Biodiversity and wildlife in the Great Smoky Mountains

Botanics enthusiasts will experience boundless joy as they explore the Great Smoky Mountains, the national park that boasts the greatest biodiversity in the whole country across its more than 800 square miles, set against the backdrop of the Southern Appalachian Mountains. In fact, the University of Tennessee estimates that there are over 19,000 species. The gentle hills formed around 300 million years ago, the altitude ranging from 260 to 2,025 metres, and the temperature range – as the rangers explain – have meant that the Smokies are home to 1,500 species of flowering plants, more than 200 species of birds, 68 species of mammals, 67 species of native fish, 39 species of reptiles and 43 species of amphibians. Along with an equally record-breaking number of molluscs, millipedes and fungi. Among the places to visit, almost on the border with Tennessee, is the very dense forest of Big Creek, whilst at the Paradise Picnic Area you can enjoy lunch amongst the fir trees in a breathtaking natural setting. Similarly, to the north of Bryson City, you’ll come across Deep Creek, where you can tackle various circular trails that wind around the main waterfall.