While the entrance to Great Smoky Mountains National Park will continue to be free, the park is instituting a parking tag program that begins on March 1, 2023. Therefore, if you are visiting the park anytime on/after that date and plan to park your vehicle for more than 15 minutes at any location within the park, a paid parking tag will be required. The tags are available for daily, weekly, and annual use in the amounts of $5, $15, and $40, respectively. Here are 3 convenient ways to purchase your Great Smoky Mountains parking tag:
1. In Person Sales Locations
The daily, weekly and annual parking tags will be available for purchase in person at all of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park visitor centers, which are already excellent places to begin your exploration of the park! In addition to purchasing your parking tag, you can pick up park maps, talk to a park ranger about suggested itineraries and even enjoy some interesting exhibits! Some of the other in-person sales locations for parking tags include the Gatlinburg Welcome Center, Cades Cove Orientation Shelter, Great Smoky Mountains Institute at Tremont Store, and the Swain County Visitor Center.
2. Online Purchases
Another convenient way to purchase your Great Smoky Mountains parking tag is by buying your tag online, which is a fantastic option for those who want to have their tag before arriving at the park! Starting on February 21, 2023, you’ll be able to buy daily and weekly parking tags online. Keep in mind that you must print and display the parking tag when you come to the park, as the park staff won’t be able to print the tag for you. If you are interested in the annual parking tag option, you’ll be able to purchase it online through the Great Smoky Mountains Association and have it shipped right to your door!
3. Automated Fee Machines
Beginning on March 1st, you’ll be able to purchase daily and weekly parking tags from automated fee machines with a credit card! These machines will be available year-round and 24 hours a day. The exact locations of the automated fee machines will be shared once the installation is complete, so be sure to keep an eye on the latest information about Great Smoky Mountains National Park!
Displaying Your Parking Tag
Now that you know where to purchase your Great Smoky Mountains parking tag, learn all the details about these new parking fees and how they will help the park! One of the most important details is knowing where to display your parking tag, so note that daily and weekly parking tags must be placed face-up on the front, lower passenger side dashboard. If you are purchasing an annual parking tag, this must be displayed in the front, lower passenger side windshield.
With a Great Smoky Mountains parking tag displayed in your vehicle, you’ll be able to stop and explore some of the most popular hiking trails in the Smokies! Altogether, there are more than 800 miles of trails in the park that include everything from breathtaking waterfalls and unique wildlife to fascinating historical structures!
