Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a stunning and vast national park located on the border of North Carolina and Tennessee, renowned for its …
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Jan 28, 2025
It's a tragedy that THIS is the most visited National Park when it pales in comparison to so many others. We have visited over 25 NPs and this one is a dull disappointment. Seriously consider the Gra… Full review by Jeanne P
Jan 26, 2025
Smoky Mountains consistently ranks at the top of the most visited NP list for good reason. This is the largest park on the east coast and perfect for families, couples and adventurers of all types. W… Full review by valerieann2020
Jan 12, 2025
We were lucky enough to experience snow falling on our most recent visit and it was gorgeous. There are many overlooks to stop and take in the mountain views. We like to view the elk in Cataloochee V… Full review by Tiffany P
Heading down to PF in April for a few days. I'd like to take a day or two to do some hiking in GSNP. My wife and I are fairly avid hikers that have done several sections of the AT. We will have able bodies kids with us - 14/10. My question centers around my elderly parents (n their 70s) with some mobility issues. My mother can hike but she can't do anything technical or very steep. Father probably the same. I'm looking for suggestions for hikes that would have some payoff views of the mountains - or at the very least interesting things to see. I've seen recommendations on Kephart Prong, Porters Creek, Sugarlands, and Middle Prong. Are they worth it? I've also seen Chimney Tops, Alum Cave Bluffs, Charles Bunion and Andrews Bald as being high touristy spots. How are those hikes? Should we do those without the parents? And any recommendations for alternatives that might not be super busy during the week. Thank you in advance!!
A:
Sugarlands is very easy but no views. There is a little waterfall there that's nice if it has rained recently. It's only about a half mile. You definitely don't want to take your parents on the …
Sugarlands is very easy but no views. There is a little waterfall there that's nice if it has rained recently. It's only about a half mile. You definitely don't want to take your parents on the last hikes you mentioned. Very hard for someone in their 70s. Drive up to Newfound Gap or Clingmans Dome. Be sure to get a parking pass. It may not be too crowded in April and you will have great views of the mountains. There are several pulloffs to see the views on the way up. Skypark also offers great views but have to ride up on chairlift. Not much walking. Hope you have a wonderful time!
We are going in 3 weeks for the first time. Day 1 is Dollywood. Day 2 is Cade’s Cove hiking. Our last day, we are doing the Parrot Mountain place then lunch. Any suggestions on what we should do that second half of the last day? We have children and are a group of 10. Staying in Sevierville. Thanks!
A:
I am amazed that this just came through my e-mail. It's January of 2025 now. It looks like you posted this last September. I'm sure you had a wonderful time there. I hope you made …
I am amazed that this just came through my e-mail. It's January of 2025 now. It looks like you posted this last September. I'm sure you had a wonderful time there. I hope you made Margaritaville one of your stops there. the fountains are beautiful. especially with the lights, music, and especially all the rocking chairs!
We are driving though Cades Cove (the 11 mile road) on either September 7th or 8th and I was wondering if I should expect heavy traffic during those days/that time of year? We are not sure what time of day we would be going. Any tips for us? Thanks!
A:
I would expect it to be busy, but haven’t been at that time myself. Not sure if any events are going on at that time; which would increase traffic. Go early; that helps.
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Frequently asked questions
Q:
Does the park have cabins for rent?
A:
Great Smoky Mountains National Park offers campgrounds, but no motels or rental cabins within the park except LeConte Lodge. The lodge is only accessible by hiking and is located...
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