[FULL GUIDE] 50 Unforgettable Experiences at Great Smoky Mountains National Park for All Ages

Key Takeaways:

• Great Smoky Mountains National Park is home to diverse wildlife, hiking trails, and stunning natural beauty.
• With over 19,000 species of living organisms, the park offers endless opportunities for exploration.
• From scenic drives to hidden waterfalls, the park provides something for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park, located on the border between North Carolina and Tennessee, is America’s most visited national park, attracting millions of visitors each year. Its unique biodiversity, ancient mountains, and rich cultural history make it a treasure trove of experiences for outdoor enthusiasts. The park’s mist-covered peaks, lush valleys, and hidden waterfalls create an enchanting atmosphere that captivates hikers, photographers, and nature lovers alike. Whether you’re exploring its scenic drives, hiking its vast trail network, or immersing yourself in its rich Appalachian culture, Great Smoky Mountains offers a journey through time and nature that you won’t soon forget.

50 Things to Do at Great Smoky Mountains National Park:

#1 Hike to Clingmans Dome:
Climb to the highest point in the park for sweeping views of the Smoky Mountains.

#2 Explore Cades Cove:
Drive or bike through this beautiful valley known for wildlife sightings and historic buildings.

#3 Visit Laurel Falls:
Hike to the park’s most famous waterfall, an easy walk perfect for all skill levels.

#4 Hike the Alum Cave Trail:
This moderately difficult trail leads you to a unique rock shelter with panoramic views.

#5 Take a Scenic Drive along Newfound Gap Road:
Drive through scenic mountain views, with stops for hiking and photography along the way.

#6 Go Camping at Elkmont Campground:
Enjoy camping surrounded by old-growth forest and easy access to hiking trails.

#7 Spot Wildlife at Oconaluftee Visitor Center:
Catch a glimpse of elk, deer, and other wildlife while visiting the park’s gateway center.

#8 Take a Historic Walk at Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail:
Explore the preserved historic cabins and lush forest along this one-way loop road.

#9 Explore the Smoky Mountain Arts and Crafts Community:
Visit a variety of galleries, shops, and studios to experience local Appalachian art.

#10 Visit the Mingus Mill:
Learn about the history of milling in the Smoky Mountains at this preserved historic site.

#11 Go Horseback Riding at Smokemont Stables:
Take a horseback ride through the forest and along scenic trails for an unforgettable experience.

#12 Take a Hike on the Charlie’s Bunion Trail:
Enjoy a challenging hike that rewards you with amazing views of the surrounding mountains.

#13 Discover the History at the Great Smoky Mountains Heritage Center:
Learn about the park’s cultural history, from Native American tribes to European settlers.

#14 Visit the Park’s Historic Log Cabins:
Explore restored cabins to experience life in the Smokies during the 19th century.

#15 Take a Sunrise at Morton Overlook:
Catch a beautiful sunrise and enjoy stunning panoramic views over the misty mountains.

#16 Go Fishing in the Park’s Streams:
Cast your line in one of the park’s pristine streams, known for excellent trout fishing.

#17 Hike to Rainbow Falls:
Trek to one of the park’s tallest waterfalls, featuring a beautiful rainbow effect in sunlight.

#18 Explore the Greenbrier Area:
Hike, picnic, or explore the peaceful Greenbrier area, known for its wildflower sightings.

#19 Take a Photography Tour:
Join a tour to capture the beauty of the park’s diverse landscapes and wildlife.

#20 Attend a Ranger-Led Program:
Join a guided program to learn about the park’s natural history, wildlife, and conservation efforts.

#21 Go Ziplining in the Smokies:
Experience the thrill of ziplining with incredible views of the Smoky Mountains from above.

#22 Take a Historic Cabin Tour at Elkmont:
Explore the preserved cabins from the early 20th century and learn about the area’s history.

#23 Take the Laurel Falls Trail for an Easy Hike:
Enjoy a short and easy hike to the park’s most visited waterfall, ideal for families.

