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Park Telephone: (865) 436-1200
Live View of the Smokies
The Great Smoky Mountains, a majestic climax of the
Appalachian Highlands, are a wild lands sanctuary preserving the world's
finest examples of temperate deciduous forest. The name Smoky comes from
the smoke like haze enveloping the mountains, which stretch in sweeping
troughs and mighty billows to the horizon. The park boasts unspoiled
forests similar to those early pioneers found. Restored log cabins and
barns stand as reminders of those who carved a living from this
wilderness. Fertile soils and abundant rain have encouraged the
development of a world-renowned variety of flora, including more than
1,500 kinds of flowering plants. In the coves, broadleaf trees
predominate. Along the crest -- at more than 6,000 feet elevations --
are conifer forests like those of central Canada. Wildflowers and
migrating birds abound in late April and early May. During June and July
rhododendrons bloom in spectacular profusion. Autumn's pageantry of
color usually peaks in mid-October. For many, this is the finest time of
year, with cool, clear days ideal for hiking. In winter, an
unpredictable season, a peace pervades the park. Fog rolling over the
mountains may blanket the conifers in frost.
A scenic, high mountain road wind up through Newfound
Gap, with a spur out to Clingman's Dome and its observation tower. Along
the road are superb views, and those from the tower are truly panoramic.
But roads offer only an introduction to the Smokies. Some 800 miles of
trails thread the whole of the Smokies' natural fabric -- and its
waterfalls, coves, balds and rushing streams. Each trail invites you
into the intimacy and richness of these highlands. The Smokies, a wild
landscape rich with traces of its human past, calls people back year
after year.
The park is a delightful mix of forest wild lands and
outdoor museum of pioneer life. Try to experience both aspects, by
hiking and by visiting its restored structures. From mid-June through
August evening programs and nature walks are offered at most developed
campgrounds. Spring and fall activities are limited. Check schedules at
a visitor center or ranger station.
Horse and foot trails wind along streams and through
forests into the wild stillness of the Smokies. For "do-it-yourself"
naturalists there are short, self-guiding nature trails. Pick up a
leaflet at the start of each trail. A backcountry use permit, required
for all overnight hiking parties, can be obtained free at ranger
stations or visitor centers (except Cades Cove Visitor Center).
Overnight use of some shelters and backcountry campsites is rationed.
There are 10 developed campgrounds in the park; fees
are charged at each. Reservations are recommended at Cades Cove, Elkmont
and Smokemont from May 15 to October 31: they can be made by calling
1-800-365-CAMP. Campgrounds have tent sites, limited trailer space,
water, fireplaces, tables and restrooms. No shelters are provided. There
are no showers or hookups for trailers. The camping limit is 7 days
between May 15 and October 31, 14 days between November 1 and May 14.
Sewage disposal stations are located at Smokemont, Cades Cove, deep
Creek and Cosby campground, and across the road from Sugarlands Visitor
Center. They are not available for use in the winter.
Many park streams provide fishing for rainbow and
brown trout all year long. Tennessee or North Carolina fishing licenses
are required, but not trout stamps. Check park regulations at a ranger
station or visitor center before you fish. Possession of any brook trout
is prohibited.
Most neighboring towns have gasoline, food, lodging,
showers and camping supplies. Many private campgrounds operate outside
the park. LeConte Lodge, accessible only by trail, offers accommodations
in the park from mid-March to mid-November. Allow a half day for hiking
up a mountain trail to reach this secluded retreat. Reservations are
necessary; call or write LeConte Lodge, Gatlinburg, TN 37738. Saddle
horses are available from about April 1 to October 31 at Cades Cove,
Smokemont, Cosby, near Greenbrier on U. S. 321 and near park
headquarters.
Bears are wild and potentially dangerous. If one
approaches your car, stay inside with the windows closed. Feeding bears
and other wildlife encourages the animals to behave unnaturally and
violates regulations.
The park is managed as a natural and wild
environment. Motorists must drive defensively. Hikers must meet nature
on its own terms. If you hike alone, let someone know your plans and
schedule and have proper clothing and gear. In winter, gear and clothing
should be suitable for survival in deep snow and extreme cold not
characteristic of the mid-south. To prevent accidents please stay on
trails, stay off cliff faces, be careful around water and watch and
control children. Pets, permitted in the park if on a leash or under
other constant physical control, are prohibited on trails or
cross-country hikes.
Website: National
Park Website |
