The Moon at Newfound Gap.

The drive up the winding mountain roads was an experience in itself. Each turn unveiled new views of rolling hills, lush forests, and misty valleys. The air got cooler and fresher as I went up, hinting at the elevation I was gaining. The road twisted and turned, but I couldn't wait to see what lay ahead.

Finally, I reached New Found Gap, a place with great meaning in the Smoky Mountains. It's where the border between North Carolina and Tennessee is drawn, reminding us that nature knows no political boundaries. Stepping out of my car, the mountain air was invigorating, carrying the scent of pine and the earthy dampness.
The landscape stretched for miles, with the majestic peaks of the Smoky Mountains rolling into the distance. Misty clouds clung to the valleys, giving the mountains their name.

But the real showstopper was the sky. The sun had given way to twilight, casting a soft, pastel palette across the heavens. The sky was like a watercolor painting, blending shades of lavender, rose, and apricot in a breathtaking display. Then, like a star on stage, the moon made its entrance from behind a curtain of clouds. It hung in the sky, a glowing pearl that cast a silver glow over the mountains.