Sunday, January 3, 2010

Exceeding Skiing and Hiking In the Smoky Mountains

By Raymond .N. Winsome

Smoky Mountains is a phenomenal destination to visit any time of year and offers best stunning views when covered by beloved snow during the winter months. It is simply a beautiful place to see, while also extending tons of wintertime adventure. If you are the open-air type, make plans to go skiing and hiking in the Smoky mountain this winter. It just does not get much better than this!

Standard Skiing at Ober Gatlinburg

Ober Gatlinburg has virtually eight ski trails with two known quad and one double chairlift. All this lifts can carry over 5,500 people per hour to ensure you spend the majority of your time skiing instead of waiting in line or riding to the peak. If you are a beginner, then you are in luck. Ober Gatlinburg has two beginner runs. You have Cub Way, which is a 1,800-foot trail with a vertical drop of 13 feet. There is also Ski School where instructors will have you racing down the slopes in no time.

For the veteran skier, you just need to head up the mountain and try some of the other trails. Within range, are four intermediate slopes including the Castle Run at 1,100 feet with a 163-foot drop, to Ober Chute at 4,400 feet and a vertical drop of 556 feet. If you feel extra brave, then try the advanced slopes. You have the Grizzly that renders a thrilling 3,800-foot run with a drop of 556 feet. And remember to travel to the Mogul Ridge. It has 300 feet of moguls that will emphatically give you a work out.

Hiking the Smoky mountains in Style

If you love walking, there are many hiking trails made to accommodate any age or ability. The Sugarlands Valley Nature Trail is a paved 3,000-foot loop made specifically for visitors with handicaps. It is also a frequent attraction for families with older members or those with little ones in strollers. You can simply enjoy the beauty of the mountains whether you walk or roll.

If you are a beginner hiker, just try Laurel Falls Trail. At two and one half miles, it is the most popular waterfall trail in the park. Apart from winding your way through primarily virgin forest, you also get the added benefit of taking in the falls up close and personal. The beauty of your surroundings will make the experience all the more unforgettable.

If you are in need of something moderate, you might choose Hen Wallow Falls Trail. It is four miles long and makes a great, short day hike. You also have the Ramsay Cascades Trail that can put you to the test. This eight-mile trail takes you to the parks highest waterfall. Not only will you enjoy the breathtaking scenery, but you will most likely see some entertaining wildlife as well. Be ready to find White tail deer, which are particularly plentiful.

True Fire Tips For Hikers

There are several factors to remember when hiking during winter. Foremost, dress in layers. This will help gaurd against hypothermia. Secondly, be sure to drink plenty of water before starting any trail. Also check the length of the trail before starting out, because the longer your hike, the more water you should pack in order to keep hydrated. In Conclusion, make sure you have sound hiking boots. Trails are known to be slippery from snow, ice or rain. You want a hiking boot that fits well and gives you the grip you need.

The Smoky Mountains have such beautiful views and natural beauty that will leave you happy, in shape and gratified for being outdoors - even in wintertime. Design your wintertime getaway today by visiting some of the online resources here, so you can take advantage of all the Smoky mountains have to offer.

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