There are a lot of people to thank for making the Smoky Mountains National Park a beautiful place. One of them is the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC). This was a voluntary government work relief program founded by President Roosevelt during the Great Depression. From 1933 to 1942, groups of young men camped in the country’s national parks and spent their days making improvements to the areas. The Smokies had more CCC camps than any other national park. Read more about what they accomplished:
1. They Built the Stone Bridge at Elkmont
Between 1939 and 1940, the Civilian Conservation Corps built a four-arch stone bridge in Elkmont, the only one of its kind in the national park. It was built to replace a wooden bridge, as bridges were important due to train travel. In addition to supplies, the trains also brought tourists to the area. Elkmont was known for being a resort community for wealthy people. To see the stone bridge today, go to the Elkmont Campground. Follow the road to the second parking lot and walk to the top of the hill. Other places to explore here include the Elkmont Ghost Town. This is an area of old resort homes that was quickly deserted after the national park was established.
2. They Built the Alum Cave Trail
The CCC helped lay the groundwork for many of the Smokies’ picturesque trails, one of which is the Alum Cave Trail. The route is 4.4 miles long and has many things to see along the way. The first thing you’ll see is Arch Rock. It was naturally formed by the freezing and thawing rock. To get the best look at it, climb up several stone steps. You’ll see Alum Cave Bluffs at the end. This is a rocky overhang that offers shade from sunlight along with stunning views. Take a moment to rest here before heading back.
3. There are Remnants of CCC Camps
You’ll find many remains of old CCC camps in Great Smoky Mountains National Park, including along the Kephart Prong Trail and the Old Sugarlands Trail! The whole Kephart Prong Trail is 4.2 miles roundtrip, but you’ll find the camp less than a mile from the trailhead. The camp was called Company 411, and it housed 200 people; this is where the men relaxed and cooked meals after a long day of work. Things to look out for include a rock that once framed the camp sign and pieces of a chimney. You’ll also find a stone drinking fountain and a stone hearth. While staying here, the men built 6 miles of road as well as many ponds that are teeming with fish today. On the Old Sugarlands Trail, you’ll find remnants of Camp Morgan. Look for an old stone clock tower! Other remnants include a trash incinerator. The whole trail is 6 miles roundtrip.
Now you know all about the Civilian Conservation Corps and its role in making the national park what it is today! Want to know even more? Here are some other interesting facts about the CCC in the Smoky Mountains!
