Explore the Park
Great Smoky Mountains National Park is one of the most visited national parks in the United States and one of the best places to experience the beauty of the Southern Appalachian Mountains.
Stretching across Tennessee and North Carolina, the park is known for its forested mountains, waterfalls, historic buildings, hiking trails, wildlife, scenic drives, and diverse plant life.
Whether you're planning a full-day adventure or simply want to enjoy a scenic drive through the mountains, Great Smoky Mountains National Park offers countless ways to explore the outdoors.
About Great Smoky Mountains National Park
The park protects more than 500,000 acres of mountain forests, valleys, streams, ridges, and historic landscapes.
Its location along the Tennessee-North Carolina border makes it easily accessible from popular Smoky Mountain destinations including Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, and Townsend.
There is no single way to experience the park. Some visitors spend their entire vacation hiking, while others prefer scenic drives, wildlife viewing, historic sites, waterfalls, or short nature walks.
Things to Do in the Smokies
Choose activities according to the season, weather, trail conditions, and your group's experience. Popular activities in the park include:
Hiking
The park has hundreds of miles of trails ranging from easy walks to challenging backcountry routes leading to waterfalls, overlooks, and high-elevation areas.
Cades Cove
A historic valley featuring an 11-mile loop road, historic structures, churches, scenic landscapes, and premier wildlife viewing opportunities.
Waterfalls
Home to numerous waterfalls and cascades. Some are accessible by relatively short hikes, while others require longer and more challenging trails.
Wildlife Viewing
Provides habitat for black bears, white-tailed deer, turkeys, and elk. Remember to never approach or feed animals, and maintain a safe distance.
Scenic Drives
Popular routes take visitors through forests, mountain passes, and historic areas. Excellent for families or those looking to see a lot of the park quickly.
Historic Places
Preserves hundreds of historic structures like cabins, barns, churches, and mills that provide a glimpse into traditional Appalachian life.
Fishing
The park protects numerous mountain streams that provide opportunities for anglers. Check current National Park Service regulations before fishing.
Camping
Offers developed campgrounds as well as backcountry opportunities. Rules, reservations, permits, and seasonal availability vary.
Best Time to Visit
Great Smoky Mountains National Park is open throughout the year, but each season provides a different experience.
Spring
Spring brings vibrant wildflowers, flowing streams, and fresh green forests back to life.
Summer
Summer offers warm weather and long days perfectly suited for hiking, camping, fishing, and sightseeing.
Fall
Fall is one of the most popular seasons because of the spectacular changing foliage across the mountains.
Winter
Winter can provide quieter trails and beautiful open mountain views, though weather can affect travel.
Weather & Safety
A national park is a natural environment, so preparation is important. Mountain weather can change quickly, and temperatures may differ considerably between the valleys and higher elevations.
Before Heading Out
- Check current park alerts and road conditions.
- Review trail conditions and plan ahead.
- Carry enough water and wear appropriate footwear.
- Let someone know your plans for longer hikes.
While in the Park
- Stay on designated trails.
- Keep a safe distance from wildlife.
- Don't feed animals.
- Pack layers and prepare for changing conditions.
Exploring the Park From Nearby Towns
Gatlinburg
Convenient for visitors who want attractions, restaurants, shopping, and entertainment close to the park.
Pigeon Forge
Offers a large selection of attractions, shows, restaurants, and family activities and is a short drive from park entrances.
Townsend
Known as the "Peaceful Side of the Smokies" and provides access to the western side of the park and Cades Cove.
Plan Your Smoky Mountain Adventure
You don't have to see the entire park in one trip. Choose a few experiences that fit your schedule, whether that's a hike to a waterfall, a drive through Cades Cove, wildlife viewing, or a scenic mountain route.
Always check current park information before your visit because road, trail, weather, and facility conditions can change.