District Guide

Spread over an area that crosses into both Tennessee and North Carolina, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park can most easily be explored by separating the park's many natural wonders, from the equally impressive offerings of the cities that surround it. Whether skiing, hiking, rafting, dining, or just soaking up the local culture, the park and its surrounding cities offer visitors a vast spectrum of recreational possibilities.

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park

As diverse in climate, terrain and wildlife as it is massive, the park itself is the centerpiece of the region and the most visited national park in the U.S. There is an abundance to do and see here, but some must-sees include a hike up to Clingmans Dome, the highest peak in the park at 6,643 feet; a visit to the beautiful Cades Cove valley with its collection of preserved historic buildings; and an easy trek down the paved Laurel Falls Trail to see the impressive 80-foot waterfall.

For those looking for a more strenuous but all the more spectacular hike, the famed Appalachian Trail cuts through the center of the park, where it reaches the highest point in its 2,178 mile length just below the summit of Clingman's Dome. If taking it easy sounds more appealing, another option is to take a scenic drive through the park. U.S. Hwy 441, known as Newfound Gap road, is a great route for motorists, offering access to many trailheads and campgrounds along the way, and connecting the parks two main entrances in Gatlinburg, Tennessee, and Cherokee, North Carolina.

Gatlinburg, TN

Located at the northern entrance to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park on U.S. Hwy 441, the historic city of Gatlinburg offers a great selection of places to stay and things to see for those visiting the park from the north. Among the most notable attractions here are Ober Gatlinburg, the only ski resort in the region that doubles as an amusement park, and the Gatlinburg Space Needle, which offers a stunning view of the Smoky Mountains from its 342-foot high observation deck.

Cherokee, NC

Located in the Oconaluftee River Valley at the southern entrance to the park, Cherokee is a popular area tourist destination in its own right. With such attractions as the Museum of the Cherokee Indian, the Oconaluftee Indian Village, whether visited before or after exploring the park, this is a great stop that is at once cultural, historical and educational. The popular Harrah's Cherokee casino is also located here, for those looking for a little glitz as an alternative to or break from the silent beauty of the Smoky Mountains.

Pigeon Forge, TN

A popular city for shopping and strolling, Pigeon Forge is located five miles north of the park on U.S. Hwy 441. Visitors to the park can find a broad range of accommodations here, but the area's most notable attraction is Dolly Parton's Dollywood Theme Park, one of the most popular family attractions in the south, which includes rides, live entertainment, and demonstrations by local craftsmen.