GREAT SMOKY MOUNTAINS
NATIONAL PARK

AREA - 522,426 ACRES

EST. 05 22 1926

NORTH CAROLINA | TENNESSEE

Planning a Trip to
Great Smoky Mountains
National Park

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is one of the most visited national parks in the United States. The park spans over 500,000 acres of beautiful Appalachian mountain terrain in Tennessee and North Carolina. It is home to diverse wildlife including black bears, elk, and over 1,500 species of plants. The park also boasts majestic waterfalls, scenic overlooks, and miles of hiking trails. With its vast array of attractions, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

"the grandest of all special temples of Nature" and "the only one of the world's great parks that could not be improved."
- John Muir

"In God's wildness lies the hope of the world - the great fresh unblighted, unredeemed wilderness. The galling harness of civilization drops off, and wounds heal ere we are aware.
-Theodore Roosevelt

BEST TIME TO GO

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a popular destination throughout the year. For outdoor activities such as hiking, camping and fishing, the best time to visit is during the spring and fall months. The temperatures are mild and the long days offer plenty of time to explore the park. Summer months can be hot and humid, making it a less desirable time for outdoor activities. Winter months can bring cold temperatures and a chance for snow, making it a good time for skiing and snowshoeing. For visitors looking to take in the beautiful foliage, the best time to visit is in the fall when the leaves change colors. No matter when you decide to visit, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park has something to offer throughout the year.

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a beautiful destination that can be enjoyed year-round. To make the most of your visit, it's important to plan your trip based on the season. Spring is the best time to go if you're looking to witness the park's lush greenery, cascading waterfalls, and blooming wildflowers. Summer offers plenty of sunshine and mild weather, perfect for outdoor activities like camping, hiking, and fishing. Autumn is the most popular time to visit, as the park is known for its vibrant fall foliage. Winter is a great time to enjoy the park's snow-capped mountain views and appreciate the peace and quiet of the colder months. No matter what time of year you visit, you're sure to find a unique and unforgettable experience in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

OVERVIEW

Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a United States National Park and UNESCO World Heritage Site that straddles the Tennessee-North Carolina border. This majestic park offers an array of outdoor activities, including hiking, camping, fishing, and horseback riding. The park boasts over 800 miles of trails and some of the best views of the Appalachian Mountains in the United States. The park also features a wide variety of wildlife, including black bears, elk, and countless species of birds. Great Smoky Mountains National Park is the most visited national park in the United States, welcoming more than 11 million visitors each year.

WEATHER

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park offers a variety of seasonal weather. In the winter, temperatures range from an average of 10°F to an average of 40°F. Snowfall can be expected throughout the winter months, with the highest snow totals at higher elevations. Spring is milder, with temperatures ranging from an average of 40°F to an average of 70°F. Rainfall is common during the spring months. Summer temperatures range from an average of 70°F to an average of 80°F. Summer months can bring afternoon thunderstorms and high humidity levels. Fall temperatures range from an average of 40°F to an average of 70°F. Rainfall is common but snowfall is rare.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park is home to a diverse range of ecosystems. The park is divided into four major types of ecosystems: cove hardwood, pine-oak, northern hardwood and spruce-fir forests. The weather at the park varies depending on the season and elevation. In the summer months, temperatures range from the high 70s to mid 80s Fahrenheit and in the winter months temperatures are usually in the high 30s to mid 40s Fahrenheit. Rainfall is common throughout the year, with the highest amounts falling in the spring and early summer. During the winter months, snowfall is possible in the higher elevations of the park.

GEAR

1. Backpack: A durable, comfortable and water-resistant bag is essential for backpacking in Great Smoky Mountain National Park.
2. Sleeping Bag: Make sure to bring a sleeping bag that is suitable for the temperatures in the park.
3. Tent: Choose a lightweight and easy to assemble tent that can withstand wind and rain.
4. Stove: A backpacking stove is necessary to prepare meals while on the trail.
5. Water Filter: A water filter is necessary to purify drinking water while backpacking.
6. Navigation Equipment: Bring a map and compass to navigate your way through the park.
7. Rain Gear: Pack a raincoat, waterproof pants and boots to keep you dry.
8. Sun Protection: Pack sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun.
9. First Aid Kit: Bring a basic first aid kit with bandages, antiseptic and pain medication.
10. Flashlight: Bring a headlamp or flashlight to light your way in the dark.

