Fun Things to Do in Great Smoky Mountains National Park | Travel Guide (2024) | Best Places to Visit
Great Smoky Mountains National Park Travel Guide
Quick overview of Great Smoky Mountains National Park with our expert tips and insights. Jump to any section.
- Great Smoky Mountains National Park Travel Videos
- Plan Great Smoky Mountains National Park Trip
- Things To Do In Great Smoky Mountains National Park
- Tours And Activities In Great Smoky Mountains National Park
- Best Time To Visit Great Smoky Mountains National Park
- Flight Calendar For Great Smoky Mountains National Park
- Best Areas To Stay In Great Smoky Mountains National Park
- Hotels Map Of Great Smoky Mountains National Park
- Transportation To Great Smoky Mountains National Park
- Nearby Destinantion From Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Welcome to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, located in the heart of the United States! This magnificent national park, straddling the border between Tennessee and North Carolina, is a true gem of natural beauty and biodiversity. Spanning over 800 square miles, it is renowned for its stunning mountain peaks, lush forests, and cascading waterfalls. As the most visited national park in the country, it offers a plethora of outdoor activities, including hiking, camping, fishing, and wildlife spotting. Moreover, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is home to a rich cultural heritage, with historic buildings, preserved homesteads, and fascinating exhibits that showcase the lives of early settlers in the region. Whether you are an avid nature enthusiast, a history buff, or simply seeking a peaceful retreat in the midst of breathtaking landscapes, this park is sure to captivate your senses and leave you with unforgettable memories.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park Travel Videos
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Things To Do In Great Smoky Mountains National Park
There are many exciting activities to do in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park in the USA.
One of the main attractions in the park is hiking. With over 800 miles of trails, hikers of all levels can find a suitable route. Some popular hiking trails include Alum Cave Trail, Chimney Tops Trail, and Laurel Falls Trail. These trails offer breathtaking views of the mountains, waterfalls, and wildlife.
Another highlight of the park is wildlife viewing. The Great Smoky Mountains is home to a diverse range of animals, including black bears, elk, white-tailed deer, and wild turkeys. Visitors can observe these creatures in their natural habitat by taking a drive along the Cades Cove Loop Road or by participating in a guided wildlife tour.
For those who enjoy scenic drives, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park offers several picturesque routes. The Newfound Gap Road is a popular choice, as it takes you through the highest point in the park and offers stunning panoramic views. The Clingmans Dome Road is another scenic drive that leads to the highest peak in the Smoky Mountains.
If you're interested in history, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park has numerous historic sites to explore. Cades Cove is a well-preserved settlement that showcases historic buildings, such as log cabins and churches. Oconaluftee Visitor Center is another historical site that provides insight into the Appalachian way of life.
Lastly, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a paradise for photographers. The scenic landscapes, wildlife, and seasonal changes offer endless opportunities for capturing stunning photographs. Whether you're an amateur or a professional, you'll find inspiration in every corner of the park.
In conclusion, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park in the USA offers a wide range of activities for visitors to enjoy.
Tours And Activities In Great Smoky Mountains National Park
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Best Time To Visit Great Smoky Mountains National Park
The best time to visit the Great Smoky Mountains National Park in the USA is during the spring and fall seasons. In the spring, the park comes alive with vibrant wildflowers and blooming trees, creating a picturesque landscape. The fall season is equally stunning, with the changing colors of the leaves providing a breathtaking view. Additionally, the temperatures during these seasons are mild, making it comfortable for outdoor activities such as hiking and wildlife viewing. However, it is important to note that the park can get crowded during these times, so it is advisable to plan your visit in advance and arrive early to secure parking.
Flight Calendar For Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Use our flight calendar to discover the Cheapest Days and Months to Book Flight to Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
Best Areas To Stay In Great Smoky Mountains National Park
1. Gatlinburg: Located at the entrance of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Gatlinburg is a popular area for accommodation. It offers a wide range of lodging options, including hotels, cabins, and vacation rentals. The town is known for its charming atmosphere, with numerous shops, restaurants, and attractions. Visitors can enjoy easy access to hiking trails, scenic drives, and wildlife viewing opportunities within the national park.
