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6 Day Smoky Mountains Itinerary – 2 States & 1 Grand Adventure

Last Updated March 15, 2024 William Tang

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The legendary Great Smoky Mountains National Park conjures up images of classic blue silhouette of mountain ridges, black bears, elk, and rolling waterfalls. The national park spans both North Carolina and Tennessee and makes for quite the epic road trip. The question is, what’s the best way to do it?

With this 6 day Smoky Mountains itinerary, you’ll gain inspiration for how to make the most of a trip that covers both states and includes the best places to see, do, eat, and stay for those with an adventurous spirit.

What You’ll Get Out of This Article

• Day-by-day breakdown of the itinerary.
• Critical details for important activities and sights.
• Google Map of all locations on the itinerary.
• Access to a Google Sheet itinerary spreadsheet.

In This Article

What To Know Before Planning Your Road Trip

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The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is the most visited of all of the US national parks but for someone that’s never been there, it’s a daunting task to put together an itinerary, especially when you only have 6 days to work with.

If you love the outdoors, beautiful landscapes, wildlife, and exhilarating adventure, this one’s for you!

There are probably a million ways to see the Smoky Mountains.

Something you’ll learn is that most road trips will include a combination of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park itself and the surrounding towns and cities that flank it on both sides of Tennessee and North Carolina.

Since there’s so much to see, do, eat, and stay in the region, you’ll have to pick and choose what you want to do. Much of it will depend on your travel style, your group, the number of days you have, and how much of the national park you want to do versus the periphery.

As we’ve mentioned, this Smoky Mountains itinerary is meant to be guide for a trip that someone real has actually done, to give you an idea of one way to plan a trip here.

To help put this together, we employed our art of planning trips as a way to visualize the trip and stay organized. Keep reading to find out how you can get access to the 6 day Smoky Mountains itinerary spreadsheet.

Like most, if not all national parks in the United States, The Great Smoky Mountains and its surroundings are best explored by car.

This means that your best bet to getting around here is to come here by your own car if you’re doing a much larger road trip through the US or simply rent a car.

The easiest way to rent a car is to pick it up at the airport you’re landing in. The two major airports are Knoxville, Tennessee (TYS) and Charlotte, North Carolina (CLT). You can either book a one-way car or round-trip rental.

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For those that don’t drive, there are a couple of options that you can look at:

• Base yourself in North Carolina (i.e. Waynesville, Bryson City) and do day trips.
• Base yourself in Tennessee (i.e. Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, Sevierville) and do day trips.
• Book a guided Smoky Mountains tour .

As with all of our detailed itineraries such as our 9 day Northern California road trip , 2 days in Istanbul , 8 day Iceland itinerary , 3 days in Kauai , and others, our goal is to share as much detail as we possibly can so you can be as prepared as possible.

That said, everyone is going to want something a little different with this Smoky Mountains itinerary so use this as a a place to start and adjust from there.

Where we’ve been able to, we provide alternatives and other recommendations for things like accommodations, activities, tours, and restaurants.

For this road trip, we arbitrarily decided to start in North Carolina and end in Tennessee but you could easily do it the other way around.

As you start planning your epic road trip, it’s worth noting a couple of things when it comes to driving around the Smoky Mountains:

• Rent from the airport – If you’re flying in and out of the region, you’d be better off renting from the airport than trying to find a city location. This would be a lot more efficient than having to find ways into and out of the city.
• Gas up often – Trust me, you don’t want to run out of fuel while in the national park or in more rural areas. A good rule of thumb is to fuel up when you’re at half gauge.
• No tolls – We’re happy to report that there are no tolls to speak of in and around the Great Smoky Mountains so there’s no need to stress here. To be doubly sure, make sure to turn off toll routes on your navigation app.
• SUV is a great idea – This isn’t mandatory but there are a lot of steep winding roads in and around the Smokies and not all of them are paved. Getting around in a compact sedan would be fine but we did enjoy having the extra confidence of the SUV.
• Many single-lane roads – There were a lot of rural roads that reminded us of our road trip in southern Ireland where the hedges went straight up to the road and the opposing traffic were too close for comfort. That was the easy part. On some of the roads you’ll find in the national park or winding up/down to a cabin, you’ll be faced with single-lane roads that also feature hairpin turns and steep drop offs on one side without guard rails. Make sure to drive safely.
• Watch for elk – Elk aren’t shy and will hang out near or on the roads so be alert, especially when you see the yellow elk warning signs.
• Pre-save points of interest – There is no cell service and hence no data in the entirety of the national park. For ease of mind, it’s worth saving pins on your Google Maps app and also make your maps available offline .

We’re not blowing any smoke here! The truth is that the Smoky Mountains National Park and both sides of North Carolina and Tennessee are amazing all-year round. It really depends on what you’re looking to do and see.

A better way to put it is that there isn’t a wrong time of the year to come to the Smokies.

One of the nicknames of the national park is “Wildflower National Park” and that’s because in the spring time, 1,500 different flowering plants bloom. The lush green foliage combined with the rainbow of colours from all of the flowers is a sight to see and an incredible opportunity for photographers.

Snowmelt and rain also means that the waterfalls will be full and gushing with water.

Wildlife wise, this is calving season for elk so you may be able to spot their babies. Spring is also bear season where they start emerging from their dens and coming out of hibernation. This happens between late March through early April.

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park has a great page on black bears that you should definitely read.

The weather is quite cool throughout the season and you’ll be faced with unpredictable rain but the benefit is that there’ll be fewer crowds and lower lodging prices.

The summer months are undoubtedly the most popular and busiest times in the Smoky Mountains. With the kids off from school and the weather the warmest, lookouts, trails, and activities in both Tennessee and North Carolina will be packed with people.

That said, you’ll have the whole national park available to you as all of its amenities are open and you’ll have access to all elevations.

Weather wise, it will get up to the 80’s and 90’s (27 ° C to 32 ° C) in July so you’ll want to plan to do most of your activities in the morning or late afternoon. That said, this’ll depend on what elevation you’re at. July also has the most rainfall in the year where the surprise afternoon thunderstorm will seemingly pop out of nowhere.

Summer is also great for wildlife viewing where you’ll see turkey, deer, bears, and elk be quite active.

Bear-wise, mating season begins in July so you’ll find them active in the early morning or late evening. This’ll give you opportunities to view them but you’ll also need to be careful on trails.

After a hot and humid summer, crisp and cool air descends and the fall colors emerge in mid-September.

There’s a quick dip in crowds and lodging prices after Labor Day but because of how popular the autumn season is, it spikes again once the colors start changing.

Whether you’re in the park or viewing it from the Tennessee or North Carolina side, you’ll see a carpet of orange, red, and yellow hues. The peak of the fall colours is in October and quickly fade when November hits.

Similar to spring, it gets cold at night and averages in the 70s (21 ° C) during the day.

For wildlife, this is also the best time to see the elk as this is when the antlers of males are fully grown and they challenge other bulls and bugle to attract females.

No surprise that this is the least visited season of the year in the Smoky Mountains. The advantage of coming here is that you won’t find crowd anywhere and it reveals a completely different landscape filled with frozen waterfalls and snow-capped mountains.

Extra care is required when travelling through the national park at this time because of the icy and slippery conditions. You also have to pay close attention to closures and weather warnings.

There’s something quite magical about staying in a cabin in the winter and cozying up by the fireplace.

While it does get cold at higher elevations, towns such as Pigeon Forge, Gatlinburg, Bryson City, and Waynesville don’t get much snow so it’s not as cold as you think.

Now if we were forced to choose, the best time to come to the Smoky Mountains is in the autumn season. You’ll see from our photos just how lush and green the forests are in the spring so just imagine how vivid the changing of the leaves would be in the fall.

If you want to avoid the massive crowds in the fall season, try to plan a trip in late September or early November.

6 Day Smoky Mountains Itinerary

The below is an interactive map showing you all of the locations mentioned in the itinerary. Click on each point of interest to find out more information and links to reviews or to book an activity.

TIP: You can make this accessible on your phone. Simply expand the map and then make a copy to your own account. This will give you access to the map on the Google Maps app.

You’ll be starting your 6 day Smoky Mountains itinerary on the North Carolina side and for those that are flying in, the Charlotte airport (CLT) will be the easiest to get to. If looking for more small town finds while in the area, check out our guide on quick trips around Charlotte .

All of the major car rental companies are accessible in the parking garage right across from the airport so you won’t need to take a shuttle. Once you pick up your car (we used Avis;s code AWD #A519319 for easy savings), you’ll hit the road and drive 2.5 hours to the foothills of the Smoky Mountains.

Make your way to your lodgings for the night, Boyd Mountain Log Cabins . Set in a family-owned Christmas tree farm with 150-acres overlooking the Smoky Mountains, you’ll find 8 authentic hand-hewn log cabins that date back 150-200 years. Each one has been relocated from other locations, rebuilt, restored, upgraded to modern standards, and tastefully furnished. They are also named after the locations where they originally stood.

The particular cabin we stayed at was Meadow Fork Cabin , a two-story cabin that can accommodate 8 people, has central heat and air conditioning, full dining room space, firepit, and picturesque front porch with matching rocking chairs.

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After you settle in, you won’t want to leave. You can either grab a book on the mantle to read, play checkers on the porch, take a stroll around the pond or go fishing in the ponds which are stocked with rainbow trout, bluegill, bass and catfish.

For dinner, head into the cute town of Waynesville, North Carolina. The local watering hole you’ll want to visit is Boojum Brewing Company . They’re a microbrewery that has a refreshing line up of beers that range from hoppy IPAs, crisp pale ales, deep and silky stouts, and tangy sour ales.

Their taproom features 16 taps of their latest rotation of freshly brewed beer and they also have a fine menu of tasty pub snacks, burgers, steaks, and seafood. We highly recommend trying out their brew brew day pretzels and farmhouse stack starters. A local also had us try the Graveyard Fields and I absolutely loved it.

TIP: They have an outdoor patio in the back that has its own bar and tables. If there’s space, try to get a spot there!

Before you end the night, head over to the nearby grocery store, Ingles to pick up your road trip supplies. Grab everything you think you’ll need for your 6 days including snacks, water, other drinks, and breakfast. There’ll be other chances to drop by grocery stores but you’ll save a lot of time by just making this one stop.

Get some early rest because you’ll be up early the next day.

Day 1 Summary

Where you’ll eat:

• Dinner – Boojum Brewing Company Taproom – Relaxing and casual restaurant located in the heart of downtown Waynesville with a great selection of beers and seasonal pub faire.

Where you’ll stay:

• Boyd Mountain Log Cabins (Meadow Fork Cabin) – Authentic log cabins set in a Christmas tree farm that’s perfect for a retreat and family getaways. This is one of the best places to stay if you’re coming to the Waynesville and Maggie Valley area.

We also recommend staying here:

• Brookside Mountain Mist Inn – A lovely B&B that is known for its friendly hosts, comfortable rooms, and 3-course breakfast.
• Best Western Smoky Mountain Inn – If you’d rather stay in a traditional hotel, this one is highly rated and conveniently located in Waynesville.

Your first full day in North Carolina as part of this Smoky Mountains itinerary is going to be packed with hidden gems and the highest peak.

Waking up before the crack of dawn, make breakfast, pack your bags, and start heading out from Waynesville towards Cataloochee Valley . You’ll want to depart 30 minutes before sunrise.

Nestled within giant peaks is a historic community that prospered here in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Cataloochee Valley is one of the remote areas to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park but in here you’ll find well-preserved historic frame buildings such as churches, schools, and homes.

Starting in 2001, a plan was put into motion to reintroduce elk into the park and they’ve since flourished in this valley, making it to best place to watch and photograph elk in the particularly vast and open fields.

When you arrive in the morning as the fog hovers over the field, the sun just starts to reach its arms to the mountain tips, and the air is still. This is a tranquil retreat that you’ll want all to yourself.

How come no elk in the photo above? While we were the first to arrive in Cataloochee Valley, we didn’t have any luck spotting elk on the field but we did see a ton of turkey. Here, you’ll also have a chance to spot white-tailed deer, black bears, birds.

There’s no guarantees to spot elk here but this is one of two spots that give you the best chance.

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW – CATALOOCHEE VALLEY

The Smoky Mountains is a massive national park but what’s unique about it is that it straddles both North Carolina and Tennessee. As a result, each side also has their own special areas of the park.

Cataloochee Valley is one such area and it’s one of the hidden gems that you have to visit that’s most easily accessible from North Carolina.

Website: Great Smoky Mountains National Park Cataloochee Valley

• This is an easy answer! It’s free. Unlike the other national parks which either have park fees or a reservation system, there are no gates to enter any part of the park. You simply drive right in or through.

Best time to visit:

• You’ll be coming here to see elk and the best time to see them is in the early morning or late afternoon when the temperatures are cooler.

Driving tips:

• The most direct way to get to Cataloochee is to take Cove Creek Road which is easily accessible from Waynesville, North Carolina.
• Cave Creek Road is a winding road that starts off as paved but once you pass through the residential area, it turns to a gravel road. You’ll be on this gravel road for 15-20 minutes and it’ll eventually turn into Old Cataloochee Turnpike.
• The gravel road is quite narrow and twists and winds quite a bit so drive carefully.
• Turn left into Cataloochee Entrance Road and the gravel road continues until right you’re about halfway down where it finally turns into a paved road.
• Technically, you can drive gravel roads from Tennessee along Mt. Sterling Road which eventually becomes 45 minutes of gravel road towards Cataloochee Valley but it’d be much easier to take I-40 into North Carolina and then up through Cove Creek Road.

Photography tips:

• Have your zoom lens prepared and ready to go before heading out.
• There is a great view back towards the towns near Waynesville on Old Cataloochee Turnpike right before you have to make that left onto Cataloochee Entrance Road.
• You’ll be tempted to go to Cataloochee Valley Overlook when you just get in. The view here is just ok so we’d recommend getting down to the valley floor first and spend your time with the elk.
• Sunrise is a great time to go because the lighting isn’t harsh, the sun just lights the trees at the top of the valley, and you might be able to catch the mysterious fog that hovers over the field.
• There are two single beam bridges across the creek that are photogenic so make sure not to miss them. One is near the school and the other is at the start of the Caldwell Fork Trailhead. Make sure to look down at the water where you might see trout passing through.
• The barn across from Hiram Caldwell House has two floors and has a giant opening that is great for portrait photography.
• Your chances of seeing elk diminishes significantly if you come during the day.
• You cannot fly a drone in the national park whatsoever.

General tips:

• Cataloochee Valley has 3 main fields for elk viewing. One is a smaller one by the Cataloochee Seasonal Quarters & Ranger Station, one right before the Palmer Chapel Methodist Church, and the largest is the field that covers the area between Hiram Caldwell House to the end of the road.
• There are a few parking lots marked on Google Maps and while you could certainly park there, Cataloochee Valley is more of a place where you drive to the field where elk can be spotted and park on the gravel pull offs.
• At first it wasn’t clear whether this was meant to be a driving safari. Yes, you’ll be driving to the various fields in the valley but once you’re there, you park, get out of your car and choose a spot on the gravel or edge of the field to watch the elk. There aren’t any fences here.
• The bathroom isn’t marked on Google Maps but there is one right between the Palmer Chapel Methodist Church and the marked parking lot. You don’t need the comfort station by the campground.
• If there are elk on the field, don’t walk on the field but if they’re not there, you’re allowed to get onto the grass.
• There are no gates to enter Cataloochee Valley so you can enter as early as you’d like or leave as late as you’d like.
• If you have the time, explore the historic buildings that have been preserved such as the Palmer Chapel, Hiram Caldwell House, the school, and Palmer House. You can enter many of the buildings and explore their interiors.
• There are several trails here including the Rough Fork Trail (takes you to Steve Woody House) and Big Fork Ridge Trail which is at the end of the road, Pretty Hollow Gap Trail, and Caldwell Fork Trail.
• Learn about the elk seasons of Cataloochee Valley to plan your trip.

Next, you’ll see a whole other side of the Smokies. At an elevation of 5,000 feet and overlooking the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, you’ll find a luxury mountaintop retreat called The Swag .

It’s more than just a small rustic inn. It’s a hideaway and invigorating getaway that allows you to truly disconnect with its view of the mountains, boundless activities, authentic hospitality, and delicious dining.

While we didn’t plan early enough (at least a year or more in advance), we got a local tip that you can book a packed picnic lunch here without being a guest. This gives you access to the entire grounds, giving you the opportunity to hike up to Gooseberry Knob, watch the hummingbirds, explore the grounds, or enjoy book a spa treatment.

TIP: They have two vintage coolers right outside the main lodge where they stock ice cream and drinks. They’re free for all guests!

