Smoky Mountains National Park is located on the state lines of Tennessee and North Carolina. It's a nature lover's dream escape. Breathtaking views coupled with lush vegetation make the Smokies a favorite vacation spot for many. Finding something to do in the Smokies is easy. A little research and planning will help you decide on a few choice activities.
Hiking through the various trails located in the Smoky Mountains National Park is an interesting adventure. If you are a beginner, choose a short hike trail. Hike to Baskins Creek Falls, Abrams Falls or Clingman's Dome Tower. If you are more experienced, consider backpacking and taking an overnight trip. Use a trail map to find a trail that will take you past some of the most wondrous sights in the Smokies.
Horseback rides are available at four stables from mid-March through late November. Rides can vary in length. Shorter rides can last only 45 minutes while longer rides can last several hours. As of 2010, rates range anywhere from $20 to $25 an hour. Cades Cove Riding Stables also offers hayrides that last around two hours. Rates are only $6.00 per person, but reservations are required.
Many camping options are available in the Smokies, including backcountry camping, frontcountry camping, group campgrounds and horse camps. Backcountry camping requires individuals to hike several miles to a site within the park territory. Frontcountry camping is closer to your car, restrooms, fire grates and picnic tables. Some frontcountry campgrounds include Abrams Creek, Deep Creek, Cades Cove, Smokemont and Cataloochee. Group campgrounds are larger campsites and can be found in the frontcountry camping area. Horse camps are small camps that offer hitch racks and primitive camping facilities. Big Creek and Anthony Creek are two horse camps that can be found on the Tennessee side of the Smokies. Choose a camping location that suits your skill level.
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park offers lots of classes and programs throughout the year. Many ranger-guided programs are available, most of which are free. See a demonstration of rug hooking, attend a festival with demonstrations, see quilting techniques and listen to old-time music. A Smoky Mountain Field School offers a variety of classes. Learn about bugs, flowers, trees, attend day hikes, learn about natural history or take some family courses.