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park provides some of the best hiking experiences in the world. To make the most of your adventure, it is important to have the right gear. Here’s our top 10 list of the best hiking gear for the Great Smoky Mountains National Park: 1) Hiking shoes – Look for shoes that provide good traction and support for your ankles. 2) Waterproof clothing – Pack a waterproof jacket and pants to keep you dry in case of rain or snow. 3) Backpack – Choose a lightweight and comfortable pack to carry your supplies. 4) Trekking poles – These are great for helping you maintain balance and stability while hiking. 5) Flashlight – Bring a flashlight and extra batteries in case you need to find your way in the dark. 6) First aid kit – Pack a first aid kit with bandages, antibiotic ointment, and other essentials. 7) Sunscreen and sunglasses – Protect your skin and eyes from the sun’s harmful rays. 8) Maps and compass – These are essential for navigation in the backcountry. 9) Water and snacks – Pack plenty of water and snacks to keep your energy up. 10) Fire starter – Bring fire starter and matches in case you need to make a fire for

GEAR UP

HISTORY

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is one of the oldest national parks in the United States, established in 1934. The park is located in the Appalachian Mountains and is home to some of the oldest mountains in the world. It was designated as a World Heritage Site in 1983 due to its unique biodiversity and scenic beauty. The park boasts a rich history of Native American settlements, early European exploration, and the development of the area by settlers. Throughout the years, the park has been home to a variety of species, from black bears to wild turkeys. Today, the park is a popular destination for hikers and nature lovers alike.

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is home to a variety of legendary stories. One of the most popular tales is the legend of Spearfinger, a witch-like creature that roams the mountains. According to the story, Spearfinger had a stone finger that she used to lure children with candy and then turn them to stone. Another popular legend is that of the Brown Mountain Lights, mysterious lights in the night sky that some believe are ghosts from a lost tribe. Finally, there is the legend of the Catawba Indians, who were said to have lived in the mountains for centuries before being driven out by settlers. All these legends make the Great Smoky Mountains National Park an especially magical and mysterious place to explore.

RECOMMENDED

1. Hike to the top of Clingmans Dome, the highest peak in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
2. Take a scenic drive along the Foothills Parkway, which offers stunning views of the park.
3. Visit Cades Cove and explore the area’s historic buildings, wildlife, and natural beauty.
4. Enjoy a relaxing picnic at one of the many peaceful picnic areas throughout the park.
5. Go fishing in the park’s many streams and lakes.
6. Go whitewater rafting in the Pigeon River.
7. Explore the park’s many waterfalls, including Laurel Falls and Grotto Falls.
8. Take a leisurely stroll along one of the park’s many trails.
9. Enjoy a night of camping under the stars.
10. Take in the breathtaking views of the Smoky Mountains from Look Rock Tower.

1. Explore the Cataloochee Valley for its diverse wildlife and history.
2. Take a hike to the summit of Mt. LeConte, one of the highest peaks in the park.
3. Visit the Little Greenbrier Schoolhouse, a historic site and former one-room school.
4. Explore the Alum Cave Trail for its stunning views of the mountains.
5. Take in the beauty of the Ramsey Cascades, the tallest waterfall in the park.
6. Find solitude in the quiet and peaceful backcountry of Big Creek.
7. Visit the historic Mingus Mill, a grist mill built in 1886.
8. Take an off-the-beaten-path hike on the White Oak Sinks Trail.
9. Visit the beautiful Abrams Falls, a 20-foot waterfall in the park.
10. Explore the popular and off-the-beaten-path Oconaluftee River Trail.

GET HERE

PLAN YOUR VISIT

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is home to some of the best hiking trails in the country. Here are the top 10 best hikes to do at the park:
1. Alum Cave Trail - a challenging hike with beautiful views from the top.
2. Andrews Bald - the highest point in the park, with a spectacular panoramic view.
3. Clingmans Dome - a strenuous but rewarding hike to the highest point in the park.
4. Charlies Bunion - a moderate hike with stunning views of Mt. LeConte.
5. Ramsey Cascades - a strenuous hike to a beautiful waterfall.
6. Cades Cove Loop - a moderate hike that passes through the scenic Cades Cove.
7. Mt. LeConte - the third highest mountain in the park, with a stunning view from the summit.
8. Laurel Falls - a moderate hike to a beautiful waterfall.
9. Grotto Falls - a moderate hike to a spectacular waterfall.
10. Abram Falls - a strenuous hike to a beautiful waterfall.

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park offers some of the most beautiful and serene camping experiences in the country. Here are the top 10 best campsites at this spectacular National Park:

1. Elkmont Campground,

2. Smokemont Campground,

3. Cataloochee Campground,

4. Deep Creek Campground,

5. Cades Cove Campground,

6. Abrams Creek Campground,

7. Balsam Mountain Campground,

8. Big Creek Campground,

9. Cosby Campground, and

10. Look Rock Campground.

Each of these sites offer beautiful views of the surrounding mountain range, and all are perfect for a peaceful and relaxing camping experience.

FIND A CAMPSITE

# OF VISITORS/MONTH

Great Smoky Mountains National Park is the most visited national park in the United States. In 2019, the park saw over 12.5 million visitors and in 2020, the park saw over 11.4 million visitors. The park typically sees the most visitors in the summer months; in July 2019, the park saw over 2.3 million visitors. The park also sees a high number of visitors during the fall months and in November 2019, the park saw 1.2 million visitors. The park typically sees the lowest number of visitors in the winter months; in January 2020, the park saw only 484,000 visitors. No matter the season, Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a popular destination for visitors from all over the world.