Nature steals the show in the Smoky Mountains. From hiking in the National Park, whitewater rafting, to ziplining through the trees, there’s so much to do.
Year-Round Beauty and Activity in the Smoky Mountains
The Great Smoky Mountains offer an inviting backdrop for travel in every season. Whether it’s the vibrant colors of autumn, the serene snowfall of winter, or the bright, sunny days of spring and summer, the region is a destination without an off-season.
Each season in the Smoky Mountains offers a unique and captivating experience—from the vibrant hues of autumn foliage to the serene winter landscapes, and from the sunny warmth of spring to the bright days of summer. While many attractions in Pigeon Forge operate year-round, some are seasonal, making it essential to understand the typical weather conditions during your visit.
Scenic Drives in Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Exploring Great Smoky Mountains National Park by car is one of the most accessible and rewarding ways to experience its breathtaking beauty. With nearly 400 miles of roadway winding through the park and its surrounding landscapes, visitors can enjoy dramatic mountain vistas, diverse forests, waterfalls, and historic sites—all from the comfort of their vehicle.
Discover Clingmans Dome: The Highest Peak in the Smokies
Rising to 6,643 feet, Clingmans Dome stands as the highest point in Great Smoky Mountains National Park and offers breathtaking panoramic views unlike any other location in the region. On a clear day, visitors may see as many as seven states stretching across the horizon. Even if you’re short on time, the drive alone offers scenic rewards, and the vistas from the parking area are unforgettable.
Every winter, the Smoky Mountains region transforms into a luminous wonderland as Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge celebrate the holiday season with millions of vibrant, animated lights. Both cities host spectacular seasonal displays that attract visitors from across the country. Here’s how to experience the most dazzling sights during your winter visit.
Within Great Smoky Mountains National Park, there are only two waterfalls accessible by car, and one of the most unique is known as Place of a Thousand Drips. This waterfall earns its name from the delicate network of numerous small streams cascading down the rocks, rather than a single, large fall. It is located near the end of the scenic Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail, a picturesque drive well worth exploring.
Fishing in the Smoky Mountains: Regulations, Locations, and Guided Tours
The Smoky Mountains are renowned for their native brook and brown trout populations, with Gatlinburg and Great Smoky Mountains National Park offering more than 900 miles of rivers and streams ideal for fishing enthusiasts. Whether you are a seasoned angler or a beginner, the area presents excellent opportunities to cast your line in some of the most scenic waters in Tennessee.
Extended Hiking Adventures with Expert Guides in the Smoky Mountains
For those who have enjoyed the recommended scenic drives and easy hikes, exploring the Smoky Mountains through more extensive hiking can offer a deeper connection to this remarkable region. A Walk in the Woods, a nationally acclaimed nature guide service, provides personalized guided tours in Great Smoky Mountains National Park, led by experienced naturalists.
