A view of the hiking trails in the Smoky Mountain National Park.

4 Exciting Things to Do in Great Smoky Mountains National Park

A carefully painted canvas complete with natural wonders awaits not far from Tennessee Cider Company! America’s most-visited national park is an absolute must for any getaway to the Smoky Mountains. Great Smoky Mountains National Park is where you’ll find incredible views, fascinating wildlife and the ultimate peace and quiet you crave. Here are 4 exciting things to do in Great Smoky Mountains National Park:

1. Hiking

Adventure can be found around every turn when you explore the Great Smoky Mountains National Park by foot! Grab the family, lace up your appropriate footwear and head to the more than 850 miles of trails for a heart-pumping hike through paradise. From easier hikes such as the Laurel Falls Trail or the Gatlinburg Trail to moderate difficulty routes like the Alum Cave Trail and even extended hikes for the experienced trekker like Gregory Bald, there are plenty of great options. You’ll be blown away by picturesque views, unique wildlife and even Smoky Mountain history lessons when you go for a hike in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park! 

A man and a woman hiking in the Great Smoky Mountain National Park.

2. Recharge in Cades Cove

Is relaxation the ultimate goal of your vacation to the Smoky Mountains? Many visitors find there’s no better place to recharge than Cades Cove! This isolated valley in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is surrounded by awe-inspiring mountains, providing some of the very best views around! In addition to the stunning scenery, Cades Cove is full of history as it once served as the home to many early settlers before the national park was ever formed. A drive on Cades Cove Loop Road allows you to see all the best parts of Cades Cove!

3. Scenic Drives

Scenic drives offer a chance to experience the magic of the national park without having to hike! Perfect for those with mobility challenges, scenic drives serve up some of the most spectacular views around in a fun and convenient way. Cades Cove Loop Road, Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail, Newfound Gap Road, The Foothills Parkway and Wears Valley Road are some of the most beloved scenic drives in the Smokies, each offering unique viewpoints of the beauty that surrounds us. Don’t forget your camera; you’ll want to hold onto these majestic mountain views for years to come! 

4. Spot Wildlife

We aren’t the only ones who call the Smoky Mountains home! Wildlife in the Smokies is abundant and fascinating. In fact, it’s likely you’ll come across at least one species of animal when you visit the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Black bears, white-tailed deer, elk, salamanders, snakes and coyotes are a few animals you may spot in the park. While you marvel at these creatures, make sure you keep your distance, avoid feeding them and be especially careful around Smoky Mountain bears. Cades Cove, Cataloochee and Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail are a few areas you’re most likely to spot wildlife inside the national park.

A young Smoky Mountain black bear.

Memories are waiting to be made inside of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park! After your adventures in the park, it’s time to reward yourself with a great time and some delicious beverages at Tennessee Cider Company! Browse our locally made hard ciders to discover the smoothest sips in the Smokies!

Published:
December 29, 2023

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