A thick layer of frost covers the fields, trees, and mountains in Cades Cove.

Gold and red fall colors fill the valleys while snow coats the mountain tops.

Wisps of fog hang over the forests in the mountains.

A hillside in the forest covered with white trillium flowers

Bright gold and red leaves shine through the fog in a forest.

Tombstones stand in front of a white, wooden church on a foggy morning.

Rhododendron bushes line the banks of a stream filled with large boulders.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Price:

Not Provided

Location:

Gatlinburg, TN

Phone:

(865)436-1200

Park Warnings:

No warnings

About Great Smoky Mountains

Park Description

Ridge upon ridge of forest straddles the border between North Carolina and Tennessee in Great Smoky Mountains National Park. World renowned for its diversity of plant and animal life, the beauty of its ancient mountains, and the quality of its remnants of Southern Appalachian mountain culture, this is America's most visited national park. Plan your visit today!

Local Climate

Elevations in the park range from approximately 875 feet (267 meters) to 6,643 feet (2,025 meters) and the topography can drastically affect local weather. Temperatures can vary by 10-20 degrees Fahrenheit from mountain base to top, and clear skies lower down do not guarantee equally pleasant weather at higher elevations.

Things To Do In Great Smoky Mountains

Arts and Culture
Live Music
Auto and ATV
Scenic Driving
Astronomy
Stargazing
Biking
Road Biking
Camping
Backcountry Camping
Car or Front Country Camping
Horse Camping (see also Horse/Stock Use)
Group Camping
RV Camping
Fishing
Freshwater Fishing
Fly Fishing
Food
Picnicking
Guided Tours
Self-Guided Tours - Auto
Hands-On
Citizen Science
Hiking
Backcountry Hiking
Front-Country Hiking
Horse Trekking
Horse Camping (see also camping)
Horseback Riding
Junior Ranger Program
Wildlife Watching
Birdwatching
Park Film
Museum Exhibits
Shopping
Bookstore and Park Store