If you only have one day to explore the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, this guide will help you make the most of your visit. From must-see attractions to easy hiking trails and guided tours, we’ve got you covered to ensure you have an unforgettable experience in this stunning natural wonder.
Best Areas to Visit in One Day
1. Sugarlands Visitor Center
Start your day at the Sugarlands Visitor Center in Gatlinburg, Tennessee. This is the perfect place to pick up maps, learn about upcoming events, and get an overview of the park’s highlights. Spend some time exploring the exhibits and speaking with the knowledgeable park rangers to plan your day.
2. Cades Cove
Venture into the heart of the park and drive the 11-mile Cades Cove Loop Road. This scenic drive offers stunning views, historic structures, and excellent wildlife viewing opportunities. Be sure to stop at the John Oliver Cabin and the three Cades Cove churches to learn about the area’s rich history.
3. Little River Road
Take a scenic drive along Little River Road, which runs for 18 miles and includes overlooks, trailheads, and picnic areas. This route provides a beautiful and relaxing way to experience the park’s natural beauty.
4. Abrams Falls
Hike to the stunning Abrams Falls, a 5-mile round-trip trail that leads to a 20-foot waterfall. This moderate hike should take around 3 hours to complete and offers breathtaking views along the way.
5. Newfound Gap Road
Drive to Newfound Gap, the highest point in the park at 5,046 feet, and visit the Rockefeller Memorial. Stop at the various scenic overlooks along the way to take in the stunning vistas.
6. Oconaluftee Visitor Center
End your day by visiting the Oconaluftee Visitor Center in North Carolina, where you can often spot elk in the evening hours. This is a great way to cap off your Smoky Mountains adventure.
Guided Tours
If you prefer to have an expert guide you through the park, there are several guided tour options available for a one-day visit:
- Wildland Trekking: Offers guided hikes and tours, including sunrise and sunset experiences.
- Smoky Mountain Guides: Provides customized tours and hikes tailored to your interests and fitness level.
These guided tours can help you maximize your time and provide valuable insights into the park’s history, geology, and wildlife.
Easy Hiking Trails
For those looking for a more leisurely hiking experience, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park offers several easy trails that can be completed in a day:
- Metcalf Bottoms Trail: A 4-mile round-trip hike to the historic Greenbrier Schoolhouse and Walker Sisters Cabin.
- Laurel Falls Trail: A 2.6-mile round-trip hike to an 80-foot waterfall.
- Alarka Laurel Branch Trail: A 4.4-mile round-trip hike to a scenic waterfall.
Tips and Essentials
- Parking Pass: As of March 2023, a parking pass is required for parking in the park for more than 15 minutes. Passes can be purchased online or at visitor centers.
- Early Start: Arrive early to avoid crowds and make the most of your day.
- Picnic Lunch: Pack a picnic lunch and enjoy it at one of the park’s picnic areas.
By following these tips and exploring the best areas, you can have an unforgettable one-day adventure in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
References
- Moon. (n.d.). Day Trip to Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Retrieved from https://www.moon.com/travel/national-parks/day-trip-great-smoky-mountains-national-park/
- Wildland Trekking. (n.d.). What to See in the Smoky Mountains in One Day. Retrieved from https://wildlandtrekking.com/great-smoky-mountains-visitor-guide/what-to-see-in-the-smoky-mountains-in-one-day/
- Simply Awesome Trips. (2023). How To Spend One Day in Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Retrieved from https://www.simplyawesometrips.com/new-blog/one-day-in-the-great-smoky-mountains-national-park
- TripAdvisor. (2024). Help with 1 Day Itinerary in GSMNP. Retrieved from https://en.tripadvisor.com.hk/ShowTopic-g143031-i2563-k14700943-Help_with_1_Day_Itinerary_in_GSMNP-Great_Smoky_Mountains_National_Park_Tennessee.html
- Visit My Smokies. (2022). What to Do with Only One Day in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Retrieved from https://www.visitmysmokies.com/blog/smoky-mountain-guides/one-day-great-smoky-mountains-national-park/.