From the get-away-from-it-all feels, you’ll crank things up a notch with a visit to Dale’s Wheels Through Time . This is one of the top motorcycle museums in the United States. Curated and collected by Dale Walksler, his exhibits focus on an array of rare American motorcycles.

What makes Wheels Through Time more than just another museum is in their tagline of “the museum that runs”. Every single one of their machines on display can be fired up and they are more than willing to let you hear their beautiful growls.

In many ways, it feels like you’re walking through Dale’s personal workshop with bikes of all kinds, generations, and eras all under one roof. If you’re into Harleys, motorcycles from World War 2, or the most rare bike in the world , they have it all!

You’ll be driving through Maggie Valley and eventually into Bryson City. Check into your tiny home for the night at Gina’s Great Getaways , eat an early dinner at Nantahala Brewing’s Burger + Bar (or takeout to eat on the road), and start making your way back into the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

This time, you’ll be heading up to the famous viewpoint, and tallest peak in the park, Clingmans Dome .

On the way though, make sure to be on the lookout for elk grazing on the side of the road. While we didn’t see elk at Cataloochee Valley, they were right by Highway 441 near the Oconaluftee Visitor Center , munching on grass, casually crossing the road, and causing quite the stir amongst the motorists passing by.

Clingmans Dome is a unique piece of architecture in the national park. At 6,643 feet, the observation tower was built in 1959 and features a spiral ramp that is in sync with the same 12 percent grade that the trail leading up to the tower has.

When you arrive, the panoramic views of the mountains and cascading ridges will take your breath away. This is just from the parking lot and visitor center area.

Continue hiking up the trail and this is when you actually start losing your breath because of how steep the path is. The 0.5 mile hike takes you to the base of Clingmans Dome where you’ll do the remaining spiral to get up to the top of the 45-foot circular observation platform.

The reason for the slightly awkward dinner option is because you’re trying to rush here to catch the sunset. It’s been a packed day so decompress out here with everyone else that has gathered here and watch nature’s finest light show.

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW – CLINGMANS DOME

At the highest peak in the national park is a unique spiral structure that offers 360 degree unobstructed views of the Smoky Mountains and cities below.

Clingmans Dome is built along state lines so half of it is in Tennessee and the other half is in North Carolina.

Website: Great Smoky Mountains National Park Clingmans Dome

• Sunrise or sunset for the best views from the tower.
• The road from the main Newfound Gap Road (Highway 441) is windy but easy to drive and newly paved.
• The drive towards Clingmans Dome has a number of scenic pullouts.
• While open all year round, the 7-mile road to Clingmans Dome from Newfound Gap Road closes from December 1 – March 31 so the only way to get there is by hiking.
• There is a large parking lot but during high-season it can fill quickly so come early.
• If you’re coming here for sunset, this means you’ll be driving in the dark through the national park so be careful and use your high beams (while not blinding oncoming traffic at the same time).

• Many photographers will try to capture the sunrise or sunset from Clingmans Dome but most photographers prefer sunset because the curve leading up towards the tower points west.
• Photographers will set up tripods along the ramp up and on the tower itself so you will want to go early to pick a spot. It does get quite busy at sunset.
• The best spot overall is actually on the ramp and not in the tower itself because there are less foreground trees obstructing the view of the mountain range.
• Right before the visitor center is a lookout point with log benches. This is a great spot to shoot the silhouette or mountain ridges.
• Pets and bicycles aren’t allowed.
• The trail up to Clingmans Dome is not wheelchair accessible.
• If you’re going for sunrise or sunset, make sure you have the right headlamp. The Fenix HM65R we’ve reviewed is highly recommended.
• Open all year round.
• The hike up to Clingmans Dome is only 0.5 miles and well-paved but don’t be fooled, the elevation change is quite large and so you’ll find yourself quite gassed when you reached the base of the tower.
• Since this is at 6,643 feet, the dome can be 10-20 degrees Fahrenheit (6-12°C) colder than where you came from so make sure to pack a jacket, even in the summer.
• The Appalachian Trail crosses Clingmans Dome if you want to do a short segment of it while you’re here.
• There are washroom facilities in the parking lot.
• If you can’t do the hike up to the dome, there’s actually a great view of the mountains looking westwards which is perfect for sunset. You’ll see many people lining up their camping chairs to watch from the parking lot.
• The visitor center is right by the trailhead and their hours can be found on the Visitor Centers page. There’s a bookstore, shop, and park information here.

For the next two nights, you’ll be staying in the Sweet Pea Tiny Home . As a tiny home, you’ll be amazed by how spacious and functional it is for its size. Inside, you’ll find a full kitchen, dining area, bathroom, bedroom. Outside, there’s a front porch, back deck, fire pit, and barbecue.

This Smoky Mountains itinerary is filled with unique stays like this but you need to know where to look, so hopefully this gives you a few ideas.

Day 2 Summary

What you’ll see:

• Cataloochee Valley
• Dale’s Wheels Through Time
• Clingmans Dome
• Breakfast – Make your own breakfast at the cabin.
• Lunch – The Swag – Exclusive luxury mountain lodge where you can book a picnic lunch to get a sneak peek. You won’t find it on their website so just call them to set it up.
• Dinner – Nantahala Brewing and Burger Bar – If you have time, come here for dinner or pick something up to go and eat it on the way up to Clingmans Dome.

Tours you can book:

• Clear Creek Falls Hike – This is a guided 4.5 hour hiking tour to Clear Creek Falls that starts and ends in Waynesville.
• Gina’s Great Getaways – They have a wide selection of getaway homes from a Lil’ Red Caboose to the Sweet Pea Tiny Home we stayed in. A heads up that their wifi is a bit slow because they’re in a remote area.
• McKinley Edwards Inn – This is located in the outskirts of Bryson City that runs like a B&B with a superb breakfast, great hosts, comfortable rooms, and is well-reviewed.
• Nantahala Cabins – If you’ll be spending time with the activities along Nantahala River, this place has a collection of cabins to choose from that range in sizes and budgets. Many of them hot tubs as well!

For your day 3, you’ll be combing two iconic activities in western North Carolina – riding the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad and rafting the Nantahala River.

Start your morning by heading into Bryson City. Park in the giant lot reserved for Great Smoky Mountains Railroad (GSMR) guests and stop by Mountain Perks across from the train depot for breakfast.

Check in at the GSMR office where they’ll provide you the tickets that you need. The beauty of the Raft & Rail package is that it’s a continuous experience that’ll start with your train ride through the Nantahala Gorge, where you’ll then get picked up by Wildwater on the other end to start the rafting segment of the trip.

Once they give the signal to board the train, you’ll make your way to your designated car and off you go.

Compared to the train ride we did in Sacramento in our Northern California road trip , I’d say the Nantahala Gorge Excursion is much more exciting, passing through Fontana Lake, Nantahala Gorge, two trestle bridges, ravines, waterfalls, and relocated towns created from the Fontana Dam.

This is a trip back in time as the diesel or steam-powered locomotive runs through tracks known as the Murphy Branch of the Western North Carolina Railroad. The brakeman responsible for your car will also come around to provide commentary on things you can see along the track.

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW – GREAT SMOKY MOUNTAINS RAILROAD

This is a must-do activity for those exploring the western edge of North Carolina. With 53 miles of track, 2 tunnels, and 25 bridges, Great Smoky Mountains Railroad (GSMR) offers two different tracks – one to Nantahala Gorge, and another to Tuckasegee River.

Take a step back in time with this classic train ride through the beautiful countryside and the same track that was part of the Murphy Branch built in the late 1880s.

They have two locomotives – diesel powered and steam powered.

Website: Great Smoky Mountains Railroad

• They have a number experiences and locomotives. It’s best to look at the calendar ahead of time especially if you’re set on riding a steam train.
• Each train ride also has multiple classes of service.
• For Nantahala Gorge , you can look at the Class Comparison table that has a clear table of what’s included in each class.
• Prices increase in October.
• Throughout the year, they’ll also have seasonal excursions.
• They also offer a special Raft & Rail combination. This is $121.75 for adults (13+) and $104.75 for children (7-12).
• Nantahala Gorge Excursion – 4 hour 30 minutes. 1 hour and 45 minutes in, you’ll reach the end and the train turns back. This includes a 1 hour layover at the Nantahala Outdoor Center.
• Tuckasegee River Excursion – 4 hours. 1 hour 30 minutes in, there’s a 1 hour 20 minute layover in the historic town of Dillsboro.
• GSMR runs all year round but their primary schedule is from April to October.
• The most popular time to visit is during the fall colours. You’ll notice that they run more trains most of October.
• GSMR has a large parking lot on Mitchell Street across from the railroad depot. When booking your tickets, the parking fee is mandatory and built in. Pre-paid parking is $6 per vehicle.

• The best car to book is the Open Air Gondola (or Premium Open Air Gondola) which is a covered open air car with benches on each side. This gives you unobstructed views.
• There’s a lot to see throughout the train ride so make sure your camera is already ready.
• For photos, look for the trestle bridges and big bends in the track which will allow you to take photos of the entire train.
• You need to arrive 1 hour before departure.
• There are bathrooms on board.
• You can walk between cars and you’ll have an opportunity to purchase lunch and drinks (including alcoholic beverages).
• Before you book, make sure to check out their deals page which has discounts for local residents, seniors, military, AAA, and others.
• For both primary excursions, they are one way trips up and the same track back to the railroad depot.
• During the train ride, a brakeman will be coming by to provide insightful and thoughtful commentary about the surroundings.
• With the open air gondola, you’re exposed to the elements so make sure you bring layers in case it gets cold.

After passing the Nantahala Outdoor Center and going further upriver, the train eventually comes to a full stop. For those that are on the Raft & Rail or Rail & Trail package, this is where you’ll disembark.

A Wildwater mini school bus will pick up the rafters, with the rafts themselves in tow. After a short ride, you’ll reach the launch site and riding down rapids in no time.

If you’ve done higher class rapids on the Ottawa River , you may have encountered class III to V. To set expectations, these are class I to III rapids which means that this is more of a low-intensity rafting trip that’s great for non-swimmers, multi-generation and groups with children 7+.

Your expert guide will take you down the fast-moving Nantahala River and navigate over a dozen different named rapids such as “Whirlpool”, “Patton’s Run”, and “The Bump”. The final drop is the biggest one called “Nantahala Falls”.

Paddling is quite minimal except for the occasions where your guide will say “give me 2!” where you’re then expected to do two strokes. At most you might have to do 5 continuous strokes together.

This is why we think this is great for those that want to experience rafting without it feeling scary or too serious. It’s extremely family friendly and many parts feel like one of those water rides in theme parks except this one’s in the real world.

There’s one stop along the way where you’ll be able to explore a natural rock cave that the Cherokee likely used.

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW – WILDWATER

The Nantahala River is not only abound with visual beauty but nestled in the gorge are 8 miles of clear and gushing water that creates the perfect condition for whitewater rafting for beginners. It’s great for families because the whitewater only goes up to Class III.

While there are many companies that ofter whitewater rafting excursions, Wildwater is the exclusive operator that works with the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad. The Raft & Rail package allows you to uniquely combine both the train with rafting experience. We’ll be focusing on this in the details below.

Website: Wildwater

• The Raft & Rail package is $121.75 for adults (13+) and $104.75 for children (7-12).
• Wetsuit rental – $10
• Wetsuit booties rental – $5
• The rafting experience itself takes 1 hour and 45 minutes.
• There is usually only one departure time available for Raft & Rail but check the schedule (most likely 10:30AM.
• Rafting is only available April – October.

How does raft and rail work?:

• Check into GSMR where you’ll receive all your tickets.
• In the waiting area is the cafe and this is where you exchange your boxed lunch tickets for your boxed lunches.
• Just outside on the other end of the waiting area is an outdoor Wildwater kiosk where a member of team will ask you to fill out the waivers and brief you on how the trip will work. This is also when they’ll ask whether you need paddle jackets, wetsuits, or booties.
• Board the Nantahala River Excursion train (could be diesel or steam) with everyone else. You will be on the Wildwater open air gondola car.
• Eat your lunch on the train ride.
• Once you reach the train’s turnaround point (2 hour 45 minutes to 3 hours in), you will disembark and the Wildwater team will pick you up in one of their small buses.
• You’ll head in the Nantahala National Forest where there’s a launch site. Gear up on the bus or on the ground as they get their rafts ready. There’s a few porta-potties here if you need it. You can leave your bags on the bus.
• After a safety briefing, you’ll help carry the rafts down the ramp to the water.
• Raft for 1 hour 45 minutes. The pick up point is right by the Nantahala Outdoor Center.
• The same bus will pick you up and once the rafts are loaded back on, they’ll drive you to the Wildwater outpost/office.
• At the office, you’ll be able to use their change rooms, take a hot shower if you want, buy souvenirs, and purchase photos.
• The bus will then drive you all the way back to Bryson City and drop you off to the parking lot. This will be around 4:30PM.

Difficulty:

• Beginner level rafting (no prior experience required).
• The rafting is exciting but does not require too much paddling so it is not strenuous.
• You will get wet but flipping is almost impossible with these classes of rapids.
• You can continue to park in the lot after you return to Bryson City so feel free to explore the city.
• Since the rafting is quite easy going, you’ll have a lot of opportunities to take photos. Make sure to bring a waterproof phone case .
• For video, bring your GoPro with orange floatie as many of their helmets have mounts. To mix things up, you can have a floating hand grip ready.
• If you want to bring camera gear, be prepared by bringing your own dry bag . There are a few loops at the front and back of the raft that you can clip to.
• They have a dedicated photographer capturing the final Nantahala Falls. Those are the photos you can purchase at the end. They don’t have a videographer.
• If you’re booking the Raft & Rail package , you will be in the Wildwater open air gondola car on the Nantahala River Excursion.
• To save time, fill out the trip waiver beforehand found on the Nantahala River Rafting page.
• For some reason it seems like it’s cheaper to book the Raft & Rail package through Wildwater (make sure to opt out of the “Trip Cancellation Guarantee”) but I believe they tack on the parking fee afterwards.
• Helmets are optional.
• There aren’t any official changing rooms at the launch site so it makes sense to wear your swimwear when you board your train.
• Pack your bags accordingly for both the train ride and rafting and think in advance how you’ll shift your gear around once you get on the Wildwater bus.
• The rafts rafts can carry up to 8 people + guide so these aren’t the massive rafts we had at OWL Rafting in Ontario’s Highlands .
• To be clear, Nantahala Outdoor Center (NOC) has their own rafting tours but it is not the same as Wildwater which is a different company. There are in fact a dozen or more companies that operate on the river. Wildwater is the only one that is partnered with GSMR.

Wildwater will eventually deposit you back to Bryson City where you parked. At this juncture, you can hang around town and grab dinner at a restaurant such as The Bistro at the Everett Hotel or if you wanted to see more of Nantahala River, you can drive back in.

Since Wildwater doesn’t linger around the rafting end point, you’ll be able to come back to get a glimpse of all the facilities around the Nantahala Outdoor Center (NOC). You’ll be able to walk the bridge where you’ll see the river rushing past, slalom gates used for canoe/kayak training, fishing from the shore, and a huge swathe of exhausted Appalachian Trail hikers.

River’s End is right along the side of the river and is an iconic spot for those hiker and paddlers alike. With a view of the river on one side, you’ll devour their yummy pizzas, burgers, world-famous sherpa rice , and seasonal entrées.

Day 3 Summary

What you’ll do:

• Raft and Rail Tour with Great Smoky Mountains Railroad and Wildwater
• Waterfalls and Breweries Tour – Combination of four waterfalls and five breweries in this small-group tour that leaves from Bryson City.
• Blue Ridge Parkway Day Tour – Since you won’t get to truly explore the Blue Ridge Parkway on your own, this could be a great alternative private tour.
• Breakfast – Mountain Perks – Right across from the GSMR depot, this is a popular spot in the city to grab a coffee or full breakfast.
• Lunch – Boxed lunch that’s part of the Raft & Rail tour .
• Dinner – Rivers End – Great location right beside the Nantahala River that serves yummy pizzas, burgers, and specialty entrees like the blackened local trout. This is a popular pitstop for Appalachian Trail hikers. Alternatively, The Bistro at the Everett Hotel is great if you’re looking for something in Bryson City.
• Gina’s Great Getaways – They have a wide selection of getaway homes from a Lil’ Red Caboose to the Sweet Pea Tiny Home we stayed in.

This is an exciting day of your Smoky Mountains itinerary because not only will you be seeing both sides of the national park, you’ll also be doing some of our favourite parts of the trip.

You’ll want to get an earlier start to your day and get to the Deep Creek section of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The reason for the early start is because this’ll give you an opportunity to see the 3 waterfalls here uninterrupted from large crowds.

Start with Juney Whank Falls which is closest to the parking lot. There’s a gradual climb on this trail but it’s a short hike. There’s picturesque wooden footbridge that crosses the falls and divides it into an upper and lower section. You’ll see a combination of cascades and sliding water.

