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Great Smoky Mountains National Park

John at Attraction Hotels

Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that straddles the border between Tennessee and North Carolina. It is the most visited national park in the United States, attracting over 12 million visitors each year.

The park is known for its stunning natural beauty, with over 800 miles of hiking trails that lead through lush forests, past sparkling waterfalls, and along the crest of the Great Smoky Mountains. The park is home to a wide variety of plant and animal life, including over 1,500 species of flowering plants, 300 species of birds, and 67 species of mammals.

One of the most popular attractions in the park is the Newfound Gap Road, which runs for 33 miles through the heart of the park and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. Other popular activities in the park include camping, picnicking, fishing, and horseback riding.

In addition to its natural beauty, Great Smoky Mountains National Park is also home to a rich cultural history. The park was established in 1934 and is named after the Great Smoky Mountains, which are known for the blue haze that often surrounds them. The park was created to preserve the natural beauty of the area and to provide recreational opportunities for visitors.

Whether you are an experienced hiker or a nature lover looking for a peaceful retreat, Great Smoky Mountains National Park has something to offer everyone. So pack your hiking boots and head to the Great Smoky Mountains for an unforgettable outdoor adventure.

Places to stay:

There are many attractions located near Great Smoky Mountains National Park that are worth visiting during your trip. Some of the top attractions include:

  • Dollywood: This popular theme park is located in nearby Pigeon Forge, Tennessee and features a variety of rides, shows, and attractions inspired by the music and culture of the Smoky Mountains.
  • Gatlinburg SkyBridge: This 680-foot-long pedestrian bridge offers stunning views of the Great Smoky Mountains and is the longest pedestrian suspension bridge in North America.
  • Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies: This aquarium, located in Gatlinburg, Tennessee, is home to over 10,000 animals, including sharks, rays, and sea turtles.
  • Cades Cove: This beautiful valley in the Great Smoky Mountains is home to a variety of wildlife and is a popular spot for hiking, picnicking, and wildlife watching.
  • Blue Ridge Parkway: This scenic byway runs along the crest of the Blue Ridge Mountains and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
  • Appalachian Trail: This famous hiking trail runs through the Great Smoky Mountains and offers a variety of challenging routes for experienced hikers.
  • Great Smoky Arts & Crafts Community: This community, located in Gatlinburg, features over 100 unique studios, galleries, and craft shops where you can find handmade crafts and artwork created by local artists.

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