One of the most visited national parks in the USA is the Great Smoky Mountains National Park which has anything for everyone in every season.krásne ľahko oteplené dámske kozačky damske teplaky cheapdesignerhandbagsforyou.com kuffert tilbud damske teplaky איירפודס 2 איירפודס 2 exploradesign.com exploradesign.com kuffert tilbud damske teplaky exploradesign.com make up astor skin match damske teplaky krásne ľahko oteplené dámske kozačky
In this article, we are going to write you on the 15 best things to do in Great Smoky Mountains National Park which is called the center of attractions found in the Eastern United States. Rich wildflowers and wildlife, stunning waterfalls along wooded tracks, strenuous hikes, and picturesque drives together make it a hub for outdoor fans.
- Hiking Clingmans Dome
- Views at Newfound Gap Overlook
- Scenic Drives through Cades Cove
- Historic Mingus Mill
- Visit Valley Cataloochee
- Scenic Fontana Lake
- Climb Appalachian Trail
- Oconaluftee Visitor Center
- Watch Elk
- Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail
- Blue Ridge Parkway
- Deep Creek Area
- Andrews Bald
- Chimney Tops
- Wildlife Viewing
If you wonder why Great Smoky Mountains National Park is among the top visited places in the United States, you must read on here! We are going to tell you some interesting things you can do in the part including exploring clear streams, enjoying picturesque mountain views and seeing the sights of old forests with so much more.
Best things to do in Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Hiking Clingmans Dome
Clingmans Dome is found in the part itself and at 6,643 feet it is the highest point in Great Smoky Mountain National Park and Tennessee. This is a must-see place on a clear day where you can see about 100 miles in any direction.
The park is easy to access and visitors of all ages can get into the peak very easily. And at the peak with a little more walk from the parking lot, you can find the observation tower from where you can catch far-reaching views. The short walk is worth taking with the breathtaking views in the end.
Views at Newfound Gap Overlook
Gaps are known as the low points in a mountain ridge and Newfound Gap is the lowermost travelable pass in the Great Smoky Mountain National Park that sits at an elevation of 5,046 feet.
This overlook and mountain pass are a must-enjoy in the fall season which brings amazing pictures to the eyes with colorful yellows, reds, and oranges everywhere in the area. But however, parking may not be available every time in this popular overlook as it is right off the road. So it is about safely pulling the car off the road when a lot of vehicles are approaching.
Scenic Drives through Cades Cove
Cades Cove is a fertile valley surrounded by beautiful mountains which is one of the popular spots in Great Smoky Mountains National Park. It is unique with its historic cabins, and rich wildlife. In summer and fall, this is a highly crowded area to take amazing scenic drives and sight black bears.
The scenic road is open at sunrise by the park service and there are car-free days in the area for you to leisurely hike and bike your way without any traffic.
Historic Mingus Mill
This Mingus Mill holds a historic value that runs back to 1886. This is a picturesque spot in Great Smoky Mountain National Park best for photo opportunities and nothing can beat its look in the fall.
Here you can learn more about the mill’s history and its operations from National Park Service explainers. And it is not just a chapter in history as it is operating by today as well. So if you are interested, you can go inside and learn a few more facts. If you visit the Mingus mill in winter you will notice smoke coiling out of the old mill as a result of the wood fire crackling in.
Visit Valley Cataloochee
If you are thinking about a peaceful place at Great Smoky Mountains National Park to spend a quality evening, Cataloochee is a great option. It is one of the remote places to spot in the park which was early the home to some mountain community. With the peaceful mountain charm, you can see the remaining historic building, churches, a barn, and several homes there making it a perfect area to tour away from hustle and bustle.
To see interesting wildlife, this valley is an ideal place where you can commonly spot herds of elk and wild turkeys. However, this is accessible via a thin, steep, and stoned road which makes it difficult for some vehicles.
Scenic Fontana Lake
You find this beautiful Fontana Lake at the Southern end of the national park which runs into the Nantahala national forest. This is not a busy part of the park like some others where you can sit leisurely and have lunch or a rest.
The drive to the lake is very striking and worth taking and should never ignore in the fall. However, this is quite far from other popular spots in the park and you have to know the ways right before planning your visit.
Climb Appalachian Trail
Appalachian Trail is one of the most iconic trails of all which stretches about 2,200 miles from the mountains of north Georgia to the center of Maine. This has completed back in 1937 and passed through 14 states.
This amazing trail cuts through the Great Smoky National Park as well to which taking even a small walk is worth thousands.
Visit the Oconaluftee Visitor Center
Oconaluftee Visitor Center is found at the South entrance of the Great Smoky National Park that stands as a welcome center. In line with the visitor center, you can find a walking trail along the Oconaluftee river leading the visitor to the Mountain Farm Museum.
Those who love exploring historic stories, pioneer living, and sites can find this an interesting place where you find a group of historic buildings including a barn, blacksmith shop, a cabin, and more. While the scenic river flows behind, you can see some elks in the area making it worth taking a visit.
Watch Elk
Should you go to the west to see Elk? Not at all! Elk are native to the forests of the Eastern United States and has eradicated in the early 19th. But thanks to the National Park Service, you can again see these amazing mammals in the woodlands and fields in Great Smoky Mountains National Park. And it is always good to see Elk in the early mornings.
Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail
This 5.5-mile one-way loop is a roaring fork motor nature trail that goes through a beautiful area of woodland. Along the way, you can spot historic buildings and it passes through the grist mill, flowing streams, and more tranquil nature. And there are also hiking trails along the trail to take you to amazing waterfall scenes. You can enjoy the beauty of the trail from your vehicle as it allows slowing down off the main road and watch your surroundings.
Head to the Blue Ridge Parkway
The popular Blue Ridge Parkway starts in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and it is worth taking a visit even by taking some extra miles. It owns amazing scenery, especially in the fall season.
Deep Creek Area to Hike
The area Deep Creek is with a number of hiking trails offering the region’s best views. There are many waterfalls and streams making it a more popular destination among hikers.
You can take the bicycles to the portions of Deep Creek and there you find the campground which opens seasonally. Since this area is fitting for many visitors hiking on the trails here is easy. And do not forget to take the North Carolina fishing license when you come here to double the joy.
Catch views at Andrews Bald
This Andrews Bald is another spectacular spot in Great Smoky Mountains National Park which is a green ridge top. To catch amazing views surrounding the top, you have to get there through Forney Ridge Trail from the parking lot of Clingman’s Dome. However, the trail holds a moderate difficulty rating which is not a trail for anyone to easily handle. So if you plan to visit Andrews Bald, make sure you plan for it properly.
Chimney Tops
Chimney Tops is one of the best trails in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park which holds high popularity. This has a bare rock summit and creates amazing views from the top.
The trail is a quite short climb with only 4 miles out and back. And this is a very steep and difficult-rated climb which is not good for beginners of hiking or children. Even with high difficulty rates, this is one of the most popular trails in the national park as you get treated with breathtaking views once you reached.
Rich Wildlife Viewing
The national park is home to rich wildlife. In addition to elk, you can see black bears, wild turkeys, white-tailed deer, foxes, river otters, and beautiful bird species there. You can spot deer and elk in the open forest areas and meadows. But black bears are found in the woodlands. For the best chance to glimpse wildlife, reach the park by dawn and sundown.
Exploring the Great Smoky Mountains National Park has a lot to reward visitors. So what is your favorite thing to do?