Ridge upon ridge of forest straddles the border between North Carolina and Tennessee in Great Smoky Mountains National Park. World renowned for its diversity of plant and animal life, the beauty of its ancient mountains, and the quality of its remnants of Southern Appalachian mountain culture, this is America’s most visited national park.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a hiker's paradise with over 800 miles of maintained trails ranging from short leg-stretchers to strenuous treks that may require backcountry camping. Some trails are easy and others tough as my friend David Pepon and I soon learned. The Chimney Top Trail is not for the weak hearted, although I must admit I like to never made it to the top.

We spent three days of non-stop photography from 6 AM to 9PM. We hiked numerous miles, ran into a bear on the trail and captured some of the most beautiful country in the world. I hope you enjoy these pictures. Check out David's gallery at http://www.flickr.com/photos/ttlphotos/?v=1