Tennesse Highpoint

Here we are on top of Clingman's Dome our 8th highpoint. The crux was probably finding a parking spot because the place was packed. Word on the street is that this is the most visited highpoint in the US. I believe it, there were bikers, babies, and grandparents hiking with us. None of our grandparents (or babies, or bikers) were with us, but Shawn's parents did the hike too! This was Debbie's 3rd highpoint and Dave's 1st. Shawn needs to work on his smile, doesn't he?

Tomorrow, we'll be on the summit of that peak, Mt. Mitchell, NC. I suggested that we hike there from Clingman's Dome, but Shawn totally wussed out. He'll say it's not true, but it is.

We were lucky to get such a great view--73 miles away! Since the 1940s, air pollution has reduced the view by up to 80% in the summer. Luckily the Tennessee Valley Authority has reduced the the impact of coal-fired power plants by upgrading ozone-emitters, and residents and businesses have signed up for green energy programs.

Tonight we'll practice our smiles in the mirror because tomorrow will be a big highpointing day with GA, SC, and NC in our sights.