Great Smoky Mountains National Park is known across the United States for its beautiful views and mist that falls over its peaks in the early morning. It’s also one of the most popular national parks known for its hiking trails in Tennessee and endless places to explore. So, if you’re ready to learn why Great Smoky Mountains National Park in Tennessee is a must-visit destination, read on!

Michael Hicks - Flickr
Great Smoky Mountains National Park is divided down the middle, its mountainous expanse shared by both Tennessee and North Carolina. As the most visited national park in the nation, it welcomes roughly 12.5 million visitors seeking things to do outside in Tennessee on an annual basis.
JR P - Flickr
Great Smoky Mountains National Park is made up of half a million acres of rugged, lush wilderness. You can visit forested mountaintops, indulge in stunning views across the mountain range, and swim in natural waterfalls all within the park's borders. This photo was taken on the Bradley Fork Trail which is on the North Carolina side of the Smokies but you can also enjoy a nice hike to Laurel Falls on the Tennessee side. To see Laurel Falls check out this video from Adventuring in the Moment:


Tim Lumley - Flickr
The most popular place to visit within the park is the isolated Cades Cove. The valley was once home to some of the earliest settlers in Tennessee and remains a top spot for scenic driving, hiking, and educational trips. A popular hike in the area is to Abrams Falls which can be a strenuous, but it leads to a gorgeous waterfall. Check out this video from Adventuring in the Moment to get a good look at Cades Cove:


Geoff Livingston - Flickr
There are 10 campgrounds in Great Smoky Mountains National Park, and there are roughly 1,000 sites in total. With 11 picnic areas and backcountry campsites as well, it's easy to visit the Great Smoky Mountains on a budget and experience plenty of things to do outside in Tennessee.

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Domenico Convertini - Flickr
Hiking is perhaps the most popular experience in Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Annually, 400,000 hikers visit the park to trek over 850 miles of hiking trails in Tennessee.
Richard - Flickr
The Appalachian Trail runs through the park, as well, and Great Smoky Mountains National Park claims 72 miles of this iconic footpath. A section of the Appalachian Trail that is easily accessible is right on the Tennessee and North Carolina border on the New Found Gap Road. Park there and head into the woods on the section known as the Charles Bunion Trail.
Courtesy of Sarah Dodge
The highest point in the park is accessible by car and a half-mile walk up steep elevation. It's known as Clingmans Dome, and it is also the highest point in Tennessee. There is a short hike leading up to the tower; you can watch the journey getting there with this Adventuring in the Moment video:


Thomas - Flickr
In addition, the expansive diversity of both plant and animal life in the mountains is stunning, and there's no end to the educational opportunities. Keep an eye out for wildlife as you trek through the wilderness, though. Respect for the park is key for visitor safety!

Do you agree that Great Smoky Mountains National Park is an amazing place to visit in Tennessee? If so, share your thoughts in the comment section below. And, if you’ve already visited this gem in the South, feel free to share any tips you have that might be helpful to others, too. It’s always helpful to know your way around and to compile a list of hikes whenever you visit. Alltrails+ can help you do that and so much more. Then, if you’re ready to indulge in a bit of fun while you’re in the Volunteer State, check out all the things to do outside in Tennessee.

 

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National Park To Visit In Tennessee

Marla S. | July 18, 2022

Which state parks should I visit in Tennessee?

There are so many great state parks in our state so I will just name my top 3 state parks in Tennesse:

Now that you've learned all about the best national park to visit in Tennessee, how about adding some of the state parks to your itinerary when you visit this part of the south, too? Since there are over 50 state parks to choose from, feel free to reference this list of the best state parks in Tennessee to help you get started on planning your next outdoor adventure. While the parks that made the cut are a little less known and off the beaten path, they all offer plenty of opportunities for things to do outside in Tennessee.

What are the most picturesque hiking trails in Tennessee?

Here are some of the most picturesque hiking trails in Tennessee:

Although there are plenty of scenic trails scattered throughout the Volunteer State, it might be a bit overwhelming to decide where to go. Because the options are endless, how about basing your decision on a specific time of year?  To help you get started on planning your next adventure in nature, here’s a list of hiking trails in Tennessee that'll take you to some of the most picturesque spots in the state. This includes hikes with water views, cliffs, and other scenic landscapes.

What are the best waterfall hikes in Tennessee?

The best waterfall hikes in Tennessee are:

One of the most adventurous and memorable things to do outside in Tennessee is to take a hike to some of the most breathtaking waterfalls in the state. Since there are over 800 waterfalls in the state, there are plenty of hiking trails in Tennessee that lead to waterfalls. For you to choose based on your fitness level, geographic location, time, and interests (such as birdwatching and bringing your dog along on your outing).  

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