trip to nashville and smoky mountains

Nashville to the Great Smoky Mountains road trip

• Post last modified: March 10, 2024

The dream of the wilderness is real on this Nashville to the Great Smoky Mountains road trip. In the Smokies , the denser forests, clearer rivers and quieter valleys take you back to a different time. As you leave civilization behind, remarkable outdoor adventures begin.

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Route from Nashville to the Smokies

• Start: Nashville
• Burgess Falls
• Pigeon Forge
• Finish: Nashville
• Total distance:  459 mi / 739 km
• Total driving time:  9 h

1. Nashville, TN

The main attraction on your Nashville to the Great Smoky Mountains road trip is, of course, the Smokies. But for some contrasting fun before the drive takes off the best things to do in Nashville are there for the taking.

Sing along on Honky Tonk Highway

Nashville is often referred to as Music City. If you’re not sure why, just visit Honky Tonk Highway on Lower Broadway in Downtown Nashville.

Day or night its high-spirited bars, also known as honky-tonks, make Downtown Nashville a fun place to be. Like living notes lined up next to each other the honky-tonks pour music onto the streets.

The honky-tonks provide free top-class entertainment 365 days a year. It’s plain good old fun ahead of the drive from Nashville to Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

Catch the Grand Ole Opry

The Grand Ole Opry started as a radio broadcast in 1925. Over the years its success has made the Grand Ole Opry recognized as the show that made country music famous.

Today the Grand Ole Opry’s unique live music experiences are world famous. Every week a mix of country music artists, from established superstars to rising stars, perform on the Grand Ole Opry scene.

It’s not only the number one show in Nashville. The Grand Ole Opry is also the most prestigous stage in country music.

2. Burgess Falls, TN

• Driving distance:  80 mi / 129 km
• Driving time:  1.5 h

The Great Smoky Mountains is far from the only natural Tennessee gem. On the way from Nashville to the Smokies, you pass by Burgess Falls, one of the most scenic waterfalls in Tennessee.

Route info: Burgess Falls is a detour that in total adds roughly 30 minutes to the itinerary, compared to if you just stick to the highway.

Have a picnic by waterfalls

Burgess Falls State Park protects the environment of the Falling Water River. It’s a natural area home to gurgling river nature, including several stunning waterfalls.

From the parking lot the River Trail elegantly traces the Falling Water River and its falls. It’s a stretch of waterfalls that gets better and better with every step.

After 0.8 miles (1.3 km) the experience culminates at the main falls. There the Falling Water River without hesitation crashes more than 130 feet (40 m) down into the pool below.

Want to make this stop even better?

Then pack your favorite picnic food before you leave Nashville. The gorgeous Burgess Falls State Park is equipped with appreciated picnic tables.

Additional stop: Tennessee is a state full of waterfalls. Another such, which is an easy addition to the itinerary, is Cummins Falls . It plunges less than 20 miles (32 km) from Burgess Falls.

3. Pigeon Forge, TN

• Driving distance:  145 mi / 233 km
• Driving time:  2.5 h

Pigeon Forge offers a unique experience at the foothills of the mighty Great Smoky Mountains. So near the untamed Great Smoky Mountains National Park you find an abundance of manmade attractions, including an American theme park favorite.

Celebrate life at Dollywood

Year after year millions of visitors enter the gates of Dollywood in Pigeon Forge. It’s the biggest ticketed attraction not only in the Smoky Mountains area but in the entire state of Tennessee.

Dollywood, surrounded by the Smoky Mountains, features everything from fun slides and thrilling rides to diverse shops and memorable shows.

As an extra dimension Dollywood is a park that treasures its past. Many of its themed areas and attractions pay attention to the history and culture of the southern Appalachian region.

Embark the Titanic

Pigeon Forge is just filled with opportunities for your Nashville to Great Smoky Mountains National Park road trip. Another highlight, but of different character, is the Titanic Museum .

In two stories and shaped like the Titanic itself the museum takes you back to the year of 1912. As you embark the ship replica, the experience lets you feel like being a maiden voyage passenger.

4. Gatlinburg, TN

• Driving distance:  8 mi / 13 km
• Driving time:  0.5 h

Well done, you made it from Nashville to America’s most visited national park. Gatlinburg serves as the eastern gateway to the endless amount of things to do in Great Smoky Mountains National Park .

Covering 522,419 acres the Tennessee and North Carolina park is named after the natural fog that often appears within its borders. No matter if it’s your first or tenth visit, there’s a certain mystique about the Smokies.

Drive the Roaring Fork Motor Trail

The Roaring Fork is a stream that begins high up in the mountains. Many days the watercourse might seem quiet, but it only takes mild rain for the Roaring Fork to, just like its name suggests, start roaring.

Along this volatile mountain stream the one-way Roaring Fork Motor Trail extends. It’s 6 miles (10 km) long showcasing all the ingredients that you associate with the Smokies.

Highlights along the Roaring Fork Motor Trail include jaw-dropping vistas, historic cabins and the hike to the crashing Grotto Falls.

But you in fact don’t even need to enter the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail to find points of interest. At its start the preserved Noah Ogle Place and the trailhead for the awe-inspiring Rainbow Falls lure you in.

Climb Clingmans Dome

Clingmans Dome is the spot for unobstructed views. It’s at 6,643 feet (2,025 m) the tallest point of the Great Smoky Mountains and the third most elevated mountain east of Mississippi River.

The 7 miles (11 km) long Clingmans Dome Road treats you with scenic vistas as the road climb towards the summit. From the Clingmans Dome parking lot a paved 0.5 mile (805 m) trail takes you the final stretch up.

At the summit an observation tower provides panoramic views of the Smokies. A clear day you can see more than 100 miles (160 km) in any direction. But even hazy days Clingmans Dome is spectacular.

• Where to stay in the Smokies

Deciding where to stay in Great Smoky Mountains can seem a little tricky. However, in Gatlinburg you’re in the front row for both park fun and attractions off the park.

• Margaritaville Resort – Enjoy resort amenities.
• Marshall’s Creek Motel – Cozy in the town’s heart.

Route info: Great Smoky Mountains National Park is open year round, but several secondary park roads are closed from late November to early April. Therefore it’s wise to check the Great Smoky Mountains seasonal road schedule if you plan a drive during the colder months of the year.

5. Townsend, TN

• Driving distance:  25 mi / 40 km
• Driving time:  1 h

Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a park with two distinctive sides. The eastern side, where you find Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg, is the busier one. In contrast the western part is known as the peaceful side.

Although sleepy, Townsend is conveniently positioned for exploring the western side of the Smokies. From its park border location it’s just 20 minutes to the beginning of the timeless Cades Cove.

Take Cades Cove Loop Road

Cades Cove, the most famous valley in Great Smoky Mountains National Park, is widely known for its natural beauty. The 11 miles (18 km) long Cades Cove Loop Road shows you exactly why.

As you tour Cades Cove Loop Road, the enchanting meadows and rising mountains are breathtaking. For scenery or just to disconnect it’s a remarkable spot on the itinerary.

But along the drive human history also calls for your attention.

Once a home to settlers Cades Cove presents a variety of preserved buildings from the 19th and early 20th centuries. Its churches, cabins, barns and even a mill tell fascinating stories of its early inhabitants.

View black bears in Cades Cove

Members of the animal kingdom love Cades Cove at least as much as its human visitors. Because of that the opportunities for wildlife viewing are superb in the isolated Tennessee valley.

White-tailed deer, elk, raccoon and turkeys are some of the animals that frequent Cades Cove.

Then there of course are the iconic black bears of the Smoky Mountains. A large, irresistible population of black bears calls Cades Cove their home.

Seeing black bears in Cades Cove is exciting. It’s also a memory for life to bring with you home from your Great Smoky Mountains National Park visit.

6. Nashville, TN

• Driving distance:  201 mi / 323 km
• Driving time:  3.5 h

After a spectacular drive it’s time to head back to civlization. The final 201 miles (323 km) on the road takes you back to where the itinerary started, Nashville.

Nashville to Great Smoky Mountains road trip FAQ

This ultimate Nashville to Great Smoky Mountains road trip loop is 459 miles (739 km) long. Driving it takes roughly 9 hours, not including any stops along the way.

The main stops on the Nashville to Great Smoky Mountains road trip are Nashville, Burgess Falls, Pigeon Forge, Gatlinburg and Townsend. From the gateway towns Gatlinburg and Townsend you effortlessly day trip into the depths of Great Smoky Mountains National Park. A nice additional stop is Cummins Falls, positioned less than 20 miles (32 km) from Burgess Falls.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park alone requires at least three full days. Then you need to add time for any side attractions, such as Dollywood, and the time it takes to get to and from the Smokies. Therefore, the absolute minimum for the Nashville to Great Smoky Mountains loop is 5 days. But for the best experience it’s a road trip that demands a week or more of your time.

More Southern guides

• What to do in the Smokies
• Ultimate Tennessee road trip

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35 Best Stops Between Nashville and the Great Smoky Mountains National Park

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How long is the drive from Nashville to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park?

The direct drive from Nashville to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is 242 mi (389 km) , and should have a drive time of 4 hrs 28 mins in normal traffic.

If you’re going on a road trip from Nashville to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, we did the research for you and compiled some great stops along the way — with Gatlinburg , Pigeon Forge , Knoxville , Sevierville , and Townsend , as well as top places to visit like The Lost Sea Adventure and Charles Hall Museum, or the ever-popular Sweetwater Flea Market.

Top cities between Nashville and the Great Smoky Mountains National Park

• Sevierville
• Pigeon Forge

Best stops along Nashville to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park drive

Sweetwater flea market.

The Lost Sea Adventure

Charles hall museum, turkey creek, citico creek wilderness.

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World's Fair Park

Market square, tennessee theatre.

Zoo Knoxville

Ijams nature center, great smokies flea market, tennessee smokies stadium, smoky mountain alpine coaster, titanic museum attraction, the island in pigeon forge.

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Ole Smoky Distillery "The Holler"

Sugarlands Distilling Company

Ripley's aquarium of the smokies, panther creek state park, clingmans dome, forbidden caverns, mingus mill, oconaluftee visitor center, briarwood ranch safari park.

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Smoky Mountain Outdoors (SMO) Rafting

Rafting in the smokies, smoky mountain river rat whitewater rafting, raft outdoor adventures, big bear whitewater rafting, other popular road trips from nashville, explore nearby places.

• the Great Smoky Mountains National Park
• Bryson City
• the Wears Valley
• Nantahala Township
• Fontana Dam
• the Maggie Valley
• Robbinsville
• Lake Santeetlah
• Chestnut Hill

All related maps of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park

• Map of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park
• Map of Gatlinburg
• Map of Tremont
• Map of Bryson City
• Map of Cherokee
• Map of Whittier
• Map of the Wears Valley
• Map of Almond
• Map of Pigeon Forge
• Map of Townsend
• Map of Nantahala Township
• Map of Dillsboro
• Map of Fontana Dam
• Map of Sylva
• Map of Sevierville
• Map of Walland
• Map of Cosby
• Map of the Maggie Valley
• Map of Robbinsville
• Map of Cullowhee
• Map of Balsam
• Map of Topton
• Map of Lake Santeetlah
• Map of Hartford
• Map of Chestnut Hill
• Map of Seymour
• Map of Franklin
• Map of Kodak
• Map of Tuckasegee
• Map of Maryville

the Great Smoky Mountains National Park throughout the year

• the Great Smoky Mountains National Park in January
• the Great Smoky Mountains National Park in February
• the Great Smoky Mountains National Park in March
• the Great Smoky Mountains National Park in April
• the Great Smoky Mountains National Park in May
• the Great Smoky Mountains National Park in June
• the Great Smoky Mountains National Park in July
• the Great Smoky Mountains National Park in August
• the Great Smoky Mountains National Park in September
• the Great Smoky Mountains National Park in October
• the Great Smoky Mountains National Park in November
• the Great Smoky Mountains National Park in December

Looking for day-by-day itineraries in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park?

Get inspired for your trip to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park with our curated itineraries that are jam-packed with popular attractions everyday! Check them out here:

• 1-Day the Great Smoky Mountains National Park Itinerary
• 2-Day the Great Smoky Mountains National Park Itinerary
• 3-Day the Great Smoky Mountains National Park Itinerary
• 4-Day the Great Smoky Mountains National Park Itinerary
• 5-Day the Great Smoky Mountains National Park Itinerary

Frequently Asked Questions

Can i drive from nashville to the great smoky mountains national park.

Yes! You can drive from Nashville to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

How far is the Great Smoky Mountains National Park from Nashville by car?

The drive from Nashville to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is 242 miles (389 km).

How long does it take to drive from Nashville to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park?

Driving from Nashville to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park should take you 4 hrs 28 mins in normal traffic.

How much would gas cost from Nashville to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park?

Gas from Nashville to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park would cost around $21 to $49 , depending on your vehicle's fuel efficiency.

Where should I stop on the way from Nashville to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park?

You could check out The Lost Sea Adventure and Charles Hall Museum, or the always popular Sweetwater Flea Market!

What are the best cities to visit between Nashville and the Great Smoky Mountains National Park?

People love visiting Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, and Knoxville, among others.

What's the weather like in Nashville?

It depends on when you visit! We've compiled data from NASA for each month of the year: see the links below for more information.

• Weather in Nashville in January
• Weather in Nashville in February
• Weather in Nashville in March
• Weather in Nashville in April
• Weather in Nashville in May
• Weather in Nashville in June
• Weather in Nashville in July
• Weather in Nashville in August
• Weather in Nashville in September
• Weather in Nashville in October
• Weather in Nashville in November
• Weather in Nashville in December

What are some other road trips from Nashville?

There are plenty! Below you'll find links to all the road trips we've assembled for Nashville.

• Nashville to New York City drive
• Nashville to Orlando drive
• Nashville to Chicago drive
• Nashville to Washington DC drive
• Nashville to Atlanta drive
• Nashville to New Orleans drive
• Nashville to Pigeon Forge drive
• Nashville to Memphis drive
• Nashville to Chattanooga drive
• Nashville to Louisville drive
• Nashville to Las Vegas drive
• Nashville to Toronto drive
• Nashville to Saint Louis drive
• Nashville to Branson drive
• Nashville to Savannah drive
• Nashville to Niagara Falls drive
• Nashville to Boston drive
• Nashville to St. Augustine drive
• Nashville to Charleston drive
• Nashville to Philadelphia drive
• Nashville to San Antonio drive
• Nashville to Cincinnati drive
• Nashville to Montreal drive
• Nashville to Baltimore drive
• Nashville to Miami Beach drive
• Nashville to Cleveland drive
• Nashville to Indianapolis drive
• Nashville to Gatlinburg drive
• Nashville to Mexico City drive
• Nashville to Myrtle Beach drive

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Advice for 5 day trip to Nashville, Great Smoky Mountains... - Nashville Forum

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Advice for 5 day trip to Nashville, Great Smoky Mountains...

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Any advice much appreciated - at the moment I'm just a bit confused about how much to see and do in Nashville, where to stay on the way to the Smoky mountains (if we need to stop) and once we're at the Smoky's where to stay - and where we should visit on the way back to Nashville to avoid driving the same route back. :)

Many thanks

The park is well laid out for driving, and encourages hiking. Hiking can range from short strolls on well worn flat paths to lengthy overnight hikes with significant elevation gain. I have linked a map of the park at the end of this post. The hidden gem in the park to me is the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail. It's easily overlooked so it doesn't get the traffic that the Cades Cove or Newfound Gap roads get. It takes you through some beautiful old growth forest and several preserved primitive homesteads.

Gatlinburg is much more walkable than PF and is more quaint. It has several attractions including a nice aquarium and a compact strip of shops and restaurants. There are a few minuature golf courses as well. Due to its smaller size and proximity to the park entrance, hotels tend to be a little more expensive than comparable properties in PF.

PF is more spread out and has a less cohesive appearance. They have a plethora of activities like go-kart racing, bungee slingshots, miniature golf, indoor skydiving, etc. along with larger shopping facilities. Several alpine coasters have been added over the past few years, including my personal favorite in PF ( http://www.smokymountainalpinecoaster.com/ ).

I rented a cabin from TimberTops this June and had a generally good experience with them. I'd use them again if I had the need for a cabin. http://www.yourcabin.com/

My wife and I like the Hilton Garden Inn in Gatlinburg for a hotel there. http://hiltongardeninn3.hilton.com/en/hotels/tennessee/hilton-garden-inn-gatlinburg-GATGIGI/index.html

We like the Hampton Inn Pigeon Forge on Teaster Lane for a hotel in PF (not the Hampton Inn & Suites PF on the Parkway) http://hamptoninn3.hilton.com/en/hotels/tennessee/hampton-inn-pigeon-forge-PGFTLHX/index.html

I would suggest going directly to the GSMNP area. It gets crazy busy on the weekends and isn't built to handle the traffic load they get then. You'll enjoy it more during the week, I'm sure of that.That works out well because Nashville is more fun on the weekends.

There are dedicated TA forums for each of the 3 areas:

Pigeon Forge Forum: http://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowForum-g55270-i188-Pigeon_Forge_Tennessee.html

Gatlinburg Forum: http://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowForum-g60842-i150-Gatlinburg_Tennessee.html

GSMNP Forum: http://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowForum-g143031-i2563-Great_Smoky_Mountains_National_Park_Tennessee.html

Here's a page with maps of the park itself: http://www.nps.gov/grsm/planyourvisit/maps.htm

The Smokey Mountains National Park is the most visited National Park in the United States ! Do visit it for it is lovely. It is a 4.5 hour drive from Nashville via Interstate 40 (I-40). From Nashville, you go east on I-40 to Knoxville, TN . From Knoxville, you take the Gatlinburg Exit and are still about 1.5 hours from the park.

Gatlinburg is a small village (growing larger all the time and not as small as it used to be) at the foot of the park. It's a lovely area with lots of shops and restaurants and many are quite nice! Plan to spend several hours there exploring. The children will enjoy it and you will too!

Get some salt water taffy from one of the many shops and watch it being made. You can see this through the storefront windows. It's an interesting process.

There are numerous places selling homemade fudge and it is quite tasty as well. Do try it!

Pigeon Forge is a small town you pass through on the way to Gatlinburg and the park. This is NOT your destination even though you may see signs saying Gatlinburg! Keep going!

The park is at the end of Gatlinburg so this is your actual destination. I would recommend you rent a chalet in the area for it will give you the experience you are seeking! Go on-line and look for this! There are NO hotels or rental properties in the park for it is federal park land and is not available to build hotels or private or rental

homes! But, you are still near the entrance of the park and can drive there quickly!

There are bears in the park! Do not try to feed them even though they look like they want to be petted! You may not see any but be cautious if you do. Don't leave windows down if you exit your car and you will want to do so for it is great to walk on trails and explore! The Bears are not to be feared but are to be respected!

You can stop at a local grocery to get what you need for snacks or meals in your chalet. An actual grocery is far less expensive!

There is far more I can tell you about the area if you would like. If so, please respond to this and let me know!

Welcome to Nashville and the great state of Tennessee!

I think going directly to GSMNP/ Gatlinburg /PF on Tuesday would be a good idea, then planb to return to Nashville on Friday morning. that gives you Friday afternoon/evening, all day Saturday, and however much time you have on Sunday before your flight .

As far as staying in Nashville, I don't think you'll find a cabin/remote property with convenient access to the city. That's like saying you want a quaint English country cottage that's close to the heart of London. I think that you will find the mountain getaway you want in the first part of your trip when you go to GSMNP, so focus your limited time in Nashville on being in the city. Downtown is the most convenient for seeing the main attractons, but also the most expensive area. West End/Vanderbilt is a good alternative with somewhat lower rates and many hotels offer free shuttles. Cabs are cheap to/from downtown from there.

A better way to go is here: https://goo.gl/maps/OJG9N

I had forgotten about his recommended route but I have actually taken that route previously and it is far better!

You will be traveling in July, which generally is busy, but on a Tuesday will be much less congested on the highways.

Also, if you're at one end of Gatlinburg and want to get to the other end, the Gatlinburg by-pass is much quicker and scenic.

This topic has been closed to new posts due to inactivity.

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Nashville & the Smoky Mountains Holiday

About this tour.

Take in the sights and sounds of the holidays in Nashville, Gatlinburg and Asheville. Enjoy reserved seats at the Grand Ole Opry in Nashville. Tour historic RCA Studio B and see where country legends recorded hit songs. Experience a magical holiday dinner and show at the Opryland Resort. Delight in a choice of a horse-drawn carriage ride or a Grand Ole Opry Resort’s Delta River cruise and marvel at all the holiday lights and décor. A visit to the Country Music Hall of Fame is sure to have you hummin’ and strummin’ long after you leave Nashville. Marvel at the spectacular light displays and shows celebrating the spirit of the holidays at Dollywood. Explore the natural wonders of Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Then, travel to Asheville, North Carolina, and enjoy the city’s historic architecture, engaging neighborhoods and robust arts districts. Tour the Biltmore Estate, George Vanderbilt’s "little mountain escape” in the Blue Ridge Mountains, elaborately adorned for the holidays. When you leave, you’ll have the warmth and charm of the south still in your heart.

Your Tour Includes

• 3 Handpicked Accommodations
• 2 Choice on Tour Options

Included Highlights

• Grand Ole Opry Show
• Historic RCA Studio B
• Country Music Hall of Fame
• Gaylord Opryland Resort Dinner & Holiday Show

Your Tour at a Glance

7 Breakfasts

2 - Moderate

Travel Style

Activity Level

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Extension Style

Travel styles, highlights and inclusions.

Must-See Inclusions:

Enjoy a Smoky Mountain Christmas at Dollywood.

• Marvel at Asheville's Biltmore Estate during the holiday season.

Explore the grandeur of nature at the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

Cultural Experiences:

• Experience the Gaylord Opryland Resort’s magical holiday displays with over 2 million lights and unique Music City-inspired décor.

Enjoy reserved seats at the Grand Ole Opry, the “home of American music.”

Culinary Inclusions:

Delight in a festive holiday dinner and show at the Gaylord Opryland Hotel.

Taste some Smoky Mountain Moonshine at “the Holler.”

• Great Smoky Mountains National Park
• Biltmore Estate

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During your stay in Nashville, you may choose to enjoy views of one of the Gaylord Opryland Resort's beautiful atria by upgrading your accomodations to a superior room. Please inquire about this upgrade at time of booking.

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Enhance Your Trip

In Nashville, you have the choice between two activities. Your first option is to enjoy a leisurely flat boat ride on the indoor river in the Opryland Resort's Delta atrium. Take in the sites and sounds of holidays at the Gaylord while enjoying the light displays. Your second option is to bundle up and take an outdoor horsedrawn carriage at night to see the hotel grounds strong with holiday lights including the beautiful southern magnolias.

Marvel at Asheville's Biltmore Estate during the holiday season.

Experience the Gaylord Opryland Resort’s magical holiday displays with over 2 million lights and unique Music City-inspired décor.

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First-timer's guide to Great Smoky Mountains National Park

May 15, 2020 • 9 min read

The glorious sunrises are a great way to start the day in the Smokies © KenCanning / Getty Images

Jagged mountain peaks, verdant forests and cascading waterfalls set the stage for big adventure in the Great Smoky Mountains, one of America’s best-loved national parks. Spread across 500,000 acres in the Southern Appalachian range, the park is a four-season wonderland, famous for both its colorful spring wildflowers and the fiery blazes of autumn.

The Smokies are also home to an astonishing variety of plant and animal life – from lumbering black bears to dazzling displays of synchronous fireflies. It doesn't take long to see why Great Smoky Mountains is the most visited national park in the United States. Whether you’re coming for the hikes, the history, the autumn leaf peeping , the sound of silence , or the winding mountain roads, there’s a little something for everyone in the Smokies.

The history of Great Smoky Mountains National Park

There are only three National Parks that spill across state lines, and Great Smoky Mountains is one of them. It covers a section of Tennessee and North Carolina in the Southern USA that was once home to the Cherokee, and later by Scotch-Irish settlers.

Like much of Appalachia, the Smokies were targeted by logging companies seeking rich stands of timber. As early as the end of the 19th century, concerned residents of the area advocated for preservation of the land. By 1925, the federal government was ready to move forward and create one of the first national parks in the eastern United States, along with Shenandoah National Park to the north.

The land for Great Smoky Mountains National Park was acquired in large part through small-scale grassroots fundraising rather than donations from wealthy stakeholders, despite much of the area already being broken up into small family farms and parcels earmarked by loggers. Much of the work was completed by the Civilian Conservation Corps throughout the Great Depression, and the national park was officially dedicated in 1940. 

