The Great Smoky Mountains straddle the line between Tennessee and North Carolina. There are many exciting places to visit in these mountains that are a subrange of the Appalachian Mountains. Here are some key places that you will not want to miss.
Cades Cove
Cades Cove is home to the largest collection of historic buildings in the Great Smoky Mountains. One of the best ways to explore the area is by driving on the Cades Cove Scenic Loop, but expect to make many pit stops to see the three churches, log homes, cantilevered barns, and a working mill. Watch carefully to see the amazing wildlife including whitetail deer, elk, and black bears.
Clingmans Dome
Clingmans Dome is the highest point in Tennessee and of the Appalachian Trail. You will love hiking the half-mile trail to the observation deck where you can see over 100 miles on a clear day. Many people also enjoy hiking on other trails in this area along with driving along the Clingmans Dome Road which offers numerous panoramic views of the region.
Nantahala National Forest
While there are many great places to hike within the Nantahala National Forest, most people who visit the forest end up playing on Nantahala Lake where boating, swimming, and skiing are popular activities. Many also come to the lake to catch great panfish including trout, bass, catfish and salmon. The lake lets out into the Nantahala River, which is one of the best kayaking and rafting destinations in the United States.
Newfoundland Gap Road
This road is the lowest drivable pass in the Great Smoky Mountains. As the only paved road in the national park, visiting it in the winter gives visitors a unique perspective on the area. A farm museum, a working mill, numerous log homes, and abundant wildlife make this road running from Gatlinburg, Tennessee, to Cherokee, North Carolina, a popular way for people to introduced themselves to the wonders of the Smoky Mountains.
Cataloochee Valley
The Cataloochee Valley invites you to slow down and stay a spell. Pack along a picnic supper and watch the deer graze in this lush valley. While you can see several historic barns and buildings along the road, hike along the Little Cataloochee Trail to enjoy wildlife and relax. You can also try hiking the Boogerman Trail which leads you through an old-growth forest brimming with wildlife.
There are many reasons to visit the Great Smoky Mountains. Get your bags packed and tell your boss that you will be back someday because you will never want to leave when you start exploring the area. With over 520,976 acres to explore, there is plenty of space for everyone.
If this article has inspired you to visit the majestic Smoky Mountains, contact us to see how we can help you make your trip one to remember!