Stay on marked trails, take only pictures, pack out your trash, and be considerate of others who share the trails and parks you explore. Previously called Silver Dollar City, the park was renamed when Dolly Parton bought an interest in it because she "wanted to come back to [her] part of the country and do something great." One of the national park hikes leading to Mount LeConte, Trillium Gap Trail has some beautiful scenery along the way, including the feathery soft cascades of Grotto Falls. Check on trips offered by Nantahala Outdoor Center (NOC) in Gatlinburg. If you've never played an escape room before we recommend the fan favorite Gold Rush, a treasure hunt themed room. The 11,000 gallons of flowing water is a refresshing 50-60 degrees and leads down into a cool eight foot deep pool. And the comforts of Smoky Mountain cabin rentals offer rest and relaxation after a day of fun. Looking for things to do on a hot day? Broken Arrow Antiques. During the fall, hikers are treated to spectacular views of the changing leaves. The all day menu is to die for, and the kids will have a blast. The University of Tennessee Gardens are the official botanical gardens of the state of Tennessee. There are 12 Appalachian Trail shelters within the park, starting at Mollies Ridge near Fontana Dam and ending at Davenport Gap, exiting the park in the northeast. It is a 23-mile scenic drive from Gatlinburg to Clingmans Dome. In that case, check out the many backcountry campsites in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. This two-lane thoroughfare crosses high crests, plunges into deep forested valleys, and connects Great Smoky Mountains National Park with Shenandoah National Park. The Townsend Wye is a popular destination for swimming and water recreation in the Smokies. 2. The annual night race at Bristol is considered one of NASCAR's top 10, and it can be tough to attain tickets. Day-hikes on the Appalachian Trail do not require permits, but thru-hikers and backcountry campers in GSMNP will need permits. Great Smoky Mountains National Park, TN and NC Great Smoky Mountains | Photo Copyright: Colin J. McMechan Highlights: More than 900 miles of hiking and Even if you don't want to get in the water, we recommend stopping for a photo op. Rutherford Farms is located in Maryville, Tennessee just a short drive from the Smoky Mountains. 2023 Visit My Smokies, The ONLY site you need to plan your Smoky Mountain vacation, is a website owned and operated by Sevier County, Tennessee. The annual Great Smoky Mountain Wildflower Pilgrimage is about more than just flowers. Located near the Townsend TN entrance, the caverns actually originate at the White Oak Sinks inside the park. Viewing Their highly skilled pilots offer a variety of different tours for reasonable prices. Foxfire Adventure Park is home to the 360 foot Swinging Bridge to Prosperity, among many other exciting activities. The guides will show you everything you need to know, including fishing techniques, top locations for fishing and more. 700 S Hall of Fame Dr, Knoxville, TN 37915. The highest point of the Skyway is 5,390 feet. All are staged to represent the era they originally occupied. It's easy to plan a relaxing escape or holiday getaway to this place. This is not something that happens all over the world. In 2001, 52 Elk were released there, and the herd (now at 200+ animals) is regularly seen in the valley. Davy Crockett was more than just a guy wearing a raccoon on his head; he was a politician, a soldier and a pioneer. Dollywood now hosts 3 million guests annually. If you've never been antiquing, don't knock it 'til you try it! All along this paved, windy corridor, there are spots for you to safely stop alongside Little River. So campers are advised take every precaution to avoid dangerous interactions. The Smokies are as mythical as the blue haze that adds splendor to its mountain peaks. After visiting North Carolina for the first time, Senior Writer Jonathon Engels and wife Emma spent 2 years exploring Western NC in search of a homestead property. Some of the most popular trails and waterfalls are accessed from this road. The location also offers a shop, caf, a gem mine, and the opportunity to watch glass blowing. Resorts. Shelter assumes many forms when visiting the Smoky Mountains but camping probably comes first to mind for most folks. Don't forget to do your research! Top hiking trails in the area include the Boogerman Trail and the Little Cataloochee Trail. Flowers bloom all year long. Each garden is open in all seasons and are completely free to explore. The llamas are friendly and will carry any gear you bring along. From July 11 to 22, 2023, get ready for the annual Fun Fest event in downtown Kingsport, Tennessee. Some visitors like to retreat into the hills for primitive sleepovers on the Appalachian Trail. This beautiful location in Knoxville, Tennessee offers something for every kind of lover of the outdoors. This scenery inspires daydreams, but your mountain-high reverie ends when the thrills begin: The icy splash aboard an Ocoee River white water raft washes your face; the exhilarating climb up Mount LeConte leaves you breathless; the sudden rush descending the Wild Eagle ride at Dollywood makes you scream. 