Another unique quality of the Smoky’s development was that it was one of the first parks designed with cars in mind. Unlike the first national parks out west, which were originally reached by trains and where visitors stayed in grand hotels financed by railroad companies, Great Smoky National Park came together with support and input from auto organizations like the American Automobile Associations (AAA). 

How to visit Great Smoky Mountains National Park

The main gateways to Great Smoky Mountains are the Sugarlands Visitor Center , near Gatlinburg, Tennessee, and the Oconaluftee Visitor Center near Cherokee, North Carolina. Between the two is the scenic Newfound Gap Road, which winds for 29 miles, neatly bisecting the park on the only pavement traversing the Smokies. Trailheads for some of the most popular hikes and some of the park's key historic sights are found along this two-lane road. Other popular access points are the Cataloochee Valley on the east side of the park, and Cades Cove in the west.

If you’re flying in, the closest airport to the park is Knoxville ’s McGhee Tyson Airport (about a 70-minute drive to the one of the park’s main gateways near Gatlinburg). Other nearby airports include Asheville, NC (an 80-minute drive), Charlotte -Douglas International Airport (a 3-hour drive), and Chattanooga (a 2.75 hour drive). There is no train service to Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Wherever you’re coming from, you’ll want a car, as there’s no scheduled bus service to the park nor any public transit available inside of it once you get there. 

If you want to spend some time exploring the Smokies without camping or renting a cabin, there are numerous RV rental companies in Knoxville, Gatlinburg, and Pigeon Forge – the later being two towns that are unofficial gateways to the Smokies and home to attractions like Dollywood . You can also make a road trip out of picking up a rental from outfitters like Voyager Campervans in Nashville and Escape Campervans in Atlanta. 

What to see and do in the Great Smoky Mountains

One of the great draws of the Smokies is its extensive trail system crisscrossing forested valleys and misty mountain slopes. There are over 800 miles of trails , ranging from easy rambles along scenic boulder-filled streams to challenging all-day hikes. In addition, there are over 100 backcountry campsites and shelters, the park offers exceptional possibilities for multi-day treks.

The park’s hiking opportunities include a 71 mile portion of the Appalachian Trail, which runs right through the center of the park between Fontana Dam and Davenport Gap. The highest point on the entire 2,200 mile span of the AT is the park’s own Clingman’s Dome – the “top of Old Smoky” made famous by singers like the Weavers and Hank Williams. Another epic trek in the park is the Mountains to the Sea Trail , which runs from its western terminus at Clingman’s Dome all the way to the Outer Banks of North Carolina .

Hiking aside, there are many ways to experience the Great Smoky Mountains. When you need a break from walking, you can let a trusty steed do the work. Horseback riding stables are located in Cades Cove, Sugarlands and Smokemont. The park also has some matchless scenic drives , including ridgeline roads where you can gaze out at the seemingly endless expanse of undulating peaks. Last but not least, the Blue Ridge Parkway ’s southern terminus links the Smokies to Shenandoah, in case you want to get the most out of your national parks pass.

However you choose to explore the Smokies, you can visit the well-preserved log cabins, grist mills and one-room school houses built by early settlers to the area. There is also exceptional wildlife watching year round in the Smokies. 

While you have a chance of seeing wildlife throughout the park, the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail is an excellent route if you’re hoping to peep the park’s animal residents, especially in winter time, at dawn, and in the evenings. And while the area’s bears and fireflies get most of the publicity, the Cataloochee Valley is a prime spot to see elk, reintroduced to the Smokies back in 2001. 

How much will a trip to the Smokies cost?

For an inexpensive vacation, the Smokies are hard to beat. Unlike the Grand Canyon and most other national parks, this one won’t cost you a penny to enter. The Smokies are entirely admission-free, thanks to the many area residents who gave up their land and contributed funds to create the park.

That means that, aside from car rental, expenses are minimal. Camping – one of the best ways to experience the Smokies – runs less than $25 a night per site and as little as $14. Backcountry camping is free, although you do need a reservation and a permit. 

All of the attractions within the park are free, including the Mountain Farm Museum , Cades Cove historic buildings and the panoramic overlook at Clingmans Dome , not to mention all of the hiking trails. Add to that the many free ranger-led programs run by the park – night hikes, storytelling by the campfire, morning porch talks (free coffee provided), Appalachian culture fairs – and you have the makings of one of America’s most remarkable budget-friendly getaways.

Where to stay in the Smokies

The allure of the Great Smoky Mountains is certainly no secret, and the park gets quite crowded during the busy summer months (Jun–Aug) and in the autumn when the leaves change color (Sep–Oct). It’s wise to plan well ahead so you can get your first choice when it comes to accommodation. 

There are no motels or rental cabins within the park. Instead, all but one of the park’s nine frontcountry campgrounds can be reserved online . For backcountry sites that are accessible only via hiking trail, you can make reservations through the park’s backcountry permit office either in person or online . If you’re new to camping or spending time outdoors, read up on Leave No Trace principles before you head out, or check out these guidelines on how to RV or vancamp responsibly.  

If you prefer not to sleep in a tent, the only option inside park boundaries is the LeConte Lodge , a delightfully old-fashioned collection of wooden cottages near the top of Mount LeConte (elevation 6594ft). The lodge is not accessible by road, so to get there you’ll have to hoof it uphill on a hike ranging from 5.5 miles to 9 miles in length depending on which trail you use.

There are meals available at LeConte when you arrive – the supplies for which are brought up by llamas, which you might see along the way if you take the Trillium Gap Trail. Due to the popularity of LeConte’s hospitality, however, you’ll need to make reservations months – or even a year – in advance.

There are plenty of accommodation options outside the park, too. Gatlinburg, something of a resort village, is packed with hotels and guesthouses, and there are cabin rentals around the city and throughout the surrounding area – particularly near Cherokee, Bryson City and Pigeon Forge.

Being prepared (and staying safe) in the Smokies

Hiking trails are well-marked in the national park, though it’s wise to pick up a good map (available in the visitors centers) before setting out. Make sure you have sturdy walking shoes (preferably waterproof hiking boots), ample water and snacks, warm clothing (it gets chilly at higher elevations, even in the summer) and gear for rain (precipitation is a year-round possibility). 

A walking stick also comes in handy. Be sure to let a non-hiking partner know where you’re going and when you plan to be back. Watch out for slippery rocks, and don’t swim or wade in park waters (falls and drowning are among the leading causes of injury).

As this is bear country, you must store all your food – and any trash that smells like food – appropriately. It’s important to be mindful in order to protect wildlife from becoming dependent on humans for food or getting close to humans in ways that endanger both you and the animals who call the park home. Never feed animals by hand, dispose of trash properly in approved receptacles, and use bear canisters or bear lockers to keep your snacks from attracting critters to your campsite.

Speaking of bears, they’re generally quite shy and avoid human contact, though if you do come across one, keep your distance and don’t disturb the bear. In the unlikely event the bear approaches you, stand your ground, make yourself tall and make a lot of noise – which usually deters the bear.

You may also like:  National and state parks are reopening in the US in phases - here’s what we know 7 reasons staycations are going to be our saviour in 2020 This corner of northeastern Utah is the wilderness only locals know about

This article was first published August 2018 and updated May 2020

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Plan, Ready, Go

Great Smoky Mountains National Park Itinerary for a Perfect Trip

If you’re looking for an epic adventure, look no further than the Smokies. This Great Smoky Mountains National Park itinerary and travel guide will help you make the most of your trip.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park is located in eastern Tennessee and western North Carolina, and it’s home to some of the most beautiful scenery in the United States. There are plenty of things to do in this park, so it’s the perfect destination for everything from a fun day trip to a romantic weekend getaway to a big vacation with the whole family.

In this article, I’ll cover important topics like the best time to visit, where to stay, what to see and do, and more.

Plan the perfect trip to the Smokies with this FREE printable travel planner.

This post includes affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. See disclaimer.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park facts

Here are some interesting facts about Great Smoky Mountains National Park to help you get to know the Park a little better before your trip.

• Entrance to Great Smoky Mountains National Park is free , and it’s open 24 hours a day all year round. (Effective March 1, 2023, parking tags are required to park in GSMNP for more than 15 minutes.)
• The Park covers more than 520,000 acres.
• The land area that the Park covers is split almost evenly between Tennessee and North Carolina.
• Great Smoky Mountains National Park is the most visited of all 63 U.S. National Parks …by quite a lot. More than 14 million guests visited GSMNP in 2021.
• The Park includes 10 campgrounds , not including backcountry camping options.
• Great Smoky Mountains National Park includes 384 miles of road .
• Clingmans Dome is the highest point in the Park at 6,643 feet . It’s also the highest point in Tennessee and the third-highest point east of the Mississippi River.
• Great Smoky Mountains National Park was designated a World Heritage Site in 1983 .

Great Smoky Mountains National Park itinerary

Now for the good stuff. There are so many things to do in Great Smoky Mountains National Park that building an itinerary is a challenge.

My recommendation is that you plan to spend at least two full days in the Park , but more is certainly good as well.

Shake things up and make this itinerary your own. How you put these pieces together may largely depend upon where you are staying on your trip to the Smokies (and what entrance you’re using).

Be advised: drive times inside the Park can be quite long. There are essentially only a few major driving routes within the park.

Get a park map and get familiar with it and use it. Do not rely on GPS to get you around the park. It may steer you wrong. You can pick up a map at any visitor center.

TIP:  Keep track of all the amazing sites you’re seeing in the park with  this printable Great Smoky Mountains National Park bucket list . On a quest to visit all 63 U.S. National Parks?  Grab your own copy of the  printable national parks tracker  to check off your progress as you visit each park.

Visitor Center

Make your first stop at the Oconaluftee or Sugarlands Visitor Center to pick up a park map and any other information you need for your visit to Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

If you’re staying in Townsend, Tennessee, the closest Visitor Center to you will be in Cades Cove. I would recommend you start your itinerary with Cades Cove anyway if you’re staying in Townsend, so there you go.

If you don’t want to go to the Visitor Center you can download a park map from the National Park Service website.

I recommend everyone start their trip to Great Smoky Mountain National Park with a drive through Cades Cove. It’s on the western side of the Park and it’s hugely popular. Plan to arrive at the entrance to the loop at the time it’s opening or even a few minutes before.

For a very nominal fee (it was $1 when we bought it) you can purchase a small booklet that will give you more information about Cades Cove and all of the stops on the scenic drive.

The Cades Cove Loop Road is a great place to see wildlife, so keep your eyes peeled for deer, bears, and other animals.

Let me stop here to say one thing. PLEASE DO NOT block the roadway so that you can get a better look at the black bears. It is unkind to back up traffic for 20 minutes so you can get your perfect photo. If there is not a safe place to pull over, keep moving .

Okay, rant over.

Plan to spend at least two hours driving through Cades Cove, longer if you’re there during peak travel times or a busy part of the day. I’d say it’s safest to plan to spend your entire morning there exploring.

Pack your patience. There may be times when the traffic is stopped or very slow because of road congestion.

There are so many things to see in Cades Cove and there are hikes in that area as well as one of the three Park Visitor Centers. Plenty to fill up at least your morning if not your full day.

Laurel Falls Trail

The popular Laurel Fall Trail hike is a must-do in Great Smoky Mountains National Park. This trail can also get quite busy, so you might want to save this for first thing in the morning on your second day in the Park rather than right after Cades Cove.

Use your best judgment, and keep in mind that parking at the trailhead is quite limited .

Plan for this 2.6-mile roundtrip hike to take you about 2 hours . It’s considered moderate in difficulty.

Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail

The other scenic drive in Great Smoky Mountains National Park is not to be missed. If you’re not much of a hiker, you can definitely do both Cades Cove and the Roaring Fork on the same day. Or do one scenic drive each of your two days in the Park.

The Roaring Fork Nature Motor Trail is on the east side of the Park near the Orchard Park entrance. In our experience, it wasn’t nearly as busy as Cades Cove.

The entire drive is about 5.5 miles on a one-way road. It does get a bit narrow at times so drive with care. This trail is a great way to see the park’s beautiful scenery. Please give it a try.

Newfound Gap

For beautiful views head to Newfound Gap…in fact, the entire drive along Newfound Gap Road from Cherokee to Gatlinburg (or the reverse) is just stunning.

There are several places to pull over and enjoy the amazing views along Newfound Gap Road. Take advantage, please. You won’t be sorry.

You’ll climb (in your car) about 3,000 feet. Please note that the temperatures at Newfound Gap will likely be quite a bit cooler than the surrounding lowlands.

The Appalachian Trail crosses Newfound Gap Road, so if you feel like stretching your legs and giving it a try go ahead. Then you can tell everyone you hiked the Appalachian Trail.

Clingmans Dome

Just south of Newfound Gap, you’ll find the turnoff from Newfound Gap Road to Clingmans Dome Road.

This 7-mile road will take you up to the parking area just about half a mile from the top of Clingmans Dome (6,643 feet), which is the highest point in the Park. The road is closed to vehicles generally from Dec. 1 through March 31.

There’s plenty of parking up there, vault toilets, and a gift shop/visitor information center.

The half-mile hike up to the top of Clingmans Dome is paved and quite steep. Please wear appropriate footwear.

There’s also an observation tower at the top of Clingmans Dome that offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and forests. It is said that on a clear day, you can see 100 miles.

Even if you aren’t sure you want to do the hike, the view from the parking lot is still quite wonderful and worth the drive.

Please note that it can get COLD up there. SIGNIFICANTLY colder than the surrounding lower elevations.

Other things to add to your Great Smoky Mountains National Park itinerary

Cataloochee valley.

The isolated Cataloochee Valley offers guests the opportunity to see the historic valley as it was. It preserves several historic buildings. There are also opportunities for wildlife viewing. Use caution when driving on the narrow roads.

More hikes in Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Great Smoky Mountains National Park is home to more than 150 official hiking trails from short, easy, kid-friendly hikes to quite long hikes requiring significant hiking experience.

Here are a few of the most popular hikes in the Park that I haven’t already touched on.

• Rainbow Falls, 5.4 miles, moderate
• Alum Cave Bluffs, 2.5 miles one way
• Abrams Falls, 5 miles roundtrip, moderate to difficult
• Grotto Falls, 3 miles roundtrip, moderate

If you’re traveling with children you might enjoy the short, easy Cataract Falls Trail. The falls are about 0.7 miles from the Sugarlands Visitor Center.

Best time to visit Great Smoky Mountains National Park

The best time of year to visit Great Smoky Mountains National Park varies depending on what you want to do.

The park is busiest from May through October , and the fall colors are at their peak in October. On average, over the last decade or so, June, July, and October have been the busiest months.

If you’re interested in hiking, the spring and autumn months are the best time to visit, as the summer months are hot and humid. Again, expect to encounter many people if you’re there in October.

If you’re looking for an amazing natural phenomenon to witness, look no further than the synchronous fireflies at Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

Every year, around the end of May or the beginning of June, this park hosts a special event in the Elkmont area where visitors have a chance to see large numbers of these fireflies light up at once.

Vehicle passes are awarded by a lottery system, so there’s, unfortunately, no guarantee that you’ll be able to see them.

Where to stay on your trip to Great Smoky Mountains National Park

For a complete discussion of where to stay on your trip, see my article all about where to stay in the Smokies.

Campgrounds in Great Smoky Mountain National Park

Camping is a great way to experience Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

There are 10 developed frontcountry campgrounds in the park , and they offer a variety of amenities including restrooms (with cold running water and flush toilets), fire grate, and picnic tables. Most of the campgrounds are available seasonally, with a couple open all year round.

Backcountry camping, group camping, and horse camps are also available. Most of the campgrounds are also located near popular attractions, so you’ll be able to enjoy the beauty of the park while you’re camping.

Hotels near Great Smoky Mountains National Park

There are no motels or inns in Great Smoky Mountains National Park. LeConte Lodge is only accessible on foot after hiking at least 5 miles.

If you prefer to stay in hotels, your only option will be to stay in one of the gateway towns at the major entrances to the Park.

Gatlinburg, Tennessee

You’ll have the most hotel options if you stay in Gatlinburg, Tennessee. It’s located just outside the park, and it also offers a variety of restaurants, shops, and other attractions.

Here are a few highly rated hotel options in Gatlinburg:

The Park Vista offers beautiful views of the Smoky Mountains, and every room comes with a balcony.

Margaritaville Resort is cram-packed with amenities and just a short drive to Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

Fairfield Inn and Suites is a favorite affordable hotel brand for me and Hubby. Their downtown Gatlinburg location is very close to the start of the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail (see below).

Cherokee, North Carolina

Cherokee is another great option as it’s very near the Park and the Oconaluftee Visitor Center.

Major attractions in Cherokee, aside from the Park, are Harrah’s Cherokee Casino, the Museum of the Cherokee People, and the Blue Ridge Parkway. Cherokee is the southern terminus of that famous scenic route.

Cherokee lodging options include:

• Stonebrook Lodge : We enjoyed our stay here, just minutes from Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Offers free parking and comfortable rooms but a subpar continental breakfast. We opted to grab a wonderful breakfast at Peter’s Pancakes and Waffles in town.
• Great Smokies Inn : Just minutes from the Oconaluftee Visitor Center and the southern end of the Blue Ridge Parkway.

Townsend, Tennessee

Townsend, Tennessee, is located on the “quiet side” of Great Smoky Mountains National Park. It also has the benefit of being the closest town to the popular Cades Cove scenic drive (more on that below).

Highland Manor Inn is just four minutes from the west entrance to Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Guests love how close the property is to the Park.

Other hotel options for staying near Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Further from the park, but also popular are Pigeon Forge and Sevierville , Tennessee. Pigeon Forge includes a lot of tourist attractions.

Guests love the Residence Inn Pigeon Forge for its location and spacious rooms.

Those who prefer to avoid major hotel chains may like The Inn on the River . Guests enjoy the service and location. It’s about 13 miles from the Sugarlands Visitor Center and about a 10-minute drive from Dollywood.

Sevierville is located about 17 miles from the Sugarlands Visitor Center (inside the Gatlinburg entrance). You would need to plan on a 35 – 40 minute drive to be inside the park from Sevierville…potentially longer if the Gatlinburg traffic is really congested.

When is it not, right?

To really save money during peak fall colors time, when hotel rates were higher than we wanted to spend, we chose to stay at the Fairfield Inn & Suites Knoxville Airport Alcoa .

We had a fine stay. And while it was nice to save $100/night on the hotel room, we ended up doing A LOT more driving than I think I would want to do on a return visit to the Park.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park entrances

There are several entrances to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, and each offers its own unique experience.

The most popular entrance is located in Gatlinburg . The entrance is the closest to popular Gatlinburg attractions, and it’s also where you’ll find the greatest concentration of hotels and restaurants.

One downside is that this entrance is also quite popular and can get VERY congested during peak travel times . Those staying in Gatlinburg always seem to want to enter and leave the Park at about the same time.

We live in Upstate South Carolina and use the Cherokee, North Carolina, entrance . From there you can follow the beautiful scenic drive along Newfound Gap Road through the Park. It’s also a great option if you’re looking to avoid the crowds at the Gatlinburg entrance.

Finally, for an even less crowded entrance into the park Townsend, Tennessee , is the entrance you’re looking for. It also has the benefit of being the entrance closest to the popular Cades Cove scenic loop.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park Visitor Centers

There are three visitor centers in Great Smoky Mountains National Park as well as a small “contact station” at Clingmans Dome.

We always make it a point to stop at a Visitor Center for any National Park trip. You’ll want a park map at least. Plus there are restrooms, gift shops, and you can talk to a park ranger if you have any questions.

The Sugarlands Visitor Center is the most popular in the park . It’s located near the Gatlinburg, Tennessee, entrance.

The Sugarlands Visitor Center also offers a variety of ranger-led programs, so it’s a great place to learn about the park. The Backcountry Permit Office is also at the Sugarlands Visitor Center.

The Oconaluftee Visitor Center is closest to the Cherokee, North Carolina , entrance. Like the Sugarlands Visitor Center, here you can find a gift shop, helpful National Park Service staff, maps, restrooms, and more.

The third Visitor Center is on the Cades Cove Scenic Loop . This center is much smaller than the other two, but you’ll still find a gift shop, restrooms, etc. There are also several historic buildings nearby that you can explore including a grist mill.

Picnic areas in Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a great place to enjoy a meal outdoors, and it offers a variety of great picnic areas to choose from.

The picnic areas are:

• Collins Creek
• Metcalf Bottoms
• Twin Creeks

Some picnic areas are open seasonally and some offer pavilions that can be reserved for groups.

If you’re having a hard time choosing where to enjoy your picnic, I’d suggest you check out Chimneys . It’s located on the West Prong Little Pigeon River and several of the picnic sites are right on the river. Guests are welcome to enjoy the cool water of the river on hot days.

Cades Cove is also a popular picnic spot. You’ll find it near the entrance/exit to the scenic loop.

What to take with you on your Smoky Mountains hike

Hiking is a lot more fun when you’re prepared with the right shoes and clothing. The correct outfit can increase your comfort and make the whole hike much better.

It’s best to dress in layers while hiking so you can peel off or put on clothes as the temperature changes. Make sure you pack weather-appropriate outerwear and plenty of snacks and water.

My hiking favorites

Hiking shoes —I prefer to wear waterproof hiking shoes over hiking boots. Trail running shoes can also be a good option depending on the hike if that’s your preference.

I love my waterproof Keen hiking shoes. You can check the price on Amazon here.

Waterproof shell —The weather can change rapidly, so it’s important to make sure you carry with you some protection from the elements…even if the forecast is for a lovely and dry day.

I love my Columbia Arcadia II jacket. You can check out the price on Amazon here.

Trail pants —I love my Columbia Saturday Trail Pants. They’re really lightweight and comfortable. You can check them out on Amazon here.

Tips for visiting Great Smoky Mountains National Park

When visiting any national park, it’s important to be aware of the rules and regulations in place. Great Smoky Mountains National Park is no exception.

Some important things to keep in mind when visiting the Smokies:

1. Pets are prohibited on nearly all trails in the park.

2. Be sure to leave no trace. If there are no garbage cans around, pack out whatever you bring in with you.

4. Stay on the trails while hiking and don’t take any shortcuts. This helps protect the natural resources in the park and protects your safety.

5. Obey all speed limits and traffic laws while driving in the park. This helps keep everyone safe and ensures that visitors have a pleasant experience.

6. Come prepared for all types of weather, as conditions can change rapidly in the Smoky Mountains.

Final thoughts on your Smoky Mountains itinerary

If you’re looking for a great hiking destination with some beautiful scenery, Great Smoky Mountains National Park is definitely worth checking out.

With plenty of trails to choose from, there’s something for everyone – whether you’re a beginner or an experienced hiker.

And if you’re looking for some beautiful scenery, be sure to visit Cades Cove, Roaring Fork Motor Trail, Newfound Gap, and Clingmans Dome.

More articles about National Parks

• Inspiring books about U.S. National Parks
• The best National Parks in the Southern United States
• The top National Parks on the East Coast
• The best national parks gifts (for any budget)
• Hiking Congaree National Park

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Darcy Vierow is a busy professional and travel planning expert with years of experience maximizing travel with limited time and on a less-than-average salary. Her tips have been published by Forbes, MSN.com, Yahoo! News, Yahoo! Finance, Aol, Newsbreak and GOBankingRates. Read more about Darcy Vierow .

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Road Trip Itinerary: Midwest to Nashville, Great Smoky Mountains and Fun Things to See Along the Way

May 31, 2018.

This post may contain affiliate links. See disclosure page for more information.

Planning a summer road trip with the family?  Need some ideas on where to go? Want to plan a road trip but the thought of planning makes you want to not even go?

Road trips can take a lot of research and planning.  First you need to choose a destination, then figure out the best route, and finally find things to do along the way.  If the destination is a new one and you are unfamiliar with the area, it can take a lot of time and work starting from scratch.  I love to share my itineraries because I know just how much work it takes to plan them and some people just don’t enjoy that part.  For me, planning the trip is nearly as much fun as actually going on it.  Crazy I know!  For those that hate planning and maybe even decide to skip the vacation because the planning stresses them out so much, I hope this can help.

Planning the Road Trip

To plan a route, I have been using Roadtrippers.com .  More recently there have been many ads on this site and they have released a more enhanced version for a fee. I have also started to use AAA.com . Although this is a paid service ($60 a year), you also get great discounts on hotels and car rentals and even campsites. You can request a trip tik from their website or a travel specialist by phone.  You tell them the destination cities and they will send you a bound book with  step by step directons to each city including information on road closures and construction.  MapQuest is free and has also been a great help and there is a part where you can add your cities to a route. The biggest determination I make when I plan a route is to look at driving time.  I try not to pick a destination that is over 7 hours drive time.  When looking for campgrounds along a route I cosult KOA, TripAdvisor, as well as AAA.