#24 Explore the Smoky Mountains Railway:
Take a ride on the historic railway, offering scenic views and a taste of regional history.

#25 Go for a Winter Hike on the Alum Cave Trail:
During winter, explore the snowy landscape on one of the park’s best year-round hikes.

#26 Visit the Appalachian Highlands Science Learning Center:
Learn about the park’s ecosystems and conduct scientific research with park experts.

#27 Go for a Scenic Drive along Little River Road:
Take a drive through the heart of the park with stops for photos and nature walks.

#28 Visit the Clingmans Dome Visitor Center:
Stop at the visitor center to learn about the park’s highest peak and its ecosystem.

#29 Explore the Cataloochee Valley:
Discover a historic valley known for elk sightings, homesteads, and scenic trails.

#30 Take a Ride on the Smoky Mountain Alpine Coaster:
Experience a thrilling ride down the mountainside with a beautiful view of the Smoky Mountains.

#31 Join the Smoky Mountain Folk Festival:
Celebrate Appalachian music and traditions at this annual cultural festival held in the park.

#32 Explore the Chimney Tops Trail:
Take on a short but challenging hike that rewards you with dramatic mountain views.

#33 Picnic at Greenbrier:
Pack a lunch and enjoy a peaceful picnic in the Greenbrier area surrounded by nature.

#34 Take a Guided Hiking Tour:
Join a guided hiking tour to explore the park’s hidden gems and learn from experienced naturalists.

#35 Go on a Waterfall Tour:
Visit several waterfalls throughout the park on a scenic waterfall-focused hiking tour.

#36 Watch for Birds at the Park’s Wetlands:
Explore the park’s wetlands to spot a variety of migratory birds and local species.

#37 Visit the Sugarlands Visitor Center:
Stop by the visitor center to learn about the park’s geology, wildlife, and exhibits on local history.

#38 Take a Horseback Ride at Cataloochee Ranch:
Saddle up for a horseback ride through the scenic Cataloochee Valley.

#39 Explore the Historic Walker Sisters Cabin:
Visit this preserved homestead to learn about the Walker sisters, who lived in the Smokies for decades.

#40 Take a Day Hike to Grotto Falls:
Take an easy, picturesque hike to the park’s only waterfall that you can walk behind.

#41 Go on a Scenic Drive to the Newfound Gap:
Drive to the park’s highest accessible point for incredible views and photo opportunities.

#42 Participate in the Smoky Mountain Science Workshop:
Join a hands-on workshop and learn about the park’s ecosystems through scientific exploration.

#43 Visit the Oconaluftee Indian Village:
Explore a living history museum where you can experience the culture of the Eastern Band of Cherokee.

#44 Join a Fall Foliage Tour:
Visit the park during the fall to see vibrant colors and take a guided foliage tour.

#45 Take a Full Moon Hike:
Join a ranger-led full moon hike for a unique experience of the park after dark.

#46 Go on a Smoky Mountain Food Tour:
Discover the culinary delights of the Smoky Mountains on a guided food tour of the area.

#47 Attend the Smoky Mountain Fall Festival:
Celebrate autumn with seasonal events, live music, and family-friendly activities during the fall festival.

#48 Explore the Porters Creek Trail:
A hidden gem, this trail offers peaceful hiking through a beautiful wildflower-filled forest.

#49 Go for a Scenic Drive through Big Creek:
Explore this lesser-known area of the park and enjoy a peaceful, scenic drive.

#50 Take a Family-Friendly Hike on the Gatlinburg Trail:
Enjoy an easy hike along the historic Gatlinburg Trail, suitable for families with young children.

Use PlanMyWeekend.ai to plan your perfect weekend adventure in Great Smoky Mountains National Park!

Author: Dejon Brooks

Dejon Brooks is an entrepreneur who founded Trend Watchers with his life savings. Aged 24, Dejon has turned Trend Watchers into a successful business. After reaching over 150M+ people on his personal accounts, he now spends his time growing Planmyweekend.ai