Even if you don’t explore the Blue Ridge Parkway’s miles of easy “leg-stretcher” trails, this meandering, 45-mph-motor-trail delivers the explosive bloom of Appalachian spring right through the windshield.

With gasoline prices having already soared above $4 a gallon in some parts of the country, and the peak summer driving season yet to come, are you starting to reconsider your summer national park vacation?

Jennifer Pharr Davis, who owns the women's record for speed-hiking the Appalachian National Scenic Trail, has set her sights on besting the men's record this summer.

Spruce Flat Falls is one of the hidden gems of Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The hike is about a mile each way, not too rugged, but with a bit of a climb. The trail passes through a thicket of Mountain Laurel, which will be in bloom the first week or two in May. It's also a wonderful spot for photography.