Smoky Mountain Loop: Jakes Creek, Miry Ridge, Lynn Camp Prong, Middle Prong + Panther Creek (17.7 Miles)

Back To Nature

In this small valley, where the Little River and Jakes Creek converge, lie the vestiges of Daisy Town, one of several resort enclaves established in the early 20th century by urban dwellers who crave the natural beauty and refreshing climate of the Great Smoky Mountains.

As you look down this road lined with cottages, imagine a time 100 years ago when visitors arrived by rail, seeking refuge from the pollution and sweltering heat of the city. This summer resort community offered a temporary escape from day-to-day routines and responsibilities. Families played outdoor sports, socialized at the clubhouse, or relaxed on their porches.

"I tell you something about Elkmont. It's a magical place. When I come up here I feel close to God. I love this place, my favorite place in the world to be." - Eddie Tipton, Elkmont Resident

National Forest or National Park?

The house before you was once leased by Col. David Chapman. A successful Knoxville Businessman and a member of the Appalachian Club, he became a driving force in the effore to create Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

Not everyone agreed with his vision, however. One opponent was James B. Wright, a fellow member of the Appalachian Club, dedicated conservationist and attorney for the Little River Lumber Company. Wright advocated making the Smokies a national forest, which would allow for continued logging.

Protection of the forest prevailed and Great Smoky Mountains National Park was officially established in 1934. For his work in making the park a reality, Col. Chapman was given a lease to this cabin by the Tennessee Park Commission.

What's The Difference?

National parks focus on strict preservation of natural areas "unimpaired for future generations." Park rangers work for the National Park Service, in the Department of Interior. National forests are managed for multiple uses - providing a variety of services and commodities including lumber, grazing, and minerals. Forest Rangers work for the U.S. Forest Service, in the Department of Agriculture.

Letter from the Department of the Interior

This letter to Chapman from the Assistant Director of the National Park Service contains a veiled reference to John D. Rockefeller who provided funding that helped create this park.

United States
Department of the Interior
National Parks

Personal and confidential: 9-6-27

Dear Dave,

I've been keeping in touch with a New York friend regarding a prospective donation toward the Big Smokies park project, and have just had a letter promising his cooperation. Going a bit farther than that he has interested also another one of the richest men of the country in the matter. I am going to Maine about the middle of the month on a trip whose object will partly be clinching this matter, and am scouting to New York Thursday night for a conference with Major Welch to find out how much he has secured so that I can tell my friends what the balance is.

Things are looking better all the time.

Awfully sorry about Mrs. Johnson's passing - she left her mark in many ways, particularly in the fine things her many friends say about her and her many fine qualities. My sincerest sympathy to your wife.

Have just returned from Yellowstone and Glacier and am snowed under, so no more than this line at this time.

Wish me luck, old top.