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Wisps of fog hang over the forests in the mountains.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park

warningPark Closure6 warnings calendar_monthApr–May, Sep–Octbest time schedule3 daysplan for child_careYeswith kids confirmation_numberFreeentry
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Park Closure Roadwork on the Gatlinburg Spur to affect traffic

The park will conduct single-lane closures on the Gatlinburg Spur near Huskey Grove bridge from 7 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. September 21-30. The park plans to start single-lane closures on the southbound lanes and then shift to the northbound lanes. The single-lane closure will affect th Details open_in_new

Park Closure Abrams Falls Trail Closed

Abrams Falls Trail is closed Mondays-Thursdays through September 30 to replace aging footlog bridges and improve visitor safety. The trail will open to hikers Fridays-Sundays and on Labor Day during construction.

Park Closure Park Headquarters Road is closed

Park Headquarters Road is closed due to rehabilitation work on the Sugarlands water and wastewater systems.

Park Closure Straight Fork and the one-way section of Balsam Mountain Road closed.

Straight Fork and the one-way section of Balsam Mountain Road (Heintooga Round-Bottom Road) are closed. Details open_in_new

Information Cades Cove Loop Road is closed to motor vehicles every Wednesday

Cades Cove Loop Road is closed to motor vehicles every Wednesday through September 30. This allows pedestrians and cyclists to enjoy the cove without the presence of vehicles on the roadway. Details open_in_new

Information Most visitors need a parking tag

All vehicles parking for longer than 15 minutes require a parking tag. Three tag durations are available for purchase for all vehicle sizes and types: Daily ($5), Weekly ($15), or Annual ($40). Details open_in_new

Straight from the US National Park Service, refreshed several times a day.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a vast expanse of protected land straddling the border of North Carolina and Tennessee. Established in 1934, it is renowned for its diverse ecosystems, featuring over 1,400 flowering plant species and a variety of wildlife. Many visitors come to hike its extensive trail network, including a segment of the Appalachian Trail, or to enjoy scenic drives and picturesque views from peaks like Clingmans Dome.

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The park's history is intertwined with the efforts of the Rockefeller family, who significantly contributed to its establishment during the Great Depression. While the natural beauty is a major draw, travelers should be aware that the park can become crowded, especially during peak seasons like summer and fall, when the foliage attracts many visitors.

In pictures

A hillside in the forest covered with white trillium flowers
A hillside in the forest covered with white trillium flowers

Things to do

Hike to Abrams Falls

Walk 5 miles (8 km) roundtrip through rhododendron, hemlock, and pine-oak forest to a 25-foot (7.6-m) waterfal...

Hike the Gatlinburg Trail

Enjoy a riverside stroll approximately 4 miles (6.4 km) roundtrip through a cove hardwood forest along one of...

Hike to Chimney Tops Overlook

Hike 3.5 miles (5.6 km) roundtrip on this popular but challenging trail to enjoy views of surrounding mountain...

Hike to Mount Le Conte on Bullhead Trail

One of five routes to Mount Le Conte, the Bullhead Trail offers consistent views. The strenuous hike is 13.6 m...

Hike Smokemont Nature Trail

Hike 0.62-mile (1 km) roundtrip on Smokemont Nature Trail which provides a peaceful escape and views of the su...

Hike Bradley Fork Trail

The Bradley Fork Trail offers a scenic and diverse outdoor experience, featuring picturesque creeks, seasonal...

Hike to Chasteen Creek Cascade

Hike 3.6 miles (5.8 km) roundtrip through hardwood forest following the path of mountain streams to a peaceful...

Hike Kephart Prong Trail to Historic CCC Camp

Follow the flow of mountain streams 4 miles (6.4 km) roundtrip through hardwood forest and across several log...

Hike West Prong Trail

Hike 5.4 miles (8.7 km) roundtrip on West Prong Trail

Hike to Twentymile Cascade

Hike 1.2 miles (1.9 km) roundtrip along a wide gravel roadbed that follows a mountain stream to a cascade surr...

Hike to Ramsey Cascades

Hike 8 miles (12.9 km) roundtrip on this popular but relatively challenging trail through cove hardwood forest...

Hike to Mount Le Conte on Trillium Gap Trail

One of five routes to Mount Le Conte, Trillium Gap Trail to Mount Le Conte is 13 miles (20.9 km) roundtrip and...

Practical

At a glance

Established
1934
Open
Daily open 24 hours
Accessibility
Some areas are wheelchair accessible
Address
107 Park Headquarters Road, Gatlinburg, TN 37738
Opening hours
Daily open 24 hours
Phone
(865)436-1200
Price
Free
Website
www.nps.gov

Things to know

Expect long lines at popular trailheads during weekends.
Parking is limited, arrive early to secure a spot.
Dress in layers, temperatures can vary greatly in the mountains.
Bring your own food, dining options are limited and expensive.

Photo: Kristina Plaas