We know you’ve heard a lot about the Tennessee side of the Smoky Mountains, but if you haven’t visited the North Carolina side of the park yet, it’s definitely worth exploring! From gorgeous waterfalls to wildlife viewing opportunities, there is so much to see and do on this side of the park. To make sure you don’t miss out on the top activities, we’re sharing the top things to do in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park in North Carolina.
1. Visit the Oconaluftee Visitor Center
The Oconaluftee Visitor Center is the best place to start your visit to the North Carolina side of the Smoky Mountains! Here, you’ll find helpful park rangers and volunteers who are happy to answer any questions you may have and help you plan the perfect day in the park. You’ll also find a museum that helps you learn more about life in the Smoky Mountains, from Native Americans and early European settlers through the creation of the national park. Before you leave, be sure you pick up some park maps and other merchandise for the perfect Smoky Mountain souvenir!
Behind the visitor center, you’ll see the Mountain Farm Museum and Mingus Mill. There are authentic log structures that were moved from the park, a barn, an apple house, a spring house, and a working blacksmith shop. You’ll be able to see firsthand how families may have lived many years ago. Mingus Mill is a history grist mill that uses a water-powered turbine instead of a water wheel and makes for great photos! If you’re up for a hike while you’re there, go for a stroll along the Oconaluftee River Trail that begins at the mountain farm and is the only dog-friendly trail on the North Carolina side of the mountains.
2. Take a Drive Through Cataloochee Valley
Another one of the can’t-miss things to do in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park in North Carolina is visiting Cataloochee Valley. This area offers a look into the rich mountain history. There are several hiking trails, streams for fishing, and historic structures for you to explore. We recommend going early for the best chance to spot elk! Elk are rarely seen on the Tennesee side of the Smoky Mountains, but they’re abundant on the North Carolina side! Keep in mind that the best way to view the elk is with binoculars and keeping a safe distance of at least 150 feet. Some of the top historic structures for you to explore while you’re here are the Little Cataloochee Church, the Will Messer Barn, and the Palmer Chapel. Elk and historic buildings are the two main draws in Cataloochee for visitors.
3. Hike to a Waterfall
Don’t miss the opportunity to hike to some of the most popular waterfalls while you’re in the Smoky Mountains in North Carolina! We’re sure you’ve heard of popular Smoky Mountain waterfalls like Laurel Falls and Abrams Falls on the Tennessee side, but North Carolina is home to its own beauty! We recommend hiking to Mingo Falls, the tallest waterfall in the Southern Appalachians! The hike to the falls is only .4 miles, so it doesn’t take long to get to. Other waterfalls in North Carolina include Indian Creek Falls, Juney Whank Falls, Tom Branch Falls, and Chasteen Creek Falls. You can’t go wrong with any waterfall hike in North Carolina!
Now that you know more about the top things to do in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park in North Carolina, we bet you can’t wait to start planning your visit! Check out our guide to exploring the Smoky Mountains in North Carolina for more tips and information.