131 Island Drive, Suite 9139, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863. Carver's Orchard & Applehouse Restaurant is a treasure on the Cosby side of the Smoky Mountains. They have a fully stocked pond and all the gear and bait you need to catch your very own trout. Old State Hwy 73 Scenic, Gatlinburg, TN 37738. 25 of 32. More than 11 million visitors come to Smoky Mountains every year to enjoy the scenic beauty of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, have fun at the Dollywood theme park and other action-packed family attractions, shop in designer outlet malls and indulge in the many restaurants. They take appointments for picking, so stop by and bring some Tennessee fruits and veggies home on your next trip. Take a ride on the Great Smoky Mountain Wheel to see breathtaking views of Pigeon Forge and the Smoky Mountains, enjoy a performance of water dance and light from The Island Show Fountain, or dine at one of the popular restaurants here, There are 6 levels of rapids in the area with something for beginners and experienced rafters. Expect a warm family welcome from cheerful staff, including the President and CEO who might be helping to keep the park clean and tidy. Highlights: 13 historic buildings that reflect pioneer life in the Smokies. More than 70 vacation cottages were built in the area. There are also a number of greathiking trails accessible from it, including the Goldmine Loop and the Lakeshore Trail. Lilly Bluff Overlook, Ridge Rd, Lancing, TN 37770, USA. 576 Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN 37738, USA. Around 72 miles of the AT are located within the park, taking hikers through the deep wilderness as well as to some of the parks major attractions. A true staple of Sevierville, the Applewood Farmhouse Restaurant has been proudly serving their loyal patrons In the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains you'll find this luxury hotel situated on 4,200 acres of gorgeous sweeping land. Nearby on the Pigeon Forge parkway, you'll find America's first vertical wind tunnel. There are also plenty of shops and restaurants to enjoy in the town. The Y is located right next to the GSMNP entrance in Townsend. The Appalachian Trail actually goes right over the Fontana Dam, and thepopular lake is open to boating, fishing, and other aquatic activities. Plan your visit Facebook Kingsport Fun Fest. READ MORE:Camping in Nantahala National Forest (Campgrounds & Backcountry). Laurel Falls, Rainbow Falls, Grotto Falls, Abrams Falls, and Twin Falls are the best of the hiking trails with waterfalls. The Village Shops in downtown Gatlinburg are a great place to go shopping. READ MORE:The 10 Best Bryson City Restaurants for Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner. Hike the trails to idyllic waterfall settings. There are several large, fully developed campgrounds in the park, including Cades Cove, Cosby, Deep Creek, Elkmont, Look Rock, and Smokemont. To get to the top, you ride The Chondola .its a chair/gondola like youd take when skiing. For that reason we've put together a list of the top 100 things to do in the Smoky Mountains area from east Tennessee, middle North Carolina, and even southern Virginia. Step out of your comfort zone and try to hit the target and score the most points. For a picnic lunch, consider Metcalf Bottoms Picnic Pavilion, which provides riverside parking, picnic tables, and restrooms. Life jackets are highly encouraged and parents are reminded to watch children closely while they swim. What about climbing a cliff, walking on a swing bridge, or soaring down a hillside zipline? Please note: Your is unable to help with transactions or vacation planning at this time. Bush's Visitor Center is where the legacy of the Bush's brand began. Zip lines are safe, fun and great for visitors looking for a new experience. WebNational Park Things To Do Smoky Mountain Guides Fly Fishing Cades Cove Loop: A Scenic Mountain Valley Drive View The Amazing Synchronous Fireflies In The Smoky Mountains Mingo Falls, near the park's Oconaluftee Visitor Center, and Bald River Falls, in Cherokee National Forest south of Tellico Plains, are as accessible as they are outstanding. It is renowned for its biological diversity and its historic structures. Music from Smoky Mountain Tunes and Tales will fill the Gatlinburg streets. The caverns get nearly 10,000 visitors a year, and have been open to the public since 1953 (with a short stint in 1931 that ended due to the Great Depression). Most visitors come to the Smokies to follow some of the park's 900 miles of trails on foot, on a