Out of the Smokies!

From Bryson City we had two choices - either up and over Great Smoky Mountain NP, or around it to the west.  Problem with the western route was it goes through a windy stretch called the "Tail of the Dragon", and sport bikes like to fly through the turns and kill cyclists.  So, over the mountain we went.  We camped just inside the park near Cherokee, NC (actually the Cherokee reservation).

This morning we had our first real rain problems.  I heard thunder at 4:30 AM, so we set up the tent fly.  I woke up this morning to pouring rain.  We ate breakfast in the tent, but were stuck there and didn't get on the road until 11:30.  It rained again a few hours later, but we continued on through it.  We even passed a tree that had fallen down.  It was blocking traffic, which was actually quite pleasant (for us).

We reached the top, which is also the Tennessee border.  Also the last time I will dance with the Appalachian Trail...I wish the best to my bearded, travelling brethren.

Of course we sped down into Gatlinburg at 30 mph.  Turns out this is an almost comically touristy area.  Regardless, we are about to enjoy our first real food of the day, then figure our where to end our abbreviated day.  (our diet today has been peanut butter, anchovies, trail mix and a grapefruit).  A chicken sandwich will be welcomed.