Great Smoky Mountains National Park

I am a big, beautiful place with tall, sleepy mountains. They look like they are wearing a soft, blue blanket. The blue blanket is like a gentle mist, and that's why some people call me the 'Smokies'. It makes me look dreamy and quiet. Can you hear that? It's the sound of my little streams rushing and giggling over smooth, round rocks. Shhh. Listen. The wind is whispering secrets to my tall, green trees. I have so many trees, they feel like a giant hug. I love my mountains and my streams and my trees. I am the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

A very long time ago, the Cherokee people lived here. They were my first friends. They called me 'Shaconage', which means 'land of the blue smoke'. I loved that name. Later, other people came to build homes here. Soon, everyone saw how special my forests and animals were. They wanted to keep me safe forever. So, many good people, families, and even children saved their pennies in little jars. They used their pennies to help make me a special place for everyone. On June 15th, 1934, I officially became a park for you to enjoy. I was so happy.

Today, I am a happy home for sleepy black bears, gentle deer, and squirrels that play hide-and-seek. At night, tiny fireflies come out and twinkle like little stars that have fallen from the sky. I love it when you come to visit me. You can walk on my soft trails, splash your toes in my cool creeks, and listen to my happy birds sing their songs. I will always be here, a peaceful, wonderful place for you and your family to explore and love.