Plan your visit
Plan Your Visit
Organize your days around specific park regions to minimize driving time. Arrive early to secure parking at popular trailheads.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park
107 Park Headquarters Road, Gatlinburg, TN 37738
GPS 35.6011, -83.5081
Open directionsGetting there
Driving is the primary way to explore the park's scenic motor trails.
| How | Time | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Car: Driving is the primary and most practical way to access and explore the park's scenic motor trails and trailheads. | Varies widely by destination | $5/day for parking tag | GPS navigation is often unreliable and may lead to dead ends; grab a free physical map at visitor centers. |
| Walk: The park offers an extensive network of over 800 miles of trails for hikers of all skill levels. | Varies | Free | Bring physical topographic maps as cell service is highly limited or non-existent on trails. |
| Bus: The Gatlinburg Trolley services routes to the Sugarlands Visitor Center and Elkmont during certain seasons. | Varies | Free or low cost | Public transit inside the massive park boundary is largely non-existent beyond the immediate Gatlinburg entrance. |
When to go
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QuietModerateBusyPeak
The park is open 24 hours a day, year-round. June through August and October are the busiest times. Go early in the morning to find parking at popular spots.
What to bring
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A physical map is essential.
GPS navigation often fails inside the park boundaries.
How the day runs
Focus on one area per day to avoid excessive driving.
Focus on the park's famous historical valley and wildlife viewing.
- Enter the park
Drive toward the Townsend entrance to access the western side.
- Cades Cove Loop
Start the 11-mile one-way driving loop. Watch for black bears and deer.
- Abrams Falls Hike
Stop halfway through the loop for a moderate 5.2-mile roundtrip hike to the waterfall.
- Townsend Wye
Exit the loop and relax by the scenic river fork.
Drive the mountainous spine of the park for panoramic views.
- Sugarlands Visitor Center
Buy your parking tag, get a physical map, and check road conditions.
- Newfound Gap
Drive up to 5,046 feet. Stand on the TN-NC state line and see the Rockefeller Memorial.
- Kuwohi (Clingmans Dome)
Walk the steep half-mile paved trail to the highest observation tower in the park.
- Appalachian Trail
Hike a short section of the famous trail starting directly from the Newfound Gap parking lot.
Navigating the park safely
Cell service is highly unreliable. Always bring a physical map and compass. Plan your route before leaving Gatlinburg or your hotel to avoid dead ends.
Obey wildlife rules at all times. Never approach a bear or elk within 50 yards. Read Packing List Guide to ensure you have the right gear for changing elevations.
Easiest way to do it
The "Classic" National Park Tour
3 h 4.9 (352)
- Bottled water
- Snacks
From$85per person
Cancellation terms differ by platform and listing. Check them before you pay.
Planning questions
Are dogs allowed in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park?
Dogs are strictly restricted. They are only allowed in campgrounds, picnic areas, along roads, and on the Gatlinburg and Oconaluftee River trails.
Do I need a parking pass for the Smoky Mountains?
Yes, if you park for more than 15 minutes. A daily tag costs $5 and must be visibly displayed.
What time does the Smoky Mountain National Park open?
The park is open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. However, certain facilities and minor roads close in winter.