Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Explore the Great Smoky Mountains
Just a short drive from Pigeon Forge, Great Smoky Mountains National Park offers a completely different side of the Smokies. Mountain roads, rushing streams, historic buildings, wildlife, waterfalls, and hiking trails make the park one of the most memorable parts of any Smoky Mountain vacation.
Whether you're visiting for a scenic drive, an easy family hike, wildlife viewing, or a challenging mountain adventure, there's plenty to explore.
Must-See Sights & Scenic Drives
Cades Cove Loop Road
Cades Cove is one of the park's most popular destinations. The 11-mile one-way loop passes through an open mountain valley surrounded by peaks and offers opportunities to see historic buildings, churches, mountain scenery, and wildlife.
Allow plenty of time for the drive because traffic can be slow and visitors frequently stop to explore overlooks, historic sites, and wildlife areas.
Seasonal Tip: Cades Cove has scheduled periods when the loop is closed to motor vehicles for pedestrians and cyclists. Check the current National Park Service schedule before visiting.
Kuwohi
Formerly known as Clingmans Dome, Kuwohi is the highest point in Great Smoky Mountains National Park and Tennessee.
A paved but steep trail leads from the parking area to the observation tower, where visitors can enjoy expansive views across the surrounding mountains when conditions are clear.
Weather can change quickly at this elevation, so bring an extra layer even during warmer months.
Newfound Gap Road
US-441, also known as Newfound Gap Road, crosses the park between Tennessee and North Carolina.
The scenic route climbs through different forest environments and includes numerous overlooks and pull-offs. It's one of the best ways to experience the changing landscape of the Smokies without committing to a long hike.
Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail
This scenic one-way loop follows mountain streams through forested terrain and passes historic homes, cabins, and other remnants of the area's early settlements.
The road also provides access to several hiking opportunities, including the trail to Grotto Falls.
Before You Go: Seasonal road closures are possible throughout the park. Check current road conditions before setting out.
Popular Waterfalls & Hiking Trails
Laurel Falls
The Laurel Falls Trail is one of the best-known hikes in the park. The paved trail leads to a waterfall surrounded by mountain forest.
Because of its popularity, parking and trail conditions can be challenging during busy periods. Check current trail information before visiting.
Alum Cave Trail
The Alum Cave Trail offers a more challenging mountain hiking experience with distinctive geological features along the route.
Arch Rock and Alum Cave Bluffs are among the highlights. Hikers continuing toward Mount LeConte should be prepared for a significantly longer and more strenuous journey.
Abrams Falls
Located along the Cades Cove area, the trail to Abrams Falls passes through forest before reaching one of the park's most recognizable waterfalls.
The hike is moderately challenging, so bring appropriate footwear and plenty of water.
Grotto Falls
Grotto Falls is reached from the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail. The hike passes through a forested landscape before reaching the waterfall.
One of the trail's unique features is the ability to walk behind the waterfall.
Andrews Bald
Andrews Bald can be reached from the Forney Ridge Trail near Kuwohi. The high-elevation destination offers expansive mountain views and is especially known for its seasonal wildflower displays.
Weather at this elevation can be considerably different from conditions in Pigeon Forge, so plan accordingly.
The Gatlinburg Trail
The Gatlinburg Trail is a relatively easy route following the West Prong of the Little Pigeon River between the Sugarlands area and the outskirts of Gatlinburg.
It is one of the park's trails where dogs and bicycles are permitted, making it a useful option for visitors looking for an easier outdoor experience.
Always follow current National Park Service rules regarding pets and bicycles.
Parking & Park Entrance Information
No Entrance Fee
Great Smoky Mountains National Park does not charge a traditional entrance fee. However, visitors who park within the park for more than a short period are required to have a valid parking tag displayed on their vehicle.
Parking Tags
Parking tags are available in different durations, allowing visitors to choose an option that matches the length of their stay. Because fees, purchasing locations, and regulations can change, check the official National Park Service website before your visit for the current requirements.
