GSMNP was established in 1934 and is the second
largest national park in the eastern United States (Fig. 1).
It is known throughout the world for its extraordinary
biodiversity with over 100,000 plants and animals estimated
to live in the park. Over 70% of the park is forested,
providing the largest extent of forested landscape in the
eastern USA. Elevation in the park ranges from about
204 m in the park’s southwest corner to Clingman’s Dome,
which at 1830 m is the third highest peak in the eastern
United States and the highest point in Tennessee. The
peaks, ridgelines, and valleys offer breathtaking vistas
around every corner. Geologic formations such as the
Anakeesta outcrops of ‘‘Charlies Bunion’’, ‘‘The Chimneys’’,
and ‘‘Needle’s Eye’’ offer a unique character to the
park that leaves a lasting impression on those who visit
these sites.
The altitudinal range of GSMNP resembles the latitudinal
extent one would experience traveling from Georgia
north to Maine. For example, in the lowlands, trees typical
of the south, such as sweet gum (Liquidambar styraciflua),
are in abundance while higher elevations contain species
like mountain ash (Sorbus americana), which are normally
found in northern habitats. Hiking and driving in low
elevations is a completely different experience in regard to