Breathtaking views. About 15 minutes driving off 441 inside the park and a half mile trek up a very steep, paved trail. Parking was scarce at the head of the trail. Bathrooms are essentially cinder block porta-potties and equally "breathtaking"
Expensive for the time you're actually on the ride, but it was a thrill all the same.
Wow! What a gorgeous park! If you're in the area, drive through it on 441 at the very least. Plenty of spots to pull over and stretch, hike, selfie, etc. Traffic, cyclists and pedestrians not ideal for someone in a rush, though. Lots of nice, clean information centers and stores for snacks and souvenirs, too.
Really gorgeous views and an unforgettable experience. We bought sandwiches at the campground site, and pulled over for a really lovely picnic. Plan on ~4 hours for this one, though.
In such a touristy town, the aquarium exceeded my expectations! The glass tunnel in "shark lagoon" was incredible. Loved touching jellyfish and rays. Went later in the day during extended summer hours on a weekday and we basically had the place to ourselves!
Breathtaking views. About 15 minutes driving off 441 inside the park and a half mile trek up a very steep, paved trail. Parking was scarce at the head of the trail. Bathrooms are essentially cinder block porta-potties and equally "breathtaking"
The Oconaluftee Island Park should also be added to the map. This area is beautiful with easily accessible river, picnic tables and plenty of parking. It's the perfect stop if you just want to get your toes in the sand.
One of my favorite parks in the area, pretty easy walking trails. The drive there is really beautiful.