Sunset Picnic - Tuesday evening, June 10, 2003
If you like to get "up in the world",
there is no higher spot in the Smoky Mountains than Clingman's Dome. At 6642 this mountain peak provides an alpine
experience and a drastic temperature change from the valley below.
This is one of our favorite places to attempt and catch the
sunset. With the top down on the Jeep, a picnic dinner and the camera in tow we set off around 5:00 in the afternoon.
Of course at this time of year, the sun doesn't head down until close to 9:00 but we take our time, enjoy the ride and
allow a little time for dinner and to explore.
Just remember to bring your jacket. This evening was a perfect
example of the temperature and weather difference. We wore jeans and took our fleece jackets so we were prepared
but others were not. As the evening progressed, the wind whipped up and the clouds moved in. Whereas it was probably
75 degrees in Gatlinburg, it was around 50 degrees, with a brisk and steady 20 mile per hour "breeze" at the top of the mountain.
Unfortunately, the cloud bank thicked and we did not get the true
sunset that we had hoped for this particular evening but these mountains are ever changing and this is definitely a short
excursion that we will make again before too long.
Our only "costs" for this wonderful evening were a little gas in the Jeep and dinner from Subway.
And on the way back to the main highway, we were treated to a rare and wonderful sight. A yearling black bear
was peeking out from the bushes along the side of the road. Eagle eye Randy spotted him. We were able
to stop and look at him, while he looked and considered us before he headed off to safety. Always remember..........this
is not a petting zoo and the animals here are wild and free. For you safety and their well being, don't
approach or attempt to feed them. Enjoy them from a distance. Be thankful for the glimpse of any wild creature.
