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hiking trail in the smokies
August 5, 2024

Are you planning a romantic getaway to Tennessee or North Carolina and looking for things to do? If so, you should definitely visit the Smokies. The national park has lots of great things to do with your sweetheart! Let us tell you more about them. Here is a list of 3 fun things to do in the Great Smoky Mountains for couples:

1. Hiking to a Waterfall

The Great Smoky Mountains have a lot of pretty scenery along the hiking trails, which includes some stunning waterfalls. If you’re new to hiking, an easier route to take is the Grotto Falls Trail. It has a roundtrip distance of 3 miles, and the path is well-worn. If you visit in the warmer months, take some time to admire the 1,600 species of wildflowers that bloom along the trail every spring. You’ll reach Grotto Falls at 1.2 miles. While it is shorter than some of the other waterfalls in the park at only 25 feet tall, Grotto Falls is unique because it is the only waterfall visitors can walk behind. Make sure to bring a camera, as the waterfall makes a great backdrop for some memorable photos. You can also do some exploring and look for salamanders along the rocks.

2. Watching the Sunset

Clingmans Dome observation tower at dusk

Another one of the fun things to do in the Smoky Mountains for couples is watch the sunset. A great place to go is Clingmans Dome. It is the highest point in the Smoky Mountains and the state of Tennessee at 6,643 feet. See views for up to 100 miles on a clear day. In the summer, visitors can get to the observation tower by driving on Clingmans Dome Road. When you go, be sure to bring a light jacket. The temperatures can drop at night and the high elevation of Clingmans Dome makes it even colder. If you want to stay in the area even longer, bring your gear and stay overnight at one of the campgrounds.

3. Getting Married

The Smokies are a great place to have your wedding ceremony. You can say “I do” in one of the old chapels in the area. They were built by settlers who lived and worked on the land long before it was a national park. One of them is the Primitive Baptist Church. It was built in 1827, making history as the first church in Cades Cove. The interior is made of dark brown wood, and it is the darkest church in Cades Cove. Visitors love the rustic feel. On the other hand, the Methodist Church has white walls and windows. They let in natural light which is great for a daytime ceremony! As for pictures, you can save money on decorations and you won’t have to go anywhere. Take pictures of the bride, groom, and wedding party near the church in the stunning natural scenery. Each season does its own beautiful things, so there is no wrong choice.

Now you know some of the fun things to do in the Great Smoky Mountains for couples. Start planning your visit by deciding where to go! Explore our other list of the most popular places in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park!