Great Smoky Mountains National Park
The most-visited national park in America, straddling two states.
About this area
Great Smoky Mountains National Park protects over 520,000 acres of mist-covered ridgelines along the Tennessee–North Carolina border, drawing more visitors annually than any other national park. Most campgrounds operate April through October, with Cades Cove and Smokemont open year-round.
Park Size
522,000+ acres
Highest Peak (Kuwohi / Clingmans Dome)
6,643 ft
Best Time to Visit
Apr – Jun, Sep – Oct
Places to stay
Find your perfect campsite near Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Things to do
Cades Cove Loop
Drive an 11-mile loop through a historic valley known for wildlife sightings and preserved 19th-century homesteads.
Kuwohi (Clingmans Dome)
Walk a steep half-mile paved trail to the highest point in the park, with views into three states on a clear day.
Waterfall Hikes
Chase falls like Laurel Falls and Rainbow Falls on some of the park's most popular family-friendly trails.
Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail
Drive a narrow, winding loop past historic cabins and cascading mountain streams near Gatlinburg.
Good to know (FAQ)
Yes — most frontcountry campgrounds require advance reservations, especially spring through fall.
Yes, though some campground loops have length restrictions — check current limits before arriving.
No — Great Smoky Mountains is one of the few national parks with no entrance fee, though a parking tag is required for stays over 15 minutes.
Leashed pets are allowed in campgrounds and on two short trails only; most park trails are closed to pets.
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