Wednesday, July 01, 2009

Cades Cove

Cades Cove is one of the most beautiful places in the eastern United States. I rarely go there for fear of a crowd. I am so glad my wife made me go this time. It is truly breath taking and I successfully ignored the people who know nothing about the outdoors or wildlife and tried to enjoy each moment for what it was. If you do not know what Cades Cove is, it is a huge valley in the middle of the Smokey Mountains. It has a diversity of flora and fauna and has fertile valley soils surrounded by the eroded rocky mountains. It is truly a wonder of the world, but it also has a nicely maintained road around it for people from all over to come and drive around stopping in the middle of said road for what seems like hours every time they see a deer. What scares me the most however is the proclivity of the city slickers to run up to a mother black bear and cub to get a picture putting themselves in mortal danger (thanks Disney). I digress, the outing was very enjoyable and the children got to see some wildlife (pictured below).
We also got to spend time exploring a cold mountain stream. I found a penny, the kids didn't. If you are wondering why my wife takes all the pictures, it is because she is deathly allergic to having her photo taken.
How can you not love the outdoors, it is truly a family playground. .... Your pal the Envirocapitalist

4 comments:

  1. Looks like a great place to take kids to learn about the outdoors. I definitely understand what you're saying about people who know nothing of the outdoors--I've actually had to find new fishing spots because of them.

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  2. Gabe,
    Now you're taking me back. My Scout Troop made an annual pilgrimage to Cades Cove for a week long camp. One of my favorite spots in the Smokies. That was 25 years ago- I can't imaging how bad the crowds are now.

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  3. Beautiful area. It's amazing how much kids love to do stuff like that. They'll love it forever.

    Yep. My wife is the same way. She threatens me with bodily harm, too.

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  4. Never beem to Cades Cove but have heard about it through the years. What a nice place to take your family. I'm sure when they grow up that they will cherish the memories with their Dad and Mom in the great outdoors! :)

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