ratings

Category	Rating	Your Rating
adventure
atmosphere
hiking
scenery
tourism
wildlife

Things to do in Great Smoky Mountains National Park

• Hike to Grotto Falls

  
  

  Grotto Falls is a hidden treasure in the Smokies that's perfect for those looking for a refreshing escape. The trail to the falls is about 2.6 miles round trip and offers a moderate hike through lush forest. What makes this waterfall unique is that you can actually walk behind it! The cool mist from the 25-foot high falls is incredibly refreshing, especially on a hot summer day.

  As you make your way along the trail, you'll cross several small streams and pass by some impressive old-growth hemlock trees. The path is well-maintained but can be rocky and slippery in places, so good hiking shoes are a must. Once you reach the falls, take some time to soak in the peaceful atmosphere and snap some photos. It's a great spot for a picnic too, just remember to pack out what you pack in.

  
  

• Visit Cataract Falls

  
  

  Cataract Falls is a quiet spot that offers an easy and accessible nature walk, ideal for families or anyone seeking a short outdoor break. The trail begins just behind the Sugarlands Visitor Center and covers about three-quarters of a mile round trip. The path is well-maintained and leads through a peaceful forest alongside a gently flowing creek.

  Although the waterfall stands at only 25 feet, it creates a calm and scenic setting. The area surrounding the falls stays cool and shaded, providing a comfortable place to pause and listen to the sounds of the water and the forest. It is a relaxing spot to take a break and enjoy the scenery. This short trail is a convenient option for those wanting to experience the natural beauty of the Smokies without the effort of a longer hike.

  
  

• Hike to Alum Cave

  
  

  The Alum Cave Trail is one of the most popular hikes in the park, and for good reason. This 4.4-mile round trip hike (or 11 miles if you go all the way to Mount LeConte) offers a bit of everything – interesting geological features, stunning views, and a good workout.

  The trail starts off relatively easy, following Alum Cave Creek through old-growth forest. You'll cross log bridges and climb stone stairs as you make your way up. About 1.3 miles in, you'll reach Arch Rock, a unique natural arch that you pass through via stone steps. The main destination, Alum Cave Bluffs, isn't actually a cave but a concave cliff face about 80 feet high. It's a great spot to rest and take in the views before heading back down. If you're up for a challenge, you can continue on to the summit of Mount LeConte, one of the highest peaks in the Smokies.

  
  

• Spot wildlife in Cataloochee Valley

  
  

  Cataloochee Valley is a lesser-known area of the park that's a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts. This secluded valley is home to a large herd of elk, which were reintroduced to the area in 2001. The best times to spot them are early morning and late evening when they come out to graze in the open fields.

  But elk aren't the only animals you might see. Keep your eyes peeled for white-tailed deer, wild turkeys, and even black bears. The valley is also rich in history, with several preserved 19th-century buildings that you can explore. There are a few easy hiking trails in the area too, perfect for stretching your legs and taking in the beautiful mountain scenery.

  
  

• Picnic at Chimneys Picnic Area

  
  

  The Chimneys Picnic Area is a beautiful spot to enjoy a meal surrounded by nature. Located along the West Prong of the Little Pigeon River, this area offers a mix of sun and shade, with the soothing sound of rushing water as your backdrop. There are plenty of picnic tables and grills available, making it easy to set up for lunch or dinner.

  After your meal, take a stroll along the river on the short nature trail. The clear, cool water tumbling over rocks creates numerous small cascades and pools, perfect for wading on a hot day. Keep an eye out for wildlife – you might spot deer, turkeys, or even a black bear. The picnic area is also the trailhead for the Chimney Tops hike, a challenging but rewarding trek if you're up for it. Whether you're looking for a quick lunch stop or a place to spend a lazy afternoon, the Chimneys Picnic Area is a great choice.

  
  

• Hike to Clingmans Dome

  
  

  Clingmans Dome is the highest point in the Great Smoky Mountains, offering breathtaking 360-degree views of the surrounding landscape. The hike to the top is a steep half-mile trek on a paved trail, but the panoramic vistas are well worth the effort. On clear days, you can see for miles in every direction, taking in the rolling hills and misty valleys that give the Smokies their name.

