A Visitor's Guide to the Great Smoky Mountains

A Visitor's Guide to the Great Smoky Mountains

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is America's most visited national park, making it essential to plan your visit carefully to see everything on your list. Since Gatlinburg East / Smoky Mountain KOA Holiday offers such a convenient location, you can make the campground your home base as you explore the park or take in the many local attractions.

Things to Do in the Smoky Mountains

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is just minutes from Gatlinburg East / Smoky Mountain KOA Holiday and has miles of untamed wilderness waiting for you to explore. Here are some of the many fun things you can do at the park.

Clingmans Dome

Clingmans Dome is the highest point in Great Smoky Mountains National Park. At the summit, there is an observation tower that offers 360-degree views of the Smokies. Numerous hiking trails lead to and from the observation tower, or you can drive and park before walking a steep half-mile to the top.

Roaring Fork Nature Trail

The Roaring Fork Nature Trail is a 5.5-mile loop offering glimpses of mountain streams, old-growth forest and many other historic buildings. Before entering the trail, you can stop at the self-guided nature trail, which allows you to tour an authentic mountain farmstead.

Cades Cove

Cades Cove is a scenic valley surrounded by mountains. You can drive along the 11-mile loop around the road for a leisurely way to take in wildlife, historic homes and cemeteries. There are also many hiking and walking trails and picnic areas around the cove.

Things to Do Near the Smoky Mountains

There are plenty of activities to explore around the Smoky Mountains as well.

Dollywood

Dollywood Theme Park is one of the highlights of the Smokies with rides, music, food and other activities. The park also hosts numerous festivals throughout the year, making any time you visit exciting. Since Dollywood is less than an hour from Gatlinburg East / Smoky Mountain KOA Holiday, you can visit multiple days to take in all of the attractions or attend different events. 

Sugarlands Visitor Center

Start your visit to Great Smoky Mountains National Park with the Sugarlands Visitor Center. A mere 40 minutes from the campground, both children and adults will enjoy the cultural history exhibits and ranger-led programs. Before you leave, make sure to explore the bookstore and grab a souvenir from the gift shop.

Ripley's Aquarium

Immerse yourself in native and exotic marine wildlife at Ripley's Aquarium. Many of the exhibits are hands-on, and daily programs provide a deeper look at the aquarium's wildlife. Ripley's Aquarium is a 30-minute drive from the campground. Plan an afternoon of exploring the Aquarium and Gatlinburg's attractions before returning to the campground for your evening campfire!

Stay Near the Great Smoky Mountains National Park at Gatlinburg East / Smoky Mountain KOA Holiday

Is adventure calling your name? Answer when you book your stay at Gatlinburg East / Smoky Mountain KOA Holiday. Whether you want to spend your days immersed in nature or checking out local attractions, Gatlinburg East / Smoky Mountain KOA Holiday's convenient location makes it easy to plan the perfect vacation in the Smoky Mountains. Book a stay today to get started!

Share This: