Welcome to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park! Our stunning mountains offer a variety of unique activities to ensure an unforgettable visit. Whether you enjoy hiking trails, taking in beautiful views, learning about nature, or exploring the great outdoors, The Smokies have something for everyone.
Are you an adrenaline junkie? Get ready to explore our rugged trails or take a bike ride along winding paths. Are you looking for some time in nature? Spend a day fishing at one of our many lakes or rivers. Or if you’re feeling adventurous, try white-water rafting down the Pigeon River Gorge!
No matter your preference, there’s plenty of activities waiting just around the corner here in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. So pack up your bags and join us as we embark on an exploration like no other – uncovering hidden gems and discovering the beauty of these majestic mountains.
Welcome to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park! Home of unparalleled beauty and adventure, this national park is one of the most visited in the United States. Spanning more than 500,000 acres across North Carolina and Tennessee, the park has a rich history that dates back thousands of years. Let’s take a look at what makes the Great Smoky Mountains so unique!
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The first thing you’ll notice about the park is its sheer size – it’s vastness offers countless opportunities for exploration and discovery. You could spend days wandering through dense forests or scaling rugged mountain peaks, all while taking in spectacular views from every angle. The diversity of habitats is also incredible; there are meadows full of wildflowers, rushing streams cascading down mountainsides, old-growth forests with towering trees, and much more. Wildlife abounds here as well; black bears roam freely throughout the park along with white-tailed deer, elk, turkeys, grouse, salamanders and many other creatures.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park also has some fascinating human history behind it. Ancient Native American sites have been found throughout the area, including burial mounds and petroglyphs carved into stone walls. In recent times, European settlers arrived around 1780 and quickly established farms and settlements within the valley floor areas – remnants of these can still be seen today if you know where to look!
Ready to explore? Great Smoky Mountains National Park offers a variety of unique attractions for visitors. From mountaintop vistas to beautiful rolling hills, there’s something for everyone in the park. Here are some of our favorite spots:
Cades Cove – This historic valley is one of the most popular destinations within the park and it’s easy to see why; with its incredible wildlife viewing opportunities, lush meadows, and stunning views from atop Gregory Bald.
Clingmans Dome – At 6,643 feet above sea level, this observation tower provides sweeping views across Tennessee and North Carolina. The hike up to Clingmans Dome is also an unforgettable experience!
Roaring Fork – Located near Gatlinburg, TN, Roaring Fork features rushing streams surrounded by wildflowers and old-growth forests. It’s a great spot for enjoying nature without venturing too far away from civilization.
Chimney Tops – A 2 mile round trip hike takes you through lush forest before reaching these dramatic rock formations at the summit. Enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding mountains while standing on top of these towering rocks!
From scenic drives to picturesque hiking trails, Great Smoky Mountains National Park has something for everyone who visits here. So what are you waiting for? Come explore all that this amazing national park has to offer!
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Hiking Trails
Hiking in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a unique experience. With over 800 miles of trails, there are plenty of options to explore and find your own adventure. Whether you’re looking for an easy stroll or a challenging climb, the Smokies has it all!
Trail
Length (miles)
Mountain Views?
Alum Cave Trail
5.4
Yes
Abrams Falls Loop
5.2
No
Chimney Tops Trail
4.0
Yes
Forney Ridge Loop
6.6
Yes
Mt Cammerer Lookout Trail
11.3
Yes
Hiking Trails
The trails offer varying levels of difficulty, so no matter what your skill level may be, you can find something that fits your needs! There are also trail maps available that outline each individual trail and provide helpful information like estimated time frames and elevation gain/losses that will help guide you when planning out your trip. You’ll get to take in stunning mountain views while exploring the beautiful landscape of this national park.
No matter how long or short your hike may be, taking some time to enjoy nature will always leave you with lasting memories and feeling refreshed! From cascading waterfalls to open meadows, hiking in the Smokies gives visitors one-of-a kind experiences that they won’t soon forget. So don’t miss out on these opportunities—come visit us today and start making memories that last a lifetime!
Camping in the park provides another way for people to immerse themselves into the natural beauty of their surroundings…
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Camping Options
For those who want to take their Great Smoky Mountains National Park experience a step further, there are plenty of camping options available. Whether you’re looking for RV sites or backcountry primitive camping, the park has something for everyone!
Here’s a list of 3 great ways to camp in the park:
RV Sites: There are 10 developed campgrounds throughout the park that offer full hookup and electric/water only RV sites with access to restrooms, showers, and dump stations.
Backcountry Camping: For those wanting an even more remote experience, the park offers over 100 backcountry campsites accessible by foot or horseback. Permits must be obtained prior to arriving at designated backcountry campsites.
Primitive Campsites: The park also offers primitive roadside campsites along many of its roads where no water is provided but they do have fire rings and picnic tables on site.
No matter what kind of camping you’re looking for, you’re sure to find it here in Great Smoky Mountain National Park! From RVs to primitive roadside campsites – you can go as rustic (or not) as your heart desires. So come enjoy nature in all its glory – pitch a tent and don’t forget your s’mores supplies!
Water Sports Activities
Embrace the spirit of adventure and explore a range of outdoor water sports activities in Great Smoky Mountains National Park! You can choose from white-water rafting, kayaking, fishing trips, swimming holes, or canoeing – depending on your comfort level. To start off with something more relaxed, you may enjoy grabbing a paddle and exploring some of the serene lakeside views while canoeing. Enjoy the tranquility of gliding across calm waters as you take in nature’s beauty.
If you’re feeling adventurous, head out onto bigger bodies of water for an invigorating experience. Embark on thrilling white-water rafting trips down class IV rapids and feel the rush of adrenaline when going over each rapid. Or if you would like to have more control over your journey, try kayaking with friends or family members! Make sure to use life jackets and safety equipment provided by park rangers before venturing out into larger bodies of water.
Fishing is also popular at Great Smoky Mountains National Park. With an abundance of freshwater streams throughout the area, anglers will be able to catch plenty of trout species including Brook Trout and Rainbow Trout.
Pack up your rods and lures for a day full of fun and relaxation surrounded by incredible scenery! Swimming holes are scattered around the park as well – so make sure to pack your swimsuit too! All these activities offer visitors a chance to connect with nature in exciting ways while creating unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime.
Horseback Riding
Horseback riding is a great way to explore the beauty of Great Smoky Mountains National Park. With miles of horse trails, visitors can experience the terrain and wildlife in ways that you just can’t from walking or biking. Horseback tours are available for all skill levels, so anyone can enjoy this adventure.
For those who want more independence on their ride, there are plenty of local stables with horse rentals by the hour or day. Most offer guided rides as well, giving riders access to knowledgeable guides who know the park like the back of their hand! Whether you’re looking for an easy ride around a lake or something more adventurous up into the mountains, these experienced staff can help find the perfect journey for your group.
There’s nothing quite like sitting at a campfire with horses grazing nearby at night – it’s truly magical! If you’re not camping overnight but still plan on being out late, be sure to check in with one of the stables before departing – they will make sure your horses have enough food and water while you’re away.
No matter how you choose to explore Great Smoky Mountains National Park on horseback, it’s sure to be an unforgettable experience. And when you’ve finished your journey? Why not try something new and get even closer to nature: Wildlife Watching!
Wildlife Watching
Have you ever wanted to try something unique while visiting Great Smoky Mountains National Park? If so, wildlife watching is the perfect activity! Wildlife watching involves observing animals in their natural habitat and can be a great way to see some of the park’s most amazing creatures.
The Great Smoky Mountains are home to many different types of wildlife, including black bear, white-tailed deer, wild turkey, river otter, and over 230 species of birds. With such a variety of animal life, there is something for everyone who loves animals and nature.
To get started with wildlife watching at the park, here is a quick guide:
Activity
Description
Animal Spotting
Out in the field or from your car window – look for animals like deer and bears.
Bird Watching
Listen for bird calls or use binoculars/a spotting scope to identify individual birds by sight.
Observing Nature
Take time out from hiking trails to study plants, fungi, insects & other small critters up close.
Viewing Animals Up Close On A Tour Guide Trip
Join one of our expert guides on an adventure into the heart of their habitats & witness them first hand!
So what are you waiting for? Get out there and enjoy all that Great Smoky Mountain National Park offers regarding wildlife watching! You never know what kind of amazing creatures you might discover along the way – remember to keep your distance and always respect the beauty around you. From here we move onto discovering some historical sites within this beautiful national park…
Historical Sites
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a place of history and beauty. It has a rich past, with old-growth forest, cades cove and the chimneys picnic area all offering unique glimpses into its distant past. The Elkmont Historic District allows visitors to explore one of America’s first logging settlements. This area provides plenty of opportunities for exploration and learning about the park’s early inhabitants.
Little River Trail is another great spot to visit if you want to delve deeper into the park’s history. Here you’ll find historical markers that tell stories from when Native Americans used this route as their main trading path. There are also several log cabins along the trail that were used by settlers in times gone by. As well as taking in some incredible scenery, these sites can provide visitors with insight into the lifestyles of those who lived here before us.
For those wanting something more modern, there are still plenty of things to do within the boundaries of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Whether exploring nature trails or participating in outdoor activities like fishing or camping, visitors will never be short on options while visiting this beautiful national park!
Festivals & Events
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is an incredibly diverse and entertaining place to explore, with over 8 million visitors a year. From music festivals and wildflower hikes to car shows and craft fairs, there’s something for everyone at the park. Plus, it hosts some of the most popular film festivals in the nation!
One of the biggest attractions every summer is the annual Wildflower Pilgrimage Festival. This festival showcases all kinds of native plants as well as talks from local experts on identifying and understanding them. Thousands flock to this event each year to learn more about these fascinating flowers that grow throughout the park.
If you’re looking for a unique experience, don’t miss out on one of the many musical performances put on by local musicians during Music Festivals held annually in certain areas of the park. These events are a great way to enjoy some live tunes while exploring your favorite parts of GSMNP!
Some other fun activities include taking part in car shows or visiting craft fairs featuring handmade items from local artisans. There’s no shortage of activities going on here so be sure to check out what else is happening before leaving!
Whatever you decide to do when visiting Great Smoky Mountains National Park will surely leave lasting memories. Whether they involve celebrating spring wildflowers or enjoying some homegrown music, there’s always something special waiting just around the corner! To take full advantage of everything this amazing park has to offer, why not set off on one of its scenic drives?
Scenic Drives
Nothing compares to the experience of taking a scenic drive through Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The views are breathtaking, with lush greenery and incredible wildlife as far as the eye can see. From winding roads that take you over mountains to scenic overlooks that give you sweeping panoramic vistas, there’s something for everyone who loves nature.
Several routes throughout the park offer stunning scenery along the way. One of our favorite drives is Clingmans Dome Road, which takes you up to one of the highest points in the park – 6,643 feet above sea level! You’ll be rewarded with an amazing view when you reach the top.
Another great option is Cades Cove Loop Road where you can enjoy picturesque mountain valleys and historic buildings from centuries ago. Enjoy a slow cruise around this 11-mile loop road, stopping at various scenic overlooks.
No matter which routes you choose, nothing beats exploring Great Smoky Mountains National Park by car and discovering its beauty firsthand. As you continue your journey through this majestic landscape, watch for some unique shopping and dining experiences awaiting you just down the road!
Shopping & Dining Experiences
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a great place to shop, dine and explore. You’ll never be short of options with all the gift shops, souvenir stores, local restaurants, and fast food outlets. Whether you’re looking for an item to commemorate your trip or something special to take home as a memento, there are plenty of places where you can find it.
Picnic areas dot the parkland so if you’d like to enjoy a bite while taking in the sights, then that’s definitely possible too! There are many lovely spots throughout the park perfect for spreading out and enjoying some tasty treats with friends and family. In addition to this, there are also many eateries scattered about offering up delicious dishes from breakfast through dinner time.
From casual cafes & diners serving classic American fare to more refined dining experiences at fine establishments – whatever your palate desires, you’ll likely find here in the Smokies!
No matter what type of experience you’re after when it comes to shopping & dining in Great Smoky Mountain National Park – there really is something for everyone! So come by and see why visitors have returned year after year; exploring these mountains has never been easier or more enjoyable.
Golf Courses
If you’re looking for a unique golfing experience in the Smokies, then look no further! Great Smoky Mountains National Park is home to some of the best golf courses in Tennessee. Whether it’s a breathtaking view of rolling hills or serene lakeside holes, our national park has plenty of options for every type of golfer.
From beginner-friendly courses to challenging championship layouts, there’s something here that will fit your style and skill level. Golfing in the smokies is truly an unforgettable experience that can’t be matched anywhere else in the world.
For those who prefer a more private setting, several nearby resorts offer exclusive access to their own championship-caliber golf courses with stunning views and well-manicured greens. There are also numerous public country clubs throughout the area that may provide experienced players with a great challenge as they enjoy amazing scenery while playing through each round. Taking on any one of these wonderful Smoky Mountain golf courses is sure to make your trip even more memorable than before!
No matter what kind of course you choose to play on, you’ll never forget the grandeur and beauty of this special place. So don’t wait – book your tee time today and explore all this majestic national park offers for yourself. With so many spectacular golf courses available here in the Great Smoky Mountains, you won’t regret taking a swing at nature’s finest! Now let’s transition into discussing ranger-led programs within the national park…
Ranger-Led Programs
Ranger-led programs provide a great opportunity for those looking to learn more about the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. From nature programs and guided hikes to educational talks and outdoor activities, there are plenty of ways for visitors to explore this incredible area. Whether you’re an experienced hiker or someone who’s never been on a trail, rangers can help guide you through many trails that offer stunning views and unforgettable experiences.
Ranger-led tours allow visitors to discover hidden gems within the park; whether it’s a unique species of plant life or a breathtaking waterfall, these guided explorations can be incredibly rewarding. The knowledgeable staff will also share stories from decades past as well as valuable information about safety precautions in order to make sure everyone has an enjoyable trip.
With so much beauty around every corner, ranger-led programs allow guests to appreciate all the national park offers while learning something new along the way. There is no better way to take in all the wonders of this natural wonderland than with a knowledgeable tour guide leading the way! As we move onto our next section discussing stargazing opportunities at Great Smoky Mountain National Park, let us take some time now to admire one of its most amazing features: its starscapes in the night sky.
Stargazing Opportunities
As the old adage goes, ‘the stars are closer in the mountains.’ That’s especially true here at Great Smoky Mountains National Park. It has been designated a Dark Sky Park by the International Dark-Sky Association and is one of the best places in North America for stargazing! Here are some unique ways to explore the night sky:
Check out popular stargazing spots like Clingmans Dome and Andrews Bald.
Take part in an astronomy tour or dark sky photography workshop with a park ranger.
Learn about constellations from Cherokee storytellers during evening programs at Oconaluftee Visitor Center.
Go on your own adventure into the Smoky Mountain stars any time of year!
The beauty of the night sky over Great Smoky Mountains National Park will take your breath away. As you experience all that this magical place has to offer, keep looking up – there are always new wonders to discover above! With so much to see and do, you won’t want to miss out on these amazing opportunities for stargazing.”
