There's no better spot for making unforgettable memories than a National Park. Everyone should experience as many of America's most awe-inspiring landscapes as possible in their lifetime... and there's no better place to start than with the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. As one of America's most-visited parks, you know it's bound to impress. But visiting a National Park requires a bit of planning: Knowing which hikes are worth the hype, where to find a good scenic drive, and what lesser-known spots to explore can make the difference between a great trip and a life-changing adventure. Plus, with both Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge (both wildly popular tourist cities) nearby, there are so many options for accommodation, food, and fun that sorting through everything can be almost daunting. Here's our guide for beginners looking to experience the wonder and majesty of the Smokies.
St. Petersburg, Florida, United States
Rockmart, Georgia, United States
Ah, the Smokies! There are tons of reasons why this park is so popular. For starters, it's beautiful year-round, with wildflowers in the spring, fall foliage in autumn, and a special snowy peace in the winter. Summer is probably the best time to visit, despite the crowds; the weather is consistently nice, there's no risk of roads or spots being closed, and quite frankly, the lush forest greenery is a good look for the park. Another reason the Smokies are beloved by all? It's free to visit! Plus, there are easy hikes, harder hikes, scenic drives, historic sites, waterfalls, mountains... it's basically got everything you could ever want, all in one amazing place. There are lots of visitor centers, bathroom facilities, and roads as well, making it easy to get around. Basically, the Great Smoky Mountains are perfect.
Tip: Make a point to arrive at the park early at least one morning. It'll be less crowded, and you'll get to see why they're called the "smoky" mountains.
An easy stop not too far from Gatlinburg, The Sinks are a waterfall that is pretty easy to get to, and it makes for a great place to relax and enjoy the fresh mountain air, the sound of water babbling down the rocky falls, and some peace and serenity. There are lots of boulders for fun rock scrambling or simply sitting and enjoying the scenery. It's more of a hidden gem near the park, so come here if you want a relative escape from the hustle and bustle of the Smokies.
Tip: There are signs posted discouraging people from swimming, even though some people do. It's very rocky and the water is very strong!
For the best view in the whole park, head to the observation tower atop Clingmans Dome, the tallest peak in the Great Smoky Mountains. On top of the mountain is a 375-foot spiral ramp that leads to a covered deck, which means you get 365-degree panoramic views of the mountains. On a bad day, you can see 20 miles into the distance... and on a good day, the view can stretch for 100 miles! Also be sure to check out the visitor center at the top for even more great info.
Tip: The hike all the way up the mountain is a little intense, but you can drive to the top... it's a short walk from the parking lot to the observation tower!
Gatlinburg is another town where you'll find plenty of fun and food. One of the most popular places in a town filled with restaurants has to be Pancake Pantry. The breakfast/brunch/lunch joint specializes in (what else?) pancakes, serving up 24 different flavors of flapjack. Buckwheat, cornmeal, Swiss chocolate chip, blintzes, silver dollar-sized, Swedish, Austrian, crepes, and pigs in a blanket are just a small sample of the kinds of pancakes you could order here. They also have omelets, burgers, sandwiches, and waffles are offered as well (including a mouthwatering bacon waffle)... but no matter what you order, you're sure to enjoy the friendly service and down-home cookin'.
Tip: The huge menu might be overwhelming, so allow us to make a suggestion: Sweet potato pancakes. 'Nuff said.
With so many things you can see and do, a visit to the Smokies can be overwhelming. Finding the campgrounds that best fit your budget and needs, the restaurants that match your flavor, the spots that will be the most fun for you, and the spots in the park that get you the most excited mean you can make the very most of a trip, and travel without regrets. Exploring Great Smoky Mountains National Park is the opportunity of a lifetime, and something that we might not have forever, so go all in and make it count!
Banner Photo Credit: Shutterstock
