Top Reasons to Go

Witness the wilderness: This is one of the last remaining big chunks of wilderness in the East. Get away from civilization in more than 800 square miles of tranquility, with old-growth forests, clear streams, 900 miles of hiking trails, wildflowers, and panoramic vistas from mile-high mountains.

Get your endorphins going: Outdoor junkies can bike, boat, camp, fish, hike, ride horses, white-water raft, watch birds and wildlife, and even cross-country ski.

Experience mountain culture: Visit restored mountain cabins and tour "ghost towns" in the park, with old frame and log buildings preserved much as they were 100 years ago.

Spot wildlife: Biologists estimate there are more than 1,600 bears, 6,000 deer, and 150 elk now in the park.

It's free!: It's one of the few major national parks in the country with no admission fee (though charges apply for campgrounds and a few activities).