Ready for next section topic: Accommodations
Accommodations
Ready to take a break from the starry night skies and explore Great Smoky Mountains National Park? Whether you’re looking for a cozy place to rest up after your adventures or need somewhere convenient to stay, these accommodations will fit the bill.
Diamond T Ranch Country Charm Log Home The Castle of The Clouds Mansion
Take your pick! There are plenty of hotels in nearby towns such as Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, Sevierville, Townsend and Cherokee that make great bases for exploring the park. Most offer amenities such as free wifi, cable television and swimming pools. If you want something more rustic but still comfortable, try one of the cabins scattered around Cades Cove and Cosby Creek campgrounds. These can be booked through Airbnb or direct with the owners if available. For those who prefer their own space there are many vacation rentals on offer ranging from log homes to castles perched atop mountain peaks (check out “The Castle of The Clouds”!) All provide spectacular views over rolling hills and peaceful valleys – perfect for romantic getaways or family holidays.
So whatever kind of accommodation you’re looking for – whether it’s luxurious hotel rooms or budget-friendly cabins in secluded spots – you’ll find it here in Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Enjoy your stay!
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is The Best Time Of Year To Visit The Park?
When it comes to the best time of year for visiting Great Smoky Mountains National Park, there’s no wrong answer. The park is open all year round and offers plenty of activities throughout each season. While every visit will be unique in its own way, depending on when you come, here’s a guide to what peak times are like so you can plan your trip accordingly:
Due to the warmer weather and longer days, peak-season visits are usually between April and October.
Ideal seasons to visit include spring or fall as these months offer milder temperatures and fewer crowds than summertime.
Peak time visits should generally occur during weekdays rather than weekends or holidays since those tend to draw larger crowds.
Recommended seasons may vary based on interests; hikers often prefer cooler months while campers typically enjoy warmer ones.
No matter when you choose to come, Great Smoky Mountains National Park has something special waiting for you! From lush forests full of wildlife to crystal-clear streams perfect for fishing, there’s no shortage of natural beauty that awaits exploration here. Whether you want an adventure-packed weekend away from home or just some peaceful moments with nature, this park can provide both opportunities any day of the year!
Are There Any Special Permits Or Fees Required To Enter The Park?
Are you interested in visiting the Great Smoky Mountains National Park? Before you make your way to this stunning natural landscape, it’s important to know if any special permits or fees are required for entry. I’m here to help answer that question!
The good news is that no permit is necessary to enter the park – all you need is an entrance fee. The cost of admission varies depending on the type of vehicle being used and whether or not you have a National Parks Pass; however, most people will only have to pay $20 for a seven-day pass. Additionally, if you plan on camping overnight in the park, additional charges may be associated with that.
Suppose you’re planning on taking part in more specialized activities like fishing or horseback riding while at the park. In that case, you’ll want to look into acquiring appropriate licenses and permits beforehand. It’s also worth noting that many areas within the park require visitors to obtain backcountry permits before they can access them – but don’t worry, these are easy enough to get! All you need to do is fill out a form either online or at one of our visitor centers near the entrances.
So now you know: no matter what kind of activity you plan on doing during your visit, remember that some sort of permit might be needed when entering certain areas within the park. Make sure to research ahead so that nothing stands between you and your adventure!
Is There A Nearby Airport For Easy Access To The Park?
Are you looking for easy access to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park? If so, there are nearby airports that will get you close. Whether you’re coming from near or far, a visit to this park is sure to be unforgettable!
The closest option for those wanting airport access would be the Knoxville McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS). It’s located only 30 minutes away from the national park and offers daily flights. The atmosphere of flying into an area like this makes it feel as if you’ve already stepped foot inside the beautiful landscape of mountains and forests.
If TYS isn’t your desired destination, other nearby airports include Tri-Cities Regional Airport in Blountville, Tennessee; Asheville Regional Airport in North Carolina; Greenville Spartanburg International Airport in South Carolina; Charlotte Douglas International Airport in North Carolina; and Chattanooga Metropolitan Airport in Tennessee. All these airports offer varying direct routes with minimal layovers – perfect for anyone who wants an easy route to their incredible vacation spot!
