Profile of Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Whether you live in Tennessee or are planning a visit, a trip to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a delight during any month of the year. With hiking, camping and sightseeing opportunities, the park is a must for any outdoor enthusiast.
Hiking
Hiking is one of the most popular activities in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. It is home to a portion of the Appalachian Trail, one of the most popular hiking trails in the country. It is easy to take a round-trip day hike on the Appalachian Trail, or plan an entire vacation's worth of hiking on it. Since the Appalachian Trail is extraordinarily popular, make sure to check on the availability of accommodations during peak months. Alternatively, you can visit the park during the winter to experience breathtaking views without the trees' foliage blocking your view.
Camping
The park offers several types of campsites to accommodate the needs of all visitors. Frontcountry campsites are vehicle accessible and offer amenities like running water and restrooms, making these sites perfect for casual campers or families with children. Some frountcountry sites have large group campgrounds so that groups with eight or more people can camp together. Backcountry sites are inaccessible to vehicles; hiking is the only way to reach them. Equestrian camp sites are horse-friendly and accessible by vehicle. Whether you want to enjoy some modern amenities while camping or experience the rugged outdoors, the park has a campsite for you.
Sightseeing
Of course, most hikers want to experience the breathtaking views for which the Smoky Mountains are famous. By choosing the time of year for your visit, you can see autumn foliage, babbling spring streams or lush summer landscapes. Choose the trails you hike depending on whether you want to see waterfalls, old-growth forests or magnificent views.
Spend some time in the great outdoors by hiking or camping in the Great Smoky Mountains National Forest. Enjoyable activities abound throughout the year.