The Great Smoky Mountains offer a wealth of activities for nature lovers, adventurers, and families alike. Here’s a list of the top ten things to do in the Great Smoky Mountains:

1. Hiking: Explore over 800 miles of trails, including popular routes like Alum Cave Trail, Clingmans Dome Trail, and Laurel Falls Trail. The Smokies offer trails suitable for all skill levels, from easy strolls to challenging hikes.
2. Scenic Drives: Take a leisurely drive along Newfound Gap Road or Cades Cove Loop Road to enjoy breathtaking views of the mountains, forests, and wildlife. Don’t miss out on the numerous overlooks and pull-offs along the way.
3. Wildlife Viewing: Keep an eye out for black bears, white-tailed deer, elk, and other wildlife that call the Smokies home. Cades Cove is particularly famous for its abundance of wildlife.
4. Waterfalls: Experience the beauty of the Smokies’ waterfalls, such as Rainbow Falls, Abrams Falls, and Grotto Falls. Many waterfalls are accessible via short hikes, making them perfect for families.
5. Camping: Spend a night under the stars at one of the many campgrounds in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Whether you prefer backcountry camping or RV camping with amenities, there’s an option for you.
6. Fishing: Cast your line into one of the park’s many streams and rivers, which are home to trout and other fish species. Fishing is permitted with a valid Tennessee or North Carolina fishing license.
7. Picnicking: Pack a picnic and enjoy a meal surrounded by the stunning scenery of the Smokies. There are numerous picnic areas throughout the park, some of which offer grills and restroom facilities.
8. Visitor Centers and Museums: Learn about the park’s natural and cultural history at one of the visitor centers or museums, such as the Sugarlands Visitor Center or the Oconaluftee Visitor Center.
9. Auto Tours: Take a self-guided auto tour of historic sites and landmarks, such as the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail or the Cataloochee Valley. These tours provide insight into the area’s rich history and heritage.
10. Seasonal Activities: Depending on the time of year, the Smokies offer a variety of seasonal activities, including wildflower walks in spring, synchronous firefly viewing in early summer, fall foliage drives in autumn, and snowshoeing or cross-country skiing in winter.

No matter what your interests are, the Great Smoky Mountains have something to offer for everyone to enjoy.