Things to Do in the Great Smoky Mountains

The Great Smoky Mountains of Tennessee offer a wide variety of activities for visitors of all ages and interests. Whether you’re looking to enjoy the area’s awe-inspiring scenery, learn more about its fascinating history and culture, or simply relax and soak up the peaceful atmosphere, you’re sure to find plenty of things to see and do in this beautiful part of the country.

Here are just a few ideas for planning your trip to the Great Smoky Mountains of Tennessee.

Wildflower Viewing in the Great Smoky Mountains of Tennessee

During the spring, the Great Smoky Mountains of Tennessee come alive with a breathtaking display of wildflowers. Wildflowers of all shapes, colors, and sizes bloom throughout the mountains, creating a feast for the eyes.

One of the best ways to experience the wildflowers is to take a hike. There are numerous trails throughout the park that are perfect for wildflower viewing, ranging from easy nature walks to challenging multi-day treks. The Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail is a great option for those who want to see a variety of wildflowers without having to hike far. The trail is 5.5 miles long and winds through a lush forest filled with wildflowers.

If you’re looking for a more challenging hike, the Alum Cave Trail is a great choice. The trail is 4.4 miles long and leads to the top of Alum Cave Bluff, where you can enjoy stunning views of the surrounding mountains. The trail is lined with wildflowers, including rhododendron, laurel, and azaleas.

No matter what your hiking ability, there’s a trail in the Great Smoky Mountains that’s perfect for you. Get out there and explore the beautiful wildflowers!

Driving Through Great Smoky Mountain National Park

One of the best ways to see the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is to drive along the scenic Newfound Gap Road. The road winds its way through the heart of the park, offering stunning views of the mountains, forests, and streams. Along the way, you can stop at numerous overlooks to take in the scenery.

Be sure to stop at the Oconaluftee Visitor Center, where you can learn about the park’s history, wildlife, and geology. The visitor center also has a gift shop and a theater where you can watch a short film about the park.

If you’re looking for a longer drive, the Blue Ridge Parkway is a great option. The parkway is 469 miles long and runs through the Appalachian Mountains from Virginia to North Carolina. The parkway offers stunning views of the mountains and forests, as well as a variety of hiking trails, campgrounds, and picnic areas.

Viewing Various Wildlife

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is home to a variety of wildlife, including bears, deer, elk, coyotes, foxes, and raccoons. If you’re lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of a black bear or a bobcat.

One of the best places to view wildlife is Cades Cove. Cades Cove is a large valley that is home to a variety of animals. You can drive through the valley or take a bike ride. Be sure to keep an eye out for bears, deer, and elk.

Another great place to view wildlife is along the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail. The trail winds through a lush forest filled with wildlife. You might see deer, elk, or even a bear.

If you’re looking to get up close and personal with wildlife, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park offers a variety of guided wildlife walks and talks. These walks and talks are led by park rangers who will teach you about the park’s wildlife and show you how to track animals.

Climbing Clingmans Dome

Clingmans Dome is the highest point in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The observation tower at the top of the dome offers stunning 360-degree views of the surrounding mountains. On a clear day, you can see for miles in every direction.

The hike to the top of Clingmans Dome is relatively easy, but it can be crowded, especially during the summer months. If you’re looking for a less crowded hike, try the Forney Creek Trail. The trail is 3.4 miles long and leads to the top of Clingmans Dome. The trail is less crowded than the main trail, and it offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

Going on a Family Hike

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a great place for a family hike. There are numerous trails that are perfect for families with young children. The Gatlinburg Trail is a 1.5-mile long paved trail that is perfect for strollers. The trail winds through a lush forest and offers stunning views of the mountains.

Another great option for families with young children is the Laurel Falls Trail. The trail is 2.6 miles long and leads to a beautiful waterfall. The trail is relatively easy, but there are a few steep sections.

If you’re looking for a more challenging hike, the Alum Cave Trail is a great option. The trail is 4.4 miles long and leads to the top of Alum Cave Bluff. The trail is lined with wildflowers when in season.

No matter what your family’s hiking ability, there’s a trail in the Great Smoky Mountains that’s perfect for you. Get out there and explore the beautiful mountains!

Touring the Mountain Farm Museum and Mingus

The Mountain Farm Museum is a living history museum that tells the story of the people who lived in the Great Smoky Mountains in the 19th and 20th centuries. The museum features a variety of exhibits, including a working farm, a blacksmith shop, and a schoolhouse.

Mingus Mill is a historic grist mill that was built in the early 1800s. The mill is still in operation today, and you can watch as corn is ground into meal.

The Mountain Farm Museum and Mingus Mill are both located in the Oconaluftee area of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

These are just a few of the many things to see and do in the Great Smoky Mountains of Tennessee. With its stunning scenery, abundant wildlife, and rich history, this beautiful region has something to offer everyone.