Fred & Leslie: It would be great if you would organize a hike. If we are free from other rally commitments we have, Melinda and I will definitely come along and help.
Here are a few hiking options to consider:
1. Ramsey Cascades (8m) is good for the highest waterfall in the park. https://www.nps.gov/grsm/planyourvisit/ramsey-cascades.htm
2. Charles Bunion (8m). This trail is along part of the AT and you'll pass one of the shelters on the way to the rock cropping with spectacular views. The access is at Newfound Gap so the parking is good and you have easy access to Clingman's Dome while you are there. https://www.nps.gov/grsm/planyourvisit/chimneys-alternative-charlies-bunion.htm
3. Andrews Bald (3.6). We haven't done this trail, but the views are supposed to be awesome. It's accessed via the Clingman Done parking lot so you have that as well. https://www.nps.gov/grsm/planyourvisit/chimneys-alternative-andrews-bald.htm
4. Alum Cave Bluffs/Mt. LeConte (5-11m). This trail is part of the summit to Mt. LeConte so it's 5m round trip to the Bluffs; 11m round trip if you go the remaining distance to Mt. LeConte. We've done the Bluffs but not the ascent to LeConte. It's on our list though so if you want to give it a go let me know. https://www.nps.gov/grsm/planyourvisit/chimneys-alternative-alum-cave-bluffs.htm
https://www.nps.gov/grsm/planyourvisit/chimneys-alternative-alum-cave-bluffs.htm
As for biking, check this link (http://www.hikinginthesmokys.com/bicycling_smoky_mountains.htm). The 11 miles Cades Cove Loop is a good option. The loop is closed to car traffic until 10a Wednesday and Saturdays, but that usually doesn't start until May when traffic picks up. You can also rent bikes to do the loop.
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Welcome Martha & Henry. We're looking forward to meeting you. We'd be interested in learning a bit about Beaufort as we're planning on heading that way after the GA rally later this year.
