Great Smoky Mountains National Park
America's most-visited national park, the Great Smoky Mountains, offers mist-covered peaks, diverse wildlife, and stunning waterfalls along the Tennessee-North Carolina border.
Nestled on the border between North Carolina and Tennessee, Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and an International Biosphere Reserve. Known for its ancient mountains, diverse plant and animal life, and mist-covered ridges, the park is a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers.
Location
Great Smoky Mountains National Park spans the southern Appalachian region, with major entrances located near Gatlinburg, Tennessee, and Cherokee, North Carolina. Its central location makes it easily accessible from cities like Knoxville, Asheville, and Atlanta.
Quick Facts
Size: 522,427 acres
Year Established: 1934
Unique Features:Over 850 miles of hiking trails, including the famous Appalachian Trail.
Home to some of the oldest mountains on Earth, dating back approximately 200-300 million years.
The most biodiverse national park in the U.S., featuring over 19,000 documented species, with more than 90,000 estimated species still to be discovered.
Iconic misty mountain views caused by the "smoke" of water vapor and organic compounds released by vegetation.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a gem of the Appalachian region, drawing over 12 million visitors annually—making it the most visited national park in the United States. Its allure lies in its rich cultural history, ranging from preserved log cabins of early settlers to Cherokee heritage sites. The park’s breathtaking landscapes include cascading waterfalls, scenic drives like the Cades Cove Loop Road, and panoramic vistas from Clingmans Dome, the highest point in Tennessee.
Whether you’re exploring wildflower-strewn meadows, embarking on a wildlife-watching expedition, or simply soaking in the park's serene atmosphere, the Smokies offer something for everyone. Perfect for hiking, camping, and family adventures, this park promises an unforgettable experience in the heart of nature.
Start planning your visit today and discover why the Great Smoky Mountains is considered one of the crown jewels of America’s national parks!
Great Smoky Mountains National Park is home to an astonishing level of biodiversity, with over 19,000 documented species of living organisms. Scientists believe that tens of thousands more species have yet to be discovered. This incredible diversity is due to the park’s varied elevations, temperate climate, and extensive old-growth forests, some of which date back centuries. The park is especially famous for its salamander population, earning it the nickname "Salamander Capital of the World," as it hosts more species of salamanders than any other place on Earth.