Discover the Heart of the Smokies: Letters from Nature’s Youngest Explorers
Nestled in the breathtaking hills of the Great Smoky Mountains, a beautiful bond is forming between park rangers and young adventurers from across the nation. Scott and Jayne Young, dedicated volunteers at Great Smoky Mountains National Park, have been delightfully answering letters from curious children since 2021. As the volume of letters has soared—from 101 in their first year to over 1,000 in 2025—they’ve turned this heartfelt correspondence into a cherished mission, nurturing a love for nature that echoes through generations.
Visitors to the Smokies can expect to immerse themselves in a haven of wildlife and stunning vistas. The Youngs receive all sorts of playful and often amusing questions—from what rangers eat for lunch to whether there are dolphins frolicking in the park! These interactions not only captivate their hearts but serve as a reminder of the curiosity and kindness that permeates the lives of young explorers. Each letter they respond to is laced with a passion for environmental stewardship, leaving a lasting impression and inspiring future generations to protect and cherish the natural world.
With over 12 million visitors flocking to this iconic national park each year, the Smokies offer not just a landscape of unparalleled beauty but also an opportunity to engage with its rich history and wildlife. Whether you’re planting seeds of curiosity in a child’s heart or embarking on your own adventure in these majestic mountains, the Smokies beckon travelers to discover more. Explore the full story behind this heartwarming initiative and uncover more hidden gems in the Smoky Mountains by visiting the original source.
Originally published on the source website.
Content curated and summarized for readers of Mystic Smokies.