Experience The Great Smoky Mountains National Park

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is one of the most visited national parks in the United States, located on the border of Tennessee and North Carolina. It is a popular travel destination for outdoor enthusiasts, families, and nature lovers. With over 500,000 acres of forests, streams, and rivers, it is no wonder why this national park attracts millions of visitors every year.

This article will explore the top destinations, activities, accommodations, food and drink, and travel tips. Whether you are planning a solo trip, a romantic getaway, or a family vacation, this guide will provide you with all the information you need to make the most of your trip.

Top Destinations in Great Smoky Mountains National Park

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is home to a variety of stunning destinations, each offering unique experiences for visitors. Some of the top destinations include:

Clingmans Dome

Clingmans Dome is a popular destination straddling the border of Tennessee and North Carolina. It is the highest point in the park and the third-highest mountain east of the Mississippi River.

Visitors can take a scenic drive to the parking area, followed by a steep, half-mile hike to the observation tower at the summit. The observation tower offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, making it a popular spot for photography and sightseeing.

It is also a popular destination for hiking enthusiasts, with several trails starting from the parking area. The Forney Ridge Trail and the Appalachian Trail both pass through Clingmans Dome, offering a range of hiking options for visitors of all levels.

In addition to the stunning views and hiking opportunities, Clingmans Dome is home to a range of wildlife, including black bears, elk, and deer. Visitors should exercise caution and follow park guidelines to ensure their and the animals’ safety.

It is important to note that Clingmans Dome experiences rapidly changing weather conditions due to its high elevation, even in the summer months. Visitors should be prepared with appropriate clothing and gear for all types of weather and should check the park’s website for current conditions before planning a visit.

Overall, Clingmans Dome offers visitors a stunning and unforgettable destination with its panoramic views, hiking opportunities, and unique ecosystem.

Cades Cove

Cades Cove is a picturesque valley offering visitors a glimpse into the area’s rich history and natural beauty. The valley is a popular destination for visitors to the park, with its scenic drives, hiking trails, and historic structures.

Visitors to Cades Cove can take a scenic 11-mile loop road that winds through the valley, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains and forests. Along the loop road, visitors can stop at several historic structures, including log cabins, churches, and a working gristmill, providing insight into the area’s pioneer history.

It is also a popular destination for hiking enthusiasts, with several trails starting from the loop road. The Abrams Falls Trail is a 5-mile roundtrip hike that leads to a stunning waterfall, while the Rich Mountain Loop Trail is an 8.5-mile hike that offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.

In addition to its historic structures and hiking trails, it is home to a range of wildlife, including deer, black bears, and turkeys. Visitors should exercise caution and follow park guidelines to ensure their and the animals’ safety.

It is important to note that due to its popularity, it can be crowded, especially during peak travel seasons. Visitors should plan to arrive early in the day or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and traffic.

Overall, Cades Cove offers a unique and unforgettable destination for visitors to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, with its rich history, natural beauty, and range of outdoor activities.

Chimney Tops

Chimney Tops is a popular hiking destination offering visitors a challenging but rewarding hike with stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

The hike is a 4-mile roundtrip trek that starts at the Chimney Tops trailhead and winds through the forest, eventually leading to a series of steep switchbacks that lead to the summit. The final ascent requires scrambling up a series of large rocks to reach the top, where hikers are rewarded with panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

While the hike is challenging, it is also one of the most popular hikes offering visitors a unique and unforgettable experience. However, it is essential to note that the hike is not recommended for those with mobility issues or young children due to the steep and rocky terrain.

In addition to the hike itself, it is also a popular destination for rock climbers, with several routes available for those seeking a more challenging ascent. Visitors should exercise caution and follow park guidelines to ensure their safety and the preservation of the area’s natural resources.

It is also important to note that the trailhead and parking area can be crowded due to its popularity, especially during peak travel seasons. Visitors should plan to arrive early in the day to secure a parking spot and avoid crowds.

Overall, Chimney Tops offers a challenging but rewarding hiking destination with stunning views and a unique experience for those who are up for the challenge.

Laurel Falls

Laurel Falls is a popular hiking destination offering visitors a relatively easy hike with stunning views of a beautiful waterfall.

The hike is a 2.6-mile roundtrip trek that starts at the Laurel Falls trailhead and winds through the forest, eventually leading to a beautiful 80-foot waterfall. The trail is well-maintained and mostly paved, making it accessible for visitors of all ages and abilities.

In addition to the waterfall, it is a popular destination for viewing wildlife, with several opportunities to spot native wildlife such as black bears and white-tailed deer. Visitors should exercise caution and follow park guidelines to ensure their safety and the preservation of the area’s natural resources.

