Is there really a need for 13 miles of mountain bike trails, with more asphalt and supporting infrastructure, to be cut into an undisturbed section of the Foothills Parkway at Great Smoky Mountains National Park? How would the "experience of riding a narrow roller-coaster with a rhythm of twists and turns" enhance the visitor experience at this wondrous realm of nature?

A proposal to build a mountain bike trail network at Great Smoky Mountains National Park is being floated, one that could build nearly 13 miles of trail within a section of the Foothills Parkway transportation corridor that has not been developed.

Negotiating Cades Cove in Great Smoky Mountains National Park without cars? Yes, you'll be able to do that beginning June 17 and every Wednesday thereafter through September 30 as part of a pilot program to improve your experience in the park.

It was not the best day for a walk in the park, but Second Lady Karen Pence nonetheless appeared at Great Smoky Mountains National Park on Tuesday amid showers and fog to discuss the benefits of fresh air for physical and mental health.