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Great Smoky Mountains National Park
part of the Appalachian system, on the N.C.-Tenn. border; highest range East
of the Mississippi and one of the oldest uplands on earth. The mountains are
named for the smoke like haze that envelops them. More than 25 peaks rise
over 6,000 ft. The Great Smokies are noted for their many species of trees
and a great variety of flowering plants. Nearly 40% of the forest is virgin
growth. Black bears are among the most well-known of the many animals and
birds in the Great Smokies. |