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National Park

Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Park ClosureJun 26, 2026

Park Headquarters Road is closed

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InformationMay 27, 2026

Cades Cove Loop Road is closed to motor vehicles every Wednesday

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A thick layer of frost covers the fields, trees, and mountains in Cades Cove.

Wintertime brings a quiet beauty to the Great Smoky Mountains.

Photo: Kristina Plaas

About

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!

Activities

Arts and CultureLive MusicAuto and ATVScenic DrivingAstronomyStargazingBikingRoad BikingCampingBackcountry CampingCar or Front Country CampingHorse Camping (see also Horse/Stock Use)Group Camping
RV Camping
Fishing
Freshwater Fishing
Fly Fishing
Food
Picnicking
Guided Tours
Self-Guided Tours - Auto
Hands-On
Citizen Science
Hiking
Backcountry Hiking
Front-Country Hiking
Horse Trekking
Horse Camping (see also camping)
Horseback Riding
Junior Ranger Program
Wildlife Watching
Birdwatching
Park Film
Museum Exhibits
Shopping
Bookstore and Park Store

Directions

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.

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Weather

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.

News

Four Tips for a Safe Fourth of July in the Smokies
Jun 24, 2026

Four Tips for a Safe Fourth of July in the Smokies

As America celebrates its 250th birthday this July 4, Great Smoky Mountains National Park anticipates increased visitation for the holiday weekend. Anyone planning on celebrating America’s 250th anniversary in the Smokies should prepare for warm weather, increased traffic and busy parking lots. Plan ahead and follow these four tips for a fun and safe Fourth of July weekend.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park Welcomes Six Artists-in-Residence for 2026
Jun 17, 2026

Great Smoky Mountains National Park Welcomes Six Artists-in-Residence for 2026

Great Smoky Mountains National Park is pleased to welcome this year’s lineup of Artists-in-Residence, whose creativity and passion will help visitors experience the Smokies in new and inspiring ways. Each month from June through November, a new artist will join us and lead hands-on programs which invite visitors to explore the park through art shaped by its landscapes, history and natural wonders.

Jun 15, 2026

“Celebrating Cosby” Programs Return to Cosby Campground this Summer

Great Smoky Mountains National Park invites the public to attend “Celebrating Cosby: Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow” community programs at the Cosby Campground Amphitheater. These programs honor the rich cultural and natural history of the Cosby area through storytelling, dance, music and history talks.