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This US national park borders the great southern states of Tennessee and North Carolina. Go on a glamping getaway or opt to rent a Great Smoky Mountains log cabin in the mountains with your group of friends or family. Enjoy the fresh open-air and take care of your wellness by soaking in mountain lakes or hiking through the most beautiful Smoky Mountains hiking trails, especially in the fall months with its beautiful fall foliage—arguably the best time to visit the Great Smoky Mountains. Or opt for a ski vacation during the winter months.
The most convenient way to enter the Great Smoky Mountains National Park would be to fly to either McGhee-Tyson Airport (TYS) in Knoxville, Tennessee or Asheville Regional Airport (AVL) in North Carolina, which are the closest airports to the park roughly a half-an-hour's drive by car.
The best place to make your base while visiting the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is Pigeon Forge, Tennessee. Also, the home to Dollywood and filled with many fun other amusement parks. You'll find tons of hotel options, as well as, nearby glamping and camping properties.
To visit the park by car, there is a $20 - $35 entrance fee for a seven-day pass. You can opt to buy an annual pass for $70. You can get a America the Beautiful—the National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Pass for $80. US military personnel and their families get free entrance into the parks.
Planning a trip to the Great Smoky Mountains and wondering when to go? The best time to visit the Great Smoky Mountains depends on the experience you're looking for. Whether you're drawn by pictures of the vibrant fall foliage, the blossoming wildflowers of spring, or the crisp winter air, this stunning national park offers something special year-round. From the serene beauty of winter to the lively colors of fall, each season brings its own charm.
Q: What is the best month to go to the Smoky Mountains?
A: Summer is the best time to visit the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, though July sees the heaviest number of people visiting. For less people but still great weather, opt to visit between late August and late October.
Q: Which Side of the Smoky Mountains Should I Visit?
A: The Tennessee side is the notoriously most popular side to visit. With towns like Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg being a big tourist hot spot with tons of amusement parks and accommodation options.
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