United States

Great Smoky Mountains National Park

A biodiverse preserve on the border between North Carolina and Tennessee, renowned for its mist-cloaked mountains and rich Appalachian heritage.

Tips from the community

The Great Smokies are the jewel in the crown of Appalachia. They roll through Tennessee and North Carolina in a fog of hazy ridges and moss-caked forests, babbling streams and rock bluffs with lookouts you’ll never forget. Well…you and the other 12 million people who choose to visit this iconic reserve each year. Yep – Great Smoky Mountains National Park is the single most popular US national park of them all. It’s a well-deserved accolade, too, what with 850 miles of hiking path to conquer, wild fly-fishing spots, and fun-filled nearby towns like Asheville and Pigeon Forge to get through.

jrfrancis 3 years ago

Straddling Tennessee and North Carolina, the US’s most-visited national park is famous for its fall foliage. The best time to see the colorful autumn leaves in Great Smoky Mountains National Park is typically in the last two weeks of October. Peak Foliage in Great Smoky Mountains National Park: Mid-October to Early November

laurenmack 3 years ago

The apparitions in the gorgeous Great Smoky Mountains National Park are aplenty. They include the bloodthirsty Spearfinger who haunts the Noland Creek Trail and allegedly feasts on wayward children, and a man who died looking for his daughter and now to lead hikers to safety.

laurenmack 3 years ago

There’s more camping in the Smokies than you can shake your bottle of moonshine at. On the north side, check out Elkmont Campground for rustic cabins amid the hemlock groves. On the North Carolina side, head to Smokemont Campground for remote pitches and RV spots by gurgling Blue Ridge streams.

jrfrancis 3 years ago

Great Smoky Mountains National Park Guides

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  • My Travel Bucket List

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    These attractions range from breathtaking to dazzling- with gorgeous natural landscapes, sparkling nightlife, and everything in between. No matter your USA plans, whether you are exploring natural parks, touring NYC, or visiting *every* iconic theme park in the country, life-changing experiences await. These are the most legendary tourist attractions across the United States, from the effervescent Las Vegas Strip to The Grand Canyon. Make it a trip to remember, and consider these spots for your USA bucket list.

  • Best National Parks For Beginners

    seeker (Seeker Editors)
    These top national park destinations are no stranger to newcomers, they have solidified themselves as some of the most famous and popular parks across the entire world. No matter what landscape you seek, from lush rainforests to spiral rock formations, there is a park waiting for you- complete with well-paved walking trails, quirky tourist traps for the entire family, and plenty of guidance documented online and at the site. Make sure to bring a reusable water bottle and some comfortable shoes because we are ready to take you on your first, life-changing National Park adventure for beginners.

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    seeker (Seeker Editors)
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    seeker (Seeker Editors)
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  • National Parks I've Been To

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  • Map of National Parks in the US

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    The US boasts an impressive 63 national parks, each with its own distinct character, awe inspiring views and countless ways to connect with nature. The parks are managed by the National Park Service which offers an annual pass for access to all 63 parks throughout the year for one flat price. Let's explore.

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    Sprawling natural parks with unique wildlife, ancient and mysterious temples, world-renown monuments, and more- the continent of North America is one with a deep history to be uncovered. Explore some of humankind's most famous mysteries and witness nature's magnificence at these UNESCO designated world heritage sites across the massive continent.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park Articles

  • Top Places to See Fall Foliage in the US 2023

    In hues of amber, crimson, and ochre, fall conjures up cozy sweaters, pumpkin spice, and fabulous fall foliage Predicting the best time to see the leaves change is tricky, but many states offer foliage trackers to help travelers time their trips. Looking at past peak periods can also help predict the best time to take […]

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  • 17 of the Most Haunted Places in America

    Mysterious and spooky, ghosts have captivated the world for centuries. From ghost stories and seances to haunted tours of the most mysterious places on earth, the fascination with spirits and connecting with the departed skyrockets during autumn with cooler weather, long nights, and, of course, Halloween. The most haunted places in the U.S. are not […]

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