Calling all nature lovers! It’s no secret that White Pine, TN, is surrounded by beautiful natural life and its scenic views are breathtaking. Near the mountains, visitors of White Pine may easily access the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and all the natural beauty that is within it. Here are some of the many plants and animals that you may find in and around White Pine, TN.
Temperate Deciduous Forest: The Biome of East Tennessee
A biome is a means of classifying the collection of plants and animals that live in the specific area, and East Tennessee is home to a biome that is classified as a temperate deciduous, or “broadleaf,” forest. A temperate deciduous forest is characterized by soil that is rich in nutrients and allows for biodiversity to flourish. Because of the nutrient-rich soil, many different plants can grow to sustain the rest of the wildlife that calls this area their home. The plants and wildlife of the area are also sustained by the precipitation that is typical in this biome, which is year-round. The main characteristic of this biome is that the trees of the area lose their leaves once per year. This means that there are four distinct seasons in a temperate deciduous forest, including moist summers and cool winters.
White Pine, TN, as it lies just a short distance away from the Great Smoky Mountains, calls this biome its home, as well. White Pine is consistent with this biome in that it has trees that lose their leaves each year, four distinct seasons, and high biodiversity. In the Tennessee Valley, White Pine is home to a specter of natural beauty for its residents and guests to enjoy.
What Kinds of Animals are in and Around White Pine, TN?
Just a short drive from White Pine, TN, is the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. This national park has no shortage of wildlife that is easily viewable from the trails that wind their ways throughout the land. Although this is not an exhaustive list, here are several animals that you may see in and around White Pine, TN.
Deer
Spending a day in White Pine, TN, you would be hard pressed to go the entire time without seeing any deer. In the dense forests of White Pine and its surrounding areas, you can find deer enjoying all their favorite foods. Deer love to snack on browse, which are the leaves, twigs, and buds of woody plants, and forbs, like ragweed.
Black Bears
In and around White Pine, TN, black bears begin gearing up for hibernation in late November to early December. In the Great Smoky Mountains, black bears do not truly hibernate, but enter long periods of sleep which can be disturbed by park visitors, warming trends, and more. If you would like to see a black bear in the Smokies, exercise extreme caution, remaining as far as possible from the bear with the help of binoculars, and aim to be at the park in the early morning or late evening of the spring and summer.
Elk
As a result of overhunting and loss of habitat, elk were headed for extinction. Because of an effort in 2001, elk were reintroduced to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. While elk may seem like a rather peaceful animal, they are larger than black bears and have charged humans in the past. If you are hoping to view elk, keep at a safe distance and use binoculars. You are most likely to see elk if you aim to be at the park in the early morning or late evening. Additionally, you may also have an increased chance of viewing elk on cloudy days or around storms.
Red Squirrels
You can find red squirrels just about anywhere near the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, as they are present at nearly every elevation. While walking through the forested areas of White Pine, TN, you may find a red squirrel snacking on seeds, nuts, fruits, and more.
Wild Turkeys
If you spend a day roaming Jefferson County, you’re sure to see a Wild Turkey at some point. Wild Turkeys are fairly common in the forested areas of East Tennessee, making them a great candidate for wildlife spotting in White Pine, TN. Wild Turkeys generally like to hang out in clearings, or openings in fields near forested areas.
What Kind of Plants Grow in and Around White Pine, TN?
The natural beauty of White Pine, TN, is something to be proud of. Located in Jefferson County, this area has quick access to a number of bodies of water, forests, and parks. If you’re visiting White Pine, here are some plants that you can expect to make an appearance during your visit.
Tree Life
Nestled in the foothills of the Smoky Mountains, White Pine is home to many different trees that can be seen in and around its forested areas. Several different trees that one might see when roaming this area of East Tennessee are Red Oaks, Maples, and Dogwoods. Red Oaks are defined by their three-lobed leaves and deeply grooved bark. Maple trees are defined primarily by the shape of their leaves, which are largely symmetrical with pointed edges. Dogwoods can be easily spotted by their grayish bark and white flower clusters.
Wildflowers
There is no shortage of beautiful Tennessee wildflowers in White Pine during the spring and summer months. In late March, wildflowers such as bloodroot and spring beauty begin to bloom, creating a beautiful landscape in and around White Pine, TN. If you are looking to spot these two beautiful flowers, you should know what to look for. Bloodroot is characterized by its dainty white flower, while spring beauty can be spotted by searching for its cluster of small, purple flowers.
Plan Your Next Visit to Beautiful White Pine, TN
If you are a nature lover, White Pine, TN, is the place for you. Located just a short drive from the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, and with plenty of beautiful scenery of its own, White Pine is a place to get away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Enjoy the natural beauty of East Tennessee uninterrupted when you stay in White Pine, TN.
If you need a break and want to recharge while surrounded by scenic views, schedule your next trip to White Pine, TN. In White Pine, you can enjoy the feel of a town with a historic past and a bright future. When you think about your next vacation, think about making it a great one. Visit White Pine, TN and make memories that will last a lifetime.