Summer in the Smoky Mountains is pure magic. The rivers run cool. The fireflies put on a show. And those mountain sunrises? They’ll stop you in your tracks every single time. Planning a trip and looking for the best things to do in the Great Smoky Mountains in summer? This Smoky Mountains summer bucket list…

Maybe you’ve seen the photos—that long Gatlinburg SkyBridge stretching high above the Smokies with a glass section you can look straight through. It’s part of the Gatlinburg SkyPark, home to the historic SkyLift and some of the prettiest mountain views in Tennessee. It’s easily one of the area’s most popular stops, and I promise it’s…

Biking Cades Cove Loop Road is one of those things you’ve gotta do at least once in the Great Smoky Mountains. Eleven scenic miles through meadows, historic cabins, and some of the best wildlife watching in the park — and with Cades Cove bike rental options right at the loop, Cades Cove biking is easy…

Mark your calendar — Cades Cove Vehicle-Free Days are back for 2026! From May 6 through September 30, the Cades Cove loop road is closed to cars every Wednesday, giving you a rare chance to walk, hike, or bike Cades Cove without a single vehicle in sight. Wondering if Cades Cove is open on these…

Planning a trip to the Smoky Mountains and looking for fun kid-friendly things to do? There’s certainly a lot to do with kids — from hiking in the Smokies and riding roller coasters in Pigeon Forge to fun things to do in Sevierville and outdoor adventures all over this corner of Tennessee. These 7 fun…

If there’s one stop that captures the fun, flavor, and easy spirit of the Smokies, it’s Ole Smoky Moonshine. With moonshine tastings in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge, it’s earned its spot near the top of any list of things to do in the Smoky Mountains — and it’s where a lot of folks get their…

If you’re planning a road trip in the Smoky Mountains, the trails along Newfound Gap Road are some of the best to hike in the national park. We’ve driven this Smoky Mountain road more times than we can count, and there’s always a new trail worth exploring along the way. In this guide, we’re sharing…

You may have noticed a new name on Smoky Mountains maps lately. Clingmans Dome Tennessee is now officially called Kuwohi. It’s a meaningful change — and it makes this spot even more special. Kuwohi sits at the highest peak in the Smokies and the Kuwohi observation tower has some of the most unreal views in…

Planning a Smoky Mountain budget-friendly getaway that’s big on fun? You’re in luck — this Pigeon Forge travel guide is packed with 15 FREE things to do in Pigeon Forge perfect for your Tennessee family vacation! Pigeon Forge is the perfect base for your Smoky Mountain adventure. Come with family, a special someone, or a…

Entry to Great Smoky Mountains National Park is still FREE — no Smoky Mountains parking pass required just to soak in the views. But if you plan to park for more than 15 minutes, you’ll need a pass — also known as a Great Smoky Mountains parking tag, GSMNP parking pass, or Park It Forward…

Tucked away on the quieter side of the park, Tremont feels peaceful the moment you arrive. It’s an easy spot to add to your Smoky Mountains day. You can stop in, stretch your legs, and enjoy the riverside views. If you’re hoping for fewer crowds, visiting Tremont in the Smoky Mountains is a great choice.…

Cades Cove is one of the most loved places in the Smoky Mountains.It’s known for wide-open fields, historic cabins, and the Cades Cove Loop, a classic scenic drive in the Smokies. It feels peaceful and exciting, making it a must on lists of things to do in the Smoky Mountains. Find the Perfect Place to…