Great Smoky Mountains, Tennessee and North Carolina

The Great Smoky Mountains extend from Tennessee and North Carolina. They are most visited in fall for the beautiful fall colors in late October till early November. The highest point is Clingmans Dome at 6643 ft. The drive from Gatlinburg to Clingmans Dome has the best vista points of the mountain range. Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg are two small towns near smokies that has small town vibe. 

The wonders of flight, Alpine costers, The Island are some of the fun places to visit in Pigeon Forge. 

Gatlinburg offers fun activities like Sky Lift, Ripley's museums, shopping and lots of activities. But beware of tourist traps and choose activities wisely as they can break the bank very soon.

Dollywood resort offers stay and play packages for adults to relax while kids enjoy the rides.

Clingman's Dome, Forneys Creek, NC

Clingman's Dome is a highly visited spot in Smoky Mountains. At around 6000 feet, this place offers spectacular mountaintop views.  Clingman's dome is around an hour drive from Gatlinburg through scenic roadways. Fall is the best time to visit Clingman's dome. With spectacular fall covers, the mountain range is painted with hues of orange, red and yellow. 

The Welcome center and restrooms are located at the starting of the trail. The trail leads to concrete ramp and climb the ramp to get to the tower top. Though, the hike it self is tedious, the views are well worth the hike and on a clear day, you can catch endless views of mountain range. Due to any reason, if you are unable to hike, do not sweat it. the parking lot it self has equally spectacular views.

Tips: 

1. Expect half a mile hike through steep paved road before you reach the bottom of the ramp for the tower.

2. Wear good walking shoes.

3. Carry water bottles with you as the hike is strenuous and no shops / vending machines are available at the top.

4. Avoid strollers if you can. Pushing the stroller can be very tedious. Baby wearing is the best choice.

5. Parking is very limited. Expect to walk around 1/4th mile after parking before the actual hike.

Yosemite National Park, California

With its breath taking views, Yosemite National Park attracts thousands or tourists, campers and hikers each year. For me, driving up and down these mountains itself was an adventure. The drive has several vista points for quick stops. Driving up the mountains, you can see tall, black, half burnt trees from forest fires.

This national park is famous for its rock formations and waterfalls. To view any of the waterfalls, expect to take a walk between half to one mile. Even if you are not planning on camping, it is better to take mosquito repellents, sunscreen lotions, anti itch cream and lots of water.This national park offers a variety of out door activities like backpacking, camping, skiing, fishing, hiking, rafting etc. Some activities like hiking half dome needs a permit. Check the website for weather updates, alerts and latest information.

Gatlinburg Sky Lift, Gatlinburg, Tennessee

Gatlinburg Sky View is a top Gatlinburg attraction with beautiful views of Smokey Mountains. This chairlift is a fun way to get to the top of the mountain. The chair lift takes you to the top of mountain at 1800 feet. A small gift shop at the top has good collection of souvenirs and snacks. 

Spend as much time you want on the top. Because, this place have the best views around.

Rock City, Lookout Mountain, Georgia

Ohh the views from the top of the lookout mountain were spectacular. The walk way was perfectly designed, looked like my 4 year old didn't mind the lengthy walking. You can bring your pet along with you.

Combo tickets are sold for Rock City, Ruby Falls and Incline at the ticket booth. The path took us through a grand corridor, needle's eye, goblin underpass, fairy tale land and many more... Swing-a-long bridge was particularly fun.

The view of falls, mountains and spring blossoms made the walk pleasant and memorable