All of us here in Gatlinburg know that we live in a special place. Lately, several of us at Century 21 Four Seasons have decided to start a hiking club. No membership roll or dues, just a few enthusiastic hikers from our real estate offices in Gatlinburg.

Last week we hiked Old Sugarlands Trail. It’s a moderate to easy hike that runs right along side the west prong of the Little Pigeon River. Lush wildflowers dot the landscape during the spring and it’s the perfect place to spot trilliums and ladyslippers. In the summer it’s full of dense greenery and as always towering rock formations.

About 1.5 miles into the hike we were lucky enough to come upon a mature female (I think, didn’t close enough to really tell) bear. She was cautious of us and stayed at least 50 feet away as we continued our hike. I always feel it’s a special treat to see a bear while hiking or at my home here in Gatlinburg.

Really, I get excited about seeing all of the large wildlife we have here in the Great Smoky Mountains. Seeing 3 elk, a bull a sow and their fawn, on Sunday coming back from a rafting trip was also a real treat.

Next week I think we’re hiking Injun Creek Trail. Can’t wait to see what that’s like!

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