Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a natural paradise that straddles the border between North Carolina and Tennessee with stunning mountain landscapes, lush forests, diverse wildlife and a rich cultural heritage.

This park offers an unforgettable vacation experience for nature enthusiasts, adventure seekers and history buffs alike.

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Great Smoky Mountains National Park is situated in the southern Appalachian Mountains, predominantly in Tennessee but extending into North Carolina as well.

Bryson City

Known for being a small touristy mountain town – travelers from both Tennessee and North Carolina often flock here to visit. This is a great place to have a meal, buy supplies or fuel up before heading into the park.

Bryson City attractions

The Great Smoky Mountains Railroad

Offering various train rides through different parts of the park, this is one of the best ways to view the park during colder or rainy weather. Book your tickets in advance. The on-site Mountain Trains Museum provides a nice stop for refreshments and souvenirs (especially if you’re a fan of classic toy train sets).

The Road to Nowhere

Bryson City is also home to The Road to Nowhere. If you’re an American history buff this story and experience will thrill you. Pro tip: the tunnel is dark and damp so come prepared.

The road is a 6-mile winding road weaving through the National Forest. See a map of the trails.

Things to do in Great Smoky Mountains National Park

The park is renowned for its scenic beauty, particularly the mist-shrouded peaks and verdant forests that stretch as far as the eye can see. As a visitor, you'll have numerous opportunities to immerse yourself in nature and enjoy a wide range of outdoor activities.

Hiking

Lace up your boots and explore over 800 miles (1,287 kilometers) of well-maintained hiking trails. From short walks to multi-day backpacking adventures, there's a trail for every skill level. Popular trails in North Carolina include:

The Alum Cave Trail - Enjoy the sound of mountain streams along this trail that is 4.6 miles roundtrip. It will take you to the Alum Cave Bluffs and the Arch Rock. Note that when you pass the rock it will get more steep.

The Chimney Tops Trail - This trail will take you 3.5 miles roundtrip for a view of the natoinal park. Note that it does have steep inclines, a few early bridge crossings and stone stairs.

Kephart Prong Trail - This is a good hiking option for children. The hike will go two miles to the trail shelter, with four log bridges crossing the creek along the path. While the first two log bridges are easier to cross, the last two are much more challenging. 

Before you head out to any trail, check the National Park Service website for updates on closures.

Scenic Drive: Cades Cove

Take a leisurely drive along the park's scenic byways, such as the Newfound Gap Road or the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail. These routes offer stunning vistas of mountains, valleys, and lush forests, with plenty of pull-offs for photo opportunities. Check the park’s website in advance for any closures due to weather or maintenance.

Explore the historic Cades Cove, a picturesque valley with preserved 19th-century homesteads, churches, and a working gristmill. Drive or bike along the Cades Cove Loop Road, or opt for a guided horseback ride to soak up the area's history.

Note that Cades Cove is vehicle-free on Wednesdays for part of the year. This year those dates are from June 18 to Sept. 24, 2025. 

Pro tip: This loop can become quickly congested at any time of the day. Plan your visit when you have several hours available.

Discover waterfalls

Discover the park's amazing waterfalls – a hike may be involved but the view will be worth it. The park is home to iconic Mingo Falls and Ramsey Cascades. These natural wonders provide tranquil spots for picnicking, photography, and reflection.

Additional tips for your visit to Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Weather: Be prepared for changing weather conditions, as the Great Smoky Mountains experiences distinct seasons. Layers are best along with plenty of water and snacks.

Traffic: Yes, traffic is a very real problem in Great Smoky National Mountains Park. Plan your trip for early in the morning or later on towards the evening. It’s not uncommon to sit at an entry or exit entrance for up to an hour. Of course this depends on the season, and time of week/day.

Camping and Lodging: The park offers several campgrounds and lodging options, ranging from rustic campsites to comfortable cabins. Consider making reservations in advance, especially during peak seasons.

Ranger Programs: Participate in ranger-led programs and guided hikes to learn more about the park's natural and cultural history. These programs provide valuable insights and enhance your overall experience. Contact the park well in advance to learn more about this opportunity.