Time for Spring Hikes, Chirping Birds and All Things Renewed
It’s March and the living is BREEZY! Wow! What a wild, wonderful and windy month to sail into. The Village Shops are on fire for spring. Head into Gatlinburg today to see what they’ve got to keep you inspired to live large and free outdoors all month.
Hiking season never really ends in the Great Smoky Mountains. Die-hard trekkers keep going in the snow and ice. But the rest of us long for the thaw of March to crack open our gear and get moving in these hills. After all, we want to see the wildflowers in bloom, hear the next wave of migrating birds singing (birders from all over the world love the GSMNP) and see the wildlife that stays hidden in the cold. The Village understands all of that. That’s why the shops here prep for a new wave of shoppers in warmer weather. You’ll still need your layers for the higher elevations, but get your good camera out and gather what you need for a great spring hike. You’re going to see some beautiful things that only this season affords. For starters, the National Park Service estimates that there are some 240 bird species in the park, many of which may be seen during the spring breeding season. The snow has melted in the lower elevations, marking the start of the re-greening of the non-evergreen trees and the many birds’ melodious songs cut through the clean, brisk air.
What’s that sound? It’s the buzz of shoppers milling around the Village Shops today in anticipation of all that beauty! The Day Hiker has put out exceptional merchandise such as trekking poles, hiking staffs, water bottles, apparel and backpacks designed to make your day in the mountains easy. They even stock packs to strap on your canine hiking companion. Grab a cool T-shirt or hat while you’re there too. They have everything you need to make your time on the trail comfortable and convenient. You’ll have all you NEED so you can stay focused on all you’ll SEE. Your feet will not be on your mind as you trek the mountain trails in a pair of shoes or hiking boots from Hayloft Comfort Footwear. They have all the name brands guaranteed to last and to help you last as you make your way along the many trails of the GSMNP. Grab a pair (or two) of comfy Chaco brand sandals for those flatter or shorter hikes. They wear well on a long day of shopping too! Easy to clean and available in an array of colors, these insanely comfortable sandals are enduringly popular with hikers (and people in general) of all ages.
If you love all things spring, and particularly the return of your favorite birds to the feeder in your backyard, you must stop in at The Day Lily! Pick up yummy treats for your backyard bird friends, snap up a beautiful bird feeder, or get yourself a brand-new hat for all those hours in your garden this spring. There is also a charming collection of wind chimes to add a touch of magic to your porch. Browse beautiful luminaries, bird-themed sun catchers and elegant, spring-themed coffee mugs! This is a must-stop for the lover of spring (and that means all of us) and it’s nearly “go” time for gardeners too. Time to celebrate!
Grab a cup of coffee at Coffee and Company or Donut Friar in The Village while you look over the trail map you got at The Day Hiker. Feel the anticipation build as you and your friends and family plan the perfect day outdoors. Welcome spring with all its magic. There is hope in the air and on the March wind!
