Discover the Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Jagged mountain peaks, verdant forests, and cascading waterfalls set the stage for big adventure in the Great Smoky Mountains, one of America’s best-loved national parks. Spread across 500,000 acres in the Southern Appalachian range, the park is a four-season wonderland, famous for its colorful spring wildflowers and the fiery blazes of autumn.
The Smokies are also home to an astonishing variety of plant and animal life – from lumbering black bears to dazzling displays of synchronous fireflies. It doesn’t take long to see why the Great Smoky Mountains is the most visited national park in the United States. Whether you’re coming for the hikes, the history, or the winding mountain roads, there’s a little something for everyone in the Smokies.
The History of Great Smoky Mountains National Park
There are only three National Parks that spill across state lines, and the Great Smoky Mountains is one of them. It covers a section of Tennessee and North Carolina in the Southern USA, inclusive of the land that was once home to the Cherokee and later Scotch-Irish settlers.
Like much of Appalachia, the Smokies were targeted by logging companies seeking rich stands of timber. As early as the end of the 19th century, concerned residents advocated for preservation. By 1925, the federal government was ready to create one of the first national parks in the eastern United States.
Unique to the Smokies’ development was the fact that it was among the first parks designed with automobiles in mind, facilitated by support from auto organizations like the American Automobile Association (AAA).
How to Visit Great Smoky Mountains National Park
The main gateways to the Great Smoky Mountains are the Sugarlands Visitor Center near Gatlinburg, Tennessee, and the Oconaluftee Visitor Center near Cherokee, North Carolina. Between them runs the scenic Newfound Gap Road, which spans 29 miles through the park, offering access to major hikes and historic sights.
If you’re arriving by air, the closest airport is Knoxville’s McGhee Tyson Airport (about a 70-minute drive). Nearby airports include Asheville, NC, and Charlotte-Douglas International Airport. A car is essential for navigating the park, as there are no buses or public transit available inside its boundaries.
For those looking to explore the Smokies without camping, numerous RV rental companies are available in Knoxville, Gatlinburg, and Pigeon Forge, making it easy to enjoy the breathtaking scenery.
What to See and Do in the Great Smoky Mountains
One of the main attractions of the Smokies is its extensive trail system, with over 800 miles of trails ranging from easy walks to challenging hikes. Additionally, the park features over 100 backcountry campsites and shelters, ideal for multi-day adventures.
Among the park’s hiking highlights is a 71-mile section of the Appalachian Trail, the highest point of which is Clingman’s Dome – the “top of Old Smoky.”
For those not keen on hiking, the park offers numerous horseback riding opportunities and scenic drives showcasing stunning panoramas of the mountains.
You can also enjoy wildlife watching year-round. The park is excellent for observing the famous bears and fireflies, particularly in the winter. Moreover, the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail is a great route for wildlife spotting.
How Much Will a Trip to the Smokies Cost?
The Smokies are known for being budget-friendly. Admission to the park is entirely free, a unique feature among national parks. Thus, aside from car rental, expenses remain minimal. Camping, a fantastic way to experience the park, starts at under $25 per night.
Additionally, all attractions within the park, including the Mountain Farm Museum and the historic buildings in Cades Cove, are free to visit.
Where to Stay in the Smokies
Given the park’s popularity, particularly during peak seasons (summer and autumn), it’s advisable to plan ahead for accommodation. Inside the park, campgrounds are available, and reservations can be made online.
The only lodging option within park boundaries is the LeConte Lodge, accessible only by hiking. Meals served at LeConte are brought up by llamas. Reservations for this popular lodge often require advance planning.
Outside the park, Gatlinburg offers a plethora of hotels and guesthouses, while cabin rentals can be found in the surrounding areas, such as Cherokee and Pigeon Forge.
Being Prepared (and Staying Safe) in the Smokies
Before embarking on your adventure, it’s essential to have a good map (available at visitor centers) and to equip yourself with sturdy walking shoes, plenty of water, snacks, and appropriate clothing. A hiking stick can be useful as well.
As the Smokies are bear country, proper food storage is necessary to keep both you and the wildlife safe. Avoid feeding animals by hand and use bear canisters to deter wildlife.
In the event of a bear encounter, remember to keep your distance; make yourself look tall and make loud noises to deter it.
