People the world over have been drawn to the majestic beauty of the Great Smokies. From spectacular mountain overlooks to cool river valleys to peaceful meadowlands, Great Smoky Mountains National Park and the surrounding area offers a feast for the sightseer. The photography buff will find the area to be a shutterbug's paradise.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park is the most-visited national park in the United States. In addition to its breathtaking scenery, the Park was established to preserve the pioneer culture that once thrived here. Entire pioneer communities remain intact for the visitor to tour: cabins, grist mills, barns, farms, churches and cemeteries.
Every season brings its own special character to these ancient hills. Spring presents an abundance of wildflowers as the mountains come to life. Summer finds the mountains teeming with life and the lush vegetation for which they are famous. In autumn the ridges explode in a glorious display of color not to be missed. And winter brings a quiet beauty to the hills, revealing an entirely new face. Enjoy them all from your Pigeon Forge or Gatlinburg cabin rentals. One of the best ways to take in the scenery is to take to the trails. There are some 800 miles of hiking trails in the National Park, ranging from easy to strenuous. There is no better way to experience the unique magic of the Great Smokies. Miles of scenic roads wind through the mountains, including many out-of-the-way, less-traveled byways. The Blue Ridge Parkway begins in the Smokies and travels north to its terminus at Shenandoah National Park in Virginia, and the new Cherohala Skyway begins in North Carolina just outside Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Maps and guidebooks are available for purchase at any of the National Park Visitor Centers and many local stores. Pack a picnic lunch and a good map, then set out for the day with no particular destination. What you discover on such unscripted outings is often the highlight of your visit. Sightseeing need not be confined to the back roads and byways. The area celebrates Winterfest from November through February each winter, with our cities decked out in holiday style with literally millions of decorative lights. It is a wondrous light display without equal anywhere and easily accessible to your Gatlinburg or Pigeon Forge cabin rentals. But car touring is only one of the ways to enjoy the scenery of this special place. Try these ideas:
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