Next is Tom Branch Falls which is the most easy to access out of all 3 waterfalls. Along the primary walkway you’ll have a wide open view of this elegant waterfall on the right side. Standing 75 feet high, it features a multilevel cascade.

To complete the trio of waterfalls, there’s Indian Creek Falls . This is a 45-foot sliding waterfall. From the trail, you’ll take stairs down to a viewing platform and it’s here that you get the best photos.

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW – DEEP CREEK

Another great part of the Great Smoky Mountains that you can only get to from North Carolina is Deep Creek which is well-known for its streams and waterfalls. What you’ll love about hiking here is that you can see 3 waterfalls in close proximity together.

Website: Great Smoky Mountains National Park Deep Creek

• To see all 3 waterfalls, you should budget 1.5-2 hours here.
• Early morning is a great time to go when the light isn’t too harsh for photography and there are fewer people on the trail.
• There is plenty of parking. Drive all the way to the Deep Creek Falls and Trail parking.
• If you’re looking for milky waterfalls, make sure you pack your ND filters and tripod (we use the Peak Design Travel Tripod ) or have a camera like the OM System OM-1 which has built-in ND filters that can be used hand-held.
• You can’t fly drones whatsoever here because you’re within the national park.
• There is some elevation change up to Juney Whank Falls. This loop is the only trail that takes you into the forest.
• The Deep Creek Trail to Tom Branch Falls and Indian Creek Falls is extremely wide and groomed gravel. This trail also has plenty of benches along the way.
• If you have difficulty walking, Tom Branch Falls is right along the easy-to-walk path , has no elevation change, and the waterfall can be viewed right across the creek.
• For a more challenging hike, you can ado the Deep Creek Horse Trail from Juney Whank Falls up to Indian Creek Falls before coming back down to the trailhead and catch Tom Branch Falls.
• There aren’t restrooms at the trailhead but you’ll find them in the picnic area.
• Pets are not allowed on the trail to see Juney Whank Falls nor both Indian Creek and Tom Branch Falls .

DEEP CREEK REVIEWS

If you didn’t end up making breakfast at your tiny home, make a brunch of it and grab a sandwich and coffee to-go from The High Test Deli and Sweet Shop .

Halfway through the trip, it’s only fitting to now make that crossing over the Great Smoky Mountains National Park . The first part of the drive will be familiar because it’s the same Newfound Gap Road (Highway 441) that you took earlier to get to Clingman’s Dome.

Along the way, take the obligatory sign in front of the national park sign. There’s a pull off for the sign so you won’t need to rush this part.

Make sure to stop at the Oconaluftee Visitor Center . There aren’t many shopping stops on this itinerary so this is your chance to pick up some souvenirs. Behind the center is also the Mountain Farm Museum which has historical buildings dating back to the early 1900s.

For those that are keen on learning more of the history of settlers in the area, Mingus Mill , an 1886 grist mill with functioning machinery, is also worth stopping by.

The first part of the drive is mostly uneventful as you’ll be going uphill and driving through what will feel like a tunnel through a thick forest of trees.

You’ll pass through a number of lookouts along the way but here are the ones you should focus on:

• Luftee Overlook – This viewpoint has an elevated view of not only Oconaluftee Valley but also the gentle bend in the road. You can’t cross the road so you’ll be taking photos from the parking lot.
• Newfound Gap – The Appalachian Trail cuts right across and this is perhaps the important stop you’ll make because it’s here that you’ll find the North Carolina/Tennessee State line sign, and also both UNESCO World Heritage Site and Biosphere Reserves plaques. The path below the parking lot offers stunning views of the mountains and road that you just took up.
• Morton Overlook – Once you get here, you’re starting to make the downhill drive. This is one of the famous overlooks that looks down the line of the valley of trees and you get a small sliver of the road in the foreground.
• Chimney Tops Overlook – The Chimney Tops sustained massive fire damage in 2016 and so the landscape is quite a bit different from before. This pull off on the left gives you a glimpse of how extensive the damage was. Mark this on the map because this will come up on you really quick and there isn’t any signage. Also, heads up that the Chimneys Picnic Area doesn’t have any view of the Chimney Tops.
• Carlos Campbell Overlook – Named after the director of the Knoxville Chamber of Commerce in the 1930s, advocating for the creation of the national park, you’ll see 3 peaks in one view. The official overlook has quite a lot of tree cover in the foreground so we recommend driving to the smaller pull off just a bit further downhill.

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW – GREAT SMOKY MOUNTAINS

The entirety of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a guide all on its own but here are some of the key things you should know when making the crossing on Newfound Gap Road.

Website: Great Smoky Mountains National Park

• The speed limit through the Smoky Mountains is at most 45 miles per hour (72 km/h) but is generally 35 miles per hour (56 km/h).
• There are a lot of pull offs on Newfound Gap Road and not only is that for scenic views but it also allows cars to let others pass if you find that you’re being pressured to drive faster.
• Overall the road is vert well-maintained, not too twisty, very safe with its rock barriers, and newly paved.
• Crossing North Carolina to Tennessee without stops is only 1 hour so it is not a long drive.
• As we mention above, there are a ton of scenic overlooks especially along Newfound Gap Road (Highway 441). You’ll be tempted to do a lot of them but you’ll be better off to plan the specific ones you want to do and then see how you feel when you’re there.
• Be on the lookout for wildlife and more specifically, bears! Bears aren’t shy and they’ll come right up to the road. Typically, if you see a big traffic jam with people looking into the forest, it’s most likely a bear.
• We spoke to a ranger at Oconaluftee Visitor Center and they said that the elk can be seen typically from the entrance to the park on Highway 441 all the way to Smokemont Campground but never any further.
• Two popular spots for elk are in the huge meadow beside the Oconaluftee Visitor Center, near Mingus Mill, and by the side of the road in the mile leading up to the visitor center.
• Always check for closures on the Great Smoky Mountains page. Their “Alerts in Effect” show all of the important notices at the top.
• Cellular service – There is no service once you enter the park. The edges of the park might have a bit of service but plan to be disconnected while here.
• If you want to support the national park, don’t buy souvenirs in town but at the visitor centers instead where the money can make a difference.
• The two major visitor centers are Oconaluftee on the North Carolina side and Sugarlands on the Tennessee side.
• If you plan on doing any hikes, try to get to the trailhead early in the morning because the parking lots and pull offs fill up very quickly.

Take the road straight into Pigeon Forge , Tennessee where you’ll see a dramatic change to a street filled with larger-than-life themed shows, rides, and a whole lot of fun.

Along the main parkway, stop at the popular Local Goat to satisfy your hungry with their selection of craft beer, and locally-sourced and sustainable menu items such a their highly-touted burgers, ribs, pastas, salad, and more. You’ll need to build up your energy reserves for what’s coming next!

How does being inside a giant-sized 11 foot beach ball filled with 10 gallons of water to get you wet while rolling down a 1000 feet hill sound? Absolutely ludicrous right?

Well, that’s exactly what you’ll find at Outdoor Gravity Park .

EXCLUSIVE DEAL WITH OUTDOOR GRAVITY PARK

We’ve secured a special deal with OGP where 1 roll and 1 video is $25 (discount of $14), and 3 rolls and 3 videos is $62 ($20 savings). This is the best offer you’ll find on the market right now.

The link below will take you straight to the booking platform Outdoor Gravity Park uses. The initial page shows the standard information about how the rolls and videos work. Once you’ve selected a date and time, you’ll see the discounted rates on the next page.

You may have heard of something called zorbing in New Zealand. It’s one of those bucket-list items that you’d do when there along with skydiving in Abel Tasman , or bungee jumping in Queenstown . One of the engineers of ZORB in Rotorua, came to Pigeon Forge to build his dream course.

Featuring 3 different tracks, you can fill up the zorb with up to 3 people on some or go solo on the most daring “Extreme Zig Zag” course.

There are a lot of fun and crazy things you can do in this region of Tennessee but this is easily the most extreme, wild, and fun.

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW – OUTDOOR GRAVITY PARK

Made popular in New Zealand, this is the only place in the United States where you can go zorbing. Don’t miss this! It’s ridiculously fun.

Website: Outdoor Gravity Park

Address: 203 Sugar Hollow Rd, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863, United States

Hours: Monday – Sunday 11AM – 4PM

• 1 roll is $24
• 3 rolls is $7 ($19 each)
• 5 rolls is $90 ($18 each)
• 10 rolls is $170 ($17 each)
• 20 rolls is $340 ($17 each)
• Video for one roll – $15 ($5 for additional rolls)
• Unlimited video for all of your rolls – $50
• Each track is slightly different but on average it takes about 30-45 seconds to get downhill.
• The park’s GoPros are free to use but the video needs to be purchased.
• They come with a selfie stick ( GoPro 3-Way ) and are already protected from fog. The cameras are not mounted and require you to hold the selfie stick.
• You are allowed to bring your own GoPro as well! Before you come, make sure to coat the lens with Rainx Anti Fog Repellent otherwise it will fog up.
• Your best bet is to have the stick fully extended and the camera pointed back at you in either wide or super wide mode.

How does it work?:

• You’ll get a wristband that indicates the number of rolls you get.
• After changing and getting ready, there’s a line you get into behind the main building for the mini bus.
• Once you get on the bus, it’ll take you uphill to the start of the course.
• Indicate to the staff which course you’re doing as they get the zorb ready.
• When it’s your turn, the staff will place a small pad over the entrance of the zorb to prevent your clothes or skin catching on the zipper.
• Holding the zorb in place, you’ll jump in head first. You’ll immediately get wet because of the water that’s inside.
• The staff will zip up the zorb (it’s double sealed).
• When the track is cleared and ready, they’ll open the gate and give you a gentle (ish) push.
• Cue the screaming.
• The common misconception is that your body will be rolling around as the zorb goes downhill. On the contrary, you actually stay relatively planted at the bottom with the water as the zorb rolls around you.
• At the end of the track, you’ll come to a complete stop. The staff will open up the zippers and you’ll come out feet first onto the grass.
• There are 3 available tracks. For the most bouncing and change of catching some air inside the zorb, do the “Extreme Zig Zag” track (you have to have done another track first in order to do this one). For the fastest speeds, choose the middle “Fast Tracks”. For the best of both, “FUNnel” is a great one to start with.
• Zorbs can fit up to 3 people (depending on the track). Each person rolling will cost 1 roll.
• The main building has change rooms and restrooms. There are no showers.
• You’re guaranteed to get wet so come prepared with a swim suit, your own towel (unless you’d like to buy one of theirs), and change of clothes.
• Outside of summer, you’ll get cold once you’re out of the zorb, so it’s a good idea to have a large towel to wrap around you to dry and warm up.
• When booking, you’ll have to pick a time slot. You have to arrive during that slot but you can go over time. Wait times are generally shorter at the beginning of your time slot and gets slower at the end.
• If you’re traveling in a large group, it makes one sense to purchase all the rolls so you can save money with the bundle prices.
• While you have to select the number of rolls when booking online, you can always add more when you’re there.
• They have discount packages so make sure to see if those suit you. You’ll find these on the checkout page.
• If you are military, first responder, or educator, use THANKYOU for a 10% discount.
• You must be 5+ to roll. Maximum weight is 275 pounds per person.
• We found that with two people, the water seemed to fling up and around the zorb quite a bit more which meant we were rubbing water out of our eyes. Going solo, there was much less water splashing on your face.

End off your night at the illustrious RT Lodge in Maryville, Tennessee. This rustic retreat and continues the line of unique stays you can find in the Smoky Mountains. Leaping off the pages of wedding magazines, Southern charm oozes throughout the classic revival property.

Sure, it’s a bit out of the way but you’ll love the nightly s’mores firepit, outdoor fire place accompanied by lounging rocking chairs, wooded grounds, free bike rentals, and lounge salons.

For dinner, you’ll eat at The Restaurant at RT Lodge which is an upscale dining experience to match the atmosphere and ambiance of the lodge. Executive chef, Chef Stockton, sources from local farmers and homegrown ingredients to prepare the most delectable dishes.

Day 4 Summary

• Deep Creek – Hike the waterfall loop for Juney Whank, Tom Branch, and Indian Creek waterfalls
• Luftee Overlook
• Newfound Gap
• Morton Overlook
• Carlos Campbell
• Outdoor Gravity Park – The only place in the United States you can go zorbing. Ridiculously fun!
• Museum of the Cherokee – Skip the line with this admission ticket to the museum to learn the history and culture of the Cherokee people.
• North Carolina Steams and History Tour – A 5 hour guided nature walk through the Smokies by A Walk In The Woods that starts at Oconaluftee Visitor Center.
• Audio Driving Tour – GyPSy Guide is a well-known self-driving guide that we also recommend for our 5 day Maui itinerary .
• Breakfast – The High Test Deli and Sweet Shop – They’re a take-out only restaurant which is perfect because you’ll be able to eat it along your drive through the Smoky Mountains National Park.
• Lunch – Local Goat – A highly rated restaurant that has a great selection on their menu. Don’t miss their ahi tuna burger, fall-off-the-bone ribs, steaks, and craft beer.
• Dinner – The Restaurant at RT Lodge – Pairing with the picture-perfect lodge is a gourmet dining experience that will impress with their upscale ambiance, creative dishes, and some of the best service you’ll find in a restaurant. Remember to make reservations (closed on Monday).
• RT Lodge – While a bit out of the way, is a spectacular luxury lodge that’s tucked in the forest for cozy rooms, high-class restaurant, plenty of lounging areas, and firepit. S’mores are free for all and breakfast is included as well.
• Blue Mountain Mist Country Inn -Located not far from Dollywood and Pigeon Forge, this is a rustic and intimate inn with exceptional service and includes breakfast.
• Twin Mountain Inn & Suites – A more traditional hotel located in Pigeon Forge that’s next to Dolly Parton’s Stampede and at the foothills of the Smoky Mountains. Pets are allowed, there’s a swimming pool, and breakfast is included.

The Tennessee side of the Smoky Mountains has a lot to offer and what you’ll find is that while the view of its peaks might be similar, they have a different take to it.

There’s no time to lose so enjoy a cup of coffee on the grounds of RT Lodge before setting off for brunch at the famed Applewood Farmhouse Restaurant .

The original farmhouse for the 65-acre apple orchard property was transformed into a family eatery and ever since then it’s become a staple of traditional southern dining in the town of Sevierville.

Your experience starts off with a complimentary basket of apple fritters and apple cinnamon muffins, side of apple butter, and cup of their Applewood julep. This is before you get your southern favourites including their must-order Savannah pecan pancakes, Smoky Mountain biscuit Benedict, and country omelets that you see above.

You may not have had a grandma living in the south but after your brunch here, you’ll get a really good taste of what it’s like if you did.

TIP: Ask for the table with swinging chairs. There are only two at the moment in the restaurant but they’re definitely one of the exclusive tables to dine in if they’re available.

Next up is the iconic Pink Jeep Tours made famous in Sedona, Arizona but now has their own set of tours in the Great Smoky Mountains.

Since you have already done Newfound Gap on your own, one of the tours that we recommend is the Roaring Fork Smoky Mountains Tour which takes you through the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail .

On this tour, you’ll travel in a custom open-air Pink Jeep Wrangler where the advantage of doing this versus on your own is having an expert interpretive guide provide great commentary about the area you’re driving through, make stops at the best locations, and help with group photos.

Being in an open-air jeep means that you’ll get awesome elevated views of the bridges, waterfalls, steams, and maybe even a bear. One surprise is that you will get an opportunity to get off the jeep as well and walk around the Ephraim Bales Cabin along with the lesser-known scenic streams that’s just behind.

At the end of the tour, you’ll be taken to a private-property 4×4 off-roading course and turn the adventure knob to a 10. The true power of the jeep will be on display, thundering up and down rocky hills like its nobody’s business.

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW – PINK ADVENTURE TOURS

Pink Adventure Tours (also known as Pink Jeep Tours) got its award-winning start in Sedona and specializes in off-road and road-based tours in the US. They now have locations also in Las Vegas, Grand Canyon, Branson, and the Smoky Mountains.

In the Smoky Mountains, they have several tours but we’ll be focusing on their Roaring Fork Smoky Mountains Tour.

Website: Pink Adventure Tours

• Adult – $74
• Child (2-12) – $67
• Private (up to 7 people) – $518
• Once you’ve picked your seat on the jeep, there’s not much moving around. That said, there are things to see on both sides of the jeep and since it’s open air, you can get up and peek over to the other side if you need to.
• Try to keep your gear minimal as there isn’t really extra space for luggage. There’s also quite a bit of bouncing around in the 4×4 adventure at the end.
• You need to arrive 30 minutes before departure.
• Use the bathrooms before heading out because there aren’t really any bathroom breaks along the way.
• Tighten your seatbelts real good during the 4×4 adventure because if you don’t, you’ll be flung around pretty hard.

