For outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is an absolute must-see. This majestic landscape of lush forest, meadows of wildflowers, and sparkling rivers provide visitors with endless opportunities for exploration, adventure and relaxation. There are a lot of things to do Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Whether you’re looking to take advantage of some easy hiking trails or challenging backcountry routes, climb up a mountain peak, or dive in lakes; there's something for everyone in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Read on to find out more about some of our favorite activities here!
Introduction to Great Smoky Mountain National Park
Located in the Appalachian mountains of North Carolina and Tennessee, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park was established in 1926. Natural beauty, a wide variety of fauna, and a deep cultural past have made it a popular tourist destination. How big is the great smoky mountains national park? According to official information, the Great Smoky Mountains Park covers an area of 522,427 acres. The Park has numerous trails perfect for hikers of all skill and experience levels. Your great smoky mountain hikes will surely be unforgettable. The Great Smoky Mountains also have diverse wildlife and a few waterfalls that will be a feast for the eyes. As for lodging in Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the Great Smoky Mountain campgrounds and resorts are available for overnight stays. The Great Smoky Mountains National Park RV camping grounds are also ideal glamping sites.
What to Do in Great Smoky Mountains National Park
The following are things that you must do in Great Smoky Mountain, which will offer an unforgettable experience that will leave you feeling rejuvenated and refreshed.
Deep Creek Campground Camping
If Great Smoky Mountain camping is on your list of things to do while on vacation, now would be a great time to check it off. The campsites have barbecue pits, picnic tables, and fire pits, making them ideal for evenings spent roasting marshmallows and telling ghost stories. There are no showers or electrical hookups at this campground. However, if you have a power station with you like Anker 757 PowerHouse, then that won’t be a problem. There are also potable water and flush toilets available. Activities that can be done around the campgrounds include horseback riding, great smoky mountain hikes, fishing in the creeks, and tubing in the creek’s waters.
Appalachian Trail Hiking
- One-day hike is done during day time, and you get to decide the length of your hike. You can arrange the trek to be centered around exploring the wildlife in the mountain or reaching a specific popular spot as the highlight of your hike, or simply enjoying the walk.
- Multi-day hiking requires more preparation than the day hike, as you must spend nights on the Appalachian Trail. You need food, clothing, backpacking gear, trekking gear, trail knowledge, and backcountry skills to complete the multi-day hike.
- Lastly, the most challenging type of hike is a thru-hike in which you traverse the Appalachian Trail in its 2,190 more miles in its entirety. You must register your walk and route and plan the resupply points yourself. This takes about 5 to 7 months to accomplish and requires the hiker to be physically and mentally prepared to take on this taxing challenge.
Fontana Lake Diving
Fontana Lake gives you a fantastic view of the mountain range. Its 29-mile-long, deep, calm water is an ideal spot for fishing, swimming, and diving. The Fontana Lake was formed when a dam was built to supply hydroelectric power for the Aluminum Company of America, providing World War II with ships, aircraft, and munitions. During this process, the town of Judson, which housed around 600 people, got submerged in the lake and now serves as a great tourist attraction for divers. With structures still standing below the surface of the clear water, Lake Fontana holds underneath it an underwater ghost town that will excite divers to explore the ruins of the old city. Grab your diving gear and experience this aquatic attraction yourself!
Essential Gears that Perfect Your Trip
As we formerly said, planning is paramount to a safe and fantastic stay at the Great Smoky Mountain National Park. So here are some things that you should pack for your visit:
1. Sturdy hiking boots. They will help you navigate trails at the Park.
2. Food and water. You must bring your own food as there are no restaurants at the Park, ad water to keep you hydrated and cool from the hot weather.
3. Backpack. Bring your extra sturdy backpacks, which will help you store food, water, and other essential gear when trekking and camping.
4. Clothes. Bring extra clothing to help you keep warm when the temperature drops.
5. Map and compass. To help you navigate the different trails of the Park.
6. A power station. It is the most helpful gadget you can bring to a place without electricity. Anker 757 PowerHouse is highly recommended due to the following features:
- Fast charging. Needs only 1 hour to charge to 80%.
- Multiple and various ports. Accommodates every gadget that you might have. 1 car outlet, 2 USB-C ports, 4 USB-A ports, and 6 AC ports.
- The device also prides itself in its 1229Wh capacity and 1500 wattage.
This device will make your camping trip more convenient and enjoyable.
Conclusion
The Great Smoky Mountain National Park is a must-visit for all those who want to experience the great outdoors. So, on your next vacation, take a step away from the hustle and bustle of the city, and let the stresses of life, wash away in the greatness of nature.
FAQ
What is the Best Month to Visit Smoky Mountains?
June, July, and October are the ideal months when most visitors come, offering perfect weather and plenty of activities. For a quieter experience, consider visiting during the winter or spring months, which tend to have lower visitation.
What Should You Not Miss in the Smoky Mountains?
Spots like the Clingmans Dome and Mount LeConte, the third-highest peak in the Park, give you a scenic view that will take your breath away. Campgrounds like Deep Creek and Elkmont are also famous spots to visit in the Park where you can stay overnight, so be sure to check them out.
How Many Days Do You Need in Great Smoky Mountains National Park?
Explore the stunning beauty of Smoky Mountains for just a day or indulge in a week full of adventure. For a proper experience, spend at least 2 to 3 days here. This one is purely up to you, as long as you plan in advance your visit ad the activities that you want to do, then I’m sure that you will enjoy your trip