It is important to note that due to its popularity, the trailhead and parking area can be crowded, especially during peak travel seasons. Visitors should plan to arrive early in the day to secure a parking spot and avoid crowds.

Overall, Laurel Falls offers a beautiful and accessible hiking destination in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, with stunning views of a picturesque waterfall and opportunities for wildlife viewing.

Activities and Experiences

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park offers various activities and experiences for visitors of all ages and interests. Some of the top activities include:

1. Hiking – The park offers over 800 miles of hiking trails, ranging from easy nature walks to challenging backcountry treks.
2. Fishing – The park’s streams and rivers are home to a variety of fish species, including rainbow trout and brook trout.
3. Cultural experiences – Visitors can explore the region’s rich history and culture by visiting local markets, historic sites, and museums.
4. Relaxation and wellness – The park offers a range of options for relaxation and wellness, including camping, picnicking, and spa treatments.

Top Attractions in Gatlinburg

1. Ober Gatlinburg
   • This mountaintop amusement park offers skiing, snowboarding, and snow tubing in the winter, and an alpine slide, scenic chairlift, and wildlife encounter in the summer.
2. Gatlinburg SkyLift Park
   • The SkyLift Park is a popular attraction that offers breathtaking views of Gatlinburg and the surrounding mountains. Visitors can ride the chairlift to the top of the mountain, explore the SkyBridge, and enjoy the park’s many other attractions.
3. Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies
   • This world-class aquarium features a variety of aquatic life, including sharks, stingrays, and sea turtles. Visitors can explore the many exhibits, take a glass-bottom boat ride, or even dive with the sharks.
4. Gatlinburg Arts and Crafts Community
   • The Gatlinburg Arts and Crafts Community is the largest independent organization of artisans in the United States, with over 100 artists and craftsmen creating unique, handmade items. Visitors can browse galleries, watch demonstrations, and purchase one-of-a-kind souvenirs to take home.

Accommodations in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Visitors to the park can choose from various accommodations, ranging from budget-friendly hostels to luxury resorts. Some of the top areas to stay include:

Gatlinburg, TN

This famous tourist town offers a range of lodging options and is located just outside the park’s entrance.

The Treehouse Grove in Gatlinburg, Tn

Treehouse Grove is a unique lodging experience located in the heart of Gatlinburg, Tennessee. Tucked away in a secluded forest setting, Treehouse Grove offers luxury treehouse accommodations for visitors looking for a one-of-a-kind stay.

Each treehouse at Treehouse Grove is fully furnished and offers modern amenities such as air conditioning, Wi-Fi, and flat-screen TVs. The treehouses also feature private balconies and outdoor hot tubs, where visitors can relax and take in the stunning views of the surrounding forest.

In addition to the treehouse accommodations, Treehouse Grove also offers a variety of on-site amenities, including a fire pit, grilling area, and picnic tables. Visitors can also take advantage of the complimentary breakfast, which includes fresh pastries and coffee each morning.

Treehouse Grove is located just minutes from downtown Gatlinburg’s attractions, shopping, dining options, and the Great Smoky Mountains National Park entrance. Visitors can easily access hiking trails, scenic drives, and wildlife viewing opportunities from their treehouse accommodations.

Treehouse Grove offers a unique and unforgettable lodging experience that is perfect for couples, families, and groups. It is important to note that due to the treehouse setting, these accommodations are not recommended for those with mobility issues or young children.

Overall, Treehouse Grove offers a secluded and luxurious retreat in the heart of Gatlinburg, providing visitors with a truly unique and unforgettable vacation experience.

The Lodge at Buckberry Creek

The Lodge at Buckberry Creek is a luxury hotel located just outside of downtown Gatlinburg, Tennessee, and nestled in the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains. The lodge offers guests a tranquil and secluded retreat while still providing easy access to the many attractions and activities of the area.

The Lodge at Buckberry Creek features 42 guest rooms and suites, each of which is beautifully furnished and offers modern amenities such as flat-screen TVs, gas fireplaces, and luxurious bedding. The rooms also feature private balconies with stunning views of the surrounding forest and mountains.

In addition to the guest rooms, The Lodge at Buckberry Creek offers a range of on-site amenities, including a fine-dining restaurant, a lounge with a full-service bar, and a spa. Guests can enjoy the property’s outdoor pool, hot tub, walking trails, and a fishing pond.

The Lodge at Buckberry Creek is also an ideal base for exploring the nearby Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Visitors can take advantage of the lodge’s complimentary shuttle service to the park’s entrance or book a guided tour through the lodge’s concierge service.