Next, head to Five Oaks Farm Kitchen for an early dinner.

The restaurant pays homage to the legacy of Dr. John and Blanche Ogle who were important figures to the growth of the agricultural and breeding of Tennessee Walking Horses in the area.

In what feels like a giant two-story barn, you’ll be able to have a true Southern-style supper.

With choices like chicken and dumplings, cornbread, smoked beef brisket, chicken pot pie, meatloaf, and fried chicken leaping off the menu, you’ll eat just as well as the weary travellers that passed through these exact parts in the early 1900s.

TIP: Grab a jar of fresh raw mountain honey before you leave the restaurant.

Wind down in the comforts of RT Lodge for the night, taking full advantage of its grounds, and of course as many s’mores as you can eat.

Day 5 Summary

• Roaring Fork Interpretive Marker Overlook
• Ephraim Bales Cabin
• The Place of a Thousand Drips
• Pink Adventure Tours – Roaring Fork Smoky Mountains Tour
• Explore a Simpler Time Smoky Mountain Tour – 3 hour tour where you’ll hear stories of the Cherokee people and a glimpse of settlers’ daily lives.
• Old Growth Forest Cascade – This hike takes you to a towering waterfall deep in the old-growth forest.
• Hidden Cascades Hiking Tour – Starting from NOC Gatlinburg, your local guide will take you on a quiet rail down to see a beautiful cascade in the Smokies.
• Clingmans Dome Hike – If you happened to miss this earlier, you can join a guided tour up to Clingmans Dome.
• Ghost and Haunt Tour of Gatlinburg – Learn about the ghost and ghouls that haunt Gatlinburg in this 2-hour night walking tour.
• Thunder Streams and Falls – 3 hour hiking tour that takes you off the beaten path in the Smoky Mountains.
• Brunch – Applewood Farmhouse Restaurant – The oldest restaurant in Sevierville that’s the perfect spot to have Southern breakfast classics. Their apple fritters can’t be missed (because they’re complimentary)!
• Dinner – Five Oaks Farm Kitchen – An inviting Southern restaurant that carries the tradition of the Ogle family that’s filled with farmhouse ambiance and amazing service.

The fun doesn’t stop because you’ll be going wire to wire (literally and figuratively) on your last day of this Smoky Mountains itinerary.

Wake up bright and early for Day 6 because you’ll need to make the drive from Maryville to Gatlinburg . Gatlinburg is a mountainside town at the footsteps of the Smokies that’s filled with outdoor adventure.

One of the unmissable attractions you’ll find in town is the Gatlinburg SkyLift Park . On select days, they offer sunrise access which allows you to get up to their SkyBridge right at dawn.

From this side of the mountain, you’ll be able to watch the city below transition from night to day as the sun climbs up from behind the mountains in the distance. The view from up here is spectacular, especially when you’re on the suspension bridge.

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW – GATLINBURG SKYLIFT PARK

The main attraction here is the SkyBridge which features 5 panels of glass and incredibly views of Gatlinburg and the Smoky Mountains. You’ll also find their SkyTrail with The Tulip Tower, SkyDeck viewpoint, and of course the SkyLift 3-seat chairlift that takes you up from the town below.

Website: Gatlinburg SkyLift Park

Address: 765 Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN 37738, United States

Hours: Their hours of operation vary throughout the year. They are closed Jan 31 – Feb 3 for winter maintenance but are otherwise open all year round.

• Adult – $31.95
• Child (4-11) – $18.95
• Seniors (65+) – $24.95
• 3 and under – Free

Driving tips: There are two primary parking lots that are supposed to be $10. These are marked on the interactive map in the beginning of the article. Both are short walk to the Gatlinburg SkyLift Park chairlifts.

• They offer special sunrise access on specific days where you’ll be able to load the SkyLift 45 minutes prior to sunrise time. These tickets are slightly more expensive.
• Drones are not allowed here (we had special permissions to fly).
• If you purchase and redeem your ticket after 8PM, you’ll be able to access the SkyLift Park the next day as well.
• Re-entry is allowed throughout the day.
• Once you reach the other end of the bridge, there’s a small deck with gift shop. You can then connect this with the SkyTrail that follows the side of the mountain and goes back to the main SkyCenter.
• Being a suspension bridge, the SkyBridge does sway and is more noticeable when there are more people on the bridge.

GATLINBURG SKYLIFT PARK REVIEWS

Your last chance for true Southern food on your trip will be at Crockett’s Breakfast Camp . You won’t be able to make reservations here so come here immediately after the SkyLift Park.

Based on the story of the frontiersman, David C. “Crockett” Maples, you’ll be transported to the Old West with artifacts and decor matching a time of westward expansion and exploration.

With their menu printed on a traditional newspaper, have a hearty breakfast of all the southern favorites. Don’t miss their giant cinnamon roll while you’re here.

There are many attractions to choose from while in Gatlinburg but many of them will feel a little kitschy and from a different time. In seeking out an activity to truly round out your road trip in the Smoky Mountains, it only felt appropriate to find something that embraces the outdoors and magic of the mountains.

Touting the highest point in downtown Gatlinburg is Anakeesta . More than just another theme park, this is a whimsical and immersive outdoor experience that combines thrilling elements with a place to chill amongst sculptures, flowers, lights, and breathtaking viewpoints.

Great for all ages, you can spend as much time as you’d like here. Recommended activities are the Rail Runner mountain coaster which features the only single-rail coaster in the United States and the Dueling Zipline Adventure .

They also have some of the best dining experiences in Gatlinburg. We recommend having dinner at Cliff Top Grill & Bar which serves modern American cuisine with the Smoky Mountains serving as its backdrop.

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW – ANAKEESTA

More than just a theme park, Anakeesta is an immersive outdoor experience which combines its whimsical mountain atmosphere with thrilling rides, botanical gardens, lookout tower, meandering trails, shopping, dining, and play areas.

Website: Anakeesta

Address: 576 Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN 37738, United States

Hours: Changes throughout the year. Check their calendar for the day-by-day schedule.

General admission:

• Adult – $32.99
• Child (4-12) – $19.99
• Seniors (60+) – $25.99

Dueling Zipline Tour is $59.99 for all ages

Rail Runner is $14.99 for single rider and $18.88 for tandem rides.

Gem mining is $8 per “Paydirt” bag.

Duration: You can easily spend a full day or a few hours here. It depends on how many of the activities you want to do.

Driving tips: There are two primary parking lots that are supposed to be $10. These are marked on the interactive map in the beginning of the article. Both are short walk to Anakeesta.

• You cannot mount a GoPro on the Rail Runner vehicle itself but head and chest mounts are fine.
• For the Dueling Zipline tour, they have helmets with GoPro mounts on them so just request them. You are also allowed to use your phone or other device but you are responsible for its safety.
• Photos are taken before you take the chairlift and rides such as Rail Runner. You can purchase physical prints similar to other amusement parks or you can buy digital-only copies.
• Bears are known to be on the mountain slopes nearby so be on the lookout!
• If you love sunsets, plan to stay around and watch it from the top of AnaVista Tower.
• If you start your visit at night, your next day is free.
• General admission effectively includes everything in the park except for Dueling Zipline, Rail Runner, and Gem Mining activities.
• The ride up is called the Chondola. These are mostly regular 4-person chairlifts but you can also wait for a closed gondola (fits 6 people) which we’d recommend if you’re carrying a lot of gear or not comfortable with heights. These are much less frequent so you’ll have to wait 10-15 minutes for the gondola to come around. They come by 2 at a time.
• You can also go up the mountain by taking the Ridge Rambler which is an open air passenger truck.
• It is recommended to book the Dueling Zipline Tour beforehand as there are limited spots. You have to call to reserve.
• Save time on your check-in process for Rail Runner and Dueling Zipline by completing your waiver online.
• They recommend getting to the Anakeesta base 2 hours before your Dueling Zipline reservation to account for parking, lift and the 30 minutes you need to be there before your reserved zipline time.
• Bears are nearby but the park staff do a good job at making sure they don’t come into the park itself so you don’t need to worry.

Perhaps the most unique stay of the whole trip is on the last day or if you’re a big fan, you could arrange it so you’re here the entire time in Tennessee.

Luxury treehouses are real and bookable just outside of Gatlinburg in a place called Treehouse Grove .

If anyone’s watched Treehouse Masters on Animal Planet, you might’ve heard of Pete Nelson. As the host of the show, he’s built some of the coolest treehouses around America.

One of his team’s special projects was this community of treehouses nestled in the forest. With not a single tree cut down, these are modern cabins built around the trees, using them as foundation and support.

Each treehouse in the grove are unique but these are all equipped with modern furnishings, a kitchen, multiple bedrooms, screened porch and deck.

This may be one of the Great Smoky Mountains best kept secrets.

And that’s a wrap for your 6 day Smoky Mountains itinerary. The next day, you’ll be either flying out of the nearest airport which in this case is the McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS) in Knoxville, Tennessee. Otherwise, you’ll be continuing your road trip to the next exciting place!

Day 6 Summary

• Gatlinburg Skylift Park and SkyBridge
• Dueling Zipline
• Rail Runner
• Wine and Shine Walking Tour – The ultimate moonshine distillery tour where you’ll learn how moonshine is traditionally distilled. The tour includes plenty of samples!
• Impossibilities Magic Show – Family-friendly admission to the show ‘Impossibilities: An Evening of Magic, Mindreading, and Mayhem’ at the Iris Theater in Gatlinburg.
• Brunch – Crocketts Breakfast Camp – Southern breakfast favorites served in a space that takes you back to the days of the Western Frontier.
• Dinner – Cliff Top Grill & Bar at Anakeesta – Gourmet dining within the park that will surprise you with dishes such as their charcuterie board, bison burger, and ribeye.
• Treehouse Grove (The Maple) – These are luxury treehouses come to life. Built by Pete Nelson of Treehouse Masters fame, this is a tiny community of modern treehouses not far from Gatlinburg.
• Greystone Lodge on the River – Conveniently located right in the heart of Gatlinburg, this hotel offers an outdoor swimming pool, free private parking, fitness centre, and free breakfast. This means you don’t have to worry about parking when you’re in town.
• Bearskin Lodge on the River – This hotel isn’t quite as central but the nice thing is that all rooms are fitted with a balcony, microwave, fridge, free parking, and complimentary continental breakfast. Room layouts are spacious and the large outdoor pool is great for the kids.

The key to any successful road trip is to be prepared with all of the right gear. If you’ve followed the itinerary above, you’ll know that it is packed with a bunch of outdoor activities and each one is quite different from one another.

This list doesn’t cover everything but we’ve identified a bunch of key items to get you started with your packing list.

• Car USB adapters – As a road trip, you’ll want to make sure you bring your own charging gear. This’ll allow you to keep your devices and batteries topped up. Most cars have two cigarette adapters so bring two chargers if you have them. Photographers will likely want to make use of this so you can charge your camera and drone batteries on the fly.
• USB charging cables – Along those lines, remember all the variations of cables you’ll need (USB-A, USB-C, Micro USB, and Lightning) depending on what you’ll need to charge.
• Car phone mount – This one is easy to forget. Pack your own car mount so you’ll be able to navigate with ease.
• Binoculars – There’s a lot of wildlife in the national park so a good pair of binoculars is a good idea. Think birds but also the bigger animals like bears if they’re in the distance.
• Layers – Pack accordingly depending on the season that you’re in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. It can swing from cold to hot quickly so have a sweater/fleece/hoody handy. One we recommend is the Arc’teryx Delta LT Hoody .
• Waterproof jacket – A jacket is handy for the cooler temperatures at sunrise, sunset, and at mountain peaks. Depending on the time of year, rain can also come and go. For this we recommend Arc’teryx Beta jacket for men and women.
• Buff Headwear – Along the lines of layers, something I swear by for all of our packing guides , are the same buffs that you see on Survivor which I use either as a headband, scarf, or wristband to wipe off sweat.
• Wifi hotspot – If you live outside of the US, you’ll need a hotspot for data. I recommend using something like Pokefi (use code GAP23200 to get $20 off) or Solis (rebranded from Skyroam).
• Sunscreen – Protect your skin. Yes, there’s a lot of cover from trees but the UV is strong so apply that 50 SPF Sun Bum before you head out.
• Headlamp – Especially for sunsets, this is going to be mandatory equipment. Check out our review of the Fenix headlamp which is the best one we’ve owned.
• Hiking shoes – A quality waterproof hiking shoe such as the Keen Targhee II for Men and Women is highly recommended. While there isn’t any big hikes in this itinerary, you might want to add them to yours so these will be very useful.
• Waterproof sandals – We usually pack the Keen Newport H2s with us for those hot days where we don’t want to wear shoes or when you need them for whitewater rafting.
• Water bottle – With your own bottle, you’ll be able to fill it with water. This will allow you to buy large 5L jugs of water if you don’t want to drink tap although it’s entirely safe to do so. For the coffee drinks, having a Hydroflask with a coffee sip lid will come in handy because you’ll be able to either pour or brew your own coffee in the morning in any of the cabins or lodges we stayed at.
• Dry bag for your phone – If you’re planning on going rafting in the Nantahala River, make sure to pack this to be able to have your phone with you.

Before starting to plan this 6 day Smoky Mountains itinerary, we certainly didn’t know much about the region but as we learned more about North Carolina and Tennessee, it was clear that we needed to do a lot more homework to figure out how to build a road trip that would do both states justice.

I’m not going to lie, this trip is one of our more ambitious out of all of our itineraries but we’re happy with how it turned out.

For us, we were seeking a trip that would allow us to be outdoors, to try new things, stay in cool accommodations, eat hearty Southern food, and of course capture the amazing scenery around the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

We did just that and more!

Two resources that really helped us with our planning were the two tourism boards below so make sure to check them out as they are chock full of information.

You are not allowed to fly your drone anywhere in the national park.

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park are one of 15 free national parks to visit. This means that you don’t need reservations, and you won’t be crossing through any entrance gates to get into the park.

6 days is as tight as you’d want to make a Smoky Mountains road trip. If you have more time, 8-10 days would be a comfortable amount of time to see not only the national park but explore both the North Carolina and Tennessee side of the mountains.

The simple answer is in the fall. Between mid September to late October, the changing of the leaves attracts many visitors to see the rainbow of colours in the Smokies.

Each side of the Smoky Mountains has their own access to the national park which means completely different scenery and wildlife. For instance, Deep Creek in North Carolina is a wonderful place to see 3 waterfalls in close proximity to one another. Cataloochee Valley is another in North Carolina with elk viewing opportunities. Then you have places like the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail and Foothills Parkway which you can only access from Tennessee.

Straddling both Tennessee and North Carolina, both sides and the park itself are in the Eastern time zone.

The highest point of the national park is at Clingmans Dome which you can visit and is part of this 6 day Smoky Mountains itinerary.

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• Our USA travel guide
• Hottest deals – Bookmark the travel deals page .
• Car rentals – stop getting ripped off and learn about car rental coupon codes .
• Hotels – Use corporate codes or get Genius 2 tier with Booking.
• Flights – Have you ever heard of the “Everywhere” feature ?
• Insurance – Make sure you’re covered and learn more about where to buy the best travel insurance .

If you’re in the process of planning your trip and putting together your itinerary, these are genuinely the best resources that the Going Awesome Places team stands by 100% .

Credit cards: Don’t get burned by hidden fees on top of terrible exchange rates. When we travel now, we use the Wise Card . Simply load it with the currency you need before you go and use it as a regular VISA or their digital wallet card. Use their free app to track how much you have and top up when you need to.

Flights: Of all the booking search engines, Skyscanner is the most helpful and easy to use thanks to their Everywhere feature . Kayak is also another that’s we will often check as well.

Car Rental: If you’re looking to save money, these car rental coupon codes will be a true game-changer. Otherwise, DiscoverCars and RentalCars are great places to start.

Airport Parking: You’ll need a spot to leave your car at the airport so why not book a spot at a discount. Use code AWESOME7 to get at least $5 off at Airport Parking Reservations or Park Sleep Fly packages.

Data: We’ve been a huge fan of wifi hotspot devices like PokeFi because their rates are so good and you can use it globally but recently, we’ve really loved using eSIMs. The best one is Airalo . Save money by getting region-specific eSIMs and use referral code WILLIA9500 to get $3 USD credit on your first purchase. Ubigi is another one that we’ve had success with where they uniquely offer 5G coverage. Use code AWESOME10 to save 10% on your first order.

Hotels: Our go-to is Booking.com because they have the best inventory of properties including hotels and B&Bs plus they have their Genius tier discounts . The exception is Asia where Agoda always has the best prices. TripAdvisor is also useful for reviews and bookings.