No matter which airport you choose, getting to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is quick and effortless once you arrive at one of these locations. With plenty of car rental services available at each terminal and shuttle buses running every hour on weekdays, visitors won’t have any trouble finding their way around the local areas either. So come join us and experience all that our amazing national park has to offer!
Are There Any Special Rules For Boat Or Canoeing Activities?
Did you know that the Great Smoky Mountains National Park has over 800 miles of rivers and streams, making it an ideal place for canoeing or boating? If so, there are some special rules to keep in mind before embarking on your adventure. Here’s what you need to know about boat and canoe permits and regulations when visiting this majestic park:
Boat Permits & Regulations:
Boaters must carry a valid permit from the park when operating any watercraft within the park’s boundaries.
A maximum speed limit of 5 mph is enforced in most areas of the lake, with exceptions noted at certain locations. All vessels must also give way to other craft regardless of size.
Canoe Permits & Regulations:
If visitors have a valid permit, canoes may be rented at approved outfitters inside the park or brought in by visitors.
Unless otherwise specified, all canoes must stay 10-20 feet from shorelines. Additionally, no more than two people per canoe are allowed unless a Park Ranger has granted written permission beforehand.
In addition to these specific guidelines, all boats and canoes used within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park should follow standard safety protocols such as wearing life jackets and adhering to weather restrictions.
It’s important to note that failure to comply with these policies could result in fines or even criminal charges depending on the severity of the violation. So ensure you know all rules and regulations before setting out onto one of these beautiful waterways!
Are There Any Restaurants Inside The Park?
Are you wondering if there are any restaurants inside the Great Smoky Mountains National Park? Well, I’m here to tell ya that the answer is a resounding yes! There are plenty of restaurant options for visitors looking to enjoy some tasty park food while taking in all the fantastic sights and sounds of this wonderful area.
The first thing you should know about dining in the national park is that there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re craving some local barbecue or maybe just a simple sandwich, your taste buds will be well taken care of at one of the many eateries tucked away in these majestic mountains. From fine-dining establishments to casual cafes, it doesn’t matter what type of cuisine you prefer – there’s sure to be an option out there that fits your needs.
If you’re feeling adventurous and don’t mind getting creative with meal times, why not pack a picnic lunch and head out into nature? This way, you can take advantage of all the amazing scenic views available within the park while enjoying some delicious grub surrounded by fresh air and stunning vistas. No matter where choose to eat during your visit, rest assured that eating inside the park will add even more excitement to your trip!
So, whether you’d like a fancy night on town or would rather dine al fresco among magnificent mountain landscapes, there are plenty of ways to get your fill when visiting Great Smoky Mountain National Park. So go ahead – treat yourself to a scrumptious meal today!
Conclusion
As you can see, there are countless unique and exciting things to do in Great Smoky Mountains National Park! From exploring the beautiful trails by foot or bike, to paddling a canoe across pristine rivers and streams, this park offers an unforgettable experience. With breathtaking views from every turn, it’s easy to understand why so many people travel here year after year.
One of the most memorable experiences I had while visiting the park was standing atop Clingmans Dome on a clear day. The panoramic view that stretched miles around me left me speechless – no words adequately describe its beauty. That moment will stay with me forever!
If you’re looking for an adventure unlike any other, look no further than Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Whether you come alone or bring your loved ones along for the journey, you’re sure to make memories that will last a lifetime. So gather up your gear and get ready because once you set foot into this majestic landscape you won’t want to leave!
Jason is the author of Laienhaft, a blog for all things outdoor and camping. If you’re looking for the best tent to take on your next camping trip, or need some advice on how to get started with recreational camping, Jason has you covered. He’s also an expert on survival skills – if you’re ever lost in the wilderness, he’s the guy you want to find!
