Great Smoky Mountains National Park
History and Location
The southeastern United States of America is the birthplace of an admirable National Park that straggles the ridges of the Blue Ridge Mountains and the Great Smoky Mountains. It consists of some lofty mountains such as Mount Guyot and Clingmans Dome, Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The park occupies 522419 acres of various countries like Cocke, Sevier, Swan, Haywood, and Blount Counties. Each year more than 12 million visitors join the park and explore one of the most visited parks of America.
The park is famous for its breathtaking waterfalls, high mountains, and strange biodiversity. It has several historical structures pervaded by European American people. The rocks in the park are late Precambrian which add to the glory of the spot. These 1 billion years old rocks surrounded the park’s floor and created Cades Cove, a tourist attraction in the park. Exploring Great Smoky Mountains National Park through the network of words takes you to the mysterious part of America, which is the settlement of tourist attractions in Tennessee State.
Activities, Services, Parking, and Things to Do
An exciting thing to do in Nashville City, Great Smoky Mountains National Park, offers many activities to enjoy. Glorious forests occupy Ninety-five percent of the park, and a significant number of trees precedes the European settlers. The substantial situation of the park and its biodiversity richness draws many people who like to discover unseen species. This national park is the house of over 200 kinds of birds, 39 types of reptiles, and many fish and amphibian species. When you enter Great Smoky Mountains National Park, you may see white-tailed deer, fox, raccoon, or river-otter welcome you. The Northcentral of the park is an eye-opening spot which was the house of Appalachian communities. The Alex Cole Cabin, Noah Ogle Place, Rock House, and John Ownby Cabin are situated in the valley. Sugarlands Visitors Center and Oconaluftee visitor center are two stations that present exhibits on the park’s history, geology, and wildlife.
A collection of various log structures are displayed at Mountain Farm Museum. The museum specializes in displaying the Appalachian mountain farm. If you are interested in history, do not miss the chance to visit the museum as one of the best things to do in North Carolina. You may take a bicycle tour to sightsee the historical structures of the area. Self-guided automobile tours are welcomed. Great Smoky Mountains National Park benefits from 850 miles of biking trails such as Appalachian Trail, Alum Cave Trail, and Laurel Falls Trails. If you want to see unprecedented natural attractions for photography like Arch Rock, head toward Alum Cave Trail. LeConte Lodge is situated next to the summit and offers rooms and cozy cabins for climbers and hikers, so you may rest in a peaceful place after exploring the park. The Laurel Falls Trails navigate you towards a beautiful waterfall which is an excellent place for relaxation.
If you like to step on a hiking trail that takes you to an observation deck to see the clear sky of Tennessee and North Carolina, select Clingmans Dome Trail. Camping and backpacking are two exciting things to do in Raleigh offered by Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Remember that you can camp only in the designated locations. Fishing is another popular outdoor activity in the park, and healthy trout make the park famous. You may find rainbow trout, Brook trout, and the brown one in the park’s water. Horseback riding on scenic trails with a beloved one makes your adventure memorable. Park your vehicle in the designated parking station and discover Great Smoky Mountains National Park on your feet to enjoy its eye-opening beauty. Each section of the National woods has an astonishing thing to see. Do not miss the time to visit this lovely park.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park Lodging
Lodging in Great Smoky Mountains National Park is an essential element of traveling to Carolina. Selecting a suitable place to stay affects your destination and areas to discover. Your specific condition as a Voyager and the price and fame of homes are significant elements that must be considered. LeConte Lodge is a unique lodging accommodation that includes non-smoking and family rooms. The restaurant offers surprisingly excellent dishes in a comfortable atmosphere. After visiting the park, you may have two delicious meals then sleep in a warm room. It is close to nearby attractions such as Chimneys Picnic Area, Mount LeConte, and Historic Ogle Log Cabin.
Gatlinburg River Inn is 10 miles from the stunning park. That spot is an excellent destination that offers spectacular views of the peaceful river. You may select pool view, mountain view, landmark view, or non-smoking rooms. Air conditioners, sofa bed, shower, refrigerator, and microwave are offered for your comfort. Sidney James Mountain Lodge is 9 miles away from the park and offers suites and non-smoking rooms. Each room is equipped with an air conditioner, flat-screen TV, private balcony, and refrigerator. After spending unforgettable nights in the Sidney James Mountain Lodge, you can answer this question of why many people select this place to stay.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park Camping
Great Smoky Mountains National Park gives you a chance to camp for the night and enjoys the beauty of mountains, waterfalls, and valleys. In this part, we offer information to make your camping experience memorable. Deep Creek Campground guides you towards waterfalls and streams. You can use hiking trails and discover the area.
The campground has 92 sites equipped with picnic tables, a flush toilet, and a fire grate. Smokemont Campground is located in the park’s southern part. The campsite provides access to hiking trails, Oconaluftee Visitor Center, and Bradley Fork. The place consists of 142 sites, and the camping fee is $20 during peak seasons and $17 during off-seasons. The Grassy area is an excellent place to play volleyball with your family. The campground has a restroom, running water, and picnic tables like other campsites. You may also reserve a campsite online.
