Rambling to Tennessee: Part 3, The Beauty of Mountains and Rivers

by Violet Rebecca Jones

Click on any picture to enlarge

Leaving Wear's Valley, and heading toward Gatlinburg, I drove along a beautiful scenic road that paralleled the incredibly beautiful Little Pigeon River. Deep and dangerous in some places, it was calm and serene in others. Some  places were deep while others were only knee high. Most areas were rocky, and at times, the sound of the river rushing over the rocks was so calming, I just wanted to park and take a nap. However, as Robert Frost said, "The woods are lovely, dark and deep. But I have promises to keep. And miles to go before I sleep."  

There were trout fishermen all along the river, and there were many people hiking along the trails that branch off into the woods near the river. I am not sure if they caught any fish, but they certainly seemed to be enjoying themselves. This area ( shown at right) was the most beautiful and peaceful area along the entire river. As I moved along toward Gatlinburg, the river picked up speed and became more dangerous, but still beautiful in its own right.

The Sinks is a beautiful waterfall, but it is very dangerous. There were warning signs like the one to the right warning people to not swim in the area because of hidden underwater cliffs that create currents that  can cause a swimmer to be held down. One man had left the enclosed viewing area ans was standing on a boulder hanging over the rushing water below. I couldn't help but feel fearful for him. Had he slipped, he would surely have died. 

The awesome power and beauty of a mountain
river as it rushes over boulders on its long journey to the sea.

This rustic staircase into the wilderness beckons one to explore the trails winding along mountain ridges. There were several of these trails leading into the woods along the river, and there were numerous people coming and going. Had I not been encumbered by "bum" knee, I would have at least ventured a little way into the forest. It simply looked so inviting. However, I would have been a little nervous about the possibility of encountering a bear. I simply enjoyed the scenery along the roadside, and it was quite enough to sustain me.









I couldn't help but wonder where this little path leads. It looks as if it has simply been worn down through  the ages rather than etched into the hillside on purpose.  There must be something especially interesting at its end.  I wish that I had been physically able, and had the time to explore. But again, I would have been afraid of bears. Yes, I am very afraid of bears although I have never personally encountered one.

                                                              

                                                                

 After this peaceful stop to view The Sinks, I  reluctantly climbed back into my car for the journey to Gatlinburg. There was still much natural beauty to see, and the drive continued to be beautiful.   However, shopping awaited at the journey's end, so I had to move along.   

                                                               

                                                                 

                                                               

Copyright 2014  Violet Rebecca Jones