Sample Itinerary

Last summer we planned a road trip from the Midwest with the final destinations being Nashville and the Great Smoky Mountains .  If you are thinking of traveling out this way, check it out.

8.-9. Ashville, NC   10. Cincinnati, OH  11. Crawfordsville, IN  12. Peoria, IL

Day 1.  (Drive 6 hours)

First day we drove leaving after work  from Minneapolis through Rochester and into Iowa.  We did not make reservations for this night and thought we would find something along the way depending on how long we wanted to drive.  We have had pretty good luck with this and being able find a place last minute.  It helps to keep a KOA book of campgrounds handy.   Our plans got altered however when we blew a tire on the 5th wheel.  We ended up finding a Walmart in Mount Pleasant, Iowa and asked if we could spend the night in the parking lot.  They were good about it and said we could but had to leave by 7 am or so.  It was ironic to us that we ended up here because it really was such a great experience and they were so nice and helpful with our tire situation. The town sure is living up to its name.

Day 2-3 (Drive 7 hours)

Day 4-6 Drive for Nashville. (1 hour 35 minutes)

Driving to Nashville was under 2 hours the next morning. There are 3 campgrounds just north of downtown Nashville which are all on the same service road.  The last one is the KOA, then Two Rivers Campground, and finally Jellystone is the closest to the exit.  The Nashville KOA we stayed at offered a shuttle to downtown, but you do have to pay a fee, so we drove and paid for parking on the street or in one of the lots when we went downtown. We stayed 3 nights so that we had 2 full days to enjoy the sites. Nashville has so many fun things for kids to explore including the Grand Ole Opry, Opry Mills, The Country Music Hall of Fame, and the many Honky Tonks.  To read more about things to do in Nashville, check out my other posts.

Day 7 -8 (4+ hours)

After an exciting time in the city, we headed to Elkmont Campground near Gaitlenberg, TN in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park .   If I have one piece of advice- Do not use MapQuest to get into the park.  It took us on a road we never should have been on with  a camper!   Go to the main entrance near Gaitlenberg.  Cell service is not good in the park so have paper maps.   We stayed 2 nights at the campground which can be booked HERE .  We then had one full day in the park.   There are many great things to do in this area, (check out my other blog posts to learn more) including fishing, hiking, and visiting Clingman’s Dome.

The next day we headed to the south side of the Smoky Mountains to  Cherokees/ Great Smokies KOA .  We chose this campground because it was right next to stocked trout fishing ponds and there was river tubing at the campground.  We were close enough to town that we could go to the Oconaluftee Indian Village for their evening drama performance.  It is an amazing show depicting the history of the area.

Day 10 (Drive 2 hours)

Day 11 (Drive 1 hour+ due to windy roads)

Day 13 (Drive 9 hours)

Day 14 (Drive 9 hours)

Home.  We usually try to hit he road hard the last few days of a road trip.  By this time we are ready to get home so we rarely stop and be tourists the last few days.

I think this would be a great route even with out a camper.  Many of the KOAs have sleeping cabins and there also hotels near all of these areas, except for Mile High Campground.  Without a camper, there would have more flexibility driving the Blue Ridge Parkway from Cherokee to Ashworth, North Carolina.  There are tunnels and bridges along the Blue Ridge Parkway that do not accommodate larger campers.  Overall this was a great route and itinerary for exploring this part of the country.  We are so thankful for all the people we met along the way.  We even learned our lesson the hard way a few times on this trip but keeping a positive attitude during these times helps make the adventure more memorable and exciting.

Happy Travels! Jennifer

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10 replies to “road trip itinerary: midwest to nashville, great smoky mountains and fun things to see along the way”.

Sounds like a fun trip! I haven’t seen the Smokies since I was a kid, so that’d be a great place to go. That tire…happened to us twice as a kid on a road trip from MN to CA. 🙂 I was wondering what cool stuff there was to see in Crawfordsville, IN, as my husband grew up near there, but I see that it was where you stayed.

What a fun trip! I love the mix of cities and parks – Nashville and Gatlinburg are both family favorites!

This looks like an incredible trip! I love your pictures!

We live road trips and really want to get to the Midwest. Great info thank you

I live in the Midwest, and this still excites me! So many great places to see, and you’ve mapped them out really well in reasonable time increments!!

We’re long-day-driving road trippers, too! Tomorrow we have a 12 hour drive from California to Idaho! I loved following your trip and you had some great stops along your route! The midwest is amazing (Wisconsin girl here), so I’m very pro-midwest roadtrips! 😀

Fun trip! My favorite trips are road trips and planning them is the best! I will be traveling in these areas and love your ideas and places to visit.

Thank you! Have an amazing time on your trip!

What a cool blog! Easy to read; all sorts of real info! Thank you!

Thank you so much! I love to help people travel. I have so much more info to share and haven’t blogged in a while. I may just be inspired to get caught up. Blessings!

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The Perfect Day Trip to the Great Smoky Mountains: Itinerary + Travel Tips

Last Updated on: 19th September 2021, 06:26 pm

Wondering what the perfect one-day Smoky Mountains itinerary is? Here’s what you should do with one day in Great Smoky Mountains National Park! 

This day trip to GSMPN is best if you’re basing yourself in Tennessee, especially if you’ll be staying in  Gatlinburg , Pigeon Forge, or Sevierville. 

Can’t read now? Pin for later!

My Favorite Travel Booking Sites for 2023

These are my favorite companies that I use on my own travels.

Protect Your Trip via Safety Wing

Find the best city tours, day tours, bus tours, & skip-the-line tickets on GetYourGuide and Viato r .

Find the best deals on hotels & vacation rentals on Booking.com .

For English-speaking private airport transfers, book through Welcome Pickups.

For road trips and independent travel, rent a car through Discover Cars .

Find information and cruise reviews on Cruise Critic.

For packing and travel essentials order via Amazon .

Book an affordable family or romantic photography session on your trip through Flytographer (Use the code HISTORYFANGIRL for 10% off your first photoshoot).

For travel guidebooks to have with you during your trip, I always pick one or two from Rick Steves and Lonely Planet.

Good to Know:  This Smoky Mountains itinerary comes to us from Julie & Zach Ruhl from  Ruhls of the Road  as part of my series on covering how to visit every  UNESCO World Heritage Site  in the USA. 

This guide to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park includes how to plan the perfect day trip and suggestions for a one-day Great Smoky Mountains itinerary. 

It inspired me so much that I added a stop in  Gatlinburg  on our big Southern USA road trip!

Planning a Trip to Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Great Smoky Mountains National Park  is one of the most popular parks in all of the United States and with good reason. The park is enormous, and around each corner is a new and unique site to visit. 

There are tons of opportunities to see wildlife, a handful of wonderful hikes to do, and the nearby town of  Gatlinburg  boasts a ton of adventure on its own. In this article, we are going to design the perfect day trip to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park is nestled right on the border of Tennessee and North Carolina in the United States. The closes city to the park is  Gatlinburg, Tennessee.  

The destination is one of the few free National Parks in the United States, is full of historic sites and structures, and is home to over 400 species of animals, including over 1,500 black bears!

To get to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, you’ll need a car or a  tour company.  The easiest way to get around, by far, is with your own car (or a  rental car ). You’ll have the freedom to go to the sites you want to see when you want to see them. 

See all Gatlinburg tours.

Are you ready to get started with your incredible day trip to the Great Smoky Mountains? Let’s get to it!

One Day Great Smoky Mountains Itinerary

Follow this one-day itinerary so you can cover as much as possible. 

Hike Mount Cammerer

To start the day, we are getting deep out into the Great Smoky Mountains. Mount Cammerer is a high peak that you can hike to the very apex of.

The hiking trail itself is long, at 5.5 miles each way, for a total of 11 miles. The ascent is over 3,000 feet as well, so this hike is no joke. You’ll be sweating at the top, having put in an excellent workout on your hike.

The view at the top is so worth it, especially on a clear day. You’ll be able to see for miles and miles in every direction from the peak of Mount Cammerer. The Great Smoky Mountains are the crown of the Appalachian Mountains, and nowhere is that view better than atop Mount Cammerer.

This hike also makes for a great activity to do right away in the day because you’ll get some great exercise. You can cruise through the rest of the day enjoying some yummy food and awesome entertainment as you see the rest of the sites on this itinerary!

Note:  If you are not up for a hike as long as the 11 miles you’ll hike to and from Mount Cammerer, then Cascade Falls is a good option. This hike does not have the incredible views of Mount Cammerer, but it is an excellent walk through the woods and gives the chance to check out the beautiful Cascade Falls.

Drive Cades Cove

After completing your Mount Cammerer ascent, drive over to Cades Cove for the most beautiful scenic drive in Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Cades Cove is known for wildlife, so bring your binoculars if you have them and keep your eyes peeled.

The Cades Cove drive is an 11-mile one-way loop road. If you aren’t burnt out from the morning hike, you could even jump on a bicycle and bike the loop, however, going in a car will allow you to see everything just as close.

Cades Cove is a beautiful loop drive, full of awesome stops and scenic viewpoints. The John Oliver Cabin is the number one stop on Cades Cove, followed closely by the Primitive Baptist Church. There are many other rustic old cabins as well, such as John Cable Grist Mill and Henry Whitehead Place, if you are interested in stopping at those along the route.

Our favorite part  about taking the Cades Cove loop was all of the wonderful wildlife. We saw a few groups of deer grazing, in addition to some magnificent elk roaming the park. We saw a black bear from afar, as eagles and hawks were circling the skies in the distance. The Great Smoky Mountains make for a beautiful area to see wildlife.

Hike Abrams Falls

If you are up for it, the Abrams Falls trail is located on the Cades Cove loop and is the most beautiful waterfall in the entire National Park. The hike is 5 miles and is relatively flat, so it isn’t an extremely challenging hike.

The Abrams Falls brings you on a beautiful trail with river views, deep into the Great Smoky Mountains forest. At the end of the trail, you’ll come to Abrams Falls themselves, an enormous and powerful waterfall.

When you reach the falls, grab a seat, put your feet up, and marvel at the falls. Waterfalls are an excellent place to sit and watch, letting yourself get lost in their natural beauty. They are similar to campfires in that way, both mesmerizing and centering at the same time.

Note:  If you don’t want to hike at all and you find yourself with extra time, the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail is another scenic drive that will let you enjoy the views of the Smoky Mountains without getting out too much. There are also hiking trails ranging from long to short hikes and waterfalls located on this route as well.

Visit Gatlinburg

After your scenic drive through Cades Cove, you’ll probably be ready for some yummy food. Head into Gatlinburg to explore the wonderful city and grab some dinner.

Gatlinburg is an awesome town for tourists. The town itself feels a bit like Broadway in Nashville, or Fremont Street in Las Vegas. The main street is full of wonderful restaurants, tourist activities, and even small theme parks!

The best restaurants in Gatlinburg are Chesapeake’s Seafood and Raw Bar, Cherokee Grill and Steakhouse, and Tennessee Jed’s. There are also great touristy restaurants like Bubba Gump Shrimp Co if that is your style.

Gatlinburg is also home to many museums and exhibits. The town is even home to an aquarium from Ripley’s! All in all, anyone and everyone can find something they love to do in Gatlinburg. 

Just take a stroll down this strip of restaurants and attractions, waiting for something to catch your eye. In 10 feet or so, something will, and you’ll be off on an adventure, trust us.

Pro Tip:  Don’t skip out on the  Gatlinburg: Haunted Ghost Tour.  It’s spooky-yet-fun, and I absolutely loved it! A great way to enjoy Gatlinburg at night! Some other great town activities like Ripley’s Aquarium are included on the  Smoky Mountains: Sightseeing Flex Pass

One of the best reasons to visit any National Park, and especially Great Smoky Mountains National Park, is to escape the bright lights of urban areas. And one huge benefit of escaping the bright lights of the city is seeing the stars!

Light pollution in downtown environments often makes it impossible to see the stars there. At Great Smoky Mountains National Park, you will be far enough from the downtown areas and the lights there, that the sky will light up like a Christmas tree at night. The stargazing here is as good as it gets.

Take some time to stargaze during your Great Smoky Mountains adventure, especially on a clear, cloudless night. Even if you only spend 20 minutes under the stars, spend those 20 minutes. Grab a jacket or blanket if it is cold so that you can focus on the natural beauty above you rather than the weather around you.

One of our favorite activities while stargazing is to learn a new constellation in each place we visit. That way, we identify each new constellation we learn with a cool location where we learned of that beautiful grouping of stars. If you don’t know  any  constellations, then learn about Ursa Major at the Great Smoky Mountains.

Costs of Visiting Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Great Smoky Mountains National Park is awesome because of the landscapes, hikes, mountain views, and adventures. However, in addition to all those wonderful things, this park is great for another reason. It is basically free to visit!

The cost of visiting the Great Smoky Mountains is a bargain. The entrance fee to get into the park is absolutely free. Therefore, all of the adventures you’ll have at Mount Cammerer, Cades Cove, and Abrams Falls are one hundred percent free. You won’t pay a dime!

The stargazing in this area is, of course, also free. Basically, the only things you’ll pay for are food, gas, and lodging! In Gatlinburg, the food is relatively inexpensive, as long as you avoid the most expensive items on the menu.

Lodging costs on a trip to the Great Smoky Mountains will vary depending on what you are looking for. In Gatlinburg, there are a few great hotel options, which will likely be the most expensive option you’ll have. Vacation rentals are also great options in this area, where you can find full house rentals for a similar price as a hotel room.

Finally, you could select our favorite and recommended option: camping. Camping in the National Park is the least expensive option and offers the chance to have an authentic nature experience. Setting up a tent will allow you maximum stargazing time, maximum hiking time, and will give you the maximum amount of time exploring and immersing yourself in the National Park.

All in all, you can expect to spend about $100-$200 per day exploring the park. That cost includes food, gas, and lodging each night, and will vary depending on where you stay and what you decide to eat during your adventure. 

Other Things You Can Do Nearby

One must-visit destination while in the Great Smoky Mountains area is Dollywood. Dolly Parton’s childhood home is in these mountains (She was born in Sevierville), and she built her very own theme park right outside of Gatlinburg in Pigeon Forge

We are HUGE Dolly Parton fans, she is an excellent singer, writer, entertainer, and all-around performer. She has succeeded in everything she’s done, including Dollywood. This enormous theme park is a full day’s adventure all on its own, you’ll have a blast exploring the theme park riding all of the fun rides, and seeing the attractions.

The Appalachian Mountains are known for their moonshine, and Gatlinburg has a few great places to try some homegrown alcohol. Ole Smoky Moonshine, Sugarlands Distilling Company, and Doc Collier Moonshine are 3 places right on Gatlinburg’s main street that offer moonshine tastings. This can be a great pre-dinner activity or a fun stop for a nightcap before heading home for the night.

The Anakeesta is another must-visit tourist destination in Gatlinburg. Anakeesta is a gondola that takes you right up the mountainside above Gatlinburg, This excursion is an excellent way to get a bird’s eye view of the Great Smoky Mountains area, especially if you aren’t going to be hiking the Mount Cammerer Trail. The Anakeesta gondola isn’t free, however, it sure is fun!

Are the Great Smoky Mountains Worth Visiting?

All in all, a Great Smoky Mountains adventure has so many fun activities for people of all ages. If you are a nature-lover, you’ll have the time of your life exploring Abrams Falls and Mount Cammerer. History Buffs will have a blast exploring the relics of Cades Cove and the museums in Gatlinburg.

People who love animals will love seeing animals throughout the park. Everyone loves the stars, and the stargazing in the Great Smoky Mountains is as good as it is anywhere in the United States.

Without a doubt, you will make an unforgettable memory while exploring the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The attractions in Gatlinburg, the hikes in the National Park, and the adventures you have will stay with you and your family for years. Enjoy! 

Hi! We are  Julie & Zach Ruhl , the creators of Ruhls of the Road. We quit our jobs for a life traveling full time in 2018, and haven’t looked back. We love life on the road, hiking National Parks, and exploring all of the beautiful nooks and crannies all over the world.

Great Smoky Mountains Travel Guide

If this is your first time going on a Smoky Mountain vacation, have no fear! Julie and Zach gave a great overview, and I want to share what I learned from my own trip to Gatlinburg and the GSMNP. 

The area is large and planning a visit here can be overwhelming. There’s so much to do here that deciding what to put on and what to leave off your trip itinerary can be a bit daunting. 

More Tennessee Travel Resources

Need more travel planning help? Here are all of my Tennessee travel resources!

The best national parks in Tennessee (and National Park Service Sites)

How to Plan a Trip to Nashville + Travel Tips

What to  buy in Nashville for souvenirs and gifts.  

Looking for Instagram captions or Nashville inspiration? Here are the  best quotes about Nashville.

An overview of the history of Nashville.

The 4 Best Neighborhoods in Nashville + Hotel Guide for Where to Stay in Nashville, TN

Gatlinburg and Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Tips for  planning a trip to Gatlinburg.

How to spend  one day in Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

Where to Stay in Gatlinburg: The Best Hotels & Accommodations in Gatlinburg, Tennessee

The 4 Best Neighborhoods in Memphis + Hotel Guide for Where to Stay in Memphis, TN

The 3 Best Neighborhoods in Knoxville + Best Hotels for Where to Stay in Knoxville, TN

Included in these Round-Ups

The best scenic drives in America

The most charming historic towns in the USA

The prettiest waterfalls in the US

Pin this One-Day Great Smoky Mountains Itinerary for Your Trip to Tennessee!

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Great Smoky Mountains Guide: Planning Your Trip

Tony Barber / Getty Images

The first thing you should know about the Great Smoky Mountains is that it is the nation’s busiest national park with more than 11 million visitors every year. It covers 800 square miles of mountainous terrain that spans across eastern Tennessee and crosses the border into North Carolina. The Smoky Mountains, as locals lovingly call them, are home to some of the world's most stunning deciduous forests along with historic churches, cabins, and barns from bygone Appalachian communities.

With 150 official trails throughout the park and countless miles of backcountry , it's surprising that relatively few visitors actually get out of their cars and hike, opting to enjoy the views from inside their vehicles. But this designated international biosphere reserve is home to an incomparable variety of plants and animals and is worth more than just passing through.

Planning Your Trip

• Best Time to Visit: The park is open year-round and each season offers something different to enjoy. The snowfall in winter adds a beautiful serenity to the landscape, but the blooming flowers in spring or river activities in the summer make for excellent hikes. Most people, however, would probably agree that autumn is the best time of year to visit, when the maples, oaks, and hickories are bursting with fall foliage colors (the leaves usually reach peak color in October). The busiest times of the year are July, August, and October when the main roads often get backed up. Summer crowds usually arrive by midday, while October crowds tend to gather in the late afternoon and evening.
• Getting Around: With over 800 square miles to cover, a car is necessary to move around and see the highlights. But visitors who just stay in the car are also missing out on huge swaths of the park only accessible by foot. Other options for getting around the park include biking, horseback riding, or an open-air hayride that takes visitors around Cades Cove Loop.
• Travel Tip: The most popular routes to take through the park are U.S. Route 441, also called Newfound Gap Road, and Cades Cove Loop. If you're visiting during high season or want an off-the-beaten-path experience, try seeking out lesser-used routes, such as Greenbrier Road, Fontana Road, or Foothills Parkway.

Things to Do

Take the time to park your car and fully experience the Smoky Mountains. The views from the road are otherworldly, but you're only experiencing a small fraction of all that the national park has to offer by staying in your vehicle. Several of the most scenic destinations can only be reached by hiking, but visitors can also kayak, go horseback riding, try white water rafting, visit historic sites, look out for wildlife, and so much more. Of course, pitching a tent and sleeping in the park is the best way to experience it.

• Cades Cove is a scenic valley tracing its history to 1850 when settlers moved onto the Cherokee Indian land. Structures and official sites have been marked, creating an outdoor historic gallery. Don’t miss the small cabin known as John Oliver Place or the Primitive Baptist Church which was shut down during the Civil War.
• Visit the highest point of Tennessee, Clingmans Dome , at 6,643 feet. The peak is accessible by driving Clingmans Dome Road from Newfound Gap, and then walking a half-mile trail. A paved trail then leads to a 54-foot observation tower.
• Mount LeConte is one of the most popular mountains to hike at Great Smoky Mountains. At 6,593 feet, it is the third highest peak in the national park.
• The Great Smoky Mountains are home to some of the most stunning waterfalls in the nation. Some can’t miss falls include Abrams Falls , Grotto Falls , Hen Wallow Falls , Juney Whank Falls , and Laurel Falls .
• If you want to introduce children to hiking without exhausting them, the Porters Creek Trail and Kephart Prong Trail are both designated kid-friendly by the National Park Service.

What to Eat and Drink

If you forgot to pack something to eat, there are some limited options inside the park. The only place to buy hot food in the park is at the Cades Cove Campground Store, which has a snack bar of breakfast items, hot sandwiches, pizza, and the like. Apart from that, the only other options are a couple of convenience stores selling packaged items and vending machines.

For restaurant dining after a day of trekking, you'll have to exit the park and enter one of the neighboring communities, such as Gatlinburg or Pigeon Forge in Tennessee or Bryson City on the North Carolina side.

Where to Stay

The most popular option for staying in the Smoky Mountains is, of course, camping. There are several "frontcountry" campgrounds scattered throughout the park where you can park your car or RV next to your reserved site and set up camp. For the more intrepid—and experienced—campers who want a bit more adventure, backcountry camping is also an option. You need a reservation for a campsite or a permit to backcountry camp, and spots fill up quickly.

The only non-camping option inside the park is LeConte Lodge , which is located at the summit of Mount LeConte and only accessible by foot. The various trails to reach it range from five to eight miles, so don't pack heavy if you plan to spend the night. The lodge closes when the weather makes it too difficult to reach, but it's usually open from mid-March to mid-November.

For a hotel that you don't have to hike to, visitors have plenty of options in the neighboring towns, such as Pigeon Forge or Gatlinburg. For a rustic experience without having to actually pitch your own tent, consider renting a cabin in the area.

Getting There

There's no official entrance and visitors have several options for getting into the park on both the Tennessee side and the North Carolina side. The nearest big cities to the Smoky Mountains are Nashville, Tennessee; Charlotte, North Carolina; and Atlanta, Georgia, all of which are just two to three hours away by car.

Another popular way to get there is by taking a road trip along the scenic Blue Ridge Parkway, which begins near Shenandoah National Park in Virginia and continues south all the way to the doorstep of the Great Smoky Mountains.

Money Saving Tips

One of the reasons that the Great Smoky Mountains is America's most visited national park: it's free of charge. Unless you reserve a campsite or buy food in the park, you can spend the entire day enjoying the majesty of the Smoky Mountains without spending a dime. It's an unforgettable vacation for travelers on a budget or families with kids.

• Camping is the most affordable accommodation —assuming you already have the gear. Campsites range from $17 to $25 per night depending on the campground and can accommodate up to six people.
• Campsites don't fluctuate in price based on the season but they do get booked up quickly, especially in the high season of summer and October.
• The rates at motels and bed and breakfasts in the neighboring communities do vary depending on the season. Consider traveling in the offseason if you want to spend the night at nearby lodging.
• There are no gas stations inside the national park. Be sure to fill up the tank before you enter or you may end up paying for it.

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Cuyahoga Valley National Park: The Complete Guide

Bryce Canyon National Park: The Complete Guide

Henry Horton State Park: The Complete Guide

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Banff National Park: The Complete Guide

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Detailed itineraries + travel guides

6 Day Smoky Mountains Itinerary – 2 States & 1 Grand Adventure

Last Updated March 15, 2024 William Tang

You are here: Home » Travel Itineraries » 6 Day Smoky Mountains Itinerary – 2 States & 1 Grand Adventure

The legendary Great Smoky Mountains National Park conjures up images of classic blue silhouette of mountain ridges, black bears, elk, and rolling waterfalls. The national park spans both North Carolina and Tennessee and makes for quite the epic road trip. The question is, what’s the best way to do it?

With this 6 day Smoky Mountains itinerary, you’ll gain inspiration for how to make the most of a trip that covers both states and includes the best places to see, do, eat, and stay for those with an adventurous spirit.

What You’ll Get Out of This Article

• Day-by-day breakdown of the itinerary.
• Critical details for important activities and sights.
• Google Map of all locations on the itinerary.
• Access to a Google Sheet itinerary spreadsheet.

In This Article

What To Know Before Planning Your Road Trip

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The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is the most visited of all of the US national parks but for someone that’s never been there, it’s a daunting task to put together an itinerary, especially when you only have 6 days to work with.

