Great Smoky Mountains: Nature's Majestic Sanctuary
Explore the stunning Great Smoky Mountains, a natural wonder filled with diverse wildlife, breathtaking views, and endless outdoor adventures.
The Great Smoky Mountains offer a stunning retreat into nature, showcasing diverse wildlife, lush forests, and breathtaking vistas. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and families alike, providing an array of activities from hiking to wildlife watching.
A brief summary to Great Smoky Mountains
- Bryson City, North Carolina, 28713, US
- +1865-436-1200
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit during the fall to experience the spectacular autumn foliage.
- Start your hikes early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures.
- Check the weather forecast before your visit, as conditions can change rapidly in the mountains.
- Bring plenty of water and snacks, especially if you plan to hike for several hours.
- Make sure to carry a camera to capture the stunning landscapes and wildlife.
Getting There
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Car
If you are traveling by car, you can access Great Smoky Mountains National Park from several major highways. From Bryson City, NC, take Highway 19 North and follow the signs for the park entrance. The entrance is approximately 7 miles from Bryson City. Be sure to pay attention to the park's entrance fee, which is $30 per vehicle for a 7-day pass. Once inside the park, you can explore various scenic drives and trails.
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Public Transportation
If you are using public transportation, you can take a Greyhound or a local bus service to Bryson City, NC. Upon arriving in Bryson City, you may need to arrange for a ride-share service (like Uber or Lyft) to reach one of the park entrances, as public transportation options are limited within the park. Expect to pay around $20-$30 for a ride-share to the park entrance from Bryson City.
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Bicycle
For the adventurous, biking to Great Smoky Mountains National Park is an option. From Bryson City, you can cycle along Highway 19, which leads to the park entrance. Ensure that you wear a helmet and follow traffic rules, as the road can be busy. Be prepared for the physical demands of biking uphill as you approach the park, and bring necessary supplies like water and snacks.
Discover more about Great Smoky Mountains
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Great Smoky Mountains
0.0 km
Explore the stunning Great Smoky Mountains, a natural wonder filled with diverse wildlife, breathtaking views, and endless outdoor adventures.
Ballhoot Scar Overlook
8.9 km
Discover the stunning panoramic views at Ballhoot Scar Overlook, a breathtaking spot along North Carolina's Blue Ridge Parkway, perfect for nature lovers.
Messer Cabin
13.3 km
Experience the allure of the 1800s at Messer Cabin, a historical treasure on Porters Creek Trail in Gatlinburg, surrounded by the stunning Great Smoky Mountains.
Tom Branch Falls
13.7 km
Experience the enchanting beauty of Tom Branch Falls, a hidden gem nestled in the Great Smoky Mountains, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Juney Whank Falls
13.9 km
Explore Juney Whank Falls in North Carolina - a stunning waterfall in the Great Smoky Mountains, perfect for nature lovers and hikers seeking tranquility.
Deep Creek Trail Trailhead
14.0 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Deep Creek Trail in the Great Smoky Mountains, where enchanting waterfalls and scenic trails await every adventurer.
Chimneys Picnic Area
14.1 km
Discover the serene beauty of Chimneys Picnic Area in Great Smoky Mountains National Park, a perfect spot for picnics and outdoor adventures.
Chimney Tops Overlook
14.4 km
Discover stunning vistas and natural beauty at Chimney Tops Overlook in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, a must-see for every traveler.
Ramsey Cascades
15.8 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Ramsey Cascades, the tallest waterfall in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, an unforgettable natural wonder.
Bunches Bald Overlook
15.8 km
Explore the stunning Bunches Bald Overlook along the Blue Ridge Parkway for breathtaking views and unforgettable nature experiences.
Roaring Fork Interpretive Marker 1 Overlook
16.1 km
Experience the serene beauty and cultural history at Roaring Fork Interpretive Marker 1 Overlook in the Great Smoky Mountains.
Lickstone Overlook
16.6 km
Discover breathtaking views and rich cultural heritage at Lickstone Overlook, a scenic gem along the Blue Ridge Parkway in North Carolina.
Homer / Jim Bales Barn
16.8 km
Explore the historic Jim Bales Barn on the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail, a charming glimpse into the agricultural past of the Great Smoky Mountains.
Alex Cole Cabin
16.9 km
Explore the Alex Cole Cabin, a historic gem nestled in the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail, showcasing the rich pioneer history of Gatlinburg, Tennessee.
Sugarlands Rock House
17.1 km
Experience the historical allure and natural beauty of Sugarlands Rock House in the Great Smoky Mountains – a must-visit landmark for every traveler.
Unmissable attractions to see
Collins Creek Picnic Area
1.6 km
Discover the beauty and tranquility of Collins Creek Picnic Area in Bryson City, NC, a perfect spot for outdoor dining and relaxation amidst nature.
Smokemont Baptist Church
4.7 km
Experience the enchanting Smokemont Baptist Church, where history meets spirituality in the beautiful backdrop of Cherokee, North Carolina.