Cataloochee Campground is a perfect place for visitors who want to escape from the crowds. The campground offers more solitude than tourist attractions. The campground has 27 sites and the camping fee per night is $20. Cataloochee Campground includes several trails for hiking and horseback riding. People with a particular mobility problem cannot join this site due to the absence of guard rails and difficult access roads. Each campsite has flush toilets, picnic tables, and a fire. Water hookups and showers cannot be found in the park. There are other spots for camping, including Elkmont Campground, Cades Cove Campground, and Abrams Creek Campground.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park Weather
This lovely national park benefits from temperate oceanic and humid subtropical climates. Elevations considerably affect the park’s weather so that the alternation of temperature between 10 to 20 degrees Fahrenheit from the base to the peaks is drastically tangible. Spring comes with unpredictable weather, and a sunny day changes into a rainy day in a few hours. If you join the Park during March, expect snowfall, especially in the elevations. By April, the weather becomes milder, and May comes with warmer days. Great Smoky Mountains National Park’s summer shows off with humidity, heat, and sudden thunderstorms.
The pleasantly cool weather in the higher elevations tempts many climbers to conquer the peaks. The cooler weather and the clear blue skies signify the onset of autumn. In late September, Great Smoky Mountains National Park hosts the first frost, and in November, you may see snow in the elevation. Winter in Great Smoky Mountains National Park is not as hard as in other places; however, you may expect harsh temperatures in the highlands. Do not forget to bring warm clothing and suitable shoes.
The Best Restaurants Near Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Ole Red
Ole Red is an excellent dining area in the park that provides American cuisine on a comfortable site. You can enjoy the relaxing live music while eating your meal. After exploring the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, do not hesitate to join the fantastic restaurant for having tasty dishes.
LandShark Grill
If you are a person who needs vegetarian options, LandShark Grill is for you. The restaurant offers American cuisine for special guests. Cheeseburger, steak Tacos, and spicy chicken are among the delicious options that nobody can ignore. The generous portion-sized dishes are provided at a reasonable price. Gluten-free and vegan alternatives are available too.
Chesapeake’s Seafood
Chesapeake’s Seafood is another excellent spot to have tender seafood made in the hands of a skilled chef. The restaurant presents healthy dishes, American cuisine, vegan and gluten-free options. The restaurant has scrumptious alternatives for lunch, dinner, and brunch. The seafood salad, crispy shrimp, and filet mignon are among the most delicious options.
El Sonador Mexican Restaurant and Grill
El Sonador Mexican Restaurant and Grill offers tasty Mexican cuisine, Latin, Spanish, and southwestern cuisine. There are unique options for people who need gluten-free and vegan options. Delivery services and takeout services are offered to the guests. This convenient vegetarian-friendly restaurant has many things for travelers with specific tastes.
Daiquiri Shack and Grill by Margaritaville
Daiquiri Shack and Grill by Margaritaville is situated in the heart of Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The restaurant offers tasty American cuisine and grilled options in a social situation. If you look for an excellent dining place, Daiquiri Shack and Grill by Margaritaville is yours.
The Best Hotels Near Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Two Star Hotel- River Edge Inn
River Edge Inn is a charming boutique-style hotel located a few minutes from the park entrance. This two-star hotel has pool view rooms, a bridal suite, non-smoking rooms, and suites equipped with an air conditioner, private balcony, Telephone, coffee/tea maker, flat-screen TV, and bath/shower. Ski rental types of equipment are available. Hiking chances, free parking, free high-speed internet, complimentary breakfast, and Children’s television networks are among the hotel’s features.
Two Star Hotel- Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Gatlinburg, TN
Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Gatlinburg, TN, is a superb two-star hotel situated in the park’s vicinity. This modern hotel’s non-smoking rooms, suites, and family rooms include air conditioning, a private balcony, iron, wake-up service/alarm clock, microwave, refrigerator،, and a flat-screen TV. The unique amenities of this hotel include free parking, free high-speed internet, pool, fitness center with Gym / Workout Room, complimentary breakfast, and business center with internet access.
Three Star Hotel- Howard Johnson by Wyndham Downtown Gatlinburg
This three-star hotel includes non-smoking rooms featuring an air conditioner, private balcony, telephone, iron, coffee/tea maker, kitchenette, microwave, and refrigerator. This family hotel offers free parking, free high-speed internet, Wifi, an outdoor pool, a vending machine for your convenience. Take pleasure from the mountain hospitality presented by the staff.
Four Star Hotel- Black Fox Lodge Pigeon Forge, Tapestry Collection by Hilton
Black Fox Lodge Pigeon Forge, Tapestry Collection by Hilton is a superb four-star hotel located next to Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The non-smoking rooms, suites, and family rooms of this river view hotel feature a private balcony, telephone, closet, iron, private bathrooms, wake-up service/alarm clock, microwave, refrigerator, flat-screen TV, radio, and hairdryer. Relax in this romantic hotel after exploring the stunning Smoky Mountains.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park Tours
Three hours walk in a beautiful park with an excellent tour guide could be an unmatched experience. The Smoky Mountains Guided Scenic high Van Tour is good to escape from the crowds. You can discover the museum and gift shop located at Sugarlands Visitor Center and learn about the area’s natural history. Seeing particular vistas and the wild beauty of ancient mountains permits you to take excellent photographs. Nine-hour discovery in a private trip and sightseeing waterfalls and the high mountain is a chance provided by Waterfalls and Breweries Tour from Bryson City, NC. Your journey starts at 9 a.m., and you are supposed to see breathtaking waterfalls on the spectacular trails. A maximum of 7 persons can take part in the tour.