If you’re planning a trip to the Great Smoky Mountains, you’ll be happy to know that while the park is free to enter, you’ll need a GSMNP parking pass if you plan on parking for more than just a quick stop. For those exploring the mountain’s beauty or staying longer, the Smoky Mountains Park it Forward parking pass is a must-have. This not only grants you access to park in designated areas but also helps support the park’s ongoing maintenance and preservation efforts
Read on, as we’ve gathered all the info you need to get your parking sticker and explore the stunning Smokies!
A Hassle-Free Visit to the Smokies
The Smokies are so beautiful that it’s hard not to stop and take it all in. Whether you’re hiking, exploring Cades Cove, or driving the Roaring Fork Trail, taking time to explore is a must. However, if you’re planning a quick drive with no intention of stopping for long, you won’t need a parking pass. The Great Smoky Mountains parking sticker is only required for stops longer than 15 minutes. It ensures you can park safely while supporting the park’s upkeep. So, if you plan to explore and enjoy the views, be sure to grab your parking sticker before you head out!
GSMNP Parking Pass Options
If you’re heading to the Great Smoky Mountains, there are a few parking pass options to make your visit easier. Whether you’re here for a day or planning to come back for more adventures, these options have you covered:
Note: Vehicles displaying a valid, state-issued disabled placard or license plate are exempt from the parking tag requirement in Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
- Daily Pass – Just here for the day? The pass for a single day of parking is perfect. It lets you park for the whole day and costs $5.
- Weekly Pass – Staying a little longer? The weekly pass is a great deal at $15 for seven days of parking.
- Annual Pass – Coming back often? The Park It Forward annual pass for the Smokies is your best friend. For $40, you get unlimited parking for an entire year—perfect for multiple trips to the park!
No matter which you choose, each one helps you enjoy the Smokies while supporting the park’s upkeep!
Purchase Your GSMNP Parking Pass
Getting your parking tag for the Smokies is easy! Whether you prefer online convenience or picking one up in person, we’ve got you covered:
- Online – Skip the lines and grab your pass HERE for daily and weekly passes, or snag an annual pass HERE. It’s quick and simple—just a few clicks, and you’re all set for your adventure!
- Visitor Centers – If you’re already in the Smokies or near one of its entrances, swing by any of the main visitor centers or welcome centers to pick up your Park It Forward parking pass. These include:
- Sugarlands Visitor Center (near Gatlinburg, TN)
- Oconaluftee Visitor Center (near Cherokee, NC)
- Cades Cove Visitor Center (inside the park)
- Townsend Visitor Center (in Townsend, TN)
- Gatlinburg Welcome Center (near Gatlinburg, TN)
- Clingmans Dome Visitor Center (at the end of Clingmans Dome Road)
- Swain County Visitor Center (in Bryson City, NC)
No matter where you choose, make sure you snag your pass and get ready to explore the Smokies!
Note: Vehicles displaying a valid, state-issued disabled placard or license plate are exempt from the parking tag requirement in Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
Displaying Your GSMNP Parking Pass
Once you’ve got your GSMNP parking pass, it’s important to make sure it’s visible when you park. Here’s how to display it the right way:
- Daily and Weekly Passes – For these passes, simply place your Smoky Mountains parking permit face-up on the lower passenger side of your dashboard. That way, park rangers can spot it easily when they check the area.
- Annual Pass – If you’re rocking the annual pass, it should be placed on the front, lower passenger side of your windshield. This is where it’s easy to spot for inspection and ensures smooth sailing all year long.
- Motorcycle Passes – For motorcycles, just stick your annual pass to the windshield or another visible spot on the bike, and you’re good to go!
No matter which pass you’ve got, just make sure it’s clearly visible before you head off to enjoy the Smoky Mountains. It’s a small step that makes a big difference in making your visit smooth and hassle-free!
When a Parking Pass Is Not Required
Before you head out, here are a few situations where you won’t need a parking tag:
- Short Visits: If you park for less than 15 minutes, a parking sticker is not required.
- Camping: Frontcountry campers parked at their designated campsite do not need a parking pass. However, parking elsewhere in the park requires a valid pass.
- Accessibility: Vehicles displaying valid, state-issued disabled placards or license plates are exempt from parking fees.
Supporting the Park with Your Parking Pass
By purchasing a GSMNP parking pass, you’re not just securing a spot to park—you’re also helping to support the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The revenue from parking passes goes directly toward maintaining the park’s trails, picnic areas, restrooms, and other essential services. This ensures that future visitors can continue to enjoy the beauty of the Smokies while keeping the park clean and well-kept.
Your contribution makes a big difference in preserving the natural wonders of the park, from the stunning mountain views to the diverse wildlife that call the Smokies home. Whether you’re purchasing a daily pass, weekly pass, or annual pass, each one helps keep the park in top shape for generations to come. So, not only are you making your visit easier, but you’re also playing a part in preserving this amazing place!
Have Fun Exploring the Smokies
With your parking arrangements sorted, you’re all set to explore the wonders of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park! From scenic drives like the Cades Cove Loop to countless hiking trails and exciting wildlife viewing opportunities, there’s something for every nature lover to enjoy. Be sure to check out fun things to do in the Smokies HERE to plan your next adventure.
As you explore, remember to respect the wildlife and follow the park’s guidelines to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone.
Happy Trekkn, friends! Enjoy every moment and take in the stunning beauty of the Smokies.
Share Your Smoky Mountain Adventures
We love hearing about your time in the Smokies! Whether you hiked to a breathtaking waterfall, spotted wildlife, or simply soaked in the mountain views, share your adventures with us!
Comment below and let us know your favorite Smoky Mountain moments.
Tag us on social media using #TennesseeTrekkn—we just might feature your post. Let’s celebrate the beauty of the Smokies together!