Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Park Telephone: (865) 436-1200

Official Website

The Great Smoky Mountains, a majestic climax of the Appalachian Highlands, are a wild lands sanctuary preserving the world's finest examples of temperate deciduous forest. The name Smoky comes from the smoke like haze enveloping the mountains, which stretch in sweeping troughs and mighty billows to the horizon. The park boasts unspoiled forests similar to those early pioneers found. Restored log cabins and barns stand as reminders of those who carved a living from this wilderness. Fertile soils and abundant rain have encouraged the development of a world-renowned variety of flora, including more than 1,500 kinds of flowering plants. In the coves, broadleaf trees predominate. Along the crest -- at more than 6,000 feet elevations -- are conifer forests like those of central Canada. Wildflowers and migrating birds abound in late April and early May. During June and July rhododendrons bloom in spectacular profusion. Autumn's pageantry of color usually peaks in mid-October. For many, this is the finest time of year, with cool, clear days ideal for hiking. In winter, an unpredictable season, a peace pervades the park. Fog rolling over the mountains may blanket the conifers in frost.

A scenic, high mountain road wind up through Newfound Gap, with a spur out to Clingman's Dome and its observation tower. Along the road are superb views, and those from the tower are truly panoramic. But roads offer only an introduction to the Smokies. Some 800 miles of trails thread the whole of the Smokies' natural fabric -- and its waterfalls, coves, balds and rushing streams. Each trail invites you into the intimacy and richness of these highlands. The Smokies, a wild landscape rich with traces of its human past, calls people back year after year.

The park is a delightful mix of forest wild lands and outdoor museum of pioneer life. Try to experience both aspects, by hiking and by visiting its restored structures.

From mid-June through August evening programs and nature walks are offered at most developed campgrounds. Spring and fall activities are limited. Check schedules at a visitor center or ranger station.

Horse and foot trails wind along streams and through forests into the wild stillness of the Smokies. For "do-it-yourself" naturalists there are short, self-guiding nature trails. Pick up a leaflet at the start of each trail. A backcountry use permit, required for all overnight hiking parties, can be obtained free at ranger stations or visitor centers (except Cades Cove Visitor Center). Overnight use of some shelters and backcountry campsites is rationed.

There are 10 developed campgrounds in the park; fees are charged at each. Reservations are recommended at Cades Cove, Elkmont and Smokemont from May 15 to October 31: they can be made by calling 1-800-365-CAMP. Campgrounds have tent sites, limited trailer space, water, fireplaces, tables and restrooms. No shelters are provided. There are no showers or hookups for trailers. The camping limit is 7 days between May 15 and October 31, 14 days between November 1 and May 14. Sewage disposal stations are located at Smokemont, Cades Cove, deep Creek and Cosby campground, and across the road from Sugarlands Visitor Center. They are not available for use in the winter.

Many park streams provide fishing for rainbow and brown trout all year long. Tennessee or North Carolina fishing licenses are required, but not trout stamps. Check park regulations at a ranger station or visitor center before you fish. Possession of any brook trout is prohibited.

Most neighboring towns have gasoline, food, lodging, showers and camping supplies. Many private campgrounds operate outside the park. LeConte Lodge, accessible only by trail, offers accommodations in the park from mid-March to mid-November. Allow a half day for hiking up a mountain trail to reach this secluded retreat. Reservations are necessary; call or write LeConte Lodge, Gatlinburg, TN 37738. Saddle horses are available from about April 1 to October 31 at Cades Cove, Smokemont, Cosby, near Greenbrier on U. S. 321 and near park headquarters.

Bears are wild and potentially dangerous. If one approaches your car, stay inside with the windows closed. Feeding bears and other wildlife encourages the animals to behave unnaturally and violates regulations.

The park is managed as a natural and wild environment. Motorists must drive defensively. Hikers must meet nature on its own terms. If you hike alone, let someone know your plans and schedule and have proper clothing and gear. In winter, gear and clothing should be suitable for survival in deep snow and extreme cold not characteristic of the mid-south. To prevent accidents please stay on trails, stay off cliff faces, be careful around water and watch and control children. Pets, permitted in the park if on a leash or under other constant physical control, are prohibited on trails or cross-country hikes.

U. S. Department of the Interior
National Park Service