If you love the outdoors, beautiful landscapes, wildlife, and exhilarating adventure, this one’s for you!

There are probably a million ways to see the Smoky Mountains.

Something you’ll learn is that most road trips will include a combination of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park itself and the surrounding towns and cities that flank it on both sides of Tennessee and North Carolina.

Since there’s so much to see, do, eat, and stay in the region, you’ll have to pick and choose what you want to do. Much of it will depend on your travel style, your group, the number of days you have, and how much of the national park you want to do versus the periphery.

As we’ve mentioned, this Smoky Mountains itinerary is meant to be guide for a trip that someone real has actually done, to give you an idea of one way to plan a trip here.

To help put this together, we employed our art of planning trips as a way to visualize the trip and stay organized. Keep reading to find out how you can get access to the 6 day Smoky Mountains itinerary spreadsheet.

Like most, if not all national parks in the United States, The Great Smoky Mountains and its surroundings are best explored by car.

This means that your best bet to getting around here is to come here by your own car if you’re doing a much larger road trip through the US or simply rent a car.

The easiest way to rent a car is to pick it up at the airport you’re landing in. The two major airports are Knoxville, Tennessee (TYS) and Charlotte, North Carolina (CLT). You can either book a one-way car or round-trip rental.

Looking for deals on car rentals?: The secret to saving money on rental cars are these car rental coupon codes . We’re talking about hundreds of dollars of savings so don’t miss out.

For those that don’t drive, there are a couple of options that you can look at:

• Base yourself in North Carolina (i.e. Waynesville, Bryson City) and do day trips.
• Base yourself in Tennessee (i.e. Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, Sevierville) and do day trips.
• Book a guided Smoky Mountains tour .

As with all of our detailed itineraries such as our 9 day Northern California road trip , 2 days in Istanbul , 8 day Iceland itinerary , 3 days in Kauai , and others, our goal is to share as much detail as we possibly can so you can be as prepared as possible.

That said, everyone is going to want something a little different with this Smoky Mountains itinerary so use this as a a place to start and adjust from there.

Where we’ve been able to, we provide alternatives and other recommendations for things like accommodations, activities, tours, and restaurants.

For this road trip, we arbitrarily decided to start in North Carolina and end in Tennessee but you could easily do it the other way around.

As you start planning your epic road trip, it’s worth noting a couple of things when it comes to driving around the Smoky Mountains:

• Rent from the airport – If you’re flying in and out of the region, you’d be better off renting from the airport than trying to find a city location. This would be a lot more efficient than having to find ways into and out of the city.
• Gas up often – Trust me, you don’t want to run out of fuel while in the national park or in more rural areas. A good rule of thumb is to fuel up when you’re at half gauge.
• No tolls – We’re happy to report that there are no tolls to speak of in and around the Great Smoky Mountains so there’s no need to stress here. To be doubly sure, make sure to turn off toll routes on your navigation app.
• SUV is a great idea – This isn’t mandatory but there are a lot of steep winding roads in and around the Smokies and not all of them are paved. Getting around in a compact sedan would be fine but we did enjoy having the extra confidence of the SUV.
• Many single-lane roads – There were a lot of rural roads that reminded us of our road trip in southern Ireland where the hedges went straight up to the road and the opposing traffic were too close for comfort. That was the easy part. On some of the roads you’ll find in the national park or winding up/down to a cabin, you’ll be faced with single-lane roads that also feature hairpin turns and steep drop offs on one side without guard rails. Make sure to drive safely.
• Watch for elk – Elk aren’t shy and will hang out near or on the roads so be alert, especially when you see the yellow elk warning signs.
• Pre-save points of interest – There is no cell service and hence no data in the entirety of the national park. For ease of mind, it’s worth saving pins on your Google Maps app and also make your maps available offline .

We’re not blowing any smoke here! The truth is that the Smoky Mountains National Park and both sides of North Carolina and Tennessee are amazing all-year round. It really depends on what you’re looking to do and see.

A better way to put it is that there isn’t a wrong time of the year to come to the Smokies.

One of the nicknames of the national park is “Wildflower National Park” and that’s because in the spring time, 1,500 different flowering plants bloom. The lush green foliage combined with the rainbow of colours from all of the flowers is a sight to see and an incredible opportunity for photographers.

Snowmelt and rain also means that the waterfalls will be full and gushing with water.

Wildlife wise, this is calving season for elk so you may be able to spot their babies. Spring is also bear season where they start emerging from their dens and coming out of hibernation. This happens between late March through early April.

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park has a great page on black bears that you should definitely read.

The weather is quite cool throughout the season and you’ll be faced with unpredictable rain but the benefit is that there’ll be fewer crowds and lower lodging prices.

The summer months are undoubtedly the most popular and busiest times in the Smoky Mountains. With the kids off from school and the weather the warmest, lookouts, trails, and activities in both Tennessee and North Carolina will be packed with people.

That said, you’ll have the whole national park available to you as all of its amenities are open and you’ll have access to all elevations.

Weather wise, it will get up to the 80’s and 90’s (27 ° C to 32 ° C) in July so you’ll want to plan to do most of your activities in the morning or late afternoon. That said, this’ll depend on what elevation you’re at. July also has the most rainfall in the year where the surprise afternoon thunderstorm will seemingly pop out of nowhere.

Summer is also great for wildlife viewing where you’ll see turkey, deer, bears, and elk be quite active.

Bear-wise, mating season begins in July so you’ll find them active in the early morning or late evening. This’ll give you opportunities to view them but you’ll also need to be careful on trails.

After a hot and humid summer, crisp and cool air descends and the fall colors emerge in mid-September.

There’s a quick dip in crowds and lodging prices after Labor Day but because of how popular the autumn season is, it spikes again once the colors start changing.

Whether you’re in the park or viewing it from the Tennessee or North Carolina side, you’ll see a carpet of orange, red, and yellow hues. The peak of the fall colours is in October and quickly fade when November hits.

Similar to spring, it gets cold at night and averages in the 70s (21 ° C) during the day.

For wildlife, this is also the best time to see the elk as this is when the antlers of males are fully grown and they challenge other bulls and bugle to attract females.

No surprise that this is the least visited season of the year in the Smoky Mountains. The advantage of coming here is that you won’t find crowd anywhere and it reveals a completely different landscape filled with frozen waterfalls and snow-capped mountains.

Extra care is required when travelling through the national park at this time because of the icy and slippery conditions. You also have to pay close attention to closures and weather warnings.

There’s something quite magical about staying in a cabin in the winter and cozying up by the fireplace.

While it does get cold at higher elevations, towns such as Pigeon Forge, Gatlinburg, Bryson City, and Waynesville don’t get much snow so it’s not as cold as you think.

Now if we were forced to choose, the best time to come to the Smoky Mountains is in the autumn season. You’ll see from our photos just how lush and green the forests are in the spring so just imagine how vivid the changing of the leaves would be in the fall.

If you want to avoid the massive crowds in the fall season, try to plan a trip in late September or early November.

6 Day Smoky Mountains Itinerary

The below is an interactive map showing you all of the locations mentioned in the itinerary. Click on each point of interest to find out more information and links to reviews or to book an activity.

TIP: You can make this accessible on your phone. Simply expand the map and then make a copy to your own account. This will give you access to the map on the Google Maps app.

You’ll be starting your 6 day Smoky Mountains itinerary on the North Carolina side and for those that are flying in, the Charlotte airport (CLT) will be the easiest to get to. If looking for more small town finds while in the area, check out our guide on quick trips around Charlotte .

All of the major car rental companies are accessible in the parking garage right across from the airport so you won’t need to take a shuttle. Once you pick up your car (we used Avis;s code AWD #A519319 for easy savings), you’ll hit the road and drive 2.5 hours to the foothills of the Smoky Mountains.

Make your way to your lodgings for the night, Boyd Mountain Log Cabins . Set in a family-owned Christmas tree farm with 150-acres overlooking the Smoky Mountains, you’ll find 8 authentic hand-hewn log cabins that date back 150-200 years. Each one has been relocated from other locations, rebuilt, restored, upgraded to modern standards, and tastefully furnished. They are also named after the locations where they originally stood.

The particular cabin we stayed at was Meadow Fork Cabin , a two-story cabin that can accommodate 8 people, has central heat and air conditioning, full dining room space, firepit, and picturesque front porch with matching rocking chairs.

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After you settle in, you won’t want to leave. You can either grab a book on the mantle to read, play checkers on the porch, take a stroll around the pond or go fishing in the ponds which are stocked with rainbow trout, bluegill, bass and catfish.

For dinner, head into the cute town of Waynesville, North Carolina. The local watering hole you’ll want to visit is Boojum Brewing Company . They’re a microbrewery that has a refreshing line up of beers that range from hoppy IPAs, crisp pale ales, deep and silky stouts, and tangy sour ales.

Their taproom features 16 taps of their latest rotation of freshly brewed beer and they also have a fine menu of tasty pub snacks, burgers, steaks, and seafood. We highly recommend trying out their brew brew day pretzels and farmhouse stack starters. A local also had us try the Graveyard Fields and I absolutely loved it.

TIP: They have an outdoor patio in the back that has its own bar and tables. If there’s space, try to get a spot there!

Before you end the night, head over to the nearby grocery store, Ingles to pick up your road trip supplies. Grab everything you think you’ll need for your 6 days including snacks, water, other drinks, and breakfast. There’ll be other chances to drop by grocery stores but you’ll save a lot of time by just making this one stop.

Get some early rest because you’ll be up early the next day.

Day 1 Summary

Where you’ll eat:

• Dinner – Boojum Brewing Company Taproom – Relaxing and casual restaurant located in the heart of downtown Waynesville with a great selection of beers and seasonal pub faire.

Where you’ll stay:

• Boyd Mountain Log Cabins (Meadow Fork Cabin) – Authentic log cabins set in a Christmas tree farm that’s perfect for a retreat and family getaways. This is one of the best places to stay if you’re coming to the Waynesville and Maggie Valley area.

We also recommend staying here:

• Brookside Mountain Mist Inn – A lovely B&B that is known for its friendly hosts, comfortable rooms, and 3-course breakfast.
• Best Western Smoky Mountain Inn – If you’d rather stay in a traditional hotel, this one is highly rated and conveniently located in Waynesville.

Your first full day in North Carolina as part of this Smoky Mountains itinerary is going to be packed with hidden gems and the highest peak.

Waking up before the crack of dawn, make breakfast, pack your bags, and start heading out from Waynesville towards Cataloochee Valley . You’ll want to depart 30 minutes before sunrise.

Nestled within giant peaks is a historic community that prospered here in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Cataloochee Valley is one of the remote areas to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park but in here you’ll find well-preserved historic frame buildings such as churches, schools, and homes.

Starting in 2001, a plan was put into motion to reintroduce elk into the park and they’ve since flourished in this valley, making it to best place to watch and photograph elk in the particularly vast and open fields.

When you arrive in the morning as the fog hovers over the field, the sun just starts to reach its arms to the mountain tips, and the air is still. This is a tranquil retreat that you’ll want all to yourself.

How come no elk in the photo above? While we were the first to arrive in Cataloochee Valley, we didn’t have any luck spotting elk on the field but we did see a ton of turkey. Here, you’ll also have a chance to spot white-tailed deer, black bears, birds.

There’s no guarantees to spot elk here but this is one of two spots that give you the best chance.

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW – CATALOOCHEE VALLEY

The Smoky Mountains is a massive national park but what’s unique about it is that it straddles both North Carolina and Tennessee. As a result, each side also has their own special areas of the park.

Cataloochee Valley is one such area and it’s one of the hidden gems that you have to visit that’s most easily accessible from North Carolina.

Website: Great Smoky Mountains National Park Cataloochee Valley

• This is an easy answer! It’s free. Unlike the other national parks which either have park fees or a reservation system, there are no gates to enter any part of the park. You simply drive right in or through.

Best time to visit:

• You’ll be coming here to see elk and the best time to see them is in the early morning or late afternoon when the temperatures are cooler.

Driving tips:

• The most direct way to get to Cataloochee is to take Cove Creek Road which is easily accessible from Waynesville, North Carolina.
• Cave Creek Road is a winding road that starts off as paved but once you pass through the residential area, it turns to a gravel road. You’ll be on this gravel road for 15-20 minutes and it’ll eventually turn into Old Cataloochee Turnpike.
• The gravel road is quite narrow and twists and winds quite a bit so drive carefully.
• Turn left into Cataloochee Entrance Road and the gravel road continues until right you’re about halfway down where it finally turns into a paved road.
• Technically, you can drive gravel roads from Tennessee along Mt. Sterling Road which eventually becomes 45 minutes of gravel road towards Cataloochee Valley but it’d be much easier to take I-40 into North Carolina and then up through Cove Creek Road.

Photography tips:

• Have your zoom lens prepared and ready to go before heading out.
• There is a great view back towards the towns near Waynesville on Old Cataloochee Turnpike right before you have to make that left onto Cataloochee Entrance Road.
• You’ll be tempted to go to Cataloochee Valley Overlook when you just get in. The view here is just ok so we’d recommend getting down to the valley floor first and spend your time with the elk.
• Sunrise is a great time to go because the lighting isn’t harsh, the sun just lights the trees at the top of the valley, and you might be able to catch the mysterious fog that hovers over the field.
• There are two single beam bridges across the creek that are photogenic so make sure not to miss them. One is near the school and the other is at the start of the Caldwell Fork Trailhead. Make sure to look down at the water where you might see trout passing through.
• The barn across from Hiram Caldwell House has two floors and has a giant opening that is great for portrait photography.
• Your chances of seeing elk diminishes significantly if you come during the day.
• You cannot fly a drone in the national park whatsoever.

General tips:

• Cataloochee Valley has 3 main fields for elk viewing. One is a smaller one by the Cataloochee Seasonal Quarters & Ranger Station, one right before the Palmer Chapel Methodist Church, and the largest is the field that covers the area between Hiram Caldwell House to the end of the road.
• There are a few parking lots marked on Google Maps and while you could certainly park there, Cataloochee Valley is more of a place where you drive to the field where elk can be spotted and park on the gravel pull offs.
• At first it wasn’t clear whether this was meant to be a driving safari. Yes, you’ll be driving to the various fields in the valley but once you’re there, you park, get out of your car and choose a spot on the gravel or edge of the field to watch the elk. There aren’t any fences here.
• The bathroom isn’t marked on Google Maps but there is one right between the Palmer Chapel Methodist Church and the marked parking lot. You don’t need the comfort station by the campground.
• If there are elk on the field, don’t walk on the field but if they’re not there, you’re allowed to get onto the grass.
• There are no gates to enter Cataloochee Valley so you can enter as early as you’d like or leave as late as you’d like.
• If you have the time, explore the historic buildings that have been preserved such as the Palmer Chapel, Hiram Caldwell House, the school, and Palmer House. You can enter many of the buildings and explore their interiors.
• There are several trails here including the Rough Fork Trail (takes you to Steve Woody House) and Big Fork Ridge Trail which is at the end of the road, Pretty Hollow Gap Trail, and Caldwell Fork Trail.
• Learn about the elk seasons of Cataloochee Valley to plan your trip.

Next, you’ll see a whole other side of the Smokies. At an elevation of 5,000 feet and overlooking the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, you’ll find a luxury mountaintop retreat called The Swag .

It’s more than just a small rustic inn. It’s a hideaway and invigorating getaway that allows you to truly disconnect with its view of the mountains, boundless activities, authentic hospitality, and delicious dining.

While we didn’t plan early enough (at least a year or more in advance), we got a local tip that you can book a packed picnic lunch here without being a guest. This gives you access to the entire grounds, giving you the opportunity to hike up to Gooseberry Knob, watch the hummingbirds, explore the grounds, or enjoy book a spa treatment.

TIP: They have two vintage coolers right outside the main lodge where they stock ice cream and drinks. They’re free for all guests!

From the get-away-from-it-all feels, you’ll crank things up a notch with a visit to Dale’s Wheels Through Time . This is one of the top motorcycle museums in the United States. Curated and collected by Dale Walksler, his exhibits focus on an array of rare American motorcycles.

What makes Wheels Through Time more than just another museum is in their tagline of “the museum that runs”. Every single one of their machines on display can be fired up and they are more than willing to let you hear their beautiful growls.

In many ways, it feels like you’re walking through Dale’s personal workshop with bikes of all kinds, generations, and eras all under one roof. If you’re into Harleys, motorcycles from World War 2, or the most rare bike in the world , they have it all!

You’ll be driving through Maggie Valley and eventually into Bryson City. Check into your tiny home for the night at Gina’s Great Getaways , eat an early dinner at Nantahala Brewing’s Burger + Bar (or takeout to eat on the road), and start making your way back into the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

This time, you’ll be heading up to the famous viewpoint, and tallest peak in the park, Clingmans Dome .

On the way though, make sure to be on the lookout for elk grazing on the side of the road. While we didn’t see elk at Cataloochee Valley, they were right by Highway 441 near the Oconaluftee Visitor Center , munching on grass, casually crossing the road, and causing quite the stir amongst the motorists passing by.

Clingmans Dome is a unique piece of architecture in the national park. At 6,643 feet, the observation tower was built in 1959 and features a spiral ramp that is in sync with the same 12 percent grade that the trail leading up to the tower has.

When you arrive, the panoramic views of the mountains and cascading ridges will take your breath away. This is just from the parking lot and visitor center area.

Continue hiking up the trail and this is when you actually start losing your breath because of how steep the path is. The 0.5 mile hike takes you to the base of Clingmans Dome where you’ll do the remaining spiral to get up to the top of the 45-foot circular observation platform.

The reason for the slightly awkward dinner option is because you’re trying to rush here to catch the sunset. It’s been a packed day so decompress out here with everyone else that has gathered here and watch nature’s finest light show.

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW – CLINGMANS DOME

At the highest peak in the national park is a unique spiral structure that offers 360 degree unobstructed views of the Smoky Mountains and cities below.

Clingmans Dome is built along state lines so half of it is in Tennessee and the other half is in North Carolina.

Website: Great Smoky Mountains National Park Clingmans Dome

• Sunrise or sunset for the best views from the tower.
• The road from the main Newfound Gap Road (Highway 441) is windy but easy to drive and newly paved.
• The drive towards Clingmans Dome has a number of scenic pullouts.
• While open all year round, the 7-mile road to Clingmans Dome from Newfound Gap Road closes from December 1 – March 31 so the only way to get there is by hiking.
• There is a large parking lot but during high-season it can fill quickly so come early.
• If you’re coming here for sunset, this means you’ll be driving in the dark through the national park so be careful and use your high beams (while not blinding oncoming traffic at the same time).

• Many photographers will try to capture the sunrise or sunset from Clingmans Dome but most photographers prefer sunset because the curve leading up towards the tower points west.
• Photographers will set up tripods along the ramp up and on the tower itself so you will want to go early to pick a spot. It does get quite busy at sunset.
• The best spot overall is actually on the ramp and not in the tower itself because there are less foreground trees obstructing the view of the mountain range.
• Right before the visitor center is a lookout point with log benches. This is a great spot to shoot the silhouette or mountain ridges.
• Pets and bicycles aren’t allowed.
• The trail up to Clingmans Dome is not wheelchair accessible.
• If you’re going for sunrise or sunset, make sure you have the right headlamp. The Fenix HM65R we’ve reviewed is highly recommended.
• Open all year round.
• The hike up to Clingmans Dome is only 0.5 miles and well-paved but don’t be fooled, the elevation change is quite large and so you’ll find yourself quite gassed when you reached the base of the tower.
• Since this is at 6,643 feet, the dome can be 10-20 degrees Fahrenheit (6-12°C) colder than where you came from so make sure to pack a jacket, even in the summer.
• The Appalachian Trail crosses Clingmans Dome if you want to do a short segment of it while you’re here.
• There are washroom facilities in the parking lot.
• If you can’t do the hike up to the dome, there’s actually a great view of the mountains looking westwards which is perfect for sunset. You’ll see many people lining up their camping chairs to watch from the parking lot.
• The visitor center is right by the trailhead and their hours can be found on the Visitor Centers page. There’s a bookstore, shop, and park information here.

For the next two nights, you’ll be staying in the Sweet Pea Tiny Home . As a tiny home, you’ll be amazed by how spacious and functional it is for its size. Inside, you’ll find a full kitchen, dining area, bathroom, bedroom. Outside, there’s a front porch, back deck, fire pit, and barbecue.

This Smoky Mountains itinerary is filled with unique stays like this but you need to know where to look, so hopefully this gives you a few ideas.

Day 2 Summary

What you’ll see:

• Cataloochee Valley
• Dale’s Wheels Through Time
• Clingmans Dome
• Breakfast – Make your own breakfast at the cabin.
• Lunch – The Swag – Exclusive luxury mountain lodge where you can book a picnic lunch to get a sneak peek. You won’t find it on their website so just call them to set it up.
• Dinner – Nantahala Brewing and Burger Bar – If you have time, come here for dinner or pick something up to go and eat it on the way up to Clingmans Dome.

Tours you can book:

• Clear Creek Falls Hike – This is a guided 4.5 hour hiking tour to Clear Creek Falls that starts and ends in Waynesville.
• Gina’s Great Getaways – They have a wide selection of getaway homes from a Lil’ Red Caboose to the Sweet Pea Tiny Home we stayed in. A heads up that their wifi is a bit slow because they’re in a remote area.
• McKinley Edwards Inn – This is located in the outskirts of Bryson City that runs like a B&B with a superb breakfast, great hosts, comfortable rooms, and is well-reviewed.
• Nantahala Cabins – If you’ll be spending time with the activities along Nantahala River, this place has a collection of cabins to choose from that range in sizes and budgets. Many of them hot tubs as well!

For your day 3, you’ll be combing two iconic activities in western North Carolina – riding the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad and rafting the Nantahala River.

Start your morning by heading into Bryson City. Park in the giant lot reserved for Great Smoky Mountains Railroad (GSMR) guests and stop by Mountain Perks across from the train depot for breakfast.

Check in at the GSMR office where they’ll provide you the tickets that you need. The beauty of the Raft & Rail package is that it’s a continuous experience that’ll start with your train ride through the Nantahala Gorge, where you’ll then get picked up by Wildwater on the other end to start the rafting segment of the trip.

Once they give the signal to board the train, you’ll make your way to your designated car and off you go.

Compared to the train ride we did in Sacramento in our Northern California road trip , I’d say the Nantahala Gorge Excursion is much more exciting, passing through Fontana Lake, Nantahala Gorge, two trestle bridges, ravines, waterfalls, and relocated towns created from the Fontana Dam.

This is a trip back in time as the diesel or steam-powered locomotive runs through tracks known as the Murphy Branch of the Western North Carolina Railroad. The brakeman responsible for your car will also come around to provide commentary on things you can see along the track.

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW – GREAT SMOKY MOUNTAINS RAILROAD

This is a must-do activity for those exploring the western edge of North Carolina. With 53 miles of track, 2 tunnels, and 25 bridges, Great Smoky Mountains Railroad (GSMR) offers two different tracks – one to Nantahala Gorge, and another to Tuckasegee River.

Take a step back in time with this classic train ride through the beautiful countryside and the same track that was part of the Murphy Branch built in the late 1880s.

They have two locomotives – diesel powered and steam powered.

Website: Great Smoky Mountains Railroad

• They have a number experiences and locomotives. It’s best to look at the calendar ahead of time especially if you’re set on riding a steam train.
• Each train ride also has multiple classes of service.
• For Nantahala Gorge , you can look at the Class Comparison table that has a clear table of what’s included in each class.
• Prices increase in October.
• Throughout the year, they’ll also have seasonal excursions.
• They also offer a special Raft & Rail combination. This is $121.75 for adults (13+) and $104.75 for children (7-12).
• Nantahala Gorge Excursion – 4 hour 30 minutes. 1 hour and 45 minutes in, you’ll reach the end and the train turns back. This includes a 1 hour layover at the Nantahala Outdoor Center.
• Tuckasegee River Excursion – 4 hours. 1 hour 30 minutes in, there’s a 1 hour 20 minute layover in the historic town of Dillsboro.
• GSMR runs all year round but their primary schedule is from April to October.
• The most popular time to visit is during the fall colours. You’ll notice that they run more trains most of October.
• GSMR has a large parking lot on Mitchell Street across from the railroad depot. When booking your tickets, the parking fee is mandatory and built in. Pre-paid parking is $6 per vehicle.

