Off the Beaten Path

Paul and I enjoyed a breathtaking drive through the western corner of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park on Wednesday.  The draping tress lined the winding hills with gorgeous red, yellow, and orange leaves.  The fall air was crisp as we approached our destination...Cades Cove.  It is a 4,000 acre valley full of both nature and history.

As we drove the 11 mile loop around the Cove, we were taken back in time to the mid 1800's when life was simpler.  True pioneers filled the Cove and were challenged by the rigors of self-sufficiency.  The first cabin in Cades Cove belonged to John Oliver.  It was hand-built in the early 1820's, using round logs hewn with an ax.  The second cabin belonged to his son, Elijah.  It included several outbuildings, such as a springhouse, a smokehouse, a corn crib, and a barn. 

It truly felt like we had stepped back in time as we hiked the trails and stepped into the cabins and churches.  The Cove was filled with deer, turkey, and various other wild life.  Paul enjoyed the cantilever barns and the grist mill. This is a must see if you are ever in the Gatlinburg-Pigeon Forge area!!

As we began the journey back to civilization,  I closed my eyes in an effort to place an indelible memory in my mind and heart of this day...a simpler place; a simpler time.