About
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park draws more visitors than any other national park in the United States. And it's no wonder! Whether it's your first or 100th time witnessing the blue haze hugging the peaks, the moment always takes your breath away.
This American treasure sits along the border of Tennessee and North Carolina, making it a must-visit on any East Tennessee getaway.
But did you know that this national park almost didn't exist? Our story begins in the 1920s and 1930s, when locals and advocates saw how logging was stripping the mountains. They rallied and began working to establish the park, but the going wasn't easy.
The group had to assemble the park from countless small farms, private plots, and timber lots. Additionally, it took personal donations, state contributions, and a significant gift from the Rockefeller family to make it happen.
The park opened in 1940, covering more than 522,000 acres, providing a snapshot and shelter of Southern Appalachian mountain culture.
One example of this protected history is at Cades Cove. Here, authentic log cabins, barns, and churches are still standing. A scenic loop attracts drivers, walkers, and cyclists to explore the peaceful valleys and fields.
If sweeping views are the goal, Kuwohi Visitor Center (formerly Clingmans Dome) is a must. Climbing to 6,643 feet, it holds the title of the highest spot in the park—and in all of Tennessee. From the observation tower, the landscape stretches for miles.
Whether you visit by car, hike the trails, or cast a line for trout, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a must on your Tennessee vacation.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park: Fun Facts & Cool Features
One interesting tidbit is that the park is known as the "Salamander Capital of the World." There are more than 30 salamander species in the shady, damp forest and gurgling brooks.
If wildlife is your thing, the Smokies are calling your name. The woods are teeming with deer, black bear, birds, and raccoons, to name a few.
Speaking of bears, the National Park Service provides helpful safety tips about these often misunderstood animals.
The hiking and backpacking opportunities are ideal for beginners through experienced trekkers. If you plan to go backpacking or be a thru-hiker on the Appalachian Trail, you'll need to get a permit.
Regarding trails, the park has over 800 miles of paths to explore, with something for every level of experience. Because cell service is sketchy in the Smokies, the National Park Service recommends downloading maps beforehand. They also discourage using other hiking apps because they may contain erroneous information.
We obviously can't list all the trails, but one we recommend is the Abrams Falls Trail, which is near Cades Cove and Gatlinburg. This out-and-back hike is 5 miles and is rated moderate by AllTrails. You're rewarded at the 2.5-mile turnaround with the 25-foot-tall waterfall.
If you'd prefer to explore the Smoky Mountains by car, there are plenty of excursions to consider. Newfound Gap offers breathtaking views of the mountains and features an overlook at 5,046 feet. The Foothills Parkway is about an hour away with sweeping curves through the mountains.
With over 2,900 miles of streams, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is an angler's paradise! There are plenty of fishing outfitters that offer guided tours for beginners and seasoned anglers alike. Make sure they are a licensed concessionaire with the park, like Fly Fishing the Smokies. Such precaution ensures you adhere to conservation and park regulations while having a safe and enjoyable experience.
A trip to Great Smoky Mountains National Park lets you explore a log cabin in Cades Cove, hike and fish, or drive the parkways. Every moment gives you an authentic taste of history, beauty, and discovery on your East Tennessee vacation.
Local Tips
- Check the official website for road closures before you go.
- Pack layers of clothing, especially when visiting higher elevations.
- Download or pick up a park map; cell service is unreliable or nonexistent.
- Bring plenty of water and snacks, especially when hiking.
