Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Summary Established in 1934, Great Smoky Mountains National Park straddles the border of both Tennessee and North Carolina. The Great Smoky Mountains are a subrange of the Appalachian Mountains. With stunning views of mountain ridgelines, waterfalls, and wildlife, there's a reason why this is annually one of the top visited national parks. The park spans 522,427 acres spread almost evenly across the two states. There are 10 campgrounds containing approximately 1,000 campsites, plus an additional 100 backcountry campsites. The park also contains 850 miles of trails. Great Smoky Mountains National Park is 1 of 423 national parks in the US and 1 of 12 in Tennessee. Key Details When to go: Peak seasons run from mid-June through mid-August. Expect the park to be more crowded during this time of year. If you plan to visit in the winter, note that some roads and campgrounds may close due to heavy snowfall. The Fall is a beautiful time to visit as the leaves begin to change colors. Permits that you might need Check out the special use permits and free backcountry permits here: https://www.nps.gov/cuva/planyourvisit/permitsandreservations.htm. But, entry to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is free! Top adventures to check out: Ramsey Cascades (tallest waterfall in the park), Chimney Tops, Clingmans Dome Camping Cades Cove Campground - Popular campground surrounded by brilliant wildflowers, wildlife, and historic structures Cosby Campground - Features many shaded and secluded sites, great fishing opportunities Elkmont Campground - Largest campground in the park, ideal for group camping trips LeConte Lodge - Highest lodge in the Eastern United States, accessible only by hiking, cabin with bunk bed arrangement Key Contact Information Recorded information: (865) 436-1200 Road Updates: (865) 436-1200 Pet Info Pets must be kept on a leash at all times and are only permitted on the Gatlinburg and Oconaluftee River Trails. There are certain designated campgrounds and picnic areas that do allow pets, but make sure you check before making plans.

Top Adventures in Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Cove Hardwoods Nature Trail

0.86 mi / 197 ft gain

Sugarland Mountain and Huskey Gap Trail

11.29 mi / 735 ft gain

Mt. Collins Shelter, Clingman/Forney Trail and Camp 68

15.05 mi / 249 ft gain

Hike the Chimney Tops

4.9

4.0291067788252475 mi / 1487 ft gain

The Chimney Tops Trail is one of the most visited trails in the Smokies, which is why I recommend going up just before sunset to beat the crowd! During the summer and fall months, it's common to see a hundred people taking in the views on the same trail, but if you scramble on out after hours, you can easily find yourself alone just in time to catch the sunset. Get to the trailhead an hour and...