bike, or on a motorized set of wheels. Web Visit website. Cades Cove Loop Road near Townsend draws visitors who like to experience nature and scenic views within the relaxed comfort of their vehicle. The Rocky Top Wine Trail is a five-stop journey through the Great Smoky Mountains. Tubers can float down the rapids of Deep Creek, past the waterfalls, and back to the rental office. Along your chosen route you might see waterfalls, massive caves, incredible views, mountain streams, and even some llamas. Famed for being the greatest sight under the Smokies, Tuckaleechee Caverns boasts the distinction of being accessed from outside Great Smoky Mountains National Park, but burrowing in below it. The Visitor Center is the newest of the GSMNP collection and offers park information, restrooms, souvenirs, and historical exhibits. Enjoy a generous scoop of your favorite flavor and head down the road a bit further to see the astounding views of the mountains behind Douglas Lake. The area is surrounded by shops, restaurants, and food trucks for you to enjoy as well. The Sinks is a picturesque spot in the Smoky Mountains where the river turns and creates natural, crystal clear pools with a waterfall near by. READ MORE: Fall in North Carolina: 20 Great Places to See Fall Colors in NC. This unique attraction has all kinds of wonders inside: a ropes course, laser tag, and all sorts of brain stimulating activities great for younger children especially. Since the 1982 World's Fair the structure has stood tall as a symbol for the city; you've likely seen it on postcards, advertisements, and even in a couple famous TV shows. Following up the Middle Prong Little River, the auto tour passes enchanting river scenes. Some of the most popular hikes are Charlies Bunion, Alum Cave Bluffs, Andrews Bald, Rainbow Falls, and Chimney Tops. Stop by this adorable ice cream shop about 5 miles off Winfield Dunn Parkway. A Wondrous Diversity of Life. There are a handful of places in the country to learn about the history of the area via a spooky ghost tour, but two of the best spots to do it are Gatlinburg, TN and Asheville, NC. WebOutdoor enthusiasts can enjoy hiking and biking trails, fishing in the river, and exploring the majestic mountains. If you're walking around in the Village you won't be able to resist the wafting aromas of fresh doughnuts, cinnamon bread and pastries. Cataloochee is part of a Great Smoky Mountains National Park project to reintroduce Elk to the region. Its controlled by the Tennessee Valley Authority, and bordered by the Nantahala National Forest. Soaky Mountain Waterpark is a 50 acre playground with all the classic wet and wild activies you look for in a waterpark: a wave pool, lazy river, state-of-the-art waterslides, and even the Avalaunch, a first of its kind watercoaster. READ MORE: The 15 Best Blue Ridge Parkway Hotels & Cabin Rentals in NC & VA. Like Cades Cove, the Cataloochee Valleyfeatures a fantastic collection of historical structures and great open meadows for spotting the parks diverse wildlife. Kyker Farms offers all kinds of fun activities for the autumn season. Broken Arrow Antiques is a shop for people who looking to be in an antique store filled with different things. Start at Clingmans Dome and head for Forney Ridge Trail for 1.8 miles to reach the magnificent views and flame azaleas. Norris Lake is a beautiful body of water located north of Knoxville, Tennessee. Its Vendors are competing for the People's Choice award, Best Booth Presentation and more. Ten If you're staying in a Smoky Mountain cabin, odds are that you won't have to look far to find a unique little antique shop. The glow of light returns when artful shadows are cast by the setting sun. The farm also boasts a candy store and farm restaurant that serves home-cooked favorites catfish, pinto beans and country fried steak. The city will offer Bush's Chili Beans puts on the event, where festival-goers can sample chili from many of the area's restaurants. Do some research on hydrobiking! 1400 Patten Road, Lookout Mountain, GA 30750, If you've driven around in the Smokies, odds are you've seen some See Rock City painted rooftops. Anyone can enjoy the relaxation of floating down a river, and there's nowhere better to go tubing in Townsend than at Smoky Mountain River Rat. Roaring Fork is the name of the stream that you will see during your drive. The Oconaluftee Visitor Center and Mountain Farm Museum are located a couple of miles from the town of Cherokee NC, along the banks of the Oconaluftee River. Designed for fun and entertainment, it is surrounded by the beauty of the Smoky Mountains. This 200 foot observation wheel is not only an iconic sight, but also one of the coolest ways to catch beautiful views of the Smokies. The Dark Island Swinging Bridge is tucked behind the Litle River Railroad and Lumber Museum in Townsend, TN. After summer, shoulder season is the next best time to visit the Great Smoky Mountains. 