Vacation Rentals: Your first instinct will be to check Airbnb but we always recommend checking VRBO as well if you’re looking for a vacation rental.

Tours: When planning our trips, we always check both Viator and GetYourGuide to at least see what’s out there in the destination that we’re going to. They often have different offerings and prices so check both.

Travel Insurance: Learn how to buy the best travel insurance for you. This isn’t something you want to travel without.

• Insured Nomads – Popular insurance provider for frequent travelers and comes with great coverage and special perks.
• RATESDOTCA – Search engine Canadians looking for the cheapest insurance including multi-trip annual policies.
• SafetyWing – A perfect fit for long-term nomads.
• Medjet – Global air medical transportation.
• InsureMyTrip – Best for seniors, families, and those with pre-existing conditions.

If you need more help planning your trip, make sure to check out our Travel Toolbox where we highlight all of the gear, resources, and tools we use when traveling.

This article was brought to you as a result of a campaign with Travel South USA but all opinions are our own.

About William Tang

William Tang is the Chief of Awesome behind the award-winning Going Awesome Places which is focused on outdoor adventure, and experiential travel. His true passion lies in telling stories, inspiring photography and videos, and writing detailed itineraries and travel guides. He is a member of Travel Media Association of Canada (TMAC), Society of American Travel Writers (SATW), Adventure Travel Trade Association (ATTA), and Travel Massive. He has also been featured in publications such as Reader's Digest, Entrepreneur, Men's Journal, and Haute Living. Make sure to learn more about William Tang to find out his story and how Going Awesome Places started.

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Great Smoky Mountains National Park Itinerary for a Perfect Trip

If you’re looking for an epic adventure, look no further than the Smokies. This Great Smoky Mountains National Park itinerary and travel guide will help you make the most of your trip.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park is located in eastern Tennessee and western North Carolina, and it’s home to some of the most beautiful scenery in the United States. There are plenty of things to do in this park, so it’s the perfect destination for everything from a fun day trip to a romantic weekend getaway to a big vacation with the whole family.

In this article, I’ll cover important topics like the best time to visit, where to stay, what to see and do, and more.

Plan the perfect trip to the Smokies with this FREE printable travel planner.

This post includes affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. See disclaimer.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park facts

Here are some interesting facts about Great Smoky Mountains National Park to help you get to know the Park a little better before your trip.

• Entrance to Great Smoky Mountains National Park is free , and it’s open 24 hours a day all year round. (Effective March 1, 2023, parking tags are required to park in GSMNP for more than 15 minutes.)
• The Park covers more than 520,000 acres.
• The land area that the Park covers is split almost evenly between Tennessee and North Carolina.
• Great Smoky Mountains National Park is the most visited of all 63 U.S. National Parks …by quite a lot. More than 14 million guests visited GSMNP in 2021.
• The Park includes 10 campgrounds , not including backcountry camping options.
• Great Smoky Mountains National Park includes 384 miles of road .
• Clingmans Dome is the highest point in the Park at 6,643 feet . It’s also the highest point in Tennessee and the third-highest point east of the Mississippi River.
• Great Smoky Mountains National Park was designated a World Heritage Site in 1983 .

Great Smoky Mountains National Park itinerary

Now for the good stuff. There are so many things to do in Great Smoky Mountains National Park that building an itinerary is a challenge.

My recommendation is that you plan to spend at least two full days in the Park , but more is certainly good as well.

Shake things up and make this itinerary your own. How you put these pieces together may largely depend upon where you are staying on your trip to the Smokies (and what entrance you’re using).

Be advised: drive times inside the Park can be quite long. There are essentially only a few major driving routes within the park.

Get a park map and get familiar with it and use it. Do not rely on GPS to get you around the park. It may steer you wrong. You can pick up a map at any visitor center.

TIP:  Keep track of all the amazing sites you’re seeing in the park with  this printable Great Smoky Mountains National Park bucket list . On a quest to visit all 63 U.S. National Parks?  Grab your own copy of the  printable national parks tracker  to check off your progress as you visit each park.

Visitor Center

Make your first stop at the Oconaluftee or Sugarlands Visitor Center to pick up a park map and any other information you need for your visit to Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

If you’re staying in Townsend, Tennessee, the closest Visitor Center to you will be in Cades Cove. I would recommend you start your itinerary with Cades Cove anyway if you’re staying in Townsend, so there you go.

If you don’t want to go to the Visitor Center you can download a park map from the National Park Service website.

I recommend everyone start their trip to Great Smoky Mountain National Park with a drive through Cades Cove. It’s on the western side of the Park and it’s hugely popular. Plan to arrive at the entrance to the loop at the time it’s opening or even a few minutes before.

For a very nominal fee (it was $1 when we bought it) you can purchase a small booklet that will give you more information about Cades Cove and all of the stops on the scenic drive.

The Cades Cove Loop Road is a great place to see wildlife, so keep your eyes peeled for deer, bears, and other animals.

Let me stop here to say one thing. PLEASE DO NOT block the roadway so that you can get a better look at the black bears. It is unkind to back up traffic for 20 minutes so you can get your perfect photo. If there is not a safe place to pull over, keep moving .

Okay, rant over.

Plan to spend at least two hours driving through Cades Cove, longer if you’re there during peak travel times or a busy part of the day. I’d say it’s safest to plan to spend your entire morning there exploring.

Pack your patience. There may be times when the traffic is stopped or very slow because of road congestion.

There are so many things to see in Cades Cove and there are hikes in that area as well as one of the three Park Visitor Centers. Plenty to fill up at least your morning if not your full day.

Laurel Falls Trail

The popular Laurel Fall Trail hike is a must-do in Great Smoky Mountains National Park. This trail can also get quite busy, so you might want to save this for first thing in the morning on your second day in the Park rather than right after Cades Cove.

Use your best judgment, and keep in mind that parking at the trailhead is quite limited .

Plan for this 2.6-mile roundtrip hike to take you about 2 hours . It’s considered moderate in difficulty.

Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail

The other scenic drive in Great Smoky Mountains National Park is not to be missed. If you’re not much of a hiker, you can definitely do both Cades Cove and the Roaring Fork on the same day. Or do one scenic drive each of your two days in the Park.

The Roaring Fork Nature Motor Trail is on the east side of the Park near the Orchard Park entrance. In our experience, it wasn’t nearly as busy as Cades Cove.

The entire drive is about 5.5 miles on a one-way road. It does get a bit narrow at times so drive with care. This trail is a great way to see the park’s beautiful scenery. Please give it a try.

Newfound Gap

For beautiful views head to Newfound Gap…in fact, the entire drive along Newfound Gap Road from Cherokee to Gatlinburg (or the reverse) is just stunning.

There are several places to pull over and enjoy the amazing views along Newfound Gap Road. Take advantage, please. You won’t be sorry.

You’ll climb (in your car) about 3,000 feet. Please note that the temperatures at Newfound Gap will likely be quite a bit cooler than the surrounding lowlands.

The Appalachian Trail crosses Newfound Gap Road, so if you feel like stretching your legs and giving it a try go ahead. Then you can tell everyone you hiked the Appalachian Trail.

Clingmans Dome

Just south of Newfound Gap, you’ll find the turnoff from Newfound Gap Road to Clingmans Dome Road.

This 7-mile road will take you up to the parking area just about half a mile from the top of Clingmans Dome (6,643 feet), which is the highest point in the Park. The road is closed to vehicles generally from Dec. 1 through March 31.

There’s plenty of parking up there, vault toilets, and a gift shop/visitor information center.

The half-mile hike up to the top of Clingmans Dome is paved and quite steep. Please wear appropriate footwear.

There’s also an observation tower at the top of Clingmans Dome that offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and forests. It is said that on a clear day, you can see 100 miles.

Even if you aren’t sure you want to do the hike, the view from the parking lot is still quite wonderful and worth the drive.

Please note that it can get COLD up there. SIGNIFICANTLY colder than the surrounding lower elevations.

Other things to add to your Great Smoky Mountains National Park itinerary

Cataloochee valley.

The isolated Cataloochee Valley offers guests the opportunity to see the historic valley as it was. It preserves several historic buildings. There are also opportunities for wildlife viewing. Use caution when driving on the narrow roads.

More hikes in Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Great Smoky Mountains National Park is home to more than 150 official hiking trails from short, easy, kid-friendly hikes to quite long hikes requiring significant hiking experience.

Here are a few of the most popular hikes in the Park that I haven’t already touched on.

• Rainbow Falls, 5.4 miles, moderate
• Alum Cave Bluffs, 2.5 miles one way
• Abrams Falls, 5 miles roundtrip, moderate to difficult
• Grotto Falls, 3 miles roundtrip, moderate

If you’re traveling with children you might enjoy the short, easy Cataract Falls Trail. The falls are about 0.7 miles from the Sugarlands Visitor Center.

Best time to visit Great Smoky Mountains National Park

The best time of year to visit Great Smoky Mountains National Park varies depending on what you want to do.

The park is busiest from May through October , and the fall colors are at their peak in October. On average, over the last decade or so, June, July, and October have been the busiest months.

If you’re interested in hiking, the spring and autumn months are the best time to visit, as the summer months are hot and humid. Again, expect to encounter many people if you’re there in October.

If you’re looking for an amazing natural phenomenon to witness, look no further than the synchronous fireflies at Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

Every year, around the end of May or the beginning of June, this park hosts a special event in the Elkmont area where visitors have a chance to see large numbers of these fireflies light up at once.

Vehicle passes are awarded by a lottery system, so there’s, unfortunately, no guarantee that you’ll be able to see them.

Where to stay on your trip to Great Smoky Mountains National Park

For a complete discussion of where to stay on your trip, see my article all about where to stay in the Smokies.

Campgrounds in Great Smoky Mountain National Park

Camping is a great way to experience Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

There are 10 developed frontcountry campgrounds in the park , and they offer a variety of amenities including restrooms (with cold running water and flush toilets), fire grate, and picnic tables. Most of the campgrounds are available seasonally, with a couple open all year round.

Backcountry camping, group camping, and horse camps are also available. Most of the campgrounds are also located near popular attractions, so you’ll be able to enjoy the beauty of the park while you’re camping.

Hotels near Great Smoky Mountains National Park

There are no motels or inns in Great Smoky Mountains National Park. LeConte Lodge is only accessible on foot after hiking at least 5 miles.

If you prefer to stay in hotels, your only option will be to stay in one of the gateway towns at the major entrances to the Park.

Gatlinburg, Tennessee

You’ll have the most hotel options if you stay in Gatlinburg, Tennessee. It’s located just outside the park, and it also offers a variety of restaurants, shops, and other attractions.

Here are a few highly rated hotel options in Gatlinburg:

The Park Vista offers beautiful views of the Smoky Mountains, and every room comes with a balcony.

Margaritaville Resort is cram-packed with amenities and just a short drive to Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

Fairfield Inn and Suites is a favorite affordable hotel brand for me and Hubby. Their downtown Gatlinburg location is very close to the start of the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail (see below).

Cherokee, North Carolina

Cherokee is another great option as it’s very near the Park and the Oconaluftee Visitor Center.

Major attractions in Cherokee, aside from the Park, are Harrah’s Cherokee Casino, the Museum of the Cherokee People, and the Blue Ridge Parkway. Cherokee is the southern terminus of that famous scenic route.

Cherokee lodging options include:

• Stonebrook Lodge : We enjoyed our stay here, just minutes from Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Offers free parking and comfortable rooms but a subpar continental breakfast. We opted to grab a wonderful breakfast at Peter’s Pancakes and Waffles in town.
• Great Smokies Inn : Just minutes from the Oconaluftee Visitor Center and the southern end of the Blue Ridge Parkway.

Townsend, Tennessee

Townsend, Tennessee, is located on the “quiet side” of Great Smoky Mountains National Park. It also has the benefit of being the closest town to the popular Cades Cove scenic drive (more on that below).

Highland Manor Inn is just four minutes from the west entrance to Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Guests love how close the property is to the Park.

Other hotel options for staying near Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Further from the park, but also popular are Pigeon Forge and Sevierville , Tennessee. Pigeon Forge includes a lot of tourist attractions.

Guests love the Residence Inn Pigeon Forge for its location and spacious rooms.

Those who prefer to avoid major hotel chains may like The Inn on the River . Guests enjoy the service and location. It’s about 13 miles from the Sugarlands Visitor Center and about a 10-minute drive from Dollywood.

Sevierville is located about 17 miles from the Sugarlands Visitor Center (inside the Gatlinburg entrance). You would need to plan on a 35 – 40 minute drive to be inside the park from Sevierville…potentially longer if the Gatlinburg traffic is really congested.

When is it not, right?

To really save money during peak fall colors time, when hotel rates were higher than we wanted to spend, we chose to stay at the Fairfield Inn & Suites Knoxville Airport Alcoa .

We had a fine stay. And while it was nice to save $100/night on the hotel room, we ended up doing A LOT more driving than I think I would want to do on a return visit to the Park.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park entrances

There are several entrances to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, and each offers its own unique experience.

The most popular entrance is located in Gatlinburg . The entrance is the closest to popular Gatlinburg attractions, and it’s also where you’ll find the greatest concentration of hotels and restaurants.

One downside is that this entrance is also quite popular and can get VERY congested during peak travel times . Those staying in Gatlinburg always seem to want to enter and leave the Park at about the same time.

We live in Upstate South Carolina and use the Cherokee, North Carolina, entrance . From there you can follow the beautiful scenic drive along Newfound Gap Road through the Park. It’s also a great option if you’re looking to avoid the crowds at the Gatlinburg entrance.

Finally, for an even less crowded entrance into the park Townsend, Tennessee , is the entrance you’re looking for. It also has the benefit of being the entrance closest to the popular Cades Cove scenic loop.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park Visitor Centers

There are three visitor centers in Great Smoky Mountains National Park as well as a small “contact station” at Clingmans Dome.

We always make it a point to stop at a Visitor Center for any National Park trip. You’ll want a park map at least. Plus there are restrooms, gift shops, and you can talk to a park ranger if you have any questions.

The Sugarlands Visitor Center is the most popular in the park . It’s located near the Gatlinburg, Tennessee, entrance.

The Sugarlands Visitor Center also offers a variety of ranger-led programs, so it’s a great place to learn about the park. The Backcountry Permit Office is also at the Sugarlands Visitor Center.

The Oconaluftee Visitor Center is closest to the Cherokee, North Carolina , entrance. Like the Sugarlands Visitor Center, here you can find a gift shop, helpful National Park Service staff, maps, restrooms, and more.

The third Visitor Center is on the Cades Cove Scenic Loop . This center is much smaller than the other two, but you’ll still find a gift shop, restrooms, etc. There are also several historic buildings nearby that you can explore including a grist mill.

Picnic areas in Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a great place to enjoy a meal outdoors, and it offers a variety of great picnic areas to choose from.

The picnic areas are:

• Collins Creek
• Metcalf Bottoms
• Twin Creeks

Some picnic areas are open seasonally and some offer pavilions that can be reserved for groups.

If you’re having a hard time choosing where to enjoy your picnic, I’d suggest you check out Chimneys . It’s located on the West Prong Little Pigeon River and several of the picnic sites are right on the river. Guests are welcome to enjoy the cool water of the river on hot days.

Cades Cove is also a popular picnic spot. You’ll find it near the entrance/exit to the scenic loop.

What to take with you on your Smoky Mountains hike

Hiking is a lot more fun when you’re prepared with the right shoes and clothing. The correct outfit can increase your comfort and make the whole hike much better.

It’s best to dress in layers while hiking so you can peel off or put on clothes as the temperature changes. Make sure you pack weather-appropriate outerwear and plenty of snacks and water.

My hiking favorites

Hiking shoes —I prefer to wear waterproof hiking shoes over hiking boots. Trail running shoes can also be a good option depending on the hike if that’s your preference.

I love my waterproof Keen hiking shoes. You can check the price on Amazon here.

Waterproof shell —The weather can change rapidly, so it’s important to make sure you carry with you some protection from the elements…even if the forecast is for a lovely and dry day.

I love my Columbia Arcadia II jacket. You can check out the price on Amazon here.

Trail pants —I love my Columbia Saturday Trail Pants. They’re really lightweight and comfortable. You can check them out on Amazon here.

Tips for visiting Great Smoky Mountains National Park

When visiting any national park, it’s important to be aware of the rules and regulations in place. Great Smoky Mountains National Park is no exception.

Some important things to keep in mind when visiting the Smokies:

1. Pets are prohibited on nearly all trails in the park.

2. Be sure to leave no trace. If there are no garbage cans around, pack out whatever you bring in with you.

4. Stay on the trails while hiking and don’t take any shortcuts. This helps protect the natural resources in the park and protects your safety.

5. Obey all speed limits and traffic laws while driving in the park. This helps keep everyone safe and ensures that visitors have a pleasant experience.