Smokemont Riding Stables
4.8 km
Discover the beauty of the Great Smoky Mountains on horseback at Smokemont Riding Stables, where adventure meets nature.
Charles A Webb Overlook
4.9 km
Experience stunning panoramic views of the Great Smoky Mountains at the Charles A Webb Overlook, a must-visit scenic spot in Bryson City, North Carolina.
Mingus Mill
7.2 km
Discover the historic Mingus Mill in Cherokee, NC, where nature meets heritage in the heart of the Great Smoky Mountains.
Appalachian trail
7.4 km
Discover the natural beauty and adventure of the Appalachian Trail in the Great Smoky Mountains, a must-visit hiking destination for every nature lover.
Charlies Bunion
7.5 km
Explore Charlies Bunion in the Great Smoky Mountains, where breathtaking views and serene trails await outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
Newfound Gap
7.6 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Newfound Gap, a stunning mountain pass in the Great Smoky Mountains, perfect for nature lovers and adventurers.
Appalachian Trail to Indian Gap
7.7 km
Discover the stunning Appalachian Trail to Indian Gap in Gatlinburg, TN, where breathtaking views and unforgettable hiking experiences await.
Ben Morton Overlook
7.9 km
Experience the stunning beauty of the Smoky Mountains at Ben Morton Overlook, a top scenic spot in Gatlinburg, TN, perfect for nature lovers and photographers.
Oconaluftee Visitor Center
8.0 km
Explore the Oconaluftee Visitor Center, your essential guide to the wonders of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, rich in history and natural beauty.
Mountain Farm Museum
8.1 km
Explore the rich cultural heritage of the Smoky Mountains at the Mountain Farm Museum in Cherokee, NC, showcasing traditional Appalachian life.
Mingo Falls
8.5 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty of Mingo Falls, a stunning waterfall in the Eastern Cherokee Reservation that promises serenity and stunning views.
Oconaluftee River Overlook
8.6 km
Discover breathtaking views at Oconaluftee River Overlook along the Blue Ridge Parkway, a scenic spot perfect for nature lovers and photographers.
Blue ridge mountains
9.4 km
Discover the stunning Blue Ridge Mountains, a breathtaking destination for outdoor adventures, vibrant wildlife, and rich cultural experiences in North Carolina.
Essential places to dine
All Fried Up
11.1 km
Experience authentic Southern cuisine at All Fried Up in Cherokee, NC - where every meal is a celebration of flavor.
Ruth's Chris Steak House
12.5 km
Experience the ultimate fine dining at Ruth's Chris Steak House in Cherokee with sizzling steaks and exquisite seafood amidst elegant surroundings.
Granny's Kitchen
12.9 km
Discover delicious comfort food at Granny's Kitchen in Cherokee – a must-visit buffet restaurant offering hearty American dishes for all appetites.
CJ's Grille
17.9 km
Experience delightful grilled cuisine at CJ's Grille in Bryson City—where local flavors meet a cozy atmosphere.
Bar-B-Que Wagon
17.9 km
Experience authentic Southern barbecue at Bar-B-Que Wagon in Bryson City - where every bite tells a story.
The Rice Wagon
18.1 km
Experience authentic Hawaiian cuisine at The Rice Wagon in Bryson City – a delightful food truck serving island favorites amidst stunning mountain views.
High Test Deli
18.1 km
Discover mouthwatering sandwiches at High Test Deli in Bryson City—your go-to spot for tasty bites during your mountain adventures.
SNAK SHAK
18.1 km
Savor authentic American cuisine at Snak Shak in Bryson City – where comfort food meets warm hospitality.
The Bistro at the Everett Hotel
18.2 km
Discover exquisite American cuisine with local flair at The Bistro at the Everett Hotel in Bryson City – where every meal is a celebration.
Crystelle Creek Restaurant
19.5 km
Experience culinary excellence at Crystelle Creek Restaurant in Gatlinburg - where delicious steak meets breathtaking mountain views.
Delauder's BBQ
19.6 km
Experience authentic Southern barbecue at Delauder's BBQ in Gatlinburg – where flavor meets tradition!
Three Jimmy's Good Time Eatery
20.1 km
Discover the vibrant flavors and lively atmosphere at Three Jimmy's Good Time Eatery in Gatlinburg – where every meal is an unforgettable experience.
Gatlinburg
20.1 km
Discover Gatlinburg: A charming mountain town famous for gourmet hamburgers and breathtaking views in the heart of Tennessee.
Mama's Chicken Kitchen
20.3 km
Discover Southern comfort at Mama's Chicken Kitchen in Gatlinburg—where every bite of fried chicken feels like home.
Cliff Top Restaurant at Anakeesta
20.4 km
Experience unforgettable dining at Cliff Top Restaurant with stunning mountain views and delicious American cuisine in Gatlinburg.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Saunooke's Mill & Shop
9.3 km
Explore Saunooke's Mill & Shop in Cherokee, NC – a treasure trove of local crafts and gifts celebrating the rich cultural heritage of the Smoky Mountains.