2. Pigeon Forge: Situated just a short drive from the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Pigeon Forge is another excellent area for accommodation. It is famous for its family-friendly attractions, such as Dollywood theme park, dinner theaters, and go-kart tracks. Pigeon Forge offers a variety of lodging options, including hotels, resorts, and cabins. Visitors can enjoy a mix of outdoor adventures and entertainment options while staying in this vibrant area.
3. Sevierville: Located near the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Sevierville is a quieter alternative for accommodation. It offers a range of lodging options, including hotels, motels, and vacation rentals. Sevierville is known for its scenic beauty, with picturesque views of the surrounding mountains. Visitors can explore the nearby national park, go fishing in the rivers, or visit attractions like the Forbidden Caverns and the Tennessee Museum of Aviation.
4. Townsend: Situated on the quieter side of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Townsend is a peaceful area for accommodation. It offers a more laid-back atmosphere compared to Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge. Visitors can find a variety of lodging options, including hotels, cabins, and campgrounds. Townsend is known for its access to hiking trails, biking routes, and scenic drives. It is an ideal choice for those seeking a tranquil retreat in close proximity to nature.
5. Bryson City: Located just outside the Great Smoky Mountains National Park in North Carolina, Bryson City is a charming area for accommodation. It offers a range of lodging options, including hotels, cabins, and bed and breakfasts. Bryson City is known for its small-town charm, with a historic downtown area and scenic views of the surrounding mountains. Visitors can enjoy outdoor activities like whitewater rafting, fishing, and hiking, as well as explore the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad.
Hotels Map Of Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Use our All-in-one Map to find Best Hotels, Vacation Rentals, Tours, Activities and Restaurants in Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
Transportation To Great Smoky Mountains National Park
There are several transportation options to Great Smoky Mountains National Park in the USA.
1. Car: The most convenient way to reach the park is by car. There are several entrances to the park, and you can drive directly to your desired destination within the park. The park is accessible via major highways such as Interstate 40 and US Route 441.
2. Bus: There are bus services available from nearby cities like Knoxville, Tennessee, and Asheville, North Carolina, to the park. Greyhound and other regional bus companies operate routes to these cities, and you can then take a local bus or shuttle to the park.
3. Airplane: The closest major airports to Great Smoky Mountains National Park are McGhee Tyson Airport in Knoxville, Tennessee, and Asheville Regional Airport in Asheville, North Carolina. From there, you can rent a car or take a bus or shuttle to the park.
4. Train: While there is no direct train service to the park, you can take an Amtrak train to nearby cities like Knoxville or Asheville and then use other transportation options to reach the park.
5. Shuttle: There are shuttle services available from nearby towns and cities to Great Smoky Mountains National Park. These shuttles can take you to various points within the park, including popular trailheads and visitor centers.
It is important to check the availability and schedules of transportation options before planning your trip to Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
Nearby Destination From Great Smoky Mountains National Park
1. Gatlinburg, Tennessee - A charming mountain town known for its vibrant arts and crafts scene.
2. Pigeon Forge, Tennessee - Home to Dollywood theme park and a variety of family-friendly attractions.
3. Cherokee, North Carolina - A gateway to the park with a rich Native American heritage and cultural experiences.
4. Bryson City, North Carolina - A small town offering outdoor adventures, scenic train rides, and a quaint downtown area.
5. Sevierville, Tennessee - Birthplace of Dolly Parton and a hub for shopping, dining, and entertainment.
6. Maggie Valley, North Carolina - Nestled in the mountains, this town offers outdoor recreation and a nostalgic atmosphere.
7. Townsend, Tennessee - A peaceful gateway to the park with opportunities for hiking, biking, and wildlife viewing.
8. Waynesville, North Carolina - A charming mountain town with a vibrant downtown, art galleries, and historic sites.
9. Newport, Tennessee - A small town with access to the park and nearby Douglas Lake for fishing and boating.
10. Robbinsville, North Carolina - A remote town surrounded by scenic beauty, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.