There’s something for everyone in the Great Smoky Mountains. Whether you love hiking, camping, or are looking for the thrill of adventure, this national park and its surroundings are filled with plenty to do and see! Resting along the Tennessee-North Carolina border, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is the most visited park in the United States, with approximately 12.4 million visitors in the year 2020! When I planned my trip, there were a few must-do things I had in mind; a great hike, amazing views of the foliage, and a chance to zipline across the beautiful park. Here is how I enjoyed my visit.
Day One: Hike to Grotto Falls
There are 150 trails throughout the park. I opted for Grotto Falls because it was the only trail with a waterfall that you can walk behind. The trail is an easy to moderate, 2.6-mile hike with scenic landscape along the route towards the 25-foot cascade. You’ll have to pass over about four, small streams, but you can easily walk on top of the rocks to get across. The rocks can be slippery, though, so make sure you have a good pair of hiking boots or shoes! There is limited parking at the trailhead, so you’ll want to get there early. Arriving early enough also gives you a chance to avoid the crowds. That way you can enjoy great photo opportunities!
Day 2: Ziplining With CLIMBworks
I call it Adventure with a VIEW! Although it wasn’t my first time ziplining, I’ve never done anything on this level. What a thrilling way to test my strengths and weaknesses as I soared high across mountaintops of incredible scenery! The course includes 6 ziplines, 4 aerial bridges, and an ATV ride to the top of the mountain. The 360-degree panoramic views were amazing! I can truly say, I stepped out of my comfort zone with this awesome experience. You can read more about my ziplining adventure here.
Day 3: Clingmans Dome
Clingmans Dome is the park’s highest point, with an elevation level of 6,643 feet. To get to it, there is a steep, half-mile walk to the top. However, it is well worth the spectacular views of the mountain range and beyond. The seven-mile road leading to the site offers some amazing views as well!
Day 4: A Taste of Ole Smoky Moonshine
After a day of browsing boutiques and other attractions in Gatlinburg, I stopped in Ole Smoky Moonshine. For about $35, you can have a tour of the distillery, followed by a private moonshine tasting experience. Who knew moonshine came in so many different flavors? A few of my favorites: Mountain Java (tastes like iced coffee!), Blackberry, and Hunch Punch Lightnin’.
The are two main tourist towns; Gatlinburg, which borders the Great Smoky Mountains, and Pigeon Forge, which is a few miles North. Both offer many attractions to include Dollywood, Anakeesta, and the Titanic Museum. Planning a trip? Enjoy your stay in a cabin with a view! Reserve early for best selections.
How will you spend your visit in the Great Smoky Mountains? Send me your comments below!
Hi Len
Love these pictures! We live in NC, so we have been to the Smokeys, and it is a wonderful place. Hubby and I like to hike, and the views are fantastic. We did most of what you did here, except the ziplining! That looks so fun! We had moonshine when we went on The Smokey Mountain railroad, which you should , if you get a chance, go on- we had a lovely day on the train.
Enjoy your week!
jess xx
http://www.elegantlydressedandstylish.com
I’d love to experience the railroad next time! Thanks for reading!!
My sister keeps asking me to do a vacation with her in the Smoky mountains but we haven’t been able to coordinate our schedules. It looks stunning. I’m not sure I’d be brave enough for zip lining but I would definitely enjoy the hikes!
xo Nipa
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It’s a beautiful place. You’ll absolutely enjoy a hike! Thanks for reading!!
Beautiful photos. Looks like a place to add to my bucket travel list!!
It’s definitely something to add to your list! Thanks for reading!!