“ Approximately 600 miles of streams, many of them well suited to trout, flow down the slopes of the Great Smoky Mountains. Each year thousands of hatchery-reared trout are released in the more heavily fished waters. ”

“ Persons fishing in park waters must have the State or county license issued and required by North Carolina, or the State license issued and required by Tennessee, depending upon the section of the park being fished. ”

“ Roads and Trails
There are 66 miles of high standard roads in the park including the transmountain highway from Gatlinburg, Tenn., to Cherokee, N. C. Clingmans Dome Highway reaches an altitude of 6,311 feet. Seventy miles of secondary roads and 653 miles of horse and foot trails are available for hiking and riding.
The park highways offer exceptional opportunities to view the grandeur of the Great Smokies. Spur roads and trails lead to many points of interest.
There are trails of all types to suit your individual requirements. Some are 4 feet wide on easy gradients; some are improved footpaths ”

“ In all of Europe there are not as many species of native trees as are to be found in Great Smoky Mountains National Park. A number of these, such as Canada hemlock, silverbell, red spruce, yellow buckeye, and mountain-ash grow to record size, while others become giants of their kind. Approximately 40 percent of the more than half-million acres which comprise the park are in the original forested condition. A total of 130 native tree species are known to grow in this area. ”

“ Roads are kept open all year, but the transmountain highway sometimes is closed for a few hours during heavy snow or sleet storms when snowplows cannot keep it open. Snows are infrequent in the park, but you should take chains if you plan to drive through in winter. Roads are posted if driving conditions are unfavorable. ”

“ Please note the following requirements which are necessary for the protection of the natural beauties of the park, as well as for your comfort and convenience:
The park is a sanctuary for all living things. It is a violation of the law to destroy, injure, or disturb trees, shrubs, flowers, birds, animals, or any natural feature in the park.
The speed limit is 35 miles an hour, unless otherwise posted. Drive carefully; keep to the right. Report all accidents to a park ranger.
Camping or lighting fires at places other than designated campgrounds or picnic areas is not allowed, except by permit. ”

“ Park forces try to keep trails drained and clear of brush and other obstacles; but the country is rough, and hikers should wear suitable outdoor clothing, including stout low-heeled shoes. If you are an inexperienced hiker, you should be especially careful and watch your footing on the trails. ”

“ No hunting or trapping is permitted. Since establishment of the park, the black bear population has increased considerably, and such animals as the white-tailed deer, red and gray foxes, raccoon, bobcat, wild turkey, ruffed grouse, and others find sanctuary in these mountains. ”

“ Persons using park trails have nothing to fear from unmolested bears. If tempted by food, however, some bears, which frequent sections of the motor road, become dangerous. They should not be fed or approached. Persons using the Appalachian Trail shelters can protect their food supplies by suspending them from tree limbs outside the shelter. ”

“ Naturalists meet hikers at designated points in or near the park and conduct visits to outstanding objectives over good trails. Plant and animal life is discussed informally along the way. There are several types of walks ranging from 2 hours to all day. ”

“ The successful movement for the creation of a national park in this area was begun in 1923, and its establishment was authorized by the Federal Government by act of Congress approved May 22, 1926. Enabling acts were passed by the State legislatures of North Carolina and Tennessee in 1927, and land acquisition was begun with State funds, matched by a generous donation made by John D. Rockefeller, Jr., through the Laura Spelman Rockefeller Memorial, in honor of his mother. ”