6. Come prepared for all types of weather, as conditions can change rapidly in the Smoky Mountains.

Final thoughts on your Smoky Mountains itinerary

If you’re looking for a great hiking destination with some beautiful scenery, Great Smoky Mountains National Park is definitely worth checking out.

With plenty of trails to choose from, there’s something for everyone – whether you’re a beginner or an experienced hiker.

And if you’re looking for some beautiful scenery, be sure to visit Cades Cove, Roaring Fork Motor Trail, Newfound Gap, and Clingmans Dome.

More articles about National Parks

• Inspiring books about U.S. National Parks
• The best National Parks in the Southern United States
• The top National Parks on the East Coast
• The best national parks gifts (for any budget)
• Hiking Congaree National Park

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Darcy Vierow is a busy professional and travel planning expert with years of experience maximizing travel with limited time and on a less-than-average salary. Her tips have been published by Forbes, MSN.com, Yahoo! News, Yahoo! Finance, Aol, Newsbreak and GOBankingRates. Read more about Darcy Vierow .

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5 Best Road Trips

Getting there can be as fun as the park itself. Enjoy these scenic drives and road trips to Great Smoky Mountains National Park and other spots in Tennessee and North Carolina.

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Road Trip from Dallas During Thanksgiving - Great Smoky Mountains National Park Forum

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1. Will it be snowing?

2. Will it be too cold?

3. Will it be safe for driving?

4. Where should we stay? Inside the park, near the park, outside the park?

5. Is hiking still possible during that time of the year?

Most restaurants are now taking reservations for Thanksgiving lunch or dinner and they are filling up fast so should check into that asap and book a hotel, cabin asap.Check the other topics on here for Thanksgiving. Enjoy!

https://twitter.com/smokiesroadsnps

Newest hotels

Hampton Inn Gatlinburg Historic Nature Trail

Courtyard Gatlinburg

Hilton Garden Inn on River Road

Greystone Lodge on the River ...request river view. All rooms have recently been renovated and is located near the Aquarium

Older but well maintained...

Jack Huff's

LeConte View Motor Lodge

Riverhouse at the Park

Reservations may be very difficult to get but the Hampton Inn Historic Nature Trail is so new that they may have openings

simply because people do not know it is there...yet.

I drive from Sugar Land every year in May so I cannot comment on the weather in Novemeber. My preferred route is to drive through Little Rock, Memphis and Nashville . Lots of great Hampton Inns on that route (Hilton honors member).

Hampton Inn Bryant AR is about 8 hours from Sugar Land. I try to get to the east side of Memphis if possible. Hotels in Bartlett or Germantown would be a good choice. If you can get to Jackson TN (about 11 hours for me) there are lots of hotels and restaurants.

In Nashville, Hampton Inn Mt. Juliet is located on the east side of Nashville and is a nice area. Getting on the east side of Memphis or Nashville will help in the morning rush hour.

Pack clothing that you can wear in layers. A combination of a heavy sweatshirt, sweater and long sleeve shirt will keep you warm on a cold day. Plan on cold nights and cool days.

Higher elevations in the park are easily 10-20 degrees cooler than in town.

Thanksgiving week is very busy so get dining and hotel reservations in place. Lots of people enjoy

Cherokee Grill in Gatlinburg

The Peddler in Gatlinburg

Alamo Steakhouse in Gatlinburg is suppose to reopen by then.

In Pigeon Forge ...

Applewood Grill at the Apple Barn and Cider Mill

Those are just a few of the restaurants.

Attractions in PF..

The Old Mill area

Apple Barn and Cider Mill

In Gatlinburg...

Arts and Craft Community on Glades Road

The Village Shops

Crocketts Breakfast Camp

Easy trails...

Gatlinburg Trail located at the end of River Road in Gatlinburg

Laurel Falls trail

Oconaluftee River Trail at the Oconaluftee Visitor Center and Mountain Farm Museum

As Goldie said...keep up to date on the weather in the Gatlinburg area as well as weather along your route. Always good to have basic supplies in the car in case of emergency including blankets.

You really need to pull up the websites for the Nat. Pk. Serv. for the GSMNP and the sites for the various associated organizations like Friends of the Smokies and familiarize yourself with what is offered there.

Go to the Forums for those three cities and click on the various lists(hotels., restaurants, et.al.) on the toolbar on the top of that Forum page for a TA list of those venues.

Finally, read back in the previous pages of Forums for those cities.

If you do all that, all your questions will be answered and your knowledge will be voluminous.

This topic has been closed to new posts due to inactivity.

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• Great Smoky Mountains National Park Events Apr 23, 2024
• Laurel Falls and Itinerary Questions Apr 20, 2024
• Restaurant Reccomendations? Apr 19, 2024
• Newfound Gap to Clingmans Dome and back as day hike Apr 17, 2024
• LeConte Lodge - Available Sunday, April 21 Apr 17, 2024
• Chicago to Smokies Tennessee Apr 15, 2024
• Ramsey Cascade trail closes on weekdays Apr 15, 2024
• Washington DC to GSMNP with kids Apr 12, 2024
• Cades Cove or Newfound Gap road? Apr 10, 2024
• Newfound Gap Road construction starting around 4/15 Apr 06, 2024
• Cades cove loop bike rental ? Apr 02, 2024
• Passing Through Great Smoky Mountains National Park in June Apr 01, 2024
• Help needed planning 5 day trip to the Smokys from the UK Apr 01, 2024
• When is the best time to Visit? 5 replies
• Where to stay in the Smokies??? 9 replies
• How far from Atlanta 5 replies
• small beautiful towns to visit? 17 replies
• Camping and Showers 22 replies
• Fall foliage report 10/11-12 6 replies
• Great Smoky Mountains - in November 8 replies
• Easiest Drive Through The Park 12 replies
• Spring Break in the Smokies 5 replies
• How Tough Is Chimney Tops Hike? 17 replies

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Wind your way through Great Smoky Mountains National Park and beyond on a family road trip. (Photo: Kristin Luna)

Knock your great smoky mountains family road trip outta the park.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park hits all the high notes for a perfect family vacation road trip destination: It’s got views, wildlife, waterfalls and trails galore, and it’s home to a certain theme park opened by Tennessee’s beloved songbird, Dolly Parton.

The most visited national park in the country sees a boom of visitors during summer months when the kids are out of school, the mountains are awash with greenery and the weather is prime for exploring. Planning a road trip through the  Smoky Mountains ? Consider adding these stops to your itinerary for your family vacation .

Start: Knoxville

If you’re flying in, your Smokey Mountains road trip will likely begin and end in Knoxville. Home to the University of Tennessee, this mid-sized city with its iconic Sunsphere (a landmark commemorating the 1982 World’s Fair) has become a favorite stop among families thanks to its revitalized Market Square and a bevy of outdoor pursuits.

Start by exploring the square with its weekend markets and many nighttime events; then head down bustling Gay Street to see a performance at the historic Tennessee Theatre and test your ability to roll a strike at the underground, 11-lane Maple Hall Bowling Alley in the old J.C. Penney building.

Carve out time for an ice cream sundae the size of your head at old-fashioned drug store Phoenix Pharmacy and Fountain before making your way to Ijams Nature Center , 300 acres of terrain with plenty of space for canoeing, paddleboarding and rock climbing. For the adventurous at heart, Navitat’s canopy offerings include both zip lining and a complex and challenging aerial adventure park.

Before you move on, don’t forget to stop by Zoo Knoxville to see its brand-new tiger habitat, baby gorillas and adorable red pandas.

Stop 1: Sevierville

Distance from Knoxville: 29 miles

Your next stop on your Smoky Mountains family vacation is Sevierville, which lays claim to Dolly Parton and her eponymous family amusement park.

Grab a dozen from Courthouse Donuts to start your day — after all, calories don’t count on vacation — before arriving at Dollywood , in operation since 1961 (though the locally born country music artist purchased and rebranded it 25 years later).

It’s now one of the state’s most prized parks, with myriad roller coasters, shows, food and shopping in addition to a bald eagle sanctuary. Next door to the main park, Dollywood’s Splash Country is open daily all summer. A trip here is the perfect way to wear the kids out.

Sevierville’s offerings extend beyond Dollywood. Moderate and a bit steep, Laurel Falls Trail is the best family-friendly hike in the area, and — bonus — it’s also one of just a few trails in the entire park that’s paved.

Sevierville also boasts more than a dozen zip-line companies, though with a cider mill, BBQ joint, hiking trails and ATV tours, Foxfire Mountain Adventure Park is the crème de la crème: a one-stop shop for all your family fun.

No visit to Sevierville is complete without a meal at the Apple Barn Cider Mill & General Store ; go between peak dining times as the wait for a table can top two hours.

For travelers who like a bit of kitsch, the Pigeon Forge area between Sevierville and Gatlinburg is speckled with oddball museums and dinner shows aplenty. Those with young kids will find the Hatfield & McCoy Dinner Feud a whole lot of fun (and the all-you-can-eat buffet filling).

End: Gatlinburg

Distance from Sevierville: 14 miles

Gatlinburg sits right at the entrance to Great Smoky Mountains National Park, making it the perfect place to visit in the Smoky Mountains . Though the town was hit by a major wildfire in 2016, its businesses are open and ready for the rush of summer visitors.

Start in Herbert Holt Park, home to a trout farm and children-only fishing area, fuel up with a chili dog from Parton’s Deli , and then check out the Junior Ranger experience at any visitor’s center inside the park (only open to children between the ages of five and twelve).

If tubing’s your thing, head to the park’s Greenbrier area; if not, pack a picnic and venture over to Chimney Tops where kids can play in the creek.

The highest point in the Smokies at 6,643 feet tall, Clingmans Dome has an observation tower with a soaring aerial view of the mountainous surrounds.

Back in downtown Gatlinburg, even pint-sized travelers who aren’t of age will dig Ole Smoky Distillery ‘s impressive compound, which is more of an entertainment complex than a mere moonshine tasting room. Adults can indulge in samples (pro tip: Try the moonshine-soaked cherries) while the kiddos dance along to live music that takes place daily.

If you need an escape from the beating sun, cool off among the tanks of Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies . Only have a few quick hours to explore? Drive the 5.5-mile Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail loop before you head back to Knoxville for your flight home.

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Road Trip from Texas to the Smoky Mountains with Kids

We just got back from our second long road trip of the year where we drove from Dallas/Ft. Worth, TX to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and back, hitting some super fun stops along the way. We had a great time and also learned a lot along the way. We’ve had a week to get settled back into reality and now I’m here to give you other road trip planners and adventure seekers our trip itinerary and recommendations on where to stop, play and stay along your road trip from Texas to the Great Smoky Mountains.

Products Your Kids May Need for your Trip:

SHOP MY AMAZON TODDLER ROAD TRIP ESSENTIALS LIST HERE !

• This Mickey Mouse and the Roadster Racers book has gone on two long road trips with us now and is still full of stickers and pages. I highly recommend!
• Lucas loved playing with his VTECH Latches and Doors busy board toy on the long drive and it kept him entertained for quite a while.
• Lucas’ vest and outfit is a Disney Junior Mickey Mouse outfit I found at TJ Maxx that I have not been able to find anywhere online but this Buffalo Plaid Toddler Vest is similar.
• Carter’s New Toddler Boys’ Rain Boots (pictured above)
• We have used this travel tray on both of our long trips this year and it serves so many useful purposes! Lucas can eat in the car on it and use it as a table or he uses it as a hard surface for coloring and playing with play doh.

A Little Background: We’re RVing It with a 20 Month Old

First off, if you’ve been following my family on Instagram this year then you know that we recently purchased a fifth wheel camper. So you’ll see campsite recommendations included in this post instead of hotels. You could easily find hotels in each of the places we stayed though.

Secondly, our little guy, Lucas, almost 2 years old, was along for this 28 hour plus road trip . That said, you’ll see several stops at some awesome parks to allow him ample time to stretch his legs. If you have kiddos along with you for your upcoming trip, you may want to take note.

Our Road Trip Itinerary: Stops, Plays and Stays

Ft. Worth to Hot Springs

Day 1: Ft. Worth, TX to Texarkana, TX to Hot Springs, AR

We left out early in the morning and stopped in Texarkana, TX at Spring Lake Park to eat lunch and stretch our legs.

This park had ample RV parking, playgrounds and a really pretty pond with ducks and geese. We also checked out the old fighter airplane they have which Lucas absolutely loved.

The first night of our trip we camped at Catherine’s Landing in Hot Springs, AR. It was absolutely gorgeous! This place was definitely the nicest RV park we’ve ever stayed in.

From the gorgeous tree covered mountain view to the river, boat ramp, pond, pool, playground, and splash pad, it really has it all. While it was too cool for the pool and splash pad, we had a blast riding our bikes around the property. I would highly recommend it to anyone wanting a peaceful RV-cation! We did try to venture into downtown Hot Springs but it was a zoo and we realized very quickly that we would rather be back at the RV resort.

Day 2: Hot Springs, AR to Memphis, TN to Nashville, TN

The next morning we left Hot Springs early and stopped in Memphis, TN at the Bass Pro Shops Pyramid originally intending to go up the elevator and eat lunch at their restaurant. It was a Sunday and it was really crowded and busy so we decided to leave and find lunch elsewhere. Honestly, looking back, we would have just stopped at a rest stop and eaten in the camper if we had known how busy and crowded it was going to be in Memphis.

Our second night, we pulled into the Grand Ole RV Resort in Nashville, TN. This place was super affordable at $37 a night but it’s definitely a bit cozy. They really pack the RV’s into their tiny spots so if you’re not into that, it might not be your place to stay. There weren’t any amenities for kids but they did have a nice camp store that served food and offered live music and the staff was great!

Excited that we finally made it to Nashville, we took the opportunity to find a place with some good food and live music close to music row. We dined at the The Row Kitchen and Pub while some super great artists played on the patio. This place had an amazing biscuits and jam appetizer that honestly could have been my whole meal. Our dinner was great and it was not too loud or trashy for Lucas. I saw some delicious desserts on the menu. Go with an empty stomach and you will not be disappointed!

Sightseeing in Nashville

Day 3: Sightseeing in Nashville, TN

On the third morning, we finally got to stay in one place! Hurray! We spent the morning at the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum and had lunch at Margaritaville on Broadway. The museum was not super thrilling for us. The interactive exhibits were closed due to Covid and I was quite frankly very disappointed in the lack of Garth Brooks exhibits. FYI huge Garth fan here! It was pretty difficult to contain Lucas and there wasn’t anything for him to do there so I wouldn’t recommend it for kids. At least not during Covid.

Post lunch, we got last minute tickets to the Grand Ole Opry Backstage Tour and it was one of the best decisions we made on the trip.

The tour opened with a pre-recorded brief history of the Opry that gave me goose bumps and it was narrated by Garth and Trisha! I was like finally someone gets it!

We got to see into the star’s dressing rooms, see the sound stage and actually stand on the Opry stage. It was so worth it! Lucas had passed out on the drive there and so he ended up sleeping in his stroller through the whole tour (until we got photos) but even if he had been awake, he would have had a blast too. If you have littles, bring your stroller and you’ll have no problem!

Cheekwood Gardens

Day 4: Morning at Cheekwood Gardens then Nashville, TN to Townsend, TN

The next morning, I really did not want to leave Nashville! I just enjoyed it so much! We had a three hour drive ahead of us and we knew we needed to wear little man out before the drive so we decided to check out Cheekwood Gardens . They have an amazing fall display right now with pumpkin houses, a truly amazing train exhibit for kids and Chihuly glass sculptures in the garden.

I’m a huge garden fan so I felt like the whole Cheekwood Gardens experience was kind of magical!

We all had a blast exploring the property and by the time we were done we were all worn out. If you go, go early and you won’t regret it!

Big Meadows Family Campground

That afternoon, we packed up and headed to Big Meadows Family Campground in Townsend, TN . I feel like this place is the definition of picturesque mountainside RV park.

Situated right around the corner from the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and right next to a river, it’s the perfect camping location. Unfortunately, because I planned our trip last minute, they only had one night available to us but it worked out great regardless.

For kids, they have a pirate ship play fort, swing set and tire sand box and splash pad. Lucas really enjoyed playing and making some friends on the playground. During warm weather it looks like a lot of people tube the river here but luckily it was way to cold for that.

Cade’s Cove

Day 5: Morning at Cade’s Cove then Moving Camp Sites to Pigeon Forge, TN

On day 5, we woke up early on day 5 and headed out to Cade’s Cove knowing we had to be out of our campsite by noon. We had debated bringing our bikes because we were told it was super bikable but it was only 45 degrees outside so we decided against that. We got to Cade’s Cove around 8ish and it was just starting to get traffic. Immediately, we realized there was no way we could have biked it with all the cars on the road, Lucas’ bike trailer and the steep hills.

