Great Smoky Mountains National Park boasts an extensive network of hiking trails that offer breathtaking views and diverse landscapes for outdoor enthusiasts. With over 800 miles and 150 trails winding through lush forests, meadows, and along cascading streams, hikers can explore a variety of ecosystems and discover the park's rich biodiversity. Iconic trails like the Appalachian Trail traverse the park, providing challenging routes for seasoned hikers, while shorter trails cater to beginners and families. Popular trails include Clingmans Dome, Alum Cave, and Laurel Falls, each offering unique perspectives of the park's stunning natural beauty. Visitors can encounter diverse wildlife, historical remnants, and stunning vistas while immersing themselves in the serenity of this renowned national park.
As of March 1, 2023, valid parking tag are required on any vehicles parking for longer than 15 minutes. Approved parking rates are $5 for a daily parking tag, $15 for a weekly parking tag, and $40 for an annual parking tag.
Black Bears are an iconic symbol of Great Smoky Mountains National Park and a treasure to our community. While seeing a bear is a wonderful experience, it's important to always be bear aware. Please review these tips and information so you know what to do if you...
There are three entrances to Great Smoky Mountains National Park from Gatlinburg, and every one takes you into a section of the 800 square miles of unspoiled Appalachia. Every trip to the Smokies begins with a drive on the Newfound Gap Road, so pack a picnic and see highlights...
It's the most visited National Park in the United States. It's so big that scientists are still discovering some of the plant and animal species that live there.
Whether you’re a hardcore hiker or just love a quiet walk in the woods, there are plenty of pathways into the forests of the Smokies. There are more than 100 species of trees and another hundred species of shrubs–more than in all of northern Europe combined.
Every year in late May to early June, thousands of visitors gather near the popular Elkmont Campground to observe the naturally occurring phenomenon of a firefly species that flashes synchronously.
Vacations are all about escaping the every day, and nothing will remind you of that more quickly than spotting a bear or an elk in the Smokies. Because Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a thriving black bear habitat, chances are good that you’ll catch sight of...
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