Great Smoky Mountain National Park has a number of attractions and activities for visitors with varied interests. Hikers will find over 800 miles of trails, ranging from easy to strenuous. Auto touring is also popular throughout the park. Outdoor lovers can camp, picnic, fish or bicycle. As the first home to prehistoric Paleo Indians, the Great Smoky Mountain National Park has a rich history in addition to its natural attractions. It includes 80 historic buildings, such as churches, mills and homes, which are preserved throughout the park.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park
107 Park Headquarters Road
Gatlinburg, TN 37738
865-436-1200
nps.gov
Dollywood theme park, named after country superstar Dolly Parton, opened in 1986. Adventure seekers take advantage of the park's two roller coasters: Mystery Mine and Thunderhead. In addition to rides, Dollywood prides itself on preserving the heritage of the Great Smoky Mountains. Klondike Katie, a steam train built in the 1940s, still meanders through the park. Local artisans teach children and adults about the crafts of woodworking, soap making and making leather goods. Because of Parton's influence, music is a significant part of the park. Many different genres are featured; rock and roll, country and gospel are a few. Guests can enjoy this music in a number of different contexts, including street performances, theater shows and A Smoky Mountain Christmas.
Dollywood
2700 Dollywood Parks Blvd.
Pigeon Forge, TN 37863
865-428-9488
dollywood.com
The small city of Gatlinburg, a vacation destination for couples and families, is located a few miles from the Great Smoky Mountain National Park and is full of activity year-round. In the summer, visitors enjoy golf, horseback riding and wineries. In the colder months, several ski resorts open their slopes for winter sports. In addition to these outdoor activities, many visitors take advantage of the shopping in Gatlinburg. Many shops feature the work of local artisans. Ripley's features a number of tourist attractions within Gatlinburg: an aquarium, haunted adventures, mirror maze and Ripley's Believe It or Not Museum.
