Great Smoky Mountains

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!

Great Smoky Mountains National Park straddles the borders of the states of Tennessee and North Carolina. The three main entrances to the park are in Gatlinburg, TN; Townsend, TN; and Cherokee, NC.

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.

The park gets its name from mists that often rise like smoke from the mountains.

Wintertime brings a quiet beauty to the Great Smoky Mountains.

Fall leaf season is one of the busiest times of year in the park.

In spring and fall, weather in the foothills can be pleasant, while snow and cold rule on the mountain tops.

Historic buildings such as churches, gristmills, barns, and homes allow visitors to get a feel for life in the mountains before the national park was created.

Abundant rainfall means lush forests and beautiful stream scenes in the Great Smoky Mountains.