles and fireworks.