Summer is a wonderful time to visit the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. With long sunny days and warm temperatures, visitors can take advantage of all the outdoor activities the park has to offer. From hiking and wildlife watching to waterfalls and scenic drives, here are some of the best activities to do in Smoky Mountain National Park in the summer.
Hiking
With over 800 miles of hiking trails, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a hiker's paradise. In the summer, many of the park's higher-elevation trails are snow-free and open for exploration. The Alum Cave Trail, which leads to Mount LeConte, is a popular choice for its stunning views and well-maintained trail. Other popular hikes include the Chimney Tops Trail, Abrams Falls Trail, and Laurel Falls Trail.
Waterfalls
The park is home to over 100 waterfalls, many of which are easily accessible by short hikes. In the summer, waterfalls are particularly refreshing and offer a great opportunity to cool off after a long hike. Rainbow Falls is a popular choice for its 80-foot drop and colorful mist, while Grotto Falls offers a unique opportunity to walk behind the waterfall.
Wildlife Watching
Summer is a great time to spot wildlife in the park, as many animals are active during the day. Visitors can look for black bears, elk, deer, and more from the safety of their car or while hiking. Cades Cove is a popular spot for wildlife viewing, particularly in the early morning or late evening when animals are most active.
Scenic Drives
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park offers several scenic drives that are particularly beautiful in the summer. The Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail is a narrow, winding road that passes through lush forests and past several historic buildings. The Newfound Gap Road, which runs from Gatlinburg, TN to Cherokee, NC, offers stunning views of the mountains and several scenic overlooks.
Camping
Summer is the most popular time to camp in the park, and there are several campgrounds to choose from. Elkmont Campground is a popular choice for its proximity to hiking trails and scenic drives, while Cades Cove Campground is located in a picturesque valley and offers easy access to wildlife viewing opportunities.
Biking
Biking is a great way to explore the park's scenic roads and trails. Cades Cove Loop Road is a popular destination for bikers, with a 11-mile loop that offers stunning views of the mountains and several historic buildings. The Oconaluftee River Trail, which runs from the Oconaluftee Visitor Center to the Cherokee Indian Reservation, is a popular choice for its flat terrain and scenic views.
Fishing
Summer is a great time to fish in the park's streams and rivers. Rainbow trout and brown trout are common, and fishing is permitted year-round with a valid Tennessee or North Carolina fishing license. The Little Pigeon River, which runs through the town of Gatlinburg, is a popular spot for fishing.
In conclusion, there are plenty of activities to do in Smoky Mountain National Park in the summer, from hiking and waterfalls to wildlife watching and scenic drives. Whether you're looking for adventure or relaxation, the park offers something for everyone.