The largest national park East of the Rocky Mountains, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park encompasses approximately 244,000 acres in Tennessee and 276,000 acres in North Carolina for a total of 520,000 acres or more than 800 square miles. Often called the “Crown Jewels of the Appalachian Mountains,” the Smokies were also referred to as the “ Land of Blue Mist” by the Cherokees.
Full of breathtaking scenery and a multitude of recreational opportunities, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is the most visited national park in the United States, drawing more than 10 million visitors annually (in comparison, less than 5 million people visit Grand Canyon National Park each year). The park, which has been designated an International Biosphere Reserve, lies within a day’s drive of two-thirds of the country’s population.
Established in 1934 and officially dedicated by President Franklin D. Roosevelt in 1940, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park boasts 140 native species of trees, 4,000 species of plants, more than 850 miles of scenic hiking trails, and 700 miles and rivers. An estimated 1,600 black bears live within the park's boundaries. Other animals that inhabit the park include the Eastern cottontail rabbit, red wolf, groundhog, red fox, coyote, bobcat, river otter, white-tailed deer and wild boar.
An abundance of campsites, hiking trails, waterfalls, picnic areas and historic sites can be found throughout the park. Fishing is permitted year round - a valid North Carolina or Tennessee fishing license is required. Guided horseback rides are available in season. Scenic drives through the park include Newfound Gap Road (U.S. 441), Cades Cove Loop Road, Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail, Little River Road and The Foothills Parkway, among others. Popular campgrounds within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park include Cades Cove, Cosby, Elkmont, Look Rock, Balsam Mountain, Deep Creek and Smokemont. All campgrounds are open from mid-May through October (weather permitting). Approximately 100 backcountry campsites are also spread throughout the park (a free permit is required).
Before you embark on your exploration of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, visit one of the 3 visitors centers within the park’s borders: Sugarlands Visitor Center near Gatlinburg, Tennessee; Cades Cove Visitor Center near Townsend, Tennessee; or Oconaluftee Visitor Center near Cherokee, North Carolina.
Note: No fee is charged to enter the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
RICH'S TRIVIA: At 6,643 feet, Clingmans Dome is the highest point in the Great Smoky Mountains.
