Things to Do in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park

There is a never ending list of things to do for the whole family in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Located on the border of Tennessee and North Carolina this U.S. treasure is known for the diversity of its plant life, the beautiful ancient mountain range, and the mountain culture of the Southern Appalachians. When you plan a vacation to the Great Smoky Mountains make sure to include the family fun events below. You won’t want to miss a one.

Hike: You will find over 800 miles of trails throughout the park, including short hikes as well as backcountry camping hiking expeditions.  Avid hikers who follow the Appalachian Trail from Maine to Georgia pass right through the Great Smoky Mountain National Park. Your whole family will enjoy the beauty and wildlife you will encounter on your hikes, as well as the many opportunities to stop and rest in beautiful areas with overlooks and natural views.

Wildlife: Animal lovers will find bears, deer and elk, birds, reptiles and of course those famous southern insects.  A protected sanctuary for wildlife the Great Smoky Mountain National Park has the most biological diversity you can find in the United States. There are many ranger led programs that allow families to get up close and personal with nature as they enjoy the park.

Plantlife: The Great Smoky Mountain National Park is world renowned for its wildflower preserve. With more than 1600 types of flowering plants you won’t find this in any other park in America. Your family will enjoy hepatic as, rhododendron, azaleas, asters, and everything in between, no matter what time of year you visit the park you will see a showy and colorful display.

With ranger led programs for all ages, fishing, picnicking, camping, waterfalls, and tourist attractions located nearby the Great Smoky Mountain National Park offers something for every member of your family. Whether your children want to become junior rangers, or your spouse wants to spend the day lazing by a swimming hole surrounded by falls, you can find all of this and more in the Smokies.

While you can experience some of what the Great Smoky Mountain National Park has to offer in a day or two it is recommended that you plan to stay at least a week. There is so much to do and see within the park and nearby that a fun filled vacation is easy to accomplish if you just plan a trip to the Smokies.