Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Ridge upon ridge of forest straddles the border between North Carolina and Tennessee in Great Smoky Mountains National Park. World renowned for its diversity of plant and animal life, the beauty of its ancient mountains, and the quality of its remnants of Southern Appalachian mountain culture, this is America's most visited national park. Plan your visit today!

The "Wildflower National Park"

Wildflowers, such as these white trillium, can be found blooming from February through November in the park.

A hillside in the forest covered with white trillium flowers

"Smoke" Rising From the Mountains

The park gets its name from mists that often rise like smoke from the mountains.

Wisps of fog hang over the forests in the mountains.

Frosty Morning in Cades Cove

Wintertime brings a quiet beauty to the Great Smoky Mountains.

A thick layer of frost covers the fields, trees, and mountains in Cades Cove.

Fall Colors Near Newfound Gap

Fall leaf season is one of the busiest times of year in the park.

Bright gold and red leaves shine through the fog in a forest.

Fall Meets Winter

In spring and fall, weather in the foothills can be pleasant, while snow and cold rule on the mountain tops.

Gold and red fall colors fill the valleys while snow coats the mountain tops.

A Foggy Morning at Cades Cove Methodist Church

Historic buildings such as churches, gristmills, barns, and homes allow visitors to get a feel for life in the mountains before the national park was created.

Tombstones stand in front of a white, wooden church on a foggy morning.

The Waters of Roaring Fork Below Grotto Falls

Abundant rainfall means lush forests and beautiful stream scenes in the Great Smoky Mountains.

Rhododendron bushes line the banks of a stream filled with large boulders.