If you have littles, just plan to do a drive through Cade’s Cove and make stops along the way.

Still Cade’s Cove was absolutely gorgeous via vehicle! We ended up only doing the 9 mile loop but we were able to stop at two of the cabins and ended up seeing 3 bears, wild turkeys and deer along the way. 2 bears scampered behind the cabins we were looking at and another crossed the road while we were driving. At the end of the loop, we did end up getting out at the stables to take a look at the horses which Lucas loved.

Camp Riverslanding

That afternoon, we packed up and headed to Camp Riverslanding in Pigeon Forge, TN, our final campsite before heading home. We were astonished at all the touristy craziness as we entered Pigeon Forge. It was obviously a tourist trap but Camp Riverslanding was really tucked away from all of that and proved to be a perfect last place to camp. Our site backed right up to the river that had ducks and geese just floating right by us. It was really peaceful and nice.

That afternoon, Lucas and I spent quite a bit of time playing and throwing rocks in the river even though the water was really cold.

Laurel Falls

Day 6 Morning: Hike Laurel Falls

On our final day at the park, we headed to the Great Smoky Mountains to do some hiking. We started the morning at Laurel Falls trail. It’s around a mile hike up a mountain to a gorgeous waterfall. Based on my research, I didn’t completely understand how steep of a climb it was going to be. Everyone just said it was good for toddlers. Thankfully, we brought my Lille Baby 6 in 1 carrier which was a life saver to carry Lucas! The whole trail was paved and so he was able to walk some of the way. Eventually Lucas got worn out on the steep incline and needed to be carried.

All in all, Laurel Falls provided some really pretty views and the water fall was spectacular but be prepared for a steep climb and good workout and bring a carrier for the littles.

Clingmans Dome

Day 6 Afternoon: Clingmans Dome

After getting back to the truck, we decided to continue into the park up to Clingmans Dome . The park had started to get really busy and we had to sit in quite a bit of traffic. It was about an hour scenic drive to Clingmans Dome and then we hit major traffic at the top of the mountain.

At Clingmans Dome, parking was limited and we sat for a good 20 minutes waiting. Once we got parked, we had another steep climb up to the top. Again, I was not educated on the steepness. The path was wide and paved but there’s no way Lucas could have climbed it on his own. Pushing his stroller was really hard going up and coming down.

The view from the top was super foggy as seen above. While it was pretty, if you have kids, I would just advise stopping at another of the many lookouts in the park that are closer.

Day 7: Head Home – Pigeon Forge to Jackson to Little Rock

On day 7, we left out super early and drove a total of 9 hours plus stops. About 5 hours in, we had to stop and let Lucas play for a bit. We luckily happened upon find North Park in Jackson, TN where we could easily park the camper.

Lucas enjoyed several hours of play on their massive super nice playground. After a walk through their trails, we drove to Memphis, where we stopped for dinner. Then another 2 hours, while Lucas slept, to Little Rock, AR. It was a really really long day and our longest drive of any one day we had made.

Day 8: Burns Park in Little Rock and Heading Home

The next morning we ventured over to Burns Park in Little Rock, A R for some energy burning before heading for home. The park has like 6 or 7 playgrounds and Lucas really enjoyed exploring most of them. We finally got back in the truck and made it home that afternoon. Very tired and kind of gross but having had a really good time and making a lot of memories!

Are you Planning a Road Trip?

If you’re planning a road trip to the Smokies, I hope this information and our experiences were helpful! I would love to hear how your trip goes or any questions you may have before you go! Just comment below and I’ll get back as soon as possible!

Like this Post? Pin it For Later!

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Distance between Dallas and Smoky Mountains

Driving non-stop from dallas to smoky mountains.

How far is Smoky Mountains from Dallas? Here's the quick answer if you have friends taking shifts as driver so that you can make the entire trip by car without stopping.

Nonstop drive: 908 miles or 1461 km

Driving time: 14 hours, 43 minutes

This is a really long drive, so it's not very realistic to drive nonstop. To get a better idea of how long this road trip would actually take, scroll down to calculate how many hours it would be if you drive with stops .

Flying non-stop from Dallas to Smoky Mountains

Now let's assume you have a private jet and you can fly in the fastest possible straight line between Dallas, Texas and Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Because of the curvature of the Earth, the shortest distance is actually the "great circle" distance, or "as the crow flies" which is calculated using an iterative Vincenty formula. For a long distance, this appears as a curve on the map, and this is often the route that commercial airlines will take so it's a good estimate of the frequent flyer miles you'll accumulate as well.

Flight distance: 789 miles or 1270 km

Flight time: 1 hour, 43 minutes

The straight line flight distance is 119 miles less than driving on roads, which means the driving distance is roughly 1.2x of the flight distance.

Your plane flies much faster than a car, so the flight time is about 1/7th of the time it would take to drive.

This is a medium length flight, so unless you have a nice private jet, you might be booking a commercial flight. In that case, your travel time would really need to include how many minutes to get to your local airport, wait for security, board and taxi on the runway, land at the other airport, and get to your destination. Scroll down to see a more realistic calculation that takes into account all these factors to get a more accurate estimate of your actual flight time .

Dallas to Smoky Mountains road trip

Let's say you're actually planning a road trip to Smoky Mountains, and you want to stop along the way to rest. If it's a real road trip, you might want to check out interesting stops along the way, eat at great restaurants, and maybe even find a hotel to stay overnight. That's what Trippy is perfect for, helping you figure out travel plans in detail.

Based on the length of this trip, we think you could spread out this fun road trip over more than one day.

Road trip: 2 days of driving

With the full itinerary planned out, we can estimate your total travel time for this trip.

Travel time: 17 hours on the road with 1 overnight

Start in Dallas .

Drive for about 2 hours , then stop in Mount Pleasant (Texas) and stay for about 1 hour. Next, drive for another 59 minutes then stop in Texarkana (Texas) and stay for 1 hour. Drive for 2.5 hours then stop in Little Rock and stay for 1 hour. Drive for 3 hours then stop in Tunica . Stay overnight. The next day, drive for about 2 hours , then stop in Jackson (Tennessee) and stay for about 1 hour. Next, drive for another 2 hours then stop in Nashville and stay for 4 hours. Drive for 2 hours then stop in Crossville and stay for 1 hour. Finally, drive for about 3 hours and arrive at Smoky Mountains .

Dallas to Smoky Mountains airports and flights

In the quick calculation above, we assumed you had a private plane and just wanted to know the time in the air from city to city. But for most of us, we're going to be flying on a commercial airline (whether it's first class or coach). So that means we really need to account for all the extra travel time getting to the airport, waiting for our flight, and making it to the destination.

To give you a better estimate of real-life travel, we've put together a flight itinerary with actual airports. Eventually you'll be able to customize this plan, choosing your own airports and flights. But for now, here's an example we've selected to give you an idea of how traveling might work between airports.

Departure airport: Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW)

Arrival airport: McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS)

With the airports selected, we can estimate the travel time to and from the airport, based on how far the airport is from downtown.

Getting to the airport: 49 minutes

Getting to your destination: 103 minutes

Now finally, let's look at an actual flight from DFW to TYS on American Airlines and figure out how long it would take to fly including take-off and landing, and time to taxi on the runway.

Commercial flight time: 2 hours, 3 minutes

So now we can finally get an idea of the total travel time from Dallas to Smoky Mountains including time spent getting to/from the airports, an estimated wait time of 2 hours at the airport for TSA security lines and waiting at the gate, and the actual flight itself.

Total travel time: 7 hours

Plan a trip to Smoky Mountains

Trippy has a ton of information that can help you plan your trip to Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Start by reading the Trippy page on where to stay in Smoky Mountains . Click the button below to explore Smoky Mountains in detail.

How far is it the other way?

The distance is the same either way if you're flying a straight line (or driving the same roads back and forth). But for a real trip, there can be plenty of differences so go ahead and check the reverse directions to get the distance from Smoky Mountains to Dallas , or go to the main page to calculate the distance between cities .

If you happen to know Dallas, don't forget to help other travelers and answer some questions about Dallas!

More info on this route: drive from Dallas to Smoky Mountains road conditions alternate routes Google driving directions

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Best Dallas to Smoky Mountains Road Trip Itinerary

A few years ago, we did a Dallas to the Smoky Mountains road trip at the beginning of June. It was our first trip to the Smoky Mountains National Park , one of the most popular national parks in the United States.

If you follow our road trips around the country, you will remember that we liked to make stops along the way. Sometimes we stay for an hour or half a day, and other times we spend a night or two. So it was on our road trip from Dallas to the Smoky Mountains.

Our Dallas to the Smoky Mountains road trip lasted seven days. I knew we should go on a ten-day trip, but our son had a summer camp a week later. We wanted him to rest before another one-week summer camp with the Boy Scouts.

I added two more days to spend at the Smokies in this itinerary. Three to four days are the ideal minimum days to spend at the park and nearby Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge. In my opinion.

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What to Prepare Before Dallas to Smoky Mountains Road Trip

– Get your America the Beautiful National Park Pass . While the Great Smoky Mountains National Park does not charge an entrance fee, there are places of interest on this trip where you will need the passes.

– Book hotels, campgrounds, or Airbnbs early because the Smokies is one of the most popular holiday destinations in the southern Appalachians.

– Watch for groceries discounts before your departure if you plan to cook meals during the trip. It is also perfect for buying snacks and treats. Usually, we do it in April. Look for the expiration dates.

Dallas to Smoky Mountains Road Trip Itinerary

If we google the driving directions from Dallas to the Smokeys, it will show 12 hours and 45 minutes of driving time. That’s without the stop. For road-tripper veterans like us, it is doable with leaving early in the morning, several pit-stops, and lunch on the road. But on this trip, we wanted to do other things and see new places.

When searching for things to do between Dallas and the Smokys, we found several stops we wanted to see. Vicksburg National Military Park in Mississippi, the U.S. Space & Rocket Center in Huntsville, Alabama, and Chattanooga in Tennessee were some of them. So, the 12 hours and 45 minutes Dallas to the Smoky Mountains drive stretched to a few days.  

Here’s my suggested itinerary for Dallas to Smokey Mountains road trip. Of course, you can adjust it to your preference for things to do or places to see.

Day 1 – Dallas to Vicksburg, Mississippi.

Approximately non-stop driving time: 5 hr. 15 min. You will go on I-20 E through Shreveport and Monroe in Louisiana.

Once you cross the Mississippi River from  Louisiana to Mississippi, stop at the Mississippi Welcome Center on the left. It’s the best place to get information on Vicksburg tourism and other parts of Mississippi. The view of the Mississippi River and Vicksburg Bridge from here is gorgeous.

After check-in at the hotel, go to Vicksburg Military National Park. Vicksburg is one of the most pivotal grounds during the Civil War. It’s a large park, and two days’ visits are not enough. Your first stop is the Visitor Center to pay your entrance fee. Or, use your America the Beautiful National Park passes.

Watch the exhibition and the movie in the Visitor Center before leaving for a self-guided tour in your vehicle. If you travel with children, take their Junior Ranger Program book. When your dog is with you, grab the B.A.R.K. ranger program . We had these two books for our son and our dog.

You will drive and stop at monuments and memorials that attract you. The park has more than 1,400 monuments, tablets, and markers.

From the park, go to the historic district of downtown Vicksburg. Have a stroll around town before dinner at one of the restaurants here. Historic downtown Vicksburg reminded me a little of the Old Town Alexandria in Virginia.

Accommodation: hotels in the historic district (Mulberry Vicksburg) or along I-20 E.

Day 2 – Vicksburg to Huntsville, Alabama.

Approximately non-stop driving time: 5 hr. 30 min. You will continue on I-20 E through Jackson, Mississippi, to Tuscaloosa and Birmingham in Alabama, where you turn to I-65 N.         

But first, go back to the National Military Park to visit USS Cairo & Museum.

Tuscaloosa is home to the Alabama Crimson Tide. If you are a fan of theirs, you might want to make a quick detour to the University of Alabama.

You will need a different visit to explore Birmingham. Or, add one more day to this Dallas to the Smoky Mountains road trip itinerary.

Arrive at Huntsville, check in at the hotel, and find a place to eat dinner.

Accommodation: Hotels near the Space & Rocket Center.

Day 3 – Huntsville, Alabama.

Today you will visit the U.S. Space & Rocket Center. If you bring a dog like us, arrive before they open to secure a space for your dog at their kennel service. You will need more than half a day here because you want to see and do everything they offer.

If you or your children are into space science, you will love this place. Otherwise, it’s a fun experience.

Then drive to downtown Huntsville. Enjoy your late afternoon visit and have dinner at one of the restaurants there.

Day 4 – Huntsville to Chattanooga, Tennessee.

Approximately non-stop driving time: 1 hr. 50 min. It is the fastest way to get to Chattanooga in a fun driving direction. You will get to Tennessee and go to Georgia before arriving at Chattanooga in Tennessee. Your destination is in a different time zone. 

I had planned three places to visit during this trip, and they were all outdoor, nature, and history related. When we entered Tennessee for the second time, there was a Visitor Center not too far from the state line. After talking with the attendant at the Visitor Center, we flipped our itinerary in the city.

The first stop in town is Point Park Battlefield at Lookout Mountain. It is the site of a Civil War battle signified as “The Battle Above The Clouds.” You will need your America the Beautiful National Park passes here.

Then drive to Oglethorpe, Georgia, to visit the Chickamauga National Military Park. Take the Car Caravan Tours to learn about the battle here. Admission to the park is free.

To end your visit to Chattanooga, go to Walnut Street Pedestrian Bridge. 

With this time frame, we could drive around downtown Chattanooga and visit the Chattanooga Choo Choo. It is a historical terminal that has welcomed passengers for decades. The train cars now turned into bars, hotel rooms, and an escape experience. You might want to spend a night here.

There are so many things to do in Chattanooga that it can be a final destination for a road trip in Tennessee. You can find the famous Ruby Falls and Rock City Gardens on your way to Point Park Battlefield. But these places are always packed with tourists during the high season. That’s why we opted for Point Park Battlefield, and the views from the top of Lookout Mountain are amazing.

Accommodation: Lots of hotels to choose from that fit your budget.

Day 5 – Chattanooga to the Smokys.

Approximately non-stop driving time: 3 hr. Google Maps showed three different driving directions with six to nine minutes longer from one direction to another. You can choose the first two, but don’t choose the one through Knoxville, Pigeon Forge, and Gatlinburg. There will be traffic. We chose the first exit because we didn’t want to stick in the traffic if any. Both directions will take you through Townsend Entrance to the Smokys.

You will drive through small towns and once you get to Townsend, stop at Townsend Visitors Center for some info and a restroom break.

On the way to the park, you will start to see the smoke above the park. Fog rose from the mountains’ vegetation and made an incredible view!

Today you will explore the Cades Cove area.

It is one of the most popular destinations in the Great Smokies. You will drive your vehicle, driving an 11-mile, one-way loop road that circles the cove. Expect traffic when you visit during the high season (summer and fall) and on weekends year-round.      

You will see churches, gristmills, barns, log houses, and other restored eighteen and nineteenth centuries structures. White-tailed deer, black bears, coyotes, turkeys, and other wildlife are frequent in the open field of Cades Cove. We had three black bears spotting during our visit, and it meant very long traffic. 

If able, I suggest you hike the 5-mile round-trip trail to Abram Falls.

Be aware that every Wednesday from early May to late September is a vehicle-free day in Cades Cove. It is open only to pedestrians and cyclists.

We went to Townsend for a late lunch at the Burger Master Drive-In. 

After meals, check in at your accommodation and have a rest.

Accommodation: Hotels in Townsend, Gatlinburg, or Pigeon Forge areas. I think staying in Townsend will be cheaper. You can also stay at Cades Cove campground. Wherever you will stay, you must book the accommodation early. This area is a favorite place for vacation.

Day 6 – The Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Spend all day in the Smokys. Lots of waterfalls and hiking trails for you to explore. Start early in the morning to beat the crowds at the first place you want to visit.

You may want to go to Clingmans Dome first. It is where you will see the spectacular 360 degrees views of the Smokies. If you are a morning person, go catch the sunrise here.

Then continue to Laurel Falls and Roaring Fork. If time permits, go to Deep Creek, too.

Day 7 – Gatlinburg/Pigeon Forge

Enjoy tourist attractions in both cities. I heard Dolly Parton’s Dollywood  is one of the best water parks.  

Day 8 – The Smokys to Oak Ridge, west of Knoxville

Approximately non-stop driving time: 1 hr. 30 min. Start your way home to Dallas. You will go through Knoxville. 

You will visit The Manhattan Project in Oak Ridge, west of Knoxville. It was the first and biggest of the three Manhattan Project sites built to produce the world’s first atomic weapons. Join the 3-hour behind-the-fence guided tour by the Department of Energy starting from the American Museum of Science & Energy.