2700 Dollywood Parks Blvd, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863. The 8 mile roundtrip hike to Charlies Bunion via the Appalachian Trail is certainly not the easiest hike in the national park, but the destination is worth it. The trailhead for the Chimney Tops Trail is located along Newfound Gap Road, about 7 miles from the Sugarlands Visitor Center. Browse cabins with pet friendly policies. Visiting Clingmans Dome. Facebook Kingsport Fun Fest. Set on 150 acres, Dollywood packs fun and activity into a magical Smoky Mountain hollow. Travelers favorites include #1 Great Smoky Mountains National Park, #2 Mountain Moonshine Tastings and more. The Dam was built during World War II to be an electric power source for the war. Each season of the year puts on a different show for hikers so there's always something to enjoy. Cades Cove is an 11-mile road that circles a lush, fertile valley. Max Patch is one of the most popular places in the region to catch a sunrise or sunset. During sunrises with good visibility, professional photographers rub elbows with tourists shooting selfies on this rooftop of the Appalachians. Pictured: The ramp to Clingmans Dome in the national park (photo by Marie Graichen/TheSmokies.com) You'll find exhibits that delve into the profiles of our country's most notorious criminals, the mysteries surrounding them, and more than 100 interactive activities. Guests enjoy amenities like a huge outdoor pool, hot tub, a modern bath house, playground, fitness room and WiFi in the lounge. Highlights: Tasty food, amusement park rides, museums, and souvenir shops. Some hikes lead to a waterfall, many cross a meandering creek, and all feature rolling hills, peaceful meadows or treed ravines. The best time to visit the Great Smoky Mountains is in the summer, which includes June, July, and August. Hillbilly Golf, voted best mini golf in the area more than once, is the world's most unusual golf course. Modern RV campgrounds near gateways to the park are plentiful, family friendly, and have conveniences that will meet or exceed your expectations. Today there are plenty of distilleries scattered around our mountain towns. Things To Do. Newfound Gap Overlook is centrally located in the national park, around 15 miles from both the Sugarlands Visitor Center (near Gatlinburg) and Oconaluftee Visitor Center (near Cherokee). You'll find solitude and relaxation right around the corner from all the action-packed fun you could desire. Families will love spending time at Dollywood, Ripleys Aquarium of the Smokies, and The Island in Pigeon Forge. Around the center, youll find several nice walking paths and trails, including access to Cataract Falls, the Fighting Creek Nature Trail, and the Gatlinburg Trail. If you've ever wanted to fish in the Smokies but didn't know where to start, taking a guided trip with their team is a great way to start. If you've ever been on the Pigeon Forge parkway, there's no doubt you've spotted the upside down mansion. The auto tour ends at a parking lot. It's a free opportunity to enjoy tubing and swimming during the summer. Brushy Mountain State Penitentiary was a maximum security prison from 1896 to 2009 that held some notable convicts, such as Martin Luther King Jr's assassin, James Earl Ray. Join a small group and traverse through the lush landscapes to discover several streams, cascades, and creeks. From July 11 to 22, 2023, get ready for the Rock City is an incredible rock garden located just 6 miles from downtown Chatanooga, TN. Foxfire Adventure Park in Sevierville is designed to take mountaintop experiences to new heights. TIME TO SPEND. Fans of the Tennessee Vols might know a little something about the history of The Gatlinburg Inn: it was the location where the song Rocky Top was written in 1967 by Felice and Boudleaux Bryant. Listed in the Guiness Book of World Records, The Lost Sea in Sweetwater, Tennessee is the country's largest underground lake. Highlight: Adrenaline-pumping rafting adventures through white water rapids. Tours for the whole family combine ziplining with opportunities to learn rock climbing, walk over roped skybridges, and wander trails in Foxfire's lush forest. Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies is an award-winning aquarium that immerses you in the underwater world of oceans, lakes, and rivers. The vantage point showcases stunning rock formations, dense forests, and the majestic Cumberland River winding through the landscape below. IJAMS also hosts lots of events, camps and programs. Although you might feel isolated in a remote place or get out of cell range while visiting Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the conveniences are never far away. Many of the best Smoky Mountainsattractions are located within the parks boundaries, and many of the most popular things to do in the Smoky Mountains involve exploring its magical landscape.