Also known as “A Wondrous Diversity of Life,” Great Smoky National Park is known for its diverse populations of animals and plants, beautiful mountains, and southern Appalachian culture. Great Smoky is the most visited national park in all of America.

Discover the Natural Beauty of Great Smoky Mountains National Park

As the most visited national park in the United States, Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a must-see destination for anyone who loves the outdoors. With over 522,427 acres of stunning natural beauty, it's no wonder this park attracts millions of visitors every year. From cascading waterfalls and panoramic vistas to old-growth forests and historic buildings, Great Smoky Mountains National Park offers something for everyone.

Here's what you need to know to plan your next adventure to Great Smoky Mountains National Park:

Getting There

Located on the border of North Carolina and Tennessee, Great Smoky Mountains National Park is easily accessible by car from major cities like Knoxville and Asheville. The nearest airport is McGhee Tyson Airport in Knoxville, which is serviced by several major airlines including Allegiant. With nonstop flights to Knoxville from many cities across the United States, Allegiant is the perfect choice for travelers looking to save time and money.

Exploring the Park

Once you arrive at Great Smoky Mountains National Park, there are endless opportunities for exploration. With over 800 miles of hiking trails, the park is a hiker's paradise. From easy nature walks to challenging backcountry hikes, there's a trail for every skill level.

One of the most popular hikes in the park is the Alum Cave Trail. This 4.4-mile trail takes you through old-growth forests and up to stunning views at the summit of Mount LeConte. For a shorter hike, check out the Laurel Falls Trail. This 2.6-mile round-trip hike takes you to a beautiful 80-foot waterfall.

If hiking isn't your thing, there are plenty of other ways to experience the park's natural beauty. Take a scenic drive on the Newfound Gap Road, which winds through the heart of the park and offers stunning views of the mountains. Or, explore the park's historic buildings and museums, which showcase the rich cultural history of the Appalachian region.

Wildlife Watching

Great Smoky Mountains National Park is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including black bears, elk, and white-tailed deer. Visitors can often spot these animals along the park's hiking trails or from the comfort of their car on one of the park's scenic drives.

For a chance to see some of the park's smaller inhabitants, head to the Synchronous Firefly Viewing Area in late May or early June. During this time, the park is home to one of the world's largest populations of synchronous fireflies, which put on a stunning light show each night.

Where to Stay

With two campgrounds and a variety of lodging options, there are plenty of places to stay in and around Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The park's two campgrounds, Elkmont and Cades Cove, offer a rustic camping experience with easy access to hiking trails and other park activities.

For those looking for more comfortable accommodations, there are several lodges and cabins located within the park. These include the historic LeConte Lodge, which offers rustic cabins with stunning views of the mountains, and the newly renovated Appalachian Clubhouse, which offers luxurious accommodations in the heart of the park.

Fly Nonstop to Great Smoke National Park with Allegiant

Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a must-visit destination for anyone who loves the outdoors. From hiking and wildlife watching to scenic drives and historic sites, there's something for everyone in this stunning national park. And with nonstop flights to Knoxville from many major cities across the United States, Allegiant is the perfect choice for travelers looking to make the most of their time in this natural wonderland.

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