Gary Carter Photo

From black bears to salamanders. Old-growth forests to spring wildflowers. Log cabins to grist mills. Great Smoky Mountains National Park offers a myriad of opportunities for exploring and discovering both the natural and cultural history of these ancient mountains.

But where to begin? Great Smoky Mountains National Park can be bewildering for the first-time visitor. To make the most of your time here, click on any of the links above for information to help you plan your trip to the Smokies. 

Download a copy of the Smokies Trip Planner The Trip Planner contains information about favorite destinations in the park, popular activities including hiking and auto touring, and a park map.

Visit Great Smoky Mountains National Park's official online store for books, maps, and guides to the park. Operated by the nonprofit Great Smoky Mountains Association, proceeds generated by purchases at the store are donated to educational, scientific, and historical projects in the park.