Most in the area have likely heard of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, even if they do not travel there regularly. The people of Tennessee proclaim the park as a must-visit feature in the state. The Great Smoky Mountains, one of the Southeast’s crown jewels, draws millions of visitors annually with its breathtaking vistas, diverse wildlife and rich history.
But what to do when you get to this massive piece of preserved mountainous land? Here are some recommended destinations and excursion ideas, lest you get overwhelmed by the majesty of the 800-square-mile park in East Tennessee and Western North Carolina.
Fun, free things to do with the family in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park:
1. Sugarlands Visitors Center: Trail to Cataract Falls and Ownby Cabin
Start your Smoky Mountain adventure at the Sugarlands Visitors Center, just outside Gatlinburg. This park hub offers resources like maps, nature exhibits and helpful park rangers. Behind the center, take the easy half-mile trail to Cataract Falls, a serene 25-foot waterfall.
Trails continue to the historic Ownby Cabin, a well-preserved log home built in 1860, one of many historic structures standing in the national park. This short hike is great for young children and park newcomers not far from town and civilization, while still offering a chance to spot a variety of plants, creek sides and wildlife.
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2. Laurel Falls Trail
The hike to Laurel Falls is another excellent family-friendly excursion (with the Laurel Falls Trailhead located about four miles away from the Sugarlands Visitors Center). This 2.6-mile round-trip trail is paved, making it quite manageable for those who prefer stable footing, and even those pushing strollers. The highlight is the stunning 80-foot Laurel Falls, cascading in two tiers, a popular photo op, and even known to be the site of the occasional marriage proposal. While the path is generally safe and easy, do keep an eye on adventurous youngsters as your group approaches the falls to steer them away from some steep drop-offs near the rocks.
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3. Ogle Home Place and Twin Creeks Trail
History and nature blend beautifully on the Twin Creeks Trail. Begin an excursion at the Ogle Home Place, an 1800s homestead featuring a cabin, barn and other evidence of the Cherokee Orchard Road farm just outside of Gatlinburg.
Take the Twin Creeks Trail about a mile from the Ogle site, past peaceful streams and remnants of stone walls, to the “House of the Fairies,” a whimsical stone springhouse nestled in the hillside. This magical spot is a hit with kids and offers a further glimpse into life in the area’s past. For a shorter House of the Fairies visit, park at the Twin Creeks Science and Education Center to access the wonderfully designed rock springhouse directly.
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4. Picnic and River Fun
Pack a lunch and enjoy a scenic drive through the park. Along the way, stop by one of the many pull-offs or areas labeled “Quiet Walkway” to relax by the river. These tranquil spots—many located just a few paces from convenient parking—are perfect for picnicking, wading in the cool mountain waters and skipping rocks. Kids will love exploring the shallow streams while parents soak in the natural beauty and wild air.
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5. The Sinks Falls
One of the highlights of Little River Road, pull off at the Sinks and take in stunning views of this picturesque water feature flowing powerfully under the roadway. Easily accessible from the roadway, the Sinks is a popular swimming and rock jumping area in the summer. While swimming may not be possible when the water is moving rapidly, adventurous kayakers are known to navigate the falling rapids here.
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6. Newfound Gap Overlook
Straddling the Tennessee-North Carolina border, Newfound Gap Overlook provides one of the park’s most iconic views of the sprawling mountain terrain. This scenic spot is accessible by car and has a large parking area, offering sweeping vistas of the Smokies. Interpretive signs share historical insights about the area, making it a great educational stop for families as they take in the view at the state line.
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7. Clingmans Dome (Kuwohi)
For families up for a brief challenge, the walk up Clingmans Dome is worth the effort. The half-mile paved trail is steep, leading to the highest point in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, now officially known as Kuwohi, offering expansive 360-degree views from an observation tower standing 45 feet above the peak’s natural high point. Take breaks as needed on this journey to the true top of the Smokies, and reward yourselves with a picnic near the parking lot afterward.
8. Elkmont
Step back in time with a visit to Elkmont, a once-thriving logging community and later a bustling resort destination. This area features historic cabins of various colors, shapes and sizes, as well as scenic trails. Pull right up and explore this abandoned community and its fascinating history. Aside from the village, the Elkmont Nature Trail makes a great quick walk for hiking beginners.
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9. Little Greenbrier School and Walker Sisters Cabin
Dive into Appalachian history by visiting the Little Greenbrier School and Walker Sisters Cabin. Begin your journey from Metcalf Bottoms or use the parking area on Little Greenbrier Road.
The schoolhouse and cabin offer a glimpse into the simple yet resilient lives of early settlers. The surrounding trails are mainly peaceful and easy.
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10. Cades Cove
A visit to Cades Cove is a must for a Smoky Mountains trip.
An 11-mile loop road winds through a picturesque valley, offering opportunities to see wildlife like black bears and deer right from the car and ample opportunities to pull off and explore a wealth of historic sites, including old churches, cabins and mills—over 80 historic buildings still stand in the area. This isolated Tennessee community once had a population of over 600.
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11. Place of a Thousand Drips / Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail
The Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail is a one-way loop drive showcasing the park’s lush forests and flowing streams. A cascading network of drips and trickles flowing down a rocky wall, known as the Place of a Thousand Drips, makes a highlight of the tour. This feature is so close to the road, those peering out of car windows may even feel the mist from this lacework of miniature waterfalls as the water tumbles down the mountain rocks.
The cascading waterfall creates a mesmerizing sight, especially after rainfall, when sunlight causes the airborne water droplets to sparkle. The Roaring Fork drive also provides access to several popular trailheads and historic structures.
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These comprise only a few of the abundant opportunities for adventures in the preserved Tennessee and North Carolina forests that the Great Smoky Mountains National Park offers. Whether you’re hiking to waterfalls, exploring historic sites, enjoying a picnic by the river or just going for a drive, these excursions can create cherished memories for explorers of all ages, from seasoned backcountry hikers to youngsters taking in a new part of the world with wonder as they sightsee with their families.
