I've Visited Great Smoky Mountains National Park Over 30 Times!

Discover five must-do experiences that keep a seasoned explorer returning to Great Smoky Mountains National Park after over 30 visits! 🌐 #News #GatlinburgTN #Tennessee #Travel

GATLINBURG, TN — Great Smoky Mountains National Park is one of those places that never gets old. Straddling the Tennessee and North Carolina borders, it’s a sprawling wonderland of misty peaks, cascading waterfalls, and wildlife that feels like it’s straight out of a storybook.

I’ve been lucky enough to visit this park more than 30 times over the years, and while every trip brings something new, there are five things I absolutely always do—no exceptions. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned Smokies explorer, here’s my must-do list to make the most of this incredible place.

Catch the Sunrise at Clingmans Dome

At 6,643 feet, Clingmans Dome is the highest point in the park—and honestly, there’s no better way to start a day here. I make the pre-dawn drive up the winding road, park, and take the steep half-mile paved trail to the observation tower.

The air’s crisp, the stars are still fading, and then—bam—the sun creeps over the horizon, painting the rolling blue ridges in gold and pink. On a clear day, you can see 100 miles. Pro tip: bring a jacket (it’s chilly up there, even in summer) and get there early to beat the crowds.

Hike to Laurel Falls

I can’t visit the Smokies without hitting the Laurel Falls trail. It’s a moderate 2.6-mile round-trip hike that’s perfect for all skill levels, and the payoff is a stunning 80-foot waterfall that splits into two sections. The sound of the water crashing against the rocks is pure magic.

I always pack a snack and linger on the rocks nearby—though I’m careful not to slip! It’s one of the park’s most popular spots, so I like to go early in the morning for a quieter experience.

Drive the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail

This 5.5-mile, one-way loop is my go-to for a relaxing drive through the park’s history and beauty. Winding through dense forest, past old cabins, and alongside rushing streams, it’s like stepping back in time.

I always roll down the windows to hear the roar of the creek and keep an eye out for black bears (I’ve spotted a few over the years!). There are pull-offs for short hikes too, like the trail to Grotto Falls, which I’ll sometimes add if I’m feeling extra adventurous.

Hunt for Synchronous Fireflies at Elkmont

If I’m visiting in late spring or early summer (usually late May to early June), I *have* to check out the synchronous fireflies at Elkmont. These little guys put on a show like nothing else—blinking in unison like nature’s own light parade.

The park limits access with a lottery system for viewing spots, so I plan ahead and cross my fingers. Sitting in the dark, watching thousands of fireflies sync up, feels surreal every single time. Even after 30+ visits, it’s a highlight I’ll never skip.

Stop at Newfound Gap for the View—and the State Line Selfie

No trip to the Smokies is complete without a stop at Newfound Gap. At 5,046 feet, it’s the lowest drivable pass through the mountains, and the overlook gives you a jaw-dropping view of the range.

I always hop out, breathe in that fresh mountain air, and snap a cheesy photo with one foot in Tennessee and the other in North Carolina—the state line runs right through. It’s touristy, sure, but after all these visits, it’s tradition.

The Mountains Are Calling

The Great Smoky Mountains keep pulling me back, and these five rituals are why. They’re a mix of peace, adventure, and that unbeatable feeling of being part of something bigger. If you’ve got your own Smokies must-dos, I’d love to hear them—drop a comment below! And if you haven’t been yet, what are you waiting for? The mountains are calling. — Tucker Oldham, Gatlinburg, Tennessee

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RELATED TOPICS: North Carolina | Tennessee | Travel