For nature lovers across the world, the Smoky Mountains are a must-see place in the world. Officially, known as the Great Smoky Mountains, the mountain range borders Tennessee–North Carolina. Whether you are a local or
visitor to the USA, you will find the trip to the Smoky Mountains, which is declared the UNESCO World Heritage Site, rewarding. Here is the round-up of 10 things to do in the Smoky Mountains.
Go on a Hike to the National Park
Hiking the Smoky Mountains keeps you in control and allows you to explore the small and big, surprising and mundane, and easy and not-so-easy aspects of the photogenic range. The length of hiking trails could be as lengthy as 850 miles. Laurel Falls, Abrams Falls, and the Gatlinburg Trail are some of the popular hiking trails.
Watch a Show
Leaving the place without watching a fun show at the Hatfield & McCoy Dinner Show is a mistake that you won’t do. The food-cum-entertainment court organizes comical and musical performances that would mesmerize the visitors. After having a sumptuous dinner comprising chicken, mashed potatoes, creamy soup, and more, take your seat and watch the show that narrates the feuds of two families trying to settle their differences.
Feast on the Best Wines
Tasting the finest wineries – add it to the things to do in the Smoky Mountains and reward yourself. The Smoky Mountains is home to the best wineries along the Rocky Top Wine Trail. The Rocky Top Wine Trail consists of 5 local wineries: Hillside Winery, Apple Barn Winery, Apple Barn Cider House, Mountain Valley Winery, and Mill Bridge Winery. Choose your start and end destinations as per your choice. Pick up a passport and get it stamped at each location. Once you visit 3 wineries, you become entitled to a free souvenir wine glass, and after a visit to all 5, you get another.
Go on a Scenic Drive
Taking a scenic drive along the Smoky Mountains is one of the best things to do. Though there are many routes, Cades Cove Loop Road is unique. It’s an 11-mile, one-way loop dotted with historic structures, mountain views, and beyond. Admire the glory of nature while your vehicle takes you through one of the most diversified ecosystems on the planet. The Smoky Mountains is home to 66 species of mammals, over 240 species of birds, 43 species of amphibians, 60 species of fish, and 40 species of reptiles.
It’s one of the best spots to see wildlife because of the open fields, especially black bears! Cades Cove is closed through the end of February due to heavy snowfall. Got more time to explore the Smoky Mountains? Find your way through other scenic trails, including Newfound Gap Road, Foothills Parkway, and Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail.
Climb Clingmans Dome
Capture the panoramic view of the incredible flora and fauna of the mountain range from 6,643-foot height. To avoid the crowd, visit early. Wondering about the shortest route? Drive the scenic access road (closed December through March) from Newfound Gap and walk a half-mile to the summit. The point also serves as a peaceful destination for solitude.
Paddle Fontana Lake
A dam on the Little Tennessee River in Graham and Swain counties in NC results in a beautiful lake that measures 17 miles (27 km). The name is derived from the Italian word fountain. It’s perfect for kayaking, paddle boarding, and canoeing. You don’t need to carry all the sports equipment as you can rent them easily.
A Quieter Ride to the Historic Park Roads
While chasing life’s goals, we go unnoticed many of the good things in nature. Take a break. Experience the greatest pleasure in the wilderness of forest in Cades Cove. The lush-green valley is nestled in the Smoky Mountains. The peace connects with you the sound of rushing streams, old log cabins, another mill, and chirping sounds. Other beautiful drives include the 18-mile Little River Road from the Sugarlands Visitor Center to Townsend and the Blue Ridge Parkway (outside of the park).
Sit Near a Fall
This could be one of the best things to do in the Smoky Mountains for many and, for different reasons. Whether you want to draw some inspiration, encouragement, or just capture the beauty of nature, you will love it. The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is home to over 100 beautiful cascades and waterfalls including Grotto, Laurel, Abrams, or Rainbow Falls, or drive to Meigs Falls, The Sinks, or Place of a Thousand Drips.
Stay in a Rustic Cabin
Staying in the Smoky Mountains is a dream come true experience for many. There are cabins, cottages, and vacation homes with style and comfort as vibrant as possible. Game rooms, theater rooms, indoor pools, and much more – opt or exclude and customize your hospitality and budget. Whether you are planning a family vacation, romantic vacation, or anything, you can find accommodation that best suits your themes or moods.
Tour The Historic Old Mill
Whether you are visiting the Smoky Mountains with kids, friends, or alone, Historic Old Mill is a must-see spot. The eco-friendly mill served the local communities until 1935. It was powered by the Little Pigeon River. Locals would come to get their staple cereals grounded to make flours. Do not miss the fresh foods served at the Old Mill Restaurant and Pottery House Cafe’.
