Nestled between Tennessee and North Carolina is Great Smoky Mountains National Park is America's most visited national park. Immerse yourself in the timeless beauty of Cades Cove, embrace the thrill of hiking along the legendary Appalachian Trail, and spot the most famous resident of the park, the American Black Bear. From the mesmerizing peaks of Clingmans Dome to the captivating history of the Mountain Farm Museum, Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a captivating destination.
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Best Things to Do in Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Your visit to Great Smoky Mountains National Park will be an unforgettable experience and well worth the visit! There are many incredible things to see and do in Great Smoky Mountains National Park:
- Enjoy breathtaking mountain views along the world-famous Appalachian Trail on a hike to a picturesque stone outcrop known as Charlies Bunion.
- Experience stunning views, wildlife encounters, and gorgeous fall foliage by driving along the Newfound Gap Road or the Cades Cove Loop Road.
- Cycle the Cades Cove Loop Road, which gives cyclists excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing and touring 19th-century homesites.
- Be on the lookout for various wildlife species such as black bears, white-tailed deer and elk that reside in the park.
- Discover the park's stunning waterfalls, including Abrams Falls, Grotto Falls, and Mingo Falls, among many others.
- Explore the parks impressive collection of over 90 preserved historic structures, including houses, barns, churches, and schools giving an insight into how communities existed in the past.
- Fishing in one of the 2,900 miles of streams within the parks boundaries.
- Camping at one of the park's campgrounds or head into the backcountry.
Seasons in Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Spring: This is also the timeframe when wildflowers are in full bloom. March through May brings unpredictable weather but is the best time for avoiding crowds.
Summer: Enjoy long daylight hours for outdoor activities, including white-water rafting, horseback rides and sunny hikes and attending ranger-led programs. June through August means heat and humidity and afternoon showers and thunderstorms are common. Note that like most national parks, summer is the most popular time of year to visit the Great Smoky Mountains.
Fall: Experience the awe-inspiring fall foliage as the park's trees turn vibrant shades of red, orange, and gold. September through mid-November welcomes cooler weather.
Winter: Take in the peacefulness of the park's snow-covered landscapes and enjoy unique winter hiking opportunities. Mid-November through February is generally moderate, but weather extremes do occur.
The park has something to offer every month of the year so the best time to visit the Great Smoky Mountains varies depending on what you want to do and your personal preferences. Hikers enjoy the Great Smoky Mountains during all months of the year with every season offering is own special rewards. The summer months are ideal for those who enjoy longer days, warmer temperatures, and a more comprehensive range of activities. Spring and fall provide offer mild temperatures, fewer crowds, and beautiful natural displays with blooming wildflowers and stunning fall foliage, respectively. Winter is perfect for visitors seeking solitude, tranquillity, and a winter wonderland.
Travelling Around Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Car: The most convenient way to explore the park is by private vehicle, as it provides flexibility to reach various points of interest and access scenic drives.
Shuttle: The park offers shuttle services in select areas, such as the Cades Cove Loop Road, providing an eco-friendly alternative to driving. Most shuttle services run March through October.
Cycling: Bicycles can travel on most roads within the park with some enjoyable routes, but note that many park roads are not well suited for cycling.
Hiking: Many attractions can be reached on foot, so hiking is an excellent way to discover the 150 official trails in the park.
Best hikes in Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Want to find the best trails or easiest hikes in the Great Smoky Mountains? We recommend checking out official National Park Service website or AllTrails where you can find the perfect trail for your next trip to Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park entrance fee
An entrance pass is not required to access Great Smoky Mountains National Park. There may be additional charges for specific services or activities within the park. Check the official National Park Service website for more detailed information.
Plan your trip to Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Before you visit Great Smoky Mountains National Park, we recommend checking the official National Park Service website for the most up-to-date information to confirm operating hours, weather, licences, fees, and any restrictions on road access, services and activities.
Make Tennessee and North Carolina your destination, not only the Great Smoky Mountains. Plan your trip using TripMapper, a travel itinerary app that also calculates your vacation budget - the perfect travel planning app! Start planning your trip to the Great Smoky Mountains today!
If you're unsure about what to bring for your trip to the Great Smoky Mountains, take a look at our packing list for national parks. It should help you prepare for your Great Smoky Mountains Adventure!
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