Yelp’s travel guide to the Great Smoky Mountains | Yelp

Craving an autumn getaway? The Great Smoky Mountains promise adventure and awe at every turn – a place where crisp mountain air and stunning vistas help you recharge. Whether you’re arriving through the lively gateway of Gatlinburg, TN or the scenic entrance in Cherokee, NC, this guide is your ticket to an unforgettable Smokies experience. Let’s start planning your mountain escape.

The Northern Entrance (Tennessee)
This is the most popular area, with two park entrances. The Sugarland entrance is a short drive through Gatlinburg, TN, but can get busy due to its restaurants and kitschy attractions. The Townsend entrance, a few miles west of Sugarland, is quieter and closer to other popular sites and beautiful waterfalls.

• Sites: Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail – Gatlinburg, TN
This scenic 6-mile one-way drive showcases the biodiverse forests of the Smoky Mountains and features numerous pull-off spots to view historic farmsteads as well as the must-see Rainbow and Grotto Falls. Step out of your car for a leisurely hike to enjoy even better views of mountain streams and glimpses of old-growth forest.

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• Hiking: Alum Cave Trail – Gatlinburg, TN
Experience nature up close as you hike beneath towering rock overhangs, follow winding mountain streams, and pass through the famed Arch Rock – a striking black slate arch accessed by a staircase on the trail. This 4.6-mile hike treats you to breathtaking views of lush forests and glimpses of local wildlife. Novice hikers are advised to turn back at Arch Rock, as the trail becomes much steeper beyond this point, extending to a challenging 10-mile round trip trek up to Mount LeConte.

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• Camping: Elkmont Campground – Gatlinburg, TN
This is the ideal Smoky Mountains campground for families, RV travelers, and even casual campers. Just 10 miles from Gatlinburg, the area offers a variety of site options, including paved driveways, gravel tent pads, fire pits, and a convenient general store at the entrance. Choose a campsite right on the river or one with easy access to nearby hiking trails for the perfect outdoor getaway.

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• Snack: Split Rail Eats – Gatlinburg, TN
After a full day of hiking and exploring the lush Smokies, unwind at Split Rail Eats – a cozy spot known for its local beers, craft cocktails, and famous tater bowls. Gather around the fireplace to share stories and photos from your adventure, or relax with your furry friend on the pet-friendly patio while enjoying delicious bites and drinks. It’s the perfect place to refuel and recap your day in the mountains.

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The Southern Entrance (North Carolina)
To explore the southern Smoky Mountains, use the Oconaluftee entrance in Cherokee, NC. Here, you’ll find the Oconaluftee Visitor Center – your spot for trail maps, hiking tips, and fascinating museum exhibits about the park’s history. Don’t miss the nearby Mountain Farm Museum, where historic log buildings showcase Appalachian farm life from the late 1800’s and early 1900’s.

• Sites: Clingman’s Dome (Now known as Kuwohi) – Sevier, TN
Rising to 6,643 feet, this is the highest point in the Smokies and offers breathtaking, unobstructed 360° views. On clear days, park rangers say you can see as far as 100 miles! The Kuwohi (koo-WHOA-hee) trail leads you on a picturesque, half-mile paved walk to the summit’s viewing area. Be sure to dress in layers – temperatures at the peak can drop sharply, depending on the season.

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• Hiking: Tom Branch Falls on the Deep Creek Hiking Trail – Bryson City, NC
Nestled in the southern Smokies, this is one of three stunning waterfalls along the Deep Creek Hiking Trail. The easy, half-mile round trip hike is a favorite for tubing in the warmer months and offers excellent wildlife viewing when the weather cools. Seasoned hikers recommend visiting in autumn, when brilliant foliage and birdwatching make the trail truly unforgettable.

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• Camping: Grumpy Bear Campground & RV Park – Bryson City, NC
Just 15 minutes from the southern entrance of Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Grumpy Bear Campground puts you close to thrilling whitewater rafting, scenic hiking trails, and fun onsite gem mining for the kids. This RV-only campground offers spots for your own RV or convenient rentals. Craving more comfort? Spacious cabins are available, complete with multiple rooms, a full bathroom, and a handy kitchenette—perfect for relaxing after a day of adventure.

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• Sip: Smoky Mountain Coffee Roasters – Waynesville, NC
For nearly 20 years, this beloved local café has been brewing up delicious coffee in the heart of the Smokies. They roast their beans in-house daily—available by the pound—and locals flock here for a morning pick-me-up before hitting the trails or to refuel afterward with fresh bagel sandwiches topped with their famous spicy pimento cheese. 

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The Great Smoky Mountains are a must for any outdoor lovers bucket list. This massive national park offers stunning landscapes, scenic hikes, great camping, and mouthwatering local food and attractions. Experience unforgettable nature and southern hospitality and start planning your adventure today!