• The best car to book is the Open Air Gondola (or Premium Open Air Gondola) which is a covered open air car with benches on each side. This gives you unobstructed views.
• There’s a lot to see throughout the train ride so make sure your camera is already ready.
• For photos, look for the trestle bridges and big bends in the track which will allow you to take photos of the entire train.
• You need to arrive 1 hour before departure.
• There are bathrooms on board.
• You can walk between cars and you’ll have an opportunity to purchase lunch and drinks (including alcoholic beverages).
• Before you book, make sure to check out their deals page which has discounts for local residents, seniors, military, AAA, and others.
• For both primary excursions, they are one way trips up and the same track back to the railroad depot.
• During the train ride, a brakeman will be coming by to provide insightful and thoughtful commentary about the surroundings.
• With the open air gondola, you’re exposed to the elements so make sure you bring layers in case it gets cold.

After passing the Nantahala Outdoor Center and going further upriver, the train eventually comes to a full stop. For those that are on the Raft & Rail or Rail & Trail package, this is where you’ll disembark.

A Wildwater mini school bus will pick up the rafters, with the rafts themselves in tow. After a short ride, you’ll reach the launch site and riding down rapids in no time.

If you’ve done higher class rapids on the Ottawa River , you may have encountered class III to V. To set expectations, these are class I to III rapids which means that this is more of a low-intensity rafting trip that’s great for non-swimmers, multi-generation and groups with children 7+.

Your expert guide will take you down the fast-moving Nantahala River and navigate over a dozen different named rapids such as “Whirlpool”, “Patton’s Run”, and “The Bump”. The final drop is the biggest one called “Nantahala Falls”.

Paddling is quite minimal except for the occasions where your guide will say “give me 2!” where you’re then expected to do two strokes. At most you might have to do 5 continuous strokes together.

This is why we think this is great for those that want to experience rafting without it feeling scary or too serious. It’s extremely family friendly and many parts feel like one of those water rides in theme parks except this one’s in the real world.

There’s one stop along the way where you’ll be able to explore a natural rock cave that the Cherokee likely used.

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW – WILDWATER

The Nantahala River is not only abound with visual beauty but nestled in the gorge are 8 miles of clear and gushing water that creates the perfect condition for whitewater rafting for beginners. It’s great for families because the whitewater only goes up to Class III.

While there are many companies that ofter whitewater rafting excursions, Wildwater is the exclusive operator that works with the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad. The Raft & Rail package allows you to uniquely combine both the train with rafting experience. We’ll be focusing on this in the details below.

Website: Wildwater

• The Raft & Rail package is $121.75 for adults (13+) and $104.75 for children (7-12).
• Wetsuit rental – $10
• Wetsuit booties rental – $5
• The rafting experience itself takes 1 hour and 45 minutes.
• There is usually only one departure time available for Raft & Rail but check the schedule (most likely 10:30AM.
• Rafting is only available April – October.

How does raft and rail work?:

• Check into GSMR where you’ll receive all your tickets.
• In the waiting area is the cafe and this is where you exchange your boxed lunch tickets for your boxed lunches.
• Just outside on the other end of the waiting area is an outdoor Wildwater kiosk where a member of team will ask you to fill out the waivers and brief you on how the trip will work. This is also when they’ll ask whether you need paddle jackets, wetsuits, or booties.
• Board the Nantahala River Excursion train (could be diesel or steam) with everyone else. You will be on the Wildwater open air gondola car.
• Eat your lunch on the train ride.
• Once you reach the train’s turnaround point (2 hour 45 minutes to 3 hours in), you will disembark and the Wildwater team will pick you up in one of their small buses.
• You’ll head in the Nantahala National Forest where there’s a launch site. Gear up on the bus or on the ground as they get their rafts ready. There’s a few porta-potties here if you need it. You can leave your bags on the bus.
• After a safety briefing, you’ll help carry the rafts down the ramp to the water.
• Raft for 1 hour 45 minutes. The pick up point is right by the Nantahala Outdoor Center.
• The same bus will pick you up and once the rafts are loaded back on, they’ll drive you to the Wildwater outpost/office.
• At the office, you’ll be able to use their change rooms, take a hot shower if you want, buy souvenirs, and purchase photos.
• The bus will then drive you all the way back to Bryson City and drop you off to the parking lot. This will be around 4:30PM.

Difficulty:

• Beginner level rafting (no prior experience required).
• The rafting is exciting but does not require too much paddling so it is not strenuous.
• You will get wet but flipping is almost impossible with these classes of rapids.
• You can continue to park in the lot after you return to Bryson City so feel free to explore the city.
• Since the rafting is quite easy going, you’ll have a lot of opportunities to take photos. Make sure to bring a waterproof phone case .
• For video, bring your GoPro with orange floatie as many of their helmets have mounts. To mix things up, you can have a floating hand grip ready.
• If you want to bring camera gear, be prepared by bringing your own dry bag . There are a few loops at the front and back of the raft that you can clip to.
• They have a dedicated photographer capturing the final Nantahala Falls. Those are the photos you can purchase at the end. They don’t have a videographer.
• If you’re booking the Raft & Rail package , you will be in the Wildwater open air gondola car on the Nantahala River Excursion.
• To save time, fill out the trip waiver beforehand found on the Nantahala River Rafting page.
• For some reason it seems like it’s cheaper to book the Raft & Rail package through Wildwater (make sure to opt out of the “Trip Cancellation Guarantee”) but I believe they tack on the parking fee afterwards.
• Helmets are optional.
• There aren’t any official changing rooms at the launch site so it makes sense to wear your swimwear when you board your train.
• Pack your bags accordingly for both the train ride and rafting and think in advance how you’ll shift your gear around once you get on the Wildwater bus.
• The rafts rafts can carry up to 8 people + guide so these aren’t the massive rafts we had at OWL Rafting in Ontario’s Highlands .
• To be clear, Nantahala Outdoor Center (NOC) has their own rafting tours but it is not the same as Wildwater which is a different company. There are in fact a dozen or more companies that operate on the river. Wildwater is the only one that is partnered with GSMR.

Wildwater will eventually deposit you back to Bryson City where you parked. At this juncture, you can hang around town and grab dinner at a restaurant such as The Bistro at the Everett Hotel or if you wanted to see more of Nantahala River, you can drive back in.

Since Wildwater doesn’t linger around the rafting end point, you’ll be able to come back to get a glimpse of all the facilities around the Nantahala Outdoor Center (NOC). You’ll be able to walk the bridge where you’ll see the river rushing past, slalom gates used for canoe/kayak training, fishing from the shore, and a huge swathe of exhausted Appalachian Trail hikers.

River’s End is right along the side of the river and is an iconic spot for those hiker and paddlers alike. With a view of the river on one side, you’ll devour their yummy pizzas, burgers, world-famous sherpa rice , and seasonal entrées.

Day 3 Summary

What you’ll do:

• Raft and Rail Tour with Great Smoky Mountains Railroad and Wildwater
• Waterfalls and Breweries Tour – Combination of four waterfalls and five breweries in this small-group tour that leaves from Bryson City.
• Blue Ridge Parkway Day Tour – Since you won’t get to truly explore the Blue Ridge Parkway on your own, this could be a great alternative private tour.
• Breakfast – Mountain Perks – Right across from the GSMR depot, this is a popular spot in the city to grab a coffee or full breakfast.
• Lunch – Boxed lunch that’s part of the Raft & Rail tour .
• Dinner – Rivers End – Great location right beside the Nantahala River that serves yummy pizzas, burgers, and specialty entrees like the blackened local trout. This is a popular pitstop for Appalachian Trail hikers. Alternatively, The Bistro at the Everett Hotel is great if you’re looking for something in Bryson City.
• Gina’s Great Getaways – They have a wide selection of getaway homes from a Lil’ Red Caboose to the Sweet Pea Tiny Home we stayed in.

This is an exciting day of your Smoky Mountains itinerary because not only will you be seeing both sides of the national park, you’ll also be doing some of our favourite parts of the trip.

You’ll want to get an earlier start to your day and get to the Deep Creek section of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The reason for the early start is because this’ll give you an opportunity to see the 3 waterfalls here uninterrupted from large crowds.

Start with Juney Whank Falls which is closest to the parking lot. There’s a gradual climb on this trail but it’s a short hike. There’s picturesque wooden footbridge that crosses the falls and divides it into an upper and lower section. You’ll see a combination of cascades and sliding water.

Next is Tom Branch Falls which is the most easy to access out of all 3 waterfalls. Along the primary walkway you’ll have a wide open view of this elegant waterfall on the right side. Standing 75 feet high, it features a multilevel cascade.

To complete the trio of waterfalls, there’s Indian Creek Falls . This is a 45-foot sliding waterfall. From the trail, you’ll take stairs down to a viewing platform and it’s here that you get the best photos.

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW – DEEP CREEK

Another great part of the Great Smoky Mountains that you can only get to from North Carolina is Deep Creek which is well-known for its streams and waterfalls. What you’ll love about hiking here is that you can see 3 waterfalls in close proximity together.

Website: Great Smoky Mountains National Park Deep Creek

• To see all 3 waterfalls, you should budget 1.5-2 hours here.
• Early morning is a great time to go when the light isn’t too harsh for photography and there are fewer people on the trail.
• There is plenty of parking. Drive all the way to the Deep Creek Falls and Trail parking.
• If you’re looking for milky waterfalls, make sure you pack your ND filters and tripod (we use the Peak Design Travel Tripod ) or have a camera like the OM System OM-1 which has built-in ND filters that can be used hand-held.
• You can’t fly drones whatsoever here because you’re within the national park.
• There is some elevation change up to Juney Whank Falls. This loop is the only trail that takes you into the forest.
• The Deep Creek Trail to Tom Branch Falls and Indian Creek Falls is extremely wide and groomed gravel. This trail also has plenty of benches along the way.
• If you have difficulty walking, Tom Branch Falls is right along the easy-to-walk path , has no elevation change, and the waterfall can be viewed right across the creek.
• For a more challenging hike, you can ado the Deep Creek Horse Trail from Juney Whank Falls up to Indian Creek Falls before coming back down to the trailhead and catch Tom Branch Falls.
• There aren’t restrooms at the trailhead but you’ll find them in the picnic area.
• Pets are not allowed on the trail to see Juney Whank Falls nor both Indian Creek and Tom Branch Falls .

DEEP CREEK REVIEWS

If you didn’t end up making breakfast at your tiny home, make a brunch of it and grab a sandwich and coffee to-go from The High Test Deli and Sweet Shop .

Halfway through the trip, it’s only fitting to now make that crossing over the Great Smoky Mountains National Park . The first part of the drive will be familiar because it’s the same Newfound Gap Road (Highway 441) that you took earlier to get to Clingman’s Dome.

Along the way, take the obligatory sign in front of the national park sign. There’s a pull off for the sign so you won’t need to rush this part.

Make sure to stop at the Oconaluftee Visitor Center . There aren’t many shopping stops on this itinerary so this is your chance to pick up some souvenirs. Behind the center is also the Mountain Farm Museum which has historical buildings dating back to the early 1900s.

For those that are keen on learning more of the history of settlers in the area, Mingus Mill , an 1886 grist mill with functioning machinery, is also worth stopping by.

The first part of the drive is mostly uneventful as you’ll be going uphill and driving through what will feel like a tunnel through a thick forest of trees.

You’ll pass through a number of lookouts along the way but here are the ones you should focus on:

• Luftee Overlook – This viewpoint has an elevated view of not only Oconaluftee Valley but also the gentle bend in the road. You can’t cross the road so you’ll be taking photos from the parking lot.
• Newfound Gap – The Appalachian Trail cuts right across and this is perhaps the important stop you’ll make because it’s here that you’ll find the North Carolina/Tennessee State line sign, and also both UNESCO World Heritage Site and Biosphere Reserves plaques. The path below the parking lot offers stunning views of the mountains and road that you just took up.
• Morton Overlook – Once you get here, you’re starting to make the downhill drive. This is one of the famous overlooks that looks down the line of the valley of trees and you get a small sliver of the road in the foreground.
• Chimney Tops Overlook – The Chimney Tops sustained massive fire damage in 2016 and so the landscape is quite a bit different from before. This pull off on the left gives you a glimpse of how extensive the damage was. Mark this on the map because this will come up on you really quick and there isn’t any signage. Also, heads up that the Chimneys Picnic Area doesn’t have any view of the Chimney Tops.
• Carlos Campbell Overlook – Named after the director of the Knoxville Chamber of Commerce in the 1930s, advocating for the creation of the national park, you’ll see 3 peaks in one view. The official overlook has quite a lot of tree cover in the foreground so we recommend driving to the smaller pull off just a bit further downhill.

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW – GREAT SMOKY MOUNTAINS

The entirety of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a guide all on its own but here are some of the key things you should know when making the crossing on Newfound Gap Road.

Website: Great Smoky Mountains National Park

• The speed limit through the Smoky Mountains is at most 45 miles per hour (72 km/h) but is generally 35 miles per hour (56 km/h).
• There are a lot of pull offs on Newfound Gap Road and not only is that for scenic views but it also allows cars to let others pass if you find that you’re being pressured to drive faster.
• Overall the road is vert well-maintained, not too twisty, very safe with its rock barriers, and newly paved.
• Crossing North Carolina to Tennessee without stops is only 1 hour so it is not a long drive.
• As we mention above, there are a ton of scenic overlooks especially along Newfound Gap Road (Highway 441). You’ll be tempted to do a lot of them but you’ll be better off to plan the specific ones you want to do and then see how you feel when you’re there.
• Be on the lookout for wildlife and more specifically, bears! Bears aren’t shy and they’ll come right up to the road. Typically, if you see a big traffic jam with people looking into the forest, it’s most likely a bear.
• We spoke to a ranger at Oconaluftee Visitor Center and they said that the elk can be seen typically from the entrance to the park on Highway 441 all the way to Smokemont Campground but never any further.
• Two popular spots for elk are in the huge meadow beside the Oconaluftee Visitor Center, near Mingus Mill, and by the side of the road in the mile leading up to the visitor center.
• Always check for closures on the Great Smoky Mountains page. Their “Alerts in Effect” show all of the important notices at the top.
• Cellular service – There is no service once you enter the park. The edges of the park might have a bit of service but plan to be disconnected while here.
• If you want to support the national park, don’t buy souvenirs in town but at the visitor centers instead where the money can make a difference.
• The two major visitor centers are Oconaluftee on the North Carolina side and Sugarlands on the Tennessee side.
• If you plan on doing any hikes, try to get to the trailhead early in the morning because the parking lots and pull offs fill up very quickly.

Take the road straight into Pigeon Forge , Tennessee where you’ll see a dramatic change to a street filled with larger-than-life themed shows, rides, and a whole lot of fun.

Along the main parkway, stop at the popular Local Goat to satisfy your hungry with their selection of craft beer, and locally-sourced and sustainable menu items such a their highly-touted burgers, ribs, pastas, salad, and more. You’ll need to build up your energy reserves for what’s coming next!

How does being inside a giant-sized 11 foot beach ball filled with 10 gallons of water to get you wet while rolling down a 1000 feet hill sound? Absolutely ludicrous right?

Well, that’s exactly what you’ll find at Outdoor Gravity Park .

EXCLUSIVE DEAL WITH OUTDOOR GRAVITY PARK

We’ve secured a special deal with OGP where 1 roll and 1 video is $25 (discount of $14), and 3 rolls and 3 videos is $62 ($20 savings). This is the best offer you’ll find on the market right now.

The link below will take you straight to the booking platform Outdoor Gravity Park uses. The initial page shows the standard information about how the rolls and videos work. Once you’ve selected a date and time, you’ll see the discounted rates on the next page.

You may have heard of something called zorbing in New Zealand. It’s one of those bucket-list items that you’d do when there along with skydiving in Abel Tasman , or bungee jumping in Queenstown . One of the engineers of ZORB in Rotorua, came to Pigeon Forge to build his dream course.

Featuring 3 different tracks, you can fill up the zorb with up to 3 people on some or go solo on the most daring “Extreme Zig Zag” course.

There are a lot of fun and crazy things you can do in this region of Tennessee but this is easily the most extreme, wild, and fun.

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW – OUTDOOR GRAVITY PARK

Made popular in New Zealand, this is the only place in the United States where you can go zorbing. Don’t miss this! It’s ridiculously fun.

Website: Outdoor Gravity Park

Address: 203 Sugar Hollow Rd, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863, United States

Hours: Monday – Sunday 11AM – 4PM

• 1 roll is $24
• 3 rolls is $7 ($19 each)
• 5 rolls is $90 ($18 each)
• 10 rolls is $170 ($17 each)
• 20 rolls is $340 ($17 each)
• Video for one roll – $15 ($5 for additional rolls)
• Unlimited video for all of your rolls – $50
• Each track is slightly different but on average it takes about 30-45 seconds to get downhill.
• The park’s GoPros are free to use but the video needs to be purchased.
• They come with a selfie stick ( GoPro 3-Way ) and are already protected from fog. The cameras are not mounted and require you to hold the selfie stick.
• You are allowed to bring your own GoPro as well! Before you come, make sure to coat the lens with Rainx Anti Fog Repellent otherwise it will fog up.
• Your best bet is to have the stick fully extended and the camera pointed back at you in either wide or super wide mode.

How does it work?:

• You’ll get a wristband that indicates the number of rolls you get.
• After changing and getting ready, there’s a line you get into behind the main building for the mini bus.
• Once you get on the bus, it’ll take you uphill to the start of the course.
• Indicate to the staff which course you’re doing as they get the zorb ready.
• When it’s your turn, the staff will place a small pad over the entrance of the zorb to prevent your clothes or skin catching on the zipper.
• Holding the zorb in place, you’ll jump in head first. You’ll immediately get wet because of the water that’s inside.
• The staff will zip up the zorb (it’s double sealed).
• When the track is cleared and ready, they’ll open the gate and give you a gentle (ish) push.
• Cue the screaming.
• The common misconception is that your body will be rolling around as the zorb goes downhill. On the contrary, you actually stay relatively planted at the bottom with the water as the zorb rolls around you.
• At the end of the track, you’ll come to a complete stop. The staff will open up the zippers and you’ll come out feet first onto the grass.
• There are 3 available tracks. For the most bouncing and change of catching some air inside the zorb, do the “Extreme Zig Zag” track (you have to have done another track first in order to do this one). For the fastest speeds, choose the middle “Fast Tracks”. For the best of both, “FUNnel” is a great one to start with.
• Zorbs can fit up to 3 people (depending on the track). Each person rolling will cost 1 roll.
• The main building has change rooms and restrooms. There are no showers.
• You’re guaranteed to get wet so come prepared with a swim suit, your own towel (unless you’d like to buy one of theirs), and change of clothes.
• Outside of summer, you’ll get cold once you’re out of the zorb, so it’s a good idea to have a large towel to wrap around you to dry and warm up.
• When booking, you’ll have to pick a time slot. You have to arrive during that slot but you can go over time. Wait times are generally shorter at the beginning of your time slot and gets slower at the end.
• If you’re traveling in a large group, it makes one sense to purchase all the rolls so you can save money with the bundle prices.
• While you have to select the number of rolls when booking online, you can always add more when you’re there.
• They have discount packages so make sure to see if those suit you. You’ll find these on the checkout page.
• If you are military, first responder, or educator, use THANKYOU for a 10% discount.
• You must be 5+ to roll. Maximum weight is 275 pounds per person.
• We found that with two people, the water seemed to fling up and around the zorb quite a bit more which meant we were rubbing water out of our eyes. Going solo, there was much less water splashing on your face.

End off your night at the illustrious RT Lodge in Maryville, Tennessee. This rustic retreat and continues the line of unique stays you can find in the Smoky Mountains. Leaping off the pages of wedding magazines, Southern charm oozes throughout the classic revival property.

Sure, it’s a bit out of the way but you’ll love the nightly s’mores firepit, outdoor fire place accompanied by lounging rocking chairs, wooded grounds, free bike rentals, and lounge salons.

For dinner, you’ll eat at The Restaurant at RT Lodge which is an upscale dining experience to match the atmosphere and ambiance of the lodge. Executive chef, Chef Stockton, sources from local farmers and homegrown ingredients to prepare the most delectable dishes.

Day 4 Summary

• Deep Creek – Hike the waterfall loop for Juney Whank, Tom Branch, and Indian Creek waterfalls
• Luftee Overlook
• Newfound Gap
• Morton Overlook
• Carlos Campbell
• Outdoor Gravity Park – The only place in the United States you can go zorbing. Ridiculously fun!
• Museum of the Cherokee – Skip the line with this admission ticket to the museum to learn the history and culture of the Cherokee people.
• North Carolina Steams and History Tour – A 5 hour guided nature walk through the Smokies by A Walk In The Woods that starts at Oconaluftee Visitor Center.
• Audio Driving Tour – GyPSy Guide is a well-known self-driving guide that we also recommend for our 5 day Maui itinerary .
• Breakfast – The High Test Deli and Sweet Shop – They’re a take-out only restaurant which is perfect because you’ll be able to eat it along your drive through the Smoky Mountains National Park.
• Lunch – Local Goat – A highly rated restaurant that has a great selection on their menu. Don’t miss their ahi tuna burger, fall-off-the-bone ribs, steaks, and craft beer.
• Dinner – The Restaurant at RT Lodge – Pairing with the picture-perfect lodge is a gourmet dining experience that will impress with their upscale ambiance, creative dishes, and some of the best service you’ll find in a restaurant. Remember to make reservations (closed on Monday).
• RT Lodge – While a bit out of the way, is a spectacular luxury lodge that’s tucked in the forest for cozy rooms, high-class restaurant, plenty of lounging areas, and firepit. S’mores are free for all and breakfast is included as well.
• Blue Mountain Mist Country Inn -Located not far from Dollywood and Pigeon Forge, this is a rustic and intimate inn with exceptional service and includes breakfast.
• Twin Mountain Inn & Suites – A more traditional hotel located in Pigeon Forge that’s next to Dolly Parton’s Stampede and at the foothills of the Smoky Mountains. Pets are allowed, there’s a swimming pool, and breakfast is included.

The Tennessee side of the Smoky Mountains has a lot to offer and what you’ll find is that while the view of its peaks might be similar, they have a different take to it.

There’s no time to lose so enjoy a cup of coffee on the grounds of RT Lodge before setting off for brunch at the famed Applewood Farmhouse Restaurant .

The original farmhouse for the 65-acre apple orchard property was transformed into a family eatery and ever since then it’s become a staple of traditional southern dining in the town of Sevierville.

Your experience starts off with a complimentary basket of apple fritters and apple cinnamon muffins, side of apple butter, and cup of their Applewood julep. This is before you get your southern favourites including their must-order Savannah pecan pancakes, Smoky Mountain biscuit Benedict, and country omelets that you see above.

You may not have had a grandma living in the south but after your brunch here, you’ll get a really good taste of what it’s like if you did.

TIP: Ask for the table with swinging chairs. There are only two at the moment in the restaurant but they’re definitely one of the exclusive tables to dine in if they’re available.

Next up is the iconic Pink Jeep Tours made famous in Sedona, Arizona but now has their own set of tours in the Great Smoky Mountains.

Since you have already done Newfound Gap on your own, one of the tours that we recommend is the Roaring Fork Smoky Mountains Tour which takes you through the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail .

On this tour, you’ll travel in a custom open-air Pink Jeep Wrangler where the advantage of doing this versus on your own is having an expert interpretive guide provide great commentary about the area you’re driving through, make stops at the best locations, and help with group photos.

Being in an open-air jeep means that you’ll get awesome elevated views of the bridges, waterfalls, steams, and maybe even a bear. One surprise is that you will get an opportunity to get off the jeep as well and walk around the Ephraim Bales Cabin along with the lesser-known scenic streams that’s just behind.

At the end of the tour, you’ll be taken to a private-property 4×4 off-roading course and turn the adventure knob to a 10. The true power of the jeep will be on display, thundering up and down rocky hills like its nobody’s business.

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW – PINK ADVENTURE TOURS

Pink Adventure Tours (also known as Pink Jeep Tours) got its award-winning start in Sedona and specializes in off-road and road-based tours in the US. They now have locations also in Las Vegas, Grand Canyon, Branson, and the Smoky Mountains.

In the Smoky Mountains, they have several tours but we’ll be focusing on their Roaring Fork Smoky Mountains Tour.

Website: Pink Adventure Tours

• Adult – $74
• Child (2-12) – $67
• Private (up to 7 people) – $518
• Once you’ve picked your seat on the jeep, there’s not much moving around. That said, there are things to see on both sides of the jeep and since it’s open air, you can get up and peek over to the other side if you need to.
• Try to keep your gear minimal as there isn’t really extra space for luggage. There’s also quite a bit of bouncing around in the 4×4 adventure at the end.
• You need to arrive 30 minutes before departure.
• Use the bathrooms before heading out because there aren’t really any bathroom breaks along the way.
• Tighten your seatbelts real good during the 4×4 adventure because if you don’t, you’ll be flung around pretty hard.

