If you’re a nature lover like me, you can’t pass up an opportunity to visit a national park. Did you know that the Great Smoky Mountains National Park in Tennessee is the most visited national park in the United States. With a whopping 14 million annual visitors, this park is at the top of national park visitor charts. I can see why so many visitors come to see to this area’s natural beauty! I had the wonderful opportunity to explore the mountains and Gatlinburg area thanks to Westgate Smoky Mountain Resort & Water Park. I’ve gathered all of my local recommendations to guide your trip below!
HOW TO GET THERE
Located in eastern Tennessee, near Gatlinburg, Great Smoky Mountains National Park is easily accessible via McGee-Tyson Airport just south of Knoxville, Tennessee or Asheville Regional Airport in Asheville, North Carolina. From McGee-Tyson airport, Gatlinburg is around a one hour drive and from Asheville Regional Airport it takes around two hours. I recommend a rental car to drive from either airport to maximize your time in the local area.
Once you’re in Gatlinburg, you can take the local trolley around town or drive your rental car into the national park. Entrance into Great Smoky Mountains National Park is completely free, so you won’t have to worry about paying entrance fees.
WHERE TO STAY IN GREAT SMOKY MOUNTAINS
This stay was the perfect cozy log-cabin inspired getaway to come back to after long days of exploring. This charming property sprawls across the Smoky Mountain hillside with amazing views of the national park. It is also the perfect location for accessing Gatlinburg and nearby trails.
Westgate Smoky Mountain Resort & Water Park is full of amenities to help you rest and relax or add some adventure. The resort has several dining options, marketplace, heated outdoor pools, mini golf, a zip line, hiking trails, fitness center, spa and indoor waterpark.
We loved, making fireside s’mores at the community fire pit, and enjoying our stunning balcony views at sunset. Our One Bedroom Deluxe Villa Suite had a cozy fireplace, jacuzzi tub and a living room/kitchen area, with plenty of space to get comfortable and enjoy.
WHAT TO DO IN GREAT SMOKY MOUNTAINS
There is so much to see and explore around Great Smoky Mountains National Park! I’ve gathered my favorite hiking trails and experiences in Gatlinburg to help guide your trip planning.
VISITING GREAT SMOKY MOUNTAINS NATIONAL PARK
This National Park is renowned for the “Smoky” mountain views created by the fog vapor that surrounds the landscape. You can’t visit this park without seeing the best views at the birthplace of the national park itself: Newfound Gap, located at the center of the park across a mountain pass. We went here at golden hour and loved the panoramic views. Hiking is not required here, simply drive up and gaze away!
Another must-see spot in the national park is Laurel Falls Trail. This waterfall is by far the most stunning in the park and the hike is 2.4 miles roundtrip on a paved trail suitable for all levels of hikers.
RIDE A MOUNTAIN COASTER
If you’re an adrenaline seeker, a ride on a Smoky Mountain coaster will fill your thrill! Several mountain coasters are located in Gatlinburg, letting you cruise on a coaster in the middle of the Smoky Mountain hillside.
WALK ACROSS THE GATLINBURG SKYBRIDGE
The SkyBridge is the longest pedestrian cable bridge in North America, located 1800 ft above sea level and 500 ft above Gatlinburg. The bridge spans over two football fields and there is a cool glass bottom on a part of the path to let you see below!
GET LOST IN ANAKEESTA
Anakeesta is an outdoor mountain theme park located in the center of Gatlinburg. There are scenic rides, zip lines, treetop skywalks, an observation tower and a whimsical village with dining options. We also loved the views from the botanical Vista Gardens at golden hour!
The treetop skywalk at Anakeesta was truly a unique experience. The sky bridges hang in the middle of the trees and you walk amongst nature with a one-of-a-kind experience. This spot is beautiful during the summer and fall months.
TRY LOCAL MOONSHINE
Experience a local Tennessee favorite with a moonshine tasting. Moonshine is a high-proof liquor with a long (and illegal) history, but Ole Smoky Distillery takes their own spin on the Moonshine tradition with unique flavors and lots of personality! Book a tasting here and try moonshine for yourself!
WHERE TO EAT & DRINK
Gatlinburg has great dining options to get your fill on southern comfort food and local favorites. When you’re in the area, a meal at Southern Comfort is a must! This restaurant and bar has the best cocktails and southern-inspired dishes with your comfort food favorites like southern fried chicken, Cajun classics, BBQ and the best mac n’ cheese!
Don’t ask me why, but Gatlinburg is famous for…pancakes! Pancake Pantry has the best pancakes I’ve ever tasted and is an absolute must if you’re a breakfast-lover!
For a night out, listen to live music at Ole Red, get one of the cocktails topped with a cute pink cowboy hat and grub on the nachos while jamming out to the tunes.
I hope this guide has inspired you to visit the USA’s most popular national park! Any questions? Drop a comment below
Interested in other United States destinations? Check out my other USA Travel Guides
I had no idea this was the most visited national park! Definitely added to my list, thank you for sharing! 😊
you are welcome! 🙂