The most-visited of all the National Parks in the United States, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park has something for everyone. Check out the beautiful scenery and picturesque views, go for a hike, or just relax among the 500,000 acres in the park. The Great Smoky Mountains National Park was established in 1934, and it was dedicated by President Franklin D. Roosevelt in 1940. The park has been designated an International Biosphere Reserve by the United Nations.
The Sugarlands Visitor Center is at the northern entrance of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The Visitor Center offers a 20-minute film on the history of the park, the animal and plant life, and a look at the Smoky Mountains. The Visitor Center also features mounted specimens of animals found in the park and reproductions of journals kept by early park naturists.
Two overlooks in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park provide scenic views of Gatlinburg. The overlooks provide the perfect photo opportunity for visitors. It is also a popular spot to watch the sun rise.
Cades Cove is located within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. It is an 1819 European settlement in the western part of the park, maintained by the National Park Service. Historic cabins, churches, farmhouses and other structures are preserved in the settlement. A pamphlet is available at the entrance to Cades Cove, marking 19 self-guided tour stops along the one-way, 11-mile road.
Park the car and take a walk along the Parkway in downtown Gatlinburg. Browse through the more than 200 unique shops, grab a bite to eat at one of the restaurants, or visit one of the many attractions. Stop and watch homemade taffy being pulled, or apples being dipped in caramel. Watching the townspeople and visitors is also a popular pastime in downtown Gatlinburg.
Located just a block off of the Parkway in downtown Gatlinburg is the Riverwalk along the Little Pigeon River. Stroll along the Riverwalk, or just relax and listen to the sounds of the water flowing by. Watch the fishermen try their luck, or feed the ducks that inhabit the river.
Take a free trolley ride to visit this independent arts and crafts community. The 8-mile loop of the Great Smoky Arts and Crafts Community features almost 100 artist studios, galleries and shops, as well as restaurants, cafes and lodging. The Great Smoky Arts and Crafts Community is internationally recognized as the largest North American group of independent artists.
