Appalachian beauty

Couldn't resist this snapping a photo of this right at the beginning of the trail to the Laurel Falls in the Great Smoky Mountain National Park. Most of the time I'm tripping over roots like these as I gaze up into the canopy, but these were so stunning I had to pause and appreciate them for the  strength and perseverance of this majestic tree. Don't you just want to drive up with a dump truck of good soil and compost to feed and protect this tree? Long may she prosper!

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