Shyamkant Kulkarni

Smoky Mountains, Ozark and Branson Shyamkant Kulkarni

About the book The author and his family had an opportunity to go on some of the most compelling long distance drives in America during summer time. This book describes journey by car from Chicago to beautiful places like Smoky Mountains in the east and Ozark and Branson in the west. It captures the essence of mid American landscape, its beauty and biodiversity. Great Smoky Mountain National Park is an important area containing temperate deciduous hardwood forest spreading over 2000 miles. It is home to thousands of species of plants and trees and many endangered species of animals. It features 16 peaks spread over its topological range. The Park gives an idea temperate flora before the influence of humans and contains evidence of Pre-Columbus Indian cultures. It provides first evidence of organic horticulture in North America. Do not get misled by the word 'Smoky'. It denotes natural fog that forms in the morning and after rainfall. It is a great pleasure to visit Ozark Mountains and enjoy its erene beauty. Nearby Branson provides a great tourist spot enjoyed by all including children and the elderly. Speed and agility of modern car and convenience of American roads made the trips comfortable. The book reveals some of the most picturesque sites and places visited by him. It explores natural beauty, scenery, history and geology of the American landscape from the eyes of a curious visitor. It also recounts the major routes of the journey. It should provide an interesting reading material for prospective tourists.