Great Smoky Mountains
The most visited national park in America - blue-hazed forested ridges of extraordinary biodiversity, waterfalls and old mountain cabins, a UNESCO site.
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Illustrative image - a scene in the spirit of the place, not a photograph of it. Real photos are below.
UNESCO World Heritage
The Great Smoky Mountains, named for the blue haze that drifts over their forested ridges, are the most visited national park in the United States and among the most biodiverse temperate places on earth. Ancient Appalachian forests, waterfalls, wildflowers, black bears and the log cabins of the old mountain settlers fill this UNESCO landscape.
What you actually see
- Clingmans Dome - the highest point, with a ramp to a panorama over the ridges.
- Cades Cove - the loop through a historic valley of cabins and abundant wildlife.
- Waterfalls - Laurel Falls, Grotto and others among the forest trails.
- Autumn colour and spring wildflowers - the seasonal spectacles of the forest.
When to go
Spring for wildflowers, October for the famous autumn colour, and early summer for green trails; the autumn foliage weeks are gloriously busy. Winter is quiet with some roads closed.
Honest expectations
It is the busiest park in the country, so the main roads, Cades Cove and the autumn weeks bring heavy traffic and crowds, so go early and midweek. The gateway towns of Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge are intensely commercial. Free entry keeps it accessible, but parking now needs a tag.
Nearby
Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge are the Tennessee gateway; Asheville and the Blue Ridge Parkway lie to the east.
What to pack for Great Smoky Mountains
Chosen from what this place is for. Tap a kit for the full checklist.
Opening times, ticket prices and seasonal closures change - check the official source before you go: official site.
