Great Smokey Mountains National Park

Great Smoky Mountains National Park straddles the Tennessee-North Carolina border and is the most-visited U.S. national park, drawing over 14 million annually. Spanning 522,000 acres of ancient Appalachian wilderness, it’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site famed for its biodiversity (over 19,000 species, including 100+ tree types), mist-shrouded peaks, and historic pioneer settlements.

Key Locations

• Cades Cove (TN): An 11-mile scenic loop with wildlife (bears, deer), restored 1800s cabins, and the Cable Mill.
• Clingmans Dome (TN/NC): Highest point at 6,643 ft; 0.5-mile steep trail to an observation tower with 360° views.
• Newfound Gap (TN/NC): US-441 crosses the ridge; Appalachian Trail access and Rockefeller Memorial.
• Gatlinburg (TN) & Cherokee (NC): Gateway towns with lodging, dining, and park entrances.

Things to Do

• Hiking: 850+ miles of trails—Alum Cave to Mt. LeConte (strenuous), Laurel Falls (easy 2.6-mi paved), or Ramsey Cascades (8-mi to tallest waterfall).
• Wildlife Viewing: Dawn/dusk in Cades Cove for black bears, elk, and salamanders.
• Auto Touring: Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail (one-way, waterfalls, log cabins).
• History: Visit Mingus Mill, Oconaluftee Visitor Center, or Mountain Farm Museum.
• Camping: 10 frontcountry sites (e.g., Elkmont, Smokemont) or backcountry permits.

Best Time: Spring (wildflowers), fall (foliage), or summer (cooler at elevation). Free entry; parking tags required ($5–$15).