"It's Fun to Stay at the YMCA"

We started the day with a visit to the luxurious Cary YMCA. With a clean, open, and modern appearance, it reminded us of the Life Time Fitness in Framingham. Besides having all of the exercise equipment you could ask for, the locker room’s sauna, steam room, and showers were state of the art, with towels provided. Upon returning to my cousin’s house, we were treated to a tasty breakfast prepared by her husband. The eggs, sausage, and coffee were all perfectly crafted. I’m not sure if it was the company or the chef, but wow, that was good eating.

Another day, another four-plus-hour drive, this one taking us into the Great Smoky Mountains of North Carolina as we approached the border of Tennessee. We were once again blessed by beautiful views as we ascended into the foggy (smoky) skies that seemed to touch the foliage-covered peaks. That haze is how the mountains got their name, and it comes from the moisture and natural compounds released by the dense forest.

Bear Creek RV Campground was our home for the evening as we settled in and quickly began preparations for tomorrow’s exploration of Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Straddling the North Carolina and Tennessee border, it is the most visited national park in the country, and we can’t wait to see why. The park is also home to roughly 800 miles of hiking trails and a thriving black bear population, so we’ll be keeping our eyes open.