The Smoky Mountain National Park attracts tourists from all over the world, making it the most visited National Park in the United States and here’s why:
The parks holds some of the most beautiful scenery and a wide variety of wildlife including black bears, elk, deer, and many different species of birds. In fact, the park is so big that scientists continue to discover new species of plants and animals to this very day.
The hiking trails provide a fun way to get out and see the mountains. Some of the trails even lead to waterfalls and amazing overlooks of the mountains that will take your breath away. The trails are tailored to people with different hiking experiences, ranging from a beginner level to the more experienced.
Popular waterfall hikes include:
Grotto Falls -Only waterfall that allows hikers to stand behind the wall of water as it pours to the ground. It’s an easy hike just little out of Gatlinburg off of Roaring Fork Motor Trail.
Laurel Falls– The 2.6 mile paved trail leads right to the 80-foot cascade of Laurel Falls. What makes this trail so popular is the fact that it’s stroller, wheelchair and walker friendly, allowing everyone to experience the most-photographed spot in the Smokies.
Ramsey Cascades – is the tallest waterfall in the park that is accessible by trail. The 4 mile trail to this amazing landscape gains over 2,000 ft in elevation and is an 8 mile roundtrip. This trail is more difficult than others, however it’s well worth the adventure.
Chimney Tops – is a more challenging trek with a 360 degree view of the mountains as the final destination. This rugged trail leads to a rock summit where only the brave will continue the climb.
For a more relaxing view of the park, drive the scenic routes that lead to Newfound Gap Road, Cades Cove Scenic Drive, Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail, Elkmount and Greenbrier allow for visitors to take in the scenery without even having to get out of the car.
The park also holds some of the most historical sites that allow visitors to explore where it all started such as John Oliver’s Cabin, Noah “Bud” Ogle Homestead, The Little Greenbrier School, John Cable’s Mill and Mingus Mill and Sugarlands.
With all of the trails, animals, and history to explore it’s no wonder why the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is the most visited park in the United States. Join in on the adventure and see for yourself what these majestic mountains have to offer.