Next, head to Five Oaks Farm Kitchen for an early dinner.

The restaurant pays homage to the legacy of Dr. John and Blanche Ogle who were important figures to the growth of the agricultural and breeding of Tennessee Walking Horses in the area.

In what feels like a giant two-story barn, you’ll be able to have a true Southern-style supper.

With choices like chicken and dumplings, cornbread, smoked beef brisket, chicken pot pie, meatloaf, and fried chicken leaping off the menu, you’ll eat just as well as the weary travellers that passed through these exact parts in the early 1900s.

TIP: Grab a jar of fresh raw mountain honey before you leave the restaurant.

Wind down in the comforts of RT Lodge for the night, taking full advantage of its grounds, and of course as many s’mores as you can eat.

Day 5 Summary

• Roaring Fork Interpretive Marker Overlook
• Ephraim Bales Cabin
• The Place of a Thousand Drips
• Pink Adventure Tours – Roaring Fork Smoky Mountains Tour
• Explore a Simpler Time Smoky Mountain Tour – 3 hour tour where you’ll hear stories of the Cherokee people and a glimpse of settlers’ daily lives.
• Old Growth Forest Cascade – This hike takes you to a towering waterfall deep in the old-growth forest.
• Hidden Cascades Hiking Tour – Starting from NOC Gatlinburg, your local guide will take you on a quiet rail down to see a beautiful cascade in the Smokies.
• Clingmans Dome Hike – If you happened to miss this earlier, you can join a guided tour up to Clingmans Dome.
• Ghost and Haunt Tour of Gatlinburg – Learn about the ghost and ghouls that haunt Gatlinburg in this 2-hour night walking tour.
• Thunder Streams and Falls – 3 hour hiking tour that takes you off the beaten path in the Smoky Mountains.
• Brunch – Applewood Farmhouse Restaurant – The oldest restaurant in Sevierville that’s the perfect spot to have Southern breakfast classics. Their apple fritters can’t be missed (because they’re complimentary)!
• Dinner – Five Oaks Farm Kitchen – An inviting Southern restaurant that carries the tradition of the Ogle family that’s filled with farmhouse ambiance and amazing service.

The fun doesn’t stop because you’ll be going wire to wire (literally and figuratively) on your last day of this Smoky Mountains itinerary.

Wake up bright and early for Day 6 because you’ll need to make the drive from Maryville to Gatlinburg . Gatlinburg is a mountainside town at the footsteps of the Smokies that’s filled with outdoor adventure.

One of the unmissable attractions you’ll find in town is the Gatlinburg SkyLift Park . On select days, they offer sunrise access which allows you to get up to their SkyBridge right at dawn.

From this side of the mountain, you’ll be able to watch the city below transition from night to day as the sun climbs up from behind the mountains in the distance. The view from up here is spectacular, especially when you’re on the suspension bridge.

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW – GATLINBURG SKYLIFT PARK

The main attraction here is the SkyBridge which features 5 panels of glass and incredibly views of Gatlinburg and the Smoky Mountains. You’ll also find their SkyTrail with The Tulip Tower, SkyDeck viewpoint, and of course the SkyLift 3-seat chairlift that takes you up from the town below.

Website: Gatlinburg SkyLift Park

Address: 765 Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN 37738, United States

Hours: Their hours of operation vary throughout the year. They are closed Jan 31 – Feb 3 for winter maintenance but are otherwise open all year round.

• Adult – $31.95
• Child (4-11) – $18.95
• Seniors (65+) – $24.95
• 3 and under – Free

Driving tips: There are two primary parking lots that are supposed to be $10. These are marked on the interactive map in the beginning of the article. Both are short walk to the Gatlinburg SkyLift Park chairlifts.

• They offer special sunrise access on specific days where you’ll be able to load the SkyLift 45 minutes prior to sunrise time. These tickets are slightly more expensive.
• Drones are not allowed here (we had special permissions to fly).
• If you purchase and redeem your ticket after 8PM, you’ll be able to access the SkyLift Park the next day as well.
• Re-entry is allowed throughout the day.
• Once you reach the other end of the bridge, there’s a small deck with gift shop. You can then connect this with the SkyTrail that follows the side of the mountain and goes back to the main SkyCenter.
• Being a suspension bridge, the SkyBridge does sway and is more noticeable when there are more people on the bridge.

GATLINBURG SKYLIFT PARK REVIEWS

Your last chance for true Southern food on your trip will be at Crockett’s Breakfast Camp . You won’t be able to make reservations here so come here immediately after the SkyLift Park.

Based on the story of the frontiersman, David C. “Crockett” Maples, you’ll be transported to the Old West with artifacts and decor matching a time of westward expansion and exploration.

With their menu printed on a traditional newspaper, have a hearty breakfast of all the southern favorites. Don’t miss their giant cinnamon roll while you’re here.

There are many attractions to choose from while in Gatlinburg but many of them will feel a little kitschy and from a different time. In seeking out an activity to truly round out your road trip in the Smoky Mountains, it only felt appropriate to find something that embraces the outdoors and magic of the mountains.

Touting the highest point in downtown Gatlinburg is Anakeesta . More than just another theme park, this is a whimsical and immersive outdoor experience that combines thrilling elements with a place to chill amongst sculptures, flowers, lights, and breathtaking viewpoints.

Great for all ages, you can spend as much time as you’d like here. Recommended activities are the Rail Runner mountain coaster which features the only single-rail coaster in the United States and the Dueling Zipline Adventure .

They also have some of the best dining experiences in Gatlinburg. We recommend having dinner at Cliff Top Grill & Bar which serves modern American cuisine with the Smoky Mountains serving as its backdrop.

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW – ANAKEESTA

More than just a theme park, Anakeesta is an immersive outdoor experience which combines its whimsical mountain atmosphere with thrilling rides, botanical gardens, lookout tower, meandering trails, shopping, dining, and play areas.

Website: Anakeesta

Address: 576 Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN 37738, United States

Hours: Changes throughout the year. Check their calendar for the day-by-day schedule.

General admission:

• Adult – $32.99
• Child (4-12) – $19.99
• Seniors (60+) – $25.99

Dueling Zipline Tour is $59.99 for all ages

Rail Runner is $14.99 for single rider and $18.88 for tandem rides.

Gem mining is $8 per “Paydirt” bag.

Duration: You can easily spend a full day or a few hours here. It depends on how many of the activities you want to do.

Driving tips: There are two primary parking lots that are supposed to be $10. These are marked on the interactive map in the beginning of the article. Both are short walk to Anakeesta.

• You cannot mount a GoPro on the Rail Runner vehicle itself but head and chest mounts are fine.
• For the Dueling Zipline tour, they have helmets with GoPro mounts on them so just request them. You are also allowed to use your phone or other device but you are responsible for its safety.
• Photos are taken before you take the chairlift and rides such as Rail Runner. You can purchase physical prints similar to other amusement parks or you can buy digital-only copies.
• Bears are known to be on the mountain slopes nearby so be on the lookout!
• If you love sunsets, plan to stay around and watch it from the top of AnaVista Tower.
• If you start your visit at night, your next day is free.
• General admission effectively includes everything in the park except for Dueling Zipline, Rail Runner, and Gem Mining activities.
• The ride up is called the Chondola. These are mostly regular 4-person chairlifts but you can also wait for a closed gondola (fits 6 people) which we’d recommend if you’re carrying a lot of gear or not comfortable with heights. These are much less frequent so you’ll have to wait 10-15 minutes for the gondola to come around. They come by 2 at a time.
• You can also go up the mountain by taking the Ridge Rambler which is an open air passenger truck.
• It is recommended to book the Dueling Zipline Tour beforehand as there are limited spots. You have to call to reserve.
• Save time on your check-in process for Rail Runner and Dueling Zipline by completing your waiver online.
• They recommend getting to the Anakeesta base 2 hours before your Dueling Zipline reservation to account for parking, lift and the 30 minutes you need to be there before your reserved zipline time.
• Bears are nearby but the park staff do a good job at making sure they don’t come into the park itself so you don’t need to worry.

Perhaps the most unique stay of the whole trip is on the last day or if you’re a big fan, you could arrange it so you’re here the entire time in Tennessee.

Luxury treehouses are real and bookable just outside of Gatlinburg in a place called Treehouse Grove .

If anyone’s watched Treehouse Masters on Animal Planet, you might’ve heard of Pete Nelson. As the host of the show, he’s built some of the coolest treehouses around America.

One of his team’s special projects was this community of treehouses nestled in the forest. With not a single tree cut down, these are modern cabins built around the trees, using them as foundation and support.

Each treehouse in the grove are unique but these are all equipped with modern furnishings, a kitchen, multiple bedrooms, screened porch and deck.

This may be one of the Great Smoky Mountains best kept secrets.

And that’s a wrap for your 6 day Smoky Mountains itinerary. The next day, you’ll be either flying out of the nearest airport which in this case is the McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS) in Knoxville, Tennessee. Otherwise, you’ll be continuing your road trip to the next exciting place!

Day 6 Summary

• Gatlinburg Skylift Park and SkyBridge
• Dueling Zipline
• Rail Runner
• Wine and Shine Walking Tour – The ultimate moonshine distillery tour where you’ll learn how moonshine is traditionally distilled. The tour includes plenty of samples!
• Impossibilities Magic Show – Family-friendly admission to the show ‘Impossibilities: An Evening of Magic, Mindreading, and Mayhem’ at the Iris Theater in Gatlinburg.
• Brunch – Crocketts Breakfast Camp – Southern breakfast favorites served in a space that takes you back to the days of the Western Frontier.
• Dinner – Cliff Top Grill & Bar at Anakeesta – Gourmet dining within the park that will surprise you with dishes such as their charcuterie board, bison burger, and ribeye.
• Treehouse Grove (The Maple) – These are luxury treehouses come to life. Built by Pete Nelson of Treehouse Masters fame, this is a tiny community of modern treehouses not far from Gatlinburg.
• Greystone Lodge on the River – Conveniently located right in the heart of Gatlinburg, this hotel offers an outdoor swimming pool, free private parking, fitness centre, and free breakfast. This means you don’t have to worry about parking when you’re in town.
• Bearskin Lodge on the River – This hotel isn’t quite as central but the nice thing is that all rooms are fitted with a balcony, microwave, fridge, free parking, and complimentary continental breakfast. Room layouts are spacious and the large outdoor pool is great for the kids.

The key to any successful road trip is to be prepared with all of the right gear. If you’ve followed the itinerary above, you’ll know that it is packed with a bunch of outdoor activities and each one is quite different from one another.

This list doesn’t cover everything but we’ve identified a bunch of key items to get you started with your packing list.

• Car USB adapters – As a road trip, you’ll want to make sure you bring your own charging gear. This’ll allow you to keep your devices and batteries topped up. Most cars have two cigarette adapters so bring two chargers if you have them. Photographers will likely want to make use of this so you can charge your camera and drone batteries on the fly.
• USB charging cables – Along those lines, remember all the variations of cables you’ll need (USB-A, USB-C, Micro USB, and Lightning) depending on what you’ll need to charge.
• Car phone mount – This one is easy to forget. Pack your own car mount so you’ll be able to navigate with ease.
• Binoculars – There’s a lot of wildlife in the national park so a good pair of binoculars is a good idea. Think birds but also the bigger animals like bears if they’re in the distance.
• Layers – Pack accordingly depending on the season that you’re in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. It can swing from cold to hot quickly so have a sweater/fleece/hoody handy. One we recommend is the Arc’teryx Delta LT Hoody .
• Waterproof jacket – A jacket is handy for the cooler temperatures at sunrise, sunset, and at mountain peaks. Depending on the time of year, rain can also come and go. For this we recommend Arc’teryx Beta jacket for men and women.
• Buff Headwear – Along the lines of layers, something I swear by for all of our packing guides , are the same buffs that you see on Survivor which I use either as a headband, scarf, or wristband to wipe off sweat.
• Wifi hotspot – If you live outside of the US, you’ll need a hotspot for data. I recommend using something like Pokefi (use code GAP23200 to get $20 off) or Solis (rebranded from Skyroam).
• Sunscreen – Protect your skin. Yes, there’s a lot of cover from trees but the UV is strong so apply that 50 SPF Sun Bum before you head out.
• Headlamp – Especially for sunsets, this is going to be mandatory equipment. Check out our review of the Fenix headlamp which is the best one we’ve owned.
• Hiking shoes – A quality waterproof hiking shoe such as the Keen Targhee II for Men and Women is highly recommended. While there isn’t any big hikes in this itinerary, you might want to add them to yours so these will be very useful.
• Waterproof sandals – We usually pack the Keen Newport H2s with us for those hot days where we don’t want to wear shoes or when you need them for whitewater rafting.
• Water bottle – With your own bottle, you’ll be able to fill it with water. This will allow you to buy large 5L jugs of water if you don’t want to drink tap although it’s entirely safe to do so. For the coffee drinks, having a Hydroflask with a coffee sip lid will come in handy because you’ll be able to either pour or brew your own coffee in the morning in any of the cabins or lodges we stayed at.
• Dry bag for your phone – If you’re planning on going rafting in the Nantahala River, make sure to pack this to be able to have your phone with you.

Before starting to plan this 6 day Smoky Mountains itinerary, we certainly didn’t know much about the region but as we learned more about North Carolina and Tennessee, it was clear that we needed to do a lot more homework to figure out how to build a road trip that would do both states justice.

I’m not going to lie, this trip is one of our more ambitious out of all of our itineraries but we’re happy with how it turned out.

For us, we were seeking a trip that would allow us to be outdoors, to try new things, stay in cool accommodations, eat hearty Southern food, and of course capture the amazing scenery around the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

We did just that and more!

Two resources that really helped us with our planning were the two tourism boards below so make sure to check them out as they are chock full of information.

You are not allowed to fly your drone anywhere in the national park.

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park are one of 15 free national parks to visit. This means that you don’t need reservations, and you won’t be crossing through any entrance gates to get into the park.

6 days is as tight as you’d want to make a Smoky Mountains road trip. If you have more time, 8-10 days would be a comfortable amount of time to see not only the national park but explore both the North Carolina and Tennessee side of the mountains.

The simple answer is in the fall. Between mid September to late October, the changing of the leaves attracts many visitors to see the rainbow of colours in the Smokies.

Each side of the Smoky Mountains has their own access to the national park which means completely different scenery and wildlife. For instance, Deep Creek in North Carolina is a wonderful place to see 3 waterfalls in close proximity to one another. Cataloochee Valley is another in North Carolina with elk viewing opportunities. Then you have places like the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail and Foothills Parkway which you can only access from Tennessee.

Straddling both Tennessee and North Carolina, both sides and the park itself are in the Eastern time zone.

The highest point of the national park is at Clingmans Dome which you can visit and is part of this 6 day Smoky Mountains itinerary.

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If you’re in the process of planning your trip and putting together your itinerary, these are genuinely the best resources that the Going Awesome Places team stands by 100% .

Credit cards: Don’t get burned by hidden fees on top of terrible exchange rates. When we travel now, we use the Wise Card . Simply load it with the currency you need before you go and use it as a regular VISA or their digital wallet card. Use their free app to track how much you have and top up when you need to.

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Hotels: Our go-to is Booking.com because they have the best inventory of properties including hotels and B&Bs plus they have their Genius tier discounts . The exception is Asia where Agoda always has the best prices. TripAdvisor is also useful for reviews and bookings.

Vacation Rentals: Your first instinct will be to check Airbnb but we always recommend checking VRBO as well if you’re looking for a vacation rental.

Tours: When planning our trips, we always check both Viator and GetYourGuide to at least see what’s out there in the destination that we’re going to. They often have different offerings and prices so check both.

Travel Insurance: Learn how to buy the best travel insurance for you. This isn’t something you want to travel without.

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If you need more help planning your trip, make sure to check out our Travel Toolbox where we highlight all of the gear, resources, and tools we use when traveling.

This article was brought to you as a result of a campaign with Travel South USA but all opinions are our own.

About William Tang

William Tang is the Chief of Awesome behind the award-winning Going Awesome Places which is focused on outdoor adventure, and experiential travel. His true passion lies in telling stories, inspiring photography and videos, and writing detailed itineraries and travel guides. He is a member of Travel Media Association of Canada (TMAC), Society of American Travel Writers (SATW), Adventure Travel Trade Association (ATTA), and Travel Massive. He has also been featured in publications such as Reader's Digest, Entrepreneur, Men's Journal, and Haute Living. Make sure to learn more about William Tang to find out his story and how Going Awesome Places started.

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The activity level for this tour:

You’re a leisurely traveler. You typically take it easy and discover the energy of a new place by people-watching or soaking in the atmosphere at a local café. You can climb at least one flight of stairs, board a coach, and walk unassisted at a relaxed pace for up to 60 minutes without difficulty. You can easily handle altitudes up to 5,000 feet.

You like a balanced approach to travel. Walking two to three miles over the course of a day is no problem for you. You can partake in a two-hour leisurely walking tour, covering up to two miles (with included breaks). You can handle a variety of terrains, from cobblestone streets to moderate hills with relative ease and without assistance. You can climb two flights of stairs with ease. There may be 1 to 2 days on this tour when walking tours can cover 3 to 4 miles over uneven terrain. You can handle altitudes up to 6,000 feet.

You’re an on-the-go traveler. You don’t want to miss a thing, so walking and standing for longer periods of time (2-3 hours) isn’t a big deal. A moderately paced two-and-a-half-hour walking tour, covering several miles, hills, and uneven surfaces, is no problem for you. Walking four miles over the course of a day is very doable, as is climbing into and out of various modes of transportation (tuk-tuk, cable car, zodiac, etc.). You can climb three flights of stairs easily and handle altitudes between 6,000 and 9,000 feet. Expect some longer days balanced with free time to recharge or set out on your own adventure. This level is not a fit for travelers who require mobility assistance devices.

You’re ready to seize the day, whatever it may bring. You lead an active life at home (walking, biking, and half or full day hikes are things you may enjoy) and 10,000 steps a day is normal for you. You can handle longer walking tours (more than 3 hours covering 3+ miles at a steady clip) and activities that involve traversing uneven terrain, steep slopes, standing for periods of time, and varying altitudes and temperatures. You don’t mind being on the go with some early starts, late-nights, and full days. You can handle altitudes of 9,000 feet or higher with little to no issue. This level is not appropriate for travelers who use wheelchairs, walkers, and other mobility assistance devices.

Nashville & the Smoky Mountains Holiday featuring Gatlinburg & Asheville

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Super nice trip to area of us we've not traveled before., good paced trip with great guides and driver., my memorable trip., great tour and tour guide, wonderful trip, loved the itinerary, not rushed. tour director wesley & driver tim, superb, excellent trip, i wwould certainly use collette again, hopefully in spring 2020 for washin.

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Chicago to Nashville and Great Smoky Mountains Road Trip

Stop at a shiny bean, an underground corridor, a racetrack and a music mecca on your way to the national park..

Get ready for an incredible journey into the South’s top attractions and best-kept secrets in this road trip that begins in Chicago and leads you to the nation’s most visited national park, Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

Start: Chicago, Illinois

Rent an RV with Outdoorsy Do this road trip in an RV to stay close to nature. Or check out Destination Delivery: Have an RV delivered directly to a campground or parking site to camp in style without having to get behind the wheel. www.outdoorsy.com

What makes Chicago one of the best cities to visit is that it has a cosmopolitan feel with none of the attitude of similar-sized cities on the coasts. Its bustling energy is countered by the friendliness of the people, which can catch you off-guard if you are not from the Midwest.

Where’s the best place to start exploring this city that sits on the turquoise shores of Lake Michigan? Take an architectural boat tour to get a strong sense of the city’s past and present. The docents are super entertaining and informative. There’s few better ways to enjoy a hot summer day than to be on the water. Having said that, if the humidity is predicted to be really high, plan your boat trip for the morning before the sun gets too high in the sky.

Then head to the city’s celebrated Millennium Park downtown. A showcase of who’s who in architecture, this interactive park is an adult playground. As you wander around, be sure to see these three architectural attractions.

You’ll spot Cloud Gate, a kidney-bean-shaped sculpture that’s 66 feet long and 33 feet high, from a distance as its metal gleams in the sunlight. If you’ve ever seen a Tiffany’s bean necklace, this sculpture bears a striking resemblance. Made with polished stainless steel, the sculpture features an arch that enables you to walk under it and see your contorted reflection in the steel walls. It’s the first public outdoor work of British artist Anish Kapoor to appear in the United States.

If you are a music lover, head to a show at the Jay Pritzker Pavilion. Designed by architect Frank Gehry, this outdoor concert venue has 4,000 fixed seats and room for an additional 7,000 people on the Great Lawn. Bring a blanket to sit on and enjoy the tunes (and the excellent people watching).

Next, stop by the mesmerizing Crown Fountain, which features the faces of 1,000 Chicago residents on two 250-foot glass towers, each one at the opposite end of a shallow reflecting pool. Designed by Spanish artist Jaume Plensa, the towers feature water flowing out of an outlet, which gives the illusion that water is pouring out of the mouths of the faces appearing on each tower.

Louisville, Kentucky

Head south 4 hours and 45 minutes to Louisville, Ky. Long known for its legendary Churchill Downs, home of the Kentucky Derby and the longest continually running sporting event in the country. Churchill Downs officially opened in 1875, but the sport of horse racing can be traced back to 1789 in Kentucky.

An important thing to know is the city’s name is actually pronounced “Luhlville” by the locals and everyone else in Kentucky. To avoid being snickered at by locals, resist the natural impulse to pronounce the name as it appears [Loueyville]. It’s Luhville to you.

There are certain things you must do like experience the Kentucky Derby at Churchill Downs, if you happen to be in town April 29-May 5, 2017. You can also catch up on equestrian history at the the Kentucky Derby Museum.

But to truly experience Louisville, you need to go underground. Really. At Louisville Mega Cavern, you’ll have an adventure like none other, exploring some of the 17 miles of corridors beneath the city. Entertaining guides bring you deep into the cave for an up to 2.5-hour tour, explaining the geology and history of the cavern. There’s also six underground zip lines that make up the world’s only fully underground zip line course. The cavern is actually man-made and offers experiences for the whole family.

Nashville, Tennessee

After coming up for air, hit the road and point your wheels toward Nashville. Just two and a half hours southwest of Louisville lies Nashville, the country western capital of the country. A trip to Nashville is not complete without immersing yourself in its vibrant music scene. After all, the city boasts “free music all the time.”

See if you can catch a show at the legendary Grand Ole Opry where pop artists and country singers perform or head to a smaller venue like The Bluebird Cafe to see incredible live music in a really intimate space. Then, stretch your legs, head to the Music City Walk of Fame on Nashville’s Music Mile to see the names of accomplished artists with a Nashville connection of all musical genres.

It turns out you don’t have to head to Athens, Greece, to see the Parthenon, which was completed in 432 B.C. to honor the goddess of Athena. Nashville has its own replica of the Parthenon at the 132-acre Centennial Park and Gardens, which is located within walking distance from Vanderbilt University. If you saw the 1975 movie Nashville, you’ll recognize this iconic structure.

While in the park, see videos of different Nashville music artists talking about trees, how to take care of them and why they are important. The series is called “If Trees Could Sing,” and it’s the result of a Metro Parks and The Nature Conservancy partnership. Look for the tree signs around the park with QR codes and web addresses. Then use your smartphone to view the Nashville artists sharing tree stories.

Other attractions include The Johnny Cash Museum, National Corvette Museum and the Nashville Flea Market (held the fourth weekend of every month).

Knoxville, Tennessee

Three hours east of Nashville, clocking in at 180 miles, make a pit stop in Knoxville. The city’s Market Square is a fantastic place to spend some time as the restaurants and shops lining the area are great.

Pigeon Forge / Gatlinburg, Tennessee

Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg, Tennessee, are the busiest gateways to Great Smoky Mountains National Park with no shortage of things to do. Chock-full of shops, craft stores, restaurants, and over-the-top attractions (think Ripley’s Believe it or Not! and Dollywood ), the bustling towns feel something between a family friendly Las Vegas and another planet. Here you’ll find plenty of hotels, grocery stores, and gear shops, plus quick, easy access to Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

Want to get the most out of your national park experience? In Pigeon Forge, pick up a tour with Pink Adventure Tours . When you board one of their signature pink Jeep Wranglers, you’ll soak up more information than you thought possible about the history, wildlife and ecosystem of the Smoky Mountains.