Great Smokies Gifts
9.4 km
Explore the charm of Great Smokies Gifts, offering unique local crafts and souvenirs in Cherokee, NC - a must-visit for every traveler.
Twisted Sister
10.2 km
Explore Twisted Sister, the enchanting gift shop in Cherokee, NC, where local crafts and unique souvenirs await every visitor.
The What's Hot Shop
11.4 km
Discover the essence of Cherokee at The What's Hot Shop, where unique gifts and local crafts await every traveler seeking a piece of the Smoky Mountains.
Traditional Hands Native American Jewelry
11.4 km
Discover the beauty and authenticity of Native American craftsmanship at Traditional Hands Jewelry in Cherokee, NC.
SPIRIT BEAR Gift shop & souvenirs
11.5 km
Explore SPIRIT BEAR Gift Shop & Souvenirs in Cherokee, NC for unique crafts and authentic gifts that celebrate Cherokee culture.
Great Smoky Mountains Railroad Retail Store & Train Museum
17.9 km
Discover the charm of the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad Retail Store & Train Museum, where history, shopping, and scenic train rides converge.
Loose Moose
18.0 km
Explore the whimsical world of Loose Moose Gift Shop in Bryson City, NC, where unique souvenirs and local artistry come together.
La Dolce Vita Bakery
18.0 km
Experience the charm of La Dolce Vita Bakery, where artisanal coffee meets delectable pastries in the heart of Bryson City.
Appalachian Mercantile
18.0 km
Explore Appalachian Mercantile in Bryson City, NC - your ultimate destination for unique gifts and local artisan treasures in the heart of the Smokies.
Humanité Boutique
18.1 km
Explore the charm of Bryson City at Humanité Boutique, offering unique gifts, stylish apparel, and local crafts in a welcoming atmosphere.
Bryson City Outdoors
18.2 km
Explore the best outdoor gear and rentals at Bryson City Outdoors, your adventure hub in the heart of North Carolina.
Charleston Station
18.3 km
Explore Charleston Station in Bryson City for unique gifts and local crafts that embody Southern charm and hospitality.
Buttermilk Farms Antiques & Auction
18.6 km
Discover unique antiques and collectibles at Buttermilk Farms Antiques & Auction, an essential stop for vintage enthusiasts in Bryson City, NC.
Rocky Flats Pottery & Soap
20.0 km
Discover the charm of handcrafted pottery and artisanal soaps at Rocky Flats Pottery & Soap in Gatlinburg, the perfect stop for unique souvenirs.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Native Brews Tap & Grill
9.2 km
Experience the best of Cherokee dining at Native Brews Tap & Grill, where local flavors and a relaxed atmosphere come together.
Unplugged Pub
18.2 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Unplugged Pub in Bryson City, where craft beers and live music create unforgettable experiences.
The Fireside Bar at the Fryemont Inn
18.4 km
Experience the charm of The Fireside Bar at Fryemont Inn, a cozy retreat in Bryson City, perfect for unwinding after your adventures.
Sugarland s
21.1 km
Discover the lively spirit of Gatlinburg at Sugarlands, where great drinks and live music create unforgettable memories in the Smoky Mountains.
Tower Bar at Anakeesta
21.1 km
Discover Tower Bar at Anakeesta - a charming bar in Gatlinburg offering breathtaking views, exquisite drinks, and the essence of Southern hospitality.
The Bar At The Top Of The World
21.1 km
Discover breathtaking views and a lively atmosphere at The Bar At The Top Of The World in Gatlinburg, a perfect retreat for tourists.
Daiquiri Shack & Grill Margaritaville
21.1 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of American cuisine and refreshing cocktails at Daiquiri Shack & Grill Margaritaville in Gatlinburg.
Gatlinburg Brewing Company
21.1 km
Discover the heart of craft brewing at Gatlinburg Brewing Company, where unique flavors and a cozy atmosphere await every beer lover.
Boudicca's Celtic Pub
21.2 km
Discover the heart of Celtic culture at Boudicca's Celtic Pub, where traditional dishes and live music create an unforgettable experience in Gatlinburg.
License to Chill Bar
21.2 km
Discover the vibrant flavors and relaxed ambiance of License to Chill Bar in Gatlinburg, where every meal feels like a mini-vacation.
Old smokey barrelhouse
21.2 km
Discover the heart of Gatlinburg at Old Smokey Barrelhouse, where local spirits and Southern hospitality come together in a vibrant atmosphere.
The Rampant Lion
21.2 km
Experience a slice of Britain in Gatlinburg at The Rampant Lion, where traditional cuisine meets a cozy pub atmosphere.
SHINE SHACK
21.3 km
Experience vibrant nightlife at SHINE SHACK in Gatlinburg, where local brews and creative cocktails create memorable moments.
Shamrock Pub
21.3 km
Enjoy a vibrant dining experience at Shamrock Pub in Gatlinburg, where great food, drinks, and friendly vibes await.
Dude's Daiquiris
21.4 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and refreshing flavors at Dude's Daiquiris, Gatlinburg's ultimate bar destination for tourists.
