# Great Smoky Mountains National Park

> Old-growth forest, remains of mountain farms and one of the most varied collections of plants and animals in any temperate park.

Source: https://camping-spirit.com/destinations/great-smoky-mountains/

Old-growth forest, remains of mountain farms and one of the most varied collections of plants and animals in any temperate park.

- **Established:** 1934
- **States:** TN, NC
- **Entrance fee:** None (parking tag)
- **Best season:** Apr–Jun, Oct

## Before you go

- There is no entrance fee, but you need a parking tag to stop for more than 15 minutes.
- Cades Cove fills early. Arrive at dawn or visit on a vehicle-free morning.
- Synchronous fireflies appear near Elkmont in late May or early June, and you need a lottery permit to see them.

## Crossing the park

Newfound Gap Road (US-441) links Gatlinburg and Cherokee, climbing past the turnoff for Clingmans Dome. Allow two hours for the crossing with stops.

## FAQs

**Which entrance is best?**
Gatlinburg (TN) is the busiest. Cherokee (NC) connects directly to the southern end of the Blue Ridge Parkway.