Great Smoky Mountains
Great Smoky Mountains National Park straddles the Tennessee–North Carolina border, renowned for its misted mountain peaks, temperate deciduous forests, and abundant wildlife. Established in 1934, it offers a mix of long-distance trails, historic towns, and lush river valleys.
Learn More
Geography
| Continent | North America |
|---|---|
| Region | Southeastern United States |
| Subregion | Southern Appalachians |
| Country | United States |
| State | Tennessee and North Carolina |
| County | Sevier County and Swain County |
| District | Great Smoky Mountains |
| City | GatlinburgCherokee |
| Timezone | AmericaNew York |
| Latitude | 35.6532 |
| Longitude | -83.507 |
| Maps |
2:57 PM LOCAL TIMEGreat Smoky Mountains National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most visited national parks in the US, blending rugged mountain landscapes with preserved Appalachian culture. It spans around 21,000 sq km along the TN-NC border and is crisscrossed by iconic routes like the Blue Ridge Parkway and U.S. Route 441. Visitors come for seasonal contrasts—springtime wildflowers, vibrant fall foliage, and mild summers with cool mornings; winter can bring snow to the higher elevations. Expect diverse ecosystems, from low-elevation hardwood forests to the montane sylva and alpine zone near Clingmans Dome. The park is dotted with historic sites—rural cabins, old mills, and Cherokee heritage areas—and gateways such as Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, and Cherokee. Hiking is paramount—from short walks to multi-day thru-hikes; fishing, wildlife watching, and camping are widely available.
All content was written by our AI and may contain a few mistakes. We may earn commissions on some links. Last updated: Sun Dec 14, 2025, 2:46 AM