After the guided tour, drive around to visit other historical places. Historic Jackson Square, Alexander Inn/Guest House, Chapel on the Hill, and Oak Ridge History Museum are some of them.

Don’t miss the International Friendship Bell. It is an 8,000-pound bronze bell cast in Japan, a testament to the hope for everlasting peace and goodwill in the world.

Accommodation: One of the hotels that fit your budget in Oak Ridge.

Day 9 – Oak Ridge to Hot Springs, Arkansas.

Approximately non-stop driving time: 8 hr. 15 min. The destination is in a different time zone. You will go on I-40 W through Memphis in Tennessee and Little Rock in Arkansas.

We didn’t stop in Memphis or Little Rock because we’d been to these two cities before.

You can spend a night in Memphis or Little Rock on this last night of this Dallas to the Smoky Mountains road trip. Our family prefers to stay closer to home. That way, we don’t have to drive long the next day.

Accommodation: Lots of hotels in Hot Springs. Choose one that fits your budget.

Day 10 – Hot Springs to Dallas.

Approximately non-stop driving time: 4 hr. 20 min. You will drive via I-30 W to Dallas.

Spend some time around downtown Hot Springs, and don’t forget to drive to Hot Springs Mountain Tower. Then visit Anthony Chapel.

Don’t forget to fill your water jugs with the hot springs water at the Hot Springs Jug Fountain. You can find it at the Hot Springs Visitor Center parking lot. It’s better to do it early in the morning to beat the crowd.

Once in Texas, you can make a quick detour to downtown Sulphur Springs to use the see-through restroom at the square.

I hope this Dallas to the Smoky Mountains road trip travel guide will help you make your trips to the Smoky Mountains unforgettable. A road trip from Dallas to the Smoky Mountains is worth it.    

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15 comments.

This Dallas to Smoky mountains road trip is filled with gems to The view of the Mississippi river from the Vicksburg bridge is awesome. The Space and Rocket center in Huntsville Alabama is a great place to explore for kids. I have been to the Great Smokies and visited a theme park in Gatlinburg. Gatlinburg is a beautiful downtown similar to Switzerland .I also enjoyed the nature trails in Cades Cove but I would also love to see the Rock City Gardens and famous Ruby Falls.And nothing compares to finish your trip with a visit to the Hot springs in Arkansas and soak in the benefits of mineral rich waters.

Great itinerary idea. We’d love to stop at Vicksburg and the Arkansas hot springs. I love them on any trip but especially when staying in a car for multiple days. It’s the perfect way to unwind along the way. Our plans for a road trip to the smoky mountains has just added two new stops.

This Dallas to Smoky Mountains guide is going to be extremely useful for a first timer like me. Starting off at Mississippi with view of the Mississippi River and Vicksburg Bridge sounds so appealing. I can feel the excitement.Your 10 day plans is dreamlike with so many interesting stops to recharge. Huntsville should be nice and would love to visit the Space & Rocket Center.

This detailed post is super helpful. We also love making stops when having a road trip. Will definitely make a stop in Huntsville. We have always wanted to visit the US Space and Rocket Center. I am pretty sure that my boys would be thrilled. Thank you for sharing this.

So fun to read your post, as we did a road trip last year to Gatlinburg and the Great Smokey Mountains National Park. We actually started in Savannah, GA and made our way through central Georgia, the corners of SC and NC, into TN through Great Smokey Mtns NP. I loved every bit of it, except maybe not Gatlinburg. It was a bit too touristy for me — same with Pigeon Forge. But, oh, the hiking in the National Park was amazing!

I found Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge were too touristy for me, too. I chose to spend more time in the Smokys.

Although I’ve read a few Dallas to Smoky Mountains road trip itineraries, this one is certainly the best. You get to travel to various amazing locations every day on your 10-day trip, which is a wonderful experience. I would adore traveling to Chattanooga. The US Space & Rocket Center seems intriguing and entertaining. I must say that the vacation as a whole was awesome!

We like to make stops on our way to the final destination. I think it’s one of the advantages of doing a road trip.

This sounds like a great road trip. I like that you didn’t drive more than 5 hours each day, and that was just in the first couple of days. You had plenty of time to explore. I agree with you, I would give the Smokey Mountains more time, especially if you want to explore more and do some hiking. It’s great that you told us about the traffic as well, and when different places have restrictions for cars. That is very helpful.

Your trip from Dallas to the Smoky Mountains is very inspirational. I love this idea and your itinerary, with exciting stops. Vicksburg Bridge and Vicksburg Military National Park seem exciting spots. I also want o take a photo of Chattanooga from Lookout Mountain. Also, Hot Springs, Arkansas, is on my bucket list.

Judging from your pictures, for me, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park would be the highlight of this roadtrip. And I do not know much about the civil war, apart from some basic knowledge, but I think a road trip like this would be a very good opportunity to learn more about it.

You are right, Natascha. I wasn’t born and studied in the U.S., so this trip was a learning opportunity for me.

While the entire trip sounds fun and so….American, I think I’d like the part from Cades Cove onwards best. Already the fact that there is a vehicle-free day in Cades Cove amazes me. Also, I’m deeply impressed by the wildlife – the bear seems to stand so close to you! The whole part in the Smokys sound absolutely amazing.

Yes! The Smokys is amazing! I want to revisit the park.

We sadly have not yet visited the Smoky Mountains National Park. It looks like the road trip from Dallas to the Smoky Mountains was great even before you hit the park. I love that you always find interesting stops to keep the family engaged on your road trips. Great to find active places for the kids to run off some energy when sitting all day. I may have to plan to visit the Cades Cove area when we finally get this planned. Love the tip about filling your water jug at the hot springs.

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10 Scenic Smoky Mountain Vacations To Add To Your Bucket List

• Head to Clingmans Dome for the best views of the Smoky Mountains. Be prepared for a steep half-mile hike to the observation tower at the summit.
• Take your family to Gatlinburg for a relaxing nature-filled vacation. Enjoy free attractions like Anakeesta Mountain and the Ober Gatlinburg Aerial Tram ride.
• Experience the beauty of the Smoky Mountains by camping in Cades Cove. Explore the one-way road, hike to stunning waterfalls, and enjoy picnics with sparkling river views.

The Smoky Mountain is one of the best mountain vacation spots in the United States . There are limitless places to visit in this area, depending on one's interest. The mountain showcases historic sites, old homesteads, communities, and parkways. There is no shortage of activities for travelers to entertain themselves, from hiking, picnicking, camping, and mountain biking, among others.

But the best thing about heading to the Smoky Mountains is that one will be surrounded by jaw-dropping views everywhere they turn. With mountain scenery and beautiful waterfalls, the only thing individuals should do is have their camera ready to capture the stunning views. Whether going for a solo trip or with family and friends, here are the 10 must-see picturesque views in the Smokies.

Take a Hiking Trip with Friends to Clingmans Dome

Clingmans Dome is the highest point of the Great Smoky Mountains, with an elevation of about 6,643 feet. No wonder Clingmans Dome Observation Tower gives the best views of the Smoky Mountains National Park. Visitors who Hike Clingmans Dome to the Observation Tower at the summit are rewarded with 360-degree views of the Smokies. However, getting here is a task. One must hike the steep half-mile walk from the parking to the tower at the summit. During this short hike, travelers gain an elevation of 332 feet. Several benches are on the way for those who want some rest.

• Location: Clingmans Dome Rd
• Charges: No entrance fee

Related: Hiking Guide: Best Trails In Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Take Kids to a Fall Festival in the Mountains

There are many fall foliage festivals happening in this region of the Great Smoky Mountains, giving travelers countless options. The Fall Festival at Ober Mountain, previously called Oktoberfest, will be happening until October 28. Visitors can use this chance to enjoy delicious meals, giant pumpkin carvings, and live music. The Wears Valley Fall Fest is another event that will be happening from October 20 to 22 and features many interactive activities for people of all ages.

• Popular towns and cities near Gatlinburg, Pigeon, Cherokee, Bryson City
• Things to do: Attend the Oktoberfest celebration in Townsend, TN, or the Autumn Jubilee in Bakersville, NC. These feature live music, crafts, food, and fall activities.

Confirm the dates and the time.

Take a Road Trip to the Morton Overlook

Watching the sunset is a romantic and relaxing experience, and one of the best places to watch the sunset in the Smoky Mountains is from the Morton Overlook. This scenic roadside overlook takes one to approximately 5,048 feet above sea level and rewards them with views of North Carolina and Tennessee. One can see Pigeon Forge's and Gatlinburg's lights when nights are clear.

• Location: US 441
• Things to do/see: Chimney Picnics Area, Sugarlands Distilling Company, Ole Smoky

Have a Family Retreat at Gatlinburg

One of the best destinations for a relaxing, nature-filled vacation , Gatlinburg is a great place for spending time with kids. The town is suited for big adventures and offers many free things one can enjoy during their visit . Travelers can reach the summit of Anakeesta Mountain in a unique chondola or walk Skybridge, the longest pedestrian walk in North America. Also, visitors can enjoy the Ober Gatlinburg Aeria Tram ride and have some fun in the mountains. Families, couples, and friends flood this town for its limitless opportunities.

• Address: Tennessee 37738
• Must-see attractions: Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies, Gatlin's Mini Golf, Fannie Farkle's

Related: See Breathtaking Landscapes On Gatlinburg's 10 Most Scenic Drives

Enjoy a Camping Trip at Cades Cove Campgrounds

Driving through Cades Cove is one of the amazing things to do in the Great Smokies , but with abundant wild animals, historic structures, beautiful elevated valleys, and sweeping meadows, it is also a great place to camp. It has incredible surroundings where individuals can walk, ride a bike, or drive around the one-way road measuring 11 miles at a leisurely pace. Travelers are allowed to hike the stunning waterfalls and mountain peaks. Stop to check barns, old churches, and a grist mill along the way. When tired, set up a picnic and enjoy the views of the sparkling river, and when darkness strikes, head to the campgrounds and book a campsite at $25 per night.

• Location: Cades Cove Loop Rd
• Charges : The loop is free, but parking is $5 for those stopping for more than 15 minutes : Sunrise to sunset
• Things to see/do: farmhouses, corn cribs, churches

Have a Family Mountain Getaway at the Pigeon Forge

The famed Pigeon Forge is a classic tourist destination and one of the most visited places in Tennessee. It is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, offering an array of activities. From zip lining, horseback riding, fishing, and bird watching, guests are unlikely to run out of things to do. Guests are welcome to try all these and so much more. The picturesque area gives travelers a perfect backdrop for exploring and relaxing. There are also festivals and events that happen throughout the year. Families can indulge in these celebrations and enjoy music and good food.

• Location: Pigeon Forge, TN 37863
• Top attractions : Dollywood, Titanic Museum Attraction, The Island in Pigeon Forge

Plan a Mountain Lake Vacation

Right outside the Smoky Mountains are many lakes ready to be photographed. Exploring them is a chance to enjoy incredible mountain views, boating, swimming, and other outdoor entertainment. Douglas Lake serves visitors with stunning views of the mountains. Here, guests can engage in kayaking, fishing, and boating. Also, there are various cabins to rent for those who want to extend their trip. Other lakes nearby are Lake Junaluska, Tellico Lake, and Lake Santeetlah.

Things to do: Hiking, boating, fishing, swimming, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding

Advise on where to stay: cabins, lodges, campgrounds. Recommend ones on or near the lake for best access.

Look for lakes that aren't too far from the mountains.

Take a Day Trip with Kids at Anakeesta, an Aerial Adventure Park

For those who want to spend the whole day enjoying panoramic views of the Smoky Mountains, Anakeesta is the place to go. There are incredible mountain vistas and various activities to better one's sightseeing experience. One can ride a chondola (a chairlift and gondola) to Firefly Village, which has restaurants, shops, and seating at the mountaintop. Also, enjoy the Treetop Skywalk or walk through the vista gardens. Or climb to the top of AnaVista Tower to enjoy 360 degrees of the surrounding scenes and watch as the sun sets over the mountains.

• Location: 576 Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN 37738
• Hours: 9 am to 8 pm
• Charges : $19.99 for children, $32.99 for adults

Related: Discover The Beauty Of Smoky Mountains National Park In April On These Hikes

Embark on a Camping Trip in Elkmont Ghost Town

Elkmont Ghost Town allows tourists to walk through. It was once a logging camp that quickly became a vacation spot for wealthy families from Knoxville. Tourists usually come here to check out the abandoned buildings and hike the Elkmont Nature Trail. Those who want to explore the area further prefer to camp at the Elkmont Campground, which offers several campsites and allows RV camping.

• Address: TN, TN 37160
• Top attractions: Elkmont Troll Bridge, Dollywood Rainforest
• Camping charges: $30 per night

Take an Afternoon Road Trip Along the Newfound Gap

One of the best scenic drives in the Smoky Mountains is along the Newfound Gap. It is the lowest pass travelers can drive through the park, offering plenty of space to stop, stretch, and soak in nature. The stunning views allow tourists to see this area's mountain peaks, valleys, and rivers. Take this chance to visit the Rockefeller Memorial, a stone structure built to honor the $5 million donation from John D. Rockefeller as a tribute to his wife, who helped in creating the national park.

• Distance: 31 miles
• Best stops: Campbell Overlook, Newfound Gap Overlook, Clingmans Dome Tower

United flights to Great Smoky Mountains National Park

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Ridge upon ridge of forest straddles the border between North Carolina and Tennessee in Great Smoky Mountains National Park. This is America's most visited national park, world renowned for its diversity of plant and animal life, the beauty of its ancient mountains and the quality of its remnants of Southern Appalachian mountain culture.

Getting there: Knoxville airport to Cades Cove Visitor Center is 37.4 driving miles.

Overnight trip to the Smokies? Go old-school camping or check out these glamping options

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a bucket list for many, as evidenced by the 13.3 million visitors to the park in 2023.

Those who live nearby get to visit more often, of course. But if you want to make more than a day trip out of your time in the Smokies, it's easy to fall prey to the tried and true when it comes to your accommodations.

Knox News has compiled a handy list of places to stay in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge ranked by budget and pet-friendliness and frequently highlights new hotels or inns of special distinction .

But if you want to commune a little more with nature when you're visiting one of the top parks in the United States, there are a variety of camping and glamping options for you to try. Check out these picks from Afar travel website to get you started.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park campers can choose from multitude of sites

• Cades Cove: Everyone knows that Cades Cove is a top place to see wildlife in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, which means the 11-mile loop can be gridlock all summer long. Instead of sitting and stewing in your car, why not camp?  Cades Cove  campground offers 161 total sites, RV and trailer parking, and modern conveniences like flush toilets and potable water (no hookups or showers, though). A site at Cades Cove, which is open year-round, can be reserved  online  for $30 per site per night.
• Elkmont : Elkmont , the largest and busiest campground in Great Smoky Mountains National Park, was first settled in the 1840s, then became a destination for wealthy travelers a century later. Restored structures are open for tours and 200 mixed tent and RV campsites are available. A site can be reserved  online  for a $30 fee per site per night.
• Deep Creek : On the North Carolina side of park near Bryson City,   Deep Creek  campground is home to its fair share of water features, from trickling streams to flowing waterfalls and a creek that welcomes anglers. The campground’s 92 sites are open seasonally for tents and RVs and include flush toilets and potable water. Year-round, visitors can enjoy mountain biking, fishing and waterfall chasing.

Glamping means enjoying nature in style

• Nestled just nine miles from the Great Smoky Mountains National Park’s northern Sugarlands entrance,  Under Canvas  is ideal for luxury travelers, Afar's website says. Inside safari-style tents, you'll find bathrooms, king beds, West Elm furnishings and wood-burning stoves. Let the lodge’s on-staff concierge book adventures like zip-lining and whitewater rafting during the day, then finish out your night with complimentary campfire s’mores .
• You have your choice of tent sites, yurts and actual cabins at Roamstead , as well as a vintage Airstream. Roamstead is nestled between the Cosby and Greenbrier entrances of the park and boasts a heated saltwater pool and spa-like bathhouse.
• Little Arrow Outdoor Resort  in Townsend also offers a range of accommodations that include glamping tents, tiny homes and Airstreams. Outdoor amenities include a dog park, playground and shared fire pits.
• Smoky Hollow Outdoor Resort i s a glampgound in Townsend that features Sioux-style tipis with plush king-sized beds, heating and air conditioning, as well as a Keurig, mini fridge and microwave. You can also try sleeping settler-style in their Conestoga covered wagons.
• How about glamping in a geodesic dome? Check out GLAMP X Stay Minty , with eight unique domes outside Cosby. Each has full kitchens, dishwashers, large refrigerators, mini-split air conditioners, private bathrooms and cozy beds. 

Liz Kellar is a Tennessee Connect reporter. Email  [email protected] .  

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