The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is renowned for its vast and diverse forests, which cover almost 95% of the park’s area. These forests are a true natural wonder, offering visitors a glimpse into the rich biodiversity and cultural heritage of the Appalachian region.
Forest Coverage
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a true forest haven, with an astounding 95% of its total area covered in lush, verdant forests. This extensive forest coverage is a testament to the park’s commitment to preserving the natural landscape and protecting the delicate ecosystems that thrive within its boundaries.
Old-Growth Forests
Remarkably, approximately 25% of the park’s forests are considered old-growth, meaning they are mature and relatively undisturbed ecosystems that have been allowed to develop naturally over centuries. These ancient forests are a true rarity, offering visitors a rare glimpse into the past and the opportunity to witness the incredible resilience and adaptability of the region’s native plant and animal species.
Types of Forests
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is home to a diverse array of forest types, each with its own unique characteristics and ecological significance.
Deciduous Forests
The park’s deciduous forests are a true highlight, with trees that shed their leaves seasonally, creating a stunning display of vibrant colors during the autumn months. These forests are dominated by species such as oak, hickory, and maple, which provide vital habitats for a wide range of wildlife.
Southern Appalachian Mountain Culture
The park’s forests also play a crucial role in preserving the rich cultural heritage of the Southern Appalachian region. The park’s forests are deeply intertwined with the lives and traditions of the local communities, who have long relied on the land for sustenance, shelter, and spiritual connection.
Tree Species
The old-growth forests of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park are home to a diverse array of tree species, each with its own unique characteristics and ecological significance.
| Tree Species | Characteristics |
|---|---|
| Oak | Dominant species in the park’s forests, known for their sturdy trunks and acorn production |
| Hickory | Valued for their edible nuts and durable wood, often used in furniture and tool-making |
| Maple | Iconic for their vibrant fall foliage, also an important source of maple syrup |
These tree species, along with many others, create a rich and diverse forest ecosystem that supports a wide range of plant and animal life.
Biodiversity
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is renowned for its exceptional biodiversity, with the park being the most biologically diverse in the entire National Park system. This diversity is largely due to the park’s temperate climate and the variety of habitats found within its borders, including the extensive forests.
The park’s forests are home to a wide range of plant and animal species, including many that are found nowhere else on Earth. From the iconic black bear to the delicate wildflowers that carpet the forest floor, the park’s forests are a true treasure trove of natural wonders.
Tourism and Economy
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a true economic powerhouse, attracting over 13 million visitors annually and contributing an estimated $2.5 billion to the local economy. The park’s forests play a crucial role in this success, providing visitors with a stunning natural backdrop and a wealth of recreational opportunities.
Park Management
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park was established in 1926 and officially dedicated in 1940. Since then, the park has been carefully managed to preserve its natural resources and cultural heritage, with the forests being a central focus of these efforts.
In recognition of its exceptional natural and cultural significance, the park was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983 and an International Biosphere Reserve in 1988.
Visitor Information
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is easily accessible, with main entrances located along U.S. Highway 441 (Newfound Gap Road) in Gatlinburg, Tennessee, and Cherokee, North Carolina, as well as in Townsend, Tennessee.
The park also features two main visitor centers, Sugarlands and Oconaluftee, which are located on either side of the Tennessee–North Carolina border. These centers offer a wealth of information and resources for visitors, helping them to make the most of their time in the park.
References
- National Park Service (NPS): www.nps.gov/grsm/index.htm
- Great Smoky Mountains Association: www.gsmassoc.org
- Atlas of the Smokies: www.nps.gov/grsm/learn/nature/atlas-smokies.htm