Best Places and Things to Do In Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Follow these TIPS to make the most of your visit

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Learn the five distinct areas of the park to visit

The Special Areas of GSMNP

Plan your excursion from the cabin and combine sights and adventures for the day.

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See why this place is the most popular destination in the park

Cades Cove

Beautiful, tranquil, many attractions (and crowded - learn the quiet road)

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Choose the waterfalls you want to see

Waterfalls in the Park

All are magical - some easy to get to, some hard and some you can drive to

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Pack a picnic for these scenic destinations

Picnic Areas in the Park

Plan your day from our Feature Stories, pack a lunch for one of these scenic picnic spots.

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Get into nature without breaking a sweat

Easy Walks

There are several lovely trails and destinations accessible for all ages and abilities

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Explore these easy trails chosen for their beauty

The Nature Trails of the Park

These relatively short trails are designated for their outstanding natural features

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Look for these short trails that lead directly off the roadway

The Quiet Walkways of GSMNP

Little signs by the road show you these short trails that plunge deeply into nature

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Take this amazing drive through nature

Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail

It's a stunning Nature Trail but made for cars, on a one-way loop from Gatlinburg

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Check out the most scenic routes

Scenic Drives

Both in and around the park, these roads are incredibly scenic

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Navigate efficiently around the area

Getting Around the Region

Find the best way to get somewhere - use our shortcuts & back roads guides

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Master the ways to get around the national park

Getting Around the Park

Scenic drives, hikes, easy walks, where to go and best way to get there

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See our many Feature Stories on places and activities in the park

Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Driving, walking, fishing, waterfalls, overlooks, wildlife, wildflowers, fall colors...

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There are too many things to do and see in Great Smoky Mountains National Park for just one trip - hopefully this gives you some of the highlights.

TIP: see all of our Insider Guides to the area's attractions to help you map out your visit before you leave home ↓

Insider Guides