Overall, The Lodge at Buckberry Creek offers a luxurious and peaceful retreat in the heart of the Great Smoky Mountains. It is ideal for those seeking a secluded and upscale accommodation option in Gatlinburg, with easy access to the area’s many attractions and activities.

Additional Locations

1. Margaritaville Resort Gatlinburg
   • Type of Accommodation: Hotel-style resort.
   • Amenities: Accommodations include guest rooms and suites with mountain views. The property also features a rooftop pool, a full-service restaurant, a spa, and a fitness center.
   • Location: 539 Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN 37738.
2. The Park Vista – A DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Gatlinburg
   • Type of Accommodation: Hotel-style resort.
   • Amenities: Accommodations include guest rooms and suites with mountain views. The property also features a seasonal outdoor pool, a full-service restaurant, a fitness center, and an event space.
   • Location: 705 Cherokee Orchard Rd, Gatlinburg, TN 37738.
3. Westgate Smoky Mountain Resort & Spa
   • Type of Accommodation: Mountain resort with lodge-style villas.
   • Amenities: Accommodations include villas with mountain views, some with hot tubs or fireplaces. The property also features a full-service spa, indoor and outdoor pools, a restaurant, and a fitness center.
   • Location: 915 Westgate Resorts Rd, Gatlinburg, TN 37738.
4. The Lodge at Gatlinburg Falls
   • Type of Accommodation: Cabin-style resort.
   • Amenities: Accommodations include luxury cabins with mountain views, some with private hot tubs. The property also features a seasonal outdoor pool, a game room, and hiking trails.
   • Location: 1106 Banner Rd, Gatlinburg, TN 37738.

These are just a few of the many great places to stay in Gatlinburg, but they offer a range of options for different tastes and budgets.

Townsend, TN

This small town offers a quieter, more secluded option for visitors who want to escape the crowds. Places to stay include:

1. Dancing Bear Lodge & Appalachian Bistro
   • Type of Accommodation: Rustic-style lodge and restaurant.
   • Amenities: Accommodations include rooms, suites, cabins, and cottages. The lodge also features a full-service restaurant, a coffee shop, and a spa.
   • Location: 7140 E. Lamar Alexander Pkwy, Townsend, TN 37882.
2. Townsend Gateway Inn
   • Type of Accommodation: Motel-style lodging.
   • Amenities: Accommodations include standard rooms and suites, some with kitchenettes. The property also features a seasonal outdoor pool and a picnic area.
   • Location: 8270 State Highway 73, Townsend, TN 37882.
3. Tremont Lodge & Resort
   • Type of Accommodation: Lodge and cabin-style resort.
   • Amenities: Accommodations include lodge rooms, cabins, and vacation homes. The property also features a restaurant, an outdoor pool, and a gift shop.
   • Location: 7726 E. Lamar Alexander Pkwy, Townsend, TN 37882.
4. Tally Ho Inn
   • Type of Accommodation: Lodge-style inn.
   • Amenities: Accommodations include lodge rooms, cabins, and suites. The property also features a full-service restaurant, an outdoor pool, and a hot tub.
   • Location: 8310 State Highway 73, Townsend, TN 37882.
5. Townsend KOA Campground
   • Type of Accommodation: Campground with cabins, RV sites, and tent sites.
   • Amenities: Accommodations include cabins, RV sites, and tent sites. The property also features a seasonal pool, a playground, and a pavilion.
   • Location: 8533 State Highway 73, Townsend, TN 37882.
6. Highland Manor Inn & Conference Center
   • Type of Accommodation: Historic inn with a conference center.
   • Amenities: Accommodations include standard rooms, suites, and cottages. The property also features a full-service restaurant, an outdoor pool, and an event space.
   • Location: 7766 E. Lamar Alexander Pkwy, Townsend, TN 37882.

Cades Cove

This historic valley offers a unique camping experience with options for both tents and RVs.

