• Approximately 1,500 black bears live in the national park.

    Great Smoky Mountains

    National Park NC,TN

October 26 Photos

Head to lower elevation areas to enjoy fall colors now, where many areas are at peak this week.

 
Lower elevation trails are good choices for viewing color this week.
Lower elevation trails are good choices for viewing color this week.
 
 
 
The Little River at Metcalf Bottoms Picnic Area
Colors along Little River at Metcalf Bottoms Picnic Area. Photo taken on Oct. 26.
 
 
Fall colors along Little River Road
Fall colors are very good along some portions of Little River Road at this time. Photo taken Oct. 26.
 
 
A mountain gentian wildflower
Fall wildflowers such as this mountain gentian and various species of asters are still blooming in the park. Photo taken Oct 25.
NPS/Taylor

Did You Know?

President Roosevelt at the park's Rockefeller Memorial.

Money to buy the land that became Great Smoky Mountains National Park was raised by individuals, private groups, and even school children who pledged their pennies. In addition, the Laura Spellman Rockefeller Memorial Fund donated $5 million to create the park.