You can also get away from it all at a unique lodging option with Under Canvas. Glamping, short for “glamorous camping,” is a luxury experience in tents equipped with the creature comforts of home. And you can now go glamping near Gatlinburg, Tenn. Here are five reasons why you should .

Great Smoky Mountains Sugarlands Entrance

The Gatlinburg entrance to the national park takes you down Newfound Gap Road which bisects the park north to south.

Start by cruising the Roaring Forks Motor Nature Trail past remnants of old homesteads, picnic areas and trailheads. Then head south to Newfound Gap Overlook and Clingmans Dome . If time permits, continue south to Mingus Mill and the Mountain Farm Museum before turning back to Pigeon Forge for the night.

Blount County, Tennessee

From Pigeon Forge, head southwest to the the towns of Townsend, Maryville, Alcoa, Friendsville, Louisville and Rockford in Blount County. Nestled in the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains, these towns offer travelers a ton of things to do from regional dance and theater performances at the Clayton Center for the Arts in Maryville to in-depth history of the Smoky Mountains at the Great Smoky Mountains Heritage Center in Townsend. And history buffs will feel right at home with these historic treasures .

For an incredible scenic drive just outside of the national park, take the two-lane Foothills Parkway located off Hwy. 321 just west of Townsend 18 miles up Chilhowee Mountain. Started in the 1960s, this parkway is still a work in progress with only sections of the 72 miles stretch completed.

Nonetheless, it offers a panoramic view of the park and is less visited than other roads in the area. Follow signs along the parkway for a picnic area, campground and Look Rock . Stretch your legs on the .5-mile observation trail that is 9.6 miles from the start of the parkway. It’s rated easy and offers visitors great scenery without having to exert themselves too much.

End: Great Smoky Mountains Townsend Entrance

The park entrance at Townsend is closer to Cades Cove , a preserved pioneer community, than the Gatlinburg entrance (7.3 vs. 27 miles). Cades Cove is the most popular destination in the national park due to its plentiful wildlife and many historic buildings you can explore.

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Ultimate tennessee road trip: memphis, nashville, and more.

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When I started to plan my Tennessee road Trip, it was always going to start and finish in Nashville and include Memphis and the Smoky Mountains.

There are daily flights direct from London to Nashville with British Airways, and it takes just over 9 hours. I’ll talk about the complete Deep South Road Trip in another article, but for now, if you want an itinerary for a few days exploring Tennessee, look no further.

In this article it makes sense to start in Memphis and finish in the Smoky Mountains. But you can of course do both, or even base yourself in Nashville and do it that way. It’s up to you!

Road Trip in Tennessee – Overview

Here is the road trip I did, and that I recommend you do too, as it offers a mix of adventure, landscapes, and culture:

• The Great Smoky Mountains

Best Time for a Road Trip in Tennessee

The best time for a road trip in Tennessee is during the spring (April to June) or fall (September to November).

These months offer pleasant weather, beautiful foliage, and fewer crowds. Spring brings blooming wildflowers, while fall showcases stunning autumn colors.

Both seasons provide comfortable temperatures for outdoor activities and exploring the state’s scenic routes and attractions.

How Long to Plan for a Tennessee Road Trip?

A Tennessee road trip can vary in length, but ideally, plan for 7 to 10 days. This duration allows you to explore major attractions like the Great Smoky Mountains, Nashville’s music scene, and Memphis’ historical sites without rushing.

If time permits, I recommend extending your trip to 2 weeks lets you discover hidden gems on the way, and I’m sure you’ll love that!

How Much to Plan for a Tennessee Road Trip?

Budgeting for a Tennessee road trip depends on several factors like accommodation, dining, and activities. On average, plan to spend around $150-$200 per day.

This estimate includes moderate lodging, meals, gas, and entry fees for attractions. For a more budget-friendly trip, consider camping or staying in budget hotels, and for a luxury experience, upscale hotels and fine dining will increase the budget significantly.

Remember to set aside extra for souvenirs and unexpected expenses.

Best Tours in Tennessee

Stop 1: memphis.

No Tennessee road trip is complete without visiting Memphis, and this is where I started. Honestly, I could have spent so many days exploring this city. Memphis is also a really easy city to navigate on foot, so you can have a break from driving.

Things to Do in Memphis

Memphis is located along the Mississippi River, just a short distance away from the state lines of Arkansas and Mississippi. Known for its blues music, delicious BBQ food, and culture, so there’s a lot to do here.

Below, I’m going to cover some of my must-do attractions, so you can truly make the most of your trip. This includes the iconic Stax Museum of American Soul Music and the Sun Studio!

A must for any Tennessee road trip itinerary, Graceland was once the home of Elvis Presley, the King of Rock ‘n Roll. This huge complex has countless museums, interactive experiences, Elvis’s private airplanes, restaurants, and shops.

For the best experience, I’d recommend booking your tickets in advance and spending the day here if you can. In some of the exhibitions you are restricted to only taking photos, no video.

Make sure you check out Elvis’s remarkable car collection and try a fried peanut butter and banana sandwich in Glady’s diner, a favourite snack for Elvis!

Must try: fried peanut butter and banana sandwich, a favourite of Elvis!

Graceland is open daily from 9.00 am to 4.00 pm and the entrance fee depends on the package you choose and can go from $28 to $285 per person – Pricey, but definitely worth it!

No trip to Memphis is complete without visiting the iconic Sun Studio, which has seen several famous stars head through its doors. That includes Jerry Lee Lewis, Johnny Cash, and the King of Rock ‘n Roll himself, Elvis Presley.

The tour lasts between 40-50 minutes, although allow yourself some waiting time. It’s a busy spot!

The best way to visit Sun Studio is to book your tickets online , which also include a Music history bus Tour. That said, I recommend booking early as this tour sells out often.

Edge Motor Museum

This awesome car museum is under a 5-minute walk from Sun Studio, so I’d suggest visiting them at the same time. Here, you’ll get to witness over a dozen dreamy American sports cars, dating from post-war to the 1970s.

At the Edge Motor Museum, you’ll also get to learn all about the trends, design, and engineering of these cars.

I recommend booking your ticket ahead of time, which will save you some time once you get there. For only $10 per person, the Edge Motor Museum is one of the best attractions to include in your Tennessee road trip!

Old Dominick Distillery & Tour

With a 150-year history, Old Dominick Distillery & Tour is perfect for the whisky and spirit lovers.

Located in Downtown Memphis, this distillery offers a fantastic 45-minute tour that includes tastings and offers you the chance to learn about the history of this place and its whisky.

The tour includes a tasting of their gin, vodka and 3 whiskey’s! My favourite was the Huling Station, lovely. We also found time to grab an Old Fashioned before we left.

Stax Museum of American Soul Music

The Stax Museum of American Soul Music was once a tiny movie theatre until the late 1950s when it became a popular recording studio.

Throughout the years, this place has produced some epic hits, and as you explore the museum, you’ll learn all about this! Not to mention there’s an awesome gift shop!

I really enjoyed learning about the history here, and how welcoming to all Stax was, at a time where there was a lot of racial tension in the United States.

As you walk through you realise just how many artists created music here. Without Stax the world would have been robbed of so many great albums.

The museum is open from Tuesday to Sunday from 10.00 am to 5.00 pm and the tickets cost $15 per person. That said, when you book online, you’ll get a $2 discount, which is excellent!

Take a Food Tour In Downtown Memphis

For foodies visiting Tennessee, joining a food tour in Memphis is easily one of the things you can’t skip in town

This delectable tour takes you to six different hotspots, from family-owned eateries to award-winning restaurants, all while discovering the culture and history of this dynamic Tennessee city.

You’ll enjoy seven specially prepared food tastings, using only sustainable, locally sourced ingredients. From hot tamales to house-made desserts, every dish is a classic, and you’ll love it!

This private guided tasting tour is perfect for foodies who want to ditch the tourist traps and enjoy the tastiest treats like an insider. The catch? This tour sells super fast, and you’ll want to book as soon as possible!

Riverboat Cruise On The Mississippi River

If there’s one cool way to discover Memphis, this is definitely the one! The Memphis combo tour includes amazing sightseeing opportunities and a riverboat cruise on the legendary Mississippi River.

You’ll start with a guided Memphis city day tour, where you’ll get the chance to see the famous Beale Street, iconic Victorian Village neighborhoods, and other historical landmarks.

The guide will tell you fun and interesting stories about the cultural landmarks, statues, and historical events such as the tragic assassination of Martin Luther King Jr.

And after this, board a paddlewheel boat for a scenic cruise on the iconic Mississippi River. Enjoy the refreshing river breeze as you take in the incredible views of Memphis from a different perspective.

Don’t miss the chance to take this combo tour – it’s packed with all that Memphis has to offer, from modern-day sights to historical landmarks to the glory of the Mississippi River.

Other Things to Do in Memphis

If you find yourself with more time in Memphis, then why not check out the National Civil Rights Museum or the Slave Haven Underground Railroad Museum?

If you’re all museum’d out (it does happen) then other popular attractions in the city include Memphis Zoo, Beale Street, Memphis Botanic Garden, and The Peabody Hotel.

Where to stay in Memphis

There are many hotels worth staying at in Memphis, but here below are the best ones you’ll want to consider for one night or more.

Luxury: Hotel Napoleon

Hotel Napoleon is set in a gorgeous building that was built in 1902. Known for its Romanesque structures, gorgeous lobby, and fleur-de-lis, this hotel has a lot to offer. Especially as some of the rooms feature bay windows, so you can admire the epic city views!

Mid-Range: DoubleTree by Hilton Memphis Downtown

Located in the heart of Memphis, this DoubleTree by Hilton is one of the best options for a nice stay without breaking the bank.

They offer a gym, beautiful rooms with fast WiFi and a spotless bathroom, and all the amenities you need.

The breakfast in the morning is a nice added touch, and you’ll love waking up in the morning when staying here!

Budget: La Quinta by Wyndham Memphis

Located only 2 miles from Memphis Airport, La Quinta Hotel is a great option to stay in Memphis with affordable prices without sacrificing the quality.

They provide everything you need from fast WiFi to an outdoor pool to a delicious breakfast and nice rooms.

Also, they offer a shuttle to go to Graceland, and that is priceless!

Where to Eat in Memphis

We ate at Gus’s World Famous Fried Chicken, which is famous for its spicy fried chicken. This casual eatery is a popular spot, and we’d highly recommend it. Another fantastic option is Slider Inn Downtown, which (as the name suggests) is known for its delicious slider trios and fries!

Best Tours in Memphis

Stop 2: nashville.

Around a 3-hour drive from Memphis, you’ll find the state’s capital city of Nashville. As such, it’s a must for any Tennessee road trip!

Things to Do in Nashville

Nashville is a vibrant and bustling city, most famous for its music and food scene. However, you’ll also find fantastic culture, art, sports, and architecture here, so there’s something for everyone.

Dubbed the ‘Music City’, this incredible destination is best explored by using the All-Access Pass , which allows you to choose six awesome attractions, as well as offering you six exclusive discounts.

Here’s my list of the best things to do in Nashville!

Take a Helicopter Tour Over Nashville Downtown

Get a bird’s eye view of Nashville’s skyline with a Downtown Helicopter Tour! If you’re looking for a thrilling adventure, this tour is perfect for you.

From the State Capitol building to the Nissan Stadium, you’ll fly over famous landmarks while enjoying the breathtaking views of Tennessee’s rolling hills.

Have your cameras ready as we pass by the Parthenon at Centennial Park and the Ryman Auditorium, home to some of country music’s biggest legends.

Of course, we couldn’t forget about the Country Music Hall of Fame, Bridgestone Arena, and the AT&T building, which are all part of Nashville’s rich history and vibrant culture.

All in all, when on a Tennessee road trip, it’s hard to find a cooler activity to join!

Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum

The Country Music Hall of Fame is one of the largest museums in the world, so I’d recommend spending at least two hours here. But allow more time if you have it.

During your visit, you’ll get to learn all about the history and culture of country music, visit world-class exhibitions, take part in some fun activities, and even listen to live music!

This is one of the best things to do in Nashville and, rightfully so, it gets very busy, and I recommend booking your tickets ahead of time.

The museum opens daily from 9.00 am to 5.00 pm and tickets only cost $27.95 – A bargain for such an experience!

National Museum of African American Music

Also known as NMAAM, this is the only museum of its kind in America. Focusing on the country’s black music and the celebration of African-American artists, this is the perfect place to visit if you’re a music lover.

The experience is extremely immersive and there are several fantastic galleries to explore, including the ‘Rivers of Rhythm’ and ‘One Nation Under a Groove’.

Please make sure you watch the video to see Dave and I take part in a Gospel Choir and participate in a rap battle. Yes you read that correctly.

The national museum opens daily at 10.00 am until 5.00 pm (apart from weekends when they open at 12.00 pm) and the tickets cost $26.95 per person.

Nelson’s Green Brier Distillery

Tennessee is home to several awesome distilleries, with Nelson’s Brier Distillery being a popular option. In fact, it’s home to the original ‘Tennessee Whiskey’ and is the most historic distillery in Nashville.

Distillery tours take place daily and last between 45-60 minutes. You’ll get to walk through the production floor and try some premium whiskeys!

Marathon Motor Works & Marathon Village

If you have the time, I’d recommend heading to Marathon Motor Works and Marathon Village, right next door to Nelson’s Green Brier Distillery.

Marathon Village is a collection of businesses housed in the buildings that were once home to Marathon Motor Works. And they all seem to have a boutique or crafts feel to them, along with a few distilleries.

Nearby, you’ll find several restaurants and a variety of funky stores, which sell everything from vinyl records and Harley-Davidson apparel to clothing and jewellery.

Old Town Trolley Tours of Nashville

If you’re looking for quirky things to do in Nashville, then go on an old-town trolley tour – trust me, you won’t regret it. These tours have been operating since 1980 and you’ll have a knowledgeable guide onboard as you head around the city.

Not to mention, these trolley tours offer unlimited hop-on & hop-off and plenty of stops! It’s a great way to get a feel for Nashville, and make sure you plan which places you want to stop at.

Most of the things to do on this list are stops on the Trolley Tour, so make sure not to miss it!

The Parthenon

The Parthenon is something you certainly wouldn’t expect to see in Nashville. As the centrepiece of Centennial Park, this iconic landmark will certainly remind you of Greece, as it’s a full-size replica!

Aside from being an awesome spot to photograph, The Parthenon also acts as the city’s art museum, so check out the exhibits during your time here.

Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park

This state park is the perfect place to visit if you’re looking to relax outdoors. There’s a World War II memorial here, as well as the Bicentennial Carillon, which is worth a visit.

However, the highlight of this place has to be the awesome views of Capitol Hill and the Capitol building!

Downtown Broadway Nightlife

As Nashville is known as the ‘Music City’ it would be rude not to find some live music during your visit. Popular venues for this include Honky Tonk Central, The Stage on Broadway, Tootsies Orchid Lounge, and Robert’s Western World.

Honestly, I’d be here all day naming the best spots as there are so many to choose from. I didn’t want to love it, but my favourite bar was Kid Rock’s Big Honky Tonk & Steakhouse, it just had my kind of music!

Other Things to Do in Nashville

If you have more time in Nashville, then you won’t run out of things to do. Other popular attractions in Tennessee’s capital include the Nashville Zoo, the Grand Ole Opry, and the Belle Meade Historic Site & Winery.

There are several awesome museums to visit too including the Johnny Cash Museum, the Tennessee State Museum, and the Adventure Science Center.

Where to Stay in Nashville

There are many hotels worth staying at in Nashville, but here below are the best ones you’ll want to consider for one night or more.

Luxury: Bobby Hotel

Centrally located in Nashville, Bobby Hotel is one of the best places to stay in town. Steps away from Broadway Street, they offer a rooftop pool and a lounge, as well as on-site restaurants and stunning rooms.

Talking about the rooms, all of them are spotless and modern, with a Smart TV and Netflix included.

All in all, one incredible hotel to spend the night at in Nashville.

Mid-Range: The Gallatin

We stayed at The Gallatin Boutique Hotel that’s located in the charming East Nashville neighbourhood. The rooms are spacious and cosy. Not to mention, The Gallatin plays an important role in giving back to the community, through a variety of local projects.

Budget: Sleep Inn Nashville Downtown Opryland Area

Featuring all the amenities you need on a holiday like an outdoor pool complimentary breakfast, cosy rooms, and great deals, Sleep Inn in Nashville is a great hotel to spend the night at!

All rooms are spotless, spacious enough for a few days in town, and you’ll be near the major tourist attractions, which is a nice bonus.

Where to Eat in Nashville

No trip to the city is complete without eating at Nashville Farmer’s Market. Here, you’ll find a variety of local eateries serving everything from tasty curries to ramen!

I’d also recommend Martin’s Bar-B-Que Joint which is known for its classic BBQ dishes, taco trays, and scrumptious burgers.

Best Tours in Nashville

Stop 3: the great smoky mountains.

To round off the perfect Tennessee road trip, make sure you head to the Great Smoky Mountains. Located under an hour’s drive from the city of Knoxville, this amazing destination is home to the most visited national park in the United States.

Covering an impressive 520,000 acres, the Great Smoky Mountain National Park features ancient mountains, Appalachian culture, and a wide variety of wildlife.

However, it’s perhaps most famous for the iconic blue mist that seems to cover the valley. For the best experience in this national park (and surrounding area), take a look at my top things to do below!

Anakeesta, Gatlinburg

Anakeesta is an awesome mountaintop adventure park that’s home to popular attractions such as the AnaVista Observation Tower, the Dueling Zipline, and the Rail Runner Mountain Coaster.

However, the Canopy Treetop Walkway has to be the highlight as it’s North America’s longest tree-based skywalk. If you’re lucky, you might even get to spot a bear from here!

Skyland Ranch

Skyland Ranch is a quirky amusement park in Sevierville. It’s set on a 100-acre farm and boasts exhilarating rides, fantastic eateries, shops, and live entertainment. You’ll even find miniature animals on-site!

One of the best attractions has to be the Horizon Skyride which will take you to the top of Skyland Ranch, offering epic views of the Smoky Mountains.

There is also a fun mountain coaster to ride, and we meet a real legend; Gary Biscuit Davis who played banjo on tour with Dolly Parton for 5 years.

Zorbing at Outdoor Gravity Park

Outdoor Gravity Park is the United States’ only zorbing park making it a must-visit. You’ll be flying down a 1000-foot hill in an 11-foot huge inflatable ball, so what’s not to love?

Better yet, there are three different tracks to choose from, and you can do this activity both in summer and winter.

Downtown Sevierville

While exploring the Smoky Mountains, make sure you head to Downtown Sevierville. Home to a variety of restaurants, boutiques, and stores, there’s plenty to do.

I’d recommend heading to the Pines for some tasty food, delicious drinks, and games, such as bowling, Dutch shuffleboard, retro video games, and foosball. Don’t miss out on seeing the Sevier County Courthouse either.

And don’t miss the famous Dolly Parton statue, right outside Chancery Court Clerk & Master.

Last but not least, if you have more time available in town, I highly recommend booking a our to 3 Pigeon Forge Wineries with Tastings , as it’s by far the best experience.

If you’re planning to include the Great Smoky Mountains on your Tennessee road trip (which you should), then make sure you hike to Rainbow Falls, which is a 2.7-mile (4 km) hike one way.

Other popular hikes within the national park include Alum Cave Bluffs, Andrews Bald, Charlie’s Bunion, and the Chimney Tops.

You never know, you might be lucky enough to spot bear cubs!

Other Things to Do in the Great Smoky Mountains

While exploring the Smoky Mountains, I’d recommend spending some time wildlife-watching, as you’ve got a chance to spot bears, elk, and deer among other mammals, along with a variety of birdlife.

Guided horseback rides are another popular activity, and there are also 90 historic buildings found in the national park, including barns, churches, and schools.

Where to Stay in the Great Smoky Mountains

There are many hotels worth staying at in the Great Smoky Mountains, but here below are the best ones you’ll want to consider for one night or more.

Luxury: Greystone Lodge on the River

Nestled in Gatlinburg near Ripley’s Aquarium, Greystone Lodge has an outdoor pool free parking, a gym, and rooms that are to die for.

You’ll find a beautiful bathroom as well as fast WiFi, a 24-hour front desk, and everything else you could ever need while enjoy the road trip in Tennessee.

Mid-Range: Music Road Resort Hotel and Inn

On the hunt for an affordable property with beautiful views of the Smoky Mountains? Music Road Resort is a great choice.

All their rooms are clean and comfortable, they provide a microwave and a fridge, and even a coffee machine to wake up off the right foot.

They have an outdoor pool and a fitness centre to work out after exploring around, and a playground for children, and this is nice when travelling as a family.

Budget: Mountain Aire Inn Sevierville

Mountain Aire Inn is another great property to stay at near the Great Smoky Mountains, with excellent deals, a free parking, a beautiful outdoor pool, and helpful staff.

While this is a 2-star hotel, you’ll get great service in a nice area in Sevierville, all for less than $100 a night!

Where to Eat in the Great Smoky Mountains

The Appalachian is a popular eatery in Sevierville that offers an intimate dining experience and delicious Southern Appalachian cuisine. Although it only opened in 2021, this place quickly became one of Sevierville’s best eateries, and it’s not hard to see why with its farm-to-table approach.

We had a fantastic meal at the Chef’s table, where you get a one-of-a-kind multi-course menu that you won’t see anywhere else. This was truly an amazing culinary treat.

Just like that, our Tennessee Road Trip has come to its conclusion! As you can see, there are tons of awesome things to do in this state, from exploring bustling cities to admiring the beauty of the Great Smoky Mountains.

Have you ever been to Tennessee? If you have, I’d love to hear about the destinations you’ve visited and if there’s anywhere else you’d add to this road trip. Don’t hesitate to let me know in the comments below!

Please make sure you take a look at the rest of the Deep South Road Trip articles; Things to do in New Orleans , Alabama State Parks and the Mississippi Road Trip .

Founder & Editor of Intrepid Escape, a huge lover of adventure, adrenaline, sport & fitness. After travelling extensively for the last 12 years, Scott started to document his travels before fulfilling an important lifelong goal by starting Intrepid Escape. He has since become a full-time Travel Writer, Videographer, Presenter and Producer.

5 thoughts on “ Ultimate Tennessee Road Trip: Memphis, Nashville, and More! ”

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Planning an 8 day trip to Nashville and Memphis (4 days in each city) this September. Was advised that we should only do 3 nights in Nashville; 2 nights in Memphis. Will have a car but what other town (close de) that is a must see? We are both seniors and don’t do a lot of walking. Suggestions please…ty

Linda, there are lots of stops in between Nashville and Memphis that you will find fun things to do that do not require a lot of walking. Brownsville, 50 miles east of Memphis is the hometown of Tina Turner, which features a museum and lots of great local restaurants, as well as Tennessee’s tallest metal sculpture – The Mindfield. Next is Jackson TN, home of Carl Perkins and other great musicians plus, again, great food. South of Jackson in Selmer is the famous Rockabilly Murals and a neat downtown to visit. Stop in Camden and pay homage at the crash site of Country legend Patsy Kline and then visit Loretta Lynn’s home at Hurricane Mills as you make your way closer to Nashville. All of this great American music history is along Interstate 40 (aka Music Highway) between Memphis and Nashville. Enjoy your visit to Tennessee.

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Smoky Mountains to Nashville drive

Smoky mountains to nashville road trip planner.

Here's a sample itinerary for a drive from Smoky Mountains to Nashville. If you're planning a road trip to Nashville, you can research locations to stop along the way. Make sure you check road conditions to double check the weather. Traveling with a dog or cat? Find pet-friendly stops . Camping along the way? Search for RV campgrounds . Find the best hotels, restaurants, and attractions based on the most talked about places recommended by Trippy members.

9:00 am  start at Smoky Mountains drive for about 2 hours

10:53 am   Knoxville stay for about 1 hour and leave at 11:53 am drive for about 54 minutes

12:47 pm   Rockwood stay for about 1 hour and leave at 1:47 pm drive for about 54 minutes

2:41 pm  eat at Los Agaves (Monterey) stay for about 1 hour and leave at 3:41 pm drive for about 54 minutes

4:34 pm   Gordonsville stay for about 1 hour and leave at 5:34 pm drive for about 1 hour

6:35 pm   Grand Ole Opry stay for about 1 hour and leave at 7:35 pm drive for about 13 minutes

7:48 pm  arrive in Nashville eat at Bluebird Cafe stay at Gaylord Opryland Resort

driving ≈ 6 hours

Where should I stop along the way?

Knoxville   (47 answers)     questions about Knoxville:         New Years in Knoxville reccomendations         Pet friendly lodging near Knoxville, TN Rockwood Los Agaves (Monterey) Gordonsville Grand Ole Opry   (15 mentions)

Where's the best place to stay in Nashville?

