In this Great Smoky Mountains guide, you’ll discover what to expect during each season, how to get a parking pass, the best hiking trails to explore, other can’t-miss spots, and more!
When To Visit
When is the best time of year to visit the Smokies? We’re glad you asked! Every season provides its own unique experience, and we think you’ll find that there’s no “bad” time to visit!
- Summer– The warmer weather provides plenty of daylight to enjoy outdoor activities like fishing, hiking, and biking. Waterfall hikes are also popular, and motorcyclists enjoy riding along the Tail of the Dragon, an 11-mile section of U.S. Highway 29!
- Fall– The bright autumn colors and cooler temperatures make this season ideal for longer day hikes– we suggest one of the trails that lead to Mt. LeConte. You’ll love enjoying the fresh mountain air and taking in the spectacular views of fall foliage at the summit!
- Winter– While some roads close seasonally like Clingmans Dome Road and Roaring Fork, you can still access many areas of the national park such as Cades Cove and hiking trails including Laurel Falls and Alum Cave. It’s also typically a lot less crowded! Make sure to stay in the know about seasonal Smoky Mountain road closures before your trip!
- Spring– Wildflowers and wildlife begin to show their heads during this season! Some of our favorite wildflower hikes in the Great Smoky Mountains include Porters Creek, Schoolhouse Gap, Deep Creek, Gregory Bald, and Middle Prong.
What To Expect
Entrance Fee & Parking Tags– There is no entrance fee to Great Smoky Mountains National Park! You can drive through and enjoy the scenery at no cost to you. Stopping at a pull-off area for less than 15 minutes is allowed, but if you plan to stay longer, you’ll need to purchase a parking pass. You’ll find kiosks throughout the park, including at visitor centers, and you can also buy a parking tag online before your trip.
Visitor Centers– There are 4 visitor centers within the national park: Cades Cove, Sugarlands, Oconaluftee, and Clingmans Dome. With the exception of the Clingamns Dome location open from April to November, the visitor centers are open 364 days a year and closed on Christmas Day.
Hours & Directions– The national park is always open, with only some roads closing seasonally in the winter. And the best part is– nearly two-thirds of the U.S. is within a day’s drive of the beautiful Smokies! Additionally, there are several entrances to Great Smoky Mountains National Park, so no matter which direction you’re coming from, you’ll find a convenient way to access the park.
What To Do
- Hiking– The Gatlinburg Trail and the Oconaluftee River Trail are the ONLY dog-friendly trails in the Great Smoky Mountains.
- Biking– We suggest bicycling the loop during Vehicle-Free Wednesdays in May through September!
- Camping– both frontcountry and backcountry sites are available, many of which are open year-round.
- Horseback Riding– Cades Cove Riding Stables offers guided horseback trail rides, carriage rides, as well as hayrides!
- Fishing– You can go fishing in the Smoky Mountains any time of the year as long as you have a valid TN or NC fishing license. Abrams Creek is one of our top fishing spots!
- Driving– Foothills Parkway, Newfound Gap, Roaring Fork Nature Trail, and Upper Tremont Road are some of the best scenic drives!
Can’t-Miss Spots
Cades Cove– This is easily the best place to spend the majority of the day. You can drive the 11-mile loop road, stop at the many historic structures along the way, catch glimpses of wildlife, hike to Abrams Falls, go horseback riding, and more.
Elkmont– a forest nature trail tucked away in the mountains leads to the Elkmont Ghost Town, a unique (and eerie) area of the national park you have to experience for yourself!
Clingmans Dome– at 6,643 feet, this is the highest point in Great Smoky Mountains National Park! There’s also a secret tunnel underneath it you have to see!
Cataloochee – driving through this peaceful valley is one of the best things to do on the North Carolina side of the Smokies! Elk are often seen here, and you’ll be able to explore several historic sites, from churches to homesteads.
With this guide to the Great Smoky Mountains, you’re well on your way to planning an unforgettable vacation! Want more recommendations of where to go in the national park? Check out these hidden places in the Smokies to look for off the beaten path!
