As dawn whispers through the valleys and mist curls around the ancient peaks of the Smokies, I'm reaching out to ignite that wanderlust within you. This weekend, from February 16th to 18th, let's set our compass to the heart of Appalachia, where the Great Smoky Mountains stand as sentinels of time, offering a tapestry of photographic marvels. Imagine the golden light of sunrise spilling over undulating hills, historic cabins nestled in verdant glades, and the serene melody of mountain streams—each moment a frame waiting to be captured. Join me in embracing the call of the wild, where every path leads to discovery and every snapshot tells a story.

Before we dive back into our trip plans, I've got to share something cool with you. I've had the chance to chat with Ryan Smith a few times, and honestly, I can't say enough good things about him and his workshops. The guy's got an eye for the most stunning scenes and a knack for teaching others how to capture them too. If you're even remotely into photography, checking out his workshops could be a game-changer. You can find all the details on his site, and who knows, maybe we'll bump into each other at one of his sessions!

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park

🚗 Road Trip to Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee/North Carolina

From: Los Angeles, CA
To: Great Smoky Mountains National Park

The journey from Los Angeles to the Smokies is quite long, roughly 2,200 miles. Considering the distance, flying to a nearby airport like Knoxville, TN, and then renting a car might be a more practical option.

🌞🌚 Sun & Moon Timings (Approximations for 2/16/24)

Sunrise: Around 7:15 AM
Sunset: Around 6:10 PM
Moon Phase: Waning Gibbous, providing ample moonlight for night photography.

📍 Must-Visit Photo Spots

Cades Cove: Ideal for wildlife photography and capturing historic buildings at sunrise.

Clingmans Dome: The highest point in the park offers panoramic views, especially captivating at sunset.

Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail: A scenic drive with numerous waterfalls and mill sites perfect for long exposure photography.

🌥️ Weather Check

Expect chilly temperatures, possibly ranging from 20°F to 50°F, with variable weather conditions, including potential snowfall.

🚘 Getting Around

Renting an AWD or 4WD vehicle is recommended for navigating the park's terrain and potential winter road conditions.

🏨 Where to Stay

The Lodge at Buckberry Creek (Gatlinburg, TN): Offers rustic luxury with stunning views of the Smoky Mountains.

Old Creek Lodge (Gatlinburg, TN): A cozy option with easy access to the park and local amenities.

🎒 Gear Checklist

• DSLR/Mirrorless camera with a selection of lenses.

• Tripod for early morning and twilight photography.

• Extra batteries and memory cards.

• Circular polarizer and ND filters for waterfalls.

🍽️ Food Essentials

• Snacks and energy bars for your hikes and photo sessions.

• Insulated thermos for hot drinks to keep you warm.

• Pre-packed meals or dining in Gatlinburg for a more relaxed meal option.

🧥 Clothing Must-Haves

• Layered, thermal clothing to adapt to changing temperatures.

• Waterproof outerwear for unpredictable mountain weather.

• Sturdy, waterproof hiking boots for exploring trails.

• Gloves, hat, and scarf to stay warm during those early morning photo shoots.

📷 Day-by-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Cades Cove

Morning: If flying, aim for an early flight to Knoxville, then drive to the park. The scenic route will gradually introduce you to the lush landscapes of the Smokies.

Afternoon: Check into your chosen accommodation. Consider the charming Old Creek Lodge in Gatlinburg for its cozy atmosphere and proximity to the park.

Late Afternoon: Head to Cades Cove for your first photography session. This broad valley is teeming with wildlife and historic buildings, offering diverse photo ops.

Evening: Return to Gatlinburg for dinner. The local restaurants offer hearty meals perfect for refueling after a day of exploration.

Day 2: Clingmans Dome and Roaring Fork

Early Morning: Drive to Clingmans Dome for sunrise photos. The observation tower provides panoramic views of the mist-covered mountains.

Mid-Morning: Enjoy breakfast back in Gatlinburg or pack something to enjoy with the view.

Afternoon: Explore the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail. This one-way loop road offers easy access to a variety of waterfalls and old-growth forest scenes.

Evening: Capture sunset shots from one of the trail's overlooks, then head back to Gatlinburg for dinner and a well-deserved rest.

Day 3: Leisurely Morning and Departure

Morning: Enjoy a leisurely breakfast and maybe a stroll around Gatlinburg, capturing the quaint charm of the town.

Midday: Begin your journey back to Knoxville for your return flight, or if you're up for it, visit another nearby scenic spot for a final photo session.

3 Possible Photos to Capture

1. Wildlife in Cades Cove: Look for deer, black bears, and historic cabins as subjects.

2. Sunrise from Clingmans Dome: Capture the ethereal beauty of the Smokies bathed in the soft morning light.

3. Waterfalls along Roaring Fork: Use a slow shutter speed to get that silky water effect.

This trip to the Great Smoky Mountains promises a mix of adventure, serenity, and, of course, plenty of fantastic photography opportunities. Get ready to capture the natural beauty and diverse landscapes of America's most visited national park!

Best,
Moshe L