Exploring the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a must-do for any outdoor enthusiast. With its stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, and rich history, this park offers a wealth of experiences for visitors. In this blog post, we’ll dive into a comprehensive 2-day itinerary to help you make the most of your Smoky Mountain adventure.
Day 1: North Carolina Side
1. Cataloochee
Start your journey early in the morning to increase your chances of spotting the majestic elk that call the Cataloochee valley home. Access the area via Cove Creek Road, and be sure to check the current conditions on the National Park Service website before your visit.
2. Oconaluftee Visitor Center
Stop by the Oconaluftee Visitor Center to pick up park maps, pamphlets, and talk to a ranger. For just $1, you can purchase full-color, informative guides to enhance your understanding of the park.
3. Mountain Farm Museum
Take a self-guided tour of the historic buildings at the Mountain Farm Museum to learn about the area’s past and the lives of the people who once called this place home.
4. Newfound Gap Road
Drive the 33-mile Newfound Gap Road (U.S. 441) from Gatlinburg, Tennessee, to Cherokee, North Carolina, and be sure to stop at the Tennessee-North Carolina state line for a memorable photo opportunity.
5. Sunset at Clingmans Dome
Hike the 0.5-mile trail to the highest point in Tennessee, Clingmans Dome, and enjoy the stunning sunset views of up to seven states on a clear day.
Day 2: Tennessee Side
1. Raft the Pigeon River
Start your day with an adrenaline-pumping rafting experience on the Pigeon River, where you’ll navigate through ten Class III rapids.
2. Hike to Laurel Falls
Take a 2.6-mile paved hike to the 85-feet-high Laurel Falls, but be aware that the trail is uneven and not suitable for wheelchairs or strollers.
3. Picnic at Cades Cove
Stop at the picnic area in Cades Cove and enjoy a delicious lunch while surrounded by the park’s natural beauty.
4. Cades Cove Loop
Drive the 11-mile Cades Cove Loop and explore the historic settlement, stopping at the campground store for snacks and to further immerse yourself in the area’s rich history.
Additional Recommendations
- Rainbow Falls: Hike 5 miles with 1,500 feet of elevation to see the largest waterfall in the park.
- Sky Bridge: Take a ski lift to a viewing platform and walk across the longest pedestrian bridge in the USA.
- Chimney Tops Trail: Hike along the river and through the forest to see a unique view of Chimney Tops.
- Camping: Consider camping for three days to fully explore the park and nearby towns.
Best Time to Visit
The best times to visit the Great Smoky Mountains National Park are during the summer and fall seasons. These periods offer the most favorable weather for outdoor activities like hiking and camping, but be prepared for larger crowds and higher temperatures during the summer months.
Important Details
- Parking Tags: As of March 1, 2023, parking tags are required for parking within the GSMNP boundaries.
- Hours: The park is open 24/7, but some services may be reduced during the winter months.
- Cost: There are no entrance fees to the park, but campsites and backcountry permits do have associated fees.
Reference Links
- https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/things-to-do/park-itineraries/weekend-itinerary/
- https://www.throughmylens.com/tennessee/how-to-spend-two-days-in-great-smoky-mountains-national-park/
- https://www.litaofthepack.com/smoky-mountains-itinerary/
- https://www.cinderstravels.com/smoky-mountains-itinerary/