4 AwesomeTraveling (NAPSA)—Travelers seeking an alternative to the traditional - vacation may want to consider a visit to East Tennessee and Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Autumn in East Tennessee is one huge burst of color. With more than 100 species of native trees, Great Smoky Mountains National Park provides an amazing show of brilliant colors each fall. Tradi- tionally, colors reach their peak during October, but visitors can enjoy the mountains’ autumn hues during September and November as well. In addition to a wealth of colorful plant life, the mountains are home to more than 60 species of mammals, including black bears, whitetail deer and elk. Bird watchers can roost at Sugarlands Visitor Center and historic Cades Cove for a glimpse of hawks, eagles, blue jays, chickadees and dozens of other feathered friends. Cades Cove has more than wildlife to offer its visitors. This area of the park was home to early Tennessee settlers and features several historic buildings dating back to the 19th century, including a working gristmill, barns, churches and a variety of log and frame houses. Cades Cove provides visitors a unique blend of history, pioneer culture and natural scenic beauty. Today, visitors to the National Park can experience the area’s history and beauty in a variety of ways. Of course, driving tours allow optimum viewing in the shortest amount of time, but you'll also find more than 800 miles of trails winding through the park. Hiking trails vary from leisurely strolls to more strenuous treks, while locally owned horse stables fi} Net) Sa offer guided trail rides through several areas of the park. Following your visit to the National Park, be sure to check out all the attractions in nearby Pigeon Forge, Tennessee. This popular destination is home to a dozen musical productions, a wide variety of dining and lodging choices, more than 300 outlet and specialty stores and fun-filled activities for the whole family. In September and October, during Smoky Mountain Harvest festival, visitors to Pigeon Forge will delight at the decorations adorning the city’s businesses. Creative use is made of mums, pumpkins, cornstalks and other seasonal items, to add a special touchoffall to city streets. Smoky Mountain Harvest Festival is also a timefor crafting, and visitors will find two outstanding craft fairs in Pigeon Forge. Dollywood joins in the fun during the theme park’s Harvest Celebration, featuring craft demonstrations and the sweet music of the Southern Gospel Jubilee. Great Smoky Mountain National Park and Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, offer year-roundactivities and entertainment for the entire family. For more information, call 1-800-251-9100 or log on to www.mypigeonforge.com.
