Great Smoky Mountains National Park travel guide

Great Smoky Mountains National Park travel guide

National Airports

Great Smoky Mountains National Park does not have its own airport. However, there are several airports located within a few hours’ drive of the park that visitors can use to reach the area. Some of the nearest airports to Great Smoky Mountains National Park include:

McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS) in Knoxville, Tennessee – approximately 45 miles from the park

Asheville Regional Airport (AVL) in Asheville, North Carolina – approximately 60 miles from the park

Tri-Cities Regional Airport (TRI) in Blountville, Tennessee – approximately 80 miles from the park

Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT) in Charlotte, North Carolina – approximately 170 miles from the park

Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) in Atlanta, Georgia – approximately 220 miles from the park

Visitors can rent a car or take a shuttle service from the airport to Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

Trains in Great Smoky Mountains National Park

There are no train stations within Great Smoky Mountains National Park. However, visitors can take Amtrak to nearby cities such as Knoxville, Tennessee, or Asheville, North Carolina, and then rent a car or take a shuttle service to the park. The closest Amtrak station to the park is in downtown Knoxville, which is approximately 45 miles from the park’s entrance. The station is served by the Amtrak Crescent and the Amtrak Cardinal routes, which connect to major cities such as New York, Atlanta, and New Orleans. From Knoxville, visitors can take a rental car or shuttle service to the park.

Buses in Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Great Smoky Mountains National Park does not have a public transportation system, such as buses, within the park. However, visitors can use several shuttle services that operate in and around the park, including:

Great Smoky Mountains Association: Offers guided tours and shuttle service to popular destinations within the park, including Clingmans Dome and Cades Cove.

National Park Shuttle: Provides shuttle service to popular trailheads and scenic areas within the park, including Newfound Gap, Alum Cave Bluffs, and Rainbow Falls.

Gatlinburg Trolley: Offers a trolley service that runs through Gatlinburg, Tennessee, and connects to the park’s entrance.

Additionally, some lodging facilities and tour operators in the surrounding towns, such as Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge, offer shuttle service to the park. Visitors can also rent a car to explore the park and surrounding areas.

How to get to Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Great Smoky Mountains National Park is located in the southeastern United States, on the border of Tennessee and North Carolina. Visitors can get to the park by car, bus, or plane.

By car: Several major highways lead to Great Smoky Mountains National Park, including Interstate 40, Interstate 26, and U.S. Highway 441. Visitors can enter the park through one of its four entrances, which are located in Gatlinburg, Tennessee; Townsend, Tennessee; Cherokee, North Carolina; and Bryson City, North Carolina.

By bus: Greyhound and Trailways bus lines serve cities near the park, including Knoxville, Tennessee, and Asheville, North Carolina. From there, visitors can take a shuttle service or rent a car to get to the park.

By plane: The nearest airports to Great Smoky Mountains National Park are McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS) in Knoxville, Tennessee, and Asheville Regional Airport (AVL) in Asheville, North Carolina. From there, visitors can rent a car or take a shuttle service to the park.

Once visitors are in the park, they can explore by car, on foot, or on bike. There are several scenic drives within the park, including Newfound Gap Road and Cades Cove Loop Road, as well as over 800 miles of hiking trails.

What is the best time to travel to Great Smoky Mountains National Park

The best time to visit Great Smoky Mountains National Park depends on what you want to see and do. Here are some things to keep in mind when planning your trip:

Spring (March to May): This is a popular time to visit the park, as wildflowers and trees begin to bloom. Temperatures are generally mild, with highs in the 60s and 70s (Fahrenheit), but can still be chilly in the mornings and evenings. Be prepared for rain, as spring is also a rainy season in the park.

Summer (June to August): This is peak season in the park, with warm temperatures and long days. Highs are typically in the 80s (Fahrenheit) in lower elevations, but can be cooler at higher elevations. Expect crowds and busy trails, especially around popular destinations like Cades Cove and Clingmans Dome.

Fall (September to November): This is a beautiful time to visit the park, as the leaves on the trees change color. Temperatures are generally mild, with highs in the 60s and 70s (Fahrenheit) and cooler temperatures at night. Fall foliage typically peaks in late October to early November.

Winter (December to February): This is a quiet time in the park, with fewer visitors and chilly temperatures. Snow and ice are common at higher elevations, and some roads and trails may be closed due to weather. However, winter can be a beautiful time to visit, with snowy landscapes and opportunities for winter sports like skiing and snowshoeing.

Overall, the best time to visit Great Smoky Mountains National Park depends on your preferences and interests. Keep in mind that weather can be unpredictable, and it’s always a good idea to check park conditions before you go.

How to get around Great Smoky Mountains National Park

There are several ways to get around Great Smoky Mountains National Park:

Car: The easiest way to get around the park is by car. There are several scenic drives, including Newfound Gap Road and Cades Cove Loop Road. Be aware that some roads may be closed in winter due to snow and ice.

Shuttle: The park operates a free shuttle service called the “Parkwide Shuttle” during peak season, which runs along Newfound Gap Road and provides access to popular trailheads and destinations. The shuttle operates from May to October and is a great way to avoid traffic and parking hassles.

Hiking: The park has over 800 miles of trails, ranging from easy nature walks to challenging backcountry hikes. Hiking is a great way to explore the park and get up close with its natural beauty.

Biking: Biking is allowed on most roads in the park, and there are several paved and gravel bike trails. Bikes can also be rented from local outfitters outside the park.

Horseback riding: Horseback riding is allowed on designated trails in the park, and there are several stables outside the park that offer guided rides.

Overall, there are many ways to explore Great Smoky Mountains National Park, and each offers a unique perspective on this beautiful landscape.

Accommodations in Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Great Smoky Mountains National Park has a variety of accommodations for visitors, including:

Campgrounds: The park has ten developed campgrounds, which offer tent and RV camping. Reservations are recommended during peak season.

Lodges: There are two lodges in the park, LeConte Lodge and Elkmont Lodge, which offer rustic accommodations in a beautiful setting. Reservations are required and both lodges are accessible only by hiking or horseback.

Cabins: There are several cabin rental options available in and around the park, ranging from rustic to luxurious.

Hotels and motels: There are also many hotels and motels in the nearby towns of Gatlinburg, TN and Cherokee, NC, which offer easy access to the park.

Backcountry camping: For those seeking a more remote experience, backcountry camping is allowed in designated areas of the park. A permit is required and campers must follow strict guidelines to ensure the protection of the park’s resources.

No matter what type of accommodation you choose, be sure to book well in advance, especially during peak season.