One of the best ways to explore the Smoky Mountains is going on a drive! There are several roads that can take you through the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, and many of them are popular drives people love! These drives are popular for a reason, but sometimes you want to experience the road less traveled! Check out these 4 undiscovered Smoky Mountain scenic drives you have to explore:
Did you know there is a secret ghost town in the Smoky Mountains? In what used to be one of the most popular places in the Smokies, Elkmont is now considered to be more of a hidden gem location. If you have never been, you definitely want to add it to your bucket list of places to visit because there are plenty of exciting things to see there. Here is everything you need to know about Elkmont TN in the Smoky Mountains:
Winter is one of the most magical times to visit the Smoky Mountains! The thing that makes this season so special is the opportunity to experience the snow covered mountains. While it is possible to see snow all throughout the Smokies, there are some hidden gem spots in the higher elevations that increase your chances! Here are 4 of the best places to see snow in the Smoky Mountains:
Winter is a beautiful time to visit the Great Smoky Mountains National Park! Most people think about visiting during the other seasons throughout the year, but there’s something peaceful about visiting when everything is still and quiet in the winter. Plus, there are plenty of fun things to do when you have a full day to explore the park! Here are 4 ideas for a day trip to the Smoky Mountains in winter:
Cades Cove is one of the most visited areas inside the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. There is a 11-mile loop road that you can take that provides amazing views of the Smokies and the opportunity to see wildlife. The next time you visit, you will have an even greater appreciation for the area once you know the story behind it. Here is the brief history of Cades Cove in the Smoky Mountains:
One of the best ways to explore the Smoky Mountains is with a professional guide! Whether you have a limited time in the Smokies or feel more comfortable with someone else navigating through the mountains, there are several fantastic options available! This is also a great way to learn about the history of the area while interacting with a guide who is happy to answer any of your questions! Here are the top 3 guided tours of the Smoky Mountains:
Whether you are a professional photographer or just someone who wants to take some cool shots of the Smokies to show your friends, you will find plenty of fantastic options throughout the National Park! While you can snap some beautiful photos virtually anywhere in the park, there are a few locations worth seeking out for some extra special photographs! Here are the top 4 places in the park that you should visit to take amazing pictures of the Smoky Mountains:
If you are not up for a strenuous hike but still want to experience the beauty of Great Smoky Mountains National Park, take a stroll along one of the park’s scenic nature trails! These easy self-guided trails were developed by park rangers for visitors of all ages to enjoy the highlights of the park’s natural environment so bring the whole family along for the trek! Here are 4 nature trails in the Smoky Mountains that you need to experience:
Long before the Great Smoky Mountains were part of a national park, it was an area rich in agriculture and pioneers coming to the area to live a simple life. Among these people were the Walker Sisters and their ancestors before them, and they refused to let the establishment of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park disturb their way of life. Keep reading to learn more about the unusual history of the Walker Sisters:
There are few things better than taking a few hours to get outside and enjoy a nice hike. Whether you’re hiking up towards a peak with a view or heading towards a hidden waterfall in the woods, you’ll love breathing in the fresh air and stretching your legs. As great as hiking is though, it does come with some risks. Here are 7 hiking safety tips everyone should know:
The Smoky Mountains are known for their beautiful scenery and miles of hiking trails. You may be trying to decide which trails are the best ones to explore while you’re in town and what kind of natural features you want to see along the way. There are several hikes people love to explore again and again, and you’ll want to try them too! Here are 5 of the most popular hiking trails in the Smokies:
When starting your day at the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, be sure to make the Sugarlands Visitor Center your first stop! This facility is conveniently located just a few miles south of the Gatlinburg entrance and has everything you need to prepare for an action packed day in the park! You will also find several beautiful hiking trails to explore, making it a great stop for when you need to stretch your legs! Here are 4 reasons why you should start your day at the Sugarlands Smoky Mountain Visitor Center:
If you want the perfect activity that mixes excitement with the beauty of the Smokies, horseback riding is the way to go! While you are riding on one of nature’s most beautiful creatures, you can take in the breathtaking views of the mountains. If you have never ridden a horse before, no need to worry. Here is your complete guide to horseback riding in the Smoky Mountains:
Long before the first European settlers arrived in the Southeastern United States, these lands were home to the prospering Cherokee Nation. This tribe has called the Smoky Mountains home for thousands of years and has left a lasting impact on this area. Here is a brief Smoky Mountains history of the Cherokee Tribe:
Everyone loves to find hidden gems in the Smoky Mountains, and one of the best kept secrets of the national park is Courthouse Rock Trail! From huge natural rock features to a beautiful waterfall, there are all kinds of things to see along this hike! Learn even more about Courthouse Rock Trail, a secret hike in the Smokies you don’t want to miss:
