Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Great Smoky Mountains National Park sits on the border between North Carolina and Tennessee, offering some of the most breathtaking mountain scenery in the eastern United States. The park gets its name from the natural fog that often hovers around the peaks and valleys, creating a smoky appearance that's truly magical, especially at sunrise and sunset.
Covering over 500,000 acres, this is America's most visited national park, and for good reason. The landscape features rolling mountains covered in old-growth forests, wildflower meadows that burst with color in spring, and rushing streams that flow through picturesque valleys. The park is home to an incredible diversity of plant and animal life, including black bears, elk, and over 1,500 flowering plant species.
The Cherokee people called these mountains home for thousands of years before European settlers arrived, and their cultural influence remains an important part of the region's heritage. During the Great Depression, the Civilian Conservation Corps built many of the stone bridges, buildings, and trails that visitors still use today.
What makes the Smokies special is how accessible it is while still feeling wild. You can drive the scenic roads to overlooks with spectacular views or venture deeper into the wilderness on over 800 miles of trails. Throughout the year, the park transforms dramatically with each season – from spring wildflowers to summer greenery, spectacular fall colors, and the stark beauty of winter.
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Things to do in Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Top things to do in Great Smoky Mountains National Park by www.planetware.com
Where to stay in Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Best hotels in Great Smoky Mountains National Park:
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Travelodge (budget hotel)
The Travelodge in Pigeon Forge is a great spot for anyone visiting the Great Smoky Mountains. It's right on the main strip, so you're close to all the action and attractions. The rooms are clean and comfortable, with nice touches like coffee makers. And the price is pretty reasonable for the area.
One of the best things about this place is the outdoor pool - perfect for cooling off after a day of hiking or sightseeing. The staff are friendly and helpful too. Location-wise, you can't beat it - you're just a short walk from Dolly Parton's Stampede and a quick drive to Dollywood.
Overall, it's a solid choice if you want a no-frills but clean and convenient place to stay in Pigeon Forge. Nothing fancy, but it ticks all the boxes for a comfortable home base while you explore the Smokies. Just keep in mind the pool is seasonal, so check if it'll be open during your stay if that's important to you.
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Hilton Garden Inn (luxury hotel)
The Hilton Garden Inn in Gatlinburg is perfectly located right at the entrance to Great Smoky Mountains National Park. You can roll out of bed and be hiking in minutes. The rooms are comfy and spacious, with nice touches like microwaves and mini-fridges. Some even have fireplaces or whirlpool tubs if you want to splurge a bit.
The indoor pool is great for a swim after a day of exploring. And the on-site restaurant means you don't have to venture far for a good meal. The staff are super friendly and helpful too.
Best of all, you're just a short walk from all the action of downtown Gatlinburg. So you can easily check out the shops and attractions, then retreat back to the quieter hotel area when you're ready to relax. It's the ideal home base for a Smoky Mountain getaway.
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The Lodge (medium range hotel)
The Lodge at Camp Margaritaville in Pigeon Forge offers a fun escape with tons of activities and amenities. The outdoor pools and lazy river are perfect for relaxing, while the arcade, pool tables, and other games provide endless entertainment. Kids will love the playground and families can enjoy movie nights together.
The rooms are spacious and comfortable, with modern decor and amenities like microwaves and mini-fridges. Many have balconies with great mountain views. There are several on-site dining options serving up tasty American fare, with vegan and gluten-free choices available too.
Located just a short drive from popular attractions like Dollywood, this resort-style hotel strikes a nice balance between convenience and relaxation. The friendly staff and laidback "island time" vibe make it easy to unwind after a day of sightseeing. Overall, it's a great home base for exploring the Smoky Mountains region.
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Gatlinburg Town Square (resort)
Gatlinburg Town Square is the perfect home base for exploring the Great Smoky Mountains. Located right in the heart of Gatlinburg, this resort puts you steps away from all the action. The spacious condos and studios give you room to spread out after a day of hiking or sightseeing.
The outdoor pool is great for cooling off on hot summer days, while the indoor pool and hot tub are perfect for relaxing year-round. When you're not out adventuring, you can work up a sweat in the fitness center or challenge your travel buddies to a game on the basketball courts.
One of the best things about Gatlinburg Town Square is its central location. You're just a short walk from restaurants, shops, and attractions on the main strip. And of course, the entrance to Great Smoky Mountains National Park is only a mile away. Whether you want to hit the trails or hit the town, this resort puts you right where you want to be.
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