Campgrounds to Stay

1. Cades Cove Campground
   • Location: Located within Cades Cove, about 30 minutes from Townsend, TN.
   • Amenities: There are 159 campsites available, with running water, flush toilets, fire pits, and picnic tables. There are also bike rentals available, as well as a camp store and laundry facilities.
   • Reservations: Reservations are recommended and can be made up to 6 months in advance.
2. Elkmont Campground
   • Location: About 35 minutes from Cades Cove, near Gatlinburg, TN.
   • Amenities: There are 220 campsites available, with running water, flush toilets, fire pits, and picnic tables. There are also bike rentals available, as well as a camp store and laundry facilities.
   • Reservations: Reservations are recommended and can be made up to 6 months in advance.
3. Smokemont Campground
   • Location: Located about 1 hour from Cades Cove, near Cherokee, NC.
   • Amenities: There are 142 campsites available, with running water, flush toilets, fire pits, and picnic tables. There are also bike rentals available, as well as a camp store and laundry facilities.
   • Reservations: Reservations are recommended and can be made up to 6 months in advance.
4. Abrams Creek Campground
   • Location: About 25 minutes from Cades Cove, near Townsend, TN.
   • Amenities: There are 16 campsites available, with running water, pit toilets, fire pits, and picnic tables. There are also hiking trails nearby.
   • Reservations: Reservations are not accepted for this campground, and it operates on a first-come, first-served basis.
5. Cosby Campground
   • Location: Located about 45 minutes from Cades Cove, near Cosby, TN.
   • Amenities: There are 157 campsites available, with running water, flush toilets, fire pits, and picnic tables. There are also hiking trails nearby.
   • Reservations: Reservations are recommended and can be made up to 6 months in advance.
6. Look Rock Campground
   • Location: Located about 45 minutes from Cades Cove, near Townsend, TN.
   • Amenities: There are 20 campsites available, with pit toilets, fire pits, and picnic tables. There are also hiking trails nearby.
   • Reservations: Reservations are not accepted for this campground, and it operates on a first-come, first-served basis.

Food and Drink in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Visitors to the park can enjoy a variety of traditional Appalachian cuisine, including biscuits and gravy, fried chicken, and blackberry cobbler. Some of the top restaurants and bars in the area include:

1. The Peddler Steakhouse
   • The Peddler Steakhouse in Gatlinburg is a local favorite, offering a range of delicious steaks and seafood dishes in a charming rustic atmosphere. The restaurant is known for its aged steaks, grilled to perfection over an open flame, and its fresh seafood offerings.
2. The Old Mill Restaurant
   • The Old Mill Restaurant in Pigeon Forge is a popular destination for visitors to the area, offering classic southern cuisine in a historical setting. The restaurant is in a restored 19th-century gristmill, featuring a range of traditional dishes such as fried chicken, country ham, biscuits, and gravy.
3. Blackberry Farm
   • For a more upscale dining experience, Blackberry Farm in Walland offers innovative farm-to-table cuisine featuring locally-sourced ingredients. The restaurant’s menu changes seasonally, offering a range of creative dishes such as grilled venison, smoked trout, and heirloom tomatoes.
4. Smoky Mountain Brewery
   • For those seeking a more casual dining experience, Smoky Mountain Brewery in Gatlinburg offers a range of tasty pub fare and craft beers. The brewery features a range of signature beers and a variety of burgers, pizzas, and sandwiches.
5. Applewood Farmhouse Restaurant
   • The Applewood Farmhouse Restaurant in Sevierville is a popular destination for breakfast and lunch, offering classic southern dishes in a charming country setting. The restaurant is known for its hearty breakfasts, including country ham, biscuits and gravy, and homemade waffles.

Overall, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park offers visitors a range of culinary experiences, from upscale farm-to-table restaurants to casual pubs and diners. Whether you’re looking for classic southern cuisine or innovative new dishes, there is something for everyone in the area’s vibrant dining scene.

When to Visit

The best time to visit depends on your interests and preferences. The park experiences four distinct seasons, with peak travel seasons in the summer and fall. Some of the top times to visit include:

1. Spring – This season offers mild temperatures and beautiful wildflower displays.
2. Fall – This season offers stunning fall foliage and a range of festivals and events.

Safety and Travel Tips

Visitors to the park should take some safety precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip. Some tips include:

1. Be prepared for changing weather conditions – The park experiences sudden weather changes, so it is crucial to pack appropriate clothing and gear for all types of weather.
2. Stay on marked trails – The park has a complex trail system, so it is vital to stay on marked trails to avoid getting lost or injured.
3. Be aware of wildlife – The park is home to various wildlife, including black bears. Visitors should keep a safe distance and never feed or approach the animals.
4. Avoid common tourist scams – Visitors should be aware of common tourist scams, such as fake parking attendants and overpriced tours.

Getting There

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is located within driving distance of major cities such as Atlanta, Nashville, and Charlotte. The park is also accessible via several airports, including Knoxville McGhee Tyson Airport and Asheville Regional Airport.

Some tips for booking flights include:

1. Book in advance – Flights to the area can be expensive, so it is best to book in advance to save money.
2. Consider alternative airports – If flights to the major airports are expensive, consider flying to a smaller airport and renting a car to get to the park.

Also Read: How to Plan a Perfect Day Trip – Travel Womble

Conclusion

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a must-visit destination for anyone who loves the great outdoors and rich culture. Its stunning landscapes, rich history, and range of activities and experiences offer something for everyone. By following the tips and recommendations in this article, visitors can make the most of their trip to this beautiful national park.