The Great Smoky Mountains are not just picturesque — they are experiential. Of course, the forest ridges and misty trails are gorgeous. But what truly sets the Smokies apart is the way nature, history and culture all come together to offer an authentic experience.
This iconic national park is way more than just one big nature trail. It’s where old Appalachian settlements, roaming wildlife, bucolic valleys and even forgotten resort towns are found. So if you’re thinking about visiting and not sure where to start, here’s the 411 on some spots that will guarantee you a memorable Smokies vacation.
Cades Cove Is Where History Lives
So we’re going to kick off with one of the most popular spots — Cades Cove. It’s popular for a reason. Imagine a wide, open valley nestled between rugged mountains and an 11-mile loop that journeys through it. Nature lovers will love this spot.
Here are some more reasons it is frequented by travelers from all parts of the world.
- You’re almost guaranteed to see deer, wild turkeys, and maybe even a black bear or two.
- The entire loop feels like you’re driving through a living museum.
- Throughout are scattered 19th-century cabins, churches and barns that are begging to be explored.
It’s like going back in time, but with the natural world taking place all around you in real time.
The Elkmont Ghost Town Abandoned Resort in the Heart of the Woods
It’s a little eerie, kind of serene and completely captivating — Elkmont Ghost Town is an abandoned resort community that once bustled with Knoxville’s elite. In the early 1900s, people came here for weekend vacations and the simple pleasures of cabin life.
Here’s what makes Elkmont a cool spot:
- A few of the cabins have been meticulously restored.
- You can still walk the same trails that once led to dance halls and porches and fishing holes.
- You can listen to the sound of nothing. It’s a creepy kind of silence but it’s so peaceful—- this kind of weird eerie feel is great for history fans and ghost town travelers.
One thing to know is that it’s super close to Gatlinburg, so if you’re visiting other towns nearby (like Pigeon Forge or Sevierville), it’s an ultra-easy day trip.
Kuwohi: Touch the Sky
If you’re into views that leave you speechless, head up to Kuwohi that stands at 6,643 feet, making it the highest spot in the Smokies.
Here’s why it’s so worth the hike (which, by the way, is not very long):
- The observation tower offers panoramic views that extend across Tennessee and North Carolina — and on a clear day, beyond that.
- It’s a little colder up here as the temperature drops, and you know the air’s a little bit thinner, so take your time.
- For early mornings and sunset visits, you’ll catch the golden light and that old-fashioned Smoky Mountains mist — this makes for a magical experience.
Roaring Fork Auto Nature Trail: A Trip Through Time
Are you in search of something quieter than the usual tourist fare? Check out the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail. It’s a loop road you can’t get lost on, but every turn is scenic.
Here’s what to expect:
- Waterfalls that thunder after a good rain, hence the name.
- Short hikes, such as the crowded Grotto Falls trail, in which you actually walk behind a waterfall.
- Log cabins and grist mills that illustrate what life was actually like back in the olden days.
Newfound Gap: One Stop, Two States
Newfound Gap runs along the state line of Tennessee and North Carolina, and it is more than a rest stop. It’s simply iconic.
Here’s what you can expect to find here:
- Panoramic mountain vistas from a large stone overlook.
- The exact site where President Roosevelt announced the park’s dedication in 1940.
- A trailhead to numerous other trails, including a snippet of the celebrated Appalachian Trail.
And lest we forget, the drive up to Newfound Gap is absolutely beautiful, especially in autumn when the leaves are every single color.
Cataloochee Valley: Elk, Solitude and The Old Stories
Seeking something that’s really off the beaten path? Cataloochee Valley is your place. It’s not the easiest place to get to — the road is curvy and a bit rough — but once you arrive, you feel like you’re in an entirely different world.
Here’s why it’s worth it:
- Elk sightings! You will find them either in the morning or at dusk.
- Revived historic buildings, like a schoolhouse, churches and homes of early settlers.
- It’s a peaceful meadow with woods and mountains around it — absolutely beautiful and very, very peaceful.
If you’re looking to catch your breath, slow down and enjoy what’s in front of you.
Deep Creek: Three Waterfalls and a Stream You Can Float On
Located just outside Bryson City, Deep Creek is where the action meets the water. This is such a good spot for tubing in the summer and an easy waterfall hike.
Here’s what makes Deep Creek special:
- It really does have three waterfalls, which are Tom Branch, Indian Creek and Juney Whank.
- The paths are well-maintained and accessible to beginners.
- On warm days, the creek offers a cool respite.
If you have kids, friends or just want a mellow day outdoors, head here.
So here’s the thing. When you explore the Smokies, it’s not just about ticking off picturesque overlooks or high-traffic hiking spots. It’s about:
- Letting yourself slow down.
- Pulling over at random stops because the view is to die for.
- Hearing the wind in the trees, or a stream babbling by.
- Taking a stroll in the past and experiencing true journeys and historical tales.
You don’t require fancy gear or an elaborate plan. All you need to bring is your curiosity, a good pair of shoes and, if you are inclined to take pictures, your camera.
