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National park · Gatlinburg, Tennessee
Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Park in the Appalachian Mountains, between Tennessee and North Carolina, with forests, waterfalls and about 1,300 km of trails. A UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Great Smoky Mountains National Park was created in 1934 with land bought from timber companies and families who lived in the region. It protects one of the largest areas of old-growth forest in the eastern United States and a great variety of plants, salamanders and fungi, reasons for its UNESCO inscription in 1983.
The Sugarlands visitor center, near Gatlinburg, has nature exhibits and trail maps. From there Newfound Gap Road climbs to the state line and descends to Cherokee. The Appalachian Trail crosses the park along the mountain ridge. Black bears commonly appear in forested areas.
There is no entrance fee, but parking for more than 15 minutes requires a parking tag, purchased at machines, at visitor centers or online.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
From one day to several days, depending on the trails.
Best time
Late September to early November for fall color, and April and May for wildflowers. In summer arrive early at parking areas. Check which roads are open before you go.
How to get there
The Sugarlands visitor center is about 3 km from downtown Gatlinburg via US-441. There is no public transit inside the park.
Tip
Buy the parking tag before entering and keep your distance from bears: feeding or approaching them is prohibited.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Do you have to pay to enter Great Smoky Mountains?
There is no entrance fee, but parking for more than 15 minutes requires following parking rules.
Are there bears in Great Smoky Mountains?
Yes; black bears are commonly seen. Keep your distance and do not feed them.
Where should I start a visit to Great Smoky Mountains?
At the Sugarlands visitor center near Gatlinburg, or the Oconaluftee visitor center near Cherokee.