If you need a break from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, take a trip to the peaceful side of the Smokies. This beautiful portion of the national park is typically less crowded and feels more laid-back, attracting families who want to enjoy some peace and quiet. Can't decide where to visit? We can help! Read about some of our favorite places to visit and things to do in the North Carolina Smoky Mountains:
1. Cataloochee
When you come to Cataloochee Valley, enjoy a peaceful scenic drive, tours of historic sites, wildlife viewing, and some solitude on one of the hiking trails. Keep in mind that some of the area is still closed because the National Park Service is working hard to repair the damage caused by Hurricane Helene in September 2024. However, the Big Fork Ridge Trail is one great route that is open right now! It is an easy 3.2-mile roundtrip hike with stunning views at the top of the ridge. As you go back down, keep an eye out for sassafras and mountain laurel, two plants that flourish in this area. Other trails you can take include the 6.6-mile-long Palmer Creek Trail, where you’ll see lots of rhododendron trees on your way to Palmer Creek.
2. Oconaluftee
Oconaluftee is another peaceful place in the North Carolina Smoky Mountains. One of the highlights is the Oconaluftee River Trail, the only dog-friendly trail on the NC side of the national park. The route is 3 miles roundtrip on flat, graveled terrain. Be sure to keep Fido on a short leash that is no more than 6 feet. While dogs are not allowed on other trails, they are permitted in the picnic areas and other campgrounds. Other hiking trails in Oconaluftee include the Chasteen Creek Trail. The whole route is an easy 3.6 miles roundtrip, and the namesake is located about 1.7 miles from the trailhead. It is 30 feet tall, and the smaller cataracts are best viewed after heavy rains.
3. Deep Creek
We have to include Deep Creek as one of our recommendations for peaceful spots in the North Carolina Smoky Mountains! The area is known for its 3 stunning waterfalls, which you can easily see all of them on an easy 2-mile loop trail. Tom Branch Falls is 60 feet high and multi-tiered, Indian Creek Falls is 45 feet high, and Juney Whank Falls is 90 feet high! Other things to do in Deep Creek include tubing, swimming, biking, camping, and fishing. The wide creek is perfect for floating around in the water and clearing your mind! As for fishing, make sure you have a valid North Carolina or Tennessee fishing license.
Now you know some of the best places to visit and things to do in the North Carolina Smoky Mountains. We hope you will come and experience the peaceful side of the Smokies for yourself soon. In the meantime, learn more about how nature is great for your mental health and how the national park is a haven for nature therapy!
