Great Smoky Mountain National Park

Highlights of the National Park

 Established: The Great Smoky Mountains National Park was created in 1934 to protect the last remnant of the southern Appalachian forest which was being exterminated by extensive logging.

 Area: The park encompases 520,976 acres of land.

 Elevations: The highest elevation is the summit of Clingman's Dome at 6,643 feet above sea level. The lowest point is the mouth of Abrams Creek at 840 feet above sea level.

 Plant Species: There are over 1,600 species of flowering plants in the park. This includes 125 species of native trees.

 Animal Species: There are 200 species of birds, 50 species of fish, and 60 species of mammals. The park is America's salamander capital with 30 species of these creatures.

 Number of Visitors: The park receives almost 10 million visitors each year. It is the most visited national park in our country.

 Park Activities: The park has an abundance of activities throughout the year including: hiking, bicycling, fishing, picnicking, campfire programs, horseback riding, cross-country skiing, ranger talks and walks, pioneer life exhibits and annual festivals. There is something for all interests and age groups.

 Hiking: There are over 800 miles of trails to hike. Also, the Appalachian Trail cuts through the Great Smoky Mountains National Park on its way to its southern terminus in Georgia. There is approximately 70 miles of the AT through the park.

 Camping: The park has 1,008 developed campsites and 100 primitive camp sites.

 Horseback Riding: The park has an extensive system of trails for horses and is considered the best riding area in the eastern part of the United States.

Things to do in the National Park

Auto Touring - An auto tour of the park offers a chance to see panoramic vistas, rushing mountain streams, weathered historic buildings, and majestic forests stretching to the horizon. Inexpensive booklets are available to serve as your personal tour guides along many park roads.

Bicycling - Ride through Cades Cove on a misty summer morning for a truly memorable way to experience the park.

Camping - Escape into the Smokies wilderness for a backpacking adventure or opt for a tamer excursion in one of the park's developed campgrounds.

Fishing - Anglers can match their skills against wily brook, brown, and rainbow trout on over 700 miles of fishable streams in the park.

Hiking - Choose from over 800 miles of trails ranging from quiet walkways to multi-day backpacking treks through the backcountry. Permits are needed for overnight backpacking hikes.

Horseback Riding - The park has hundreds of miles of horse trails and five drive-in horse camps. If you don't own a horse, four rental stables provide mounts and guides.

One Perfect Day - If you only have one day to visit the Great smoky Mountains National Park .....

Pets - Leashed pets are allowed in developed areas and along roads, but are not allowed on park trails.

Waterfalls - Information about the beautiful waterfalls in the park and their trails.

Cades Cove Auto Tour - Information about the 11 mile Cades Cove Loop Auto Tour and an interactive map.