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The best resource on neighborhoods, areas, and hotels is the Trippy page on where to stay in Nashville .

If you're looking for a quick answer, you can check out Gaylord Opryland Resort , which was mentioned 10 times on Trippy.

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Where's the best place to eat in Nashville?

Need some recommendations on somewhere to get food?

Trippy members suggest Bluebird Cafe , which was mentioned 5 times.

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What are some things to do in Nashville?

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Of course, Trippy is the perfect place to ask questions because there's an entire community of travelers talking to each other and sharing tips and advice. Trippy is where you can get answers personalized for your tastes, budgets, trip dates & more!

For example, here are some questions people have asked about Nashville. Click on any question to see answers from the community!

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Do I really have to go back home?

Yes, even this step is optional, because if you're on vacation who wants the trip to end? It's okay, you can start planning your next trip!

Want to plan the trip back? Get the reverse directions for a Nashville to Smoky Mountains drive , or go to the main page to plan a new road trip .

Looking for ideas for more destinations within driving distance of Smoky Mountains? Try searching for places within 4.5 hours of Smoky Mountains .

You can also compare the travel time if you're flying or driving by calculating the distance from Smoky Mountains to Nashville . Or get a full Smoky Mountains to Nashville flight plan .

Don't forget about exploring your own hometown with a staycation. You can also find some cool day trips or get away for a weekend. Maybe try typing in a faraway location like London, Hong Kong, or Sydney, and get inspired for your dream trip around the world.

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Day Trip: Exploring the Great Smoky Mountains National Park

By k.c. cronin.

Discover the Smokies by Trail, Train or Tube

To walk in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is to follow in the footsteps of the Cherokee Indians; living on this land for more than 14,000 years. Because of the great efforts of many , today the 520,000-acre Great Smoky Mountain National Park (GSMNP) is protected forever. And today all of us can stand atop Clingman’s Dome and see the same endless blue view, fish for trout in the same clear streams and spot the same spring wildflowers as did the ancient Cherokee people.

There are many ways to spend a day in the Park. To make the most of your day trip from Asheville , choose an adventure itinerary below that best speaks to the explorer in you.

All you "need to do is park and get off the many, many roads of this large park and see that blue mountain haze that is part of this beautiful mythological place." - Ken Burns (co-creator, PBS documentary, The National Parks: America's Best Idea) from interview with USA Today

See our guide to Great Smoky Mountains National Park .

Adventure # 1: Head to Cataloochee Valley for Hiking, Heritage & Wildlife Appalachian Heritage

Where the Elk Roam Freely: In 2001, elk were released in Cataloochee as part of an experimental program to reintroduce elk to the Park. The herd can be seen regularly in the fields, especially in the early morning and evening hours. Keep your eyes open for other wildlife including white-tailed deer, black bears, butterflies and many species of birds.

Hiking Through History: The Boogerman Trail is a 7-mile loop through groves of old-growth forest (a few stand more than 170 feet tall) crossing over one of the longest footbridges in the Park. The Little Cataloochee Trail is a 5.2-mile hike passing old log cabins, a church and a cemetery. This is a hike made for history buffs but there are some steep climbs.

Trout Fishing: Cataloochee Creek and its tributaries have a healthy population of wild trout. Pick up fishing regulations at a park visitor center.

Adventure #2: Take a Dip in Deep Creek & Hit the Trails

Hike to the Falls (Ken Burns’ favorites):  An easy 1.6-mile roundtrip hike from this area near Bryson City, awards you with two beautiful waterfalls; the 60-foot high Tom Branch Falls and just a bit further, the 25-foot Indian Creek Falls. From the parking area follow the sign for the 80-foot Juney Whank Falls.

Tubing – Lazy Cruise or Wild Ride? The Upper part of Deep Creek can be a bit on the wild side with bouncy white water action. The Lower Creek offers a gentle cruise down river. Both offer a chance to enjoy the swimming hole – perfect summer day!

Mountain Biking: This is one of the very few places in the Park where mountain biking is allowed. There are short in-and-out trails. If you are a serious rider, take a detour out of the Park 15 miles west of Bryson City to the world-class trails at Tsali Recreation Area.

Adventure #3: Smokies Ultimate Road Trip

If The Great Smoky Mountains National Park has been on your “bucket list” for years and you want to hit all of the highlights in one day, then this trip is designed for you. But it also appeals to the masses so consider going during off-season months – September, November and April through early June.

Begin your drive from Asheville to Cherokee , entering the Park’s Oconaluftee Visitors Center. If you are considering taking the Blue Ridge Parkway to Cherokee, save that for another day – you have a long drive ahead.

First stop will be the iconic Clingmans Dome – about 80 miles from Asheville and the highest peak in the Smokies. At the halfway point you enter Tennessee at the Park’s Sugarlands Visitors Center, from here drive to Cades Cove. This lush valley with towering peaks is an 11-mile loop road, a great place to picnic before heading back to Asheville.

Adventure #4: Making Family Memories on the Railroad

Just outside the GSMNP in Bryson City, board a vintage train and see some of the most scenic areas of the Smoky Mountains via the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad . Fall is especially amazing with spectacular views of the forest’s brilliant colors.

During the holiday season the train is magically transformed into the Polar Express (after the beloved children’s book and movie) and travels to a mythical North Pole where Santa is waiting. Your kids won’t forget the ride and neither will you.

Know Before You Go:

• Plan for a full day and leave early.
• Bring jacket, water, lunch/snacks, wear good walking/hiking shoes.
• Make sure you have a full tank of gas before entering the Park.
• Always check the weather and road conditions in the Park before going

To learn more about other outdoor adventures in the Asheville area click HERE .

Top photo by Jeremy Wilson.  Waterfall photo by Jason Tarr.

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10 Scenic Smoky Mountain Vacations To Add To Your Bucket List

• Head to Clingmans Dome for the best views of the Smoky Mountains. Be prepared for a steep half-mile hike to the observation tower at the summit.
• Take your family to Gatlinburg for a relaxing nature-filled vacation. Enjoy free attractions like Anakeesta Mountain and the Ober Gatlinburg Aerial Tram ride.
• Experience the beauty of the Smoky Mountains by camping in Cades Cove. Explore the one-way road, hike to stunning waterfalls, and enjoy picnics with sparkling river views.

The Smoky Mountain is one of the best mountain vacation spots in the United States . There are limitless places to visit in this area, depending on one's interest. The mountain showcases historic sites, old homesteads, communities, and parkways. There is no shortage of activities for travelers to entertain themselves, from hiking, picnicking, camping, and mountain biking, among others.

But the best thing about heading to the Smoky Mountains is that one will be surrounded by jaw-dropping views everywhere they turn. With mountain scenery and beautiful waterfalls, the only thing individuals should do is have their camera ready to capture the stunning views. Whether going for a solo trip or with family and friends, here are the 10 must-see picturesque views in the Smokies.

Take a Hiking Trip with Friends to Clingmans Dome

Clingmans Dome is the highest point of the Great Smoky Mountains, with an elevation of about 6,643 feet. No wonder Clingmans Dome Observation Tower gives the best views of the Smoky Mountains National Park. Visitors who Hike Clingmans Dome to the Observation Tower at the summit are rewarded with 360-degree views of the Smokies. However, getting here is a task. One must hike the steep half-mile walk from the parking to the tower at the summit. During this short hike, travelers gain an elevation of 332 feet. Several benches are on the way for those who want some rest.

• Location: Clingmans Dome Rd
• Charges: No entrance fee

Related: Hiking Guide: Best Trails In Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Take Kids to a Fall Festival in the Mountains

There are many fall foliage festivals happening in this region of the Great Smoky Mountains, giving travelers countless options. The Fall Festival at Ober Mountain, previously called Oktoberfest, will be happening until October 28. Visitors can use this chance to enjoy delicious meals, giant pumpkin carvings, and live music. The Wears Valley Fall Fest is another event that will be happening from October 20 to 22 and features many interactive activities for people of all ages.

• Popular towns and cities near Gatlinburg, Pigeon, Cherokee, Bryson City
• Things to do: Attend the Oktoberfest celebration in Townsend, TN, or the Autumn Jubilee in Bakersville, NC. These feature live music, crafts, food, and fall activities.

Confirm the dates and the time.

Take a Road Trip to the Morton Overlook

Watching the sunset is a romantic and relaxing experience, and one of the best places to watch the sunset in the Smoky Mountains is from the Morton Overlook. This scenic roadside overlook takes one to approximately 5,048 feet above sea level and rewards them with views of North Carolina and Tennessee. One can see Pigeon Forge's and Gatlinburg's lights when nights are clear.

• Location: US 441
• Things to do/see: Chimney Picnics Area, Sugarlands Distilling Company, Ole Smoky

Have a Family Retreat at Gatlinburg

One of the best destinations for a relaxing, nature-filled vacation , Gatlinburg is a great place for spending time with kids. The town is suited for big adventures and offers many free things one can enjoy during their visit . Travelers can reach the summit of Anakeesta Mountain in a unique chondola or walk Skybridge, the longest pedestrian walk in North America. Also, visitors can enjoy the Ober Gatlinburg Aeria Tram ride and have some fun in the mountains. Families, couples, and friends flood this town for its limitless opportunities.

• Address: Tennessee 37738
• Must-see attractions: Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies, Gatlin's Mini Golf, Fannie Farkle's

Related: See Breathtaking Landscapes On Gatlinburg's 10 Most Scenic Drives

Enjoy a Camping Trip at Cades Cove Campgrounds

Driving through Cades Cove is one of the amazing things to do in the Great Smokies , but with abundant wild animals, historic structures, beautiful elevated valleys, and sweeping meadows, it is also a great place to camp. It has incredible surroundings where individuals can walk, ride a bike, or drive around the one-way road measuring 11 miles at a leisurely pace. Travelers are allowed to hike the stunning waterfalls and mountain peaks. Stop to check barns, old churches, and a grist mill along the way. When tired, set up a picnic and enjoy the views of the sparkling river, and when darkness strikes, head to the campgrounds and book a campsite at $25 per night.

• Location: Cades Cove Loop Rd
• Charges : The loop is free, but parking is $5 for those stopping for more than 15 minutes : Sunrise to sunset
• Things to see/do: farmhouses, corn cribs, churches

Have a Family Mountain Getaway at the Pigeon Forge

The famed Pigeon Forge is a classic tourist destination and one of the most visited places in Tennessee. It is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, offering an array of activities. From zip lining, horseback riding, fishing, and bird watching, guests are unlikely to run out of things to do. Guests are welcome to try all these and so much more. The picturesque area gives travelers a perfect backdrop for exploring and relaxing. There are also festivals and events that happen throughout the year. Families can indulge in these celebrations and enjoy music and good food.

• Location: Pigeon Forge, TN 37863
• Top attractions : Dollywood, Titanic Museum Attraction, The Island in Pigeon Forge

Plan a Mountain Lake Vacation

Right outside the Smoky Mountains are many lakes ready to be photographed. Exploring them is a chance to enjoy incredible mountain views, boating, swimming, and other outdoor entertainment. Douglas Lake serves visitors with stunning views of the mountains. Here, guests can engage in kayaking, fishing, and boating. Also, there are various cabins to rent for those who want to extend their trip. Other lakes nearby are Lake Junaluska, Tellico Lake, and Lake Santeetlah.

Things to do: Hiking, boating, fishing, swimming, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding

Advise on where to stay: cabins, lodges, campgrounds. Recommend ones on or near the lake for best access.

Look for lakes that aren't too far from the mountains.

Take a Day Trip with Kids at Anakeesta, an Aerial Adventure Park

For those who want to spend the whole day enjoying panoramic views of the Smoky Mountains, Anakeesta is the place to go. There are incredible mountain vistas and various activities to better one's sightseeing experience. One can ride a chondola (a chairlift and gondola) to Firefly Village, which has restaurants, shops, and seating at the mountaintop. Also, enjoy the Treetop Skywalk or walk through the vista gardens. Or climb to the top of AnaVista Tower to enjoy 360 degrees of the surrounding scenes and watch as the sun sets over the mountains.

• Location: 576 Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN 37738
• Hours: 9 am to 8 pm
• Charges : $19.99 for children, $32.99 for adults

Related: Discover The Beauty Of Smoky Mountains National Park In April On These Hikes

Embark on a Camping Trip in Elkmont Ghost Town

Elkmont Ghost Town allows tourists to walk through. It was once a logging camp that quickly became a vacation spot for wealthy families from Knoxville. Tourists usually come here to check out the abandoned buildings and hike the Elkmont Nature Trail. Those who want to explore the area further prefer to camp at the Elkmont Campground, which offers several campsites and allows RV camping.

• Address: TN, TN 37160
• Top attractions: Elkmont Troll Bridge, Dollywood Rainforest
• Camping charges: $30 per night

Take an Afternoon Road Trip Along the Newfound Gap

One of the best scenic drives in the Smoky Mountains is along the Newfound Gap. It is the lowest pass travelers can drive through the park, offering plenty of space to stop, stretch, and soak in nature. The stunning views allow tourists to see this area's mountain peaks, valleys, and rivers. Take this chance to visit the Rockefeller Memorial, a stone structure built to honor the $5 million donation from John D. Rockefeller as a tribute to his wife, who helped in creating the national park.

• Distance: 31 miles
• Best stops: Campbell Overlook, Newfound Gap Overlook, Clingmans Dome Tower

Nashville and the Smoky Mountains Holiday

Dates:  December 3–10, 2025 Registration: Open ( How to Book Your Trip )

Registration deadline: June 3, 2025 (to receive discount)

Take in the sights and sounds of the holidays in Nashville, Gatlinburg, and Asheville. Enjoy reserved seats at the Grand Ole Opry in Nashville. Tour historic RCA Studio B and see where country legends recorded hit songs. Experience a magical holiday dinner and show at the Opryland Resort. Delight in a choice of a horse-drawn carriage ride or a Grand Ole Opry Resort Delta River cruise and marvel at all the holiday lights and décor. A visit to the Country Music Hall of Fame is sure to have you hummin’ and strummin’ long after you leave Nashville. Marvel at the spectacular light displays and shows celebrating the spirit of the holidays at Dollywood. Explore the natural wonders of Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Then, travel to Asheville, North Carolina, and enjoy the city’s historic architecture, engaging neighborhoods, and robust arts districts. Tour the Biltmore Estate, George Vanderbilt’s “little mountain escape” in the Blue Ridge Mountains, elaborately adorned for the holidays. When you leave, you’ll have the warmth and charm of the south still in your heart.

8 days, 11 meals, including 7 breakfasts and 4 dinners

The overall activity level of this tour is a level 2. This means you like a balanced approach to travel. Walking two to three miles over the course of a day is no problem for you. You can partake in a two-hour leisurely walking tour, covering up to two miles (with included breaks). You can handle a variety of terrains, from cobblestone streets to moderate hills, with relative ease and without assistance. You can climb two flights of stairs with ease. There may be 1 to 2 days on this tour when walking tours can cover 3 to 4 miles over uneven terrain. Expect some full days balanced with free time to recharge or set out on your own adventure. You can handle altitudes up to 6,000 feet. While this level is appropriate for travelers that require mobility assistance devices, there could be times when you may have to sit out on some of the included activities.

Highlights include: Grand Ole Opry show, historic RCA Studio B, Country Music Hall of Fame, Gaylord Opryland Resort dinner and holiday show, Dollywood, Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Asheville, and the Biltmore Estate.

• Days 1–4: Nashville, TN 
• Days 5, 6: Gatlinburg, TN 
• Days 7, 8: Ashville, NC

Visit Collette Travel’s website for the detailed itinerary

Cost per person

Book Now* and save $100 per person:

• Double  $4,499 ($4,399)
• Single  $5,399 ($5,299)
• Triple  $4,449 ($4,349)

Included in cost: Round-trip air from Harrisburg International Airport, air taxes and fees/surcharges, hotel transfers

Not included in cost: Cancellation waiver and insurance of $379 per person

*Book Now rates valid until June 3, 2025, on air-inclusive packages only. For bookings made after June 3, 2025, call for rates.

How to Book Your Trip with Collette Travel

• To book your trip by phone, please call 1-800-581-8942 and refer to booking #1227684.
• To book your trip online, please visit Collette Travel’s website .
• A deposit of $698 per person is due upon reservation. Reservations are made on a first come, first served basis. Reservations made after the deposit due date of May 27, 2025, are based upon availability. Deposits are refundable up until June 3, 2025 .
• Final payment due by October 4, 2025.

All rates are subject to change.

Protect Your Trip »

The 5 best pigeon forge dinner shows of 2024 (+ local tips).

From friendly feuds to murder mysteries, explore the best supper shows in the Smokies.

The Best Pigeon Forge Dinner Shows

Courtesy of Pigeon Forge Department of Tourism

From magical theme parks like Anakeesta in Gatlinburg to scenic drives and hiking trails in Great Smoky Mountains National Park , the Smokies create vacation memories worth savoring – and quite literally when it comes to Pigeon Forge dinner shows.

Catching a dinner show in the area means good laughs, powerful storytelling, entertaining competitions and fun for the whole family, all while enjoying a tasty Southern supper. Read on to discover the best dinner shows in Pigeon Forge, alongside tips from a local expert.

• Best Overall
• Best for Adults
• Best for Families
• Best Comedy
• Best Murder Mystery

Best Overall: Dolly Parton's Stampede Dinner Attraction

Courtesy of Dolly Parton's Stampede Dinner Attraction

Price: From $59.99 Duration: 90 minutes Location: 3849 Parkway, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863

The range of acts at Dolly Parton's Stampede makes it an all-around great show. From arena-style seating, you'll enjoy friendly competition with fellow attendees on the opposite side of the venue – egged on by your show's host. Select guests even get to enter the arena for family fun and games: Kids chase chickens across a finish line, adults swing toilet seats like horseshoes, and one lucky individual gets shuffled around in a barrel as part of a magic trick.

Aside from the lighthearted activities, the show brings spectacular pyrotechnics, horse riding stunts, aerial acrobatics and animal appearances, including buffaloes and longhorns. Dolly fans will also enjoy original songs from the artist played during the performance. The entertainment is paired with a four-course feast of creamy vegetable soup, a homemade biscuit, a whole rotisserie chicken, hickory-smoked pork loin, corn on the cob, a baked potato and an apple turnover; for a drink, choose from unlimited soda, tea or coffee.

View & book tickets on:

Local tip: Have a Dollywood season pass? If so, make sure to take advantage of the deals and discounts it provides at other Pigeon Forge attractions, including Dolly Parton's Stampede. You can get a few dollars off adult tickets when you show your season pass.

Best for Adults: Paula Deen's Lumberjack Feud Supper Show

Price: From $49.99 for adults Duration: 90 minutes Location: 2530 Parkway, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863

In summer 2023, the popular Paula Deen's Lumberjack Feud joined the ranks of Pigeon Forge's dinner shows by adding a camp-style meal to the experience: a barbecue sandwich, coleslaw, baked beans, a cookie and a drink. As Pigeon Forge's only outdoor dinner show, Paula Deen's Lumberjack Feud takes place rain or shine in climate-controlled grandstands. Audience members pick which family in the feud to root for (Team Dawson or Team McGraw), and then watch the show's competing lumberjacks undertake ax throwing, log sports and other physical challenges. In addition to splitting wood, the event promises "side-splitting" comedy.

You'll also have an option to combine your supper show ticket with access to the Lumberjack Feud Adventure Park. This adjacent theme park includes an 80-foot freefall jump, a high ropes course, logger-related sports and a zip line rollercoaster.

Local tip: If you're looking for another unique show in the area that adults will enjoy, consider checking out The Listening Room. Based on its sister location in Nashville, the venue hosts musicians who sing and tell the stories behind their music. While it's not a true dinner show – meaning your meal is not included with your ticket – audience members are encouraged to order from the restaurant's full menu and bar during the performance.

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Best for Families: Pirates Voyage Dinner & Show

Courtesy of Pirates Voyage Dinner & Show

Price: From $59.99 Duration: 90 minutes Location: 2713 Parkway, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863

Sea lions and tropical birds may not be what you first associate with the Smokies, but at the Pirates Voyage Dinner & Show, you'll see these creatures and more. Set in arena-style seating with full-sized pirate ships, the show follows the family-friendly stories of infamous pirate Blackbeard and his quartermaster, Calico Jack, leading the Crimson and Sapphire crews through adventures. You can expect to see high dives into deep water, acrobatic mermaids and performances reminiscent of Cirque du Soleil.

Center seats provide an excellent view. Sit in the lower levels, however, if you and the kiddos don't mind getting a little wet as part of the experience. Along with the entertainment, guests are served a four-course meal. Some of the feast's highlights include swashbucklin' sugar-cured ham, cracklin' pan-fried chicken, a buccaneer biscuit and a specialty dessert.

Local tip: The Pirates Voyage theater sits along the Pigeon Forge Riverwalk Greenway – a paved 4-mile path that follows the West Prong of the Little Pigeon River. The walkway runs from Patriot Park at its southern end (near popular restaurant The Old Mill) up to Old City Park. About halfway along the path, close to the theater, it passes The Island , a go-to spot for rides, shopping, lodging and dining. If you'd like to get some steps in, explore other stops in town and avoid post-show traffic, you'll find free parking at both ends of the greenway and at The Island for an easy stroll to the theater.

Best Comedy: Hatfield & McCoy Dinner Feud

Courtesy of Hatfield & McCoy Dinner Feud

Price: From $59.99 Duration: 90 minutes Location: 119 Music Road, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863

The Hatfield & McCoy Dinner Feud promises feudin', feastin' and family fun, as it plays off the historical rivalry between two families. The show centers on a hillbilly theme, complete with a flying contraption deemed the "billycopter," as well as "divin' hillbillies and divin' dogs" in an onstage swimming hole. Your dinner servers remain in character as part of the show – offering up fresh roadkill opossum as an entree, for example – and may even surprise you at some point by taking a dive into the pool. In addition, you can expect lots of singing and dancing and plenty of jokes. This dinner show is all about its playful environment.

Rectangular tables with checkered tablecloths form rows of amphitheater seating where you can enjoy your meal and laughs with your party. This production differs from other dinner shows in the area where you sit in single-file rows to dine. The dinner show is also unique in that it offers an all-you-can-eat Southern-style meal, with favorites such as feudin' fried chicken, pulled-to-pieces pork barbecue, smashed mashed taters and coleslaw.

Local tip: If you're looking for laughs but don't need the full dinner service, check out Pigeon Forge's Comedy Barn Theater for clean humor that's suitable for the whole family. Additionally, if you're visiting Pigeon Forge during the holidays, note that the Hatfield & McCoy Dinner Feud becomes the Christmas Disaster Dinner Feud for a seasonal spin on the same antics.

Best Murder Mystery: Great Smoky Mountain Murder Mystery Dinner Show

Price: From $53.84 for adults Duration: 2 to 3 hours Location: 2682 Teaster Lane, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863

This interactive whodunit theater offers four different shows: Moonshine Murders, Who Shot the Sheriff, Marriage Can Be Murder and Killer Prom. Attendees can arrive a half-hour before the show's start time to fill out a clue packet while enjoying beverages and the meal's first soup course. After the show's first act, entrees are served, and then the second act begins. Guests then receive dessert before the third and final act reveals the story's murderer. The show takes place throughout the intimate dining room, making every seat a perfect choice.

The theater's menu offers special dairy-free, vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free meal options. Otherwise, every meal comes with a choice of three soups, country fried chicken, white pepper gravy, mashed potatoes, country-style green beans, a dinner roll and a choice of three cheesecake flavors. Soda, coffee and iced tea are included with the meal; beer and wine coolers are available for an additional cost.

Local tip: The Great Smoky Mountain Murder Mystery Dinner Show is located on Teaster Lane across from Pigeon Forge's Mountain Mile shopping, dining and entertainment development. Stop by before or after your show for a moonshine tasting at Junction 35 Spirits or a honey tasting at Savannah Bee Company.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Korrin Bishop , a contributor for the Travel section at U.S. News & World Report, called the Pigeon Forge area home for multiple years and set about exploring its many dining and entertainment attractions using a massive spreadsheet she created of adventure to-dos in the region. She continues to regularly visit the Smokies as a vacation destination. To curate this list, she used her own experience attending the shows and consulted with fellow locals and travelers about their takeaways, including some former dinner show performers. She also leveraged her research expertise and general knowledge of East Tennessee travel.

You might also be interested in:

• The Top Restaurants in Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg
• The Top Things to Do in Tennessee
• The Top Lakes to Visit in Tennessee

Tags: Travel , Tours

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