  At the summit, you'll find a unique observation tower that looks like something out of a sci-fi movie. Climb the spiral ramp to get even higher above the treetops for an unobstructed view. Don't forget to bring a jacket – it can be quite chilly and windy at the top, even on warm days. The trail is open year-round, but the road leading to it may close in winter due to weather conditions.

  
  

• Explore Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail

  
  

  The Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail is a narrow, winding 5.5-mile one-way loop road that takes you deep into the forest, offering a more intimate experience with nature. As you drive, you'll be surrounded by old-growth forest, rushing mountain streams, and historic buildings.

  One of the highlights along this route is the opportunity to see several waterfalls. A short hike from the road leads to the 80-foot high Grotto Falls, where you can actually walk behind the cascading water. The trail also provides access to the trailhead for Rainbow Falls, a longer but rewarding hike. Keep in mind that the road is closed in winter, and larger vehicles like RVs and trailers are not allowed due to the narrow, twisting nature of the road.

  
  

• Visit the Noah 'Bud' Ogle Place

  
  

  The Noah 'Bud' Ogle Place offers a fascinating glimpse into the lives of the early settlers in the Smokies. This well-preserved homestead includes a cabin, barn, and tub mill, all dating back to the late 19th century. The main cabin is a unique 'saddlebag' design, with two cabins connected by a common chimney.

  A short, easy nature trail loops around the property, allowing you to explore the grounds and see how the Ogle family lived off the land. One of the highlights is the working tub mill on LeConte Creek, which used the force of the water to grind corn into meal. The trail also takes you through a beautiful stretch of old-growth forest. It's a peaceful spot that feels like stepping back in time, giving visitors a real sense of the region's history and the challenges faced by its early inhabitants.

  
  

• Visit the Mountain Farm Museum

  
  

  The Mountain Farm Museum offers a glimpse into the history and daily life of early settlers in the Smoky Mountains. This open-air exhibit features a collection of historic log buildings, including a farmhouse, barn, apple house, springhouse, and a working blacksmith shop. Each structure, dating back to the late 19th century, was carefully relocated from different areas of the region to create an authentic representation of a mountain farmstead.

  Visitors are encouraged to step inside many of the buildings, gaining a closer look at the craftsmanship and simplicity of frontier life. During the summer, the museum often hosts live demonstrations of traditional farming practices and handicrafts. A nearby nature trail runs along the Oconaluftee River, offering a peaceful walk through the surrounding landscape.

  Admission to the Mountain Farm Museum is free, and it is conveniently located next to the Oconaluftee Visitor Center. Many guests choose to pair their visit with a stop at the center to gather park information or speak with a ranger. Plan to spend about an hour exploring the site, with extra time if you wish to enjoy the river trail or observe a demonstration.

  
  

• Drive the Cades Cove Loop

  
  

  Cades Cove is a broad, verdant valley surrounded by mountains, and the 11-mile one-way loop road offers a relaxing drive through some of the park's most beautiful scenery. This area is rich in wildlife, so keep your eyes peeled for deer, black bears, turkeys, and other critters, especially in the early morning or late evening.

  Along the way, you'll pass by several well-preserved 19th-century homesteads, churches, and other structures that offer a glimpse into the area's pioneer past. There are plenty of pull-offs where you can park and explore on foot, or have a picnic surrounded by the stunning landscape. The loop can get busy during peak seasons, so patience is key – but the slow pace allows you to soak in every detail of this picturesque valley.

  
  

Where to stay in Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Best hotels in Great Smoky Mountains National Park:

• Travelodge (budget hotel)

  
  
  
  
  
  book now on booking.com

  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.

  
  

• Hilton Garden Inn (luxury hotel)

  
  
  
  
  
  book now on booking.com

  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.

  
  

• The Lodge (medium range hotel)

  
  
  
  
  
  book now on booking.com

  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.

  
  

• Gatlinburg Town Square (resort)

  
  
  
  
  
  book now on booking.com

  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.