by Kaitlyn Hamilton

Created on: January 21, 2010   Last Updated: April 18, 2011

There are plenty of wonderful vacation destinations throughout the state of Tennessee that are ideal for seniors, even for seniors with mobility issues. 

1.)  The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is one of the most beautiful areas on our planet.  In the fall, the colors are so brilliant that it almost appears as though the mountains in the distance are covered in flames, especially when the sun shines down on the leaves at the peak of their color change.  The trees are vibrant with bright red, yellow, gold, orange, and even shades of pink.  This usually happens around Halloween each year, depending on how the weather has been. 

If you want a quiet, peaceful place to stay at night while you vacation in the Smokies that is away from all the city noise, then I recommend staying in one of the many chalets or cabins in either the Sevierville or Townsend areas.  You might even consider one of the cabins near the ski lodge of Ober Gatlinburg.  Just be sure to find out how easily accessible the cabin or chalet is from the driveway.  Some of the chalets have steps and no handicapped access, but there are many others that are fully handicapped accessible.  Many of these chalets have hot tubs, pool tables, fireplaces, and kitchens complete with dishes, pots, and pans for those of you who like to eat in.

As for things to do in the park, I suggest you start out by going to the Sugarlands Visitors Center.  You will be able to pick up tons of brochures and discounts on area attractions as well as get a thorough introduction to the National Park.  At this visitors center you will get to see many animals, insects, birds and other creatures behind glass (stuffed of course) that are native to the park.  You can also watch one of the many beautiful films that give a nice history, introduction, and overview of the park as well. 

The one area that you absolutely can't miss is Cade's Cove.  The road that takes you around Cade's cove is an 11-mile loop.  The scenery is breathtaking and you are sure to see plenty of wildlife.  I often see bears, plenty of deer, turkeys, ground hogs, wild boar, and many other animals.  As long as you don't try to feed or pet them you'll be fine.  (That might seem like a funny statement, but you would be amazed at how many idiots I've seen over the years try to feed and even pet our bears.  They aren't house pets and can be very dangerous

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