Asheville and Great Smokey Mountains National Park

September 27-October 2, 2009

Come join Women Traveling Together as we explore Asheville, North Carolina and the Great Smokey Mountains National Park.  The Smoky Mountains get their name from the bluish haze that has always clung to them.  They're thought to be among the oldest mountains on Earth, having formed 500 million years ago.  We'll see pristine waterfalls and beautiful mountain vistas in the Park and take a scenic train trip on the Great Smokey Mountains Railroad. We will spend time in Asheville NC, home of the Biltmore Estate, and Gatlinburg TN, home to the Great Smokey Arts and Crafts Community.  Late September also brings the beauty of the changing leaves. If you love the outdoors mixed with the charm of small towns and gorgeous scenery, then this trip is for you!
(See tentative itinerary below)

We are currently in the process of planning this trip.
Once we have all the activities, hotels and other details confirmed,
and the price finalized, we will remove this information and post
a completed itinerary with the price.

If you are interested in learning more about this trip,
make a pre-reservation.
It is very important to make a no-obligation pre-reservation.
Those who have made a pre-reservation will be notified first
when the full itinerary and pricing is posted.

 Make a Pre-Reservation

A pre-reservation does not require any money.
Once the tour is finalized and a tour price available, those who have pre-reserved
a space will be contacted via email and asked to decide if they
want to make a deposit. If you are not interested, you don't have to do anything.

 
Tentative Itinerary

Sunday, September 27: Arrive Asheville, NC.; Welcome Dinner

Schedule your arrival at Asheville’s airport no later than 4:00pm. The tour will begin at the hotel at 5:30pm.  If you arrive earlier in the day the WTT tour leader will have suggestions for things to do before the group meeting and our welcome dinner. (D)

Monday, September 28:  Great Smokey Arts and Crafts Community

This morning we will drive to Gatlinburg, Tennessee.  The town hosts the Great Smokey Arts and Crafts Community, the largest group of independent artisans in North America. This historic 8-mile loop has been designated a Tennessee Heritage Arts & Crafts Trail. Established in 1937, these artisans whittle, paint, sew, cast, weave and carve to create original collectibles.  (B)

Tuesday, September 29:  Great Smokey Mountain National Park

We will spend today at the Park.  2009 is the 75th anniversary of the establishment of the Park with activities throughout the year.  This time of year is also a great time to view fall foliage and enjoy the outdoors with a picnic lunch.  We will take some easy walks to see the many waterfalls that the Park is know for. (B,L)

Wednesday, September 30:  Great Smokey Mountain Railroad

A different way to see the Park is on the Great Smokey Mountains Railroad.  This excursion departs from Bryson City and travels 44 miles to the scenic Nantahala River Gorge. It crosses Fontana Lake on a 100 foot high Trestle Bridge that spans almost 800 feet across the Lake. It winds through the scenic western North Carolina mountains to the Nantahala Gorge. There is a one-hour layover at the Nantahala River depot for lunch, sightseeing, shopping and relaxing. The train goes along the river through the Nantahala Gorge providing a great view of the high cliffs and rugged terrain that the Cherokee called "The Land of The Noonday Sun".  After the train ride, we will return to Asheville.  (B)

Thursday, October 1:  Biltmore Estate and Gardens, Farewell Dinner

We will spend time visiting the famous Biltmore Estate, America's largest home.  George Vanderbilt's French chateau style mansion features 250 rooms, 65 fireplaces and art masterpieces. The estate also features elegant gardens, a winery, and the River Bend Farm. After lunch on the grounds of the Estate, the afternoon will be free to enjoy downtown Asheville. 

Downtown Asheville skipped the urban renewal process that stripped the character from many downtowns. Today its rich architectural legacy has a mix of Art Deco, Beaux Arts and Neoclassical styles. You might want to take an art walk through downtown's 30-plus galleries or shop at boutiques.  (B,D)

Friday, October 2:  Return Home

All previous information has been superseded.