America's most visited national park welcomes over 12 million visitors annually to explore ancient mountains, diverse wildlife, and rich Appalachian heritage.
Why the Smokies Are Special
Unlike most national parks, Great Smoky Mountains has no entrance fee—a gift from Tennessee and North Carolina when the park was established in 1934. The park protects one of the world's finest temperate deciduous forests, with more tree species than all of northern Europe combined.
Park Entrances
Tennessee Side (Most Popular)
- Gatlinburg: Main entrance, Sugarlands Visitor Center
- Townsend: "Peaceful Side," closest to Cades Cove
North Carolina Side
- Cherokee: Oconaluftee Visitor Center
- Bryson City: Deep Creek trails, waterfalls
Must-See Destinations
Cades Cove
11-mile loop with historic cabins, churches, and wildlife. Arrive early or bike on car-free Wednesday mornings.
Historic Structures
90+ preserved buildings—log cabins, churches, barns, and mills showing 19th-century Appalachian life.
Newfound Gap
5,046 feet elevation—stand in two states at once. Where FDR dedicated the park in 1940.
Stay Near the Park
Hotels and cabins in Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, or Townsend—minutes from park entrances.
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Best Hikes
| Trail | Distance | Difficulty | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| Laurel Falls | 2.6 mi | Easy | 80-foot waterfall, paved |
| Alum Cave | 4.4 mi | Moderate | Rock formations, views |
| Chimney Tops | 4 mi | Strenuous | Rocky summit, 360° views |
🎫 Parking Passes Required
$5/day or $40/year at most trailheads. Purchase at recreation.gov. Tennessee plates exempt.
Wildlife
Black Bears
~1,500 bears in the park. Best viewing: Cades Cove at dawn/dusk. Never approach or feed.
Elk
Reintroduced in 2001 in Cataloochee Valley (NC). Best viewing: dawn/dusk, fall bugling season.
Synchronous Fireflies
Late May/June. Lottery required—apply in April at recreation.gov.
Salamanders
"Salamander Capital of the World" with 30+ species.
When to Visit
Spring
1,500+ wildflower species bloom. Waterfalls at peak flow.
Summer
All roads open. Warm with afternoon thunderstorms.
Fall
Peak foliage mid-October. Expect heavy traffic.
Winter
Uncrowded trails. Some roads close temporarily.
Practical Tips
📱 No Cell Service
Download offline maps before arriving.
⛽ No Gas Stations
Fill up before entering. No services inside.
🚗 Traffic Tips
Arrive before 8am or after 4pm. Weekdays less crowded.
🌡️ Weather
10-15°F cooler at high elevations. Bring layers.
Plan Your Park Visit
Browse gateway towns, find accommodations, and build your itinerary.