Important: A parking tag allows you to park but does not guarantee that a parking space will be available at a particular trailhead or destination.
Plan for Limited Parking
Popular trailheads, overlooks, and destinations can fill quickly during peak travel periods. If a particular hike or destination is a priority, consider arriving early and having an alternative plan in case the parking area is full.
Wildlife & Nature
Watch for Black Bears
Black bears are one of the Smokies' most recognizable animals, but visitors should never approach, feed, or intentionally attract wildlife. Maintain a safe distance, follow guidelines, and never leave food or trash unattended.
Look for Elk
The Oconaluftee area on the North Carolina side of the park is known for opportunities to see elk, particularly in open fields. Wildlife sightings are never guaranteed, so enjoy the experience without approaching the animals.
Respect the Mountains
Help protect the park by staying on designated trails, carrying out your trash, and leaving plants, rocks, historic objects, and other natural or cultural resources where you find them.
Historic Places to Explore
Elkmont Historic District
Elkmont preserves the remains of communities that once existed in the mountains before the area became part of the national park. Visitors can explore historic structures and learn about the area's logging, settlement, and early tourism history.
Oconaluftee Visitor Center & Mountain Farm Museum
Located near the Cherokee, North Carolina entrance, the Oconaluftee area provides an introduction to the cultural history of the Smokies. The Mountain Farm Museum features historic structures that demonstrate what life was like for families living in the mountain region.
Seasonal Experiences
Spring Wildflowers
Spring brings an impressive variety of wildflowers to the Smokies. Different elevations bloom at different times, creating opportunities to see changing colors throughout the season.
Summer Mountain Weather
Summer can be warm in Pigeon Forge while significantly cooler at higher elevations. Afternoon storms are also possible, so check the forecast before heading into the mountains.
Fall Foliage
Autumn is one of the most popular times to visit the Smokies. Fall colors appear at different elevations throughout the season, meaning the best viewing locations can change from week to week.
Expect heavier traffic and larger crowds during peak foliage weekends.
Winter in the Smokies
Higher elevations can experience snow and icy conditions even when Pigeon Forge has relatively mild weather.
Some roads and facilities close seasonally, so always check current conditions before traveling into the park during winter.
Synchronous Fireflies
For a limited period each year, certain areas of the park host one of the Smokies' most unusual natural events: synchronous fireflies.
Because access is limited and controlled during the event, visitors should check the National Park Service's current information and reservation or lottery requirements well in advance. This is a seasonal experience that requires planning rather than a spontaneous stop.
Tips for Visiting the National Park
Download Information Before You Go
Cell service can be limited or unavailable in many areas of the park. Download maps and important information before leaving town.
Check Road Conditions
Road closures, construction, weather, and seasonal conditions can affect your route. Check current park alerts before leaving.
Bring Water & Snacks
There may be long stretches between convenient places to purchase supplies. Carry enough water and food for your planned hike or drive.
Wear Appropriate Shoes
Even shorter trails can include uneven, rocky, wet, or steep sections. Protect your feet on the trails.
Dress for the Elevation
Temperature and weather can change significantly as you gain elevation. Pack layers to stay comfortable.
Start Early
Popular destinations can become crowded, particularly during weekends, holidays, and fall foliage season. An early start makes parking easier.
Don't Rely Completely on Your Phone
Download maps ahead of time and know your general route before entering areas with limited reception.
Leave No Trace
Pack out everything you bring in and help preserve the park for future visitors to enjoy.
Plan Your Smoky Mountain Adventure
You don't have to hike a difficult trail to experience the Great Smoky Mountains. A scenic drive through Cades Cove, a waterfall hike, a historic site, a wildlife-viewing stop, or a high-elevation overlook can all become memorable parts of your trip.
Take your time, check current park conditions, and choose experiences that match your schedule and abilities.
Make Great Smoky Mountains National Park part of your Pigeon Forge vacation and discover the natural beauty beyond the Parkway.
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