re: Smoky Mountain Trail suggestions

Our family goes to the Smokies every year or so. If you can go after school starts it will be less crowded. The more time I spend in the mountains and less time in the tourist towns the better.

Cades Cove is a great place when not crowded. We usually see bears there. About half way around the loop is Abrams falls trail not a difficult hike and the falls are nice.

Have stayed at Mt. Leconte Alum Cave trail is our favorite hike to Mt. Leconte, but Rainbow Falls trail goes by the falls which is an added plus. We have done up and back and it is a long day, but we went Alum Cave trail.

Chimney Tops is very nice, but we have only been on that trail in the snow. One of our best hikes ever.

Lots of things to do in the area, but if you want to avoid the crowds, stay in the mountains.